Author: Sam Allcock

New research from the International Coaching Federation (ICF) reveals an increasing demand for mental well-being support in workplaces, with 85% of coaching professionals reporting growing requests for assistance in improving mental health. The findings come as concerns surrounding burnout and mental health continue to rise globally, prompting a significant shift in workplace priorities. The “2024 ICF Snapshot Survey: Coaching and Mental Well-Being” surveyed coaches from diverse backgrounds and specialisations, highlighting the strategies they use and the challenges they face in supporting their clients. The results indicate a pressing need for qualified professionals equipped to address mental well-being concerns. Key findings…

In a significant move to support UK Armed Forces veterans, the government has announced that all veterans will be exempt from local connection requirements when applying for social housing. This policy aims to address housing needs among veterans and is part of a broader initiative to bolster support for the Armed Forces community. The announcement aligns with the government’s commitment to enhance housing support for veterans, ensuring they receive the assistance they require. Traditionally, many local councils impose residency or local connection tests to determine eligibility for social housing, which can create barriers for those who have served in the…

Raworths, a leading firm in Harrogate, has announced a significant leadership change in their Trusts, Wills, and Estates team.Alison Walker and Sam Jenner have taken the reins as joint heads of the 23-member team.This transition comes following the team’s recent accolade as ‘Out of London Practice of the Year’ at the Chambers HNW Awards 2024.Former leader Rachel Tunnicliffe will now focus on her duties as senior partner and head of private client services.Under Tunnicliffe’s guidance, the team achieved Band 1 rankings in both the Chambers High Net Worth Guide and the Legal 500.Raworths, a well-regarded firm based in Harrogate, has…

Navigating menopause in the workplace requires understanding and empathy, particularly from managers.Menopause is a natural part of aging but remains stigmatised, affecting women’s work lives.Guidance from organisations such as EHRC highlights the need to address menopause’s impact at work.Financial losses for businesses due to menopause-related productivity issues are substantial.Equipping managers with knowledge about menopause can improve workplace conditions significantly.Menopause, while a natural aging process, continues to be surrounded by stigma both personally and professionally. In February, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) released new guidance to address the workplace impact of menopausal symptoms. Notably, research by the CIPD reveals…

In 2022, four-in-10 adults in England were reported to have at least one chronic illness, according to the NHS health survey.The survey revealed rising levels of raised cholesterol, affecting 53% of adults, a significant increase from 2019.Common longstanding health issues include musculoskeletal disorders, mental health conditions, and heart problems.Challenges in accessing NHS primary care services have contributed to undiagnosed and untreated chronic conditions.Employers are increasingly providing private healthcare and health screenings to address these growing health concerns.The annual NHS health survey for England in 2022 has exposed a significant increase in chronic illnesses among adults. The survey indicates a worrying…

Economic volatility drives British boards to prioritise immediate business risks.Future-proofing concerns like AI and climate change receive minimal attention.Cybersecurity is alarmingly under-prioritised among British boardrooms.Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) face increasing regulatory demands.UK boards struggle to recruit skilled NEDs amidst risk-reward challenges.In the wake of persistent economic turbulence, British boardrooms have notably shifted their focus towards managing immediate business threats. This shift has resulted in the deprioritisation of critical future-proofing issues such as AI and climate change. Research conducted among 200 Board Directors by Norman Broadbent, in partnership with BDO, reveals a significant oversight of these emerging risks.Only 8% of board directors…

ProBiotix Health faces turmoil as calls for CEO’s resignation disrupt its leadership.A key shareholder, Seneca Partners, demands CEO Steen Andersen’s removal.Proposals also aim to block future board appointments at ProBiotix.Current leadership defends against what it deems unnecessary disruption.Recent financial struggles add pressure to the ongoing leadership crisis.The biotech firm ProBiotix Health is embroiled in a leadership crisis following calls for the resignation of its CEO, Steen Andersen, by one of its largest shareholders, Seneca Partners. Seneca, possessing a 5.5% share in the company, has called for a general meeting to vote on Andersen’s removal, alongside a non-executive director linked to…

DFS experienced significant losses in the past year, largely due to shipping delays and increased interest rates.The company reported a pre-tax loss of £1.7 million, a stark contrast to last year’s profit of £29.7 million.Sales dipped by 7.9%, with a noticeable impact from slow order intake and Red Sea shipping issues.Despite challenges, DFS remains optimistic and aims for £1.4 billion in sales and an 8% profit margin.The company expects market recovery as housing transactions improve and consumer finances strengthen.DFS has encountered substantial financial challenges over the past year. Shipping delays in the Red Sea and adverse effects of heightened interest…

In an effort to counter rising financial losses, Asos is set to restructure its head office, impacting over 200 roles.The restructuring aligns with Asos’ strategy to streamline operations and boost profitability.A consultation process has begun, placing roles such as business analysts and engineering managers at risk.Despite the restructuring, Asos aims to maintain its overall employee count by creating new roles.The move follows significant financial losses and a recent dip in sales for the fashion retailer.Asos is embarking on a significant restructuring of its head office, a decision that places over 200 roles at risk. This move is a direct response…

Asos is planning to cut over 200 head office roles in response to rising losses.The decision is part of a strategy to simplify its organisation and return to profitability.A consultation has begun, affecting roles such as business analysts and platform leads.New positions, including product managers and software engineers, are set to be created.The retailer aims to enhance customer experience by ensuring the right roles and capabilities.Asos, the renowned fashion retailer, is set to cut more than 200 head office roles as part of a wider strategy to address increasing financial losses. This initiative is part of an organisational simplification and…