Business Manchester

Double win for The University of Manchester at Times Higher Education Awards

Education

Helen Greaney

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02/12/2024

Double win for The University of Manchester at Times Higher Education Awards

The University of Manchester is the proud recipient of two awards from Times Higher Education in recognition of its outstanding support to students and STEM research.

At the awards in Birmingham last week, The University of Manchester and the University’s Students’ Union was recognised for the support provided to students during the cost of living crisis in 2022/23.

One-off payments totalling over £9 million were made available to all students in November 2022, which 90% accessed. Targeted additional support was allocated to some students in February 2023 which, at the time, many other universities were not in the financial position to provide.

Overall, an unparalleled package of support of over £10 million reached students through a wide range of interventions in the academic year. These included cosy campus spaces, free breakfasts on Wednesdays and holistic support initiatives.

Kelly-Ann Mallon, head of access, student employability, success, and development at The University of Manchester, who attended the awards on behalf of the University, said: “This recognition is a testament to the incredible teamwork and collaboration across the University that allowed us to respond swiftly and effectively to the cost of living crisis.

“The collective commitment from all areas of the institution ensured that we could provide the right support to our students. This award is not only a recognition of our efforts but a reflection of how much of a difference this initiative has made in the lives of our students, and it’s truly rewarding to see that impact acknowledged.”

Overall, an unparalleled package of support of over £10million reached students through a wide range of interventions in the academic year. These included cosy campus spaces, free breakfasts on Wednesdays and holistic support initiatives.

The University’s community of donors play a significant role in supporting students experiencing cost of living challenges. Initiatives such as the Cost of Living Support Fund ensure those facing hardship have access to immediate financial support.

Gifts from donors also support programmes such as the Manchester Access Programme and Undergraduate Access Scholarship, enabling more students than ever to access life-changing opportunities here at Manchester.

The effects of this response to the crisis stretched beyond the university, making waves in Westminster discourse and impacting policy.

Lexie Baynes, union affairs officer, University of Manchester Students’ Union said: “I’m so proud that this collaborative piece of work between the University and Students’ Union has been recognised by Times Higher and the sector.

“To me, the key takeaway here is that colleagues at the University and the Students’ Union elected Executive Teams worked in partnership on a direct and deliverable package of support for our 48,000 students during the cost of living crisis and financial pressures, putting students’ needs at the forefront of our actions. Huge congratulations to all those involved in the work, and the current Students’ Union team looks forward to continuing to work in partnership, to ensure that any barriers students face can be overcome.”

Anna Lomas, Employer Engagement Manager at The University of Manchester and chair of the group in charge of directing student support said: “Colleagues from across The University of Manchester and the Students’ Union are delighted to be recipients of this award and to be recognised formally for the hard work and commitment they gave to supporting our students with the challenges they were facing during the escalating cost of living crisis.”

The University of Manchester also received the award for Research Project of the Year: STEM for its work developing the world’s first bedside genetic test to prevent babies from going deaf.

One in 500 babies carry a gene that causes permanent deafness when given gentamicin, an antibiotic which is commonly used in intensive care. Researchers from Manchester developed the rapid bedside test and trialled it on 751 babies in neonatal units in Manchester and Liverpool, and the NHS is exploring how the test can become part of routine clinical care. The technology could potentially save the hearing of 180 babies in the UK every year.

Dr John McDermott, NIHR Doctoral Research Fellow at the University of Manchester said: “This award is a testament to the hard work of so many people from across the University and at the hospital. With the genedrive technology set to be rolled out across the country as part of PALOH-UK, we’re excited to see how the impact of this intervention will continue to grow.”

Construction training initiative launches at HMP Styal

Employment

Helen Greaney

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02/12/2024

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Construction training initiative launches at HMP Styal

A pioneering training programme is set to launch at HMP Styal, marking the first-ever construction workshop within the women’s prison estate.

Having built a strong partnership with HMP Styal over the last two years whilst running shorter ‘introduction to construction’ courses, Procure Plus has supported the prison to be able to include construction on the curriculum.

The market-leading not-for-profit procurement company will offer a ten-week property maintenance bootcamp. The training will begin with a one-week Health and Safety course and Construction Skills Certification Scheme training starting on November 25.

A ‘Meet the Employer’ event will then take place on December 9, followed by nine weeks of Property Maintenance practical training starting on January 6.

During this time, participants will gain hands-on experience in real construction tasks. The focus is on actively working with tools and materials, allowing them to apply what they learn in a real-world setting, rather than just covering theory.

Lauren Nolan, prison employment lead at HMP Styal, said: “This will be the first-ever construction workshop within the female estate, which is a huge accomplishment for us as a prison and we are very grateful to Procure Plus for supporting us in implementing this.

“Female prisons typically deliver qualifications such as hair and beauty, catering or hospitality; so, to have the opportunity to deliver qualifications and avenues into employment that move away from the more gender stereotypical opportunities and diversify our offer for the women in our custody is incredibly exciting; both for the prison and for the women themselves.

“This is only possible as a result of collaborative working over the previous two years, including successful ‘Have a Go days’, Construction sector led jobs fairs, CSCS courses, and employment outcomes on both temporary license and release. The ongoing support and understanding of the needs of women leaving custody has been outstanding and has massively contributed to our successful outcomes. I personally look forward to seeing the increase in success stories following on from the upcoming bootcamps and look forward to developing this partnership even further.”

Procure Plus has secured funding from City & Guilds’ Training division to fund the bootcamp training course, while its Foundation division provided the setup funds for the workshop.

Procure Plus sourced joinery tools from its supplier Jewsons, and its ‘Women and Manual Trades’ programme funded the rest of the required equipment.

Procure Plus has brought together a strong partnership of organisations to deliver this programme, with Rosscom Training delivering the construction course, B4Box fitting the prison’s workshop, HMP Styal finding candidates for the courses, and a variety of Pocure Plus’ construction partners engaging to provide employment opportunities for the women.

Faiza Khan MBE, executive director, Corporate Affairs & Foundation, City & Guilds said:

“We’re delighted to be supporting this programme, both through our Training division and through our Foundation. As we move into new training sectors, we aim to increase the range and availability of job-relevant skills for female learners within prisons, helping them to secure sustainable work after release.”

Mike Brogan, chief executive at Procure Plus, said: “This initiative is about reaching those furthest from the labour market and offering a real chance for change. With women making up only a small fraction of the construction workforce, it’s crucial that we create opportunities like this to challenge industry norms.

“The shorter courses have already led to great successes with former prisoners securing full-time roles on release, and also with current prisoners securing positions whilst working on ROTL (release on temporary licence).

“We hope this longer course will ensure the women develop valuable, employable skills whilst building their confidence to work within the construction industry either on ROTL or a job on release.”

In addition to this scheme, over the last five years, Procure Plus has helped more than 2,500 people into work.

Two men seriously injured in Clayton attack

Crime

Helen Greaney

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02/12/2024

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Two men seriously injured in Clayton attack

Police are investigating after two people were injured in a suspected stabbing in Clayton last night.

At around 11.10pm, they were alerted to a man with serious injuries on Barrington Street.

He was taken to hospital with injuries which are not believed to be life-threatening at this time.

Shortly after, another man attended hospital with stab wounds which are understood to be connected with the initial call.

A scene remains in place and officers are on the scene as their enquiries continue.

Additional officers will be in the area over the coming days and residents will be able to share any concerns.

Detective chief inspector Gareth Davies said: “We are currently investigating the full circumstances of last night’s shocking incident, and I would urge anyone with any information to please come forward.

“These acts of violence have no place on our streets and we will be working hard to ensure we find those responsible.

“We do believe that this was a targeted incident, with no wider threat to the public. However, we do have multiple officers on the scene and in the area for reassurance and they will be able to assist with any queries you may have.

“I would urge anyone with any information about this incident to please get in touch. This could include CCTV, dashcam, or doorbell footage from around the time of the incident and captures something that looks suspicious.”

You can contact police via 101 or via the Live Chat service at gmp.police.uk, quoting log 3482 of 01/12/24. Alternatively, anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Council land deal unlocks major life science investment

Construction

Helen Greaney

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02/12/2024

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Council land deal unlocks major life science investment

Manchester City Council has completed a disposal of land to Kadans Science Partner UK (Kadans) to deliver a landmark life science development.

It is part of the first phase of the Upper Brook Street regeneration programme adjacent to the Oxford Road Corridor in Central Manchester.

Planning permission was granted early this year and now the brownfield site will be redeveloped to bring forward over 215,000sqft of purpose-built lab and office space focused on research, digital innovation and life sciences.

The first phase expects to create 2000 new jobs.

A further 475,000sqft of life science employment space is being delivered by other developers in latter phases of the regeneration programme.

The building is designed around Kadans’ core principles of technical excellence, transparency and connectivity. Split across ground plus seven floors, the space is designed with adaptability at the forefront providing floorplates that have an optimised division of one to four tenancies.

The atrium encourages circulation both horizontally and vertically through well planned meeting and breakout spaces. This is complemented by an active and permeable ground floor providing a focal town hall area, publicly accessible café and innovation space.

Upper Brook Street sits adjacent to the Oxford Road Corridor which has operated for over 15 years and accommodates more than 50% of all life science business in Manchester, and Kadans will look to foster partnerships with Manchester’s wealth of world-class research facilities harnessing the power of people and place.

Kadans will continue to engage with the local community and sign-post opportunities for social cohesion and community through construction and into operation to develop an inclusive innovation hub.

Development of the site is expected to be complete in 2027.

Bev Craig, council leader said: “Upper Brook Street is a key regeneration location that has the potential to bring long-term brownfield sites back into active use. This site represents the first of an ambitious programme of investment in this part of our city, which is supporting enviable growth for our research and life science sectors, creating quality jobs for our residents and diversifying the city’s economy.

“Given its location close to the Oxford Road corridor, the site allows for close collaboration with the city’s universities and research community, supporting opportunity for Manchester to continue to build its reputation as a globally renowned centre for medical and life sciences.”

Will Fogden, development lead for Kadans Science Partner, said: “This is a significant milestone which kickstarts this mixed-use masterplan. Adopting a philosophy of designing ‘inside-out’ the scheme combines strong architectural language with robust functionality to create an optimum framework for innovation and collaboration.

“We look forward to starting on site in 2025 and delivering on this transformational district that promotes inclusivity, innovation and collaboration to deliver game changing science.”

Cockroaches on the counter land takeaway a huge fine

Helen Greaney

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29/11/2024

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Cockroaches on the counter land takeaway a huge fine

A takeaway that was operating with mouse droppings on work surfaces, has been blasted by health inspectors.

In December 2023, officers from Manchester City Council’s Environmental Health Team visited Karahi Box Ltd – trading as Daawat – in Stockport Road, Manchester, to carry out a routine inspection.

Several serious violations of Food Safety and Hygiene regulations were found including an active pest infestation, poorly cleaned and unhygienic conditions and a dead cockroach near a food preparation table.

Officers also noted that food management systems, which ensure the safe preparation and storage of food, were not in place, posing a potential risk to the public.

On Thursday, November 28, 2024, the business appeared before Manchester Magistrates’ Court, represented by its director, Mohammed Tariq Jilani.

Entering four guilty pleas for offences under the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013, the businesses was ordered to pay a fine of £6,000.

It was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £2,000, and costs of £2,840.

Councillor Lee-Ann Igbon said: “There are several thousand takeaways and restaurants in Manchester which is why we, as a council, take food hygiene and safety very seriously.

“Regular inspections such as this are vital in ensuring that standards, which ultimately are in place to protect the public, are maintained.

“In this case there were a series of major violations which is demonstrated by the size of the fine that was imposed.

“I hope this sends a clear message that businesses which disregard safety like this will face the full force of the law.”

Facial reconstruction created of woman found in River Mersey

News

Helen Greaney

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29/11/2024

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Facial reconstruction created of woman found in River Mersey

Police are again appealing for help to identify a woman who was discovered in the River Mersey in March.

A member of the public alerted the emergency services to a body found in the river, adjacent to Chorlton Water Park.

Despite extensive work over the last eight months, including detailed forensic, DNA, and investigative work, the woman has remained unidentified.

But now a facial reconstruction has been created by Face Lab at Liverpool John Moores University.

The woman was from a European background, around five feet one inches tall, with a slim build, and dark brown hair. She was likely aged between 26 and 40, though could be older or younger.

She was discovered wearing a Primark neon green strapless corset style top, New Look branded Jenna black jeans in a size 8, and dark green anti-slip socks – the type that are believed to be used in hospitals and care facilities, although they can be purchased in shops and online. She had an elastic band and hair bobble on her wrist.

The woman was in the water for around one or two months – though it cannot be stated for certain exactly how long.

She may have entered the water in a surrounding area or region, with the River Tame and River Goyt both merging into the River Mersey.

Further analysis of her body is due to be completed, but her cause of death is currently being treated as unexplained. Finding out who she is will assist in establishing the circumstances in which she entered the water.

Forensic examinations

Detective inspector Louise Edwards said: “We have worked with numerous experts covering a wide range of forensic examinations and tests available to us, but we have sadly been unable to uncover the woman’s identity.

“We want nothing more than to reunite her with her family and friends. She could be someone’s mother, auntie, sister, or cousin – somebody out there will know who she is and we want to ensure she gets back to her loved ones.

“If you have any information at all, please do get in touch with us. Even the smallest amount of information could greatly benefit in finding out who she is, and the circumstances which led to her sadly being discovered in the river more than eight months ago.”

You can contact police by calling 101, or by using the Live Chat Service at gmp.police.uk, quoting log number 1191 of March 21, 2024. Alternatively contact the Major Incident Team Syndicate 3 directly on 0161 856 9479.

TPE unwraps Christmas train to support Mission Christmas

Transport

Helen Greaney

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29/11/2024

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TPE unwraps Christmas train to support Mission Christmas

TransPennine Express (TPE) is spreading festive cheer across its network with the unwrapping of a special Christmas train, designed to raise awareness and support for Cash for Kids’ Mission Christmas appeal.

The train company aims to inspire customers to get involved with the campaign, which supports disadvantaged children across the UK who may otherwise go without gifts this holiday season and will run across the train operator’s network until early next year.

The eye-catching design appears on one of TPE’s Class 185 trains and features vibrant seasonal imagery, with Santa being guided by his reindeers.

Andrew McClements, customer experience and transformation director at TPE said: “We’re delighted to support Cash for Kids’ Mission Christmas appeal this year. Our festive train brings the spirit of Christmas to life and serves as a reminder to help those in need.

“We hope the festive design encourages our customers to take part in this vital campaign and help make Christmas special for children across the UK.

“Customers can keep an eye out for the special festive train while making their journeys.”

Lauren Baxter, Cash for Kids Partnership manager, said: “Once again as cost-of-living pressures continues to hit families across the UK, we are anticipating a huge level of demand for support. This year-to-date application levels are already over 20% higher than in 2023.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be working with TransPennine Express this year. The festive train wrap will drive great awareness for Mission Christmas, and we are delighted that staff are also supporting by wearing Christmas jumpers throughout December to support the cause.”

Mission Christmas encourages people to buy an extra gift for a disadvantaged child, helping to ensure that no child wakes up without a present on Christmas morning.

Cash for Kids, the charity behind the initiative, works to support children affected by poverty, illness, neglect, or additional needs.

The charity, who have bases across the North and Scotland support many children every year across the TPE network who face a tough Christmas, with some waking up without gifts.

This year, Mission Christmas aims to provide presents for 300,000 children, ensuring they don’t miss out on the magic of the season.

The train operator is also supporting the campaign internally this year with its colleagues by encouraging them to sign up for Christmas jumper day and to donate to the cause.

As the vibrant train moves around the network, it will act as a visual reminder to get involved and support the appeal.

Customers can easily contribute to the campaign by purchasing an extra gift or making a cash donation to Mission Christmas by visiting cashforkids.org.uk/mission.

Local solutions to local challenges: how SSE sees the future of decarbonisation

Energy

Helen Greaney

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29/11/2024

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Local solutions to local challenges: how SSE sees the future of decarbonisation

Chantal Adams (27) is a proud Mancunian.

She studied human geography at university but after a short spell working in telecoms, decided her future lay in renewable energy.

“It was quite nice for me to be able to go into a job that was actually related to my degree, because we studied renewables and I always found it really interesting,” said Chantal.

“When I was at university I wasn’t quite sure what a job in renewables would look like, but an ex-colleague worked for SSE and always said it was a good place to work. So, when this job came up in Manchester, I thought, oh, that’s brilliant. I’ve got all of the experience they’re looking for. I know Manchester and I have all the local connections and know how.

“The real appeal was feeling I could make a difference to the place I come from. I hope that one day I’ll work on a project that I’ll be able to say to future generations, my own kids and grandkids, that I worked on that.

“A lot of the people that I worked with in my first role have gone into energy now. I wanted to do more than just recycling at home or putting on a colder wash. It’s generally accepted that the infrastructure needs to improve before we can fully transition to net zero so I wanted to do something that paves the way and makes it easier for everyone to do more. My generation has been raised to understand what climate change is as part of our curriculum, but I think maybe there’s a challenge with some people slightly older than us that didn’t have that education in school.”

As the business development manager for Manchester at SSE Energy Solutions, Chantal works alongside another Manchester local, Eve Ashby, social value co-ordinator for SSE in the region. Together, they’ve been working with local schools and charities to encourage more people to consider a career in sustainable energy.

“We’ve been into a few schools and colleges to talk to kids about STEM education and we’ve been working closely with the Blair project, a social enterprise in Manchester that provides opportunities for marginalised young people to develop hands on electrification skills. It’s a part of the role I really enjoy because it’s good to give back.”

Chantal embodies SSE’s commitment to communities, believing that it’s important that local challenges are met with locally devised solutions, and taking the community with them on the journey to net zero.

The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) will unveil the details of its new five-year decarbonisation plan at this year’s Green Summit, but it is clear that it shares SSE’s view that collaboration at a local level is key if decarbonisation targets are to be met.

SSE’s director of regions and social value, Nehal Mehta, said: “We have long believed that working with communities is the best way forward and have developed a strong relationship with GMCA, precisely because they share that vision. I know their new five-year plan will be ambitious and our sponsorship of the 2024 Green Summit, our 3rd year of doing so, demonstrates our commitment to working with them to achieve their targets and drive low carbon investment, local supply chains, skills and jobs in the region.”

As for Chantal, who is excited about heat network, solar and wind projects she’s developing in the Greater Manchester region, she has big plans for the future.

She added: “I feel like every day I learn something new, which is a good thing. I think the day I stop learning is the day it’s time to leave. My ambition is to have so many projects in Manchester that I’ve got a team under me, and we grow so big here that we need lots more resources and create lots more local jobs.”

Top 10 websites for an in-depth write-off check

Automotive

Helen Greaney

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29/11/2024

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Top 10 websites for an in-depth write-off check

Buying a used car can feel like a gamble. Without proper information, it’s difficult to know whether your dream car has a hidden past that could cost you. Fortunately, performing a write-off check can be your safety net.

Here are the top 10 websites that offer comprehensive write-off checks, starting with the trusted leader in vehicle history reports: Motorscan.

1. Motorscan

When it comes to exhaustive write-off checks, Motorscan wins. Using an intuitive user‐friendly interface, all‐pervading data from credible sources, as well as lightning‐fast reports, Motorscan provides all‐round information about the vehicle’s history before buying them.

Whatever details you might be after about past accidents, salvage condition, or anything red flaggy, Motorscan offers a full check through so you are in the know.

2. CarVertical

CarVertical is another well-known name for used car buyers. Their write-off check service leverages blockchain technology to guarantee that the data they share is true and not manipulated. They range from odometer readings to previous-writing off problems, which is a great option for the next test.

3. HPI Check

HPI Check offers a comprehensive write-off report that will help you understand whether a vehicle has ever been declared a total loss. Their reports further disclose outstanding finance, odometer mileage discrepancies, and other relevant things.

4. TotalCarCheck

TotalCarCheck provides free and paid write-off checks so buyers can easily check if a car’s history is worth a deeper look. Their premium report provides an in-depth analysis of insurance write-off categories and other key information.

5. VCheck

VCheck focuses on providing affordable, detailed write-off checks. Their reports contain data on stolen vehicles, mileage reporting, and insurance write-offs, which can empower you to make a well-informed decision.

6. Carfax

Carfax is a well-known provider of its data set, including North American automobiles. Carfax is a good option for checking any former write-off (also known as 1 owner cars) and salvage status on vehicles imported from overseas.

7. AA Vehicle Check

The AA Vehicle Check offers an in-depth write-off history in addition to information about the car’s history. This is a vetted service supported by one of the biggest motoring associations.

8. AutoCheck

AutoCheck offers a detailed write-off check using a large vehicle database. It helps potential buyers understand a car’s history, including any reported accidents or write-offs. AutoCheck’s scoring system is particularly helpful in comparing vehicles.

9. MyCarCheck

MyCarCheck includes simple write-off checks and standard vehicle information including tax status. It is quite a “to-the-point” way of acquiring the basic information of an old car.

10. RAC Car Passport

RAC Car Passport is meant to give you peace of mind. They provide for example, a comprehensive write-off history, who finance what, etc. RAC is a reputable name and their routine vehicle checks are in line with the reputation of the brand.

Conclusion

A write-off check is one of the most critical steps a used car buyer takes as they approach taking ownership of a used vehicle. By using one of these top 10 websites, starting with Motorscan, you can protect yourself from unexpected surprises and make sure you get the most value from your purchase.

Brilliant Harry Brook hundred puts England back in Test

Other Sports

Tom Rostance

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29/11/2024

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Brilliant Harry Brook hundred puts England back in Test

Harry Brook scored a brilliant century to drag England right back into the first test in Christchurch on Friday, guiding the tourists to within 29 runs of New Zealand at the end of day two.

England slumped to 71-4 in the second session but Brook and Ollie Pope put together a battling partnership of 151 for the fifth wicket to cut the deficit in half by tea. England ended the day on 319-5 with Brrok unbeaten on 132.

Brook, having brought up his half century with one of two sixes, forged on to pass 2,000 career runs and secured his seventh century in 22 tests when he sent one of his 10 fours racing to the Hagley Oval boundary.

The 25-year-old has captain Ben Stokes alongside him on 37 not out and England’s hopes of taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series are very much revived.

“Obviously, I am very pleased to put together a partnership with Harry Brook out there,” said Pope, who was playing down the batting order as emergency wicketkeeper.

https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1862337920792686997

“They bowled really well early, some pretty good balls in there, so from where we were to where we’re finishing the day, the boys are really happy with what’s on the scoreboard.

“It should be a good day tomorrow to hopefully push a button in the morning and put them under some pressure.”

It had all looked bleak for England when, with opener Zak Crawley having already fallen for a duck, Jacob Bethell and Joe Root departed cheaply in the last over before lunch at the hands of all-rounder Nathan Smith.

Smith removed fellow Test debutant Bethell for 10 with an outside edge before Root, playing his 150th test, chopped on for a duck four balls later.

“I thought we bowled pretty well in periods but yeah, England batted well to get themselves into this position,” said Smith.

“A couple of catches go to hand there, and it’s a completely different story. They got a couple of good partnerships and we just need to break (this one) with the new ball tomorrow.”

Earlier, seamer Brydon Carse took 4-64 and spinner Shoaib Bashir 4-69 for England but an unbeaten 58 from Phillips helped New Zealand extend their overnight tally by 29 runs at the cost of their last two wickets.