&lsquo;The changing face of manufacturing in Wales - Why success today is about so much more than simply finding the right skills&rsquo;. &nbsp; It&rsquo;s well known that to be successful in running a business today relies on more than simply employing the staff with the right skills for the job - it&rsquo;s about proving your worth in supporting the emotional wellbeing of your employees and communities, about promoting sustainable practices in all areas, and more.&nbsp;
As one of its most synonymous and traditionally labour-intensive industries in Wales, it&rsquo;s also fair to say our manufacturing sector has been working overtime in recent years to meet these standards. And, whilst the recruitment and retention of skills is still important, the concept of facilities management is now also key to the preservation of Wales&rsquo; industrial heritage, as an emerging sector in its own right.&nbsp;
Mark Rudge, Commercial Partnership Director at Acorn by Synergie, has witnessed this change more closely than most, having spent the last 25 years working at the heart of Wales&rsquo; industrial transformation on behalf of the UK recruiter, and takes a look at where we&rsquo;ve come from, how it&rsquo;s going - and what comes next.
Manufacturing in Wales is a tradition like any other&nbsp;
To properly appreciate what the future of the manufacturing sector in Wales looks like, we first need to consider where most large-scale producers operating here today have come from.&nbsp;
In the 25 years I&rsquo;ve spent recruiting within the industry regionally and nationally too, we&rsquo;ve gone from placing hundreds of workers a day with the likes of Panasonic and Sony, to managing multiple sites for a wide range of large-scale clients delivering true managed services including Industrial Cleaning, Packaging, Grounds Maintenance solutions and more.&nbsp;
When I first started with Acorn, candidates would routinely queue outside our high street branches waiting to be placed into work that same day and our role was more straightforward than it is now. The world of work has changed, and as 360-degree recruitment consultants we take care of everything from interview and job bookings, payroll, HR and all the other functions that any employer would expect to provide to their full-time employees.&nbsp;
Transformation continues to be led by the consumer
The focus for employers in Wales and the UK has changed considerably since, however, not least for those offering manufacturing and industrial services. Consumers today want to know where the product they are buying has come from, who it&rsquo;s been produced by, and whether or not the process of creating it has been achieved in a fair and sustainable way - and rightly so.
What this means for those involved within that supply chain is a need to be transparent in meeting sustainability and other industry regulations, in supporting the wellbeing of employees involved in creating those products, and in proving consistency with regards to ESG and other activity in order to attract the right kind of custom along the way.&nbsp;
 Since the mid 2000s the role of Acorn by Synergie, for example, has diversified as a result to include managing multiple sites for large scale manufacturers and other businesses delivering contracts for Health and Safety Management (RA / JMS, Permits, Annual Plans), Chemicals, Consumables, Vehicles, Machines, Training, Innovation, the HR Management of 250+ employees, Union Relationships and more, supporting each company each with their unique &nbsp;ESG targets and requirements aligning with our own.
 Managing the way manufacturers in Wales do business today is key to their future
As manufacturers UK-wide continue to operate within an increasingly global marketplace, so the need to further integrate industrial organisations based regionally within their surrounding communities becomes ever more crucial.&nbsp;
Achieved through a heightened focus on ESG activity, and on continual improvements around sustainable practices and in supporting the overall wellbeing of employees too this is why, for manufacturers based in Wales today, Facilities Management now holds the key to the future for so many. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The changing face of manufacturing in Wales 

<h3>Lawrence Beach, Client Development Director with recruiter Acorn by Synergie, has been appointed as Chair for the Employer Advisory Board (EAB) at HMP Bristol.&nbsp;</h3>
Created to support more prison leavers in finding meaningful employment on their release, the role is a natural fit for Lawrence, who has been instrumental in championing the availability of sustainable job opportunities for under-represented groups in recent years.
His work to date has included overseeing the launch of Acorn by Synergie&rsquo;s own Reconstruct programme to help people with convictions find work in the construction industry, and working with partners including homeless charity The Wallich as well as three Welsh prisons and HMP Bristol.
In his new role as EAB chair, Lawrence will now be assisting HMP Bristol directly in creating a network of employers who can benefit from supporting prisoners upon their release, and also finding ways in which the prison can create further provisions to support employer needs as part of the New Futures Network.
Lawrence, who was appointed as part of a nationwide EAB network made up of influential business leaders, said: &ldquo;We&rsquo;ve worked really hard as a leading recruiter in the UK to open up the conversation around the rehabilitation and employment of people with convictions in recent years - both in terms of how beneficial it is for candidates, but also to employers too.
&ldquo;Innovative thinking has a large part to play in achieving success in the recruitment industry but, more than that, it is our responsibility as professionals operating within the sector to support as many people as we can in finding employment that will be beneficial to them, the organisation involved, and ultimately society and the UK economy as a whole.&rdquo;
&ldquo;I am absolutely delighted to have taken the role of EAB Chair with HMP Bristol, therefore, as a means to developing the many different avenues we are continuing to explore in supporting under-represented candidates further. I&rsquo;m really excited to see what can be achieved in working more closely with both prison leaders and those looking for work on their release from HMP Bristol too,&rdquo; Lawrence added.&nbsp;
 The New Futures Network is a specialist part of HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) which attracts and supports employers to work with prisons in England and Wales and assists prisons to create systems and infrastructure that can help more prison leavers find employment. Employment Advisory Boards were launched under the scheme to advise, support and challenge prisons on their training and employment offer to prisoners and prison leavers, and are a key part of the HMPPS strategy to get more prisoners into employment on release,&nbsp;
The Boards currently cover 92 prisons across England and Wales, with each one chaired by a business leader from companies including Lotus Cars, Sodexo and now Acorn by Synergie too, in partnership between HMPPS, New Futures Network and The Timpson Foundation.&nbsp;
Duncan O&rsquo;Leary, chief executive of New Futures Network, said: &ldquo;Statistics show us that finding employment within 12 months of release can significantly reduce the chances of prison-leavers re-offending, and provides them with an income but also a means of contributing positively to their families and communities too.
&ldquo;It also benefits employers who are able to secure committed and skilled people helping to fill gaps in our economy, which is something Lawrence Beach in his role with Acorn by Synergie also recognised some time ago, and has been actively working towards increasing awareness of within the UK recruitment industry ever since.&rdquo;&nbsp;
&ldquo;Among other things his work in bringing the recruiter&rsquo;s Reconstruct programme, which already helps people at HMP Bristol and three prisons in Wales equip themselves with the skills they need to re-enter the world of work, made him an ideal candidate for the role of EAB chair, and we&rsquo;re really looking forward to seeing what more can be achieved with Lawrence&rsquo;s expertise on board.&rdquo;
&nbsp;

Acorn by Synergie’s Lawrence Beach is appointed as chair for Employer Advisory Board at HMP Bristol

Now that spring is in the air it&rsquo;s naturally that time of year when you start thinking about making changes in your life. Spring cleaning your house or wardrobe is one thing but what about the important things in your life like making a career move or developing a new skill?
Changing your job can often be a challenging and stressful time but with some thought and pre-planning it can become a positive and rewarding experience:
Step 1 &ndash; Be honest.
Ask yourself do you want to change your job or would changes within your current role be enough? If you enjoy where you work but feel in a &lsquo;rut&rsquo; would learning a new skill or taking on new responsibility give you the new challenge you want? If you feel under-valued or need a higher salary, perhaps it&rsquo;s time to speak to your line manager and discuss the possibility of putting together a career development plan, taking on new projects or even a pay review.
Step 2 &ndash; What is your five year plan?
Finding out what you want to do and where you want to be in the future will help you plan to achieve that goal. Be realistic on whether this is achievable in one job move or whether it will take you a few incremental steps to get there. If you want to change direction completely, what skills and qualifications do you need, and will you be able to gain these in a work setting or will you need to study for them?
Step 3 &ndash; Are you prepared?
Is your CV up to date and does it demonstrate your strengths and abilities in the best possible light? Be prepared to spend time and effort on this. Ask others to give you their honest opinion on whether it highlights your best qualities. Remember to sell your achievements and transferable skills.
Step 4 &ndash; Can you be found?
Ensure that employers and recruiters can find you. This is vital in a digital world so make sure you have included all the relevant key words for the job you want to do rather than the one you already do. Always be consistent with the information you broadcast; your Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn profiles should all tell the same story as your CV.
Step 5 &ndash; Use your contacts and networks.&nbsp;
Don&rsquo;t be afraid to ask for help, advice and recommendations from your peers and contacts. Build close links with professional recruitment consultants so that they understand your strengths and requirements.
Step 6 &ndash; Be persistent.
Finding the right role may take time and it may mean revisiting the steps above. Be prepared to listen to feedback, take advice and adjust your game plan.
By taking a good look at your present situation and developing a clear approach to your career development, you will be able to focus on what is important and become more effective in your job search.
If you decide that you want to take on a fresh challenge this spring then Acorn can help.

Spring clean your career

From redundancy to recruitment for some of the world&rsquo;s biggest manufacturers - How the industry has evolved during my 25 years in the business - and the things which will never change.
Commercial Partnership Director Mark Rudge is celebrating 25 years working at Acorn by Synergie. Since then, the industrial landscape in Wales and the UK has changed significantly, and for most of that time, through his work Mark has been at the heart of it all.&nbsp;
Having taken various temping jobs through Acorn himself, Mark joined the company full-time to help others do the same, and more than two decades later, he&rsquo;s still here.&nbsp;
Here, he talks about what life was like working with some of the world&rsquo;s biggest industrial names when he first became a junior consultant in the 1990s, and what the future looks like for providing ongoing facilities management support in the UK from here.
How it started
My first contract was with Exel Logistics for Tesco at Newhouse Farm Industrial Estate in Chepstow, filling positions 24 hours a day, seven days a week. I&rsquo;d been made redundant from my job as a printer before becoming a junior consultant in April 1999.
Back then, we&rsquo;d interview at least 20 potential candidates daily and place them often immediately with the likes of LG, Sony, Panasonic and others. You&rsquo;d regularly see candidates queuing outside our high street branches to be placed into work that same day, and we&rsquo;d be dealing with more than 400 workers across daylight hours and 150 on twilight shifts.&nbsp;
It was a daunting but really exciting period in my professional life which I believe helped shape my work ethic and career that followed. It was brilliant and rewarding, and I loved it.
How it&rsquo;s going
Our service delivery has diversified since then to provide both recruitment and &lsquo;Facilities Managed Services&rsquo; to our clients as a one stop shop so they can concentrate on their own services in the process.
Since the mid 2000s, as well as expanding our recruitment offering into many different sectors, including construction, executive search, Technology and more, Acorn by Synergie has been focused on managing multiple sites for large scale clients UK-wide providing Industrial Cleaning, Packaging, Grounds Maintenance and other services. This includes all health and safety, chemical, consumable, vehicle, machine, training and HR related functions in accordance with current regulations and other guidelines in place. 
In short, we take care of all the practical elements of running an organisation so that the businesses we work with remain focused on their own core business activity in the meantime.
How things have changed
When I joined Acorn, we were filling bookings, delivering payroll, HR and all the other functions an employer then would provide to their full time employees. Today, the services clients are looking for us to provide may have changed, but they still very much rely on us for support in a &lsquo;catch all&rsquo; way.&nbsp;
Issues they look to us for help with now include regulation, CSR, sustainability, employee wellbeing and many others which, although very different to those businesses required help with in the 1990s, are no less crucial to ensure operations continue to run smoothly, efficiently and to the bottom line.&nbsp;
Advances in technology have also been a major game changer. Once upon a time, business was done using fax machines, through phone calls and in person meetings, by posting letters and job adverts in the local press, and with warehouses full of paper documents in tow. Today we have Zoom, sophisticated CRM software systems, AI, social media and more to help us reach out to candidates and clients alike. 
Some larger manufacturing businesses have also left the UK for more cost-effective options in other countries and there has been an increase in more skills based permanent placements and less temporary jobs for the masses as a result.
How I feel about marking 25 years at Acorn by Synergie
I&rsquo;ve learned so much about the UK recruitment sector and also myself as a person since I took my first steps into the industry. In those days, I was in at the deep end and the working buzz was fantastic. Today, I am NEBOSH Environmental Management qualified, IOSH H&amp;S Management Qualified and lead a team of 10 at Acorn by Synergie working to support a wide range of globally recognised brands with all their business needs.&nbsp;
In between, I&rsquo;ve been privileged enough to work on every kind of project since. From Scottish wind farms, to projects in the yachting industry and with a team of gurkhas to create a settlement in Cwmbran (some of whom I still count as friends today). I am lucky that no two days in my 25 years with Acorn by Synergie have been the same, and I still get a buzz out of what I do for the company - as well as those that we work to support - day in day out today.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Mark Rudge celebrates 25 years at Acorn by Synergie

Acorn by Synergie&rsquo;s Plymouth branch is celebrating after being named Agency of the Year 2024 by Seetec Pluss, which works alongside the leading UK recruitment specialist to help more people find work locally.
Founded in 1984, Seetec Pluss is a social enterprise&nbsp;working closely with commissioners, local communities and businesses across the UK to empower people from all walks of life to feel good, find work, gain independence and take control of their lives.
As part of this effort, Seetec Pluss has worked in partnership with colleagues at Acorn by Synergie in Plymouth to help empower thousands of people within the town and its surrounding areas to find and progress within their work for the past three years.
Now the benefits that this close working relationship has brought to job seekers in the area have been formally recognised by Seetec Pluss, after it chose Acorn by Synergie as its Agency of the Year out of five recruiters it works with to place people into work locally.
Gemma Fox, Business Manager at Seetec Pluss&nbsp;said: &ldquo;I&rsquo;m over the moon that Acorn by Synergie is our Agency of the Year, it&rsquo;s incredibly well deserved. We have been working with Acorn for the last few years and it&rsquo;s been such a positive experience.
&ldquo;Acorn completely understands what we do, and their input is now like an extension of our team. Working with us enables Acorn by Synergie to fill their vacancies whilst also benefiting our customers who may not have had the confidence to make an application &ndash; long may the relationship continue!&rdquo;
Through partnering with Seetec Pluss, Acorn by Synergie has been able to help people from many different backgrounds and challenging circumstances back into work within the Plymouth area, whilst also fulfilling the objectives of its business clients locally too.
In practice this has meant supporting Seetec Pluss with the delivery of two programmes it runs in Plymouth &ndash; a Restart Scheme to help people build their confidence and skills, and its Work and Health Programme designed to support candidates in achieving their true potential professionally.&nbsp;
Acorn by Synergie&rsquo;s Director of Operations, Noel Hoare, said;&nbsp;&ldquo;This is fantastic news, and everyone at Acorn is thrilled. We have seen first hand here at Acorn by Synergie what a difference the right support can make, and working with an organisation like Seetec Pluss is inspiring and allows us to do what we do best.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m so proud of our branch manager Xavier Ayling-Brasnell and the team at our Plymouth branch for their ongoing determination and support helping people to achieve brighter futures. Our Plymouth team constantly goes above and beyond to build partnerships to help overcome barriers to employment, and their focus on working to support their communities is relentless.&rdquo;

Acorn by Synergie Plymouth is named by Seetec Pluss as its recruitment agency of the year 

Specialist recruiter S&amp;You has created a new base in Brighton to support its expanding technology division with the ongoing recruitment of elite level talent within the tech sector UK-wide.
Part of the Acorn by Synergie group, S&amp;You was launched in the UK by the leading recruiter in 2023 as a stand-alone brand focused on specialist recruitment of high calibre talent across all tech industries.
As such, the Brighton team will be working alongside S&amp;You&rsquo;s existing Technology Team based in South Wales, and utilising more than 20 years of IT recruitment expertise in the process, to offer a wide range of IT and technology roles at management and director-level for organisations operating in sectors UK-wide.
Mark Standen is one of the Co-Directors responsible for leading S&amp;You, its strategic vision, and also its Brighton-based technology team alongside James Thompson.
With almost 40 years of combined technology staffing experience between them, the pair are now working together to build a market leading talent and advisory business enhancing the way organisations recruit, using the most up to date AI and Automation technologies and provide a new breed of staffing solution through S&amp;You.
 Mark said: &ldquo;After a period of transition, launching the new brand and a stand-alone team under S&amp;You which is focused on the recruitment of high level talent within the UK technology sector, we are absolutely delighted to have now found a permanent home here in Brighton.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re working with a vast network of talent to enrich the way in which fast moving technology like AI and automation is delivered, into an extensive client portfolio working across a wide variety of industries. A vibrant city with transport links to the UK capital, Brighton is the ideal place for us to work from as we look to achieving more of the same in future.&rdquo;
Originally established by Synergie, S&amp;You has successfully delivered services for over 10 years in 23 countries from Canada to France, and was launched in the UK in May 2023 alongside Acorn by Synergie&rsquo;s already successful executive recruiters as a specialist team of dedicated consultants sourcing exceptional talent for businesses looking for high-level employees on a permanent, temporary, contract and statement to work basis.
 It now takes care of Specialist and Executive Recruitment services aimed at clients operating in accountancy and finance, technology, legal, international and other premium sectors, by gaining an in-depth understanding of the cultural and hiring needs of a wide range of businesses looking for strong applicants at the top of their game professionally.
Bernard Ward, Managing Director at S&amp;You&rsquo;s parent company Acorn by Synergie said: &ldquo;We are absolutely thrilled to see S&amp;You making its way in the UK as a stand-alone brand and rapidly gaining its own reputation as a &lsquo;go to&rsquo; source of high calibre talent across a wide range of industries, and are really excited to be a part of such an established brand globally speaking too.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Leading this transformation is our expert technology division, which claims a wealth of industry experience that continues to prove its worth in sourcing the elite level skills required to support the ongoing transformation of an industry which continues to advance at unprecedented levels.&rdquo;
 For more information on roles and services available through S&amp;You visit www.sandyou.co.uk/specialisms/technology/

S&You Technology expands into the South East

<h5>Blue Monday, often considered the most depressing day of the year, can be particularly challenging for those who are unhappy in their current jobs or struggling to find employment.</h5>
However, instead of succumbing to the gloom, let's turn this day into an opportunity to take charge of your career and find your dream job. In this blog post, we will share some valuable tips to help you navigate Blue Monday and kick-start your journey towards a fulfilling career.
&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.sourceflow.co.uk/yun8mvutcyfmcamoo64u7z9a1bby" alt="" width="1552" height="900">
<h3>Reflect on your passions and skills</h3>
Take some time to reflect on what truly excites you and the skills you possess. Identifying your passions and strengths can help you find a job that aligns with your interests and allows you to thrive. Consider what aspects of your current or previous roles you enjoyed most and what you would like to avoid in future positions.
&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.sourceflow.co.uk/6zbjr0bmfgms11taae0fxjbfq01n" alt="" width="1552" height="900">
<h3>Set clear goals</h3>
Define your career goals and aspirations. Establish short-term and long-term objectives that align with your passions and skills. This will provide you with a clear direction and help you focus your job search efforts. Break down your goals into manageable steps, making the process less overwhelming.
&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.sourceflow.co.uk/g4bl6xv985eiy1akjxgvyb3u0wld" alt="" width="1552" height="900">
<h3>Update your CV and online presence</h3>
Ensure that your resume is up to date and tailored to the type of job you are seeking. Highlight your key achievements and skills that are relevant to the desired role. Additionally, review your online presence, including your LinkedIn profile and other professional platforms. Make sure they reflect your current skills and experiences and engage with relevant communities to expand your network.
&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.sourceflow.co.uk/jl1aoynelo55pqtttguvsrjlprqj" alt="" width="1552" height="900">
<h3>Expand your network</h3>
Networking is a crucial aspect of finding job opportunities. Reach out to industry professionals, attend virtual networking events, and join relevant online communities. Engaging with like-minded individuals can provide you with valuable insights, connections, and potential job leads. Don't be afraid to ask for informational interviews or advice from those who inspire you.
&nbsp;
<h3>Enhance your skills</h3>
Upskilling or learning new skills can significantly boost your employability. Identify areas where you can improve and invest time in developing those skills. Online courses, webinars, or workshops are great resources to acquire new knowledge. Demonstrating a commitment to personal growth will make you stand out to potential employers.
&nbsp;
<h3>Tailor your job search strategy</h3>
Rather than sending out generic resumes and cover letters, customize your application materials for each job you apply to. Research the company and position, and highlight how your skills and experiences align with their needs. This personalized approach demonstrates genuine interest and increases your chances of landing an interview.
&nbsp;
<h3><img src="https://cdn.sourceflow.co.uk/njxwuzxxxz3unk3uim94uibjurpq" alt="" width="1552" height="900"></h3>
<h3>Stay positive and motivated</h3>
Job hunting can be challenging, and it's easy to become disheartened, especially on Blue Monday. Remember to stay positive and motivated throughout the process. Surround yourself with a support system that uplifts you and keeps you focused on your goals. Celebrate small victories and maintain a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout.
&nbsp;
<h3>Summary</h3>
While Blue Monday may bring a sense of gloom, it can also serve as a catalyst for positive change in your career. By reflecting on your passions, setting clear goals, expanding your network, enhancing your skills, and customising your job search strategy, you can overcome the challenges and find your dream job. Stay persistent, stay positive, and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.
&nbsp;

Top Tips for Finding Your Dream Job on Blue Monday

<h5>Blue Monday, often referred to as the most depressing day of the year falls on January 15th. This day is said to bring about a combination of post-holiday blues, cold winter weather, and failed New Year's resolutions, leaving many feeling down and unmotivated.</h5>
However, it's essential to remember that happiness is within our control, and with the right mindset and self-care practices, we can overcome the gloom and start the year on a positive note. In this blog, we'll explore some tips to help you beat the blues and embrace a more optimistic outlook on Blue Monday.
&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.sourceflow.co.uk/fa3ot43ailslnee8ycy2j6e1gfl9" alt="Accept emotions" width="100%">
<h3>Acknowledge and accept your emotions</h3>
It's perfectly normal to feel a little blue during this time of the year. Recognise and accept your emotions rather than suppressing them. Allow yourself to feel what you're feeling without judgment. Remember, it's okay to have a bad day, but it doesn't define the entire year ahead.
&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.sourceflow.co.uk/4rmhq0gpb5vq7nj9a7p1dkzxa1ia" alt="Self-care" width="100%">
<h3>Focus on self-care</h3>
Engaging in self-care activities is crucial for maintaining emotional well-being. Dedicate time to doing things that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it's taking a warm bath, reading a book, going for a walk, or indulging in a hobby, prioritise activities that help you unwind and rejuvenate.
&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.sourceflow.co.uk/8623xnzjj9dety7f5w8knivkrxcu" alt="Connect with friends and family" width="100%">
<h3>Connect with loved ones</h3>
Social connections play a vital role in our happiness. Reach out to friends or family members who uplift your spirits. Plan a get-together or have a video call to catch up. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with loved ones can provide comfort and support, reminding you that you're not alone in your struggles.
&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.sourceflow.co.uk/372l0rxzigyqkuskbj8889frrzoc" alt="Set realistic goals" width="100%">
<h3>Set realistic goals</h3>
Instead of dwelling on failed New Year's resolutions, set small and achievable goals for yourself. This could be as simple as incorporating daily exercise, practising mindfulness, or learning a new skill. Achieving these smaller goals will boost your confidence and motivation, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.
&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.sourceflow.co.uk/2gog8ozr75jjef1epie5ezgs65dj" alt="Gratitude" width="100%">
<h3>Embrace the power of gratitude</h3>
Practising gratitude has a profound impact on our mental well-being. Take a moment each day to reflect on the things you are grateful for. Start a gratitude journal or simply make a mental note of three things that bring you joy. Cultivating gratitude shifts your focus from negativity to positivity, helping you appreciate the present moment.
&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.sourceflow.co.uk/2ssiwmkbk225aij12801vdujx17x" alt="Get moving" width="100%">
<h3>Get moving</h3>
Physical activity releases endorphins, known as "feel-good" hormones, which can uplift your mood. Engage in regular exercise, whether it's a workout at the gym, a yoga session, or a brisk walk outdoors. Find an activity you enjoy and make it a part of your routine to combat the winter blues.
&nbsp;
<h3>Summary</h3>
While Blue Monday may seem like a challenging day, remember that you have the power to shape your mood and outlook. By incorporating these tips into your routine, you can overcome the blues and set the stage for a positive year ahead. Embrace self-care, nurture social connections, set achievable goals, practice gratitude, and stay active. With these strategies in place, you'll be ready to face Blue Monday head-on and maintain a positive mindset throughout the year.
&nbsp;

Battling the Blues on Blue Monday

Everyone will agree that having to return to work after nine&nbsp;months or more is a daunting experience. In fact, as the weeks, even months, approach the end of your maternity leave, it generally feels like your time as a parent is over, and someone is going to turn up and take your baby away; I&rsquo;ve been back at work for months now, and no-one has arrived to take him yet!
Don't waste your last few months of maternity leave worrying about the inevitable. Here's a few tips to make your return to work as seamless as possible:
<ol>
<li>Use your 'keep in touch' days during your maternity leave Employers offer up to ten paid work days during your leave, which are a great way to stay in touch with colleagues and keep up-to-date with latest products and services your company has launched since you left. They're also a very useful reminder that you still have the ability to do your job. </li>
<li>HR support Meet with your Manager and HR Department to discuss your return dates. Remember you will have accrued holiday whilst you&rsquo;ve been off and this can be used to either extend your leave, or phase your return. </li>
<li>Plan ahead Whatever your childcare options are; family, friends, child-minder or nursery, do your research as early as possible, particularly if you're going for the latter options. So many people told me to book my nursery place before I'd even given birth but, of course that was the last thing on my mind. I am however, advising everyone to do the same. Nursery places are like gold dust - do your research early, decide which nursery you're most happy with, and book your place. </li>
<li>Settling in If you do choose a nursery or childminder as your childcare option, they'll offer you settling in sessions which are great for you and your baby to get used to their new surroundings. These sessions are for your benefit, so always ask for more if you feel you, or your baby need them. </li>
<li>Build your confidence Your employer will be very excited to have you back; you've still got the company knowledge you left with, but now you have a fresh pair of eyes (albeit a little tired). You now have to believe in yourself! Knowledge is key to developing your confidence,&nbsp;so spend some time reading the latest news on your employer's website, flicking through the industry magazines to see what people are talking about, and why not go for a coffee to catch up with your Manager. </li>
<li>Stop feeling guilty If you spend your time in work feeling guilty about your children, and spend your time at home worrying about what you need to do in work, absolutely no-one will benefit, and least of all you. Set your work / life balance and try to stick to it as much as you can.</li>
</ol>
Enjoy this new chapter and good luck from everyone at Acorn.

Returning to work after maternity leave?

Acorn by Synergie, one of the UK&rsquo;s leading recruitment firms, has appointed Harry Lambert as its Divisional Manager for Trades and Labour in the South West.
 An experienced Construction Recruitment Consultant, Harry is well placed to provide skilled and reliable personnel in an honest and professional manner within the Built Environment.
Previously an Associate with Kingston Barnes, Harry has spent the best part of a decade developing key relationships within the recruitment sector regionally, having also worked with Daniel Owen Ltd and Setsquare Recruitment previously too.
Now he will draw on the multiple working partnerships he has fostered within that time to spearhead Acorn by Synergie&rsquo;s Labour and Trades activity across Bristol and the wider South West region.
On his appointment, Harry said: &ldquo;I&rsquo;m absolutely thrilled to be joining Acorn by Synergie and in doing so, progressing on to the next stage of my career. Since I was given a first-class introduction at our Newport headquarters, I&rsquo;ve been doing what I love best, which is being out and about, supporting our candidates in person and generally being present to our client&rsquo;s needs.&rdquo;
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m really excited to see what my future with the company brings, but in the short term I&rsquo;m just keen to get the ball rolling and the word out that the Acorn by Synergie team is here to support businesses across the South-West with all their on site needs.&rdquo;
Acorn by Synergie is a multi-specialist recruitment agency that has been named top recruiter in Wales and ranks in the top 1% of all recruitment firms in the UK.
Bernard Ward, Managing Director at Acorn by Synergie, said: &ldquo;We are over the moon to have welcomed Harry to our team at Acorn by Synergie, and I can&rsquo;t wait to see him put the extensive experience he brings with him into action for the sake of our loyal clients in the South West.
&ldquo;Given the depth of knowledge and the relationships Harry has built up working with firms of all sizes across the region over a number of years, we&rsquo;re excited to see how he will lead the Trades and Labour division and help the wider business continue to go from strength to strength in the process.&rdquo;
Acorn by Synergie has received multiple awards for its outstanding services. It's been recognised as the Best UK Recruitment Firm, and more recently won Wales Business Award for Wellbeing at Work. Since its establishment in Newport, South Wales, in 1992, Acorn by Synergie has successfully placed approximately 2.7 million individuals into jobs.

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