Sunday 7 June
Aintree Racecourse
10am-4pm

Get ready for the launch of Merseyside’s brand new Scooterfest! … the UK’s newest one day FREE festival aimed at scooter riders, their friends and families.

With exciting live music, fashion shows , demos, games  (including Moto GP simulators and a giant scalextric!), competitions and giveaways -  head to www.visitscooterfest.com for more information and to register to attend.

We are also looking for the Face of Scooterfest 2010 – enter our fantastic competition online to be the media face of Scooterfest and win a host of great prizes including a Wii and a shopping spree with Firetrap!

Expect great music, giveaways and competitions from our Scooterfest partners including:

• DJ Pez Tellett
• Black Pilate
• Firetrap
• Hugh Baird College
• Hein Gericke
• BSM
• Draggin Jeans

For full details of the day and to register for the Face of Scooterfest competition go to: www.visitscooterfest.com

Or become a fan on Facebook

Scooterfest 2009 – In association with Merseyside Road Safety Partnership

Continuous Professional Development Programme 2009
Training is affordable – losing business is not

Investment in Continuous Professional Development generates a valuable return increasing profits and sales. Our tutors have spent many years working in Industry and have experience in assisting organisations of all sizes to develop markets and overcome the issues associated with international trade.

Programme 2009

Export Procedures & Documentation
Tuesday 2 June
Monday 27 July

The seminar covers a wide range of Export Documentation procedures including a practical to produce a commercial invoice, Certificate of Origin, EUR1 and ATRs, getting paid and an introduction to Letters of Credit.

Book online for 2 June here.

Introduction to International Trade
Monday 15 June

The course provides a fundamental foundation into the export/import process, terminology, how to build an export price, VAT and getting paid, Incoterms, HM Customs, import licences, import duty, payment, quotas, and import management.

Book online here

Letters of Credit
Wednesday 1 July

The course explains the process in great detail by showing examples and providing the delegates the opportunity to complete a Letter of Credit and understanding UCP 600. The workshop finishes with a number of practical exercises to take delegates through procedures to prepare and check documents.

Book online here

Bespoke and in house training programmes are available. Please call us to discuss your particular requirements.

Price per delegate per course: Member rate: £200 + VAT / Non Member rate: £300 + VAT

For further information or registration please call on 0157 227 1234 or e-mail at export@liverpoolchamber.org.uk.

Fees are payable in advance. Cheques to be made payable to Liverpool Chamber and by return a VAT invoice will be sent. Fees include lunch, refreshments and course notes.  Cancellations: A refund of fees less 50% cancellation charge will be made for written cancellations received no later than ten working days before the start of the course. The Chamber reserves the right to alter or cancel a course due to circumstances beyond our control.

Reaching Out to a Global Market – Benefits and Opportunities

Liverpool is the only city in the UK outside London to have a dedicated presence at the world Expo, Shanghai, in 2010.

The city will represent and promote the entire North West region at the event, which is expected to attract over 70m visitors. Located on the banks of the Huangpu River, this purpose built site of 5.26km2 will attract visitors from over 140 countries during May to Oct 2010.

This is a unique opportunity to showcase your organisation on a world stage, access the fastest economy of China at the biggest ever World Expo and establish how your organisation exploits the opportunity to its fullest.

You are invited by Liverpool Vision and Liverpool Chamber of Commerce to attendthis event. We will explainwhat Expo is, the business opportunities for Liverpool’s creative industry and answer your questions.

Time: 14:00-15:30, Friday 19th June, 2009
Venue: Liverpool Chamber of Commerce (Number One Old Hall Street, Liverpool L3 9HG)

Agenda: 14:00-14:30  networking and registration
14:30-14:35  open remarks
14:35-14:40  Expo video
14:40-15:15 “Liverpool Pavilion at Expo: opportunity to your business”, presentation by Phil Southward, Project Director
15:15-15:30 Q&A

Please RSVP to chinalink@liverpoolchamber.org.uk with your company and contact details.

Wednesday, 24 June 2009 7.30pm
Liverpool Philharmonic Hall
Tickets: £16, £21

‘Fizzingly entertaining and enlightening’
Daily Mail

‘A brilliant storyteller. immense fun’
The Guardian

A West End sell-out sensation!

‘Malcolm Gladwell is a global phenomenon, one of the most brilliant and influential writers of his generation.’ The Observer

If you haven’t already been lucky enough to come across Malcolm Gladwell, I should explain why this is such exciting news: Malcolm Gladwell is the author of the international bestsellers Blink, The Tipping Point and Outliers, books which have entertained, engaged, and profoundly changed the way millions of us think about the world.

The Observer describes him as “the most influential thinker of the ipod generation”. Normally paid huge sums to speak at conferences for corporations like Google, on 24 June he is coming to Liverpool! He himself has this to say:

“Just so we’re clear, there will be no tap-dancing, mime, or impersonations of pop stars during my shows. It will just be me, giving you what I hope to be some of the most interesting bits from Outliers. I’d be delighted if you could come.”

Now you have a unique opportunity to see him in action!

Gladwell brings you his extraordinary alchemy of story-telling and intuitive thinking. It’s time to forget conventional notions of how society works and get ready for a brand new way of seeing the world.

Outliers is his new book, and this time his subject is successful people. He argues that the real secrets of success can be found in people’s life stories – the culture they grow up in, the twists of fate, and the way they spend their time. He has a very liberating an inspiring message.

Tickets are £16 and £21. For more information or to purchase tickets simply click here or call the Box Office direct on 0151 709 3789.

When he visited London last November he sold-out the huge Lyceum Theatre twice over and had the kind of response usually reserved for rock-stars or Hollywood icons:

‘The writer as rock star? Well, why not? . Malco-mania is about to break out!’  Daily Telegraph

Even without the dancing, in person, Malcolm is every bit as engaging and charismatic as you would hope. He speaks as well as he writes.

‘Inspiring, revelatory … He makes you feel like you’re the genius, rather than he’s a genius’ The Times

Achoo!

Swine Flu has dropped out of the news agenda thanks to the scandal over MPs expenses, though it’s not to be forgotten about – particularly if it could hit your business.

Here’s some useful info from the NHS to help protect your staff.

Remember though, don’t panic, just be aware and take precautions.

The Swine Flu Information Line on 0800 1 513 513 will be updated regularly

NHS Briefing for Local Authorities and Partners

Every household in the country will have received a leaflet called Important Information About Swine Flu.  This leaflet explains:

•    what swine flu is and how it can spread,
•    what preparations the UK governments have made,
•    what people can do to protect themselves and others,
•    what people should do if swine flu becomes more widespread,
•    what to do if you develop symptoms, and
•    how you can keep up to date with the latest information about swine flu.

What is swine flu and how is it different from ordinary flu?

Swine flu is a respiratory disease and has some elements of a virus found in pigs.  There is no evidence of this disease circulating in pigs in the UK and scientists are investigating its origins.

Swine flu has been confirmed in a number of countries and it is spreading from human to human, which could lead to what is referred to as a pandemic flu outbreak.

Pandemic flu is different from ordinary flu because it’s a new flu virus that appears in humans and spreads very quickly from person-to-person worldwide.  The World Health Organization (WHO) is closely monitoring cases of swine flu globally to see if this virus develops into a pandemic.

Because it’s a new virus, no one will have immunity to it and everyone could be at risk of catching it.  This includes healthy adults as well as older people, young children and those with existing medical conditions.

How does swine flu spread?

Flu viruses are made up of tiny particles that can be spread through the droplets that come out of your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.

When you cough or sneeze without covering your nose and mouth with a tissue, those droplets can spread and others will be at risk of breathing them in.

If you cough or sneeze into your hand, those droplets and the germs in them are then easily spread from your hand to hard surfaces that you touch, and can live on those surfaces for some time.  Everyday items like door handles, computer keyboards, mobile and ordinary phones, and the TV remote control are all common surfaces where the virus can be found.

If other people touch these surfaces and then touch their faces, the germs can enter their system and they can become infected.  That’s how all cold and flu viruses, including swine flu, are passed on from person to person.

What the UK Governments have been doing to prepare

The Government has been planning for a flu pandemic for a number of years, and the UK plan has been identified as one of the best by the World Health Organisation.

While the current situation is serious, there is good reason for us to be confident that we can deal with it.  Thanks to the work of scientists who have studied previous pandemics, we know more now about treatments and how to stop the virus spreading than ever before.

We have a good stockpile of antiviral drugs (including Tamiflu and Relenza) – enough to treat more than 33 million people (half the UK population), and we are planning to increase this is being increased to enough for 50 million – 80 percent of the population.
Antivirals, like Tamiflu, are not a cure, but they help you to recover if taken within 48 hours of symptoms developing by:

•    relieving some of the symptoms,
•    reducing the length of time you are ill by around one day, and
•    reducing the potential for serious complications, such as pneumonia.

Is there a vaccination for swine flu?

Not at this stage.  This type of flu is not the same as seasonal flu.  It involves a completely new type of virus.  A vaccine can only be developed when the specific strain has been identified and it would then take several months to produce.

The UK Government has agreements in place with manufacturers so that we can get stocks as soon as possible after a vaccine has been developed.

What can people do to protect themselves and others against flu?

The best thing that people can do to protect themselves is to follow good hygiene practices.  These will help to slow the spread of the virus and will be the single most effective thing that people can do to protect themselves and others from infection.

When you cough or sneeze it is especially important to follow the rules of good hygiene to prevent the spread of germs:

•    always carry tissues
•    use clean tissues to cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze
•    bin the tissues after one use
•    wash your hands with soap and hot water or a sanitiser gel often.

There’s a simple way to remember this: CATCH IT, BIN IT, KILL IT!

What about a face mask?

A limited stockpile of facemasks and respirators is in place for use by healthcare workers when they come into close contact (within a metre) with symptomatic individuals.

You may have seen face masks being given out to the public in other countries on the news.  However, the available scientific evidence shows that these basic facemasks don’t protect the general public from becoming infected.

The best way for the public to protect themselves and to stop the spread of flu viruses is by using and disposing of tissues and washing their hands regularly, as set out above.

Remember: CATCH IT, BIN IT, KILL IT!

What else can people do?

There are some other useful actions people can take now to prepare in case swine flu becomes more widespread:

•    Set up a network of ‘flu friends’
Flu friends are neighbours, friends and relatives who can help if someone gets ill.  For example, by collecting medicines, food and other supplies, so you don’t have to leave home if you are ill.  Think about neighbours who may live alone, don’t assume they’ll be OK.  Invite them to be one of your flu friends.

•    Keep up to date with the latest information on swine flu and follow public health advice and instructions.
If swine flu spreads, everyone needs to keep informed so that they know what else they can do to protect themselves and their family.  As the situation changes, keep up to date by watching TV, listening to the radio, checking the internet and looking out for announcements in the press.

What are the symptoms of flu?

Some of the symptoms are the sudden onset of fever, cough or shortness of breath.  Other symptoms can include headache, sore throat, tiredness, aching muscles, chills, sneezing, runny nose or a loss of appetite.

What should people do if they think they might have swine flu and have just returned from mexico or an affected country?

Tell them to:

•    Stay at home;
•    Check their symptoms on www.nhs.uk if possible;
•    Call the Swine Flu Information line on 0800 1 513 513 to hear the latest advice;
•    If they have taken these steps and are still concerned, they should call their GP.  Or in England and Wales, call NHS Direct on 0845 4647, in Scotland call NHS 24 on 08454 24 24 24, and in Northern Ireland call 0800 0514 142.  They will give advice on symptoms and the next steps to take.
•    People should not go into their GP surgery or local accident and emergency department unless advised to do so or if they are seriously ill, because they might spread the illness to others.  They should ask their flu friend to go out for them.

It is important for us to make sure that you have up to date advice and information.  This will include further information on the arrangements that Primary Care Trusts are making to provide access to antiviral drugs, should the virus become more widespread in the UK.

The Swine Flu Information Line on 0800 1 513 513 will be updated regularly.

29th May 2009
Cash is king!
Getting paid has never been so important. In these 60 Really Useful Minutes, Jenny Esau of Credit Management Group UK will show you how to improve your cash flow, reduce your risk to bad debt and protect your profit, all in a customer focused way, so you will get paid more quickly whilst keeping a good business relationship with your customers so they continue to trade with you.

5th June 2009
Planning for the Unthinkable
According a recent DTI report, over half of all company data losses are caused by system or hardware failure. The business impact of these failures can include loss of sales and irreversible damage to your client relationships and reputation.

Implementing a disaster recovery plan can protect your business. Richard Spragg of AIMES Grid Services presents a business guide to protecting your business data and avoiding the unthinkable.

Book your place now by emailing events@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

Be sure to tell us which event you want to attend, who you are, who you work for and your nature of business plus contact details.

What’s 250ft high and travels 1,000ft at 30mph?

YOU! … on the first ever Linda McCartney Centre Charity Zip Line

This once in a lifetime fundraising opportunity is definitely one for the brave-hearted…

The Linda McCartney Centre are organising a spectacular event next month called The Zip Line Challenge.

At 1 kilometre in length, this is the 3rd longest zip wire ever attempted in the UK and is an exciting challenge for anyone ready to step up in the name of raising money for the Linda McCartney Centre.

You will start at the roof of the Royal Liverpool University Hospital and travel at approximately 30mph down the wire, over the two hospital car parks to the landing zone at Local Solutions on Hall Lane. Due to health and safety reasons, Zip Lines can not be erected over public roads – it seems seeing people flying over cars puts drivers off – so 2009 is the only year this event can be held before the new bypass is built.

A Zip Wire is a strong cable that a harness and pulley system is attached to, allowing the person riding the wire to reaching up to 30mph in the course of the 1,000 ft journey.

Not for the faint-hearted, this is sure to be an easy one to get the £200 sponsorship needed; your friends won’t believe how lucky you are to get the chance to do it! Only 250 people will be able to take part, and it is extremely rare to have a zip wire this long, so don’t miss out.

The event will take place on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st of June 2009

Spaces are filling up fast so email info@yourcentre.org or phone 0151 706 3153 to register your place.

Online Registration Available – Click Here Now to Ensure Your Place

10th June 2009

Liverpool Chamber will be hosting a free half day course with lunch provided on marketing and presentation techniques.

The Stepclever event will help SMEs sell effectively and communicate creatively the positive attributes of their business and products. Designed to act as a practical refresher or as a first time session, a number of topics including; utilising marketing tools and how to apply best practices, will be demonstrated to raise attendees ability to grab attention and increase market share.

The workshop is aimed at anyone who wants to win more business in both the public and private sectors and will be held at No 1 Old Hall Street, L3 9HG.

Stepclever workshops are free for anyone that lives, or runs a business in the wards of Anfield, Everton, County, Kirkdale, Linacre and Derby

To book contact June Davies on 0151 224 1891 or email june.davies@stepclever.co.uk

… in conjunction with LDP Business Club

How about revving up on a Friday instead of winding down? End your week on a high with 60 really useful minutes hosted by Liverpool Chamber.

Each week, a member company will be presenting a practical workshop – against the clock – for business owners and managers who will take away six practical tips which can be implemented immediately,  to improve their business.

We’re not serving breakfast or canapés, just invaluable business advice in 60 really useful minutes!  Starting promptly at 9.00am every Friday morning, we promise to get you out by 10am, ready to tackle your day.

It’s free for members so hurry, spaces are limited book your place now.  Just email your company name address and contact details together with the names of your delegates to events@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

22nd May 2009
60 Really Useful Minutes with PH Creative – Discover and learn best practice techniques that the professionals use everyday to grow your business on line.  Attract, Capture and Engage!

29th May 2009
60 Really Useful Minutes with The Credit Management Group – Jenny Esau will show you how to improve your cash flow, reduce your risk to bad debt and protect your profit.

5th June 2009
Planning for the Unthinkable – 60 Really Useful Minutes

According a recent DTI report, over half of all company data losses are caused by system or hardware failure. The business impact of these failures can include loss of sales and irreversible damage to your client relationships and reputation.

Implementing a disaster recovery plan can protect your business when the unthinkable happens. In this 60 Really Useful Minutes, Richard Spragg of AIMES Grid Services presents a business guide to protecting your business data and avoiding the unthinkable.

12th June 2009
60 Really Useful Minutes to create a strategic plan. Strategic planning specialists The Business Doctors give you this opportunity to tap into their expert knowledge.

19th June 2009
60 Really Useful Minutes to identify those deadly stress factors and encourage positive mental health and well being.  Elaine Hanzak, author and inspirational speaker, gives you a boost in the doom and gloom of the economic climate.

To book just email your company name address and contact details together with the names of your delegates to events@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

North West Cancer Research Fund

Can you help to make a difference to the future of cancer research? Join us at our second sparkling black-tie ball on the evening of Saturday 12th September 2009 at the Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel, Parkgate Road, Ledsham, near Chester.

Support this wonderful cause and enjoy a shimmering evening hosted by Radio Merseyside’s Willie Miller and entertainment from Dr Jazz and the Cheshire Cats – back by popular demand.

Tickets for this extra special event are £60 and include a drinks reception, a 3 course meal and half a bottle of wine per person (available individually or as a table of 10 for £550). The evening will commence with a drinks reception at 7pm.

Simply call 0151 709 2919 to book or email butterfly@nwcrf.co.uk