Bank of England cuts interest rates to 4.25%

Tess Egginton
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Bank of England cuts interest rates to 4.25%
The Bank of England has cut interest rates by 0.25% to 4.25%, in line with expectations. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), which sets monetary policy to meet the 2% inflation target, voted 5 to 4 in favour of the cut. Two members preferred to reduce rates by 0.5% to 4.0% and two preferred to leave rates unchanged at 4.5%. Alpesh Paleja, deputy chief economist, CBI, said: “Today’s cut to interest rates was widely anticipated, underscoring the Monetary Policy Committee’s continued preference for a gradual loosening of monetary policy. “The big question now is whether this gradualism will persist. Disinflationary risks have intensified over the last couple of months: US tariffs pose a fresh headwind to growth, global oil prices have fallen and, at home, the labour market is cooling. “But heightened uncertainty could keep the MPC from easing off on the brakes too much. Evolving global trade dynamics—and the potential for further restrictions—could affect UK inflation in either direction. And the Committee remain concerned about a decline in domestic supply capacity, which could put further pressure on prices. “With so many moving parts in the global and domestic outlook, the Committee may maintain a cautious stance. But with inflation risks increasingly tilting to the downside, a faster pace of rate cuts may become more palatable to a growing number of members.”

Derby special schools to receive £1.8m investment amid rising SEND demand

April Lara
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Derby special schools to receive £1.8m investment amid rising SEND demand

Derby City Council is set to approve a £1.8 million investment to upgrade four special education facilities. The funding aims to address a growing shortfall in places for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). It is part of the council’s 2025/26 schools capital programme and will support the creation of around 400 additional SEND places across the city.

The proposed upgrades include expanding capacity at St Andrew’s Academy’s Whitaker Road site, refurbishing the Kingsmead School campus in Alvaston, enhancing facilities at YMCA Stepping Stones Nursery in Chaddesden, and improving safety and accessibility at Central Nursery School on Nuns Street.

The refurbishment of Kingsmead’s Wisgreaves Road site follows its temporary closure in 2023 due to safety concerns. The Wisgreaves and Southgate (Brighton Road) sites are in poor condition.

The council has statutory obligations to ensure adequate SEND provision. With existing facilities at full capacity and no further expansion possible without capital investment, the upgrades are seen as essential for accommodating local demand. Increasing capacity within Derby is expected to reduce reliance on costly out-of-area placements and improve access to education within local communities.

Final decisions on the funding and scope of work will be made at the Derby City Council cabinet meeting on 14 May.

EMA Training to deliver Leicestershire Skills Bootcamps

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EMA Training to deliver Leicestershire Skills Bootcamps
Training and apprenticeship provider, EMA Training, has been awarded delivery of a series of Skills Bootcamps across Leicestershire, providing upskilling opportunities to support the region’s small business workforce and self-employed professionals. The awarded Bootcamps include Digital Marketing, Power BI (business and data analytics), and Green Skills for the Workplace. Designed to help individuals gain in-demand skills, these Bootcamps are fully funded short courses available to self-employed business owners and employees of small businesses with a Leicestershire postcode. The first Digital Marketing cohort will launch in June 2025, with future cohorts anticipated later in the year. Each Bootcamp is built to deliver real-world skills in as little as 16 weeks – empowering participants to grow their businesses and advance skills. “We’re thrilled to be delivering these transformative Bootcamps,” said Tracey Mosley, managing director at EMA Training. “Supporting local business growth through practical training is at the heart of what we do, and we’re excited to welcome our first learners in June.”

PR firm nets new signing as Paul Ince joins Press For Attention side

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PR firm nets new signing as Paul Ince joins Press For Attention side

Two local marketing powerhouses have joined forces to shake up how businesses connect with their audience — and despite the familiar name, there’s no football transfer fee involved. Paul Ince, founder of Loughborough-based marketing agency LikeMind Media, has officially “signed” with West Bridgford-based Press For Attention PR, led by former business journalist Greg Simpson. While the name Paul Ince may spark memories of midfield battles, this one has been making his mark in the world of digital marketing as a speaker, consultant and author and both agency leaders have a shared mission to modernise how businesses build trust and visibility. “We’re both passionate about helping businesses cut through the noise — and we’re both based locally, so it felt like a natural fit,” said Greg Simpson, founder of Press For Attention PR. “Add to that the fact we’re, quite literally, LikeMind-ed, and the partnership just made sense.” The collaboration is already in full flow, with the duo co-hosting an exclusive Nottingham event this month titled ‘The Funeral For The Funnel’ — a playful but pointed challenge to the traditional view of customer journeys as predictable, linear paths. “We haven’t wasted a second,” added Paul Ince. “From our first conversation, we knew we saw things the same way — business owners need practical, people-focused marketing that reflects how customers really behave. Greg’s experience in media and messaging is a great match for what we do at LikeMind Media.” The new alliance will see Press For Attention PR supporting LikeMind Media’s profile as the agency continues to help clients across content, social, and digital marketing. Both businesses stress the importance of trust-led marketing — and say it’s time for a smarter approach. “There’s no funnel anymore — just real people, real journeys, and the need for real strategy,” concludes Simpson.

Nottingham enters Europe’s top 100 cities for 2025

April Lara
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Nottingham enters Europe’s top 100 cities for 2025

Nottingham was ranked among Europe’s top 100 cities in the 2025 list compiled by Resonance Consultancy. The list evaluates cities on 32 criteria spanning economic strength, infrastructure, liveability, and public perception.

Positioned 97th between Zagreb and Rennes, Nottingham earned recognition for its urban regeneration efforts and growing appeal as a hub for business, education, and tourism.

Key projects include the £33 million redevelopment of Nottingham Castle and the ongoing transformation of the Broad Marsh area, which is set to become a 20-acre green, car-free district featuring housing, offices, and improved access to heritage sites.

The city also benefits from a 32-kilometre tram network, a revitalised creative district in Hockley, and a fast-growing tech sector. Two high-ranking universities and a strong nightlife economy further strengthen its appeal. London retained the top spot in the European rankings, followed by Paris, Berlin, and Barcelona.

Framework chief executive to retire after 29 years

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Framework chief executive to retire after 29 years
The long-standing chief executive of Framework – a charity and registered housing association working to tackle homelessness and its causes across the East Midlands and Sheffield – is stepping down after 29 years. Andrew Redfern has led the charity and one of its predecessors, Nottingham Help the Homeless Association (NHHA), since 1996. He plans to retire in December 2025 and the hunt for his successor has begun. In the late 1990s, as director of NHHA, Andrew was an architect of the merger with Macedon, a similar Nottingham-based charity, which resulted in the creation of Framework in 2001. Andrew became its chief executive the following year, working closely with new and former colleagues to maximise its impact. He looks back on the process and its aftermath as “a genuine merger of equals that was a spectacular success.” During Andrew’s years in post, the quality, range and scale of the services that Framework offers have changed beyond all recognition. It began with two nightshelters and some cast-off properties that other providers no longer wanted. These took the form of shared units mainly in Nottingham, with limited wraparound help for residents with substance or mental health issues. Since then the offer has been transformed. The original properties have been refurbished, replaced and complemented with new, purpose-built stock that is accompanied by specialist support, treatment, care, training and employment services. Today, more than 18,000 people approach Framework for help each year. The organisation works across Derbyshire, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire as well as in Sheffield and Scunthorpe. It houses more than 1,400 people at any one time – most of them in self-contained units. Among the strategic achievements has been the provision of services outside major cities such as Nottingham, Lincoln and Derby which removes the need for homeless and other vulnerable people to move to those centres to obtain accommodation and support. Announcing his intention to retire, Andrew said: “The work of Framework and similar organisations has always been vital. We house some very vulnerable people, offering the support they need to establish a better future and to work towards it. This is needed more than ever in a society and community that sometimes appears to have lost faith in its own capacity to tackle the hardest issues. “Our inspiring service users, dedicated staff, volunteers and board members are a sign that hope endures. They make Framework the highly effective organisation that it is. I am proud to be associated with everyone involved. “Framework applies high principles, expresses important values, and nurtures a culture of care. Together we hold the vision of something better for the people who need it the most. “We can’t do this unaided. Framework treasures its relationships with many partners across the public, private and voluntary sectors, with whom we work so closely, as well as with thousands of supporters and advocates in the community. “There remains much to be done. I am confident that by working in partnership there is much more that can be achieved. Framework shines as a beacon of hope for many. I know it will continue to do so under new leadership, for as long as it takes to end homelessness and all its consequences.” Commenting on the news of Andrew’s retirement, chair of the board Ruth Hawkins said: “Through his determined and clear-sighted leadership, Andrew has taken Framework from being quite a small Nottingham charity to become a diverse and successful regional organisation of more than 1,000 staff, supporting more than 18,000 people a year through a wide range of services and across a variety of locations while maintaining its original charitable ethos. “He will retire at the end of the year with our sincere appreciation and gratitude for all he has achieved. “Andrew has been the strongest of advocates for some of the most disadvantaged people in society. He remains particularly concerned to see the implementation of strategic approaches, backed by suitable investment, to address need both nationally and locally. “Andrew is going to be missed by very many people, and for many reasons, but he absolutely deserves a long, healthy and fulfilling retirement. “We now have the challenge of replacing Andrew. This is an exciting and pivotal moment for Framework. Much has already been achieved, and the role of Chief Executive is a fantastic opportunity for someone to build on these achievements, leading Framework to new success and a sustainable future, supported by a robust Board and senior leadership team, and a highly motivated workforce.”

Many UK landlords risk financial exposure due to outdated or insufficient insurance

April Lara
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Many UK landlords risk financial exposure due to outdated or insufficient insurance

According to recent research conducted in April 2025, more than a third of UK landlords may be operating without proper insurance cover, leaving them vulnerable to financial loss.

The data shows that 25% of landlords do not have any landlord-specific insurance, while an additional 12% are unsure if their existing policy provides adequate protection. Among those with insurance, nearly two-thirds had not reviewed or updated their policy in the past year.

This trend of underinsurance comes as the private rental sector faces growing pressure from rising operational costs, incoming regulatory reforms, and increasing risk exposures, including property damage, legal disputes, and rent loss. The findings suggest that many landlords may rely on standard home insurance policies, which often exclude tenant incidents, exposing them to significant liabilities.

The upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill is expected to introduce additional legal responsibilities, while insurers are tightening policy terms and increasing premiums, particularly for properties in high-risk areas. Despite this, nearly one-third of landlords surveyed expressed low confidence in their insurance’s ability to cover essential risks such as tenant-caused damage, legal expenses, or loss of rental income.

The data points to a knowledge and engagement gap, with cost-conscious landlords potentially selecting policies based on price alone, without assessing the suitability of cover. Industry experts are urging landlords to regularly review their insurance policies and ensure coverage aligns with the current value of their assets and the realities of modern property letting.

New partnership for Van Elle sees heavy haulage operations offloaded

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New partnership for Van Elle sees heavy haulage operations offloaded

Van Elle, the Nottinghamshire-headquartered ground engineering contractor, has revealed a five-year partnership with WS Specialist Logistics, which will see WS Specialist Logistics take on the group’s heavy haulage operations.

This will include the disposal of Van Elle’s in-house HGV fleet and transfer of its transport management team and directly employed drivers, into a new division of WS Specialist Logistics dedicated to heavy plant haulage, which will manage and operate the entire fleet.

This partnership will allow Van Elle to reallocate the current capital employed plus the further planned investment required in the HGV fleet into growth initiatives driving greater returns for shareholders, whilst improving the utilisation of the ongoing transport operations and reducing associated corporate administrative costs by partnering with a specialist with capacity and neighbouring facilities to the group’s headquarters in Nottinghamshire.

WS Specialist Logistics have paid £2.9m for the assets being transferred.

Van Elle Chief Executive Mark Cutler said: “This new partnership with WS Specialist Logistics is a logical initiative for the Group; releasing capital to invest in areas of greater return as we enter a long-awaited period of anticipated growth in our core markets.

“WS Specialist Logistics have been an excellent partner to the business for several years and we look forward to drawing on their expertise to further improve our transport operations whilst keeping the support of our fantastic, loyal in-house transport team and drivers that perform so well for us 24/7.”

Better than anticipated first quarter sees Next upgrade profit expectations

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Better than anticipated first quarter sees Next upgrade profit expectations
Enderby retailer Next has seen a better first quarter than anticipated, with full price sales up 11.4% versus last year in the thirteen weeks to 26 April. This was £55m ahead of the business’s forecast for the period, which was to be up 6.5%. Next attributed much of the over-performance to warmer weather, which has benefited the sale of summer-weight clothing. The firm added: “It is likely that some of these sales have been pulled forward from Q2. So, despite the strength of Q1, we are not increasing our sales guidance for Q2, or the rest of the year.” The company has, however, increased its profit guidance, accounting for the £55m of additional sales in Q1, with profit before tax expectations for the full year bumped up by £14m to £1.08bn.

Next’s performance in both the UK and overseas was better than anticipated, as was sales in retail shops.

DHU Healthcare operations manager goes the distance for Derby charity

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DHU Healthcare operations manager goes the distance for Derby charity
Debbie Kemp, operations manager at DHU Healthcare, has completed the Brighton Marathon in support of Safe and Sound, a Derby-based charity committed to safeguarding children. Debbie raised over £1,000 to help the charity continue its vital work in protecting vulnerable children and providing them with the support they need. Debbie’s decision to run the marathon stems from a deep personal commitment to children’s welfare and a desire to make a tangible difference in their lives. “I was over the moon to have completed the Brighton Marathon in 5hr 59 mins. It was tough due to the heat but I didn’t let that stop me completing it for Safe and Sound. “The work they do really touched my heart and the issues they are having to deal with are only getting worse. I have four grandchildren and worry constantly about them,” said Debbie. “Every child deserves to feel safe and protected, and I wanted to do my part to support an organisation that works so hard to make that a reality.” Safe and Sound’s focus is to transform the lives of children and young people in Derbyshire who are affected by child exploitation. The funds raised by Debbie’s marathon effort will go directly towards supporting children, young people and families whose lives have been affected by child exploitation including online grooming, sexual exploitation, County Lines, trafficking, modern slavery and radicalisation. The CEO of Safe and Sound, Tracy Harrison said: “We are incredibly grateful to Debbie for her amazing efforts in running the Brighton Marathon. Her commitment and support will make a real difference to the lives of vulnerable children. “Every pound raised helps us to reach more children in need and provide them with the protection and support they deserve. We rely on the support of people like Debbie to continue our vital work, and we are truly inspired by their willingness to go the extra mile – literally! Thank you.” Debbie decided to she need to get fit ten years ago. She gave up smoking, lost weight and joined a local club AAJ (All About Jeffing). Since then, has taken part in many charity events and last year she was the first person to be presented with The Civic Hero Award by Derby University, in recognition of her fundraising achievements and contributions to the local community. Having balanced her work at DHU Healthcare with an intensive training schedule, Debbie said she would never run again! However, she has just been accepted to run in the Manchester Marathon on 19th April 2026, which will be the day after her 59th birthday, and has promised to donate all the money she raises to Safe and Sound.
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