CAN x Always Another Way

Cyclife Aquila Nuclear has been working alongside Always Another Way in recent years. Always Another Way is a charity set up to improve mental wellbeing in West Cumbria, particularly in Copeland and Allerdale.

Their aim is to provide comprehensive and tailored mental wellbeing support through a range of services including coping strategies, connect groups, alternative therapies, colour coded (LGBTQ+) groups, mental wellbeing courses and personal therapy. All of these services are free and funded by donations and support from the wider community.

As part of our social value commitments, CAN has been supporting Always Another Way with general assistance, marketing advice and donations. Our marketing department has been working closely with the charity to support them with their social media and website presence, enhancing their profile and ensuring their messages are communicated clearly and consistently. In this way, we are helping them to raise awareness of the services they offer. It is truly wonderful to see the amount of work they do to help others in need, we are very fortunate to get to work with them.

Lyn Cavaghan, Executive Officer shares her thoughts on the partnership, she says:

“We have had the pleasure of partnering with Cyclife Aquila Nuclear, who have significantly supported our organisation in various ways. They have provided invaluable assistance and guidance with bid preparation and grant writing, attended our AGM and Vision Day for our team, which helped define our new mission, continued social media support, and made a very generous donation. Their contributions have been instrumental in advancing our work and impact locally. We are deeply grateful for their support and commitment to our cause, which has enabled us to better serve our community and achieve our goals.”

We are excited to continue working with Always Another Way and look forward to seeing what the future holds for them as they continue to grow!

* Always Another Way with the Fri Connect Group visiting the bees!

Mental Health Awareness Week 2024

Last week Cyclife Aquila Nuclear participated in Mental Health Awareness Week. It was an excellent opportunity to learn about the different types of mental health issues and break the stigma surrounding the topic. Every year, 1 in 4 people experience a mental health problem in England so it is important that we gain as much knowledge as possible on this topic.

CAN is dedicated to ensuring that all employees know what help, support, and resources they can get whilst at the workplace. We have two first aid trainers who have been trained and equipped with the skills to assist anyone facing a mental health challenge. As well as this, we have an internal toolkit for line managers and training for all employees on the different types of mental health issues and what to do if they notice that a colleague is struggling. By doing this, we ensure that all of our employees know how to access our resources.

As this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week theme is movement, we encourage you to incorporate this into your daily routine, even if it is taking a walk during your lunch break, going for a run, attending a sports class, or anything else. Simply moving your body will help to get those endorphins flowing. Endorphins can help improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and help you manage stress more effectively. Some other activities you could do to help improve your mental health include talking to your family and friends about how you’re feeling, eating healthy foods, practicing self-care and mindfulness, and ensuring you sleep for at least 8 hours.

To raise awareness and show support, the CAN team participated in Mental Health Foundation’s ‘Wear It Green Day’ in support of mental health – it was a great opportunity to have open conversations about how CAN can support our employees, beyond access to our mental health first aiders. What a turn out we had! It was great to see so many of our colleagues dress for the occasion including employees from the finance, admin, HR, commercial, engineering and project management teams.

Overall, this week has been extremely insightful, and we will continue to show our support for mental health throughout the year and ensure we are continually raising awareness and supporting those who need it.

Diversity and Inclusion Statement

The culture of Cyclife Aquila Nuclear is driven by our values, “Elite” and “Ethical”, as well as Cyclife’s four guiding principles – “Act collectively”, “Take care”, “Be accountable” and “Feel pride”. These values and principles have a beneficial impact on every aspect of the employee experience and the relationship we cultivate with our clients.

To us, Diversity and Inclusion is straightforward: we embrace all individuals, employees are more effective and successful when they feel valued and included. Although further efforts are required to promote our diversity and inclusion, we are investing a lot to move our company forward to the best practices. We are doing whatever it takes to create a more equitable workplace, including fostering an environment where employees feel comfortable expressing their full potential and implementing Diversity and Inclusion initiatives that benefit all.

Every day, we are motivated by our dedication to Diversity and Inclusion regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity, or work experience of our people. We will focus more on Diversity and Inclusion in 2024 and the coming years. Our effort to create an environment that helps us grow, change, and work effectively will strengthen our commitment to Diversity and Inclusion.

Our workforce diversity strengthens us so that we can continue delivering the best solutions to our clients and investing in our people.

Drew Corbett,
Managing Director

Earth Day 2024

Today we celebrate Earth Day, Earth Day is a brilliant yet stark reminder of the importance of environmental sustainability and the conservation of natural resources to support future generations. This day provides us with an opportunity to learn, raise awareness, inspire change and continue to contribute to a healthier planet.

Introduction to the UK nuclear industry

The UK nuclear industry has been instrumental in contributing to the UK’s energy mix and to the government’s goal of achieving a net zero future by 2050, aiming to provide about 25% of the country’s electricity through nuclear power and energy. Great British Nuclear (GBN), a government owned public body, aims to deliver this long-term plan through its Small Modular Reactor (SMR) competition, inviting companies to design the reactors which are planned to be implemented by the mid-2030s to help reach the government’s target. As well as nuclear energy, the industry is also made up of other sectors including nuclear science and research, defence, decommissioning and nuclear medicine. All of which highlight the importance of nuclear in today’s society and how this continually advancing industry will provide advantages for future generations, from employment opportunities to advancements in healthcare and a positive impact on the environment.

The environmental benefits of nuclear energy

So, you’re probably thinking how does nuclear energy benefit the environment? Among various energy sources like coal, oil, and gas, nuclear energy and renewable energy have the most positive impact on our environment. Nuclear power stations operate without emitting greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide or methane resulting in minimal emissions during the construction process. Overall, nuclear energy has one of the lowest greenhouse gas footprints across its entire lifecycle, including mining, construction, operation, and decommissioning. In addition to reducing our carbon footprint, nuclear energy is highly reliable and efficient. For instance, “One pellet the size of your thumbnail can power an electric car for 20,000 miles. The whole fleet powers 12 million homes from less than 1 square mile” saving the UK more CO2 emissions than any other energy source. Over time, this will inevitably reduce costs and minimise environmental impact, making it one of the most inexpensive forms of energy.

Nuclear power plants not only operate at a low cost, but they also have an extremely high lifespan. “The lifetime of an average nuclear power plant worldwide might reach up to 50 years. In comparison, wind farms only have an expected lifetime of around 20 years, while energy storage last roughly 10 years.” This longevity means that there will not be additional expenses for constructing new facilities, resulting in fewer environmental impacts from the construction process of more power plants around the world.

Safety concerns and how the industry is monitored

Concerns about the expansion of the nuclear industry and its safety implications are not unusual, and this comes as no surprise after the unforgettable Chernobyl disaster, however the industry is constantly being monitored through a combination of regulatory oversight and specific codes of practice to ensure that accidents like this do not happen again. The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, the Environment Agency, and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) are just a few examples of public bodies with regulations in place to ensure a safe and sustainable practice.

Within the EU the Euratom safety framework ensures that countries “give the highest priority to nuclear safety at all stages of the lifecycle of a nuclear installation, including nuclear power plants” meaning they are responsible for any radioactive waste and the decommissioning of shutdown installations guaranteeing a safe containment of the nuclear substance. As well as this, the Basic Safety Standards Directive ensures that countries protect those working in environments with ionising radiation and members of the public being exposed to this radiation. With these safeguards in place, residents who live nearby to these facilities will feel a greater sense of security and safety. Even the IAEA stated that “nuclear power plants are among the safest and most secure facilities in the world”.

How Cyclife Aquila Nuclear is involved in nuclear

So how is Cyclife Aquila Nuclear involved in nuclear and what do we do to help the environment? CAN specialises in the design and manufacturing of bespoke plant and equipment for the nuclear industry. We focus on multiple nuclear markets including decommissioning, science, defence, new build, and medicine. It is fundamental that we strive to be environmentally friendly in everything that we do. Currently we have several targets in place to help reduce our carbon footprint over the next ten years. Examples of these include having all of our energy supplied by renewable energy sources, our company vehicles being a mix of hybrid and electric and continuing to have hybrid working policies in place to reduce the use of transportation therefore reducing our emissions. We aim to achieve these targets and more by 2030.

As well as this, when designing and supplying equipment, we aim to keep sustainability and the environment at the forefront in everything we do, ensuring we consider the long-term impact of the material and the manufacturing process. We ensure that when our customers are operating, maintaining, and eventually decommissioning our plant and equipment that they do this while minimising the impact on the environment long after we have supplied this to them. By doing this, we are contributing to the overall target of a net-zero future and ensuring that we, as a company, are doing our bit to support the environment the best we can.

It is great to see that nuclear technology is being recognised for its capabilities in shaping our future in areas such as energy, defence, medicine, and science and so on. It will be fascinating to witness these types of technologies advance over the years especially nuclear’s contribution to achieving a net-zero future. As Rishi Sunak states “Nuclear is the perfect antidote to the energy challenges facing Britain – it’s green, cheaper in the long term and will ensure the UK’s energy security for the long term”. If we, as a country, continue to contribute and be conscious of our actions, we will be on the way to combating climate change, creating a greener environment for future generations.

About CAN 

History

Set in the beautiful rolling hills of Hampshire, Cyclife Aquila Nuclear is now spread across four units on our Twyford site. Aquila Nuclear Engineering Ltd was formed in 2011 by CEO Dave Barker and Calder Group. Dave threw his 25 years of experience and passion for the growing industry into building a reputable and highly respected business.  

In 2021 Aquila Nuclear Engineering Ltd was acquired by Cyclife Group, a subsidiary of EDF Group. We rebranded to Cyclife Aquila Nuclear in 2023. Along with our international counterparts we continue to attract new talent, create innovative solutions, and expand our footprint in to key sectors within the industry.  

In 2023 we saw Dave Barker step down as CEO in a semi-retirement; but remains in the business as Director of Strategy with Drew Corbett introduced as the new Managing Director. 

Specialisms

Our key capabilities are: 

• Containment 
• Shielded Facilities 
• Remote Handling 
• Transport & Packaging 
• Equipment Modification 
• Multi-cell Functioning 

Employee Benefits 

The CAN mission is to be the most respected and fulfilling nuclear company to work for in the UK. This a value embedded throughout the company. Our Head of People, Dr Nara Ringrose says 

Working for our company enhances your professional career and brings personal and professional satisfaction. Our inclusive culture, diversity and unique people skills make us different and successful!  We prioritise the safety and well-being of our employees by creating a welcoming workplace and actively listening to their feedback.

We’re keen to attract new talent into the business and with the revolution of hybrid working becoming the norm, we can spread our net even further. So, if you’re not based near us, don’t let it put you off applying for our roles. We also offer relocation packages where appropriate and flexible working arrangements. 

We want our staff to feel valued and our HR and Recruitment team work hard to offer employees generous health benefits like life assurance, private healthcare, and a Cycle to Work Scheme. 

About the Industry 

We understand that for some people the nuclear industry may feel ethically ambiguous. There are a lot of negative associations of the industry; it’s the nature of our output. But we believe the industry harbours numerous genuinely exciting positives that we believe deserve more recognition: 

• The UK Government has planned our nuclear capacity to provide 25% of our electricity.​ (World Nuclear Association, 2023)​ ​(World Nuclear Association, 2023).​ 
• This commitment was to help reduce our greenhouse gas emission by 100% by 2050. ​(HM Government, 2020)​.
• Nuclear Medicine, specifically in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers, is a growing strength in the UK; allowing the UK to be more self-sufficient in their process and less reliant on international supply chains. In fact, the Government is planning to build a new nuclear reactor in Wales focused on the production of radiopharmaceutical isotope for the UK.
• Breakthroughs in Nuclear Medicine are exciting and on a continued upsurge. Take a look at the article from BNMS on “The London Clinic is UK’s first independent hospital to introduce OncoSilTM – an innovative nuclear medicine to treat pancreatic cancer”. 

Our Professional Partners  

We pride ourselves on upskilling our staff, expanding our collective knowledge and delivering successful and safety conscious projects.  

Partnering with professional bodies and joining industry associations & memberships allows us to offer more opportunities to staff, to stay relevant within the industry and continually provide innovative solutions.  

Some of our industry partners: 

• Nuclear Industry Association 
• Nuclear Institute 
• Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents 

Joining our Team 

Our benefits, industry reputation and project portfolio make this an exciting time to join CAN. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and remain committed to dismantling barriers in potential candidates considering a role with CAN.  

Some of the roles we are currently recruiting for: 

• Project Engineer 
• Project Manager 
• Mechanical Design Engineer 
• Draughts Person/Designer 

If you are looking for a fulfilling career in a unique industry, take a look at our current vacancies. 

Professional Development is at the heart of what we do!

Dr Nara Ringrose, Head of People & Organisational Development:

The development of our employees’ leadership and management abilities is a crucial component of our HR strategy. At the beginning of 2022, we implemented an internal leadership and management programme that provides employees with hands-on experience and prepares them for workplace challenges. This in-house training serves to expand cognitive capacities, enabling leaders to engage in innovative and creative ways of thinking. Currently, we have 19 employees enrolled on internal leadership and management training. The HR team designs and delivers various training on management subjects to ensure our line managers are well supported. Our learning culture and commitment to personal development are linked to our values, “Elite” & “Ethical”, providing fertile ground for leadership growth. We are currently engaged in a dynamic collaboration with Ulster University, Northern Ireland.  Dr Paul Joseph-Richard, a Chartered Psychologist and a Senior Lecturer in Human Resource Management at the Ulster University Business School, serves as Aquila’s leadership development consultant. We are grateful to Dr Joseph-Richard’s expertise and admiration for our exceptional commitment to nurturing leadership within the company.

Dr Paul Joseph-Richard, a Chartered Psychologist and a Senior Lecturer in Human Resource Management

What truly sets Aquila apart is the unwavering clarity of HR vision for leadership and management development. Aquila’s HR strategic approach is underscored by a research-informed understanding of the skills, qualities, and attributes that make effective leaders. The senior management team’s direction, and their commitment to the company values serve as a guiding light, ensuring that every effort and initiative aligns with their overarching leadership development strategy.  Ulster University’s expertise, including the cutting-edge research capabilities, psychometric tools, executive coaching proficiency and feedback mechanisms have been complementing their efforts. I am genuinely excited about the future of our collaboration and the shared goal of fostering a generation of effective and visionary leaders across all levels within Aquila. It is a privilege to bring our expertise to Aquila and to be a part of their transformative journey.

Cyclife Aquila Nuclear supports mental health in Cumbria with charitable donation

Cyclife Aquila Nuclear is proud to announce its recent financial contribution to the Always Another Way charity in Cumbria. As part of Cyclife Aquila Nuclear’s commitment to delivering positive social impact in Cumbria, this charitable contribution supports Cyclife Aquila’s dedication to mental health initiatives. Always Another Way aims to enhance mental health support services for children, young people, and adults in Copeland and Allerdale, empowering the local community to overcome challenges and achieve mental well-being.

Always Another Way is a vital community interest company dedicated to delivering low level mental health support for young people and adults in the West Cumbria region. The organisation plays a crucial role in providing preventative mental health support services to individuals from diverse backgrounds. The passionate team comprises professionals from a wide range of disciplines, all united by their dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of those they serve.

Cyclife Aquila firmly believes in the importance of mental health and well-being for individuals and the broader community. Through this donation, the company seeks to actively contribute to the betterment of mental health support services in the region. By collaborating with Always Another Way, Cyclife Aquila aims to reinforce the CIC’s efforts in promoting resilience, self-confidence, and overall emotional well-being among the community’s most vulnerable members.

Commenting on the donation, Drew Corbett, Managing Director of Cyclife Aquila Nuclear, stated, “We are thrilled to support Always Another Way with their exceptional mission to provide mental health support in Copeland & Allerdale. Mental health is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being, and we believe that access to proper support and resources is vital in fostering a healthy community. As a company, we are committed to making a positive impact, and we recognise the significant role that Always Another Way plays in addressing mental health challenges. This donation represents our heartfelt commitment to the well-being of the local community. Moving forward we will also be providing operational support, from a number of our business functions to assist in its growth and development.”

The generous contribution from Cyclife Aquila will aid Always Another Way in expanding its outreach and providing accessible mental health support services to an even broader spectrum of individuals in need. By supporting preventative measures and early intervention, the charity’s dedicated team aims to reduce the long-term impact of mental health challenges and foster a more resilient community.

“We are delighted to have received this generous donation from Cyclife Aquila, which will enable us to continue our much-needed work in West Cumbria.” said Lyn Cavaghan, Executive Officer at Always Another Way. “We get some amazing feedback from our clients on the value and benefit of our service to them, and it is enormously satisfying to our small team that we are making such a difference to the lives of so many people in our communities”.

Cyclife Aquila Nuclear looks forward to continued collaboration with Always Another Way and other local organisations to drive positive change and improve the well-being of individuals in West Cumbria.

Notes to Editor:

Cyclife Aquila Nuclear offers Engineering Solutions in the specialist areas of glovebox technology, shielded facilities, remote handling systems and transport and packaging to the following nuclear markets: decommissioning, new build, defence, science, and medicines. Cyclife Aquila Nuclear is a subsidiary of Cyclife EDF Group, a group dedicated to the dismantling of nuclear facilities and the management of radioactive waste. It combines industrial waste treatment sites in the United Kingdom, Sweden and France with advanced engineering capabilities through its subsidiaries Cyclife Engineering, Graphitech and Cyclife Digital Solutions, which enable it to offer its customers a wide range of complementary services in Europe.

Always Another Way are a small third sector organisation based in West Cumbria and provide valuable, and much valued, low level mental health support to their clients, aged 11 years and above, via one-to-one coping strategy advice appointments, group support sessions, including sessions for members of the LGBTQ+ community, complementary therapies and short courses on mental health awareness. It is also able to offer a higher level of support to some very specific clients from a fully qualified therapist. Referrals come from a variety of sources, including social prescribing teams, GP’s and schools.