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New events and amazing savings at Arighi Bianchi this month

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Arighi Bianchi has announced its new line up of events and not-to-be-missed promotions happening this month through to October.

From exciting furniture launches and new-in-store home accessories, to its Autumn SALE and a stunning limited-edition Alps inspired collection… here’s some of the Macclesfield store’s upcoming activities.

With its Wellbeing Within promotion in full swing, there is still chance to enjoy special offers and get expert advice on how to create a harmonious home environment that supports a healthier lifestyle.

There is also the chance to win a luxury Hypnos mattress, together with an overnight stay for two at the luxurious Tawny Hotel. Enter via the store’s social media channels or by completing an entry form in the ‘Hypnos Sleep Zone’ on the store’s top floor. The competition closes on Friday, October 4.

Arighi Bianchi’s Autumn Sale also launches next week, on Thursday, September 26, with savings across the store (and online) of up to 30%. Browse the store to find fantastic deals on everything from sofas and dining table sets, to lighting and flooring coverings. It’s the ideal time to invest in new furniture ahead of the Christmas period or for anyone planning ahead for presents, then Arighi’s CASA designer accessories lounge will provide lots of gift ideas.

CLEO CORNER SOFA LIFESTYLE

On Sunday, September 29, Arighi Bianchi is once again opening the doors to its ‘one-day-only’ Warehouse Clearance Event from 10am to 3pm. Within its Warehouse Sale, at Halles Warehouse on Park Lane in Macclesfield, you’ll find super bargains of up to 70% off Arighi Bianchi classics and designer brands. Arighi’s expert team will also be on hand to provide help and advice on the best buys and options available.

CASA Accessories Lounge

If you’re planning a home interiors project, then another event not to be missed is its exclusive, interactive Home Styling Workshop with interior designer Brent Simpson on Thursday, September 26. Two sessions will take place, from 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm. Tickets are available online at www.arighibianchi.co.uk and guests can look forward to a glass of fizz and canapes on arrival, and a luxury goody bag, as well as personalised home styling guidance, a deep dive into the latest Romo fabric and upholstery collection now in-store, and the chance to create a professional interior design moodboard.

Postcards from the Alps … coming this Autumn

Leading into October, the Arighi team will be transporting visitors to the store to the Alps. The new campaign includes a carefully curated collection of homewares and accessories, food and drink and ‘how to get the Alpine look’ tips – think cosy log cabin vibes, reclaimed wood furniture, ski chalet style accessories and cosy textured soft furnishings. There will also be a new delicious hot chocolate menu at Caffè AB and the chance to win an Alpine Escape!

To find out more about everything happening at Arighi Bianchi visit the What’s On section of the website and keep an eye out on its social media for more announcements and event details throughout the coming weeks.

Dave Antrobus on AI’s Importance in Safeguarding UK National Security: A Strategic Overview

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Dave Antrobus is at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence into the UK’s national security strategy. He highlights how AI technologies can significantly enhance public safety, from predicting threats to improving emergency response efforts. With AI, security agencies can better analyse data to prevent cyber threats and respond more swiftly to potential dangers.

Antrobus, co-founder of Inc & Co, believes that AI’s role extends beyond traditional security measures. His work explores how AI can reshape surveillance systems while considering ethical implications, ensuring both effectiveness and respect for human rights. This approach addresses the delicate balance between technological advancement and civil liberties.

AI is not just about technology; it’s about safeguarding society. Through initiatives aimed at ethical implementation, Antrobus makes a compelling case for strong regulations to guide AI development. Encouraging dialogue on AI’s ethical use is essential to safeguarding national security while also fostering public trust.

Assessing the Role of AI in Enhancing UK National Security

AI is rapidly becoming a pivotal tool in strengthening national security. It plays an important role in intelligence and surveillance, defending against cyber threats, and ensuring ethical use while respecting privacy.

AI in Intelligence and Surveillance

Artificial Intelligence has revolutionised the intelligence domain by enabling real-time data processing and pattern recognition. It helps organisations like the UK intelligence community and GCHQ to enhance their surveillance capabilities. AI systems can efficiently analyse vast amounts of data from various sources, identifying threats that may go unnoticed by human analysts. This improves decision-making in situations demanding quick responses. Moreover, machine learning models can predict future threats by analysing historical data, offering pre-emptive insights that are crucial in safeguarding public safety and national security.

Cybersecurity and AI’s Defensive Mechanisms

AI significantly enhances cybersecurity by identifying and responding to cyber threats with speed and precision. Machine learning algorithms succeed in recognising unusual network activities, which may signal the onset of cyber-attacks. These intelligent systems continuously learn from new data, adapting to emerging threats more effectively than traditional security measures. AI’s ability to automate responses reduces the time taken to counter attacks, offering robust protection for UK security systems. By employing AI-driven cybersecurity solutions, they can maintain a more secure digital environment, reducing the risk associated with cyber threats.

Ethical Uses of AI in Public Safety

Ensuring ethical standards in the deployment of AI for public safety is a pressing concern. Integrating AI into security systems should be accompanied by stringent ethical guidelines to protect human rights and uphold accountability. The UK intelligence community must adhere to ethical standards when utilising AI technologies. Key principles include transparency, minimisation of bias, and ensuring accountability. Engaging in dialogue with civil society and legal experts is crucial to address potential ethical challenges, ensuring AI technologies support public safety without compromising individual rights.

The Impact of AI on Data Privacy and Protection

The integration of AI into national security raises critical issues concerning data privacy and protection. While AI enhances security capabilities, it must not infringe on individual privacy rights or lead to unlawful surveillance. Legally compliant data practices and robust AI regulation can ensure that AI-driven security measures respect privacy. Data protection laws provide a framework for balancing security needs with personal privacy, requiring AI systems to operate within these boundaries. The UK must sustain an approach where AI supports national security while safeguarding citizens’ personal information through strict data governance policies.

The Future Landscape of AI in National Security

Artificial intelligence plays a crucial role in enhancing national security. It offers powerful tools to predict and address potential threats, promotes innovation within intelligence agencies, and brings challenges, especially regarding ethics and guidance.

Predictive Analytics and National Threats Identification

AI tools like predictive analytics can help identify national security threats before they occur. By processing vast data sets, AI can spot patterns and trends, offering insights into potential dangers. Predictive policing uses similar methods to enhance safety, giving law enforcement a way to efficiently focus resources.

These technologies offer the accuracy and speed necessary to respond to urgent threats. They help reduce human error and increase efficiency, allowing better allocation of national and local security resources.

Innovation and Upskilling within the Intelligence Community

AI’s role in national security also involves driving innovation within intelligence agencies. As AI tools become more sophisticated, they open new possibilities for information gathering and analysis. This requires upskilling current intelligence personnel to handle advanced technologies efficiently.

Training programs focus on equipping agents with the skills needed to leverage AI effectively. By combining human expertise with AI’s capabilities, intelligence agencies can improve their operational efficiency and decision-making abilities.

Challenges and Guidance for AI Development in Security

Several challenges arise with AI’s integration into national security, especially ethical concerns and maintaining oversight. Ensuring AI tools act within ethical boundaries remains a priority, guiding their development and application. Balancing innovation with privacy and civil liberties is crucial.

Developers and policymakers must collaborate to create guidelines that ensure responsible AI use. Continued dialogue on regulatory frameworks and ethical standards fosters trust and supports the sustainable evolution of AI in security contexts. By addressing these challenges, AI continues to transform the landscape of national security responsibly.

Fibabanka Partners with GetirFinans to Launch Türkiye’s First BaaS Platform

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Fibabanka has introduced a pioneering Service Banking model in collaboration with GetirFinans, marking a new era in financial services through its innovative BaaS (Banking as a Service) platform. The bank has set its sights on expanding this platform to cater to industries worldwide, starting with the UK.

As a leader in Türkiye’s banking sector, Fibabanka has launched the country’s first Banking as a Service model in partnership with GetirFinans, which received $70 million in investment last year at a valuation of $250 million. This collaboration represents a key element in Fibabanka’s strategy to expand its BaaS offering, allowing non-banking businesses to integrate financial services into their operations efficiently.

Enabled by Fibabanka’s cutting-edge technology, the BaaS model is set to transform financial services, giving companies across various sectors the ability to integrate banking solutions into their platforms seamlessly. As one of the few global institutions to implement this model, Fibabanka is positioning itself as a leader in the Turkish financial landscape.

Revolutionising Financial Services Integration

The partnership with GetirFinans serves as the first application of Fibabanka’s BaaS platform. Through GetirFinans, integrated within the Getir app, users can access various banking services, such as account management, card issuance, and payments, directly from the app. By using Fibabanka’s digital infrastructure, GetirFinans is able to offer these services without the need for a banking licence, allowing them to focus on their core business activities.

With more than 500 APIs powering its platform, Fibabanka’s BaaS model allows businesses to seamlessly incorporate financial services, enabling cost-effective and efficient service delivery. From major retailers to fintech startups, organisations can utilise this platform to meet growing customer demand for integrated financial solutions.

Ömer Mert, General Manager and Member of the Board of Directors at Fibabanka, highlighted the innovation behind this model: “As consumer expectations around financial services evolve, businesses are seeking ways to offer seamless and integrated experiences through their own platforms. Our Banking as a Service model responds directly to these demands by enabling businesses outside the banking sector to access financial infrastructure easily. The GetirFinans collaboration is just the first step, and we look forward to expanding our platform further to meet the needs of various industries and countries.”

Broadening the Reach of Financial Services

Fibabanka’s BaaS model is designed to enhance financial inclusion by making banking services more accessible to a wider audience. Through partnerships like GetirFinans, Fibabanka is reaching beyond traditional banking, providing innovative solutions tailored to modern business and consumer needs.

The platform also offers operational advantages for partner organisations, reducing the costs and complexities typically associated with providing financial services. Fibabanka manages the backend operations that require a banking licence, allowing businesses to focus on their growth and customer experience.

A Vision for the Future

The introduction of Fibabanka’s BaaS model is just the beginning. The bank plans to expand its digital banking services to more industries and countries, with a strong commitment to innovation and technology-driven solutions. Fibabanka aims to set new standards in the financial services sector, benefitting both businesses and their customers.

“We are proud to be at the forefront of this shift in the banking landscape,” Mert added. “As the destination for BaaS in Türkiye, Fibabanka will continue to build on this model, offering new collaborations that meet the needs of our partners and their customers. Our mission is to redefine the boundaries of digital banking through innovation, and this is just the first of many milestones we intend to achieve.”

Platform81 Expands into Wiltshire with Trowbridge Office Opening

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Platform81, a prominent digital marketing and web development agency, has opened its newest office in Trowbridge, Wiltshire. This expansion brings the company’s specialist knowledge to local businesses, offering tailored services to improve their online presence and meet their marketing objectives.

The Trowbridge office will provide a comprehensive range of services, including website design, web development, PPC advertising, social media marketing, branding, graphic design, and search engine optimisation (SEO). Platform81 supports businesses at all stages, from building their website to achieving sustainable growth through strategic digital marketing.

With a focus on supporting Wiltshire businesses in increasing brand awareness, driving traffic to their websites, and improving online sales, Platform81 offers customised strategies to deliver the best possible results for businesses of any size.

“We’re excited to open our office in Trowbridge and start collaborating with local businesses to help them achieve their digital marketing goals,” said Gary Mawhinney, spokesperson for Platform81. “Wiltshire is an exciting and expanding region, and we believe there is huge potential to help local businesses succeed online.”

The arrival of Platform81 in Trowbridge allows local businesses to access high-quality digital services without the need to seek out agencies in larger cities like Bristol or London.

“Our objective is to provide Wiltshire businesses with the resources they need to compete effectively in the digital space,” added Mawhinney. “From website creation to targeted marketing campaigns, we offer the full range of services needed to make a real impact online.”

Platform81 has a proven track record of helping clients across various sectors, including retail, beauty, and health. With established offices in Greater Manchester and Worcestershire, the agency has helped brands such as Harrisons Direct, Sienna X, and Gymfinity Kids achieve measurable success online. The Trowbridge office will continue this tradition of delivering excellent results to local businesses.

Platform81 is keen to establish long-term relationships with Wiltshire businesses, providing strategic advice and practical solutions to help them grow their brands and reach wider audiences.

To find out more about how Platform81 can support your business, contact Daryl at 01225 231 014 to book a consultation.

Chancellor undeterred as Gaza protester interrupts keynote speech

The chancellor has said Labour is “not a party of protest” as her keynote conference speech was disrupted by hecklers.

As Rachel Reeves spoke in Liverpool, an audience member began shouting accusations that the UK continues to supply arms to Israel, causing her to pause.

The protester was quickly escorted out of the building and after, Reeves shouted: “This is a changed Labour Party, a Labour Party that represents working people, not a party of protest,” before resuming her speech.

“One year ago I stated my intention,” she said. “That the next time I addressed you, I would do so as the first female chancellor of the exchequer. You can consider that a promise fulfilled.”

She went on tell the conference there had been a £22 billion black hole, left by the previous government, adding: “Because of the legacy left by the Conservatives the road ahead is steeper and harder than we expected. Figures released on Friday showed another month of record borrowing. That is the inheritance that they left in black and white.”

Reeves state there would not be an increased tax for working people and that the party was already chasing tax evaders and avoiders.

The government announced it will introduce VAT on private school fees to invest in 94% of children attending state schools.

Reeves also spoke about the ‘triple lock’ pensions pledge which could fall victim to cuts in the budget next month. The triple lock means the rise in state pension will either match the rate of inflation, average earnings or 2.5% – whichever is more.

But there will be no U-turn on the means tested winter tax fuel allowance decision, which means around 10 million pensioners will no longer get the payment of up to £300 to help heat homes.

Reeves added: “This budget is for economic growth. I believe in a better Britain, a Britain of enterprise. My ambition knows no limits because I can see the prize on offer if we make the right choices now. Growth is the challenge and investment is the solution.”

Image credit: Martin Suker 

Mayor launches digital tool to help youngsters access high quality jobs

A new digital tool has been launched to give young people in Greater Manchester a clear line of sight to real jobs in the city-region’s growing economy.

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, joined school pupils, teachers and apprentices at Rayner Stephens High School in Dukinfield on Friday, for a special event to unveil Beeline, which is available now via the Greater Manchester Apprenticeships and Careers Service (GMACS) website.

Named after the worker bee that embodies the Greater Manchester spirit, Beeline is the first of many resources being developed as an open part of the Greater Manchester Baccalaureate (MBacc) – the city region’s pioneering alternative to the university route.

Drawing on local labour market data, the MBacc is a technical education route made up of seven “gateways”, each linked to a sector which is growing in the Greater Manchester economy.

Beeline is a ground-breaking tool to give young people real-time information on the jobs available in the MBacc gateways sectors, alongside guidance on the most relevant subjects, courses and qualifications on offer at 14, 16 and 18.

The tool links these career suggestions directly to current vacancies through the Adzuna jobs website, along with salary details, helping students understand where a technical education can take them and visualise potential career paths in various sectors.

Recent findings from a national youth census revealed that just over half (55%) of young people are confident they will progress into a good job, while 45% could benefit from additional support. Beeline is designed to bridge this gap, providing young people with a clearer sense of career opportunities and boosting their confidence in their future prospects.

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said:  “For too long, young people who want to pursue a technical education have been held back by poor, outdated careers advice. With Beeline, we are putting that right. This new tool gives young people a window on the exciting range of jobs available right now here in Greater Manchester.

“Talking to young people as we developed the MBacc, it was clear we needed something to help them visualise the jobs and careers available to them – and, crucially, how much they pay. Beeline is there to help young people as they start planning for their future.

“The Greater Manchester economy is booming – growth and productivity here are higher than the UK average. We want all our young people to share in that success story and Beeline will give them a clear line of sight to the high-quality jobs Greater Manchester has to offer.

“And if their dream job is in a different part of the city region, we won’t let that hold them back. All 16 to 18 years can access free bus travel on the Bee Network by signing up for the Our Pass scheme.”

The way Beeline was built reflects Greater Manchester’s strong links with local employers. The global creative company WPP provided the technical expertise needed to develop the tool, offering their time for free. WPP also sit on GMCA’s Employer Integration Board, which has helped shape the MBacc along with local education leaders and young people.

This collaboration underscores Greater Manchester’s commitment to working with industry to shape the future of technical education and ensure young people are connected to the opportunities within the city region. Workplace experience is also built into the MBacc thanks to a partnership with the Careers and Enterprise company.

Headteacher Martin Davies from Rayner Stephens High School said: “I am incredibly proud that Rayner Stephens High School has been able to play a key role in the development and support of the Greater Manchester Baccalaureate. At Rayner Stephens we have a commitment to ensuring students gain the skills and knowledge needed for modern careers. I am proud of our involvement in helping to shape a brighter future for education in Greater Manchester and the students of Stamford Park Trust.”

Young people have already started exploring Beeline, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.

Student Electina Fernando, a Year 11 student, said: “I was so amazed by Beeline, I’ve been going on about it to my friends all day. Words can’t express what a difference it has made. Before I used this tool, I did not know how to get information about career paths – it felt very disorganised. I love that there is lots of useful data. I can see the job definition, the salary, specific job locations and how much demand there is for this kind of role.”

For schools and colleges interested in integrating Beeline into their career guidance programmes visit: https://gmacs.co.uk/beeline/

Digital skills courses funding secured by Netcom Training

Digital skills, training and bootcamp provider Netcom Training has secured £802,420 in funding from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA).

The courses will give people in Greater Manchester access to in-demand skills training and interview preparation for higher skilled, good quality jobs for another year.

They aim to boost employment in key growth sectors such as digital and tech, but also benefit employers by helping them to fill specific skills shortages and vacancies, increasing productivity within their organisations.

The part-time online courses offer modules in a range of skills including cyber security, data analytics, cloud, and infrastructure technician and are part of an ongoing arrangement between Netcom Training and Combined Authorities across the country.

They are available to those aged 19 years and over who reside in the Greater Manchester area and meet the relevant criteria.

Kevin Vashi, managing director at Netcom Training, said: “Greater Manchester continues to grow across all sectors. Whether it is the skyline, music scene or its evolving technology sector, you cannot fault the city’s drive to lead the charge in innovation. We are proud to be working with the combined authority for a second year as we deliver our range of courses to learners and look forward to another year of being part of the city’s change for good.”

The new contract demonstrates Netcom’s commitment to putting roots down in Greater Manchester as a city-region. It will create more opportunities for learners in the region to upskill or retrain in new disciplines and provide a pool of skilled professionals for local businesses.

Those interested in completing a free course with Netcom Training, should visit the website.

Man jailed for eight years after being found with gun and drugs

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A man who stashed heroin and ammunition at his Crumpsall home, has been jailed for eight years.

Jervis Bailey (44) of Gartland Walk, was sentenced at Manchester Crown Court.

The court heard how Bailey had turned up at an address on Wellington Road in Crumpsall at 9pm on February 12.

Witnesses had reported Bailey was acting aggressively towards a person in the property and brandishing a silver handgun. While the firearm was not discharged, this interaction lasted 20 minutes.

Following an investigation by the COM North Challenger Team, Bailey was arrested on in June at home.

He directed officers to an outbuilding related to his property, where a bag containing a self-loading pistol, 33 rounds of ammunition, a silencer and over half a kilo of heroin was recovered.

Scales and bags were also seized, for use in the distribution of the drugs, as well as a number of mobile phones and a machete, which was found in Bailey’s bedroom.

Bailey was subsequently arrested and charged.

PC Alston of COM North Challenger Team said: “Our investigation into a firearm being brandished at a property resulted in a successful find of a large quantity of drugs and ammunition as well as the weapon in question.

“We are pleased with today’s sentence, which has resulted in a dangerous individual being taken off the streets of Manchester for a considerable amount of time.

“Identifying and charging individuals who bring guns and drugs into our communities putting people at risk remains a priority for GMP and through the hard work and dedication of the Challenger Team, we have been able to do just that.

“Programme Challenger is an ongoing operation and is aimed at tacking serious and organised crime and this case underscores our commitment to this.

“Serious and organised crime can have a life-changing, and life-long, impact on the lives of those involved, who are usually the most vulnerable in our society. We will continue to move quickly to ensure those involved in illegal activity are swiftly brought to justice.

If you are concerned about criminal activity within your area, you can report this directly on 101 or by using the online report tool at www.gmp.police.uk.

The countdown is (already) on to Manchester’s Christmas markets

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The countdown is on to Christmas! Manchester’s Christmas Markets are set to return on Friday, November 8.

The six-week stint will come to an end on Sunday, December 22.

Now in their 26th year, Manchester’s Christmas markets continue to delight visitors who go along to fill up on the fantastic festive treats and soak up the glühwein.

With well over two hundred stalls across nine sites throughout the city centre, there promises to be plenty on offer for seasonal shoppers of all ages and tastes to enjoy.

This year sees the iconic wooden ski chalet market stalls take over King Street West, St Ann’s Square, Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street, Exchange Square, Corn Exchange and Cathedral Gardens, as well as Market Street and Piccadilly Gardens.

The stalls will be open daily throughout the six-week run – which this year due to the way dates fall, includes seven weekends instead of the usual six.

Craft stalls and stalls selling seasonal goods will be open each day from 10am – 8pm, whilst food and drink stalls will be open from 11am – 9pm each day.

The food and drink stalls at Cathedral Gardens which will stay open until December 31.

The city centre will of course also be looking its sparkly best for the Christmas season with the return of the Manchester Christmas lights trail – the perfect backdrop for those all-important Christmas selfies.

Think giant walk-through baubles, a Manchester bee and of course Santa Claus himself, keeping a watchful eye on visitors young and old for his naughty and nice lists from on high in St Peter’s Square.

For those who enjoy a seasonal skate, Skate Manchester’s covered ice rink will be back again this year in Cathedral Gardens from November 8 to January 1 with the covered ice-rink promising an unforgettable skating experience whatever the weather, amid twinkling lights, Christmas trees and a soundtrack of Christmas songs.

Heathrow relaunches World of Opportunity to support budding exporters

Heathrow is calling for SMEs across the North West to come forward and pitch their products to the world.

The UK’s hub airport is relaunching its World of Opportunity competition which helps new exporters to get their goods and services sold on international markets.

Grants are up for grabs in every nation and region of the country and winners will receive funding to further their exporting ambitions.

Previous winners have funded vital trade missions, research and training that has helped them expand into lucrative overseas markets, driving growth in their sales and supporting jobs on home soil.

World of Opportunity is delivered in partnership with the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), who recently published their SME Export Taskforce recommendations outlining how business and Government can supercharge SME exporting. Winners will be connected to the network of advice via the Export Support Service, offered by the Department for Business and Trade, to assist in their research and export strategies.

Applications are open September 23 to December 23 and a judging panel of business and government experts will select the most promising company from each of the UK’s 12 nations and regions. Winners will each receive £2,000.

Previous winners include Nantwich-based accessibility consultants, Direct Access Consultancy, whose expertise now has a global reach. Their World of Opportunity grant helped them become advisors to the Expo 2020 Dubai, allowing their team of two to expand to 15. Every team member has a disability, and they now work with hundred of clients around the world to create accessible environments.

Steve Dering, operations director at DAC, said: “If we get bigger, we help more companies become inclusive for disabled people. Sending an email doesn’t work, on the phone doesn’t work. If you’re there to physically shake someone’s hand, people buy people.”

Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye said: “In every corner of the UK there are entrepreneurs who have the potential to be exporters. SMEs in this country make and do fantastic things, selling those products and services on international markets is key to economic growth and supporting jobs at home.”

To find out more and apply, visit: heathrow.com/world-of-opportunity

Image credit: Adning