Story Highlight
– Immerse Safety founded in 2024 by Carly Hughes.
– All-female team moved into new office last Monday.
– Celebrating second birthday and first physical office.
– Tripled turnover and supports major infrastructure projects.
– Won multiple awards, including Startup of the Year.
Full Story
Carly Hughes established Immerse Safety, a Gorleston-based health and safety consultancy, in March 2024. The firm has rapidly transformed from a home-run business into a fully operational team of three professionals within just under two years.
On the occasion of their second anniversary, the all-female staff, comprising Hughes alongside Georgia Harvey and Beth Hamilton, has recently taken a significant step by moving into a dedicated office space located at the Beacon Innovation Centre in Beacon Park. This milestone was marked last Monday and signals an important phase of growth for the business.
Carly Hughes expressed her enthusiasm about the new office environment, stating, “It’s exciting to celebrate the business’ second birthday and to move into our first physical office.” She reflected on the transition from operating out of her home office to now collaborating in a dedicated workspace with her team, emphasising the incredible nature of this development. Previously, Immerse Safety had functioned as a virtual tenant within the Beacon Innovation Centre before transitioning to a space that offers them a more permanent presence.
The past year has been particularly fruitful for Immerse Safety, which has seen its turnover increase more than threefold. This remarkable financial growth is attributed to the firm’s expanding role in significant infrastructure projects, particularly those in the renewable energy sector. Notable partnerships include providing health and safety consultancy services for major initiatives, such as the Sizewell C nuclear power station and the Hornsea 3 offshore wind farm.
In addition to its impressive financial growth and new operational base, Immerse Safety has also garnered recognition through various awards. The consultancy was honoured with the title of Construction & Building Services StartUp of the Year at the prestigious UK Start Up Awards. Moreover, they received the One to Watch accolade at the EEEGR Awards, highlighting their potential and impact within the industry.
The decision to establish a physical office addresses both the practical needs of a growing business and the collaborative spirit within the team. The office environment encourages synergy among the team members, fostering an atmosphere that is conducive to productivity and creativity. Hughes remarked on how essential this new setting will be for the team’s continued development and operational capabilities.
Georgia Harvey, one of the other team members, reflected on the progress made since the firm’s inception, noting how working from a home office presented its own set of challenges, which the team has successfully navigated. She expressed excitement about the new opportunities that a dedicated office will create for the business, which is strategically positioned to respond to the increasing demand for safety consultancy in the energy sector.
Beth Hamilton, the third member of the Immerse Safety team, added that being in the Beacon Innovation Centre provides not only a physical workspace but also enhances their visibility within the industry. She highlighted how the centre hosts various companies and startups, creating a vibrant ecosystem of innovation and collaboration that could further benefit their consultancy services.
The consulting landscape, particularly for health and safety, continues to evolve, particularly as many sectors, including construction and renewable energy, strive to uphold the highest standards of safety amid rising public awareness and regulatory expectations. Immerse Safety’s proactive approach includes staying informed about changing regulations and best practices, ensuring their clients receive the most current and relevant advice.
The achievements of Immerse Safety exemplify the growing momentum of female-led businesses in the UK, showcasing how women entrepreneurs like Hughes are making significant strides in traditionally male-dominated sectors, such as construction and energy. The firm’s awards serve as a testament to their dedication, hard work, and the quality of service they provide.
As they look to the future, the team at Immerse Safety is focused on continuing their expansion and deepening their engagement with major projects in the pipeline. The decision to secure an office space is not just a logistical move; it signifies their commitment to fostering a collaborative work culture that is poised to drive future successes.
In summary, Immerse Safety’s journey from a home-based startup to an innovative consultancy within just two years demonstrates the potential for growth and success in the industry, driven by a dynamic team committed to excellence in health and safety practices.
Our Thoughts
No relevant safety issues, breaches of legislation, or lessons to be learned from the article.
