https://furnessconnections.com/

Furness Connections, Dalton in Furness (2026)

11/02/2026

Last Friday morning at Furness Connections we did something a little different.

Stuart Smith from RSS Accountants handed each table… an ingredients list for brownies.

Flour.
Sugar.
Eggs.
Chocolate.
Butter.

Next to each item was a cost.

Simple enough, right?

Our task was to work out:

• The true cost to manufacture a batch
• Then add a percentage markup
• Then calculate what we should be selling them for

Sounds easy.

It wasn’t.

Not one group in the room got all the answers right.

And that was the point.

Because pricing is one of the biggest hidden pressure points in business.

If you get it wrong:

• You undercharge and work flat out for very little reward
• Or you overprice without realising your numbers don’t stack up
• Or you confuse markup with profit

Markup is what you add on top of cost.
Profit is what you actually keep after everything else is paid.

They are not the same thing.

And if you don’t understand that difference, growth becomes guesswork.

You might feel busy.
You might see money coming in.
But you don’t really know what’s staying.

For a lot of business owners, numbers aren’t their thing.

And that’s fine.

We can’t all be brilliant at everything.

Some of us are great at building things.
Some of us are great at serving customers.
Some of us are great at marketing.

But when it comes to:

• Margins
• Forecasting
• Cashflow
• Cost control

That’s where a good accountant earns their fee.

Stuart didn’t just talk theory. He made us feel the frustration of getting it wrong.

That awkward moment when your total doesn’t match.
That sinking feeling when you realise you’ve missed something obvious.

Now imagine that in real life, but with your actual business.

That’s why having someone in your corner who understands the numbers matters.

RSS Accountants work with a lot of hospitality businesses locally. Cafes, restaurants, takeaways, venues. Businesses where margins can be tight and small mistakes quickly add up.

They help you understand:

• Where your money is really going
• What your true margins look like
• How to price properly
• How to plan for growth instead of hoping for it

Because brownies are fun.

Cashflow problems aren’t.

If you’re in the hospitality sector and want to take the stress out of your finances, visit their website at rss-accounts.com or give Stuart a call on 01229 316707 to see how his team can help.

And if you’re a local business owner who wants conversations like this every Friday morning, surrounded by people who challenge and support you, then come and see what Furness Connections is about.

Head over to furnessconnections.com and join us.

05/02/2026

When Scott Neillands from SWN Plant presented to the room last week, you could see it straight away.

Heads nodding.

A few people quietly thinking, “That’s good to know.”

Scott started by talking about something that often gets overlooked until it becomes a problem.

Drop kerbs.

Local councils are clamping down hard on permits.

• More checks.
• More enforcement.
• Less tolerance for work that hasn’t been done properly.

Scott explained that if a drop kerb isn’t installed by someone who is fully compliant, the risk doesn’t just sit with the contractor.

It lands squarely on the property owner.

Being asked to reinstate the pavement.

• Unexpected costs.
• Delays.
• Stress you really don’t need.

What reassured the room was this.

Scott and SWN Plant are fully compliant.

That means when you use them, you can rest easy knowing the job is done properly and in line with council requirements.

No nasty surprises down the line.

The second part of Scott’s presentation showed where his business is heading next.

SWN Plant is growing the commercial side of the business and Scott is actively looking to connect with property management companies that operate across the South Lakes in Cumbria.

The focus is on reliable groundwork and plant services delivered properly, professionally, and without cutting corners.

The kind of service property managers need when they’re responsible for multiple sites and reputations.
If you’re involved in property management, facilities, or commercial property in the South Lakes, this is a conversation worth having.

You can contact Scott directly here:
Scott Neillands
SWN Plant
📞 07896 269511
📧 [email protected]

And if you enjoy being part of a business community where people share real updates that actually help others make better decisions, come and see what we’re about at Furness Connections.

Visit furnessconnections.com to find out more.

03/02/2026

At a recent Furness Connections meeting, Sarah from Turnstone HR delivered a presentation that quietly made a lot of business owners sit up a little straighter in their chairs.

It wasn’t loud or dramatic.
It was calm.
Clear.
And slightly uncomfortable in the way only important information ever is.

Sarah was talking about the 2025 Employment Rights Bill and what it really means for employers, not in theory, but in day to day business life.

As she spoke, you could almost see the mental checklists forming.

“When was the last time we updated our contracts?”
“Do our policies still match how we actually operate?”
“Would this stand up if someone challenged it?”

That’s the moment it landed.

Most business owners aren’t trying to cut corners.
They care about their people.
They want to do the right thing.

But employment law doesn’t stand still.

It changes quietly in the background while businesses are busy serving customers, paying bills and keeping the lights on.

Sarah explained how the Employment Rights Bill strengthens employee protections and increases employer responsibilities, and how relying on old documents or “the way we’ve always done it” can leave even well run businesses exposed.

One issue.
One complaint.
One situation handled badly through lack of knowledge.

That’s all it takes.

What stood out was how practical Sarah made it.

No scare tactics.
No legal waffle.

Just straight talking about what to check, what to update, and when to get proper advice rather than hoping for the best.

She reminded us that Google can’t understand your business, your team, or your culture, but a good HR partner can.

If you employ people, even just one, this is one of those things that’s far easier to get right early than fix later.

If the 2025 Employment Rights Bill has been sitting on your “I’ll look at that soon” list, now is the time to move it up.

You can contact Sarah directly at:

Sarah Goddard
Turnstone HR
📞 07715 822216
📧 [email protected]

And if you enjoy being in a room where people share knowledge that actually helps you run a better business, you’ll fit right in at Furness Connections.

Take a look at furnessconnections.com and come and see what we’re building.

19/01/2026

Last week at Furness Connections, it was David Thexton's turn.

Listening to David, it got me thinking 🤔

Who’s planning their next holiday and wouldn’t mind some free spending money?

Not a side hustle.
Not overtime.
Not cutting back on the things you enjoy.

Just using the money you’re already spending a bit smarter.

David works with Utility Warehouse, and he explained it in a really down to earth way.

Think about the bills you already pay every month.

Phone
Broadband
Electric
Gas

Most of us pay them without a second thought. The money goes out. End of story.

What David helps people do is bundle those utilities into one simple plan. That alone can reduce costs for a lot of households.

But here’s where it gets interesting.

When you add the Utility Warehouse cashback card and use it for everyday spending, those savings turn into real cashback.

Shopping.
Fuel.
Days out.
The normal stuff.

Over time, that cashback builds up and suddenly you’ve got a pot of money sitting there.

That’s your holiday spends.
Your airport beers.
Your meals out.
Your treats without the guilt.

Same lifestyle.
Same bills.
But now your money is quietly working in the background instead of disappearing.

What landed well in the room was this.

Most people aren’t short of money.
It’s just leaking out in lots of small places.

David’s service helps plug those leaks and redirect the savings towards things you actually look forward to.

It’s simple.
It’s practical.
And there’s no hard sell.

If the idea of your next holiday being partly paid for by your everyday bills sounds good, it’s worth a look.

👉 Visit savewiththex.com and see what’s possible.

PS
If you’re a local business owner who enjoys conversations like this and wants to connect with others across Furness, come and see what we’re about.
Visit furnessconnections.com to find out more.

12/01/2026

Ar last week’s meeting we heard from Phil at For Any Occasion.

Phil started by asking everyone a couple of simple questions.

What date did you start your business?
What date did your longest serving employee start working for you?

The room went very quiet.

Nearly everyone struggled to remember. And that’s the point. These are big moments. Real milestones. Dates that are absolutely worth celebrating, but often get missed because life and business get busy.

That led nicely into what they do for their clients.

At For Any Occasion they really do two things.

1️⃣ They dig people out of holes.

They often get the call that starts with “We need balloons, we’re celebrating…” usually followed by “and it’s very last minute”. When that happens, they step in, stay calm, and always deliver.

2️⃣ They help create picture perfect memories.

Their balloon décor isn’t just decoration. It’s the backdrop to photos, smiles, and moments people remember long after the day has passed.

If you live in South Cumbria and know someone who is celebrating, whether that’s:

• Baby showers and christenings
• Engagements and weddings
• Milestone birthdays or anniversaries
• Corporate events and business celebrations

They’ve got packages to suit every budget.

You can take a look at what they do by heading over to for-any-occasion.co.uk.

And if this morning made you think of a date that deserves celebrating, the question is simple.

Do you know someone they could help, yes or no?

PS If you want to meet other like minded business owners who are serious about helping each other grow, simply head over to furnessconnections.com

10/12/2025

Last week at Furness Connections, Kay Groundwater from Identity reminded us how easy it is to take safety for granted during the winter months.

Whether you’re walking the dog before sunrise, cycling to work, or managing a team working outdoors, the right high vis clothing can make all the difference.

Kay spoke about something we all know deep down but often forget. Visibility equals safety.

Identity don’t just embroider logos. They help people get home safely.

From reflective jackets and vests to warm, weatherproof workwear, they make sure local teams are seen long before danger gets close.

And it’s not just for businesses...

Parents buying winter gear for teens walking to school. Runners heading out in the dark. Community groups working on local events.

Having quality high vis clothing means fewer close calls and more peace of mind.

As a community, that matters. Because when we look out for one another, the whole of Furness feels safer.

If you want to connect with local businesses who care about people, not just products, come along and meet us.

Visit furnessconnections.com and join our growing network.

25/11/2025

Some people grow into their trade.

Others are born into it.

Tim Pearson is proudly the fourth generation in his family to work with electrics, following the footsteps of his grandfather who first sparked the passion. When you meet Tim, you can see straight away that this isn’t just a job for him. It’s a legacy.

Every Friday in our Furness Connections meetings, that sense of heritage shines through. Tim doesn’t just fix problems. He protects homes. He supports families. He gives businesses peace of mind. Whether he’s upgrading a consumer unit, installing EV chargers, or fitting solar panels to bring bills down, he works with the same care and pride that has run through his family for decades.

And if you run a business, manage properties, or look after rental homes, you’ll know how rare it is to find an electrician you can trust without question. Tim is that person. Reliable. Honest. Professional. Exactly what our community stands for.

Something else worth knowing. For any project over £1000, Tim can offer finance options. It means you can get essential work done now without putting pressure on your budget.

If you want an electrician with real roots, real values and a reputation you can rely on, get in touch with Tim Pearson Electrical Ltd.
Call 07592 605549
Email [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected])

This is what Furness Connections is all about.
Local businesses. Real relationships. People you can trust.

If you want to join our community, visit furnessconnections.com

20/11/2025

Some people sell office furniture.

Phil Heath builds better workspaces.

If you’ve ever met Phil, you’ll know exactly what I mean.

He’s the calm, friendly voice who helps businesses choose the right chairs, the right layout and the right setup so their teams can work comfortably and get more done.

And this isn’t guesswork.

Phil has spent decades supporting businesses across Furness, and the South Lakes.

From small offices to full refurb projects, Heaths has access to more than 20,000 products: seating, desks, storage, meeting room setups and everything in between.

Big names like Kimberly-Clark and BAE Systems already trust him because he makes the whole process simple and stress-free.

The magic ingredient?

Phil always puts people first.

He listens, guides you through your options and makes sure you get something that lasts. When he delivers a workspace, it feels right.

So here’s where you can help.

If you know a business in the South Lakes planning a move, a refurb or even just wanting to upgrade a few chairs, Phil is the person they need to speak to.

You can reach him on 01229 820435 or [email protected].

Or, if you’d like to meet him in person over breakfast, join us at our next Furness Connections meeting by registering at furnessconnections.com.

18/11/2025

There’s a special buzz about our Friday mornings, and this Friday (21st November) is set to be another lively one.

We’re expecting over 20 local businesses in the room, all ready to share ideas, swap referrals and support each other.

It’s a space where conversations flow easily, people feel welcome straight away and real relationships start to form.

In the last 12 months our group has generated more than £800,000 in invoiced business, but what really stands out is the community behind it.

The trust, the friendships and the way everyone genuinely wants to see each other grow.

If you want to expand your network and meet people who actually care about helping you succeed, then come and join us this Friday at Charnleys (Dalton).

✅ We’ll sort breakfast.
✅ We’ll sort the welcome.
✅All you need to bring is a smile and a stack of business cards.

Register your visit at furnessconnections.com — we’d love to have you with us.

12/11/2025

When it comes to community, few people live and breathe it like Adele Neale from Conexiones. Everything Adele does is about connecting people, creating partnerships and helping our local area thrive.

Whether she’s securing sponsorship for Barrow Raiders, Barrow AFC, Barrow Golf Club, Hawcoat Park Sports Club or Furness Raiders U19s, Adele understands that sport is more than just a game. It’s a powerful way to bring people together, build pride and strengthen the bonds that make our community special.

The photo shows (left to right) Sam Cunningham from Barrow Eats, Adele Neale from Conexiones, Anita from R.F. Miller & Co Accountants, and Steve Trainer, Honorary Secretary at Barrow Golf Club. R.F. Miller & Co are just one of the many local businesses proudly supporting our sports clubs and helping to make a real difference in the community.

If your business has a CSR policy and you’d like to make a bigger impact locally, reach out to Adele at Conexiones.

📞 07508 103840

She’ll help you find the perfect opportunity to give back and be part of something that truly brings our community together.

03/11/2025

Last week at our Furness Connections meeting, you could have heard a pin drop.

Rebecca Robson from Women’s Community Matters shared the incredible and heartbreaking impact the centre has had over the past year.

In just twelve months, they’ve supported 2️⃣7️⃣9️⃣3️⃣ individuals: men, women and children facing challenges such as domestic abuse, mental health, and crisis situations that no one should ever have to endure.

It was one of those moments that really hit home.

We’re proud to have such a vital service here in our community, but we all wish it wasn’t so desperately needed.

What many don’t realise is that it takes £5️⃣,0️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ a day to keep the centre running...

A staggering figure that shows both the scale of their work and the strength of their commitment.

That’s why Rebecca is reaching out to local businesses.

Through their new Bronze, Silver, and Gold sponsorship packages, Women’s Community Matters is giving local businesses the chance to do something truly extraordinary: to change lives right here in our community.

Your sponsorship isn’t just a donation; it’s a lifeline.

It helps keep the doors open for someone escaping abuse, ensures there’s a warm and welcoming space for a young person struggling with their mental health, and provides a listening ear when someone feels they’ve got nowhere else to turn.

Every contribution, big or small, ripples out across our community, helping families rebuild, individuals regain confidence, and lives find direction again.

To learn more or get involved, reach out to Rebecca Robson at Women’s Community Matters and start a conversation about how your business can make an impact that truly matters.

💙 Visit womenscommunitymatters.org to find out more or call 01229 311102.

[Or meet Rebecca this Friday at our next business meeting: visit furnessconnections.com]

Furness Connections

11/02/2026

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10/12/2025

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