A recent survey by laptop backpack brand Riut suggests that productivity, not free time, could be the key to happiness. Those who optimise their routines for productivity report feeling more fulfilled and happier overall.
The study surveyed over 1,000 UK residents and revealed significant insights:
Key Findings:
55% of individuals focusing on productivity reported greater happiness compared to 37% who followed a freer routine.
Productivity-driven people also reported more meaningful lives (43% vs 24%) and more eventful days (26% vs 18%).
Younger generations favour productivity, with 35% of 25 to 34-year-olds and 34% of 18 to 24-year-olds opting for structured living.
Widowed individuals (39%) and single people (26%) are more likely to report productive lifestyles, while divorced respondents reported the lowest sense of control (19%).
The study shows that a little effort put upfront into plotting a routine for yourself that favours productivity will help your overall wellbeing, and actually leave you open to feeling more passionate and alive as opposed to feeling stifled by routine.
The study also looked into the productivity of commuters in the UK, as the daily commute, particularly if you’re on public transport, is still being written off by some as productivity dead time. But for many it can be used to our advantage. Our survey found that commuters from Sheffield, Cardiff and Brighton and Belfast feel the most productive in their commutes, with around a third saying they optimise this time.
Optimising your life for productivity is clearly working for many, but if you are struggling with where to start, Riut has some tips on what you can look at optimising in order to get more productive and happier as a result.
Sleep – Make sure you get enough. Try going to bed a little earlier so you give yourself the chance to get a full 8 hours.
Exercise – Create a regular exercise routine (with activities you enjoy) that you can maintain longer term. You don’t need to run 10 miles a day, but you might manage 2 jogs a week.
Go outside – Get fresh air every day. If you work from home, take a walk round the block or in a local park. If you’re commuting, try taking a longer walk on the way home.
Know your body – Listen to how you’re feeling. Understand how your energy levels vary throughout the day and see if you can build a routine to match it.
Schedule your time – Use tools like a calendar to block out time for different tasks so you know you can fit in all your activities.
Allow for me time – If you’ve mastered living productively, give yourself a break: don’t let productivity take over your life. Balance time for you and time getting stuff done. Work out a good form of me time, and make sure you take it.
Sarah Giblin, advocate for thriving in the city and Founder at Riut had this to say:
“It sounds so simple but getting a few important things done each day can positively affect how we feel. Without purpose, we can feel lost. But as we know, real life is also full of things outside our control. Perhaps that’s the secret to thriving in the modern age: plan and do what you can, and learn to accept the rest.”
Lyphe Dispensary has unveiled an extended Noidecs V collection, an affordable and premium-quality medical cannabis line, developed in response to patient needs.
After the success of Noidecs Vital Platinum OG, introduced in June 2024, the new range features four products: VOne, VTwo, VThree, and VFour. These full-flower cannabis options offer patients a straightforward choice tailored to their needs.
Designed for new and experienced users alike, VOne has the lowest THC level for gentle relief, while VFour provides the highest concentration, ensuring a solution for every patient—all at an affordable price.
“Patients are advocating for lower cost, yet sustainable options, and we want them to know that Lyphe is not only listening but taking action,” said Hayley Thompson, Managing Director at Lyphe Clinic. “The Noidecs VOne-VFour line aims to bridge the gap between quality and cost, offering patients a reliable and accessible option for managing their health conditions.”
The Noidecs V collection is a testament to Lyphe’s commitment to balancing cost with quality, supported by efficient supply chains and economies of scale.
With MHRA regulatory changes impacting the branding of “Vital,” the line will evolve in name but not in concept.
Noidecs VThree launches in Winter 2024, with the complete range available early in 2025. Announcements on launch dates are forthcoming.
In the ever-evolving financial trading world, having a dependable, innovative platform can significantly impact a trader’s success. This ICL Markets review explores a platform designed to support newcomers and seasoned investors with cutting-edge features, accessible tools, and a user-focused experience. Let’s delve deeper into what makes ICL Markets appealing in the competitive trading landscape.
User-Friendly Design with a Sophisticated Edge
ICL Markets is a trading platform that seamlessly combines simplicity with advanced functionality. Catering to users of all experience levels, its interface is intuitive enough for beginners while offering the sophistication experienced traders require.
At the core of its offerings are ultra-low spreads starting at 0.0, a feature that directly reduces trading costs and enhances profitability. Whether you’re trading Forex or CFDs, minimising expenses can make a significant difference. Additionally, the platform prides itself on lightning-fast trade execution, processing orders in as little as 30 milliseconds. This quick execution is a game-changer, especially in volatile markets where speed is critical.
Diverse Trading Instruments for Every Strategy
A significant highlight of ICL Markets is its extensive selection of trading instruments. Users can choose from over 120 assets, including Forex pairs, commodities, indices, cryptocurrencies, and CFDs. This diverse range enables traders to create well-rounded portfolios and explore various markets without needing multiple accounts.
The broker provides access to real-time market data and up-to-the-minute analysis, empowering users to make informed decisions. By staying updated on market trends, traders can better anticipate shifts and develop effective strategies tailored to their goals.
Harnessing the Power of MetaTrader 5 (MT5)
ICL Markets leverages the widely acclaimed MetaTrader 5 (MT5) platform, a powerful tool with advanced features for modern trading. MT5 offers superior charting capabilities, multiple order types, and comprehensive technical analysis tools, making it an excellent choice for traders who rely on data-driven decisions.
Additionally, MT5 supports algorithmic trading, allowing users to automate strategies for optimal execution. This feature is especially valuable for traders seeking efficiency, as it reduces the need for constant monitoring while maintaining accuracy.
Innovative Features for Enhanced Convenience
One of the reasons ICL Markets has gained popularity is its focus on user convenience. The platform supports one-click trading, enabling users to execute trades instantly with minimal effort. This feature is particularly useful for traders who operate in fast-moving markets where time is of the essence.
Mobile applications for both iOS and Android enhance users’ accessibility. Traders can monitor markets, analyse data, and execute trades from anywhere, ensuring they never miss an opportunity.
The mobile apps offer the same functionality as the desktop platform, delivering a unified and seamless experience on any device.
Transparent and Fair Trading Conditions
Transparency is at the heart of ICL Markets’ operations. Unlike some platforms that obscure fees or impose hidden charges, ICL Markets ensures traders clearly understand their costs. Its competitive pricing model features minimal spreads and zero hidden fees, creating a fair trading environment.
This transparency extends to its withdrawal and deposit policies. Users can confidently transfer funds, knowing the platform operates efficiently and fairly. Additionally, the process is straightforward, ensuring users can focus more on trading and less on administrative hurdles.
Round-the-clock support for Traders
Customer support is another area in which ICL Markets excels. The platform provides 24/7 assistance, ensuring traders can resolve issues or receive guidance whenever needed. Whether it’s technical troubleshooting or questions about trading tools, the support team is knowledgeable, responsive, and dedicated to helping users succeed.
For beginner traders, the support continues beyond there. ICL Markets also offers resources to help users learn and grow. From tutorials to expert insights, these educational materials are designed to equip traders with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in the competitive world of financial trading.
Why Traders Choose ICL Markets for Forex and CFDs
This ICL Markets review highlights several compelling reasons why the platform is a preferred choice for many traders:
Competitive Spreads: Ultra-low spreads starting from 0.0 give traders a cost advantage.
Fast Execution: Trades are executed in 30 milliseconds, reducing the risk of slippage.
Diverse Instruments: Over 120 assets allow for portfolio diversification and strategic trading.
Comprehensive Market Analysis: Real-time data and expert insights keep traders informed.
User-Centric Platforms: From MT5 to mobile apps, the tools are designed for convenience.
Efficient Customer Support: 24/7 availability ensures traders are never left stranded.
These features reflect the platform’s dedication to providing a holistic and user-friendly trading environment.
Security
In addition to its functional benefits, ICL Markets strongly emphasises security. The platform employs robust encryption measures to protect user data and financial transactions, safeguarding sensitive information against potential threats.
Regulatory compliance further reinforces the platform’s trustworthiness. By adhering to industry standards, ICL Markets creates a secure environment where users can trade with peace of mind. Transparency in operations, including clear terms and conditions, builds confidence among its user base.
Potential Areas for Improvement
While ICL Markets delivers a well-rounded experience, there are some areas where enhancements could be made. Expanding the range of educational resources, such as webinars or eBooks, would greatly benefit traders who want to deepen their understanding of financial markets.
Additionally, introducing multilingual support could make the platform more accessible to a global audience. Given the international nature of Forex and CFD trading, catering to diverse linguistic needs would enhance its inclusivity.
The Verdict: A Decent Partner in Trading
This ICL Markets review underscores the platform’s strengths in delivering a top-tier trading experience. With its ultra-low spreads, rapid execution speeds, diverse instruments, and advanced tools, ICL Markets caters to traders who value efficiency, reliability, and accessibility.
Its user-friendly features, robust security measures, and transparent operations make it a trustworthy choice for Forex and CFD trading. While there are minor areas for improvement, these are relevant to the platform’s overall appeal.
For both beginners seeking guidance and experienced traders looking for advanced tools, ICL Markets offers a compelling solution that meets diverse needs.
Conclusion
This ICL Markets review has highlighted a platform that prioritises its users, offering competitive features, robust tools, and reliable support. Whether just starting your trading journey or looking to optimise your strategies, ICL Markets provides the resources and flexibility needed to succeed.
With its commitment to transparency and innovation, ICL Markets is more than just a trading platform—it’s a partner in your financial journey. For traders seeking a dependable, feature-rich environment, ICL Markets is undoubtedly worth exploring.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as a recommendation. The author takes no responsibility for any actions taken by the company during your trading experience. Please be aware that the information contained herein may not be fully accurate or current. Your trading and financial decisions are your own responsibility, and it is important not to rely solely on the information presented here. We make no guarantees regarding the accuracy of the information on this platform and disclaim any liability for losses or damages incurred as a result of trading or investing.
Recognised for its extensive experience in franchise consultancy, Lime Licensing Group has partnered with the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) to empower entrepreneurs across the UK. This strategic alliance focuses on providing essential resources to small businesses interested in expanding through franchising.
The partnership aims to deliver bespoke consultancy services, legal support, and education to FSB members, guiding them through the franchising journey. From initial planning to marketing and ongoing franchisee management, the collaboration seeks to make franchising more accessible and achievable.
With shared expertise, Lime Licensing Group and FSB aspire to open new opportunities for small businesses to scale effectively.
Key features of the partnership include:
Discounted consultancy services: FSB members can access Lime Licensing Group’s services at exclusive rates.
Educational opportunities: Workshops, webinars, and tailored content will be available throughout 2025, offering insights into franchising’s potential for growth.
Comprehensive franchising support: Lime Licensing Group will assist businesses in creating customised franchise plans and recruiting ideal franchisees for both UK and international growth.
Andy Cheetham, CEO of Lime Licensing Group, remarked, “Franchising is one of the most effective growth strategies for small businesses, and this partnership with FSB aligns perfectly with our mission to support small business owners across the UK. We’re thrilled to provide FSB members with resources and expertise tailored specifically to the unique challenges and opportunities they will encounter in franchising.”
Caroline Lavelle, Chief Commercial Officer of FSB, added, “We are committed to helping small businesses thrive, and this partnership with Lime Licensing Group is another step toward empowering our members with innovative growth solutions. Franchising offers a fantastic opportunity for business expansion, and together with Lime Licensing Group, we look forward to helping more UK small businesses reach their full potential.”
The collaboration is live as of today, with resources now available to FSB members. Entrepreneurs eager to explore franchising are encouraged to reach out to Lime Licensing Group or FSB.
About Lime Licensing Group:
Lime Licensing Group is the UK’s largest franchise consultancy with branches around the UK and extensive experience helping businesses expand through the franchise model. For more information, visit www.limelicensinggroup.co.uk.
About FSB:
As the UK’s largest business support group, FSB is the voice of the UK’s small businesses and the self-employed. Established 50 years ago to help its members succeed in business, FSB is a non-profit making and non-party political organisation that’s led by its members, for its members. As the UK’s leading business campaigner, FSB is focused on delivering change which supports smaller businesses to grow and succeed.
FSB offers members a wide range of vital business services, including access to finance, business banking, legal advice and support along with a powerful voice in Government. More information is available at www.fsb.org.uk
The University of Manchester is the proud recipient of two awards from Times Higher Education in recognition of its outstanding support to students and STEM research.
At the awards in Birmingham last week, The University of Manchester and the University’s Students’ Union was recognised for the support provided to students during the cost of living crisis in 2022/23.
One-off payments totalling over £9 million were made available to all students in November 2022, which 90% accessed. Targeted additional support was allocated to some students in February 2023 which, at the time, many other universities were not in the financial position to provide.
Overall, an unparalleled package of support of over £10 million reached students through a wide range of interventions in the academic year. These included cosy campus spaces, free breakfasts on Wednesdays and holistic support initiatives.
Kelly-Ann Mallon, head of access, student employability, success, and development at The University of Manchester, who attended the awards on behalf of the University, said: “This recognition is a testament to the incredible teamwork and collaboration across the University that allowed us to respond swiftly and effectively to the cost of living crisis.
“The collective commitment from all areas of the institution ensured that we could provide the right support to our students. This award is not only a recognition of our efforts but a reflection of how much of a difference this initiative has made in the lives of our students, and it’s truly rewarding to see that impact acknowledged.”
Overall, an unparalleled package of support of over £10million reached students through a wide range of interventions in the academic year. These included cosy campus spaces, free breakfasts on Wednesdays and holistic support initiatives.
The University’s community of donors play a significant role in supporting students experiencing cost of living challenges. Initiatives such as the Cost of Living Support Fund ensure those facing hardship have access to immediate financial support.
Gifts from donors also support programmes such as the Manchester Access Programme and Undergraduate Access Scholarship, enabling more students than ever to access life-changing opportunities here at Manchester.
The effects of this response to the crisis stretched beyond the university, making waves in Westminster discourse and impacting policy.
Lexie Baynes, union affairs officer, University of Manchester Students’ Union said: “I’m so proud that this collaborative piece of work between the University and Students’ Union has been recognised by Times Higher and the sector.
“To me, the key takeaway here is that colleagues at the University and the Students’ Union elected Executive Teams worked in partnership on a direct and deliverable package of support for our 48,000 students during the cost of living crisis and financial pressures, putting students’ needs at the forefront of our actions. Huge congratulations to all those involved in the work, and the current Students’ Union team looks forward to continuing to work in partnership, to ensure that any barriers students face can be overcome.”
Anna Lomas, Employer Engagement Manager at The University of Manchester and chair of the group in charge of directing student support said: “Colleagues from across The University of Manchester and the Students’ Union are delighted to be recipients of this award and to be recognised formally for the hard work and commitment they gave to supporting our students with the challenges they were facing during the escalating cost of living crisis.”
The University of Manchester also received the award for Research Project of the Year: STEM for its work developing the world’s first bedside genetic test to prevent babies from going deaf.
One in 500 babies carry a gene that causes permanent deafness when given gentamicin, an antibiotic which is commonly used in intensive care. Researchers from Manchester developed the rapid bedside test and trialled it on 751 babies in neonatal units in Manchester and Liverpool, and the NHS is exploring how the test can become part of routine clinical care. The technology could potentially save the hearing of 180 babies in the UK every year.
Dr John McDermott, NIHR Doctoral Research Fellow at the University of Manchester said: “This award is a testament to the hard work of so many people from across the University and at the hospital. With the genedrive technology set to be rolled out across the country as part of PALOH-UK, we’re excited to see how the impact of this intervention will continue to grow.”
A pioneering training programme is set to launch at HMP Styal, marking the first-ever construction workshop within the women’s prison estate.
Having built a strong partnership with HMP Styal over the last two years whilst running shorter ‘introduction to construction’ courses, Procure Plus has supported the prison to be able to include construction on the curriculum.
The market-leading not-for-profit procurement company will offer a ten-week property maintenance bootcamp. The training will begin with a one-week Health and Safety course and Construction Skills Certification Scheme training starting on November 25.
A ‘Meet the Employer’ event will then take place on December 9, followed by nine weeks of Property Maintenance practical training starting on January 6.
During this time, participants will gain hands-on experience in real construction tasks. The focus is on actively working with tools and materials, allowing them to apply what they learn in a real-world setting, rather than just covering theory.
Lauren Nolan, prison employment lead at HMP Styal, said: “This will be the first-ever construction workshop within the female estate, which is a huge accomplishment for us as a prison and we are very grateful to Procure Plus for supporting us in implementing this.
“Female prisons typically deliver qualifications such as hair and beauty, catering or hospitality; so, to have the opportunity to deliver qualifications and avenues into employment that move away from the more gender stereotypical opportunities and diversify our offer for the women in our custody is incredibly exciting; both for the prison and for the women themselves.
“This is only possible as a result of collaborative working over the previous two years, including successful ‘Have a Go days’, Construction sector led jobs fairs, CSCS courses, and employment outcomes on both temporary license and release. The ongoing support and understanding of the needs of women leaving custody has been outstanding and has massively contributed to our successful outcomes. I personally look forward to seeing the increase in success stories following on from the upcoming bootcamps and look forward to developing this partnership even further.”
Procure Plus has secured funding from City & Guilds’ Training division to fund the bootcamp training course, while its Foundation division provided the setup funds for the workshop.
Procure Plus sourced joinery tools from its supplier Jewsons, and its ‘Women and Manual Trades’ programme funded the rest of the required equipment.
Procure Plus has brought together a strong partnership of organisations to deliver this programme, with Rosscom Training delivering the construction course, B4Box fitting the prison’s workshop, HMP Styal finding candidates for the courses, and a variety of Pocure Plus’ construction partners engaging to provide employment opportunities for the women.
“We’re delighted to be supporting this programme, both through our Training division and through our Foundation. As we move into new training sectors, we aim to increase the range and availability of job-relevant skills for female learners within prisons, helping them to secure sustainable work after release.”
Mike Brogan, chief executive at Procure Plus, said: “This initiative is about reaching those furthest from the labour market and offering a real chance for change. With women making up only a small fraction of the construction workforce, it’s crucial that we create opportunities like this to challenge industry norms.
“The shorter courses have already led to great successes with former prisoners securing full-time roles on release, and also with current prisoners securing positions whilst working on ROTL (release on temporary licence).
“We hope this longer course will ensure the women develop valuable, employable skills whilst building their confidence to work within the construction industry either on ROTL or a job on release.”
In addition to this scheme, over the last five years, Procure Plus has helped more than 2,500 people into work.
Police are investigating after two people were injured in a suspected stabbing in Clayton last night.
At around 11.10pm, they were alerted to a man with serious injuries on Barrington Street.
He was taken to hospital with injuries which are not believed to be life-threatening at this time.
Shortly after, another man attended hospital with stab wounds which are understood to be connected with the initial call.
A scene remains in place and officers are on the scene as their enquiries continue.
Additional officers will be in the area over the coming days and residents will be able to share any concerns.
Detective chief inspector Gareth Davies said: “We are currently investigating the full circumstances of last night’s shocking incident, and I would urge anyone with any information to please come forward.
“These acts of violence have no place on our streets and we will be working hard to ensure we find those responsible.
“We do believe that this was a targeted incident, with no wider threat to the public. However, we do have multiple officers on the scene and in the area for reassurance and they will be able to assist with any queries you may have.
“I would urge anyone with any information about this incident to please get in touch. This could include CCTV, dashcam, or doorbell footage from around the time of the incident and captures something that looks suspicious.”
You can contact police via 101 or via the Live Chat service at gmp.police.uk, quoting log 3482 of 01/12/24. Alternatively, anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Manchester City Council has completed a disposal of land to Kadans Science Partner UK (Kadans) to deliver a landmark life science development.
It is part of the first phase of the Upper Brook Street regeneration programme adjacent to the Oxford Road Corridor in Central Manchester.
Planning permission was granted early this year and now the brownfield site will be redeveloped to bring forward over 215,000sqft of purpose-built lab and office space focused on research, digital innovation and life sciences.
The first phase expects to create 2000 new jobs.
A further 475,000sqft of life science employment space is being delivered by other developers in latter phases of the regeneration programme.
The building is designed around Kadans’ core principles of technical excellence, transparency and connectivity. Split across ground plus seven floors, the space is designed with adaptability at the forefront providing floorplates that have an optimised division of one to four tenancies.
The atrium encourages circulation both horizontally and vertically through well planned meeting and breakout spaces. This is complemented by an active and permeable ground floor providing a focal town hall area, publicly accessible café and innovation space.
Upper Brook Street sits adjacent to the Oxford Road Corridor which has operated for over 15 years and accommodates more than 50% of all life science business in Manchester, and Kadans will look to foster partnerships with Manchester’s wealth of world-class research facilities harnessing the power of people and place.
Kadans will continue to engage with the local community and sign-post opportunities for social cohesion and community through construction and into operation to develop an inclusive innovation hub.
Development of the site is expected to be complete in 2027.
Bev Craig, council leader said: “Upper Brook Street is a key regeneration location that has the potential to bring long-term brownfield sites back into active use. This site represents the first of an ambitious programme of investment in this part of our city, which is supporting enviable growth for our research and life science sectors, creating quality jobs for our residents and diversifying the city’s economy.
“Given its location close to the Oxford Road corridor, the site allows for close collaboration with the city’s universities and research community, supporting opportunity for Manchester to continue to build its reputation as a globally renowned centre for medical and life sciences.”
Will Fogden, development lead for Kadans Science Partner, said:“This is a significant milestone which kickstarts this mixed-use masterplan. Adopting a philosophy of designing ‘inside-out’ the scheme combines strong architectural language with robust functionality to create an optimum framework for innovation and collaboration.
“We look forward to starting on site in 2025 and delivering on this transformational district that promotes inclusivity, innovation and collaboration to deliver game changing science.”
A takeaway that was operating with mouse droppings on work surfaces, has been blasted by health inspectors.
In December 2023, officers from Manchester City Council’s Environmental Health Team visited Karahi Box Ltd – trading as Daawat – in Stockport Road, Manchester, to carry out a routine inspection.
Several serious violations of Food Safety and Hygiene regulations were found including an active pest infestation, poorly cleaned and unhygienic conditions and a dead cockroach near a food preparation table.
Officers also noted that food management systems, which ensure the safe preparation and storage of food, were not in place, posing a potential risk to the public.
On Thursday, November 28, 2024, the business appeared before Manchester Magistrates’ Court, represented by its director, Mohammed Tariq Jilani.
Entering four guilty pleas for offences under the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013, the businesses was ordered to pay a fine of £6,000.
It was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £2,000, and costs of £2,840.
Councillor Lee-Ann Igbon said: “There are several thousand takeaways and restaurants in Manchester which is why we, as a council, take food hygiene and safety very seriously.
“Regular inspections such as this are vital in ensuring that standards, which ultimately are in place to protect the public, are maintained.
“In this case there were a series of major violations which is demonstrated by the size of the fine that was imposed.
“I hope this sends a clear message that businesses which disregard safety like this will face the full force of the law.”
The woman was from a European background, around five feet one inches tall, with a slim build, and dark brown hair. She was likely aged between 26 and 40, though could be older or younger.
She was discovered wearing a Primark neon green strapless corset style top, New Look branded Jenna black jeans in a size 8, and dark green anti-slip socks – the type that are believed to be used in hospitals and care facilities, although they can be purchased in shops and online. She had an elastic band and hair bobble on her wrist.
The woman was in the water for around one or two months – though it cannot be stated for certain exactly how long.
She may have entered the water in a surrounding area or region, with the River Tame and River Goyt both merging into the River Mersey.
Further analysis of her body is due to be completed, but her cause of death is currently being treated as unexplained. Finding out who she is will assist in establishing the circumstances in which she entered the water.
Forensic examinations
Detective inspector Louise Edwards said: “We have worked with numerous experts covering a wide range of forensic examinations and tests available to us, but we have sadly been unable to uncover the woman’s identity.
“We want nothing more than to reunite her with her family and friends. She could be someone’s mother, auntie, sister, or cousin – somebody out there will know who she is and we want to ensure she gets back to her loved ones.
“If you have any information at all, please do get in touch with us. Even the smallest amount of information could greatly benefit in finding out who she is, and the circumstances which led to her sadly being discovered in the river more than eight months ago.”
You can contact police by calling 101, or by using the Live Chat Service at gmp.police.uk, quoting log number 1191 of March 21, 2024. Alternatively contact the Major Incident Team Syndicate 3 directly on 0161 856 9479.
