Mattioli Woods and Kingswood to merge, creating major wealth management group

Mattioli Woods, the specialist wealth and asset management business, and the Kingswood Group, a wealth and investment management firm, have agreed to merge. The announcement marks a significant milestone in the firms’ shared ambition to deepen client relationships, grow their talent base, and enhance their service and product offerings. The combined group will be a leading force in the UK wealth and savings market, serving over 25,000 clients with £25 billion in assets under administration and advice (AUAA). It brings enhanced capabilities across wealth planning, investment management, and client service. Ian Mattioli, MBE DL, CEO and founder of Leicester-based Mattioli Woods Group, said: “Our stated long-term ambition is to become a national wealth management firm with £60bn in assets and up to 300 advisers. Combining with Kingswood is a transformational moment and sees us accelerate our journey to achieve these goals. “This deal brings together two highly complementary businesses with a shared commitment to putting clients first and delivering long-term value. We’ve admired Kingswood’s growth and reputation for some time. Together, we are creating a stronger, more dynamic business that is well-positioned for the future – for our clients and our people.” Peter Coleman, CEO of Kingswood Group, said: “The combined business will accelerate our journey towards achieving our vision of having the scale to deliver a best-in-class wealth management service to our clients. This is supported by our market leading DFM and IBOSS brands. “I am excited to combine with Mattioli Woods, who have a strong reputation of delivering broader services including group benefits and deep expertise in specialist pensions.”

Lincolnshire neurodiversity assessment provider acquired

Keys Group, a provider of specialist education and care services, has acquired ADHD 360, a Lincolnshire-based private healthcare provider specialising in neurodiversity assessments, diagnosis and treatment.

The acquisition enables Halesowen-based Keys Group to expand and diversify the specialist support it offers to children and adults across the UK. ADHD 360 delivers services for both privately and NHS-funded clients, supporting individuals with ADHD, autism and other neurodiverse conditions.

David Manson, CEO of Keys Group, said: “As waiting times for ADHD and neurodiversity diagnoses continue to grow, ADHD 360 offers an invaluable and timely service.

“Many of the individuals we support – both children and adults – are neurodiverse, and we understand the transformative impact of receiving the right diagnosis and treatment at the right time. ADHD 360’s expertise will not only strengthen our service offering, but also help us to improve outcomes for even more people across the UK.”

Journeo secures £4.2m Alstom order

Journeo, an Ashby-de-la-Zouch-based provider of information systems and technical services to transport operators and local authorities, has secured a £4.2m purchase order from Alstom.

It will see Journeo design and supply CCTV and Automatic Passenger Counting (APC) systems to enhance safety, security and operational efficiency on Alstom’s CrossCountry Voyager fleets.

The purchase order forms part of a major refurbishment programme being carried out by Alstom for 70 Voyager trains and encompasses 312 cars, comprising 136 Voyager (Class 220) and 176 Super Voyager (Class 221) vehicles respectively.

Journeo have already commenced design and initial equipment supply and will support Alstom during the installation phase being carried out at their Derby Litchurch Lane facility which is due for completion in 2027.

Russ Singleton, Chief Executive, Journeo, said: “We are delighted to be working with Alstom at their historic Litchurch Lane facility in Derby as an integral part of this important refurbishment programme of the CrossCountry Voyager fleet.

“The application of Journeo’s technology to help prolong the life of existing rolling stock, alongside its implementation on new trains, demonstrates the flexibility of our solutions and how their use can support sustainable rejuvenation of fleets.

“The installations are underpinned by Journeo’s core IP, enabling the operator to manage operation-critical data, such as occupancy data and securely captured and stored high-definition CCTV evidence through the SaaS Journeo Portal.”

Northamptonshire NHS group launches in-house data training for staff

University Hospitals of Northamptonshire (UHN) has launched a dedicated data academy in partnership with UK tech training provider Multiverse, designed to upskill staff in clinical, administrative, and operational roles.

The initiative is designed to strengthen the trust’s ability to use data effectively across departments and maximise returns on its digital investments. Programmes offered through the academy include Level 3 and Level 4 apprenticeships in data and business transformation, as well as Multiverse’s advanced data fellowship programme, which is equivalent to a degree.

Funded through the Apprenticeship Levy, the academy supports a broader drive within the NHS to build internal digital capacity and reduce reliance on external data expertise.

Multiverse has recently rolled out similar data training programmes for other public sector bodies, including Sheffield City Council, Essex County Council, and the London Borough of Hillingdon, as part of a broader trend of UK institutions investing in workforce data literacy.

The UHN project highlights growing demand for integrated, in-house data skills in healthcare environments, where frontline teams increasingly require real-time insight to support clinical decisions and improve operational efficiency.

Government accelerates reservoir plans to bolster future water supply

The UK government has reclassified two major reservoir projects in Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire as “nationally significant infrastructure,” fast-tracking them through the planning system to secure long-term water resilience.

The move shifts approval authority from local planning bodies to the Environment Secretary, aiming to streamline a process that typically faces delays from local objections and regulatory bottlenecks. The Fens Reservoir is scheduled for completion by 2036, while the Lincolnshire Reservoir is set for completion by 2040.

These projects are part of a broader strategy to address rising water demand driven by climate change, population growth, housing developments, and increased industrial use, including pressure from sectors like data centres. The fast-track announcement follows a dry spring and growing concerns over the frequency of droughts, particularly in eastern England, one of the driest and most water-stressed parts of the UK.

The government also confirmed plans to classify seven additional reservoir proposals as nationally significant, supporting a wider initiative announced in 2023 to develop nine new reservoirs by 2050. Together, these projects aim to supply an extra 670 million litres of water per day.

While welcomed by infrastructure and water industry leaders, the announcement has raised concerns over costs, public opposition, and the timeline, none of the new reservoirs are expected to be operational this decade.

Apprenticeship investment must not neglect higher level schemes says East Midlands Chamber

East Midlands Chamber has cautiously welcomed a government pledge to increase investment into lower-level apprenticeships but warned measures must not cut off ways to upskill without requiring traditional education. Measures the Department for Education says will create 120,000 opportunities for training from a £3bn budget include a ‘refocusing’ of funding from Level 7 apprenticeships to lower-level schemes from January 2026. East Midlands Chamber director of resources Lucy Robinson said: “With the skills shortage a persistent challenge to businesses, and 7 out of 10 firms having reported in our Quarterly Economic Survey that they’ve struggled to find suitable candidates, apprenticeships can be a brilliant solution, giving employers a talent pool that has relevant industry skill. “While increased investment into apprenticeships will be music to the ears of many firms looking to recruit, tilting the spend in favour of lower-level schemes must be responsive to what businesses need – not give with one hand, take from the other. A candidate should have the option to take on a Level 7 apprenticeship, instead of only having the option of taking an academic route to get into some higher-level professions. “A classroom can go so far in preparing candidates for employment, but the social interaction of being alongside workers from a specific industry and the real-world learning that can be gained from an apprenticeship is priceless. Listening to what firms say they need and striking the right balance to prioritise that is crucial.”

Demolition works set to begin in Northampton to make way for innovative new development

Preparatory works are set to begin on 2 June to pave the way for an innovative new development in Northampton, on the site of the former stores and Job Centre buildings, located on Abington Street, Wellington Street, and Wood Street. The demolition, to be carried out by specialist contractor Colemans, marks the beginning of an exciting transformation for Northampton’s town centre. The redevelopment scheme, which is being funded through the Government’s Town Fund, will breathe new life into the area, with plans for more than 200 build-to-rent homes above modern retail and leisure spaces at ground level. Main demolition activities will begin in mid-June, starting with the structures facing Abington Street. This phase of the project is scheduled for completion in early 2026. Cllr James Petter, deputy leader of West Northamptonshire Council and cabinet member for local economy, culture and leisure, said: “This is a pivotal moment for Northampton. The regeneration of this site is not just about removing outdated buildings—it’s about unlocking the potential of our town centre. “This scheme will deliver new homes, create jobs, and provide modern spaces for businesses to thrive. We are committed to ensuring the works are carried out with care and consideration, and that the benefits of this investment are felt across the community.” 

CT Skills expands with specialist teaching assistant apprenticeship

CT Skills, the apprenticeship and training providers, have expanded with a new Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship. Working closely with the Department for Education (DfE) to provide apprenticeships across multiple sectors including education, childcare, business and accounting, the Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship is the latest addition to the CT Skills portfolio. The new Level 5 apprenticeship for teaching, learning support and classroom assistants, as well as academic mentors, has been developed to enhance teaching support provision related to special educational needs and disability (SEND), the social and emotional well-being of learners, or within another area of specialist curriculum provision. This could include forest schools, support for learners with English as an additional language (EAL), subject-based interventions or music education. Alex Ford, CEO at CT Skills, said: “Specialist teaching assistants work across all age ranges, supporting a range of learners. A recent Department of Education report has identified the rise in the need for, and the expanding role of, teaching assistants both to support the rise of pupils with SEND in mainstream settings as well and the emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs of pupils further to the COVID-19 pandemic more broadly.” The apprenticeship provides an opportunity for education and early years support professionals to continue their vocational development and focus their future careers within one of three areas of interest. Michelle Phoenix, head of quality and curriculum at CT Skills, added: “We’ve been getting feedback for a while from our current employers and learners that enhanced training provision in this area was needed. “With this new apprenticeship, teaching assistants can develop their theoretical and practical skills to become more equipped to manage their expanding roles, as well as have the chance to specialise in either SEND, social and emotional wellbeing or other specialist curriculum provision. It’s great that this is now available.” The Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship is a 17-20-month programme that covers a blend of practical and theory-based learning. With on and off the job training learners will develop a portfolio of evidence and work towards a final assessment. It also opens up potential for future learning opportunities to progress to a post Graduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) or a Batchelor Education (BEd) degree with qualified teacher status.

Council taps private sector support to build AI skills

Nottingham City Council has launched an AI Academy to train 40 employees across various departments in data and artificial intelligence, aiming to enhance digital capabilities within public services.

The programme is being delivered in partnership with edtech provider Multiverse and is primarily funded through an apprenticeship levy transfer from Capital One. Enterprise Rent-A-Car has also provided financial support. Both companies have a local presence near the council’s headquarters.

Staff enrolled in the academy span key areas, including public health, transportation, children’s services, and community safety. The training is designed to integrate AI skills into frontline and operational roles, as part of the council’s wider improvement plan.

Multiverse, which has trained over 20,000 apprentices in digital skills since 2016, has worked with Nottingham City Council for several years. The new training cohort will focus specifically on AI literacy and practical applications within local government.

This move comes as local authorities across the UK explore ways to modernise service delivery and reduce inefficiencies through digital transformation.

WBR Group and Leicestershire CCC announce two-year partnership to empower young people in Leicester

Leicestershire County Cricket Club (LCCC) has announced a dynamic two-year collaboration with Leicester-headquartered WBR Group, the independent provider of SSAS, tax, law and actuarial services. This partnership is set to deliver impactful youth and community engagement initiatives across the region. WBR Group will work closely with the Club and the Leicestershire CCC Foundation to provide support and opportunities for under-18s, with a particular focus on education, sport, and personal development. The initiative includes joint delivery of Mo-Mentum – the community focused programme led by Leicester’s own basketball star Mo Walker – which was devised with WBR Group for local schools, designed to inspire and empower young people, helping them make positive life choices. This will be expanded through workshops with the Running Foxes Women and Girls Coaching Programme (RFWCP) and the Running Foxes Coaching Programme, helping engage and inspire young people through cricket and cross-sport collaboration. As part of the partnership, WBR Group will also receive on-site branding and hospitality opportunities at the Uptonsteel County Ground, reinforcing their commitment to community investment and local sport. John Williams, commercial director of Leicestershire CCC, said: “This partnership with WBR Group is a fantastic example of two organisations working together to make a meaningful difference. We’re thrilled to be combining the power of sport with the positive energy of Mo-Mentum to inspire the next generation. With the support of WBR, we’ll be able to reach more young people than ever before across Leicester and Leicestershire.” Alan Simpson, director of law, WBR Group, said: “At WBR Group, we believe in investing in the future, not just financially, but socially and culturally. Partnering with LCCC gives us a unique platform to support youth development and community cohesion through the power of sport. “Our collaboration will focus on creating inclusive opportunities for young people to engage with cricket, develop life skills, and build stronger community ties. Our aim to inspire the next generation of cricketers and community leaders through a series of grassroots programmes, school outreach events, and community cricket festivals. “We have been doing this very successfully with our very own basketball star Mo Walker and can see the difference this makes to young people.”