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The Netherlands Enhances Its Position as a Hub for Global Talent

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The Netherlands Enhances Its Position as a Hub for Global Talent

According to recent data from the Netherlands Statistical Office (CBS, 2024), the country remains a leading destination for highly skilled migrants (HSM). In 2023 alone, the Netherlands welcomed 21,500 skilled professionals, underlining its reliance on international talent to bolster its labour market.

The Netherlands is actively recruiting highly skilled professionals to address talent shortages through its Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) program. Recent data from CBS shows that 21,500 individuals moved to the Netherlands as highly skilled migrants last year (CBS, 2024). Unusual Payroll, a consultancy that specialises in HSM applications and payroll management for international employers, has analysed this data to provide insights into the changing landscape of Dutch immigration and the challenges associated with international hiring.

A 2024 report from the Dutch Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment indicates that countries such as India, South Africa, and China remain key sources of skilled talent (Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment, 2024). Despite new regulatory constraints, including a roughly 20% reduction in HSM admissions in 2023, the Netherlands continues to be a top destination for foreign talent. Seckin Canan, Managing Partner of Unusual Payroll stated, “The Dutch government’s tightened HSM requirements have introduced new challenges; however, the Netherlands still stands out as a strategic location for companies looking to build globally competitive teams. Our services are designed to streamline the HSM process for UK companies, ensuring full compliance with Dutch regulations.”

Navigating Changing Conditions: Why HSM Support is Key
Today’s global talent market requires companies to recruit from a diverse range of international pools to meet skills demands and enhance workforce diversity. As the Netherlands increasingly raises the documentation and evidence requirements for Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) applicants, businesses are seeking professional support for efficient recruitment and compliance management (Netherlands Enterprise Agency, 2024).  “We recognise the challenges posed by these regulatory changes,” Canan explained. “Unusual Payroll provides an end-to-end solution for UK companies, handling payroll, legal, and regulatory requirements to ensure smooth onboarding for highly skilled migrants.”

Unusual Payroll, specialises in payroll and consultancy services specifically tailored for companies hiring HSMs. This includes comprehensive support in managing legal, administrative, and compliance requirements—critical aspects for UK companies interested in employing international talent in the Netherlands. Unusual Payroll ensures that both companies and their new hires navigate the immigration process with minimal friction, allowing for seamless integration and a rapid start in the Dutch market.

The growing international market, along with stricter migration regulations, highlights the need for expert guidance. Seckin Canan noted, “The complexities of Dutch immigration law require a thorough understanding of the extensive documentation involved. Unusual Payroll assists companies in navigating these challenges by offering expertise in payroll and HR management, which is crucial for a seamless transition.”

Why the Netherlands Attracts International Talent
The Netherlands is well-known for its strong business environment, strategic location and favourable regulatory framework, making it attractive to both businesses and professionals (Invest in Holland, 2023). The Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency (NFIA) has reported that the country’s economic stability, advanced infrastructure and high quality of life are key factors that draw skilled professionals (NFIA, 2023). For UK companies looking to leverage these advantages by recruiting top international talent, Unusual Payroll offers crucial support for managing the process from hiring to onboarding.

With a solid understanding of Dutch immigration laws and payroll regulations, Unusual Payroll helps UK-based businesses streamline their operations and gain a competitive edge in the global market. By handling the complexities of immigration, payroll and compliance, Unusual Payroll aims to eliminate barriers between global talent pools and UK employers, ensuring the efficient integration of highly skilled migrants into the Dutch workforce.

England seal Windies T20 series in style

Tom Rostance
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England seal Windies T20 series in style

England chased down 149 to seal a Twenty20 series victory over West Indies with two matches to spare in St Lucia after a nervy final-over win.

Following a lengthy rain delay, England seemed on course to cruise to victory, reducing the hosts to 37 for five as the West Indies top order again failed to deliver.

A half-century from skipper Rovman Powell ensured West Indies could at least post a respectable 145 for eight from their 20 overs, and England then slipped to 37-3 early on.

Wickets fell with regularity, but some late big hitting from Liam Livingstone – who was dropped three times – helped England seal a first white-ball series success in the Caribbean since 2019, with two more T20s still to come at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground this weekend.

“It was a real collective effort to win the series which is really pleasing,” England captain Jos Buttler said. “I’ve been so impressed with how we’ve set the tone in the powerplays in all three games so far.

“We’re in a really strong place as a team. We’ve got really good competition for places too, when you consider the players who aren’t here. I’ve really liked seeing different players step up at different times, throughout the whole series.”

Having already lost their ODI series on this tour, a youthful England, missing a host of their leading stars due to Test team commitments, continued their turnaround in the damp St Lucian conditions.

When play started after a 50-minute rain delay, Powell’s 73-run partnership with Romario Shepherd for the sixth wicket gave West Indies hope, but Jamie Overton took two wickets in three balls to put England firmly back in command.

Saqib Mahmood continued his fine form with the ball with bowling figures of three for 17, setting England up for their lowest run chase of the series so far.

“It’s a bit disappointing, we keep losing wickets in the powerplay and in clusters,” said West Indies captain Powell. “We need to be our natural selves. We know we are good stroke players but that little bit of smart was missing.

“The middle overs become so much harder when you have lost those early wickets. But we did feel like we could defend that total after the recovery from myself and Romario.”

Embrace Autumn: Meatballs in Cardamom-Infused Broth

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Embrace Autumn: Meatballs in Cardamom-Infused Broth

This November, we’re delighted to share a comforting recipe: Meatballs with Rice in Cardamom Soup. Inspired by the flavours of the Middle East, this dish is ideal for showcasing the bounty of the British harvest. Prepared with premium Japonica rice from the EU, it’s a deliciously aromatic and hearty choice.

These flavourful meatballs, made with minced beef and Japonica rice, are packed with fragrant spices and fresh herbs. The cardamom-spiked soup, blended with spinach, creates a luxuriously smooth and warming base, perfect for the season.

Recipe Details: Meatballs with Rice in Cardamom Soup

Ingredients (for 30 meatballs):

  • 200g Japonica rice
  • 1kg minced beef
  • 50g fresh coriander, chopped
  • 150g red onion, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 eggs
  • 50g olive oil
  • 30g breadcrumbs
  • 400g fresh cardamom pods, crushed
  • 1kg fresh spinach, washed and chopped
  • Juice of 3 lemons
  • 200g plain flour
  • 200g green onions, chopped
  • Yogurt, for serving

Method:

  1. In a large bowl, combine minced beef, Japonica rice, red onion, eggs, breadcrumbs, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and shape into small meatballs.
  2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add the meatballs, and let simmer for around 25 minutes. Reserve the broth.
  3. In a separate pot, warm the olive oil and sauté the cardamom, spinach, flour, and green onions until fragrant.
  4. Gradually add the reserved broth, blend until smooth, and then add the meatballs.
  5. Serve in bowls, topped with a spoonful of yogurt.

Ideal for gatherings or quiet nights in, this dish lets you savour the spirit of autumn in every bite. Celebrate the high-quality EU rice with this heart-warming, delicious meal.

Learn more about the “EUROPEAN RICE” campaign, upcoming events, and social media activity by visiting:

Website link: www.europeanrice.eu

About the “EUROPEAN RICE” Campaign:

The “EUROPEAN RICE” campaign is an EU-funded initiative focused on promoting the benefits, sustainability, and versatility of European rice in the UK and other markets. The campaign aligns with the goals of enhancing the competitiveness and market presence of EU agri-food products globally, emphasizing sustainable practices and high-quality standards.
THE EUROPEAN UNION SUPPORTS CAMPAIGNS THAT PROMOTE HIGH QUALITY AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

England vs South Africa lineups: Hosts change four for Autumn Nations Series match

Ben Miller
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England vs South Africa lineups: Hosts change four for Autumn Nations Series match

Leicester pair Jack van Poortvliet and Freddie Steward will start for England as part of four changes to head coach Steve Borthwick’s lineup against South Africa in the Autumn Nations Series on Saturday (5.40pm)

Scrum-half Jack van Poortvliet and full-back Freddie Steward start for England against South Africa as head coach Steve Borthwick makes four changes to his starting XV.

The Leicester pair have yet to feature in the Autumn Nations Series but come straight into the line-up in place of Ben Spencer and George Furbank.

Ollie Sleightholme makes his first England start on the wing in place of the injured Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, while Bath’s Sam Underhill replaces Tom Curry, who is out through concussion.

England vs South Africa: Borthwick ‘excited’

Scrum-half Van Poortvliet and full-back Steward will make their first appearances of the series at the Allianz Stadium in place of Ben Spencer and George Furbank.

Northampton wing Ollie Sleightholme, who scored twice in the 42-37 defeat to Australia on Saturday, will make his first start in the absence of the injured Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, and Bath flanker Sam Underhill replaces Tom Curry, who is missing through concussion.

England are seeking their first home win since the Six Nations in April and revenge for their 2023 World Cup semi-final defeat against the Springboks.

They had been 15-6 ahead with ten minutes remaining at the Stade de France and within sight of a significant upset before South Africa ultimately triumphed with a 77th-minute Handre Pollard penalty.

“We’re excited to challenge ourselves against the world’s top-ranked team and back-to-back Rugby World Cup champions,” said Borthwick.

“Test matches against South Africa are always thrilling contests, and I’m sure Saturday will be no exception.”

England vs South Africa starting lineups

Jamie George is Borthwick’s captain, with Maro Itoje, Ben Earl, Ellis Genge, and George Ford his vice-captains.

Sale wing Tom Roebuck, who made his debut against Japan in the Summer Series, is on the bench for the first time this autumn.

South Africa head coach Rassie Erasmus has made 12 changes to his starting line-up from his side’s 32-15 win over Scotland on Sunday.

Skipper Siya Kolisi and ex-world player of the year Pieter-Steph du Toit are among the names to come in, with Pollard a replacement.

“England pose a completely different challenge to Scotland,” observed Erasmus. “We selected our squad based on what we would like to do in the match and also what we think will be best to counter [their] challenge.”

England: Steward; Freeman, Lawrence, Slade, Sleightholme; M Smith, Van Poortvliet; Genge, George (c), Stuart, Itoje, Martin, Cunningham-South, Underhill, Earl

Replacements: Cowan-Dickie, Baxter, Cole, Isiekwe, Dombrandt, Randall, Ford, Roebuck

South Africa: Fassi; Kolbe, Kriel, De Allende, Arendse; Libbok, Williams; Nche, Mbonambi, Loux, Etzebeth, Snyman, Kolisi (c), Du Toit, Wiese

Replacements: Marx, Steenekamp, Koch, Louw, Smith, Reinach, Pollard, Am

EU Rice Sector Paves the Way in Sustainable Agriculture

News Desk
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EU Rice Sector Paves the Way in Sustainable Agriculture

The European rice industry is redefining sustainable farming, offering both environmental and consumer health benefits. By adopting innovative farming techniques, EU rice production now uses less water, reduces chemical inputs, and fosters biodiversity. These methods produce not only high-quality rice but also contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions and the protection of natural landscapes.

The EU-funded European Rice campaign is designed to raise awareness about the sustainability, benefits, and adaptability of European rice in the UK and global markets. This campaign supports EU agri-food products by enhancing their competitiveness and promoting environmentally responsible practices and superior quality.

By utilising renewable resources, practising crop rotation, and implementing eco-friendly pest control, EU rice farmers are helping to create a positive environmental impact. Prioritising both people and the planet, the EU rice industry offers a model for sustainable modern agriculture, enabling consumers to enjoy nutritious rice grown with respect for the environment.

To learn more about the European Rice campaign, upcoming events, and social media activities, please visit our website or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

Top award for brave Tactical Aid Unit trio

Helen Greaney
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Top award for brave Tactical Aid Unit trio

Three officers from the Tactical Aid Unit at Greater Manchester Police were proud to receive a Bravery Award at the Chief Constable’s Awards.

The recognition was given for an incident in October 2023, when they attended a call regarding a woman in the water at Salford Quays.

Close to midnight, PC Colin Harrison, PC Joseph Dearnaley and PC Nicholas Leach were forced to act quickly, with low visibility and sub-zero freezing water temperatures.

They came to the rescue of the woman in the water and also dealt with her concerned husband, as well as distressed members of the public.

With no life support rings available in the immediate vicinity, the men tried to reach her with emergency rescue lines but were unsuccessful.

With crucial time ticking PCs Dearnaley and Leach got into the water and swam 60 meters in freezing temperatures to help the woman, who by this point was unable to assist in her own recovery.

PC Harrison, the designated TAU team leader, maintained command and control and ensured both officers had emergency rescue lines to subsequently keep them safe too.

Members of the public assisted in pulling the officers and the woman towards the edge of the quay, using the emergency lines.

Chief inspector Paul Bray from the Specialist Operations Branch said: “All three officers deserve this recognition for their selfless actions on that night. As officers we are always wanting to keep the public safe but, on this occasion, they went above and beyond that put their lives at danger.

“Their heroic efforts saved that woman’s life that night and meant she got the help and support she needed afterwards.

“As Tactical Aid Unit officers they attend a variety of high-risk incidents and warrants to provide specialist support to colleagues and the public when needed. They are terrific individuals who we are proud to have as part of our team.”

In the officers’ awards citation from senior leaders it stated: “All three officers acted in the finest traditions of British policing and their actions underpinned the attestation they took when they joined GMP.”

After being given the award PCs Leach and Dearnaley said: “It’s our biggest achievement to date within our policing careers, due to the nature of the incident and the recognition it’s received.

“We were excited to share the award with our families, friends and other colleagues who were in attendance at the incident on the evening – it was a real team effort including PCs Thind and Felton, who were both involved in the incident as well and crucial to the incident in speaking with emergency service colleagues and members of the public.”

Homeowner who touted planning law must rip down extension

Helen Greaney
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Homeowner who touted planning law must rip down extension
An illegal extension must be torn down after a homeowner was brought before a District Judge following a three-year refusal to comply with the law.
In May 2021, Manchester Council’s planning enforcement team became aware of a potentially illegal two-storey extension being built onto a property on Birchfields Road, Manchester.

On further investigation officers discovered that the owner of the property – Michelle Naimah Sharif (56) – had not obtained any planning permission for this development, and was ordered to cease construction immediately.

However, works continued into the summer leading to the council issuing a Planning Enforcement Notice, ordering that the works be demolished. An option was included that would allow a single-storey extension to be built, in line with previously granted planning permission.

The council rejected a subsequent application for the retention of the development, which was then appealed by the homeowner. This appeal, however, was dismissed by the planning inspector in February 2022.

In their notes, the inspector said the unauthorised development “…is out of keeping and it is poorly related to the rear [of the property]. It is visually obtrusive and discordant and it is not sympathetic to its host or the surrounding built environment. It does not contribute positively to a strong sense of place and it detracts from the overall quality of the townscape.”

The inspector also noted harm caused to the living conditions of neighbours because of the works.

Despite this extensive engagement and the ruling of the planning inspector, the owners of the property still refused to comply with the Planning Enforcement Notice, resulting in the council taking legal action.

At a hearing held at Manchester Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, Sharif pleaded guilty to an offence under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.

The sitting district judge fined Sharif £5,000 and ordered them to pay a victim surcharge of £2,000. They were also ordered to pay Manchester City Council £12,745 in respect to legal and investigatory costs.

The requirement that the extension must be demolished is still in place.

Councillor Gavin White said: “This has been a long-running saga caused by the inexplicable refusal of this homeowner to comply with a legal order.

“Planning law is incredibly important and is put in place to protect the rights of residents as well as preserve the amenity of communities which could be negatively impacted by a rogue development. In this case, the council’s position was fully vindicated by the planning inspector and then the district judge.

“We will continue to ensure this extension is demolished and that this case is finally resolved.”

Invisible Cities signs deal with Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel

Helen Greaney
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Invisible Cities signs deal with Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel

Invisible Cities is excited to announce a significant partnership with the Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel.

The social enterprise trains people affected by homelessness to become walking tour guides of their own city and offer these alternative tours to tourists and locals.

Mercure Manchester Piccadilly has agreed to provide complimentary accommodation for Invisible Cities team members during their visits.

This support helps reduce overhead costs, allowing the enterprise to spend more time in the city with guides and stakeholders and further its mission to give back to the local community and challenge stereotypes about homelessness.

Over the past 18 months, the hotel has undergone a complete transformation, including a £3 million renovation to modernise 280 bedrooms, the reception area, and the creation of new event spaces, most notably the Garden View Room.

Andrew Krawec, general manager, said: “With our new vision underway, we are committed to giving back to our local community. We are incredibly proud to partner with Invisible Cities in Manchester and support the important work they do in empowering individuals who have experienced homelessness to open up meaningful employment opportunities – a cause that resonates deeply with our values as a hotel and community partner.

“This collaboration aligns perfectly with our efforts to tackle homelessness and promote inclusivity. We look forward to working closely with Invisible Cities and supporting their mission.”

Founder of Invisible Cities,  Zakia Moulaoui Guery said: “This help will mean that we can train and support more guides, and more people looking for positive and meaningful employment opportunities and a way out of homelessness – it’s huge for us and we are incredible grateful.

“The support of Mercure Manchester Piccadilly means that we can allocated more of our funds back into the community by removing the cost of visiting Manchester to meet guides and partners as well as aligning with our shared commitment to creating a more inclusive and compassionate community, flying the flag for all of the incredible Mancunian people we have the privilege of working with.”

NatWest champions North West businesses for Global Entrepreneurship Week

Helen Greaney
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NatWest champions North West businesses for Global Entrepreneurship Week

In celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week, NatWest is running a series of events to help local business founders in the North West to thrive.

Designed to support those at all stages of their business journey, NatWest is opening the doors of its Entrepreneur Accelerator Hub in Manchester.

From group coaching to social events and exclusive pitch clubs, the NatWest Accelerator programme supports and inspires entrepreneurial talent.

Running from November 18 – 24, Global Entrepreneurship Week is an annual week-long celebration empowering entrepreneurs to drive economic growth through bright ideas and big ambitions.

These events will cover topics such as attracting investment and connecting with customers as well as providing advice on navigating the complexities of scaling a business.

The NatWest Accelerator supports and empowers entrepreneurs across the North West to scale their businesses to the next level, through one-to-one coaching, a programme of thought leadership and events, access to a network of like-minded peers and full-time use of a modern co-working space.

One business that has benefited from the support of the hub, is Nicole Ratcliffe (pictured) aka The Workplace Sleep Coach.

Since starting her business in 2017, she has helped a range of businesses support their employees with sleep challenges. Her work includes one to one coaching as well group training for parents and carers, employees and line managers on a range of sleep related issues. Prior to establishing her business, the mum of two worked in field sales before finding her passion for helping others sleep better.

Nicole said: “The business was doing well but I needed something to help me demonstrate my expertise to corporate and my coach from NatWest suggested I commission some research on productivity. I worked with two interns and was able to commission a report via the University of Chester. The programme has really helped me think outside of the box in terms of supporting my business.”

Events

  • Tuesday, November 19: Doors Open Day, an event for any entrepreneurs to experience the Accelerator Community, with the Manchester Hub hosting Networking, Group Coaching, Hotdesking as part of the day.
  • Wednesday, November 20: Mentoring Event in partnership with The Growth Company and Digital Boost

Libbie Mowbray, Accelerator community manager at NatWest said: “We work year-round to support businesses nationally with our Accelerator Hubs and we are excited to be opening up these Manchester events to inspire more entrepreneurs to get involved this Global Entrepreneurship Week.”

Entrepreneurs looking to grow and scale their businesses are encouraged to register their interest for the March cohort of NatWest’s Entrepreneur Accelerator here.

Police officer who abused position is jailed following child sex offences

Helen Greaney
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Police officer who abused position is jailed following child sex offences

A former police officer who was sacked for sexually assaulting a six-year-old girl whilst on duty, has now been jailed for nine years.

Dean Dempster (35), from Manchester, has been ordered to sign the sex offenders’ register for life after previously admitting to sexually assaulting a child while on duty working as a response officer in Oldham.

He was convicted and sacked by the chief constable at an accelerated misconduct hearing earlier this year. He has since admitted six counts of making indecent images, and two counts of misconduct in public office.

On December 29, 2023, Dempster (pictured) was one of three officers responding to a domestic incident involving an adult and children. It was while taking an account from a six-year-old girl, away from colleagues, that he sexually abused her when he should have been there to protect her.

The police received a complaint later that evening and Dempster was confronted by his supervisor the next morning.

He was arrested that day by officers in Oldham and pursued by the Professional Standards Directorate to explore any further evidence of offending, in an investigation directed by the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

Dempster’s devices revealed further serious offending to include making of indecent images of children, to which he pleaded guilty to six counts of including two counts of the most serious category A.

Images were found on his mobile phone taken from his body-worn video camera at the incident in December 2023 of a second clothed child, and of another clothed child at a separate incident dating back to 2022.

The victims of both families were informed and kept updated throughout the investigation.

Dempster pleaded guilty to two counts of Misconduct in a Public Office for abusing the permission granted to him as a police officer and for using footage, captured for a policing purpose, to possess for his own perverse gratification.

Investigating officers reviewed thousands of Dempster’s previous deployments while at the force and did not find any further evidence of criminal behaviour. However, anyone who is affected by this case is encouraged to contact police.

Dempster was sacked in May 2024 and he has been barred from policing. He has been ordered to serve five years on license following his prison sentence.

Deputy chief constable Terry Woods said: “I am angry and appalled at this abhorrent abuse of responsibility and trust. We commend the bravery of this young victim for coming forward. We apologise to her family and know nothing will ever undo the harm Dempster has caused to his victims.

“Dempster represents the very worst of society. He is not a police officer; he is a child sex offender, a criminal, and he has no right to be near police uniform or serve the public. Dempster was rightfully arrested and charged before he could ever work in our communities again.

“We have thoroughly reviewed Dempster’s vetting and can confidently say there was nothing to remotely suggest he had a sexual interest in children. He was a man with a career in public service and his record showed no signs of warning.

“Dempster is a depraved exception who we have wasted no time in dismissing and disowning.

“The thousands of officers he has let down are committed to the protection of children in Oldham and Greater Manchester, and anyone who undermines this priority has no place in GMP.”

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