Government Backing your Business programme

The government continues to place growing emphasis on supporting smaller businesses through its “Backing Your Business” programme, which is designed to encourage growth, investment and

Companies House ID verification

Major changes are continuing at Companies House as part of the government’s efforts to improve corporate transparency and tackle economic crime. One of the most significant developments is the

Tougher action on late payments

The Government has introduced a landmark new Bill aimed at tackling the growing problem of late payments to small businesses, with ministers describing the measures as the biggest crackdown in more

Covering basic business risks

Many business owners spend considerable time focusing on sales growth, staffing and profitability, although basic business risks are sometimes overlooked until a problem arises. A simple review of key

New employers check list

Taking on your first employee can help a business grow, although it also brings a number of important responsibilities.

Before employing staff for the first time, business owners should consider the

Why cyber security is now a business survival issue

Cyber security is no longer a concern limited to large corporations. Increasingly, smaller businesses are finding themselves targeted by phishing attacks, payment frauds and ransomware incidents, many

Employment law changes pressure small businesses

Many small business owners are already feeling the effects of rising staffing costs, tighter recruitment conditions and increased administration. Recent employment law changes are now adding further

Cash flow resilience in uncertain trading conditions

Rising costs and economic uncertainty have made cash flow management more important than ever. While many businesses focus on profit, it is cash that determines whether a business can meet its day to

Interest rate outlook for 2026

The outlook for UK interest rates during 2026 remains uncertain, although current expectations suggest relative stability, with the possibility of modest reductions later in the year if inflation

Hedging against rising costs

Rising prices remain a concern for many UK business owners, particularly where energy, materials, labour and finance costs are unpredictable. While it is rarely possible to eliminate cost pressures