Getting back to ‘normal’ post-COVID

By David Lynes, CEO & Founder of Unique IQ

This month has been all about getting back out there again.

I have just taken part in a round-table discussion about our region’s vibrant tech landscape, hosted by Business & Innovation Magazine. In a lively debate, we talked about how companies are developing key technologies, some of the obstacles they face and how these can be overcome, and what more can be done to develop the skills the region’s technology sector needs.

Meeting people in person

Earlier in October, I spent two days at Birmingham’s NEC complex attending both the Care Show and the Leaders in Care Awards. It was great to be out amongst people again – meeting each other, sharing stories and celebrating together.

Each of these events proved that there really is no substitute for in-person events if you want to be inspired, share knowledge and expand your network.

To our clients who came to see us at the Care Show – thank you. There were many of you we had never met in person before and it was nice to see you outside of Zoom. We were touched by the number of people who wanted to come up and say hello, rekindling the personal connections that we have collectively missed over the last 18 months.

It felt comfortable to be in such a bustling atmosphere again, almost like a return to the pre-COVID era. Many of our caring partners remarked how nice it was to be able to move around without wearing a mask, thanks to the precautions taken by the organisers of these large-scale events.

And yet there was a slight sense of trepidation and unease, with many care providers acknowledging the challenges that are still to come through the winter months. We keep hearing from our clients about the staffing crisis and the increasing difficulties with covering visits. There’s a general feeling that we’re heading into a tough winter. I hope that together we can weather the storm.

Celebrating award nominations

For now, though, there is cause for celebration. My social calendar is the busiest it has been for some time this November, as we are privileged to have made the shortlist of a number of awards here at Unique IQ.

In the Midlands where we’re based, we have been shortlisted for ‘Scale-up Business of the Year’ at the West Midlands Tech Awards, which recognises businesses that are using digital innovation to drive positive change for the regional economy and its people. While at the North Worcestershire Business Awards, we are down to the final three in two categories; Heart of Business Transformation and Heart of the People Award – which is recognition for our wellbeing champion who has supported colleagues consistently with consideration and care through this difficult time. This year, the North Worcestershire Business Awards are all about recognising the individual or the team who have ‘gone the extra mile’ or ‘made a real difference’ at the heart of business.

Then for our work with home care providers, we have been nominated for ‘Best Management Technology’ at the Care Sector Supplier Awards for the second year running – we actually won this one last year!

The team and I are looking forward to attending some in-person ceremonies at last, and getting to spend time with new and old friends alike, and the other very worthy nominees. Good luck everyone!

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