SME News- Welsh Enterprise Awards 2024 Most Innovative Digital Transformation Experts 2024 As the foremost digital transformation experts in Wales, the team at Newport’s de Novo Solutions have been successfully realising the vision of Founder and Chief Executive Mark Sweeny since operations commenced in 2021. Just over three years in, the company has already made huge leaps when it comes to the optimisation of critical back-office functions of finance, procurement, HR, and payroll for its clients – and it is immensely proud to today be the UK’s only small-to-medium enterprise to have leveraged the industry-leading capabilities of both Oracle Cloud and ServiceNow technologies.
About the SME Welsh Enterprise Awards Phone: +44 (0) 203 970 0010 Website: www.sme-news.co.uk Sofi Parry Senior Editor No information contained on or in this website constitutes investment advice or an offer to invest or to provide management services and is subject to correction, completion and amendment without notice. Neither AI nor any of its associated entities are authorised to give financial advice of any nature nor are they regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Prior to making any investment, AI recommends that any prospective investor should consult with its own investment, accounting, legal and tax advisers to evaluate independently the risks, consequences and suitability of that investment. AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Wales, the Welsh Enterprise Awards 2024 is a prestigious event organised by SME News. This awards programme is dedicated to celebrating the remarkable achievements and innovations of businesses throughout Wales! From the rugged coasts to the vibrant cities, the 8th annual Welsh Enterprise Awards will shine a spotlight on the enterprises that are driving economic growth and fostering a spirit of excellence within the region. The Welsh Enterprise Awards 2024 targets businesses across a diverse array of industries! Whether you are a technology startup in Cardiff, a manufacturing firm in Swansea, a hospitality business in Snowdonia, or a creative agency in Pembrokeshire, this programme is designed to recognise those who are pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks in their fields. The awards aim to encompass the full spectrum of Welsh business, ensuring that all sectors have the opportunity to be acknowledged for their contributions! In 2024, Welsh businesses are influenced by several key trends. Digital transformation is advancing rapidly, with widespread adoption of cloud computing, cybersecurity, data analytics, and AI to boost efficiency and competitiveness. Sustainability is a significant focus, with companies aligning with the Welsh Government’s Net Zero Plan by adopting eco-friendly practices and sustainable supply chains. Skills development, including apprenticeships and ongoing training, is crucial for addressing skills gaps and fostering innovation.
Contents 4. de Novo Solutions: Most Innovative Digital Transformation Experts 2024 8. Badger Ecology LTD: Biosecurity Advisory of the Year 2024 9. RPW Radon Wales Ltd: Best Radon Detection & Reduction Specialists Company of the Year 2024 10. Best Local Independent Estate Agents 2024 – South Wales 11. The Haven / Autism Initiatives: Most Supportive Autism Services Charity 2024 12. Mynydd Cleaning & Maintenance Ltd: Best Residential & Commercial Cleaning Company 2024 – North Wales 13. Bronleigh House: Best Multi-Disciplinary Wellness Clinic 2024 14. Sturgess Mortgage Solutions: Mortgage Advisory Firm of the Year 2024 – South Wales & Client Service Excellence Award 2024
SME News Welsh Enterprise Awards 2024/ 4 Most Innovative Digital Transformation Experts 2024 As the foremost digital transformation experts in Wales, the team at Newport’s de Novo Solutions have been successfully realising the vision of Founder and Chief Executive Mark Sweeny since operations commenced in 2021. Just over three years in, the company has already made huge leaps when it comes to the optimisation of critical back-office functions of finance, procurement, HR, and payroll for its clients – and it is immensely proud to today be the UK’s only small-to-medium enterprise to have leveraged the industry-leading capabilities of both Oracle Cloud and ServiceNow technologies. Headquartered in Langstone, Newport, de Novo Solutions has rapidly expanded beyond its Welsh roots. With a second office in Guildford, Surrey, and a recent expansion into India, the company’s growth trajectory speaks volumes about its success. In just three years, de Novo has gone global with offices across three countries, demonstrating its ability to redefine operational excellence in an increasingly digital world. The driving force behind de Novo’s growth is the two-decade partnership that exists between Founder and Chief Executive Mark Sweeny and Chairman Tim Warner, a period which has seen them make significant advancements in the Cloud and pioneer a new era of digital transformation across Wales and beyond. Along with a dedicated team of innovators and trendsetters, these two straight-talking disruptors have spent the past three-and-a-half years turning this business into a beacon of innovation and value generation for clients. At the heart of their success with de Novo are its strategic partnerships with Oracle and ServiceNow. Mark and Tim’s journey in the cloud tech world began in 2011 when they co-founded Certus Solutions, the UK’s first dedicated Oracle Cloud applications implementation partner, which was acquired by Accenture in 2018. de Novo is the natural evolution of their expertise, continuing to break boundaries and lead the way in digital transformation now in the era of the experience economy and the hybrid Cloud, something Mark saw coming as early as 2019. A standout example of de Novo’s innovation is Odyssea™, a groundbreaking cloud-based solution tailored with industry specific functionality. Built on the powerful Oracle Cloud platform and leveraging AI, Odyssea™ is designed to streamline back-office operations in finance, procurement, HR, and payroll. By maximising economies of scale, reducing costs, and boosting productivity, Odyssea™ empowers organisations to digitally transform while addressing their unique sector-specific demands. Its unique implementation model addresses 80% of a client’s requirements through a templated blueprint, leaving the remaining 20% to be customised, ensuring faster deployment and quicker ROI. de Novo has industry cloud solutions for Central Government, Local Government and what it sees as its biggest growth area – Secondary Education and Multi-Academy Trusts. In the realm of managed services, de Novo’s Oct24113
Value as a Service™ (VaaS™) redefines traditional cloud management. This next-gen pro-active service delivers tailored, measurable outcomes, simplifying the complexities of Cloud operations with continuous support, seamless updates, and proactive management. VaaS™ helps clients stay on track with their digital transformation journeys, enabling them to leverage cutting-edge technologies like GenAI, all while focusing on core business goals. By rigorously tracking value and assessing performance, VaaS™ ensures clients can confidently demonstrate ROI and make data-driven decisions. To further accelerate cloud adoption, de Novo offers Testing as a Service™ (TaaS™)— an AI-powered solution for Oracle Cloud applications. TaaS™ provides scalable, flexible testing services that minimise risk, enhance quality, and speed up release cycles. With an integrated five-step management framework and automated testing, TaaS™ enables organisations to innovate confidently, knowing their software will perform reliably and integrate seamlessly. In addition to these core offerings, de Novo provides a comprehensive suite of services to ensure seamless cloud adoption and operational success. These include Cloud Readiness Assessments to prepare organisations for a smooth transition, Healthchecks to optimise system performance, and Cloud Recovery Services to ensure rapid recovery when necessary. The company also offers extensive training services to ensure teams are equipped to maximise the potential of their cloud investments. Collectively, these services solidify de Novo’s leadership in the digital transformation space, helping clients achieve sustained success. “While competitors may offer similar services, few can match our niche expertise and holistic approach to digital transformation, which combines cuttingedge technology with a commitment to achieving our clients’ business objectives. Consequently, de Novo is very much a company in demand right now.” With these best-in-class solutions to boot, de Novo has a carved out a well-deserved reputation for itself as a company with a significant competitive edge when it comes to improving operational efficiency and fostering ongoing innovation for those that choose to partner with it. It is on the back of this that de Novo has secured such high-profile clients as HM Treasury, the Ministry of Justice, the Office for National Statistics, Kent County Council, Swansea Council, Scottish Legal Aid Board,
SME News Welsh Enterprise Awards 2024/ 6 Historic Environment Scotland and many more. Clearly then, these cutting-edge cloud technology solutions have proven themselves to be incredibly effective across local and central government sectors, but the uses do not end there. For example, Mark is particularly passionate about getting involved in the education sector, especially with multiacademy trusts. This was seen recently in the case of the Harris Federation and Outwood Grange Academies Trust (OGAT), which the company hopes will be the first of many clients in this area to benefit from its remarkable suite of digital development solutions. Alongside these solutions, clients of de Novo are also drawn to the company as a result of its core values, which are both the cornerstones of this operation and the foundation its successes are built atop of. These values span pioneering technological innovation, delivery excellence, community engagement, and responsible growth. Striking the balance between remaining client-centred and considering outside elements, this quartet sees de Novo set the standard and provide excellent outcomes, all whilst supporting Wales’ local technology scene and wider communities through sustainable and ethical practices. In essence, it is this combination of terrific values and state-of-the-art technology that truly sets de Novo apart and allows the business to remain front and centre when it comes to digital transformation on an international scale, something that starts from its home base in Wales. Of course, it helps that Wales has positioned itself as a frontrunner in the global technology sphere, aided by its dynamic working environment, skilled workforce, and the supportive ecosystem that its valued technology companies are afforded. For businesses like de Novo, the benefits of such initiatives are endless. From the wealth of meaningful expansion and collaboration opportunities through to the strong sense of community encouraging partnerships and joint ventures, the advantages of being based in Wales permeate throughout this team of Oracle Cloud partners at every level. Some examples include the strong relationships formed with local organisations FinTech Wales and Technology Connected, both of which have enhanced the firm’s local impact. There are also several government-backed programmes in operation across Wales, and the national emphasis placed on developing technology skills and embracing digital innovation is something that has boosted local talent pools immeasurably. This is something that can be felt especially strongly across the country’s youth, and de Novo’s partnerships with educational institutions, such as the University of South Wales, see degree apprenticeships provided to nurture innovation and cement Wales’ status as a premier digital transformation hub for future generations. All of this has laid the groundwork for de Novo’s internal culture, an environment which,
much like Wales itself, prioritises collaboration, innovation, and growth. Empowering this team to be the very best that they can be is essentially what de Novo’s business environment revolves around, something that mirrors Mark’s own leadership style. Since Mark is a self-proclaimed serial entrepreneur and has founded three start-ups to date, it is the limitless drive embodied by this visionary leader that inspires his team to reach their full potential and deliver nothing short of the very best for the company and its clients alike. Regardless of their role or position within the company, staff here are always invited to share their ideas, take the initiative in projects, and play as active a role as they can in ensuring the business continues to move in the right direction. These are also the qualities sought out when hiring, as the company prizes the likes of problem-solving abilities, passion, and tenacity alongside the relevant technical skills. By focusing on these areas, de Novo has grown from an intimate team of ten to a thriving workforce of 100 in less than four years. Such growth highlights the success of the company in bringing top talent into the fold, as well as to finding those individuals whose vision aligns with the company’s own. Together, these immensely talented digital transformation experts are pushing the boundaries of what is thought possible in this space, something that is only set to continue as we move into 2025 and beyond. Having recently opened the forementioned development centre in Chennai, India, the next 12-18 months for the firm will see it focus on its global growth strategy, something that will enable it to better serve its growing international client base and improve the delivery of its overall service. Across both this site in India and its UK offices, the company is also focusing on talent development, doubling down on both the apprenticeships discussed earlier and graduate hires to close the digital skills gap plaguing industry today. Moreover, at the other end of the spectrum, de Novo is excited to announce Paul Shilham as its first Chief Financial Officer and board member. The appointment of Paul, completes the company’s Executive Leadership team, fortifying the organisations strength across all disciplines, positioning it ready for its next stage of growth, and ushering in a great start to the new year for Mark, Tim, and the rest of the team here. The future is thus incredibly bright for de Novo, which is currently on track to hit its financial goals concerning turnover of £10 million on a healthy EBITDA of £2m being predicted for the 2024-2025 year – as well as expansion with its team soon set to comprise 90 employees in the UK and 20 in India. These figures serve as the backdrop for the company’s inspiration to further enhance its services and streamline its innovative solutions, so that it may continue to meet the changing needs of an increasingly diverse client base for years to come. On the back of this unwavering commitment and consistent excellence, we have recognised the team at de Novo as the Most Innovative Digital Transformation Experts 2024 in the Welsh Enterprise Awards. This is far from the only recognition that this standout company has received over the past 12 months, as it has also been named as Elite Business’s Exceptional Business Performance of the Year Awards and recognition as a Top 10 SME Business in the UK (2024), the UK StartUp Awards for Digital StartUp of the Year (Wales) (2024), and the Business Consultancy Awards for Industry Leader in UK Business Consultancy – Mark Sweeny (2024). Additionally, Mark was named Technology Entrepreneur of the Year (Wales) at the Great British Entrepreneur of the Year Awards in 2023. These awards underscore de Novo's continuous innovation, exceptional growth, and leadership in driving digital transformation across industries. “These accolades validate our efforts in innovation, growth, and community involvement and also reflect our tremendous impact and leadership in the digital transformation space.” The undisputed focal point of this annual awards programme, de Novo Solutions is a multi-award-winning company with an exceptional culture, a remarkable team, and truly unrivalled knowledge in the fields of digital transformation and the cloud. Its Oracle Cloud capabilities, including the flagship Odyssea™, VaaS™ and TaaS™ offerings, are examples of how this business’ mastery manifests itself in a number of industry-leading solutions that have left a huge mark on this sphere. The most exciting part? All of this as Mark says is just the beginning. More information about the general company and its services can be found using the website link listed below, or those interested in following this business as it continues to grow and evolve can do so here on LinkedIn. For any specific queries or requests, our readers are invited to fill out this form or contact de Novo Solutions directly on 01633 492042. Company: de Novo Solutions Web Address: www.de-novo-solutions.com
SME News Welsh Enterprise Awards 2024/ 8 Biosecurity Advisory of the Year 2024 Badger Ecology Ltd – a UK-based ecological consultancy – is set on providing ecological mitigation solutions for construction, civil engineering, Government level projects and disease mitigation. Join us as we explore the extent of Badger Ecology Ltd’s services, and how its work has contributed towards the construction and wildlife industry. Badger Ecology ltd - owned and managed by George Walters MCIEEM – is an ecological consultancy that leverages its team’s immense wealth of expertise to provide a variety of services and solutions alike. Comprised of an environmental project manager, whose experience in the management of public sector contracts within the ecological field and multiple experienced ecological consultants, Badger Ecology Ltd promises talent in droves. In turn, these wildlife professionals have equipped themselves with a deep knowledge of wildlife law and legislation – a quality that has assisted a host of clients throughout the UK. Having overseen over 300 ecological site surveys since its inception, Badger Ecology Ltd has garnered quite the region-wide reputation. Delivering services such as habitat suitability surveys, invasive species surveys, protected species surveys, preliminary ecological appraisals, ecological impact assessments, artificial badger sett construction and closures, ecological site supervision, project management, monitoring surveys, badger surveys, and bait-making surveys and tracking studies. Badger Ecology Ltd promises assistance in every vein. Its guidance is nothing short of exemplary, no matter the service, which ultimately places it in the perfect position to make a real impact to clients projects, both large and small. Though Badger Ecology Ltd has a wealth of services at its disposal, the one that truly distinguishes it as a collective wanting to offer tailored bio-security solutions to the farming community across the UK with its badger vaccination programs. As the name suggests, this method of reducing the spread of Bovine TB is simple. Once captured, the badgers will be injected with BCG, before being released back into their natural habitat. The aim is to greatly reduce the risk of Bovine TB spreading between badgers and cattle. Among its other services, this perfectly demonstrates Badger Ecology Ltd’s most differentiating characteristic – it’s a pragmatic collective that focuses on delivering solutions that fall in line with its nature. This is accomplished, all whilst maintaining a consistent level of environmental sustainability and innovation. One of its most notable examples is the badger-specific project management that it conducted on the A40 improvement works. By leveraging its extensive skillset, Badger Ecology Ltd has managed to secure a positive environmental impact on this project, all whilst maintaining a future legacy for Pembrokeshire’s wildlife in this area. Though its consultancy is small, Badger Ecology Ltd has already become an invaluable partner for some of the most significant infrastructure projects across the UK. This doesn’t mean, however, that it has neglected its duty to assist private landowners and small development projects – on the contrary, it has remained committed to a consistent level of excellence, regardless of who requires its services. Badger Ecology Ltd demonstrates an intrinsic understanding of the needs of individuals throughout the region, and has gone above and beyond in devising solutions that will have a lasting, positive impact on both people and wildlife alike. In addition to these impressive feats, Badger Ecology Ltd boasts a variety of further accomplishments that we are very eager to share. When we spoke with George Walters of Badger Ecology Ltd, he detailed how “… we have held multiple public sector contracts, ranging from habitat surveys, DNA hair sampling projects, badger surveys, and badger vaccination, which have all been delivered successfully. We are familiar with the needs and requirements of Natural Resources Wales, Natural England, the Office of the Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, APHA and DEFRA and have completed work under protected species licenses for the Welsh Government and Natural Resources Wales over 140 times…”. Clearly, Badger Ecology Ltd holds an unwavering commitment to providing expert solutions to its clients. Badger Ecology Ltd stands as proof that people and nature can work in harmony, as opposed to disrupting one another’s lives. It promises solutions that are founded on dedicated research, extensive expertise. Badger Ecology Ltd stands as an exception. Through delivering services that are both incredibly accessible, and filled to the brim with passion, it exemplifies a drive to invite change, without having to drastically alter a natural pattern in order to achieve it. It’s for this reason that we are incredibly excited to share that Badger Ecology Ltd has a multitude of plans that it looks to bring to fruition in the coming years. Badger Ecology Ltd previously won a Welsh Government contract to vaccinate badgers as part of a farm biosecurity drive in Anglesey. The project, as with Badger Ecology Ltd’s current operations, aims to reduce the spread of Bovine TB within the area, and will run until 2026. For too long has Bovine TB been widely viewed as an impassable obstacle. Thanks to consultancies like Badger Ecology Ltd, badger vaccination programs seem to have become the new solution. Awarded with Most Trusted Wildlife & Environmental Consultancy 2023 in last year’s Welsh Enterprise Awards, Badger Ecology is no stranger to being recognised for its excellence. It is with great pride that we bestow Badger Ecology with its title of Biosecurity Advisory of the Year 2024 and we wish the company all the best for the years to come. Contact: George Walters Company: Badger Ecology LTD Web Address: https://badgerecology.co.uk/
RPW Radon Wales Ltd. is renowned for providing Radon detection and reduction services to a range of clients, including Schools, Universities, Health Boards, Councils and Housing Associations across the UK. The company offers high quality Radon gas testing kits and works to reduce the harmful levels of Radon gas in hundreds of properties. RPW Radon Wales Ltd. is celebrated by the Welsh Enterprise Awards for its steadfast commitment to protecting customers through the research, detection, and reduction of Radon gas levels. Richard Waters is also appointed director of The Radon Council 2024. Best Radon Detection & Reduction Specialists Company of the Year 2024 In the UK, Radon has now been recognised as the second largest cause of lung cancer after smoking. It is the objective of RPW Radon Wales to save lives by reducing the risk of lung cancer for the public. With over 20 years of experience detecting and controlling Radon gas, the business has established itself as the leading company in Wales to carry out its lifesaving work. RPW Radon Wales achieves its mission through a blend of expertise and hard work, travelling across the UK to test and reduce this harmful gas. Radon gas is a naturally occurring gas that is produced when uranium decays. Uranium is widely found in rocks and soils, causing Radon to be continually produced. In properties, Radon can enter from underneath the floor and accumulate indoors. Although the normal concentration of Radon in UK houses is lower than in most other European countries, some properties can store higher levels, becoming a health concern for families and increasing the risk of lung cancer. Radon has not been properly policed by governments, resulting in thousands of homes and workplaces with increasingly high levels. With over 2000 recorded Radon deaths in the UK every year, RPW Radon Wales is dedicated to its mission to identify and reduce Radon gas levels. During the pandemic, the company implemented further protective measures to safeguard its staff and customers. In a world where airflow is more important than ever, RPW Radon Wales is committed to continued education and reducing dangerous levels of Radon for its valued clientele. Established in 2010, RPW Radon Wales is run by the Waters family. Richard Waters is the company’s founder and managing director and a director of the Radon Council. Through his dedication to research and best practices, Richard continues to grow the business and develop his vast customer portfolio. Richard Waters works alongside Vicky, his daughterin-law, and Lee, his eldest son, who joined the company after 10 years as a qualified building inspector. RPW Radon Wales now has four Radon Gas Consultants working from the office; Richard Waters, Lee Waters, Vicky Waters and Liz Kilgour who provide high class quality, and professional services to their customers, who are all trained through the Radon Council. The business is passionate about recruiting self-sufficient people and provides full in-house training across all elements of the job to all their tradesmen. RPW Radon Wales is an independent company, offering its services to schools, homes, hospitals, universities, and workplaces. If Radon levels are discovered to be over the government limit, the company provides a survey, design, and installation of Radon extraction systems with a 100% success rate in reducing harmful gas. Over its years of service, RPW Radon Wales has discovered that the general public is unaware of the prevalence of Radon gas in quality air-controlled environments. The business is dedicated to educating others on the dangerous effects of Radon gas and how it can be controlled. Due to the high levels of Radon found in Wales, extensive research on Radon has been conducted within the country. RPW Radon Wales is able to utilise these local testing areas to progress its business through research and development. The company has recently completed experiments on the importation of Radon gas through granite rock, which was featured in the Autumn 2012 edition of the Environmental newsletter on Radon gas remediation for the Health Protection Agency. Wales has begun to slowly apply Radon measures to new build properties, enabling RPW Radon Wales to provide specialist information on preventative measures. RPW Radon Wales has designed hundreds of extraction systems tailored to every property and successfully reduced Radon levels for numerous clients. The business works alongside the Welsh Assembly to campaign for a cleaner, air-controlled environment in all private dwellings and workplaces. It is the mission of RPW Radon Wales to educate, advise, and deliver its lifesaving policies to customers across the UK. Looking to the future, the company will continue its work with the Welsh Assembly, housing associations, health boards and 22 local Welsh authorities on their schools, social housing, and workplaces. For its dedication to protecting the public through the research and reduction of Radon, RPW Radon Wales Ltd. has received our award for Best Radon Detection & Reduction Specialists Company of the Year. Contact: Mr Richard Waters Company: RPW Radon Wales Ltd Web Address: www.rpwradonwales.com
SME News Welsh Enterprise Awards 2024/ 10 Best Local Independent Estate Agents 2024 – South Wales The process of buying or selling your property can often be a daunting, arduous experience. Between packing all of your belongings, finding the perfect next location, and handling paperwork, it is very easy to get overwhelmed. Luckily, top-tier estate agents such as McHattons are here to streamline that process and ease the stresses that come with property management, whether you are buying, selling, or letting your home. Here, we take a closer look at McHattons, as the agent receives its title in the Welsh Enterprise Awards 2024. With offices based in Porthcawl and Bridgend, McHattons is an independent estate and letting agent boasting expert knowledge of the local market and a commitment to providing the highest quality service to its client base. The agent serves the surrounding areas of Pyle, Kenfig Hill, North Cornelly, South Cornelly, Pencoed, Port Talbot, and the Ogmore and Garw Valleys. McHattons was founded by brothers Martin & Terence McHatton with Terence serving as the agent’s Managing Director. Terence entered the real estate market in 2005 and devoted 18 years to building his experience in a corporate agency, eventually becoming the Estate Agency Director. Taking this valuable experience, Terence formed McHattons in 2023 with the vision of creating a multi-awardwinning, multi-branch agency renowned for its excellence in customer relations. Leveraging more than two decades of industry experience, Terence has made that vision a reality. McHattons is a leading provider of real estate services in South Wales, and continuously strives to exceed its clients’ high expectations across its operations. The agency has been recognised for its prowess in property management, having been awarded the South Wales ‘New on the Scene’ Business Award at the 2024 Business Growth Awards, in addition to the title of Best Local Independent Estate Agents 2024 for South Wales in the Welsh Enterprise Awards 2024. An established player in the market, McHattons is a proud member of the Association of Residential Letting Agents, the National Association of Estate Agents, The Property Redress Scheme, Rent Smart Wales, and the Propertymark Client Money Protection Scheme. These memberships place McHattons in a network of professionals committed to high standards and ethical practices, demonstrating McHattons’ commitment to upholding professionalism, continuous improvement, and ethical conduct across the industry. McHattons is dedicated to delivering excellent customer service and has even launched an online client portal. Here, vendors, landlords, buyers, and tenants can access up-to-date information from anywhere, at any time, and tenants can even log maintenance issues and upload photographs around the clock. This portal keeps clients of McHattons connected with their respective contacts and ensures that they feel continually supported and heard by the agency. The remarkable real estate agent understands the importance of maintaining close client relationships that are based on trust and respect, especially within the realm of property management. Property is a valuable asset, and a client must know that they can place their trust into their agent. As a member of numerous ethical organisations with a commitment to client-centricity, McHattons has proven itself to be a trustworthy provider of real estate services. This is evidenced in the numerous glowing testimonials left by past and present clients of the agency, who praise McHattons for its expertise, professionalism, and personal touch added to its services. “Selling and buying your home is a stressful process!” remarks Stephanie. “Thankfully, we chose McHattons as our estate agents. The whole team were welcoming, helpful, and professional. All questions and queries were dealt with from start to finish and we were kept up to date at all times. Nothing was too much trouble!” “Professional, courteous, and friendly staff, great communications, and highly efficient services all round,” writes Rich. “Thanks to all of the team for the excellent, above and beyond service we have received. McHattons made selling our property, in a very timely fashion, a pleasant experience.” “Friendly, honest, and fantastic communication are the key points I had with McHattons that I haven’t had with any other estate agent,” says Lisa. “McHattons met my expectations and move. Thank you so much for selling my home, and for making it feel hassle free.” “We recently sold our house through McHattons, and the experience was outstanding. From start to finish, the team went above and beyond to ensure the process was smooth and stress-free,” reports Tracey. “Selling a home can be a daunting task, but McHattons made it an enjoyable and successful experience. We highly recommend McHattons to anyone looking to sell their property with confidence and ease.” With a third branch opening in Neath in early 2025 you are sure to see more McHatton boards popping up in your area so don’t be a stranger and call into one of the branches for up to date market information. Contact: Terence McHatton Company: McHattons Ltd Web Address: https://www.mchattons.co.uk/ N Sep24417
As one of the two schools in England and Wales to operate under the national banner of Autism Initiatives, The Haven School in the North Wales county of Flintshire has been supporting learners with autism for more than a decade. Proudly serving as a specialist provision for 11–19-yearolds, this is a school that is as flexible as it is supportive, with a track record for nurturing learners of all ages and capabilities to achieve their full potential – regardless of where they sit on the spectrum. Offering an ‘education for life’ for autistic children and young adults across the region, The Haven School delivers a person-centred learning experience for its pupils, one that builds upon their strengths and helps them to improve in the areas in which they are weaker. The Haven prioritises the development of communication skills above almost all else, and it is for this reason that it also delivers a number of activities across the wider community alongside its classroom-based learning, offering its students the best of both worlds. Headteacher Karen Burt runs the school and oversees many of the initiatives The Haven puts in place, and it is largely thanks to her efforts that the school’s curriculum is one that is constantly developing, reflecting Autism Initiatives’ overarching aim of offering services that reflect the changing needs of people with autism as they grow and evolve. This inclusive curriculum is based around positive behaviour support, and staff utilise autism-appropriate teaching methods to ensure the environment is calm and structured. Providing support, care, stability, and security are thus the core aims of The Haven School, and, as touched on above, these also align with the wider mission of Autism Initiatives when it comes to helping young people thrive in education, before making the difficult transition into adulthood. ‘Growing up’ is difficult for everyone, particularly for those with autism, as change is something that these individuals usually struggle with much more than most. This makes big life transitions in particular sources of stress, frustration, and anxiety. This was something recognised all the way back in 1972 by Founder Pat Minshuall, who established Autism Initiatives on the back of her concern for the education of her autistic son, Peter. Supported by people from across the UK, as well as then Prime Minister Harold Wilson, Pat first set up the Peterhouse School in Southport in 1973, before continuing this amazing work as Peter’s needs altered. Today, Pat’s legacy is reflected in the thousands of lives Autism Initiatives has changed, through such endeavours as The Haven School. Recognising that it is an integral part of something much bigger, The Haven School prides itself on embodying such values as excellence, flexibility, communication, accountability, equality, diversity, partnership, and accountability. “We don’t approach an autism diagnosis from a deficit point of view”, explains Headteacher Karen Burt. “From each individual’s starting point – through trust, reflection, and tailored support – we empower them to develop confidence, resilience, and self-awareness.” Despite the recent increases in both awareness and understanding of autism and other such neurodevelopmental disorders, the teams at both The Haven School and Autism Initiatives have noted a similar rise in levels of anxiety and social difficulties for autistic young people, many of whom struggle to fit in and achieve that sense of belonging necessary to feel content. The COVID-19 pandemic only exacerbated this, and schools and other such institutions are only just starting to recover from what has been an incredibly challenging few years. The result is that Autism Initiatives – which relies solely on charity to establish the life-changing services it does across the UK, Ireland, and the Isle of Man – needs the support of generous individuals and organisations now more than ever. With a more than 50-year legacy of working positively and constructively with autistic people to help them overcome the challenges they face and thrive; this is a charity worthy of acclaim. The Haven School is equally special, and we urge our readers to follow the links below to find out more about both. Contact: Karen Burt Company: The Haven / Autism Initiatives Web Address: https://www.thehavenschool.co.uk/ https://autisminitiatives.org/ For more than 50 years, Autism Initiatives has been working closely with autistic people to improve its understanding of the condition and provide help and support to those individuals living with it, as well as those closest to them. The services provided by this supportive registered charity are available for adults, businesses, and young people, and it is the latter of these in particular we have chosen to focus on, especially concerning Autism Initiatives’ remarkable specialised school, The Haven. Most Supportive Autism Services Charity 2024 Nov24016
SME News Welsh Enterprise Awards 2024/ 12 Best Residential & Commercial Cleaning Company 2024 – North Wales Founded in 2019, Mynydd Cleaning and Maintenance is a leading cleaning business based in Porthmadog, North Wales. Offering a wife range of professional cleaning services, the company has been named in the Welsh Enterprise Awards 2024 for its excellence. Join us below as we speak with Co-Owner of Mynydd Cleaning and Maintenance, Charlotte Jones, to learn more. Renowned for its reliability, professionalism, quality, and high customer satisfaction rate, Mynydd Cleaning and Maintenance delivers top-tier cleaning services tailored to the commercial, industrial, and domestic sectors. The company is on a mission to establish itself as the trusted partner for all cleaning and maintenance needs in North Wales, having collaborated with reputable clients such as OBR Construction, Brenig Construction, Bearmont Group, and Adra Tai Cyf. Mynydd Cleaning and Maintenance takes a customer-first approach to its operations, committed to growing steadily whilst retaining the individualised touch that has come to define its services. The company’s varied offerings include office cleaning, changeover cleaning, builders cleans, sparkle cleans, brick cleaning, window cleaning, and specialist cleaning solutions. What’s more, Mynydd Cleaning and Maintenance is SafeContractor approved, further solidifying the company’s dedication to upholding stringent health and safety standards. In a competitive market, Mynydd Cleaning and Maintenance sets itself apart through its specialist combination of service diversity, quality, and a strong customer approach. its comprehensive service offering goes beyond the bounds of traditional cleaning, making the company truly unique. In addition to its expansive range of established cleaning services, it is also actively exploring value-added options for holiday let owners, such as maintenance packages that include guest management, minor repairs, and key holding. “This holistic approach allows us to become a one-stop solution for our clients, making their lives easier by handling multiple needs under one roof,” Charlotte tells us. “Our SafeContractor accreditation further highlights our commitment to safety and professionalism, ensuring our clients can trust us to maintain high standards across all aspects of our work. While we do face competition in the cleaning industry, our blend of expertise, reliability, and innovation gives us a distinctive edge, especially in the North Wales region.” Being based in Wales offers many unique benefits, especially for a business like Mynydd Cleaning and Maintenance. Welsh culture is defined by its strong sense of community and local pride, qualities that permeate every corner of the region of North Wales. This culture creates opportunities for businesses to establish close, long-lasting relationships with clients who value reliability, quality service, and local expertise. This is especially true in areas such as Gwynedd, where the community is loyal and supportive, enabling businesses such as Mynydd Cleaning and Maintenance to grow steadily and build its solid reputation. “Given the strong sense of community in Wales, we emphasise the importance of building relationships, both within our team and with our clients,” says Charlotte. “At Mynydd Cleaning and Maintenance, our relationships with clients are built on trust, respect, and a personal touch. As a local business in North Wales, we take great pride in contributing to the region’s economy and supporting other local businesses whenever possible. This sense of community is one of the cornerstones of our identity.” Mynydd Cleaning and Maintenance strives to maintain its position as a key player in the industry, aiming to do so by continuously enhancing the quality of its services, expanding its client base, and adapting to the evolving needs of the market. Looking ahead, Charlotte tells us that the company is focused on steady growth, service diversification, and deepening its impact within the local community. One of Mynydd Cleaning and Maintenance’s main goals moving forward is to expand its business into a seven-figure company and is on track to achieve this through a combination of organic growth and strategic service expansions. In alignment with this, Mynydd Cleaning and Maintenance is expanding into a second location in Ruthin, a strategic move that will allow the company to cover more of North Wales. “We aren’t just focused on expansion for the sake of growth,” Charlotte explains. “Every step we take is carefully planned to ensure that we maintain the high standards and personalised service that our clients have come to expect from us. Whether its our approach to sustainability, innovation in our service offerings, or our dedication to strengthening and training our team, we are always thinking about how to deliver the best possible experience for our clients and strengthen our role as a trusted partner in the community.” Contact: Charlotte Jones Company: Mynydd Cleaning & Maintenance Ltd Web Address: https://www.mynyddcleaning.co.uk/ Sep24418
The health and wellbeing industry is seeing a rise in interest over the last few years, as the individuals are now investing significant time and money into the sector. As the climate becomes more uncertain, people are turning to self-care practices as a way of coping with the stresses. Bronleigh House is a multi-disciplinary health and well-being clinic that aims to enhance all aspects of its client’s physical, emotional, and social wellbeing. Here, we speak with Founder and Owner, Hannah Hopkins, following Bronleigh House’s recent recognition in the Welsh Enterprise Awards 2024. Best Multi-Disciplinary Wellness Clinic 2024 Established in 2018, Bronleigh House is a stately Victorian building with many original features that were restored during a 20172018 renovation. Overlooking the town of Neath and its surrounding idyllic countryside, Bronleigh House is a tranquil environment and the perfect space to address any and all health and wellbeing concerns. The clinic was founded by Hannah Hopkins, who also works as a sports therapist at Bronleigh House under H.H Sports Therapy, her own sports injury clinic. Whilst Hanah was treating the physical aspects of her patients, she was fully aware that some patients need a more rounded, multidisciplinary approach to their treatment plan. “Often the treatment needs are multifactorial, which is where the idea of Bronleigh House was created and developed,” she tells us. “Our overall mission is to create a place where people can access treatments and services to meet their physical, emotional, aesthetic, spiritual, and social needs all in one place.” Bronleigh House offers its clientele a broad range of services and treatments for both the mind and body, including alternative, conventional, and allied health therapies. The clinic provides yoga classes, sound healing, physical therapies, and specialist services such as lymphatic drainage and cancer care. The facility also contains a sensory studio for classes, a hair salon, beauty and aesthetic treatments, and even a coffee shop for socialising. What’s more, Bronleigh House is also home to a mainstream bank, which offers a hub for people to be supported with their financial needs, which is another crucial aspect of improving wellbeing. With such remarkably diverse offerings, Bronleigh House is succeeding in its mission to make treatments accessible to all. The clinic provides services and treatments to a range of clients, patients, and customers, including toddlers and babies, elite sports persons, athletes, and the elderly. Bronleigh House is an accessible, inclusive space for all who want to significantly improve their health and wellbeing. “Our space is a beautiful Victorian building set in its own ground, close to the town centre but overlooking beautiful, picturesque mountains. It has a large parking space, various links and routes, and has a warm, welcoming feel,” says Hannah. “Whilst there are many wellbeing clinics and centres, I don’t feel there is anywhere that offers the diverse range of services and facilities that we offer. Our staff and therapists are also very experienced, with many having worked in their professions for several decades.” Bronleigh House is driven by a team of certified and experienced professionals who are passionate about the services they provide. Each therapist is a member of an association within their own profession and can only become members once they have met certain criteria. Clients can have peace of mind that when booking for treatments with Bronleigh House, they are in the caring hands of true professionals. The clinic ensures to find team members who share its ethos, which is providing professional yet compassionate and friendly service. “It’s about working within our professional remit but knowing when to refer, with the patient’s interest always at heart,” Hannah explains. “We do look for experience and expertise, however we have also had staff starting in the industry and have built and developed their skills, so experience isn’t always necessary. For us, it’s about sharing the passion for health and wellbeing, and helping anyone who walks through the door to feel valued and supported.” Moving forward, Hannah tells us that Bronleigh House aims to continue providing a diverse range of services to benefit its local community and their wellness needs. “We are also hoping to collaborate to run wellness and spa retreats at our family-run business Crynant Cottages, where we have five-star holiday cottage and spa facilities within the Neath Valley,” she adds. SME News holds The Welsh Enterprise Awards each year to celebrate the remarkable achievements and innovations of SMEs throughout Wales. With its vast array of stellar services and top-notch treatments, combined with an unfaltering passion for people and their wellbeing, Bronleigh House has been awarded the title of Best MultiDisciplinary Wellness Clinic 2024. Contact: Hannah Hopkins Company: Bronleigh House Web Address: https://bronleighhouse.co.uk/
SME News Welsh Enterprise Awards 2024/ 14 Mortgage Advisory Firm of the Year 2024 – South Wales & Client Service Excellence Award 2024 Based in Swansea, South Wales, Sturgess Mortgage Solutions is a renowned financial firm delivering tailored services alongside jargon-free solutions and easily digestible explanations. On a mission to helping clientele meet their financial aspirations, the firm has been recently recognised in the Welsh Enterprise Awards 2024. Here, we speak with Founder and Managing Director Shaun Sturgess to learn more. Founded in 2021 but possessing more than six decades of industry experience, Sturgess Mortgage Solutions is a key player in the world of finance. Whether you are a first-time buyer or an experienced portfolio landlord, Sturgess Mortgage Solutions offers a bespoke service driven by its exceptional knowledge of the market and tailored exactly to meet your unique and specific needs. Sturgess Mortgage Solutions offers a range of mortgage and financial services, which include mortgage advice and brokering, insurance services, financial planning, remortgaging, buy-to-let mortgages, and self-employed mortgages. The firm understands that navigating the numerous elements of securing a mortgage can be challenging, no matter your experience or financial situation, and so strives to help each and every one of its clients to reach financial success. Since its inception, Sturgess Mortgage Solutions has worked tirelessly to provide its top-tier services across the region. “We’ve helped hundreds of customers become able to purchase and refinance their properties, which we like to think has a positive effect on the economy throughout Wales,” Shaun tells us. “I take great pride in being able to help people and ultimately shape their lives when it comes to their financial aspirations and goals.” The firm has grown significantly in just a short time, now one of the most recognisable brands in the region. When Sturgess Mortgage Solutions was first founded, the firm was launched from home in May of 2021, before moving to an office in Tawe Business Village. Driven by its surge in growth, Sturgess Mortgage Solutions opened a new branch in Pontardawe with the hopes of broadening its scope across the region. More recently, Sturgess Mortgage Solutions’ rising success has pushed the firm to relocate its headquarters to a larger and more highprofile office on Gorseinon High Street. Offering twice the space of its predecessor, the new office provides Sturgess Mortgage Solutions with a central position on a high street and enables the firm to continue its mission of delivering accessible, communitycentric services. Sturgess Mortgage Solutions was born from Shaun Sturgess’s unwavering desire to help people when they need it the most and truly make a difference in the world. Shaun soon realised that numbers would never be as important to him as people and service and has carried this philosophy with him across all of his operations. As a result, Sturgess Mortgage Solution takes a client-centric approach that contributes significantly to the firm’s many industry relationships. “Our mantra is ‘putting you at the heart of everything we do’,” says Shaun. “Ultimately, we are here to put people and property together. We have over 60 years’ worth of experience in a team of four, which is extremely invaluable to our clients; we are able to hold their hands from start to finish.” This direct, hands-on approach enables Sturgess Mortgage Solutions to build steady relationships and rapport with clientele, forming bonds that are steeped in trust and reliability. Sturgess Mortgage Solutions has amassed countless five-star reviews from previous clients who detail the firm’s professionalism, knowledge of the field, and unfaltering commitment. “Shaun Sturgess is brilliant at what he does,” says Scott. “He helped me get everything in order for my first home purchase and took the time to explain everything I’d need to do in the weeks before making an offer on a house. Not only did he help me get my finances in order, but Shaun was also there every step of the way when it came to getting the deal over the line and navigating the conveyance process; he even helped get my home insurance sorted. I’m now a repeat customer of Sturgess Mortgage Solutions and won’t entertain the notion of going anywhere else for my mortgage needs.” “I would 100% recommend Sturgess Mortgage Solutions to anyone,” writes Anwen. “Being a first-time buyer, I had no idea where to start. Shaun explained all the options, handled the paperwork, and liaised with the solicitors. Nothing was too big or too small for Shaun and his team. The service is excellent, and Shaun is exceptional at his job; he definitely puts his client’s needs first! Sturgess Mortgage Solutions is worth every penny; you won’t forget it!” Contact: Shaun Sturgess Company: Sturgess Mortgage Solutions Web Address: https://www.sturgessmortgage.co.uk/ Oct24234
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