WELCOME TO SBC MAGAZINE!
In November we decided to take a break from SBC Magazine, right some things that were not working so well and get content in so we have some exciting things to talk about. It has been a few months and we are now happy to release the next magazine just in time for our visit as an exhibitor to the Franchise Show.
Its April, somehow we are already 4 months into 2025, we have launched several new meetings which are all going well and we started a radio show in January. Not going to lie, I love it, it is such a buzz being live on air, talking to business professionals about business, networking and other things, recently we talked about food.
In business we all do things differently but one thing that is for sure, we will go further together. It is a proven fact that if you surround yourself with good people then you will make the right decisions, I see this as the reason networking is so important for SMEs, finding your tribe, your people, those you can turn to in a professional situation and those who will understand and not say things like, go get a real job!
Our 6 year plan is to conquer the UK and have meetings all over offering a community bringing together online and in person from Cornwall to Kent all the way up to the highlands of Scotland, where there is a need for a meeting we want to provide. Are you interested in talking to us about starting your own SBC meetings? Get in touch, we are looking for people who are well driven to take on the mantle.
What’s inside
Mobile
Smart I.T. Support Strategies for success
escaping the Urgency Trap
breaking barriers in pest control
THe Business Networking Radio Show
Simply Business Club - updates from within the club
Simply Business Club Members profiles & Contact details
Are we addicted to our screens
Are you making these 10 home office mistakes
SBC
Within this magazine we feature businesses and business professionals from start ups all the way up to global brands, each voice just as important. We really like sharing positive news, updates and advice & tips from around the world, Do you fall within the above, do you have some information or advice to share with our readers?
Would you like us to cover a certain topic or perhaps add a regular section with updates, perhaps from a certain business sector like Human Resources.
Inside this edition we feature SEC Works who have turned buses into amazing things, one thing being a classroom. IT Support sponsored by Virtec IT, AN article from Business Coach Steve Barrett, an intro to our new radio show, an article about mobiles and screens, SAMS ask, are we additced? Also an article about home offices and making mistakes.
Get in touch with us, come to a meeting and interact with us on social media
Subscribe to our mailing list for future editions
Mobile Learning Spaces: Revolutionising Education One Bus at a Time
These mobile learning units are highly versatile and can be tailored to suit various needs. For example, preschoolers might enjoy the magic of a play bus, designed to encourage exploration and creativity in a vibrant, fun environment. Primary schools, secondary schools, and universities might benefit from library buses featuring comfy seating areas for quiet reading or study.
We’ve even created meditation buses that act as safe, calming spaces for private meetings or one-on-one sessions. Whether the focus is learning, relaxation, or fostering creativity, these buses can be designed with care to meet specific educational goals.
A Practical & Flexible Solution
Education is at the heart of personal growth and community development, and offering accessible and innovative ways to learn is more important than ever. At SEC Works, based in Canterbury and Faversham, we take pride in providing creative, flexible solutions for learners of all ages and stages. Our approach goes beyond traditional classrooms and extends to mobile, adaptable learning spaces that cater to diverse needs.
Supporting Education from the Ground Up
At SEC Works, we believe in nurturing talent and fostering growth through education. From an organisational perspective, we actively invest in education by offering in house apprenticeships. These programmes equip individuals with practical, hands-on experience that prepares them for real-world challenges.
Recognising that foundational qualifications remain critical, we also support individuals in attaining key GCSEs, ensuring
they have the credentials to advance further in their careers. But we don’t stop there — our commitment to lifelong learning is reflected in the range of incremental, trade level certification courses we provide. With ongoing support, participants can gain the specialised skills they need to excel in their chosen fields.
One of the most significant benefits of our learning buses is their practicality. Unlike traditional building projects, our mobile solutions don’t usually require planning permission. This makes them a highly desirable option for schools, universities, and businesses with limited space, tight budgets, or restrictive timeframes.
Whether a school needs a flexible learning area, a business requires additional training spaces, or a university seeks a temporary facility during expansion projects, these buses offer a costeffective, quick-to-deploy alternative. They are also ecofriendly, often utilising existing vehicles that are repurposed and refurbished for their new role.
Engaging with the Full Spectrum of Education Providers
One of the most exciting aspects of our work is the opportunity to collaborate with all levels of the education system, from preschool to university. Each year, we work alongside a range of education providers, creating bespoke learning spaces in the shape of converted buses.
Why Schools and Universities Love Mobile Learning Buses
1. Cost-Effective:
Traditional construction projects can be expensive and time-consuming. Our mobile units offer a more affordable solution without compromising on functionality or aesthetics.
2. No Planning Permission Needed:
Because the buses are mobile, they can be placed almost anywhere without requiring lengthy and expensive planning applications.
3. Customisable Design:
Whether it’s a play bus, a library, or a mediation space, each vehicle can be uniquely tailored to meet the specific needs of the organisation.
4. Portability:
These buses can be relocated as needed, making them an ideal solution for institutions that value flexibility or anticipate growth.
Bridging Gaps in the Education Sector
At SEC Works, we view education as a continuous journey rather than a destination. By creating unique, mobile learning environments and supporting individuals through apprenticeships and certifications, we’re helping bridge gaps in accessibility, resources, and opportunities.
The converted buses are more than just functional spaces — they represent innovative thinking, creativity, and a commitment to meeting modern educational challenges. Whether inspiring young learners in preschool or providing a professional-grade learning experience for university students, our bespoke buses are reshaping education one space at a time.
Let’s Work Together to Redefine Learning Spaces
As the world of education continues to evolve, so must the spaces where learning occurs. SEC Works is proud to contribute to this evolution by delivering adaptable, practical solutions that make a real difference. Based in Canterbury and Faversham, we are dedicated to supporting education providers across the region with our expertise and innovative approach.
5. Engaging for Students:
The novelty of a learning bus adds a sense of excitement and engagement for students, making the learning experience more memorable.
If you’re interested in exploring the possibilities of mobile learning spaces for your school, business, or university, get in touch with SEC Works. Together, we can create bespoke solutions that inspire learners and support educators, all while providing a flexible, costeffective alternative to traditional spaces. Let’s build the future of education, one bus at a time.
The Backbone of Business: Smart IT Support Strategies for Success
In today’s fast-paced digital world, a reliable IT infrastructure isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re running a small startup or a well-established enterprise, IT issues can disrupt productivity, frustrate employees, and impact customer trust. The good news? With smart IT support strategies, businesses can prevent problems before they arise and maintain seamless operations. Here’s how.
Prioritise Proactive Support Over Reactive Fixes
Many businesses only think about IT support when something goes wrong. Instead, shift to a proactive approach—regular system updates, cybersecurity assessments, and preventive maintenance can minimise downtime and costly repairs. Investing in proactive support means fewer surprises and smoother operations.
Emphasise Cybersecurity at Every Level
Cyber threats are evolving daily, and no business is too small to be targeted. Implementing multi-factor authentication, keeping software updated, and training employees on phishing scams can significantly reduce the risk of cyberattacks. Regular security audits should also be part of your IT strategy.
Cloud-Based Solutions for Flexibility & Scalability
Cyber threats are evolving daily, and no business is too small to be targeted. Implementing multi-factor authentication, keeping software updated, and training employees on phishing scams can significantly reduce the risk of cyberattacks. Regular security audits should also be part of your IT strategy.
Outsourcing IT Support: A Smart Move?
For many businesses, maintaining an in-house IT department can be expensive, requiring salaries, training, and ongoing infrastructure investments. Outsourcing IT support to a managed service provider (MSP) eliminates these costs while offering top-tier expertise, 24/7 monitoring, and rapid response times.
By outsourcing, businesses gain access to a dedicated team of professionals who stay ahead of the latest threats and technological advancements. MSPs offer scalable solutions, ensuring that your IT infrastructure grows alongside your business without the hassle of hiring or training new staff.
Additionally, outsourced IT support enhances security, ensuring compliance with industry regulations while implementing proactive cybersecurity measures. With a reliable MSP handling your IT needs, your business can focus on what it does best—growth, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Partnering with the right provider transforms IT from a cost burden into a strategic advantage.
Train Employees to Be IT-Savvy
Technology is only as strong as the people using it. Regular training sessions on software updates, security protocols, and troubleshooting basics can empower employees to handle minor IT issues themselves—reducing reliance on support teams and keeping workflows uninterrupted.
Have a Disaster Recovery Plan in Place
Data loss, cyberattacks, or system failures can happen unexpectedly. A solid disaster recovery plan—including regular backups, cloud storage, and clearly defined response protocols—ensures that your business can bounce back quickly and with minimal damage. Effective IT support is about more than just
fixing computers—it’s about safeguarding business continuity, efficiency, and security. By adopting a proactive mindset, leveraging cloud technology, training employees, and considering outsourced support, businesses can stay ahead of IT challenges and focus on growth. After all, when your IT runs smoothly, your business does too.
From Firefighting to Future-Focused: How Business Owners Can Escape the Urgency Trap
Running a growing business is exhilarating. You’re solving problems, making decisions, and keeping the wheels turning. But if every day feels like an endless cycle of putting out fires, you’re stuck in a pattern that stifles long-term success. You’re not alone—many business owners struggle to balance immediate demands with future planning. The problem? Constant firefighting keeps you reactive rather than strategic, limiting your ability to scale sustainably.
The Problem:
The Firefighting Trap
When you’re constantly fixing issues — staffing shortages, operational bottlenecks, customer complaints — it’s easy to mistake activity for progress. But here’s the reality: being busy isn’t the same as moving forward. Without a clear strategy, your business remains in survival mode, unable to break through to the next stage of growth.
Some of the biggest risks of staying in this reactive cycle include:
Your Business Becomes a Ticking Time Bomb – The cracks keep getting papered over, but eventually, something will break—whether it’s a critical system failure, a lost key client, or a legal issue from a rushed decision.
Burnout is Inevitable – If you’re constantly problem-solving with no time to step back, your passion for the business will erode. Exhaustion leads to poor decisions, missed opportunities, and even health consequences.
businesses hit a plateau, start bleeding customers, and eventually fade into irrelevance.
A powerful example of this comes from Start with Why by Simon Sinek. He explains how the great American railway companies dominated the transportation industry but ultimately declined because they failed to recognize their true purpose. Instead of seeing themselves as companies that
You Lose Your Best People – Talented employees don’t want to work in chaos. If they see no clear leadership, no future vision, and constant crisis mode, they’ll leave — taking their skills and experience with them.
You’re Always Playing Catch-Up
– Without proactive planning, competitors will outmanoeuvre you. They’ll take the market share you didn’t have time to chase, invest in innovation you didn’t have time to consider, and attract the talent you couldn’t retain.
Your Business Stalls, Then Declines –
A lack of future planning means no controlled growth. Without direction,
enabled the movement of people and goods, they saw themselves strictly as railway businesses. When cars, trucks, and airplanes emerged, they resisted change rather than evolving. The result? They became irrelevant while others took over the transportation industry. This illustrates the danger of focusing only on the present instead of continuously aligning with the longterm vision.
The Shift: Future-Back Thinking in Action
The key to escaping firefighting mode is shifting from ‘fixing’ to ‘building.’ This means applying Future-Back Thinking—working backward from the future you want, rather than reacting to today’s
problems. Instead of asking, “what do I need to fix right now?” ask:
Where do I want this business to be in five years?
What kind of leadership structure needs to be in place?
What do I need to let go of now to get there faster?
This shift enables you to solve today’s problems in a way that aligns with long-term goals, rather than just putting out the latest fire.
How Black Flag Coaching Helps You Break the Cycle
Here’s how I work with business owners like you to move from reactive to strategic growth:
Define Your Future Business – Together, we clarify what success looks like beyond the next quarter. What kind of company are you building? What role do you want to play in it?
Identify the Gaps – We map out what’s stopping you from getting there—whether it’s leadership bottlenecks, culture gaps, or operational inefficiencies.
Act as If You Are Already There – The fastest way to scale is to start behaving like the leader of the business you’re building, not just the one you have today. We focus on practical, small changes in mindset and decision-making to shift you into a strategic role.
Develop a Leadership Team That Can Take the Weight Off You – If you’re solving every problem, your team isn’t growing. I help business owners develop leadership structures that empower others, so you’re not the only one keeping the ship afloat.
The Result? A Business That Grows Without Chaos
By stepping out of the urgency trap, you free yourself to focus on what truly moves the business forward. You create a culture of ownership and accountability within your team. And most importantly, you build a business that thrives long-term—not just one that survives today.
If this resonates with you, let’s talk. I help business owners make this shift every day, and it starts with a simple conversation about where you want to be. The future of your business isn’t something to get to ‘later’—it starts with the decisions you make today.
Breaking Barriers in Pest Control: The Mission of MP Environmental
In the world of pest control, a field often dominated by men, MP Environmental stands out as a trailblazer. Led by a woman with a vision to create meaningful change, this dynamic company not only excels in providing top-tier pest management services but also champions the values of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) within the industry.
A Unique Approach to Pest Management
MP Environmental offers a full range of pest control solutions, from one-off treatments to long-term contracts for homes and businesses. Their expertsise ranges from managing common nuisances like rodents and insects to providing preventative advice and ongoing support to keep properties pest -free. But what truly sets them apart is their commitment to going beyond just solving pest problems. They aim to educate and inspire, ensuring their clients feel empowered to maintain safe and healthy environments.
Leading with Purpose
As one of the few pest control companies in the UK run by a woman, MP Environmental brings a fresh perspective to the industry. The company’s founder, Michelle, believes in breaking
down stereotypes and showcasing pest control as a career path that offers opportunities for everyone. "This isn’t just about running a business; it’s about changing perceptions," she explains. “We want the next generation to see that this industry welcomes diverse talents and skills.”
Championing EDI in Pest Control
MP Environmental’s commitment to EDI is more than just a corporate value—it’s a mission. They actively participate in initiatives to encourage under-represented groups, particularly women, to consider careers in pest control. As a member of the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee within the industry, the company works to challenge biases and create a more inclusive future.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Through community outreach, mentoring programs, and sharing their story, MP Environmental strives to inspire young people to explore the diverse opportunities available in pest control. Their goal is to highlight that this career path isn’t just about tackling pests but also about problem-solving, protecting public health, and contributing to the environment.
A Vision for the Future
MP Environmental is more than a pest control company; it’s a movement toward a more inclusive and innovative industry. By leading with purpose and demonstrating that pest control is a field where anyone can thrive, they’re shaping a brighter future for both their clients and the next generation of professionals.
Do you ever wonder, how can I get my business into a magazine like this??
You want it for FREE you say!
We can make that happen,
Just like Michelle from MP Environmental, All of our yearly members can feature in this magazine for FREE, come along to one of our meetings and check out our brand of #ConversationalNetworking.
Membership to Simply Business Club is just £180 or £300 depending on the benefits you want, including FREE online meetings, discounted in-person meetings, feature on our radio, feature in this magazine, info displayed on our website and in this magazine for the duration of your membership (see pages 18-24) inclusion in our networking app.
Join us today, your business will benefit and you will appreciate the support offered from our members.
A rising tide lifts all boats! If we all help each other we will all win!
Written by John Turner Network Leader of Simply Business Club
The Business Networking Show: A Powerhouse Launch into the World of Connection
When the idea for The Business Networking Show first sparked between myself and Linda Cloke of Synergy Networking Events, we knew we were on the brink of something exciting. We both share a love of connecting people, building communities, and helping business owners shine—and what better platform to amplify that mission than the airwaves?
The show launched in January with one goal in mind: to bring the energy and value of great networking conversations into a studio setting, where listeners could not only learn from the best but also feel inspired to build stronger relationships and grow their own businesses.
From the very first episode, it was clear we were onto something special. I invited Lisa Power to join me in the studio for that first week—more of a “pop in and see what you think” than a formal ask. But something clicked. Lisa brought a natural warmth, sharp wit, and keen insight to the mic, and the dynamic just worked. By the end of that first show, I knew she belonged there full-time, and thankfully, she agreed. Since then, Lisa has been my co-host, and together we’ve taken the show from strength to strength.
A Guest List That Reads Like a Who’s Who of the Networking World
We’ve had the pleasure of speaking with some truly inspiring guests in these first few months, each one bringing a different flavour of expertise, passion, and entrepreneurial drive.
Danny Kinsella of DK Security Services joined us early on, offering insight into the world of modern security and what it takes to run a people-first, professional service in a fast-paced industry. His mix of professionalism and people skills made him a standout guest, and his passion for what he does really shone through.
Next up, we had Tim Weedon from RDUK, whose work in renewable energy brought a fascinating and timely angle to the conversation. We talked everything from innovation and sustainability to how building trust and relationships is just as important in his field as it is in any traditional business setting.
Then came our in-studio guest, Rachel ConstantTaylor of Constant Recruitment, who brought such clarity and honesty to the conversation around hiring, culture, and the evolving recruitment landscape. Her take on the importance of listening, learning, and staying agile in business struck a real chord.
More recently, we welcomed Nathaniel Couzens from SFM Marketing. Now, if you’ve ever met Nathaniel, you’ll know he doesn’t just talk about marketing—he lives it. Full of energy, ideas, and practical advice, he had our listeners scribbling notes at lightning speed.
Our latest episode featured a powerhouse duo: Leigh Anne Eason of SEC Works Group and Shiel Campbell, a partner with Utility Warehouse. Leigh Anne brought brilliant insight into how businesses can better support and retain their people, while Shiel gave us a deep dive into relationship-driven sales and how it’s not just about what you offer— it’s how you make people feel.
What We’re Learning Along the Way
One thing that’s really stood out over these past few months is the recurring theme of authenticity. Every guest, no matter their background or sector, has emphasised the importance of real relationships. Whether it’s in recruitment, security, marketing, or utilities, the message is clear: people buy from people they trust. And trust is built through consistency, connection, and conversation—the very pillars that make great networking (and great radio) happen.
Another lesson? Business owners want to be heard. They want to tell their story, share their journey, and be part of something bigger than themselves. The show has become a platform not just for interviews, but for storytelling, encouragement, and inspiration.
Looking Ahead
We’re only a few months in, but The Business Networking Show already feels like it’s building a community—not just a listenership. The feedback from our guests and listeners has been amazing, and we’re excited to keep that momentum going. We’re planning more themed episodes, diving deeper into industry insights, and even taking the show on the road for live events and recordings in the future.
Ultimately, this show is about people. The people behind the businesses. The voices that often go unheard in the noise of social media and online marketing. We’re here to amplify those voices, build bridges between businesses, and make networking something people look forward to.
Because when you put the right people in the room— or in this case, on the airwaves—magic happens.
Updates from Simply Business Club
It has been a hectic few months and so we paused our publication to get some bits right, make some improvements and come back bigger and stronger. We have increased our in-person offering in Kent. More details below and we have started a radio show. The wall planners where a big success again and we will be once again supporting charities including the Pilgrims Hospice.
SBC Magazine
As mentioned above we paused the magazine for a short while as we made some improvements and hope you will enjoy what we have shared with you.
As w move forward we are offering more information from industry experts, advice and tips and updates.
Would you like to attend business networking that is relaxed and efficient? Simply Business Club is that place, come along online or in-person, share in the support we offer to everyone who comes along, get to know the other people in the room, remember, a rising tide lifts all boats, if we all help each other we will all win!
What if we don’t have an inperson meeting in your area? We are working hard to find people who are willing to work with Simply Business Club, we want to host meetings across the UK. If you feel you are someone who might be interested in working with us then get in touch, this role is paid role based on new members and attendees to the meetings.
Contact our network leader John to discuss in more detail, subject line In-Person Opportunities
john@simplybusinessclub.co.uk
Yearly Wall Planners
The Wall Planners were a success again, we gave away 1,000 copies to businesses and busy offices, we believe the views our wall planners get is well over 1 million views when you suggest 5 people will see each wall planner 5 times per week.
The Business Networking Radio Show
In January we started to offer the members of Simply Business Club the chance to join me in the studio and on the airwaves as we started our own radio show, this like the magazine is a really great opportunity to showcase how amazing and knowledgeable our members are. a few months later and we have had lots of shows and lots of guests, check out the back catalogue of shows on our website simplybusinessclub.co.uk/business-networking-radio-show
Simply Business Club
Over the past few months SBC has grown from strength to strength, we now have 2 online meetings per week at 11am on a Monday and 12.30pm on a Thursday. Our Thanet meeting has grown and the added areas of Canterbury and Folkestone are doing well.
In the last few months we have started a Folkestone evening meeting as well as supporting Margate FC, Ramsgate FC and Thanet Wanderers Rugby with some evening networking events. We are looking for more venues and will have meetings in the Ashford, Maidstone and Medway aras very soon.
We will be looking further afield to London with meetings coming very soon.
We are exhibiting at the Franchise Show in April on stand 1040, please do come over and say hello, we always like to meet new people.
We still offer no lockouts as we believe in collaboration over competition and we focus on support, giving everyone 3-4 minutes to talk about what you do and how we can help you progess.
Conversation is king in SBC meetings, after each person has finished updating the room we open it up for a conversation, someone might have a question or comment, or if the person speaking was in need of some assistance you might have the answer.
So, come along and find out what we have been up to and introduce yourself.
ARE WE ADDICTED TO OUR SCREENS?
Written by Sandra Hawkins
In an era where everything is either computer or technology based, things have changed, and getting away for a screen break isn’t as easy as it used to be. We’re addicted to some sort of screen, whether it’s a 5-inch phone or a 54-inch TV.
Gone are the times when we would leave our desk for a little filing! That’s assuming you know what filing was – it involved putting actual pieces of paper into physical files and often-unattractive drawered cabinets, with handwritten labels to create some sort of order. Now, filing occurs online in a suitable cumulonimbus cloud for eternal retrieval. A little photocopying or scanning used to help stretch our legs. All of these online systems mean we rarely need to move from our seats.
Social media, on phones, iPads and laptops, frequently engulfs us in a plethora of platforms to watch endless and sometimes mindnumbing videos of unfortunate accidents, pets dressed in whacky outfits, or ridiculous pranks; drifting through pages of random friends’ news with a few likes along the way. This not only wastes hours of valuable time which could be spent elsewhere, but puts us into a “zombie” status, which is not good for us either mentally or physically.
We need to find ways of breaking free from screens to give us more fulfilled and active lives.
What can we do to break our habits and improve our well-being? It is all down to perseverance of the individual.
Try these:
• Get up and talk to a colleague if you can; don’t email or message.
• Look out of the window every 20 to 30 minutes to give your eyes a rest.
• Go for a brief walk around the block for some fresh air, or up and down the stairs to stretch your legs. Switch off non-urgent phone notifications. Leave your phone in your bag or desk, and take a break from social media accounts.
• Switch off the TV and indulge in a hobby.
• Leave your phone in another room in the evening, or even switch it off for a while.
Here at SAMS, wellbeing is an important part of working safely, both for our own mental health and to avoid physical injury, and DSE (display screen equipment) safety is an important part of achieving this at work. For more information
visit www.samsltd.co.uk
Are you making these 10 Here’s how to fix them
A previous survey highlighted that 1 in 4 of homeworkers (27%) are suffering from back pain from working at home, 18% have eye strain, 17% neck pain and 10% have a repetitive strain injury2.
Intrigued by this, Safety Group shares the ten top bad habits for home workers, and the tips on how to prevent or improve these.
1. Poor posture & inadequate desk setup
A lot of home workers find themselves working from a sofa, bed, or poorly adjusted desk and chair which can cause back, neck, and wrist pain. It’s advised to use an ergonomic chair and desk, make sure the screen is adjusted to eye level, and ensure wrists are in a neutral position when typing.
2. Sitting for long periods
Although when working in an office, you could find yourself sitting for prolonged periods of time, there is even less moving when home working due to not needing to go anywhere. Such as to meetings or to talk to colleagues, and these long periods of sitting can lead to poor circulation and musculoskeletal issues. Make sure to take short breaks every 30-60 minutes, use a standing desk if possible, and incorporate movement such as stretching and short walks into your working from home day.
3. Bad lighting & screen glare
Despite spending many hours using screens, many people have poor lighting which can cause eye strain, headaches, and
and fatigue, while screen glare also increases discomfort. Your desk needs to be positioned near natural light, or you can use warm LED lighting, and adjust your screen brightness and contrast.
4. Improper screen positioning
As well as your sitting positioning, if your screen is too high, low, or off-center, it can lead to neck and shoulder strain. Positioning your monitor so the top of the screen is at eye level and about an arm’s length away, will help to prevent these problems.
10 home office mistakes?
5. Ignoring breaks & overworking
When working from home it can be a lot easier to not follow the structured office hours and skip their breaks, which can lead to burnout and stress. These guidelines are set in place for a reason, so it’s important to stick to them. A great technique is the Pomodoro one (work for 25-50 minutes, then take a short break), and set clear work hours.
6. Cluttered & hazardous workspaces
As home workers are responsible for their own set ups and aren’t being held accountable by office managers, so often their spaces have cables out, loose papers, and clutter. All of which can increase the risk of tripping, spills, and distractions. It’s important to keep cables tidy, use storage solutions, and maintain a clean organised workspace.
7. Using the wrong chair
Although dining chairs may seem like a cheaper or space-saving alternative for your desk set up, these types of chairs or low-back chairs offer no lumbar support, leading to back problems. Investing in an ergonomic chair can save you physical issues, or use a cushion for lumbar support if needed.
8. Lack of movement & exercise
A sedentary work style contributes to weight gain, stiffness, and fatigue. Incorporating stretching, desk exercises, or a lunchtime walk will help you to stay active.
9. Ignoring mental health & social isolation
Around a third of home workers regularly feel lonely due to a lack of social interaction1 and it can also increase stress and anxiety. To help prevent this isolation, schedule virtual check-ins with colleagues, take time to socialise outside of work, and practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques.
10. Poor air quality & ventilation
With the lack of commute when working from home, the amount of fresh air people get is decreased. Stale indoor air can cause headaches, fatigue, and respiratory issues. Opening windows for fresh air, using plants or an air purifier, and maintaining good humidity levels will help alleviate these symptoms.
“With the rise of home working, it’s crucial that people are aware of the potential health and safety risks that come with it. Poor posture, lack of movement, and makeshift work setups can lead to long-term health issues, from back pain, to eye strain, and even increased stress levels. By making small adjustments, such as using ergonomic furniture, taking regular breaks, and maintaining a well-lit and clutterfree workspace, home workers can protect their physical and mental well-being while staying productive. Prioritising health in a home office is just as important as it would be in a traditional office setting.”
Andy Wainwright, subject matter expert at Safety Group, has offered his top tips on staying safe while working from home:
FROM PLANNING TO PROGRESS:
HOW SMALL TEAMS DRIVE BIG RESULTS
For small business owners, success often comes down to how well your plans are supported by your people. Whether you’re aiming for growth, refining how you work, or simply keeping things running smoothly, aligning your team with your business goals can make all the difference.
This isn’t just about recruitment or compliance—it’s about making sure your team is equipped, motivated, and clear on how they contribute to your success.
Revisit the Big Picture
What Do You Want to Achieve Over the Next 6–12 Months?
Taking time to step back and reassess your goals—even partway through the year—can bring clarity. Ask yourself:
Are you aiming to reach more customers?
Do you want to improve how your business operates?
Are you thinking about introducing new services or products?
Once you’ve clarified your priorities, consider how your team supports those aims. Growth might require new skills or a shift in responsibilities, while streamlining may call for changes in how work is structured or delivered.
Turning Strategy into Action
Once your goals are set, it’s important to think practically about your people strategy. Key areas to review include:
1. Workforce Planning
In a small team, understanding your capacity and strengths is essential.
Do you have the right skills in place?
Are there gaps that could be filled by training, outsourcing, or shortterm support?
If recruitment isn’t feasible, how can you make best use of your existing team?
Small adjustments—like realigning roles or introducing new tools— can make a real difference.
2. Employee Engagement and Retention
Many small businesses benefit from close-knit teams, but regular communication and appreciation still matter.
Are your team members feeling motivated and supported?
Do you regularly check in, even informally, to understand how they’re getting on?
Simple steps—such as recognising good work, listening to feedback, or offering a bit more flexibility— can help people feel valued and more likely to stay.
Keeping up with employment law may not be the most exciting part of running a business, but it protects both you and your team.
From April 2025, ensure you’re up to date with:
National Minimum Wage increases and NI threshold changes.
Employment contracts, working hours, and holiday entitlements.
Right-to-work checks and other legal obligations.
Taking time to review your policies can prevent problems later on and gives your team clarity and confidence.
Facing Challenges and Finding Opportunities
Small businesses often face unique pressures, but they’re also well placed to respond quickly and flexibly.
Economic Pressures
With rising costs, focusing on efficiency is more important than ever.
Could certain tasks be streamlined or automated?
Are there cost-effective tools that would save time or reduce stress?
If pay increases aren’t possible, could you offer other forms of recognition, like flexible hours or extra leave?
Supporting Wellbeing
In small teams, individual wellbeing really matters.
Regular check-ins can help spot issues early and support better balance.
Encourage reasonable workloads and breaks.
Make it easy for people to raise concerns and ask for help.
A healthy team is more likely to stay focused, reliable, and committed.
Embracing Flexibility
Flexibility can be a real advantage for smaller employers.
Could changing hours, compressed working weeks, or hybrid options help people manage work and life better?
Are there areas where you could trial a new approach before rolling it out more widely?
By staying open to ideas and involving your team in change, you can often find solutions that work well for everyone.
Keeping Things on Track
Even the best plans can falter without followthrough. Keep things manageable by:
Breaking down actions into small steps.
Setting quarterly goals to review and adjust.
Staying flexible—be ready to adapt if something isn’t working.
If improving efficiency is a focus, review whether admin tasks or outdated processes are taking up too much time. Tools like shared calendars, automated invoicing, or task tracking can reduce the burden and help your team stay focused.
Final Thoughts
Small businesses are built on the strength of their people. Whether you’re growing, adapting, or just trying to make the best use of limited resources, aligning your team with your goals is a practical and worthwhile investment.
And remember, you don’t need to do it all on your own. Whether it’s planning ahead, keeping compliant, or tackling specific challenges, support is out there when you need it.
