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Retain Founder Receives Recognition

On the evening of Friday, 1st December, our Founder and Director Jamie Gibbs, along with James Styles (Operations Manager) and Tyrone d’Aquino (General Manager – Retain Energy), attended the Bootnecks in2 Business networking event at the House of Lords in London.
Little did Jamie know he would receive an award at the event. While listening to Sean ‘The EQ Commando’ Foley speak about acts of unselfishness, Jamie had an inkling that it could be himself that Sean was talking about.

He duly received an award for unselfishness, an important component of the Commando spirit that forms the DNA of a Royal Marine to help get them through arduous times while still smiling. Unselfishness in the Royal Marines is described as team first, teammate second, and self last.

Reflecting on his recognition, Jamie said: “I was blown away to receive such a humbling award. I have never done any of the things I do for recognition.

“I have an opportunity to help those who may need a leg up. So to be recognised by those I respect most is an amazing feeling, and I am exceptionally proud to have served as a Royal Marine Commando.”

Jamie hasn’t stopped there and is putting the finishing touches on plans to launch a new Veterans hub in Plymouth. Set to open in autumn 2024, he intends to make this hub an incredible place and believes in the power of collective input.

If you have any ideas on what would make a difference in a veteran’s daily life or assist in their transition back into society, especially those experiencing homelessness or heading in that direction, Jamie would love to hear from you.

You can email Jamie here or contact him on 0800 027 2244.

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ERS Gold Awards 2023

Retain Limited’s Founder and Director, Jamie Gibbs, recently attended a noteworthy event where he was presented with the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award.

The achievement of this esteemed award was first announced in the summer, and the official ceremony took place at Stonehouse Barracks in Plymouth. Notably, the Gold Award follows our prior achievements of the ERS Silver and Bronze awards, both of which were secured in the previous year.

The acquisition of the Gold Award underscores our steadfast commitment to supporting the armed forces community, aligning with the principles outlined in the Armed Forces Covenant. The ERS scheme employs a tiered structure encompassing bronze, silver, and gold, thereby acknowledging and differentiating employers based on their varying levels of commitment. This framework enables the Ministry of Defence to express gratitude and publicly recognise organisations for their support.

Given that a considerable portion of our workforce, including Jamie, has previously served in the British armed forces, we continue to provide employment opportunities that facilitate the transition of former armed forces personnel into civilian life in the UK.

Moreover, Retain Limited actively engages in initiatives to educate, train, and craft customised career pathways tailored to individual skill sets. This approach is designed to empower and motivate individuals towards a successful and fulfilling life following their military service.

Please click here for further insights into career opportunities at Retain and information about our current vacancies in the construction and renewable energy sectors.

Photo: Jamie is pictured receiving the Gold Award from Rear Admiral Ivan Finn.

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Movember: Grow A Moustache For A Meaningful Cause

November is no longer just a month to welcome colder weather and prepare for the holiday season. It’s also the time when many men worldwide ditch their razors and let their facial hair flourish for a noble cause known as ‘Movember.’

Since 2003, this annual event has gained prominence over the years, encouraging men to grow moustaches to raise awareness and funds for crucial men’s health issues.

The Movember Movement

Movember, a combination of moustache and November, began in Melbourne (Australia) 20 years ago. The idea was simple yet impactful. Men would start clean-shaven on November 1st and grow moustaches throughout the month, sparking conversations about men’s health issues along the way.

Raising Awareness for Men’s Health

Movember primarily focuses on raising awareness about three significant men’s health concerns:

1. Prostate cancer: This initiative aims to educate men about the risks of prostate cancer, promote early detection, and support those affected by the disease.

2. Testicular cancer: By encouraging self-examination and early detection, Movember seeks to increase survival rates for testicular cancer.

3. Mental health: The Movember Foundation highlights the importance of mental health and strives to reduce the stigma surrounding men seeking help for issues like depression and anxiety.

Growing Moustaches for a Cause

One of the campaign’s distinctive features is the moustache-growing challenge. Participants become ‘Mo Bros’ by starting the month clean-shaven and growing moustaches, which serve as conversation starters about men’s health.

The Impact of Movember

The men’s health campaign has made a significant impact over the years:

  • It has funded over 1,250 men’s health projects in over 20 countries
  • It has supported breakthrough research, providing critical insights into various men’s health issues
  • It has inspired countless conversations about men’s health and encouraged men to take charge of their well-being
Get Involved

Participating in Movember is simple and fun:

  • Start clean-shaven: Begin with a clean slate on November 1st
  • Grow a moustache: Cultivate your moustache throughout the month
  • Please spread the word: Share your journey on social media, educate your friends and family, and encourage them to donate to the cause
  • Raise funds: Collect donations to support men’s health initiatives through the official Movember website

Movember is not just about growing facial hair; it’s about making a difference in men’s lives. So, this November, join the Movember movement and let your moustache be a symbol of support for men’s health. Together, we can create a healthier future for men everywhere.

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New Projects Secured

We’re thrilled to announce that we’ve recently secured some fantastic new projects throughout the Retain Limited group of companies. Our award-winning team is on cloud nine, which is a testimony to the hard work and dedication they show every day.

Our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction has been recognised and celebrated by some new and existing clients who have entrusted us with their business. It’s fantastic to see our vision for growth taking shape, one success story at a time.

Our onsite teams are currently working on several projects in Lowestoft and Pulborough. More projects are in the pipeline for the remainder of the year, including an extensive roofing and solar PV installation in London. The order book also looks healthy for the New Year, and we are proud to offer the flexibility to fit in smaller jobs around our busy schedule.

As we continue to work and complete some large industrial and commercial roofing and solar PV projects, we ensure that any disruption to the day-to-day operations of these buildings is kept to a minimum. This allows your organisation to remain fully open for business, and production lines remain unaffected.

Are you ready to join us on this exciting journey of growth and success? If you’re seeking high-quality industrial and commercial roofing or solar PV solutions and top-notch service, contact the Retain team today on 0800 027 2244 or email us here.

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World Mental Health Day

Today is World Mental Health Day. It is a time when we reflect on the importance of mental well-being and how we can collectively contribute to a mentally healthier world.

A primary objective of World Mental Health Day is to undo the lingering stigma surrounding mental health. Even though mental health conditions impact millions of us globally, many are still reluctant to seek assistance due to fears of being judged or discriminated against.

This annual event actively promotes an open dialogue about the subject of mental health, conveying that seeking help is acceptable and actually a sign of strength. Please be assured that it’s perfectly normal not to feel ok sometimes.

Think about how you can make a difference today and in the future. It could be as simple as checking in with a friend or family member, sharing resources, or attending a local mental health event. Even the smallest actions can create a ripple effect, contributing to a world where mental health is prioritised, and stigma becomes a thing of the past.

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, there are places you can go to get help. Click here to learn what support is available, and please do remember that you are not alone – help is out there.

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National Do Something Nice Day Giveaway

Did you know it’s National Do Something Nice Day on Thursday 5 October? This unofficial holiday inspires people to perform random acts of kindness and make an extra effort to be kind and considerate to others.

Following our successful National Give Something Away Day competition in July, we have another cracking prize on offer thanks to our principal partnership status with Plymouth Argyle Football Club. We have a pair of tickets for the Mayflower Stand to watch Plymouth take on Swansea City Football Club in the Sky Bet Championship on Saturday 7 October (3pm KO).

Simply head over to our social media channels and follow the instructions for a chance to win the tickets. The competition is running on the following platforms:

We will announce the lucky winner on Thursday – good luck, everyone! 

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Devon & Plymouth Chamber Welcomes Retain Limited as Key Patron

The Directors of Retain Limited are thrilled to reveal that the company has become a Patron of the Devon & Plymouth Chamber of Commerce. Livewell Southwest joins us after accepting patronage at a hugely exciting time for the Chamber.

This winter marks the 210th anniversary of the Chamber – two centuries of proudly supporting the region’s businesses. So much of that longevity and success is thanks to the patrons of the Chamber, who represent some of the best-known and respected names in the local business community.

Jamie Gibbs, Retain’s Founder and Director, commented: “The Retain Limited team and I are very excited to become a Patron of the Devon & Plymouth Chamber of Commerce.

“This patronage presents a unique opportunity for us to grow our local and regional visibility and become further connected throughout the southwest of the country.

“The patronage also offers us many opportunities to support the Devon and Plymouth business community with our unique and award-winning three-in-one services within the construction and renewable energy sectors.”

The Devon & Plymouth Chamber is delighted that two of their most well-respected members and collaborators have stepped up to become Patrons. Chamber Chief Executive Stuart Elford said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome not one, but two new Patrons to our Chamber family.

“Retain Limited and Livewell Southwest are both hugely successful and influential organisations here in the southwest.

“Through their support for the Chamber, our patrons demonstrate their commitment to the development of the economy and business throughout Devon and Plymouth.

“Our patrons will take centre stage as we look ahead to our packed events programme for the rest of 2023 and beyond. And we’re also counting down to this year’s Devon Business Show, which promises to be a true celebration of our region’s thriving business community.

“Our Patrons play a unique role in developing the future of our region, and the Chamber is far stronger with the support and Patronage of Retain Limited and Livewell Southwest.”

Patrons of the Chamber are some of the best-known and respected names in the business community. They are woven into the Chamber’s extensive lobbying activities and become one of the region’s principal voices.

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Revving up the Fun!

In our latest team-building event, the Retain Limited team enjoyed a thrilling few hours at Plymouth Karting on a Friday afternoon. As you can imagine, the competition was very fierce, and we’ve just about recovered from our whiplash injuries! 

We had three sessions altogether, which culminated in a 20-lap final race. Our times were calculated throughout a qualifying session, and we lined up on the grid in true grand prix fashion. The adrenaline was well and truly pumping in everyone as we waited for the green lights. 

After a dramatic and incident-packed final 20 laps, our Technical Director, Darren Notman, was first across the line and through the chequered flag. Daz was followed by second-placed Sam Betts (Quantity Surveyor), and James Styles MCMI (Operations Manager) finished third. However, some of James’s tactics were questionable, to say the least! 

Ultimately, it wasn’t about who won or lost the race (although Daz would disagree!). It was about the team’s realisation that sometimes it’s good to shift gears, take a break from the spreadsheets, and be let loose in a go-kart!

Many thanks to everyone at Plymouth Karting for your hospitality – we all had a blast.

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Work-Related Fatalities on the Rise

A recent Health and Safety Executive (HSE) publication reports that 135 workers in Great Britain were killed in work-related accidents in 2022/23. This was an increase of 12 fatalities (10%) from the previous year.

Also, 68 members of the public sustained fatal injuries from work-related accidents. This is a 20% decrease from the 88 deaths in 2021/22, significantly lower than the number of fatalities recorded before the COVID-19 pandemic hit our shores.

The number of fatal injuries in the workplace fluctuates year-on-year. Over the last ten years, the highest number has been 150 in 2012/13, and the lowest was 113 in 2019/2020. Whilst these numbers continue to vary, one thing remains consistent – the construction industry is the most significant contributor of fatalities each year.

The profile of fatal injuries to workers by industry sector in 2022/23 is generally similar to the profile of the last five years, with 82% of deaths in 2022/23 occurring in five industry sectors. These are:

  • Construction (45 fatalities)
  • Agriculture, forestry and fishing (21 fatalities)
  • Manufacturing (15 fatalities)
  • Transportation and storage (15 fatalities)
  • Wholesale, retail, motor vehicle repair; accommodation and food services (15 fatalities)

The 45 fatal injuries in the construction industry during 2022/23 was an increase of 16 from the previous year’s total of 29. However, this difference is not statistically significant, as the five-year average for fatalities in this sector is 37.

However, when you look at the fatal injury statistics regarding the number of fatalities per 100,000 workers employed, the agriculture, forestry and fishing sector comes out as the worst.

Falls from height, being struck by a moving vehicle and being struck by a moving (including flying or falling) object continue as the three leading causes of fatal injury. They have accounted for over half of all fatal injuries yearly since at least 2001/02.

In 2022/23, a total of 40 fatal injuries were due to falls from height, which accounts for 30% of all worker deaths over the year. This represents an increase of five fatalities from the previous year.

As a professional three-in-one contractor in the construction and renewable energy sectors, all our projects are above ground level, working on industrial or commercial roofs or from scaffolding. The health and safety of our workforce are constantly at the forefront of our minds.

We are proud to have developed market-leading health and safety policies that go above and beyond the standards of the sectors we operate in. These award-winning policies have been the solid foundations on which we have successfully built our business.

We’ve been annual winners of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) Gold Award for Health and Safety since 2016. These awards fully endorse our primary objective – the continued safety of our employees.

Jamie Gibbs, Founder and Director of Retain Limited, commented: “Compared to other countries worldwide, Great Britain is regarded as one of the safest places to work.

“However, the subject of health and safety needs to be a top priority for all organisations regardless of the industry they operate in. We must ensure our workers return home to their families after a hard day’s work.”

Knowledge based on experience.

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National Give Something Away Day

Retain Limited was delighted to participate in National Give Something Away Day this year. We were provided with some fantastic prizes from our principal partners, Plymouth Argyle Football Club.

Gemma Clark was the lucky winner of local star goalkeeper Michael Cooper’s match-worn shirt, and Amber Reeves was thrilled to take Sam Cosgrove’s match-worn shirt home. Our Technical Director, Darren Notman, handed over the shirts in a special presentation box.

National Give Something Away Day, celebrated annually across the nation, brings communities together and encourages people to share their abundance with others. From small acts of kindness to grand gestures, this special occasion offers a chance for everyone to make a positive impact and spread joy far and wide.

Our congratulations go to Amber and Gemma, but we also want to acknowledge all the other hundreds of entries who didn’t win this time. There will be more competitions throughout the year, so please keep an eye out for those on our social media channels.