Pendle News Room

Created in response to feedback from businesses, Pendle Connects events now run quarterly and combine business networking with panel interviews.

More than 50 business people from across Pendle and beyond came to hear from the experts on what digital can do for their business at the launch event in March.

And the organisers are now bringing together experts to discuss apprenticeships, skills and recruitment for their second event which will take place on Thursday 15th June, 8am – 10am at Nelson and Colne College.

So if you struggle to find the right people with the right skills for your business, or would like to know more about what apprenticeships can do for you, you’re urged to attend.

Rachel Kay, Pendle Connects organiser, said: “We had fantastic feedback from our launch in March and look forward to growing the event.

“On June 15 we’ll be discussing the challenges and changes in how companies find and retain the best fit and skills set for their needs.

“Our expert speakers will examine the impact of automation, the rising importance of apprenticeships and how an effective skills pipeline between education and employment can be created and maintained.

“They’ll also look at the new apprenticeship levies, funding for up-skilling current workforces and much more.”

The speakers include:

• Dr Michele Lawty-Jones, Director of Lancashire Skills Hub
• Philip Heyworth, MD of JD Engineering
• Alison Rushton, Vice Principal of Nelson and Colne College
• Frazer Durris, MD of Businesswise Solutions

As well as the chance to learn from and network with guest experts and other local businesses, Dean Langton, Pendle Council’s Strategic Director, will deliver an update for the borough.

He will highlight upcoming projects within Pendle as well as what help and support is available to local and incoming businesses.

The events are supported by Pendle Vision Board which speaks up for the private sector and promotes the borough as a great place to live, work and play.

Dennis Mendoros, Chairman of Pendle Vision Board, said: “These networking events give us a great opportunity to shout about what we’re doing to make Pendle the place to do business.

“We need to encourage new businesses to start and grow here, nurture existing ones to become more innovative and attract inward investment.

“By working closely with our business community we can ensure that we can better meet their needs and provide a skilled workforce.”

Dean added: “Combining business networking with themed panel interviews, these breakfast meetings provide a real platform for sharing best business practice, innovation and ideas.”

Breakfast and refreshments will be provided at 8am and networking will take place until 8.40am when the panel interview begins.

Tickets can be booked here.

Pendle Connects is a non-membership event with no annual fees to pay.

Events are open to any businesses, located in or out of Pendle, to come along and listen, ask questions and share their views.