End the turmoil and focus on policies for prosperity, small firms tell new PM
“I congratulate Rishi Sunak on becoming Prime Minister. The focus must now be on stabilising the economy, delivering the promised support for small firms on energy bills and cutting National Insurance, and on securing growth and prosperity in the medium and long term.
“The political turmoil at Westminster must end, and attention switch to the real world in which small businesses and the self-employed are being hammered by soaring costs, falling revenues, and diminishing availability of affordable finance.
“With recessionary pressures acute for small firms, pro-business measures will be needed to secure prosperity in the medium and long term. That includes the right tax and regulatory framework, including keeping pre-profit taxes such as Business Rates and National Insurance as low as possible.
“Policies should also support improving broadband and local road infrastructure, housebuilding, and labour supply.
“Soaring energy bills have been uppermost in the minds of many small business owners in recent months. The promised energy support package for small business owners must be delivered swiftly, followed by a plan for what happens after the initial six months of support which takes a realistic view on the inherently vulnerable position that smaller firms find themselves in when dealing with energy suppliers.
“In the last two years the UK’s small business community shrank by half a million. While the reversal of the hike in national insurance is welcome, it’s a bitter blow to the directors of small companies paid through dividends to be excluded from this. These hard-working entrepreneurs were left out of Covid financial support and now face this tax rise, in many cases alongside a jump in Corporation Tax.
“At a time of pressure on public finances, the new Prime Minister could take the opportunity to improve cashflow for vast numbers of small firms without a cost to taxpayers – and that is through action to tackle poor payment practices in supply chains. Late payment of invoices – often by bigger businesses to their smaller suppliers – leads to the shutdown of 50,000 businesses a year. Over the last three months more than half (54%) of small firms have been the victim of late payments.
“There’s an easy win for the Government and small businesses here if ministers double down on blacklisting big business offenders from winning taxpayer-funded contracts; as well as making audit committees of big firms directly responsible for their company’s payment practices.
“Small business entrepreneurs are resilient and innovative, but the current headwinds are gale-force. For small firms to drive economic recovery and future prosperity, they need a pro-small business environment in which to operate and grow.”
Cost-of-living squeeze drives confidence to historic low
UK consumer confidence fell for the fifth consecutive quarter in Q3 2022, falling by one percentage point to a historically low -20%, according to Deloitte’s latest Consumer Tracker. Spending power also remains significantly strained, as consumer sentiment around levels of debt also reached the lowest levels on record, at -17%; two percentage points below Q2 2022.
The Deloitte Consumer Tracker is based on responses from 3,226 UK consumers aged 18+ between 17th and 18th September. Overall consumer confidence has fallen to its lowest level since the tracker began in Q3 2011.
Consumers cut back to curb costs
Both essential and non-essential spend declined for a second consecutive quarter in Q3, decreasing by two and one percentage points respectively, indicating that consumers are cutting back across all areas. 30% of consumers said they are now spending less, up from 21% at the start of the year. Of these consumers, 58% said they are spending less specifically to save money.
Céline Fenech, consumer insight lead at Deloitte, commented: “Consumers are making conscious efforts to cut-back on all spending. With rising food prices and personal finances coming under further pressure from higher energy bills, we are seeing a contraction in consumer demand.”
Consumers highlight several actions they are taking to combat rising costs. This includes 57% who are reducing their home energy consumption, 40% who are spending less on clothes and shoes, and 22% of respondents who have ended, or intend to end, an entertainment subscription.
Consumers turn their hand to selling, and shop the second-hand market
Growing interest in the second-hand market saw one in five consumers selling items on resale platforms in Q3. 16% of consumers bought more second-hand or refurbished items in Q3, more than twice the 7% that did so in Q3 2020.
Fenech added: “Whilst we are seeing consumers reducing their overall spend, some are also trying to boost their income by reselling items they no longer need or use via reselling platforms. The demand is clearly there as we are also seeing more consumers interested in buying second-hand items, as a way to save.”
Consumers stay home to reduce leisure spend
Two in five (39%) consumers said they are spending less on going out and on leisure activities as a way to save money. As a result, net spend across leisure fell quarter-on-quarter by two percentage points, to -12%, in Q3 as consumers eat out less and limit their visits to coffee shops, pubs and bars, and to culture and entertainment venues. One exception, attending sports events, was the only area of leisure to see a quarter-on-quarter improvement. This follows a busy period of sporting events; many of which having returned to full-scale audiences again.
Simon Oaten, partner for hospitality and leisure at Deloitte, said: “The hospitality industry has been one of the hardest-hit in recent years. As consumers assess their budgets amidst rising costs, many are having to prioritise the essentials, directing spend away from discretionary categories, including leisure. Many hospitality businesses are already feeling the effects of lower footfall, whilst also having to counteract rising running costs themselves.”
Consumers indicated that they will spend even less on leisure in Q4 2022, with intended net spend down across every leisure category, at a time when 59% of consumers believe they will have less money to spend for the Christmas period.
Oaten concluded: “For the hospitality industry, a reduction in typical festivities or diversion of these to home will almost certainly take the shine off the ‘golden quarter’. Businesses may want to adapt to hosting smaller groups or catering, once again, for more take-home entertainment.”
Consumers remain pessimistic on state of the economy
Consumer sentiment towards the state of the UK economy remains low, at -80%, and at similar levels last seen in Q1 2020 at the start of the UK’s COVID-19 outbreak. Coupled with declining sentiment around job opportunities and career progression, down two percentage points, and sentiment on job security remaining flat, quarter-on-quarter, consumers are reflecting concerns around job prospects by adopting more recessionary spending behaviours.
This comes at a time when CFOs of the UK’s largest firms attach a 78% probability to the UK falling into recession in the next 12 months.
Ian Stewart, chief economist at Deloitte, commented: “High inflation has driven consumer sentiment sharply lower this year despite a red hot labour market. Now consumers are starting to worry about the outlook for jobs. With inflation elevated, interest rates on the rise and the labour market starting to cool the squeeze on spending is likely to intensify.”
Historic shopfronts given new lease of life
City of Lincoln Council in partnership with Historic England is celebrating the completion of historic shopfront restorations in the city.
As part of the High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) scheme, which saw the city council receive a successful bid for funding of £1.68 million in April 2020, the city council has created a programme of historic building restorations designed to revitalise the area and uncover its rich history.
Included in this is plans to revitalise Lincoln’s historic shopfronts to bring them back to their former glory.
The latest shopfronts to be restored, following the completion of shopfronts at 8-10 St Mary’s Street, are owned by Lincolnshire Co-op.
The restored Sincil Street properties, which are a row of a rare survival in Lincoln of ‘back to back’ houses, were unveiled during a celebration event on 19 October at 38-44 Sincil Street.
Ursula Lidbetter, CEO of Lincolnshire Co-op said: “We committed at the start of The Cornhill Quarter development to retain or reinstate as many historic features as possible, to give the buildings a new lease of life and retain the historic character of the area.
“Having invested just under £1 million in 38-44 Sincil Street, we are delighted with the results.
“Thank you to Historic England for contributing additional funds for the shopfronts and to the city council conservation team for their expert advice.
“We are looking forward to welcoming new tenants who want to trade from these units and make the most of their authentic charm.”
Property improvements on Sincil Street included repairs, reinstating lost features, and making buildings suitable for new use.
Cllr Neil Murray, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth and Historic Environment Advocate at City of Lincoln Council said: “There are many unique heritage aspects and locations within Lincoln that need to be preserved so that Lincoln’s special character is maintained, and that includes its shopfronts.
“We are happy to see this prominent row of shopfronts on Sincil Street restored to their former glory.
“By restoring, revitalising and refurbishing these historic shopfronts, it not only helps us to protect heritage in our city, but also aids us in continuing to make Lincoln a great place for both residents and visitors to enjoy.”
David Walsh, Principal Advisor at Historic England added: “The Cornhill Quarter is an outstanding example of heritage-led regeneration which is becoming known nationally.
“We are delighted that the repairs and reinstatement of shopfronts at 38-44 Sincil Street have been completed.
“The shops look great and it is a testament to the skills and expertise of all involved.”
Big hearted housing provider organises charity event
Ongo, the Lincolnshire based housing provider, held a Wear it Pink day recently to help raise much needed cash for Breast Cancer Now.
In 2019 Breast Cancer Now and Breast Cancer Care merged together. It is now the UK’s largest comprehensive charity supporting this condition. Their aim is that by 2050, everyone who develops the disease will live and receive the support they need to live well.
Ongo always likes to be involved with various charities from sharing information to raising money for them. Most recently 13 Ongo colleagues took part in the 10-mile Glow walk, which helped raise money for Lindsey Lodge.
Wendy Wolfe, Customer Experience Manager said “I thought it was important to do this event to give support for those people living with breast cancer.
“It’s something very close to my heart after going through this personally, along with other colleagues from Ongo and it really is life changing, not only for the individual affected but also their families/friends.
“I’d like to thank everyone whose helped with promotion, donated prizes, baked cakes or just taken part in some way.
“It’s so important to continue supporting these kinds of events and we couldn’t have done it without everyone’s involvement.
“We are fortunate to work for an organisation who are fully supportive with various charities, and we see colleagues regularly taking part in different events throughout the year to help raise funds”
To find out more about the charity, go to: https://breastcancernow.org/information-support
The Schools’ Challenge takes off!
The Schools’ Challenge – held annually by the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society – has launched! Every school and early years establishment in Greater Lincolnshire and beyond has been invited to get involved. With ten fantastic challenges to choose from, providing both fun and lots of enrichment opportunities, this is one competition not to be missed!
The challenges are themed around food, farming, the local community, the environment and sustainability, and focus on inspiring young minds to gain a better understanding of Lincolnshire’s rich history, its horticulture and land-based activities, whilst putting learning into context.
The challenges are all student-led and encourage them to research their ideas and present their findings, ultimately at the Lincolnshire Show itself on 21st and 22nd June 2023! Schools can select a long or short-term project to complete, and each challenge can easily be adapted to suit any age group.
Schools are also offered the opportunity to incorporate the help of an ambassador from the farming or business background, who will provide support and expert knowledge along the project journey, whichever challenge they choose.
“Thank you for such a super event. Our pupils really loved it all, and they got so much out of it. It was all really well organised, and we will definitely be doing it again,” said University Academy Holbeach.
If you would like more information on the Schools’ Challenge competition, contact Suzy Stone at the Lincolnshire Showground:
sstone@lincolnshireshowground.co.uk
01522 585502
VisitEngland names Lincoln Castle, The Collection and Usher Gallery among England’s best attractions
Lincoln Castle and The Collection Museum and Usher Gallery have received Welcome Accolades, recognising them as amongst the best visitor attractions in the country.
VisitEngland’s Accolades are designed to celebrate excellence within the visitor attraction sector and showcase those that go the extra mile to provide a high-quality day out.
The Lincoln venues have been highlighted for the warm and friendly welcome they provide to visitors.
Paul Mason, visitor experience manager at The Collection Museum and Usher Gallery, said he was over the moon to receive the accolade: “The Collection has had a bumper year, with over 78,000 visitors through the doors for some of our most popular exhibitions ever, so this award is just the icing on the cake for us.
“We’re always keen to offer new events, exhibitions and experiences to keep people coming back to the city and to us, and a national award like this helps put The Collection and Lincoln on the map.”
The Collection Museum and Usher Gallery showcase the county’s rich archaeology and art, and the new exhibition ‘Best Art Vinyl: Album Artwork Through the Ages’ opens this weekend (Saturday 22 October).
It’s the second year running that Lincoln Castle has received the national award. Caroline Ward, visitor experience manager at the castle, said: “Our team of staff and volunteers work hard to ensure that everyone receives the best experience at Lincoln Castle.
“From being a place for people to meet in the heart of the city, to playing host to the world’s biggest Steampunk Festival and the ever-popular Christmas Market, the castle means so many different things to different people.
“But one thing all visitors have in common; a warm welcome is waiting for them at Lincoln Castle.”
The 11th century castle turned tourist hotspot is now looking forward to welcoming tens of thousands of visitors over the festive period for the city’s annual Christmas Market, followed by their magical Lincoln Castle Illuminated event.
Cllr Lindsey Cawrey, executive member for cultural services at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “In a predominantly rural county like ours, to receive more than one of these awards is such a huge achievement.
“I’m delighted that VisitEngland have recognised the hard work our teams do to provide the best experiences for guests and share our rich history and culture.
“The visitor economy is so important for this area, and awards like this really help to put our venues, our city, and our county in the national spotlight.
“These venues offer a wide range of events, activities and exhibitions that attract many thousands of visitors each year – both locals and tourists alike.
“And I hope residents feel a sense of pride that we have attractions at the top of their game right here in the city.”
Tradespeople invited to work with Lincolnshire councils to enhance energy efficiency in homes
Tradespeople have have been invited to work with the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership to deliver a programme aimed at reducing fuel poverty and improving the energy efficiency of domestic properties.
One of the Partnership’s main contractors, Everwarm, is holding a Meet the Buyer event at the Jakeman’s Community Stadium in Boston to broaden its supply chain. They are particularly keen to hear from electricians, plumbers/gas engineers, window fitters/manufacturers, cavity wall and flat roof insulation installers and solar PV installers.
The Partnership’s Green Homes Grants is currently delivering a multi-million pound Government-funded programme to improve the energy performance of privately owned and rented properties across Boston, East Lindsey and South Holland, known as Sustainable Warmth.
In a joint statement, Cllr Graham Marsh, portfolio holder for carbon reduction at East Lindsey District Council, Lord Gary Porter, leader of South Holland District Council, and Cllr Paul Skinner, leader of Boston Borough Council, said: “Earlier this year the Partnership was awarded more than £7m to help private homeowners and landlords to deliver energy efficiency improvements to not only help save money but to reduce their carbon footprint.
“The Partnership is now delivering this work and it is a fantastic opportunity for local tradespeople to get involved and help deliver these improvements for our residents and landlords. We encourage those in the trade to attend the Meet the Buyer event to find out how they can be involved.”
The event will take place between 8.30am and 12pm on Tuesday 25 October and will be an opportunity for tradespeople to register your interest, meet with Everwarm’s procurement and operational teams and also meet members of the Partnership’s Green Homes Grants delivery team.
Homes needed for guide dog puppies across Lincoln
Sight loss charity Guide Dogs is calling for volunteers across Lincoln to provide a loving home to a guide dog puppy for the first year of their life.
‘Puppy Raisers’ are vital to the early development of guide dogs, teaching basic commands and helping them get used to different environments.
The role supports puppies for the first 12-16 months of their lives before they begin their specialised guide dog training.
Costs for all the food, veterinary care and equipment required is covered by the charity.
Hannah Thompson, a Puppy Development Advisor for Guide Dogs, said: “This is a rewarding opportunity to raise a guide dog puppy and prepare them for their future role supporting someone with sight loss.
“It is a long-term volunteering role, as each puppy will live with you for at least a year.
“We’ll provide all the support and training, so you feel well equipped to care for your puppy.”
Volunteers must be aged over 18 and have suitable housing. Caring for a puppy is a full-time commitment and you must be able to give a guide dog pup the love and attention they deserve.
Applicants must have the ability to access online content and training materials and have an email address.
To find out more, call 0800 781 1444 or visit www.guidedogs.org.uk/volunteering
Mortal Ash wildflower meadow named one of the best in the country
Scunthorpe’s green spaces and roadside meadows have been recognised nationally with three awards from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
The wildflower planting on Mortal Ash Hill was singled out as the overall winner for meadow creation, and the town of Scunthorpe received a Silver Gilt for its work around environment, horticulture and commitment to green spaces.
Central Park’s Baby Memorial Garden also picked up a Judges’ Award for new landscape.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This recognition is excellent, for the people who put in the hard work and for the communities who enjoy the spaces.
“We would not have been able to create the wildflower meadow on Mortal Ash without the local litter pickers either, so this award is for them too.”
Cllr David Rose, cabinet member for environment, said: “This award is well-deserved, and the council team should feel rightly proud of all the work they have put in making places attractive for communities across North Lincolnshire.
“I am particularly pleased that their work creating a wildflower meadow on Mortal Ash Hill was recognised. This received a lot of praise from residents, who said it transformed one of the area’s major roads, and it also created a haven for insects and wildlife.
“Developing and preserving green spaces is a vital part of our Green Futures strategy, which puts creating a sustainable environment for all at the heart of everything we do.”
Boston Christmas Market and Illuminate Parade to return
Boston Christmas Market and Illuminate Parade is returning again this year to Boston Town Centre.
Starting on Thursday 24 November at noon, there will be a Christmas Market in the Market Place which will consist of Christmas-themed market stalls, food stalls and small children’s rides available for people to browse at their leisure through until 8pm. There will be outdoor entertainment with a street organist, singers, performers, elves, snow globe, stilt walkers and more.
From 4pm onwards there will be street and pop-up entertainment throughout the town with Transported Arts undertaking the ‘Illuminate Parade’ on the theme of ‘осветявам’ – Bulgarian for Illuminate – from 5.30pm, and in the form of trails around the town centre throughout the duration of the event.
In addition St Botolph’s Church will also be bringing you some indoor festive entertainment from noon with a Christmas music and song extravaganza, Christmas arts and crafts, Christmas trails, Christmas selfie photo opportunities, fun giant games and a face painter, with the return of the ever popular Reindeer located outside on the Church grounds from 4pm until 8pm.
Cllr Tracey Abbott, portfolio holder for town centre, said: “It has been a tough few years for everyone and we are once again delighted to be able to bring some Christmas spirit to the town. There is some great entertainment lined up for our residents and visitors and I do hope that everyone can pop along and get into the Christmas spirit.
“We also have a new Christmas tree coming to town which will shine throughout the festive period and into the New Year.”
