Archives for July 2020

The GGF is pleased to announce the appointment of James MacPherson as Health, Safety and Environment Manager.

With a diverse and extensive background in the management of Health, Safety and Environment, James is a graduate member of IOSH (Institution of Occupation Safety and Health). During his 8 plus years’ experience in varying industries including manufacturing, distribution, healthcare and housing, James has gained a fresh perspective on safety, focused on delivering value for the people and the business.

James’ considerable experience extends to high risk fire management, explosive atmospheres, workplace transport, as well as being an accredited trainer. His wealth of skills and education will undoubtedly benefit the diversity of the GGF Memberships and prove instrumental in the GGF’s operations.

A recent recruit of the IOSH Future Leaders Steering Committee and hosting his Health, Safety and Wellbeing podcast and YouTube Channel, “Rebranding Safety”, one of the first UK Health and Safety podcasts with the main aim to communicate guidance in a simple and entertaining way and to challenge the perception of Health and Safety. The podcast has grown fast over the last two years featuring interviews with some of the biggest leaders in the various industries.

On the new appointment, John Agnew, GGF Managing Director commented, “With his experienced varied background and skill set, I believe James drive the development of the Health, Safety and Environmental guidance we offer our Members. I am delighted that James has joined the Federation and I am sure he will bring a huge amount to this very important role within the GGF.”

James’ remit will include working on consolidating the expertise within the GGF Health and Safety Committee, growing the subscription to GLASS Charter, developing the GGF’s library of Health and Safety publications and working in partnership with HSE (Health and Safety Executive) on industry issues.  

On his new position, James commented “I am really excited to be starting at GGF. Initially, we have some immediate challenges and I look forward to working with our internal teams and our members to get us all back to work in the “new normal. Going forward, I am eager to build strong relationships to help make Health, Safety and Environment key areas of the GGF’s operations and activities.” 

Baroness Maddock, who died on June 26th, was a strong advocate for social equality and energy-efficient homes and had been President of the National Home Improvement Council since January 2015.

She originally stood as Vice President for the Council since the mid-90s working alongside then-President Lord Ezra of Horsham and during her time continued to champion initiatives to reduce fuel poverty and improve the nation’s homes.

In her final communication with the Council, Diana expressed her enjoyment at the time she spent with members over the years and commended the brilliant way the Council serves its members and the wider home improvement industry.

Chief Executive Anna Scothern said: “We were greatly saddened to hear that Diana has lost her hard-fought battle and I have been overwhelmed by the response from members, as they have reflected on their memories of Diana and the excellent works she did for the sector.

“An impressive Lady who certainly left her mark in so many ways.

“Diana was a real champion for the NHIC and will be greatly missed.

“Diana was a gracious and tenacious, both in her role as President of the NHIC and also as a public servant.

“The work of the NHIC was enriched by Baroness Maddock, her contribution and enthusiasm, something I am sure will be built upon further as a fitting legacy to her memory and motivation to those who follow.”

James Lee, GGF Director of External Affairs said, “Baroness Maddock was a great champion of the home improvement industry and her contribution to the sector and the NHIC will never be forgotten. All at the GGF who were privileged to have met her, are saddened to hear this news. Thoughts and sympathies are with her family at this time.”

A former teacher, Baroness Maddock was elected to Southampton City Council 1984 and became the leader of the Liberal Group.

Anna Scothern paid tribute to Baroness Maddock as an ‘inspiration’, ‘role model’ and “friend”.

Following the death of the incumbent Conservative MP Robert Adley, she successfully contested the seat of Christchurch in Dorset at the by-election in 1993.

During her time in the House of Commons, she drove through a private member’s Bill which became the Home Energy Conservation Act in 1995.  The law placed a duty on Councils to submit a report to the government on the measures required to improve home energy efficiency by 30% over a 10-15-year period.

She was passionate about social equality and effective government and regularly urged members of the Council to write to their MP’s to express formally how current regulations were not going far enough to reduce fuel poverty, support families, and protect the environment.

She is survived by her two daughters along with husband and fellow peer Lord Beith, formerly MP for Berwick upon Tweed for more than 40 years.