News

White van men are first Dragons’ Den millionaires

Two entrepreneurs from Watford have become the first Dragons' Den millionaires.

Marketing

Adverts with impact

When you're first creating advertising for your small business, it's very tempting to try to go for the flashy, clever adverts. But adverts with impact are those that actually generate customers and, with a limited budget, you may end up biting off more than you can chew. Have a look at or top tips to help you along.

News

Do you know your drivers?

If an employee is involved in an accident whilst driving for work the employer could be held responsible, says driver compliance company Hudson Kapel.

Blog

Small firms be aware – Bank of England rise in interest rates

With the news that the Bank of England may raise interest rates again by June, small firms need to be aware of the effect this may have on their business.

News

Top six credit rating myths

With personal debt in the UK hitting an all-time high of £1.3 trillion, it's more important than ever to understand the factors that affect our ability to borrow and how to manage credit sensibly, claims a survey by Experian's CreditExpert, the credit monitoring and identity fraud protection service.

Legal advice

Smoking breaks at work

I am a care worker and am required to incorporate my breaks into working with the clients, so I'm on duty throughout my shift. However, my smoking colleagues are allowed to go outside for smoke breaks. Am I entitled to additional payment as I do not have the opportunity of client-free time?

Work life balance

Work and Families Act Q&A

New maternity and adoption rights came into effect on 1 April 2007 as a result of the Work and Families Act 2006.

News

Have-a-go-heroes do more harm than good

A third of employees would try to rectify a data loss problem themselves, risking further damage to computer equipment, says a survey by data recovery firm Ontrack.

Startup Funding and Grants

Small Firms Loans Guarantee Scheme explained

Could you explain how the Small Firms Loans Guarantee Scheme (SFLG) works please?

News

Comsumer Credit Act 2006

If your firm is one of the 100,000-plus firms that holds a Consumer Credit Act Licence in the UK, and you have not already taken steps to prepare for the new rules you will be in danger of breaking the law after 6th April 2007, and could face costs of up to £100,000.

Blog

Reducing the complexity of taxation regulations

Chancellor Gordon Brown made his Budget speech today to the House of Commons. During recent Budgets the Chancellor has announced initiatives to reduce the complexity of taxation regulations but progress has been limited.

Employing & managing staff

Rules for compassionate leave time off work paid or unpaid

An employee's brother has unfortunately died. What are the rules for time off paid or unpaid?