Choosing the perfect Commercial Property Advisor with Wilsons Solicitors
Changes to tax for Furnished Holiday Lettings by Les Leavitt, MD, Leavitt Walmsley Associates
15 : BUSINESS TRAVEL
Review and Guide. Includes feature with TransPennine Express
18 : PUBLIC SAFETY & SECURITY
Update on Martyn’s Law with Figen Murray OBE. Plus a review of International Security Officers’ Day
20 : EXPORTING & LOGISTICS
Times they are a changing... by Tony Goodman MBE France Line International Transport Ltd and Multimodal 2024/2025
23 : COACHING
Taking 2 steps back with Dave Christie from Cheshire Business Coaching
24 : REFURBISHED TECH
Guidance from Nybble IT and Tetrade on sustainable IT and AV solutions
25 : GMCC
The Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce celebrating their 230th Birthday!
26 : OUT & ABOUT
Networking across the region and beyond.
28 : WELLBEING
The importance of rest days and holidays with Susan Leigh from Lifestyle Therapy
29 : PLACES TO MEET
List of venues supporting business requirements.
30 : DIARY DATES
List of business networking events. 6 13 21 20 14 15 23 25 17 19
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The Bank of England have finally cut interest rates at the beginning of August.
This is the first cut since 2020 when rates started to rise from a historic low of 0.1%, and the reduction of a quarter point from a 16 year high of 5.25% to 5% marks a trend that looks to be reflected globally across countries with the stronger economies.
UK joins the first global digital trade agreement under the WTO Bank of England finally cut interest base rate
The UK and 90 other countries have negotiated a set of new rules designed to make global trade faster, fairer, cheaper and more secure.
Once in force the agreement will permanently ban customs duties on digital content, lower costs for UK businesses and help protect UK consumers from online fraud.
Global adoption of digital customs systems, processes and documents could significantly grow the UK economy. The groundbreaking agreement is also designed to grow the economy by boosting global digital trade.
The ongoing effects from the pandemic plus pressure on consumables pricing due to Russia invading Ukraine have added to the current interest rate level. Inflation has now dropped to 2% which has been a principal driving force behind the current rates. In a meeting by the Bank of England’s setting committee, votes were cast by the 9 members and the result was very close with 5 votes in
After five years of negotiations, the UK and 90 other countries have finalised the E-Commerce Joint Initiative at the World Trade Organisation (WTO), which will make trade faster, cheaper, fairer and more secure. It will help British businesses, workers and consumers seize the opportunities of global digital trade, which is estimated to be worth around £4 trillion and growing.
Once implemented, the agreement will commit all participants to the digitalisation of customs documents and processes. This will in many cases end the need to print forms off and
favour of a quarter point cut.
Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey has remained cautious though, but he did indicate that further cuts were expected as ‘likely’:
“With the progress we’ve made, to make sure inflation stays around the 2% target, ensuring inflation would be neither too high or too low, it’s likely we’ll need to cut back rates over the coming quarters, and make monetary policy somewhat less restrictive over the forecast period, possibly more so than currently priced into market rates.
“This will be consistent with ensuring that inflation does not fall noticeably below target at the end point of the forecast. But that judgement is one for the future. It really depends on how the data evolves, and how that evolution affects our assessment that the risks from inflation persistence are receding.
hand them over at customs – a slow, expensive and old-fashioned way of working.
The signatories to this agreement will also commit to recognising e-documents and e-signatures, reducing the need for businesses to physically sign contracts and post them around the world.
Global adoption of digital customs systems, processes and documents would increase UK GDP by up to £24.2 billion in 2023 UK GDP terms. Even partial adoption could represent a significant boost to UK GDP.
“We have no preconceptions on how fast and how far we may cut bank rates. Instead, we will continue to look carefully for evidence that the outlook for inflation is consistent with the 2% target given the decisions that we have already made. We will reach a new decision on the appropriate level of bank rate based on the evidence at each meeting.”
The bank are also forecasting that inflation may rise again this year to an expected 2.75%, before returning once again to its target of 2% in 2025.
The current inflation rate of 2% represents a steady figure since May of this year. For the past 15 months the rate has been decreasing from a high of 19.2% in March 2023. This was the highest inflation figure the UK has seen in the past 45 years.
Inflation rates are mainly guided by the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) which as a marker are used by the Bank of England to gauge inflation.
It also commits signatories to putting in place legal safeguards against online fraudsters and misleading claims about products.
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “We are proud to play our part in securing the first ever global digital trade agreement, cutting costs for business and delivering on this government’s ambition to deliver economic growth.
“Global digital trade is already estimated by the OECD to be worth around £4 trillion but no common set of global rules exist. This is a huge step forward in correcting that.”
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New government clean energy partnership launched
The new government have announced a new partnership between Great British Energy and The Crown Estate, which has the potential to leverage up to £60 billion of private investment into the UK’s drive for energy independence.
The intention is to enable the new partnership - Great British Energy - make Britain a clean energy superpower. The company will be publicly owned, backed with £8.3 billion of new money pledged over the course of this Parliament to own and invest in clean power projects in regions across the UK.
It comes after the Energy Secretary has scrapped the ban on onshore wind and unblocked the production of cheap solar energy.
Great British Energy’s first major partnership will be with The Crown Estate, which has a £16 billion portfolio of land and seabed. The estate, which operates independently and returns its profits to the government, brings long-established expertise to the partnership. Great British Energy will aim to establish a critical strategic industrial policy that will help the UK enjoy autonomy in terms of electricity production, as well as its own ability to invest.
The Crown Estate estimates this partnership will lead to up to 20-30GW of new offshore wind developments reaching seabed lease stage by 2030, enough power for the equivalent of almost 20 million homes.
The partnership will boost Britain’s
energy independence by investing in homegrown power, and with accompanying reforms to policy, cut the time it takes to get offshore wind projects operating and delivering power to homes by up to half.
This partnership will see the public sector taking on a new role undertaking additional early development work for offshore wind projects. This will ensure that future offshore wind development has lower risk for developers, enabling projects to build out faster after leasing and crowding in private sector investment. It will also help boost new technologies such as carbon capture and storage, hydrogen, wave and tidal energy.
It comes as the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has published details of the company’s objective.
The Prime Minister has confirmed that Great British Energy will be headquartered in Scotland and will back energy generation projects in the UK, bringing profits back to the public purse. The UK Government is in discussions with the Scottish Government and Crown Estate Scotland on how Great British Energy could help to support new development and investment within Scotland.
It has also been confirmed that Juergen Maier, former CEO of Siemens UK, will be the Chair of Great British Energy, driving forward the new company.
Cyber attacks on banks skyrocket by 91% in just four years
Banks have become increasingly vulnerable to cyber attacks as hackers become more sophisticated. Recent data from Stocklytics.com reveals a staggering 91% rise in cyber attacks on banks over the past four years.
The surge in attacks highlights the gaps in cybersecurity protocols and raises questions on whether people can trust financial firms for asset security. The site’s financial analyst, Edith Reads, comments:
“The increasing reliance on digital platforms for financial transactions has expanded the attack surface for cybercriminals.”
In 2021, only 34% of financial institutions reported a ransomware attack on their system. Since then, the number of affected banks has rocketed, with about 65% of financial institutions citing attacks in 2024.
2021-2022 represents the highest
disproportionate surge in ransomware attacks, with banks recording a 62% rise in overall attacks. In 2023, the situation further deteriorated, with nearly 64% of financial institutions falling victim to such attacks, representing a 16% rise from the previous year.
According to the IMF, attacks on financial firms account for a fifth of all global cyber incidents, underscoring the financial sector’s unique targeting and widespread exposure to fraud and ransomware attacks. A notable recent incident occurred in March 2024, when American Express customers were alerted to a potential breach involving unauthorised access to a third-party merchant processor.
In a related trend, HSBC faced disruptive DDoS attacks in 2020 that temporarily paralysed their online banking services. Such incidents underscore the evolving tactics of cybercriminals who target banks for ransom payments.
DTX returns to London
Business Connect Magazine are once again partnering with DTX and UCX on thier return to the ExCel in London on 2-3 October this year.
DTX brings together creative minds and technology practitioners with the tools needed to drive change, enhance experiences and improve efficiencies across today’s organisations.
Covering cloud and infrastructure; software engineering and DevOps; data and AI; and cyber security, the event showcases the technology, solutions and strategies essential to advance digital projects and achieve sustainable and scalable success.
On the 2-3 October, inspiring leaders and technical experts from the likes of E.ON, Lloyds, DWP, John Lewis and BT take to the stage, delivering case studies, panels, demos, workshops and roundtables on how to:
• Reinvent operating models to keep up with advancing tech.
• Modernise IT tool stacks, maximise legacy infrastructure and reduce tech debt.
• Cut through the noise and determine the AI use cases for your business.
• Architect your way to next-gen software engineering and delivery practices whilst improving DevX.
• Establish responsible frameworks for data and AI through effective governance and architecture.
• Build a secure ecosystem that is responsive to the real threats against your operations.
• Educate and empower colleagues on the latest in communications and collaboration tools.
• Meet changing customer demands for interaction and engagement whilst empowering agents.
• Streamline your IT service desk for faster and more intuitive responses
• Attract and retain the best and diverse tech talent.
Co-located with Unified Communications EXPO (UCX) - the leading event for colleague and customer communications, DTX + UCX is designed for everyone, from senior leaders and function heads to architects, engineers, developers and data scientists.
Whether you’re exploring best practices for your organisation’s digital strategy, looking for support on potential cyber attacks or just curious about how digital and AI technologies are being applied to change the game, a visit to DTX will offer the chance to take a front-row seat and join fellow game-changers, rule-breakers, and tech pioneers. For more information visit: https://bit.ly/3KSfdjr
Malvern based D-RisQ selected to be part of defence and space accelerator
D-RisQ has been selected to be part of the first cohort of the Airbus Defence and Space UK Space Accelerator being delivered by Plexal. This is the first of its kind and part of the wider Community for Space Prosperity (CUSP) initiative to develop the UK’s space ecosystem.
Over the next 14 weeks, they’ll be working with Plexal and Airbus Defence and Space teams to develop their business and technical offering.
They are in good company, joining the programme alongside an outstanding, diverse cohort of high-tech companies: Aquark Technologies, Angoka, Yondar Space, LIA Aerospace, Calnex Solutions, Physical-Mind London, Applied Atomics, BioOrbit and Magdrive.
The announcement was made at the Farnborough International Airshow at a special launch event hosted by Airbus.
Small Business Sunday launches free investment
Renowned TV Dragon and Retail Entrepreneur Theo Paphitis has recently announced the return of his groundbreaking investment opportunity for UK small businesses (SMEs) - #SBS Invest, alongside small business supporters and fellow #SBS Investors F1 Superstar and MBP CEO Mark Blundell and Tiny Box Company CEO Rachel Watkyn.
Originally launched in 2023, #SBS Invest offers members of Theo Paphitis’ free-to-join small business network #SBS Small Business Sunday an exclusive opportunity to win investment from the esteemed entrepreneurs on the #SBS Investor panel.
On relaunching #SBS Invest and supporting small businesses, Theo Paphitis said: “Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy, and that’s why I’m so proud to bring back this free opportunity that gives them a chance to turbocharge their growth.
“Last year’s #SBS Invest was a resounding success, and it allowed me to further understand some cracking businesses in the network. I’m looking forward to seeing this year’s entries.”
Theo Paphitis appeared on the popular series Dragons’ Den for ten seasons and invested in over 20 businesses, to the tune of £1.5million, during that time. Through #SBS Invest, Theo Paphitis will use his expertise and experience in the Den to spot and nurture promising SMEs from the #SBS Small Business Sunday network.
Joining Theo Paphitis on the #SBS Investor Panel this year are CEO of Tiny Box Company Rachel Watkyn and F1 Superstar & MBP CEO Mark Blundell - both of whom bring a wealth of experience and unique insights to the process.
On being an #SBS Investor CEO of Tiny Box Company Rachel Watkyn said: “It’s a privilege to be invited to be a member of this panel for such a great movement, it’s been my passion and side hustle to help other entrepreneurs not only in their journey but to also, help them enjoy the journey. I can’t think of a better way of doing this other than investing in small businesses who are at the start of their journey.”
CEO of MBP Mark Blundell said: “Passion and hunger are great assets for an entrepreneur but strategy and structure are also key ingredients to a successful business and these are the areas that energise me as an #SBS Investor.”
#SBS Small Business Sunday, launched by Theo Paphitis in 2010 from his kitchen table, is a small business network designed to provide UK SMEs with a platform to grow, and it has since become one of the UK’s leading business communities with over 4,000 of the best and brightest of UK small business currently in the network.
The #SBS Invest opportunity is exclusively available to all of the 4,000 small business owners who have won the free-to-enter #SBS Small Business Sunday award.
Members of the free-to-join #SBS network entering this multi-stage investment opportunity must successfully complete a filmed business pitch and a business plan before being invited to perform a live pitch to the #SBS Investor Panel.
For more information about #SBS Invest and how to participate, visit the official #SBS website: theopaphitissbs.com
IN4 Group supercharge tech learning in the North West
IN4 Group, one of the UK’s largest technology skills and innovation providers, is bringing a pioneering technology educational enrichment and scholarships programme to every secondary school in Blackburn with Darwen.
IN4, headquartered in MediaCity, Salford, is partnering with Blackburn with Darwen Council to establish a new programme that will nurture over 600 pupils and mentor 50 scholarship students each year across the borough to secure the best digital technology careers.
‘MEGA (motivated, educated generation with ambition) Hub’ builds on the success of IN4’s major North West and West Midlands CyberFirst contracts with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), a part of GCHQ.
With GCHQ’s northern headquarters based in Manchester city centre and the ongoing development of the North West Cyber Corridor, there is an increasing demand for skilled tech jobs to be filled in the region.
Blackburn with Darwen Council, IN4 Group and its partners IBM, Northrop Grumman, KPMG UK, QinetiQ, CGI, Roke, and BT are committing more than £300k per annum into the MEGA Hub, with a plan to increase the investment in the coming years. The new pilot was announced by the Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Councillor Phil Riley, and the CEO of IN4 Group and Blackburn entrepreneur Mo Isap at a CyberFirst celebration event for schools.
BusinessLodge opens in Widnes creating over 350 new jobs
BusinessLodge, a managed office space provider with established centres in Bury and Stoke on Trent, has announced the opening of its latest facility at Kingsway House, Caldwell Road, Widnes.
Situated in the heart of Widnes, BusinessLodge Widnes provides a strategic location with easy access to major transportation routes and ample secure parking, making it an ideal choice for businesses.
“Our new Widnes facility combines modern amenities with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, creating the perfect setting for businesses to thrive,” said Kate Holt, Managing Director at BusinessLodge.
The opening of BusinessLodge Widnes is beneficial for the local economy, creating over 350 new jobs in the area. There was a keen focus on employing local businesses, sourced via Halton Chamber of Commerce, to complete the initial works, with NW Contracts Ltd, Widnes, being one local
business that helped to complete the extensive renovations. Managing Director, Dale Kenningham said, “It has been fantastic to collaborate with another Widnes business and to have worked to transform Kingsway House into a modern office space”.
Kate commented: “We have a strong ethos for supporting the communities in which we operate through organising opportunities for local charities and businesses to take part in centre pop-up events, and by supporting community projects. We always receive great feedback from our clients about how friendly and collaborative our centres are.”
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• Audit and Accountancy
• Payroll Services
• Non-Executive Finance Director Solution
• Corporate and Personal Taxation including Property Tax and Sports Tax expertise
• Specialist Audit and Compliance expertise for regulated firms including Solicitors and Charities
• Company Secretarial, Business Support and Networked Services
LWA are delighted to sponsor local Elite Ice Hockey League team Manchester Storm and to be Business Patrons with Warrington Wolves Charitable Foundation.
Tentbox extends partnership with ArrowXL to support increasing demand
TentBox, the British home of roof tents, has extended its contract with ArrowXL the UK’s largest and longest established two-person home delivery specialist, to deliver over 200 tents per week (an increase of 37%) to households across the UK, to support increased seasonal demand.
TentBox will continue to use ArrowXL’s warehouse in Wigan to store its products, reaping the benefits of consolidating its home delivery and warehousing needs, to ensure that customers receive their products quicker, whilst reducing transportation costs and time handled.
Camping has significantly increased in popularity since the pandemic with 42% of people in the UK going on a camping trip at least once a year.
In 2021 the UK spent £2.7 billion on camping trips – 80% more than in 2020. TentBox was founded in 2014, and has since grown to become the best-selling UK roof tent brand.
In addition to the warehousing and delivery services, ArrowXL will support TentBox with their new ‘rework service’. Any returns, or change of mind products, will be returned to the Wigan Hub where the AXL team will assess and grade the item and provide Tentbox with a quality report. Tentbox will then list the product on an online marketplace, and once sold, ArrowXL will complete the final mile delivery.
“We are a fast-growing brand that’s changing the way people camp,” commented Neill Shurville, Managing Director at TentBox. “We’re excited about developing our rework service with ArrowXL, and promoting the importance of the circular economy within the camping industry.”
PP C&A and Jaltek target £4m of new ‘agritech’ business with tie-up
A new partnership has been signed that will give ‘agritech’ innovators a single point of contact for contract manufacturing and electronics.
PP Control & Automation (PP C&A) is collaborating with Jaltek to target up to £4m of new orders with UK organisations involved in indoor/ vertical farming, automation, precision farming and remote sensing.
This relationship will help potential clients speed up time to market, maximise output and unlock value-add design and engineering by providing access to a comprehensive suite of production capabilities.
If the predicted growth materialises then the additional revenue will help both firms create new jobs at their factories in Cheslyn Hay and Luton.
“Agritech has grown 20% over the last five years and is seeing lots of investment, with £919.1m of Innovate UK grant funding directed its way in recent years,” explained Garry Myatt, Sales Director at PP Control & Automation.
“There is a surging demand for new technology and the PP x Jaltek partnership is set-up to streamline the path from blueprint to the field, working with innovators and companies to navigate the complexities around design, manufacture and funding.”
He continued: “This collaboration is not just about assembling mechanical parts or circuit boards. It’s about providing the sector with the arsenal to scale up swiftly and sustainably, turning good ideas into the very fabric of agricultural innovation.”
PP Control & Automation, which employs over 230 people at its 5,500m2 facility, has evolved into an award-winning provider of strategic outsourcing solutions to over 30 of the world’s most successful machine builders.
entrepreneurs
People are constantly curious about and admiring famous entrepreneurs.
Their stories of innovation, perseverance, and success serve as a source of inspiration for many aspiring business leaders. The digital age has made it easier than ever to follow these influential figures and learn from their journeys.
Matthew Woodward, director of Search Logistics, discusses some interesting facts about the top ten most searched entrepreneurs, based on global monthly search volumes.
Insights into the lives of top entrepreneurs
Elon Musk
With a staggering 6,630,000 monthly searches, Elon Musk tops the list. As the founder of SpaceX and a co-founder of Tesla, Inc. Musk is known for his ambitious vision of the future, including interplanetary travel and sustainable energy.
“Elon Musk’s ability to innovate across different industries is what sets him apart,” says Matthew. “His ventures like SpaceX and Tesla are not just businesses; they are revolutions.”
However, his high search volume is likely also fueled by his controversial public persona and statements, especially following his takeover of Twitter (now X), which has sparked numerous debates about free speech, platform moderation, and business ethics.
Charles Schwab
With 2,140,000 searches, Charles Schwab is a titan in the financial industry. He founded the Charles Schwab Corporation, which became one of the largest brokerage firms by democratising investment.
Matthew notes, “Schwab revolutionised the brokerage industry by lowering costs and making investing easier for the average person.”
It’s worth nothing that Schwab’s recent prominence in online discussions may also stem from various conspiracy theories surrounding his involvement in global financial schemes and market manipulations, which, despite lacking substantial evidence, persist in certain online circles.
Mark Zuckerberg
Searched 1,690,000 times a month, co-founded Facebook (now Meta Platforms, Inc.) from his college dorm room. Zuckerberg’s journey from a college student to leading one of the most influential tech companies is a testament to his vision and resilience.
Matthew comments, “Zuckerberg’s impact on social media and communication is profound, changing how we connect and interact globally.”
His search volume remains high due to his ongoing influence on social media, though is likely supplemented by recent controversies over Meta’s handling of user data, misinformation, and the company’s pivot to the metaverse.
Bill Gates
With 1,400,000 searches, Bill Gates co-founded Microsoft, the world’s largest personal-computer software company. Gates is also known for his philanthropic work through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Recently, he has been in the spotlight due to his efforts in global health initiatives, COVID-19 vaccine funding, and ongoing projects addressing climate change and sustainable development.
“Bill Gates’ transition from a tech mogul to a leading philanthropist highlights his commitment to global health and education,” says Matthew.
Jeff Bezos
Garnering 1,340,000 searches, Jeff Bezos founded Amazon in his garage, transforming it from an online bookstore to a global e-commerce and cloud computing giant. Bezos’s relentless
The top 10 entrepreneur searches
focus on customer satisfaction and innovation has made Amazon one of the most valuable companies in the world.
His recent headlines include his space ventures with Blue Origin and Amazon’s controversies over labour practices, antitrust issues, and environmental impact. Bezos’s vision for Amazon reshaped retail and cloud services, emphasising the importance of longterm thinking and innovation.
Steve Jobs
With 1,040,000 searches, co-founded Apple Inc. and was instrumental in developing revolutionary products like the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Jobs’s focus on design and user experience set new standards in the tech industry.
Steve Jobs’s legacy lies in his ability to blend technology with art, creating products that are both functional and beautiful.
Bernard Arnault
Searched 957,000 times a month, is the chairman and CEO of LVMH, the world’s largest luxury-goods company. As the world’s richest person, Arnault’s acquisition strategy turned LVMH into a powerhouse of high-end brands.
His recent ascent to the top of the world’s wealth rankings and his influence over the luxury market have kept him in the public eye. Matthew comments, “Arnault’s keen business acumen in the luxury market allowed him to become one of the richest people in the world.”
Warren Buffett
With 697,000 searches, George Buffet is known as the ‘Oracle of Omaha’ and is one of the most successful investors of all time. He leads Berkshire Hathaway, a conglomerate with a diverse range of businesses.
Recent discussions about his investment strategies during economic downturns and his views on current market trends have kept interest high. “Buffett’s investment philosophy of value investing and his long-term
perspective have made him a role model for investors worldwide,” says Matthew.
James Gunn
With 514,000 searches, James Gunn is a filmmaker who recently became the co-CEO of DC Studios. Gunn’s creative vision and success in the film industry, particularly with the ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ franchise, have made him a notable figure.
His recent takeover of DC movies, his role in shaping the future of the DC Universe, and his controversial public statements about the film industry contribute to his high search volume. Gunn’s storytelling and ability to revive and innovate within the superhero genre are truly remarkable.
George Soros
Searched 456,000 times a month, George Soros is a financier and philanthropist known for his success in hedge fund management and his extensive philanthropic efforts.Soros has also gained attention for his significant contributions to education, healthcare, and social justice initiatives around the world.
On the other hand, Soros is frequently targeted by conspiracy theories, falsely accusing him of orchestrating various political and economic events to further his own agenda, which may contribute to his high search volume.
The stories of these entrepreneurs are not just about wealth and success; they are about vision, perseverance, and the ability to transform industries. Their journeys inspire millions and offer valuable lessons for anyone aspiring to make a mark in the business world.
As Matthew puts it, “Understanding the paths these individuals took can provide insights and motivation for future entrepreneurs aiming to change the world.”
Matthew Woodward Director
&property
Spade hits the ground for construction of specialist orthopaedic hub to serve the South West
Construction work is underway at the Sulis Elective Orthopaedic Centre, with an official breaking of the ground event at the Somerset site commemorated at the end of July.
The Centre is a highly anticipated addition to the award-winning Sulis Hospital and is set to open in late 2024. It will create the capacity for an extra 3,750 non-emergency orthopaedic NHS patients across Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire as well as the wider South West region each year, easing pressure on the NHS waiting lists.
Patients will receive an exceptional quality of care, as the hospital has achieved accreditation as an elective surgical hub through NHS England’s Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) scheme and has a CQC rating of ‘Outstanding’ for care and ‘Good’ overall.
The hospital does not have an emergency department so elective surgery is ‘ringfenced’. It is at less risk of being cancelled because the hospital does not perform urgent, non-planned operations.
Facilities at the Centre will include two new modular theatres, additional inpatient beds, and the conversion of two existing theatres to laminar flow theatres.
Paul Doyle, Transformation Director of the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board (BSW ICB), opened the ceremony commemorating the project milestone with a speech.
He spoke about how organisations like Sulis Hospital are coming together to work in collaboration to provide the best care for patients, and that this building epitomises that as a direction of travel.
OP to deliver Epson’s new 30,000 sq ft headquarters in Hertfordshire
OP has been appointed to design and fit out the new UK headquarters of global electronics leader, Epson. The office fit out and design consultancy will transform more than 30,000 sq ft of space at The Clarendon Works, a Grade A office building on Watford’s Clarendon Road.
OP will create a modern and collaborative workplace that aligns with Epson’s brand identity and supports the firm’s evolving hybrid work model.
Epson will relocate from its current premises in Hemel Hempstead when the 12-week project is complete. The Clarendon Works is a BREEAM Excellent, EPC A-rated building, which offers community spaces, including a lounge and gymnasium, and 12 floors of open plan floor plates.
Tom Parsons, sales director at OP, said: “We’re thrilled to partner with Epson on this transformative project. Our design challenges traditional corporate layouts and creates a space that reflects Epson’s forward-thinking ethos. By centralising breakout areas and prioritising collaboration, we’re helping Epson transition from a conventional office to a hybrid setup that puts its people first.”
construction
Leeds PIPES wins international acclaim as leading heat network
The Leeds PIPES heat network has been recognised as an international exemplar of a city-wide heating solution, following a visit by the Canadian-based Boltzmann Institute. The delegation attended as part of a pan-European ‘study tour’, to gain crucial insights to aid in the expansion of Canada’s low carbon energy infrastructure.
Leeds PIPES, one of the UK’s fastest growing, major heat networks provides homes, businesses and public buildings with affordable, reliable, low carbon heat and hot water through the use of recovered heat from a nearby Recycling and Energy Recovery Facility.
Being delivered by Vital Energi, in partnership with Leeds City Council and Ener-Vate, the scheme was responsible for a near 6,000 tonnes of carbon reduction in 2023 alone and has delivered over 430 green jobs across the Leeds city region.
Its current customers include some of the city’s most notable organisations, including Leeds Playhouse, Leeds Beckett University and St James’s University Hospital.
Connecting over 2,300 homes and 28 key buildings across the city centre, the city-wide heating network has attracted national recognition, having recently won the ‘Energy Project of the Year – Residential’ category at the prestigious Energy Awards in London. The project is also making significant
local impact through inspiring the next generation of heating and electric engineers, as well as aspiring design and construction professionals.
Representatives from The Boltzmann Institute visited energy facilities across eight countries in Europe in advance of their ambitious plans for district energy expansion across Canada, helping the country reach its goals for net zero emissions by 2050.
Richard Gilbert, Director at the Boltzmann Institute said: “We had an incredibly worthwhile visit with Vital Energi to learn more about Leeds PIPES as part of our Europe-wide study tour, gaining invaluable insight to input into our wider plans for district energy expansion in Canada.
“We were particularly impressed by our tour of the Recycling and Energy recovery facility, which really demonstrated the brilliant innovation happening both in the city of Leeds, and in our sector.”
Base rate cut is good for growth says National Federation of Builders
The Bank of England (BoE) has today reduced the base interest rate to 5%, marking the first rate cut since March 2020.
This decision, aimed at stimulating growth, is a positive development for the construction industry, which has long faced significant challenges including rising material costs, difficulty in securing steady pipelines of work, and increasing struggles to cope with the cost of planning.
Richard Beresford, Chief Executive of the National Federation of Builders (NFB), said: “The NFB welcomes the Bank of England’s decision to cut
the base rate. From housing and commercial premises to renewables and roads, more affordable lending will help more projects get off the ground.
“However, the clear message from today’s announcement was to not expect continued cuts, as the Governor of the BoE is cautious about cutting rates too quickly or by too much. This places greater pressure on the Government to deliver strategic reforms across planning, procurement, and regulation, which are essential to relieving some of the financial burdens that currently stop projects being delivered.”
New Towns Taskforce can be a planning blueprint
The Government has appointed Sir Michael Lyons as Chair of the newly established ‘New Towns Taskforce’, and Dame Kate Barker serving as Deputy Chair. Sir Michael noted that the taskforce “will work closely with local leaders, communities as well as the wider development and investment sectors to make sure these new towns are built in the right places.”
Richard Beresford, Chief Executive of the National Federation of Builders (NFB), said: “We applaud the Labour government for reviving the new towns policy. From stimulating regional growth and boosting construction worker capacity, to creating affordable housing in unaffordable regions and designing the places of the future, new towns are a strategic policy mechanism.
“There are considerable opportunities to involve local employers, investing regional contractors and SME builders in the process, particularly as policies, such as the subdivision of large sites, already exist to achieve that in practice.”
The new towns programme will include the creation of large-scale new communities built on greenfield land and separated from other nearby settlements, as well as numerous urban extensions and urban regeneration schemes. Each new settlement will initially contain at least 10,000 homes but will be able to deliver more in the future. All new towns will be well connected, well designed with all necessary infrastructure, and aim to deliver 40% affordable housing.
The final shortlist of locations will be announced before the end of August 2025, with the first taskforce meeting scheduled for September.
Rico Wojtulewicz, Head of Policy and Market Insight for the NFB, said: “As well as being necessary, a new towns and urban extension policy is a pragmatic way to build 1.5million homes over the next parliament. As Homes England can be appointed a local planning authority, the Government will be able to realise their ambitions almost immediately.
“Their delivery will also help the Government understand where the planning pinch points are and why reforms that industry lobby for, are so important to unlocking and sustaining growth and better places.
“Nutrient neutrality and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) are going to be considerable viability challenges for new towns, which is why I believe Compulsory Purchase Order reforms will be prioritised to help reduce the cost of land. However, industry will hope that the viability challenges alert the Government to the disproportionate nature of nutrients policy and why onsite solutions are key to making BNG work for builders and biodiversity.”
NHS requires flexible strategy to secure the future of its estates and buildings
Harnessing the potential of flexible modular buildings to directly reduce the NHS backlog of some 7.6 million individual cases can help transform the future of the service and make it secure for the long term, according to a report published today by healthcare facilities experts Darwin Group and Portakabin.
The report titled ‘The End of the Waiting Line’, commissioned by Portakabin and endorsed by the NHS Trust membership organisation NHS Providers, concludes that the ageing NHS estate, which carries a staggering ongoing maintenance cost of £11 billion, can benefit directly from a holistic approach to the patient journey which factors in the use of adaptable clinical and non-clinical buildings to safeguard patient care, safety and staff support.
These flexible spaces can be added to existing hospital buildings in a matter of weeks, offering an instant solution to allow patients to be seen and treated more quickly.
“Contrary to some beliefs, the safety and quality standards of modular buildings are equal to those of longstanding facilities across the NHS Estate,” said Nick Dawe, Director of Strategy and Transformation, Darwin Group.
“Eating into the incredibly high list of patients waiting to be treated is a critical priority to ensure the service is sustainable, and a cost-effective approach to integrating modular buildings and spaces, whether used for operations or other forms of patient care, is vital to achieving that reduction.”
How risky is remote property investing?
The correlation between the long-term success of an HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) and the investor’s proximity to the property is a compelling question, especially given the challenges remote investors face. Over the last decade, my work has highlighted significant issues for remote investors, particularly those overseas, in managing and maintaining HMOs.
Remote investors often rely heavily on local services, leading to higher costs and increased vulnerability to unscrupulous practices by some local agents and builders. For instance, overseas buyers, such as those from Hong Kong, are often targeted by sellers looking to offload problematic properties.
A notable example is an HMO in Doncaster sold to a Hong Kong buyer in 2018. Initially well-managed, the property suffered from neglect by the managing agency as it expanded too quickly, leaving remote investors at a disadvantage as they couldn’t easily inspect the property or hold the agency accountable.
Financially, self-managing landlords typically achieve higher occupancy and lower costs than remote investors who outsource management. For a standard 6-bed HMO, a local landlord might generate around £41,000 PA gross income,
whereas a remote investor might see significantly reduced returns due to higher void rates and management fees.
Remote investors also face challenges with inflated renovation costs and unreliable financial projections. For example, an investor from Sweden found that promised returns were unrealistic after conducting thorough due diligence.
Despite these hurdles, HMOs can still be viable for remote investors if managed effectively. Some successful strategies include taking control of management, using technology for remote oversight, and directly employing local staff instead of relying on managing agents.
The appeal of UK property remains strong due to higher yields and lower entry costs compared to other markets. Trustworthy developers and managing agents have also emerged to cater to the specific needs of remote investors, offering more transparency and reliability.
In conclusion, while remote HMO investing can work, it typically involves higher costs and risks. However, with the right approach and support, remote investors can still achieve success in the UK property market.
property investment
Mastering the market: Advanced Property Investment
You’ve built a diverse portfolio and mastered the intermediate steps. Now, it’s time to look at what to do next with the property investment game with some advanced strategies. Here are sophisticated tactics seasoned investors use to maximise returns and minimise risk across the UK’s property landscape.
1. Move into more complex Investments:
Complexity tends to come with more reward, so if you’ve still got the appetite, investment opportunities such as developments, larger conversion and planning gain strategies can be very profitable. Mix this with advanced finance techniques to maximise returns.
2. Advanced Financing Techniques:
Explore advanced financing options like leveraging existing equity, refinancing, and property bridging loans. Use tools such as Self-Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs) and Lifetime ISAs for property investments.
Also look into Investment funds, syndications or crowdfunding platforms to access larger and more flexible capital.
3. Strategic Market Timing:
Advanced investors work alongside market cycles. Monitor economic indicators, interest rates, and regional trends to time your
investments strategically. Buying during downturns and selling during peaks can significantly enhance your returns.
Stay updated with reports from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and property market forecasts from reputable sources.
4. Focus on High-Growth Areas:
Identify emerging markets and areas with high growth potential. Look for areas with planned infrastructure projects, tech hubs, or upcoming commercial developments.
Investing in locations benefiting from schemes like the Northern Powerhouse or HS2 hubs can lead to substantial appreciation.
Work with a knowledgeable tax advisor to explore options like capital allowances, depreciation, and Enterprise Investment Schemes (EIS). These tactics can significantly reduce your tax burden and increase net returns.
6. Upgrade your network:
As you move up the levels of being a property investor you must also continue to upgrade your network.
It can be a lonely place as its quite an isolated career so surround yourself with likeminded people, specialists and allies.
7. Plan a Robust Exit Strategy:
Have a clear exit strategy for each investment.
Whether it’s selling, refinancing, or passing on to heirs, planning your exit ensures you trigger the exit on your investment at the right time and not by accident.
8. Expand into International Markets:
Consider diversifying your portfolio with international properties.
Research stable foreign markets with favourable investment climates. Be mindful of currency exchange risks, local regulations, and market conditions.
Popular destinations for UK investors include Spain, Portugal, and the US.
9. Focus on Sustainable and Green Investments:
Invest in sustainable and eco-friendly properties. Green buildings often have lower operating costs, higher tenant demand, and may qualify for tax incentives.
This not only enhances profitability but also aligns with growing environmental trends. Look for properties with Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) ratings of C or above.
10. Form Strategic Alliances:
Build alliances with other investors, developers, and financial institutions. These partnerships can provide access to exclusive deals, shared expertise, and additional funding sources. Networking with local property investment clubs and attending industry conferences can be invaluable.
Advanced property investment involves a strategic blend of innovative financing, thorough market analysis, and a keen eye for emerging trends.
By leveraging these advanced strategies, you can significantly improve your portfolio’s performance and secure a robust financial future.
As a final (bonus) point; you’ve learnt a lot along the way so perhaps now is the time to give back, mentor and support emerging investors. You may just find that’s the most fulfilling part of the journey.
Nick Thorpe
Business Connect have featured PM Law in previous editions looking specifically at support for residential landlords.
As a specialist law firm, the business has followed steady growth and progress with a series of acquisitions creating a group that covers specialisms in a range of services, including personal injury, employment, dispute resolution, wills, trusts and probate, residential conveyancing and more.
Harvey Harding, Group Managing Director, was the architect behind the group’s residential conveyancing business, PM Property Lawyers, which now operates nationally from their Sheffield base.
Further to the specialist work overseen by Harvey across the property sector, one of the standout specialist areas that the group offer is support with commercial property.
This is delivered by Jack Tennant from Wilsons Solicitors, who has been specialising in the commercial property sector and supporting businesses and personal clients expand their portfolios within the sector.
Wilsons Solicitors are part of the PM Law Group, enhancing the range of services offered by the group, and have been providing advice and a full range of service options
Choosing the perfect Commercial Property Lawyer
to many clients on a national basis across the commercial property sector from their Leeds-based offices.
We caught up with Jack to find out more:
“For those who manage residential properties, the commercial property marketplace can often feel unwelcoming, with multiple barriers to entry.
“However, they do not come without their rewards. From longer term leases, reduced costs in having to persistently find new tenants, and the sheer size of the property management market, investing in this sector can mean potential for increased returns on any investment.
“At Wilsons Solicitors, we have a wealth of knowledge and experience, working with those who wish to diversify their property portfolio to include commercial premises.
“We know that commercial property can often be seen as a cost until such a time when a tenant has been found, but there is a trend of properties becoming available where tenants are already in place.
“Not only can we complete thorough searches, we can advise on the current tenancy agreements, support a new one being created and when the time comes, any lease extensions.
“Since the pandemic, we have seen huge increases with cities modernising buildings creating residential property with commercial entities on their lower floors, including supermarkets, gyms and launderettes.
“These arrangements have become lucrative for many of my clients, and navigating the best course through the acquisition process, lease arrangements and ongoing legal support has been a really engaging part of the work we do here.
“Commercial lending has also become a speciality for us here. With our experience across mortgages, remortgages and bridging loans, we can often suggest different cost-effective routes for our clients. Financing options can often be complex and require strict timescales, but we pride ourselves on ensuring we can work within the timeframes you need.
“Over recent years, we have seen property investors making a mark in the industry and also generating large profits from repurposing land. Typically this is something run down or dilapidated that is then modernised, or in some instances redeveloped entirely and either sold or leased to businesses or private tenants.
“We can fully review all potential developments, ensuring that required planning and use of land is considered at the point of purchase, to confirm no nasty surprises down the road.
“Commercial conveyancing can also include negotiation, something that is becoming increasingly popular within this market; we work tirelessly to ensure the best deal for our clients, taking into account the complexities of your specific
property purchase.
“We can support you in every aspect of your dealings within the commercial property sector, either as a first time investor or seasoned property expert.
“Our due diligence and professionalism is of the utmost priority in how we conduct our work, and title checks, enquiries and all aspects of conveyancing are raised to the standards you expect.
“If you are considering diversifying your residential portfolio to include commercial property, we can advise on differences in the conveyancing process and what to expect, supporting you as you undertake this journey.
“Please don’t hesitate to contact us for a full review of your needs, and take the next step into the commercial property sector alongside our team of trusted commercial experts.”
Jack Tennant Solicitor Wilsons Solicitors
Harvey Harding, Group Managing Director, PM Law
property investment
Changes to Tax for Furnished Holiday Lettings from April 2025
As announced in the Spring Budget, significant changes are coming to the tax treatment of Furnished Holiday Lettings (FHLs) from 6th April 2025.
The current advantageous tax regime for FHLs will be abolished, and these properties will be taxed in the same way as other residential property businesses.
We provide a closer look at what these changes mean and how property owners can prepare.
How do the changes to furnished holiday lettings affect property owners?
The changes to the tax treatment of furnished holiday lettings will significantly impact property owners. With the abolishment of the beneficial tax regime, owners will face higher tax liabilities as their properties will be taxed like other residential property businesses.
This shift eliminates the advantages previously enjoyed, such as the reduced capital gains tax rate under Business Asset Disposal Relief and the ability to claim 100% annual investment allowance on qualifying expenditures.
Key considerations for property owners
Property owners will need to re-evaluate their investment strategies, potentially facing increased costs and reduced profitability.
Strategic planning and timely actions, such as making necessary investments and considering the sale of properties
before the new rules take effect, will be crucial to mitigate the impact of these changes.
Maximising Annual Investment Allowance (AIA)
Until 6th April 2025, owners of properties that qualify as Furnished Holiday Lets might want to consider increasing their expenditure on equipment such as furniture and televisions.
This is because the 100% Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) remains available until this date. Investing in these items now can help maximise tax efficiency under the current rules.
Ensure you claim Capital Gains Tax (CGT) reliefs
Under the current rules, FHLs benefit from several tax advantages. To qualify, properties must be available for letting for at least 210 days per year and let commercially for at least 105 days.
These rules allow for capital gains tax reliefs, full interest cost allowances, and eligibility for plant and machinery capital allowances.
The current capital gains tax reliefs, particularly Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR), are set to cease from 6th April 2025.
Under BADR, qualifying gains are taxed at a reduced rate of 10%.
Property owners considering selling their FHL properties before this deadline could benefit from the 10% CGT rate - the anti-forestalling measures mentioned in the Spring Budget have not been legislated
as yet and there is no clarity as to whether they will still be implemented, and if so, if they will apply retrospectively to Spring Budget Day 2024. Therefore, please ensure you speak to us for advice on a case-bycase basis before taking any action.
Understanding the impact on diversified businesses
The new tax regime will also affect diversified businesses that incorporate FHLs into their operations. The complexity of disentangling business elements for tax purposes will increase, requiring careful planning to maintain a viable commercial structure.
The shift might push some property owners towards selling their FHLs or converting them to long-term rentals.
LWA can help you prepare for the changes
Given the upcoming changes, our expert team with vast experience in supporting residential and commercial property owners and landlords, can help you prepare for the changes by:
• Reviewing your current FHL property portfolio and assess the potential impact of the new tax rules.
• Advising on the timing of any planned sales of your FHL properties to take advantage of the current CGT reliefs before they are abolished.
• Evaluating the benefits of making significant capital investments in your properties before the Annual Investment Allowance changes.
For bespoke advice, please contact a member of our friendly and knowledgeable Corporate and Personal Tax team by emailing our Tax Manager, Nickie Antley-Slater via mail@lwaltd.com (please include ‘FHL tax changes’ in the subject field) or call us on 0161 905 1801 in Manchester or 01925 830 830 in Warrington.
In the meantime, take a look at our property case study on our website here:
Les Leavitt Managing Director Leavitt Walmsley Associates Chartered Certified Accountants www.lwaltd.com
business travel
The changing face of business travel
COVID-19 had a massive and brutal impact on business travel.
Effectively stopping most forms of international (and national) movement. Not just for business purposes, the worldwide pandemic simply stopped all activity within the travel sector overnight.
Business still needed to be conducted. Economies still needed to move, to function, and the overnight sensation of video meetings suddenly became the go-to method of keeping business in motion.
A new way of working was established. There was no need to travel to conduct business – all you needed was a laptop, a bedroom or kitchen backdrop, the odd child or cat photo-bomb, and the best bit – you could even sack the awful commute to the office.
This extended obviously to business travel. It simply wasn’t feasible to try and dovetail different expectations and hasty laws (and fines!) from different countries with constantly changing lockdown requirements.
The world had changed overnight. The roots of hybrid working had in fact been established during these
dark days, and when the world finally dropped the restrictions around COVID and things were getting ‘back to normal’ the idea of business travel (also the lovely daily commute to the office) had been challenged permanently and irrevocably.
There was something missing though.
In the brave new world of virtual connectivity between colleagues, clients, suppliers and just about any stakeholder in the new global community of modern business, there was good reason business travel had a place in the old order.
Let’s face it, for a business to send their trusted sales teams across continents to secure international deals had always been an additional cost that was totally justified. Why?
The personal contact of a business with potential clients, suppliers and stakeholders on deals, agreements and discovery meetings had always been massively important.
This hadn’t changed through the pandemic. ‘Needs must’, so the adoption of video meetings had needed to be used at the time.
However, now we can see a strong comeback for face-to-face meetings
and the expectation is for that need to rise. Despite the permanence of virtual meetings via Zoom or similar, the value of personal interactions remains unmatched for sealing business deals.
So, where does this take us in relation to business travel?
There are a number of specific areas that are still absolutely relevant to modern business requirements.
In fact corporate travel isn’t one-sizefits-all; it serves various purposes like developing relationships, promoting products, and services.
Each type of business travel has unique characteristics and advantages. There are many areas in which business travel addresses post-COVID needs that are just as relevant now as before:
Retreats
Companies have always invested in team-building and employee engagement through retreats. These events, held away from the workplace, reinforce company values, foster relationships, and unite teams.
Changing environments can spur creativity and innovation. A weekend away from familiar surroundings can bring important realisations
and appreciations of the need for a working team to bond, to unify.
Planning is key to creating effective retreats. They require thorough planning of travel, accommodation, meals, and activities.
Many team-building destinations actually offer affordable group rates, and specialist organisers can maximise your budget.
Bleisure
Combining business and leisure, bleisure travel is on the rise. Allowing employees to enjoy leisure time during business trips enhances their appeal and motivates employees.
The idea focuses on productivity.
Employees can concentrate better on work when leisure activities are scheduled separately.
As a cost-effective perk, companies only need to coordinate the details; employees usually cover their leisure expenses.
Also, with flexible arrangements including remote work capabilities, employees can extend their stay for leisure without impacting their holiday allocation.
Client Meetings
Globalisation and the internet have expanded the client base beyond local boundaries, necessitating travel for in-person client interactions.
This isn’t something new. The ability for a company to market themselves internationally has always added the need for face-to-face relationship building meetings to strengthen long-term client relationships.
Conference Travel
Attending conferences and trade fairs is crucial for networking, promoting products, and staying updated on industry trends.
Despite high costs in all these areas, sending staff overseas to these events, and also sending teams to exhibit, can result in the benefits often justifying the expenditure.
As an added bonus many of the conference organisers can often handle logistic requirements for exhibiting, which mean companies can find it easier to manage these aspects to control costs.
Combining conference travel with bleisure or retreats can further enhance value too.
Things have certainly changed for the business traveller following our European divorce.
As with all business trips, or for that matter any sort of trip abroad, it’s important to plan ahead and make sure all eventualities are covered.
business travel Travelling for business in a post-Brexit Europe
There is an excellent online resource available through the government’s own website that offers detailed information for travelling to all 226 countries or territories from the UK: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
You can search for specific countries, sign up for email updates too in case of any changes.
When planning your trip, this useful tool, available from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), can be very important in getting up to date information on travel.
Brexit changed many fundamental requirements for travel from the UK to the continent, but there were long standing relationships between the UK and Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey and the Isle of Man relating to an agreement called the ‘Common Travel Area’.
The changes to visa and passport rules following Brexit didn’t apply, and many other changes to business travel were adopted differently to the rest of the European Union.
Detailed advice is available through the FCDO, particularly in relation to travel to and from Ireland.
The information below offers general advice for European destinations.
Please ensure you visit the FCDO specific page on your intended destination(s) to plan your trip with the most up to date information.
Timescales
If you’re travelling on business for no more than 90 days in a 180 day period, you’ll be able to travel without a work permit or visa.
If you’re planning to stay for more than 180 days, entry requirements and rules for many countries differ, so it’s important to review the latest information to ensure you travel with the correct documentation in place.
Travelling with goods
Many business trips include travelling with goods, samples or other items relating to your specific needs.
It’s important to ensure you have the correct documentation for those goods, especially if you have sold or intend to sell those goods to other businesses located in your intended destination. Customs requirements can be found on the gov.uk website: gov.uk/check-customs-declaration
Be careful if you intend to take any foodstuffs from the UK to Europeproducts containing Milk or Meat are restricted.
You will also need to make a declaration if you take £10,000 or more in cash with you.
When returning from the EU to the UK, you can bring in a certain amount of goods without paying tax or duty. More details on this can be found on gov.uk.
Visa requirements
Holders of UK passports can stay in the EU for a 90 day period within any 180 day limit without the need for a visa.
For longer stays countries have individual requirements (check on the FCDO site for details).
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be implemented in 2025. This is similar to the US ESTA, allowing stays of up to 3 years within the Schengen group of countries (also including Cyprus).
Passports
A valid UK passport is required to travel across the EU.
Passports must be issued less than 10 years before the date of your travel, and also need to be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date.
You can check the passport validity rules for each destination by visiting the FCDO’s dedicated pages for individual countries and reviewing the entry requirements section.
Additionally, a new automated Entry/Exit System (EES) is anticipated to streamline passport processing by late 2024.
When you do pass through border control, you will now need to use the ‘third country’ or ‘non-EU’ visitor lanes.
Your passport will be stamped on entry and exit. Some EU countries are introducing e-gates to replace manual checks.
You may also need to show a return ticket and proof of sufficient funds for your stay.
Insurance
As with all travel abroad travel insurance is crucial. With business travel, any cover needs to extend to business activities, and specialist brokers and business travel insurers offer policies that cover most eventualities and requirements.
If you have a current European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), it will be valid until the expiration date on the card.
If your EHIC has expired, apply for a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which is accepted in all EU countries and some others.
Always ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that provides adequate healthcare coverage, including cover for pre-existing conditions and any planned activities.
Phone coverage
The rules around mobile data roaming requirements have changed, and it would be prudent to check with your provider prior to travelling to ensure you don’t get any nasty surprises.
There are many roaming packages available for EU travel, and especially if your trip has sparse wi-fi coverage it’s important to know about any data limitations before your visit.
It may be necessary to inform your provider which countries you are
visiting to ensure uninterrupted service. Check with your mobile provider for specific details.
Driving
Requirements for driving in the EU vary by country, and it’s important to ensure you follow the correct procedures for each country you visit.
Your trip may include taking a vehicle with you travelling from the UK via the channel tunnel or ferry. General guidelines for taking your own vehicle include:
• UK car stickers are required.
• UK Blue Badges are accepted in some countries; check the specific rules for each as they may vary.
• An international driving permit (IDP) may be necessary for some licenses; verify the requirements for your destination.
Other considerations
If your business trip involves having certain qualifications for the activities or roles you are planning.
It may be necessary to check whether your professional qualifications will be recognised in the specific country you are visiting.
Tax implications of the trip need to be considered.
Most travel expenses when associated 100% with business can be offset against business tax liabilities, however, things like consumption of alcohol, sharing expenses with leisure activities, sightseeing, vehicle mileage – all these need to reviewed before any claims are made.
The advice from your accountant would be beneficial in assigning any expenses against your tax bill.
New web platform set to change business travel
TransPennine Express (TPE) is taking businesses further after introducing a new tool to give small and medium companies a better way to make rail bookings.
TransPennine Express Business, an online portal launched by the rail operator, allows companies to book rail travel 24 hours a day, providing the lowest fares and a tailored reporting package to help keep an eye on overall spend.
Jill Bollard, Business Account Manager at TPE, said: “We are fully aware of the part we play in connecting businesses across the North, into Scotland, and beyond.
“Our aim was always to deliver something for small and medium businesses that provided the best possible deals, alongside a portal that helped give greater control and visibility of expenditure.
“Through TransPennine Express Business companies can add authorised users, allowing them to book tickets at thresholds set by the business – with the capability to restrict the class of travel, outline the reason for travel and even assign bookings to a cost centre.”
Jill added: “We understand the needs of businesses in our region and have designed TransPennine Express Business to reflect and meet those needs.
“We’ve also worked hard to make payments as easy as possible and users can pay direct by credit or debit card or, subject to credit
checks, can also be invoiced for their travel bookings.”
By taking the train employees can use the trains as a mobile office environment as TPE’s modern trains offer tables, plugs and USB power sockets as well as free Wi-FI – and there’s the added benefit of dodging busy city centre traffic.
Train journeys reduce carbon emissions by 77 per cent compared to taking the car.* - and businesses will be able to compare emissions data for rail vs car (petrol & diesel) by using their account.
Since 2019/20, TPE has reduced
its total impact by 15% and the operator’s Nova train fleet, which includes bi-mode and electric trains, has helped to improve carbon impact per vehicle kilometre travelled by 17% since this time.
Jill commented: “At TPE, we are committed to having a positive impact on the environment – and we want to help businesses across the North of England and Scotland to do the same.
“Taking the train is a better, more environmentally friendly way to travel and we have developed a feature that will allow businesses to track and compare rail journey emissions to those produced by road vehicles.
“This will help companies realise the more sustainable benefits to travelling with us, and champion rail as a green means of travel.”
public safety security
Business Connect Magazine have been following and supporting Figen Murray OBE in her tireless pursuit to bring Martyn’s Law into being.
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, also known as Protect Duty, will apply as an anti-terrorism defence of all public venues with capacities catering for over 100 attendees, and has been written as a series of tiers according to size of venue, detailing a specific set of safe-guarding actions those venues would need to adopt by law.
We caught up with Figen recently to see how the change in government was having an impact in getting the bill through:
Figen, it’s lovely to meet up again, and congratulations on your OBE. Although the circumstances cast a shadow, it’s obviously an acknowledgement to your hard work and tenacity – and I’d also assume will help with your work in getting the bill actually approved?
“Yes, of course, there is a lot to do. My son Martyn died at the arena attack alongside 21 other victims. For over the last 5 years now I have been campaigning for Martyn’s Law.
“From my angle Martyn’s Law
&
An update on
Martyn’s Law
signifies a set of very simple set of common-sense measures. It’s not rocket science.
“It’s really a very straightforward piece of legislation that asks for people to be trained, and asks for people to do risk assessments inside and outside a premises. Out of that risk assessment the legislation would ask that an anti-terrorist action plan would then be implemented.
brilliant. It means that it’s part of the new Labour government’s manifesto.
“We met with Sir Keir Starmer and Yvette Cooper and all the other ministers and I had a really positive feeling from that meeting. When I spoke with Keir Starmer, and I’m not a political person at all, I felt this was a person who spoke with integrity, and I felt there was sincerity in what he said. I absolutely believe he is the person to get this done.”
as they can do, because we don’t yet know what the final guidelines will look like. It’s so important to get that final bit of legislation in place so that everyone can sing from the same hymn sheet.
“I’m specifically looking for support from people across social media, for people to keep the conversation going between the venues, the government, and all those who have an interest and can engage with the lobbying online.
“The plan would enable every single member of that business, from ancillary staff, cleaners, bar staff, security, managers – right up to those business owners, to know what to do in case of an attack.
“The measures could be to evacuate or invacuate, and although the guidelines and assessments would be followed by the venues, particularly for the larger facilities the process would include the local authority working alongside those venues.”
How is the bill currently doing on its path to becoming law?
“Obviously Martyn’s Law was in the King’s Speech which was absolutely
Did you not feel the same from the previous government?
“Rishi Sunak promised me in December 2022 that he would get the legislation over the line quickly, but I suspect so much other stuff got in the way he simply ran out of time.
“I do believe this would have been carried through by the conservative government, but after the election, and after talking with Keir Starmer, and listening to the new ministers and conversations surrounding the legislation, I feel much more positive about progress now.”
So where do you go from here?
“I still need to keep the pressure up on government to make good on their promises and to keep lobbying until the King has signed the legislation through into law.”
What support are you currently looking for? and from whom?
“I feel incredibly supported by everyone in the security sector. The industry as a whole want the legislation implemented as soon as possible.
“A lot of venues have already implemented Martyn’s Law as much
“I think that as the legislation has already had two public consultations, already had the scrutiny, and been pulled apart several times and worked on as a result of those actions, it’s now a very robust piece of legislation that I hope doesn’t get altered too much.”
All things working out well, how quickly do you think Martyn’s Law can actually become law?
“Being optimistic, particularly in relation to my experiences of the progress so far, the legislation could actually be in place by the end of the year.
“There have been consultations and processes that the draft legislation has been through, and there’s no reason the final few stages in Parliament can see everything in place and Martyn’s Law in situ by the end of this year.”
Figen and Martyn
Figen Murray OBE
International Security Officers’ Day is held each year on 24 July to represent the 24/7 nature of security work.
International Security Officers’ Day
This year the Manchester venue for the event was at Manchester Central Convention Complex and was very well attended and supported.
The event was organised by the City Security Council whose membership is made up of 43 reputable security companies, who took part in the day’s celebrations. The City Security Council are the authoritative voice of the security industry, and make
meaningful changes for the member companies. The organisation was originally established as a collective of premier security companies based in London. The objective is to work closely in collaboration with, and in support of the police and public in times of crisis or when any significant major event takes place in the city.
This year was a very busy event, with an amazing talk from Figen Murray OBE explain why Martyn’s Law is so important for public safety, and also an address from Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester Mayor.
Peter Harrison, Chair of the Regional Board in Manchester, said, “I was delighted to host the firstever International Security Officer Day at Manchester Central and celebrate our security personnel’s work 24/7 over 365 days a year. Thank you to all our member companies and Sponsors for making this a significant day of celebration. I am already looking forward to next Year.”
The event takes place around the country from Individual celebrating their security officer, however, the City Security Council held an event in London and Manchester.
It is available to members who are ACS - accredited security companies or working towards the relevant British standard wherever they are based in the UK. Find out more at citysecuritycouncil.co.uk
Emergency trauma kits rolled
Every city centre hotel and dozens of licensed venues in Manchester were provided with emergency trauma kits, ensuring that everyone has the ability to be a lifesaver.
This scheme, arranged by Manchester City Council in partnership with CityCo and Steroplast is aimed at addressing the ‘care gap’, identified during the recent Manchester Arena Inquiry.
This is the period of time during a major incident – such as a terror attack or when people have been seriously injured – to medical professionals arriving on scene to provide emergency care.
To help prevent the tragic loss of life
out city
wide
so that anyone can be a lifesaver
in the future, 100 PAcT (Public Access Trauma) Kits have been purchased by the Council and will be distributed to ensure every part of the city has coverage. A further 73 kits are also being rolled out across all city centre hotels within the Accommodation BID.
This would allow first responders, emergency services, hospitality staff or even members of the public access to the equipment that could save a person who has suffered potentially fatal injuries as the result of a terror attack.
This work comes after the recent
King’s Speech, where the Government made a commitment to enacting legislation to make it mandatory for venues to have counter-terror laws in place. In Manchester, these principles have already been put into action under ‘Martyn’s Law’, ensuring that venues have the tools at their disposal to keep people safe. While it is hoped that these kits never have to be used, the Council is entirely committed to improving and strengthening resilience across the city, preventing any unnecessary loss of life.
&exporting logistics
Marie Boyer, MD of Manchester
based France Line International Transport Ltd, which specialises in cross channel freight between the UK and France, comments on the results of the recent election, what it means for the transport and freight sector and asks the new Prime Minister to deliver in putting freight on the right road.
“I welcomed the election result as I feel it heralds a period of positive change and hopefully a revitalised economy and growth for the UK.
“I was also pleased by the new
It’s time to deliver for freight, Sir Keir
• Tackling congestion
• Fixing an additional 1 million potholes
• Upgrading ports
• Empowering mayors to create unified, integrated transport systems
unnecessary barriers to trade.’
“Indeed, a few days after the election, on his way to the Nato Summit in Washington, Keir Starmer did say he would accelerate talks on forging closer UK – EU relations with European leaders on the fringe of the summit.
prime minister’s first steps once in power. In my opinion, he formed an impressive Cabinet of talented Ministers, including our first female Chancellor among many other highprofile females.
“It’s good to see a woman, Louise Haigh, in post as Secretary of State for Transport too.
“I’m also encouraged by the ‘fully costed’ transport-friendly commitments in Labour’s manifesto, though delivery is the crucial next stage. It includes:
• Developing a long-term strategy for transport infrastructure
“For the European freight sector, it is here that Sir Keir’s government will encounter the biggest elephant in the room.
“Labour’s manifesto pledge around Brexit was clear: ‘There will be no return to the single market, the customs union, or freedom of movement. Instead, Labour will work to improve the UK’s trade and investment relationship with the EU, by tearing down
“But there are mixed messages coming from the EU.
“On the one hand, we will see no change without concessions on free movement. On the other, there are signs, most recently from the Irish PM, that the EU is ‘absolutely’ open to Labour’s plan for overhauling the postBrexit landscape. I sincerely hope so.
“Freight needs an improved trade relationship with the EU. British business needs it. The UK needs it to drive growth and create the better economy Labour is promising.
“Over to you, Sir Keir.”
The times they are a changing
Bob Dylan’s prescient lyrics from 60 years ago fit well with the changing order following the recent election.
On the national level the fog of detail has yet to lift, but more of that later.
The Chartered Institute of Export and International Trade1, founded in 1935, has recently been awarded its Royal Charter by King Charles III, the highest accolade that can be granted to a professional organisation. The Charter was awarded in recognition of the distinguished role of the body and its members in empowering international trade.
This UK based, global organisation, is committed to professionalising international trading through training and education and has also become recognised as an expert voice by Governments and Industries across the world.
The aim of professionalising the business of exporting and equipping its members with the knowledge, expertise and tools needed to succeed across the world is admirable, and it also acts as a magnet to draw others into the profession from students to seasoned professionals, home and abroad.
With opportunities to network with a wide variety of trade professionals, the learning and advice doesn’t have to take place in a classroom and the combined corporate
knowledge base is extensive.
If you are serious about exporting, whether as a full-time career, or as an add on to your core business, then you should investigate what it has to offer export.org.uk
You may have noticed another change that has taken place recently in the political world of musical chairs. I mean of course the advent of a new government.
This overnight abrupt change of government is a constitutional anomaly of the UK political system; no time for a detailed handover period like in the USA, the new Government and its Ministers have to be ready to govern, even when they have no previous experience.
For this reason, the role of Civil Servants is critical in smoothing the way, however it is the new Ministers, most of whom have been studying the requirements of their roles from the opposition benches, who will set the strategy.
So, what can we expect of the new regime?
A main pillar of the new Government’s manifesto was growth and The Department for Business and Trade states on its front page that it is “the department for economic growth”
Continues on next page
&exporting logistics
He has shadowed his current role since September 2023. He has espoused the aim for a joined-up approach to for the UK Economy. He has also recently commented on avidly pursuing export opportunities. So far so good.
Every new regime wants to stamp their authority on policy, and we will have to wait and see how the department changes evolve under the new leadership, but the continuation of “UK open for business” mantra seems likely and as such there is no excuse for not advancing any plans you have for starting or expanding your exporting activities.
As well as benefitting the country as
a whole, exporting can significantly benefit your bottom line. Exporting is nothing more than selling into overseas markets. Whilst it always a challenge to sell into any new market, or even to win new customers, there is no reason not to expand into a new market overseas any more than into a new market in the UK.
Finding the right market is the first step. Analyse the characteristics of your current markets and customers and look for where those exist in other parts of the world. Consider new markets you have been planning on entering and look for where you can find those at home or abroad. You can find tremendous support for
these activities from the CIEx but also from the DBT. This help is available online, but also in person by the DBT trade advisorsa wonderful scheme that pairs your business with real experts to help you navigate the world of exporting. Unbelievably, it is completely free of charge.
Trade advisors often become an essential guide to a business, and they establish long term relationships to help support you. So whichever route you choose, there is great help available and huge opportunities to be found across the world.
1. Your writer is a long-standing member of the CIEx and a member of its Membership Committee.
coaching
or focus groups, as well as conducting thorough market research to identify trends and patterns.
Creating a Supportive Environment:
Building a supportive environment where clients feel comfortable expressing their needs and concerns is crucial.
One way to achieve this is by fostering open and honest communication channels. Whether through in-person meetings, virtual
Taking 2 steps back
It’s easy to become deeply entrenched in the day-to-day operations of our businesses. As passionate SME owners, we live and breathe our ventures, pouring our hearts and souls into every aspect of our operations. However, this closeness can sometimes blind us to the perspectives of those we seek to serve – our potential clients.
Picture this…
You’re a client searching for a solution to a pressing need. You’ve come across several businesses offering similar services, but something about their approach doesn’t quite resonate with you.
Perhaps they’re using technical jargon that leaves you feeling confused, or maybe they seem more focused on showcasing their expertise than understanding your unique challenges.
This scenario underscores the importance of taking two steps back and viewing our businesses through the lens of our clients. By doing so,
we can gain invaluable insights into how our offerings are perceived and make informed adjustments to our communication strategies.
Here’s how:
Acknowledging the distortion:
It’s essential to recognise that our deep knowledge and passion for our businesses can sometimes lead to a distortion of reality.
What seems clear and straightforward to us may be complex and confusing to others. By acknowledging this potential disconnect, we open ourselves up to exploring alternative perspectives.
Putting yourself in the client’s shoes:
Empathy lies at the heart of effective communication.
To truly understand our clients’ needs, preferences, and pain points, we must actively put ourselves in their shoes.
This involves seeking feedback through surveys, interviews,
consultations, or online forums, providing a platform for clients to ask questions and seek assistance can lead to deeper connections and increased trust.
Tailoring Communication:
Effective communication is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. Instead, it requires a personalised approach tailored to the unique preferences and communication styles of each client.
This means asking open-ended questions to uncover underlying needs, actively listening to their responses, and adapting our tone and language to match their level of understanding.
Offering Genuine Solutions:
At the core of our interactions with clients lies the desire to offer genuine solutions that address their specific needs and goals. Rather than focusing solely on promoting our
products or services, we should strive to understand the root causes of our clients’ challenges and offer meaningful solutions that deliver tangible results. This might involve suggesting alternative approaches, customising our offerings to better meet their needs, or providing additional resources and support.
By taking two steps back from our businesses and adopting a client-centric approach to communication, we can bridge the gap between perception and reality.
Building meaningful connections with our clients not only fosters loyalty and trust but also lays the foundation for long-term success and growth.
So, the next time you find yourself immersed in the intricacies of your business, take a moment to step back and see things from your clients’ perspective – the insights gained may prove invaluable in shaping the future of your business.
At Cheshire Business Coaching, we specialise in helping business owners like you gain these valuable insights and transform them into actionable strategies. Ready to take your business to the next level?
Dave Christie Business Coach and Mentor Cheshire Business Coaching
At Nybble, we strongly believe in helping the UK reduce its WEEE waste by reusing and recycling IT equipment that could potentially end up in landfill, and by doing so reduce the environmental damage that could cause.
What is WEEE?
Sustainable IT and AV solutions refurbished tech
The WEEE Directive was introduced into UK law in 2006. WEEE stands for Waste Electrical & Environmental Equipment and was designed to address the millions of tonnes of reclaimable/recyclable electronic equipment that had been dumped into landfill sites each year.
In simple terms, it is basically any product that has a battery or a plug, therefore most IT equipment would fall under this criteria, and has to be collected and recycled correctly under the directive.
Any WEEE equipment that is destined for disposal, will require a registered waste carrier to collect it and then be recycled or refurbished professionally.
Nybble have been working with a longstanding Partner that can carry out collection of WEEE and also provide all the necessary paperwork and data Erasure Certificates if required.
Why does using refurbished hardware help the environment?
According to the World Economic Forum, a report commissioned in 2019, estimated that worldwide, the amount of WEEE generated annually
Of this total, the UK disposes of approximately 2m tonnes of WEEE annually and is one of the fastest growing waste streams in the country.
By reusing and repurposing Desktops and Laptops, this helps reduce electrical waste, and does not require the manufacturing of new components.
Most IT parts are made from finite raw materials (i.e. Aluminium and Silicon
Why buy new?
many of which are due to run out at current consumption rates. There is also the potential damage to wildlife and eco systems in the areas
Will refurbished IT hardware be reliable?
One of the questions I get asked regularly is around the Reliability of Refurbished IT, the assumption being that because it’s older equipment, it’s therefore prone to more issues or faults.
This isn’t actually the case as all the equipment goes through a second round of testing and quality control which potentially picks up any issues that may have been missed previously.
Nybble have also filtered through numerous suppliers and now have a core supplier base of 3 companies. These have all been assessed for having robust quality control and low return and failure rates. Also, the models and manufacturers were chosen carefully based on historical reliability rates.
But doesn’t refurbished hardware have short warranty periods?
No, all our refurbished range of products come with a standard 12-month warranty with 2- and 3-year extensions also available on request. Windows 11 support and refurbished hardware
It is important to note that Microsoft have already announced that they will end all Windows 10 support on the 14th of October 2025, after this date,
it will no longer provide security updates or technical support.
This could present a problem for businesses that still have older legacy IT equipment running Windows 10 or older versions of Windows as the threat of new viruses and malware increases year on year - and will exploit vulnerabilities.
Having to replace this older IT inventory can be an expensive exercise. However, refurbished desktops and laptops can be approximately 40% cheaper than purchasing new, so can offer an affordable alternative.
With the end of Windows 10 support looming, Nybble only stock refurbished products that are fully Windows 11 compatible.
Are any other refurbished products available?
Almost all IT/Electrical equipment is available in refurbished forms, for example.
• Mobile phones, tablets and iPads
• Servers and server components
• Hard drives and SSD’s
• Monitors and large format screens
• Network switches and access points. Tetrade
Tetrade Is a new Ecommerce platform that was launched in July this year, and is part of the Nybble group with a range of over 3,000 new and refurbished IT products available.
Please visit the website for more details: tetrade.co.uk
Andrew Cartwright Recently joined Nybble having spent over 30 years in IT Sales, with last 10 in the Recycling industry. Andrew is a specialist in
gmcc news
Greater Manchester Chamber celebrate 230th Birthday
Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 230th anniversary with a special celebration event in June.
Sponsors, members and staff joined together at the Chamber’s Elliot House headquarters in the heart of the city centre to mark some of the key milestones of the Chamber and the region.
The Chamber can trace its history back to the founding of the Manchester Commercial Society in 1794 and today is the largest Chamber of Commerce in the country, representing all 10 boroughs of Greater Manchester, and businesses further afield.
The Chamber’s Chief Executive, Clive Memmott OBE, spoke and thanked members for their ongoing support, reminding us of the deep and rich history of Greater Manchester Chamber and our city region.
The Chamber was also joined by past Presidents and Chairs who have supported, facilitated and driven the business forward in more recent years.
Lucy Mulligan, Head of Marketing at Greater Manchester Chamber, said:
“This was a wonderful celebration representing local businesses.
“I’d like to thank all our Birthday Partners who helped to make this event such a success. We were not just
For more information on how to get involved please contact Lucy Mulligan: Lucy.Mulligan@gmchamber.co.uk Visit: gmchamber.co.uk
celebrating our own birthday but also the achievements of the entire business community.
“Although the area we now call Greater Manchester has changed beyond recognition over the past 230 years, we continue to act as the voice of business, highlighting the key issues affecting our members. This event was not just about acknowledging our long history, but also looking forward to the
challenges and opportunities ahead.
“The Chamber looks ahead to the significant development of Greater Manchester as a region, with the new trailblazer devolution deal, a potential new government leading the UK, and of course, our Mayor re-elected for a third term.
“It’s never been a better time to do business in Greater Manchesterand the Chamber is a key part of the eco-system to deliver this.”
&out about...
The Business Catalyst Club meet on a regular basis in Leeds and Manchester, and attracts high calibre business owners and decision makers on an invite only basis.
Owner and organiser Graham Shiers commented at a recent Manchester event about their charity cheque which is always presented at meetings:
“Topping off a cracking day in Manchester at The Business Catalyst Club we raised £435 which is going to Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice in Keighley as nominated by the Charity Draw winner Richard Palmer.
“Huge thanks to our members and guests for their incredible generosity today.”
info@propertycatalyst club.co.uk or visit propertycatalystclub.co.uk
SOUTH MANCHESTER & CHESTER
Many people lead busy lives and know all too well the importance of keeping going from one day to the next.
They hardly dare stop because there are business targets to achieve, new clients to be courted, as well as personal relationships with family, children and friends to be nurtured and maintained. Very occasionally there may be an interlude for a little time out!
The importance of rest days and holidays
Certain jobs and lifestyles provide no clearly defined opportunities for breaks or holidays. Children, ailing relatives, growing a new business, studying for professional exams and even the seasons bring their own demands. And with more people working from home, it’s often easier to keep going and not have regular break times during the day.
However, maintaining an unremitting level of commitment to everything and everyone can eventually become counter-productive and ultimately negatively impact all areas of life.
When you consider that there are over 360 documented symptoms of stress it’s hardly surprising that stress and its impact has become such an important ‘red flag’.
Sleep, concentration, sense of humour, as well as a miscellany of aches and pains are only some of the areas affected by stress. So taking regular breaks and, in particular, rest days and holidays are important ways to wind down and recalibrate or even switch off at times.
Rest days provide an alternative to the full-on, singular focus that may well be our usual way of operating on a daily basis. Everything changes gear when we’re out with friends, playing with our children, walking in the countryside or reading a good book.
At those times we detach from our daily concerns, think differently, relax, and become less tense; we’re taking a day when nothing is expected of us.
A small window, a 20 minute break can improve our mindset and problem-solving abilities. So, taking a full day of rest away from the norm has even more benefits. It allows us to refresh our priorities, remind us of
what’s really important in our lives and take a little care of ourselves. Afterwards we may return with new ideas and a fresh perspective on lingering problems and concerns, plus it’s good to occasionally remind ourselves and others that no one’s indispensable.
Holidays are a good way to completely change gear and focus on reinventing ourselves. We all have a variety of personas that we regularly adopt in our daily lives, depending on whichever situation we find ourselves in; busy professional, parent, co-worker, partner, fun friend, all are ‘hats’ that we might wear whenever appropriate situations arise.
We slip into character and automatically default to whatever’s expected of us.
But a break, a holiday allows us the opportunity to shed those different personas and use our free time to become a playmate to our children, an attentive companion, an intrepid adventurer and explorer or even a relaxed beach bum.
Single or partnered, we can use breaks and holidays to challenge ourselves in unexpected ways, to climb a mountain, learn to water ski, volunteer in an animal sanctuary or explore a new city.
It’s a good way to meet new people, to potentially learn new skills and explore different cultures.
In our everyday life we typically deal with familiar people and situations. A holiday often requires us to start
conversations with strangers, be intrigued and curious about what we’re seeing and step outside our comfort zones.
In addition, introducing a change of pace and not being 100% available all the time is a good reminder to the people in our lives.
We may have allowed them to rely on us for everything. It might have been easier, we knew we’d do it quicker or better, it allowed us to become important, indispensable, but doing everything ourselves discourages other people from thinking for themselves, demotivates them and does no one any favours in the long term.
Other people should be able to take up some of the slack, share the responsibilities, work load and feel confident about contributing.
Learning to share tasks, teach others new skills, sometimes say ‘no’ and be assertive in appropriate ways can be an unexpected benefit from being firm about taking rest days and holidays.
At work it’s important to have staff cover for holidays and sick leave, or even for especially busy times, but home too can benefit from delegating to partners and children, reminding them that clean clothes don’t magically appear and dinner doesn’t automatically get made.
Would we expect a co-worker, a friend, family member or even our car to work non-stop, without a break or service?
Taking rest days and holidays is an important way to improve our sleep, our general health, wellbeing and consequently our relationships, work performance and quality of life. Everything benefits when we take some time out.
Susan Leigh MNCH (ACC) South Manchester counsellor, hypnotherapist, relationship counsellor, writer and media contributor offers help with relationship issues, stress management, assertiveness and confidence. She works with individual clients, couples and provides corporate workshops and support.
She’s author of 3 books, ‘Dealing with Stress, Managing its Impact’, ‘101 Days of Inspiration #tipoftheday’ and ‘Dealing with Death, Coping with the Pain’, all on Amazon and with easy to read sections, tips and ideas to help you feel more positive about your life.
To order a copy or for more information, help and free articles please call 0161 928 7880 or visit www.lifestyletherapy.net
places to meet
Chamber Space
Meeting and Conference Facilities, Hourly rates, 4-160 capacity, Full venue capacity 400, range of catering options, unlimited tea/coffee with room hire
Meeting Rooms (1-20 seats), Hourly, Half Day and Full Day rates, Free refreshments, Free Hi-Speed Wi-Fi, Co-working space available, Breakfast and Lunch can be ordered upon request
Chancery Place, 50 Brown Street, Manchester M2 2JG
3 Hardman Square, Spinningfields, Manchester M3 3EB
Brasserie Blanc Bar & Restaurant, San Carlo Bar & Restaurant, Executive lounge, 2 Function spaces (140 and 50 capacities), Courtyard (private outdoor dining)
148 bedrooms and suites, 9 meeting and event rooms with capacity for 240 people theatre style, Restaurant and bar, South facing terrace, Private dining, Business centre
Water Street, St John’s, Manchester M3 4AW askus@thevanda.co.uk 0161 832 1188 marriott.com/manva
Marriott Hotel
Liverpool City Centre
Brew Bar (food and drinks), Oliviers breakfast restaurant, Merchant Bar (private bar/event space), 2 Function spaces (240 and 50 capacities)
One Queen Square, Liverpool L1 1RH libby.blackwell@deltahotels.com 07881 312158 liverpoolmarriott.co.uk
[One] London Road
Meeting Rooms, Co-working space, Free tea and coffee, Free WiFi, Screen and projector, Roof terrace
1 London Road, Alderley Edge SK9 7JU
host@onelrd.com 01625 856666 onelrd.com
Orega Arkwright House
Crompton (seats 10) and Hargreaves (seats 8) meeting rooms, both come with Free WiFi, Clevertouch screens, Video Conferencing, Catering (extra cost)
Bed and breakfast, Cosy meeting rooms, Large banquet space, Accessible rooms, Designed for disabled guests 59 Portland Street, Manchester M1 3HP khealey@bespokehotels.com 0161 518 2936 www.hotelbrooklyn.co.uk
Worsley Park Marriott Hotel
Restaurant and Bar, 9 Meeting rooms, Leisure club & Gym, 18 Hole Golf Course Walkden Road, Manchester M28 2QT Aimie.spearpoint@marriotthotels.com 0161 975 2000 www.marriottworsleypark.co.uk
If you currently have the printed edition of Business Connect Magazine available at your venue and you’d like to feature in our Places to Meet section please contact Paul Mirage at paul@businessconnectpublishing.co.uk
If you’d like to host our magazine at your site and feature on this page please contact Paul.
diary dates
BITA (British and Irish Trading Alliance)
BITA London Monthly Social Networking
4 Sep 6.00pm - late, every 1st Weds
Venue The Rising Sun, 61 Carter Lane, Fleet Street, London EC4V 5DY
BITA Liverpool Monthly Social Networking
12 Sep 5.00pm - 7.00pm, every 2nd Thurs
Venue Gaucho, 7 Water Street, Liverpool L2 0RD
BITA Manchester Monthly Social Networking
15 Aug 5.00pm - 7.00pm, every 3rd Thurs
Venue The Lawn Club, Hardman Square, Spinningfields, Manchester M3 3HG
