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A new global hub based in the UK and tasked with testing the safety of emerging types of AI has been backed by leading AI companies and nations, as the world’s first AI Safety Institute has been launched by Rishi Sunak. After four months of building the first team inside a G7 Government that can evaluate the risks of frontier AI models, it has been confirmed that the Frontier AI Taskforce will now evolve to become the AI Safety Institute, with Ian Hogarth continuing as its Chair. The External Advisory Board for the Taskforce, made up of industry heavyweights from national security to computer science, will now advise the new global hub. The Institute will carefully test new types of frontier AI before and after they are released to address the potentially harmful capabilities of AI models, including exploring all the risks, from social harms like bias and misinformation, to the most unlikely but extreme risk, such as humanity losing control of AI completely. In undertaking this research, the AI Safety Institute will look to work closely with the Alan Turing Institute, as the national institute for data science and AI. In launching the AI Safety Institute, the UK is continuing to cement its position as a world leader in AI safety, working to develop the most advanced AI protections of any country in the world and giving the British people peace of mind that the countless benefits of AI can be safely captured for future generations to come. World leaders and major AI companies have today expressed their support for the Institute as the world’s first AI Safety Summit concludes. From Japan and Canada to OpenAI and DeepMind, the collective backing of key players will strengthen international collaboration on the safe development of frontier AI – putting the UK in prime position to become the home of AI safety and lead the world in seizing its enormous benefits. Leading researchers at the Alan Turing Institute and Imperial College London have also welcomed the Institute’s launch, alongside representatives of the tech sector in TechUK and the Startup Coalition. Already, the UK has agreed two partnerships: with the US AI Safety Institute, and with the Government of Singapore to collaborate on AI safety testing – two of the world’s biggest AI powers. Deepening the UK’s stake and influence in this transformative technology, it will also advance the world’s knowledge of AI safety – with the Prime Minister committing to invest in its safe development for the rest of the decade, as part of the Government’s record investment into R&D. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: "Our AI Safety Institute will act as a global hub on AI safety, leading on vital research into the capabilities and risks of this fast-moving technology." "It is fantastic to see such support from global partners and the AI companies themselves to work together so we can ensure AI develops safely for the benefit of all our people. This is the right approach for the long-term interests of the UK." Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, Michelle Donelan said: "The AI Safety Institute will be an international standard bearer. With the backing of leading AI nations, it will help policymakers across the globe in gripping the risks posed by the most advanced AI capabilities, so that we can maximise the enormous benefits." "We have spoken at length about the Summit at Bletchley Park being a starting point, and as we reach the final day of discussions, I am enormously encouraged by the progress we have made and the lasting processes we have set in motion." "The launch of the AI Safety Institute marks the UK’s contribution to the collaboration on AI safety testing agreed by world leaders and the companies developing frontier AI at a session in Bletchley Park." New details revealed set out the body’s mission to prevent surprise to the UK and humanity from rapid and unexpected advances in AI. Ahead of new powerful models expected to be released next year whose capabilities may not be fully understood, its first task will be to quickly put in place the processes and systems to test them before they launch – including open-source models. From its research informing UK and international policymaking, to providing technical tools for governance and regulation – such as the ability to analyse data being used to train these systems for bias - it will see the government take action to make sure AI developers are not marking their own homework when it comes to safety. AI Safety Institute Chair Ian Hogarth, said: "The support of international governments and companies is an important validation of the work we’ll be carrying out to advance AI safety and ensure its responsible development." "Through the AI Safety Institute, we will play an important role in rallying the global community to address the challenges of this fast-moving technology." Researchers are already in place to head up the work of the Institute who will be provided with access to the compute needed to support their work. This includes making use of the new AI Research Resource, an expanding £300 million network that will include some of Europe’s largest super computers, increasing the UK’s AI super compute capacity by a factor of thirty. It follows the UK Government’s announcement yesterday of additional investment in Bristol’s “Isambard-AI” and a new computer called “Dawn” in Cambridge, that researchers will be able to access at the same time to boost their research and make AI safe. The AI Safety Institute will have priority access to this cutting-edge supercomputer to help develop its programme of research into the safety of frontier AI models and supporting government with this analysis. It comes as government representatives were joined by CEOs of leading AI companies and a number of civil society leaders earlier today to discuss the year ahead and consider what immediate steps are needed - by countries, companies, and other stakeholders – to ensure the safety of frontier AI. The AI Safety Summit at Bletchley Park has already laid the foundations for talks on frontier AI safety to be an enduring discussion with South Korea set to host further discussions next year.

Leading AI nations, convened for the first time by the UK and including the United States and China, along with the European Union, have reached a world-first agreement at Bletchley Park establishing a shared understanding of the opportunities and risks posed by frontier AI and the need for governments to work together to meet the most significant challenges. The Bletchley Declaration on AI safety sees 28 countries from across the globe including Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, as well as the EU, agreeing to the urgent need to understand and collectively manage potential risks through a new joint global effort to ensure AI is developed and deployed in a safe, responsible way for the benefit of the global community. Countries endorsing the Declaration include Brazil, France, India, Ireland, Japan, Kenya, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates. The Declaration fulfils key summit objectives in establishing shared agreement and responsibility on the risks, opportunities and a forward process for international collaboration on frontier AI safety and research, particularly through greater scientific collaboration. Countries agreed substantial risks may arise from potential intentional misuse or unintended issues of control of frontier AI, with particular concern caused by cybersecurity, biotechnology and disinformation risks. The Declaration sets out agreement that there is “potential for serious, even catastrophic, harm, either deliberate or unintentional, stemming from the most significant capabilities of these AI models.” Countries also noted the risks beyond frontier AI, including bias and privacy. Recognising the need to deepen the understanding of risks and capabilities that are not fully understood, attendees have also agreed to work together to support a network of scientific research on Frontier AI safety. This builds on the UK Prime Minister’s announcement last week for the UK to establish the world’s first AI Safety Institute and complementing existing international efforts including at the G7, OECD, Council of Europe, United Nations and the Global Partnership on AI. This will ensure the best available scientific research can be used to create an evidence base for managing the risks whilst unlocking the benefits of the technology, including through the UK’s AI Safety Institute which will look at the range of risks posed by AI. The Declaration details that the risks are “best addressed through international cooperation”. As part of agreeing a forward process for international collaboration on frontier AI safety, The Republic of Korea has agreed to co-host a mini virtual summit on AI in the next 6 months. France will then host the next in-person Summit in a year from now. Further details on these events will be confirmed in due course. This ensures an enduring legacy from the Summit and continued international action to tackle AI risks, including informing national and international risk-based policies across these countries. The Declaration, building upon last week’s announcement of the UK’s emerging processes for AI safety, also acknowledges that those developing these unusually powerful and potentially dangerous frontier AI capabilities, have a particular responsibility for ensuring the safety of these systems, including by implementing systems to test them and other appropriate measures. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: "This is a landmark achievement that sees the world’s greatest AI powers agree on the urgency behind understanding the risks of AI – helping ensure the long-term future of our children and grandchildren." "Under the UK’s leadership, more than 25 countries at the AI Safety Summit have stated a shared responsibility to address AI risks and take forward vital international collaboration on frontier AI safety and research." "The UK is once again leading the world at the forefront of this new technological frontier by kickstarting this conversation, which will see us work together to make AI safe and realise all its benefits for generations to come." Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan, said:  "The agreement signed by attendees from across the globe, offers an important first step as we begin two days of vitally important discussions here at Bletchley Park." "We have always said that no single country can face down the challenges and risks posed by AI alone, and today’s landmark Declaration marks the start of a new global effort to build public trust by ensuring the technology’s safe development." "Bletchley Park marks the start of a long road ahead, and the Summit will kickstart an enduring process to ensure every nation and every citizen can realise the boundless benefits of AI." Foreign Secretary, James Cleverly, said: "AI knows no borders, and its impact on the world will only deepen." "The UK is proud to have kickstarted the global discussion at Bletchley Park on how we ensure the transformational power of AI is used as a force for good by and for all of us." A spokesperson for the French Presidency said: "The French authorities welcome the international and cooperative work cycle launched by the AI Safety Summit to analyse, understand and respond to the risks that certain Frontier AI models could cause. France is ready to participate in this long-term collective effort and will be happy to host the next in person Summit." A spokesperson for the Republic of Korea Government said: "Minister Lee is delighted that Korea will be the co-hosts of the mini virtual summit. Korea is a world leader in technologies like AI and recognises the importance of multilateral cooperation to ensure AI technologies are designed, used and governed in safe ways." To mark the opening of the Summit, His Majesty The King delivered a virtual address, via video to the AI Safety Summit this morning as proceedings got underway. His Majesty pointed to AI being one of the ‘greatest technological leaps in the history of human endeavour’ and hailed the technology’s enormous potential to transform the lives of citizens across the world through better treatments for conditions like cancer and heart disease. The King also spoke of the ‘clear imperative to ensure that this rapidly evolving technology remains safe and secure’ and the need for ‘international coordination and collaboration’. The King’s address signed-off with thanks for the vital role attendees will play over the next two days, laying the foundations for a ‘lasting consensus’ on AI safety to cement its place as a force for good.

Picasso, Degas, Monet, Warhol and Banksy are among some of the international artists handled by Mark Lambert, who is opening his first dealership in Stratford’s Bell Court. Lambert Fine Art specialises in original 19th-21st Century works as well as contemporary paintings and sculpture from Royal Academy level artists. The flagship gallery marks a new chapter for its director Mark, from Knowle, who has 24 years in the art business and a strong reputation for buying and selling the best antiques and fine art on the market. He has previously worked for two of the UK’s top international art dealerships with galleries including in The Cotswolds, London, New York and San Francisco and is connected with the major auction houses around the world such as Bonhams, Christies and Sotheby’s. He said: “Our main ethos is to bring integrity, honesty and a straightforward approach to buying and selling art which is often overlooked by the established dealers and high street galleries. At Lambert Fine Art we act on behalf of private collectors, interior designers and museums advising on every aspect of sourcing, buying, selling and restoring fine art." “We truly believe that now is the time to bring the very finest examples of high-end original paintings and sculptures to Stratford-Upon-Avon which is something that has been missing for many years, as well as bringing with it our wealthy clients.” Mark has sold and handled art by some of the world’s finest artists which include Pablo Picasso, Henry Moore, Edgar Degas, Banksy, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, L.S.Lowry, Claude Monet, Alfred Sisley, John Atkinson Grimshaw, Edouard Manet, Andy Warhol, Jean and Raoul Dufy. Rich Jones, Centre Manager of Bell Court, said: “We’re excited to be welcoming this eminent art dealer and his flagship business into the Bell Court family. It goes a long way to further strengthening and widening our offering here and cementing our position within the heart of the town. “Mark’s international fine art expertise brings something different as well as a touch of class to the centre and I’m sure will prove popular with locals and visitors alike.”

World Sandwich Day, observed on November 3rd each year, is a celebration of one of the most beloved and versatile culinary creations known to humanity – the sandwich. This day is dedicated to recognising and appreciating the humble yet delicious sandwich, which has become a staple in the diets of people from all corners of the globe. Let's explore the origins of World Sandwich Day, the significance of sandwiches in various cultures, and the creative ways in which people come together to enjoy and share this delectable food. The history of the sandwich dates back to the 18th century when John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, popularized this convenient and portable meal. The story goes that the Earl, an avid gambler, requested his meat to be placed between slices of bread, allowing him to eat without using utensils and keep his hands clean while continuing to play cards. Thus, the sandwich was born, and it quickly gained popularity throughout England and beyond. In the United Kingdom, sandwiches hold a special place in the hearts and stomachs of its people. Some classic British sandwich fillings have become beloved staples over the years. The traditional Ploughman's sandwich, for instance, features a combination of mature cheddar cheese, pickle, crisp lettuce, and fresh tomato slices, all generously piled between two slices of crusty bread. Another classic is the Coronation Chicken sandwich, which combines tender chunks of chicken in a creamy, curry-flavoured sauce with raisins and sliced almonds, offering a delightful blend of sweet and savoury. Of course, no discussion of British sandwiches would be complete without mentioning the iconic Cucumber Sandwich, featuring thinly sliced cucumbers and butter on soft, crustless white bread, a must-have for any proper afternoon tea. These cherished fillings represent just a small taste of the rich sandwich heritage in the UK, where people continue to innovate and savour these culinary traditions. What makes the sandwich truly remarkable is its adaptability to diverse cultures and cuisines. In every part of the world, you can find unique sandwich variations that showcase local flavours and ingredients. For example: Banh Mi (Vietnam): A delicious Vietnamese sandwich made with a French baguette, typically filled with ingredients like grilled pork, fresh herbs, and pickled vegetables. Cubano (Cuba): This Cuban delight features roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed between Cuban bread. Falafel (Middle East): A popular Middle Eastern sandwich made with deep-fried chickpea or fava bean patties, served in pita bread and garnished with tahini, vegetables, and spices. The popularity of sandwich fillings can vary greatly from region to region, but several fillings have gained worldwide appeal. Here are some of the world's most popular sandwich fillings: Ham and Cheese : A classic combination, ham and cheese are staples in many countries, often served with various condiments like mustard or mayonnaise. Turkey and Cranberry : This filling is particularly popular during the Thanksgiving holiday in the United States, but it's enjoyed in various forms throughout the year in different countries. BLT (Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato): The savoury, crispy bacon combined with fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes is a favourite in many parts of the world. Chicken Salad : Chopped or shredded chicken mixed with mayonnaise, celery, and various seasonings makes for a creamy and satisfying sandwich filling. Tuna Salad : Tuna mixed with mayonnaise, chopped celery, and often pickles or onions is a go-to option for many sandwich lovers. Egg Salad : Hard-boiled eggs mashed and mixed with mayonnaise, mustard, and sometimes herbs or spices are a simple and delicious choice. Reuben : This iconic sandwich features corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing on rye bread. Pastrami: Typically served on rye bread with mustard, pastrami is a favourite in Jewish delis and beyond. These fillings are just a taste of the diverse and delicious options enjoyed around the world. Local preferences, cultural influences, and regional ingredients play a significant role in shaping the most popular sandwich fillings in different areas. World Sandwich Day isn't just about enjoying sandwiches; it's also about coming together as a global community to share food and goodwill. Many restaurants and cafes around the world participate in this celebration by offering special deals and promotions on their sandwiches with attempts to create new flavour combinations common too. Additionally, some organisations use this day as an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for hunger relief initiatives, emphasizing the importance of food and nutrition for those in need. World Sandwich Day is a delightful occasion that celebrates a simple yet incredibly satisfying food item, beloved by people of all ages, backgrounds, and tastes. It is a reminder that, despite our differences, food has the power to bring us together and create moments of joy and connection. After all, there's no better way to honour the legacy of the 4th Earl of Sandwich than by savouring this iconic creation.

One million freshly prepared, nutritious ‘Eat Well’ meals including family favourites Chilli Con Carne, Tomato & Basil Soup and Kids Cheesy Pizza to be delivered to families in need in the run up to Christmas. In an industry first, the meals to be made direct from supply chain exclusively for M&S by leading fresh food supplier, 2 Sisters Food Group. M&S continues to redistribute all surplus food from stores which is too good to waste through long-standing partner, Neighbourly. Marks & Spencer has announced a new partnership with FareShare, the UK's largest charity fighting food insecurity and waste. Working with one of its biggest fresh food suppliers, 2 Sisters Food Group, M&S will donate one million freshly prepared, nutritious ready meals from its ‘Eat Well’ range in the eight weeks leading up to Christmas. In an industry first, the meals will be made at three 2 Sisters Food Group manufacturing sites and donated to FareShare directly from the M&S Food supply chain. M&S Food’s deep supplier partnerships and exclusive manufacturing agreements as an own-brand retailer enables it to better use capacity in its supply chain to get fresh, healthy and nutritious products direct to those families who need it. 13 million people are facing food insecurity in the UK, a figure which has doubled in the last three years. With a history of great tasting, quality food, M&S have worked with FareShare to carefully select three of their most popular, seasonal ‘Eat Well’ products, which hold the M&S “gold standard” seal of approval for health and nutrition. The meals include winter warmers such as the Count On Us Chilli Con Carne & Rice (390g, £4.25) and Smooth Tomato & Basil Soup (600g, £2.90), as well as a delicious and fun option for kids, the Taste Buds Cheesy Pizza (95g, £1.60). All meals will be freshly prepared with a guarantee of four days life from the day of donation. The partnership builds on M&S’ food redistribution scheme with their long-standing partner, Neighbourly which over the past seven years has donated more than 60 million products – products which are too good to waste - to more than 1,450 local charities and community organisations. Alex Freudmann, Managing Director of M&S Food commented: “Making great quality, delicious and nutritious food is what we do at M&S Food and its hugely important to me that we make this as accessible to as many families as possible." "So I am hugely proud that we are coming together with our supplier partners and supporting FareShare by flipping our mindset from using food that is too good to waste to innovating to use capacity that is too good to waste. So everyone can have access to a fresh, hot and healthy meal produced just for them. This donation is just the start and in the coming months we’ll be expanding this work to support more families who find themselves in need of a bit of extra help this winter.” George Wright, CEO at FareShare commented: “We’re incredibly grateful for the support from M&S who, by providing a million meals, will help so many people struggling at this time of year. Demand for our food has skyrocketed, and the 8,500 charities we provide food to have seen firsthand how more and more families and working people have been forced to seek help. Food insecurity, which currently effects one in four people, fuels both hunger and loneliness. The charities we support, which include homelessness shelters, afterschool clubs, and older people’s lunch clubs, will be working harder than ever this winter. We’re proud to be part of this partnership with M&S and 2 Sisters Food Group, helping get more food to people in need, strengthening communities across the UK.” Ranjit Singh Boparan, Founder and President of 2 Sisters Food Group: “We’re very proud to take the leading role in manufacturing and donating meals for our partners M&S and FareShare. Never before has helping to feed everyone in need with a nutritious meal been so important, and it’s very pleasing to see retailers, manufacturers and our suppliers coming together to help make this possible. This powerful alliance and the goodwill of organisations for their flexibility, generosity in giving time and resource has made all this possible, and I applaud everyone for their efforts.”

Supermarket Aldi has got crafty shoppers covered this festive season with the NEW DIY Gingerbread House Kit (£5.99, 900g), which has just landed in stores. A first for Aldi, this charming seasonal treat comes complete with a gingerbread dough mix that can be baked to form the delicious gingerbread base, so shoppers can get creative and design any shape they desire! With fun decorations and icing included, this sweet creation not only provides a tasty treat but an opportunity for kids and parents alike to enjoy a wholesome, festive activity. What’s more, with #gingerbreadhouse having racked up a breadtaking 694.8M views on TikTok[1], shoppers can be sure to stay on trend this Christmas and share their adorable creations on the platform!

To mark the start of National Meals on Wheels Week (Monday 30th October-3rd November), not-for-profit care provider, Harrogate Neighbours is back with another unique idea to raise awareness of the vital hot meal delivery service. The community service, re-branded as “Harrogate Neighbours Meals on Wheels Delivered by Angels” is run by 50 volunteers known fondly as ‘angels’ as they deliver over 150 hot meals into the community every day. Sue Cawthray, CEO of Harrogate Neighbours said, “Last year we delivered meals by horse and carriage and the service users loved it. We wanted to do something a little bit different this year, so we decided to deliver the meals on a vintage 1950s tractor by an angel which evoked lovely memories for our clients.” Like so many areas of the social care sector, meals on wheels requires greater government funding to support older and vulnerable people living within the community, who without the dedicated volunteers who run the service would not receive a nutritionally balanced, hot daily meal. Sue continued, “The future of meals on wheels looks bleak unless the Government can do more to support this much-needed service." She added, “We are supporting an aging population and the service is a lifeline for older and vulnerable people living in our community. We are calling for the Government to ensure funding is available to local councils to safeguard the service now and in the future.” New volunteer, Zac Evans said, “It’s not about finding time, it’s making time to support the local community. Dressing up as an angel and delivering the meals by tractor was an amazing experience and something I certainly won’t forget! “Being a volunteer, and making the time makes a real difference to the service users we get the chance to meet and have a chat with.” As the population ages and people live longer, demand for the service is growing. Now in its 11th year, Harrogate Neighbours Meals on Wheels Delivered by Angels is calling out to more volunteers to join the force and deliver even more meals to people in the Yorkshire area in need of the service. To find out more about Harrogate Neighbours, or to become a volunteer, visit here.

The latest Deloitte research reveals consumers plan to spend more this festive season compared to last year. Key Findings: Shoppers are looking to prioritise savings for Christmas spending; One in three also buying presents in November to take advantage of promotion events including Black Friday and Cyber Monday; Consumer confidence, which improved for a fourth-consecutive quarter, at its highest level since Q4 2021. More UK consumers are planning to increase their Christmas spending this year compared to last year, signalling a competitive festive season for retailers, according to research by Deloitte. Deloitte’s Consumer Tracker report surveyed more than 3,100 UK consumers about their spending intentions in the final three months of 2023 – the retail sector’s ‘Golden Quarter.’ There was a seven percentage point increase in consumers (from 19% in 2022 to 26% in 2023) who intend to spend more during the festive period this year, partly as a result of prioritising any savings they’ve made for their Christmas expenditure. However, expectations will be tempered as a significant proportion of customers still say they will spend less (down from 39% in 2022 to 29% to 2023). Many consumers are looking to spread their expenses across the quarter, with one in three (32%) saying they will purchase the majority of their gifts in November, making the most of promotional events including Black Friday and Cyber Monday. More respondents this year also said they plan to buy their presents in-store (50%) when compared to those surveyed last year (47%). Oliver Vernon-Harcourt, head of retail at Deloitte, said: “The long-term impact of the cost-of-living crisis has supressed consumer spending power, but it appears as if consumers are still willing to spend more at Christmas by prioritising it over other spending." “The Black Friday and Cyber Monday weekend promotions are critical for retailers, and we expect overall spending to increase again this year as consumers try make the most of the available sales on offer. For retailers, product, price and availability, combined with great in-store customer service, will be key to secure their share of the market during the festive period.” Vernon-Harcourt added: “With more consumers planning to increase their budgets for Christmas, discounters and supermarkets might be the winners during this highly competitive period. However, high street shops will need to work even harder to attract customers to compete with online rivals." “Some shoppers will remain cautious with their spending during the upcoming winter months because of high energy and fuel prices. Those consumer businesses that focus on creating a good customer experience, through engaging promotions and convenient offerings, such as click and collect and extending store hours, will help attract thrifty shoppers.” Consumer Optimism At Its Highest Since Q4 2021 The research which comes from the Deloitte Consumer Tracker, one of the biggest quarterly surveys of its kind, captures consumers’ views on their finances, spending habits and the economy. It found that UK consumer confidence in Q3 2023 improved for a fourth-consecutive quarter, increasing by two percentage points to its highest level since Q4 2021. The sustained improvement means the confidence levels are moving closer to its long-term average indicating that pressures on consumers are easing. Céline Fenech, consumer insight lead at Deloitte said: “Four consecutive quarters of growth in consumer confidence provide further evidence of the UK consumer’s ability to adapt to challenging economic circumstances. Wages have been growing faster than prices for several months, helping to bolster household finances from the impact of higher interest rates." “Consumers have also shown a degree of resilience throughout the cost-of-living crisis, adopting recessionary behaviours, such as buying supermarket own-brand goods, to maintain their standard of living and cope with unexpected price rises in the cost of energy, housing and food.”

Staying focused can be difficult at the best of times. After all, in the year 2023, we are inundated with potential distractions - from our smartphones to our televisions, to simply staring at the wall. It is even harder to remain occupied by a work task if you have just returned from holiday, with the memories of the sun, sand and sea in your mind. Thankfully, the team at Adventrum have compiled a list of quick and easy ways to remain focused at work. From listening to motivational music, to lighting a stimulating candle - these suggestions are not revolutionary or reinventing the wheel, but may offer an uplifting boost to somebody who needs it. 1. Switch Off The TV This may seem obvious, but switching off the TV can allow your mind to remain focused and occupied on the work task at hand. Many people can work with the TV playing in the background, but the majority of people will find the extra sights and sounds of the TV too distracting. If you find it difficult to work without the television on, try sitting at a desk that is facing away from the screen - this way, you will not be tempted to keep flicking your eyes away from your work laptop. 2. Light A Candle Or Incense Scents can have a very powerful effect on people’s moods, which is why it is always worth investing in an energising candle or some incense sticks. Opt for a scent containing notes of mandarin, neroli, tobacco, pomegranate or rosemary, as these are renowned for their invigorating properties. Lighting a candle or incense could also help to set a mood and become part of a routine, which gets you in the mindset for a day of work, while also creating a pleasant atmosphere. 3. Create A ‘Work’ Playlist Nothing can help to lift a mood more than music, which is why it could be handy to have an uplifting playlist to hand at all times. Fill it with your favourite songs and artists to help you start your day in a positive manner. If you find listening to songs with lyrics too distracting, then you could create a compilation of purely instrumental songs to listen to. There are artists from a wide range of genres that create purely instrumental music, meaning that whether you have a taste for tech house or heavy metal or anything in between, there’s plenty out there to help you focus. 4. Get Ready For The Day Every Morning While it may always be tempting to remain casual for a day of work, especially if it means a few extra precious hours in bed, it could be contributing to you feeling distracted and less driven. Even if you are working from home, it could be helpful to make sure you get properly dressed every day, as it could allow you to feel more motivated. Working in your pyjamas can be fine as an occasional treat, but it is always better to create as much normality as possible during the working day. 5. Avoid Becoming Over-Caffeinated Nothing is more comforting than a hot cup of tea or coffee, but it can become difficult to keep track of how many caffeinated drinks you have had throughout the day. Having too many could lead to you becoming anxious, overly stimulated and easily distracted, which would not be conducive to a productive day of work. Having one or two caffeinated drinks throughout the day should be fine, especially if it is not a daily occurrence, but maybe think about switching to a caffeine-free alternative after this.

Aston University have celebrated the official opening of its new Birmingham city centre headquarters and the launch of its 2030 strategy at a reception at John Cadbury House. The event, hosted by the University’s Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive, Professor Aleks Subic, brought together more than 70 business leaders and other senior figures from across the city and region including guest speaker Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands. The acquisition of the new HQ building at 190 Corporation Street, named after the founder of the Cadbury business and distinguished Birmingham business leader, is a key part of Aston University’s 2030 strategy, focused on creating an urban university that is integrated within the city centre and which drives city regeneration. It houses the University’s business and community engagement and alumni relations and development teams, along with a hub for business engagement, enterprise creation and innovation capacity-building. It also co-locates all the University’s corporate services in one building, as well as hosting the Chancellery and Executive office. The building was refurbished with financial support from the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) which contributed £9.5 million to support the renovation of the historic building. The Victorian structure now offers more than 46,000 square feet of office, retail and social space and is operationally net zero carbon, powered by 100% green electricity, with LED lighting, VRF air conditioning, electric car charging stations and cycle storage spaces. Guests at the reception had the opportunity to hear about the University’s vision and ambitions for the years ahead, including plans to establish a world-class innovation district – the new Birmingham Innovation Quarter (B-IQ) – in partnership with Birmingham City Council and Bruntwood SciTech, to evolve as an innovation ecosystem focused on science, technology and enterprise. They were also able to network with key stakeholders of the University and enjoyed tours of the Business Hub, Enterprise Hub, Alumni Club and Chancellery. Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and Chair of the WMCA, said: “It’s wonderful to be here to help open John Cadbury House - Aston University's new headquarters - epitomising the spirit of innovation and collaboration at the heart of our city's growth story." “This stunning location - formerly known as the Citadel building and now renamed for a new era as John Cadbury House - has been beautifully refurbished with the support of the West Midlands Combined Authority." “It exemplifies our commitment to sustainable development - where we think not just in terms of bricks and mortar but in terms of establishing beacons of hope and opportunity right across our region. " “I will continue to work closely with Aston University in the months and years ahead - including with regards to their 2030 Strategy with its emphasis on a dynamic and inclusive approach to education, science, and enterprise. John Cadbury House is a testament to the positive role Aston University has played in enriching our city and region." “This tremendous urban university shares our ambition to make the West Midlands a better place for all and I’m proud to stand alongside them in this mission.” Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Aston University, said: “For over a century, Aston University's enduring purpose has been to make the world a better place through education, research, and innovation, by enabling our students to succeed in work and life, and by supporting the communities we serve to thrive economically, socially, and culturally." “Our 2030 strategy defines Aston University as an inclusive, entrepreneurial and transformational university, building on our proud past as UK’s first college of technology, that is taking its rightful place in this Fourth Industrial Revolution." “Aston University is proud of its connection to Birmingham and the West Midlands, and our 2030 strategy includes a pledge to further enrich the city and region’s cultural, physical, and socio-economic environment." “Our bold presence in the heart of the city’s business district helps to realise this strategy and enable Aston University to become a thriving urban university, integrated seamlessly in the city centre, a key driver of city regeneration and a trusted partner for alumni, businesses, and the community.”

Data shows that 35% of businesses have adopted using AI in some way for their day-to-day running. Whether it is to improve cyber security or give your customers a better experience, AI has been creeping its way into our processes over the last year. Janine Hunt, Client Partnership Director at Kura , says: “Whether you’re for or against AI, this latest development in technology seems to be here to stay. And for many businesses, it can be a great tool to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and provide quicker service lines. But knowing how your customers truly feel about AI and how they would like to interact with it is essential for knowing the right balance for your business.” How Is AI Being Used Across Customer Service? AI-Driven Chatbots Chatbots are one of the main ways we are witnessing AI come into communication with our customers. In fact, 50% of people who say they have used a chatbot recently used it for customer service. Chatbots are a great way for customers to get quick answers to their frequently asked questions without having to scroll through your site for the answers or ask another human. This cuts down time for both customers and customer service advisors. However, chatbots aren’t always the best approach when a customer is looking for a solution to a problem revolving around your business, your services, or your products. So, with the varying problems and complaints customers can have, knowing the best scenario to use your AI assistance and when to invest in customer service outsourcing is important. While it might be useful for quick answers as a pop-up on your site, after-care might be better reserved for humans. Janine says: “Sometimes customer complaints are complicated, beyond what a computer can comprehend, and customers simply want to be heard out. In both instances, AI-driven chatbots cannot be the solution. While they can be a means of answering queries quickly, providing the empathy that only a well-trained advisor can provide is just as important when it comes to customer after-care.” ChatGPT-Generated Content Another use of AI is through generated content. This is information your customers are likely to receive at the beginning of the customer experience as they explore or learn more about your site. Chat-GPT can be a great tool for creating fast content, but it doesn’t always provide the personalised or in-depth knowledge that your customers would want. While it can offer generic advice, a ChatGPT-created piece of content is not necessarily going to understand the specifics of your audience. So, whether you’re creating blog posts or personalised emails with your language model-based chatbot, making sure you’ve combed over the content with your customers in mind can ensure a happier, more tailored experience. Digital Experiences Customers can also connect to your business through your product offerings with virtual rooms. Companies such as IKEA have an AI-powered digital experience model, which allows customers to see the size of furniture in their homes. This is an advancement in technology which improves the customer experience as they can interact with products before sale. This augmented reality means that customers are more likely to choose products they like, that fit in their space. This can help reduce the likelihood of returns or complaints when the product arrives. Other businesses can also use this design to allow their users to test their glasses and clothing before purchase – giving your customers the best convenience AI can offer. Is AI Being Accepted? While AI has been used by 46% of adults under 35, it isn’t necessarily the way forward when businesses want to connect to their customers. Customer service is crucial for developing a good connection between customer and business, so making sure you have the human touch is vital. In fact, 90% of people still want human interactions for their customer service rather than using a chatbot – making it clear that the human touch is the way forward. And for some businesses with older or less technologically abled customers, having AI-driven contact points could be isolating your audience. In fact, almost half (48%) of people who believe technology makes life more difficult for them don’t have a positive outlook on AI – which might even drive these customers away from your site if your company is too technology-dependent. Making sure you’re still able to offer more traditional means of connecting with your customers and offering customer support can ensure you’re not losing out on this valuable business. So, while AI has many uses for customer service and across the customer experience, they are better kept within businesses. There is a preference for technology from younger and most technologically abled customers. Still, even then, there is a preference for queries and customer support to be handled by a human, not a robot.

Recent conversations around technology in businesses have been around artificial intelligence (AI) and automation of tasks, with a survey by Slack finding that 83% of desk workers believe it could enable them to produce more impactful work. AI is predicted to continue becoming more prevalent and integrate more into businesses across every sector. It could have similar impacts on productivity that previous technology integration has had in businesses. Caroline Gleeson, a recruitment software expert and CEO of Occupop , looks at the technology that’s become commonplace across different departments that have boosted productivity. Cloud And Collaborative Technology Working from home (WFH) and hybrid working have risen in popularity over the past few years and will likely remain commonplace. With so many workers divided between the office and WFH, being able to collaborate while not physically together is hugely important not to interrupt processes. This is where the cloud and other collaborative technology can play a huge role. Not only does it allow workforces to store data and files online but also access and edit them in real time, seeing the changes live. PwC’s 2023 Cloud Business Survey found that 78% of business leaders have introduced and integrated cloud software into most or all areas of their company. And with the revenue of collaboration software predicted to see an annual growth rate of 1.69% between 2023 and 2028, it’s likely that even more investment will be made in cloud and collaborative software. Instant Messaging And Communication Email revolutionised the way we communicate and rapidly became the preferred method within businesses, especially with the ability to attach files to send as well. However, with the rising number of hybrid workers and people WFH, it’s important to be able to interact with team members across departments, knowing you’ll get a near-instant response. Communication technologies have had a huge effect on how departments interact throughout the working day. If there are multiple departments working on a project, it can help to align the whole team and keep communications within one thread or chat. Meetings are made much simpler with communication technology, as most come with video call functionality. No matter where you and your workforce are, you’re able to conduct meetings remotely. This can also help to align your business with your clients if they aren’t able to travel for meetings. Data Management – Security & Analysis Data is crucial to every business, and depending on its size, there can be a nearly overwhelming amount of it. Technology's constant growth has allowed for the development of software for a more streamlined and efficient form of data management. Within this software, not only are you able to store and manage the data available, but they also offer tools that can be used to analyse patterns within the datasets. These outputs can forecast outcomes based on existing data through said patterns. Many of the analytical software available have a tool that can provide great visualisations of your data with dashboards that give you a greater insight into the numbers, as well as pulling charts and graphs. Having this technology means that jobs that were previously difficult or monotonous can be simplified, allowing for them to be done more productively. And when you have a lot of sensitive data, keeping it secure is crucial. Data technology has evolved so considerably that protecting information from cyber attacks is made even easier than before, reducing the amount of downtime that businesses face.