Author: Sam Allcock

A pioneering start-up is on the brink of launching an innovative app designed to tackle ‘victim blaming’ in the legal system, focusing on gender-based violence.The start-up, called herEthical AI, is nearing completion of an artificial intelligence (AI)-backed application aimed at identifying ‘victim blaming’ within the justice system. Founded in May by Tamara Polajnar and Anthony Joslin, alongside psychologist Ruth Spence and communication expert Hazel Sayer, the company aims to address cultural issues in crime processing, assisting survivors through more efficient methodologies.Ms Polajnar, the company’s CEO with a background in machine learning and natural language processing, emphasised, ‘We strive to improve…

In a legal decision that highlights the complexities of online conduct, a second-year law student has been handed a conditional discharge for racially abusing England footballer Bukayo Saka in an online rant.Suhel Ali, a 20-year-old student at City University, was convicted of sending an offensive message by a public communication network. His audio post on the social media platform X targeted Bukayo Saka, calling him racially derogatory names following Arsenal’s defeat to Nottingham Forest in May 2023.The court hearing revealed that Mr Ali used racially offensive language, including the N-word and comparing Saka to a ‘monkey’, sentiments he acknowledged could…

The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) has allowed a solicitor, indefinitely suspended in 2012, to re-join the profession, citing a stable personal and financial situation as critical factors in their decision. This development follows the tribunal’s hearing where Andrew Reeves explained the challenges he faced during the time of his misconduct.In 2012, Andrew Reeves was suspended from practising law following his failure to maintain and produce necessary financial accounts after his firm, JW Reeves & Co, ceased operations in 2009. The suspension was a result of multiple breaches, including not submitting the last four accountants’ reports, improper management of client funds,…

Hobbycraft has reported a significant decline in profits despite achieving sales growth and improved margins for the fiscal year ending 18 February 2024.The retailer’s profits plummeted by 80% to £393,000 from £2 million, influenced by one-off costs and inflationary pressures.Hobbycraft experienced a growth in sales by 3.4%, increasing turnover by £7.2 million to £218.3 million.Despite the profit fall, the company improved gross margins from 56.9% to 58.4%, aided by strategic pricing and increased own-brand sales.Hobbycraft continued its expansion with seven new stores and enhanced online and digital offerings, including a new app.In a challenging fiscal year ending 18 February 2024,…

Tesla’s rise in the UK car market spotlighted by the Model 3’s success.Despite a global microchip shortage, Tesla outperformed traditional leaders.In 2021, electrified vehicles accounted for a significant portion of UK car sales.Fleet incentives played a vital role in Tesla’s market dominance.Public charging infrastructure struggles to keep pace with electric vehicle sales.Tesla has achieved the status of the second best-selling car brand in the United Kingdom, driven largely by the success of its Model 3. Despite the global shortage of microchips, which has impacted overall car production, Tesla’s rise is particularly notable as it overtakes long-time market leaders like the…

Unionization remains a crucial element in advocating for workers’ rights, though it faces significant challenges in the modern era.Despite unions’ historical impact on labour rights, only about 10% of U.S. workers are union members today.Unions continue to evolve, adapting to changes in the workforce and developing new strategies to remain effective advocates.With legal protections in place, employees have the right to organize and collectively bargain for improved workplace conditions.Current challenges for unions include declining membership and employer resistance strategies that influence unionization efforts.Unionization, a cornerstone of workers’ rights, continues to hold significant importance despite the fact that only about 10%…

Tesco has introduced a new payment system to enhance its supplier relationships, emphasising trust and efficiency over traditional auditing processes.Tesco, a leading name in retail, is advancing its payment procedures by extending its Good Faith Receiving (GFR) auditing system. This system, based on trust, aims to expedite payments and diminish disputes related to stock deliveries. It operates under the assumption that most supplier deliveries are accurate, thereby facilitating prompt payments. Any discrepancies in delivery volumes or stock conditions are resolved subsequently, typically on a quarterly basis.The decision to expand the GFR system follows its successful trial with Tesco’s chilled suppliers,…

Four innovative tech companies in the West Midlands are competing for a £1 million investment through the ‘One to Win’ competition, a highlight of Birmingham Tech Week.TechWM, a regional business body, is spearheading the competition, backed by sector investors.The finalists include firms focusing on green industry solutions, sales performance, aerial logistics, and fintech.The winner, to be announced at a black-tie event, will receive life-changing funding to advance their business.Renowned industry leaders will form the judging panel, making this contest a significant event in the regional tech community.The ‘One to Win’ competition, a major feature of Birmingham Tech Week, has unveiled…

The ongoing dispute between the European Union and Elon Musk has intensified, with top EU official Věra Jourová labelling Musk a ‘promoter of evil.’Jourová’s accusation focuses on Musk’s lax online moderation policies on X, formerly Twitter, which she claims facilitate harmful content.The EU has criticised Musk’s handling of antisemitism and online misinformation, pressing X to comply with its Digital Services Act.Amidst these tensions, Musk has suggested he might restrict access to X within the EU, escalating the conflict.This confrontation reflects broader concerns about how online platforms are regulated across Europe.In a noteworthy development, the European Union’s top official, Věra Jourová,…

Kirsty’s collaborates with Live & Breathe for an innovative growth campaign, signalling a new phase for the brand.The partnership emphasises the expansion of Kirsty’s brand portfolio and the introduction of new high-protein meals.Live & Breathe’s role encompasses strategy, design, and social media to enhance Kirsty’s visibility.The collaboration aims to tap into a broader consumer demographic with Prep’d Protein range.Kirsty’s remains committed to quality and allergen-free products, enhancing its market reach.Kirsty’s, a brand known for its allergen-free food products, has embarked on an ambitious growth campaign by teaming up with Leeds-based creative agency Live & Breathe. This collaboration marks a strategic…