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Camp Digital expands ‘Rising Stars’ programme to widen access to the UK’s digital sector

Helen Greaney
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Camp Digital expands ‘Rising Stars’ programme to widen access to the UK’s digital sector

A Manchester-based digital conference is expanding its funded ticket scheme aimed at students, career switchers and early-career professionals, as concerns grow over access and diversity within the industry.

Camp Digital, run by Nexer Digital, will offer around 100 “Rising Stars” places this year, providing free access to its annual event for those who might otherwise be unable to attend.

The scheme, which includes both in-person and live-stream tickets, is designed to address persistent barriers to entry in digital and design careers, including cost, limited professional networks and a lack of representation.

The event, held at the Royal Northern College of Music on Thursday 7 May 2026, has become a fixture in the UK’s digital and design calendar, attracting practitioners from the public sector, charities, agencies and industry for a day of talks focused on how technology shapes real-world services and experiences.

A diverse speaker line-up has been confirmed, including Rachel Coldicutt, ethical technologist and founder of Careful Industries, digital transformation leader Himal Mandalia, Dan Barrett, head of data and AI at Citizens Advice and Laura Yarrow, head of design at GOV.UK.

Hilary Stephenson, managing director of Nexer Digital, said: “Talent is everywhere but opportunity isn’t always evenly distributed. Our Rising Stars programme is one small but tangible way we can help shift that balance. It’s a practical way of opening the door to people who might otherwise be excluded from spaces like this. We want to make sure the future of digital is shaped by a wider range of voices, not just those who already have access to industry networks or support behind them.”

The programme offers full access to conference talks, workshops and networking opportunities, placing recipients alongside industry professionals, employers and public sector teams. Organisers say the aim is widen access, integrate new voices into the industry conversation and support greater diversity.

This year’s programme will also see a Rising Stars participant take to the stage as part of the event’s “300 Seconds” lightning talks, which provides a platform for speakers from underrepresented groups and those early in their careers to share ideas and build visibility within the industry.

Camp Digital typically attracts around 500 in-person attendees, alongside a wider online audience. Funded tickets make up a significant proportion of that mix, with the scheme having supported hundreds of attendees since its launch.

The initiative is delivered in partnership with universities and community organisations, including Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Salford and programmes such as Manchester Digital’s Digital Her and Digital Futures, which focus on improving access to digital careers.

Mark Porter, senior lecturer in web design and coding at Manchester Metropolitan University, said: “Opportunities like the Rising Stars tickets are vital because they lower the barrier between the classroom and the industry. By attending events like Camp Digital, students gain the confidence to see themselves as part of the professional community, helping them to translate their academic skills into real-world career paths. It’s a top-tier networking event on our doorstep.”

The Rising Stars programme also helps participants by bringing them directly into contact with employers, agencies and peers in a setting designed to be inclusive and accessible.

Aditya Shah, 22, from Manchester, a Rising Stars attendee and who is taking part in this year’s “300 Seconds” lightning talks, said: “Rising Stars is giving me a stage in front of an industry audience I couldn’t have reached on my own, and I think it’ll open doors I don’t even know exist yet.”

Rising Stars tickets are allocated through partner organisations, nominations and direct applications.

Cullen Sustainable Packaging unveils £5m investment to drive expansion

Helen Greaney
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Cullen Sustainable Packaging unveils £5m investment to drive expansion
Cullen Sustainable Packaging is investing £5 million to expand its Glasgow facility, where it uniquely manufactures both corrugate and moulded fibre in one location.
Cullen is scaling its manufacturing operations in response to growing demand, with continued investment in machinery and infrastructure supporting its trajectory towards industry-leading output. Currently producing around 0.5 billion products annually, the business is targeting a doubling of output through continued investment in capacity and expansion into new markets, with the business already seeing increased output as demand for sustainable moulded fibre and corrugate packaging continues to grow.
Order volumes are increasing across its core markets, while EPR regulations are reshaping the economics of plastic packaging. The privately owned business has been on a trajectory of sustained growth over the past decade, and the latest investment is designed to align capacity with the demand it is already experiencing, with further growth expected as new markets come online. The investment has also created new jobs at the Glasgow facility, adding to a workforce that has grown consistently alongside the business over the past decade.
At the heart of the programme is the launch of Cullen’s new Moulded Fibre Machine 8000, a proprietary production line designed and built entirely in-house by the company’s own engineering team. Brought online after six months of development, the machine ramped up rapidly following launch, reflecting both the pace of demand and the role of new capacity in supporting Cullen’s growth trajectory.
As the world’s only manufacturer combining corrugate and moulded fibre capability under one roof, Cullen occupies a unique position in the UK packaging industry. Unlike other manufacturers, which source production equipment from external suppliers, Cullen designs and builds much of its own machinery, giving the business full control over output, speed, and product specification. Machine 8000 incorporates the company’s latest belt technology, delivering improved throughput efficiency and quality. The business also operates a closed loop recycling system, processing over 8,000 tonnes of its own corrugate waste annually and feeding it directly back into moulded fibre production, embedding circularity into the manufacturing process itself.
Machine 8000 is part of a wider £2 million infrastructure upgrade programme that includes improvements to existing production lines and the installation of a new Kasemake X5 corrugate sample table, which enables Cullen’s design team to develop and deliver packaging samples to customers at greater speed.
The expansion comes as EPR regulations reshape the economics of packaging across the UK, accelerating the shift away from plastic and driving brands to seek reliable domestic alternatives at pace. Cullen is already seeing record growth in key categories including food and drink, medical, industrial, and ecommerce, and is experiencing significant early traction in markets it has recently entered. In home fragrance, where brands are actively seeking plastic-free alternatives for candles, diffusers, and related products, enquiries and order volumes have grown sharply since the category was opened. Further capacity additions are planned in the coming months in anticipation of continued demand growth.
The investment delivers a significant increase in production capacity. With current output at around 0.5 billion products annually, Cullen continues to scale production in line with growing demand, with further investment set to support a planned doubling of output. The business serves customers across 35 countries from its 14-acre Glasgow base.
“This investment is a response to real, sustained demand from our customers,” said Maureen Stevenson, Head of Marketing at Cullen Sustainable Packaging. “The new machine ramped up quickly following launch, and we are already planning the next phase of expansion. That is what growth-led investment looks like in practice, not speculation, but response.”
Cullen Sustainable Packaging is the world’s only manufacturer combining corrugate and moulded fibre packaging capability under one roof. Privately owned and based in Glasgow on its 14-acre site, the company designs and builds its own production machinery in-house and has delivered sustained growth over the past decade, serving customers across 35 countries.
For more information, visit www.cullen.co.uk.

Manchester career change company launches as millions of UK professionals rethink work

Helen Greaney
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Manchester career change company launches as millions of UK professionals rethink work

Manchester-based career change company Another Path launches as career reinvention accelerates across the UK, with more than 7 million people changing jobs in 2025 and millions more rethinking what work, success and long-term career direction looks like.

Founded by Stockport career coach and PR consultant Edwin Buckley, Another Path has been created to help people who feel stuck, burnt out, professionally misaligned or ready for a new direction. The Manchester-based company supports professionals through career change coaching, personal rebranding and strategic career repositioning, alongside a wider platform of real-life stories, practical resources and industry insights designed to make career change feel clearer and more achievable.

The launch comes at a time when career change is becoming increasingly common across the UK. More than 7 million people changed jobs in 2025, reflecting just how normal professional reinvention has become.

Research from LinkedIn shows nearly two-thirds of UK professionals have considered changing careers entirely, while wider workforce trends around burnout, work-life balance, redundancy, restructuring and changing industry demands continue to push more people to rethink long-term career direction.

Across Greater Manchester and the wider North West, where fast-moving growth sectors sit alongside major shifts in media, retail, public services, professional services and the creative economy, more professionals are facing decisions around reinvention, redundancy, progression and career repositioning.

Another Path was created in response to that wider shift, but also from Buckley’s own lived experience of navigating multiple career moves himself. His career began in television at just 16-years-old, going on to produce documentaries and entertainment programmes for the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5 and MTV.

He later moved into recruitment and talent management, before working across communications and PR roles with organisations including Natural England, Prostate Cancer UK and Causeway, eventually launching his own PR and communications agency, The Prominence Collective, before later training as a career coach.

At the heart of Another Path is the growing platform of real-life career change stories designed to open up honest conversations around professional reinvention and show that career change is both possible and often necessary.

Featured stories include former BBC executive Annette Williams, who retrained as a Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapist after redundancy at 60; James Bowater, who moved from conference production into financial planning; former headteacher Craig Fraser, who stepped away from education after long Covid and personal loss to build an award-winning candle business; Ellie Short, who transitioned from special effects make-up into disability services and student support after being forced to rethink her path due to disability; and Benjy Potter, who moved from entertainment journalism into senior communications and marketing roles.

Alongside these lived stories, the platform offers free online resources and insights covering career clarity, transferable skills, retraining versus repositioning, CVs, LinkedIn, interviews, networking, industry research, gaining relevant experience, managing risk and timing, and learning how to tell a clearer professional story.

As well as the platform content, Another Path also offers one-to-one career change coaching and personal rebranding support, helping people plan next steps, reposition their experience, and build stronger opportunities beyond their current field.

Edwin Buckley said: “I created Another Path because I know first-hand how emotionally complicated career change can be, particularly when your work has shaped not just your job, but your identity.

“Back in 2014, I remember crouching in the stairwell of the TV production company office I was working in, secretly taking my first call with a recruiter outside television and feeling like I was somehow betraying the industry just by being curious about something else. At that point, TV was all I knew. My confidence, my network and my sense of professional identity all lived there, and the idea of stepping outside it felt like losing part of myself.

“What followed was years of navigating multiple career moves, from television production into recruitment, talent management, communications, PR, entrepreneurship and career coaching. Looking back, none of those moves were really about starting again, they were about recognising the same strengths in different places and learning how to position them differently.

“The hardest part was never ability, it was clarity. Knowing whether I needed to retrain or whether I simply needed to reposition the experience I already had. Understanding what was actually transferable. Learning how to explain my value in a way that made sense outside the world I had built my career in.

“Career change is rarely just about changing jobs. It is usually about confidence, identity and giving yourself permission to think differently about what success could look like. I see so many people who are incredibly capable doubting themselves because they feel stuck between what they have done and what they think they are allowed to do next.

“Often the breakthrough is not finding a completely new answer, it is recognising the patterns that have always been there. What energises you, where you naturally perform well, what people consistently trust you for, and what kind of life you actually want your work to support.

“That is exactly why I created Another Path. I wanted to build the kind of support I wish had existed when I was figuring it out myself. Career change can feel lonely, confusing and isolating, but it can also be the beginning of something far better than what you thought you were supposed to stay in.”

To find out more about Another Path, visit www.AnotherPathHQ.com

Accounting in UAE: Tax accounting standards for Dubai businesses

Helen Greaney
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Accounting in UAE: Tax accounting standards for Dubai businesses

Dubai’s business environment has changed in the last few years. It was earlier a relatively light-touch regulatory system, and it has transformed into a structured, globally aligned financial ecosystem. It is no longer about maintaining records. It is about ensuring compliance, supporting tax strategy, and presenting a transparent financial position to regulators and stakeholders.

With the upcoming corporate tax and stricter reporting requirements, businesses in Dubai now work within a framework that functions well with the international standards with local regulatory oversight. Understanding how tax accounting aligns with UAE accounting standards is important. It’s not just about compliance, its also about long-term financial stability.

Understanding UAE accounting standards

Unlike some jurisdictions, the UAE does not rely on a separate national accounting framework. Instead, it has adopted International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as the foundation for financial reporting. In practice, this means companies must prepare their financial statements in accordance with globally accepted principles.

The UAE’s corporate tax framework has a similar requirement. Businesses must maintain accurate financial records and prepare statements under IFRS or IFRS for SMEs, depending on their size and revenue.

It ensures consistency across markets, simplifies cross-border operations, and builds investor confidence. But it also raises the bar for compliance. Financial reporting requires structure, systems, and technical knowledge.

For many companies, especially SMEs, this is where professional IFRS accounting support becomes critical. Translating IFRS principles into day-to-day accounting processes is rarely straightforward without experienced guidance.

The role of corporate tax in modern tax accounting

The introduction of corporate tax has changed how businesses approach tax accounting. Under the UAE’s framework, taxable income is derived from financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS. It makes accounting and taxation tightly interconnected.

This shift has changed priorities. Businesses can no longer treat accounting and tax as separate functions. Instead, financial reporting now directly influences tax liability.

Key implications include that taxable income begins with accounting profit, differences between IFRS treatment and tax rules must be reconciled, accurate record-keeping is essential to support tax filings and errors in financial statements can directly impact tax exposure.

The Federal Tax Authority oversees compliance. Its expectations are that financial records must be complete, consistent, and supported by documentation.

For companies unfamiliar with this level of scrutiny, working with corporate tax consultants in the UAE is often the most efficient way to adapt quickly and avoid costly missteps.

How tax accounting works in the UAE

At its core, tax accounting in the UAE is built on the principle that your accounting records form the basis of your tax position. But in practice, there are several layers in the process.

Starting point: IFRS Financial Statements

Taxable income begins with net profit reported under IFRS-compliant financial statements.

Adjustments and reconciliation

From there, businesses must apply adjustments. Certain expenses may not be deductible, while some income streams may be treated differently for tax purposes.

Documentation and record keeping

Companies are required to maintain detailed financial and tax records on an ongoing basis—not just at year-end. These records must support audits, filings, and regulatory reviews.

Filing and compliance

Corporate tax returns must be submitted in line with Federal Tax Authority requirements, backed by accurate financial statements and supporting schedules.

One important point often overlooked is that the UAE does not require separate “tax books.” Properly maintained accounting records can serve both financial reporting and tax purposes.

That said, the margin for error is small. Even minor inconsistencies can lead to audits or penalties, making professional accounting services in the UAE a practical investment.

Audit requirements and financial transparency

The corporate tax regime has also strengthened audit requirements across the UAE. Businesses exceeding certain revenue thresholds – or operating within specific categories such as qualifying free zone entities – must prepare audited financial statements.

For example, companies with annual revenues above AED 50 million are generally required to have their financial statements audited by a licensed auditor.

This emphasis on audited reporting reflects a broader shift toward transparency. Financial statements are no longer internal tools; they are regulatory documents that must stand up to external scrutiny.

For businesses, this means stronger internal controls, more structured accounting processes and greater reliance on qualified professionals.

Common challenges businesses face

Despite the clarity of the framework, implementation is not straightforward. Many Dubai-based companies encounter similar challenges when dealing with accounting in UAE:

Regulatory complexity

IFRS standards, corporate tax rules, and VAT obligations all intersect, creating a multi-layered compliance environment.

Limited internal expertise

Smaller organizations sometimes lack the in-house capabilities needed to manage advanced financial reporting and tax planning.

Ongoing regulatory changes

The UAE’s tax and compliance landscape is still changing, requiring businesses to stay updated and adaptable.

Cross-border operations

For international businesses, aligning UAE requirements with home-country regulations adds another level of complexity.

These challenges are relevant for European firms entering the UAE market, including Italian businesses navigating dual compliance frameworks.

Where MP elites adds value

This is where a firm like MP Elites becomes more than just an accounting provider. With experience supporting over 500 companies, the firm operates as a long-term advisory partner rather than a transactional service provider.

Their approach is structured around four stages. It includes a detailed review of the company’s financial and compliance position, building a tailored accounting and tax structure aligned with business goals,executing the strategy with precision and regulatory alignment and providing ongoing governance, reporting, and coordination.

Best practices for tax accounting in Dubai

To operate effectively within the current framework, businesses should adopt a proactive approach to tax accounting: invest in reliable accounting systems capable of IFRS reporting, maintaining well-organized financial records, reviewing financial statements regularly—not just at year-end and seek advice from corporate tax consultants in the UAE when needed.

These practices are not just about compliance—they help businesses make better financial decisions and reduce risk over time.

The road ahead for UAE accounting standards

The direction of travel is clear. The UAE will continue to strengthen its regulatory framework, with greater emphasis on transparency, governance, and international alignment.

For businesses, this means that accounting in the UAE will play an increasingly strategic role. Financial reporting is no longer a back-office function—it is central to how companies operate, grow, and compete.

As expectations rise, so too does the importance of getting the fundamentals right. Strong accounting systems, clear tax strategies, and reliable advisory support will define which businesses thrive in this environment.

Conclusion

Dubai’s accounting and tax landscape has entered a new phase—one defined by structure, accountability, and global integration. The combination of IFRS-based UAE accounting standards and corporate tax requirements has elevated the importance of accurate, strategic tax accounting.

For businesses, the challenge is not just meeting regulatory requirements, but using them to their advantage. Done correctly, accounting becomes more than compliance—it becomes a tool for clarity, efficiency, and growth.

Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month Marks the Start of Two New Charity Partnerships for Mobility in Motion

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Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month Marks the Start of Two New Charity Partnerships for Mobility in Motion

During Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, Mobility in Motion has announced that it has formed new partnerships with Steel Bones and Finding Your Feet, two charities that share the company’s commitment to improving the lives of people living with limb loss and limb difference throughout the UK.

The timing of the announcement reflects the company’s growing determination to make a tangible difference to the confidence, independence and day-to-day accessibility of amputees and individuals with limb difference, as well as those who are finding their way through life following limb loss.

The two new partnerships extend and complement Mobility in Motion’s established working relationship with Amputation Foundation, collectively giving shape to a wider commitment to the limb loss and limb difference community that encompasses education, advocacy, the value of lived experience and accessible, practical mobility support.

Unlike straightforward sponsorship agreements, these partnerships have been designed around something far more substantive: authentic community engagement, honest shared experience and a genuine intention to help people recover their confidence and regain the independence that matters so much in everyday life.

Rebuilding Confidence Through Mobility

Steel Bones supports amputees nationwide through peer mentoring, wellbeing programmes, social connection, and inclusive events that help individuals rebuild confidence after life-changing injury or illness.

Finding Your Feet is Scotland’s only nationwide charity supporting amputees, those born without limbs, and their families. They provide peer support, counselling, well-being services and inclusive clubs and activities that reduce isolation and support people to rebuild emotionally, mentally and physically at any stage of their journey.

For many people living with limb loss or limb difference, independent travel plays a crucial role in work, maintaining relationships, and participating fully in everyday life. Yet awareness of, and access to suitable vehicle adaptations and reliable guidance can still present significant barriers.

Through these partnerships, Mobility in Motion, Steel Bones, Finding Your Feet, and Amputation Foundation will work together to improve awareness, understanding, and access to adapted driving solutions, supporting people not only physically, but emotionally and socially.

Bruce Lauder, Head of Commercial at Mobility in Motion, said “Our work with charities within the limb loss and limb difference community has shown us just how powerful peer-led support and lived experience can be. Partnering with Steel Bones and Finding Your Feet allows us to reach even more people rebuilding their lives after limb loss.

Mobility isn’t just about vehicles, it’s about confidence, identity, freedom, and independence.”

A Community-Led Approach to Partnership

Drawing on lessons from its 2025 charity programme, Mobility in Motion has shaped these partnerships around collaboration, education, and shared storytelling.

Planned activity includes:

  • Spotlight videos highlighting lived experience
  • Co-branded infographics and educational resources
  • Joint advocacy moments around key awareness days
  • Mini masterclasses and “Ask Me Anything” sessions
  • Product development workshops and behind-the-scenes tours
  • Lunch and Learn sessions for Mobility in Motion staff to deepen understanding of the limb loss community
  • Charity-specific promotions
  • Support for fundraising and community events

By working closely with Steel Bones, Finding Your Feet, and Amputation Foundation, the company aims to ensure its services continue to reflect real-life experiences and evolving community needs.

Raising Awareness Through Real Stories

As part of Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, Mobility in Motion also partnered with entrepreneur and para-athlete, Nicole Brennan for a social media takeover earlier this month, where she shared her experiences of living with an upper limb difference and the role accessibility, confidence, and independence play in everyday life.

Through honest storytelling and day-to-day insights, Nicole’s content gave audiences a personal perspective on navigating life with limb difference, highlighting both the challenges and the importance of feeling supported, understood, and represented.

Bruce added “Working with Nicole gives us a chance to better understand the challenges she faces when driving, while also raising awareness through lived experience. Creating space for real voices and real stories is incredibly important, both for representation and for helping people feel more confident accessing the support and solutions available to them.”

Supporting the Journey from Recovery to Independence

Each year, thousands of people in the UK undergo amputations due to trauma, illness, or medical conditions. While clinical rehabilitation is essential, long-term independence often depends on access to the right practical and emotional support.
Together, these partnerships aim to make returning to driving, and to everyday life, feel achievable, supported, and empowering.

Emma Joy-Staines, CEO at Steel Bones, commented “Regaining independence after limb loss is about more than physical recovery. It’s about rebuilding confidence and reconnecting with life. Working with Mobility in Motion will help our community better understand their options and feel supported on their journey back to driving and independence.”

Cor Hutton, Founder of Finding Your Feet added, “Everything we do is about reducing isolation and making sure amputees and their families aren’t left navigating life after limb loss alone. Partnering with Mobility in Motion means we can reach even more people across Scotland and make sure they know the support and opportunities available to them.”

Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond

Mobility in Motion will continue sharing updates from its charity partnerships throughout 2026, including campaign launches, community stories, events, and educational initiatives.

Together with Steel Bones, Finding Your Feet, and Amputation Foundation, the company hopes to help create a stronger, more connected support network for people living with limb loss and limb difference, ensuring more people are aware of the mobility solutions and support available to help them live independently and confidently.

From Warrington to Nationwide: UK Mortgage Centre Launches Rebrand to Reflect Its Growing National Ambitions

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From Warrington to Nationwide: UK Mortgage Centre Launches Rebrand to Reflect Its Growing National Ambitions

UK Mortgage Centre, an independent mortgage broker, has revealed a new brand identity as its national expansion continues to gather pace, representing a significant step forward for a business that has its origins firmly rooted in Warrington.

What began as a modest operation in a small Warrington office, built around a determination to make mortgages more accessible and far less daunting for ordinary people, has developed over time into a business operating across the country.

The rebrand, accompanied by the launch of a new-look website, has been created to reflect that journey and that growth, whilst remaining grounded in the honest, people-first values that shaped the business from its earliest days.

The new identity has been conceived to give a more faithful representation of the business as it operates in the present day, one that is characterised by plain-speaking advice, a genuinely personal approach to service and a conscious effort to make the experience of navigating a major financial decision feel manageable and clear rather than confusing or intimidating.

Sam Fox, founder of UK Mortgage Centre, said: “We started UK Mortgage Centre because we believed there was a better way to guide people through the mortgage process. It can feel overwhelming, and we wanted to create something that simply speaks to people in a clear and honest way. As we’ve grown beyond Warrington, it became important that our brand reflected how we actually work today, approachable, straightforward and focused on people. What hasn’t changed is our commitment to giving honest advice and making sure clients feel confident and supported at every stage.”

For UK Mortgage Centre, the rebrand serves as a public acknowledgement of how far the business has travelled geographically and commercially since its founding, even as it holds on to the local, unpretentious spirit that distinguished it from the outset. The way in which the business works has not changed in its essentials, with independent, individually tailored advice continuing to sit at the heart of the service, supporting first-time buyers taking their initial steps onto the property ladder, existing homeowners reviewing their mortgage arrangements and those looking to purchase a new home.

Sam added: “For most people, this is one of the biggest financial decisions they’ll ever make, so it’s about more than just getting from application to offer. It’s about trust, clarity and making sure people feel looked after. If the new brand helps us communicate that more clearly as we continue to grow, then it’s done exactly what we set out to achieve.”

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage, which is secured against the property. The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate certain buy-to-let mortgage products, will writing, taxation or trust advice.

Crowd control and event security in Manchester: Ensuring a safe experience for all

Helen Greaney
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Crowd control and event security in Manchester: Ensuring a safe experience for all

Manchester has long been celebrated for its vibrant cultural scene and dynamic business environment, attracting large-scale events ranging from music festivals to sporting events and business conferences.

In this bustling urban centre, crowd management and event security are not only operational necessities but also crucial in maintaining the city’s reputation as a hub of safe and thrilling experiences. The landscape of Manchester event security is evolving rapidly, driven by increasing event sizes, heightened public expectations, and advancements in security technology.

The complexity of managing large crowds extends beyond merely securing the venue. It involves anticipating risks, ensuring rapid response to emergencies, and maintaining seamless communication between organizers and security personnel.

Organisers must consider a range of factors that impact public safety, such as traffic flow, emergency evacuation procedures, and the overall design of the event space. As Manchester continues to host high-profile events, robust security measures remain indispensable.

Challenges facing Manchester event security

Event coordinators in Manchester face a unique set of challenges in the realm of security. Beyond the logistical challenges of managing thousands of attendees, organisers must also contend with potential threats ranging from petty crime to more serious incidents.

In these scenarios, effective crowd control is a critical component in mitigating risks. The delicate balance between maintaining a welcoming atmosphere and ensuring stringent security protocols demands constant vigilance and detailed planning.

The unpredictability of crowd behaviour during large-scale events requires that event security teams are adequately trained and equipped. This involves employing specialised security guards for events who are not only prepared to manage everyday issues but also capable of responding swiftly to emergencies.

In recent years, increased experience and technological innovation have been key drivers in reshaping security practices. As a result, experienced professionals are now better able to create a safe environment that minimises disruption while enhancing the overall event experience.

Implementing professional security measures

Professional expertise is essential for managing high-stakes events where safety is paramount. The integration of seasoned personnel with advanced monitoring systems has transformed the nature of Manchester event security into a cohesive, resilient structure.

An example of such professional integration can be seen through services provided by dedicated providers, including Manchester security services that specialise in managing large-scale events and ensuring effective crowd control. These professionals bring a robust set of tools and practices aimed at deterring potential risks and ensuring rapid, coordinated responses when needed.

At the core of these measures is the deployment of trained security guards for events who are adept at monitoring crowd behaviour and managing unruly situations before they escalate. Their presence offers reassurance to attendees and maintains a controlled environment conducive to enjoying the event.

By emphasising proactive measures, such as real-time communication and the integration of surveillance technology, the overall approach shifts from reactive security to one that is anticipatory in nature. This evolution is particularly important in Manchester, where events tend to attract diverse audiences and where crowd dynamics can change rapidly.

Moreover, the implementation of advanced crowd management techniques is a testament to how the city embraces modern methods to ensure safety. Organisers are increasingly opting for systems that provide real-time data on crowd density and flows, allowing security teams to deploy resources more efficiently. This technological integration not only supports the physical presence of security personnel but also enhances decision-making processes during critical moments.

Emerging trends in crowd control and business implications

The future of crowd control in Manchester is set to be shaped by a blend of traditional security expertise and cutting-edge technology. With multi-layered security protocols, event organisers are now better positioned to tackle unexpected challenges.

For instance, innovations in biometrics and artificial intelligence are being explored as means to refine crowd analysis, potentially revolutionizing how real-time decisions are made during emergencies.

As the city continues to grow as an epicenter for international events, local businesses also stand to benefit from advancements in event security. A well-managed security system contributes not only to the safety of event-goers but also to the broader economic stability of the region. Businesses located near major venues often report improved customer confidence and better overall experiences as events are managed more effectively. This positive association reinforces Manchester’s status as a safe and forward-thinking metropolis.

Additionally, the emphasis on proactive security measures is encouraging investments in training and technology across the industry. This shift is likely to push other urban centres to adopt similar practices, ultimately raising safety standards on a national scale.

The combined efforts of event organisers, government bodies, and security companies are pivotal in transforming security dynamics across Manchester and ensuring that the city remains a leading destination for international events.

In an era where public safety concerns are at the forefront of event planning discussions, the adaptive measures implemented in Manchester serve as a benchmark for other cities. By placing an emphasis on thorough preparation, advanced monitoring, and rapid response protocols, the city not only protects its inhabitants but also supports the growth of its cultural and business sectors. As events continue to serve as key drivers of economic and social activity, maintaining a secure and welcoming atmosphere will remain central to Manchester’s development.

Ultimately, the success of large-scale events hinges on the delicate balance between creating an engaging atmosphere and ensuring the highest safety standards through effective crowd control. Manchester event security exemplifies this philosophy by continuously adapting to new challenges while drawing on years of industry expertise.

For business leaders and event organisers alike, understanding the nuances of event security is not only a matter of risk management but also a strategic component in enhancing the overall cultural landscape of the region.

How self storage supports e-commerce business growth

Helen Greaney
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How self storage supports e-commerce business growth

E-commerce growth is driving changes in how Lancashire and North West businesses manage operational capacity, stock control, and fulfilment agility.

Flexible storage solutions are making a significant difference for online retailers facing fluctuating stock levels, market pressures, and complex returns processes. Understanding the role of self storage can help businesses in the region scale efficiently while maintaining accuracy and service reliability.

Rising order volumes can quickly outgrow available storage options, forcing e-commerce businesses in Lancashire to reconsider space and workflow planning. Self Storage Units in Leeds serve as a practical example of the shift towards flexible warehousing that supports sudden surges, seasonal cycles, or new product launches, which are common challenges in the North West.

As demand increases for next-day despatch, diverse product ranges, and reliable returns management, traditional warehouse models often cannot accommodate these needs or tie up unnecessary capital. Exploring the operational value of self storage is increasingly relevant for online retailers in Lancashire who wish to improve responsiveness while controlling costs.

Why operational bottlenecks arise as business scales

As your online business in Lancashire expands, you may find fulfilment capacity becoming a constraint. Increased order numbers, wider product variation, and higher return rates often surpass the natural limits of existing retail or warehouse space, making operational bottlenecks more frequent.

Stock spikes, whether triggered by promotions, sudden demand shifts, or introduction of new SKUs, can quickly exceed on-site storage. Additionally, pressure from online marketplaces to maintain short lead times adds urgency, as even minor delays risk negative ratings or lost sales.

Holding large quantities of inventory ties up working capital, making it harder to pivot or restock bestsellers. When backroom or warehouse areas fill up, clutter can result in higher rates of mis-picks, packing errors, and slowdowns, directly impacting customer satisfaction and operational productivity.

Adaptable storage addresses these constraints by providing overflow space without the financial risks of fixed long-term property commitments. In this environment, practical scalability is essential for sustaining growth momentum for Lancashire businesses.

Benefits of flexible storage for stock management

Flexible storage allows you to separate fast-moving inventory from slower sellers, helping organise stock based on demand flow. By placing seasonal or bulky items in external units, you keep day-to-day space uncluttered and focused on high-priority despatches.

Using short-term contracts, you can adjust capacity for peak periods without locking into costly leases. This operational buffer means new product lines or unexpected sale events do not overwhelm your main facility or disrupt standard processes, which is particularly useful for growing businesses in Lancashire and the North West.

Labelling and bin location systems help maintain visibility over dispersed holdings, and regular cycle counts enable swift status checks for off-site inventory. Accurate process controls remain essential to minimise shrinkage or fulfilment errors and keep inventory records current at all times.

Simple technology integrations, such as cloud-based inventory platforms, support remote stock checks and synchronisation, reducing manual admin and ensuring updates are not missed between sites. These measures let you scale stock levels with confidence while maintaining accuracy and efficiency.

Managing returns, reverse logistics, and despatches

Returns are an unavoidable feature of e-commerce, and dedicated space in self storage units provides an effective area to handle them. By creating quarantine zones for incoming returns, you can separate items pending inspection, cleaning, or refurbishment before they re-enter active inventory.

This method protects the value of restockable items and minimises disruption to your main workflow by reducing the incidence of damaged or incorrect items blending with sellable stock. It also allows more thorough quality control while ensuring faster restocking for resale.

Self storage can also support packing and despatch operations by holding additional packaging materials, kitting parts, or even partially assembled goods. For businesses with significant delivery commitments or compliance obligations, dedicated picking and packing zones allow rapid order turnaround while keeping safety and operational standards high.

When used effectively, storage units become operational extensions for workflows that might not comfortably fit within the core facility but remain essential to delivering fast, accurate service for customers in Lancashire’s broad e-commerce sector.

Comparing cost, risk, and productivity impacts

Expanding warehouse space is usually a significant financial and logistical commitment. In contrast, flexible storage solutions offer more adaptive pricing structures, enabling you to match costs with actual usage patterns and business cycles rather than static overheads.

With shorter lease terms and modular sizing, you avoid sunk costs tied to underused premises. Transport frequency and staff time required to manage off-site inventory are balanced by the benefits of reduced clutter and improved accuracy on primary sites.

Risk and security are central to self storage. Facilities often offer controlled access, CCTV coverage, and insurance options, though it is important to review security protocols and ensure sensitive stock categories, such as electronics, cosmetics, or paper goods, are protected from temperature or humidity changes relevant to the North West climate.

Fire prevention measures, pest control routines, and clear insurance documentation reduce the risk of loss or disruption. By comparing these features with the obligations and security burdens of traditional warehousing, Lancashire businesses can make informed decisions that align with their growth trajectory and operational needs.

Planning for sustainable, trouble-free business growth

The best self storage strategies start with clear assessments of how much extra space is truly needed and for how long. Auditing product movement patterns, promotional schedules, and return rates helps avoid overcommitting to property or underestimating real requirements, which is critical for North West businesses operating in highly competitive marketplaces.

Process reliability matters: Consistent labelling, documented handling protocols, and trained staff support repeatable operations across both core and auxiliary sites. This minimises errors, safeguards inventory, and helps maintain business continuity as you scale.

Practical application varies: A one-person start-up might use off-site storage for bulk stock, while an established operation can add capacity for a new product launch or ramp up space before a peak season. Each scenario demonstrates that with the right controls, self storage can underpin sustainable growth by delivering the flexibility lacking in many static warehouse models.

By combining careful planning and robust process design with practical storage choices, Lancashire e-commerce businesses can set themselves up for scalable growth without major operational disruption.

SharePoint Training for Businesses: What Works and Why Role-Based Learning Makes the Difference

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SharePoint Training for Businesses: What Works and Why Role-Based Learning Makes the Difference

Good SharePoint training is practical and relevant to the roles of the people receiving it. It builds confidence in using the platform as part of everyday work, rather than teaching features in isolation from the tasks users actually need to complete.

The most effective training is not a technical overview delivered to a general audience. It targets what is genuinely useful. Demonstrating how SharePoint supports the real tasks a person handles on a daily basis will always land better than a walkthrough of platform features that may never apply to their role. When the best SharePoint training mirrors people’s actual work, adoption naturally improves, and digital workplace projects are so much more likely to succeed.

A growing number of organisations now include Microsoft SharePoint in their digital workplace plans. Making that investment pay off is a different matter. Consistent use is not guaranteed simply because the technology is available. Users who are not sure what SharePoint is for, or how it makes their work easier, are unlikely to engage with it in any meaningful way.

The evidence from across the industry is consistent. SharePoint training that replaces generic product demonstrations with role-specific, practical content gets better results. When training addresses the real responsibilities and daily routines of the people in the room, engagement increases. Positioning SharePoint as a single solution that works the same way for every user, regardless of role, rarely achieves the adoption organisations are looking for.

So, what do the best SharePoint training programmes have in common?
  • Clear relevance: They link SharePoint features directly to the tasks people do every day.
  • Hands-on learning: Sessions use familiar content and real business examples, so it all feels meaningful.
  • Progressive delivery: Instead of just one-off sessions, training is spread out, allowing people to build their skills over time.
  • User confidence as a goal: The aim isn’t just to show off features. It’s about making sure users feel comfortable and capable.
When organisations take this approach, they often notice better collaboration, less dependence on email and shared drives, and more consistent information management across teams. Take Adepteq, for example. They’re a Microsoft Solutions Partner based in the UK. They work closely with organisations to support structured SharePoint adoption and help users get the most out of the platform. By focusing on real-life usage, they turn SharePoint from just another tool into something staff genuinely rely on every day. As Phil Cave, Adepteq’s Digital Transformation Director, puts it: “Training works best when users understand how SharePoint helps them do their job better, not when they’re simply shown what the platform can do. That shift in focus makes a measurable difference to adoption and long-term value.” With digital workplace platforms constantly evolving, the organisations that treat training as an ongoing journey are the ones who truly unlock the full benefits of their Microsoft 365 investment. About Adepteq Adepteq is a UK‑based Microsoft Solutions Partner specialising in SharePoint, Microsoft 365, and digital workplace enablement with a strong presence in London and the Southeast, Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, Manchester, Plymouth, and Portsmouth. With over 1,000 successful migrations, Adepteq supports organisations with strategy, implementation, and user adoption to help technology deliver meaningful business outcomes.

Signature Clinic Bolsters National Leadership Team With Trio of Strategic Appointments

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Signature Clinic Bolsters National Leadership Team With Trio of Strategic Appointments

Signature Clinic, widely recognised as one of the UK’s most significant cosmetic surgery providers, has confirmed three new additions to its senior leadership team as it continues to build out its national clinic network and reinforce the expertise driving its clinical, operational and commercial performance.

The newly appointed individuals are Mr Mabroor Bhatty, stepping into the role of Clinical Director; Tracey McAleney, taking up the position of Chief Operating Officer; and Sarah Hill, joining as Head of Sales.

Collectively, these appointments speak to Signature Clinic’s clear and continuing commitment to exceptional patient care, the highest standards of clinical practice, and the development of a business infrastructure capable of supporting growth across its established network of clinics in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Cardiff, London and Dublin.

Dr Sayani Sainudeen, Founder, Signature Clinic said: “These appointments mark an exciting milestone for Signature Clinic as we continue to scale our business across the UK and Ireland. Mr Bhatty’s clinical expertise and commitment to excellence strengthen our medical leadership, while Tracey brings the operational rigour required to support sustainable growth. Sarah’s appointment further enhances our commercial capability, ensuring we continue to deliver strong patient acquisition strategies and outstanding patient experiences. Together, this leadership team positions us strongly for the next phase of growth.”

Mr Mabroor Bhatty has been named Clinical Director, bringing to the role a career of several decades dedicated to advancing the practice of plastic and cosmetic surgery. He qualified in medicine at Karachi University and subsequently pursued postgraduate training in plastic surgery in the UK, receiving his FRCS from the Royal College of Surgeons in 1992. His surgical training was conducted in leading NHS hospitals within programmes overseen by the Royal College of Surgeons and the British Association of Plastic Surgeons, before he transitioned into a full-time consultant role. Since 2010 his practice has been exclusively cosmetic, with recognised expertise in facial surgery and the complex demands of body contouring in patients who have lost significant amounts of weight. He contributes regularly to the global medical community through lectures and published research, and he continues to undertake visiting plastic surgery roles overseas in support of reconstructive procedures for patients in underprivileged areas.

Tracey McAleney joins as Chief Operating Officer, backed by extensive experience in senior leadership positions within private healthcare, aesthetic medicine and large-scale retail organisations. Her focus in the new role will span operational strategy, performance optimisation and the practical management of growth across a multi-site clinic network, with attention given equally to the quality of patient experience, the efficiency of operations and the maintenance of governance and compliance standards appropriate to a growing healthcare business.

Sarah Hill has taken on the position of Head of Sales, drawing on more than 15 years of experience in private healthcare, refractive surgery and commercial leadership across multi-site organisations. Her responsibilities will cover the development and delivery of national sales strategy, the performance of patient acquisition operations and the commercial trajectory of the clinic network. She will concentrate on building sales teams capable of performing at the highest level, putting in place patient acquisition frameworks that support the business as it scales and sustaining revenue growth within a regulated healthcare context. Her career is defined by a consistent pattern of leading substantial teams, designing and implementing performance frameworks and ensuring that sales, marketing, operational and patient services functions are genuinely aligned in pursuit of shared commercial goals.

Signature Clinic’s range of treatments continues to cover a comprehensive array of both surgical and non-surgical procedures, including facelifts, blepharoplasty, gynaecomastia surgery, VASER liposuction, labiaplasty, anti-wrinkle injections, lip fillers, dermal enhancements and a full suite of advanced skin treatments.

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