Latest News
Free risk assessment for your business
With tribunals over workplace accidents on the increase due to stricter safety rules, the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) is looking to help small firms reduce the risk of accidents, with the launch of a free online risk assessment service.
Red tape relief for small firms
200,000 small firms are set to benefit from an extension to the flat rate VAT scheme, which will cut their paperwork and compliance costs by up to £1,000 a year.
How to develop your terms and conditions
Terms and conditions (also known as terms of trade), whether they apply to sales or services, are essential to your business as they set out the level of responsibilities that apply to you and your customers.
Keep on the right side of environmental laws
A website has been launched to help small businesses comply with environmental legislation.
Steps to protect your ideas
If you have thought of an idea on which to base your business, then it is certainly worth trying to protect it with the law, in case someone tries to copy your idea.
Protecting your investment
If you are looking to set up a business in partnership with friends, then it’s imperative to get professional advice and draw up a shareholders’ agreement, says Nigel Lander, specialist finance adviser at
Don't fall foul of employment law
Managers are devoting an increasing amount of time to employment law issues, according to a recent study from the Economic and Social Research Council.
Limited liability benefits for small businesses
Small companies of any size could gain tax benefits from forming a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) says accountancy firm Baker Tilly.
EU regulations; free advice for SMEs
Complicated European laws are causing headaches for small businesses but a newly-launched internet resource aims to help cut through the red tape.
Intellectual property aid for Welsh SMEs
Small and medium-sized businesses in Wales can get practical and financial help with intellectual property (IP) issues from a business support initiative.
Employers urged to be ready for law change
Employers have been urged to review pay and benefits packages before a change in legislation on fixed-term employees comes into effect on 1 October.
Changes in disability discrimination law
Small businesses with less than 15 employees are now liable to prosecution in disability discrimination cases following a change in the law.
Funding for health and safety needs
A pilot scheme to help small businesses with health and safety regulations has been set up by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE).
Protect your intellectual property
Small businesses with new ideas or inventions will be interested in a new product from the Department of Trade and Industry that could help them identify and protect their intellectual property.
