Let's Talk Business
April 2026
Health & Wellbeing
Respect
Sustainability
Welsh News
Management and Business News
Digital Literacy
Through the Lens
Beth sy'n digwydd ym mis...
Rhagfyr
2ilDiwrnod Rhyngwladol Diddymu Caethwasiaeth
2il - 8fed Wythnos Genedlaethol Ymwybyddiaeth Galar
1af- 31ainDecembeard
9fedDiwrnod Rhyngwladol Gwrth-lygredd
3yddDiwrnod Rhyngwladol Pobl gydag Anableddau
5edDiwrnod Rhyngwladol Gwirfoddoli
4yddDiwrnod Addurno Coed
12fedDiwrnod Cofio Cenedlaethol y Gweithle
10fedDiwrnod Rhyngwladol Hawliau Anifeiliaid
10fedDiwrnod Hawliau Dynol y Byd
11eg Diwrnod Siwmperi Nadolig
20fedDiwrnod Rhyngwladol Cydsafiad Bodau Dynol
18fedDiwrnod Rhygngwladol Mudwyr
18fedDiwrnod yr Iaith Arabeg
Health & Wellbeing
Walking - it costs nothing; its gentle on our joints; its great for our health and it makes us feel better. What is there not to like? Convinced?
Listen to the podcast on the benefits of early morning walking.
Benefits Strengthens the heart and improves cardiovascular fitness. Improves mood and energy. Eases muscle tension and stiffness, particularly if in a desk based role. Helps maintain a healthy weight by burning calories in a gentle, sustainable way. Enhances cognitive function (memory, focus).
Click on the link to read the NHS guide on 'Walking for Health'.
Sustainability - Greener Businesses
According to The Environmental (Wales) Act 2016, there is a regulatory obligation for organisations to work towards carbon budgets. We have entered Carbon budget 3 for the period 2026 - 2030 which has a target of an average 58% reduction of Greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainability needs to be embedded into all aspects of our business activities. There are five steps that organisations can do to reduce their carbon footprint and postively impact the carbon budget:
- Lead a culture shift where the responsibility lies will everyone taking on environmental responsibility.
- Improve energy efficiency such as turning off electrical devices and lights when not used.
- Reduce demand of business travel such as promoting hybrid/remote working; cycle to work schemes, carpool, use of public transport.
- Greener procurement by, for example, choosing local suppliers.
- Investing in green skills and training.
To achieve your environmental targets, there may be a need to upskill staff so they can gain the skills and knowledge to work on savings and projects related to carbon and energy management. ACT offers a Level 3 'Energy and Carbon Management' qualification which is fully funded. As part of this qualification, learners need to work on such a project. Click here to find more information about this.
Click the text to find out about future carbon budgets.
Listen to our podcast on 'Five ways businesses in Wales can be greener.
Digital Literacy - The Digital Divide
Not all customers can or want to use digital channels. Most customers prefer apps, online portals, and chatbots, however others may... Have limited digital skills. Don’t trust online systems. Have disabilities that make digital access difficult. Lack reliable internet or devices. If digital is the only option, these customers are excluded.
It is important when considering the use of technology, what the impact can be on customer accessibility and experience. Each will have varying levels of digital device availability and/or knowledge.
What can organisations do to help? Maintain non‑digital service options. Simplify digital journeys. Test services with real users, including those with low digital skills. Provide clear, jargon‑free guidance.
Watch the video explaining what is meant by the digital divide and ways to reduce this.
Wales - The Royal Mint
History of The Royal Mint For many years, the Mint operated in London. By the 1950s, the London site was too small and outdated for modern production needs. The decision was made in 1966 to adopt decimal currency which meant the Mint needed to produce hundreds of millions of new coins before Decimal Day in 1971. Plus, the combined workload of domestic and overseas coin orders made expansion essential. In 1967, the government announced that a new Royal Mint would be built in Llantrisant, aligning with policies to move industry away from London. The first phase of construction opened on 17th December 1968, inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II.
Watch the video to find out about the 'Royal Mint Experience'.
The Royal Mint Experience The visitor centre opened in 2016 and offers tours of the working Mint. To find out more information about visiting The Royal Mint, click on the link. Note - it is free to go to the exhibition only.
Management & Business Services
Tip 2 - Use structured turn taking Open questions like “Any thoughts?” often lead to silence. Instead, use formats that require participation without pressure e.g. Round‑robin: everyone gives a short view. 1–2–4‑All: think alone → pair → group. Silent brainstorming: write ideas first, then discuss.
Team Meetings
Have you held meetings where no-one has spoken up when you have asked for team opinions or questions? Click on the link for tips.
Tip 3 - Ask better questions Swap vague prompts for specific, answerable ones.Instead of: “Any feedback on this?”, ask: “What’s one risk I might be overlooking?” “If you had to improve this by 10%, what would you change?” “What’s the part you disagree with most?”
Tip 1 - Set the tone People speak up when they know their input is expected. Share the agenda in advance. Highlight topics where you want opinions. Assign small “thinking roles” e.g., “Can you come ready with one risk you see?”.
Watch the video on tips on how to contribute in meetings.
Respect - Energy Use
What are some of the factors relating to our demand of energy? Data centres - A rapid expansion of data centres is putting a greater demand for electricity use in the UK. Waste -to-Energy controversy - Approximately 3% of the UK's energy comes from incinerating waste, but this is causing concerns as it can produce as much GHGs as coal power. Transport use has increased steadily since the 1970s.
It's a current topic of conversation - the use and conservation of energy following on from the recent oil price increases. We are seeing the impact with increasing heating and vehicle fuel prices. Click on the link to find ways to save energy and ultimately...save money.
Watch the video giving 10 tips that will improve your car's fuel economy.
Here is the link for the April Respect calendar.
Through the Lens
The 'Sustainability' page discusses why organisations need to be 'greener', the benefits and how ACT can support this with training and education. Aminah Ali has completed her Energy and Carbon Management qualification with us and has realised many benefits from this. Aminah works for Merthyr Tydfil County Council and was a Carbon and Energy apprentice at the time of completing her Energy and Carbon Management qualification. As part of her role, Aminah was involved in managing energy metering across 30 sites linking directly with the teaching of this course, covering energy consumption management. Another unit is the project management unit which helped Aminah in her involvement in energy reduction projects. Click on the link to hear what she has to say.
A standout aspect of her apprenticeship experience was the behavioural change unit. Aminah and her team at the council launched a behavioural change initiative aimed at educating staff on energy consciousness, both at work and at home. Click here to find out about Aminah's experiences.
How Gratitude Strengthens Relationships at Work
- Builds psychological safety - feeling valued akes you more willing to share ideas, admit mistakes, and collaborate openly.
- Reduces friction and conflict - gratitude softens edges. It creates goodwill that makes disagreements easier to navigate without damaging relationships.
- Improves communication quality - gratitude encourages more thoughtful, respectful exchanges.
- Supports leadership credibility - leaders who express gratitude authentically are perceived as fair, attentive, and respectful — qualities that inspire followership.
Carbon Budget Targets
This table show the carbon budgets set as part of the The Environment (Wales) Act 2016. It would be useful to look at your organisation's environmental plegdes and targets and see what your department can do to reach your targets.
How gratitude strenghtens professional relationships
- Builds psychological safety - feeling valued makes staff more willing to share ideas, admit mistakes and collaborate openly.
- Reduces friction and conflict - gratitude softens edges. It creates goodwill that makes disagreements easier to navigate without damaging relationships.
- Improves communication quality - by encouraging more thoughtful, respectful exchanges.
- Supports leadership credibility - managers who express gratitude authentically are perceived as fair, attentive and respectful. These are qualities that inspire followership.
How gratitude strenghtens professional relationships
- Builds psychological safety - feeling valued makes staff more willing to share ideas, admit mistakes and collaborate openly.
- Reduces friction and conflict - gratitude softens edges. It creates goodwill that makes disagreements easier to navigate without damaging relationships.
- Improves communication quality - by encouraging more thoughtful, respectful exchanges.
- Supports leadership credibility - managers who express gratitude authentically are perceived as fair, attentive and respectful. These are qualities that inspire followership.
“The module was particularly helpful in allowing me to learn how to structure my projects and the necessary steps required to ensure projects are completed correctly.” “I enjoy running projects in my role and would like to continue doing so throughout my career. Learning how to structure and execute projects successfully was really useful.”
Wales is 2nd best nation at recycling
To continue with the adoption of circular economy the future Deposit Return Scheme will improve the reuse of glass bottles hence reducing the impact of manufacturing new bottles and less going to landfill. When purchasing drinks in glass bottles, the total cost will include a deposit. This is paid back to you once the bottle is returned back to a designated collection point. This scheme has been working in Germany for many years and is successful. When we talk about circular economy it means keeping the product in use or recycle for as long as possible.
“The behavioural change unit went hand-in-hand with what we were trying to achieve. I believe this is an area that everyone can learn about and implement not only in the workplace but in everyday life." “Having a culture of employees who are energy conscious is a great benefit not only for the organisation but also for the overall health of the planet and to help achieve Welsh Government net zero goals.”
Wales is 2nd best nation at recycling
To continue with the adoption of circular economy the future Deposit Return Scheme will improve the reuse of glass bottles hence reducing the impact of manufacturing new bottles and less going to landfill. When purchasing drinks in glass bottles, the total cost will include a deposit. This is paid back to you once the bottle is returned back to a designated collection point. This scheme has been working in Germany for many years and is successful. When we talk about circular economy it means keeping the product in use or recycle for as long as possible.
April 2026
ACT Training
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Transcript
Let's Talk Business
April 2026
Health & Wellbeing
Respect
Sustainability
Welsh News
Management and Business News
Digital Literacy
Through the Lens
Beth sy'n digwydd ym mis...
Rhagfyr
2ilDiwrnod Rhyngwladol Diddymu Caethwasiaeth
2il - 8fed Wythnos Genedlaethol Ymwybyddiaeth Galar
1af- 31ainDecembeard
9fedDiwrnod Rhyngwladol Gwrth-lygredd
3yddDiwrnod Rhyngwladol Pobl gydag Anableddau
5edDiwrnod Rhyngwladol Gwirfoddoli
4yddDiwrnod Addurno Coed
12fedDiwrnod Cofio Cenedlaethol y Gweithle
10fedDiwrnod Rhyngwladol Hawliau Anifeiliaid
10fedDiwrnod Hawliau Dynol y Byd
11eg Diwrnod Siwmperi Nadolig
20fedDiwrnod Rhyngwladol Cydsafiad Bodau Dynol
18fedDiwrnod Rhygngwladol Mudwyr
18fedDiwrnod yr Iaith Arabeg
Health & Wellbeing
Walking - it costs nothing; its gentle on our joints; its great for our health and it makes us feel better. What is there not to like? Convinced?
Listen to the podcast on the benefits of early morning walking.
Benefits Strengthens the heart and improves cardiovascular fitness. Improves mood and energy. Eases muscle tension and stiffness, particularly if in a desk based role. Helps maintain a healthy weight by burning calories in a gentle, sustainable way. Enhances cognitive function (memory, focus).
Click on the link to read the NHS guide on 'Walking for Health'.
Sustainability - Greener Businesses
According to The Environmental (Wales) Act 2016, there is a regulatory obligation for organisations to work towards carbon budgets. We have entered Carbon budget 3 for the period 2026 - 2030 which has a target of an average 58% reduction of Greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainability needs to be embedded into all aspects of our business activities. There are five steps that organisations can do to reduce their carbon footprint and postively impact the carbon budget:
To achieve your environmental targets, there may be a need to upskill staff so they can gain the skills and knowledge to work on savings and projects related to carbon and energy management. ACT offers a Level 3 'Energy and Carbon Management' qualification which is fully funded. As part of this qualification, learners need to work on such a project. Click here to find more information about this.
Click the text to find out about future carbon budgets.
Listen to our podcast on 'Five ways businesses in Wales can be greener.
Digital Literacy - The Digital Divide
Not all customers can or want to use digital channels. Most customers prefer apps, online portals, and chatbots, however others may... Have limited digital skills. Don’t trust online systems. Have disabilities that make digital access difficult. Lack reliable internet or devices. If digital is the only option, these customers are excluded.
It is important when considering the use of technology, what the impact can be on customer accessibility and experience. Each will have varying levels of digital device availability and/or knowledge.
What can organisations do to help? Maintain non‑digital service options. Simplify digital journeys. Test services with real users, including those with low digital skills. Provide clear, jargon‑free guidance.
Watch the video explaining what is meant by the digital divide and ways to reduce this.
Wales - The Royal Mint
History of The Royal Mint For many years, the Mint operated in London. By the 1950s, the London site was too small and outdated for modern production needs. The decision was made in 1966 to adopt decimal currency which meant the Mint needed to produce hundreds of millions of new coins before Decimal Day in 1971. Plus, the combined workload of domestic and overseas coin orders made expansion essential. In 1967, the government announced that a new Royal Mint would be built in Llantrisant, aligning with policies to move industry away from London. The first phase of construction opened on 17th December 1968, inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II.
Watch the video to find out about the 'Royal Mint Experience'.
The Royal Mint Experience The visitor centre opened in 2016 and offers tours of the working Mint. To find out more information about visiting The Royal Mint, click on the link. Note - it is free to go to the exhibition only.
Management & Business Services
Tip 2 - Use structured turn taking Open questions like “Any thoughts?” often lead to silence. Instead, use formats that require participation without pressure e.g. Round‑robin: everyone gives a short view. 1–2–4‑All: think alone → pair → group. Silent brainstorming: write ideas first, then discuss.
Team Meetings
Have you held meetings where no-one has spoken up when you have asked for team opinions or questions? Click on the link for tips.
Tip 3 - Ask better questions Swap vague prompts for specific, answerable ones.Instead of: “Any feedback on this?”, ask: “What’s one risk I might be overlooking?” “If you had to improve this by 10%, what would you change?” “What’s the part you disagree with most?”
Tip 1 - Set the tone People speak up when they know their input is expected. Share the agenda in advance. Highlight topics where you want opinions. Assign small “thinking roles” e.g., “Can you come ready with one risk you see?”.
Watch the video on tips on how to contribute in meetings.
Respect - Energy Use
What are some of the factors relating to our demand of energy? Data centres - A rapid expansion of data centres is putting a greater demand for electricity use in the UK. Waste -to-Energy controversy - Approximately 3% of the UK's energy comes from incinerating waste, but this is causing concerns as it can produce as much GHGs as coal power. Transport use has increased steadily since the 1970s.
It's a current topic of conversation - the use and conservation of energy following on from the recent oil price increases. We are seeing the impact with increasing heating and vehicle fuel prices. Click on the link to find ways to save energy and ultimately...save money.
Watch the video giving 10 tips that will improve your car's fuel economy.
Here is the link for the April Respect calendar.
Through the Lens
The 'Sustainability' page discusses why organisations need to be 'greener', the benefits and how ACT can support this with training and education. Aminah Ali has completed her Energy and Carbon Management qualification with us and has realised many benefits from this. Aminah works for Merthyr Tydfil County Council and was a Carbon and Energy apprentice at the time of completing her Energy and Carbon Management qualification. As part of her role, Aminah was involved in managing energy metering across 30 sites linking directly with the teaching of this course, covering energy consumption management. Another unit is the project management unit which helped Aminah in her involvement in energy reduction projects. Click on the link to hear what she has to say.
A standout aspect of her apprenticeship experience was the behavioural change unit. Aminah and her team at the council launched a behavioural change initiative aimed at educating staff on energy consciousness, both at work and at home. Click here to find out about Aminah's experiences.
How Gratitude Strengthens Relationships at Work
Carbon Budget Targets
This table show the carbon budgets set as part of the The Environment (Wales) Act 2016. It would be useful to look at your organisation's environmental plegdes and targets and see what your department can do to reach your targets.
How gratitude strenghtens professional relationships
How gratitude strenghtens professional relationships
“The module was particularly helpful in allowing me to learn how to structure my projects and the necessary steps required to ensure projects are completed correctly.” “I enjoy running projects in my role and would like to continue doing so throughout my career. Learning how to structure and execute projects successfully was really useful.”
Wales is 2nd best nation at recycling
To continue with the adoption of circular economy the future Deposit Return Scheme will improve the reuse of glass bottles hence reducing the impact of manufacturing new bottles and less going to landfill. When purchasing drinks in glass bottles, the total cost will include a deposit. This is paid back to you once the bottle is returned back to a designated collection point. This scheme has been working in Germany for many years and is successful. When we talk about circular economy it means keeping the product in use or recycle for as long as possible.
“The behavioural change unit went hand-in-hand with what we were trying to achieve. I believe this is an area that everyone can learn about and implement not only in the workplace but in everyday life." “Having a culture of employees who are energy conscious is a great benefit not only for the organisation but also for the overall health of the planet and to help achieve Welsh Government net zero goals.”
Wales is 2nd best nation at recycling
To continue with the adoption of circular economy the future Deposit Return Scheme will improve the reuse of glass bottles hence reducing the impact of manufacturing new bottles and less going to landfill. When purchasing drinks in glass bottles, the total cost will include a deposit. This is paid back to you once the bottle is returned back to a designated collection point. This scheme has been working in Germany for many years and is successful. When we talk about circular economy it means keeping the product in use or recycle for as long as possible.