HLAS

A new report from Skills England has revealed that many employers are finding it difficult to keep up with the pace of AI-driven change. The report, titled AI Skills for the UK Workforce, introduces three new tools designed to help organisations build confidence and capability in using artificial intelligence responsibly. Sector-Specific Challenges The report highlights a number of sectors where businesses face particular challenges in adapting to AI: • Construction – Opportunities such as drone surveying and augmented-reality training are emerging, but limited digital literacy continues to act as a barrier. • Creative Industries – Freelancers and small companies are [...]

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has launched a national campaign to offer UK businesses access to no-fee specialist recruitment support through Jobcentre Plus. The service is available to all businesses, regardless of size or sector. Over the last year, only one in five businesses has used Jobcentre Plus services for support. This may be indicative of a lack of confidence in the service being able to locate suitable candidates. At the same time, over half of employers in a recent DWP Employer Survey reported difficulties in finding suitable candidates. With the average cost of filling a vacancy estimated [...]

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has reported that over 5.6 million people have accessed its app since the start of the current tax year (6 April 2025). The app offers a range of features that can be useful in viewing and managing your tax and national insurance records. What are people using the app for? According to HMRC, the most accessed services include: Checking PAYE information, including pay before it reaches the bank - used by 4.14 million people. Viewing annual tax summaries - 1.94 million people. Accessing national insurance details, including contribution history and saving NI numbers - 1.79 [...]

From 18 November 2025, identity verification through Companies House will become mandatory for company directors and People with Significant Control (PSCs). This new requirement aims to improve the accuracy of the UK’s company register and strengthen measures to combat economic crime. The identity verification system was first introduced on a voluntary basis in April 2025. Since then, more than one million individuals have completed the process, according to Companies House. Companies House Chief Executive, Andy King, described the milestone as an important step forward, stating:“Identity verification will help make sure that the people setting up and running companies are who [...]

The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, gave a surprise ‘pre-Budget’ speech last week that appeared to pave the way for tax rises in the Budget on 26 November 2025. What did she say? The Chancellor’s scene setting speech outlined her priorities to cut NHS waiting lists, reduce the national debt, and improve the cost of living. Quoting world challenges such as the continuing threat of tariffs, persistent inflation, the increasing cost of government borrowing, and pressures on public finances, the Chancellor acknowledged that productivity in the economy is weaker than previously thought. This all means increasing pressure on revenue for the government. [...]

The government’s Renters’ Rights Bill has now officially become law, following Royal Assent last week. This new Act introduces a range of significant changes that will affect private landlords across England. While details on how and when the new rules will come into force are still to be announced, the following overview outlines some of the key measures that will be introduced. End of Section 21 Evictions One of the most important developments is the removal of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions. This does not mean landlords will be unable to evict tenants, but it does restrict the circumstances in [...]

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has launched a consultation on how charities can make use of new rules that will allow greater use of electronic marketing in contacting their supporters. From January 2026, the Data (Use and Access) Act will introduce a new ‘charitable purpose soft opt-in’. This will allow charities to send marketing emails and texts to people who have expressed interest in or offered to support a charity - even if they haven’t specifically ticked a consent box - provided certain conditions are met. How the new rule will work The change is intended to make it easier [...]

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has been reminding taxpayers that there are now fewer than 100 days left to file their tax return and pay any tax due for the 2024-25 tax year. The online filing deadline applicable to the majority of taxpayers is 31 January 2026. According to HMRC figures, over 3.5 million people have already filed their return, but with more than 11.5 million people submitting a return last year many are yet to file. HMRC is encouraging an early start to avoid the last-minute rush. Why file early? Filing early gives you a clearer picture of how [...]

As part of its move to reduce ‘red tape’ and aid business growth, the government has announced plans to remove the requirement for companies to include a directors’ report as part of their annual accounts. Micro-entities are already exempted from the requirement to include a directors’ report in their accounts; however, it is intended that the requirement will be removed for all companies. It is estimated that this will affect approximately 440,000 companies. Medium-sized private companies will also be exempted from the requirement to prepare a strategic report as part of their annual report and accounts. Wholly-owned subsidiaries will also [...]

The International Stress Management Association (ISMAUK), a registered charity, is drawing attention to International Stress Awareness Week, which will take place from 3 to 7 November 2025, with Stress Awareness Day on Wednesday 5 November. Although effective stress management is essential for all organisations, it holds particular importance for small business owners and company directors, who frequently juggle the dual responsibilities of running a business and supporting their teams. Managing Stress: Essential for Your Health and Your Business Running your own business can be immensely rewarding but also highly demanding. When stress isn’t well managed, it can negatively affect concentration, [...]