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A top south coast tax expert has described the separate financial controversies involving Premier League footballers and former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner as a ‘wake-up call’ for people about the need to take sound, professional advice. Steven Martin, Senior Tax Manager at Hampshire accountancy and business advice firm HWB, says the two high-profile cases serve to underline why trusted, reliable guidance is more crucial than ever. He said: “While they differ, as one concerns Stamp Duty only and the other is about wider tax planning and investment strategy, they do serve as stark reminders that inadequate advice can wreak havoc on individual financial well-being and, in the Rayner case, even job security." “They show that individuals, regardless of status or profession, must seek professional tax and investment advice from trusted, qualified experts." “Missteps, even unintentional, can have serious financial, legal and reputational consequences. Sound advice isn't just about minimising tax; it's about ensuring compliance, protecting assets and making informed, ethical decisions in an increasingly scrutinised financial environment." “In the so-called V11 case, a group of former Premier League footballers lost fortunes after investing with persuasive advisors. The schemes, built on tax-avoidance constructs, film-fund investments and US property ventures, failed, leaving the investors saddled with massive tax liabilities." “Some were pushed to bankruptcy, and all were entangled in long battles with HMRC. By contrast, the Angela Rayner case illustrates the perils of insufficient or inappropriate guidance on a specific area of tax law. Complex legal provisions deemed her liable for the higher, second-home rate of SDLT (Stamp Duty Land Tax), and she ended up underpaying by around £40,000." “While the two cases are very different in context, they share a clear lesson: unqualified or incomplete advice in areas of complex tax or investments can be perilous. The V11 players relied on advisors without fully understanding the risks while Rayner acted on advice that lacked depth in tax and trust intricacies." “Both situations highlight how critical it is to seek advisors with appropriate knowledge, integrity and a clear understanding of your personal circumstances. Trusted advisors not only help save money by ensuring correct decisions upfront, they often also protect reputations. Misplaced trust can mean the difference between a secure retirement and financial ruin." “Ultimately, when managing personal wealth there’s a compelling purpose behind the enduring wisdom: rely on trusted, regulated, qualified advisors and if the situation is complex, seek multiple perspectives." “It’s the best protection against financial loss, legal missteps and reputational damage.” Chartered accountants HWB, based at Chandler’s Ford, near Southampton, provides business and tax advice.

A new independent business inspired by a love of plants and community is set to open its doors in Stonehaven this month thanks to expert guidance from Business Gateway. Bract Botanical Living, founded by Gunnar Ovstebo and Bruce Harper-Ovstebo, began life in the couple’s garden shed, where they sold houseplants and pots to friends and locals. Just a few months later, the business has bloomed thanks to support from the community, with the pair now preparing to open a dedicated retail space in the town. Opening on Wednesday 10 September, the new store will be open from Wednesday to Sunday and offer a curated selection of houseplants, plant pots, gifts, and a cosy tearoom where visitors can relax among the greenery. The shop will also host a regular houseplant clinic and a programme of workshops, helping customers to grow their knowledge and confidence when caring for plants. The business name, ‘Bract’, takes inspiration from botany, where a bract is a specialised leaf, reflecting the founders’ love of the natural world and their ambition to help people connect with it. The duo has worked closely with Business Gateway adviser, Sean Cowie, over the past few months as they prepare to open the shop. Sean provided one-to-one advisory support, guidance on marketing and pre-launch planning, as well as support on preparing to move into the new premises. This tailored guidance gave the co-founders the tools to turn their vision into a reality quicker than they first anticipated. Bruce Harper-Ovstebo, co-founder of Bract Botanical Living, said: “What started as a few plants in our potting shed has grown into something far bigger than we ever imagined. This shop is a dream come true for us - a place where people can find beautiful plants, enjoy a coffee and feel part of something special." “Business Gateway has been a fantastic sounding board from day one. Sean’s advice and guidance has helped us shape our ideas, focus on what we do best and launch with confidence. We’re so excited to welcome people through the doors and share our love of plants with the community.” Sean Cowie, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Bruce and Gunnar’s passion for plants is infectious. They’ve taken a simple idea and nurtured it into a business that will bring colour, creativity and community to Stonehaven." “Supporting them as they’ve made the leap from shed to shop has been a pleasure. Bract Botanical Living is proof of what can happen when creativity meets determination, and I can’t wait to see how the business grows.”

The certification means that Finedale Foods can handle Red Tractor requirements from its contract manufacturing clients. It enables the company to source Red Tractor-assured meat and process in accordance with the strict standards demanded by the certification. Managing director Edward Miles said: “The Red Tractor label gives us an extra string to our bow and allows us to operate to Red Tractor standards for our clients and customers who wish it." “Contract manufacturers, along with the other parts of the supply chain like the sourcing farm and abattoir used, need to have the accreditation in order for finished products to be labelled as Red Tractor." “We are proud to have recently received this accreditation, the latest in a number of accreditations and certifications which also include BRCGS and Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO). Our customers can be reassured of the importance we place on responsible sourcing and safe production.” Based at Bunwell in Norfolk, Finedale Foods is a specialist UK manufacturer or frozen and chilled foods, delivering contract manufacturing across a wide range of sectors. It specialises in the manufacture of quiches, pies, pastry goods, cakes and miniature items for the foodservice and retail sector. Clients include retailers, food service distributors, food-to-go operators, manufacturers, private label brands, and companies in the travel sector. The company also produces the Frank Dale Foodservice, George Adams 1910 and Deli Santé brands.

Contractor Clegg Construction has handed over a £37m student accommodation scheme in Leeds ready for the new academic year. The Fabric Works in Leylands Road is a 402-studio block featuring study space, a cinema lounge and media room, fitness studio and gym, courtyard, bike storage, private dining room, and shared communal space with pool tables and a dry bar area. The two-year project was handed over on time and ensures that the development is available for students this September. Delivered in partnership with PPG Leeds Ltd, a joint venture between Primus Property Group and HIG Capital, The Fabric Works is situated next to Spinners Yard – a 185-apartment build-to-rent development that was completed by Clegg Construction earlier this year for property developer Rise Homes. Michael Sims, managing director at Clegg Construction, said: “Clegg Construction was proud to have been appointed to deliver The Fabric Works and we’re very pleased to have handed it over on time, as per our original and planned programme of work, and ready for the 2025/2026 academic year." “This scheme provides modern and stylish accommodation in a thriving area of Leeds and is ideally situated for the city’s three universities." “It adds to our growing portfolio of significant developments in Leeds, cementing our position as a key contractor helping to shape the city.” The wider project team which delivered The Fabric Works included Tim Groom Architects, Ridge and Partners, Strive, KKA Studio, Quartz Project Services, and Innov8 Development Solutions. As part of the delivery of The Fabric Works, Clegg Construction undertook a range of commitments to the local community including hosting multiple visits from Leeds College of Building students, significant donations to Blessed of the Father Food Bank, and regular contact with members of the neighbourhood via newsletters, a noticeboard, letter drops and in-person visits from the site team. Clegg Construction has also worked with Community Wood Recycling for wood waste management and Wren Bakery, which uses baking and coffee as tools to provide disadvantaged women with opportunities towards employment. Adam Turner, director at Primus Property Group, said: “Clegg demonstrated consistent professionalism throughout The Fabric Works project, with highly capable and well-resourced teams that ensured efficient delivery to a high standard." “They were organised, proactive in addressing challenges, and maintained clear communication at all times. Their coordination of quality subcontractors, collaborative approach, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail greatly contributed to the project’s success - and reinforced our confidence in their ability to deliver similar complex schemes in the future.” With its head office in The Lace Market in Nottingham, Clegg Construction is a Midlands, East Anglia, and Yorkshire-based construction firm specialising in the delivery of public and private sector projects.

A spectacular community art project which brought together the collaborative creative efforts of vulnerable women across the region, was unveiled for the first time at a special event in Leamington. Called ‘Queen,’ the impressive patchwork is made up of more than 1,000 hand-stitched hearts and flowers and took over six months to complete. The seven-metre hooded cape, is the initiative of The Esther Project, a Leamington-based CiC dedicated to supporting vulnerable women, including those dealing with mental health challenges, escaping domestic abuse, overcoming addiction, transitioning from prison or facing homelessness. It was completed with the backing of Leamington Town Council’s Community Grant Fund, established to support Community and Voluntary groups with projects that are of benefit to the wider Leamington Spa community. Lisa Nicolle, spokesperson for The Esther Project, said: “The Queen project exemplifies how craft and creativity can empower individuals, while building links with the wider community. It brings together women from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of belonging and breaking down barriers between age groups, skill levels and social experience. “Each stitch carries a story - of courage after hardship, of rebuilding confidence, of daring to dream of a new future. Piece by piece, these individual creations have been joined together to form a spectacular cape fit for a queen." “It is more than an artwork - it is a powerful symbol of what is possible when women stand together, support one another, and believe in themselves again. The project brings women together in a supportive and collaborative setting, reducing feelings of isolation.” She added: “Craft activities like crochet and patchwork promote relaxation and offer mental health benefits and participants gain a sense of pride and accomplishment by contributing to a visible and meaningful art installation. A group activity like this also fosters social bonds, which are crucial for mental health, as well as encouraging self-confidence, teaching planning, coordination, and project execution skills.” The Esther Project was established by Lianne Kirkman in 2023 - her mission, to create a nurturing and empowering community where every woman can heal, grow and reach their future potential. It does this through a range of services, including counselling, one-on-one support, creative activities, employability opportunities, and drop-in sessions. Esther House - a seven-bed supported living accommodation, opens its doors for vulnerable women who need a safe space to recover. Many of the ladies who attend The Esther Project’s weekly support groups also had a hand in creating the designs which were then meticulously sewn onto the cape over several weeks by a team of hardworking volunteers, overseen by Judith Perry. Judith said: “The ladies have made various contributions involving learning new skills - not only crochet, but also papier mâché, fabric painting and beading, all of which adorn the cape. And many different organisations and individuals were involved in making the hearts and flowers, including local WI groups and members of Leamington Studio Artists.” Specially invited guests, including the mayor and Warwickshire Police Crime Commissioner, gathered to witness The Queen’s grand unveiling at The Riverside Glasshouse in Jephson Gardens on Thursday, ahead of its tour of other locations in the town. Mr Seccombe said: “The Esther Project is doing fantastic work and Lianne is one in a million. I know it will continue to grow and the cape is incredible. One of the main themes of my real time plan is to put more and more into prevention of reoffending and this is one of the projects that’s making a difference.” Leamington Mayor Councillor Ruggy Singh said: “It’s not very often we have the opportunity to come back and hear about the fantastic work that has taken place as a result of our community funding. It’s a wonderful cause, creating a space where women can come together, find support and be part of a community that helps them through life’s hardest challenges. I would like to thank you for the amazing work you continue to do. The difference you make to those who need it most is truly invaluable.” Photos: Alex James Harvey.

Colliers Business Rates Team has appointed Mike Dunlevey, a highly respected and well-known rating industry figure as a director in its national business rates team. Mike’s principal role is to deal with the delivery of the team’s focussed CCA submission strategy for the 2023 Rating List; a list which is undergoing considerable scrutiny given it was based on property values in March 2021, mid Covid-19. Mike will work on a national basis, across the business’s 11 UK offices using a data led programme to support the rating team challenging the current list, on their clients’ behalf. He will also look at best practice to tackle the team’s response to the 2026 Rating List, once the draft list is published this November. Prior to joining Colliers, Mike spent over 30 years at the VOA where he held senior leadership roles; becoming Statutory Valuation Officer first for the East Midlands Unit (the largest unit) and then for the London Valuation Unit. This role encompassed responsibility for the whole of Central London and the boroughs to the north to the M25, including Hertfordshire and represented 30% of the total rateable values of non-domestic properties in England and Wales. In addition, when the new CCA (Check, Challenge, Appeal) system was introduced in 2017, Mike was responsible for the delivery of the Challenge function and implementation in general. He also was on the Revaluation Project Board for the VOA. Following his career at the VOA, Mike joined Altus Group as a Vice President, responsible for Strategic Leadership, including organisation, policy and process. He remained at Altus for just under 5 years. Mike joins a growing national business rates team at Colliers led by John Webber and now consisting of 27 directors. The total team numbers around 140 staff. John Webber commented: “Mike has considerable experience and reputation in the industry, having worked on both sides of the fence, and we are delighted that he has agreed to join our team. His new role will help us to ensure we cover all bases and provide best practice advice to our clients considering challenging their rateable values in the 2023 list, particularly during the run up to deadline day in April." " As latest VOA statistics show, there is considerable work to be done as more checks and challenges to this list come forward in the next 7 months and we plan to be well resourced to tackle the challenge of the job. Mike’s experience will also be invaluable as we approach the 2026 list. A warm welcome to Mike.” Mike Dunlevey added: “I am very excited about this new opportunity and look forward to working with the business rates and wider teams at Colliers to ensure clients are fully served for the 2023 list and its connected appeal system. Going forward I’ll be working to prepare for the arrival of the 2026 list next April. It’s going to be a busy time, but one I believe we’ll thrive in! “

Gebrüder Weiss continues to advance the electrification of heavy-duty transport: two new fully electric trucks are now deployed in daily use for groupage transport at the company’s headquarters in Lauterach. Two additional e-trucks are already operating out of Wels (Upper Austria). The Mercedes eActros 600 models offer a battery capacity of 600 kWh, a range of 500 kilometers, and 600 kW of drive power. They can be charged at company-owned fast-charging stations within 30 to 90 minutes, making them suitable for both regional and long-haul operations.   Independent Charging Infrastructure With public charging options for e-trucks still limited, Gebrüder Weiss has built its own charging and power supply system in Lauterach. Two transformer stations with a capacity of 1,600 kVA, each power up to 16 fast-charging points, eight of which are already in service. The electricity is sourced either from the company’s own photovoltaic system or from certified renewable energy.   An additional benefit of the company’s proprietary charging infrastructure: vehicles can recharge while being loaded or unloaded, eliminating downtime. Stefan Oberhauser, Branch Manager of Land Transport & Logistics Vorarlberg at Gebrüder Weiss commented: “Our customers expect reliability and on-time delivery even with zero-emission transports. With our dedicated energy supply and the latest vehicle solutions, we can deliver sustainable road transport at scale.” To ensure nationwide routes can also be planned independently of external charging networks, Gebrüder Weiss is currently installing additional charging stations at its facilities in Vienna, Hall in Tyrol, Altenrhein (Switzerland), and Aldingen (Germany).   By the end of 2025, the company’s Austrian e-truck fleet will have grown by a total of 14 e-trucks, five of which will be based in Lauterach. Beyond that, Gebrüder Weiss will continue to invest in e-mobility: in 2026, the company plans to expand its fleet with additional e-trucks and electric vans for home delivery operations.

A Lake District spa resort has played host to the flight crew of a prototype seaplane from the annals of aviation history. Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa was the base for the pilots and engineers of Waterbird, a unique, exact replica of the UK’s first successful seaplane which first flew from Windermere in 1911. The spa resort also gave a select audience of aviation enthusiasts and guests the chance to meet the team behind the project. Waterbird sped across the water and took wing in two early autumn evening demonstration flights across Windermere against the stunning backdrop of the Langdale Pikes. The crew then retired to the spa resort for an informal question and answer session with guests and visitors. The Waterbird project team included pilot Lieutenant Commander Chris Gotke, chief engineer Dr Bill Brooks, and Chairman of the Lakes Flying Company Ltd Ian Gee. They took the audience through their involvement in the Waterbird project and their wider flying experience. English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues managing director Ben Berry says: “It was thrilling to see this majestic aircraft turn back the clock to a golden age of aviation on Windermere, especially as Low Wood Bay has a fascinating back story in relation to seaplanes and flying boats." “It was great to host the flying team here at the hotel and give them a platform to tell us all about the project. Lieutenant Commander Gotke says the aircraft is a delight to fly.” In the late 1970s and early 80s, Low Wood Bay was a focal point in advocating tourism proposals for small seaplanes taking off from and landing on the waters of Windermere. Michael Berry OBE, Ben’s grandfather, was involved in a short-lived campaign to develop commercial seaplane operations at Windermere. A Tiger Moth seaplane landed on the hotel’s waterfront in 1979, and another floating plane, a four seater Cessna, made a visit in 1983. The idea was that a rapid ‘water taxi’ service to and from regional airports, as well as the potential for leisure flights on Windermere, could take off in popularity. But the proposals never got off the ground. Chairman of the Lakes Flying Company Ltd Ian Gee said: “We are very grateful to English Lakes Hotels for accommodating the key members of the team, and for giving us the opportunity to let the public meet us all and discuss the intricacies of the project. The Waterbird flights went smoothly – it’s a wonderful aircraft and magnificent to see in flight. All in all it was a thoroughly enjoyable day.” Waterbird’s flights on Windermere involved detailed planning. The team worked with the Lake District National Park Authority and the Civil Aviation Authority to attain appropriate permissions and licences. The project also involved transporting the seaplane from its home at Liverpool Airport. For further information about the award winning Waterbird project, visit here.

Beach volleyball players from 20 companies in the property sector have helped to raise £15,000 for two hospice charities in championships organised by lender MSP Capital. This is the fourth year in a row that the Poole-based firm has staged the event on Bournemouth beach with proceeds split equally between Julia’s House and Lewis-Manning Hospice Care. The contribution from this year takes the total raised since the inaugural contest in 2022 to more than £55,000. Leigh Bartlett, Chief Executive of MSP Capital, said: “This was another great event that brought people from across the property sector together in aid of two brilliant charities in our heartland. Every year the championships serve as an opportunity for us to give back to the community in a way that enables people to have fun and network on the sand.” Leigh’s comments were echoed by colleague Rachel Bartlett, MSP Capital’s Head of Marketing & People, who said: ““Thank you to every single competitor who took part and all the companies that entered teams. Once again, everyone had a great time and got into the competitive spirit all in support of Lewis-Manning and Julia’s House.” Both charities voiced praise and gratitude for the event at a time when the costs of hospice care are continuing to increase. Caroline Attreed, Corporate Fundraiser for Julia’s House, a Dorset and Wiltshire children’s hospice which provides specialist care to those with life-limiting and complex conditions, said: “The work that MSP Capital puts into this competition is phenomenal. It is such a great local event, bringing businesses together to have fun while making such a difference to their local community." "The donation raised helps Julia’s House to bring clinical care, fun, laughter and compassion to the children we support. And to give exhausted parents a much-needed respite break from around-the-clock care, with the peace of mind their child is in safe hands.” Likewise, Vicki Gray, Head of Fundraising at Dorset based Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, an independent charity that supports local people and their families facing a life-limiting illness, said: “The beach volleyball event is always such an amazing day, loads of fun, a bit of friendly competition, and a chance for local businesses to connect. But most importantly, it helps raise awareness and support for two amazing local hospice charities." "The funds raised will go a long way towards helping provide hospice care to those that need it. Huge credit to MSP Capital for organising another incredibly successful event. Every organisation and player involved has really helped make a big difference to so many people in our community.” At the event, six-a-side, mixed teams competed in ‘pool’ matches, with the top scorers going into a knockout stage starting with quarter finals. Last year’s finalists, accounting and consulting firm RSM, went one better this year and took the gold medal after beating financial advice specialists Interpath Advisory 38-16. Darren Slater, RSM’s Consulting Director, said after the final: “We’re proud to be part of this fantastic competition. It’s important for us as a firm to support events with a charity angle. These championships are really well run and are in aid of two superb causes.” As well as RSM and Interpath Advisory, companies and organisations entering teams this year were: AECOM, Blake Morgan, Clarke Willmott, Ellis Jones, Frettens Solicitors, Imperial Homes, Lester Aldridge LLP, Porter Dodson, Preston Redman, Quay Crew, Quostar, Rubicon, Saffery LLP, Travers Smith, Trethowans, Vail Williams, Venture Recruitment and Wellington King. Beach volleyball specialist Deep Dish partnered with MSP Capital to run the championships with support on the day including a compere, referees and DJ. Mohit Kerai, Event Manager for Deep Dish, said: “We couldn’t stage this without MSP Capital’s manpower and financial support. The firm’s team, especially Rachel Bartlett, have been of enormous help.” Mohit added that the day had set the scene perfectly for the UK Beach Tour’s Grand Slam Finals, which were also supported by Deep Dish and which this year had MSP Capital as headline sponsor. The Grand Slam saw top beach volleyball players from around the country pair up for three days of elite competition at the same location by Bournemouth Pier.

Deloitte has announced the appointment of Garry Tetley as head of tax for the firm in Scotland. Garry, who joined as a graduate in 1997, will lead a team of 130 tax professionals based in Deloitte’s offices in Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow. He succeeds Douglas Farish, who has led the team in Scotland for the last five years. A partner with Deloitte since 2011, Garry currently leads Deloitte’s private markets practice in Scotland which services privately owned businesses and their owners across all sectors, including technology, financial services, energy and industrials. His focus has been on supporting scaling businesses with international expansion, corporate reorganisation, management incentives and transactions. Garry has also advised a range of fast-growing groups nationally, including supporting companies through to transactions exceeding $1bn valuations. Garry Tetley, head of tax for Deloitte in Scotland, said: “I am very proud to take on this role at a time of such opportunity for our team. Changes to tax policy, both in the UK and abroad, bring complex challenges for businesses and their owners, but they also open the door to new opportunities. Our team is well placed to help clients across Scotland navigate this evolving landscape." As part of his new role, Garry will focus on creating the environment for team members to develop their skills within Deloitte’s Scottish tax practice. The firm currently has eight Scotland-based tax partners – six of whom started at the firm as graduates - with plans to grow the number of tax partners over the next few years. In June, as part of the firm’s recent round of promotions in Scotland, VAT specialist Jen Donnachie and tax valuations specialist Lyndsay MacGregor were promoted to partner. Garry continued: “Our success comes from strong client relationships and the career opportunities we create. Just last week, we welcomed 16 new tax graduates in Scotland. Part of my role will be creating an environment across our Scottish offices where these graduates and all our tax professionals can grow and develop their expertise. As such, my priority will be building strong, capable teams to serve both the local market and the wider national practice.” Angela Mitchell, practice senior partner for Deloitte in Scotland and Northern Ireland, said: “I am very pleased to welcome Garry to our senior leadership team and look forward to him bringing the same energy and vision to this role that he does with his entrepreneurial clients." "I also want to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to Douglas for his outstanding leadership, as he passes on a thriving tax practice which is well set for continued success in the coming years.”

International children’s charity Street Child has launched its new Back to School campaign, urging the public to help get children around the world back into education. As children across the UK head back to school, celebrities are backing Street Child’s appeal to ensure the most marginalised children globally can do the same. More than 60 million primary school-aged children worldwide are currently out of education, often due to lack of resources, conflict, environmental disasters or other emergencies. The UK-based charity works in more than 25 countries to ensure children are safe, in school, and learning. The Back to School campaign asks the public to pledge the equivalent of £4 a month (just £1 a week) to support a child’s education for a whole year. For every regular gift set up before the end of September, Street Child will commit to enrolling a child in school this term. Street Child Co- Founder, Lucinda Dannatt, said: “As a mum of four boys, back to school this year is full of milestones for our household: two ‘last first days’ – one for my eldest finishing school and one for my youngest completing primary – and two ‘first days’ of starting exam courses for the middle boys. Each is facing new challenges, has new ambitions, is excited to see friends and can’t wait to get on the rugby field! Full of possibility and opportunity." “Tragically, right now, more than 60 million primary-aged children around the world do not have that possibility or opportunity, and many never will. Street Child is expert in enabling children to access education in some of the most disaster-hit and lowest-income countries, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria." “Education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty. For every year a child spends in school, their life chances improve enormously and so do the lives of future generations. For just £1 a week, we can get a child into school this year and set them on the path to a better future.” Backing the campaign are Nick Hewer, football legend Chris Kamara, TV presenter Ade Adepitan, and fashion designer Foday Dumbuya (the creative mind behind the 2024/25 Arsenal away kit). Speaking in support of the campaign, Nick Hewer said: “Education is opportunity. Not only is it the key to unlocking a child’s full potential, but it also helps build relationships, strengthen economies, and lift entire communities out of poverty." "The first day of school is all about the excitement of unlimited possibility and for £1 a week, Street Child can help children in the world’s lowest-income countries experience that joy. I’ve seen first-hand the impact of Street Child’s work and encourage everyone to support them this back-to-school season.” Chris Kamara said: “Education gives children confidence and opens doors to new opportunities. Every child deserves the excitement of their first day back at school, putting on their uniform, stepping into the classroom, and believing in a brighter future. Street Child is making this possible for the most marginalised children around the world, and I’m proud to support this campaign.” Fashion designer Foday Dumbuya said: “Having visited Street Child's programmes in Sierra Leone earlier this year, I witnessed first-hand the transformative power of education in communities that, being from Sierra Leone myself, hold such a special place in my heart. I met incredible people - parents, children and caregivers - that Street Child works with, who have faced hardship but are determined to build bright futures, and education is the first step." "For just £4 a month, you can support a child’s education and provide them with the tools they need to change their lives. I encourage everyone who is able to support Street Child’s Back to School appeal this year so that every child can experience that magical first day feeling.” Ade Adepitan said: “Education is more than lessons in a classroom – it’s freedom, it’s choice, it’s hope. Too many children are denied that chance simply because of where they are born or the challenges they face." "Street Child is breaking down those barriers in the most disaster-hit and lowest-income countries, helping children go to school for the first time and imagine a future full of possibilities. By supporting their Back to School appeal, you can be part of that change and give children the start in life they deserve.” For more information about Street Child and the Back to School campaign, visit here.

Family Business United (FBU) has today released its annual report celebrating the UK’s top family business apprentice employers, highlighting the crucial role family firms are playing in supporting the next generation of skilled workers. Now in its fourth year, the report recognises the outstanding commitment of 24 family-owned businesses across the UK to apprenticeship schemes, showcasing their investment in future talent, skills development, and long-term workforce sustainability. Key Highlights from the 2025 Report: pprenamed the Top Family Business Apprentice Employer in the UK. JCB recognised for employing the highest number of apprentices. Scot JCB holds the highest proportion of apprentices in its workforce. The top 24 employers collectively support 776 apprentices across the UK. 369 new apprenticeships were created in the year to June 2025. 354 apprentices successfully graduated during the same period. Celebrating Excellence in Apprenticeship Programmes Submissions were received from family businesses operating in all regions of the UK. The final list represents those who demonstrated exceptional dedication to creating new opportunities, supporting apprenticeship completions, and embedding learning and development within their operations. The Top 10 UK Family Business Apprentice Employers for 2025 Bagnalls Shepherd Neame Scot JCB JCB Ernest Doe & Sons JW Lees & Co Harrison Catering Services The Clancy Group GAP Group Arco The full report published lists 24 family business apprentice employers and these organisations span a wide range of industries, including construction, manufacturing, food and drink, motor retail, marine services, and more—illustrating the breadth of apprenticeship opportunities now available beyond traditional sectors. A Growing Commitment to Apprenticeship Excellence “Family businesses are innovative and entrepreneurial, and it is great to see so many providing apprenticeships within their organisations,” said Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United. “This is our fourth report, and it clearly highlights the growing importance of apprenticeships to family firms across the UK. These businesses are not only creating jobs but are investing in the skills and careers of future leaders.” He continued: “There are significant apprenticeship opportunities in the UK’s family business sector, offering fantastic pathways into lifelong careers—some even leading to board-level roles." "It is a privilege to shine a light on the positive contribution family businesses are making to apprenticeships, workforce development, and the wider economy.” Download the Full Report here: Family Business Apprenticeship Report 2025 v1 Published.pdf Download PDF • 1.07MB For sponsorship opportunities for the 2026 campaign, or to contribute data for next year’s report, please contact the team at FBU using the form here