Law Donut

New research has found that over half of self-employed workers in the UK keep going when they are ill because they’re worried about losing income. A new study by SME insurer Markel Direct suggests that overworking among UK small business owners is commonplace and, in many cases, it is negatively affecting their health. The findings show that 40% of people that work for themselves say their work schedule has negatively impacted their health or wellbeing.

Chancellor of the exchequer Rachel Reeves has unveiled a major support package for British pubs, with business rates cuts and licensing reform. Pubs and live music venues are to get a 15% cut to new business rates bills from April 2026, followed by a two-year real-terms freeze, as well as a review into the method used to value them for business rates. Pub numbers have fallen by nearly 7,000 since 2010 and the sector has raised concerns about the way they are valued for business rates purposes.

Five leading banks have agreed a lending package worth £11 billion to help UK small businesses to expand and export. Small businesses are to benefit from a landmark £11 billion lending package provided by five leading UK banks. The money will help firms invest, hire and expand into new international markets, taking advantage of major new trade deals.

New research has found that over half of self-employed workers in the UK keep going when they are ill because they’re worried about losing income. A new study by SME insurer Markel Direct suggests that overworking among UK small business owners is commonplace and, in many cases, it is negatively affecting their health. The findings show that 40% of people that work for themselves say their work schedule has negatively impacted their health or wellbeing.

UK businesses operate in a high-stakes regulatory environment. Many companies rely heavily on international talent to maintain their competitive edge. However, recent government shifts have transformed immigration from an HR task into a core business risk. Authorities now view a Sponsor Licence as a privilege rather than a right. This status carries significant legal obligations that directors must oversee. The Home Office recently intensified its focus on workplace enforcement.

With just over a week until the Self Assessment deadline, HMRC is urging taxpayers to file now to avoid an automatic penalty. 8.6 million people have already filed their return for the 2024/25 tax year. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging taxpayers and agents who haven’t filed, to act now or risk missing the 31 January deadline – and face an automatic £100 penalty.

New research suggests that many self-employed Brits would rather pay a penalty than deal with the stress of filing their tax return on time. As the 31 January tax deadline looms, new research from Taxfix has found that 19% of self-employed Brits would rather pay a £100 fine than deal with the stress of filing their tax return on time. Stress is cited as the main reason for procrastinating.

The Federation of Small Businesses has warned of a “tax time bomb” that poses an “existential threat to high streets”, as small firms in retail, hospitality and leisure face an average 52% rise in business rates. High street businesses, including cafes, shops and hairdressers, are facing three years of business rates misery, according to the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), with an average 52% hike in their bills.

An allegation of a sexual crime can severely impact the operations of a small business, leading to complex legal and operational challenges. Understanding these issues is essential for business owners, who must act swiftly and effectively to minimise damage. Legal obligations, financial repercussions, and reputation management are crucial aspects that require careful consideration. By addressing these areas proactively, businesses can better navigate the complexities involved.

As rising costs continue to hinder small business growth, the Federation of Small Businesses has warned that business owners may have to make some “painful decisions” this year. Small businesses are facing a tough start to 2026 as confidence slumps and growth plans remain out of reach, according to new research by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB). The FSB Small Business Index (SBI) plunged to -71 in the final quarter of 2025, meaning far more businesses were struggling than succeeding.