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A senior lawyer at a south coast legal firm has urged landlords and lettings agents to ‘get ahead of what is to come’ as the countdown begins to a major reform of the private rented sector. Conor Maher, Senior Associate and specialist in Dispute Resolution and Regulatory Law at Ellis Jones Solicitors, made the call after the government published a ‘roadmap’ for the phased implementation of the long-awaited Renters’ Rights Act. The legislation, which received formal Royal Assent in October 2025, will introduce sweeping changes to the law around private tenancies next year. Key among them is the abolition, from 1 May 2026, of fixed-term tenancies and so-called ‘no-fault’ evictions, a means for landlords to gain possession under Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988. Minimum notice periods for evictions in respect of rent arrears and other grounds will be extended from the same date in favour of tenants. Conor, a Bournemouth-based Solicitor Advocate, said: “While other aspects of the legislative packages will be phased in later, it is essential that landlords understand that 1 May 2026 is now the fixed date as regards both the end of Section 21 and the start of a longer eviction process." “Our strong advice to all landlords and lettings agents is to review tenancy agreements to ensure continuing compliance with the law. There is a clear need to understand their obligations to ensure no breaches occur and the scope for legal liability is minimised." “There are potential criminal penalties that could apply, with fines for up to £40,000. Landlords need to have systems in place to protect themselves from the risk of an accidental breach.” The new legislation is widely seen as heralding a significant shift towards tenant security, regulatory oversight and the placing of greater responsibilities on landlords and agents. As well as the changes to the rules around evictions, a new Private Rented Sector database is to be rolled out from late 2026 which is expected to include an annual registration fee for landlords and agents. And an Ombudsman redress scheme is envisaged, with the government mooting introduction in 2028. Conor added: “Landlords need to get ahead of what is to come so they can minimise future disruption and potential legal exposure.” As it has done on several occasions before, Ellis Jones plans to host a seminar for landlords and lettings agents to discuss the legal changes. It will be held around the time of the law taking effect in April next year.

Firms across the private sector expect activity to fall in the next three months (weighted balance of -20%), extending a run of negative predictions that began in late 2024, according to the CBI’s latest Growth Indicator. The downturn is expected to be broad-based, with business volumes in the services sector set to decline (-15%), driven by weak expectations in both business & professional services (-12%) and consumer services (-28%). Distribution sales are expected to fall sharply (-34%), alongside a contraction in manufacturing output (-19%). The disappointing outlook comes as private sector activity fell in the three months to October (-32%), the same pace as in the three months to September. All sub-sectors reported falling activity. Alpesh Paleja, Deputy Chief Economist, CBI, said: “Firms are facing a difficult winter, with private sector momentum weak and confidence fragile. Uncertainty around the upcoming Budget is weighing heavily on sentiment, with many firms keeping key decisions on hold until more clarity is forthcoming. Cost pressures from a variety of sources remain strong, with last year’s tax rises adding to the drag. “As a result, tough decisions to deliver policy stability and address fiscal pressures will be needed at the Budget. Our surveys clearly show that the private sector cannot bear the brunt of these decisions once again. The business tax burden is already at a 25-year high and – rather than tinkering around the edges – the Chancellor must strategically address the tax system’s complexities that are undermining growth and deliver a Budget and tax system that helps businesses invest, hire, and scale.” Key findings from our monthly Services Sector Survey showed: Business volumes in the services sector fell in the three months to October (-35%), at the same pace as in the three months to September. Both business & professional services (-34%) and consumer services (-40%) volumes fell heavily through the quarter. Hiring intentions within the services sector remain weak. Business & professional services expect headcount to fall modestly over the next three months (-11%), while consumer services companies expect a sharp fall in numbers employed (-33%) Selling price expectations in the services sector eased to their long-run average in October (+7%, from +14% in September). Inflation expectations have moderated for both business & professional services firms (+5%) and consumer services (+18%) A balance is the weighted percentage of companies reporting an increase minus those reporting a decrease.

A south coast care home provider has seen off the challenge of competitor groups from across the country to scoop a prestigious National Care Award. Colten Care was one of 11 finalists in the category of Care Home Group (Medium), for groups with between 20 and 40 homes. Judges praised the family-owned provider, which runs 21 homes in Dorset, Hampshire, Wiltshire and West Sussex, for its ‘one team’ ethos, professional nursing credentials and commitment to creating ‘personalised experiences tailored to each resident’s needs and preferences’. The award submission explained how all Colten homes are purpose-built by sister company Colten Developments, promote ‘refined living’ through elegant interiors and inspiring gardens, and strive to ensure residents ‘feel at home and connected’. Colten Care Chief Executive Mark Aitchison said: “The award win is truly an amazing achievement, testimony to the dedicated, passionate, caring people we have throughout Colten. This success demonstrates independent recognition of our culture of consistent clinical excellence, with seven homes rated Outstanding by the CQC and the remainder Good, and the thousands of reviews on Carehome.co.uk that inform our remarkable group rating of 9.9 out of ten.” Paying tribute to company founders John Colwell and Adrian Otten, Mark added: “It was their vision to define Colten as the best that has enabled us to make this award win possible, best in Britain for our size.” Elaine Farrer, Chief Operating Officer, said: “It was moment of immense pride to hear our name read out as the winner on the night. All of us are profoundly heartened to receive this further endorsement of our ‘All About Me’ care philosophy that focuses on what residents can do, not only what they need support with. This empowers choice, nurtures independence and enables purposeful lives.” As well as the group-wide win, four Colten Care colleagues were finalists in separate individual categories. They were: Martin Corrigan, Home Manager at The Aldbury in Poole, for the Dementia Home Manager award; Angela Dibble, Group Housekeeper, for Care Housekeeper; Daniela Buzatu, Senior Nurse at Belmore Lodge in Lymington, for Care Registered Nurse; and Jackie Cash, Home Manager at Braemar Lodge in Salisbury, for Home Manager. While this was the first year Colten Care has won a company award at the National Care Awards, Lorna Parsons, then a Chef at the provider’s Bourne View in Poole, was named Chef of the Year at the 2022 awards. Lorna has since been promoted to group-wide Development Chef. The National Care Awards 2025 ceremony and dinner took place at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in London, hosted by comedian and broadcaster Sue Perkins. AND THE WINNER IS … Colten Care colleagues at the National Care Awards in London. The care home provider won the award for Care Home Group (Medium), for groups with between 20 and 40 homes.

“Suddenly I could hear the birds and that made me cry because I'd not heard one before. It is the most beautiful sound.” – Jane Harrison, Hearing Dogs For The Deaf When a hearing specialist opened her doors to the public for a special Open Day – her message was loud and clear. . . Brazilian entrepreneur Carolina Leal was keen to dispel the myths around hearing aids as part of the event, which marked the second anniversary of The Audiology Expert in Leamington. The celebration also welcomed three very different guests of honour – the Mayor of Leamington, Councillor Ruggy Singh, alongside Robyn the Labrador and her owner Jane Harrison, of national charity Hearing Dogs For Deaf People, which also benefited from fundraising on the day. Jane, who has been provided with two dogs by the charity over 17 years, now dedicates her time as a volunteer fundraiser and advocate for them. She is also a recent convert to hearing aids again - after 33 years! Born with sensorineural hearing loss, she was only formally diagnosed as deaf at the age of eight, when a teacher raised the alarm. She recalls: “I think I learned to adapt but I missed a lot. I've been told since I was oblivious to everything. But I didn’t get on with analogue hearing aids when I was young because, in the 60s, they were big and unattractive, a sort of one-size-fits-all approach." “So I dispensed with them when I was 13 and it was only at the age of 50 I started wearing them again because I’d had an accident at work. But they were so much improved and I was over the moon. Suddenly I could hear the birds and that made me cry because I'd not heard one before. It is the most beautiful sound.” Established in 1982, Hearing Dogs charity sets out to rebuild connection, companionship, and confidence to transform the lives of people who are deaf or have hearing loss. The dogs are trained to alert deaf people to important, often life-saving, sounds such as smoke and fire alarms, intruder alarms, the alarm clock and even baby monitors. Hearing Dogs wear burgundy jackets when out in public, which brings a visibility to a largely invisible disability. This can often spark conversation, helping deaf people reconnect with other people and the world around them. Jane, from Meriden, added: “The charity has also made a huge difference to my life. I’m much more confident now and Robyn is a big emotional support. She goes everywhere with me. I’d be lost without her.” Carolina Leal, who moved to the UK when she was 23, was also keen the event acted as a ‘thank you’ to the community she now calls home – as well as a spotlight on the charity. She said: “I was truly delighted to host the Open Day here at the Audiology Expert. It was a valuable opportunity to raise awareness about hearing health, challenge misconceptions surrounding hearing loss, and help the community better understand the importance of early intervention and support.” With impressive career credentials spanning over 18 years, Carolina’s thirst for professional knowledge has helped shape the next generation of audiologists through her experience in both teaching and overseeing national studies, some of which have even led to policy change. As an active member of the British Society of Audiology, she has written national guidance protocols as well as conducting UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) assessments and numerous consultancy roles. Years of practising and teaching experience eventually led her to Keyla De Magalhaes, who supported Carolina’s ambitions to emulate the success of her The Audiology Expert business model in Suffolk. Councillor Ruggy Singh said: “The Open Day has acted as an important reminder that we should take care of our hearing. I think people are put off by the idea of wearing hearing aids, but, after what I’ve seen, I don't think they realise how small and discreet they are these days. Most of them are hardly noticeable. It is also vitally important that we continue to support these charities that help raise funds and awareness.” The Audiology Expert offers everything from full hearing assessments to ear wax removal and hearing aid fittings. Carolina said: “There is a lot of stigma around wearing hearing aids. Technology has come a long way in how soon we can diagnose problems before it affects speech and language development. There are a lot of people for whom hearing aids change the quality of their life completely, so I find that hugely rewarding. It's that joy of reintroducing them to things that they didn't even realise they were missing before. It can feel like you’re giving them their life back.” Visit The Audiologyexpert here . Visit the Hearing Dogs here .

Two apprentice chefs have joined a Cumbrian hotel group’s specialist training academy.    Natasha Bull, who has moved up to the Lake District from Derbyshire to work, and Alice Metcalfe from Kendal are the latest recruits to train under the English Lakes Hotels Culinary Academy.    In partnership with Kendal College, the training academy offers an apprenticeship for the students to attain Level 2 Commis Chef and Level 3 Chef de Partie qualifications, as well as earning a living with hands on, practical experience in a restaurant kitchen.    Both Natasha and Alice will be learning their trade to cook up a successful career path in the busy kitchen at Wild Boar Estate near Windermere.    Established in 2017, the English Lakes Hotels Culinary Academy offers fully accredited courses to train budding chefs whilst they earn a wage with the hotel group. Both apprentices will be working under the tutelage of group training and development chef Daniel Winstanley, who is an appointed member of The Master Chefs of Great Britain.    A cookery class in Thailand whilst she travelled the world was one of the reasons 20-year-old Natasha cites for pursuing a career in the hospitality industry. So she undertook a bit of research and decided to apply to the academy and begin a new working life in the Lake District. “I started looking online at how to train to be a chef and what qualifications were needed,” explains Natasha: “The one which really stood out with a specific career pathway was the English Lakes Hotels Culinary Academy.” 17-year-old Alice left Dallam School in Kendal over the summer and had heard about the academy from Kendal College. She is a keen member of the local Young Farmers club and competes at local agricultural shows and public speaking events.    Daniel Winstanley from English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues adds: “We’re thrilled to welcome Natasha and Alice to the Culinary Academy. They’ve already settled brilliantly into their kitchen brigade at Wild Boar Estate, showing great enthusiasm and teamwork." “We’re especially excited to have them involved in our live cooking tent at the Lancaster University Christmas markets, where they’ll be showcasing their skills and exploring the diverse food cultures on offer.”   For further information about the English Lakes Hotels Culinary Academy, visit here.

DMH Stallard has advised the Real Pet Food Company on the sale of its UK subsidiary Benyfit Natural to Finnish family-owned food group Snellman. Benyfit Natural produces premium raw dog food at its factory in East Grinstead, East Sussex. Acquired by the Real Pet Food Company in 2018, Benyfit Natural has built a strong reputation for high-quality, nutritionally balanced meals for pets. The Real Pet Food Company, headquartered in Australia, is a leading presence in the pet food sector with a portfolio of brands that champion health and wellbeing for pets. Jonathan Grant led the transaction, with Kay Miles Senior Associate and Beth Obara Solicitor. Jonathan said: “We are delighted to have supported the Real Pet Food Company in this transaction, which demonstrates the development of Benyfit brand under RPFC’s ownership, and the increasing global appetite for premium, natural pet food." “We enjoyed working with the team at Real Pet Food Company; completing the deal in a month from heads of terms required focus and teamwork.” The acquisition by Snellman underscores the growing demand for natural and sustainable pet food products across Europe and reflects the company’s confidence in the UK market. Sarah Wall, General Counsel, Real Pet Food Company said: “Working with DMH Stallard was a very positive experience. Their pragmatic approach, ability to work under pressure, and commitment to meeting a tight timeframe were invaluable. They coordinated seamlessly across multiple cross-functional teams, ensuring alignment and efficiency throughout the process. The team was helpful and insightful, which made what could have been a stressful transaction much smoother.”

In the run-up to the Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards on Monday, 17th November, a new survey of 534 established business owners by Allica Bank reveals that while many businesses continue to navigate tough conditions, investment plans remain strong.   The findings highlight a cohort that, despite rising costs and economic uncertainty, remains firmly focused on the future. While 62% of respondents say running a business has become harder over the past year, more than 60% are planning to raise external funding in the next 12 months, up from 40% last year.   Overall, 90% of established businesses plan to grow their operations in this timeframe, with more than half (56.5%) already actively planning investment and a further 33% intending to start soon.   Rising costs continue to challenge businesses   The survey also found that when it came to the biggest pressures these businesses face, 66% were affected by rising operational costs, 62% cited the UK’s economic slowdown, and 52% have been affected by inflation. 32% of respondents also reported being heavily affected by interest rates and Employer National Insurance increases, while 31% cited limited access to business lending, and 37% said the pace of technological innovation has had a significant impact on their operations.   And while established businesses tackle these issues, 62% of them report feeling that banks do not understand the needs of smaller businesses, with over 30% citing a lack of understanding and guidance as a barrier to accessing finance.   Businesses double down on growth   Looking ahead to 2026, the survey reveals that business owners are focused on innovation, with many rethinking operations and improving efficiency.   When asked about priorities for next year, 64% said they are planning to hire more staff, 60% are focused on developing new products or services, and 40% plan to invest in new technology or software, while 29% will spend on marketing and advertising. Businesses also plan to channel resources into staff training, expanding premises, and purchasing new equipment or vehicles.   The data is released as 1,300 established businesses and entrepreneurs from all over the United Kingdom prepare to gather in London for next week’s Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards. The awards celebrate the very best of British innovation and the hard-working, established businesses that form the backbone of the UK economy, supporting growth, jobs, and communities across the country.   Conrad Ford, Chief Product & Strategy Officer at Allica Bank, said:   “What really stands out from this year’s findings is the determination and resilience of established businesses. Even with the challenges they face, they’re continuing to invest, innovate and create opportunity."   “These businesses are the ones driving jobs, ideas and growth in every community across the country. Their ability to adapt and push forward when things are uncertain is something we should all be proud of, and at Allica, we’re here to make sure they have the banking and support they need to do just that."  “As we come together to celebrate the finalists at the Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards, it’s clear that the UK’s entrepreneurial spirit remains strong and that established business owners will continue to play a defining role in shaping our economic future. As a former entrepreneur myself, I know how much dedication it takes to build and sustain a business, and I wish all the outstanding finalists the very best of luck next week.”

Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce the signing of Ed Chamberlain on a season-long loan deal from Hull FC. The 29-year-old can feature in a number of positions including centre and back row, adding versatility and experience to Kurt Haggerty’s side in 2026. Chamberlain made his professional debut for Whitehaven in 2015, before going on to feature for Widnes Vikings and Workington Town, either side of a seven-game loan spell at the Bulls in 2017. Spells at Salford Red Devils and London Broncos followed before a successful stint at Leigh Leopards. The Ireland international scored 17 tries in 30 appearances as Adrian Lam’s side won the AB Sundecks 1895 Cup alongside promotion to Super League in 2022. Chamberlain was a part of the Leopards’ side that secured Challenge Cup glory at Wembley in 2023, before a move to Hull FC midway through the 2024 season. Having reflected on his first couple of days at the club, Chamberlain is targeting consistency in 2026. Ed Chamberlain said: “It’s been good, everyone has been really welcoming I know a lot of the lads from previous clubs. A new challenge gives you a chance to prove yourself and show what you want to be as a player, I don’t know what it will be for me but whatever position I end up playing in I’ll do my best each and every week." “It’s a big moment for the club, there is a massive buzz around the place and there’s big excitement around Super League having Bradford back in the competition but everyone is raring to go and everyone is ripping in." “The speed of the game in Super League is a lot quicker, you have to be fitter and you have to be able to think on your feet when you’re fatigued you have to keep pushing through, you have to make sure you can catch and pass. You can’t switch off mentally but I’d say a lot of the lads are already in good shape for the start of pre-season and should cope pretty well with Super League." “On a personal level, I just want to make sure I am playing consistently in whatever position I get put in I’ll do my best. Hopefully I’m in the squad for the full year and whatever goals we set as a club that’s what we’ll stick to, I just want to be consistent week on week.” Bradford Bulls Head Coach Kurt Haggerty said: “He’s versatile, he can play centre, back row and I’m also comfortable putting him in the middle of the field because he’s tough. He’s competent and he has got high skill levels, so he will certainly add value and versatility to the team." “We did a lot of homework on Ed and a lot of the people we spoke to said he’s a first class human being and a fantastic professional, so all those traits will help our young lads develop in and around the environment.”

The UK manufacturing sector endured another challenging period in the quarter to October, with output and orders falling sharply, sentiment deteriorating and investment plans cut back sharply, according to the latest quarterly CBI Industrial Trends Survey. Manufacturing output fell in the three months to October. The downturn was broad-based across sub-sectors, but driven by metal products, metal manufacture and electronic engineering. Firms expect output to fall again over the quarter to January. Demand conditions weakened notably. The volume of total new orders fell sharply through the quarter. Both domestic and export orders fell at their fastest rates since the early stages of the Covid pandemic (July 2020). Levels of total and export order books remain well below their long-run averages, and manufacturers anticipate another drop in new orders over the next three months. Cost pressures remain elevated, although growth in domestic selling prices has slowed and export prices have fallen, suggesting a squeeze on margins. Manufacturing competitiveness fell in all major markets. Manufacturers’ investment appetite has deteriorated markedly. Spending plans for the year ahead fell across every category, held back by weak demand, inadequate net returns and shortages of internal finance. Investment in plant & machinery and buildings looks set to fall particularly sharply. The share of firms investing to expand capacity fell to a level last seen in the recessions of 2009 and the early 1980s. Meanwhile, employment fell at the fastest pace for five years. Ben Jones, Lead Economist, CBI, said: “Manufacturers are finding the going tough. Order books are weakening, cost pressures remain stubbornly high, and uncertainty is rising ahead of the Budget. This is making businesses increasingly reluctant to commit to new hiring and investment." “To get manufacturing moving again, firms need to see the government accelerate energy cost support. That will help address a significant factor crippling the sector’s competitiveness. The Chancellor must also commit to no further business tax rises at the Budget and to boosting resources for exporters that will help firms maximise trading opportunities while raising productivity and growth.” The survey, based on the responses of 218 manufacturing firms, found: Business sentiment deteriorated in October, with manufacturers’ optimism about both the business situation (weighted balance of -31%) and export prospects (-43%) declining further. Output volumes fell in the quarter to October, at a similar pace to the quarter to September (-16%, from -13% in the three months to September). Firms expect volumes to fall again in the three months to January (-19%). The decline in output volumes was broad-based (14 out of 17 sub-sectors) and was driven by declines in the metal products, metal manufacture, and electronic engineering sub-sectors. The share of firms citing orders or sales as a factor likely to limit output in the next three months rose from July and stands above the long-run average (73%, from 62% in July). Total new orders fell through the quarter (-20%, from -17% in July), reflecting the fastest pace of decline since July 2020 for both domestic orders (-26%) and export orders (-26%). Manufacturers expect the total volume of new orders to decline again in the three months to January (-23%). Investment intentions for the year ahead have deteriorated. Manufacturers expect to reduce investment in plant & machinery (-46%, the lowest since April 2020, from -15% in July), in buildings (-42%, from -28%), in product & process innovation (-20%, from -6%), and in training & retraining (-19%, from -13%). The share of firms citing capacity expansion as a reason for capital expenditure over the next 12 months fell to its lowest since April 2009 (13%, from 28% in July). 47% of respondents cited increased efficiency as a reason for capex, and 46% cited replacement. The main constraint on investment was uncertainty about demand (cited by 65% of manufacturers, the greatest proportion since January 2021), followed by inadequate net return (35%), and a shortage of internal finance (20%). Average costs rose in the quarter to October at an elevated pace (+52%, from +63% in July; long-run average of +19%). Costs growth is expected to remain elevated in the quarter to January (+52%). Average domestic prices rose, but at a slower pace relative to July (+12%, from +33% in July), whereas export prices fell (-8%). Both domestic and export prices are anticipated to rise in the next three months (+16% and +8%, respectively). Stocks of work in progress fell in the three months to October (-10%), accompanied by a fall in stocks of finished goods (-8%, the fastest pace of decline in five years). Stocks of raw materials were broadly flat (-1%). Manufacturers expect stocks of finished goods (-23%, the weakest expectations since January 2021), of raw materials (-19%) and of work in progress (-14%) to all fall in the three months to January. Numbers employed fell in the quarter to October (-18%, from -11% in July) at the fastest pace in five years. Manufacturers expect another fall in employment in the quarter to January (-16%). Manufacturing competitiveness deteriorated across all major markets in the three months to October. Competitiveness in non-EU markets worsened at a slightly slower pace (-19%, from -23% in July), whereas competitiveness in EU (-18%, from -13%) and UK (-15%, from -4%) markets weakened further. Competitiveness is expected to decline again in the three months to January, particularly in UK markets (-23%, the weakest expectations since April 2020), followed by EU (-18%) and non-EU (-18%, a record low) markets.

Ahead of the Autumn Budget, with small business owners already worried about the prospect of tax hikes, 53% of UK small business owners say they need to secure funding or finance in order to invest in growth plans for 2026. The need for finance is most acutely felt in London (65%) - the engine-room of the nation – followed by enterprises in the North East (62%), Yorkshire / Humberside (58%) and Wales (54%).    Significantly, the new data from Novuna Business Finance reveals that the need for finance correlates most strongly with businesses that are planning rapid expansion, rather than it being a desperate measure for businesses in trouble. The poll of a representative sample of 1,244 small business owners revealed that those enterprises forecasting significant expansion were more likely to need funding to power growth (71%), compared to 49% of those that were dealing with moderate contraction or decline.    The findings suggest UK small businesses are heading into the Christmas trading period facing a challenging financial double whammy – at a time when the percentage of small business owners predicting growth has fallen to a new five-year low (25%). The widespread need for finance to power future growth into 2026 coincides with 86% of small businesses simultaneously fearing the possibility of Autumn Budget announcements that would adversely derail their plans for growth. Nationally, Budget rises to National Insurance (59%), VAT (50%), income tax (50%) fuel duty (37%) and further taxes on diesel or petrol vehicles (37%) would all negatively impact growth plans, according to business owners.    The Novuna research also explored the consequences of small business owners not securing funding in the months ahead – and the growth initiatives for 2026 that would be put on indefinite hold as a result. Plans to create jobs and increase headcount would be dropped by 33% of small businesses, whilst 28% said they would mothball plans to launch new products. In addition, 25% of small businesses would scrap plans to modernise their IT capability and 24% would postpone investment in new production lines and machinery. The Novuna Business Finance research also reveals a direct impact on supply chain, with 20% of respondents saying they would not be able to pay their suppliers on time.    Jo Morris, Head of Insight at Novuna Business Finance comments: “There is so much talk about economic growth, but at times, there seems to be a lack of understanding on what is needed to create it. Our decade-long Business Barometer study shows clearly that the growth forecasts of UK small businesses have fallen to a five-year low for the final months of 2025." "The vast majority are extremely concerned about any Autumn Budget tax hikes that few enterprises feel they can absorb – and at the very time when they are looking for funding to support growth plans; whether this be investing in new equipment, hiring people, or modernising IT capabilities." "At Novuna Business Finance, we are working hard to support the small business community at a critical time - offering businesses in need of capital the ability to finance assets, an alternative that could potentially benefit their overall cash flow and ease pressure on other areas of their budget. Doing this with a flexible approach means that small businesses have the opportunity to better plan their growth. Now is a time to focus on supporting small businesses and to avoid adding any burdens that will damage their growth ambitions for 2026.”

Firms across the private sector expect activity to fall in the next three months (weighted balance of -20%), extending a run of negative predictions that began in late 2024, according to the CBI’s latest Growth Indicator. The downturn is expected to be broad-based, with business volumes in the services sector set to decline (-15%), driven by weak expectations in both business & professional services (-12%) and consumer services (-28%). Distribution sales are expected to fall sharply (-34%), alongside a contraction in manufacturing output (-19%). The disappointing outlook comes as private sector activity fell in the three months to October (-32%), the same pace as in the three months to September. All sub-sectors reported falling activity. Alpesh Paleja, Deputy Chief Economist, CBI, said: “Firms are facing a difficult winter, with private sector momentum weak and confidence fragile. Uncertainty around the upcoming Budget is weighing heavily on sentiment, with many firms keeping key decisions on hold until more clarity is forthcoming. Cost pressures from a variety of sources remain strong, with last year’s tax rises adding to the drag." “As a result, tough decisions to deliver policy stability and address fiscal pressures will be needed at the Budget. Our surveys clearly show that the private sector cannot bear the brunt of these decisions once again. The business tax burden is already at a 25-year high and – rather than tinkering around the edges – the Chancellor must strategically address the tax system’s complexities that are undermining growth and deliver a Budget and tax system that helps businesses invest, hire, and scale.” Key findings from our monthly Services Sector Survey showed: Business volumes in the services sector fell in the three months to October (-35%), at the same pace as in the three months to September. Both business & professional services (-34%) and consumer services (-40%) volumes fell heavily through the quarter. Hiring intentions within the services sector remain weak. Business & professional services expect headcount to fall modestly over the next three months (-11%), while consumer services companies expect a sharp fall in numbers employed (-33%) Selling price expectations in the services sector eased to their long-run average in October (+7%, from +14% in September). Inflation expectations have moderated for both business & professional services firms (+5%) and consumer services (+18%) A balance is the weighted percentage of companies reporting an increase minus those reporting a decrease.

The University of Dundee has bolstered its position as a global leader in stroke treatment and training by taking part in the world’s first robotic transatlantic thrombectomy. The event came hours after Dundee’s Professor Iris Grunwald, Director of the Image Guided Therapy Research Facility (IGTRF), performed the first-ever remote thrombectomy on a human cadaver. Using a cutting-edge robot developed by Lithuanian MedTech company Sentante, Professor Grunwald proved that a blood clot could be removed from the brain without a specialist being physically present when she performed the procedure from a remote site within the School of Medicine at Ninewells Hospital. That was followed by the groundbreaking moment when Ricardo Hanel MD, PhD – in conjunction with Professor Grunwald – used Sentante’s device to perform the first transatlantic thrombectomy on a human cadaveric model located at the IGTRF from Baptist Medical Center in Jacksonville, Florida. The Sentante platform uses standard guidewires and catheters connected to a device equipped with a high-resolution sensory system that captures the specialist's hand movements. These manipulations are replicated in real time by a robot at the patient's bedside. Unlike joystick-controlled surgical robots, Sentante delivers authentic force feedback directly to the surgeon's fingertips – recreating the tactile experience of manual surgery. The procedure only necessitates a medical professional trained to gain arterial access before a specialist such as Professor Grunwald or Dr Hanel performs the thrombectomy remotely. Professor Grunwald said,: “As a neurointerventionist, it is remarkable to feel the same fine control and resistance through a robotic interface as during a live procedure. Sentante’s technology truly bridges the gap between operator and patient, no matter the distance. Sentante’s robotic platform redefines what is possible in endovascular treatment today. It is precision, safety and access to treatment - all in one innovation.” Each year, there are about 15 million strokes worldwide. For the UK, the aggregate societal cost is estimated at £26 billion per year, including £8.6 billion for NHS and social care. Thrombectomy is considered the most effective way to treat patients with stroke caused by a large, blocked brain vessel but, in many parts of the world, less than 1% of patients receive this life- and brain-saving treatment. In 2024 only 212 patients received a Thrombectomy across Scotland. This represents 2.2% of patients who had an ischemic stroke. One of the major constraints to expanding thrombectomy services is the number of interventional neuroradiologists required to carry out the work. “By the time patients reach a specialist centre, there’s often no brain left to save. Every six minutes delay in receiving treatment equates to a 1% lesser chance of a good outcome,” continued Professor Grunwald. “For example, here in Dundee we're covering the north of Scotland – so a patient coming from Inverness or one of the islands would have a long distance to travel. The answer lies in expanding expertise locally through cross-specialty training, or by using robotic technology, such as Sentante, that lets experts operate remotely.” Dr Hanel added, “Tele neurointervention will allow us to decrease the gap and further our reach to provide one of the most impactful procedures in humankind – the thrombectomy – to more people. To operate from the US to Scotland with a 120 millisecond (blink of an eye) lag is truly remarkable.” The IGTRF is the official global training centre for the World Federation for Interventional Stroke Treatment, training doctors and teams from across the world. The facility offers a unique medical imaging environment that works in close collaboration with Dundee’s Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification (CAHID) to provide interventional training, medical device testing and research opportunities. One of the University’s key strengths is the development of a perfused whole body human stroke model, which most closely approximates to ‘life-like’ patient simulation. Edvardas Satkauskas, co-founder and CEO of Sentante, said: “The human cadaveric models at Dundee are fantastic. This is the reason we have worked with them – this is probably the only site in the world that can do this type of research." “For an ischaemic stroke, the difference between walking out of hospital and a lifetime of disability can be just two to three hours. Today, patients are often transported long distances to reach one of a limited number of thrombectomy centres. With Sentante, the specialist comes to the patient over a secure network and performs the entire procedure remotely – with the same tactile feel and control they have at the bedside.” Sentante’s robotic platform is advancing through regulatory pathways for peripheral vascular interventions, with the FDA granting Breakthrough Device Designation for its stroke system. The Dundee collaboration marks the next milestone, showing how robotics can remove distance as a barrier to life-saving care.