2022
PROSERVICES
BUSI N E SS SE RV I C E S / FI N A N C E / L AW / PRO PE R T Y / AG E N C I E S / R EC RU I T M E N T SPONSORED BY:
THE CITY AT WORK
MEET THE PROFESSIONALS MAKING THE CITY BUZZ
EXCLUSIVE INSIGHTS INTO LOCAL BUSINESSES
SPONSORED CONTENT
SOLICITORS BATTENS SOLICITORS Patrick Mears, Head of Commercial Property Bath Tell us a little about your business...
Battens is a three-hundred-yearold law multi-disciplined law firm with six offices in Somerset, Dorset and Bath. Our business and individual clients count on us for our renowned legal expertise, fresh thinking and pragmatic insight. What areas do you specialise in?
I have more than 20 years of experience in commercial property law, advising clients on all aspects of the sector, including sales and purchases, leases and renewals, development and strategic land transactions and secured lending work. How has your firm adapted to stay relevant?
Technology has helped us
to develop as a firm, we have introduced a new case management system and hybrid working has also allowed us to be flexible in terms of staff and client needs. Hybrid working is very much here to stay but the important thing is to listen to clients, and I am always happy to meet clients face to face to discuss their issues. Did you know?
Our people are our best asset and Battens understands that especially during such recent challenging times. We promote a positive approach to health and wellbeing, and many of our staff have taken part in mental health first aid courses. We are very proud that we now have mental health champions in every office, with a total of 16 across the company. It has been a very beneficial for us as a business and for the wellbeing of our staff. For more: 01225 536870; patrick.mears@battens.co.uk
BLB SOLICITORS
Sarah Loveless, Partner Tell us a little about your business...
BLB Solicitors is a leading law firm serving Bath, Wiltshire, and beyond. We pride ourselves on offering clear, practical, and cost-effective legal advice to businesses and individuals. In addition to providing excellent service, our clients tell us we have a reputation for being friendly and approachable, which keeps them coming back. What areas do you specialise in?
The firm offers a comprehensive range of legal services. However, I head the Private Client Department, which specialises in Wills, Inheritance Tax planning, can this be more convenient for Lasting Powers of Attorney, clients, but often they feel more Deputyships and Administration at ease speaking to of Estates. I am us from a familiar a full member environment. of the Society of DID YOU KNOW… We work extensively Trust and Estates with clients in the Practitioners and What makes leisure and hospitality Solicitors for the working in Bath industries, which Elderly. special? are currently facing It is a fantastic city unprecedented to live and work, How are you challenges. Despite communicating especially having that, many of our with clients? so many parks, clients are bucking the cafés and coffee As with so many trend and investing substantially. shops right on our businesses, the doorstep. Our pandemic has office in George broadened how Street is just a short stroll from we meet and communicate with Victoria Park, which is great for a clients. Although we have been lunchtime stroll! delighted to welcome clients back into our offices, we will inevitably For more: 01225 462871; continue to make good use of video conferencing platforms such sarah.loveless@blbsolicitors.co.uk; www.blbsolicitors.co.uk a Zoom and Teams. Not only
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SPONSORED CONTENT GOUGHS SOLICITORS Phillip Bolton, Partner & Head of the Private Wealth Sector Tell us a little about your business...
Goughs is a law firm with 7 offices throughout Wiltshire. Goughs has 5 departments – Family, Residential Property, Commercial and Real Estate, Employment and Private Client and 5 sectors – Armed Forces, Farming and Rural Land, House Building, Private Wealth and Property Investment. The firm employs over 100 members of staff and further recruitment and expansion is planned for the next year. The firm is unique in having a strong high street presence and excellent reputation in 6 towns, along with a large, first-class commercial offering based in the firm’s new Chippenham office. What areas do you specialise in?
My practice encompasses all aspects of Private Client work, with a particular interest in complex Wills, wealth preservation, tax mitigation and estate planning. I have also had
significant experience in advising on agricultural and farming estate planning matters. What challenges are your clients facing?
The pandemic has made many of my clients consider their own mortality, and therefore consider estate planning matters and family succession in relation to businesses and wealth. This requires great consideration in relation to family and tax matters, which can be complex for clients to deal with. At Goughs, we are well placed to advise clients through this journey. What awards has your company or members of your team won?
The firm has been nominated and shortlisted by The Law Society for its national excellence in law management. For the last few years, Goughs has been regularly recognised in Chambers and Partners and The Legal 500, which are both highly credited legal directories. I am really proud to be an individually recognised lawyer in The Legal 500. For more: 01249 712193; info@goughs.co.uk
HELEN STARKIE SOLICITOR Helen Starkie
What area do you specialise in?
We are a niche ‘private client’ firm — the only one in Bath. We specialise in non- litigious work for individuals, families and entrepreneurs — Tax Planning, bespoke Wills, Probate, Powers of Attorney, Court of Protection work, Care Home contracts, Care Funding and Property transactions of various types. When was the firm founded and by whom?
I founded the firm twelve years ago. After training and qualifying at a London firm I had for over twenty years run very large private client departments in two sizeable regional firms; but I became disillusioned by the way that they had become more ‘corporate’ in their approach to private individuals and the loss, as a result, of a personal service to clients. To me that is the essence of being a private client lawyer and the time
seemed right to set up a practice based on the premise of ‘service’ as opposed, purely, to profit. I was right. Clients tell me that they wish I had done it years before I did. What sets you apart from others in your sector?
Our ethos and our size, which facilitates us getting to know clients’ needs in depth. Many clients have moved to us from larger firms because they value the fact that we know and understand them (and ideally their families, too) and their particular needs. We make time for that. Many complain that in larger firms they never got to speak with the same person twice. Here, they feel they can always get hold of the person they need, and that, if they cannot come to us, we will go to them at no additional cost. A surprising fact about the firm?
We are all women.
For more: 01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk
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SPONSORED CONTENT MOGERS DREWETT Karen Sherwin
Tell us a little about your business...
Mogers Drewett is a leading Southwest legal and financial planning firm with offices in Bath, Frome, Sherborne and Wells. Work/life balance – how do you get it right for you and your staff?
someone who joined us at the beginning of the year, Sarah Clacker. Sarah moved to Bath from London with her family and is a very experienced Tax and Trust senior associate. We’re thrilled that she’s joined us and she’s a great addition to our Bath Private Client offering which compliments our other offices.
DID YOU KNOW… 78% of our employees are female. And if you add up all of our length of service it is more than 600 years -that’s a lot of experience and knowledge to tap into!
By leading by example. I take my own mental and physical health very seriously and a positive work/ life balance is critical to that. Everyone at Mogers Drewett works hard and cares about what they do. Down time is essential in order to recharge so that we can be at our very best. Name a rising star in your company?
Everyone is a star at Mogers Drewett but I think a special mention should be made to
What is your company’s ethos and philosophy?
We wouldn’t be here without our clients or the fantastic team that is Mogers Drewett so we take care of both very carefully. We strive for excellence in both and have a very positive and supportive working environment. Our values as derived from client testimonials spell out the work SHAPE -we are Straightforward, Helpful, Approachable, Professional and Efficient. For more: 01225 750000; enquiries@mogersdrewett.com; www.mogersdrewett.com
STONE KING LLP Rebecca Eels, Partner
Tell us a little about your business...
We are a national law firm with a 230-year working history in Bath. We have an excellent reputation for our private client work as well as our expertise across the education, charity & social enterprise and business sectors. We’re committed to supporting and advancing the work of our clients and dedicated to our community by getting behind local causes and events, such as sponsoring the charity category at the Bath Life Awards. What areas do you specialise in?
I’m part of Stone King’s Family & Mediation team specialising in complex children and financial matters, I am also a trained mediator. Mediation can help couples through their separation in a non-confrontational way, which is particularly valuable where children are involved. It aims to avoid potentially acrimonious court proceedings and can be more cost and time efficient. I also specialise in child inclusive mediation, that enables the child’s voice to be heard. Separation is a challenging time and it’s rewarding to help our clients find amicable solutions whilst reducing the impact on children. What challenges are your clients facing?
Our Family & Mediation clients have had a tough two years managing the financial and emotional impact of the pandemic and several lockdowns, which have undoubtedly sparked and escalated issues. Where clients are waiting for court proceedings, the backlog is prolonging the process and preventing them from moving on. We are doing all we can to support our clients through this. Did you know?
Last November we relocated all our Bath-based teams to a new head office at Upper Borough Court, Upper Borough Walls, including the Family & Mediation team. We have three trained mediators, which sets us apart from other family law teams, and between us we have more than 100 years of experience. For more: 01225 337599; www.stoneking.co.uk
“SEPARATION IS A CHALLENGING TIME AND IT’S REWARDING TO HELP OUR CLIENTS FIND AMICABLE SOLUTIONS”
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SPONSORED CONTENT
ACCOUNTANTS MILSTED LANGDON Daniel Kenyon, General Practice Director
Tell us a little about your business...
Milsted Langdon provides award-winning accountancy, tax and business advice to help our clients innovate and embrace change. We have a team of over 200 people across offices in Bath, Bristol, London, Taunton and Yeovil, with a shared vision to help our clients thrive. Tell us about your community/charity involvement?
We were a founding partner of the South West Charity Conference which takes place in Bath and throughout the Covid pandemic we hosted a series of digital seminars to provide charities the opportunity to discuss ideas with an expert panel. As part of our CSR initiative, the team recently volunteered with Bath Rugby Foundation’s outreach programme, which involved teaching young adults about managing their money with some sport thrown in for good measure.
What challenges are your clients facing?
There is uncertainty for a lot of businesses at the moment, with a shortage of people capital, as well as supply and demand issues and we can’t forget the impact of Brexit, the continued pandemic and geopolitical uncertainty. Access to finance can also be challenging at this time, but our team has a vast knowledge of different financing options and alternatives. With experience in a wide-range of sectors, we provide the best business and tax planning expertise, to help our clients thrive. Did you know?
Although we are predominantly a South West firm of Chartered Accountants, we belong to a global network through our membership of MGI Worldwide. This means we have access to almost 9000 professionals in over 250 locations worldwide, so that we can offer creative and pragmatic solutions in almost every jurisdiction. For more: 01225 904940; dkenyon@milstedlangdon.co.uk; www.milstedlangdon.co.uk
“WE PROVIDE THE BEST BUSINESS AND TAX PLANNING EXPERTISE, TO HELP OUR CLIENTS THRIVE”
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SPONSORED CONTENT
RICHARDSON SWIFT Jon Miles, Tax Director
Tell us a little about your business...
RS is an independent accountancy and tax advisory company specialising in owner managed businesses and individuals throughout the Southwest. Tell us about your community/ charity involvement?
PEARSON MAY
Matthew Rutter, Partner Tell us a little about your business...
Pearson May is a leading firm of chartered accountants and chartered tax advisers with a Bath office located in Great Pulteney Street. The firm was established in Bath over 180 years ago, and we strive to help our clients realise their personal and business goals. What makes working in Bath special?
Bath is a vibrant and eclectic mix of business and pleasure. Against the backdrop of our beautiful city, Pearson May provides advice to owner managed businesses, fellow professionals, and private individuals who value a quality personal service – and paying less tax, of course! What advice would you give to anyone considering Accountancy as a career?
Training in a firm such as Pearson May can give you the opportunity to gain all-round experience in areas such as accounts, tax and audit. Look for a firm with
good progression prospects – for example all six of our partners started their accountancy training at Pearson May which demonstrates the potential. What do you specialize in?
As well as being a chartered accountant I am a chartered tax adviser and a registered auditor. I work with owner-managed businesses in Bath and beyond, assisting with both accounting and taxation support as well as providing auditing services.
of its lifecycle. What plans does RS have for 2022?
We are planning to strengthen our team and concentrate on developing our resources in key areas to ensure we are ahead of the game when it comes to offering the best services to our clients. We have already restructured our business and encouraged a culture to enable our staff to be more integral to our clients’ personal and businesses goals, with ongoing dialogue and advice.
We are delighted to be sponsoring the fantastic work of the Ben Saunders Foundation. The BSF was founded by the Bath teenager shortly before What challenges his death from a are your clients DID YOU KNOW… facing? rare tumour in Richardson Swift’s August 2020. The Coming out of Bath office at Laura charity has already the pandemic has Place, is also the provided family been tough for fictional home of holidays for over many businesses Lady Dalrymple 50 young cancer and some have from Jane sufferers, and we had to revisit their Austen’s last novel couldn’t be prouder personal goals and Persuasion. to be involved with business models; its work. repositioning the business slightly differently in the market or even taking the difficult What areas do you decision to sell. We have been specialise in? involved in an increasing number As tax director I have a broad of these transactions as well as knowledge and experience of acquisitions. most areas of tax, but I specialise in providing commercial tax For more: 01225 325580; consultancy to owner managers, hello@richardsonswift.co.uk; supporting their business’s www.richardsonswift.co.uk development through each stage
Did you know?
Having recently celebrated a birthday, I was reminded of the coincidence that not only do I share a birthday with one of my fellow partners, we were actually born just hours apart on the very same day in the hospital here in Bath. Roll forward a few years and after both studying maths at university we both joined Pearson May in 2004 and are now both partners in the firm. There must have been something in the water at the RUH that day! For more: 01225 460491; matthew.rutter@pearsonmay.co.uk; www.pearsonmay.co.uk
“BATH IS A VIBRANT AND ECLECTIC MIX OF BUSINESS AND PLEASURE “ www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 9
SPONSORED CONTENT
MEET THE BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY EXPERTS DATASHARP INTEGRATED COMMUNICATIONS is a leading UK communications and collaboration solution-provider that has been helping businesses become more agile since 1999
W
e design and deliver best-in-class unified communications and collaboration solutions that help businesses drive productivity, reduce costs and build the bottom line. We’re proud to be based in Bath, and with customers nationwide and across the globe, our high-performing team is growing fast. We all share a single goal: our passion for delivering the best possible solutions for our clients. Meet the team:
MARTIN BUCKLAND CEO
We focus on our clients’ business, not technology. There are thousands of comms technology products in a very crowded marketplace. By taking the time to understand our clients’ business, we cut through the noise, focus on value and build partnerships for the long-term by sharing risk. We like to take care of our team. From health to financial well-being, learning and development and support for remote working, we continually invest in our employees to help them achieve their objectives. We know how to work hard to deliver the best possible service to our customers. But we know how to relax and have fun, too. We have regular social events, and last year we were lucky enough to have a crack at Airsoft, karaoke at The Cork, ten-pin bowling and even virtual reality shoot ’em ups at Bath Leisure Centre. 10 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
STUART MARTIN
Head of Business Development It’s great to be surrounded by people who have very little fear and respect for the past – not in a negative way, but positively. They appreciate everything that’s been done, but constantly look for ways to improve. When you lead with what’s possible, and constantly seek to create value for clients, it’s energising. Being around that kind of energy and inspiration has allowed me to think bigger than I ever would have thought.
WILLIAM WOOD Head of Pre-Sales
My role here involves listening to customers’ challenges around business communications including voice, video, data, mobile and network security and designing bespoke solutions that fit their unique requirements. I’ve been here over 20 years and have seen a lot of change, but right now there’s a tremendous excitement about the future, as we ride waves of change in the industry, such as huge uptakes in video conferencing, cyber security and the need for consolidated platforms such as Microsoft Teams.
SPONSORED CONTENT
BRAD SNOW
Head of Engineering My team is responsible for executing the technical side of a client’s project, which can include remote and physical installations, training and maintenance support via our helpdesk. We have a dynamic, high-performing team who are driven to take the initiative and solve problems when they arise. There’s always space to train on the latest technology (often used in-house) which gives us vital first-hand experience that we pass on to our clients. It’s a great place to make a name for yourself.
SAMANTHA WHITE
PAUL OATEN
My team provides the business with administrative support for client projects and ensuring the efficient operation of the office. As ‘gatekeepers’ to the business, we are usually the first point of contact for our customers, so it’s important to develop strong relationships with each of them. It sounds clichéd, but the main reason I enjoy working here is because of the people. I’m passionate about supporting the team and ensuring that everyone feels valued for their contribution. We’re an essential part of the business and the work we do helps to shape its future.
I head up a small, crack team of marketers whose entire focus is positioning our company and the services we provide as the ‘go-to’ solution provider for any business looking to level-up its comms technology game. We actively participate in local business community events and support a local Bathbased charity dealing with homelessness and substance misuse. In today’s online world, marketers are the ‘rain-makers’ when it comes to attracting new customers. So, plenty to do and never a dull moment! ■
Head of Administration
Head of Marketing
JOIN US! You’ll be empowered to reach your full potential and make a real difference creating innovative communications solutions for our customers. See the ad below for more information about our current vacancies
0800 032 8274; hello@datasharp-ic.co.uk; datasharp-ic.co.uk Find us on social: f l
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SPONSORED CONTENT
FINANCIAL ADVICE & WEALTH MANAGEMENT BECKFORD JAMES CHARTERED FINANCIAL PLANNERS Ivan Lintner, Chartered Financial Planner
Tell us a little about your business...
We are a chartered firm of independent financial planners. Financial planning begins by assessing what’s important to you in life and how to plan your finances accordingly. Independent means that we work unrestrictedly across the whole market to find the most appropriate solutions for our client’s needs. Our chartered status reflects our commitment to professionalism, ethics, and learning, all of which translate into high quality financial planning. What challenges are your clients facing?
Recently we’ve experienced how both the pandemic and geopolitical tensions, such as the conflict in Ukraine, can unsettle financial markets which naturally gives cause for concern. Whilst every client is individual and will
have differing objectives, the key for investors is not to panic and to trust the process. Keeping a longterm perspective is important, and it’s worth remembering that historically market dips often tend to be followed by recoveries. What advice would you give to someone who’s never really thought about financial planning?
It’s never too early or too late! Start by picturing how you’d like your financial future to look for you and your family. Through discussion we will help you determine your goals and can then work towards achieving your objectives by creating a realistic financial plan, which is regularly monitored and reviewed. Starting retirement planning early is a great example. It may seem uninspiring to add a small amount into a pension each month when you’re young, but remember, that the earlier you save the bigger the difference it will make in the long term. For more: 01225 437600; bathlife@beckfordjames.com; www.beckfordjames.com
HANDELSBANKEN Martin Williams, Branch Manager
Tell us a little about your business...
We’re a relationship bank built on sustainable values and rooted in the local community. We offer individual and corporate banking with a truly bespoke service. What sets you apart from others in your sector?
DID YOU KNOW… Established in 1871 in Sweden, we operate through over 160 branches across Great Britain. Along with the financial products you’d expect from a bank, we also have an award-winning wealth and asset management team, whose expertise can help with financial planning.
What achievement as a firm are you most proud of?
We have a unique decentralised model, where our colleagues are empowered to make decisions, even the pricing of products, meaning our customers benefit from swift decision making. Customers have a direct line to their own account manager, who knows the local market and invests time to understand their aspirations.
Definitely our reputation for customer satisfaction. In 2021 we were rated number one for customer satisfaction for the thirteenth year running, in an independent survey of British banks’ personal and business customers. (epsirating.com). This recognition shows we’re doing the right thing by our customers.
What is your company’s ethos and philosophy?
For more: 01225 311222; martin.williams@handelsbanken.co.uk; www.handelsbanken.co.uk/bath
Our focus is on long-term
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relationships. We believe we can help our customers achieve their goals, by really knowing them. Our cultural handbook is clear “our advice must always be what is best for the customer, not what is most profitable for the Bank at the time”; we back that up by being free of sales targets and bonuses, so customers know we work in their interests.
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LANSDOWN FINANCIAL SERVICES Doug Miller, Mortgage Broker / Director
Tell us a little about your business...
community. We donate £75 to the Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal, the Bristol Children’s Hospital Charity, for every referral we receive which successfully completes on a mortgage through us, and we are committed to doing one days volunteer work at a local charity every month. We are also on the hunt for another charity in Bath which we can help through regular fundraising and support.
We specialise in arranging all types of mortgage finance. This ranges from first time buyers and home movers, right through to clients with sizeable portfolios or people investing into holiday lets. We can also advise in many What sets you DID YOU KNOW… other important apart from Our directors and areas relating others in your advisers have over sector? to mortgage 20 years’ experience and property We remove the in the industry, and finance, including mortgage jargon have advised on secured loans and form our advice, approximately £800m bridging finance, and ensure that of mortgage lending protection policies you understand during this time. and buildings everything, every and contents or step of the way. landlords insurance. Our whole ethos and reason for Based out of our central Bath founding this company was to office, we have access to over 90 put the personal customer service mortgage lenders and do not back into the industry, something charge a fee for our services. that has been lost by many of the larger firms who rely too heavily on technology. Tell us about your community/ charity involvement
We feel that it is imperative to give something back to the
For more: doug@lansdownfs.co.uk; www.lansdownfs.co.uk
MCKENZIE WEALTH
tell you that they put the client at the centre of everything they do. We don’t. We put our clients’ financial goals at the centre of Tell us a little about your business... everything we do. We will coach our clients and defend those We are a young company, based goals, even if it means we have to in the heart of Bath, which has give our clients some tough love. rapidly expanded from a single Investing smartly adviser to 12 for the future advisers and 6 DID YOU KNOW… requires discipline support staff in the As with all investments, and motivation space of 7 years. the value will be and our clients Successful directly linked to the may not always wealth performance of the thank us, but they management funds selected and the do when their is like other value may fall as well as goals have been rewarding things rise. You may get back achieved. in life. It requires less than you invested. knowledge and experience to What challenges understand your goals and know are your clients facing? what’s possible, followed by hard The same as us all. We live in work and discipline to make volatile and uncertain times and sure you achieve them. Our the markets reflect that volatility. unique combination of financial Our clients are finding it more expertise and a performance important than ever to have us driven mentality ensures we by their side, reminding them support, motivate and coach our of their goals and the long term clients to achieve outstanding nature of their investments, and results that can transform their being a cool head to talk to when financial futures. they start to worry. Tristan Johnson, Director
What sets you apart from others in your sector?
All financial advice firms will
For more: 01225 436 555; www.mckenzieandco.co.uk
“INVESTING SMARTLY FOR THE FUTURE REQUIRES DISCIPLINE AND MOTIVATION AND OUR CLIENTS MAY NOT ALWAYS THANK US, BUT THEY DO WHEN THEIR GOALS HAVE BEEN ACHIEVED“ www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 15
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REDMAYNE BENTLEY LLP
Denis Oppong, Investment Manager Tell us a little about your business...
Redmayne Bentley was established in 1875, and today we are one of the UK’s largest independent investment management and stockbroking firms. Clients approach us from a wide variety of backgrounds and individual circumstances and may be seeking specific expertise or an investment management service. The Exeter office was acquired by Redmayne Bentley in 2007 and has clients based throughout the country. What areas do you specialise in?
We provide bespoke investment management, as well as stockbroking and tax-efficient solutions such as ISAs and SIPPs. The firm has considerable experience of working with private clients, trusts and charities. We also work with executors (individuals and solicitors) on probate valuation
services and sell shares for estates and beneficiaries. What sets you apart from others in your sector?
In an industry where more online investment platforms are coming onto the market, Redmayne Bentley provides a service based on long-term relationships, built on trust and understanding. We provide a personal, tailored and flexible approach to managing clients’ investments, using expertise across all asset classes to tailor the portfolio and service to each client. This culture is at the centre of our stockbroking service and suited to a range of investors seeking a high-quality service with a stockbroker. We deal in UK and overseas stocks held in certificated and electronic form. Did you know?
The Exeter office will celebrate its 15th anniversary this year and the team of five share over 100 years of experience between them. For more: 01392 687230; denis.oppong@redmayne.co.uk; www.redmayne.co.uk/exeter
“REDMAYNE BENTLEY PROVIDES A SERVICE BASED ON LONGTERM RELATIONSHIPS, BUILT ON TRUST AND UNDERSTANDING”
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UNIVIDUAL
Cherie-Anne Baxter, Strategy & Marketing Director Tell us a little about your business…
walking habits, had Blue Monday off work and held workshops and walking webinars to improve psychological safety. What benefits do you offer
employees? Unividual are a family-run Indy financial advice business. Far Our benefits package is centred from boring or stuffy our business around looking after the hearts packs a real punch in the industry. and minds of our staff and We help people and businesses inspiring them to achieve their manage their money and plan dreams. Each person gets a for their future. bespoke career A huge part of plan, along with DID YOU KNOW… this is building training and The average age of an adviser financial literacy sponsorship is 52 years! This means in and wellbeing for further a few years the country for everyone, qualifications, will be left with very few no matter your plus a wellbeing advisers when they retire. Additionally most advisers age, position, plan tailored to are Caucasian men. So we lifestyle, their physical set up our own in-house family set-up, and mental financial planning school background health needs. called Unicademy. Headed or anything We also run up by Greg Harris, Unividual’s else that makes UniFocus, Development Director, you a unique our way of Unicademy trains people in to individual. rewarding staff advisers or financial planning with extra time administrative staff. off or vouchers. What steps are Unividual are you taking for also taking people away for a 4 employee’s mental health? day wellbeing festival in October Last year Unividual spent around to reward them for all their hard £1,500 on each employee for work over the last 12 months. their own bespoke mental health and resilience wellbeing plan. We For more: 01225 427 474; also financially supported some staff with extra things like therapy, www.unividual.co.uk introduced lunch-time nature
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PROPERTY ASPIRE TO MOVE
getting the whole team involved.
Tell us a little about your business...
How have the last 12 months been for you?
Aspire To Move are a local, independent, award winning letting agent. Our focus is to deliver unrivalled levels of customer service with a smile! We cover all aspects of residential lettings focusing on Bath, Bristol and the surrounding area.
In the past 12 months, the business has grown from strength to strength, much faster than we actually anticipated. We opened our doors just before a global pandemic, thrived as a business and achieved exceptional growth. This period has involved moving to larger premises, creating two new roles and maintaining Tell us about your community/ our 5 star customer review charity involvement? rating. Service is everything to Our company ethos is to give us and having a fun rewarding back to the community that we environment to work within live and work in. Last year we where people live and breathe raised over £2300 for the RUH our ethos and thrive is important forever friends appeal by cycling to us. We have continually for been honoured to 12 hours. We also win several supported the DID YOU KNOW… awards this year. Bath Foodbank, We’ve actually won the However, the by donating and Bath Life awards two British Property collecting goods to years on the trot! Gold award was help local people a real high for in need. This year us. All agents we are donating are mystery shopped on service and collecting for Bath Cats and excellence and only one agent is Dogs home and have some great rewarded the accolade. support from local dog and cat lovers like ourselves. We have also For more: 01225 444333; pledged to do a Skydive in July with the aim to raise money whilst www.aspiretomove.co.uk
“OUR FOCUS IS TO DELIVER UNRIVALLED LEVELS OF CUSTOMER SERVICE WITH A SMILE!“
BATTERHAM SMITH Tell us a little about your business…
so you might often find us on a lunchtime run or walk exploring the local countryside!
Based in the idyllic outskirts of What sets you apart from others in your sector? Bath, we are a small practice of six who find inspiration in We offer bespoke solutions with people and nature and strive to bold architectural design which create elegant poetic spaces. We are born out of organic thinking prioritise integrity and welcome and thorough understanding any opportunity to discuss ideas. of the particular issues involved We look forward in a project. to working Bringing the alongside you human element DID YOU KNOW… to realise your to the heart of Our recently completed visions for your the project and barn conversion the home, community working from first ‘Hive’ features our very or school project. principles, we take own skyspace, a circular oculus infinity view of pride in our subtle the glorious Somerset contemporary What steps are skies! designs of you taking for understated employee’s quality. We enjoy mental health the process of creative brief and right work/life balance? writing by challenging convention We are a close-knit team who and relishing in doing something encourage open communication. worthwhile. We prioritise the We make sure to check in use of natural materials and regularly and celebrate each sustainable technologies and other’s professional and personal aim to deliver unique, user development. The office has a friendly spaces with respect to the culture of openness in discussing individual and the environment. workload and we offer flexible hours and remote working. For more: 01225 851122; We are strong believers that www.batterhamsmitharchitects.co.uk movement and stress relief activities promote a healthy mind, www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 19
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CARTER JONAS
What challenges are your clients facing
We are in a market where there are very few properties coming up for sale, with the lowest stock Situated in the heart of Bath levels in over 10 years. If people City centre, our Bath property professionals offer an unparalleled are not able to find something, quality service across a wide range then of course they will refrain from selling theirs, so it has a of property needs. knock-on effect. So, people Our property professionals needing to move are finding it aim to give the very best advice, very stressful and are needing to combined with the highest become versed in participating service standards, whatever your in “best and final property interests. offers” scenarios, Carter Jonas is which we can a national firm DID YOU KNOW… advise on. with international Although we opened affiliates and a our Bath office 11 years multi-disciplinary What predictions ago, the first office was opened by John real estate do you have for Carter Jonas in 1855, offering. 2022 making us one of the If stock levels oldest privately owned stay the same, How have the property firms in the last 12 months then prices will country. been for you? continue to rise as demand Considering the levels remain challenges of high. Where we have seen a the last two years, the property change recently is the number market has been exceptionally of Georgian properties used busy, and we have had some as offices getting change of use incredible results for our clients, to residential. We have been exceeding all expectations. In successful advising clients on some cases, we had over 80 achieving the change of use, enquiries on a single property in increasing the values by over 24 hours of it coming onto the market. This has obviously had its 20%. complexities of trying to arrange For more: david.mackenzie@ numerous viewings and adhering carterjonas.co.uk; www.carterjonas.co.uk to the COVID guidelines! Tell us a little about your business...
FINE & COUNTRY
Matthew Valander-Blower & Steven Shepherd Tell us a little about your business...
We are an independently owned estate agency in the heart of Bath with extensive local knowledge and forty years’ experience of the Bath market between us, Matthew and Steven, joint owners. This knowledge and keen desire to succeed is supported by the international presence and marketing expertise of Fine & Country. What sets you apart from others in your sector?
Matthew has a property portfolio of his own and both of us have practical experience of countless renovations. We really understand how to make the most of properties and are very experienced in advising both developers at design stage as well as suggesting cost effective home styling tips for individuals. When we do achieve a sale, we make a huge effort to keep all
lines of communication open, so that everyone is clear where we are in the sales process and any problems which arise can be resolved for the sale to go forward to completion. What challenges are your clients facing?
Currently there is very little on the market to buy so when property does come on, there is intense competition resulting in many disappointed buyers. To try and break the cycle of a lack of stock, we are encouraging sellers to come to the market before trying to find somewhere to buy whilst educating their buyers that they may need to give the sellers a longer time to find. Did you know?
We have a well-stocked bar in our office, so you are very welcome to come in, have a drink and ask those questions you always wanted to ask an agent. For more: 01225 320032; bath@fineandcountry.com; www.fineandcountry.com
“WE REALLY UNDERSTAND HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF PROPERTIES” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 21
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HETREED ROSS ARCHITECTS Tell us a little about your business...
Hetreed Ross are environmental architects adept at challenging consents for new, existing and historic buildings; using low energy design, sustainable construction and appropriately simple services, we produce delightful buildings to exceed clients’ expectations and improve both life and planet. What areas do you specialise in?
Bespoke sustainable design: for most of our clients, the challenge is in making the best of their existing buildings; where these are historic, the hurdles are higher but the transformation can be exhiliarating : maximising comfort and delight - and minimising ‘footprint’. Where the opportunity arises for newbuild, we can tailor to clients needs and dreams to Passivhaus standard.
HOMELETS
Amanda Cooper
What sets you apart from others in your sector?
Tell us a little about your business...
What challenges are your clients facing?
When was your firm founded and who by?
Our focus on sustainable design backed by in depth experience of the construction to achieve it: we’ve been designing and building sustainably in this region for many years – some of us since the 1980s – and have positive relationships with the consultants, contractors and authorities that make for successful teamwork for our clients.
The parallel pressures of Climate Change and the CoV pandemic prompt them to re-evaluate their buildings - both functionally and sustainably: more flexible better quality spaces for more diverse work-life balances: better performing at lower financial and environmental costs. Did you know?
It takes at least 7 years to train as an architect including 2 years learning at work: Marcus has just registered as an architect and Parth is well on his way. For more: 01225 851860; www.hetreedross.com
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With 30 years’ experience letting and managing property in Bath, HomeLets specialise in ensuring the rental experience is a happy, mutually beneficial one. We pride ourselves on the attention to detail we give our clients, properties and tenants and the professional relationships we build. We are friendly, professional and 100% reliable.
How have the last 12 months been for you?
The last 12 months have not been easy for anyone, however, we found great strength within the team, with everyone pulling together to maintain a continuous service for our clients. Our rotation of office and homeworking teams successfully kept the show on the road whilst ensuring safety remained a top priority. Our approach continues to work even now, since the lifting of legal restrictions and turbulent covid numbers!
DID YOU KNOW… Together with our MD, Caroline’s son Marcus, we are a strong female team of 12 dedicated to delivering excellence and timely service, which is built on a foundation of over 120 years of cumulative experience.
Our firm was founded in 1992 by the late Caroline Arundell, who set the high standards of service that continue with us today. These included encouraging study for qualifications and hands on, practical experience that has led to the great depth of knowledge and enviable ethos we have today. We are delighted to be celebrating our 30 year anniversary at Bath Racecourse in May with glasses raised to our founder and inspiration.
What sets us apart?
Our clients feel safe in the knowledge that there will always be a team member that knows them and their property. We pride ourself in being approachable, consistent and consider many of our landlords and tenants as friends, not just clients. For more: www.homeletsbath.co.uk
B AT H ’ S P R E M I E R M O R T G A G E B R O K E R With nearly 20 years’ experience in the mortgage industry, we have expert knowledge in many areas including:
Residential mortgages Mortgages for the self employed First time buyers Buy to let mortgages Holiday let mortgages Limited Company and HMO mortgages
We have access to over 90 mortgage lenders and offer fee free advice, with five star ratings across multiple review sites including Google and Trust Pilot. Appointments are available over the phone, via video calls or face to face, and we will shortly be relocating to a central Bath office just off Queen’s Square.
We are proud to have chosen The Grand Appeal, the Bristol Children’s Hospital Charity, as our charity partner and donate £75 on completion of every mortgage referral we receive. FINALIST
Lansdown Financial Services Ltd, 6 & 7 Trim Street, Bath, BA1 1HB www.lansdownfs.co.uk | 01225 459515 | enquiries@lansdownfs.co.uk
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KNIGHT FRANK
year. But I remain confident that the sprint for stock and the opportunist will prevail. In Bath, we at Knight Frank have seen Tell us a little about your an 8.1 per cent price increase. business... However there is a stark warning Knight Frank deals with property that with such an imbalance between supply and demand across the world and is proud means there is an underlying to be a private partnership. weakness yet to fully materialise. We believe taking a personal New stock is needed to avoid approach is crucial when the wider frustration amongst interacting with our clients as it buyers, if not I can see transaction gives us a detailed understanding volumes will fall of how we can and this exciting, connect them DID YOU KNOW… but deadly, with the perfect In 2010, Knight dynamic will property, be it Frank was appointed have created a residential or on London’s new ticking clock; commercial. skyscraper, The Shard, although I am set to be the tallest pleased to say it is What areas do landmark building in looking like a soft you specialise Europe. landing, rather in? than a crash. I specialise That said I do believe that the within the city market of Bath, housing markets, especially in dealing with the core and prime markets such as the likes of Bath properties, whether it is an and the surrounding areas, have apartment or a house. We also more room to run, but we are have a very strong country team no longer in the housing market that deal with properties outside bubble. The return to normality of the city, please do not hesitate will likely be a slow process with to contact us for any property demand still outstripping supply, related enquires. We would love a situation that is unlikely to to help. improve significantly until spring. Sam Daniels, Associate Head of Bath City sales
What predictions do you have for the sector for 2022?
The UK housing market has created large numbers of frustrated buyers over the last
For more: 01225 325 999 ; sam.daniels@knightfrank.com; www.knightfrank.com
MARK VINCENT SURVEYING
Mark Vincent, Chartered Surveyor Tell us a little about your business...
I started as my own boss in 2013, following years being exhausted in the corporate grind. I still gratefully cover the same Bath and surrounding area that I have done since 1992. I only survey residential property. Every single day is different. I was born and raised in the area that I cover, and local knowledge is a great help. Work/Life balance – how do you get it right?
I try and survey a property in the morning, and try to work from home on a Friday to catch up and to free-up the weekends, but it seems rarely to work that way, being self employed. I often fit in another survey to help a desperate client, which means catching up over the weekend. So I often fail in the best work/life balance. I try to walk my staffie a couple of miles a day with
a view to achieving virtual walking challenges, and weather permitting at weekends, or in the week in summer, try and get to Cheddar Watersports to enjoy paddle-boarding and windsurfing. Fine weather motorcycling is also relaxing. You will notice that there a lot of “try”s! Describe your offices
During a normal working day, I work from my VW T6 Transporter, liveried in my company’s green colours with my name and details on it. It has a heater and wifi, and the view from my “office” can change daily and overlook some of our beautiful West Country countryside. At home, I seem to be in a couple of rooms, currently the conservatory, watching a squirrel eat the bird seed. Did you know?
I learnt to swim in the Cross Baths when the water was very dark green - I think Julius Caesar was in my class! For more: www.mvsurveying.co.uk
“I WAS BORN AND RAISED IN THE AREA THAT I COVER, AND LOCAL KNOWLEDGE IS A GREAT HELP.” 24 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
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witnessed since launching in 2006. The Stamp Duty Holiday created a surge of activity, and X-Press was on hand to support their conveyancing clients throughout this hectic period. Tell us about your community/ charity involvement
WINKWORTH
Lucy McIlroy, Director Tell us a little about your business...
Matthew Leonard and Lucy McIlroy took over the Bath Winkworth Franchise at the end of 2018. Being part of a large inclusive Franchise network works well for us, we can operate as an independent Bath business but have the backing of a large well-established London based company. In London Winkworth have over 70 offices and are always expanding. We have both worked in the property sector for over 20 years and love both living and working in Bath. What sets you apart from others in your sector?
We have a well established letting portfolio which we’ve recently increased with the acquisition of another Bath based Letting agents’ portfolio and now have over 200 landlords. We believe in supporting local Bath businesses and try to use
Bath based companies, where possible, for everything from independent coffee shops for our morning meeting through to the Bath based marketing companies we use. Whilst there are cheaper alternatives we strongly believe in supporting independent local firms which benefit not only the Bath economy but also the environment. What predictions do you have for the sector for 2022?
The Property market, as a whole, had a phenomenal last year, with the number of transactions nationally reaching a 15 year high. In Bath we have seen a strong start to 2022 , property prices in both sales and rentals continue to climb and there hasn’t been a decrease in the number of buyers and renters registering with us. For more: 01225 829000; lmcilroy@winkworth.co.uk; www.winkworth.co.uk
John is an active member of the local business community, and is involved with the Somerset Chamber of Commerce. He has also organised large property and construction events for professionals throughout the region, as well as regular CPD events for the local conveyancing sector. These events allow conveyancing professionals to keep up to date with changes and developments in the sector, whilst connecting with peers.
X-PRESS LEGAL SERVICES BRISTOL John Watt, Owner
Tell us a little about your business...
X-Press Legal Services provides expert property search reports to solicitors and conveyancing professionals across Bristol, Bath and Somerset. Owned by John Watt, who has an excellent knowledge of the local area and outstanding attention to detail, X-Press provides first-class customer service and complete end-to-end service, with a full range of products – including Residential & Commercial Searches, Pre & Post Completion Services, Cyber Security and Compliance Products. How have the last 12 months been for you?
How are you communicating with clients?
X-Press takes pride in providing high quality customer service, always at the end of the phone to help their clients, often becoming an integral part of their team. Communicating with clients is made easier through the X-Press ICOS system, placing everything a conveyancer needs to order and complete a report in one place. Did you know?
The property searches that X-Press Legal Services provide to the conveyancing sector are essential part of every property purchase, sale, repossession, remortgage or redevelopment. For more: 0330 159 5311; john.w1311@xpresslegal.uk; www.xpresslegal.co.uk
The last 12 months have been one of the busiest periods X-Press has
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HR & RECRUITMENT What areas do you specialise in?
The team carries over 100+ years of recruitment experience. Our recruitment sectors include Accountancy and Finance, Welfare to Work/Employment Related Services, HR, PA and Secretarial, Sales and Marketing, IT and Design, Engineering and Technical, Administration and Customer Service, Industrial and Driving. What challenges are your clients facing?
CMD RECRUITMENT Dan Barfoot, Operations Manager
Tell us a little about your business...
CMD Recruitment is a leading independent recruitment consultancy with offices based in Bath, Melksham, Devizes and Calne. We are perfectly situated to recruit across the Wiltshire and South-West area ensuring a competitive edge locally in terms of accessing a high calibre talent pool and reach. When was your firm founded and who by?
CMD Recruitment was established in 2004 by twin brothers Tim and Dan Barfoot. We now have a team of 19 working closely with both clients and candidates to find the best people for your vacancies; the team has extensive market knowledge and up to the minute tools to deliver the perfect recruitment solution.
Primarily our clients are concerned about how the lack of available candidates is affecting their business and their frustration with the multiple offers/counteroffers preventing them securing talent. Our best advice is to be flexible on your requirements, be ready to recruit with a quick communication chain and short interview process and listen to what your candidates are asking for. Having a strong Employee Value Proposition is also hugely advantageous in this market. A good recruitment agency knows how to navigate the market through tough times and can help support and assist your recruitment strategy. DID YOU KNOW… One of our Senior Consultants was runner up to be the official Milky Bar Kid! Can you guess which of our colleagues it was?
For more: 01225 805080; info@cmdrecruitment.com; www.cmdrecruitment.com
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RATHBONE HR SOLUTIONS
Polly Rathbone Ward FCIPD Tell us a little about your business...
Rathbone HR Solutions provides professional HR consultancy services, enabling businesses to attract, develop and retain the right people and achieve targeted business growth. When was your firm founded and who by?
Rathbone HR Solutions was founded in 2018 by Polly Rathbone Ward, who has worked in HR roles across a variety of industries since qualifying in 2001. Polly continues each year to further her professional development and became a Chartered Fellow of the CIPD in 2020.
IMPERIAL STAFF Sarajane Ambrose, Managing Director
Tell us a little about your business...
The Agency was founded by Sarajane Ambrose, Managing Director, whose ethos was to focus only on the career-minded staff who would fit in easily to the client’s household and fulfil their role to enable the client to focus on their family, business empires or careers and their lifestyle. What areas do you specialise in?
We specialise in placing experienced high calibre household staff who hold a full work history, checkable references and a cleared DBS. All interviewed in person, they are career-minded staff who take pride in their work and position. Candidates range from temporary maternity nurses for postpartum mothers, to permanent nannies and governesses to single household staff and couple teams for clients in London, the country and indeed across the globe.
What sets you apart from others in your sector?
Both clients and candidates will receive a confidential attentive service from start to finish regardless of the fee scale and our ultimate goal is to achieve a successful long-term placement for both the client and the candidate(s). What challenges are your clients facing?
Since working in this industry in 1995 the demand has far outweighed the supply and gone are the days when household staff are grateful for accommodation and a position as a means to employment. It is, and will continue to be, very much a candidates’ market where, for want of a better phrase, they call the shots. And once a client is on par with realistic market conditions which is very much set by the demand, our clients can then proceed with getting their house in order. This is where we facilitate this very aim. For more: 01225 48422/ 01225 484190; www.imperialstaff.com
“BOTH CLIENTS AND CANDIDATES WILL RECEIVE A CONFIDENTIAL ATTENTIVE SERVICE FROM START TO FINISH“ 28 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
What areas do you specialise in?
Rathbone HR specialises in working with businesses to ensure that they hire, develop and retain
the right people and that a culture is developed to enable individuals to be engaged and motivated at work. This helps to reduce absence and turnover whilst increasing productivity and retention, helping the business to grow. What makes working in Bath so special?
Bath has been my home for 18 years and my 3 children were all born here. It is a pleasure to provide HR support to local businesses and see them go from strength to strength. What are the topical issues for your sector in 2022?
Now that most of the legal restrictions on Covid have been lifted in England, there are many considerations for employers. How to attract and retain talent in a competitive market and managing hybrid or remote working are some of the topical issues.
For more: www.rathbonehrsolutions.co.uk; polly@rathbonehrsolutions.co.uk
“IT IS A PLEASURE TO PROVIDE HR SUPPORT TO LOCAL BUSINESSES AND SEE THEM GO FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH“
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OFFICES AND CO-WORKING SPACES BATH OFFICE COMPANY Jamie Williams
Tell us a little about your business...
Bath Office Company, both independent and local, provides spaces for businesses of all shapes and sizes to call their own – a place to call work – without the risk, or hassle, of a standard commercial lease; while offering the right mix of affordability, location, and control. What sets you apart from others in your sector?
and traditional long-term leases. Hybrid working dynamics for each business will develop naturally as new processes are discovered, adjusted, and defined. Our serviced office proposition offers advice on how to introduce new physical and virtual ways of working, and an ability to flex the space and service to meet the changing needs of employees and the wider business. Having all this support, from a present and responsive local partner, allows our customers the confidence to focus on the growth of their business.
The pandemic presented a huge What plans do you have for 2022? shift in how businesses and their employees view the function We plan to take on more space, of the workplace in relation to serviced by a front desk. This will lifestyle. Bath, beautiful and enable us to offer a wider range historic, with easy accessibility of clerical services, and a friendly to London, the face to welcome countryside and visitors. Key to our DID YOU KNOW… further down to vision is bringing Our perfect working the South-West, local businesses day: Cycle commute. has attracted together, Coffee. Radio. Emails. waves of people collaborating to Gym. Lunch in the sun. hunting for benefit the wider Meetings around Bath. a better life community and Pint. Home to the family. balance. This has future of Bath’s highlighted a need city centre. for an adaptable office model, in Bath, that bridges For more: 01225 632777; the gap between home, coworking hello@bathofficeco.uk; www.bathoffice.co.uk
RENGEN Jo Lloyd
Tell us a little about your business...
At Rengen House we offer a boutique co-working space in the heart of Bath, just off Pulteney Bridge. Created to be a ‘home from home’ workspace, we provide the added touches that make your day that bit better such as fresh cakes and snacks, as well as bottomless hot and cold drinks and of course, fast WiFi. We have a number of meeting and events spaces available at Rengen House. These are free to use for members but are also available to hire for nonmembers. We host a regular calendar of events and also have accommodation available, for which members receive a discounted price. Work/life balance – how do you get it right for you and your staff?
At Rengen House, our focus is on improving work/ life balance for our members. We offer a home-from-home community to co-work, host meetings, events and relax with clients or team members. This offers a flexible solution for those wanting to work away from home but not 30 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
wishing to commit to a full time office space. The workspaces are cleverly designed around social interaction, collaboration, and relationship building, whilst also providing quieter spaces for private meetings and calls. What plans do you have for 2022?
2022 is an exciting year for Rengen House. Having opened our doors in Autumn 2021, our current ‘casual co-working’ facilities have been really well received. April sees the launch of the second phase of Rengen House, as we launch a brand new renovated space which will offer more traditional desk spaces to complement our more relaxed work areas, along with additional meeting rooms. Did you know?
The home of Regen House, Argyle Street was designed by Thomas Baldwin for Sir William Pulteney. The 6 storey buildings were intended to serve as residential townhouses. However, over several decades shopfronts were added to form an extension to the shopping parade on Pulteney Bridge. For more: 07443 273921; www.rengenhouse.com
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PR AGENCIES CLEARLY PR
Paul MacKenzie-Cummins, Managing Director What are the most important marketing considerations for businesses in 2022?
Purchasing decisions are increasingly influenced by what a business stands for, says, and does. Their focus will move from ‘selling’ themselves as the best this or leading that, to how they can support their customers without expectation of renumeration or loyalty. This will give rise to greater environmental and social governance (ESG) reporting and customer engagement in the form of information sharing rather than communicating sales messages. Why should a business use your services?
We are not the number one agency in the region, but we want to be. To become so means we work harder to deliver the results and business outcomes that clients want, which is why over 80 per cent of all clients renew with us once their initial contracts expire.
More important is our ‘Pledge’. Clearly gives 2 per cent of every penny we make to sustainable and social impact initiatives, so our clients know that by working with us they are also helping the planet and those most disadvantaged in society. In November, Clearly became a Certified B Corporation – only the seventh PR firm in the UK to gain accreditation. What sets you apart from other agencies?
We are not your ‘typical’ kind of public relations agency. In fact, Clearly is not really an ‘agency’ at all – we are a consultancy. The difference being that we work with clients to create, implement, and measure media, creative, and content campaigns that are aligned to the strategic goals of the organisation and deliver better business performance. We do not do all that fluffy stuff that looks great but doesn’t always translate into improved perceptions or bottom lines. For more: 01225 694349; www.clearlypr.co.uk
SCOTT MEDIA Fiona Scott
What sets you apart from others in your sector?
One thing – my business is a BS free zone. You won’t here phrases like ‘we’ll create a buzz’ or ‘we’ll write a lead magnet story’. I don’t My business is 14 years old do wishy washy. and it’s been a wonderful and I have more than 20 years’ unexpected part of my life. full-time experience in the media Having worked in television as a and I still work in the media today. series producer, I never wanted I operate on a news desk model to run a business. However when so stories go out consistently and faced with redundancy, I became a freelancer and over time realised often for my clients at a local, regional, national and sometimes I’m okay at business! Where did international level. that come from? I work with a team Today I offer DID YOU KNOW… of freelancers media relations I’ve recently been including training, named the UK’s Top PR national working retained services, Adviser by Enterprise journalists. I don’t videography, Nation, a national just talk about the social media, organisation which media, I’m part of blogging and supports the SME it. I help my clients animation sector. Not bad for a coalminer’s daughter to have just a little services to from Somerset. of that, aligned ambitious to their business businesses and goals. brands where teams understand the value of For more: fiona@fionascott.co.uk; telling stories. I loved working in www.scottmedia.uk tv every day, I never dreamed I’d love running my own business every day. I lost my dream job and created a new one! Tell us a little about your business...
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BSc MRICS Chartered Surveyor Mark Vincent Surveying provides surveying and valuation advice on residential properties primarily across North Somerset, Bath and North-East Somerset and West Wiltshire. As a Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and with experience of properties ranging from modest studio apartments through to multi-million pound country estates, Mark’s advice is impartial and provides peace of mind to his clients. Operating in Bath, Bradford-on-Avon, Bristol, Frome, Midsomer Norton, Shepton Mallet, Trowbridge, Warminster, Wells & Westbury – Mark provides a wide range of services related to the value and condition of residential property, including: • Homebuyers reports • Building Surveys • Valuations Mark is independent of estate agents and financial institutions which means he gives unbiased advice and can offer complete peace of mind with Professional Indemnity Insurance cover up to £250,000 per claim.
mark@mvsurveying.co.uk 07922 557100 | 01225 581591 www.mvsurveying.co.uk
1-07, 3 Edgar Buildings, George Street, Bath BA1 2FJ
It’s all about peace of mind… Bath based since 1992
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TECHNOLOGY BLACK NOVA DESIGNS Kyle Holmes
What are going to be the topical issues for your sector in 2022?
We believe cyber security and cyber crime will continue to be something business owners, large It was set up by me, Kyle Holmes, and small, will need to be alert to a committed tech geek back in and to try to avoid. It’s something 2011 as I had a dream to have we talk about on a daily basis to my own company. It lay dormant our clients, criminals are smart for a few years while I worked online and we elsewhere and have to be smart then in 2015, too. Another is supported by my DID YOU KNOW… AI which will wife Danielle, I’m attempting to raise £1000s for the RNLI continue to grow I powered up this year in memory of and develop. Black Nova which a close friend who died As a team we currently has two through drowning. I’m find the future main strands to already in training for a of tech exciting the business – one Three Peaks Challenge and empowering offering high and will also be holding driving efficiency quality website a 24 hour sponsored and innovation design and build gaming marathon later in business. We and on the other in 2022 as I am (not surprisingly) an avid intend to embrace side full tech gamer. Who fancies it and help our support and joining me? clients to do infrastructure. the same. Soon my team will For more: 01793 210045; also be offering social media www.blacknovadesigns.co.uk management. The business is based in Calne, Wiltshire however we work with clients across the South West and the Midlands. Tell us a little bit about your business…
DATASHARP INTEGRATED COMMUNICATIONS
Stuart Martin, Head of Sales Tell us a little about your business…
We’re a leading business communications company based in Bath. Our area of expertise is Unified Communications & Collaboration systems including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, cloud telephony systems, video conferencing, data networking, network security and business mobile phones. We have the in-house consultancy, design and deployment capability to bring these technologies together and create the best solutions for our clients. Work/life balance – how do you get it right for you and your staff?
We practice what we preach. The solutions we provide for our clients help them adopt flexible working practices so naturally we encourage our staff to work remotely or from the office, depending on what they’re doing and what the business needs. Increasingly, the role of the office
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is to provide meeting and social space where face-to-face time is required. What benefits do you offer employees?
We offer a fully funded social calendar including monthly social events such as karaoke, virtual reality, kart racing & airsoft and an annual foreign trip. We also provide an annual pay & holiday entitlement uplift, training and development with our tech partners and much more. DID YOU KNOW… In 2021 we doubled the size of our team and in 2022 we plan to expand further, with positions in administration, engineering and business development available. We’re looking for experienced applicants who want to join a high performing team, make a real difference in their role and shape the future of the business. If that sounds like you, please contact me!
For more: 0800 032 8274; smartin@datasharp-ic.co.uk; www.datasharp.co.uk
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DIGITAL WONDERLAB Tell us a little about your business...
how do we maximise investments in digital to meet ours and our customer’s needs. Making sure the end vision is clear and the steps we need to take are clear to help build through multiple phases that can allow us to test and learn and evolve. After all no invention is straight line.
We help amazing organisations of all shapes and sizes do amazing things with digital. Uniquely fusing magic and logic. Bringing together creativity, strategic thinking and technology to deliver high impacting digital solutions. Tell us about your community/ Working collaboratively to charity involvement continually experiment, craft and Everything we do is about build websites and supporting apps that delight and enabling DID YOU KNOW… users, deliver community Darren one of our impact and realise and charity lead developers is a your strategic organisations to professional drummer goals. do more. We also who has met the Queen support many and went on tour with of our clients to What challenges LP (biggest pop/rock access technology are your clients artist in Europe). and software facing? affordably as We work with not well as supporting them through for profits and charities as well as fundraising. Last year we ran multi-nationals. Typically, the the virtual marathon for Charlie two questions we often hear are: Waller Trust from the White Can you help me make sense of Horse in Rhode to Bradford-onthe digital landscape to realise my strategic goals? And I have a great Avon. idea for a new website / App, can For more: 01225 220 155; you make it happen? The debate hello@digitalwonderlab.com; has moved from being about www.digitalwonderlab.com justifying why we need digital to
MOORE SW IT Tom Cannon
How can you help with the way Covid-19 has changed the way we all work?
We provide cloud based IT systems, VPN’s, remote desktop and other services such as VoIP. We have helped a huge amount of clients switch from being fully office based, to be able to work from anywhere (home), some organisations have already adapted to permanently working from home or a hybrid solution. What can we all do to protect ourselves at home with IT security?
It’s important to make sure that your computers and devices are kept up to date which maybe harder when not in the office. It’s worth regularly checking the antivirus and any backups that should be in place. © SOUL MEDIA
How has Covid-19 altered the way you work, professionally and personally?
We have been able to allow staff to choose whether to work from home the last couple of years and be more flexible. We are looking to continue that as a lot of us have realised that we don’t need to be in the office every day. How can you help with IT security?
We can offer most organisations a free IT audit or review which will highlight any weaknesses. Please visit www.msbit.co.uk/free-itaudit for more information. Did you know?
We also provide schools with IT support? We work with plenty of schools in BANES and as far as Gloucester and Exeter? We work with various MAT’s to provide networking, devices and interactive screens. For more: 01225 486100; www.msbit.co.uk
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© Chris Bailey Photography
Providing tailored HR support to small and medium sized businesses. ● Providing vital resource to support your business with professional employment and HR advice. ● Helping businesses to develop strategies to attract, develop and retain the best talent. ● Helping your business to create the right environment and culture so that your people and your business can thrive.
Polly Rathbone Ward | Bath, UK | 07740 432734 | f l polly@rathbonehrsolutions.co.uk | rathbonehrsolutions.co.uk
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BUSINESS SERVICES DC STUDIO Tell us a little bit about your business…
customers is a big challenge. Their customers are looking for easier, sustainable ways to buy at the right price.
We’re an independent brand design and communications What sets you apart from others in your sector? company. Our studio is in Frome and we’ve been helping clients We always deliver more on each grow for 30 years. We share and project. That’s because we bring demonstrate these values and the everyday to life and simplify beliefs. Balanced in strategy and the complex. We look ahead with creative. Clear: we intelligence and act keep it simple. fast in every project. DID YOU KNOW… Astute: we know We have a wide DC Studio are you, your customers range of skills, built the initials of and category. up over 30 years. owner Dario Proactive and We can meet most Canale and what’s ahead of the game. communication more… Design Communication. Open: honest needs from strategy and keeping it to execution at our real. Creative: studio. surprising, fresh and relevant. Friendly: good chemistry, good What areas do you specialise in? company. Effective: it’s all about BRAND DESIGN Strategy, results. And last and by no means Identity and Guidelines. least: Liberating: set free from COMMUNICATION: the complex and everyday. Literature, Campaign advertising, Sales & Marketing Support, Website, Production, What challenges are your Copywriting, Animation, Video. clients facing? There’s one challenge that’s For more: hello@dc-studio.co.uk; universal. How can they grow www.dc-studio.co.uk customers and their brand with less resources? That’s about ensuring their communication and design is more productive. Growing and maintaining
“WE LOOK AHEAD WITH INTELLIGENCE AND ACT FAST IN EVERY PROJECT”
38 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
DIGIPRINT
Alex Sykes, Digital Marketing Manager Tell us a little about your business…
and actively seek to help them to achieve their full potential, we embrace professionalism and seek excellence in everything we do and our team do their absolute best to help our communities be better places to live, work and grow.
Nettl at Digiprint is a print, signage and web design company based over three sites in Bath and What DID YOU KNOW… Chippenham and predictions for In 2021 we became your sector in was founded in ‘Climate Positive’ we 2022? 1987, since this actively off-set more time we have We’ve all carbon than we produce, supported the experienced a real and to go even further in local business tumultuous couple each of our studios we community grow of years, we’ve supply free ‘Alder Tree Seeds’ for our customers by continuously all seen massive to take away and off-set enhancing changes in the their printing! our products way we have to and services, run businesses, whilst maintain we’ve had to adapt competitive prices, and an at a speed never seen in peace excellent skill set within the team time, but we feel the change in the to boot! air, our customers are becoming more aware on the need to market their businesses and also the What’s your company’s ethos importance of having a website, and philosophy? that not only looks beautiful but We believe in putting our customers first and strive to secure that functions well too. their loyalty through top notch For more: 01225 424821; service each and every time, we www.digiprintgroup.com value each of our team highly
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THE FEMALE EDGE Anna Sabine
What are going to be the topical issues for your sector in 2022?
The Female Edge is on a mission to empower women in society by helping them to become entrepreneurs. We are a community of women at various stages of thinking about, setting up and running their own businesses.
Covid caused a huge shakeup in the work place and I one of the interesting results is the number of people taking the plunge and starting their own business. For us at The Female Edge there’s an opportunity to harness the power of women collaborating with each other to help those new businesses succeed.
When was your firm founded and who by?
What challenges are your members facing?
Tell us a little about your business...
It is being founded right now, by me! I set up the Cassia co-working cafes in 2021 and I’ve been blown away by the number of female entrepreneurs there are locally, and in particular by how brilliant they are at collaborating. I wanted to formalise that a bit and create something more useful than yet another networking company, but a space where these amazing women could come together and take their businesses a step forward.
A lot of female business owners can feel very lonely. Women often don’t have the established business networks that men have, and it’s not necessarily something women discuss when they meet up. There can also be a huge pressure to look like the perfect businesswoman/wife/mother even if things are falling apart. We hope to help with that by being a space where women can focus on work talk, and not worry about being judged. For more: www.thefemaleedge.co.uk
“THE FEMALE EDGE IS ON A MISSION TO EMPOWER WOMEN IN SOCIETY BY HELPING THEM TO BECOME ENTREPRENEURS”
MINUTEMAN PRESS Dave Dixon, Marketing director
at the moment and a really cost-effective way to keep your branding visible.
Tell us a little about your business...
What plans do you have for 2022?
How has your business/firm adapted to stay relevant?
What sets you apart from others in your sector?
We are a full print, design and signage company based in Bath offering a full range of marketing services and events branding solution. We draw on our 24 years in business in the local area and use this to ensure that our clients are getting as much return on their investment as possible.
We outgrew Walcot Street and we really could not reach our full potential there. The new location represents a £1 million investment in the business. We have two of Xerox’s top end presses and we have added the full range of specialty colours to those, this includes white, fluorescent, gold, silver and clear toners, the range of colours we can achieve is impressive. We’ve added short run foiling in house and of course our huge vehicle bay means that we can now do signwriting on cars and vans. Our signage team is expanding our offerings further. Interiors will be a big growth area for us including printed graphics on walls, floors, and windows. Window blinds are very popular
We are in the right premises at last, so we now need to consolidate and plan for expansion. We need to continue strengthening our print and signage offerings and ensure that we are seen locally as Bath’s number one printer, as well as growing our online sales.
For us it’s always been about putting our customers first. We like to help them stretch their marketing budgets as far as possible. Sometimes it’s not about finding the cheapest option, it’s about the maximum return on investment. The success of our customer base is our success. We still have customers today that placed their first orders back in 1998! Did you know?
Our large format printers have printed an area the size of Bath and Bristol in the past 5 years. For more: 01225 442000; www.minutemanbath.co.uk
“WE STILL HAVE CUSTOMERS TODAY THAT PLACED THEIR FIRST ORDERS BACK IN 1998!” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 39
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TANYA RICH Tell us a little about your business...
Tanya Rich Ltd is a one-stop shop for all your voice over needs. What areas do you specialise in?
I have been providing professional voice services for over thirty years, working on everything from commercials to corporate films, telephone systems and video games. The best thing about my job is I can be anybody behind the microphone. No two days are the same! As they say, variety is the spice of life! What makes working from Bath special?
SUMMIT AT HOME Tell us a little about your business...
only British company to offer this quality of bespoke service with such a short delivery time. Our Harris Tweed® collection offers seven pieces of furniture for the home handcrafted in four exclusive Harris Tweed® fabrics from the Carloway Mill on the Isle of Lewis.
We are the chair experts. British manufacturers of chairs for the home & office, based in Wiltshire. For over 45 years we have designed & manufactured seating, leading the way by blending cutting When was your edge ‘chairology’ firm founded DID YOU KNOW… We have a table tennis technology with and who by? table & a full drumkit in beautiful design Tom Simpson the showroom! for physical founded Summit & emotional Chairs in 1977 wellbeing. designing Customers benefit from a wide high quality chairs for the choice of home working chairs & education, healthcare and office bespoke home seating, available environment. Tom’s son, David, in 19 fabrics, delivered free, fully joined the business at 18 years old, assembled from 3 working days. and today is the current CEO and our very own Chair Architect. What areas do you specialise in? We now manufacture from 45,000 sq ft premises in Trowbridge, The main ergonomic home Wiltshire where today, every office chair collection consists of single chair is designed and eight chair ranges. Renown for lovingly handcrafted for you. the wellness features, alongside a host of standard adjustment features, customers can choose from armrest, inflatable lumbar, For more: 01225 777 844 ; body balance mechanism, twin hello@summitathome.co.uk; air cell technology, memory foam www.summitathome.co.uk and mesh options. We’re the
“EVERY SINGLE CHAIR IS DESIGNED AND LOVINGLY HANDCRAFTED FOR YOU“ 40 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Although most of my work is recorded remotely from my studio, the best thing about living ten-minutes from town is being able to pop in to any company that needs a phone message refresh, recording directly onto their system/answering machine as well as discussing client needs in person. I’ve lived in Bath for nearly
© CHRIS BAILEY PHOTOGR APHY
thirty years, and I think from a creative perspective it is an exciting place to be. Did you know?
I’m the voice of the lift in the BT tower, although you probably have heard me on TV, via your car radio, and on thousands of phone systems. Ever shouted at the person telling you ‘how important your call is?’ Yep, that’s me! From international companies Tiffany’s and Santander, to local favourites such as Storm Consultancy and Bath Honda, I can change my voice to suit the brand, and always go the extra mile to ensure clients retain my services. Telephone messages, explainers, corporate narration or any form of recorded media, are a great opportunity to reach and engage clients. Let me help your company sound great! So, if you’re wondering ‘could Tanya voice this?’ The answer is yes! For more: www.tanyarich.co.uk
Imperial Staff 27 years and counting!
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01225 484222
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01225 484190
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33 lowndes street, knightsbridge, london SW1x 9hx 19-20 Charles Street, Bath BA1 1HX
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Van service available 6 Monmouth Place, Bath BA1 2AU Tel 01225 311595 Parent Company established in 1975
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THE END OF THE TAX YEAR Jacqui Bowden from Bath-based chartered accountants and tax advisers PEARSON MAY looks at the action you’ll need to take to minimise your tax
A
s the end of the 2021/22 tax year approaches on 5 April, it is also a good time to review your affairs, making the most of opportunities to maximise your income and minimise your tax. Some tax planning may require action to be taken before 5 April. I will highlight below a few of these.
GIFT AID PAYMENTS Don’t forget that, in respect of the 2021/22 tax year, higher rate taxpayers can claim an extra 20 per cent of the ‘grossed up’ donation from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) for donations made during the tax year. For example, if a donation of £80 is made to charity under gift aid during the year, the higher rate tax relief that HMRC will give you will be 20 per cent of £100 i.e. an additional £20. For additional rate taxpayers (those with taxable income above £150,000 for the year), the extra relief would be £25.
PENSION CONTRIBUTIONS If you regularly make contributions to pension schemes, you may wish to consider a one-off additional payment to be made before 5 April 2022, particularly if your total income for the current year may take you into the 40 per cent (or even higher) income tax rates. For most individuals, the 40 per cent rate starts to apply once income reaches £50,270. The tax relief for personal pension contributions works in a similar manner to gift aid payments as mentioned above and as a result, tax relief is available at
your marginal rate of tax. You may however need to bear in mind and take specific advice concerning the Annual Allowance, which limits the amount that can be contributed to a pension each year while still attracting tax relief. For most individuals, the Annual Allowance is £40,000 but this could be more or less in certain situations, depending on factors such as the level of your income, amount of pension contributions made in earlier years and whether you are already drawing a pension, etc.
HIGH EARNERS High earners also need to bear in mind that they may be at risk of losing their personal allowance. Those with net adjusted income in excess of £100,000 for 2021/22 will lose the whole or part of their personal allowance of £12,570. For every £2 of income in excess of £100,000 the allowance is reduced by £1, leading to an effective marginal rate of income tax of 60 per cent in the band between £100,000 and £125,140. Once net adjusted income reaches £125,140 the allowance is completely eliminated. With both gift aid donations and pension contributions, it is certainly worth considering making a one-off payment before 5 April 2022 if you are in danger of losing all or part of your personal allowance or being subject to the High Income Child Benefit Charge (which applies when net adjusted income exceeds £50,000). The gross amount of any gift aid donations and pension contributions are deducted from total income when calculating net adjusted income for these purposes. For example, if you are expecting your total income for 2021/22 to be £110,000 (and assume for these purposes that you haven’t yet made any pension contributions in the tax year), by making a net pension payment of £8,000 before 5 April 2022 (equivalent to a gross contribution of £10,000), could save you additional income tax of £4,000, over and above the basic rate relief, meaning the effective cost (after tax relief) of the pension payment is actually only £4,000. In other words you obtain the benefit of £10,000 being contributed to your pension scheme at a cost of only £4,000 – a massive 60 per cent relief.
INHERITANCE TAX
Jacqui Bowden, a partner at Pearson May
42 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Small gifts of up to £250 to each of as many individuals as the donor wishes to benefit can be made. This allowance cannot be used to cover part of a gift or gifts totalling more than £250 to the same individual during the same tax year. If you wish to make use of the annual
inheritance tax gifts allowance for larger gifts not covered by the above exemption, up to £3,000 can be given in total to all recipients for the year ended 5 April 2022. If the allowance was not used for the year ended 5 April 2021, that can also be utilised for gifts now, i.e. up to £6,000 could be gifted if there have been no earlier gifts in the last two years. This could save up to £2,400 of inheritance tax. Furthermore, recurring gifts which form part of normal expenditure out of surplus net income may be made in addition to the above. This can be an extremely important relief that is often overlooked. You must however maintain careful records of your gifts and expenditure in order for your executors to be in a position to prove that you were able to maintain the same standard of living after making the gifts. If your Income Tax Returns and tax calculations are retained, clearly, they will go a long way to providing details of your taxable income.
INDIVIDUAL SAVINGS ACCOUNTS (ISAS) If you are in a position to do so then you should consider using your annual investment allowance in an ISA. The maximum allowance for 2021/22 is £20,000 and this can be paid into a cash ISA and/ or an investment ISA. The key message is to use it or lose it, since it can’t be carried forward. The above are only a small selection of some of the tax planning points included in our annual publication, Financial Perspectives – End of Tax Year Guide Spring 2022 available on our website or to anyone who would like to telephone our offices or e mail us at mail@pearsonmay.co.uk. Copies of this will be provided free of charge. ■ * The above is for general guidance only and no action should be taken without obtaining specific advice.
Jacqui Bowden BSc(Hons) ACA Pearson May Chartered Accountants & Chartered Tax Advisers Bath, Chippenham and Trowbridge 37 Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DA 01225 460491; mail@pearsonmay.co.uk www.pearsonmay.co.uk
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WHY YOU NEED A WILL Local legal expert HELEN STARKIE offers advice for one of life’s certainties…
R
esearch by ‘Which’ shows that almost two thirds of us have no Will in place. About half of those interviewed (so about one third of us) said they had nothing worth leaving, and the remaining interviewees were pretty evenly divided between it not having occurred to them or being ‘too busy’. There is an assumption that ‘the law will sort it out’ if no will is left – and in some cases, the Laws of Intestacy will do the necessary – but that should not be taken for granted! And if you need evidence for that then it is a sobering thought that in the last five years or so the number of people requesting advice on how to challenge a Will has apparently risen by 120 per cent. Your estate may well be more valuable than you think. For example, people often forget that they have insurance policies which may pay out to their estate on death. Married couples and couples in Civil Partnerships often assume that if one of them dies the other will inherit everything. Not necessarily true! If the couple are childless then the spouse/civil partner will inherit, but if they have children then the spouse/civil partner will inherit the deceased spouse’s personal possessions, the first £250,000 of their assets (the value of which may include the value of their interest in the couple’s home) and one half of anything over and above that. The rest will pass to the children. There have been cases where a bereaved spouse has had to sell their home to pay out their children. Talking of marriage and civil partnerships, couples need to bear in mind that, if they have made Wills before marrying or becoming civil partners, those Wills will be revoked by that marriage or partnership unless they have expressly been made ‘in contemplation’ of it. The situation is more complex for those who live together but are not legally married or partnered. These now form a very significant part of our population. Currently some four million people are in this sort of relationship, and the number is growing fast. Many of those involved believe that they will have rights as ‘common-law spouses’ but there are no such rights under the Laws of Intestacy. The estate of one party to such an arrangement will pass to his or her nearest family member, not their cohabitee. It is very important to understand this when, for example, buying a home together. The way you own the property (as tenants in common or as beneficial joint tenants) will make an enormous difference
44 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
“YOUR ESTATE MAY WELL BE MORE VALUABLE THAN YOU THINK” to the way in which the deceased person’s interest in it is dealt with on their death. This is not to say that an individual who survives their partner cannot challenge the position which has arisen as a result of the intestacy. If they were being or ought to have been being supported by the deceased in his or her lifetime then they may make a claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. But claims of this kind are notoriously expensive to bring —and they are slow. It may be years before things are finalised. There is no sense in leaving things in such a state that this avenue is the only one available to one’s partner. The expected cost of making a Will can be a deterrent, of course, and the press is expert at bandying around some pretty terrifying figures, but you would probably be pleasantly surprised by the real cost, and if you are a charity supporter you may take advantage of
a free Will scheme run by solicitors in support of certain charities (we run such a scheme for Amnesty each spring and for the Friends of the RUH later in the year – if you leave the charity something in your Will we give our time drafting it free of charge). So cost is not a good excuse. We are all going to die one day. Why on earth would we not want to plan wisely for the aftermath of that as we would for any lifetime event? ■
Helen Starkie Solicitor 38 Gay Street, Bath, BA1 2NT; 01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk
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