SMEs facing recruitment struggles

Eight in ten small businesses are finding it difficult to recruit staff, according to a report published by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB). The FSB’s ‘Scaling up Skills’ report found that over 80% of small firms are flagging a lack of relevant qualifications, skills and experience among candidates as a problem, while 60% say… Read more…

Government caps business energy bills

Wholesale energy prices for businesses will be capped at ‘less than half’ of the anticipated winter levels under the government’s support package. The Energy Bill Relief Scheme offers discounts for all firms for six months from 1 October. Hospitals, schools and other settings such as community halls and churches will also get help. Under the… Read more…

IMF criticises government over tax plans

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) warned the UK government against ‘large and untargeted fiscal packages’ following the Mini Budget. The IMF stated that tax measures announced by Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng in the recent Mini Budget are likely to increase inequality. On 23 September, the Chancellor used the Mini Budget to announce tax cuts worth over… Read more…

The Government’s Plans for Growth

Chancellor reveals his plan for growth The week leading up to Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng’s ‘Mini Budget’ may have been a short one due to the Queen’s funeral but the new government managed to fill it with a stream of policy announcements. Before Mr Kwarteng stood up to make his statement on ‘The Growth Plan’ much… Read more…

Is Having a Business Partner a Good Idea?

When making the decision to start your own business, there are many factors to consider. One of the first choices that you will face is the business type. Whether you become a sole trader, create a limited company or go into partnership with another person, there are advantages and disadvantages to each option. Whilst you’re… Read more…