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Alcedo Care Group opens new branch in Trafford

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Alcedo Care Group is expanding across Greater Manchester with the opening of a new branch in Trafford.

Located in Lamba House on Scholar Green Road in Trafford Park, it represents a £225,000 investment for the independently owned and operated home care provider and brings the Group’s total number of offices across the North of England and Wales to 20.

Managed by experienced Alcedo home care professional Kirstie Poole (pictured), the new branch and its dedicated team of 12 carers will deliver an outstanding portfolio of high quality home care services including personal care, nursing, nurse-led complex care and support and companionship to those looking to remain independent in their own homes across Trafford and the surrounding areas.

It will also offer a range of more specialised services including live-in care, children’s complex care and mental health support.

Managing director of Alcedo Care Group, Andy Boardman, said: “We are delighted to expand across Greater Manchester with the opening of an office in Trafford Park. Over the years, we have received many enquiries for our services from the south Manchester area and the opening of our latest branch in Trafford will help meet that demand enabling us to more easily deliver our services in the area.”

Under the guidance of mobilisation manager Kirstie, the Trafford office will continue to develop and expand, recruiting more than 50 new carers to the team over the next 12 months and gradually increasing the number of weekly care hours.

Rated one of the Top 20 Large Home Care Groups for four years running, Alcedo Care Group is on track to meet its target of owning and operating 30 branches across the North of England and Wales by the end of 2025.

The family-owned group is also on a mission to continually expand its portfolio of quality home care services with a particular emphasis on complex care, live-in care, children’s services and young persons crisis management residential homes.

Understanding Know Your Business services (KYB): Enhancing security and efficiency in business transactions

In the ever-evolving landscape of business operations, ensuring security and efficiency in
transactions is paramount.

Know Your Business (KYB) services have emerged as a crucial component in achieving these objectives. Similar to Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols, KYB focuses on verifying the identity of businesses involved in financial transactions or partnerships. This article delves into the significance of KYB services, its implementation, and the benefits it offers to businesses.

What is KYB?

Know Your Business (KYB) refers to the process by which businesses verify the identity of their customers or partners. This involves gathering relevant information about the entity, such as its legal structure, ownership, beneficial owners, and financial history. KYB is instrumental in mitigating risks associated with fraud, money laundering, and terrorist financing.

It enables businesses to establish trust and transparency in their transactions while complying with regulatory requirements.

Implementation of KYB

Implementing KYB involves several steps aimed at gathering and verifying business
information:

Data collection: Businesses collect relevant information about their customers or
partners, including legal entity name, registration number, address, and ownership details.

Verification: This step involves verifying the accuracy of the information provided. It
may include cross-referencing data with trusted sources, such as government databases or
commercial registers.

Risk assessment: Businesses assess the risk associated with engaging with a particular
entity based on various factors, such as its industry, geographical location, and financial
stability.

Ongoing monitoring: KYB is not a one-time process; it requires continuous monitoring
of business relationships to detect any changes in risk profile or ownership structure.

Benefits of KYB

KYB services offer numerous benefits to businesses across different industries:

Risk mitigation: By verifying the identity of their business partners, organisations can
mitigate the risk of fraudulent activities, such as money laundering or identity theft.

Compliance: KYB helps businesses comply with regulatory requirements imposed by
authorities to combat financial crimes. Failure to adhere to these regulations can result in
hefty fines and reputational damage.

Enhanced due diligence: KYB enables businesses to conduct thorough due diligence
before entering into partnerships or transactions, thus minimizing the likelihood of
dealing with high-risk entities.

Improved reputation: Implementing robust KYB processes enhances the reputation of
businesses by demonstrating their commitment to transparency and integrity in their
operations.

Efficiency: By streamlining the onboarding process and automating data collection and
verification, KYB services improve operational efficiency and reduce administrative
burdens.

Challenges of KYB

Despite its benefits, implementing KYB comes with its own set of challenges:

Data accuracy: Ensuring the accuracy of the information provided by businesses can be
challenging, especially when dealing with entities operating in multiple jurisdictions.

Regulatory complexity: Compliance with KYB regulations can be complex, as
requirements vary across different jurisdictions and industries. Keeping up with
regulatory changes poses a significant challenge for businesses.

Cost: Implementing KYB processes, including data collection, verification, and ongoing
monitoring, can be costly for businesses, particularly for small and medium-sized
enterprises (SMEs).

Customer experience: Lengthy and cumbersome KYB processes can negatively impact
the customer experience, leading to delays in onboarding and potential loss of business.

The future of KYB

As technology continues to advance, the future of KYB lies in automation and digitisation.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms can be leveraged to streamline KYB processes, making them faster, more accurate, and cost-effective.

Blockchain technology also holds promise in enhancing the security and transparency of KYB data by creating immutable records of business identities. Furthermore, collaboration among businesses, regulators, and technology providers is essential to address the challenges associated with KYB implementation.

Standardisation of KYB processes and data sharing mechanisms can facilitate interoperability and reduce the burden on businesses.

In conclusion, Know Your Business (KYB) services play a crucial role in enhancing security and efficiency in business transactions. By verifying the identity of their customers or partners, businesses can mitigate risks, comply with regulatory requirements, and improve their reputation.

While implementing KYB comes with challenges, leveraging technology and fostering collaboration can pave the way for a more robust and sustainable KYB ecosystem in
the future.

Everton: Toffees given relegation boost with 10-point sanction reduced to six on appeal

Everton have had their 10-point penalty for breaching financial rules reduced to six on appeal.

The Toffees were hit with the sanction on November 17 after a £19.5million overspend of the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability rules. The club admitted wrongdoing but disputed the size of the breach, insisting it was only £7.9m.

They subsequently appealed after describing the punishment as “disproportionate and unjust”.

The verdict moves Everton up to 15th in the Premier League table, five points above the relegation zone.

Read our other sports news stories here:
India v England: Gill and Jurel see hosts home
Beckham, Giggs and Co want outside investment in Salford City
Stokes hails young spinners despite series defeat

A Premier League statement read: “An independent Appeal Board has concluded that the sanction for Everton FC’s breach of the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSRs), for the period ending Season 2021/22, will be an immediate six-point deduction.

“This follows the club’s appeal of an independent Commission’s decision in November 2023 to impose a 10-point deduction for the club’s breach of the PSRs.

“The appeal was heard over three days earlier this month, by an Appeal Board comprising Sir Gary Hickinbottom (chair), Daniel Alexander KC and Katherine Apps KC.

“Everton FC appealed the sanction imposed against it on nine grounds, each of which related to the sanction rather than the fact of the breach, which the club admitted.

“Two of those nine grounds were upheld by the Appeal Board, which has substituted the original points deduction of 10 for six.

“This revised sanction has immediate effect and the Premier League table will be updated today to reflect this.”

Everton also released a statement in which they stated the outcome justified the appeal.

It read: “While the club is still digesting the Appeal Board’s decision, we are satisfied our appeal has resulted in a reduction in the points sanction.

“We understand the Appeal Board considered the 10-point deduction originally imposed to be inappropriate when assessed against the available benchmarks of which the club made the Commission aware, including the position under the relevant EFL regulations, and the 9-point deduction that is imposed under the Premier League’s own rules in the event of insolvency.

“The club is also particularly pleased with the Appeal Board’s decision to overturn the original Commission’s finding that the club failed to act in utmost good faith. That decision, along with reducing the points deduction, was an incredibly important point of principle for the club on appeal. The club, therefore, feels vindicated in pursuing its appeal.”

Everton are also facing a second potential sanction for a possible breach of PSR rules for the period ending Season 2022/23.

Everton added: “Notwithstanding the Appeal Board’s decision, and the positive outcome, the club remains fully committed to cooperating with the Premier League in respect of the ongoing proceedings brought for the accounting period ending in June 2023.

“The club is still considering the wider implications of the decision and will make no further comment at this time other than to place on record its thanks to our Fan Advisory Board and other fan groups throughout this process, and to all Evertonians for their ongoing support and patience.”

Today’s announcement is good news for Everton but not the other teams battling the drop. Third-bottom Luton are now four points from safety, although they do have a game in hand on 17th-placed Nottingham Forest.

Professional data recovery services for businesses

In the event of a data loss incident, professional data recovery services can be a lifesaver for businesses.

These services employ specialised techniques and equipment to retrieve lost data from damaged or malfunctioning storage devices, such as hard drives, SSDs, RAID arrays, and servers.

Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a professional data recovery service for your business:

  • Reputation and experience: Choose a company with a proven track record of success in recovering data from a wide range of devices and data loss scenarios.
  • Expertise: Make sure the company has the technical expertise to handle your specific type of data loss.
  • Security: The company should have robust security measures in place to protect your data during the recovery process.
  • Cost: Get quotes from several different companies before making a decision. Be sure to ask about all of the costs involved, including diagnostic fees, data recovery fees, and shipping costs.
  • Free diagnostics: Many companies offer free diagnostics to assess the extent of your data loss and provide you with a quote.

When choosing a professional data recovery services for businesses, it is important to do your research and compare different companies before making a decision. Be sure to ask about the company’s experience, expertise, security measures, and cost.

How much does a data recovery service cost?

It depends on various factors, including:

Severity of data loss: Simple logical data recovery (like deleted files) will be cheaper than complex physical recovery from damaged hardware.

Type of storage device: Recovering data from a standard hard drive is typically less expensive than from a RAID array or SSD.

Amount of data: Recovering a small amount of data might cost less than recovering a large dataset.

Urgency of recovery: Expedited services with faster turnaround times often come at a premium.

Data recovery company: Different companies have varying pricing structures and expertise, leading to fluctuations in cost.

Additional services: If you require data migration, clean room recovery for sensitive data, or other specialised services, expect extra charges.

Typical ranges

However, to give you a general idea, here’s a breakdown of typical ranges:

  • Free diagnostics: Most reputable companies offer this to assess the situation and provide an initial quote.
  • Basic logical recovery: $200-$500
  • Complex logical recovery: $500-$1,500
  • Physical recovery (including parts & labor): $1,000-$5,000+ (can reach $10,000+ for complex cases)

Remember, these are just estimates. It’s crucial to contact several companies and get specific quotes based on your unique situation. Here are some additional tips:

  • Ask about success rates: Different companies have varying success rates based on their expertise and equipment.
  • Inquire about hidden fees: Ensure you understand all costs involved, including potential data transfer fees, clean room charges, etc.
  • Look for guarantees: Some companies offer guarantees on recovered data or successful service completion.
  • Consider data insurance: Investing in data insurance beforehand can mitigate future recovery costs.

By carefully considering these factors and comparing quotes from different providers, you can make an informed decision about the best data recovery service for your business’s needs and budget.

 

Beckham, Giggs, Scholes and the Nevilles want outside investment in Salford City

Salford City’s ownership group, which includes David Beckham, is looking for outside investment and strategic partners to help propel the club towards its stated aim of Championship football.

Beckham is a part-owner of the League Two club alongside former Manchester United team-mates Nicky Butt, Ryan Giggs, Gary Neville, Phil Neville and Paul Scholes.

Read our other sports news stories here:
India v England: Gill and Jurel see hosts home
‘Bigger picture’ positive for Man Utd despite Fulham loss – Ten Hag
Stokes hails young spinners despite series defeat

The group have been in place for 10 years and, despite their individual wealth, feel they now require some fresh blood to move them through the leagues.

Butt told the BBC: “We are backing Salford City with as much commitment and confidence as ever.

“We have achieved very special things here but there are major opportunities in front of us and we want to make sure we have the right mix of investment and strategic partners to take advantage of those opportunities.

“We had an original 10-year plan and with strong foundations now in place, it was always the intention to explore options for the next phase. That includes potentially bringing in new partners to help us grow the club and best serve the fans and community.”

Salford are 19th in League Two and, although relegation to the National League is highly unlikely given their 13-point advantage over the bottom two, they are well adrift of the play-off spots.

Karl Robinson was appointed head coach last month and results had improved prior to Saturday when they were beaten 5-1 by promotion-chasing Mansfield.

Inc & Co Explores Why Acquisitions Fail and the Challenges of Buying Failing Businesses

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At Inc & Co, it is believed that every business should have the support and skills to succeed, but in a world of uncertainties, not everyone can make a success of a once optimistic venture. Since its inception in 2019, Inc & Co has brought some exceptional companies into its group through strategic acquisitions and learned its fair share of lessons along the way.

We’re looking at some of the challenges you might face in similar circumstances and how these can be avoided with the help of some expert advice. 

Cultural Misalignment  

One of the most significant challenges in the aftermath of an acquisition is the integration of different company cultures. When two companies with distinct cultures merge, the clash can lead to a breakdown in communication, a decrease in employee morale, and, ultimately, a failure to achieve the synergies initially anticipated from the merger. “Understanding and bridging cultural gaps is essential for a smooth integration process,” notes Jack Mason, Group CEO of Inc & Co. “It’s a process that has to be handled with care and patience and with a lot of understanding for the situation of that current business.”    

A Lack of Clear Vision  

Post-acquisition failures often stem from a need for a clear, strategic vision for the combined entity. Without a unified direction, the acquired company can flounder, unable to integrate effectively with its new parent company. Inc & Co’s approach involves setting out a comprehensive strategic plan that outlines how the acquired business will fit within the organisation’s broader objectives. This plan serves as a roadmap to guide the integration process and ensure all stakeholders are aligned towards a common goal. 

Inadequate Due Diligence  

The due diligence phase is critical in any acquisition, yet it’s often where many companies fall short. As Investopedia explains, sometimes it’s only clear how much of a success your M&A or acquisitions will be once you’ve given it some time to play out. Inc & Co stress the necessity of thorough due diligence, not just in financial terms but also in assessing operational processes, technological infrastructure, and legal liabilities. Skipping or rushing through this step can lead to unexpected challenges post-acquisition, such as uncovering undisclosed debts or legal issues that can jeopardise the success of the merger.  

Integration Challenges  

Even with thorough preparation, the integration phase presents its own set of challenges. It’s worth pointing out that integrating systems, processes, and people requires meticulous planning and execution. Failure to effectively integrate can result in operational disruptions, inefficiencies, and a loss of key talent, all of which can derail the acquisition’s success. Effective integration is a deliberate and sustained effort, requiring commitment from all levels of the organisation. 

Overestimation of Synergies  

A common pitfall in the acquisition process is the overestimation of synergies. Companies often project optimistic scenarios where cost savings and revenue enhancements are overestimated. Inc & Co advocates for a realistic assessment of potential synergies, considering the complexities and costs of merging two businesses. A pragmatic approach to evaluating synergies can prevent disappointment and financial shortfalls down the line.

Navigating the Mergers & Acquisitions Landscape  

The landscape of mergers and acquisitions is fraught with challenges, but with careful planning, thorough due diligence, and strategic execution, the potential pitfalls can be navigated successfully. Inc & Co’s exploration of the common reasons behind post-acquisition failures highlights the need for a holistic approach to M&A that considers cultural, strategic, and operational dimensions. As companies continue to seek growth through acquisitions, understanding these complexities will be vital to ensuring the long-term success of their M&A endeavours.  

Inc & Co are a private equity firm that partners with aspiring businesses looking to fulfil their unrealised potential and accelerate growth. If you’re looking to speak to a specialist in private equity, mergers & acquisition, or distressed business turnarounds then get in contact with the team.

Witnesses asked to come forward following Arndale assault

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Police are asking for witnesses following an assault that took place at the Arndale Centre.

At around 7.30pm on Friday, officers were called to reports of a section 18 assault at the Arndale in Manchester.

A 19-year-old man was taken to hospital with injuries, although these are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.

No arrests have been made at this time although enquiries are ongoing and police are appealing to the public for information.

Detective inspector Natalie McDonald said: “This was a violent assault that took occurred in a public place.

“Thankfully the victim was not seriously harmed but we absolutely will not tolerate such violent behaviour and are carrying out extensive enquiries to trace the person responsible and hold them to account.

“We are treating this as a targeted incident and are now appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this or who has relevant information – including footage – to share it with the police.

“You can make a report by calling 0161 856 4436 quoting log number 2750 of 23/02/2024.”

Alternatively you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Editorial credit: Tupungato / Shutterstock.com

India v England: Stokes hails young spinners despite series defeat

Ben Stokes hailed young spinners Shoaib Bashir and Tom Hartley after they almost conjured up an amazing escape act for England.

The tourists went into the fourth day of the fourth Test against India with the home side requiring just 192 runs to win and secure a 3-1 series triumph.

Read our other sports news stories here:
India v England: Gill and Jurel see hosts home
‘Bigger picture’ positive for Man Utd despite Fulham loss – Ten Hag
Russian Olympic Committee loses appeal against suspension

And at 84 without loss it seemed they would achieve their goals with minimum fuss.

But Hartley got the key wicket of India captain Rohit Sharma before Bashir’s three for 79 reduced the hosts to 120 for five to put England back in with a chance.

Shubman Gill and Dhruv Jurel had other ideas, though, and their 72-run partnership saw India home.

Stokes said: “I think it was a great Test match. The scoreline says India win by five wickets but I don’t think that gives enough credit to sum up the game as a whole.

“There were so many ebbs and flows, and I’ve got to give so much credit to our spinners Tom Hartley and Shoaib Bashir for how they performed not only today, but during the whole Test match. Being exposed like that, at such an early stage of their careers, it’s incredible and I couldn’t be more proud of them in particular but also the whole team for the performances this week.”

Neither Hartley nor Bashir had played for England prior to this series and Stokes said he would continue to place his faith in youth, adding: “That’s the way I am as a captain – allowing these guys to come into what could be a very intimidating situation against India in a Test match, to treat every ball as on occasion rather than thinking something in the past that can’t be changed. 

“The series has shown a lot of talent, for us and India. I love Test cricket and we’ve seen some young, inexperienced players perform and the future looks bright in this format.”

India have also uncovered a couple of gems in this series in Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jurel, a situation forced upon them by a raft of injuries to key players.

Sharma said: “It’s been a very hard-fought series, so to come out on the right side of it feels very good. A lot of challenges have been thrown at us but we responded and were quite composed. 

“These guys want to be here, growing up in the domestic circuit, local club-cricket, and coming here. It’s a big challenge, but the responses I get are encouraging. We have to give them the environment they want to be in, we can’t just keep talking to them, they are very clear in what they want to do. 

“Jurel showed composure, calmness and shots all round the wicket. His first-innings 90 was crucial, and again in the second innings along with Gill.

“It’s not pleasing when you miss key players, but there’s nothing we can do as a group. To fill their shoes was not easy, but they responded really well. When you make a mark like that, you hold yourself in a good position for a long career. This will motivate them.”

India v England: Gill and Jurel star as hosts claim series 3-1

England slumped to their first series loss under captain Ben Stokes as India survived a nervy fourth-innings run chase to win the fourth Test by five wickets.

The hosts required 192 to win and secure a 3-1 series triumph but appeared in disarray when they slumped from 84 without loss to 120 for five.

But a sixth-wicket partnership of 72 from Shubman Gill (52 not out) and Dhruv Jurel (39no) calmed the nerves of the crowd in Ranchi and saw India home.

Read our other sports news stories here:
India v England: Hosts on brink as tourists collapse again
‘Bigger picture’ positive for Man Utd despite Fulham loss – Ten Hag
Russian Olympic Committee loses appeal against suspension

Defeat was harsh on England’s young spinners Shoaib Bashir and Tom Hartley, who had given the tourists a sniff of a remarkable win that would have taken the series to a decider in Dharamsala.

The pair bowled 51 overs between them as India came close to squandering a position of strength provided by a solid opening stand of 84 from captain Rohit Sharma and India’s new superstar Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Jaiswal opted for a front-foot approach in trying to chase down a modest target and it seemed a policy that was working as he moved serenely to 37. However, he went for one attacking shot too many and, in trying to hit over extra cover off Joe Root, only succeeded in getting a thick outside edge with James Anderson taking a good catch.

Sharma (55) had been more cautious than his younger opening partner but he too fell in trying to force the issue, dragged out of his crease by some extra flight from Hartley and getting an edge to wicketkeeper Ben Foakes.

At 99 for two, India were still in a position of strength but that soon became 100 for three when Rajat Patidar (nought) got an inside edge to Bashir with Ollie Pope claiming the catch at short leg.

And when Bashir snared Ravindra Jadeja (four) and Sarfaraz Khan (nought) with two wickets in two balls in the second over after lunch, England believed once again.

They bargained without Gill and Jurel, however. 

Initially content to pick up singles to dampen England’s excitement, they upped the tempo as the winning line came into view – Gill hitting two sixes to bring up a wonderful 50.

And with wicketkeeper Jurel backing up his first innings 90 with another solid contribution, India edged home.

20% Increase in Enforcement Actions as Councils Resort to Bailiffs for Debt Collection

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MANCHESTER, UK, 23rd February 2024 – Recent findings indicate a significant 20% rise in the use of bailiffs for the collection of council debts, amid budget reductions and escalating instances of delayed council debt payments.

The notion of bailiffs arriving to enforce debt collection is daunting, and the uptick in such referrals is causing widespread anxiety.

An investigation by the BBC has highlighted a 20% surge in the employment of bailiffs by councils to secure unpaid debts. Faced with financial constraints from reduced budgets and their own debt burdens, several local authorities emphasize the imperative of recuperating all dues to sustain essential community services.

Among 280 councils in England, Birmingham reported the most pronounced increase in bailiff referrals from 2022 to 2023, with instances in a specific seven-month span jumping from 7,875 to 42,283, marking a 500% hike. Conversely, Chorley managed to reduce its referrals by 80%, adopting a supportive approach by engaging a social prescribing team to aid vulnerable individuals.

Understanding Council Debts: Council debts comprise arrears in council tax, parking penalties, business rates, and housing rents.

It is estimated that councils fail to collect approximately £500m in public debt annually, exacerbating financial pressures, particularly amidst the prevailing cost-of-living crisis which hampers individuals’ ability to settle debts.

When Councils Escalate to Bailiff Referrals: Councils must secure a liability order to proceed with enforcement actions against defaulters.

Delinquency in council tax or parking fine payments can prompt the council to request a liability order from a magistrates’ court, enabling them to undertake enforcement measures.

Such measures might include deploying bailiffs, deducting from wages or benefits, charging against owned property, or initiating bankruptcy.

The choice of enforcement method lies with the council, yet only one action can be implemented per liability order.

Notification of at least seven days is provided before bailiff intervention, and there’s no compulsion to grant them entry into your residence.

Financial Implications of Bailiff Engagement: The process of debt recovery through bailiffs incurs additional fees, further burdening debtors:

  • Seeking court approval for fund recovery adds £100 to your debt.
  • Engaging an enforcement agency incurs an extra £75.
  • A visit from a bailiff leads to an additional charge of £235.
  • The seizure and auction of assets to repay the debt contribute an extra £110.
  • Engagements involving High Court bailiffs or debts surpassing £1,500 attract higher fees.

Navigating Council Debts: For those lagging behind on council taxes or other council-associated debts, proactive measures can forestall bailiff interventions:

Propose a Payment Plan: You can always propose a payment arrangement to the council. If capable, settling the debt promptly is advisable. If not, calculate a feasible payment plan based on your budget, with readiness to validate your proposed plan upon request.

Engage in the Breathing Space Scheme: The Breathing Space initiative offers a 60-day pause for seeking debt advice and identifying suitable debt management strategies, during which no further council actions, including bailiff referrals, are permitted. This relief is available once yearly.

Pursue Debt Advice: Professional debt advice can offer strategies to manage council debts effectively and prevent bailiff action. The Bailiff Helpline team is ready to understand your situation and guide you towards suitable debt management solutions.

For support with council debts, reach out to the Bailiff Helpline on 0161 660 7255 or explore bailiffhelpline.co.uk for further details.