St Albans City and District Council’s Strategy and Resources Committee voted to back the choice of two unitary authorities as its preferred model for the future of local government in Hertfordshire. This follows central government plans to replace the current two‑tier system of district and county councils.

Detailed modelling of three different options has been done over the last six months – for a two-unitary council model for Hertfordshire, a three-unitary model, and a four- unitary model, considering factors such as financial stability, local service provision, and local identity. Hertfordshire councils have all now expressed their preferences, ahead of a decision by central government in 2026. The Hertfordshire submission was sent to government on 28 November and includes detailed proposals for each of the three models.

This masterclass guides businesses in setting up
effective market research programmes to inform
strategic decisions and drive market growth.

What you’ll learn:

• How to set up an effective programme of market entry research
• The benefits of market research and how to carry out strategic desk-based research
• Where to find business and consumer intelligence online

Date: 10 December 2025
Time: 13:00 – 14:00
Location: Online

Key Speaker: Kerry Stagg, International Research Advisory Manager, Department for Business and Trade.

Hertfordshire Growth Hub is hosting a 60-minute live webinar to explore the steps employers and business owners can take to prepare for the phased implementation of The UK Employment Rights Bill.

The webinar will cover:

• Background to the Bill and timescales for phased implementation
• Earlier rights for unfair dismissal, flexible working, SSP and paternity leave
• Zero-hours and agency work protections
• Sick pay reforms and removal of earnings thresholds
• Probation and dismissal rules
• Harassment and whistleblowing protections
• Redundancy consultation changes
• Enforcement by the new Fair Work Agency

Date: 12 December 2025
Time: 10:00 – 11:00
Location: Online, via Zoom

Create Growth is a national programme, led by the
Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in
partnership with Innovate UK.

Hertfordshire Futures secured this programme to support creative sector SMEs with high growth potential. Offering business support, including assistance for those looking to access grant funding and investment, the programme has successfully supported over 84 businesses since the programme opened in April 2024.

Want to get involved? Don’t miss your chance to join the Create Growth Programme - last few spaces remaining for the final cohort in January 2026.

Registration for Hertfordshire County Council’s FREE,
accredited Herts Healthy Workplace Programme for
2026 is now open and spaces are limited.

The programme helps SMEs create healthier, happier
workplaces through:

• Trained Health Champions
• Tailored wellbeing action plans
• Access to expert resources

Proven impact:

• 96% of employers say it supports staff wellbeing
• 93% of employees report improved mental wellbeing, diet, and workplace culture

Developed by Innovate UK Business Connect, this free,
UK-wide platform helps public sector organisations
discover and connect with innovative UK SMEs
delivering Net Zero solutions across energy, transport, circular economy, built environment, and more.

Why use the Directory?

• Easily search by region and sector
• Access a growing pool of vetted Net Zero suppliers
• Request direct introductions through our team
• Accelerate your sustainability and procurement goals
• Reduce risk and save time with pre-screened listings

SMEs from across the region are still be invited to sign up and be a part of this growing network.

Step2Skills adult community learning and employment
support service provides opportunities for adults in
Hertfordshire to get involved in learning and
employment. Courses are low cost, with taster sessions
starting from £5.

Upcoming workshops are listed below:

• Grow Your Mind: Wednesday 10 December
• Motivation and Time Management: Wednesday 10 December
• Staying Safe Online: Thursday 11 December
• Protecting Children Online: Thursday 11 December
• Public Speaking and Presentation Skills: Thursday 18 December

St Albans District Chamber of Commerce will host an
exclusive business breakfast at Co-Space, featuring an insightful discussion with the Leader, Cllr Paul De Kort,
and Chief Executive, Amanda Foley, of St Albans City
and District Council. This is your opportunity to gain an
understanding of the council’s key priorities and ongoing
initiatives as well as how they aim to support the growth and success of local businesses.

In this interactive session, you’ll hear about future plans for infrastructure, business development, and local policies that could directly impact your operations. Whether you’re a small business owner or part of a larger organisation, this event is designed to help you stay informed and engaged with the decisions shaping the future of our local business community.

Date: Tuesday 20 January
Time: 07:15 – 09:00
Location: Co-Space, Victoria Street, St Albans
Tickets: Members: £27.00 + VAT. Non-Members: £37.00 + VAT

Connect to Work is thrilled to launch a new Supported
Employment programme delivered by Step2Skills,
designed to help Hertfordshire residents aged 18+ who are:

• Living with a disability or health condition
• Facing complex barriers to employment
• In work but struggling to stay or progress

Through one-to-one support from their experienced Employment Advisors, they can help participants:

• Build confidence and skills
• Explore job opportunities that match your strengths
• Get placed and trained in a role — fast
• Receive ongoing support once you're in work

Oaklands College is excited to launch Foundation Apprenticeships, a new route for young people to gain real workplace experience while earning and learning. Over eight months, apprentices build confidence, develop technical and employability skills, and improve their English and maths, supported by both employers and college tutors.

These programmes offer a valuable stepping stone into full-time employment or progression onto Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeships. Employers also benefit from developing new talent, with funding available for eligible apprentices in staged instalments, potential local funding, and fully funded maths and English upskilling.

Their first programme focuses on General Engineering and Manufacturing Operations, giving learners hands-on experience in production, maintenance, fabrication, and assembly, ideal preparation for careers in automotive, aerospace, energy, and more.

If your organisation is interested in supporting emerging talent through Foundation Apprenticeships, please complete the training form at the link below.