During the past two years Liverpool Chamber has hosted training events on behalf of the National Counter Terrorist Security Office (NaCTSO) and Merseyside Police, specifically aimed at local businesses.

The first NaCTSO event outside London was hosted by the Chamber’s Business Crime Direct in 2005. This was a pilot for what is now seen as a remarkable experience and the most informative event of its kind.

The half day event involves participants dealing with a terror attack, an interactive DVD puts the audience in the centre of the incident with all the fear and frustration that ensues. As the day progresses, it reveals how the incident will evolve depending on the decisions taken during the exercise.

The feedback has been excellent with  representatives from local businesses saying;” I found the content of the seminar excellent and it certainly made me think of the consequences if we sit back and do nothing,” and  “A very productive exercise, nice to see open and honest account of the blue light response.”

Jack Stopforth, Chief Executive of Liverpool Chamber said: “Business continuity planning is essential to ensure businesses are able to cope with an incident or attack and return to ‘business as usual’ as soon as possible. This is particularly important for smaller businesses that may not have the resources to withstand even a few days of financial loss.”

The next events are on the 8th and 29th November, contact Tony Jopson on 0151 224 1859 for further information.

The ability to get along with others is perhaps the most important skill you can develop if you really want to be successful and happy in business and in life.

This one day Master Class Negotiation Skills will give you the confidence and skill to minimise your losses and maximise your gains, to gain profitable business for now and the future.

It is suitable for anyone who negotiates in sales, in finance,with suppliers or with staff.

The course takes place on 14th November at Liverpool Chamber, One Old Hall Street.

Member cost: £195.64

Non-member cost: £217.37

For further information contact Alma Meyers on 0151 224 1883 or email alma.mayers@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

If you are a Merseyside-based SME, you could be eligible for SkillWorks funding (60% subsidy) towards the cost of our courses.

SkillWorks has been one of the most successful programmes and as a result a further 15 million of ESF funding has been committed to extend the scheme until 31st July 2008. Funding is available from May 2007 to be allocated throughout Merseyside companies.

Every eligible business in Merseyside can benefit from a maximum of 60,000 towards specific training you need to meet your business objectives.