Arbroath is a town full of history, character, and loads of potential. For those who haven't crossed paths with me yet, I'm Lucy, the founder of Nicholl HR, an HR consultancy company that began in 2023. But my connection to this amazing town goes beyond just work; it's deeply important to me that the town thrives and that others see its potential.
Going Solo in Arbroath
Founding Nicholl HR was a leap of faith. But, I saw an opportunity to bring my expertise to the local community. Little did I know that this venture would become the catalyst for something even more significant.
One of my core values has always been supporting local businesses and fostering a sense of community. I firmly believe that supporting local enterprises isn't just about transactions; it's about nurturing a thriving ecosystem that benefits us all.
Arbroath: More Than Meets the Eye
Arbroath, often underestimated by some, is a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered. Sure, it might not be the best it can be right now, but it has so much potential. The picturesque seaside, the history in its buildings, and a great tight-knit community — these are what make Arbroath special.
It pains me when I hear people talking negatively about the town, labeling it as "rubbish" or claiming there's "nothing to do." The truth is, you just need to open your eyes and look around. Arbroath's potential is huge, and it's our collective responsibility to tap into it. By doing nothing to better the town, you don't have the right to complain (in my opinion).
Uniting Businesses, Uplifting Arbroath
In my journey with Nicholl HR, I wanted to connect with businesses in the local area. I realised nothing was connecting us, a common place we could come together, discuss issues, or a way we could get involved in the community easily. So, I posted on Arbroath Online on Facebook asking if there were any active groups for businesses to network, or if businesses would be interested in this. Before I knew it, hundreds of businesses were interested, Natalie Cargill of Halo Solutions had kindly offered a space to use for meetings and Fiona Walsh, of Toll House Spirits had contacted me to organise a collaborative approach using her pre-existing ideas. Then, along came our 'Oath for Arbroath' group.
The main feedback we've had from the group so far is that business want to be involved in the community. We've achieved so much in a short space of time, that there's now an Arbroath guide aimed at encouraging local shopping (a HUGE thanks to Shirley Steele of Wester Den for pulling this together).
This group isn't exclusive; it's a welcoming space for businesses of all sizes — from sole traders to those thinking of starting a business to independents to large companies with hundreds of employees. Because, the more businesses that sign up, the bigger the impact for the community.
Our 'Oath for Arbroath' project runs alongside the networking part, which has kindly been funded by Angus Council to boost the local economy within our town centre. Fiona takes the lead on this project and provides a purpose for the group getting together. Businesses have the opportunity to take the oath, which is essentially a pledge to talk positively about the town and make an effort to collaborate, be involved in the community, and improve outcomes in our wee town.
You can visit our website to learn more: https://oathforarbroath.co.uk/
We'd also encourage you to join our Facebook page if you're planning to represent a local business via our networking group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/204136639123710/
We use this page to share promotions, provide business updates, important news, funding, and much more.
However, if you generally just want to know what Oath for Arbroath is and keep up to date with what we're doing as a group, join our public Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550583071953&sk=about
The Importance of Networking
As a group we meet once a month, there is no cost for the meetings as we want to encourage everyone to get involved with no barriers. However, to support our local fabulous hospitality venues, we do encourage payment for lunch. This changes from month to month depending on the price set out by the venue. Events are advertised on our networking page on Facebook and also on Eventbrite, with the option to pay in person or online.
We offer a platform to advertise your business, provide guest talks, and an environment that offers an opportunity for businesses to collaborate and create long-lasting relationships.
The Ripple Effect: Beyond Business, Building Community
Supporting local businesses isn't just an economic choice; it's a commitment to building a thriving community. When we purchase from independents, we create a ripple effect that goes beyond boosting profits. It helps tackle poverty, enhances the town's appeal, and even attracts tourism.
Arbroath has immense potential, and it's up to all of us in Arbroath to encourage it. Through the Arbroath Business Networking Group, we're not just shaping businesses; we're shaping the future of our town.
Join Us on this Journey
To all businesses in Arbroath, big or small, I ask you to join our cause. Let's come together, share our experiences, and work towards a vibrant, thriving Arbroath.
Feel free to get in touch for more details.
Connect on LinkedIn: www.LinkedIn.co.uk/lucynicholl
Warm regards,
Lucy
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