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Welcome to the latest edition of the SVBS newsletter.
This week, we're focusing on our next Visitor Economy Connect event, taking place on Tuesday 30 September at the Hilton Garden Inn Abingdon Oxford. Further details and a link to register for your free place can be found below.
We're also highlighting the Oxfordshire Youth Young Leaders Programme, free support for social enterprises, the Wantage Town Survey, the Government's Heat Training Grant, rainy day inspiration via Visit Southern Oxfordshire, Milton Park's recognition at the OxProp Awards and OSEP's Marketing with a Mission event.
Plus, follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn to be kept up-to-date in between our 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
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Due to the high demand from our previous events, act fast to secure your spot at the next Visitor Economy Connect forum!Visitor Economy Connect is a networking and support session focused on the visitor economy, aimed at engaging local hospitality businesses. This is your chance to get ahead in the local hospitality scene.
Date, time and locationTuesday 30 September10am - 12pmHilton Garden Inn Abingdon Oxford
In just two hours, you'll gain valuable insights from experts, including South and Vale's Culture and Heritage Network and Climate Action team, and Thame Town Council. Get essential tips on accessibility and sustainability, and find out how you can get involved in our upcoming Christmas campaigns.
This event is for anyone in the visitor economy—from a B&B or café to a bustling restaurant or event business.
Spaces are limited and tickets are going quickly. Register for your free place via Eventbrite.
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Oxfordshire Youth - Young Leaders ProgrammeThe Oxfordshire Youth Young Leaders Programme is a bespoke leadership programme funded by South Oxfordshire District Council, catering for young people aged 14 - 21 years old. Completion of the Programme leads to a Level 2 Award in Leadership and Team Skills, and is accredited by the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM). As the programme is nationally recognised and is very well regarded by employers, colleges and universities, it can be a real boost to a young person’s CV. The next programme will be taking place in October half term with a group of young people from the Didcot area. Oxfordshire Youth is looking to run sessions about local businesses and work experience opportunities following the delivery of the programme in November / early December. If you are interested in attending a session to talk to young people, or would consider offering work experience to young leaders, please contact Hayley Reynolds.
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Free support for social enterprisesOSEP's free programme helps entrepreneurs build businesses that support healthy, connected communities, reduce social isolation and create inclusive employment opportunities.Participants in the programme benefit from a wide range of free advice and support, including one-to-one mentoring, tailored guidance and strategic support, training and workshops, and facilitated peer groups.You can now register for a series of free events via OSEP's website.
To get started with the programme, please complete this form.
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Help shape the future of Wantage
Whether you live, work in or visit Wantage, the Wantage Town Survey is your chance to influence how the area evolves in the coming years.
From local services and community spaces to transport and infrastructure, your feedback will help Wantage Town Council understand what matters most.
Your views will directly inform the council's priorities and decisions as they look to improve life in Wantage for everyone. To say thank you, everyone who completes the survey can enter a prize draw to win a voucher worth up to £50.
Have your say via the Wantage Town Council website.
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Apply for the Heat Training GrantIf you're a heating engineer, you could receive a discount of up to £500 towards the cost of heat pump training, plus support and advice when installing a heat pump for the first time.The training you receive will usually take at least 3 days, although it may be longer depending on your previous skills and experience. You’re eligible for the grant if all of the following are true:
- you work for a business with 250 employees or fewer, you are a sole trader, or you are unemployed
- you, or the business you work for, are certified by a competent person scheme for heating and hot water installations. Examples include: APHC, BESCA, Blue Flame Certification, Gas Safe Register, Certsure/NIC EIC, HETAS, NAPIT, OFTEC or Stroma
- you, or the business you work for, haven’t already received more than £315,000 in government subsidies over the last 3 years.
Further details can be found via the Government's website.
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The weather's taken a turn, but don’t let the rain spoil your day!
South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse have plenty of things to do to brighten up any cold or wet day. Explore fascinating museums, take on an exciting escape room challenge, go for a swim or feed the animals indoors at a local farm. If you prefer to find a cosy pub and enjoy a hearty meal, there are plenty on offer.
Whatever the weather, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check out our Visit Southern Oxfordshire Rainy Days page for inspiration.
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Milton Park wins big at the OxProp Awards
Milton Park has scooped two accolades at this year’s prestigious OxProp Awards 2025, which celebrates excellence across the Oxfordshire property sector.
Nebula, Milton Park’s pioneering research and development (R&D) workspace development, was named Best Commercial Project of the Year, while Development Manager, Kathryn Andrew, was recognised as a NextGen Future Leader of the Year at the black-tie event at Keble College, Oxford.
Nebula comprises seven striking timber-framed R&D workspaces at Milton Park, designed with sustainability and adaptability at its core. From its flexible, future-proofed design and enhanced power supply, to its biodiversity-led landscaping and BREEAM ‘Excellent’ target rating, Nebula was recognised for its low-carbon, high-tech workspaces.
Read the story in full via Milton Park's website.
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Marketing with a Mission: Defining your vision, mission and values
Join OSEP for a workshop on defining your vision, mission and values to market your business. Friday 26 September | 2pm - 5pmThe Junction, DidcotThis event is part of a series of training sessions to promote and support social enterprises in South and Vale. Attendees will come away with an understanding of:
- why marketing with a mission matters and how you can intertwine what you do with your marketing plans
- what matters to your organisation and how you can share that with the world
- how to clarify your mission statement, vision and values.
Register for your free place via OSEP's website.
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Boost your business success – stay connected with us via LinkedIn!
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 LinkedIn page to be kept 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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