Bath Life Professional Services Guide 2023

AT WORK THE CITY

MEET THE PROFESSIONALS MAKING THE CITY BUZZ

EXCLUSIVE INSIGHTS INTO LOCAL BUSINESSES

WELCOME

Meet the shining stars of Bath’s professional services community, from creative directors to financial experts who help your wealth grow, and myriad other professions in between.

Work hard, play hard, so the mantra goes.

But how do you make sure all your hard work pays off, allowing you to reap the rewards of your labours Talk to an expert, of course and to make the choice easier, over the following pages you’ll find a cross-section of the cr me de la cr me of the city’s professionals, who can help you get your life in order ...

SOLICITORS AND LEGAL SERVICES

BATTENS SOLICITORS

Tell us a little about the firm Battens is a full-service law firm with a 300 year old heritage in the South West. We have 150 staff based at six offices in Somerset and Dorset, including our Bath office which is located in the city centre. Our specialist team in Bath offer a broad range of commercial legal advice, focused on commercial property, corporate and commercial advice, intellectual property, trade marks and media law.

Who are the firm’s key leaders/founders and managers?

The firm was founded by the Batten family 300 years ago. A young new management team of long-standing senior solicitors of the firm took over the running of company in 2021 with ambitious plans for further growth and expansion. Ceri Stephens, a specialist Planning lawyer is the anaging Director with Chairman Peter ivingstone, specialising in Dispute Resolution.

How has the firm adapted to stay relevant?

The new management team has recently launched a modern and easy to use website which is mobile friendly and client friendly. Battens has also undergone a rebranding, with brighter bolder colours and a new logo which re ects our progressive company values. An updated case management system has also improved the efficient delivery of our client focused services.

What makes working in Bath special?

It is a privilege to work in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, but Bath is also a modern and vibrant commercial centre. We are a egal 500 company with specialist lawyers who work closely with a broad range of media, tech and property based companies, providing corporate and technical acumen to help them succeed in a fast moving commercial world.

For more: 0800 652 8373; battens.co.uk

ELM LEGAL SERVICES

Tell us a little about the firm

Since the year 2000, E egal Services has earned a reputation as a reliable provider of Wills and estate planning services. Presently, our organisation employs a dedicated team of eighteen professionals. We take great pride in offering simple and costeffective solutions to people’s estate planning needs, enabling them to secure the future of their loved ones and attain peace of mind.

Work/life balance – how does the firm get this right for their staff?

E values the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance for its employees. To achieve this, the company offers half-day Fridays and two weeks off during the Christmas period to allow staff members to spend more time with their loved ones. Additionally, the director is keen on supporting professional development by providing funding for further education upon request.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

One of the key differentiators of E from its competitors is that it offers both home visits and online consultations to cater to the diverse needs of its clients. oreover, the

firm provides a free initial meeting where clients can discuss their specific requirements and ask any questions before committing to a full appointment.

What challenges are your clients facing?

Drafting one’s ast Will Testament can be a difficult topic to address since it involves a sensitive subject that many people tend to avoid. Additionally, expensive solicitor fees and complicated legal terminologies can further discourage people from preparing these important documents. E aims to simplify the process and make it more affordable so clients can attain peace of mind knowing that their assets and loved ones are protected.

Tell us about the firm’s commitments and policies for sustainability.

E is committed to sustainability and supporting the local community through its partnership with the Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. The firm is also expanding its efforts to contribute to a larger nationwide charity, with more information on this initiative to be announced soon.

For more: 0117 952 0698; elm-online.co.uk

Brian Levine

Patrick Mears

Oliver Thorp

Katherine Gilmour

“SINCE THE YEAR 2000, ELM LEGAL SERVICES HAS EARNED A REPUTATION AS A RELIABLE PROVIDER OF WILLS AND ESTATE PLANNING SERVICES”

GOUGHS SOLICITORS

Rebecca Dennis, head of employment

Tell us about the firm’s offices?

We have offices in Trowbridge, Devizes, elksham, Calne, Corsham and Chippenham and this high street presence’ is a huge part of our charm. Each office is unique. These buildings are all historic with elegant Georgian and ictorian facades. It all looks very traditional and in one sense it is. However, as the legend says, never judge a book by its cover!’ Inside, each office is individually and carefully designed to provide bright and motivational workspaces along with state-ofthe-art conference suites which makes life easy for our clients. Our facilities are also designed to accommodate remote and agile working and preserve our sense of corporate identity. Our Greenways office, which is not at all a high street setting, think open-plan, modern, and glass walls, is within a leafy business park close to the road and rail network and provides the site of our expert commercial hub.

Who founded Goughs?

Goughs was founded in 1882 by George Isaac Gough when it was called G I Gough and Son’. George Gough lived with his family in Church Street, Calne and this was the site of the first office. His second son, Charles Ogle Gough worked alongside him and then became the Senior Partner. In turn Charles’ son, Charles Cameron Gough also become a partner in the firm. Goughs has been a significant presence in Wiltshire for 1 0 years! In an uncertain world where change is constant, this means that Goughs has grown and evolved

and adapted successfully over a huge passage of time. Whilst George would not recognize our diverse and thriving workforce or our multi office set up, as an entrepreneur and philanthropist, I am sure he would applaud these developments. I think female emancipation and the number of female lawyers in the UK may have surprised him though!

How does the firm look after the mental health of its employees?

That is an interesting question because poor mental health is not always visible. Wellbeing is obviously essential – if we aren’t physical and mentally well, then life and work can be intolerable. Goughs do what you would expect from a modern, progressive firm. There is agile working and there are wellbeing drives to promote healthy living and wellbeing. Flexible working is encouraged and we offer more fruit than orrisons! These are all standard now aren’t they I am not calling them window dressing. They are valuable. y point is that what Goughs does and does well, is to encourage dialogue and to be unafraid of criticism or change. y belief is that those businesses who foster a culture of sharing and talking and listening do better than others in terms of mental health and employee retention. So, we have many talking’ systems in place to protect our own health and to look out for our colleagues. There is a real concerted effort to socialize within each office and with others. This is such a simple proposition but hugely important. We have department meetings in different offices and we are encouraged to work at other office locations. This really does develop friendships, improve

working relationships and build morale. I say the same for social activity outside of work but we are all busy and realistically any corporation will tell you that private time outside of work is to be cherished and preserved! So, instead we prefer go out for lunch or breakfast regularly. It helps that Goughs is populated with foodies! There is also the 121 system. A chance to speak about things that are not related to work. These really are precious moments where an open dialogue in a safe environment can achieve so much. In a busy practice, it is massively beneficial to have diarized time to ask, so, really, how are you ’ Then there is the mentor system. Junior employees are buddied with a more experienced lawyer and from a different discipline. It encourages familiarity and friendship is designed to stimulate and challenge and educate and build trust. Priceless stuff!

What is the most rewarding aspect of the firm’s work? There are many rewarding aspects! It is seeing how departments work together for the benefit of a client. I love referring my clients to other lawyers within Goughs and seeing a seamless service in operation. Being able to provide a complete service is obviously a fabulous offering but seeing it work in practice is thrilling. It is also hugely enjoyable when you work with a small company and stay with them as they grow and prosper. Sharing that journey is a complete privilege. Finally, having special relationships with your clients and your colleagues makes working at Goughs a really rewarding place to be.

For more: 01249 475885; rebeccadennis@goughs.co.uk; goughs.co.uk

HELEN STARKIE SOLICITOR

Helen

Starkie

What area do you specialise in?

We are a niche ‘private client’ firm the only one in Bath. We specialise in non- litigious work for individuals, families and entrepreneurs Tax Planning, bespoke Wills, Probate, Powers of Attorney, Court of Protection work, Care Home contracts, Care Funding and Property transactions of various types.

When was the firm founded and by whom?

I founded the firm twelve years ago. After training and qualifying at a ondon firm I had for over twenty years run very large private client departments in two sizeable regional firms but I became disillusioned by the way that they had become more corporate’ in their approach to private individuals and the loss, as a result, of a personal service to clients. To me that is the essence of being a private client lawyer and the time

seemed right to set up a practice based on the premise of service’ as opposed, purely, to profit. I was right. Clients tell me that they wish I had done it years before I did.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Our ethos and our size, which facilitates us getting to know clients’ needs in depth. any clients have moved to us from larger firms because they value the fact that we know and understand them and ideally their families, too and their particular needs. We make time for that. any complain that in larger firms they never got to speak with the same person twice. Here, they feel they can always get hold of the person they need, and that, if they cannot come to us, we will go to them at no additional cost.

A surprising fact about the firm?

We are all women.

For more: 01225 442353; helenstarkie.co.uk

RWK GOODMAN

Tell us a little about the firm Established in 1873, RWK Goodman provides a comprehensive range of commercial and private legal services across a number of key sectors.

We have offices along the M4 from Bath to London, with over 500 people. Clients include businesses and individuals including victims of personal injury and clinical negligence. We are a founding member of the international network of independent law firms, Interleges.

Last year RWK Goodman achieved six top tier rankings in The Legal 500 and 35 of our lawyers were ranked and recommended in Chambers & Partners UK directory of expert lawyers.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

At RWK Goodman we pride ourselves on providing a personal touch to every client. We understand legal matters can be stressful and overwhelming, and we strive to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our lawyers take the time to listen to our clients, understand their needs, and tailor our services to meet their specific goals. We believe that open communication and collaboration are key to building strong and lasting relationships with our clients.

Tell us about the firm’s commitments to

and policies for sustainability?

At RWK Goodman, we believe that ESG commitments are more than words on a page. They are part of our culture, enabling us to drive real actions, with real

purpose, that have real impact. We are achieving our commitments by:

Implementing carbon reduction actions as part of our Environmental and Sustainability Commitment, as well as a new ‘Digital First’ way of working.

• Setting clear targets to reduce consumption, waste and increase recycling across our firm and supply chain.

• Supporting our colleagues to reduce their personal impact on the environment.

• For over a decade, all energy used across our offices has come from renewable sources.

Tell us about the firm’s community/charity

involvement

We support fundraising for the regional charities which are voted upon every two years by colleagues, as well as engaging in pro bono work within local communities. For the last two years, our chosen charities have been Trauma Breakthrough in Bath, Centre Point in London, Sobell House in Oxford, and Swindon Food Collective in Swindon.

Our 2022 ‘Step Ahead Challenge’, where colleagues walked the distance from Bath to London over the course of two weeks, raised almost £9,000 alone. All employees also get two volunteering days per year that can be used to do charity work, and we work with Community Foundations across our regions to deliver grants from endowed funds. Over recent years, we have contributed over £242,000 for our chosen charities and local causes.

For more: 0800 923 2073; rwkgoodman.com

“OUR LAWYERS TAKE THE TIME TO LISTEN TO OUR CLIENTS, UNDERSTAND THEIR NEEDS, AND TAILOR OUR SERVICES TO MEET THEIR SPECIFIC GOALS”

STONE KING

Alison Allen, partner

Tell us a little about the business

We are a national law firm with an excellent reputation for our private client work as well as our expertise across the education, charity social enterprise, faith and business sectors. We’re committed to doing the right thing for our clients, in our communities and as an employer and as a business.

What achievement is the firm most proud of?

Having a continuous working history in Bath since 1785 when Robert Clarke set up in business as an Attorney at aw, in the Cross Baths. In 1832 the first member of the King family joined the Partnership.We’ve certainly

grown since then with offices in Bristol, Birmingham, Cambridge, eeds and ondon in addition to our Bath headquarters.

What will be the trends in your specialism for 2023?

I specialise in what’s known as Private Client work such as Wills and dealing with trusts and estates. In 2023 we will see more technology introduced as well as the government making it easier to for some aspects of estates planning – such as asting Power of Attorney – to be completed online. This will really help clients as we’ll be able to support them with the more complex legal aspects. Interestingly, computer savvy clients will make use of tech as they tend to prefer remote appointments while, for some, face-to-face meetings are the preferred option. We are happy to accommodate both!

Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement

Our ethos is doing the right thing’ for our clients, our people and of course our communities. We want to show how business can use its muscle for good – that could be by us making donations through our Stone King Foundation, our people volunteering many are governors or trustees at schools and charities up and down the country and so supporting the communities in which we sit. There are also our Stone King itter Picks which see us taking time to help make Bath look pristine, supported by other businesses in the city.

For more: 01225 337559; stoneking.co.uk

“WE’RE COMMITTED TO DOING THE RIGHT THING FOR OUR CLIENTS, IN OUR COMMUNITIES AND AS AN EMPLOYER AND AS A BUSINESS”

THRINGS

Charlotte Dooling, partner

Tell us a little about the business Thrings is an award-winning law firm that has been advising private individuals, entrepreneurs, family businesses and large corporates in and around Bath for more than 300 years.

Embracing a one-firm approach, our ueen Square-based lawyers work seamlessly with their colleagues in Bristol, London, Swindon, Romsey, and most recently the Wye alley, bringing together an enviable wealth of experience and knowledge to advise on a range of legal matters that enable our clients to grow and succeed.

What area do you specialise in?

As a firm, we have a wide range of expertise across multiple sectors, ranging from agriculture and development of land to business growth, banking and finance, and endeavour to provide our clients with a holistic service that meets their every need, whether as professional organisations or as private clients.

I have the pleasure of being part of the thriving Commercial Property team, based in Bath, and specialise in both commercial and

residential lending transactions. This sees me act for a wide range of private, commercial and retail banks in the UK and offshore.

y team deals with a range of commercial property clients, including developers, landlords and tenants, across a wide range of matters, including the acquisition and sale of commercial property in and around Bath.

What makes working in Bath so special? Bath is a beautiful place to live, work, and visit. I’ve had the pleasure of living all over the country and it is the place that I would definitely call home.

With such a vibrant and historic culture that transcends the Georgian townhouse image it has carved out for itself, there is so much going on and, despite the uncertainty from everything that has gone on in the past few years, Bath continues to be a city that seems to operate in a slight bubble and the housing market remains buoyant.

People remain as keen as ever to move to the city, enabled by hybrid working. ou only have to drive around Bath to see the wealth of developments going on and there continue to be opportunities for regeneration a round the city. This has re ected in movement across the office market with many companies looking to

downsize, creating opportunities for businesses to make the most of the space that is available in more intelligent and collaborative ways.

What does the future hold for Thrings? Using our established presence within Bath, we want to continue to collaborate and develop relationships with colleagues in the business community. As lawyers, we expect to be measured on the value we bring to our clients. We also know that in order to bring that value, we need to be in it for the long haul – viewing each transaction as the foundation to a longerterm relationship.

We have seen for ourselves that, with this client-focused approach, comes a developed role; not just that of providing legal expertise but also that of being long-term trusted advisers.

For more: 01225 340000; thrings.com

“AS LAWYERS, WE EXPECT TO BE MEASURED ON THE VALUE WE BRING TO OUR CLIENTS”

ACCOUNTANTS

CONCINNITY CONSULTANCY

Anna

Goodship, managing director

Tell us a little about the firm Founded 6 years ago by Anna Goodship, Concinnity Consultancy provides tailored Finance Director services to SMEs, such as business planning, management accounts, and foundational processes.

We pride ourselves on offering a unique, personal service that meets the specific needs of each client, whether they’re an established organisation requiring regular expert input or a budding business looking for growth.

What is the firm’s ethos and philosophy?

Concinnity’s ability to connect with clients is what makes us special. Our philosophy is centred on developing close relationships, which is crucial for providing the best advice. By investing time in getting to know clients, their goals, and aspirations, we ensure that we have their best interests at heart when providing recommendations.

Financial explanations and recommendations are tailored to the client’s level of understanding to ensure their comfort with the

advice given. Our friendly and personable approach helps with this, making us a trusted provider.

“Anna’s ability to effectively communicate and connect with all she interacts with at Geollect means she fits right into the team … Anna is not only our FD, but also a valued member of the Geollect family.” - Cate Gwilliam, CEO, Geollect Limited

“We could not recommend Anna highly enough in her professional capacity whilst also becoming a wellliked, respected and valued member of our senior management team.” - Ed Lovett, The Collecting Group

What challenges are your clients facing?

Recent tough years have resulted in difficult trading and historical debts for many businesses. We have extensive experience in working with clients to overcome these challenges with budgeting, forecasting, and payment plans.

The current economic climate indicates that more challenges are likely. However, this situation presents an opportunity for businesses to review past performance, set budgets, and develop long-term financial plans to increase their chances of success in the future.

For more: 0800 170 1779; concinnityconsultancy.co.uk

MILSTED LANGDON

Zoe Chandler, tax manager

Tell us a little about the firm Milsted Langdon, originally established over 30 years ago, by two University of Bath graduates, is one of the leading independent firms of Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors in the South-West.

With a team of over 200 specialists, we act for individuals, businesses and not-for-profit organisations throughout the whole of the South West and further afield.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

The Milsted Langdon philosophy is ‘helping you thrive’. This is a message that is not only focused on our clients, but also on our people. It’s an ethos that can be applied to everything that we do, across our many teams of specialists – from accountancy, audit, tax and VAT to wealth planning, forensic accounting, corporate finance and restructuring and insolvency advice. There is a real focus on

the client experience, as well as the employee experience, and going above and beyond to exceed expectations.

What challenges are your clients facing?

The cost of living is one of the biggest challenges facing clients right now. There are various schemes available to help ease the pressure including the Energy Bills Support Scheme, Price Guarantee and Energy Bills Relief Scheme for businesses. There are also various schemes to help with childcare costs including childcare vouchers and Tax-Free Childcare and further potential savings through pensions and salary sacrifice. Although the cost of living has increased, so too have incomes due to strong wage growth in many sectors.

Clients should ensure that they are accessing tax reliefs that might be available, as well as the support schemes to balance their household and business budgets.

For more: 01225 904940; milstedlangdon.co.uk

PEARSON MAY Matthew Rutter, partner

Tell us a little about the business

Pearson ay is a leading firm of chartered accountants and chartered tax advisers with a Bath office located in Great Pulteney Street. The firm was established in Bath over 180 years ago, and we strive to help our clients realise their personal and business goals.

What makes working in Bath special?

Bath is a vibrant and eclectic mix of business and pleasure. Against the backdrop of our beautiful city, Pearson May provides advice to owner managed businesses, fellow professionals, and private individuals who value a quality personal service – and paying less tax, of course!

What advice would you give to anyone considering Accountancy as a career?

Training in a firm such as Pearson May can give you the opportunity to gain all-round experience in areas such as accounts, tax

and audit. ook for a firm with good progression prospects – for example all six of our partners started their accountancy training at Pearson May which demonstrates the potential.

What do you specialise in?

As well as being a chartered accountant I am a chartered tax adviser and a registered auditor. I work with owner-managed businesses in Bath and beyond, assisting with both accounting and taxation support as well as providing auditing services.

Did you know…

Having recently celebrated a birthday, I was reminded of the coincidence that not only do I share a birthday with one of my fellow partners, we were actually born just hours apart on the very same day in the hospital here in Bath. Roll forward a few years and after both studying maths at university we both joined Pearson ay in 200 and are now both partners in the firm.

For more: 01225 460491; matthew.rutter@pearsonmay.co.uk; pearsonmay.co.uk

RICHARDSON SWIFT

Rachael Rackham, director

Tell us a little about the firm Richardson Swift is Bath’s largest independent firm of Chartered Accountants and Chartered Tax Advisors, based solely in the city. Established in 2009, we are now a 0-strong team, specialising in advising private individuals and local owner-managed businesses. At the beginning of March, I joined the RS board as a director after 7 years with the company.

Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement

Each year we pick a local charity to support, for 2022 we supported the Ben Saunders Foundation, by providing accountancy services, business advice, and support. In addition, we sponsored vests for the Bath Half Marathon as well as donating proceeds from our internal annual Christmas ra e. We offer support to people in education or starting out in business via the Bath University mentoring programme. Recently, we launched a series of business

support sessions co-hosted with Thrings Solicitors and The Business Exchange to enable business owners to get together over coffee and share insights into current challenges, as well as having access to informal guidance from law and tax experts.

What challenges are your clients facing?

Other than the widely mentioned increases in cost of living and energy bills, our clients are finding increased pressures in the labour market. Recruitment and staffing is a major headache for business owners. We have been working with clients to review their current staff structures and consider what motivates employees.

As employers ourselves, we have introduced many initiatives to increase staff retention, including pay reviews and exible working, plus health and wellbeing, internal career progression, and supplementary training.

For more: 01225 325 580; hk@richardsonswift.co.uk; richardsonswift.co.uk

“WE OFFER SUPPORT TO PEOPLE IN EDUCATION OR STARTING OUT IN BUSINESS VIA THE BATH UNIVERSITY MENTORING PROGRAMME”

FINANCIAL ADVICE & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

BECKFORD SALTUS

Patricia Lake

Tell us a little about your business

Bath-based Chartered Financial Planners, Beckford James, are delighted to have recently merged with Saltus to enhance our clients’ financial planning and investment experience. Saltus was founded in 2004, and our new combined entity employs over 200 people and has over 3.1billion in assets under management. Saltus is an independent, award-winning financial planning and investment management business, working with private clients, trustees, solicitors, accountants and financial advisers. Our mission is to improve everyone’s relationship with their wealth and to make it a positive force for their future.

How has the firm adapted to stay relevant?

Saltus is proud of its advanced technology capabilities, which was one of several reasons Beckford James was drawn to them. Our commitment to being constantly at the cutting edge, and embracing change, means that we can provide better solutions and be more accessible to clients through a variety of media, whilst of course still retaining traditional means of communication for those who prefer this.

Work/life balance – how does the firm get this right for their staff?

Saltus is very conscious of people’s different working patterns and the need for everyone to have a good work/ life balance, including exible working hours where possible. We have a weekly company online meeting, allowing us to recognise individual achievements, thank team members for outstanding contributions, make suggestions for improvements, and share best practices. Although we are based in several locations, we work closely together to support one

another, and are confident that the Beckford Saltus Bath office will continue to grow and thrive in this new structure.

What challenges are your clients facing?

Clients are currently facing many challenges, not least trying to make sense of what is a very chaotic market. Headline in ation rates and increasing energy costs can be concerning. Traditional sources of income, and particularly retirement income, have to be reviewed in the light of this changed landscape, and clients are also increasingly aware that their estates are likely to be significantly eroded should they need to pay for future care costs in later life.

Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement

Saltus is proud to work with local communities by fundraising and volunteering for our chosen charities. As well as being involved in local sports organisations, we are proud sponsors of Tall Ships outh Trust, who help some of the UK’s most vulnerable young people redefine their horizons. We organise regular charity activities such as quiz nights and physical challenges to support their work.

Standout achievement from the past 12 months

The partners of Beckford James have spent a great deal of time and effort over the past years looking for the right solution to support our growing business, and it is true to say that our standout achievement has been cementing the merger with Saltus in order to provide the very best outcome for both our clients and our staff alike, and ensuring that we can continue to provide excellent service to our clients both in Bath and further afield.

For more: 01225 437600; saltus.co.uk

“OUR MISSION IS TO IMPROVE EVERYONE’S RELATIONSHIP WITH THEIR WEALTH AND TO MAKE IT A POSITIVE FORCE FOR THEIR FUTURE”

HANDELSBANKEN

Samuel Watson , private banking manager

What makes your company special?

We’re completely unique. I know everyone says that, but in our case it’s actually true! Handelsbanken is a strong, trusted and respected bank internationally, and it’s fantastic to have that backing. But for our customers, we’re also a local bank: they can pick up the phone and speak directly to the familiar staff in their local branch.

For so many banks, local branches are increasingly a thing of the past. For us, they’re an essential part of what we do. Through colleagues like Lucy (right) we can also help with

wealth advice, and it feels great to be able to offer such a full service.

What is your favourite part of the job?

I love the variety of people I get to know through my job. I’m based at Handlesbanken’s Bath branch, where we manage both personal and business accounts, often for the same customer.

I really value that we’re given lots of time to focus on building good relationships with our customers – not just when they first join the bank, but for the long haul. Because of this, our customers are not faceless, and neither am I.

For more: 07816 183559; samuel.watson@handelsbanken.co.uk; handelsbanken.co.uk

HANDELSBANKEN WEALTH & ASSET MANAGEMENT

Lucy Allington, client director

What do you say to clients who are nervous about financial markets?

Financial markets had a pretty torrid 2022, and it can be really hard to hold your nerve with this period looming large in recent memory. This is a critical time for your financial adviser to give you the right advice.

Our constant refrain to customers is that investing is about spending time in the market, not timing the market. What we mean is that it’s almost always better to invest a sum that you can adopt a long-term strategy with, and maintain through periods of highs and lows, rather than trying to jump

in and out of investments to avoid losses. Timing the market in this way is high risk and I have witnessed clients wishing they hadn’t tried. Timing it to perfection is, in my opinion, impossible!

What key financial tip would you give to people at this time of year?

I would say that it’s time to stop putting off making a good financial plan. We’re at the end of one tax year, and the beginning of a new one. Use this as an opportunity to take the bull by the horns and get in touch with someone who can help you protect and make the most of your wealth.

For more:

lucy.allington@handelsbanken.co.uk; wealthandasset.handelsbanken.co.uk

“I REALLY VALUE THAT WE’RE GIVEN LOTS OF TIME TO FOCUS ON BUILDING GOOD RELATIONSHIPS WITH OUR CUSTOMERS”

UNIVIDUAL

Tell us a little about the firm Established in 2000, Unividual is a Chartered Financial Planning like no other. Family-run, women and GBT IA led, we offer financial advice for everyone - not just the rich and famous. Our foundations have always been about treating people as unique individuals. In a non-inclusive industry, Unividual have become trailblazers for bespoke financial advice instead of a one-size fits all service.

Unividual has progressed from being a small family-run company to one of the largest, privatelyowned Chartered Financial Planning firms in the UK, with eight financial advisers spread across the country, from Bath to London and up to Edinburgh, and around 30 members of staff.

How does the firm ensure equality, diversity and inclusion?

In 2021 the Financial Conduct Authority reported only 7 of UK

adults received financial advice. Why Because people can’t find a finance expert they can relate to. So, Unividual are on a mission to build a business re ective of today’s world that can educate people on their finances. We want every person and business in our local communities, to have the opportunity to improve their financial situation, safeguard themselves against their fears and overcome challenges. This year we are applying to become an Includability Employer which recognises firms that prioritise the wellbeing of staff and inclusive workplaces. Unividual have worked hard to change our marketing and our recruitment processes and as a result the business now has a diverse workforce with 47% of employees from an ethnic minority group, 57% are women and 43% of our leadership team are women. Our efforts in building a diverse business was recognised in 2021 when we were awarded a space on the HM Treasury Women in Finance Charter, something we have held for 3 years.

How does the firm look after employee’s mental health?

In 2022 Unividual spent £2,000 per employee on wellbeing for the second year in a row. We believe that employers have a duty to support colleagues with wellbeing because of the commitment they show within their roles that creates stress in their lives. Our support package consists of resilliance assessment and a one to one session with a coach.

If this highlights mental health challenges each employee can gain extra support from a business coach or therapist which Unividual pay for. We also took every member of staff for a wellbeing weekend. In 2021 Unividual employee’s average wellbeing score was 5 and this moved to 7.8 after our most recent staff survey in January 2023. This

year we have asked colleagues what extra support they want and we have specialists coming in to deliver workshops on self-care, nutrition and hypnotherapy.

What Awards has the firm (or members of its team) won?

Last year we not only won a Bath Property Award but we were awarded a Bath Life Award for the first time ever. This year we have been short-listed for two Bath Life Awards and Best Family-Run Business by the FSB. Finally, two of our advisers, Simon Jones and Simon Hicks were awarded VouchedFor’s Top Financial Adviser for 2023, both of them have held this award for over three years.

For more: 01225 427 474; unividual.co.uk

“UNIVIDUAL ARE ON A MISSION TO BUILD A BUSINESS REFLECTIVE OF TODAY’S WORLD THAT CAN EDUCATE PEOPLE ON THEIR FINANCES”

INSURANCE

A PLAN INSURANCE

Tell us a little about the firm A plan was founded in 1963. The office here in Bath has been open since the 1980’s. A plan Bath consists of 13 members of staff, however there are over 100 high street branches employing hundreds of staff. We are an insurance broker, providing insurance in all areas ranging from car, van, motorhome, life, health, all the way to marine cover. Whatever you need, we’ve got it covered.

Tell us about the company’s community/charity involvement?

We like to be involved with the local community and give back. We have an entire week dedicated to fundraising, Howden’s Giving Week. We currently sponsor a couple of youth football clubs and are always looking out for new opportunities and causes to get involved with. Recently we have established a relationship with Genesis Trust.

There will be sponsored sky dives, abseils and more exciting things to come.

How does the firm look after employee’s mental health?

Part of our employee benefits scheme provides all members of staff with access to free counselling therapy services. ental health is such a prominent topic in today’s world, we make sure to check in with each other and provide the necessary support if needed.

What challenges are clients facing?

There are so many choices for insurance out there today. It can be overwhelming and difficult to know where to start. Even more so if you have a complex or non-standard risk to cover. That’s where we come in, a bespoke advised service from start to finish.

For more: 01225 788044; bath@aplan.co.uk; aplan.co.uk

PARTNERS & Jack Wilks

Tell us a little about the firm Partners is a specialist insurance advisory business. As the name suggests, partnership is the core principle that drives who we are and what we believe – for our clients and our people. We challenge conventional thinking to provide advice that makes a difference for businesses commercial insurance and employee benefits and individuals. Our Private Client practice of 30 specialist advisers is leading a positive shift in the way broking is done today.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

We understand that clients value and respect relationship, knowing that their adviser will stand shoulder to shoulder with them when they need it. By working collaboratively with our clients, helping them identify their risks and challenging their existing programme, we can provide the appropriate solutions that will perform in the event of a claim. Insurance can be complex, which is why we aim to help our clients understand what insurance they

have and why they have it, clearly and without jargon. That’s what we mean by partnership.

What challenges are your clients facing?

A major risk facing clients today is being unknowingly underinsured – whether it relates to rebuild values, overall contents levels or increasingly more common, valuables, such as art, jewellery, or watches.

We encourage our clients to make sure they obtain an independent and up-to-date professional valuation for their valuables, such as jewellery and watches.

Equally, rebuild costs have increased significantly over the last couple of years, the result of in ation, supply chain shortages and greater demand. Clients often mistake the market price for the rebuild cost, which can prove very costly in the event of a claim. We advise our clients to ensure they have enough insurance cover to rebuild their home, like for like, should the worst happen.

For more: 07553 811389; jack.wilks@partnersand.com; hello@partnersand.com; www.partnersand.com

“WHATEVER YOU NEED, WE’VE GOT IT COVERED”

ASPIRE TO MOVE

Tell us a little about the firm Aspire To Move are an independent Letting Agent based in the heart of Bath. Aspire was set up by Caroline Baxter and Will Maslin in December 2019. Over the past three years Aspire has become a market leader within the lettings sector and distinguishes itself by delivering unrivalled levels of customer service. The team of five have a wealth of knowledge and expertise and look forward to assisting and advising the landlords of Bath and beyond.

Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement

As a company we are very aware that we operate within a fantastic community and that a large percentage of our clients are part of it.

From adopting horses at Bath’s local farm to pay for their food & care, to skydiving 13,500 feet to raise money for the RUH, we like to get involved as part of our company mission statement is to carry out community events and

support local charities in some way, every quarter.

We are also consciously trying to reduce our carbon footprint by walking to work and appointments & wasting less energy food within the office in addition to using electric cars.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

We are dedicated to giving every customer an individual and specifically catered service. We are not afraid to get our hands dirty to ensure service excellence and will happily attend a property to avoid costly call out charges for our clients. We ensure our small friendly team always give honest advice in order to maximise the potential on your investment, we really do care about what we do and that shines through.

We pride ourselves on being local and using trusted contractors to ensure a seamless service throughout. This ethos, is what really does put us one step ahead of our competitors.

For more: 01225 444 333; aspiretomove.co.uk

BATH OFFICE COMPANY

Tell us a little about the company Bath Office Company, both independent and local, provides spaces for businesses of all shapes and sizes to call their own – a place to call work – without the risk, or hassle, of a standard commercial lease while offering the right mix of affordability, location, and control. Established in 2020, the company currently comprises of two full time employees, with plans to expand within the next few months, and a number of contractors to support the various capacities involved with running the business.

Who are the company’s key leaders/founders and managers?

Jamie Williams is the Managing Director. Originally from Bath, he spent time working in marketing and advertising in the UK, Hong Kong and Australia before settling back in the west country in 2017. His wife, Felicity Williams, is the Communications Director, whose background is in global integrated comms, marketing and events.

Through their respective careers, they have spent stints in various types of office accommodation – established locations of big brands, serviced spaces for smaller boutique agencies, coworking, and working from home as freelancers. And it was this, combined with some commercial property familiarity that instigated the founding of the business.

Tell us about the company’s commitments to and policies for sustainability?

Tell us about the company’s commitments to and policies for sustainability?

With sustainability a guiding light for the property industry, Bath Office Co continues to challenge reinvention, and building reuse as a primary driver for office development. Across our five buildings, we have re-analysed and utilised the entire building and individual spaces to realise its potential.

As we continue to evolve the way we work, we also believe that maintaining a comprehensive sustainability strategy will enhance the environment of innovation and social interaction. With real estate responsible for 40% of the world’s carbon emissions, we’re aware of the important role we have to play to reduce our own footprint and have implemented a plan to change things, with a series of considered responses, including the use of renewable energy sources.

What plans does the company have for 2023?

Bath Office Co plans to take on more space, serviced by a front desk. This will enable us to offer a wider range of clerical services, and a friendly face to welcome visitors. Key to our vision is bringing local businesses together, collaborating to benefit the wider community and future of Bath’s city centre.

For more: 01225 632777; hello batho ce.co.uk; batho ce.co.uk

CARTER JONAS

Tell us a little about your business

Our Bath office, employing close to 70 people, enjoys a prominent position in the heart of the City centre and partners 37 national offices throughout the UK. Our unique partnership houses teams with diverse talents to include residential lettings, residential sales both city and country as well as retail, office, and commercial agency. Carter Jonas is now the exclusive UK affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate and employ close to 1000 people across the business. We are determined to give the very best advice, combined with service of the highest standard, whatever your property interests.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

What sets us apart from any other national agent in Bath is our diverse multi-disciplinary offering, ranging from sales of beautiful Georgian townhouses to country family homes as well as farms, estates and commercial agency in both Bath and Bristol. Our key aim is to offer accurate, honest advice while being ambitious for our clients and their needs.

How has the firm adapted to stay relevant?

As the exclusive UK Affiliate for Christie’s International Real Estate, the world is now open to us with a cross-nation partnership with other affiliates in many countries across the globe, referring business, buyers and clients to each other constantly. We are also engaging heavily with our social media platforms, ensuring Carter Jonas services are

available to all, whether techsavvy or not!

As an agile and diverse partnership, Carter Jonas is constantly looking to the future, and Bath now has a Build to Rent agency which is a rapidly growing sector. Bath residential lettings continues to expand and adapt to ever changing legislation and offers a robust and dynamic service.

What challenges are your clients facing?

Following the ups and downs of last year’s economic problems, we are helping our clients face the headwinds which, as the Spring market approaches will start to turn in their favour. Bath has always had a stable market and we have confidence and ambition for our clients. Interest rates on mortgages have stabilised and in many cases are dropping, freeing up borrowing again. We work with Private Finance, a bespoke financial services company that helps overcome the challenges of purchasing a property.

We are looking after a large number of buyers across a range of budgets who are looking for a home or investment in the city or country. As Spring shoots emerge, we look to market more homes as a large cache of our applicants are focussed on areas with good school catchments in Bath and surrounding villages. We also offer a private and confidential sales service with many of our vendors wanting us to engage with a chosen buyer for a quieter sale. Our advice is honest and there is no charge for a market appraisal so there really is nothing to lose!

For more: 01225 747250; carterjonas.co.uk

HAMPTONS

Martyn Swinson Dip SP head of residential development – western region

Tell us a little about the firm Hamptons has been matching people with the property, locally, nationally and internationally, since 1869. We were pioneers, setting standards that few of our rivals could match. And not much has changed since. Today we combine over 150 years of accumulated knowledge and expertise to help people find new homes. We offer New Homes services across the entire Hamptons network. Our dedicated team of residential development specialists boast decades of collective experience. Over the years, we have built exceptional levels of client satisfaction. Developers trust us to sell their schemes again and again.

Whether you’re a first-time or an experienced developer, get in touch to organise a call with a member of our specialist New Homes team to find out how we can help sell your scheme.

What are going to be the topical issues for the sector win 2023?

The property market is likely to see a lack of property entering the market for sale during 2023 – this will, undoubtedly, help to

maintain prices as demand will exceed supply. The rental market also has a shortage of quality properties to let and in a fast moving sector the cost of renting remains high. As confidence returns we expect more buyer and seller activity during the spring into the summer.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

We offer our developer clients specialist residential development sales support that’s tailored to the Bath market – whilst benefiting from the size and scale of the Hamptons business. A trusted brand, exclusive marketing tools, 90-plus branch network and extensive database are what sets us apart.

What makes working in Bath special?

It is a great place to work, live and enjoy life for all age groups – The historic Georgian architecture and within the centre the Ancient Roman Baths and Cathedral –attracting visitors on a daily basis from all over the World. But also the fantastic café, restaurants, shopping and nightlife all your doorstep. There are plenty of employment opportunities and beautiful countryside very close by.

For more: 07734 743376; swinsonm@hamptons.co.uk; hamptons.co.uk

MEA CONSULT

Tell us a little about the business

MEA is a dynamic and progressive construction consultancy, providing Quantity Surveying Services to clients in the both the private and public sector. Based in Bath, London and Surrey, we have over 50 years of experience of delivering projects throughout the UK, in a diverse range of sectors, working with project values from £500k to £50m. We help our clients achieve their construction vision, by collaboration, teamwork, selecting the most suitable procurement strategies, minimising risk, and maximising value for money.

What makes working in Bath special?

Bath has a lot going for it, it’s an ambitious, diverse and dynamic city that has attracted many highly skilled and forward thinking professionals - making for a vibrant business hub that’s ideal for networking and making

new connections. But also, it’s beautiful, steeped in history, has so many great places to meet and enjoy - it’s a lovely place to be.

What achievement is MEA most proud of?

It’s hard to choose one thing but winning the Bath Property Award for consultancy 2022 has got to be up there, our Brick Award takes pride of place in our office and reminds us of just how far we’ve come! We’ve also been involved in some award-winning projects in Bath City Centre which deserve to be mentioned, the recently opened Newark Works, a unique co working space for creatives which was part of the Bath Quays South Regeneration project and House Of St John –a coworking space powered by social purpose. Both projects have been incredible, and we are really proud to have been involved.

What is the most rewarding aspect of MEA’s work?

We are lucky in what we do, we get to be an integral part of

some really exciting construction projects. The most rewarding part has got to be seeing a project completed and being enjoyed. At the beginning, it’s an architects drawing – someone’s vision, and at the end it’s a real life working building - that will last for years.

What plans does MEA have for 2023?

This year has some exciting milestones for us, we are due to move offices to Bee Hive ard later this Spring, due to growthwe moved to Bath as a team of 4 and we are now a team of 7 and still growing, we’re just working on the final design for the office fit-out. It will be a great new space for the team and will support our future growth plans. Not only that

we are looking forward to taking part in this year’s Bath Boules, it was such fun last year and great to be a part of something that gives back to local charities. Finally, we have some very exciting new projects on the horizon, including some fantastic private homes that are focusing on passivhaus technology as well as work at local schools and several commercial developments in and around Bath. Watch this space!

For more: 01225 337793; meaconsult.co.uk

“WE ARE LUCKY IN WHAT WE DO, WE GET TO BE AN INTEGRAL PART OF SOME REALLY EXCITING CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS.”

MARK VINCENT SURVEYING

Mark Vincent, chartered surveyor

Tell us a little about your business

I started as my own boss in 2013, following years being exhausted in the corporate grind. I still gratefully cover the same Bath and surrounding area that I have done since 1992. I only survey residential property. Every single day is different. I was born and raised in the area that I cover, and local knowledge is a great help.

Work/Life balance – how do you get it right?

I try and survey a property in the morning, and try to work from home on a Friday to catch up and to free-up the weekends, but it seems rarely to work that way, being self employed. I often fit in another survey to help a desperate client, which means catching up over the weekend. So I often fail in the best work/life balance.

I try to walk my staffie a couple of miles a day with

a view to achieving virtual walking challenges, and weather permitting at weekends, or in the week in summer, try and get to Cheddar Watersports to enjoy paddle-boarding and windsurfing. Fine weather motorcycling is also relaxing. You will notice that there a lot of “try”s!

Describe your offices

During a normal working day, I work from my VW T6 Transporter, liveried in my company’s green colours with my name and details on it. It has a heater and wifi, and the view from my office can change daily and overlook some of our beautiful West Country countryside. At home, I seem to be in a couple of rooms, currently the conservatory, watching a squirrel eat the bird seed.

Did you know?

I learnt to swim in the Cross Baths when the water was very dark green - I think Julius Caesar was in my class!

For more: mvsurveying.co.uk

KNIGHT FRANK

Sam Daniels, associate head of Bath city sales

What property predictions does the firm have for 2023? This year’s most pressing question in our sector; How has the property market changed, and what is expected in 2023? In Short, no one has a crystal ball; but it is no secret that transactions and mortgage approvals have slumped due to the spike in borrowing costs that followed the mini-Budget. Still, activity has been stronger than expected since Christmas; trading updates from housebuilders have turned more positive in 2023. Against this inconsistent backdrop, Knight Frank has updated their five-year UK housing market forecasts. As much as it is still expected that UK house prices will decline by around 10% over the next two years as the impact of higher mortgage rates takes its toll on affordability. Whereas in Bath, we have seen around a 6% decline vs. this time last year; still, it is important to note that this is a correction – not a crash.

How does the firm ensure equality, diversity, and inclusion?

Our Business Balance groups - are focused on Race & Faith, LGBTQ+. Gender and Health & Wellbeing - continue to

spearhead a wide range of issues for Knight Frank colleagues and host an active program of well-attended topical events. Our groups and our external specialist advisers in employee culture and inclusivity review our policies and procedures to provide guidance and support towards achieving our future objectives and how we become a more inclusive firm. We are committed to ensuring that our six decision-making boards are increasing. diversified, including having female representation (40%) and suitable Race & Faith representation by the end of our next financial year.

What have been the highlights of the last 12 months?

Without question, the highlight(s) for our office is that we have been instrumental in the most significant and highest-value sales in and around Bath; that I’m sure will not be rivalled for many years to come. I think it is fair to say that most people had an incredible 12 months, but for us, at Knight Frank Bath, we are proud to have been involved in many exciting changes within the City both, property related and being integrated within local Charities. Notably, Off the Record and RUHX.

For more: 01225 685532; sam.daniels@knightfrank.com; knightfrank.co.uk

RENGEN

Jo Lloyd

Tell us a little about the firm Established in October 2021, Rengen House is a boutique co-working space in the heart of Bath; a community to co-work, host meetings, events and relax with clients or colleagues. Nestled between Pulteney Bridge and the Holburne useum, it offers a range of exible membership options for co-working, from pay-as-you-go to dedicated desks. There are also a range of meeting and event spaces available to hire for non-members, as well as a regular calendar of events on offer, from networking, to sports events, to wellness workshops.

Work/life balance – how does the firm get this right for their staff?

At Rengen House, it is our priority to improve the work-life balance for our members. We are increasingly getting enquiries from workers who have become weary of home working. We provide a positive and inspiring space where members can focus on their work, whilst also engaging with others in the community. The workspaces are cleverly designed around social interaction, collaboration, and relationship building, whilst also providing quieter spaces for private meetings and calls.

What plans does the firm have for 2023?

In 2023, we look forward to continuing to build the strength of our membership base, offering the upmost exibility for members, as well as developing our community and hosting a busy events programme. We will also be increasing our focus on Rengen House as a venue for external meetings and events. We have a range of exible, private meeting and event spaces, perfect for exclusive hire for parties and gatherings, team events, workshops and much more. We even have our first wedding reception booked for 2023!

What have been the highlights of the last 12 months?

Having initially launched with two oors of co-working space, the growth seen in early 2022 allowed us to invest in the expansion of the Rengen House offer. In ay 2022 we completed a full renovation of our lower basement area, offering an additional 22 traditional desks, further meeting rooms and individual call pods to the offer.

In November 2022, we were delighted to be awarded ‘Best Co-working Space’ in the Bath Property Awards. Just over a year into opening, this was fantastic recognition for all we have achieved in our first year, and hopefully our first award of many!

For more: 07443 273921; rengenhouse.com

ROSIE MARLOW Personal estate agent

Tell us a little about your business

My name is Rosie Marlow and I am an independent personal estate agent. Bath has always been my home and I have been successfully selling property in and around the city for 22 years. I offer a personal estate agency service, because estate agency is never a one size fits all. My personal service is tailored to meet your individual needs and requirements. Being a personal estate agent means I am not tied to office hours, so I can arrange valuations, viewings and open house days whenever is convenient for you. I have a great passion for delivering outstanding customer service and pride myself on how I look after my clients on their journey from valuation through to completion.

Tell us about your community/ charity involvement…

The business has supported two local charities. I was approached for help through a client of The Bristol and Wales cat rescue who have been struggling with fund raising and the rising costs of veterinary bills. In October I walked up Pen y Fan raising £284 for the Bristol and Wales Cat Rescue and £210 for the air ambulance. I climbed Pen y Fan in the worst weather possible and have targets set to continue to support the charities with volunteering. July 2023 I am doing a skydive and also climbing Snowdon for a local MS charity.

What have been the highlights of the last 12 months?

I have built the business from a cold start in October 2021, the main highlights of the last 12 months have been watching the business grow, I have had numerous clients contact me in 2022 who remembered me from when I sold properties for their family members when I worked for a large corporate Bath agent all wanting to work with me again as they love my approach to selling houses. This also shines through with the 51 five star google reviews.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector

I set my business up with an ethos of providing a bespoke service to my clients with a one-to-one personal female touch. I pride myself on how I look after my clients on their journey from valuation through to completion. Selling a home takes more care than just uploading a property to the portals and hoping for the best. I offer an effective marketing plan tailored to individual clients and offer day-to-day client support. I will always go above and beyond and help my clients arrange any extra services they may require for a smooth sale. For example arranging house clearances, booking window cleaners, speaking to planning consultants and chasing other agents and solicitors in the chain. My clients will deal only with myself and I get to know their properties as well as they do. I have 22 years experience working as an estate agent in Bath and I have a wealth of knowledge of the local Bath market. My aim is to understand individual client needs and what they want to achieve from the move and do everything I can to make the sale go as smoothly as possible. I am not tied to office hours so I can fit viewings and valuations around my individual clients needs.

For more: 01225 941008; rosie.marlow@exp.uk.com; rosiemarlow.co.uk

SAVILLS

Alistair Heather, head of Savills Bath

Tell us a little about your business…

Savills is a market leading business with a global network of over 700 owned and associate offices. Savills opened in Bath in 1989 and is now one of the company’s agship offices.

Our friendly and experienced teams cover advise on all aspects of residential and rural property in and around Bath and across Somerset, Wiltshire and South Gloucestershire, with in-house expertise in residential sales, residential development consultancy and sales and

rural estate management and professional services.

What are your expectations for the property market in 2023?

The residential property market conditions over the last few years –since the pandemic began – have been exceptional.

Within the prime property market, this high level of demand led to unprecedented price growth of 10.7 per cent in Bath since March 2020 and an incredible 2 .6 per cent in the surrounding country markets.

Despite our local prime market being less exposed to affordability pressures, it is, of course, not entirely immune. As such, we are seeing more price sensitivity this

year. alues appear to have hit a peak in the summer of last year, however price adjustments since then have been relatively modest –at just -0. per cent.

We have also seen a return to more ‘normal’ buyer/seller dynamics this year and generally, expectations are more aligned. Sellers accept that market conditions have changed while most buyers appreciate that there is still strong demand for the right property in the right location. In a more changeable market, property that is best in class rises to the top. Bath and its environs are undoubtedly well-catered for in this respect and therefore we are expecting a positive year ahead.

What are going to be the topical issues for the sector in 2023?

Residential property accounted for over one fifth of CO2 emissions in 2020 and significantly, there has been no meaningful reduction in the carbon footprint of our homes in recent years.

Increased scrutiny and significant rises in energy prices have made the issue much more

important to homebuyers in the last 12 months or so. A property’s Energy Performance Certificate EPC , which measures its performance and recommends areas of improvement, now plays an important role in a prospective buyer’s decision-making.

With Bath being home to a notably high percentage of period homes, the challenge of reducing consumption is particularly great. Savills research estimates that 38 per cent of homes built before 1930 have a low EPC rating of E, F or G, with the figure rising to 6 per cent of those homes constructed before 1900.

Owners of listed properties, which are currently exempt from the regulations, face a unique dilemma. With buyer expectations regarding ecocredentials increasing and the green finance market evolving, so too will the benefit of investing in sympathetic improvements. It will be interesting to see if the government shifts its stance.

For more: 01225 474500; savills.co.uk

Successfully letting residential property in Bath and Bristol, the counties of Somerset and Wiltshire and in South Gloucestershire since 1995.

TECHNOLOGY

DIGITAL SAMURAI

Tell us a little about the business

Digital Samurai are a team focused on Data Analytics, Database Management and Cyber Security. Storing data costs money but using your data to predict trends and increase sales makes you money. Start with our Data Discovery process and continue your journey to build a data driven business.

What achievement is the firm most proud of?

We have completed several major projects but the one with the biggest impact was a SQL Server consolidation project saving the client over 7 figures in S Server Licensing costs. With all of our clients we try to save them money in various areas so that we are cost neutral at worst and a money saving, business boosting partner at best.

What predictions does the firm have for 2023?

The demand for data skills is going to increase higher than it has reached already. Add to that the need for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning skills and it will not be very long before smaller companies are unable to compete at all with their competitors that manage to get these skills. If your business is in need of an edge to fight off the competition, data skills will help you take the lead. If you are unable to find those skills or choose to ignore them, you can be sure your competition are either using them already or searching for a way to achieve better business decision making.

What challenges are your clients facing?

Our clients are having trouble finding data professionals to

fill roles. We often see the same companies recruiting for months on a time and some spending an entire year looking for the right skills. The data professional market just does not have enough experienced and qualified professionals to meet the demand which has caused a massive increase in remuneration. Even when you do find someone they can quickly jump to the next role that pays even more leaving smaller companies without these skills at all. We fill that gap offering those skills at a fair price with the benefit of on-going support which you would not get from a contractor or temporary resource.

For more: 01225 375005; info@digitalsamurai.it; www.digitalsamurai.it

“IF YOUR BUSINESS IS IN NEED OF AN EDGE TO FIGHT OFF THE COMPETITION, DATA SKILLS WILL HELP YOU TAKE THE LEAD”

MARLIN COMMUNICATIONS

Samantha White

Tell us a little about the business…

At Marlin Communications, we design and deliver end-toend business communications technology that helps companies connect, collaborate and grow.

Established in 1998, and with over 20 staff, we are a trusted independent provider of Unified Communications Collaboration

solutions, including voice, video, connectivity, network security, business mobiles contact centre for SME and corporate businesses. With our in-house consultancy, design and deployment capability, we have the power to bring these technologies together and, with our innovative financial packaging, deliver the best and most cost-effective solutions to our customers.

Work/life balance – how does your company get this right for their staff?

Work/life balance - it’s one of those things that can feel like a juggling act! At our company, we totally get that so we’re always looking for ways to help our staff strike the balance. We believe that happy and fulfilled staff make for a more productive team, so we organise some pretty fun stuff outside of work.

We’ve gone skiing/ snowboarding, go-karting, and we’re always up for social get-togethers after work – most recently at Bristol’s Roxy Lanes. By giving our staff a chance

to unwind and connect, we’re building a strong community that supports one another, and that’s something we’re really proud of.

Tell us about the company’s community/charity involvement

Community and charity involvement is really important to us at our Marlin, and we try to do our part in making a positive impact where we can. One of the ways we do this is through our support of Developing Health Independence DHI , our nominated charity for the last 4 years. They do some amazing work helping people in Bristol Bath who are struggling with substance misuse and homelessness, and we’re really proud to support them. Recently, we organised a fashion-swap fundraiser for them, which was great fun and raised some much-needed funds. We also encourage our staff to get involved with charitable initiatives outside of work, whether that’s volunteering or fundraising, because we believe in being an

active and engaged part of the community.

What is the most rewarding aspect of the company’s work?

Definitely the most rewarding aspect of our company’s work is seeing the impact that we have on our customers’ businesses. We pride ourselves on delivering excellent service, whether it’s through delivering projects or through the support that we provide.

When we get positive feedback from our customers, it really makes our day. It’s the ultimate validation that we’re doing something right, and that our hard work is paying off. We love hearing about how our work has made a real difference to customers, or helped them achieve their goals. That’s what gets us out of bed in the morning and motivates us to keep pushing ourselves to be better.

For more: 0800 032 8274; marlincomms.co.uk

MOORE SW IT

Tom Cannon

Tell us a little about your business

Moore SW IT were established in 2014 to support organisations in Bath and the surrounding area with IT support and solutions. The company has grown each year and now supports hundreds of businesses, charities, and schools. We have recently completed our own Cyber Essentials Plus certification to show our dedication to Cyber Security, and help our clients with their certification.

What’s the hottest topic in your industry for 2023?

Definitely Cyber Security and Cyber Crime, and it has been for the last few years now. Unfortunately, Cyber Crime is constantly on the rise and

getting harder to tackle – which we hear about often on the news with large organisations getting attacked. There are lots of ways to prevent it and protect your organisations, a big one being multi factor authentication or MFA – make sure that is enabled on all of your accounts! We can offer most organisations a free IT audit or review which would highlight any weaknesses. Please visit www.msbit.co.uk/free-itaudit for more information.

How can you help with the way the pandemic has changed the way we all work?

Moore SW IT provide cloud IT systems, VPN’s, remote desktop and VoIP (telephones). We have helped a huge number of clients switch, during the last three years to be able to work from anywhere/ home. Some organisations have already adapted to permanently

working from home, which we were equipped to help with. We can supply a whole range of software to enable established businesses, or start-ups to be fully cloud based.

How has the pandemic altered the way you work, professionally and personally?

We have been able to allow staff to choose whether to work from home the last couple of years and be more exible. We are looking to continue that as a lot of us have realised that we don’t need to be in the office every day.

Did you know?

We have an office in the centre of Bath, and Bristol which makes us close and easy to get to for a lot of organisations. We also provide schools with IT support? We work with plenty of schools in BANES and as far as Gloucester and Exeter We work with various MAT’s to provide networking, devices and interactive screens.

For more: 01225 486100; www.msbit.co.uk

“WE HAVE HELPED A HUGE NUMBER OF CLIENTS SWITCH, DURING THE LAST THREE YEARS TO BE ABLE TO WORK FROM ANYWHERE/HOME”

• Complete tailoring service for ladies and gentleman

• Alterations and Repairs on all Garments

• Made To Measure Suits and Shirts

• Bespoke / handmade Suits and Separates

• Ladies bespoke tailoring

• Bridal wear and Evening wear Alterations

• Re-sizing and Re-Designing Suits and Dresses

• Replicating your old favourite clothing

25 Milsom Street, Bath, BA1 1DG t: 01225 920 263 info@citytailors.co.uk www.citytailors.co.uk

Supporting individuals to progress their careers through coaching. Carefully structured sessions enable clients to identify challenges and create solutions to help them to meet their professional goals.

Coaching can help you with:

Career development, changes and transitions

Interview preparation | Developing leadership skills

Improving confidence | Creating a better work-life balance

To book an initial, free consultation, contact Dr Helen Curran: helen@helencurran.net www.helencurran.net 01225 560844 @drhelcurran

ONLINE AND IN-PERSON IN BATH

RECRUITMENT

CMD RECRUITMENT

Dan Barfoot

Tell us a little about the business

CMD Recruitment is a leading independent recruitment consultancy with a team of 19 and offices in Bath, Swindon, elksham, Devizes, and Calne. Since 200 , we have been providing excellent recruitment solutions across the South-West.

What challenges are your clients facing?

Candidate shortage remains an on-going challenge alongside the need to stand out in a competitive market. Additionally, our clients face the challenge of structuring their business amidst external pressures such as -day workweeks, exible work arrangements, and in ation’s impact on salaries. We recommend looking at how you can offer more personalised benefits to support employee’s financial well-being particularly for Bath’s micro-businesses.

Tell us about CMD’s community/charity involvement.

From partnering with local charities and food banks

to sponsoring events and empowering young people with employability skills, we’re always looking for new ways to give back.

Recently, we had the privilege of sponsoring over 100 children to attend Future of Football for the day, delivering lunch and seeing their enjoyment first-hand. We’re always open to contribute and make a difference in our community.

What sets CMD apart?

Our team of consultants is comprised of individuals who have dedicated themselves to our business for 7 years, with some even reaching an impressive 1 years of service. This unwavering loyalty has enabled them to forge unparalleled relationships with our clients, which are built on a foundation of trust, expertise, and exceptional service. Through their extensive knowledge and latest recruitment tools, they provide a competitive advantage to the local recruitment sector.

For more: 01225 805080; info@cmdrecruitment.com; www.cmdrecruitment.com

EDUCATED RECRUITMENT

Emma

Woodhall & Marie Cleve, directors

Tell us a little about the firm Somerset Education Alliance is a recruitment agency that supply teachers and teaching assistants to schools across Bath, Bristol and throughout all of Somerset. Born from Educated Recruitment, SEA was formed in July 2022 following the increased demand for cover in schools throughout Bath, Bristol and Somerset in recent years.

Somerset Education Alliance is ran by Director’s Emma Woodhall and arie Cleve with the support of Compliance Officers, Tegan Rowe, Kate Anderson and oe Andrews.

What benefits does the firm offer employees?

SEA can offer employees many benefits such as, a supportive team of consultants with extensive knowledge of the area. We can offer employees a

exible work life balance to fit around their schedule and further to this fantastic long term and permanent career opportunities in schools local to them. Support can be offered also Early Career Teachers in finding them their first role in a school.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

What sets SEA apart from other firms is that we are independent offering a warm, friendly and personal service and we are transparent, honest and straightforward demonstrating openness and trust to all teachers looking to embark upon supply.

Tell us a little about yourselves Emma was previously a Primary Teacher and has been working in the recruitment for education sector for 8 years. arie has also worked in the recruitment sector for over 15 years offering extensive industry knowledge.

For more: educatedrecruitment.co.uk

“SINCE 2004, WE HAVE BEEN PROVIDING EXCELLENT RECRUITMENT SOLUTIONS ACROSS THE SOUTH-WEST.”

Marie Cleve

Emma Woodhall

MEETINGS AND EVENTS VENUES

APEX CITY OF BATH HOTEL

Tell us a little about the firm Apex City of Bath Hotel is a luxurious 4-star hotel located on the corner of James Street West, just steps from some of the city’s most popular sites. Firmly centered in the community, the hotel is home to Bath’s only purpose-built city centre conference and events venue and boasts 177 sumptuous bedrooms. The hotel is also home to the Orange Artichoke - a chic restaurant and bar, as well as a heated indoor pool, a fully equipped gym, a sauna and steam room. The hotel was established in 2017 and is the first purpose built property in Apex Hotel Group’s UK-wide portfolio.

What achievement is the firm most proud of?

In 2021, the hotel obtained a 1* rating for team engagement and then the coveted Silver Award for Green Tourism in 2022 thanks to their dedicated Green

Committee. An initiative the hotel is particularly proud of is their exclusive bio-diverse Green Roof Project. The space on the roof is home to some special guests – over 20,000 bees. As part of the dedication to green tourism, the hotel offered the space to the buzzy guests to help protect the species.

Who are the firm’s key leaders/founders and managers?

Apex Hotels was founded by Scottish entrepreneur Norman Springford OBE who opened his first hotel in 1996, Apex Grassmarket Hotel in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Michael Musgrave is Apex City of Bath Hotel’s General Manager. He took on the role in 2018 and has more than 20 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, including general management roles for recognised industry names IHG and Hotel Du Vin.

For more: 01225 418500; apexhotels.co.uk

MACDONALD BATH SPA HOTEL

Raj Chakraborty, general manager

Tell us a little about the firm Macdonald Bath Spa hotel is one of 30 hotels which are divided over several places within the UK and Spain. We are situated only a short walk from the centre of Bath and nestled in six acres of private grounds. We are easy to reach and have on-site parking for our guests. This makes our hotel in Bath the ideal location, whether you’re hosting a wedding, holding an event or popping in for a mid-week break.

What makes working in Bath special?

With its honey-coloured Georgian architecture, Bath is a prosperous, ambitious, diverse and dynamic city that has attracted many highly skilled and forward-thinking professionals. Bath has so much history and so do we! First built in 1835, the now Bath Spa hotel uses the same honey-coloured bricks as the rest of the city. The building’s owners over the years have played a small but important part in Bath’s

history. You cannot get more special than Bath!

How and who founded the company?

In 1990, anaging director of Stakis Hotels Donald MacDonald, created Macdonald Hotels LTD by purchasing two Scottish Hotels. The company continued to grow through various acquisitions, including hotels formally owned by De Vere hotels and The Rank Organisation. It has expanded to become the UK’s largest privately own hotel group. It employs more than ,000 staff and operates in excess of 4,500 hotel rooms.

Did you know...

We have two bee hives on site, which are located at the entrance of our beautiful drive way. We collect the organic honey and you can buy jars of that honey from our reception team! This is one of our latest initiatives to help our environment, alongside our hives we are also having electric vehicle charging ports installed for our hotel guests to use.

For more: 0344 879 9106; macdonaldhotels.co.uk/bath

“THE HOTEL IS HOME TO BATH’S ONLY PURPOSE-BUILT CITY CENTRE CONFERENCE AND EVENTS VENUE AND BOASTS 177 SUMPTUOUS BEDROOMS”

“WE ARE EASY TO REACH AND HAVE ON-SITE PARKING FOR OUR GUESTS”

BUSINESS SERVICES

CITY TAILORS

Ben Aydin

Tell us a little about the business

We’ve been a business at the heart of Bath city, founded by my brother Mehmet and I in 2010, providing bespoke suit making for ladies and gentleman, dressmaking, wedding dress and clothing alterations for general public, local retailers and boutiques.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

As well as making high end bespoke/handmade suits, and alterations we have a team of dressmakers who are excellent in making and adjusting bridal wear.

What is your company’s ethos and philosophy?

Quality of our service and work is well known by clients, our ethos is based on understanding your needs, good listener and working together to provide you

with seamless, complimentary tailoring service. Mehmet and I have a wide range of experience including clothing manufacturing & training from Saville Row tailors, this gives us the expertise to deal with all tailoring requirements. Having a large team on site gives us ability to carry out most challenging work in short deadlines.

Did you know?

We are the only professional bespoke tailors in Bath and largest in south west who offer handmade suits, designed and made on the premises, using finest British fabrics. Offer highest quality Bridal alterations and we are one of the few places in UK who can carry out vintage clothing restorations.

For more: 01225 920263; info@citytailors.co.uk; citytailors.co.uk

DR HELEN CURRAN COACHING AND CONSULTANCY

Dr Helen Curran

Tell us a little about the business

I provide bespoke career coaching to clients, both online and in person in Bath, to support individuals overcome hurdles and to progress in their careers. Whilst I provided coaching in my previous professional roles, I decided to formally develop my coaching business in early 2022. It is the best decision I could have made.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?

Career coaching has the potential to significantly impact, and improve, an individual’s professional life. It is incredibly rewarding to hear from clients who have secured a role after undertaking interview coaching, having struggled previously to progress. Helping clients develop confidence in themselves, whether it be in their leadership approach, or how they manage a career change, and then hearing about the subsequent impact on their career progression, is brilliant.

What challenges are your clients facing?

A lot of the clients I am working with currently are experiencing challenges related to career changes and transitions. Clients not only have concerns about the transferability of their skills and experience, but also regarding how they can present themselves to future employers. Clients often feel overwhelmed by possibility, or hindered by self-doubt. Coaching provides the time and space to determine ways forward.

What is your ethos and philosophy?

To be authentically, client centred at the heart of every coaching interaction. This ethos in practice means that each coaching session is approached with a belief that clients can change things for the better, and the coach is there as a facilitator - being authentic means I have the confidence of being appropriately qualified and experienced to know what works. Having such belief in your clients is powerful.

For more: 01225 560844; helen@helencurran.net; helencurran.net

IMPERIAL STAFF

Sarajane Ambrose, managing director

Tell us a little about the business

The Agency was founded by Sarajane Ambrose, Managing Director, whose ethos was to focus only on the career-minded staff whowouldfit in easily to the client’s household and fulfil their role to enable the client to focus on their family, business empires or careers and their lifestyle.

What areas do you specialise in?

We specialise in placing experienced high calibre household staff who hold a full work history, checkable references and a cleared DBS. All interviewed in person, they are career-minded staff who take pride in their work and position. Candidates range from temporary maternity nurses for post-partum mothers, to permanent nannies and governesses to single householdstaff and couple teams for clients in London, the country and indeed across the globe.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Both clients and candidates will receive a confidential attentive service from start to finish regardless of the fee scale and our ultimate goal is to achieve a successful long-term placement for both the client and the candidate(s).

What challenges are your clients facing?

Since working in this industry in 1995 the demand has far outweighed the supply and gone are the days when household staff are grateful for accommodation and a position as a means to employment. It is, and will continue to be, very much a candidates’ market where, for want of a better phrase, they call the shots. And once a client is on par with realistic market conditions which is very much set by the demand, our clients can then proceed with getting their house in order. This is where we facilitate this very aim.

For more: 01225 48422/ 01225 484190; imperialstaff.com

“CAREER COACHING HAS THE POTENTIAL TO SIGNIFICANTLY IMPACT, AND IMPROVE, AN INDIVIDUAL’S PROFESSIONAL LIFE”

“BOTH CLIENTS AND CANDIDATES WILL RECEIVE A CONFIDENTIAL ATTENTIVE SERVICE FROM START TO FINISH“

MINUTEMAN PRESS

David Ghent, founder/ managing director

Tell us a little about the company

We are a design, print and signage company also offering vehicle graphics and all your exhibition display requirements. In April this year we celebrate our 25th year of trading and we were extremely

pleased in 2022 to have had one of our best sales growths ever. Our success last year is down to our excellent growing team of 13 and our successful move from Walcot Street in late 2021 when we moved to our Commercial unit at Pines Way.

How has the company adapted to stay relevant?

Having opened in April 1998

we soon realised that to grow the business and to be the top printer in the city we needed to have the best and most up to date equipment available. Over the years we have upgraded our equipment many times and when we moved into our new unit we invested in two of erox’s top of the range digital presses worth 900,000. These machines can print speciality colours such as

white, uorescents, gold and silver which enhances the print jobs resulting in printing that really stands out. We have also added foiling in house and our vehicle bay means that we can do vehicle graphics on cars and vans.

What plans does the firm have for 2023?

We will be celebrating our 25th anniversary in style. Having opened on April 1st 1998 we have established ourselves as Bath’s leading Print and Signage company. We will be marketing ourselves more than ever with special anniversary offers and we will have another of our successful open evenings soon so look out for details. In ay 2022 we bought a Trotec laser cutter which now means we can produce laser cut and engraved products such as Acrylic, leather, glass, wood etc.

For more: 01225 442000; david@minutemanbath.co.uk; minutemanbath.co.uk

CULTURAL EVOLUTION

Tell us a little about your business…

Jess: We believe at the heart of every successful business is a group of passionate and engaged people. How you ensure your people feel connected to your company and are happy at work is where we step in.

Tim: Our team are a mix of cultural change and communications specialists, talented creatives, coaches and facilitators. Essentially, we blend behavioural psychology with creativity to change things for the better.

What key trends are you seeing right now?

Tim: The virtual world has many advantages, yet having the opportunity to come together in person remains the most effective way to build a more connected team. We’ve been facilitating more team effectiveness workshops and many have never met in person. It’s a real privilege to enable these moments to happen.

Jess: Hybrid working is here to stay, which means we need to communicate across a variety of channels to reach people. We’ve supported organisations to effectively use enterprise social technologies such as Yammer and seen a sharp increase in requests for employee generated video content.

What one thing could businesses do to improve their culture?

Tim: For leaders to increase self-awareness and reflect on their own leadership shadow. Consider the impact you have on your team through what you say, how you act, and what you measure and prioritise.

Jess: Close the say-do gap. Review what you say about your company and ask the question “is this what it’s really like here?” – then look at ways to close those gaps.

What are you excited about right now?

Jess: The continued growth of our business. With every new team member, we bring in fresh thinking and new perspectives, which I love.

Tim: We have seen lots of businesses create vibrant and collaborative spaces in their offices, so I am excited to see the positive impact this will have for employees. n

The Georgian Lodge, 25 Bridge Street, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1BY

For support with your culture and communications, start a conversation with Bowline on 01225 931012 or email hello@wearebowline.com www.wearebowline.com

BOWLINE are a culture and communications agency based in Bradford on Avon. We spoke to company directors Jess and Tim Jeary to understand more about their world.

S&B ORIGINALS

Chris Kemp, co founder and company director

Tell us a little about the firm

Based in the heart of Bath S&B Originals offer a full in-house video, animation, and live streaming production service. We have over 20 years experience in creating video content that really connects our clients to their audience. Working with a wide variety of sectors and brand including science and tech, education, food drink we produce video marketing, corporate videos, internal communications, T advertising and social media content.

What predictions does the firm have for 2023?

ideo continues to be a need to have rather than a nice to have element of any successful marketing strategy. Social media platforms are now firmly video first and all these platforms love vertical video so we will all be thinking vertical in 2023. Product and service explainers

continue to get the best ROI as do the use of targeted and direct response T advertising.

What challenges are your clients facing?

Keeping up with feeding the content monster can feel overwhelming, both from a capacity and budgetry point of view. A video strategy that allows you to produce content you can repurpose and reuse throughout the year can really help with this. The elephant in the room with video marketing is getting seen by the right people. ake sure you set aside budget for paid placement as well as video production to get the best ROI.

What plans does the firm have for 2023?

This is an exciting year for us as we transition the company from Suited and Booted Studios CIC into S B Originals and fully embrace our move to BCorp status.

For more: 01225 338294; suitedandbooted.org

TOBY PINN CHARTERED ARTS & ANTIQUES SURVEYORS

Toby Pinn MRICS

Tell us a little about the firm

Toby Pinn Chartered Arts Antiques Surveyors is a RICS regulated valuation firm providing certified valuations of art, antiques, jewellery, silver and personal property for professional and private clients. We produce valuations for the purposes of inheritance tax, insurance, family division, capital gains tax and sale by auction. With over twenty years’ experience in this sector and a team of specialist consultants, we deliver these services nationwide. Additionally, we arrange consignment of art and antiques to a network of specialist auction houses.

What sets you apart from other businesses in your sector?

Instructing a RICS regulated art antiques surveyor affords clients the peace of mind that they are choosing an H RC approved valuer with the quality assurance that opting for a RICS regulated business provides.

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

Of the distinct types of valuation we offer, providing a way forward for families at a time of bereavement is the most satisfying aspect of our valuation work. The prospect of dealing with the entire contents of a relative’s home is often a daunting and overwhelming task for a family at a particularly difficult time. With more than twenty years of experience receiving instructions from probate solicitors and executors in the Bath, Bristol and surrounding areas, we regularly find that a home contents valuation for inheritance tax purposes, initially viewed by the family as a necessary intrusion, becomes a journey through the life of a loved one as new light, and with it a fresh appreciation is shone upon objects that together helped create the fabric of a lifetime. With a range of post-valuation support including auction consignment and clearance, we can take care of it all.

For more: 0117 2517251; tobypinn.co.uk

Mark Vincent Surveying provides surveying advice on residential properties primarily across North Somerset, Bath and NorthEast Somerset and West Wiltshire. As a Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and with experience of properties ranging from modest studio apartments through to multi-million pound country estates, Mark’s advice is impartial and provides peace of mind to his clients.

Operating in and around Bath, Bradford-on-Avon, Frome, Midsomer Norton, Shepton Mallet, Warminster, Wells & Westbury – Mark provides a wide range of services related to the condition of residential property, including:

• Homebuyers reports

• Building Surveys

Mark is independent of estate agents and financial institutions which means he gives unbiased advice and can offer complete peace of mind with RICS Approved Professional Indemnity Insurance cover.

PLAN IT IN ADVANCE

Local legal expert HELEN STARKIE explains the use and effect of an Advance Directive

Astatement signed by an individual to confirm what medical treatment they would and/or would not want to receive if at some future date they were to lack capacity to make informed decisions and give appropriate instructions to their medical advisers themselves is most frequently termed an ‘Advance Directive’ or ‘Advance Decision’. The term ‘Living Will’ is also sometimes used but is becoming less popular as it is thought that it can cause confusion. Whereas a ‘Will’ deals with a person’s property and finances a ‘Living Will’ does not. It deals with health decisions only.

So, what is the use and effect of an Advance Directive? And how does it differ from a Lasting Power of Attorney relating to an individual’s health and welfare?

An Advance Directive is an instruction to the medical advisers, current and future, of the individual making it to give or withhold certain types of treatment in particular situations. Once signed it is registered in the individual’s medical records. It is binding upon medical practitioners in England and Wales and its contents will override any contrary decisions made by any representative of the patient. A doctor giving life-saving treatment to a patient against their wishes would be laying him or herself open to legal action.

An Advance Directive may address:

• particular forms of treatment – eg cardiopulmonary resuscitation, the use of intravenous fluids, pain control and or nutrition and hydration,

• particular conditions – eg brain damage,

• particular religious beliefs – eg blood transfusion for Jehovah’s Witnesses.

What an Advance Directive cannot do is:

• request something illegal – eg assisted suicide,

• request specific medical treatment (in terms of specific medication and/or surgery) which must be decided by the medical adviser in the light of his or her specialist knowledge but in line with the general aims of the patient,

• appoint someone to make decisions for you –this can only be done in an appropriate Lasting Power of Attorney.

A doctor may not follow the directions given in an Advance Directive if:

• the wording of the document is unclear,

• the individual has made changes invalidating its contents – eg changed his or her religion,

• there have been advances in medical treatment which may have affected the individual’s original decision – unless the Advance Directive specifically stipulates that he or she would decline treatment even if scientific advances had been made.

To be effective, an Advance Directive must be signed, dated and witnessed and made of his or her own free will by an individual with the mental capacity at the time of signing to make the decisions reflected in it. If there is any doubt about any of these elements the doctor will be unable to act upon the instructions contained in the document.

An Advance Directive differs from a Lasting Power of Attorney in relation to an individual’s health and welfare in that the latter appoints a third party (the Attorney) to make decisions about medical treatment – but also in relation to general care, residence and other welfare matters. Whilst the LPA gives authority to the Attorney it does not give instructions, as the Advance Directive does, to the individual’s medical advisers.

For anyone concerned about their potential treatment in a time of particular need the most secure way of making their wishes known and

ensuring that they are carried out is to make both an Advance Directive and an LPA for their health and welfare. The two documents should be carefully drafted to ensure that their contents are consistent with each other and that neither inadvertently revokes the other. The Advance Directive should be registered in the patient’s medical records and a copy deposited with their Will. The LPA should be registered at the Office of the Public Guardian so that it will be immediately available for use in an emergency and the registered LPA should again be deposited with their Will.

This article contains general advice and anyone contemplating making either an Advance Directive or a Lasting Power of Attorney should seek advice specifically designed to cover their particular views and circumstances. n

Helen Starkie Solicitor 38 Gay Street, Bath, BA1 2NT; 01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk

GOVERNMENT DELAYS MTD FOR INCOME TAX

Matthew Rutter from Bath-based chartered accountants and tax advisers

PEARSON MAY on the Treasury’s decision to delay Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self-Assessment to April 2026

The Treasury has confirmed that Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self-Assessment (“MTD for ITSA”) will be delayed by a further two years until April 2026. It will now be introduced in phases from 6 April 2026, rather than 6 April 2024. The original start date for MTD for ITSA was planned for April 2018 and this is the fifth deferral of the start date.

According to the First Secretary to the Treasury, this delayed phased approach will give businesses more time to prepare and adapt to new ways of working.

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) stated that the UK government understands businesses and self-employed individuals are currently facing a challenging economic environment, and that the transition to MTD for ITSA for the self-employed and small landlords represents a significant change for taxpayers, agents, and for HMRC itself.

Not only is the start date being deferred but as mentioned above, it will now be introduced in phases. The minimum reporting level for self-employed individuals and landlords will be increased from £10,000 to £50,000, meaning that those self-employed individuals and landlords with turnover/gross rental income

over £50,000 will be mandated to join first, from April 2026. HMRC estimates this will apply to 700,000 taxpayers.

Those with turnover/rental income over £30,000 will be mandated to join MTD for ITSA from April 2027. HMRC estimates this will apply to a further 900,000 taxpayers.

The government is now reviewing whether smaller businesses/landlords with an income below £30,000 will be mandated to join MTD for ITSA. It is estimated that 2.6m taxpayers are within this group.

requirements among taxpayers – particularly those with a single source of property income.

The lack of functionality to allow taxpayers to appoint more than one agent (e.g. a bookkeeper to handle quarterly updates and an agent that completes the year-end processes).

The lack of adequate solutions for the complexity associated with jointly-held property.

The lack of a design solution for non-tax year accounting periods.

The design around amendments and corrections and how they are made.

Taxpayers being resistant to using commercial software. This is partly due to its cost, but also because many taxpayers use their mobile phone for simple record keeping.

The capacity of HMRC, software developers, agents and taxpayers to deliver the change.

In the light of these fundamental issues, our Institute (the ICAEW) is urging HMRC and the government to reconsider some of the key policy and design decisions and return the focus to businesses keeping good quality digital accounting records. Otherwise, they say, there is a risk that this further deferral will not be the final one and it will be difficult to persuade taxpayers to prepare.

Partnerships will not be brought into MTD for ITSA in 2025 as previously planned and while no date has been set for extending MTD for ITSA to partnerships, the government has stated that it remains committed to introducing MTD for ITSA to partnerships at a future date.

Furthermore, a points-based system aimed at making penalties fairer and simpler will come into effect for taxpayers when they join MTD for ITSA.

Over the last few months there had been increasing speculation that a deferral was inevitable, given the very small numbers of taxpayers in the restricted pilot scheme and a long list of problems with digitalising tax reporting of trading and property income. These problems include the following:

A lack of awareness of the MTD for ITSA

*The above is for general guidance only and no action should be taken without obtaining specific advice.

Matthew Rutter BSc(Hons) FCA CTA Pearson May Chartered Accountants & Chartered Tax Advisers Bath, Chippenham and Trowbridge

37 Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DA 01225 460491; mail@pearsonmay.co.uk

www.pearsonmay.co.uk

Matthew Rutter, a partner at Pearson May

“ OVER THE LAST FEW MONTHS THERE HAD BEEN INCREASING SPECULATION THAT A DEFERRAL WAS INEVITABLE, GIVEN THE VERY SMALL NUMBERS OF TAXPAYERS IN THE RESTRICTED PILOT SCHEME”