Business Manchester

Stability and Resilience: Investing in London Real Estate

Property

News Desk

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17/05/2024

Stability and Resilience: Investing in London Real Estate

London’s real estate market is known for its remarkable stability. As a global financial centre, it consistently attracts high demand for property, ensuring steady values. During economic downturns, London properties tend to retain their value better than those in other cities. For instance, despite the global financial crisis in 2008, London property prices rebounded quickly, reflecting the market’s resilience.

Another factor contributing to market stability is the diverse buyer base. London attracts local residents, expatriates, and international investors, creating a consistent demand regardless of economic conditions. Additionally, the UK government supports the housing market through initiatives such as stamp duty relief and help-to-buy schemes, which stimulate investment and provide additional security for buyers.

Capital Appreciation

Investing in London property offers substantial potential for capital appreciation. The city’s limited land availability, combined with high demand, creates a competitive market where property values generally rise over time. Historical data shows that properties in prime locations, such as Kensington and Chelsea, have appreciated significantly over the years.

Regeneration projects across the city also contribute to property value appreciation. Areas like King’s Cross and Battersea Power Station have undergone extensive redevelopment, attracting significant investment and improving local infrastructure. These enhancements increase the desirability of the surrounding areas, driving up property prices.

The demand for rental properties in London remains high, further supporting property values. As a global business and cultural hub, London attracts a steady stream of tenants, including young professionals and expatriates. This strong rental market not only generates income but also maintains property demand.

Diverse Investment Opportunities

London offers a wide range of investment opportunities to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxury apartments in the city centre to more affordable properties in emerging areas, there is something for every investor. New developments, such as those in Nine Elms and Greenwich Peninsula, provide modern amenities and high-quality living spaces, attracting buyers looking for contemporary residences.

Historic properties also present unique investment opportunities. Victorian and Georgian homes in neighbourhoods like Hampstead and Notting Hill offer architectural charm and potential for restoration, which can further enhance their value. Buy-to-let investments are particularly popular, with areas near universities and business districts offering high rental yields and the potential for long-term tenants.

Strong Rental Market

London’s rental market is robust, offering investors consistent rental income. The city’s status as a global business and cultural centre attracts a diverse range of tenants, from young professionals to international students. High demand for rental properties ensures that investors can achieve good rental yields. For example, areas like Camden and Southwark are popular among renters, providing stable and attractive returns.

In addition to regular rent reviews, investing in properties in regeneration areas can enhance rental income. Upgraded infrastructure and new amenities in these areas attract tenants willing to pay higher rents, maximising returns on investment. For instance, the regeneration of Tottenham Hale has significantly improved the area’s appeal, making it a lucrative option for buy-to-let investors.

Government Support and Favourable Policies

The UK government has implemented several policies to support the real estate market, making it more attractive for investors. Stamp duty reliefs and help-to-buy schemes are designed to stimulate property transactions and make home ownership more accessible. These initiatives help maintain a healthy market and provide additional security for investors.

Moreover, the legal and regulatory framework in the UK is investor-friendly, offering protections that ensure a transparent and secure investment environment. For international investors, there are clear guidelines and support systems in place to facilitate property purchases, including legal assistance and financing options.

Regional Comparison: East London

East London is one of the most affordable regions in the city, making it an ideal entry point for new investors. The average property price is significantly lower than in other parts of London, allowing investors to buy multiple properties within the same budget.

East London offers some of the highest rental yields in the city. With average yields ranging from 5.46% to 5.6%, investors can expect substantial returns on their investments. This high rental yield is driven by strong demand from young professionals and families looking for affordable housing within commuting distance to central London.

Significant regeneration projects in areas like Stratford, home to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, have transformed East London, attracting new businesses and residents. These developments enhance the appeal of the area and drive property value appreciation over time.

South West London

South West London includes some of the most prestigious neighbourhoods in the city. Properties in areas like Richmond and Chelsea command high prices, reflecting their status and desirability. These areas attract wealthy buyers looking for luxury homes and high-quality living environments. The best performing new builds in South West London. The price at the start of construction is often more favourable than in an already built flat.

The presence of top-rated schools in South West London makes it particularly attractive to families. Good education options contribute to the area’s desirability and help maintain strong property values. Investors can benefit from a stable market driven by consistent demand from families seeking proximity to quality schools.

South-West London offers excellent transport links to central London and beyond. Well-connected by train and tube services, residents enjoy easy access to the city, enhancing the appeal of the area for commuters. This connectivity supports strong rental demand and ensures good rental yields for investors.

These are some of the most promising places to live in the United Kingdom. And also places with a high return on investment. To tell everything about London and the intricacies of the property market in one article is impossible. We hope that this information will help you to understand the prospects for investment in the UK.

Modern Approaches to Sustainable Building in the UK

Property

News Desk

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17/05/2024

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Modern Approaches to Sustainable Building in the UK

To develop more sustainable living, the construction sector in the UK continues to improve with more eco-friendly materials and building methodologies. This paper discusses the modern sustainable building techniques that define the UK home in pursuit of efficiency, sustainability, and a reduced carbon footprint.

The Critical Role of Home Retrofitting

One of the most exciting trends in developing sustainable homes is the return to traditional building methodologies and the incorporation of modern technology. To demonstrate this collaboration, the Tywi Centre recently announced the Sustainable and Traditional Buildings Fair, aiming to showcase traditional timber framing, lime plastering, and straw bale building capabilities. These methods employ natural materials and less environmentally harmful construction practices, making them popular as more homeowners and developers strive to be greener.

Another significant aspect regarding UK homes focuses on the renovation or retrofitting of existing homes. Considering that a large percentage of homes in the UK are old and not energy efficient, there is an emphasis on utilising less carbon and monoculture. In relation to the UKGBC guidelines, various initiatives promote installing insulation, energy-efficient windows, and specifications, and advanced heating systems that improve thermal conditions.

AI and digital technologies are impacting how homes are created, developed, and function. Upon their application, the role of AI can include optimising and improving construction processes, enhancing construction speed, and increasing the efficiency of resource utilisation. By using digital technology, organisations can plan optimally and identify various problems before they occur, ensuring sustainable as well as commercially viable buildings.

According to a Deloitte report, 2024 engineering construction industry outlook, sustainability practices in the future will be essential for keeping pace with economic developments. The report suggests that as sustainability and consumption patterns continue to shift, the industry will involve more sustainable materials like recycled steel and crushed glass concrete, which produce less carbon and offer substantial benefits in the long term.

Why People Buy New Upgraded Flats in New Buildings

The trend of purchasing new, upgraded flats in newly built structures is growing around the country. One reason for this is the modern amenities. While older houses may require a significant investment to make them sufficiently modern and comfortable to live in, new builds for sale are full of the latest technological comforts.

For example, they are equipped with energy-efficient systems that reduce costs while being better for the environment. These can include state-of-the-art appliances and home automation systems that make it easier and more convenient for people to live in their homes. Moreover, for this new build type of house, it is common to choose finishing touches and fixtures that suit various needs, tastes, and personalities.

Developer Incentives and Guarantees

Another aspect of buying new is a “blank canvas”. Developers often offer a range of incentives to attract buyers. This may include contributing to closing costs, paying stamp duty on the buyer’s behalf, or even including furniture packages, which can be a serious advantage for those striving to minimise initial expenses.

Moreover, new builds come with warranties and guarantees: a 10-year NHBC warranty, for example, covers all structural defects. This is a great advantage since many pre-owned houses are very old, and their new owners may encounter hidden costs. According to buyer testimonials, new owners particularly enjoy the opportunity to personalise their homes.

Where to Find the Most New Builds in London

In London’s bustling real estate market, certain areas have become hotspots for new developments, with several boroughs seeing a significant uptick in the construction of new homes.

Recent statistics indicate that boroughs like Newham and Greenwich are leading in terms of new housing construction starts. Newham, in particular, has been a focal point for developers, with a substantial number of new residential projects completed in the past year. Greenwich follows closely, reflecting a broader trend that sees East and South East London as prime areas for new developments. These boroughs attract a mix of first-time buyers and seasoned investors, drawn by the promise of new, modern housing options and the potential for property value appreciation.

For wealthy investors, the choice should be closer to the centre, in zones 1-2. Neighbourhoods that are good options for investment:

Lambeth
Greenwich
Belgravia
Southwark

And in some of them, such as Belgravia, you’ll find many celebrities as your neighbours.

Deptford, Lewisham, and Kennington are more budget-friendly and equally popular. They are more suitable for a relaxed family life with good infrastructure, proximity to parks, and no crowds of tourists. Kennington does not quite fit the definition of budget, but there you can find inexpensive new builds, which over time only grow in value.

These are just a handful of London’s world-famous neighbourhoods. You’ve probably heard of them before. Having a residence in one of these places is very prestigious. The new builds in the South East have a high potential for an annual increase in value, as practice shows. Otherwise, London would not be the most popular place to invest.

A Comprehensive Guide to Buying a Flat in London

Property

News Desk

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17/05/2024

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A Comprehensive Guide to Buying a Flat in London

Navigating the property market can seem like quite a labyrinth, especially if you’re trying to buy a flat in London. London is a big and diverse city – think of its rich history, different areas with their special vibes, and constantly changing market conditions. Whether you’ve been around for a while or just started looking, this guide will be handy for you. Every area in London has a story behind it and prices may vary a lot within a few bus stops: that’s why it’s important to know where to look for your match.

How to Find the Perfect Home

Before delving deeper into the dynamic market, it is necessary to determine your requirements and financial prospects. What do you need?

Your budget
Desired house size
Proximity to schools
City centre proximity

When you are certain about what you want in this investment, it is easier to find a property in London that meets all your needs.

London is an amalgamation of unique neighbourhoods, and each area contributes to the city’s convenience and attractiveness. Some of them, such as Camden, are vibrant and lively, while others, like Greenwich, offer quiet and historical streets where time seems to have stood still. Your choice will be influenced not only by cultural and social surroundings but also by the property’s value.

Understanding local trends and developments is crucial, especially development plans, as they may devalue your property rather than increase its value. In times of disruption and altered sales, that knowledge may shape your future home’s worth, and you do not want to miss it.

Assess Development and Investment Potential

Enjoy virtual tours, pay attention to professional photography that provides detailed views of the house from inside and outside, and compare it with an explicit map. However, it is of greater importance to get professional aid from an industry insider to help you discover the opportunities and challenges. An experienced London-based realtor will help you understand the market from an insider’s perspective, provide you with data and professional advice, and help you navigate through the sea of thousands of UK property laws that cover the deals.

Lastly, even more important for those looking to buy in new developments, is understanding fully the scope and scale of the ongoing and future projects. The skyline of London is in a continuous state of change, with new build projects offering new and innovative amenities and energy-efficient designs daily. Including the reputation of the developer and the future appreciation value of the project in your considerations ensures you invest not just in a property but in a property with growth and sustainability prospects.

Make sure you make an informed decision beyond the price tag. Think about the long-term and what this decision means. Does the area have good schools? How is the commute via public transportation? What lifestyle are you supporting by choosing that region? There are many neighbourhoods in London. The centre, east and west are more suitable for investment. The north-west and south-east are more suitable for living.

Best Places to Live in North West London

Overall, property developments experienced in North West London are varied and provide diverse incentives for potential buyers. The area is known for its diversity, excellent transport, and lively neighbourhoods. Therefore, whether you are considering purchasing your first home or an investment opportunity, understanding the local specifics will help you make an educated decision.

Connectivity: The Key to the Best Places to Live in North-West London

Camden and Brent present an extensive connectivity system, including several underground and overground stations and lines. Such properties are not only convenient for a buyer but also provide substantial value for residents.

Cultural Hubs and Green Spaces

North West London also has a significant educational and cultural aspect to offer to residents. For example, Hampstead and Kilburn are attractive for dwelling due to good schools and rich cultural sites, such as the Hampstead Theatre and the Tricycle Theatre. This is an important consideration for those who plan to live here because the availability of high-quality schools and a variety of cultural options can influence the decision. On the other hand, these property benefits also result in higher prices, which is an advantage for owners.

Another aspect that differentiates North West London is vast green spaces, such as Hampstead Heath or Regent’s Park. Such places are actively promoted in many property listings, and many properties are developed within walking distance of such areas. Thus, living in North West London allows quick access to such places which also affects housing choices.

Investment Opportunities

To sum up, to properly invest or buy property in North West London, it is vital to understand the landscape of the property development sphere. There are a variety of projects constantly being developed, and the map of planned and existing projects can give an idea of which areas are most likely to grow in the coming months and years. Potential investors can compare this map with their financial and lifestyle goals and decide where and when to invest.

Furthermore, the real estate market is quite dynamic and depends on supply and demand, so as a future buyer, it is important to know the latest data on market performance. This will help you negotiate the price for a Victorian house in Hampstead or a modern apartment in Brent alike and ensure that you are getting the most out of the deal.

Further searches made as police continue Stuart Everett murder investigation

News

Helen Greaney

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17/05/2024

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Further searches made as police continue Stuart Everett murder investigation

Police are searching more locations in North Manchester and Salford as they look for more evidence as part of Stuart Everett’s murder investigation.

They began a major investigation after a torso wrapped in plastic was found in a wooded area at Kersal Dale in Salford on April 4.

Two men have been charged with murder and the victim was identified as 67-year-old Stuart Everett.

Searches

Officers are now searching Boggart Hole Clough in North Manchester along with land near to Walkden Train station over the coming days.

Land near to Patricroft Railway station will be searched by British Transport Police officers.

These searches are as a result of in-depth CCTV and phone data enquiries that detectives have located during the investigation.

Members of the public can expect to see officers from the Tactical Aid Unit, Crime Scene Investigators, underwater search divers and also canine units as police search these areas.

“Exceptional” detective work

Detective superintendent Lewis Hughes said: “The scenes that we will be searching over the coming days have come to our attention through some exceptional detective work conducted by the investigation team.

“We know there will be some disruption to the local community as a result of searching other locations, but it is so important that we do this, we need to be able to provide Stuart’s family with the information they need to process this news.

“Our investigation is ongoing, we still have a lot of work to do and I hope the public can see the dedication and compassion that continues to be shown across the force by officers and staff who are either keeping the scene secure, searching for evidence or investigating this behind the scenes – we all have our part to play in getting justice for Stuart’s family and every search we conduct is one step closer to finding answers for them.”

Kellogg’s factory due to close, with 360 job losses

Business

Helen Greaney

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17/05/2024

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Kellogg’s factory due to close, with 360 job losses

Kellogg’s is set to close its 90-year-old factory, with the loss of around 360 jobs.

The announcement was made by Kellanova, which runs the company, following three months of talks with union and staff representatives.

Negotiations ended in a formal agreement with enhanced redundancy packages for staff at the Trafford Park plant and redeployment where possible.

When a ‘potential’ closure was cited by Kellanova back in February, its age and redundant space were mentioned as reasons.

Chris Silcock, UK managing director, said the closure was “nothing to do with the outstanding people” who work there but said there wasn’t a long-term future for the site.

He added that only half the space in the buildings are used and the investment require to maintain the factory was not viable.

“We understand confirmation of something significant like a closure is never easy to hear and we will try to make it as smooth as possible. This means we will work with partners on things like outplacement support for our employees and, for the community, we will start to explore the long-term future of the site,” Mr Silcock added.

Usdaw represents production workers at the plant.

Mick Murray, Usdaw area organiser said: “This is devastating news for the staff to hear that the Kellogg’s manufacturing site in Manchester’s Trafford Park is being closed. This iconic site opened in 1938 and was the first manufacturing base for Kellogg’s in Britain.

“Usdaw has engaged in meaningful consultation talks with the company. Regrettably it became clear that the site is not fit for purpose and unable to accommodate modern manufacturing processes.

“Through the consultation talks we have secured an enhanced redundancy package for those leaving the business. We are providing our members with the support, advice and representation at this difficult time through the individual consultations, where we will be seeking redeployment and retraining opportunities.”

Almost one million boxes of the nation’s favourite cereals including Rice Krispies and Coco Pops are made at the Trafford plant every day.

The Kellogg’s plant is to close by the end of 2026.

Pic credit: Marmalade Photos

Outdoor arts festival is back in Oldham

Events

Helen Greaney

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17/05/2024

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Oldham town centre’s annual outdoor arts festival is set to return.

Festival Oldham, the exciting annual event, will showcase the very best local, regional and national outdoor arts, street theatre, music, dance and visual arts – this year celebrating the 175 anniversary of Oldham.

The event takes place from noon- 4pm on Saturday, June 1.

Visitors will have a choice of more than 50 performances and activities from the likes of The Album: Skool Edition, Bob the Butterfly & Gerry the Gerbera, Cloud Travellers and the musical bar with Serving Sounds.

They’ll be able to take a light-hearted look around Oldham with Cultural Comedy tours and join in on activities from Oldham Play Action Group and much more!

Plus, it’s free so a good option for the kids this half term.

This year, is the addition of Oldham’s Local Music stage, situated at the Old Town Hall which will see live performances throughout the day from the likes of Mercy Kelly, Millie Milner & the Deadnames, Global Grooves, and Heavy Salad.

The fun continues at Gallery Oldham with Fabric Feathers, a giant owl installation in the Gallery Garden’s where people can give live artist Hammo a hand with a 175-celebration mural.

Mayor of Oldham, Zahid Chauhan, said: “It’s great to have Festival Oldham back and this year it’s even more special, as we gear up to celebrate the 175 anniversary of Oldham becoming a borough.

“I encourage you to bring your families and friends into the town centre to watch and take part in high-quality cultural experiences in a fun and safe environment – and it’s all free.

“There is a great line up of performances that will provide a lively programme of family friendly entertainment and activities designed to bring our community together and celebrate being part of the borough.”

Pic credit: Henry Curtis

Transforming Daily Dietary Habits, Henien Utilises Autoclave Technology to Extend Shelf-Life

Lifestyle and Wellbeing

News Desk

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17/05/2024

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Transforming Daily Dietary Habits, Henien Utilises Autoclave Technology to Extend Shelf-Life

Henien, a brand committed to promoting health and well-being, emphasises the critical importance of healthy eating habits amidst alarming data on the risks posed by processed foods to human life and the planet.

In a world grappling with the consequences of overly-processed foods, the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) insights shed light on a pressing reality: unhealthy dietary choices pose a significant threat to both human life and the planet. Henien, a brand dedicated to fostering health and well-being, confronts this challenge head-on by championing natural, additive-free foods that promote longevity and vitality. The company, which utilises autoclave technology to extend shelf-life, plans to expand into new markets, with a particular focus on several European nations.

Halil Üsame Kullemci, General Manager of Henien, underscores the gravity of the situation: “The data produced by the World Economic Forum serves as a wake-up call for individuals and nations alike. At Henien, we are committed to offering consumers products that prioritize health, taste, and sustainability. Our goal is to empower individuals to make informed dietary choices that benefit both themselves and the planet.”

Innovative approach to food production

At the heart of Henien’s mission is its innovative approach to food production. Halil Üsame Kullemci elaborates, “We utilize high pressure autoclave technologies to prepare our products, ensuring optimal taste, quality, and convenience. Our offerings, ranging from soups to main courses, are designed to be shelf-stable for extended periods without the need for preservatives, making them ideal for various situations, including emergencies and outdoor adventures.”

Henien’s commitment to promoting health extends beyond its product line. Through its initiative, Henien Aid, the brand seeks to address food insecurity by providing nutritious meals to those in need.

Halil Üsame Kullemci explains, “Through Henien Aid, we deliver healthy food to vulnerable communities, offering them sustenance and hope. Our recent efforts during Ramadan alone saw us distributing over 9,500 parcels and 684,000 containers of food to 228,000 people across 75 cities in Türkiye.”

Nearly one million meals distributed in 2023

WEF’s research underscores the imperative need for a paradigm shift in global dietary patterns. Henien’s holistic approach to food production and distribution represents a way forward in this regard, offering a sustainable model for promoting health and well-being on a global scale.

In addition to its annual Ramadan drive, Henien has been consistently working towards expanding its reach and impact. Since its establishment in 2023, Henien has distributed a total of 320,000 meals and 960,000 containers of food, reflecting its commitment to addressing food insecurity and promoting healthy eating habits.

Kullemci adds, “Looking ahead, we are excited to announce our plans to expand into new markets. We are gearing up to launch in various marketplaces, with a particular focus on countries such as Indonesia and several European nations. By broadening our presence, we aim to make our nutritious products more accessible to communities worldwide.”

US PGA Championship: Brilliant Schauffele sets early pace with record-equalling 62

Other Sports

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16/05/2024

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US PGA Championship: Brilliant Schauffele sets early pace with record-equalling 62

Xander Schauffele equalled the lowest score in a men’s major with a stunning first-round 62 at the US PGA Championship at Valhalla today.

Having started on the 10th, the American enjoyed birdies at 11, 13, 15, 16 and 18 to turn in 31 before picking up shots at two, four, five and seven to end the first day on nine-under par.

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Having succumbed to Rory McIlroy’s brilliance to finish second at the Wells Fargo Championship last week, it was a remarkable round from Schauffele, who took full advantage of benign early morning conditions in Kentucky.

His 62 equalled the lowest major score set by Branden Grace at the 2017 US Open and matched by Rickie Fowler and Schauffele himself at last year’s US Open.

6️⃣2️⃣

A round for the record books.

Xander Schauffele just matched the Men’s Major Championship record.#PGACHAMP PIC.TWITTER.COM/QLVCTMBSDC

— PGA Championship (@PGAChampionship) MAY 16, 2024

He said: “It feels great. It’s just day one but if someone had said I was going to shoot nine under I would certainly have taken it.

“I’ve been playing some really good golf, having a lot of close calls, so me and my team say why not keep chugging along?

“I’m very happy with the way I played but I can’t really think much more about it, just got to go and tee it up again tomorrow.”

Schauffele holds the early lead from fellow Americans Tony Finau and Sahith Theegala, who shot 65s to sit at six under.

McIlroy started well with a 66 and shares fourth place with Scot Robert MacIntyre.

Tiger Woods opened with a one-over par 72.

Dave Antrobus on the Latest Announcements Unveiling ChatGPT’s Newest Features

Technology

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16/05/2024

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OpenAI continues to amaze us within the artificial intelligence landscape with its cutting-edge developments. The latest announcements have been particularly exciting, showcasing new features for ChatGPT, OpenAI’s flagship language model.

These advancements promise to further enhance the capabilities of ChatGPT, making it an even more powerful tool for a variety of applications. We’re diving into these recent updates, including the introduction of GPT-4o, with insights from Inc & Co’s Chief Technology Officer, Dave Antrobus.

Introducing GPT-4o

OpenAI’s newest flagship model, GPT-4o, brings GPT-4-level intelligence with significantly improved speed and capabilities across text, voice, and vision. GPT-4o excels in understanding and discussing images, making it a crucial tool for tasks such as translating foreign menus and providing insights about the depicted food’s history and significance.

Dave Antrobus highlights, “GPT-4o represents a substantial leap forward. Its ability to handle multimodal inputs, especially images, and provide detailed contextual responses is remarkable. This model is not just faster but also more versatile, paving the way for even more sophisticated applications.”

Enhanced Context Understanding

One of the most significant updates to ChatGPT is its enhanced context understanding. The model can now maintain more coherent and contextually relevant conversations over extended interactions. This improvement is crucial for applications requiring long-term engagement, such as virtual assistants and customer support bots.

Improved Multilingual Support

OpenAI has also expanded ChatGPT’s multilingual capabilities. The model now supports a wider range of languages with improved accuracy and fluency. This enhancement opens up new possibilities for global businesses, allowing them to interact with customers and clients in their native languages seamlessly.

“Breaking down language barriers is one of the most impactful applications of AI,” says Dave Antrobus. “The improved multilingual support in ChatGPT is a step towards more inclusive and accessible technology. As part of Inc & Co, one of our goals has been to expand into more territories, and so we can certainly see the benefits of having this tool to hand.”

Customisation Features

Another addition is the introduction of customisation features. Users can now tailor ChatGPT’s responses to better align with specific tones, styles, or industry jargon. This level of customisation ensures that ChatGPT can be more effectively integrated into various business contexts, providing a personalised user experience.

Dave Antrobus comments, “Customisation is key to making AI truly useful across different sectors. With these new features, businesses can fine-tune ChatGPT to meet their unique needs, enhancing its practical value.”

Enhanced Security and Privacy

With increasing concerns around data security, OpenAI has prioritised enhancing the security and privacy features of ChatGPT. The latest updates include more robust data encryption and improved compliance with data protection regulations. These measures ensure that user data is handled safely and responsibly, fostering greater trust in AI technologies.

Integration with Other AI Tools

The latest announcements also highlight improved integration capabilities with other AI tools and platforms. This interoperability allows ChatGPT to work seamlessly with various software solutions, enhancing its utility across different technological ecosystems.

Interoperability is crucial for maximising the potential of AI. By enabling ChatGPT to integrate smoothly with other tools, OpenAI is ensuring that users can leverage a more comprehensive suite of AI capabilities.

Bringing More Intelligence and Advanced Tools for Free

OpenAI is dedicated to making advanced AI tools available to as many people as possible. With the rollout of GPT-4o, ChatGPT Free users will now have access to features such as GPT-4 level intelligence, responses from both the model and the web, data analysis and chart creation, photo-based chats, file uploads for assistance with summarising and writing, and the ability to discover and use GPTs and the GPT Store.

Dave Antrobus remarks, “Our mission to democratise AI technology is evident in this rollout. By providing advanced features to free users, OpenAI is ensuring that the benefits of AI are accessible to a broader audience.”

Future Prospects

The future for ChatGPT and OpenAI looks promising. The ongoing enhancements reflect a commitment to pushing the boundaries of AI technology while addressing practical user needs. As OpenAI continues to innovate, we can expect even more groundbreaking features and applications in the coming years.

We’re now seein that the advancements in ChatGPT are not just technological achievements, but a step towards more intuitive and human-like AI interactions, benefiting a wide array of applications.

Additional £6m fund made available to support Manchester’s most vulnerable

Community

Helen Greaney

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16/05/2024

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Additional £6m fund made available to support Manchester’s most vulnerable

An additional £6 million is being made available to support vulnerable residents and families in Manchester.

Through this latest round of the government-funded Household Support Fund (HSF) – £6.453m in total – Manchester City Council will continue to provide aid for those most at risk.

Support offered as part of this round will include:

£3m for the continuation of free school meals (FSM) for families, covering an estimated 44,000 children via a £15 weekly payment during the summer half term and a £55 payment during the summer holiday.
Nearly £100,000 for the Holiday Activity Fund which provides free activities and days out for children during the summer half term.
Direct financial support for at-risk groups including households in receipt of Council Tax Support and care leavers.
Additional funding will also be directed to third party agencies which offer support and advice on a range of issues, as well as the council’s Food Response delivered in partnership with over 40 food organisations.

In addition, the council has continued to operate its Cost-of-Living advice line, a dedicated phone and online service for people who are struggling with a range of issues – from paying energy bills, to debt, to food poverty.

Councillor Joanna Midgley, deputy leader of Manchester City Council said: “The ongoing cost-of-living crisis has been an incredibly difficult experience for thousands of people living in Manchester.

“It has deepened already existing inequalities which is why as an organisation we are committed to doing everything in our power to prevent people from slipping into poverty, and alleviating its worst effects for people living on its edge.

“Through the HSF we are providing immediate and tangible support for people at risk. I would urge anyone who is struggling to contact the Council as soon as they can as the sooner we can intervene, the sooner we can bring people back from the brink.”