Finally, after almost crying at the skips behind conference venues, we have reached a point where sustainability has become a crucial consideration across various industries, including the events sector. As event planners and organisers, we have a responsibility to minimise our environmental impact and promote sustainable practices and hence move towards organising sustainable events. 

This has always been both personally and professionally important to me but I am relieved that I can now have really positive conversations with my clients who are now pulling in the same direction and, crucially, have the backing at Board level to make the necessary changes. 

By embracing sustainable event management, we can create memorable experiences while simultaneously contributing to a better planet—and that’s a huge win-win if you ask me! 

Understanding the Importance of Sustainability in Events 

There’s no getting away from the fact that events  have a significant environmental footprint, from the transportation and accommodation of attendees to the use of disposable materials and energy consumption. This has always been really difficult for me to reconcile with my personal ethical and moral compass, and unfortunately, the pandemic highlighted the climate benefits of keeping everyone at home instead.  

Digging a little deeper into this, according to a report by Conference News, the UK events industry is responsible for generating over 1.2 million tonnes of waste and 1.8 million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. However, if we look forward and start adopting and promoting sustainable practices, we can reduce waste, conserve resources, and actually do something to minimise our carbon footprint. 

In a happy coincidence, sustainable events also align with the growing demand for eco-friendly experiences, as we have more and more environmentally conscious attendees and stakeholders. A survey by Eventbrite revealed that 73% of UK event attendees consider sustainability as an important factor when choosing which events to attend.  And looking at the attitudes and values of the younger generations now entering the workforce, this is only going to increase.  

The drive to change is coming from the top and the bottom—both Boards and Attendees demand better performance against ESG in events—woo hoo!!  How can we then act on that and make our events more sustainable?

Strategies for Planning a Sustainable Event

While moving towards organising sustainability events, you’ll discover a HUGE world of jargon, science, and conflicting information, which can mean you encounter a lot of questions and queries, however, just break it down and try to look at the following steps:

Venue Selection 

Choosing the right venue can significantly impact the sustainability of your event. Consider venues that prioritise energy efficiency, waste management, and eco-friendly practices. Look for venues that are B Corps (such as the Exclusive Collection, Inhabit Hotels) or with LEED certification or those that actively promote sustainable initiatives.

Transportation and Accommodation 

This is by far the largest impact your event will have. Often, we aren’t responsible for the arrangements, but we can encourage attendees to use public transportation, carpool, or opt for eco-friendly transportation options like electric vehicles or bicycles. And see our first point—choose a venue that helps support this—so near a train station, for example, and also ask about electric charging points—they often boast they have them, but often they are few and far between.

But the stark fact is, as soon as you put any delegates on flights, you have blown your carbon budget sky high, so reducing air travel MUST be your priority for destination and venue selection.  

Decor and Branding 

Embrace sustainable decor ideas for events by using recycled or repurposed materials for decorations and branding elements. Consider renting reusable items or working with local artisans who create handmade, eco-friendly products. Avoid single-use plastics and opt for biodegradable or compostable alternatives.  Event Cycle can do some wonderful things with local not for profit companies both to produce and then re-use branding and decor elements after the event. 

Food and Beverage 

Source locally grown, seasonal, and organic produce for your event catering. This not only reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation but also supports local farmers and promotes sustainable agriculture. Offer plant-based menu options and avoid excessive food waste by carefully planning portions.  If fully plant based is a step too far for your audience, then simply removing red meat will make a huge difference whilst not leaving the carnivores disappointed! 

Waste Management 

Implement a comprehensive waste management plan that includes recycling, composting, and proper disposal of non-recyclable materials. Provide clearly labelled bins and educate attendees on proper waste separation. Consider partnering with organisations that specialise in waste diversion and recycling services.

Engaging Stakeholders and Attendees

Creating a truly sustainable event requires collaboration and buy-in from all parties involved, including suppliers, attendees, and the local community. By actively engaging these stakeholders and fostering a sense of shared responsibility, you can amplify your sustainability efforts and create a lasting positive impact.  Event comms will be really important in this, so you can start a sustainability conversation on your event website and delegate invitations to set the tone from the outset.  

One idea championed by the ICC Wales is a food bank drop off at the venue; each delegate is asked to bring 1 item to donate, which, if you multiply that by the number of people who come through their doors, will have a massive impact. 

Partner with sustainable event agencies and suppliers who share your commitment to sustainability. Conduct thorough research and ask probing questions about their sustainability practices, supply chain transparency, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Again, Bcorp is a good indication of someone who’s really committed to the cause, but, equally, make sure you interrogate their working practices and not just their certifications.  

Attendee Education and Participation

Communicate your sustainability efforts to attendees before and during the event. Encourage them to participate in eco-friendly practices by providing clear instructions and making it easy for them to contribute. Consider gamifying the experience by offering incentives or rewards for sustainable actions.

Community Involvement 

Engage with local communities and organisations that promote sustainability. Collaborate with them to incorporate their expertise and insights into your event planning. Consider supporting local initiatives or organising volunteer opportunities for attendees to give back to the community.

Measuring and Reporting Impact 

To continuously improve your sustainable event practices, it is essential to measure and report your impact. This can be achieved by:

• Waste Diversion: Track the amount of waste generated during the event and measure the quantities diverted from landfills through recycling, composting, and other waste management strategies. This data can help you set targets for waste reduction and identify areas where more efficient waste management practices are needed.
• Energy Consumption: Monitor the energy usage during the event, including electricity for lighting, audio-visual equipment, and other installations. Consider tracking the energy consumption of different event components to pinpoint high-consumption areas and explore opportunities for energy-efficient alternatives or renewable energy sources.
• Water Usage: Measure water consumption during the event, particularly in areas such as catering, restrooms, and any outdoor activities. This data can help you identify water-saving opportunities and implement strategies like low-flow fixtures or water recycling systems.
• Carbon Emissions: Calculate the carbon footprint of your event by considering factors such as attendee travel, energy usage, and waste generation. This data can guide you in implementing carbon offsetting programs or exploring ways to reduce emissions through sustainable transportation options or renewable energy sources.
• Supplier Performance: Evaluate the sustainability performance of your suppliers by gathering data on their practices, such as sourcing of materials, packaging, and transportation methods. This information can help you make informed decisions when selecting suppliers for future events.

The good news is that there are several platforms and companies that can help you do this. Two of the main ones in the UK event industry are:

https://eventdecision.com/

https://weareisla.co.uk/

Additional Suggestions 

As an event planner or organiser, it’s crucial to continually explore new avenues and stay updated with the latest trends and best practices in the industry.

One area worth considering is how to plan a sustainable event from the ground up. This involves incorporating sustainability principles right from the initial planning stages, such as selecting venues that prioritise energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste management. Additionally, you could explore partnerships with local organisations or community groups that align with your sustainability goals, fostering a sense of collaboration and shared responsibility.

We really like the idea of creating a “Sustainability Risk Assessment” which will identify the key areas where you could make improvements and allow you to focus on making the biggest impact – rather than worrying too much about things which don’t actually create such a problem.  

When it comes to how to run a sustainable event, attention to detail is key. Encourage attendees to make eco-friendly choices by providing reusable water bottles, promoting carpooling or public transportation, and offering plant-based or locally sourced menu options. 

Consider implementing a comprehensive recycling and composting program, and ensure that any leftover materials or decorations are either donated or repurposed for future events.

Another aspect to focus on is sustainable decor ideas for events. Instead of relying on single-use decorations or disposable materials, explore options like renting or repurposing decorative items. Work with local artisans or craftspeople who create unique, handmade pieces using sustainable materials. You could even consider incorporating living plants or natural elements into your event decor, adding a touch of nature while reducing waste.

Partnering with a sustainable event agency can also be a game-changer. These agencies specialise in creating events that prioritise environmental responsibility and social impact. They can provide valuable insights, recommendations, and access to a network of sustainable suppliers and vendors, making it easier for you to achieve your sustainability goals.

Remember, sustainability is an ongoing journey, and every small step counts. By continuously exploring new ideas, embracing innovation, and collaborating with like-minded individuals and organisations, you can make a significant impact in reducing the environmental footprint of your events while creating memorable and meaningful experiences for your attendees.

 

By embracing sustainable events, we not only contribute to a healthier planet but also create memorable experiences that align with the values of our attendees and stakeholders. It’s a journey that requires commitment, creativity, and collaboration with like-minded partners. 

As the demand for eco-friendly events continues to grow, those who prioritise sustainability will not only gain a competitive edge but also play a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable future for the industry.

Choose Brightspace Events today!

I, Sarah from Brightspace Events, am immensely passionate about creating truly sustainable events that leave a positive impact on the planet. My team of experts will work closely with you to incorporate eco-friendly practices at every stage, from planning to execution. We’ll help you choose sustainable venues, implement waste management strategies, and source locally-grown, plant-based catering options. 

Trust us to handle all aspects of your event, from decor to transportation, ensuring a reduced carbon footprint and minimal waste generation. Contact us today, and let’s embark on a journey towards organising an event that aligns with your values and contributes to a greener future.

Thanks to our fab tech expert Arvi for this behind the scenes guest blog: 

05:50 am. I’m the lucky one, as I know some of my colleagues wake up earlier. By 6.10am, I have had my wake-up cup of tea and am ready for the day ahead. After a quick breakfast, it’s out on the road, and heading to the venue.  

By 07:00 am, we are at the venue… on some days, beating the security staff. The first task was to bring all the session scanners and tablets from our… portakabin. Yup, we’ve worked in some glamorous locations, but for this one, we had to park ourselves and our equipment in a portakabin. At least it was safe… and warm.  

First job was to check-out all the relevant equipment for the day and get it into position ASAP as crew were knocking on the door to get cracking! 

The scanners we used were ipods used for checking attendees into sessions. We also had ipads for database checking each delegate to meet the very strict security protocols at the event. Eleven day events with A++ list speakers are not normal… so we needed a way to ensure the right people came onsite on the right day.  

07.30am – A final equipment check before ‘doors opened’ – all the badging stations were checked to ensure they had paper and were printing correctly.  

Badging stations consisted of a laptop connected to a mounted scanner and a badge printer. With health and safety in mind, but also in a drive to eliminate waste, the badge printing process was touchless and paperless for attendees – they would simply scan the QR code on their email on their phone, and their badge would print.  

No pre-printed badges = less waste plus no printed tickets! 

These badges had information about their purchases and sessions, so it was easy to see from the badge if the attendee was in the right place on the right day. The badges not only facilitated networking between attendees, but the QR code on the badge was used to scan them into sessions. 

 With 6 different areas where sessions took place, often concurrently, this required some serious staffing management to ‘catch’ everyone and ensure attendees were in the right session.  

08:30 am, both staff and attendees would begin to arrive. Because staff had no restrictions on their movements within the venue, they didn’t need a badge – instead, they were identified by a wristband that they wore for the duration of the event. For attendees, the process was seamless and touchless… any enquires were handled at the enquiries desk.  

And so the rest of the day took shape – after an initial rush in the morning, when many sessions began, attendees arrived in a steady stream throughout the day.  

The event was a ‘hub’ of paid and free educational sessions, film screenings, private meetings, drinks receptions, invited dinners, exhibition area, bars, cafes and more. This meant badge printing and session scanning continued throughout the day. 

5.00pm time for a quick bite to eat and a review with the evening shift to make sure we’re all clear on exactly what is happening where in the venue and that the iPods are all charged, the iPads are loaded with the correct information and everyone is well briefed.  

7.00pm the dinner rush arrives!!  But by now we’re all a well oiled machine and everyone is in high spirits with the end in sight.  

8.00pm Most evening functions have kicked off by now, so we start to close badging stations and where we can send staff home early, that is always gratefully received.  As the end of the day approached, we reduced the number of badging stations and session scanners further until we were confident all attendees were in the venue.  

9.00pm After returning the equipment to the Portakabin for charging overnight, it was back to the hotel… only to repeat again the next day. 

A very interesting insight from Arvi, thank you. So a seemingly small part of an event like this comes together as a result of weeks of meticulous planning. Next time you pass through a reg desk, take a minute to appreciate these skilled professionals!

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn and for Event Management enquiries or send us an email to hello@brightspaceevents.co.uk.

To be kept in the loop, follow @Brightspace Events on LinkedIn.

Arvi Virdee, (Event Technologist – Brightspace Events) 

As live events pick up again and restrictions are lifted, the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to linger in people’s minds for some time, resulting in many event attendees preferring to attend events from the comfort of their homes or offices.   

This, combined with a long overdue focus on sustainability (beyond some CSR box ticking) means that we have a real challenge ahead – to manage both live and remote audiences… ie. hybrid events. 

Although this term is not new, it’s very much here to stay and the range of experiences on offer, and the budgets and time investment they need, varies drastically! 

Hybrid Event Options 

 

 So, how to choose the right software platform for your next hybrid and virtual event? 

The first step is to look at your event objectives (blog coming soon on that one!) and make sure you’re clear on what features you will need.  Don’t choose a platform on what looks good or what you’ve seen competitors using.  Focus on what you want to get out of your event. 

Practical Considerations  

Some of the factors that event managers and planners need to consider when choosing the ideal platform for hybrid events include:  

Event registration And Delegate Management

• Can you clearly register who is in-person and who is virtual? 
• Are you able to offer them different customer journeys throughout the reg. process? 
• Consider the following inclusions that may need to be different for each attendee type: session selection, travel details, ticketing, payments, appointment setting and more.  
• Can you control your ‘mandatory’ questions for each type so they only have to complete the fields that are relevant to them?  
• Ideally, the platform should support ‘conditional logic’, so attendees only see certain questions based on their answers to previous questions.  

Delegate Communications

• Use automated communications and make sure these work with your delegate types so that everyone receives tailored information depending on if they are in-person or virtual as well as if they are a speaker or attendee, for example 
• Set up your emails based on a time and date, or an action (or inaction) by the recipient. Eg, if a recipient has not registered x days after the invitation was sent, send them a reminder email.  
• Do you need onsite session scanning and badge printing? An integrated platform will avoid exporting and importing attendee data between platforms. This becomes very complex, very quickly!  You also risk having out of date data in one system.  
• The really sophisticated platforms will record all data changes in real-time. For example, if an attendee adds a session to their personalised agenda online, this should automatically be picked up as the attendee scans into the session without having to print a new badge.  

Event Production

For hybrid events, event production takes on a whole new meaning – it is much more than simply placing a camera at the back of the room!!  The following are questions to consider BEFORE you go looking for a hybrid platform: 

• How many feeds will you need?  Are you looking at one central location for producing the content or will you also be connecting speakers from virtual locations? 
• What technology / capabilities do these speakers have available and are comfortable with using?   
• Are you going to use breakout rooms – either in person or virtually?  Streaming multiple choice breakouts is possible but expensive and you will need a platform that can make sure the right virtual attendees are allowed into the right breakouts! 
• How are technical rehearsals arranged?  Are you limited in use of your platform due to tech support from the hosting company or can you schedule rehearsals whenever you like? 
• What mix of content would you like to show?  Live speakers, pre-recorded videos, presentations, interactive elements for in-person and virtual? 
• What technical support is available in the pre-event planning and during the live show – and are they on the same time zone as you are?  Can you phone someone or is it via a helpdesk system? 

 The Events App

 Most platforms have apps which can be viewed on both a mobile device and on a computer, and this app connects the live event with its remote attendees. The common areas are: agendas, speaker bios, feedback, live stream but some of other features to consider are:  

• Integration with the core platform- so any changes on one are reflected on the other (i.e., change of session selection, or purchase of a new ticket) 
• Real-time engagement features, like moderated Q&A, live polling, event and session chat, gamification, etc. for ALL attendees – that is, both in-person and remote.  
• E-tickets / payments / confirmations 
• Networking: Instant chat, email connections, appointment booking or 1 to 1 video calls 
• Recording and ‘on demand’ viewing after the live days of the event
• Closed captions or language translations 
• Accessibility eg. large text format or other adaptations 
• A web app for onsite attendees who are using their own devices, so they don’t need to download anything 
• In person extras e.g. locations / menus / maps / hotel information  
• Help desk for online attendees to chat / request password resets.  The platform provider may even provide staff to man the desk as an extra service.  

Sponsors And Exhibitors

• Will you have sponsors / exhibitors (internal and external) who require stand space in a virtual environment? 
• Do you need to capture visitor details to in-person and / or virtual exhibition areas?    
• Can both sets of data be fed into the same database? 
• What is available for follow up – scheduling calls / appointments / sending emails  

 The Final Word! 

 Data, data, data – ok, it’s repeated but still one word 😊.   

 Because of the digital nature of hybrid events, they generate TONNES of data… but the trick is to ask the right questions to get useful insights into your audience / objectives and actually DO something with it after the event.  

 When you’re choosing a platform, think about what you need OUT of it at the end.  You can’t get out, what you don’t put in. 

 

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn and for Event Management and COVID Safety consultancy enquiries or send us an to hello@brightspaceevents.co.uk.

To be kept in the loop, follow @Brightspace Events on LinkedIn.

Sign up to our Information and Training Hub for updated advice and guidance for COVID Secure Events.

It’s very exciting seeing this event featured in our local paper! I suppose that once you start doing very cool things for really famous clients, everyone is going to be a bit more interested, even the media!! 😀

We’ve spent the last two years carefully dissecting articles by and about event professionals on all things COVID-19, now we ARE the event professionals, with an article of our very own!!

New York Times praises Brightspace Events for helping deliver pioneering COP26 event in Glasgow

Greta Thunberg, John Kerry, Nicola Sturgeon and David Lammy were there as speakers, with Leonardo DiCaprio also in attendance.

The New York Times (NYT) has praised Brightspace Events for helping it deliver ‘the most ambitious journalism and event project in its 170-year history.’

Updated April 2024

In the dynamic landscape of event planning, ensuring safety and compliance has always been important as well as now legally mandated. However, the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the critical importance of risk assessments in orchestrating safe and successful events as it was only through them that we were even allowed to operate live events at all. As we continue to lead our clients through the evolving terrain of the events industry, it’s important to stay focussed on comprehensive yet realistic risk assessments and to navigate the “new normal” with confidence and responsibility.

What is a risk assessment and why is it crucial?

At the core of event planning lies the fundamental practice of risk assessment. It involves the systematic evaluation of potential hazards, identifying who might be harmed, and implementing measures to mitigate risks. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, traditional risk assessments took on renewed significance. The additional guidelines and protocols introduced in response to the pandemic necessitated an intense study and understanding of the legal position and guidelines as well as how that all interacted with the existing Health and Safety legislation.

The importance of covid risk assessments in events

Risk assessments serve as the cornerstone of event safety, providing a structured framework for identifying and managing potential hazards. Beyond meeting legal requirements, thorough risk assessments instil confidence in stakeholders by demonstrating a proactive commitment to safety. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, failure to conduct adequate risk assessments can have profound consequences, ranging from regulatory non-compliance to reputational damage and your events being shut down.
This could result in your event being immediately shut down.

Benefits of conducting risk assessments for your event

• Ensuring legal compliance
• Enhancing safety measures
• Fostering client trust and satisfaction
• Building audience confidence
• Standing out in a competitive market
• Safeguarding the well-being of all participants

Key considerations for successful risk assessments

1. Early integration of risk assessment considerations into event planning:

• Identifying potential hazards and risks from the outset
• Incorporating safety measures into event design and logistics
• Ensuring that risk assessment is a foundational aspect of event planning rather than an afterthought

2. Engaging all relevant stakeholders in the risk assessment process:

• Soliciting input and feedback from suppliers, staff, and participants
• Fostering buy-in and collaboration to ensure the effectiveness of risk mitigation strategies

3. Practicality assessments:

• Evaluating the feasibility and practicality of proposed risk mitigation measures
• Considering logistical constraints, resource availability, and operational considerations
• Striking a balance between safety requirements and the smooth execution of the event

4. Prioritising high-risk areas and activities:

• Identifying and prioritising areas of the event with the highest potential for risk
• Allocating resources and attention to mitigate risks in these critical areas
• Implementing targeted control measures to address specific risks effectively

5. Conducting comprehensive COVID-19 transmission risk assessments:

• Assessing the potential for COVID-19 transmission at every stage of the event
• Considering factors such as venue layout, crowd density, and interaction dynamics
• Incorporating insights from public health authorities and guidelines to inform risk assessment

6. Implementing control measures:

• Identifying and implementing practical and effective control measures to mitigate risks
• Enforcing measures such as social distancing, mask-wearing, and sanitation protocols
• Establishing protocols for monitoring compliance and addressing non-compliance swiftly and effectively

Adapting to the new normal

The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated a paradigm shift in event planning, prompting organisers to adapt and innovate. While the challenges posed by the pandemic are undeniable, they have also catalysed a wave of innovation in the events industry. From virtual conferences to hybrid experiences, event organisers are leveraging technology to connect attendees while prioritising safety. Moving forward, hybrid events are poised to become the new norm, offering a blend of in-person and virtual components to cater to diverse preferences and mitigate health risks.

Moving towards the new normal with Brightspace Events

According to a recent survey by the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) nearly 70% of event planners expect hybrid events to become a permanent fixture, combining in-person and virtual components to cater to diverse attendee preferences and mitigate potential health risks.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Brightspace Events has emerged as a beacon of innovation and resilience in event management. Our commitment to thorough risk assessments, innovative formats, and cutting-edge technology sets us apart in delivering exceptional experiences. By embracing the “new normal” and continually refining our risk assessment protocols, we remain steadfast in our mission to rebuild confidence in live events.

Why outsource your event management

In an era defined by complexity and uncertainty, outsourcing event management can offer a strategic advantage. Partnering with experienced professionals not only streamlines the planning process but also ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and best practices. By entrusting your event management to experts like Brightspace Events, you can focus on your core objectives while enjoying peace of mind knowing that every aspect of your event is in capable hands.

Choose Brightspace Events today!

The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped the events industry, placing a renewed emphasis on safety, resilience, and adaptability. Through meticulous risk assessments, proactive safety measures, and innovative event formats, organisers can navigate the “new normal” with confidence and deliver exceptional experiences for all participants. As we collectively chart a course towards recovery, prioritising safety and well-being remains paramount. Choose Brightspace Events today and embark on a journey of safe, engaging, and unforgettable events. Contact us at hello@brightspaceevents.co.uk or get in touch with Sarah to learn more about our comprehensive event solutions.

We CAN open Safely

My wonderful colleagues across this great industry have been working tirelessly to raise awareness of the drastic impact that the Coronavirus shutdown is having on the Live Events market.  We CAN open safely, we just need the government to recognise that and support us financially in the meantime.

Today, I have taken the excellent work linked below that HBAA have done and sent it to my MP for Northampton South, Andrew Lewer,  imploring him to raise our plight with his colleagues and to reopen and / or support us.

HBAA Business Events Meetings and Accommodation Report

 

Letter to MP For Northampton South

Hi Andrew,

I am writing to you as a business owner in Northampton South who offers consultancy B2B services to Corporate Event Management agencies around the UK.  I offer Project Management support for corporate events such as conferences, exhibitions, product launches etc.  These events are usually very high end, with big budgets and often operate all over the world as well as a significant proportion in hotels and venues around the UK and in Northamptonshire.  They are not weddings, music festivals or other ‘consumer’ type events eg. the Good Food show.  These are events which bring usually hundreds of corporate attendees together and, according to latest research (attached) is worth over £30 Billion to the UK GDP.

However, the industry has been decimated as you can imagine by the Coronavirus lockdown.  There is no end in sight as the Government will not publish any guidance or indication of when the sector may reopen.  As you can imagine, the average conference delegate is VERY compliant – certainly much more so than a member of the public who has had several pints in their local pub or who is out shopping with their family.

The industry already has a hugely positive Health & Safety culture and is well versed in Risk Assessing every single event.  Working within existing Government guidance for social distancing etc. we have already produced several Best Practice guides on how to operate events safely.  And yet, we remain ‘illegal’ with no signs of when restrictions will be lifted.

Up to 30% of jobs in this industry could be lost as a result (again, see the attached for source) due to agencies closing or making redundancies.  As we have seen with previous recessions, our industry is hit hard, and so we need the Government to specifically address our concerns urgently so that we can reopen as soon as possible.  In the meantime, we would also appeal for additional, specific financial packages in order to support us during this time.  Due to the ‘unclassified’ nature of what we do (we have no individual SIC code and individual councils sometimes place us in Tourism or Hospitality) we fall down the many gaps in current provision.  There are also a high percentage of self employed or PAYE Director owned Ltd companies earning largely or solely through dividends which, again, have been left without sufficient support.

I urge you to discuss our concerns and the industry in general with your colleagues in Westminster who will hopefully be receiving similar messages from others in my profession.  Corporate events can be run safely and will generate confidence and revenue again in a very beleaguered industry.  We need you to reopen the corporate events market NOW and provide immediate financial support to those that are employed in it.

Many thanks

Sarah Threlfall