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Welcome to the latest edition of the SVBS newsletter.

This week, we're focusing on OSEP's bookkeeping session, designed to help businesses in South and Vale gain confidence in their finances. Full details can be found below.

We're also highlighting National Apprenticeship Week, putting local sustainable businesses and services on the map, ICO's new direct marketing advice generator, half-term adventures in Southern Oxfordshire, Milton Park's new Nebula development and ALP Synergy's Net Zero for Businesses check in and chat session.

Plus, follow us on Facebook and X to be kept up-to-date in between our weekly newsletters.

There are lots more opportunities, events and resources to get stuck into this week, but as always, if you'd like to suggest content for the SVBS newsletter, please get in touch with us.

- South and Vale's Economic Development team
Managing your books doesn’t have to be a headache!

Join OSEP for an informative 2-hour session designed to demystify bookkeeping and help you gain confidence in your business finances.

This workshop is for early stage businesses and startups in South and Vale. You may have started a business from home, or created a trading charity or social enterprise to help your local community.


Date, time and location

Friday 14 February
10am - 12pm
40 Lydalls Road, Didcot, OX11 7HX

Led by Aspire Oxfordshire, this session will break down essential bookkeeping concepts, giving you the tools to track, analyse and use your financial data to make smart business decisions.


Attendees will learn:
  • What bookkeeping is and key terms
  • Why bookkeeping is more than just tax prep
  • How to analyse your numbers and use them to grow your business
  • Practical tips on categorising transactions for clarity and efficiency
Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your financial processes, this session will provide clear, actionable insights in a welcoming, jargon-free space.
National Apprenticeship Week 2025

National Apprenticeship Week aims to highlight the exceptional work from employers and apprentices across the country.

This year's celebration of apprenticeships will take place from 10 - 16 February. The theme is ‘Skills for Life’, reflecting on how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career, and businesses to develop a talented workforce that is equipped with future-ready skills.

The OxLEP Skills website contains a variety of in-person events, webinars and open days for businesses and apprentices. Organisations can also access free support with finding work or an apprenticeship.

Find out how you can get involved via the OxLEP Skills website.
Putting local sustainable businesses and services on the map

Do you own a sustainable coffee shop, refill store or car club? Work for a solar installer or volunteer for your local nature or energy group?

If so, you can add your details to the Mycelium Map where businesses, services and groups can be put in touch with local people all looking to reduce their carbon footprint and live a more sustainable life. So far, almost 200 groups and organisations have added their details to the map.

It’s really easy to join - simply follow this link to the map and click on the ‘Join the Map’ tab.
Direct marketing advice generator
 
Marketing can help you thrive by promoting your products and services to new and existing customers.

When you’re planning and delivering direct marketing messages, you must comply with the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR). Where these activities involve the use of personal information, you must also comply with the UK GDPR.

The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has created a new tool for organisations who would like to learn how to market their services and use personal information in the right way. This will mean you’re only contacting people who are happy to hear from you, saving you time and money, and protecting your reputation.

Check out the new tool via the ICO website.
Half-term adventures in Southern Oxfordshire

This February half-term, explore Southern Oxfordshire with an adventure-packed A to Z of activities and events!

From Abingdon’s Long Furlong Funday to Wantage’s Museum of Marvels Trail, there’s something for everyone. Discover markets, museums, outdoor fun and hands-on experiences across our vibrant market towns.

Want more? There’s plenty to explore - head to the Visit Southern Oxfordshire website for a list of things to do this half-term.
Milton Park announces completion of £40 million Nebula development

MEPC has announced the completion of its £40 million Nebula development at Milton Park, with sustainable construction saving 686 tonnes of CO₂.

Comprising seven sustainable research and development (R&D) workspaces totalling nearly 80,000 sq ft, Nebula’s design and build focused on environmentally conscious materials, such as incorporating glue-laminated (glulam) structural timber beams in place of steel, in what is believed to be a UK-first for a R&D workspace.

With construction delivered by Barnwood Limited, Nebula’s use of sustainably sourced and recyclable beams instead of steel has significantly reduced its carbon footprint. The innovative approach has contributed to an upfront embodied carbon saving of 686 tonnes of CO₂ throughout construction, the equivalent of 196 return flights to Hong Kong.

Full details can be found via the Milton Park website.

Oxford Space Systems selected for UK Government Earth Observation Mission

Oxfordshire Advanced Skills centre completes expansion

Leading nuclear firm relocates to Milton Park
Net Zero for Businesses - Check In and Chat

ALP Synergy is hosting a free, online drop-in surgery session for trouble shooting your carbon calculation and your Carbon Reduction Plan.

The session is also ideal for those who are yet to get going with their Net Zero journey. If you haven't started your journey, welcome to your first steps. You will be inspired and supported to get started.

Monday 24 February   |   1pm - 2pm

This online 'surgery' is a chance for you to meet other businesses who are on the same journey as you, wanting to reduce their carbon.

This will be an interactive event so that the team can support a variety of businesses with any barriers they may have.

Register for your free place via Eventbrite.

Fri 14 Feb: FSB: Creatives Connect

Sat 15 Feb: Ace Training: Construction Employers Open Day

Mon 17 Feb: Enterprise Nation: How to win and find investors

Tue 18 Feb: OxLEP: How can Google help my customers love my business?

Wed 19 Feb: Networking-in: Mastering Your Mood for Business Success

Wed 19 Feb: Abingdon Business Buzz Networking

Thu 20 Feb: Boston House Networking

Tue 25 Feb: Enterprise Nation: StartUp Bootcamp

Sat 1 Mar: Enterprise Nation: StartUp Saturday

Tue 4 Mar: FSB: South East England Virtual Networking
Grants available for Food Waste Action Week and Great Big Green Week

How to hire a freelancer for the first time

How to start your small business

Exploring AI Adoption Across UK Businesses: Trends and Opportunities

Abracadabra: Unleashing the magic of local

Check out the Rebel Finance School
Boost your business success – stay connected with us!

Are you ready to take your business to the next level? We’re here to provide the tools, insights and resources you need to succeed.

Follow our social media channels for:
  • The latest business news
  • Important events
  • Practical advice and guidance
  • Opportunities for businesses.
Follow us on our new Facebook page and X account to keep up to date.

Whether you’re looking for inspiration, knowledge or just a little extra motivation, we’ve got you covered. We’re here to help your business thrive - one post at a time!

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