Leading independent UK accountancy and business advisory firm Johnston Carmichael has appointed four senior leaders, including its first Chief Technology Officer and a new Audit Partner, as it strengthens its team across the UK. The appointments reflect Johnston Carmichael’s continued investment in its people, technology and specialist services as the firm grows its UK client base. Tamsyn Weston has joined as Chief Technology Officer in Edinburgh, leading the firm’s strategy across IT, cyber security, digital development, AI and automation. She brings more than 20 years’ experience in technology, transformation and cyber security within regulated environments, with her role having a particular focus on using emerging technology responsibly to support the firm’s growth. Deborah Ramsay has joined as an Audit Partner in Glasgow, also bringing more than 20 years of audit experience, including a Big Four background. Deborah is a Chartered Accountant and has been a Responsible Individual (RI) since 2020. She has extensive experience across International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (GAAP) spanning sectors including energy, retail and manufacturing. Johnston Carmichael has also appointed Katie Lange, who joins as a Director in Aberdeen. She has almost two decades of global payroll experience across sectors including oil and gas, financial services and technology, with a particular focus on process improvement and client service. Leani Passano joins the Audit Quality, Risk & Technical team as Director, bringing significant experience from leading international and UK accountancy firms, with an emphasis on sustainability reporting and assurance. Lynne Walker, CEO, Johnston Carmichael, said: “Tamsyn, Deborah, Katie and Leani bring deep experience and new perspectives to Johnston Carmichael. Their appointments strengthen the technology behind our business, the audit expertise we offer clients and the specialist support available across our UK offices. They demonstrate the calibre of people we continue to attract, and I look forward to seeing the contribution they make.” Mark Houston, Chair and Senior Partner, Johnston Carmichael, said: “These appointments come at an important time for Johnston Carmichael as we continue to grow our services and our footprint across the UK. Investing in technology is central to making sure we are future-fit. Digitisation can free our advisers to do what they do best: build relationships with clients and provide trusted advice." “Audit is a hugely important service for us too. The team has grown to more than 200 people. Today we audit more of Scotland's top 100 companies than any other firm, a real measure of the trust our clients place in us."

Parents are increasingly discussing problems paying fees with independent schools as they look for ways to keep children in private education, research from School Fee Plan, a leading provider of finance for school fees, shows. Its study with independent school parents found nearly six out of 10 (59%) who have found it difficult to pay fees have raised the issue with schools – more than double the 29% who said they had done so in a survey last year. School Fee Plan’s research found around two out of five (39%) parents say they currently or have in the past found it difficult to pay fees, and around one in eight (12%) are planning to withdraw children from independent schools as a result. However not all children will leave their schools – nearly half of parents (47%) planning to or thinking about withdrawing children from independent schools say at least one of their children will continue in private education. Around four out of five (79%) headteachers and bursars of independent schools say they are aware of parents withdrawing children from schools but continuing to pay for at least one of them to stay in private education. The main reason for parents keeping at least one child at independent schools is exams – with 36% saying children were about to start GCSEs, and 30% saying they were about to start or are going through A levels. Around one in three (33%) believe one child is better suited to an independent school. The School Fee Plan research found independent schools are focused on being as flexible as possible despite pressures on their finances, as well as parents, following the introduction of VAT on school fees in January last year. Headteachers and bursars questioned estimate that on average, fees at their school will rise by around 3.7% at the next review, with more than a fifth (21%) expecting to keep fee rises below 3%. Across the independent sector as a whole, however, more than four out of five (82%) expect fees to rise faster than the historic rate of between 3% and 6%4 over the next three years. Around one in six (16%) think fees will rise significantly faster than the historic rate, while just 15% believe fees will not change much over the period. The total amount lent through Premium Credit’s School Fee Plan (SFP) last year is around 9% higher than in 2023 and the average amount of funding through SFP is now around £24,288 – which is 12% higher than in 2024 and 24% higher than in 2023. Stewart Ward, Director Education Sector & Head of School Fee Plan, Premium Credit said: “Independent schools are working hard and trying where possible to limit necessary fee increases. Parents clearly value independent schools, but some are having to make difficult decisions on keeping one child in private education. They could benefit from schemes which help improve cashflow and make budgeting easier by switching to monthly payments.” “Schools can help by working with companies which can offer these schemes, enabling parents to spread lump sum payments each term into monthly payments.” For further information on SFP, please visit School Fee Plan, Premium Credit.

More than half of UK professionals (53%) are planning to look for a new job before the end of the year, according to new research from global talent solutions and business consulting firm Robert Half. The survey of 1,000 UK workers found that 35% intend to begin a job search while a further 18% are already actively looking for a new role. The findings suggest that despite ongoing economic uncertainty, professionals remain open to new opportunities. However, career decisions are being shaped by a combination of priorities, including career progression, flexibility and long-term stability, rather than salary alone. Why professionals are looking elsewhere Among those considering a move, the most common reason cited was a desire for a better work-life balance or a more manageable workload (38%), followed by limited opportunities for career advancement (35%) and seeking better benefits and perks (34%). Nearly three in 10 (29%) say they feel underpaid in their current role, while 28% would like greater access to remote working options. Concerns about job security are also influencing career decisions, with 22% citing it as a core reason to look for a new job. Matt Weston, Senior Managing Director, UK & Ireland at Robert Half, commented: "The labour market remains active, but professionals are becoming increasingly selective about the opportunities they pursue. While pay remains important, workers are placing greater emphasis on career progression, flexibility, wellbeing and long-term security when considering their next move." "What we're seeing is a shift towards more considered career decisions. Professionals want to move forward in their careers, but they also want confidence that a new role will provide the development opportunities, culture and stability they're looking for." Job security remains front of mind While many workers are considering a job move, concerns about stability remain high. More than half (53%) say job security is extremely important when evaluating career decisions, while a further 39% describe it as very important. The research also found that among those not planning to look for a new role, nearly half (49%) say they feel fulfilled in their current job, while the same proportion cite workplace flexibility as a key reason for staying put. Weston added: "The fact that so many professionals are considering a move while also placing such a high value on job security highlights the balance people are trying to strike in today's market. Workers want opportunities to develop and progress, but they are also cautious about making the wrong move." "For employers, this reinforces the importance of offering competitive salaries, perks and benefits, and a compelling employee experience. Organisations that can provide clear career pathways, flexibility, competitive benefits and a sense of stability will be best positioned to attract and retain talent in the months ahead."

Logistics provider Gebrüder Weiss is welcoming 113 new apprentices in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. The young professionals will receive hands-on training at an international logistics company that emphasizes long-term development, stability, and future-focused topics such as digitalization and sustainability. Monika Mandl, Head of Human Resources Development at Gebrüder Weiss commented: “Young people today are looking for more than just a place to train – they want security, career prospects, and meaningful work. That is exactly what we offer: a modern work environment, individual development opportunities, and the chance to actively help shape the future of logistics.” This also includes making transportation and logistics more sustainable. Many occupations within the industry are now considered “green jobs” because they help conserve resources and reduce CO2 emissions. From the very beginning of their training at Gebrüder Weiss, future freight forwarding and logistics professionals learn how processes and transportation routes can be optimized and how digital systems can be used to make supply chains more efficient and climate-friendly. This also makes an apprenticeship in logistics attractive to young people who place a high value on environmental protection and social responsibility. Sustainability is a strategic priority for Gebrüder Weiss. For many years, the company has been investing in renewable energy and alternative drive technologies to gradually reduce its carbon footprint while maintaining economically sustainable operations. The company’s strong commitment to developing its own skilled workforce supports this strategy. Gebrüder Weiss currently employs 290 apprentices at 40 locations across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, around 30 percent of whom are female. The company also provides vocational training for young people in Hungary, Serbia, and Bulgaria. Although the apprenticeship year has already begun, Gebrüder Weiss still has a few positions available. Interested candidates are welcome to apply. More information about apprenticeship opportunities at Gebrüder Weiss is available here.

As part of its 175th anniversary celebrations, St Austell Brewery has revived one of the most popular beers from its brewing archives. The South West's largest independent family brewer has brought back Admiral's Ale (5.0% ABV) as a limited-edition release in its 2026 special cask ale range. The commemorative collection combines revived favourites from the brewery's archives with new brews inspired by 175 years of Cornish brewing. Originally brewed in 2005 to mark the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar, Admiral's Ale is inspired by a remarkable story that links St Austell Brewery to a defining moment in British history. According to local legend, King George III's messenger, carrying official news of Nelson's triumph from Cornwall to London, stopped for refreshment at St Austell Brewery’s Blue Anchor Inn. The visit created a lasting connection between the pub and one of the nation's most celebrated historical events. Two centuries later, St Austell Brewery commemorated the occasion by creating Admiral's Ale. Now, the beer is making a comeback as part of the business's milestone anniversary year. Brewed with Celia and Cascade hops, Admiral's Ale delivers floral, pine and berry notes, resulting in a full-flavoured ale with a bold character worthy of its namesake. Georgina Young, Brewing Director at St Austell Brewery, said: "Reaching our 175th anniversary has given us the chance to celebrate the beers, people and stories that have shaped St Austell Brewery, while continuing to look ahead to the future." "We're deeply rooted in tradition. It's hard not to be when you're brewing in an original Victorian brewery where we still mill our malt in the tower. At the same time, we're always looking forward, continuing to innovate while celebrating the beers and stories that have shaped us." "This year's special cask range draws inspiration from recipes and brewing records dating back to the 1800s. The collection pays tribute to some of the most popular beers we've produced over the years, bringing back old favourites while introducing brews that reflect both our past and present." Also making a return as part of the special cask range for the remainder of the year are Tinners Best Bitter (3.4% ABV) and Tribute Extra (5.3% ABV), the bigger sibling of St Austell Brewery's bestselling Tribute pale ale. The special cask range is one of several initiatives marking St Austell Brewery's 175th anniversary, alongside events, collaborations and celebrations of the pubs, people and communities that have shaped the business since 1851. Admiral's Ale will be available from 1st September for a limited time across St Austell Brewery's 45-strong managed pub estate in the South West, as well as in selected leased, tenanted and freehold pubs across the UK.

Swansway Motor Group announce a significant investment in a major new Fleet Super Hub in Cheshire, supporting the continued growth of its rapidly expanding fleet division and increasing demand from businesses across the UK. The development will provide capacity for up to 3,000 vehicles, creating an infrastructure required to support continued growth. Located in Wardle, just outside Nantwich, the purpose built facility is expected to be completed in quarter 1, 2027 and will significantly enhance Swansway Fleet's operational capabilities, creating a centralised hub designed to support future growth and evolving customer requirements. The new site will provide substantial vehicle storage capacity alongside dedicated pre-delivery inspection (PDI) facilities, enabling vehicles to be prepared and delivered more efficiently for customers UK wide. Designed with sustainability in mind, the development will incorporate rooftop solar panelling, electric vehicle charging and employee focused amenities including cycle to work facilities, reflecting Swansway's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint while supporting the transition towards Fleet electrification. The investment comes at a time of continued growth for Swansway Fleet, which supports businesses of all sizes, from local SMEs through to national organisations and leasing partners. Sarah Eccles, Fleet Director at Swansway Motor Group, said: "The creation of our new Fleet Super Hub represents one of the most significant investments we've made in our fleet operation and demonstrates our confidence in the future of the division." "We continue to see strong demand from businesses looking for flexible, reliable fleet solutions, alongside growing interest in electrified vehicle fleets. This investment will give us the infrastructure, capacity and operational efficiency needed to support future demand, for many years to come.” The facility will strengthen Swansway Fleet's ability to support customers throughout the vehicle supply process, from vehicle sourcing and preparation through to delivery, while providing the scalability required to accommodate future growth. Sarah added: "Importantly, the development has been designed with sustainability in mind, supporting our environmental responsibilities while creating a modern, future ready facility that supports both our customers and colleagues." The family owned automotive dealer group, continues to invest in its people, facilities and technology, ensuring customers benefit from market leading services and expertise across the business. Photo: L-R: Sarah Eccles Group Fleet Director, alongside John Smyth, David Smyth and Peter Smyth, Directors at Swansway Motor Group

A new study by Markel Direct, the small business insurance specialists, has revealed the growing expectations many UK tradespeople and small business owners feel to maintain an active social media presence alongside running their business. The study, which asked 501 UK small business owners and tradespeople how they use social media to market their business, revealed the hidden workload that comes with trying to stay visible online. More than three quarters (76%) spend time every week creating or editing social media content. For most, that means an additional one to three hours of work every week (54%), while more than one in ten (11%) spend up to a full working day each week managing their online presence. The findings build on a previous study by Markel Direct, which looked into overworking among the self-employed. It discovered that more than half (57%) regularly work beyond their normal hours, while 40% said they feel pressure to remain reachable outside working hours, and 57% admitted to working through illness. Running a business now means running social media too: half feel stressed to stay visible online The findings suggest many small business owners are effectively becoming self-taught social media marketers alongside running their actual business. More than two-thirds (69%) have never hired anyone to create content on their behalf, while 65% say they have never received any social media training. Despite this, many still feel an increasing responsibility to stay active online. More than half (55%) say they feel pressure to create content regularly, while nearly three-quarters (73%) believe customers now expect businesses to be active on social media. At the same time, nearly two-thirds (63%) say they struggle to stand out from competitors online. The study also highlighted that for some small business owners, maintaining an online presence is also causing a negative impact. Nearly a quarter (24%) say they have experienced negative comments online, while one in four (25%) have deleted or edited posts following criticism. The fear of negative reactions is also affecting confidence online, with nearly four in ten (38%) saying they have held back from posting due to fear of backlash. Among younger entrepreneurs aged 18–24, more than half say fear of negative reactions has stopped posting online. Social media drives growth, but raises legal concerns Social media is a clear growth driver for small businesses, and many owners are aware of the responsibilities that come with posting content online – however, the study revealed significant gaps remain when it comes to protection and preparedness. The research found that only 39% have insurance in place to cover legal action relating to issues such as copyright infringement or breaches of confidentiality linked to their social media activity. In contrast, nearly half (47%) say they do not have this type of protection, while a further 8% are unsure whether they are covered. Despite the potential consequences, some businesses continue to share client work online without following clear processes. Nearly one in five (19%) admit they do not always obtain client permission before posting images or videos of completed work on social media. Worryingly, more than a quarter (28%) say they would not know what steps to take if a client raised a legal concern about content they had shared online. Rob Rees, Divisional Director at Markel Direct, said: "Social media has become one of the most powerful ways for small businesses to showcase their expertise and attract new customers, but many business owners don't realise that the same rules around consent, copyright and confidentiality apply online as they do offline." "Many entrepreneurs have effectively become marketers overnight, often without formal training or dedicated support. Taking a few simple steps, such as obtaining written permission before sharing client projects and understanding what insurance protections are available, can help reduce the risk of disputes further down the line." To read the full study, visit the Markel Direct website. Please note: This article provides guidance for information purposes only. It should not be relied upon wholly when making or taking important business decisions – always seek the services of an appropriately qualified professional.

More than two thirds of SME business leaders are grappling with finding time to step back and work on the business due to being stuck in the day-to-day, according to new research. This was cited as the biggest challenge facing SMEs (68%), followed by the rising cost of doing business (51%) and balancing investment in growth with day-to-day operations (48%). The data comes from business leaders who are alumni of the Help to Grow: Management Course, the 90% government-funded course delivered by more than 60 Small Business Charter-accredited business schools across the UK. To date, 14,420 business leaders have completed the 12-week course to bolster their leadership capabilities and resilience during challenging economic conditions. The survey showed that the challenges businesses face are wide-ranging. Beyond the top three challenges, factors such as implementing technology (42%) and skills shortages (34%) were also major concerns for business leaders. The impact of Help to Grow: Management Despite ongoing pressures for business leaders, the support provided by the Help to Grow: Management Course is having a positive impact. More than three quarters (78%) of respondents said the Help to Grow: Management Course was key to achieving a specific business challenge, project, milestone or personal development goal they had identified before starting the course. In addition, more than two thirds (68%) said the course had helped them respond to broader challenges they were facing. Specifically, 58% were finding time to step back and work on the business rather than in it, 46% felt more confident managing growth sustainably and 37% cited digital adoption as a key area of impact. Peter Beaumont, Managing Director at Monty Miracle Ltd in Leeds, said: “Before the course, I was overwhelmed by the responsibility of leading the business. It can be incredibly isolating, and I didn't have anyone who understood how I was feeling or could advise on next steps." "The course changed that. Having access to experienced tutors and a peer group who'd faced the same challenges gave me clarity and the confidence to make decisions I wouldn't have made before." "It's nearly four years since I completed the course, and I still use the practical tools and broader perspective it gave me every day. I continue to face challenges, that’s the nature of running a business, but the course gave me the foundations I needed for dealing with changes, managing growth and leading through uncertainty." Duncan McCombie, CEO of YES Energy Solutions and a member of the Small Business Charter Management Board, completed the Help to Grow: Management Course at Sheffield Business School at Sheffield Hallam University. He says the course helped him step back from day-to-day pressures, make clearer decisions during uncertain times and focus on building a stronger organisation. Since completing the course, YES Energy Solutions has increased revenue by 28% and grown its headcount, enabling the business to support more households with energy efficiency advice and measures. Duncan said: “The course made a real difference to the way I lead the business. At the time, like many business leaders, I was dealing with uncertainty and competing pressures. Help to Grow gave me the structure, confidence and practical tools to take a step back, test my thinking and make better long-term decisions." "That shift in approach has had a lasting impact. It helped us focus on sustainable growth, strengthen the team and increase the number of households we can support. These findings show why the course matters: it gives business leaders the headspace, network and confidence to respond to challenge and turn uncertainty into opportunity.” A catalyst for continuous learning The Help to Grow: Management Course is a catalyst to inspire SME business leaders into continuous learning. Since completing the course, alumni are prioritising mentoring (45%), peer-to-peer networking (44%), and attending conferences, workshops or seminars (41%). Flora Hamilton, CEO of the Chartered Association of Business Schools and Executive Director of the Small Business Charter, said: "In addition to the immediate impact businesses are feeling from completing the Help to Grow: Management Course, it’s very encouraging to see that alumni aren't stopping after the 12 weeks." "Armed with new knowledge and having built strong, local connections, business leaders are continuing to invest in their growth, whether through other initiatives provided by business schools or through sector specific initiatives, mentoring and peer networking. That's the kind of long-term resilience that will empower small business success,”

A Glasgow football coach who has trained more than 1,000 children in the city's East End has expanded his reach, after turning to Business Gateway for support developing his digital marketing. Bradley Ruddick founded Football Focused 1-2-1 in January 2023, coaching young people at Stepford Football Centre. The business has seen significant uptake from locals and grown considerably over the past 3 years, with referrals and word of mouth playing a key role in attracting new participants. The business now has 10 self-employed coaches, the majority of which are from the local areas, all UEFA-licensed and delivering one-to-one sessions alongside specialised and weekly classes for children of all ages and abilities. Ruddick also places significant importance on developing his team of coaches, most of whom are from the local area, giving them the chance to build their coaching skills and open up future career opportunities. Developing coaches from the East End is a priority for the business, giving young people the chance to learn from people who understand the community they live in. Recent growth has allowed Ruddick to bring two long-serving coaches on full-time. As the business grew, Football Focused 1-2-1 partnered with East End Community Carers (EECC), supporting the charity's community work with weekly multi-sports sessions for children delivered through its network throughout the year. The partnership also saw the business redevelop Queenslie Park into a brand new, full-size five-a-side astro pitch. Football Focused 1-2-1 has more recently started delivering movement classes for over-65s in the community, and now partners with seven local football clubs across the East End, helping train teams and develop their coaches. Ruddick has invested significantly in developing the business, including a custom website, and turned to Business Gateway's Digital Expert Support grant to make his investment go further. Delivered by Glasgow City Council, the grant offers businesses up to three days of tailored one-to-one support across website development, digital marketing and social media, IT infrastructure, e-commerce and wider digital strategy. Ruddick used his three days to develop a digital marketing and social media strategy, helping the business reach more children and families and expand the team's impact in Glasgow. He was supported by Business Gateway adviser Karen Fotheringham, who has supported with expert one-to-one support and guidance, advising on funding routes, including the Digital Expert Support grant, and signposting to wider support available through the local authority. Bradley Ruddick, owner of Football Focused 1-2-1, said: "Football Focused 1-2-1 is more than coaching. It's about giving young people in the East End somewhere to build confidence, fitness and friendships that last well beyond the pitch. “Karen's support has been invaluable in helping us grow. She's helped us think properly about our digital marketing and social media, and that's meant more families finding out about what we do and more opportunities to build the brand." Karen Fotheringham, Business Gateway adviser, said: "Bradley and his team of coaches do brilliant work in the East End. What started as one-to-one coaching has grown into a business supporting more than 1,000 children, and the partnership with East End Community Carers shows the wider impact it's having on the community. “Through the Digital Expert Support grant, we were able to give Bradley three days of tailored support to develop his marketing and social media strategy, helping him build on that momentum and reach more families across Glasgow." To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit here.

Southampton-based Maddie Saunders is preparing to compete at the 2026 British Individual Cycle Speedway Championships this weekend and will travel to and from the race in style and comfort, with her bike at her side, thanks to a support vehicle provided by her employer, the family-run Hendy Group. Maddie, who rides for Southampton Cycle Speedway, will compete in the Women’s competition at Wednesfield Cycle Speedway Track in Wolverhampton on Sunday 30 August, taking on some of the country’s leading riders in a bid to secure her place in the final. Hendy Van Centre Dorset is supporting Maddie’s British Championships campaign by providing a spacious Kia PBV for the event, helping transport her, her support crew, the precious cycle speedway bike, equipment and luggage to and from the competition. The new sponsorship builds on an impressive 12 months for Maddie both on and off the track. At the 2025 Cycle Speedway World Championships she secured silver in the World Individual Women’s race, as well as becoming World Women’s Federation Cup Champion, World Women’s Nations Cup Champion and World Women’s Best Pairs Champion. Away from the track, Maddie has continued to build a successful career at Hendy. Having first joined the Group as an apprentice in 2023, she was named Hendy’s ‘Apprentice of the Year’ in 2025 and nominated for ‘Apprentice of the Year’ at the Women in Automotive Awards. In July this year, she was promoted from Marketing Specialist to Group Marketing Executive. Despite heading into the British Championships with an injury, Maddie is hoping to build on her international success from last year. “After such a successful World Championships last year, the British Championships are another opportunity to test myself against some of the best riders. Hendy has been a great support to me, and it means a lot to have that backing again this year.” Paul Hendy, Chief Executive at Hendy Group said: “Maddie is an incredible example of resilience and determination; even with an injury, she is giving her all to the sport she loves. Her dedication to training mirrors the drive she brings to her role at Hendy, and it’s fantastic to see what she continues to achieve both on and off the track. We’re pleased to be able to offer her support in any way we can and will all be cheering her on this weekend.” To find out more about career opportunities at Hendy, visit here.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) celebrated its 70th anniversary this year, marking how far health and safety standards have improved since 1956. What started out as a small awards ceremony to showcase UK companies championing safety has now become one of the biggest and most prestigious health and safety awards worldwide. One long-standing recipient of RoSPA awards is national painting contractor, Alfred Bagnall and Sons Limited. Showcasing a true commitment to health, safety and accident prevention, Bagnalls has received a grand total of 17 RoSPA Gold awards – the last three of which have been paired with prestigious Orders of Distinction, which are awarded when 15 RoSPA Gold awards have been achieved. The awards themselves reward the achievements of companies of all sizes – from small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to larger, more established businesses, like Bagnalls, which recently celebrated its own anniversary, marking 150 years of painting and decorating expertise. RoSPA award hopefuls come from a range of sectors, including construction, manufacturing, entertainment and more, with all entries judged by industry-leading experts. Each application to the awards encourages the enhancement of a company’s health and safety standards, prioritising policy reflection, continuing professional development (CPD) and ongoing workplace learning to reduce workplace accidents. The awards themselves are sponsored by the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH), which provides internationally recognised health, safety and environmental qualifications, raising health and safety competence at all levels of a business. Dee Arp, NEBOSH Chief Quality Officer and the Head Judge of the RoSPA Awards, said: "NEBOSH is proud to be the headline sponsor of the RoSPA Awards. They provide an opportunity to celebrate excellence in health and safety, while also helping to strengthen a culture of care, accountability and continuous improvement." “These awards are a powerful reminder that protecting people transcends borders. Supporting employees to return home safe, healthy and happy each day is fundamental to long-term success and resilience." Bagnalls’ Head of Safety, Health, Environmental and Quality (SHEQ), Becky Slater, said of the win: “Receiving our 17th RoSPA Gold award is a truly incredible achievement for us as a team and as a business. This also means we now have our third Order of Distinction, something we are very proud of and which will spur us on when it comes to championing health and safety within the construction industry and beyond.” “I want to say thank you to the whole Bagnalls team – from our painters on the tools to our brilliant apprentices, management team and office professionals – for working safely, day in, day out.” Julia Small, RoSPA’s Growth Director, said: “We congratulate the Bagnalls team on their RoSPA Gold Health and Safety Award. The high standards that Bagnalls has achieved are the result of hard work and dedication, of which the team should be rightfully proud and which RoSPA is delighted to honour." “2026 is a landmark year for the RoSPA Awards as we reflect on how far workplace safety has come in 70 years. It is because of the commitment of health and safety leaders like Bagnalls, that people today are safer at work than in the past, setting an inspiring example for the future.” Following their 17th RoSPA Gold award win, the Bagnalls team continues to be part of a proud legacy of organisations dedicated to keeping employees and the public safe.

A Shetland entrepreneur has built a football coaching business from scratch in under a year, with support from Business Gateway helping him access start-up funding and get his venture off the ground. Jack Clubb launched Jack Clubb Coaching in March 2025, offering football sessions that would nurture young talent by building confidence and fitness and grow the game across the Islands. Jack's business offers a range of services including one-to-one football coaching, small and large group sessions, and fitness testing and monitoring plans for sports teams. Since getting started last year, Jack has seen steady growth through referrals and word-of-mouth and has now coached more than 100 players of all ages to develop their skills on the field. Business Gateway Shetland worked with Jack on his business plan and marketing and signposted him towards a start-up funding of £4,000 through Shetland Islands Council. The grant allowed Jack to purchase a range of professional training kit and IT equipment to support him with business planning, as well as allowing Jack to build a following on social media to promote and grow his business. The support from the Business Gateway team included one-to-one advice from local adviser Jeff Gaskell, along with workshops and research through the Business Gateway website. Jack has also spent his first year of trading experimenting with different formats for sessions to find what works best for players across his coaching schedule. Adviser Jeff Gaskell has supported with business development through company reports and research to strengthen his business plan as Jack continues to evolve his offering. Jack Clubb, founder of Jack Clubb Coaching said: “Starting my coaching business was an exciting step, but like many new entrepreneurs, I wasn’t entirely sure where to begin when it came to building a sustainable business. The support I received from Business Gateway was invaluable. Their guidance on business planning helped me create a clear roadmap for growth, while their marketing advice gave me the confidence and tools to promote my services effectively." “The signposting towards funding was also a huge help in supporting me to get the business off the ground, allowing me to invest in essential equipment and resources from day one. As a young founder, having that support network behind me made a real difference and has helped turn my passion for football into a growing business.” Kirsten Scott, Business Gateway Manager said: “It has been a pleasure to support Jack on his journey since launching Jack Clubb Coaching last year. From the outset, Jack demonstrated a real passion for helping players develop both on and off the pitch, along with a strong commitment to building a successful business." “Through Business Gateway, we were able to provide tailored support around business planning and marketing, helping him establish a clear direction for growth and reach his target audience. It’s fantastic to see the progress he has made in such a short time and we’re looking forward to following the continued growth of Jack Clubb Coaching.” Business Gateway continues to support start-ups and growing businesses across Shetland with free advice on everything from funding routes to digital marketing, helping local entrepreneurs turn ideas into trading businesses. To find out more about how Business Gateway can help, visit here.