
‘Don’t miss out’ – Successful Peer Networks initiative makes its final call
The OxLEP Business-run programme Peer Networks has called on businesses to grab the last few places available before time runs out.
The programme’s organiser, Anthony Parsons, says 250 people have already completed the programme. “It’s been very popular, and we want to make sure no one misses out, so it is imperative people get in touch with us. Businesses have to confirm their interest by the end of January, so time is already tight.”
The Peer Networks (which are entirely free) differ from many other support programmes because it is all about businesses sharing and encouraging each other in facilitated groups.
Ant explains: “It is a really simple formula which works on the basis that a problem aired is often a problem solved. And when it comes to business there is a lot of experience around which can be extremely useful. They’re sharing their acumen and helping each other to grow. Some of the groups are really diverse, from all sorts of different business sectors, but they find common ground and take a lot from the perspectives others have of the problems they discuss.”
Rhys Saunders is a director at Lick Me I’m Delicious, a highly innovative event-based enterprise based at the Monument Business Park in Chalgrove. He was one of 8 people in a Peer Network group which met fortnightly in facilitated video events.
“It’s a really honest forum which made it easy to participate. Each of us brought our challenges to the group and then had the chance to explore the advice, opinions and interesting ideas and solutions offered by the others.”
“It’s been great seeing how others put their expertise towards my issues. I’ve heard about new ways to do things, alternative approaches to business and been challenged about some of my own views too.”
Along with the support of the peer network, Rhys has also had 1-2-1 support in areas he wanted to develop, including ways to be a better leader.
“There is only funding for one more round of Peer Networks” Anthony Parsons at OxLEP Business explains. ”We are especially keen to hear from people who might have heard about it already, but not yet got around to joining in. And I’d certainly encourage women in business to grab a place. Women are natural collaborators, so this is a fantastic initiative for building your support network and knowledge.”
Sam Kandiyali, a director of Target PR, took part in a Peer Network and recommends it to anyone looking to improve their business prospects.
“I’d encourage anyone to join the Peer Networks initiative. Why wouldn’t you? I mean it’s a couple of hours every other week. And the amount of time you spend for the benefit you get back, I think it’s a no brainer.”
The final opportunity ends on January 31st.
There is more information at www.oxlepbusiness.co.uk/peer-networks
More in Community Building

Bike Oxford: Focused on inclusivity, welcoming all ages and abilities
Bike Oxford, now in its 9th year, is an event with real community spirit. Championed by Oxford City and Oxfordshire County councils as a way of encouraging active transport and healthy lifestyle, the event welcomes riders from all parts of the community, of all ages and abilities. The event, one of the largest single day […]

Blenheim Newsletter February 2022
Keeping you up to date with all the latest news from Blenheim

Swinging the balance of power to positivity during the pandemic
NHS Employ-Ability is a Harlow based charity that are trying to swing the balance of power to good during the pandemic. This is our story of how we have worked with local employers to help people living with mental health illness to get into and retain work in Essex and beyond.
Trending

Exploring the challenge and opportunity of improving plant-based catering across the...
Public sector employees and catering teams are invited to attend Exploring the challenge and opportunity of improving plant-based catering across the public-sector and ask questions to our panel of speakers, including Anna Taylor, CEO of The Food Foundation, Phil Rees-Jones, Chair of TUCO, and representatives from Oxfordshire County Council, who passed an ambitious motion to […]

Ambush Marketing: Create a Buzz Without Getting Stung
Events draw huge publicity and ambush marketing is a way of associating your brand with an event without being the official sponsor, but the rules and regulations around ambush marketing have been tightened as organisers try to protect their sponsors’ investment. With the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games approaching, Freeths experts Simon Barker and Emma Bacon steer you through the opportunities and legal constraints of ambush marketing.

B4 Mid-Summer Platinum Dinner in The Yurt at Nicholsons
B4 Members are invited to join us for a mid-summer’s dinner in The Yurt at Nicholsons, a beautiful setting for a relaxed dinner under the yurt’s twinkling fairy lights.
From this author

Spring statement reaction from Nigel Tipple, OxLEP chief executive
Yesterday’s spring statement (23 March) from the Chancellor Rishi Sunak saw a number of new measures that the Government hopes will provide some much-needed financial relief to communities and businesses from across the UK.

OxLEP response to the Levelling-Up White Paper
The much-anticipated Levelling-Up White Paper was announced last week by the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove MP.

OxLEP and TheHill urging SMEs to seize health and care collaboration...
A drive to help small businesses make the most of their research collaborations has been launched by OxLEP, Oxfordshire’s local enterprise partnership and TheHill, the innovation centre at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.