http://www.publicitymatters.com/ Publicity Matters provides a complete service for all aspects of communications and design. Whatever message you wish to communicate to your audience, however you want to say it, the team at PM will deliver through stunning graphic design, effective marketing, public relations and state-of-the-art web development. en-gb Copyright 2009 Publicity Matters Ltd. All Rights Reserved. 31/07/2010 12:26:14 20 http://www.publicitymatters.com/releaseDetail.asp?pressID=178 As the deadline for the introduction of heavy fines of up to £500,000 for organisations that breach data security rules looms on 6 April 2010, IT security solutions provider ISEEU™ Global is calling for a ban on the use of USB memory sticks and other portable media used to store and transmit personal data in the National Health Service. ISEEU warns that failure to address the issue of data loss in the NHS once and for all will cost NHS Trusts hundreds of thousands of pounds and put the confidential files of millions of vulnerable patients at risk. Phil Bullivant, director of ISEEU, commented: “The catalogue of NHS data losses is unacceptable with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) slamming the Health Service as one of the worst offenders for data loss, reporting as many incidents as the entire private sector. “Just recently, three USB memory sticks containing sensitive information relating to the diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients in Middlesex and Surrey were lost. The data contained in the USB sticks was in word format – leaving the information entirely accessible to anyone with a computer. There is also the well-documented example at Stockport Primary Care Trust when a member of staff lost a USB stick containing data extracted from the medical records of some 4000 patients. “Confidential patient data is also at risk with the loss and theft of laptops in the NHS – just last year Hampshire Partnership NHS Trust had to inform the ICO about the theft of a laptop holding the personal data of 349 patients and 258 staff stolen from an employee attending a health conference while the theft of a laptop in the West Midlands resulted in the loss of more than 5,000 patients' details. “It is clear that removable storage devices and other portable media are a prescription for disaster for the NHS and they should have a government health warning on them at the very least. In a private company such embarrassing and potentially damaging incidents would lead to a wholesale review of procedures and the NHS should be no different. With the Government taking a much-needed tougher stance on the issue of data loss, now is the time for Trusts to review data protection and put systems in place to protect sensitive patient information.” While encryption has been hailed as the way forward for NHS Trusts, it is clear that even these are not infallible from security risks. Just last month USB maker SanDisk issued a recall of its Cruzer Enterprise series of USB flash drives, which are password-protected with built-in encryption and are used by some NHS Trusts, because they contain a flaw which could allow hackers to easily gain access to the sensitive information contained in its devices. ISEEU's Phil Bullivant argues that this begs the question – why is portable media being used as an acceptable form of data transfer in the NHS in the first place, given the sensitivity of patient data and the implications for getting it wrong? He said: “The only way for government to ensure patient data is secure is to ban the use of removable media such as memory sticks and CDs which are all too easy to misplace or drop on the train. “It is time for NHS Trusts to invest in their IT infrastructure and implement secure ways for NHS workers to remotely access central documents on the network safely and securely without the need to rely on haphazard quick fixes which pose serious security threats. Patients have a right to expect their personal information will be treated with the utmost care. “ISEEU Global has developed a highly secure solution to enable health workers to access data without compromising data integrity. The ISEEU Clinical Workforce Accessibility Solution incorporates two highly secure products; ISEEU™ Global Access to connect remotely to all administration and clinical applications and ISEEU™ Global Courier data transfer technology to virtually courier confidential patient data. The solution also incorporates full administrative and workflow control enabling managers to see at the click of a button who has accessed particular files and provides a full audit report on activity. The technology integrates seamlessly with Trusts' own systems and complies with governance and security requirements.” Investing in a robust, secure IT solution which allows safe transmission of sensitive data would make the current NHS reliance on removable media redundant. Phil Bullivant concluded: “Trusts need to stop fire-fighting individual instances of data loss and start getting to the root of the problem. A review of IT infrastructure in the NHS is urgently required to address the issue of data access and transfer and ensure that the Government's investment in networks such as N3 are not wasted. The cost of implementing secure remote access and transfer solutions is not significant compared to the heavy fines as well as the cost to Trust’s reputations for losing valuable, confidential data. “While the appeal of the USB stick lies in its ease of use and cost effectiveness, perhaps now is the time to ban their use or at the very least ensure they come with cigarette-style warnings – 'use of this USB could seriously threaten your data security and cost your Trust hundreds of thousands of pounds.” ENDS Notes to editors • For more information on ISEEU Global visit www.iseeuglobal.com • Press release issued by Deborah Bartlett at Publicity Matters. Please contact for further information on 01666 838 850 or email deborah@publicitymatters.com http://www.publicitymatters.com/releaseDetail.asp?pressID=177 Sales Agent for the North of England; Bob Bleazard, wins the annual title from Thule UK after a fantastic year of success in a challenging economic climate. Bob Bleazard has been named the 2009 Salesman of the Year for Thule UK, experiencing an increase in sales from 2008, of 40% in the hardest economic climate for almost two decades. Not only this but he successfully opened new accounts in excess of his targets in a year which was forecast to be a fierce struggle for Thule UK and many companies alike. The winner himself commented “I’m delighted to win this award and am incredibly glad that my hard work has been recognised. All of the agents found 2009 a tricky year for sales but thankfully the strength of the Thule brand has lead us through to a stable overall outcome, considering the circumstances we have all achieved well.” The award was presented to Mr Bleazard by Peter Barker, General Manager for Thule UK, who stated “Bob has done fantastically well this year and has shown to be a true asset. 2009 was a hugely successful year for sales yet Bob in particular never failed to miss a Head Office deadline and his increase in turnover speaks for itself.” Bob hopes that 2010 will be another top year for his region and as summer draws nearer and the economy begins to stabilise once again, sales will no doubt increase further with Bob’s expertise at the helm. ENDS For more information on Thule regional stockists and product details visit www.thule.co.uk Image attached shows Bob Bleazard and Peter Barker who presented the award as General Manager for the UK Press release issued by Donna Watkins. Contact for further information regarding this release on 01275 770701 or email donna@publicitymatters.com http://www.publicitymatters.com/releaseDetail.asp?pressID=175 Based in Hertfordshire, GT Towing are Thule’s chosen winner for the challenging 2009 financial year. A long-term and well established Thule dealer with a wealth of experience, this branch has been continually improving and developing their current and future opportunities. Atlas Autos in Manchester and Epic Accessories of Leicester were close contenders for the title, Epic Accessories also winning Window Display of the Month in August of 2009. Director if GT Towing, Sally Smyth stated “We are very proud to receive this award, Thule have a large display area in our showroom and this has clearly paid dividends. We ensure that our staff are thoroughly knowledgeable on our full range of products and services available and also provide a complete fitting service. This all helps to enhance the customer’s buying experience at GT Towing.” Peter Barker, General Manager for Thule UK awarded the prize and commented: “The title was closely contested this year with a selection of dealers proving themselves very worthy of the title. GT Towing had the competitive edge with their strong in-store displays, excellent after sales service and implementation of the monthly electronic trade letter with a dedicated Thule section. They have surpassed our expectations for this year and we look forward to a continued fruitful future in 2010.” Thule UK make a conscious effort to reward their dealers for their continued support and progression into 2010, as a result of this GT Towing will receive £1,000 worth of Thule products. For more information on Thule and product details visit www.thule.co.uk For further details on GT Towing, visit www.gttowing.co.uk or call 01707 287 287 Image shows Sales Agent; Geoff Clarke receiving the award from Peter Barker, General Manager of Thule UK http://www.publicitymatters.com/releaseDetail.asp?pressID=174 BS7 Sports and Fitness Club have launched a programme of personal training and new group exercise classes in a bid to keep Bristol active this autumn. Core conditioning, ‘fit kidz’, legs-bums-tums, senior fitness, beginner body conditioning and beginner indoor cycling classes have all been added to the timetable to complement the great range of existing classes. The high quality exercise facility, based within Gloucestershire County Cricket Club at the Neville Road County Ground, is open to members of the public as well as the Gloucestershire cricket professionals. Mike Norman, BS7 fitness instructor, commented: “Motivation is key to keeping up your exercise regime and this can be really tested once the long evenings draw in. Group exercise classes are a great way to keep fit as you can be really encouraged by your classmates as well as having an Instructor on hand. You’ll be amazed how the time flies when you’re having fun!” For those looking to work on specific aspects of their fitness or needing a little more individual attention, BS7’s nationally certified personal trainers will work with you to create your personal exercise plan, provide continual supervision and feedback and ensure you reach your goals in a safe, sustainable way. For those just wishing to take up the classes, passes can be purchased on an individual or 10 class pass basis. Individual membership starts from just £29 a month. Joining BS7 will also give you annual Gloucestershire County Cricket Club membership, entitling you to free access to Twenty20, one-day league and county championship home games. Image caption: Gloucestershire County Cricket players try out new routines in the BS7 studios. http://www.publicitymatters.com/releaseDetail.asp?pressID=172 Braby, one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of bulk storage and handling systems, has completed a project for Reckitt Benckiser to expand production capacity and efficiency at their Hull production plant. Bristol-based Braby designed, manufactured and installed an extension to the powder ingredients additions of the facility which manufactures the market leading Gaviscon product. Braby’s task was to increase throughput of the Gaviscon product and improve the accuracy and consistency of batch measurement, whilst maintaining the stringent level of traceability required in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Preparation and transit times have been reduced, and the plant’s weighing and transfer capacity has been enhanced by increasing the immediate discharge performance from each of the ingredient hoppers. Individual material is now separated for weighing and then combined with the entire batch for vacuum transfer. IBatch software integrates with the mechanical capabilities to collect process data and monitor stringent industry requirements for control and accountability. Due to the availability of a very small shut down window period at the Reckitt Benckiser site, it was crucial for the preparation and FAT (factory acceptance testing) process to take place at the Braby site prior to installation. With the testing and pre-assembly completed prior to installation, delays to the project’s tight timescale were avoided. Both parties could be sure production could re-start immediately after the shut down period. John Lee, managing director at Braby, commented: “Meticulous planning and control were key to the success of the project. Braby completed the wiring and testing of the software controls, and pre-assembled, tested and modified the dosing units, weigh hoppers and discharge equipment at our Bristol premises. As a result, we were able to successfully deliver and install within Reckitt Benckiser’s critical down-time period allowed for the project.” Martin Riddell, project engineer at Reckitt Benckiser, commented: “The powder handling system modification was a challenging project in terms of complexity, volume requirements and extremely tight implementation timescales. As such, all activities throughout the project were subject to great attention to detail and a focus on the customer requirements. Braby were 100% committed at all phases of this project to ensure that the design was robust, equipment was manufactured to a high level of quality and the correct resource was available when required. With the combination of Braby’s significant industry experience, our process knowledge and detailed planning from day one, we delivered to specification, on-time and met the requirements of our customers.” Image shows part the finished installation at the Reckitt Benckiser site. Visit www.braby.co.uk for further company information. http://www.publicitymatters.com/releaseDetail.asp?pressID=173 A specialist designer of fused and lamp worked glass jewellery has opened a studio and gallery in North Somerset. The work of Claire Hall, founder of Claire Hall Exquisite Jewellery, will be displayed alongside collections by other local designers at the gallery and workshop at 65a West Town Road, Backwell. Claire, a sculptor and glass artist, founded the business in 2004. The company has helped to build its local profile with the support of marketer Lorraine Jones, whose company, Market-Ease Ltd, share the premises. Claire’s pieces can be seen alongside hand made and hand picked glass and silver jewellery by Backwell-based Lorna Cox, Nailsea-based Suzy Hannabus and Somerset designer Penelope Mackreith. “It’s fantastic to be able to celebrate local creativity,” commented Claire. “I'm inspired by the natural world and shells, flowers, pebbles and landscapes are a great influence in my work and that of my fellow designers.” The bespoke pieces can be purchased from the gallery or ordered via the website, www.clairehall.co.uk, but in the run up to Christmas, the company are experiencing particular interest in their specially held jewellery parties. “The jewellery parties are very popular and a great way to meet with friends. They give the chance to buy some really special presents without having to rush around crowded shops,” commented Sam England, Claire’s party organiser. Claire Hall Exquisite Jewellery will be at Nailsea Craft Fair on Saturday 14th November, Fairfield School Christmas Fair on 28th November and Backwell School Christmas Fair on 4th December. The gallery is open Monday to Wednesday from 10 am to 4 pm. To view the collections at other times, or to enquire about booking a party, call Claire or Sam on 01275 464 991. Image shows, from left to right: Lorraine Jones, Polly Jukes, Sam England and Claire Hall http://www.publicitymatters.com/releaseDetail.asp?pressID=168 Thule, the world’s largest manufacturer of car roof rack systems, roof boxes and accessories, have the perfect gift to inspire healthy New Year resolutions; the compact Xpress 970 cycle carrier. The Xpress 970 holds up to two bikes and is fitted quickly and easily with one scissor clamping action onto the tow bar. After use, the carrier can be folded away and stored neatly in the boot, ready for your next outing. With soft protective frame holders, the Xpress keeps bikes firmly in place, with no risk of damage to the paintwork and has ISO (International Organisation for Standardisation) approved tow bar coupling. The Xpress comes with a five year warranty. Whether you’re heading to the country to kick start your two-wheeled New Year’s resolution or competing at a more serious level, the Thule Xpress 970 can help get your bikes there safely and securely. For further leisure carrier equipment and to locate your nearest stockist, visit the Thule website on www.thule.co.uk. http://www.publicitymatters.com/releaseDetail.asp?pressID=169 Thule, the world’s largest manufacturer of roof racks, roof boxes and accessories have ideal solutions for transporting bulky luggage and gifts this Christmas. Whether you’re en-route to visit relatives or on your way home post-festivities, space in the family car is likely to be an issue. A roof box can alleviate the problem, making your journey safer and more comfortable. The spacious Atlantis, one of Thule’s most popular roof boxes, is available in four sizes with capacities ranging from 340 to 650 litres. The Atlantis has duel sided opening and is aerodynamically designed for great stability and reduced air resistance. With its patented ‘Power Grip’ quick mount system the Atlantis can be fitted fast and securely to your set of roof bars. “Over loading a car can lead to blocked views and dangerous situations if you are forced to brake quickly. By placing excess luggage in a Thule roof box you can conveniently avoid these problems and focus on your Christmas break,” comments Peter Barker, UK General Manager of Thule. As with all Thule products, the roof boxes come with a five year warranty. For further roof boxes and leisure equipment carriers and to locate your nearest stockist, visit the Thule website on www.thule.co.uk. http://www.publicitymatters.com/releaseDetail.asp?pressID=167 Two North Somerset Directors have launched a new business to support commercial and fundraising opportunities in the sports industry. Sporting Matters is the creation of Rob Cave and Nigel Oldfield, Directors of Nailsea-based Publicity Matters and NOSP (Nigel Oldfield Sports Promotions). The company combines NOSP’s experience in sports event management and sponsorship negotiation with the public relations, digital media, design and marketing services of Publicity Matters. Organisations who want to utilise sports sponsorship deals, clubs or individuals looking for publicity support, and those who have been awarded testimonial opportunities could all benefit from the expertise. Nigel Oldfield commented: “Becoming commercially involved with a club, launching sports initiatives or being given the chance to raise your profile as a player are always fantastic opportunities, but ones which can sometimes not be fully utilised because of the amount of time and resources involved.” Rob Cave continued: “Through the pooling of skills from our two separate businesses, Sporting Matters can deliver a complete service to plan, organise, promote and execute a successful sports industry opportunity.” Alongside the organisation and promotion of the UK’s Premier Snooker League, broadcast live on Sky Sports, the team will draw on knowledge gained across professional sports including cricket, super league rugby, darts (PDC), bowls and pool. Sporting Matters have developed the website for the Kirby Lewis Cricket Academy, launched this week by Gloucestershire County Cricket stars Jon Lewis and Steve Kirby. For full details visit www.kirbylewiscricket.co.uk. The Directors have also shown their support for the ‘Let’s win it for Bristol’ 2018 World Cup campaign. They appeared with Bristol’s Premier League Snooker ace, Judd Trump and a group of Bristol City FC stars for a press call at the Ashton Gate stadium last week. The visit was to highlight regional sports industry support for Bristol’s bid to be named a host city in England’s 2018 World Cup proposal. Visit www.sportingmatters.co.uk for further information. Image caption: Directors Rob Cave and Nigel Oldfield with Bristol snooker ace Judd Trump, showing support for Bristol City FC's bid to be named a 2018 World Cup match host. http://www.publicitymatters.com/releaseDetail.asp?pressID=166 Leading IT services company, IPL, today announces that it has been awarded the ISO27001 certificate for Information Security Management. The scope of the certificate covers all of IPL’s business activities, whether at IPL’s offices or on customer premises. The initiative was driven by IPL’s board as a result of a very clear business need for certification. The award comes after an intensive 12-month period of preparation, culminating in a successful 3-day audit by BSI assessors. ISO27001 is an internationally recognised standard that comprehensively defines the requirements for establishing and implementing an effective information security management system. It is increasingly seen as best practice by larger organisations and governments around the world. Suppliers are routinely required to achieve the standard as a basic condition of UK supply contracts. IPL’s CEO, Shaun Davey, commented: “I am absolutely delighted that IPL has achieved this award. It demonstrates our total commitment to safeguarding customers’ information assets and to maintaining their trust. Our ISO27001 certificate should also make it easier for us to bid for and win work, especially in the public sector, where there is an increasing awareness of information security issues.” for further information visit www.ipl.com