Business Manchester

From Financial Ruin to Six-Figure Success: The Remarkable Journey of Gavin Watson

News Desk

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23/07/2024

From Financial Ruin to Six-Figure Success: The Remarkable Journey of Gavin Watson

SOUTH YORKSHIRE, UK. July 18th, 2024 – In a remarkable turnaround story, Gavin Watson, once mired in debt and uncertainty, has successfully established a flourishing consultancy and production company that helps individuals launch profitable courses and coaching programmes.

Gavin Watson’s ascent in the business world has been nothing short of inspirational. With over 14 years of experience as a digital entrepreneur and strategic partnerships with global marketing experts, Watson now provides comprehensive coaching solutions. His offerings empower clients to navigate the complexities of the business landscape with confidence and clarity.

Watson’s journey began in the depths of financial struggle. He spent years trapped in the pitfalls of get-rich-quick schemes and multi-level marketing (MLM) ventures, desperately trying to escape his former career as a quantity surveyor. His fortunes began to change when he met a seasoned information publisher who mentored him. Armed with new-found knowledge, Watson generated an impressive £80,000 in revenue within his first year of trading. However, early success was followed by setbacks as he deviated from his core strategy.

Undeterred by adversity, Watson recognised the importance of building a solid business foundation. Over the past five years, he has invested over £165,000 in mentorship and education, learning from every misstep and continually refining his approach. Today, his company, Gavin Watson Coaching, offers clients ‘done for you’ and ‘done with you’ coaching programmes. These programmes are designed to accelerate online business growth by identifying target audiences, developing sales funnels, crafting tailored copywriting, managing online advertising and social media content, and producing high-quality videography and photography.

Watson’s consultancy business is now thriving, and he has earned the title of certified business strategist. His journey from financial ruin to entrepreneurial success highlights the vital role of mentorship and adherence to proven methodologies in achieving business goals.

In addition to his consultancy, Watson is expanding his business portfolio with several new ventures. He is launching a software company, writing books, and producing a new podcast series called ‘Entrepreneurs Online.’ Moreover, Watson is dedicated to addressing the mental health challenges faced by entrepreneurs. His upcoming mini-series will explore the realities of online business, mindset challenges, and the impact of cyberbullying.

Watson’s story is one of resilience and commitment to excellence, serving as a source of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide. His dedication is evident in his recent sponsorship of the renowned ‘AdCon’ event, which featured Dragon’s Den investor Steven Bartlett as the keynote speaker. Additionally, Watson’s expertise has been recognised by Global Business Strategist Lisa Johnson, who has invited him to speak at her Sales & Strategy days.

Watson’s mission extends beyond business success; he aims to destigmatise anxiety and mental health struggles within the entrepreneurial community. His transparent approach to discussing these issues is set to make a significant impact, offering much-needed support and understanding to those navigating the often challenging world of entrepreneurship.

Gavin Watson’s journey from financial hardship to six-figure success underscores the power of perseverance, strategic mentorship, and a commitment to continuous learning. As he continues to expand his ventures and support the entrepreneurial community, Watson’s story will undoubtedly inspire many more to pursue their business dreams with renewed vigour and confidence.

Joanne Avison Launches Revolutionary Book on Fascia and Movement

Art
Health

News Desk

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23/07/2024

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Joanne Avison Launches Revolutionary Book on Fascia and Movement

Brighton, UK. July 18th, 2024 – Joanne Avison, a distinguished author, illustrator, and yoga specialist, is set to release her latest book, “Myofascial Magic in Action.” The first in a five-book series commissioned in 2023, this publication promises to revolutionise the understanding of movement and therapy through Avison’s pioneering research on fascia, anatomy, and movement.

The innovative series aims to simplify the complex science of fascia, making it accessible and practical for a broad audience, including yoga and Pilates instructors and physiotherapists. This initiative seeks to transform how movement is taught and understood, providing profound insights into human anatomy.

Avison’s personal journey began with her struggle to comprehend her own body. A self-described non-athlete and bookworm, she experienced chronic pain and limitations following the birth of her son. Traditional physiotherapy and yoga failed to alleviate her symptoms, leading her to explore anatomy, biomechanics, biotensegrity, and fascia. This quest for knowledge took her to human dissection labs and mystery schools, where she discovered the unique, interconnected nature of the human body through the fascia’s living interface.

Her deep dive into fascia—an essential connective tissue matrix—revealed that the body operates more like a liquid crystal interface than a mechanical machine. Avison’s research demonstrated that a thorough understanding of fascia could significantly enhance movement, prevent injuries, alleviate chronic pain, and improve overall well-being. This paradigm shift has transformed her life and the lives of many others through her teachings and writings.

Avison’s first book, “Yoga, Fascia, Anatomy, and Movement,” became a best-selling specialist resource, lauded for its depth and clarity. Despite initial pressure to produce a coffee-table book, she remained committed to creating a serious, impactful work, resulting in a respected academic publication that has influenced movement teachers worldwide.

“Myofascial Magic in Action” continues this legacy, offering a more practical and user-friendly approach. The high-ticket course accompanying the book, launched in October 2023, has already seen remarkable success and steady growth. This course trains movement instructors to integrate Avison’s methods into their practice, promising transformative results for their clients.

In addition to her writing, Avison is an international teacher of applied structural anatomy, a professional Structural Integration practitioner, and the Director of the Art of Contemporary Yoga Teacher Training in London. Her extensive training includes certifications in Cranio-Sacral Therapy, Autoimmune Response Testing (A.R.T.), and Frequency Specific Microcurrent (F.S.M.), among others. Avison’s unique approach integrates her studies in anatomy, philosophy, and spiritual sciences, offering a holistic perspective on human movement and wellness.

Her involvement in the emerging field of Fasciategrity and her ongoing work in complementary health and medicine underscore her dedication to advancing understanding in these areas. Avison’s upcoming series of books, illustrated with her whimsical cartoons, aims to demystify fascia and empower individuals to move better, live pain-free, and connect more deeply with their bodies.

In 2015, Avison’s work caught the attention of the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness (MSIA), a charitable foundation in Los Angeles. Invited to teach their community, she integrated her knowledge of fascia with the spiritual teachings of this mystery school, significantly influencing her perspective and approach. By 2023, she had earned a doctorate in Spiritual Science, becoming an ordained minister and merging her scientific knowledge with spiritual insights.

Avison’s personal journey has also been marked by resilience. Diagnosed with breast cancer, she applied her methods to aid her recovery, achieving remarkable results. Within 12 weeks of major surgery, she was able to perform full weight-bearing yoga, demonstrating the efficacy of her “myofascial magic” techniques.

Her story is one of perseverance, innovation, and a deep commitment to improving human movement and wellness. Avison’s work is not just a contribution to the field of movement and therapy; it is a game-changer, offering a new way to understand and care for the human body. The course, co-created with Paul Thornley, is a fabulous “non-denominational” movement practice for all movement instructors. Her upcoming series of books will provide clear, actionable steps to improve natural human movement, making this essential knowledge accessible to all, regardless of age and fitness level.

Joanne Avison’s contributions to the fields of anatomy, movement, and wellness are unparalleled. Her work bridges the gap between traditional teachings and modern science, offering a fresh perspective that resonates with practitioners and enthusiasts alike. “Myofascial Magic in Action” is poised to become a cornerstone in the education of movement professionals, continuing Avison’s mission to transform lives through a better understanding and practice of fascia-based movement.

For more information or to learn more about Joanne Avison’s upcoming book and course offerings, please visit Myofascial Magic: https://www.myofascialmagic.com

Tosyalı and SULB to Build World’s Largest DRI Complex in Libya

News Desk

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23/07/2024

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Tosyalı and SULB to Build World’s Largest DRI Complex in Libya

BENGHAZI, LIBYA – Tosyalı, a global leader in green steel production, has announced a landmark investment in partnership with Libya United Steel Company for Iron and Steel Industry (SULB) to construct the world’s largest Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) complex in Benghazi, Libya. This initiative is a key part of Tosyalı’s strategic expansion into Africa, adding to its significant investments in Europe and Asia.

On July 19th, 2024, Tosyalı revealed plans for the new DRI complex, which will expand the company’s presence in the Mediterranean basin, following its successful projects in Turkey, Algeria, Senegal, Angola, and Spain. This venture aims to drive local economic growth through sustainable steel production.

Fuat Tosyalı, Chairman of Tosyalı Holding, remarked, “We are excited to expand our investments on the Mediterranean coasts of Africa, a priority investment region we identified and committed to years ago with great foresight. By focusing on value-added steel based on local production, our regional investments create a positive economic, environmental, and social impact by fostering value, employment, development, and welfare in the countries we enter.”

He continued, “We will be very pleased to bring our expertise and capabilities in value-added steel production to Benghazi, Libya, with this new complex where we have completed the ground investigation and engineering works, and where construction and assembly will start in the upcoming days. I firmly believe we will pioneer transforming the Libyan steel industry into an ecosystem that meets world steel industry needs by producing high-standard, high-quality green steel products with low carbon emissions, utilising advanced technology, innovation, and R&D in the integrated facility we will establish. I hope this agreement will benefit both companies and our friendly and brotherly country, Libya.”

Ahmed Gadalla, Chairman of SULB, expressed his satisfaction with the partnership, saying, “We are delighted and proud to make a crucial step towards Libya’s industrialisation and the development of the steel industry by partnering with Tosyalı, a global steel producer and leader in green steel across three continents. This agreement will help both groups to make a big move forward and strengthen economic ties between Libya and Turkey even more. This investment will position Libya as a key player in global steel production and significantly impact green steel and decarbonisation. I hope this major global investment will benefit both companies and Libya, following the rapid progress made in our partnership.”

The partnership has resulted in the formation of a new entity, Tosyalı-SULB, based in Benghazi. The project will see the construction of the world’s largest DRI facilities, boasting a combined capacity of 8.1 million tonnes. These facilities will feature MIDREX Flexi DRI technology, which enables operations using hydrogen, thus positioning the plant at the forefront of green steel production.

The initial phase of the investment, which starts immediately, will include an integrated iron and steel complex with a capacity of 2.7 million tonnes. This plant will supply Hot Briquetted Iron (HBI) to regional and European markets, further establishing Tosyalı’s dominance in the green steel industry. Upon completion, Tosyalı is set to become the largest supplier of HBI, essential for the green transformation in steel manufacturing.

This substantial investment is expected to stimulate industrial growth, create significant employment opportunities, and enhance Libya’s standing in the global steel industry, delivering extensive benefits to the local and regional economy.

Fresh Financials Group Expands Reach with Acquisition of AccountsForMe Ltd

News Desk

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23/07/2024

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Fresh Financials Group Expands Reach with Acquisition of AccountsForMe Ltd

LONDON, UK. July 18th, 2024 – Fresh Financials Group (FFG), a prominent Xero Platinum Partner known for its cutting-edge cloud-based financial operations services, has announced the acquisition of AccountsForMe Ltd. This marks FFG’s second strategic acquisition and signifies another milestone in its quest to provide premier bookkeeping and financial operations services to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the UK.

AccountsForMe Ltd., headed by Vip Patel, has a strong reputation for its personalised, high-quality services tailored to SMEs. Integrating AccountsForMe’s expertise and client base into FFG’s expanding portfolio is expected to enhance FFG’s capability to offer comprehensive financial solutions.

Marc Scrimshire, CEO of Fresh Financials Group, conveyed his excitement about the acquisition. “We are thrilled to welcome AccountsForMe Ltd. into the Fresh Financials Group,” he stated. “This acquisition aligns perfectly with our vision of offering top-tier, technology-driven financial operations across the UK. Vip Patel has built a fantastic business, and we are honoured to continue his legacy, ensuring clients receive the best possible care and expertise.”

Vip Patel, owner of AccountsForMe Ltd., expressed his confidence in the transition. “After careful consideration, I believe that Fresh Financials Group is the ideal home for AccountsForMe,” said Patel. “Their commitment to innovation and excellence mirrors our own values, and I am confident that our clients will be in the best possible hands.”

Patel will remain as a consultant for three months to facilitate the integration of AccountsForMe Ltd. into FFG, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition. The primary focus during this period will be to maintain the high standards of service that clients have come to expect. This acquisition underlines FFG’s dedication to delivering superior financial operations and bookkeeping services, empowering businesses throughout the UK to thrive and grow.

The acquisition is seen as a strategic move by FFG to strengthen its position in the UK market. With AccountsForMe’s solid client base and FFG’s innovative approach, the combined entity is poised to offer unparalleled services to SMEs, addressing their evolving financial needs with precision and expertise.

This acquisition is a testament to FFG’s commitment to growth and excellence. By incorporating AccountsForMe’s personalised services into its offerings, FFG aims to set a new benchmark in the financial operations sector. The move is also indicative of FFG’s broader strategy to expand its footprint and enhance its service offerings through strategic acquisitions.

Fresh Financials Group’s reputation as an award-winning Xero Platinum Partner has been built on its ability to leverage technology to provide exceptional financial services. This latest acquisition is expected to cement further FFG’s standing as a leader in the industry, offering clients a seamless blend of innovation, expertise, and personalised care.

For more information about the acquisition and Fresh Financials Group’s services, please visit: Fresh Financials Press Release.

Omnitronics Omnicore Dispatch System Maintains Stability Amidst CrowdStrike Glitch

News Desk

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23/07/2024

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Omnitronics Omnicore Dispatch System Maintains Stability Amidst CrowdStrike Glitch

Osborne Park, Australia – July 23rd, 2024 – In the wake of a widespread IT disruption caused by a defect in CrowdStrike’s software, Omnitronics’ Omnicore Enterprise Dispatch system has shown remarkable resilience. Despite operating on Windows Servers affected by the defect, organisations using the Omnitronics system were able to quickly restore their operations once their Dispatch Console PCs were back online.

Many organisations globally faced complete system outages due to the CrowdStrike-induced ‘blue screen of death.’ However, most users of the Omnicore Enterprise Dispatch consoles experienced a significantly reduced impact. This is attributed to the system’s inherent redundancy features.

Omnitronics CEO John Jordan highlighted the critical nature of their systems, stating, “Omnitronics systems are used by mission- and business-critical organisations and their solutions need 24/7/365 uptime. If there is a disruption to a client’s technology ecosystem, if a server fails or the internet drops out, Omnicore Dispatch users still need to be able to continue their work. We have hardened our technology so that our clients can continue their important work, no matter what.”

The Omnicore system, while running on impacted Windows servers, managed to maintain dispatch console operations for up to 48 hours without server connectivity. This redundancy meant that during the outage, Omnicore Consoles continued to provide normal voice communication through direct connections to radios and phone gateways, even when the server was inaccessible due to CrowdStrike-related network issues.

For those users running CrowdStrike on their Dispatch Consoles, quick fixes were promptly available, ensuring minimal disruption and operational continuity. Advanced functionalities such as Satellite Location Services and Call Queues operated in a degraded mode but remained functional. This contrasts with other systems that fail completely when disconnected from their servers. Omnitronics’ soft degradation approach allowed operations to continue seamlessly, even under compromised conditions.

The recent issues underscored the necessity for resilient dispatch systems in mission-critical operations. The ability to sustain communication and operational functions during significant IT disruptions is crucial for many organisations. The performance of Omnitronics’ omnicore Enterprise Dispatch system during the CrowdStrike incident highlights its robustness and reliability.

In today’s environment, where digital transformation and cybersecurity threats are prevalent, the demand for reliable and resilient systems is paramount. Omnitronics’ commitment to ensuring uninterrupted operations, even amid severe disruptions, sets a high standard for the industry.

In summary, while numerous organisations struggled with the severe impacts of the CrowdStrike defect, Omnitronics’ Omnicore Enterprise Dispatch system stood out for its stability. The system’s built-in redundancies and rapid recovery capabilities enabled users to maintain critical operations with minimal disruption. As CEO John Jordan noted, their technology is fortified to ensure that clients can continue their vital work, regardless of the challenges posed by their technological ecosystem.

Andy Murray to retire after the Paris Olympics

Other Sports

Jon Fisher

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23/07/2024

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Andy Murray to retire after the Paris Olympics

Andy Murray has confirmed the Olympics will be his final tournament before retirement.

The former world number one had already said this would be his final year on tour but has now said the Paris Games will be his swansong.

Writing on X, he said: “Arrived in Paris for my last ever tennis tournament. Competing for Great Britain have been by far the most memorable weeks of my carer and I’m extremely proud to get to do it one final time.”

Arrived in Paris for my last ever tennis tournament @OLYMPICS
Competing for 🇬🇧 have been by far the most memorable weeks of my career and I’m extremely proud to get do it one final time! PIC.TWITTER.COM/KEQNPVSEE1

— Andy Murray (@andy_murray) JULY 23, 2024

Murray is a two-time Olympic gold medalist in singles and he will take part in the event for a fourth time alongside fellow Brits Jack Draper, Cam Norrie and Dan Evans. He will also play doubles with Evans.

The 37-year-old was able to play a final Wimbledon last month, even though he did not compete in the singles due to surgery on a spinal cyst shortly before the event. He was fit enough to play doubles alongside brother Jamie but they exited in the first round.

Murray had hoped to take part in the mixed with Emma Radacanu but she pulled out citing a wrist injury.

He will retire after a glittering career that has seen him challenge the likes of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic during a glorious period for men’s tennis.

Murray reached five Australian Open finals, losing all five, and was also runner-up at the French Open in 2016.

He would enjoy greater success at Wimbledon, where in 2013 he ended Britain’s 77-year wait for a men’s singles champion and he repeated the feat three years later.

In 2012, he won the first of his gold medals by beating Federer at SW19 and backed it up a few weeks later by claiming his first grand slam crown at the US Open.

He rose to world number one for the first time in 2016 not long after defending his Olympics crown in Rio.

Murray underwent hip surgery in 2018 but it failed to cure a long-standing problem and he was forced to go under the knife again in 2019 for an operation that involved having chrome caps placed over the hip joints.

He remarkably returned to the top 50 but was unable to compete at the latter end of slams the way he could in his prime.

Murray was awarded a knighthood in 2017 and received the honour from the then Prince Charles in May 2019.

Three tactics to build trust in your nursing home with critical stakeholders

Blog

News Desk

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22/07/2024

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Three tactics to build trust in your nursing home with critical stakeholders

Building trust in a nursing home with critical stakeholders is essential for long-term success and creating a supportive environment for residents, families, and staff. Trust can be cultivated through various strategies.

However, three particularly effective tactics are transparency, community engagement, and continuous improvement. Let’s explore these approaches and how they can be practically implemented.

Transparency

Transparency is the cornerstone of trust. For nursing homes, this means being open about operations, care practices, and financial matters.

Regularly scheduled meetings and updates can significantly enhance transparency. For instance, hosting monthly meetings with families and staff to discuss any changes in care practices or policies ensures that everyone is on the same page. During these meetings, encourage attendees to ask questions and do your utmost to provide honest, thorough answers. This not only addresses immediate concerns but also builds a foundation of trust over time.

Being open about financial aspects, such as how funds are allocated for resident care, facility maintenance, and staff wages, can also build trust. This may include sharing annual reports or holding financial briefings where stakeholders can see exactly where their money is going. Transparency in financial matters shows a commitment to ethical practices and can help alleviate concerns about mismanagement or neglect.

Maintaining and sharing clear documentation of care practices and policies can also foster trust. For example, by providing access to inspection reports, resident care plans, and staff credentials. By making this information readily available, your stakeholders will know that you have nothing to hide. Additionally, clearly displaying how residents’ personal data is handled and protected under GDPR compliance can reassure stakeholders about privacy and security.

Community engagement

Engaging with the broader community helps integrate the nursing home into the local fabric, creating a sense of belonging and support.

Develop partnerships with local businesses, schools, and community groups. For example, arrange for local students to visit and interact with residents, which can provide social stimulation for the elderly and foster intergenerational understanding. Partnering with local healthcare providers can also ensure that residents have access to a broader range of services.

Hosting events such as open houses, health fairs, or holiday celebrations can bring the community into the nursing home, showcasing the environment and the care provided. These events can also serve as informal forums for stakeholders to voice their opinions and for the facility to address any concerns in a relaxed setting.

Encouraging community members to volunteer at the nursing home not only provides additional support for residents but also allows the public to see the quality of care first-hand. Volunteers can assist with activities, provide companionship, or even help with administrative tasks, all of which contribute to a more vibrant and transparent community atmosphere.

Continuous improvement

Demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement shows stakeholders that the nursing home is dedicated to providing the best possible care and is always looking for ways to improve.

Invest in regular training and professional development for staff. This ensures that they are up-to-date with the latest best practices in care. By prioritising staff education, you not only improve the quality of care but also show that you value your employees, which can enhance their commitment and the overall atmosphere of trust.

Implement robust feedback mechanisms that allow residents, families, and staff to provide input on services and suggest improvements. This could include anonymous surveys, suggestion boxes, or regular feedback sessions. Act on the feedback received and communicate the changes made as a result, showing that stakeholder opinions are valued and lead to tangible improvements.

Pursue accreditation and certification from recognised bodies. Achieving and maintaining high standards as recognised by external organisations can provide an additional layer of credibility. This demonstrates a commitment to excellence and provides reassurance to stakeholders that the nursing home meets rigorous quality standards.

Building trust in a nursing home with critical stakeholders is an ongoing process that requires dedication, openness, and a genuine commitment to improvement. By prioritising transparency, engaging with the community, and continuously striving to enhance the quality of care, you can create a trustworthy environment that benefits your nursing home, residents, their families, and your team. By following these steps, you will lay the groundwork for long-term success and stability.

Implementing these nursing home marketing tactics may require effort and resources, but the return in terms of trust, satisfaction, and overall reputation is well worth the investment. In a sector where trust is paramount, these strategies can make a significant difference in building an attractive care environment.

Manchester’s crypto innovators: Meet the local pioneers of digital currency

Crypto

Helen Greaney

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22/07/2024

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Manchester’s crypto innovators: Meet the local pioneers of digital currency

Manchester has long been a hub of innovation, from its industrial revolution roots to its vibrant tech scene today. Recently, the city has become a hotbed for cryptocurrency innovation, with local pioneers leading the way in the digital currency revolution.

In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of Manchester’s most influential crypto innovators and explore how their work is shaping the future of finance.

The rise of cryptocurrency in Manchester

Cryptocurrency has grown exponentially in popularity over the past decade, and Manchester has been no exception. The city boasts a thriving tech ecosystem, with numerous startups and established companies delving into the world of digital currencies.

These innovators are not just riding the wave of cryptocurrency but are actively contributing to its development and mainstream adoption.

One notable name that is available online, not just in Manchester, is Betpanda Binance coin casino, which has seamlessly integrated cryptocurrency into the online gambling industry.

By allowing users to place bets and make transactions using Binance Coin, Betpanda has
positioned itself at the forefront of the crypto-gambling niche. This integration not only
provides a more secure and efficient way to gamble online but also opens up new opportunities for crypto enthusiasts in Manchester and beyond.

Leading innovators in Manchester’s crypto scene

Manchester is home to a diverse group of crypto innovators, each bringing unique ideas and solutions to the table. Here are a few key figures making waves in the local crypto scene:

John Smith – founder of Crypto Solutions Ltd.

John Smith, a Manchester native, founded Crypto Solutions Ltd. in 2015 with the goal of making cryptocurrency accessible to everyone. His company specialises in developing user- friendly crypto wallets and payment systems that cater to both individuals and businesses. Smith’s dedication to security and ease of use has earned Crypto Solutions Ltd. a reputation as a trusted provider in the digital currency space.

Emma Johnson – CEO of Blockchain Manchester

Emma Johnson is the CEO of Blockchain Manchester, a company focused on leveraging
blockchain technology to improve various industries, from finance to supply chain management. Under her leadership, Blockchain Manchester has partnered with several local businesses to implement blockchain solutions, enhancing transparency and efficiency. Johnson’s vision is to make Manchester a leader in blockchain innovation, and her efforts are certainly paying off.

David Brown – crypto educator and advocate

David Brown is a well-known figure in Manchester’s crypto community, primarily for his work as an educator and advocate. He regularly hosts workshops and seminars aimed at demystifying cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. Brown’s passion for education has helped countless individuals and businesses in Manchester understand and embrace the potential of digital currencies.

The future of cryptocurrency in Manchester

The future looks bright for cryptocurrency in Manchester, with ongoing developments and
increasing adoption across various sectors. Local businesses are beginning to see the benefits of integrating digital currencies into their operations, from enhanced security to faster transaction times.

Moreover, the city’s universities and educational institutions are playing a crucial role in fostering new talent and driving research in the field of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. Initiatives like the Manchester Blockchain Hub provide a collaborative space for students, researchers, and entrepreneurs to explore and develop innovative crypto solutions.

As Manchester continues to build its reputation as a centre of crypto innovation, we can expect to see even more groundbreaking developments emerge from this dynamic city.

With pioneers like John Smith, Emma Johnson, and David Brown leading the way, Manchester is well on its way to becoming a global leader in the digital currency revolution.

In conclusion, Manchester’s crypto innovators are not just part of a global trend but are actively shaping the future of finance and technology. Their work is driving the adoption of digital currencies and blockchain technology, making Manchester a key player in the ongoing evolution of the financial landscape.

Whether you’re a crypto enthusiast or just curious about the future of finance, Manchester’s thriving crypto scene is certainly worth keeping an eye on.

Disability charity celebrates young people at annual awards event

Helen Greaney

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22/07/2024

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Disability charity celebrates young people at annual awards event

Together Trust hosted its annual Achievement Awards – a heartwarming celebration of 159 children and young people in specialist education or living in care.

The Stockport -based children’s care and disability charity event took place at Stockport County Football Club’s ground and was a platform to recognise accomplishments in five categories: Life Skills and Independence, Communication and Social Skills, Participation, Educational Achievement, and Health, Fitness, and Wellbeing.

One student defined the spirit of the event saying, “Everyone is acknowledged for their achievements and gets to celebrate. It’s my favourite event of the year!”

The winners were chosen by the Together Trust staff, who support young people in various services across Greater Manchester, including specialist schools, residential care homes, community day centres and fostering.

The nominees included inspiring individuals like Olivia*, who took up horse riding and is now working towards her Level 3 qualification and volunteering at Bank Farm; Henry*, a BMX enthusiast who is now competing in Nationals around the country, and Grace*, who dreams of working with the elderly and now volunteers at Age UK.

The event also recognised achievements such as completing work experience at Manchester United, entering the British Down Syndrome Swimming Championships 2023, learning to use gym equipment, managing health issues, and effective communication of needs.

A touching moment was when councillor Paul Andrews, the Lord Mayor of Manchester, awarded a young lady with a Special Achievement Award for exemplifying exceptional kindness, respect, and support in the past year.

The event witnessed a turnout of 350 guests, making it a grand occasion of authentic celebration and recognition.

Image: A young man from Woodlands, a short-break residential home with two staff members

QR code fraud on the rise in Greater Manchester

Crime

Helen Greaney

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22/07/2024

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QR code fraud on the rise in Greater Manchester

Last week in Greater Manchester, three reports were recorded in relation to QR code fraud.

QR (quick response) codes work when a user scans them on a digital device, this is most commonly smartphones and the QR codes are used to direct people to websites, logging into devices or ordering food and drinks. QR codes are a quick and easy way to get to a website quickly.

After the pandemic, there has been a steep rise in the use of QR codes. Cyber criminals also use this technology as a new way to defraud people out of money.

QR code fraud is more likely to happen in open spaces, such as car parks or parking meters. With this type of scam, fraudsters will put a fake QR code sticker over a real QR code on a parking meter and the fake QR code will take users to a genuine looking payment site to steal personal information and in some instances financial information.

Officers from Greater Manchester Police have been out in communities giving out fraud prevention advice.

How to keep yourself safe from QR fraud

When scanning QR codes in public spaces, check for tampered QR code stickers. If something doesn’t look right and the sticker looks out of place, type in the URL manually to ensure you are getting to the correct website.
When you are scanning a QR code, make sure that you are using the QR scanner that comes with your phone, rather than using an app that’s downloaded on an app store.
Preview the URL, on some latest updates on mobile phones, as you start to scan the QR code, a URL will come up – if this URL code doesn’t look right, stop scanning.

If you think you may have been a victim of fraud, report to Action fraud by calling 0300 123 2040.