9 things employers can do to look after their staff during the cost of living crisis
CONNECTING BUSINESSES ACROSS THE UK
Cloud computing trends - four set to positively impact your business
Anna
How is the metaverse addressing the crippling impact of social anxiety in the workplace
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MAY / JUN 2023 Issue 12
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paul.hogg@phfp.co.uk
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Issue 12 Paramount Media
Page 5 Brits turning to renewable energy as solar panel deliveries surge Page 6 Why storage and preparation are vital for retail success Page 8 Letting go of work mum guilt Page 11 New data reveals the most popular time to start a business Page 13 Benefits of Hybrid Marketing Page 14 2023 Plastic Ban - How can hospitality businesses prepare? Page 16 Cosmetic and Bariatric Surgery Abroad - Is medical tourism a false economy? Page 17 Cost of living crisis - The benefits of supporting local and how to make an impact
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Welcome
Page 18 9 things employers can do to look after their staff during the cost of living crisis Page 23 How is the metaverse addressing the crippling impact of social anxiety in the workplace Page 24 Cloud Computing trends - four set to positively impact your business Page 28 Could on-site safety hold back growth of the construction industry Page 29 Family Feud - 4 in 10 Brits currently 'at war' with a member of their famly according to new survey
Contents
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Brits turning to renewable energy as solar panel deliveries surge
Brits moved 60 per cent more solar panels in 2022 compared to 2021, with the trend over the last five years reaching a huge increase of 285 per cent, illustrating a big drive towards renewable energy from the public, according to data from Shiply (https://www.shiply.com/). The UK has committed to a promise of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and, whilst the government is moving towards that goal, some Brits have decided to take matters into their own hands. Many are turning to renewable energy sources in an effort to not only help the environment and reduce their carbon footprint but also to try and reduce their energy bills in the ongoing cost of living crisis. Solar panels lead the way in renewable energy for consumers, with 2022 seeing 60 per cent more delivery requests than 2021 - smashing the previous average increase of 25 per cent per year since 2017. Shiply’s founder, Robert Matthams, commented that "with energy bills as high as they are at the moment, and public consciousness focused heavily on the climate crisis, it is no surprise to see a steady increase in the moving and purchasing of renewable energy sources such as solar panels. I expect to see an even greater increase in public interest over the next few years." Shiply, used by several million customers since 2008, allows users to list their delivery requests on the site and receive multiple quotes from transport providers and services. Prices can be up to 75 per cent cheaper than standard rates, and moves can often be quoted and confirmed within minutes. Shiply, founded in 2008, is an online transport marketplace that matches people needing to move goods with transport companies going there anyway. Over 25 per cent of lorries and vans run empty of cargo and 50 per cent run only part-full. By utilising the Shiply platform and making use of this spare capacity, Shiply dramatically cuts down on wasteful CO2 emissions whilst also increasing the profitability of transport companies and offering up to 75 per cent off standard rates for consumers/SMEs.
Why Storage and Preparation Are Vital for Retail Success
Credit to source: Mobile Mini
When it comes to the retail industry, one of the most important aspects is storage. Not only does storage assist with holding stock, but it also helps companies prepare for changes in market demand and the ways in which customers want to shop retail. Forward thinking and preparation is key for any business, but this is especially the case in retail when an influx in attention and a reliance on the supply chain could lead to unfulfilled orders. Here, we will explore how storage and preparation are vital for retail success and how a storage container can change the retail industry. Stock The storage solutions you choose are key for retail as they can help with inventory management. Not only does having storage solutions for your bricks and mortar shops help maintain the store front, but correct storage for your stock can also assist in ecommerce businesses. If you buy your stock from another provider, storage can help you get the best deals on your stock purchases. Buying in bulk is often cheaper than buying the units as and when the demand asks for it. Making sure you have adequate space means you can store these larger quantities of stock. Supply chain issues Preparing your stock in advance can also help you survive some of the supply chain issues that many industries have been facing recently. Anything from adverse weather conditions to industrial action can cause a delay in your deliveries. Having reduced stock can cause further problems for your shop. Not only will it give your customers less choice, but it can also appear unprofessional. You can also use storage as a means of fighting against inflation. As the costs of raw materials increase as does the price of the stock we buy. Being able to buy and store stock before a price hike can mean you are able to offer your products for a cheaper value than competitors, or you can make a larger profit margin from them. Competitive advantage Preparation is necessary to maintain business. A lack of stock can cause frustrated customers – leading to a loss in business over time. In an industry where the competitive edge is crucial, you will want to be able to meet the demands of your customer base. If not, another business might gain the competitive advantage. The competitive edge can gain you a higher profit, as well as a better reputation with customers as you offer valuable stock that another competitor doesn’t. Making sure you maintain your stock levels is important for the upkeep of happy customers. How storage containers are changing the retail industry Portable storage solutions A main benefit of storage containers for retail businesses is the portability of the stock. Not only can the stock be easily accessible to your business if you keep your container on your premises, but it can also mean your stock can be transported between locations if you have multiple properties. Stock rotation Storage containers are useful for the retail industry as they can be used to continually rotate stock. If your business specialises in seasonal stock, such as Christmas to Halloween party decorations, then you might want to store your additional stock until the next season – reducing both material and financial waste. Pop-up shopping units Another advantage of storage containers for the retail industry is the success, and popularity, of pop-up shops. In fact, 80% of global companies who have opened up a pop-up store during their time have reported success on the investment. These are not only novelty locations for shoppers, but it can also mean you can bring your products to a new location without the need to invest in a new property. Change is common in business – whether it is a change in market demand or a diverted route in the supply chain, being able to adapt and prepare for these situations is key for a good business. In retail, it is essential that the customer receives good service and can find what they are looking for, so preparing your business for the best success can involve finding adaptable storage arrangements.
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Letting go of working mum guilt
Life is a journey that starts and ends with family
Credit to source: Vicki Edwards Purple House Clinic
Starting and running a business takes hard work, motivation, and persistence. It's an exciting venture, but one that comes with its fair share of obstacles and challenges. However, when you're a mother, you may also face an additional struggle that can make it harder to continue – the overwhelming feelings of guilt that come with balancing work and motherhood. In this article, Vicki Edwards, the director of Purple House Clinic Leicester, a private psychology clinic, provides valuable advice on managing these emotions by avoiding comparisons to other mums, addressing irrational thoughts, and seeking help when needed. For most people, welcoming a baby into your life can be an indescribable joy. However, it also means a significant adjustment is required, which can double your to-do list overnight. And, when you inevitably cannot complete some of these tasks, it’s common to feel inadequate or guilty, especially for mums who run their own businesses. But these emotions are normal – in fact, 94% of mothers experience them. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and struggling to cope with these feelings, here are some ways to help you manage them. Set realistic expectations Setting realistic expectations is crucial when it comes to managing both motherhood and running a business. Acknowledging that you cannot do everything and be everywhere at once is the first step to finding a healthy balance. It is important to set realistic expectations for yourself and your business, keeping in mind your limitations and available resources. Trying to accomplish too much can lead to stress and burnout, which can ultimately affect your productivity and well-being. By setting achievable goals, you can avoid overwhelming yourself and focus on what truly matters. Make a list of the essential tasks that need to be accomplished each day and prioritise them based on their level of urgency. This will help you stay organised and ensure that you are focusing on what needs to be done rather than feeling guilty about what you haven’t been able to do. By staying focused on your priorities, you can be more present with your family and give your business the attention it needs without feeling guilty about neglecting either. Don’t be afraid to ask for help It is important to remember that you are not superhuman, and it is okay to ask for help when you need it. If you have a partner, ask them if they can pitch in on tasks that are not already on their list, to free up some time for you to spend with your kids. If you can afford it, consider hiring someone to assist with tasks such as laundry or cleaning. If hiring help is not an option, reach out to relatives or friends for support. One trick you can use to spend time with your children, whilst also ticking off household tasks that they are capable of doing, is making it a fun and enjoyable game for everyone. Being open with your children is also key. Explain to them that in order to spend more time together doing the things you both love, there must be a little bit of work involved. Having someone else lend a hand will also improve your mental health. Prioritise time with children and loved ones Juggling a business alongside being a parent means that your other relationships may take the backseat, so it is essential to schedule time with your children and loved ones. Make sure that you put time aside that is both business- and phone-free, and the quality time you have together is not interrupted. Spending time with your significant other is vital in maintaining a strong emotional connection, and it will help your child understand the importance of valuing relationships. Avoid the comparison trap with other parents Making comparisons often leads to feelings of inadequacy and guilt. The next time someone wants to compare how early your kids started walking or how long you breastfed your babies, politely change the subject. Remember, you and your child are unique – embrace the parent you are and the child you have. Making comparisons often leads to feelings of inadequacy and guilt. It can be particularly hard when talking to mums who have decided to stay home with their child. Remember that you and your child are unique and embrace the parent you are and the child you have. Involve your children in your day if you can and share your day with them if you cannot. Your kids will benefit a whole lot more if you follow your dream. Finally, if guilt continues to plague your days and prevents you from enjoying your life, you may benefit from talk therapy with a mental health professional. When kept to yourself, mum guilt can feel very isolating and lead to more mental health problems, so it is essential to seek help if you start feeling overwhelmed. Although it is not technically a diagnosis, the heaviness and impact that guilt can have on overall daily functioning are alarming. Finding healthy support from peers and professional support groups can be incredibly validating.
www.bluetrust.co.uk
Dominic Fitch - Head of Creative Change at Impact International
Steve Lomax Mortgages & Financial Services
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New research has revealed the most popular times of the year to start a business. The study by UK financial services provider CMC Markets analysed the latest ONS data on weekly company incorporations found that from Saturday, 4th June to Friday, 10th June 2022, 18,386 new businesses were created at Companies House. This was the fifth highest number of new business incorporations since records of weekly data began at the start of 2019. This number of weekly incorporations equates to 2,627 per day and 109 per hour. A company incorporation is when a company is added to the Companies House register of limited companies. This can also include where an existing business applies to become a limited company, where it wasn't one before. The data reveals that in April 2022, there were a total of 79,120 new businesses, the highest monthly number of incorporations in 2022 and the third highest since weekly records began. July 2020, the height of the pandemic saw the highest number of new businesses with 88,070 incorporations, closely followed by 84,339 in October 2020. The study revealed that 2022 saw the highest number of businesses created in a year since the records began, with 778,220 incorporations . This equates to a weekly average of 14,966 new businesses; which is ahead of pre-covid figures in 2019, when there were a total of 670,575 new business incorporations and a weekly average of 12,896. The data reveals there has been a steady increase in new businesses since the pandemic. A spokesperson from CMC Markets commented on the findings: “The incorporation data offers a compelling insight into business trends through the year, revealing the most popular week of 2022 for new businesses. “From June 2020 onwards, the pace of new incorporations picked up significantly compared to 2019, and has increased year on year, with the highest number of businesses being created in 2022, setting a weekly average of 14,966. “The impact of the pandemic appears to have sparked a passion for entrepreneurialism in the UK, which has continued to grow. It will be interesting to see if the number of incorporations continues to increase into 2023.”
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New data reveals the most popular time to start a business
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Week ending 10th June 2022 was the most popular time to start a business last year, with 18,386 new companies incorporated. April was the month in 2022 with the highest number of incorporations - 79,120. 2022 saw the highest number of businesses incorporated in a year since records began
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Hyybrid Marketing
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A powerful marketing strategy is key to a successful business. This connects corporations and customers, both in person and online. But how do you know which strategy is right for your company? Here, we will explore some of the main benefits of print, digital, and hybrid marketing. What are the benefits of direct mail marketing? We are living in the technological age, and latest gadgets have successfully replaced any written form of communication. This does not, however, render direct mail marketing obsolete. In fact, the Digital Marketing Association reported that the engagement of this strategy has actually increased from 91% in 2019 to 96% in 2020. 1. Direct mail is secure First and foremost, direct mail is secure. In the last 12 months, 39% of businesses have experienced cyber-attacks. Therefore, customers may be more inclined to believe the information on a direct mailing service than a digital marketing campaign, such as an email. 2. Direct mail is memorable Customers scroll past hundreds if not thousands of online advertisements every day. The constant influx of digital marketing can often lead to overlooking this material. In comparison, direct mail offers customers a tangible product. There is something much more memorable about holding something in your own hands. What are the benefits of digital marketing? Digital marketing – a strategy that reaches customers online – is beneficial in more ways than one. For one thing, the market is extremely successful. In 2021 alone, digital advertisements were estimated to be worth a staggering £129 billion, and spending towards it increased by 9.6% from the previous year. 1. Digital marketing is precise Digital marketing is more precise than ever before. This can be accredited to recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), which has allowed businesses to understand customer preferences personalise content accordingly. A social media advertisement, for example, can then be directed towards the relevant consumers. 2. Digital marketing is adaptable In addition to its precision, digital marketing is also highly adaptable. If a particular piece of marketing is successful, businesses can change this to favour certain demographics. This can happen during a campaign, and digital marketers can produce multiple examples of the same advertisement rather than having a single piece of print. What are the benefits of combining print and digital marketing? There are multiple benefits to print and digital marketing. To ensure your business is successful, you can make the most out of both resources. Here are two reasons why you should adopt a hybrid marketing strategy. 1. Hybrid marketing appeals to multiple demographics A hybrid marketing strategy will target multiple demographics, enabling your business to reach a larger customer base. Traditionally, a younger demographic might have responded better to a digital marketing campaign. This stereotype, however, is fast becoming incorrect. In fact, the DMA reports that the Gen Z demographic are actually 40% more likely to be influenced by direct mail than older generations. Therefore, combining print and digital can appeal to multiple audiences. 2. Hybrid marketing drives success The nature of hybrid marketing drives success. A piece of direct mail, for example, can also be used to promote digital resources. This call to action (CTA) can be a modified URL or a unique product code. The direct results of these can then be measured to track any sales gained. So much so, the DMA reported that direct mail influenced 92% of people to visit online resources, and 87% made an online purchase because of this. To summarise, a hybrid marketing strategy combines the best of both print and digital resources. This will maximise any promotional efforts made by your business. And knowledge of your consumer market will influence the degree to which you use both methods. Will you combine them?
Benefits
Credit to source: Washington Direct Mail
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The subject of plastic pollution has become a hot topic over the last five years in the wake of David Attenborough’s Blue Planet BBC series. The hospitality industry is a significant contributor to this problem, and with predictions that there will be as much plastic pollution as fish in our oceans by 2050, action needs to be taken. According to government estimates, consumers in England use 2.7 billion items of single use cutlery per year, with only 10% of these recycled. This has a devastating effect on the environment and wildlife. To help reduce the pollution caused by these materials, the government has recently announced that a wide range of single-use plastics will be banned in England from October 2023. Plastic bowls, cutlery, balloon sticks, plates and trays will be banned, alongside types of polystyrene food containers and cups. Consumers can no longer buy these products from businesses such as takeaways and retailers. With wide-ranging repercussions for the hospitality industry, we share our thoughts on what this means and how businesses can embrace waste reduction and recyclability. Is this a good idea? While the government’s decision should be welcomed, it is important to remember that the new products selected should be more sustainable than the single use plastics they are replacing. If disposed of correctly, some single-use plastics are recyclable, yet issues arise when large quantities of these materials are littered. Businesses should ensure that they are not just switching to another single use alternative which isn’t much better than plastic. Ensure that you are not opting for materials with very few recycling options and infrastructure available. For example, compostable products may degrade quicker than plastics but this is pointless unless these can be segregated from other waste streams. These will likely end up in landfill, producing methane or carbon dioxide. So, what can businesses do to maximise the environmental benefits of their switch from single-use plastics? Conduct a Plastic Audit One of the first things businesses should do is to identify every piece of plastic used during their operations. The goal should be to calculate the total plastic weight used as well as the different types of plastic. Itemise each material so you get a complete overview of your operations. Your audit should be separated into plastic items sent to waste, and those which will be recycled. Calculating the true impact of your enterprise upon the planet can be a compelling motivator to adopt more sustainable practices which can then be communicated across your workforce. Reduce Your Usage A plastic audit should help you establish which single-use items you used in the largest quantities. Tackle these first by trying to source more sustainable alternatives. This could involve a conversation with your suppliers to source easily recyclable materials. It is best to take advice on what products are the most sustainable, in terms of recyclability, production and circularity credentials. Wood cutlery, though more expensive, may be a better alternative as it is 100% renewable and contributes no plastic waste. Consider Reusable Alternatives If possible, try to promote products that are reusable such as steel cutlery, plastic tableware and ceramic plates. Of course, this will be easier in closed environments such as offices, canteens and restaurants. This is harder to achieve in an open street food or takeaway environment but could be tempered with a deposit scheme. Music venues such as Glasgow’s OVO Hydro operate a £1 deposit scheme with every drink they sell – the £1 is refunded at the end of the evening upon return of the cup, which can be reused up to 300 times. Recycle and Repurpose Businesses should also look to extend the life cycle of their plastic products through recycling and reuse. The cyclical nature of this process allows materials to be reused again in your manufacturing or operational procedures and doesn’t consign plastics immediately to landfill or ocean waste as in linear methods. For any on-site waste, ensure that you have dedicated recycling bins available. You should also brief your employees accordingly on which materials go where and the benefits of following this. One novel recycling incentive is the reverse vending machine which will collect plastic items in return for a monetary award. This could be a voucher or even a charitable donation.
2023 Plastic Ban
Credit to source: Reconomy
How Can Hospitality Businesses Prepare?
Crerdit to source: Peter Campbell of Snowshock
Cosmetic and Bariatric Surgery Abroad Is medical tourism a false economy?
With NHS waiting lists topping 7.1 million in England alone and the health service struggling to cope with demand, more and more Brits are looking to have their medical procedures privately – and increasing numbers are being enticed to travel abroad, mainly because of the difference in cost between the UK and countries like Lithuania and Turkey. In 2022, 600,000 British ‘medical tourists’ visited Turkey to have treatment. And it’s reported that cosmetic surgery companies in the country are aiming to increase medical tourism numbers to 1.5 million by targeting patients via WhatsApp and Facebook support groups with thousands of members. Battered by the pandemic, workforce shortages and a chronic lack of social care capacity, the UK’s health systems are under acute strain. The latest NHS figures show that 7.19 million people were waiting for treatment in England alone in November, with 406,575 waiting over a year. There were more than 600,000 patients waiting in Scotland for planned procedures at the end of last September and there were more than 750,000 waiting to start treatment in Wales in October. Google trends data shows UK searches for “private healthcare” are at a record high while figures from the Private Healthcare Information Network show the number self-paying for private acute care has increased by more than a third compared with pre- pandemic statistics. The real cost of surgery in Turkey can’t always be counted in cold hard cash. Googling ‘cosmetic surgery in Turkey’ brings up a news feed that is filled with horror stories and, in some cases, harrowing articles about patients who have lost their lives following treatment in the country. UK Foreign Office statistics show that, in the 3 years from January 2019, 22 British nationals died following medical tourism visits to Turkey. And patients who suffer complications after surgery in the country often end up needing treatment from the beleaguered NHS when they return home. Christine Mozzaamdar, Clinical Services Director at Klinikal, a leading UK elective healthcare provider with its headquarters in Glasgow, said: “It’s understandable that the price is a major factor when someone is researching an elective surgery procedure, especially as the cost of living has been increasing substantially in recent months. However, it’s vital to assess value for money, rather than simply pounds and pence. “Although treatment in Turkey can seem like a bargain compared to what you’d pay in the UK, there are many factors you should consider before you decide to travel thousands of miles for surgery. “Understanding the surgeon’s experience and qualifications, for example, is crucial. In the UK, all surgeons are registered with the General Medical Council and are regulated so that they practice safely. It can be hard to know what the equivalent qualifications are for surgeons abroad, and you may not even have the opportunity to meet your surgeon or discuss your treatment with them in advance of your surgery date. “There can be many other unknowns when it comes to treatment in Turkey. There may be a language barrier to be overcome, and it can be difficult to determine a clinic’s cleanliness and care standards. You should know exactly what’s included in your care package and understand the aftercare you’ll receive. That’s especially important if you have an unfavourable outcome from surgery or experience complications, which are more likely after treatment abroad as you’ll be flying home directly after surgery. That can increase the risk of developing DVT or a pulmonary embolism, for example.” The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons has repeatedly advised caution when considering travelling to Turkey in pursuit of cheaper treatments. Its website says, “Surgery is sometimes cheaper abroad than in the UK because the UK cosmetic surgery sector is heavily regulated by the Healthcare Commission and the General Medical Council. Such regulation is quite expensive for the surgeons and clinic owners. In addition, plastic surgeons in the UK must have extensive malpractice indemnity in case something goes seriously wrong. This ensures that you are fully protected and receive the best possible care and treatment. Inevitably, the cost of this reassurance is reflected in the cost of your surgery. Cosmetic surgery is regulated differently in other countries and so standards of care may differ and the cost of regulation be less.” The Foreign Office website, in relation to medical tourism to Turkey, states: “The standard of medical facilities and available treatments vary widely around the world. As such, British nationals considering undertaking medical treatment in Turkey should carry out their own research; it is unwise to rely upon private companies that have a financial interest in arranging your treatment abroad.” Christine Mozzamdar adds, “All surgical procedures carry some element of risk, no matter where in the world they’re carried out. But anyone considering travelling to Turkey for treatment simply to save money should carefully weigh up the possible downsides as well as the benefits, because they could be putting their health – and life – at risk.”
Cost-of-Living Crisis: The Benefits of Supporting Local and How to Make an Impact
The cost-of-living crisis and rising energy prices have caused problems for many people, and businesses aren’t exempt from these financial struggles. In fact, in PayPal’s Business of Change Report 2022, 78% of business owners claimed they were worried that the cost-of-living crisis would be the biggest threat to their businesses this year. As such, supporting your local businesses is more important than ever if you want them to remain open throughout this difficult financial period. Here, with the help of Peter Campbell of Snowshock, a UK based slushy machine business,we’ll explore what you can do to support your local shops and the additional benefits this can have. How you can support your local shops Shop locally Shopping in your area can help your local businesses during this financially difficult time. Instead of travelling to your nearest supermarket, you can visit your local corner shops and vendors – including your local grocer’s markets and farm shops. Reviews You don’t just need to spend your money to help your local businesses. You can also leave reviews and feedback online. This can highlight the gems of your local area and entice more customers to visit. Honest reviews and positive feedback can boost a business’s reputation. Sharing them on social media can also highlight their business and potentially drive more traffic to them. Vouchers Purchasing vouchers for their stores can also help. These can be great gifts for your friends, family, and neighbours. This can ensure that new customers are visiting these locations and discovering the great products that local community shops can offer. This both increases the profit and awareness of the business. Swap to independent brands Swapping to independent brands, specifically companies local to your area, can greatly impact your local economy and help drive business growth. Whether you are choosing to swap your name-brand slush syrup for a local innovator or buy fresh milk and produce from neighbouring farmers, you can do your bit to further the businesses in your area. The benefits of supporting local Consumer benefits And there are many benefits for you, not just the businesses, when you shop locally. For instance, there is less delivery charge than purchasing something from a warehouse elsewhere or overseas. And the more you shop locally, your new demand for certain products increases their availability in your area. Better for the environment Local businesses might be the answer if you are looking to better your sustainability. Not to mention, buying locally is better for the environment, so you can do your part to reduce your carbon footprint. Simple changes such as getting your produce from a local distributor or farmer could help as the food doesn’t have to travel as far. Encourages growth in the local community And if you are looking to stimulate growth within your local community, then helping businesses is the way to do it. By shopping in your local area, you contribute to your local economy and help create further job opportunities. In 2020, 66% of shoppers were more likely to shop in their local area than in 2019, according to Mastercard. And with its benefits for your area, it is no surprise why. Not only can you help local businesses continue to grow, offering more job opportunities, but you can also have a sustainable impact on the environment. By buying local, investing in local businesses, and leaving positive reviews for the cafes, shops, and other businesses you try, you can help boost your local economy and keep SMEs alive.
Credit to source: Klinikal
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Credit to source: Weekly10
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As the cost of living crisis continues, employers must recognise the importance of supporting their employees during these challenging times. From both a business and human perspective. Financial stress can significantly impact employee wellbeing, job satisfaction, and productivity. As a result, many organisations are taking steps to provide support and alleviate some of the financial concerns faced by their staff. Beyond being morally right to support employees during times of economic hardship, there are also business benefits. Employee performance experts at Weekly10 summated their 9 tips so that businesses can support their employees during tough economic times: Focus on employee engagement Prioritise employee wellbeing Be transparent with employees Look to build resilience Foster a future focus Develop healthy relationships Support physical wellbeing Provide personal and professional development Learn and strategise afterwards Focus on employee engagement Why employee engagement matters Employee engagement is the foundation for any successful business – whether there’s a cost of living crisis or not. When employees feel connected to their work, peers, and company mission, they’re more likely to find meaning in their work. They feel like they are contributing to a bigger purpose, which can boost their sense of fulfilment and satisfaction. Engaged employees are also more likely to be motivated and productive, leading to a sense of achievement and personal growth. High levels of engagement can lead to greater job security. Engaged employees are more committed to their work and company, which can make them more likely to stay with the organisation. This, in turn, can provide greater stability and a sense of security. How to build employee engagement To build an engagement-focused culture, it’s crucial that we understand more about the specific elements of engagement. There's a simple 10 step model for management based on what HR best practice and behavioural science tells us are the key elements underpinning employee engagement. Let's assume you're already getting the basics right like fair pay, and competent managers. Others things you can do are: Be open and honest about the ups and downs. Transparency is critical to having engaged staff. Set clear goals so everyone knows what’s expected, and check progress regularly. Recognise when people go above and beyond. Everyone likes a pat on the back every now and then. Prioritise employee wellbeing Why employee wellbeing needs attention during a cost of living crisis Managers, leaders, and HR have a moral responsibility to look out for their employees. This is especially true during the cost-of-living crisis because they’re likely to be facing higher levels of stress at work and at home. Unsurprisingly, job losses, financial uncertainty, falling engagement, and increased productivity are a bad recipe for employee wellbeing. But wellbeing is more than just how happy someone seems. It’s about finding a good balance because healthy employees = healthy business. How to offer wellbeing support to employees in cost of living crisis Managers can help their staff feel supported and valued by offering support, being flexible, providing fair compensation, fostering a positive work environment, and providing opportunities for development. A simple “how are you?” goes a long way. Jim Hartner, Chief Scientist of Workplace and Wellbeing, Gallup summarised the link between wellbeing and bottom line: “When your employees’ wellbeing is thriving, your organisation directly benefits — they take fewer sick days, deliver higher performance, and have lower rates of burnout and turnover. But when your employees’ wellbeing suffers, so does your organisation’s bottom line.” Be transparent with employees Why transparency matters during a cost of living crisis Honesty and openness create a sense of psychological safety that is essential during times of crisis. That’s why, during the cost of living crisis, it's important for leaders and managers to be transparent at work. When leaders admit to negative situations or acknowledge uncertainty, employees feel safer and more secure. If you can't afford to give the usual bonus or annual pay rise, be honest. Tell employees how you do plan to support them in cost of living crisis. Frequent communication is key to building trust and transparency between managers and employees. 86% of employees feel a lack of effective and open communication is the main cause of workplace issues. Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Airlines, emphasies the importance of being visible, authentic, and transparent in communication during difficult times. By acknowledging what is known and what is unknown, employees are more likely to trust and respect their managers. How to be more transparent with your staff Holding regular one-on-one meetings, town halls, and sending weekly email updates from the CEO are all effective ways to ensure that employees have ample opportunity to communicate and share their thoughts and concerns. It's important to avoid talking at employees and instead actively listen and engage with them. A culture of honesty and openness can positively impact employee engagement, morale, and productivity. Especially when you include clear goal-setting as part of being transparent. It may seem odd but setting clear goals will keep your entire organisation on track. Everyone is focused on the same destination, just via different routes. Setting goals during a crisis helps to motivate and align individual, team, and department work. In uncertain times, collaborating to set goals can help to ease stress and provide much-needed support and clarity. But beware. During tough times, goals need frequent reviews as priorities and objectives adapt to the situation. An outdated goal can have a negative impact on engagement, performance, and wellbeing. Build employee resilience to help them adapt during hard times Why resilience is critical to supporting employees during a cost of living crisis Your people are a business’ secret weapon to thriving in tough times. Support your people and they will support you. But bosses must do the groundwork to help their employees learn healthy mechanisms to develop their own resilience. Resilience is how you handle difficult situations. Often described as the ability to bounce back and carry-on during adversity. Resilience measures how effectively you regulate your thoughts and emotions, as well as perceiving challenging situations as an opportunity, not a personal threat. Having a resilient workforce has huge benefits. Your people can deal with change and are less susceptible to burnout. It drives motivation and improves employees’ overall health. That’s because resilience and workplace wellbeing are linked. How to build employee resilience Building resilience is very much a personal journey that takes self-reflection, time, and practice. However, team leaders and managers can support an individual’s development by providing the right tools and training. Employees and managers need to understand the basic elements that create resilience at work. A workplace culture with opportunities for social interactions, good wellbeing, and personal development will instinctively create the right environment to build resilience. Foster a future focus Why looking forward will help support your employees after the cost of living crisis A growth mindset helps employees to future-gaze constructively. This promotes openness to change and adaptation and enables healthy responses to challenges and problems. This is linked closely to being resilient. Critical thinking and accountability are important here. It requires stopping and thinking logically, rather than being swayed by emotions. It also means being human: admit you don’t know everything and ask questions to learn more. How to foster a future focus Employers can help their employees develop a growth mindset by providing opportunities for learning and development. Encouraging employees to take on new challenges and providing them with the necessary training and resources can help them build resilience and adapt to changing circumstances. Leaders should foster a culture of continuous learning, emphasising the importance of taking risks, learning from failures, and celebrating successes. They can also provide regular feedback and recognition to help employees see their progress and feel motivated to continue their growth. Another way to support employees in developing a growth mindset is to encourage them to seek out mentors or coaches who can provide guidance and support. Mentors can offer insights and advice based on their own experiences, while coaches can help employees identify their strengths and weaknesses and develop strategies for improvement. Employers can also promote a growth mindset by setting challenging but achievable goals and providing employees with opportunities to collaborate and share their knowledge and skills with others. By creating an environment that values learning and growth, employers can help employees build resilience and adaptability, which can be particularly important during a cost of living crisis. Develop healthy relationships for moral support Why having a good support network at work matters during the cost of living crisis During the cost of living crisis, employees may feel stressed and isolated, which can negatively impact their mental health and overall wellbeing. By developing healthy work relationships, employers can create a supportive and collaborative environment that helps employees feel more connected and engaged in their work. When employees have positive relationships with their colleagues, they are more likely to feel motivated and engaged in their work, which can lead to increased productivity and better job satisfaction. Additionally, having people to talk to and offer support can help employees manage stress and navigate difficult situations, such as financial uncertainty, during a cost of living crisis. How to build healthy employee relationships in cost of living crisis Relationships take time and can’t be forced. Developing healthy relationships at work is essential for both your personal and professional growth. And Leadership can support employees to foster healthy workplace relationships by encouraging them to focus on things like: Building genuine connections by expressing real interest in others, including their differences, and being mindful of their views and values. Being open to other’s viewpoints can expand your own perceptions and expectations. Confiding in a mentor. They provide a safe space outside your immediate team to express and challenge yourself. Encourage your employees to learn from those around them. This could be as simple as observing from a distance or having more formal arrangements. Calling out negative behaviours. If there are people who bring you and others down at work, think about what can be done. Often, people don’t realise what they’re doing and how it affects others until someone else challenges it. Honest, empathetic feedback can help with this. Respecting your colleagues' boundaries. Being mindful of their time and workload, as well as out-of-work responsibilities. Practice gratitude: Show appreciation for your colleagues' contributions, celebrate their achievements, and thank them for their support. Communicate to be understood, not heard. Communication is key to building healthy relationships at work. Be clear and concise when you communicate, listen actively, and be open to feedback. Build trust: Trust is crucial for any relationship, especially in the workplace. Keep your promises, be reliable and consistent, and show that you are trustworthy. Support your employees physical wellbeing Why physical wellbeing matters during a cost of living crisis Physical health is closely linked to mental and emotional health. Although physical fitness is personal, companies can take steps to support their employees' physical health and wellbeing. In the UK, an estimated 141.4 million working days were lost due to sickness or injury. In the US, an estimated 1.5 billion workdays are lost each year due to absenteeism and presenteeism (working while sick or unwell) caused by poor physical health. How to support your people to be physically healthier This isn't about gym memberships and away days. This is about creating a workplace culture that enables your people to work in a way that works for their health. Here are four ways companies can support their employees' physical health: Offer ergonomic workstations. Sitting for long periods can be harmful to employees' physical health, so companies can provide ergonomic workstations with adjustable chairs, desks, and computer monitors to help reduce the risk of injuries or chronic pain. Suggest walking or standing meetings, or limiting meetings altogether so that people can choose to work how and where they need to, to best support their physical health. Encourage employees to take breaks rather than work through lunch, or for excessively long periods. Offer flexible work arrangements that allow employees to balance their work and personal lives more effectively. Check-in on people’s workloads to make sure they’re fair and manageable. This is achieved by setting clear goals and realistic deadlines. Knowing what’s expected and how you’re tracking against those expectations plays a big part in managing ambiguity and stress. Provide personal and professional development opportunities Why personal development is the ultimate way to support employees in cost of living crisis Personal and professional development is crucial for employees during a cost of living crisis as it helps them to adapt to changes, remain productive, and advance their careers while also building resilience. Investing in an employee’s personal and professional development is a way of recognising an employee’s value. Empoyers can use development as an alternative to increasing basic salary or offering a bonus, which lose their effectiveness quickly anyway. Setting clear and actionable steps will make building resilience feel more tangible, and prevent it from feeling overwhelming. How to encourage employees to learn new skills New skills help employees to adapt to changes in the workplace. In a cost of living crisis, companies may need to make changes to stay afloat, and employees who can adapt to these changes will be more valuable. This can open up new career opportunities for staff. This is particularly important when job opportunities may be limited. Emphasise how new skills support future job security. Employees who are constantly developing their skills are more likely to be retained. Companies may prioritise retaining employees who have the skills and knowledge needed to navigate challenging times. Developing resilience is important during difficult times. Employees who have a growth mindset and are constantly learning and developing new skills are better equipped to handle the challenges that come with a cost of living crisis. Learn and strategise afterwards Why you need to use the cost of living crisis to learn how to support employees moving forward Not to get all Nostradamus on you, but you never know when the next tough episode is coming. But be sure, it is coming. Whether it's a pandemic, recession, or natural disaster, or something else entirely. Being prepared means your people and business will be in a better position to face it. So now’s the time to take stock, learn the lessons, and introduce new processes and strategies. How to take what you've learnt and adapt Review how you supported your employee through the cost of living crisis The first step is to look at what you, your people, and your business has just gone through. Collect the thoughts and experiences from your people. Find out how they felt, what they went through, and poll for ideas on futureproofing. Continue to focus on supporting employees to build their resilience Resilience is like any other skill. It needs honing. Yes, your people may have just gone through a crisis and come out stronger, but don’t lose focus. Put plans into motion to build and strengthen resilience further. Build better communication processes You’ll have seen the impact good communication has on your people and business during your recent tough time. Again, resting on your laurels is not a sensible move here. Continue to talk to your people open and honestly. Run frequent employee check-ins, have your managers run 1:1s more often, and open up lines of communication across your business. Make sure your people can talk and be heard when they need to be. Shake up your hiring and retention strategies It’s likely you’ll have learnt a lot about your people during the last period of change and uncertainty. Some hidden gems may have emerged and some previous stars may have faded. You’ll have a better feel for strengths, loyalty, and weaknesses. Take that information and reform how (and who) you hire and how you keep people long-term. A morally and economically sound strategy Supporting your people during hard times, or times of uncertainty, is morally and economically sound. Both the business and your employees will benefit. Build a team capable of pitching in when times are tough, not just when it's easy. Reward great work and innovation fairly, celebrate the great things your people achieve, and build employee engagement organically. A spokesperson from Weekly10 commented: “The cost of living is being felt by employers and employees alike and looking after staff has never been more pertinent for businesses, individuals, communities. These areas of focus are extremely important and those employers who pay them due diligence are sure to benefit from doing so. With the fluid state of the economy and no particular letup in sight in terms of the cost of living, looking after staff is going to be of increased importance in every business for the foreseeable future.”
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In the wake of discourse surrounding organisational productivity, absenteeism, mental health issues and long-term sickness, new national research from the UK’s leading virtual platform - Rethinkly - unveils a first-of-its-kind study addressing the crippling impact of social anxiety, inhibiting millions from feeling happy in the workplace. Government reports from the end of last year indicate that the UK’s collective productivity is currently at its lowest and continues to rapidly decline post-pandemic. What was originally speculated to be a ‘symptom of laziness’ or ‘quiet quitting’ is now emerging as an inherent issue at the core of many UK businesses – a worsening epidemic of social anxiety. Anecdotal testimony is available on request. Common symptoms of social anxiety include: 26% of workers who feel workplace tension and confrontation are the hardest part of their role, in addition to 18% who worry they will be judged for making a mistake. Used widely within the NHS and by corporate firms such as IBM, the Rethinkly software removes all real-world references to create a safe space that is designed to inspire autonomy of expression. Today, Rethinkly’s enlightening research highlights that miscommunication might be at the heart of this pattern and in turn, is worsening mental health issues in the UK’s workforce as an alarming 35% of workers admit they are unable to fulfil any kind of public delivery – presentations, client meetings, etc – without some form of anxiety. To this end, 15% are increasingly taking time off due to feeling so challenged resulting in a disproportionate dip in productivity (28%). Staff can anonymously enter a virtual world, alongside their colleagues, and communicate using avatars. Co-founders - Andrew Jackson and David Tinker – discuss why miscommunication exists in so many offices and further outline how virtual reality tools can be used to promote better well-being. Key stats: *25% feel that they have no voice in the workplace *35% say they are unable to fulfil any kind of public delivery – presentations, client meetings, etc – without acute anxiety *28% say that the inability to communicate within the workplace has had the largest impact on productivity *18% worry that their employees will judge them for making a mistake, so, therefore, do not take any accountability *22% say that verbal communication with bosses and peers is the hardest part of the job *26% harbour all workplace tension and find confrontation too difficult In line with the Chancellor’s acknowledgement of high economic inactivity levels and reports of long-term absence due to poor mental health, Rethinkly’s data goes some way in explaining that an inherent culture of fear is a fundamental culprit in contributing to absenteeism and feeling disconnected from work. Almost one in five (18%) state that they worry their employees will judge them for making a mistake, and a further 35% are unable to fulfil any kind of public delivery without acute anxiety, subsequently stunting growth and effective communication. How does Rethinkly work: The research further unearths that toxic relationships with peers and managers might be the fundamental cause of poor workplace communication. With a quarter (26%) confessing that they harbour all workplace tension, the impact of which is now observed in money lost. reports suggest that poor communication was found to be costing UK businesses the equivalent of £7,675 per employee per year. With words in the physical realm serving less of an effective solution, Rethinkly harnesses virtual reality to allow individuals to express themselves when speaking becomes near impossible. The platform offers coaching and wellbeing support for every employee, providing not only benefits in terms of scalability but also cost-effectiveness, coming in at a fraction of the price compared to individual coaching. Andrew Jackson, co-founder of Rethinkly, comments on the instrumental value of creating a psychological safe space to improve communication at work: “Most challenges at work stem from a lack of or just bad communication. Communication challenges are directly aligned with morale, productivity, and commitment which have real business impact. Effective communication and building a strong culture based on healthy engagement are often talked about but surprisingly difficult to achieve. But when organisations start to embed and grow critical communication skills and adopt them as a competitive advantage, they can start to see a significant shift in their trajectory. “Ambitious organisations are using tools like Rethinkly to discover what their talent really thinks and feels only then do you have real power through more comprehensive data to make positive changes.”
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Cloud computing has been experiencing a boom for the last few years, with global spending on services reaching £46.3 billion in the first financial quarter of 2022, according to research from Canalys. Statista ran a survey which looked at the increased use of cloud services and found that storing and creating files and office documents was the largest reason for implementing cloud technology to their business. Utilising cloud services to their fullest is a great way of helping push your business in a more tech-savvy direction. But like all technology, it will continue to evolve and provide new ways of making your processes more efficient. In this article, we’ll look at four emerging trends in cloud computing that continue evolving and will positively influence your business. 1.Hybrid & multi-cloud When it comes to the cloud, no two systems are the same. From little intricacies to huge interface differences, there might be some that work best for a particular function or process but don’t cover everything you need. As a result, using more than one cloud system might be a solution. This is where hybrid and multi-cloud structures come in. Multi-cloud means using different public services from several providers to cover what you need. While they can become difficult to manage, embracing this approach means you can take the best parts of the top cloud solutions on the market and create a solution that matches exactly what you need. This gives you more options for customisation and can help avoid being locked in to just one vendor. Hybrid cloud is similar but with the key difference of including a private cloud server managed on-site as part of the combination. This means investing in and using a publicly available cloud server as well as building an in-house infrastructure and having them work in tandem. Being able to shop around for the systems that fit your specifications is a great way of not selling yourself short on what you need for your specific processes and giving yourself more flexibility. Public cloud software can often come with some data bottlenecks with lots of people using it at once, but the cost savings it can offer are a huge positive. 2. Serverless computing When you’re spending money on a service, you want to know that it’s not going to waste. This is especially true if you’re trusting another company with something as important as the servers that host your website. For some companies, they have built applications that require a server to host it, and they may spend a lot of money to make sure its infrastructure is secure. Serverless computing has revolutionised the concept of hosting applications. This method of backend service means that you’re only paying for what you use data-wise, making it far more cost-effective. The infrastructure of the servers is also handled by the vendor, so developers don’t have to worry about scaling too much and can focus more on development. 3. Cloud security Cyber security is a huge talking point when it comes to technology. Businesses and even governments with any online presence or connection to the internet are at constant risk of hacking and having information stolen or whole accounts taken over. The UK government has even begun asking for companies currently using cloud databases to assist in building a proactive solution for outages and infiltrations. The focus on cloud security and how it can be improved to avoid any potential damage to business and information will help to develop it more. This could come in the form of training that includes how to identify and avoid potential threats or the inclusion of awareness messaging. 4. Automation One of the key purposes of technology is to simplify and streamline processes that require a lot of manual input. This automation can also be applied to cloud software, as implementing it to your servers can mean that the infrastructure can be adjusted automatically without developers or engineers having to use precious manhours to do it manually. This can help improve the quality of life for the systems in several areas. Automation improves security by removing the human error of multiple engineers and IT technicians from the process of checking important systems that could be exposed to people with malicious intent. Updates and backups are also made significantly more efficient once they’re set up, as they can carry out both functions without the need for human interaction. The best thing about technology is that it’s constantly changing and evolving, which makes it even more crucial to keep an eye on how these trends continue to develop. There are always more ways for cloud software to add new and exciting features and keeping updated can help you get ahead of the curve on trends.
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Four In Ten Brits Are Currently ‘at War’ With A Member Of Their Family, According To A New Survey
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Four in ten Brits (44 percent) are currently ‘at war’ with a member of their family, with one in three (35 percent) not having spoken to someone for over THREE YEARS, it emerged yesterday. As cult television series Succession returns to our television screens in March, researchers from ICE 36 carried out a detailed study among 2,000 adults to find out if our families are just as dysfunctional as the warring Roy clan. Results suggest they are, with the old adage ‘you can choose your friends, but you can’t choose your family’, very much alive and kicking – so much so that 88 percent believe it is true. Selfishness (28 percent), life choices (26 percent), relationship issues (21 percent) and parenting differences (14 percent) were uncovered as the most common reasons for the skirmishes. Issues with children (14 percent), not pulling their weight in the family (14 percent) and jealousy (14 percent) have also left many families giving each other cold shoulder. One in six (12 percent) say that the other person being jealous of them and not liking their partner (12 percent) caused the rift, while a tenth (10 percent) are owed money. A tenth (nine percent) have fallen out over the distribution of inheritance, with a further one in ten (nine percent) putting it down to political opinions. The research also found that the average family feud lasts a staggering three years. Gen Z’s are the most likely to be caught in a dispute (52 percent) - compared to over 60s (30 percent) - with life choices (35 percent), selfishness (28 percent) and relationship issues (26 percent) the main reasons for the cross words. London is the capital of the feuding families (59 percent), followed by Norwich (55 percent), Nottingham (55 percent) and Liverpool (52 percent). A spokesman for ICE 36 said: “This research shows that we may have more in common with the Roy family than we would like to believe.” Four in ten (26 percent) Brits say they regularly have awkward family get-togethers where they do their best to avoid relatives in order to keep the peace. A third (35 percent) simply don’t go to family events anymore because they don’t want to face the person. One in five (18 percent) get frustrated when confronted with the other person, while a tenth (11 percent) feel angry. A tenth (10 percent) admit to getting annoyed, with one in ten (10) being shocked at the audacity of the other person. A quarter (27 percent) say that the argument has changed their relationship with the wider family. A third (30 percent) don’t share anything with their family anymore and admit that they don’t talk to them as much as they did (30 percent). One in four (25 percent) struggle to trust their family because they took the other person’s side, while 23 percent have completely cut contact and don’t talk to them at all. A fifth (20 percent) don’t get invited to family events now. Over 60s are most likely to hold a grudge, one in three (29 percent) have been locked in an argument for over 10 years. When it comes to who is to blame, half (52 percent) believe the other person started the argument with a sixth (16 percent) putting the falling out down to another member of the family. A tenth (12 percent) take responsibility for the disagreement and say they are to blame. One in three (32 percent) don’t think they will ever make up with the other person, while four in ten (44 percent) are hopeful they will resolve their issues. 35 percent say they will eventually take the first step in reconciling, while a quarter (24 percent) think the other person will make the first move in repairing the rift. A tenth (12 percent) admit they can’t remember why they first started arguing, while four in ten (38 percent) can only remember some of it.
When it comes to industries that encounter hazards day to day, construction comes out on top. Research from HSE found that a quarter of the fatal injuries to workers in the UK occurred in the construction industry across 2021/22. This shows that there’s still work the UK must do to improve safety for construction workers. But even with room for improvement, it makes us wonder where some of the best places in the world are for workers in the industry. With some insights fromJonathan Beadle atvan leasing company, Van Ninja, we look at the best places to work in construction, where some of the worst locations are, and what those countries towards the bottom of the safety pile should be looking to change to improve their placing on the list. Construction around the world: breaking down the best and the worst Workwear Guru, who supply construction clothing and apparel for sites and companies, conducted a survey in 2021 that looked at the best places to work in construction. These countries were ranked based on the average salaries available, the cost and quality of living in said country, and the safety of working conditions on these sites. From the findings of the survey, we can see that the top 10 best places for the industry is dominated by countries located in and west of Europe. Switzerland takes first place, followed by the UK in second, and then Belgium. However, this is the overall score and the country with lowest incident rate for accidents is Poland with just 4% of workforce reporting injuries while working. Singapore similarly has a low incident rate of 5%, and the UK also has a relatively low rate of accidents at 8%. On the opposite end of the scale, the list for the 10 worst places to work in construction features locations all over the globe. The worst place in the world for workplace safety is reported to be Myanmar in Asia with an incident rate of 58%. On-site safety: safety practices that can be implemented With shocking statistics like over half of construction workers in Myanmar – formerly known as Burma – reporting potentially fatal workplace incidents in construction, it shows that globally more attention can still be paid to improving the on-site safety. Incidents and accidents often happen due to a lack of awareness and preparation. This is why, before even beginning projects, workers should be adequately trained in safety practices that can be implemented to improving job site safety. These should include sections on awareness of the tools they are working with, the cleanliness of the site, and identifying potential hazards before they occur, as well as sections on communication with other members of the workforce to prevent potential hazards forming. The training shouldn’t just be down to those who’ll be operating equipment either. Site managers could benefit hugely from extra training focusing on proper supervision, monitoring, and reporting of the sites and any potential incident dangers or those that have occurred. Proper management of documentation and administrative processes around the safety of the workers should be reviewed to make sure they are of an appropriate standard. Having quality equipment to work with, both in terms of machinery to operate and protective clothing, is crucial to ensuring worker safety. If you’re on a site where a drill is required but the drill bit or body is of poor quality, there is the possibility of the operator of the equipment getting put in harm’s way. Similarly, there should always be the appropriate equipment for jobs. For example, if you have a lot of heavy goods that need transporting, exploringvan leasingoptions can prove the ideal solution rather than stretching your current equipment thinner. Industry experts are predicting that construction will continue to grow into the new year. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) found that the value for new orders was up 22.8% in only the first quarter of 2022. With more projects for companies to work on, an extra emphasis must be placed on worker safety to avoid any potential incidents that could not only injure your workforce, but subsequently slow down progress.
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Could On-site Safety Hold Back Growth of the Construction Industry?
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