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Simple ways to reduce risks at work

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Simple ways to reduce risks at work

Workplace safety isn’t just about hard hats and warning signs. Awareness is also crucial.

Small, everyday actions can prevent the kinds of accidents that disrupt lives and businesses.

Whether you’re climbing ladders, handling complex machinery, or working at a desk,
knowing how to reduce risks will keep you confident, productive, and focused on your actual work.

Here are some practical tips on how to proactively prevent risks before they escalate,
and the best part is that you can apply them right away.

Know your work environment

Every workplace has its own quirks. A warehouse or hospital might have uneven flooring,
while an office that seems safer than an industrial environment might have numerous cables that people could trip over.

Taking time to familiarise yourself with your environment helps you anticipate risks before they cause harm. Doing a quick ‘hazard scan’ at the start of the day (like checking for wet floors, unsecured ladders, or any blocked exits) can make all the difference to your personal safety.

Know which legal support is available after an accident

However, even with the best precautions, accidents still happen. It’s important to know what support is available ahead of time. If you or a colleague suffers a fall or serious incident, being aware of the option to pursue fall from height claims ensures you can seek help quickly.

Knowing your rights isn’t just about compensation; it’s about making sure proper safety standards are enforced for everyone.

Use equipment correctly

From step ladders to forklifts, workplace equipment is designed with safety in mind, but only if you use it properly and for its intended purpose. Rushing through jobs, skipping clearly labelled instructions, or ignoring provided safety features often leads to preventable
accidents.

Think of safety protocols as part of the toolkit, just as essential as the equipment itself.

Protective gear is your first line of defence

Don’t think of protective clothing, safety harnesses, helmets, and specialist gloves as optional extras. They’re essential to protect against the unexpected, for example, a falling hammer or a sharp edge.

It also helps to stay physically ready. Even small steps, like wearing proper footwear or taking a few minutes to stretch before lifting a heavy package, will reduce strain and help to prevent injuries.

Prevent workplace risks before they escalate

Risk in the workplace is unavoidable, but accidents don’t have to be. By knowing the hazards in your environment, using equipment and tools correctly, and wearing protective gear, you can keep yourself and your co-workers safe.

Combine these habits with an understanding of your legal rights, and you’ll build a safer, more confident workplace for everyone.

Tees Valley International Film Festival to Premiere “3 Peaks 3 Pots” This November

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Tees Valley International Film Festival to Premiere “3 Peaks 3 Pots” This November

The eagerly awaited documentary 3 Peaks 3 Pots will have its first screening on 6 November 2025 at ARC Stockton, marking one of the headline premieres of the Tees Valley International Film Festival.

Created by renowned director Paul Suggitt, the film follows adventurer and business leader John Beamson—better known as The CEO Adventurer—as he attempts an extreme undertaking: completing three of Yorkshire’s most challenging peaks and exploring three of the UK’s deepest potholes in one continuous effort.

Merging awe-inspiring landscapes, gripping underground visuals, and an unflinching look at endurance, 3 Peaks 3 Pots examines the sheer fortitude needed to survive such a test. At its heart, the documentary speaks to resilience, leadership, and the personal growth that comes from overcoming the impossible.

“This isn’t just about adventure for adventure’s sake,” said John Beamson. “It’s about testing yourself in ways most people never will, in the dark, in the cold, when your body says stop but your mind has to find a reason to carry on. That’s where real growth happens.”

With filming undertaken across the Yorkshire Dales, audiences will witness both spectacular subterranean shots and candid behind-the-scenes footage charting the preparation for this unrelenting challenge.

The Tees Valley International Film Festival has already described the documentary as a major attraction, celebrating the region’s role in spotlighting bold new storytelling.

Event Details

Film: 3 Peaks 3 Pots
Director: Paul Suggitt
Featuring: John Beamson (The CEO Adventurer)
Premiere: ARC Stockton, 6 November 2025
Festival: Tees Valley International Film Festival

Tickets will be released via ARC Stockton’s website and the festival’s official outlets.

Half of employees feel success goes uncelebrated at work

Helen Greaney
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Half of employees feel success goes uncelebrated at work
More than half of UK employees say seeing their organisation featured in the media or winning industry awards makes them feel prouder to work there – but almost half believe their employer does not celebrate success enough internally.

The findings come from HR Unhooked 2025-2026, the latest employer brand research report from PR agency Unhooked Communications. The report surveyed over 2,00 UK adults and explores how media coverage, awards, internal communications and culture shape where people choose to work and stay.

The research highlights that 59 percent of jobseekers look for recent news about an organisation before deciding whether to apply, while 40 percent say award wins influence their decision to apply for a role.
Yet when it comes to internal recognition, many employees feel in the dark, suggesting businesses are missing a vital opportunity to boost engagement and loyalty.

Claire Gamble, managing director at Unhooked Communications, said: “The data shows that external reputation and internal pride are closely connected. When businesses achieve positive media coverage or win awards, it boosts employee motivation and pride, as well as attract top talent – but the benefit is lost if teams are not told about it.
“Celebrating success should not just be a marketing tactic, it is a powerful way to engage, retain and motivate employees.”

The report also explores which channels employees prefer for updates, what topics they care most about – from pay transparency to training opportunities – and how businesses can use PR and internal communications together to create a workplace people want to be part of.

The green fleet: Sourcing affordable EVs at car auctions

Helen Greaney
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The green fleet: Sourcing affordable EVs at car auctions

The used electric vehicle market is experiencing unprecedented growth across the UK,
with government data showing that zero-emission vehicles accounted for 20% of all new
car registrations in early 2025, representing a 43% increase from the previous year.

As this surge continues, car auctions are becoming a prime source for finding affordable,
pre-owned electric cars that deliver exceptional value for environmentally conscious buyers.

1. Lower prices than dealerships

Car auctions are a highly competitive, fast-paced environment where vehicles are often
sold for less than their retail value. For budget-conscious buyers, this is a significant
advantage.

Used EVs that enter the auction market, often from company fleets or trade-
ins, are typically priced to sell, giving you the chance to acquire a quality vehicle for a
fraction of the cost you would pay at a traditional dealership.

Fleet operators, who are the largest buyers of new electric vehicles, regularly cycle through their inventory, creating a steady stream of well-maintained, low-mileage EVs at auction.

These competitive bidding environments can result in savings of thousands compared to retail prices, making electric mobility accessible to buyers who might otherwise find new EVs financially out of reach.

2. A diverse and growing inventory

The variety of electric vehicles available at auction is expanding every month. You aren’t
just limited to a few models; you can find everything from compact city cars to larger
commercial vans.

Car auctions provide a centralised marketplace for a wide range of manufacturers, models, and years. This gives you more choice and a better opportunity to find a vehicle that fits your specific needs and budget. SMMT data reveals that 381,970 battery electric vehicles were registered in 2024, a 21% increase from the previous year, with fleet purchases driving much of this growth.

3. Detailed information on vehicle and battery health

A major concern when buying a used EV is the condition of the battery. Reputable car
auctions are transparent and provide reports on each vehicle.

These often include the car’s service history, mileage, and most importantly, a battery health check where available. When reviewing these detailed reports, you can make an informed decision and bid with confidence, knowing the state of the vehicle’s most critical component.

Professional auction houses understand that informed buyers make confident bidders, so
they invest in thorough vehicle inspections and documentation.

4. Importance of a pre-auction strategy

To succeed at a car auction, you need a plan. Before you even attend, research the
makes and models you’re interested in and know their market value. Set a firm budget
for each vehicle and stick to it.

The bidding process can be fast, but being prepared and clear on your goals will prevent you from overspending and will help you secure the right car at a price you’re happy with.

Consider factors like charging infrastructure availability in your area, potential running costs, and whether the vehicle meets your daily driving requirements.

Car auctions are an increasingly valuable avenue for accessing affordable electric
vehicles, combining competitive pricing with expanding inventory to make sustainable
motoring more accessible across the UK.

Timberwise Boss Reveals Five Costly Issues Buyers of Older Homes Should Know

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Timberwise Boss Reveals Five Costly Issues Buyers of Older Homes Should Know

A leading voice in property care has revealed the five most widespread and expensive issues that often arise when people purchase older homes.

George Edwards, Managing Director of Timberwise, has urged homeowners not to ignore these common repair needs, warning that the cost of neglect could be significant.

He commented: “Owning a home can be a handful. There’s a lot to think about and sometimes the DIY projects can stack up and you might be lost on where and when to start.

“To help you understand what problems might need to take priority, it can help to put together a list of common issues in older homes that can lead to property care issues like damp, woodworm, timber rot and more if they are ignored.”

According to Mr Edwards, the key areas to consider are:

Old Plumbing – making sure that plumbing is up to scratch is vital, and whilst you can pay for specialist surveys when purchasing a home, you should always be aware that the chances that the pipes will need attention only goes up within older properties.

Many cases of both dry and wet rot start out because a pipe, either within the cavity of a wall or under floorboards, has burst or sprung a small leak at a seam.

Deteriorating Roof – the roof of an older property may have fallen into effective disrepair over the years and will often need minor or major repairs works.

A yearly inspection can be a massive saver when it comes to repair costs, and the best time to start a healthy routine of keeping it in good condition and avoiding problems like wet rot is right now.

Single Pane Windows – they are, on their own, not an actual problem in a property. In fact, there are many people who might consider certain types of windows as selling factors when they are looking for a new place to live.

Once cold weather rolls in, however, you are going to find that thermal retention is lacking and, when the heating is switched on, you may find you have an issue with condensation.

Weathered Timber Exterior – any older property that has exterior-facing timber is going to be at severe risk of weathering and vulnerable to all kinds of issues, including wet rot, dry rot, and woodworm. An inspection would be advisable, to determine if you have any issues or the likelihood of developing them in the future.

Damaged Bathroom Floorboards – the bathroom is quite prone to the long-term effects of condensation, dry rot, and wet rot. The tiles, laminate, or whatever is on the floor, could well be hiding an infestation of dry or wet rot.

Making sure that the bathroom is in a good condition should be a priority for you, and could well form part of a plumbing check once every two years.

For more information and free advice, visit www.timberwise.co.uk.

K2L Marketing Strengthens Global Footprint with New Offices in Dubai and Illinois

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K2L Marketing Strengthens Global Footprint with New Offices in Dubai and Illinois

Manchester-based performance marketing agency K2L has announced the opening of two new international offices, one in Dubai and the other in Illinois, USA. This expansion represents a significant step in the company’s ongoing global growth strategy.

For over ten years, K2L has been delivering bold, performance-led campaigns across brand, web and digital channels, working with major players in the health, lifestyle and supplements industries. Its portfolio includes established household names such as Bootea, GoNutrition, Marriott Hotel Group and BeautyBay, as well as an expanding base of emerging wellness brands eager to stand out in today’s competitive marketplace.

The move into Dubai and Illinois reflects both increasing international demand and K2L’s commitment to serving clients at the heart of two of the world’s fastest-growing hubs for health and lifestyle innovation.

Dubai continues to develop as a prime destination for premium and wellness brands, while Illinois – with its close links to Chicago – offers access to one of North America’s most dynamic business environments.

Scott Kennedy, Managing Director of K2L, comments:

“Opening in Dubai and Illinois has been a natural step forward for the K2L team. Both regions are undoubtedly experiencing rapid growth in the health and lifestyle industries, and having a presence there means we can work even more closely with the brands we’re already working with. At the same time, it’s our hope that these new offices will open new opportunities, adding to our client roster as more ambitious businesses look for bold, results-driven marketing that’ll cut through the noise. Our team is excited to help brands in these markets ‘Dare to be Different’ and achieve standout results.”

With headquarters in Salford Quays, Manchester, near MediaCity, K2L now operates across three continents, offering clients complete marketing solutions spanning branding, website development, digital, and social media.

This latest expansion enhances the agency’s global influence and positions it to form even stronger partnerships with leading health, lifestyle, and supplement brands worldwide.

Choosing reliable vehicle financing for families in Manchester

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Choosing reliable vehicle financing for families in Manchester

When it comes to securing vehicle financing for your family, reliability is essential. Families need to consider the long-term impact of their financial decisions, especially in a busy city like Manchester. Knowing how to choose the right provider ensures peace of mind for years to come.

Choosing the right vehicle finance option is crucial for families who rely on their cars for daily life. Ensuring long-term reliability means looking beyond the immediate cost and considering factors that affect your family’s financial stability.

By navigating options such as car finance Manchester, you can secure a reliable path to vehicle ownership that suits your family’s needs. This guide will provide insight into selecting a trustworthy provider, ensuring you make informed choices that benefit your family in the long run.

Selecting a family-friendly vehicle

Choosing a family-friendly vehicle involves considering multiple factors, from safety features to practicality and comfort. Safety should be a priority, with families looking for vehicles equipped with modern safety technologies such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Beyond safety, practicality is important; families often seek cars with ample space for passengers and luggage, ensuring comfort during travel.

Fuel efficiency is another important consideration, as it affects both environmental impact and daily expenses. Families should evaluate models offering competitive miles per gallon rates to balance budget constraints with ecological responsibility.

Additionally, reliability ratings should not be overlooked; choosing a dependable make or model can minimise unexpected maintenance costs and reduce stress over time.

Beyond these features, aesthetics and brand reputation may influence your decision. Many families are drawn to brands known for durability and quality service. However, it’s essential to remain objective and prioritise practical needs over brand loyalty when choosing a vehicle that will serve your family well into the future.

Modern family vehicles also come with innovative technology features that enhance both safety and convenience. Built-in entertainment systems can keep children occupied during long journeys, while connectivity options like Bluetooth and smartphone integration help parents stay connected safely while driving.

Many newer models also include family-specific features such as rear-seat reminder systems, child-lock controls, and easy-access ISOFIX points for car seats, making them particularly suitable for growing families.

Understanding responsible financing practices

Responsible financing is critical for maintaining financial health while purchasing a new car. Understanding interest rates and loan terms can prevent long-term financial strain, making it vital to compare different offers thoroughly. The process begins by assessing your current financial situation and determining what monthly payment fits comfortably within your budget.

Avoiding extended loan terms, which often increase total interest paid, is advisable unless absolutely necessary. Shorter loan durations generally mean higher monthly payments but result in significant savings in interest over time. Families should also consider pre-approval options from various lenders to gain a clearer understanding of their financial options without committing prematurely.

Another aspect of responsible financing is maintaining transparency about total costs involved in purchasing a vehicle. This includes being aware of potential hidden fees or additional charges that might arise during the transaction process. Opting for transparent lenders who clearly outline all costs ensures you’re never caught off-guard by unexpected expenses.

Evaluating finance providers

When selecting a car finance provider in Manchester, diligence is key to securing a reliable deal. Begin by researching providers’ reputations through customer reviews and ratings; this will give you insight into their reliability and customer service quality. It’s crucial to opt for providers known for transparency and ethical practices, such as Concept Car Credit.

Assessing the range of finance options offered by each provider is also important. Different providers may offer varying interest rates and repayment plans, so comparing these offerings can lead to more favourable terms tailored to your situation. Additionally, consider whether the provider offers flexibility in terms of payment schedules or early repayment penalties.

Customer support plays a significant role in choosing the right provider. A provider’s willingness to assist clients throughout their loan tenure indicates strong customer service commitment. Ensure that your chosen provider is accessible and responsive, ready to address any concerns or issues that may arise during your financing period.

Benefits of reliable car finance

The advantages of selecting a trustworthy car finance provider extend beyond immediate convenience; they contribute significantly to long-term financial health. By choosing a reliable provider, families enjoy greater peace of mind knowing their financing is stable and manageable over time.

Reliable financing ensures consistent monthly payments that fit within your budget, preventing unexpected financial strain. Additionally, clear communication from reputable providers aids in understanding loan terms fully, empowering you to make informed decisions throughout your financing journey.

Furthermore, establishing a positive relationship with a credible finance provider can enhance future credit opportunities. Timely repayments improve credit scores over time, opening doors to more favourable borrowing conditions should you require additional funding later on.

Incorporating newsworthy elements, such as the government-funded support for parents and carers returning to STEM in Greater Manchester, highlights the broader economic landscape and opportunities for families in the region. This support reflects the importance of reliable financial solutions, like those offered by Concept Car Credit, in helping families achieve their goals.

Appy Pie Unveils Snappy 2.5: A Faster, Smarter Website Builder Designed Around User Feedback

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Appy Pie Unveils Snappy 2.5: A Faster, Smarter Website Builder Designed Around User Feedback

Appy Pie has introduced Snappy 2.5, the latest upgrade to its website builder, developed in direct response to long-standing user feedback. This release focuses on delivering faster performance, improved design flexibility, and broader integration options, helping small businesses and creators build standout websites in the competitive no-code market.

“With Snappy 2.5, we’re giving our users the freedom to build websites that feel uniquely theirs,” said Abhinav Girdhar, CEO and Founder of Appy Pie. “This release is about listening to our community, improving reliability, and making sure our platform grows with the needs of modern creators and businesses.”

One of the most noticeable changes in Snappy 2.5 is the shift toward greater customization. In earlier versions, users often complained that the builder produced websites that felt generic. With this release, Appy Pie AI website builder introduces more flexible layouts, refreshed templates, and advanced theme options, allowing businesses to express their identity instead of being confined to cookie-cutter designs.

Performance improvements also take centre stage. Tasks such as editing, previewing, and publishing are now much quicker and more reliable, significantly reducing delays and frustrations. This increase in stability ensures that creators can focus on building and launching their sites with confidence.

Snappy 2.5 also expands integration capabilities, offering seamless connections with more third-party services. From e-commerce tools and social media feeds to productivity add-ons, the update opens up broader functionality. Together with a simplified dashboard and updated tutorials, the platform caters both to newcomers and to experienced users looking for greater control.

The release arrives at a critical time as competition in the no-code website space continues to intensify. By focusing on flexibility, performance, and user empowerment, Snappy 2.5 positions Appy Pie Website Maker as a serious contender in a crowded market.

FREESMO Leads the Way with Smarter Smoke-Free Choices Through Trusted Questionnaire

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FREESMO Leads the Way with Smarter Smoke-Free Choices Through Trusted Questionnaire

As the smoke-free sector continues to grow and diversify, FREESMO is highlighting the importance of its Smoke-Free Questionnaire – a tried and tested tool designed to help smokers take charge and discover tailored, effective alternatives to cigarettes.

With vaping devices and oral products becoming increasingly varied, FREESMO remains dedicated to supporting users with straightforward guidance and expert insights to navigate the options available.

From easy-to-use prefilled pods to flexible refillable kits, today’s marketplace offers a wide spectrum of products to suit different preferences and routines. FREESMO’s Smoke-Free Questionnaire is designed to match users with the right device and method, ensuring they can confidently select a solution that aligns with their personal aims and lifestyle.

To encourage first-time customers, FREESMO is offering a special welcome bonus: a £20 Amazon voucher on their initial purchase over £20. This reward underscores the company’s mission to assist individuals as they embark on their smoke-free journey with solutions tailored to their needs.

“Many people hesitate to start their smoke-free journey because they’re overwhelmed by choice or unsure about the effectiveness of vaping,” said Georgi Keckarovski, CEO at FREESMO.

“Our mission is to make this transition approachable with clear advice and a wide selection of smoke-free products.”

By addressing common confusion around vape strength and clarifying the relative risks of vaping versus smoking, FREESMO empowers users to make informed decisions. The platform’s supportive, no-judgement approach helps smokers embrace practical solutions to progress along their smoke-free journey.

Smokers ready to explore smarter alternatives are encouraged to complete FREESMO’s Smoke-Free Questionnaire and discover tailored recommendations and ongoing support.

For more information, visit FREESMO’s website and take control of your smoke-free future today.

Growing green: Smart strategies for sustainable business growth

Helen Greaney
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Growing green: Smart strategies for sustainable business growth

In today’s competitive landscape, growth isn’t just about scaling quickly, it’s about doing so
responsibly. Customers, investors, and even employees are increasingly drawn to businesses that balance profit with purpose. Sustainable business growth isn’t a buzzword;
it’s a blueprint for building resilience and long-term success.

Here are some strategies you can adopt to ensure your business flourishes while making a
positive impact.

1. Focus on purpose-driven innovation

The most successful sustainable businesses don’t just chase market trends, they solve
meaningful problems. By innovating with purpose, your products and services create real
value for customers while aligning with ethical and environmental standards.

Think beyond short-term gains and ask: How can my offerings improve lives without harming the planet? Examples include adopting eco-friendly materials, offering digital-first services, or rethinking packaging to reduce waste. Purpose-driven innovation not only strengthens your brand but also gives customers a reason to remain loyal.

2. Build a culture of sustainability

Growth starts from within. By embedding sustainable practices into your company culture
you create a ripple effect that extends far beyond your walls. Encourage employees to
contribute ideas for reducing waste, conserving energy, or improving efficiency. Offer
training and recognition for sustainable behaviour.

When employees see that sustainability is a genuine priority, they become champions for
change, driving both morale and innovation.

3. Diversify revenue streams

Sustainable growth requires resilience against economic uncertainty. Diversifying your
revenue streams helps you weather industry disruptions while staying true to your mission.
For example, service-based companies might expand into complementary products, while
product-focused businesses could explore recurring subscription models.

The key is to ensure that every new revenue source aligns with your values, rather than
undermining your sustainability commitments.

4. Adopt circular economy practices

Linear business models – produce, sell, discard, are outdated. The future belongs to circular
practices where products and resources are reused, recycled, or repurposed. This might
mean offering repair services, designing for durability, or using recycled inputs.
Such practices not only reduce environmental impact but also appeal to eco-conscious
consumers who want to support brands that reflect their values.

5. Invest in sustainable marketing

Your growth strategy won’t reach its full potential unless people know about your efforts.
Sharing your sustainability journey through authentic storytelling can attract loyal customers and partners.

Highlight your achievements, but don’t be afraid to talk about your challenges
too, transparency builds trust.

Even your marketing materials can embody sustainability. For instance, businesses mindful
of their environmental footprint often choose sustainable business card printing as a small
but powerful step towards greener branding.

6. Measure what matters

You can’t manage what you don’t measure. Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) that
track both financial and environmental outcomes. Whether it’s reducing energy consumption, cutting waste, or boosting customer retention, the right metrics ensure accountability and progress.

Share these results with stakeholders regularly. It demonstrates commitment and builds
credibility in a crowded marketplace.

In conclusion

Sustainable business growth isn’t about sacrificing profits, it’s about creating long-term
value. By innovating with purpose, embedding sustainability into your culture, diversifying
wisely, embracing circularity, marketing authentically, and tracking impact, your business can thrive in a way that benefits both people and the planet. Growth with integrity isn’t just
smart, it’s the future of business.

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