Latest News
EU funding for SME safety training
Accidents in the workplace are a major concern for all businesses - big and small.
New ruling puts SMEs under pressure
A new ruling from The European Court of Justice could result in small business owners refusing to employ short-term contract and freelance workers - so says the Forum of Private Business (FPB).
New measures to discourage vexatious employment claims
Smaller companies especially, will welcome the measures introduced last week to prevent workers from falsely trying to claim for compensation through employment tribunals.
Company bosses urged to lead the way in health and safety issues
Company directors are being encouraged to choose one director to be "health and safety director", in new guidance published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
More directors disqualified following rule change
There has been a "substantial increase" in the number of company directors disqualifed between March and September last year.
New staff holiday rule to hit SMEs
Small businesses may have to put their growth plans on hold when changes to employment rules come into force later this month.
Free on-line help to protect data
Individuals and organisations holding personal information now have a free source of guidance to help ensure they comply with the Data Protection Act 1998.
Patenting is key to a successful innovation
Innovators and entrepreneurs can get free advice and information on how patenting their new ideas can help their businesses grow at an international conference held this week.
Small businesses tangled in red tape
Complying with government red tape can cost small businesses more than £3,600 a year.
Small businesses tangled in red tape
Complying with government red tape can cost small businesses more than £3,600 a year.
Gender issues present challenge for women entrepreneurs
The Government, financial institutions, and a host of business bodies are being called on to provide greater support to women entrepreneurs, in a new report published by The Industrial Society.
Free on-line help to protect data
Individuals and organisations holding personal information now have a free source of guidance to help ensure they comply with the Data Protection Act 1998.
SMEs give Employment Bill cautious welcome
Steps to reform employment tribunal legislation, outlined in the Employment Bill last week, received a mixed reception from industry figures in the small business community.
More flexible hours for working parents
Government proposals to allow around 3.
Proposed law champions the self-employed
A new private member’s Bill, currently before Parliament, may save self-employed entrepreneurs the time and trouble of continually having to keep re-proving their independent status, if it becomes law.