Events by Andrew Sims Centre

The University of Suffolk is proud to host the upcoming Business, Arts and Technology Taster Day, a landmark experiential forum designed to bridge the gap between secondary education, higher academia, and fast-evolving industry practices. Situated in the heart of Ipswich along the vibrant Waterfront campus, this event offers an immersive, interactive environment where prospective students, educators, and young professionals can explore cutting-edge academic disciplines and prospective career pathways. As industries increasingly demand multidisciplinary skill sets combining strategic management, creative design, and advanced computing, this comprehensive taster day serves as a essential launchpad for future innovators and leaders. Fostering Innovation and Multidisciplinary Learning During this full-day event, attendees will participate in hands-on academic workshops delivered by world-class university faculty and industry experts. The event schedule is structured to offer deep dives into core subjects, including Business Management, Digital Arts, Software Development, Cyber Security, and Creative Enterprise. Participants will get direct experience using university facilities, from state-of-the-art computing laboratories to collaborative design studios, allowing them to visualize real-world academic and professional workflows. Interactive Workshops and Expert Panels A key component of the event is its series of practical academic taster sessions. Attendees will engage with current real-world challenges through collaborative group projects, interactive business simulations, and live technology demonstrations. Furthermore, a dedicated panel session featuring current University of Suffolk undergraduates, postgraduate researchers, and local industry leaders will provide candid insights into university life, career prospects, and emerging technological trends in East Anglia and the broader UK economy. Networking and Campus Experience Beyond classroom engagement, the Business, Arts and Technology Taster Day provides an invaluable networking environment. Attendees can connect directly with academic tutors, career advisors, and student support staff to discuss program structures, admission pathways, placement opportunities, and student welfare services. Guided campus tours will showcase the university’s modern infrastructure, including the iconic Waterfront Building, specialized study hubs, and vibrant student social spaces. Comprehensive Guidance for Future Pathways Whether you are a Level 3 student evaluating higher education options, a parent supporting a prospective applicant, or an educator seeking enrichment opportunities for your school cohort, this event offers structured guidance tailored to your goals. Advisors will be on-site throughout the day to provide step-by-step assistance with UCAS applications, portfolio development for arts programs, and financing higher education. Join us in Ipswich for an inspiring day dedicated to unlocking future academic and professional success!

The Devon Business Show 2026 is a major business exhibition designed to bring together companies, entrepreneurs, professionals, suppliers, innovators and organisations from across Devon and the wider South West business community. Organised by Devon Chamber of Commerce, which incorporates the historic Plymouth Chamber of Commerce and Exeter Chamber, the event provides a central platform for businesses to connect, collaborate and explore new opportunities. Taking place at the Plymouth Life Centre on 14 October 2026, the event is positioned as a key date in the regional business calendar. It offers businesses an opportunity to showcase their products and services, meet potential customers, develop partnerships and build relationships with other organisations. The event is particularly relevant to companies seeking to expand their professional network and increase visibility within the Devon business ecosystem. The Devon Chamber of Commerce has a long-standing role in supporting businesses throughout the county. Its work focuses on collaboration, advocacy, networking, business growth and the development of a stronger regional business community. The Devon Business Show reflects these priorities by creating an environment where businesses of different sizes and sectors can meet under one roof. A Major Business Exhibition for Devon and the South West The Devon Business Show is designed to serve as a broad-based business exhibition rather than a narrowly focused industry conference. This makes it relevant to organisations operating across a wide range of sectors. From established companies and professional service providers to ambitious start-ups and growing SMEs, the event provides opportunities for organisations to present themselves to a broad business audience. The show is built around the principle that strong business relationships can create new opportunities. Visitors can meet exhibitors, learn about products and services, explore potential suppliers and identify possible collaboration opportunities. Exhibitors, meanwhile, can use the event to raise brand awareness and establish direct contact with prospective clients and partners. The 2026 edition returns to Plymouth Life Centre, a large and accessible venue capable of accommodating a broad business audience. The venue is located at 40 Mayflower Drive, Plymouth, Devon, PL2 3DG. Networking Opportunities Designed to Create Valuable Business Connections One of the most important features of the Devon Business Show is its focus on networking. Business events can provide a valuable environment for conversations that may not happen through traditional digital channels. Face-to-face interaction enables attendees to introduce their organisations, discuss challenges and identify areas of mutual interest. Visitors may use the event to meet potential clients, suppliers, professional advisers and strategic partners. For smaller businesses, this can be especially valuable because a single meaningful connection can lead to a new contract, referral, partnership or business opportunity. Networking at a large regional event also enables attendees to gain a broader understanding of the local business landscape. Professionals can discover companies they may not previously have encountered and learn how organisations across different industries contribute to Devon's economy. A Platform for Exhibitors to Promote Their Businesses For exhibitors, the Devon Business Show offers an opportunity to place their organisation directly in front of a relevant business audience. A physical exhibition stand can help businesses demonstrate their services, introduce their teams and start conversations with potential customers. The event's exhibitor opportunities include different stand formats and partnership options. The official event information provides options for businesses seeking standard exhibition space as well as organisations interested in higher-profile partnership opportunities. This makes the event suitable for businesses with different marketing budgets and visibility objectives. Exhibiting can be particularly beneficial for businesses that rely on relationship-driven sales. Professional services companies, technology providers, recruitment businesses, training organisations, financial firms, manufacturers and suppliers can all benefit from direct interaction with decision-makers and other professionals. Supporting Business Growth Through Collaboration The Devon Business Show is more than a traditional exhibition. It provides an environment where collaboration can become a practical part of business development. Many organisations attend business shows not only to sell but also to find suppliers, explore partnerships and understand emerging opportunities. A company looking for a new service provider may find an appropriate supplier at the show. A start-up may meet a professional adviser who can provide useful guidance. An established organisation may discover a new technology provider or potential strategic partner. These interactions can create value beyond the event itself. The event is also relevant to businesses that want to strengthen their presence within the regional economy. By meeting other organisations in person, companies can become more visible and build stronger relationships across the Devon business community. Business Insights, Idea-Sharing and Professional Development Although the event is primarily a business exhibition and networking opportunity, the wider Devon Business Show programme has also featured opportunities for business insights and live conversations. Previous editions have incorporated business discussions and “In Conversation With” content, helping attendees engage with ideas, experiences and perspectives from the business community. This combination of exhibition activity and knowledge-sharing can make the event valuable for professionals who want more than simple promotional interaction. Attendees can use the day to understand business trends, hear different perspectives and consider how other organisations are responding to changing market conditions. For entrepreneurs and business leaders, these conversations can provide inspiration and practical ideas. Learning from other companies can help attendees identify new approaches to marketing, customer engagement, technology, recruitment, sustainability and growth. Why Entrepreneurs and Start-Ups Should Attend Entrepreneurs and start-ups can benefit significantly from attending the Devon Business Show 2026. New businesses often need to build awareness quickly and establish a network of customers, suppliers, mentors and professional advisers. A regional business exhibition can provide a concentrated opportunity to meet multiple organisations in one day. Start-ups can introduce their business, test their messaging and gain feedback from professionals. They can also discover resources that may help them develop their operations. For entrepreneurs, the event can be a valuable opportunity to move beyond online networking and develop genuine professional relationships. Direct conversations can help build trust and create opportunities for future collaboration. Opportunities for SMEs and Established Businesses Small and medium-sized enterprises represent an important part of regional business communities. The Devon Business Show provides SMEs with a platform to increase visibility and meet other organisations that may support their growth. Established companies can also benefit from the event. Larger organisations may use the show to identify suppliers, connect with smaller innovative businesses and strengthen their local presence. The broad range of participating organisations creates the possibility of connections between businesses at different stages of development. The event can also support companies seeking to enter new markets within Devon or the wider South West. A business based in one part of the region may find opportunities to build relationships in another part of the county. A Business Event with Strong Regional Relevance The Devon Chamber of Commerce supports businesses across Devon, including Plymouth, Exeter, Torbay and other areas of the county. Its events programme is designed to connect businesses across different locations and sectors. The Devon Business Show provides a large-scale platform for this wider business community. Plymouth is a particularly appropriate location for the event because of its strong commercial, maritime, educational, technological and entrepreneurial communities. Hosting the show at Plymouth Life Centre provides a central venue for businesses and visitors to come together. The regional focus also makes the event useful for companies that want to understand local opportunities. Businesses can meet organisations operating in different industries and gain a broader view of the commercial environment across Devon. What Visitors Can Expect at the Event Visitors to the Devon Business Show 2026 can expect a full day focused on business connections, exhibitions and opportunities. The event is scheduled to open to the public from 10:00 to 15:00, giving attendees several hours to explore exhibition stands and engage with participating businesses. The experience can be tailored according to individual business objectives. Some attendees may focus on finding suppliers, while others may prioritise customer acquisition or professional networking. Business leaders may attend to explore partnerships, while entrepreneurs may use the event to promote their organisations and learn from other companies. The event is free to attend, making it accessible to a broad audience of professionals and businesses. Free admission can be especially valuable for start-ups, small businesses and professionals who want to explore new networking opportunities without a significant attendance cost. Preparing for a Successful Visit Attendees can maximise the value of the event by preparing before arriving. Businesses should consider what they want to achieve and identify the types of people or organisations they would like to meet. A clear introduction can help make networking conversations more effective. Visitors should also have updated contact information and relevant business materials available. For exhibitors, preparation should include clear messaging, an engaging stand presence and a plan for following up with contacts after the show. The most valuable results from a business exhibition often occur after the event. Following up promptly with relevant contacts can help turn an initial conversation into a longer-term professional relationship. Key Reasons to Attend Devon Business Show 2026 The event offers several practical benefits for the business community: Meet potential customers and commercial partners. Discover new suppliers and business services. Promote products, services and company expertise. Build relationships with entrepreneurs and professionals. Gain business insights and explore regional opportunities. Supporting a More Connected Devon Business Community Events such as the Devon Business Show help strengthen the connections between organisations across a region. Business growth is often supported by collaboration, referrals, knowledge-sharing and access to the right professional networks. By bringing businesses together in one location, the event creates opportunities for conversations that can continue long after the exhibition has ended. A visitor may discover a new supplier, an exhibitor may meet a prospective customer, and two organisations may identify a partnership opportunity. This approach aligns with the wider role of Devon Chamber of Commerce in helping businesses collaborate and grow. The organisation's events programme includes networking, conversations, business development opportunities and initiatives designed to support businesses across Devon. Devon Business Show 2026 is an upcoming business exhibition that offers a valuable opportunity for entrepreneurs, companies, professionals, start-ups and organisations to connect with the wider Devon business community. Taking place on 14 October 2026 at Plymouth Life Centre, the event combines business networking, exhibition opportunities, partnership development and knowledge-sharing in one regional platform. With free public admission, a broad business focus and the backing of Devon Chamber of Commerce, the event is designed to support meaningful connections across sectors. Whether attendees are searching for new customers, exploring suppliers, promoting their organisation or looking for potential partnerships, the Devon Business Show provides an environment built around business growth and collaboration. For companies looking to increase their visibility and connect with businesses across Plymouth, Devon and the wider South West, the Devon Business Show 2026 represents an important opportunity to participate in one of the region's leading business events.

The "Section 12 Induction" is a cornerstone of the Andrew Sims Centre’s educational calendar, providing the foundational training required for doctors seeking their first approval under the Mental Health Act. This two-day course is essential for psychiatrists and other eligible medical practitioners who wish to gain the authority to provide medical recommendations for the detention of patients. The curriculum is designed to be comprehensive and immersive. Day one focuses on the legal framework, defining the specific criteria for Sections 2, 3, and 4 of the Act. Day two moves into the practicalities of the role, including the nuances of the "nearest relative," the importance of the AMHP (Approved Mental Health Professional) partnership, and the human rights implications of depriving someone of their liberty. Through a series of lectures, mock assessments, and small-group discussions, participants will learn how to navigate the complex social and legal landscape of mental health crises. Attending both days is a strict requirement for receiving the certificate of completion, which is recognized by all four approval panels in England. This course provides 12 CPD points and remains one of the most respected inductions in the UK.

Adult ADHD has seen a significant rise in diagnostic rates and public awareness, yet clinical services often struggle to keep pace with demand. This one-day course, "ADHD in Adulthood," provides an up-to-date, clinically relevant overview of the disorder, focusing on the unique challenges presented by adult populations. The Andrew Sims Centre has curated this session to bridge the gap between childhood neurodevelopmental understanding and adult psychiatric practice. The morning sessions focus on the neurobiology of ADHD and the diagnostic process, including the use of validated screening tools and the importance of developmental history. The afternoon shifts toward management, covering both pharmacological treatments and non-pharmacological interventions such as CBT and coaching. A significant portion of the day is dedicated to comorbidities—addressing how ADHD frequently masks or co-exists with anxiety, depression, and substance misuse. Attendees will leave with a clear diagnostic framework and a modernized approach to treatment that emphasizes functional outcomes for patients. This course is an essential update for any clinician working in adult mental health, offering a space to discuss the complexities of high-functioning adults and late-life diagnoses.

Ensuring that mental health professionals remain current with the shifting landscape of legislation is the primary goal of the "Section 12 Refresher Course." This intensive one-day session is specifically designed for doctors who are already Section 12 approved and need to renew their status. Under the Andrew Sims Centre’s expert guidance, participants will review the latest legal updates, recent case law, and changes to the Mental Health Act Code of Practice that have occurred since their last induction or refresher. The course moves beyond mere theory, focusing on the practical application of Section 12 powers in crisis situations. Special attention is given to the quality of medical recommendations and the importance of clear, legally defensible documentation. Facilitators will lead discussions on the interface between the Mental Health Act and the Mental Capacity Act, as well as the nuances of assessing patients from diverse cultural backgrounds. As one of the premier providers of Mental Health Law training in the UK, the Andrew Sims Centre ensures that this refresher is both academically rigorous and clinically relevant, providing doctors with the 6 CPD points necessary for their re-approval application.

The Andrew Sims Centre is proud to present the "Approved Clinician Induction," a high-stakes two-day training event designed for senior mental health professionals seeking statutory approval. This course is specifically accredited by the North of England Approval Panel (NEAP) and serves as a mandatory component for practitioners wishing to take on the role of an Approved Clinician (AC) under the Mental Health Act. Over the course of two days, delegates will be immersed in the legalities, ethical dilemmas, and clinical responsibilities inherent in the AC role. The training is delivered by a multi-professional team of legal experts and experienced clinicians, ensuring a balanced perspective between "the letter of the law" and "clinical reality." Topics include the criteria for detention, the role of the Responsible Clinician, and navigating Mental Health Tribunals. The Andrew Sims Centre has a long-standing reputation for excellence in Mental Health Law training, and this induction is curated to ensure that every participant leaves with the confidence and competence required to fulfill these significant statutory duties. Success in this course provides 12 CPD points and is a recognized proof of completion for approval panels across England.

This comprehensive full-day seminar, titled "Potential Severe Adverse Effects of Psychotropic Medication (Part Two)," is a flagship offering from the Andrew Sims Centre’s clinical update series. While the primary benefits of psychotropic interventions in mental health are well-documented, this session dives deep into the "shadow side" of pharmacology. The curriculum focuses on identifying, managing, and mitigating long-term or permanent serious adverse effects that can significantly impact patient quality of life. The course is structured to provide clinicians with the latest evidence-based research regarding metabolic syndromes, tardive dyskinesia, and rare but life-threatening reactions like Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome. Attendees will engage in interactive case study reviews, allowing them to apply diagnostic criteria to real-world scenarios. The session also covers the ethical implications of prescribing, emphasizing the importance of informed consent and the ongoing monitoring of patients on long-term medication regimens. By the end of the day, delegates will have a robust framework for assessing risk-benefit ratios in complex psychiatric cases. This event is vital for those looking to enhance patient safety and clinical excellence within their practice.