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OUR LIBRARY OPENS ITS DOORS TO THE PUBLIC FOR THE FIRST TIME!

Step into history, one page at a time . . .  For the first time in Ushaw’s history, the doors to our magnificent Big Library will be open to the public!Date & time: Saturday, 9th August 2025 - Access from 10:00am; last entry at 3:30pm.Be part of history as Ushaw’s magnificent Big Library opens to the public for the very first time, for self-guided discovery.  As part of our Festival of Books, you're invited to step inside this stunning literary treasure - a rare opportunit...

Unlocking Innovation, Elevating Value: “The Lumo Way”

At Lumo, we believe that Research & Development (R&D) isn’t just a tax incentive—it's a business growth catalyst. Through our refined consultancy approach “The Lumo Way” we go far beyond standard tax claim processes. We deliver a method that not only maximises claim value but also enhances HMRC enquiry protection and contributes directly to long-term business strategy and value.The Problem with Traditional R&D ClaimsToo often, R&D tax relief is viewed in isolation, a reac...

ARE YOU GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR STAFF BENEFITS?

Want to reduce costs, improve employee wellbeing, and stand out from the competition? Join us for UMi Makes it Easy... to Manage Staff Benefits and their Tax Implications, hosted by Adrian O’Connell, Head of Tax, and Josh Sanghera, Client Relationship Director at Blu Sky. Whether you're already offering staff benefits or just getting started, this session will help you understand what's tax-efficient, what needs to be reported, and how salary sacrifice can wo...

A Warm Welcome Awaits You at Do Business Network - The Famously Friendly Network Group!

Are you a small business owner in the North East of England looking for a supportive and dynamic community to help your business thrive? Look no further than Do Business Network (DBN)! We are dedicated to providing practical support, fostering growth, and building a vibrant, informed business community by leveraging the collective skills and expertise of local entrepreneurs.What is DBN All About?DBN is more than just a networking group; it's a collaborative environment where business-to-business...

ADVENTURE AWAITS THIS SUMMER AT USHAW!

This summer, adventure awaits every day at Ushaw!  Dive into The Wonderful World of Ladybird Book Artists exhibition, follow the Ladybird Spotting Trail, and let imaginations run wild with our Toy Takeover and outdoor games.Stroll the Summer Garden Trail, explore the Woodland Playpark, and join weekly family fun with our Tales Tuesdays, Summer Yoga, Inflatable Golf, Free Crafts, Mosaics, and more!Read more here....

Sun, Sails, and Superb Networking: DBN's Inaugural Summer BBQ a Resounding Success!

What an incredible evening we had last night at Do Business network's first-ever Summer BBQ! Over 50 fantastic local business owners gathered at the picturesque Derwent Reservoir Sailing Club, and it truly was an event to remember. The sun was shining brightly, creating the perfect relaxed atmosphere as we networked and enjoyed the stunning views overlooking Derwent Water.We're still buzzing from the energy and connections made, and it wouldn't have been possible without some truly amazing peopl...

MAJOR UK EMPLOYMENT LAW CHANGES: WHAT YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO KNOW

Employment law in the UK is undergoing its most significant transformation in decades.  With major updates already live in 2025 - and more to come through 2027 - every employer in England, Wales, and Scotland needs to be prepared. From updated tribunal rules to expanded protections for parents and carers, these changes are not optional - they’re shaping the way businesses must operate. What’s Changed Already in 2025:  New employment tribunal procedures (Jan...

Member Spotlight: Trish Guy from Pink Spaghetti PA Services – Your Admin-Loving Ally!

Here at Do Business Network, we're passionate about connecting our members with the support they need to thrive. This month, we're shining a spotlight on a fantastic member who embodies the spirit of efficiency and empowerment: Trish Guy from Pink Spaghetti PA Services Durham & Darlington.Trish is not your average Personal Assistant – she's an "admin-loving" force for good, dedicated to providing small business support services to owners, busy professionals, and charities who simply don't ...

Free Carbon Monoxide (CO) Online Training

Here at Northern Cancer Voices, we believe in empowering our community, and sometimes, that means sharing knowledge that can literally save lives. We're thrilled to highlight an upcoming opportunity brought to you by Northern Cancer Voices: a Free Carbon Monoxide (CO) Training session, delivered by Tori Braddison.What is Carbon Monoxide (CO)?Often called the "silent killer," carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that can be deadly. It's produced when fuels like gas, oil, ...

STEPPING IT UP TO SUPPORT OUR CHARITY PARTNERS POINT NORTH

At KAFFEEHAUS, giving back to our local community has always been extremely important to us and we're proud to be regular supporters of Point North.This July, we're stepping it up and taking on their 38.7 miles in July fundraiser to help raise awareness and funds to support the 38.7% of children who are growing up in poverty in County Durham and Tees Valley.For every £100 raised, together we can:Help 5 people attend a class or activity that brings joy or teaches something newSupport 8...

THIS WEEKEND, WE'RE BRINGING VINTAGE AND NOSTALGIC VIBES AT OUR 1940s TAKEOVER

This weekend, we’re bringing vintage and nostalgic vibes at our 1940s takeover.Read on to discover more . . .A sensational weekend of all things vintage and nostalgic is coming!Over the weekend you can enjoy . . .A number of stunning 40s/military vehicles on display 40 Vintage & Handmade themed stallsBritish Army cuisine courtesy of 29th Field KitchenAn impressive (loud!) firing display1940s HairstylistVintage vocalistsWith rain forecasted this weekend, we’re bringing the fun to the...

Member Spotlight: Visual Punch – Story-Driven Video That Gets Results

At the Do Business Network (DBN), we love showcasing members who bring heart, creativity, and commercial impact to the North East business scene. This month, we’re shining the spotlight on Visual Punch, led by James Ibbitson - a video partner who’s helping brands find their voice, clarify their message, and turn content into commercial growth.Who is Visual Punch?Visual Punch is not your typical video production company. They're a strategic content partner that works with growi...

Huge Congratulations to Beamish Museum: Art Fund Museum of the Year 2025!

We are absolutely thrilled to share some incredible news from one of our very own DBN members, the wonderful Beamish Museum! They have officially been named Art Fund Museum of the Year 2025 – and we couldn't be more proud!This is a truly well-deserved accolade, and everyone here at DBN is bursting with excitement for the Beamish team. We absolutely love Beamish and have always admired their dedication to bringing history to life in such an engaging and inspiring way. Their commitment to preser...

Join Us for August Networking at Ushaw College!

We're thrilled to announce our August DBN networking meeting will be held at the stunning Ushaw: Historic House, Chapels and Gardens on Tuesday, 19th August 2025, from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM.This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow DBN members and local businesses in a truly inspiring setting. Our meeting will take place in the beautiful Francis Thompson Room.Event Details:Date: Tuesday, 19th August 2025Time: 8:30 AM - 10:30 AMVenue: The Francis Thompson Room, Ushaw: Historic House, C...

Welcome Jennifer Hartburn from Harrington Brown to the Do Business Network!

We are absolutely delighted to extend a warm welcome to Jennifer Hartburn from Harrington Brown, who has been chosen as our newest member of the Do Business Network!Harrington Brown Estate Agency is a dedicated and highly respected name in the property sector, specialising in comprehensive property sales and a suite of related services designed to support both buyers and sellers throughout their property journey. We're especially thrilled to acknowledge that they are an award-winning firm, notab...

STAND OUT AS A TOP EMPLOYER: JOIN ONE OF THE SHINE ROADSHOWS BETWEEN 2nd AND 16th JULY 2025!

Join SHINE, the North East's new employer accreditation programme, backed by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness!  We're hitting the road this July, helping businesses like yours create more fulfilling, fair, and sustainable workplaces. Why join the FREE SHINE Roadshow? Attract & keep great talent: Strengthen your employer appeal.Show you care: Demonstrate commitment to fair pay, skills & sustainable growth.Get recognised: Receive tools, support & recog...

Free CO Training Opportunity!

At Do Business Network, we're always looking for ways to provide value to our members and support impactful community initiatives. We're incredibly excited to champion Tori Bradison and her fantastic team at Northern Cancer Voices. They're a vital community cancer charity, tirelessly working to amplify the voices of cancer patients across the North East and North Cumbria, with a clear mission to improve local services.Tori and her team are currently funded by Northern Gas Networks to deliver fre...

PROTECTIVE SECURITY, PREPAREDNESS AND COMMUNITY RESILIENCE

Information on Martyn’s Law and simple steps you can take to enhance your protective security and preparedness.Martyn’s Law – The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) BillMartyn’s Law will enhance public safety by ensuring there is better preparedness for, and protection from terrorist attacks.Register on Protect UKProtectUK provides free advice, guidance and learning to help businesses and communities understand protective security and improve their response to the risk of terro...

Unlock Your Potential: The Benefits of Connecting with Do Business Network

In today's dynamic business landscape, connection is currency. For many, the idea of "networking" can feel like a chore, a necessary evil, or even a pushy sales pitch. But what if it wasn't? What if joining a community could genuinely elevate your business, foster meaningful relationships, and open doors to new opportunities?That's the spirit behind the Do Business Network (DBN). Based in Co Durham and dedicated to supporting small businesses across the North East, DBN cultivates an environment ...

FREE UPCOMING ONLINE EVENTS WITH JAMES FROM UMi

Date & time: Thursday, 26th June 2025 - 10am - 12pm In this webinar we'll look at what customer personas are and how to write them.By the end of the webinar, you'll be able to describe who are your main customer groups, and understand their needs.  This in turn will help you write compelling messaging that resonates with your customers and improve your wider marketing.Register here....

Embracing Connections: A Bright Morning with Do Business Network!

What a truly brilliant start to the day we had at our latest Do Business Network (DBN) meeting, held this morning at the lovely Beamish Park Golf Course! The sun was shining, conversations were buzzing, and the coffee was certainly flowing – alongside plenty of delicious bacon butties, which were, as always, a huge hit!It was particularly fantastic to welcome so many new faces to the group. We've seen a wonderful influx of new members recently, and we genuinely believe this is all down to our ...

Summer Networking with a View: Our July BBQ is On!

Our July meeting is shaping up to be something special!  This year, we're bringing our annual Summer BBQ to the beautiful Derwent Reservoir Sailing Club.  Imagine networking with a view, enjoying delicious food, and even the possibility of a boat trip on the reservoir.We've got an exclusive peek with a video of one of their sailing boats, giving you a taste of the stunning location.  This is more than just a meeting; it's a chance to build connections in a relaxed, welcoming atmos...

Get Ready, Consett! The Consett Cycle Festival is Almost Here!

There's a real buzz building in Consett as the British Cycling cycle race prepares to hit town! The Consett Cycle Festival, a fantastic, FREE family-friendly event, will see the race starting and finishing right in Consett Town Centre on Sunday 22nd June, from 9 am to 5 pm.It's set to be a brilliant day out for everyone, packed with:Live entertainment 🎤Music 🎶Activities for all ages 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Information stalls ℹ️This major event, organised by AH Events Ltd on behalf of ...

Welcome Compliant Ltd: Enhancing Compliance and Safety for DBN Members

We're thrilled to extend a warm welcome to one of our newest members, Compliant Ltd, who have recently joined the Do Business Network! Compliant Ltd is a fantastic addition to our community, bringing a wealth of expertise in facility management compliance, health & safety, and a broad range of ISO certifications.For any business owner, navigating the complex landscape of regulations, certifications, and safety protocols can be a significant challenge. This is where Compliant Ltd truly s...

Raising a Cup to New Beginnings: Durham Coffee Roasters Becomes KAFFEEHAUS!

Today marks an exciting new chapter for one of our cherished Do Business Network members!  We're thrilled to officially welcome KAFFEEHAUS, formerly known as Durham Coffee Roasters, as they unveil their brand new identity today, June 2nd!For years, we've known and loved the dedication and passion of Durham Coffee Roasters, led by the fantastic father-daughter duo, Bernhard and Carina.  Now, as KAFFEEHAUS, they are reconnecting with their Austrian-German heritage, with their new name li...