Sable Cottage Nursing Home sold to JAS Care Homes

April Lara
-
0
Sable Cottage Nursing Home sold to JAS Care Homes

Sable Cottage Nursing Home in Kelsall, Tarporley, has been acquired by JAS Care Homes Ltd, marking the exit of former owner Sunil Patel from the care sector. The deal was overseen by Montane Care, which supported the transition process.

The 38-bed facility, located near Delamere Forest in Cheshire, provides nursing, dementia, respite, and residential care services. The home, rated “Good” by the Care Quality Commission, has established a strong reputation locally for quality care and community engagement.

The acquisition sees JAS Care Homes expand its portfolio in the North West, taking on an established home with scope for continued operational development. The transaction reflects a growing trend of experienced operators divesting assets while newer groups look to consolidate and grow their presence in the care market.

Industry observers note that transactions of this kind highlight continued investor confidence in the UK’s elderly care sector, where high-quality, well-managed homes remain in demand despite broader economic pressures.

UK economy sees September slump

Tess Egginton
-
0
UK economy sees September slump
The UK economy shrank in September, according to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Monthly GDP (gross domestic product), a key measure of economy growth, is estimated to have fallen by 0.1%, below expectations for no growth. In part impacted by cyber attack disruption at Jaguar Land Rover, it follows no growth in August and a GDP fall of 0.1% in July. It reflects, across key sectors, services and construction activity growing 0.2% month-on-month and production activity dipping 2% month-on-month. The fall in production was largely because of a drop in the manufacture of motor vehicles, trailers and semi-trailers. For the three months to September, real GDP rose 0.1%, compared with the three months to June. This saw services output grow by 0.2%, production output decline by 0.5%, and construction output increase by 0.1%. Ben Jones, CBI lead economist, said: “The latest data underline how fragile the recovery remains, with the economy close to flatlining. Weak activity and waning confidence ahead of the Budget are clear warning signs that the government’s growth mission is faltering. “The Chancellor faces a pivotal choice later this month. Businesses need a clear signal that the Government is serious about unlocking investment and boosting competitiveness – not another round of tax rises or short-term fixes that would deepen the drag on growth.”

Eyesight problems slowing down workers could cost economy £21bn a year

Tess Egginton
-
0
Eyesight problems slowing down workers could cost economy £21bn a year
UK workers struggling to read computer screens due to eyesight problems could be costing the economy up to an estimated £21.4bn each year. New research from Specsavers asked UK workers if eyesight problems such as blurred vision, light sensitivity or double vision slow down their ability to read a computer screen or read text on a phone or tablet whilst at work. Almost one in five (18%) of surveyed UK workers reported tasks taking longer because of these eyesight problems when reading computer screens. Of those UK workers surveyed who reported that eyesight conditions slowed them down doing certain tasks, they lost an average of 41 minutes each day due to slower reading times on computer screens as a result of eyesight problems. The financial hit to businesses from one employee on an average UK salary (according to the Office of National Statistics) taking 41 minutes extra each day to read a computer screen could be as much as an estimated £3,493. With around 34 million people in work in the UK, these eyesight problems could result in an estimated up to £21bn worth of lost time for the UK economy every year. Government legislation mandates employers to provide eye tests for staff who regularly use display screen equipment (DSE) for continuous periods of an hour or more. Under the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations, employers must not only offer eye tests upon request but also cover the cost of glasses if they require a special prescription for the distance the screen is viewed at and are for DSE use. This legal framework is a vital step in safeguarding employee wellbeing and productivity, especially as screen time continues to rise in modern workplaces. Paul Morris, director of professional advancement, Specsavers, said: “For too long eye-care has been a blind spot for businesses. “The impact of failing to act on eye-care is causing a loss in employee time and productivity. “Businesses are legally obligated to offer free-eye tests for employees upon request as part of the DSE Regulations. This should not be viewed as a wellness benefit, but as a business benefit.”

Cranswick unveils £40m welfare investment after farm review

April Lara
-
0
Cranswick unveils £40m welfare investment after farm review

Cranswick plc has announced a £40 million investment over the next three years to modernise and standardise its pig farming operations following an independent review of its animal welfare practices.

The veterinarian-led review, carried out by Dr Andy Butterworth, examined 20 Cranswick pig farms between June and August 2025. It confirmed compliance with legal and industry animal welfare standards and found no evidence of poor handling or mistreatment. The review also identified opportunities to strengthen consistency, training, and oversight across the business.

In response, Cranswick’s board has approved a six-point plan to raise welfare standards across all its farms. The plan includes a full review of training and farm culture, standardised operating procedures, and the rollout of AI-enabled CCTV to enhance welfare monitoring. Five new welfare officer roles will be established within a new Cranswick Welfare Hub, which will serve as a centre for training, research, and oversight of surveillance.

The company will also integrate the updated welfare protocols into its ESG framework, with regular board-level progress reviews. Full details of the six-point plan are expected by December 2025.

Former professional footballer passes Derbyshire hospitality business onto next generation

Tess Egginton
-
0
Former professional footballer passes Derbyshire hospitality business onto next generation
Former professional footballer Kevin Gage has passed his Derbyshire hotel, cafe and bar onto a family member after announcing his retirement from the business. Kevin, who made more than 400 appearances for Sheffield United, Wimbledon, Aston Villa, Preston North End and Hull City over a 19-year career, has run the 15th century Grade II Listed Manor House Hotel in the heart of the historic market town of Dronfield since 2008. Now, his step-daughter Isobel Ford, and her partner Elliott Hill, have taken up the reins with big plans for the character venue. James Burdekin and Travis Wood from Sheffield’s MD Law advised on the corporate and commercial property legal work for the transaction while Paul Naylor at Optimum Finance handled the finance support package via NatWest, and Mitchells Accountants dealt with the accounting structure. Kevin said: “I am delighted that we have been able to keep The Manor House Hotel in the family and genuinely had no idea that this was possible. Thanks to excellent advice from MD Law, Mitchells and Optimum Finance, the legacy I have worked to build is now safely in the hands of my stepdaughter and her partner. I am 100 per cent confident they will continue to build on excellent foundations and take The Manor House forward into its next phase.” Isobel added: “It is a really exciting time to take on The Manor House Hotel and we are all working very hard to get the new offerings out there to people and make sure they are the best they can be.” Travis Wood of MD Law said: “It is always great to work on family businesses and help those hard-working families achieve their aims and goals, especially when the business is such a staple to a local community. I’m sure I speak for all at MD Law when I say best wishes and good luck!” Paul Naylor at Optimum Finance added: “It’s been a pleasure to work with The Manor House Hotel once again. I assisted with the initial purchase back in 2008 and have been proud to support the business ever since. “It’s been great to help guide the company into its next chapter. I’d like to take this opportunity to wish Kevin a very happy retirement, and to wish Isobel and Elliott every success as they continue to grow this fantastic business.”

Derby firm shows community commitment with support for DIY SOS home makeovers

Tess Egginton
-
0
Derby firm shows community commitment with support for DIY SOS home makeovers
Derby-based project managers, construction cost consultants, and building surveyors Armsons Barlow have reaffirmed a commitment to corporate social responsibility through their recent pro-bono work supporting DIY SOS on their projects. Armsons Barlow have been providing quantity surveying services, including materials take offs, assisting with specifications and construction advice on numerous projects that are currently being shown on BBC One including the forthcoming Children in Need Episode. This saw the DIY SOS team transform children’s cancer support charity, The Joshua Tree. Based in Chester, the charity was founded by Lynda and Dai Hill after their son Joshua was diagnosed with Leukaemia when he was five years old. Happily, Joshua went on to make a full recovery and even helps out at the Centre. The first project Armsons Barlow supported earlier this year was a special project in Aylestone, Leicester, for seven-year-old Isla, who lives with Mandibuloacral Dysplasia – a rare genetic condition that causes brittle bones, premature aging, and limited mobility. Isla is believed to be the only person in the UK with this specific form of the condition. To help Isla live more comfortably and independently, the DIY SOS team, with support from Armsons Barlow, redesigned the family home to include specialist adaptations. These included enhanced accessibility features, dedicated therapy spaces, and a nurturing environment to help Isla thrive despite the challenges she faces every day. Since its launch in 1999, DIY SOS has completed hundreds of life-changing projects across the UK – made possible through the collective effort of local tradespeople, suppliers, and volunteers. Sally Walters, director at Armsons Barlow, said: “We’re incredibly proud to support DIY SOS and to help deliver projects that have a meaningful and lasting impact on people’s lives. The programme has become known for bringing communities together to support families in crisis – and Armsons Barlow is proud to play our part. “These builds are about more than bricks and mortar, they’re about offering hope and making daily life more manageable for families facing unimaginable challenges. “Alongside our partnership with Derby County Community Trust, this is part of our on-going commitment to using our expertise to strengthen and support the communities we work in.”

Starling and Small Business Britain to expand support for female founders

April Lara
-
0
Starling and Small Business Britain to expand support for female founders

Starling Bank has partnered with Small Business Britain to launch a nationwide programme to help women start and scale their businesses. The initiative, called Female Founder Fundamentals, will begin in early 2026 and offer free online training focused on business growth, finance, and digital skills.

The partnership was announced during a networking event at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium, where more than 150 female entrepreneurs gathered to celebrate women’s achievements in business and sport. “There’s such incredible energy when women come together to celebrate success and support one another, whether in business or on the pitch,” said Michelle Ovens CBE, CEO and Founder of Small Business Britain. “This event with Starling at Arsenal Emirates Stadium was the perfect way to kick off our new partnership and to spotlight the confidence, community and ambition that drive female founders forward. Together, we’re building on that momentum with a new training programme to help even more women start and grow brilliant businesses.”

The new programme will feature masterclasses led by established entrepreneurs and industry experts, covering topics such as accessing investment and using AI to improve efficiency. It will also address challenges identified in earlier research by the two organisations, including the pressure many women experience in balancing business demands with wellbeing.

The collaboration builds on both organisations’ shared goal of strengthening female entrepreneurship across the UK’s small business landscape. Women currently lead 14% of SME employers and around 30% of sole trader businesses, according to government data. Analysts estimate that achieving parity with male-led business creation could contribute up to £250 billion to the UK economy.

The initiative aligns with Small Business Britain’s objective to increase the number of women leading small and medium-sized enterprises to 30% by the end of the decade, positioning female entrepreneurship as a key driver of future economic growth.

Nottinghamshire veterans housing project secures funding and new start date

April Lara
-
0
Nottinghamshire veterans housing project secures funding and new start date

Plans to develop accommodation in Eastwood for ex-service personnel facing homelessness are progressing after Broxtowe Borough Council finalised the purchase of land off Cross Street in Hill Top.

The £1.5 million project will see the construction of eight council-owned apartments tailored to support veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The development will also include a shared standard room to facilitate on-site support services.

Initial completion was targeted for 2025, but building work is now expected to begin in spring 2026 following a review of the design specifications to increase unit sizes and improve communal facilities. Site clearance is set to start in the coming weeks, with the scheme due to be submitted to the council’s planning committee early next year.

Funding for the project comes primarily from Broxtowe Borough Council, supplemented by contributions from Homes England. The East Midlands Combined County Authority has not provided financial backing.

The apartments will add to the council’s existing portfolio of ex-forces housing, which includes six occupied homes in Stapleford. The Eastwood site is to be named in honour of the late Sir Dennis Pettitt, a D-Day veteran and former Nottinghamshire County Council leader.

Pulse appoints new board directors to drive growth

Tess Egginton
-
0
Pulse appoints new board directors to drive growth
Construction consultancy Pulse Consult has strengthened its leadership team with the promotion of Jonathan Aldworth and Tom Howells to its board. The appointments place Jonathan and Tom directly into ownership positions within the business. The company says the moves are aimed at retaining skilled professionals, recognising established talent, and providing clear pathways into ownership and senior leadership, roles often difficult to reach in the construction sector. Ian Carey, managing director at Pulse Consult, said: “It’s an exciting time of growth at Pulse, and it’s a real privilege to see longstanding people like Jonathan and Tom develop and thrive within our team. Their loyalty, dedication, and leadership have been central to our continued success, helping us achieve a major milestone this year as we surpassed £10m in turnover. “Pulse has always been a business built on its people, and their progression into ownership positions is a clear reflection of our culture – one that recognises talent, nurtures development, and rewards commitment with real opportunity. I started Pulse to create a place that had no barriers to ownership and to reward talent with board positions.” Jonathan Aldworth, who has progressed through the business since 2017, and Tom Howells, a healthcare project specialist, will take on strategic responsibilities at a time when demand for complex construction projects is growing across the UK. Progressing from a project manager role, Jonathan Aldworth has overseen high-value projects across a variety of sectors, including heritage schemes, higher education, and housing. In his new role, Jonathan will lead Pulse’s expanding East of England hub, which includes Nottingham, Leicester, King’s Lynn and Lincoln. Jonathan will continue to build on the strengthening of local partnerships, drive operational excellence, and accelerate regional development. Jonathan said: “Joining the board is an exciting opportunity to shape how Pulse delivers on its ambitious plans. “At the core of our aims is to strike the right balance between strengthening our presence in the East Midlands and expanding further across the East of England. By combining scalable resources with strong local expertise, we can create a truly comprehensive regional offering. “Our growing presence in key locations and developing capabilities in areas such as King’s Lynn and Lincoln are important steps in delivering this vision. This approach ensures we can meet client needs effectively while building sustainable growth. Ultimately, it’s about creating a cohesive, East of England-wide service that adds lasting value for clients and the communities we serve.” Tom Howells brings over seven years of experience at Pulse and extensive expertise in managing complex healthcare projects. In his new role, Tom will lead Pulse’s healthcare sector strategy, continue to grow sector experience nationally, drive innovation in client solutions, and help the company meet the growing national demand for healthcare infrastructure. Tom said: “I am excited to have joined the board, particularly at a time of transition for the healthcare sector. There is more demand than ever for healthcare infrastructure, and Pulse has the experience to deliver solutions that drive innovation and deliver scalable, sustainable outcomes for clients across the nation. “In my role, I want to ensure we approach each project with both strategic foresight and practical insight, helping hospital trusts and healthcare providers overcome complex challenges while maximising efficiency, value, and long-term impact. “We have always positioned ourselves as trusted advisors to our clients, and our sector expertise allows us to continue driving real change within healthcare.”

Derbyshire recycler fined for waste permit breach

April Lara
-
0
Derbyshire recycler fined for waste permit breach

A Derbyshire recycling company has been ordered to pay nearly £90,000 after breaching environmental regulations. Johnsons Aggregates and Recycling Ltd, based in Ilkeston, was fined £40,000 and told to cover costs of £49,886.75 following a prosecution by the Environment Agency.

The case centred on a breach of the company’s environmental permit, which required all waste to be contained within its site boundary. An investigation began in March 2021 after complaints about dust, odour, and noise at Hallam Fields Industrial Estate. Inspectors found that large quantities of ash (commonly used in construction) had been deposited on neighbouring land without the appropriate authorisation.

Although the company initially claimed the material was placed with the neighbouring landowner’s permission, it later admitted that its actions fell outside the permit’s conditions. The Environment Agency issued a compliance notice instructing the firm to remove the waste and operate within permitted limits.

By January 2022, inspectors found that waste still covered around five acres despite partial removal. The court found that the company had failed to meet its obligations to clean up the site within the set timeframe, resulting in the fine and costs imposed by Nottingham Magistrates’ Court.

1...345...1,173Page 4 of 1,173