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Osbourne Pinner Addresses Survey Indicating One Quarter of Landlords May Sell in 2024

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Osbourne Pinner, a top-tier law firm in London, has issued a response following a recent survey by Alan Boswell Landlord Insurance Statistics, which revealed that one in four landlords is contemplating selling their properties in 2024.

The survey highlighted that a slim majority (52%) of landlords plan to maintain their current portfolio size, with 26% intending to sell more properties than they purchase, and 22% looking to expand in the coming year.

2023 has been a significant year for the industry, marked by the introduction of the Renters Reform Bill in Parliament. This Bill seeks to eliminate assured shorthold tenancies and, consequently, section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions. The proposed change would see PRS tenancies become monthly periodic assured tenancies without a fixed end date. The Bill also aims to bolster the criteria for repossession, addressing issues like anti-social behaviour and accumulated rent arrears.

The Bill underwent its second reading in October and was successfully passed, bringing it a step closer to enactment.

Santosh Kumar, Senior Housing Solicitor at Osbourne Pinner, commented: “With tougher legislation such as the Renters Reform Bill currently on the agenda, as well as unpredictable inflation rates, landlords appear to be thinking twice about whether the industry is as lucrative as it once was.

“The Alan Boswell survey showed that tenant conflicts are also high on the list of landlords’ biggest concerns, so working with a trusted legal partner is recommended to deal with conflicts as and when they occur.

“As the legislation landlords have to comply with is changing, having an expert legal team on your side is crucial to protecting your investment. We view our clients’ properties as if they’re our own, whether they are renters or landlords looking for a future investment or a source of income.

Located in Piccadilly Circus and Harrow, Osbourne Pinner recently launched its Landlord and Tenant service. The service has quickly attracted a substantial client base. It offers landlords bespoke services, including advice and support from the time a tenant moves in until their departure.

Santosh further stated: “Our specialist tenant dispute solicitors know how to protect tenants’ rights and ensure they get what they deserve. When your landlord takes legal action against you, we’ll help and advise you about your rights and the potential legal costs. Additionally, we can assist you with tenant disputes over assured shorthold tenancies, deposit disputes and property repair claims.

“We work as an integral member of your commercial property team and our approach is straightforward and clear, limiting the financial impact of disagreements. We will advise and assist you throughout the landlord and tenant dispute, explaining your rights, alternatives, and likely outcomes.”

Further information about Osbourne Pinner is accessible here.

Expert Chris Boyd Elucidates the Importance of Latest Burglary Technologies for Residential and Commercial Property Security

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In 2022/2023, England and Wales reported an alarming 191,490 house burglaries. This breaks down to about 525 burglaries each day, or one every 165 seconds.

Given these figures, the need for businesses and families to evaluate and update their security measures is paramount.

Chris Boyd, the founder of NSW UK, which specializes in a broad spectrum of CCTV and burglary systems, discusses strategies for ensuring optimal security.

Advancing Security Technology

The last decade has seen substantial advancements in CCTV technology, moving away from the once-standard fuzzy images featured on Crime Stoppers.

The real strength of CCTV systems lies in their integration with other security solutions, such as burglar alarms, to prevent theft and vandalism in both residential and business environments.

Chris Boyd shares NSW UK’s technology approach: “Every CCTV system we build and install has the ability to capture high-definition footage. In a court of law, CCTV footage from a professionally built system may be included as evidence, which can protect communities more efficiently.”

He further explains, “There are analogue and digital CCTV systems available. Digital systems, using Internet Protocol (IP), are newer, while analogue systems have been in use for longer. IP cameras can be either hardwired or wireless, and operate using sim cards or wifi.”

The advancements in security technology have brought invaluable peace of mind to property owners. The capability to monitor locations remotely via web browsers or smartphone apps plays a critical role in deterring crime and identifying offenders.

He concludes: “CCTV systems, whether digital or analogue, each offer benefits and drawbacks. Selecting the correct system can be difficult, so it’s important to do your homework and pick a company that has the best expertise, carefully trains its employees, and has the newest designs and can assist you along the way. Although this may be more expensive, it’s better to avoid going with the less expensive option that could end up costing much more if properties are broken into later.”

Chris also highlights the significance of maintaining systems:

“Every part of a protective system is brand-new and fully functional when it is installed. The components of an alarm may wear out with time and frequent use. When this occurs, safety issues may also surface in addition to the alarm’s decreased effectiveness.

This is the reason why maintaining systems is crucial for both financial and safety reasons. This can also be accomplished through the business you chose; NSW UK has the best-trained personnel to install and support your alarms and systems in addition to providing ongoing maintenance.”

Further details about NSW UK’s CCTV and tech services are available here.

Leading Academics and AI Experts to Deliberate Education’s Future at London Event, Introducing KEATH

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The University of Surrey, in collaboration with their AI EdTech spinout KEATH.ai, is orchestrating a landmark AI Advancement Forum at London’s House of Lords. Scheduled for December 15th, this forum is set to address the challenges and opportunities of AI in education, potentially shaping its future direction.

Diverse Experts Gather to Explore AI in Education

This notable event will host discussions on AI’s implications in the education sector. The forum will see a gathering of influential figures, including lords, chancellors, and leaders from academia and venture capital. Key speakers at the event are:

  • Prof. Max Lu, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Surrey
  • The Lord Taylor of Warwick
  • Prof. Katie Normington, Vice-Chancellor of De Montfort University
  • Prof. Manolis Mavrikis, Artificial Intelligence Professor at University College London (UCL)
  • Kevin Ebenezer, Head of Global Recognition, Cambridge University Press and Assessment
  • Dr. Lisa Nelson, Director of Learning, Kaplan

Launch and Showcase of KEATH’s EdTech Solutions

The event also serves as a platform for KEATH.ai to launch and present its innovative EdTech solutions. Joey Lin, KEATH’s CEO, is confident in the company’s groundbreaking approach to assessment. KEATH’s technology, having shown remarkable accuracy in grading Pearson EPQs, is touted as independent and proprietary, distinct from existing AGI models.

Addressing Teacher Workload through AI

The issue of overburdened educators is significant, with studies indicating excessive hours spent on tasks beyond teaching, especially assessment. In the US, educators work upwards of 54 hours a week, with UK teachers dedicating around six hours daily to student assessments. This considerable workload has led to industrial actions, highlighting the potential role of AI in alleviating these pressures.

Advancing Education with AI Solutions

The integration of AI in education, spearheaded by the University of Surrey and KEATH.ai, represents a new chapter in teaching methodologies. Institutions like the University of Southampton and Sunway University in Malaysia are early examples of the practical application of these AI tools. The upcoming AI Advancement Forum is a crucial juncture, uniting experts to deliberate on and navigate the future of AI in the educational landscape.

Data References

Hardison, H. (2022). How Teachers Spend Their Time: A Breakdown. Education Week. [online] 19 Apr. Available at: https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/how-teachers-spend-their-time-a-breakdown/2022/04

Mcshane, M. (2022). How do Teachers Spend Their Time? [online] Available at: https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED621761.pdf.

Weir, M. (n.d.). 7 things you might not realize teachers have to do after the school day ends. [online] Business Insider. Available at: https://www.businessinsider.com/teachers-time-spent-after-school-work-2019-10?r=US&IR=T.

www.tes.com. (n.d.). Teachers spend ‘44 days a year’ assessing pupils | Tes Magazine. [online] Available at: https://www.tes.com/magazine/archive/teachers-spend-44-days-year-assessing-pupils

euromedia (2016). UK teachers spend a whole day on marking each week. [online] qaeducation. Available at: https://qaeducation.co.uk/feature/uk-teachers-spend-whole-day-marking-each-week/

Craig Herd Secures Prestigious Young Banker of the Year Award for Dementia-Supportive Banking Concept

Craig Herd, representing Sainsbury’s Bank, has been awarded the prestigious title of 2023 UK Young Banker of the Year at the contest’s climax held at Mansion House in London on 7 December 2023.

Since its inception in 1987 by the Chartered Banker Institute, the awards have been spotlighting individuals who demonstrate a commitment to customer-focused, ethically driven professionalism, a standard set by the Institute and anticipated by society.

This year’s competition challenged Young Bankers across the UK to present innovative ideas for their organisations that would positively impact customers, colleagues, and communities. Their proposals were to embody their vision for the future of banking, aligned with the principles of the Chartered Banker Institute and the UN Principles for Responsible Banking. The champion of the contest is awarded a trophy, a £1000 cash prize, and an additional £1000 to donate to a charity of their choice.

Craig Herd proposed a pioneering idea for a dementia-supportive feature in banking services, providing a comprehensive support package for customers affected by dementia and their families. This feature, activated upon the customer’s disclosure of their diagnosis, includes enhanced customer service support, monitoring tools for a designated “champion,” and advanced screenings to guard against financial crimes like fraud and scams. This initiative is designed to assist customers in retaining control over their finances during challenging times.

After receiving the award, Craig Herd stated:

“I’m delighted to have had this opportunity to champion the needs of customers living with dementia. The number of people diagnosed with dementia is increasing every year in the UK, and research shows that customers living with dementia and their families need more targeted support from the banking industry. Being able to raise my idea of Dementia Safe on such an esteemed platform will start conversations in the industry on how we better support customers living with dementia. The proposals from my fellow finalists show the very best of our industry, and giving young bankers the opportunity to develop and present these ideas will continue to have a positive impact on not only banking but wider society.”

Alderman Sir Peter Estlin, announcing this year’s winner, commented:

“The Young Banker of the Year competition is an excellent opportunity to not only celebrate some of the future leaders of our City, but to showcase the abundance of talent that exists across the sector too. By grappling with, and finding solutions to, some of the key issues being discussed in the City – like how to deliver sustainable growth – these young professionals are pushing boundaries, challenging accepted wisdom, and devising strategies today that will benefit us all tomorrow. My congratulations to Craig and the other finalists. They are a credit to themselves, their businesses, and the City as a whole.”

Simon Thompson, Chief Executive of the Chartered Banker Institute, added his congratulations:

“All four finalists personified the ethical and professional ethos of the Chartered Banker Institute and the values underpinning the UN Principles for Responsible Banking. Congratulations to Craig, our Young Banker of the Year, and to all our finalists for presenting their ideas for aligning banking with the objectives of the Paris Agreement and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The future of our banking sector and profession is bright if tonight’s Young Bankers are anything to go by.”

In addition to the main title, Craig Herd was also honoured with the Audience Prize, as chosen by the attendees for exemplifying the highest professional standards in banking. Steve Pateman, President of the Chartered Banker Institute, said upon presenting the award:

“I would like to congratulate Craig, for winning the Audience Prize and on becoming, the 2023 Chartered Banker Young Banker of the Year. I pay tribute to all four finalists tonight, for their inspirational ideas. There has been much to be proud of and it leaves me with enormous confidence in the future of our banking profession.”

Osbourne Pinner’s Insight on New Stringent Skilled Worker and Spouse Visa Rules”

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Osbourne Pinner, a distinguished law firm in London, has reacted to the newly enacted visa regulations that aim to reduce migration into the UK. Noted for its expertise, the firm has assisted over a thousand businesses in recruiting international talent through its Skilled Worker Visa and Sponsor Licence service, achieving a remarkable 100% success rate in Sponsor Licence applications and earning a reputation as a foremost solicitor in this sector in London.

Reacting to Home Secretary James Cleverly’s recent introduction of several measures to limit immigration, including raising the minimum salary for foreign skilled workers to £38,700 from the prior £26,200 (excluding the healthcare sector), Osbourne Pinner has articulated its position.

Senior Immigration Solicitor at Osbourne Pinner, Richard Young, commented: “These new regulations are going to have a significant impact on UK businesses seeking to recruit skilled workers from overseas. The raised minimum salary is a large jump and will mean that some UK companies can no longer afford to recruit workers from overseas. We strongly advise companies who are looking to recruit foreign skilled workers to enlist the support of a legal expert to establish what effect the new regulations will have on the process.”

The firm estimates that the new regulations could lead to a reduction in migration by approximately 300,000 annually, making it more challenging for companies to hire overseas workers and for the workers to obtain skilled worker visas. Sponsor licence applications are crucial for companies to employ skilled individuals from outside the UK and EEA under the Skilled Worker rule for Tier 2 and Tier 5 visas.

Further elaborating, Richard Young said: “Anyone seeking to employ overseas workers should be mindful of the record-keeping, reporting and monitoring that is required by the Home Office to ensure that your company complies with the regulations. We can assist with this, but an in-house HR team is highly beneficial. Since the legislation changed in April 2023 to the points-based immigration system, the legalities around recruiting overseas workers now has added complexity. The updated regulations will add further complications to the process, so having legal aid to guide you through the process is strongly recommended. Time will tell as to what the impact the new rules will have, but our team has a 100% success rate in this field so we will be able to assist companies as they navigate the regulations and understand what is now required of them to ensure compliance.”

Additionally, the new ruling also increases the minimum income requirement for a spouse or family visa from £18,600 to £38,700, affecting the ability of UK citizens to bring their foreign-born spouses to the country.

Yee Han, Senior Associate at Osbourne Pinner, stated: “The raised salary requirement for a spouse visa will mean that some UK citizens will be unable to bring their spouse to live with them, unless they are able to get a higher-paid job that meets the £38,700 threshold.

“We are working with clients on the changes to check their eligibility. Even prior to these new regulations being introduced, obtaining a partner visa can be a complicated and long process. It is essential to consider your circumstances carefully and seek professional advice before applying for a spouse visa in the UK. Applying for a skilled worker visa may be time-consuming. If you make mistakes in your application, you risk delays, rejection, or even being denied entry to the UK. Our team can assist you in avoiding these mistakes and improving your chances of having your application accepted.”

Osbourne Pinner offers free consultations for those navigating the new migration rules, available through their online booking system.

More information about Osbourne Pinner can be found here.

Economic Pressures Lead Brits to Sideline Sustainability in Christmas Shopping, Manhattan Associates Study Shows

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A new study by Manhattan Associates Inc. (NASDAQ: MANH) highlights a shift in British consumer habits this Christmas, with economic pressures leading to a decreased focus on sustainability. The survey, conducted by YouGov, found that amidst the cost-of-living crisis, 32% of Brits are not actively looking for sustainable products or brands for their holiday shopping.

Sustainable Shopping Takes a Backseat

Craig Summers, Manhattan Associates’ Managing Director UKI, MEA & Nordics, comments on the economic impact on consumer choices: “The golden quarter and holiday season is well underway but clearly the state of the economy is having an effect on customer behaviour – unfortunately, it looks as if cost is trumping sustainability just now.”

Despite the current trend, the study reveals that outside the festive season, British consumers still value sustainability, with a significant majority supporting sustainable packaging and product lifecycles. Furthermore, many are willing to adjust their shopping habits to lower carbon emissions.

Retailers’ Role in Balancing Sustainability and Cost

For retailers, the challenge lies in offering sustainable yet affordable options. They must consider sustainability from the start of the product design process and work towards greener supply chains. Summers reflects on the challenges faced in 2023: “This year has been tough for retailers and consumers across the board… While inflation is beginning to ease, the road to recovery will not happen overnight… but hopefully we will see greener shoots of recovery for the economy, and also consumer impetus for sustainability, return in the spring.”

LEAP Offers Free Energy and Money-Saving Advice to Residents of Kent and Essex

The Local Energy Advice Partnership (LEAP), known for providing free energy and money-saving advice, has extended its services to the residents of London, Kent, and Essex. This expansion comes as part of the ongoing efforts to combat rising fuel poverty in the UK.

Residents in these areas who are facing difficulties with their energy bills or struggling to heat their homes this winter can now avail free advice from LEAP’s network of qualified energy advisors. They can also access support for energy efficiency and energy-saving technological enhancements.

The recent government announcement about a 5% price cap rise from the current rates is set to impact 29 million energy customers across the UK, with fuel costs anticipated to increase by £94 for direct debit customers. This rise is particularly concerning for households in Kent and Essex, where, according to the Office of National Statistics, areas south of Tunbridge Wells rank low in energy efficiency. National Energy Action has highlighted that nearly 6000 households in Harwich and North Essex are living in fuel poverty.

Vanessa Springham, Head of Marketing & Communications at LEAP, underscores the immediacy of the issue: “Fuel poverty is right on our doorstep. We are here to help local residents with free energy advice; it all starts with a relaxed, informal call. Anyone in the area who is struggling with the rising cost of energy bills is encouraged to get in touch. It’s about helping households minimise the risk of falling into fuel poverty and for those who are already in it, it’s reminding them that they don’t have to suffer alone.”

LEAP’s services are comprehensive, offering appliance support, energy advice, and access to energy efficiency funding schemes and boiler replacement. Residents of Kent and Essex are encouraged to contact LEAP through their website and schedule a call to benefit from these free services.

Study by OrderFlow Shows a Significant 52% Drop in Black Friday Searches Since 2019

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As the Black Friday sales era tapers off, businesses in e-commerce and retail across the UK are busy preparing to cater to the heightened seasonal demand and deciding on their promotional offers for the period.

OrderFlow’s recent data reveals a marked decrease in enthusiasm for the sales period in the UK as of 2023.

52% Decline in Black Friday Searches Since 2019

Data from Statistica indicates that in 2022, British shoppers spent a total of £8.71 billion during Black Friday. While this year remains an important period for sales, there’s evidence suggesting a diminishing growth curve.

Glimpse Data 738x0 c 1

Insights from Google Trends and Glimpse show significant spikes in Black Friday searches on the day itself, but post-2019’s peak, there’s been a consistent downturn in search volume, with 2023’s forecasts indicating another decrease.

Exploring the Causes for the Decline

Current economic conditions in the UK might lead to a heightened sensitivity to prices, potentially making Black Friday deals more appealing. However, the increasing inclination to economize and lessen waste has resulted in a 31% jump in search volume for second-hand retailers like Vinted compared to 2021. According to PwC, only 20% of consumers intend to shop on Black Friday, with just 17% expecting worthwhile deals on the day.

This pattern points to a mounting apathy towards the sale period. Still, the data hints at a considerable upsurge in demand, affirming its importance for the sales of many e-commerce outlets.

Utilising WMS Software for Peak Season Management

Data from OrderFlow shows that the search term ‘WMS‘ often sees a spike following the sales period into the new year, as many look to revamp their stock management strategies during the less busy months.

Manleys Solicitors Secure Major Win for Footballer at Court of Arbitration for Sport

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The Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne, Switzerland (‘CAS’), has reached a decisive verdict in support of a footballer who faced non-payment and threats of police intervention by his club. Represented by Manleys Solicitors, the footballer, with international caps, successfully fought for his right to end his contract and obtain substantial damages. The CAS, following a complex legal battle, upheld the player’s decision to terminate his contract, ordering the club to pay a significant compensation.

Instructed by Manleys was a renowned footballer, famed for scoring goals across Europe’s leading leagues. His January 2021 transfer, initially met with enthusiasm, quickly turned problematic as he faced astonishing non-payment from the country’s most successful club, a familiar name in European tournaments like the Champions League. His objections to the non-payment resulted in demotion to the U21 squad. The player, backed by a leading European agent, resisted; the situation worsened. He informed CAS about an incident where club officials coerced him to sign a contract in a language he didn’t understand, leading to a fine upon refusal. In an extraordinary turn of events, he faced threats from the club involving local police, causing him to leave the country. The club denied these accusations.

The player, fearing for his safety, departed the country unannounced, concerned about potential obstruction by local authorities. Having reached safety, he and his agent sought Manleys’ help to end his playing contract.

An initial victory at FIFA’s Dispute Resolution Chamber was challenged by the club at the CAS, with the club demanding compensation for a lost transfer fee.

Manleys enlisted the expertise of Steven Flynn, a leading sports barrister in the UK from Kings Chambers and 2 Temple Gardens, noted for his CAS victories. Flynn was supported by the emerging legal talent, Rosie Knight (Kings Chambers).

The appeal by the club focused on whether the player was justified in leaving the country and terminating his contract without notice. The club argued for a 14-day notice period as per the contract, allowing them to rectify any issues, or alternatively, a 15-day notice under FIFA RSTP for wage-related terminations. They claimed entitlement to compensation for the loss of the player’s registration, implicating the player’s new club in the proceedings.

Using a mix of Swiss law, the club’s national law, and previous CAS decisions, the player effectively argued for his right to terminate the contract for just cause. While Swiss law highlights the need for forewarning an employer, the CAS determined this wasn’t an absolute must for just cause termination. The CAS found that the player had already notified the club of the contract breach by addressing the unpaid wages. The club’s argument of insufficient notice was deemed insubstantial. The CAS also negated the club’s right to demote the player to the U21 team. The club’s actions overall justified the player’s decision to end the contract.

The CAS awarded the player his unpaid salary until contract termination, compensation for his decreased earnings at the new club, and three months’ additional salary due to the salary-related termination. A costs order was also made against the club.

Steven Flynn, lead counsel before the CAS observed that, ‘This case was complicated by the different national laws and regulatory regimes engaged. The club sought to exploit apparent inconsistencies between the regimes to avoid responsibility for its actions. Thankfully we, as a team, were able to address the multi-jurisdictional issues and ensure that justice was done for player.’

Mark Manley, Managing Director at Manleys said: ‘I’m delighted for the player and his agent.  Our team couldn’t believe what we were hearing when the player recounted his ordeal.  He had been excited to join the most successful club in this country but it quickly turned into a nightmare.  His decision to flea the country was more akin to a James Bond’ movie than a footballing issue!  The player was one of the most impressive witnesses I have seen in Court.  His agent, Roberto De Fanti, was an incredible support to the player throughout this ordeal, as was his new club.  I’d like to thank them, my colleagues at Manleys, and Steven Flynn and Rosie Knight of Kings’ Chambers for their skills, expertise, tenacity and bringing a very successful conclusion to this long-running saga.  Our website boasts that “we are in the results business” – I’m very pleased for this client that he’s ended up a fantastic and emphatic result.”

Triumph for Elizabeth Willetts, Investing in Women Founder, at The Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards

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Elizabeth Willetts, leading the charge with Investing in Women, clinched the title of Services Industries Entrepreneur of the Year 2023 for the South East at The Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards.

Acknowledged as one of the entrepreneurial world’s most sought-after honours, this year’s edition of The Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards attracted over 5,000 entries, underscoring its prestige.

A Celebrated Win Amidst Fierce Competition

Just making it to the shortlist is a remarkable achievement in itself, given the level of competition, thereby amplifying the significance of the victory for Investing in Women. James Watt of BrewDog, a previous winner, compared winning to “better than winning the World Cup”; while Steven Bartlett referred to the awards as “The Grammys of Entrepreneurship”, indicating the high status of the event.

The jury members said: “A timely business that deserves to be highlighted. This accolade comes as a recognition of the outstanding work by Elizabeth and the entire team at Investing in Women, highlighting their dedication to supporting and empowering women in the business world.”

Francesca James, who initiated The Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards, commented: “I am thrilled to witness the extraordinary achievements of this year’s winners. Their success stories are a testament to the dynamic and innovative spirit that thrives within UK entrepreneurship. These inspiring entrepreneurs embody the creativity, determination, and passion that are at the heart of our nation’s business success. Their accomplishments not only celebrate their own journeys but also light the way for future generations of innovators and business leaders”.

Richard Davies, Allica Bank’s CEO, remarked: “It has been a real honour to sponsor this year’s GBEA awards. Hearing the inspiring stories from this year’s winners really brings to life the important contribution British entrepreneurs make to our economy. At Allica, we couldn’t be more excited to see such a talented group of individuals making their mark in the business world, and we’ll be keeping a close eye on what they do next.”

Investing in Women, initiated by Elizabeth Willetts, is a pioneering job board and recruitment agency revolutionising the UK job market since its creation at Elizabeth’s dining room table amid the Covid pandemic in 2021.

With a mission to bridge the gap between skilled women, particularly mothers in their 30s and 40s, and leading UK employers, Investing in Women has emerged as a symbol of hope and opportunity. It specialises in linking candidates with flexible, remote, and part-time roles, focusing on the importance of a balanced work-life.

Under Elizabeth’s stewardship, Investing in Women has soared, forming partnerships with many renowned organisations in various industries. It has become synonymous with empowering women to balance professional ambitions with family life and personal aspirations. The organisation’s efforts to promote gender diversity and inclusion in the workplace have not only received widespread recognition but also made a real difference in the lives of many UK professionals.

The Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards are instrumental in recognising and supporting entrepreneurs across the UK, fostering communities that back their growth at various stages. With its competitive nature and history of honouring businesses that become well-known, the awards are a hallmark of entrepreneurial excellence.