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Half of adults want more effort from partners on Valentine’s Day

Helen Greaney
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Half of adults want more effort from partners on Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day has been dubbed a waste of money with novelty mugs and cheap underwear amongst the worst presents.

More than half of the 2,015 adults polled, said their partner should make more effort, rather than splurge on presents they don’t even want.

Respondents reported the rubbish gifts they had received included ‘wrong’ perfume, socks, candles and even, a car mat.

But while most said the day of lovers is a waste of time, one in three said they’d be gutted if their better half did nothing to celebrate.

Travel together

The research by Railcard.co.uk, found that one in five said a trip away would be the best romantic gesture with the Lake District top destination in the UK.

Relationship expert and coach, Sarah Louise Ryan, said: “Couples who travel together often end up more fulfilled and happier in their relationship.

“There are many reasons for this; inclusive of the fact it encourages communication and can deepen feelings of commitment as they plan their trips ahead of time, looking towards the future.

“Travel allows more opportunities for romance and time outside of the day-to-day routine, meaning romantic sparks can be reignited.

“Where flowers and chocolates can play a part, this Valentine’s Day I’d encourage all couples to carve out some time to book and experience a romantic getaway, whether for a day trip or a long weekend.”

The study also found 36% had considered a trip together as a way to rekindle a floundering relationship.

Cleaning Remains the Biggest Cause of Tenancy Deposit Claims as Get It Cleaned Issues London Checklist

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Cleaning Remains the Biggest Cause of Tenancy Deposit Claims as Get It Cleaned Issues London Checklist

Nearly 30% of tenancy deposit claims in the UK relate to cleaning, according to the latest figures from the Deposit Protection Service. With cleaning continuing to top the list of claim reasons, London cleaning company Get It Cleaned has issued a practical move-out checklist to help tenants prepare for property inspections and focus on areas that are commonly missed.

Founded in 2013, Get It Cleaned is a London domestic cleaning company that has developed a room-by-room guide for renters approaching the end of their tenancy. The checklist is designed to clarify the cleaning tasks involved in preparing a property for checkout and comes as official industry figures underline the importance of leaving a rental home in the right condition.

The Deposit Protection Service (DPS) recorded cleaning as the reason for 29.38% of deposit claims in 2025. It has remained the leading category for five years running.

This percentage describes the share of claim reasons listed as cleaning in the DPS’s 2025 figures. It should not be confused with the proportion of deposits ending in a formal dispute: a claim is a request for a deduction from a tenant’s deposit. The figures are explained in the DPS report, Cleaning main cause of tenancy deposit deductions for a fifth year running, which can be read at https://www.depositprotection.com/news-insights/cleaning-main-cause-of-tenancy-deposit-deductions-for-a-fifth-year-running.

Matt Trevett, Managing Director of The DPS, said: “Less than 5% of all deposits protected by The DPS end in a dispute.”

The Tenant Fees Act does not make professional cleaning a compulsory expense for tenants. Nevertheless, renters must return the property to the standard it was in when the tenancy began, as recorded in the initial check-in inventory.

In England, tenants are not legally required to hire a professional cleaner when moving out. They are, however, responsible for the property’s cleanliness in comparison with its original condition, subject to fair wear and tear. This allowance covers ordinary deterioration associated with reasonable use, such as light scuff marks, but not dirt or grease. The check-in inventory helps establish the condition against which the property will be assessed. More information is available from Shelter England at https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/tenancy_deposits/what_can_your_landlord_deduct_from_your_deposit/cleaning_gardening_decorating.

Get It Cleaned has used common inventory inspection standards to identify the main areas tenants should check before their final walkthrough.

Room-by-Room Move-Out Cleaning Priorities

The guidance breaks the move-out clean into manageable stages, with particular attention to details that may be missed when preparing a property in a hurry.

Preparation prior to cleaning: Before starting, clear personal possessions from surfaces and empty cupboards and drawers. Remove rubbish so that all parts of the property are accessible.

Kitchen areas to inspect: Focus on removing grease from the oven, hob and extractor fan. Clean cupboards, the interiors of the fridge and freezer, and descale sinks, taps and work surfaces. Include the washing machine’s door seal and detergent drawer in the clean, as both can retain grease, detergent and other residue.

Bathroom sanitisation: Thoroughly sanitise the toilet, bath and shower enclosure. Remove limescale from shower glass and fixtures, and clean all tiles, grout, mirrors and flooring. Inspect the shower waste, the seal between the screen and shower tray, and the floor behind the toilet pedestal.

Living spaces & bedrooms: Work across all surfaces, making sure to include light switches, skirting boards, door frames and window sills. Sweep floors before vacuuming or mopping, and pay attention to window tracks where dust can collect out of sight.

Carpets & furnishings: Inspect carpets and soft furnishings for stains, ground-in dirt and odours. Specialist options, including hot water extraction, may be appropriate for persistent marks or areas with substantial wear.

A final walk-through: Clear away all rubbish and carry out a final inspection of every room in daylight. Take photographs of the property as a record for both yourself and the landlord or agent. Make a note of meter readings and ensure the keys are ready to be handed back.

Practical Guidance for Busy Handovers

“The cleaning mistakes we see most often are the ones you miss on a quick look around. You wipe the oven glass and leave the racks, trays, and back panel greasy. You vacuum the middle of the room and miss the edges, the space under the bed, and the area behind the sofa. You clean the sink and leave food in the fridge seal and crumbs in the cutlery drawer. Inventory clerks photograph those spots. When they are dirty, a cleaning claim is hard to defend.”

Nathaniel Jamesson, Coordinator at Get It Cleaned.

Moving Out Cleaning Services in London

Get It Cleaned operates across Greater London postcodes, offering comprehensive end-of-tenancy cleaning for renters preparing to vacate a property. Its additional services include carpet steam extraction, upholstery care and dip-tank oven degreasing.

For London renters considering professional assistance with their move-out clean, details are available on the Get It Cleaned end-of-tenancy cleaning service page (https://getitcleaned.co.uk/end-of-tenancy-cleaning-in-london/). Availability can also be checked through the online portal.

Queen’s Square Social aims to become a Wrexham hub under new family leadership

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Queen’s Square Social aims to become a Wrexham hub under new family leadership

Queen’s Square Social is looking to establish itself as more than a hospitality venue, with new general manager Scott Hesketh setting out plans to make the Wrexham destination a place for people to work, meet, create and celebrate. The 21-year-old takes on the role as the family business behind the venture continues to invest in the city.

Scott’s appointment follows the venue’s first six months of trading at the historic Old Library. Queen’s Square Social is run by SAVVY Collective, the family-led hospitality group founded by his father, Steven Hesketh.

Having begun his career as a kitchen porter at The Chester Townhouse, Scott went on to establish street food business Foxxy Foods with a co-founder. The business launched at DevaFest in 2025, giving him experience of building and running a hospitality venture of his own.

Scott said: “In the space of six months we’ve made incredible progress. The Deli is busier every month, the events diary is filling up fast and we’ve just hosted our first wedding, which was a really special moment for the whole team.

“I’m incredibly proud to be able to lead the venue through this exciting new chapter in its history, and I’m looking forward to bringing the experience and ambition behind Foxxy Foods to Queen’s Square Social.”

The venue is situated on the ground floor of the 1907 Carnegie-funded Old Library, which reopened after Wrexham Council completed a £4 million refurbishment. Four spaces make up the Queen’s Square Social offer: The Deli, The Board, The Pod and The Social.

Each has a role to play in Scott’s plans for the business. He said: “People have been hugely positive about The Deli and I want to build on that. I want it to be known as an informal place where local professionals can work, meet and connect, as well as somewhere residents can relax and take their time.

“The Pod, our podcast and vodcast studio, is a real point of difference, particularly for the growing creative and business community in our area. We’re already recording some fantastic content inside The Pod including Wrexham Means Business, and we have lots more in the planning.

“The Board is already proving very popular with local businesses and is hosting regular weekly meetings. The opportunity to grow that is huge.

“The Social gives us real versatility as a venue. It’s a flexible space for events, workshops, networking, private celebrations and community activity.

“Ultimately I want Queen’s Square Social to be a place where people come to eat, create, connect and celebrate.

“It can be used for everything from exercise classes and open-mic nights to award ceremonies, keynote speaking events, antique and toy sales and art exhibitions.”

The team has expanded to five employees since launch, and further recruitment is planned as activity increases. The business is also keen to make local sourcing central to its operation, working with Welsh suppliers and promoting the region’s products.

Scott added: “We’re passionate about working with Welsh suppliers and showcasing the best of what’s on our doorstep. Supporting local businesses will always be at the heart of everything we do.

“The feedback from locals, many of whom have now become regulars, has been brilliant. People love the new way the building is being used and it’s fantastic to see it so full of life.”

The venue’s reception among customers is reflected in its Google reviews, where it has achieved a rating of 4.9 out of 5.

Queen’s Square Social brings together a deli, meeting rooms and event facilities, offering what its owners describe as the experience of a hotel without accommodation. However, overnight stays are set to become part of the wider business, with the forthcoming opening of The Old Registry, a luxury apartment development in the city’s former register office. It has already secured its first booking.

SAVVY Collective’s hospitality portfolio also includes The Chester Townhouse, and the business has been recognised with the Leisure and Tourism Award at the North West Family Business Awards.

The group’s presence in Wrexham includes Hotel Wrexham and The Savvy Fox, alongside Queen’s Square Social. The family’s investment in the city is matched by a commitment to supporting the communities in which it operates.

This includes backing local sports clubs and initiatives such as Connect Wrexham. Founder Steven Hesketh has also extended the group’s interest in hospitality to younger audiences through his children’s book, Bee Our Guest, which now reaches readers in Wales as well as England.

In August, SAVVY Collective joined the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce as a Patron Member. It is supporting the Chamber’s work to encourage investment, strengthen skills and develop opportunities across the region, particularly in the visitor economy.

Steven Hesketh said: “This region is where SAVVY Collective started, and it’s where we intend to keep investing for years to come.”

Scott’s appointment represents the family’s next generation taking a leading role in delivering that long-term ambition.

Steven added: “Hospitality has always been part of family life for us. I’ve learned the business from the ground up and now I want to build something here that lasts.”

Scott said: “We’re only just getting started and with The Old Registry about to open, we’ll be able to offer guests the complete package.”

Tyres.co.uk Backs Cardiff Racing’s Formula Student Electric Race Car

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Tyres.co.uk Backs Cardiff Racing’s Formula Student Electric Race Car

Tyres.co.uk, the UK online tyre retailer, has signed on as a partner of Cardiff Racing, Cardiff University’s student-run Formula Student team, for the season ahead.

The partnership covers the cost of tyres for the team’s electric race car, one of the biggest yearly expenses for any Formula Student entry. Teams usually go through several sets of dry and wet tyres across a season of testing and competition, so the support frees up more of the students’ budget for developing the car itself.

Formula Student, run by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, challenges university teams to design, build and race a single-seat car. Entries are judged on engineering design, cost and the business case behind the car as well as on track performance.

At Cardiff University, students from across the School of Engineering design parts on screen, make them in the University’s workshops and test them throughout the year. The project gives them hands-on experience of budgeting, teamwork and working to tight deadlines.

On a race car, tyres affect almost everything. They set how hard the car can brake, how quickly it can take a corner and how well it copes on a wet track.

Connor Wendt, Deputy Technical Director at Cardiff Racing, said: “Tyres are one of the biggest things we spend money on each season, and they make a massive difference to how the car performs. Having Tyres.co.uk on board takes some of that pressure off and means we can focus on making the car as good as it can be.”

Vithurs, Co-Founder of Tyres.co.uk, said: “Tyres are what we do every day, helping drivers find the right tyres for their car and get them fitted locally. We’re a young business ourselves, so we know what it takes to build something from scratch. Seeing a group of students design and build a race car is genuinely impressive, and supporting the part of the car we know best felt like the natural thing to do. We’ll be following their season closely.”

Cardiff Racing will spend the coming months finishing and testing the car before competing at Silverstone next summer. Updates will be shared on the team’s website and social channels throughout the season.

Architects urged to consider practicalities of Corten steel in modern building projects

Helen Greaney
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Architects urged to consider practicalities of Corten steel in modern building projects

Corten steel is becoming an increasingly popular choice for contemporary architecture and landscaping, thanks to its distinctive weathered appearance and low maintenance requirements. However, achieving the material’s full benefits depends on understanding how it reacts to its surroundings and how it should be installed.

With interest in durable, long-lasting building materials growing, UK metal supplier Buy Metal Online has issued practical
advice to help architects, landscapers, fabricators and homeowners make informed decisions when specifying weathering steel.

A key consideration when working with Corten is the timeline of its visual evolution. Buy Metal Online supplies the material in its raw condition, which initially looks similar to conventional dark mild steel. For projects where an established weathered finish is required from the outset, the company also offers pre-weathered options. When supplied raw, the protective patina develops naturally over a period of six to twelve months, changing from a bright orange appearance to a deeper, earthy brown.

According to SSAB’s design guides for COR-TEN® A, the process depends on alternating periods of wet and dry weather to create a dense, protective oxide surface.

The way Corten is installed also has a significant bearing on the final result. During the early weathering period, rainwater can carry loose rust particles away from the steel, potentially leaving permanent marks on nearby porous surfaces, including light-coloured concrete, stone and untreated timber. Incorporating suitable drainage channels or sacrificial gravel borders into the design can help direct this run-off away from vulnerable materials.

Adequate ventilation around the steel is also important, as water that remains trapped or pools on the surface can prevent the patina from stabilising and increase the risk of premature corrosion. For larger planters and robust façade applications, sheet thicknesses of between 2.0mm and 3.0mm are recommended. This provides sufficient material to accommodate surface
oxidation while retaining the strength of the underlying steel. Buy Metal Online offers a bespoke cutting service, allowing customers to order sheets prepared to precise dimensions for on-site assembly.

Although the supplier provides precision-cut metal, projects involving Corten in load-bearing applications or complex façade systems require additional professional assessment.

Architects, homeowners and specifiers should consult qualified structural engineers or architects to confirm structural suitability and long-term safety.

Sara Halman Thompson, Managing Director at Buy Metal Online, comments: “Corten brings a beautifully dynamic, organic texture to architectural projects. Whether supplying raw or pre-weathered sheets, our role is to provide premium metal precisely cut to specification. By understanding how the metal weathers, bleeds, and interacts with its environment, project
teams can design structures that look spectacular and stand the test of time”.

For more information, or to order bespoke Corten steel cut to size, visit www.buymetalonline.co.uk.

Eurostar Commodities secures highest BRCGS Food Safety rating across its manufacturing operations

Helen Greaney
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Eurostar Commodities secures highest BRCGS Food Safety rating across its manufacturing operations

Yorkshire food ingredients supplier achieves AA grade, recognising its standards in food safety, quality control and production.

Yorkshire-based food ingredients business Eurostar Commodities has been awarded the highest available grade under the BRCGS Global Standard Food Safety announced audit programme, securing an AA rating across its manufacturing operations.

The accreditation represents an important achievement for the company, which supplies specialist ingredients to food manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and foodservice businesses throughout the UK and overseas. It covers all of Eurostar’s manufacturing facilities, including recently developed operations for gluten-free products and rice production and packing.

The new certification adds to the company’s existing BRCGS Storage & Distribution AA accreditation, further demonstrating its focus on maintaining high standards throughout its ingredient supply and manufacturing activities.

BRCGS is an internationally recognised food safety certification scheme. Its standards are widely used by manufacturers, retailers and other food businesses to assess the safety, quality, legality and integrity of products.

The AA rating represents the highest audit outcome available under the announced assessment programme. The independent assessment considers a range of areas, including food safety management, production procedures, product controls, traceability, hygiene and measures designed to protect consumers.

To qualify for an AA grade, businesses must meet the requirements of the standard without any critical or major non-conformities, and with no more than five minor non-conformities recorded during the audit.

For Eurostar’s customers, the accreditation offers independent confirmation that its audited facilities operate in line with internationally recognised food safety requirements, providing reassurance around ingredient quality, safety and supply chain management.

Jason Bull, Managing Director of Eurostar Commodities, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have achieved the BRCGS Food Safety AA grade. This is a major achievement for Eurostar Commodities and a reflection of the exceptional standards and dedication of our entire team. Food safety and quality are fundamental to our business. Our customers, from major food manufacturers and retailers to independent bakeries, wholesalers and foodservice operators, depend on us to deliver ingredients that meet the highest standards of safety, consistency and reliability.

“This is not simply about passing an audit. It is about embedding a culture of food safety, quality and continuous improvement throughout the business. We are particularly proud of our team, whose hard work and attention to detail have made this achievement possible.

“As we continue to grow, innovate and develop new products, maintaining the highest levels of quality and customer confidence will always be at the heart of everything we do.”

Founded in 1994, Eurostar Commodities has developed into a major supplier of specialist food ingredients. Its range includes rice, pizza flours, gluten-free products and innovative flour made using British regeneratively farmed wheat.

The company continues to invest in product innovation, technical capabilities and its UK manufacturing facilities, supplying businesses across food production, baking, wholesale, retail and hospitality.

Its brands and products include Kintaro sushi rice, GMI Italian pizza flours, award-winning gluten-free chapati flours and RISE Re, a range of flour made entirely from British regeneratively farmed wheat.

The latest BRCGS Food Safety AA accreditation covers manufacturing at the company’s Brighouse site, as well as its recently invested-in facilities, dedicated gluten-free production operations and rice manufacturing and packing facilities.

With food businesses facing growing expectations around product quality, traceability, food security and responsible sourcing, independent certification continues to play an important role in demonstrating supply chain standards.

The accreditation further reinforces Eurostar Commodities’ position as a trusted supplier to the UK food industry and provides a foundation for its ongoing investment, growth and product development.

Event Academy puts global industry graduates in spotlight with Hall of Fame launch

Helen Greaney
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Event Academy puts global industry graduates in spotlight with Hall of Fame launch

A new initiative from Event Academy is highlighting the growing influence of its former students, many of whom are now playing important roles in delivering major events on the international stage.

The UK training provider has launched its first ‘Hall of Fame’ to showcase alumni working behind some of the world’s most recognised sporting, entertainment and business events, from the Olympics and Glastonbury to international championships and corporate technology summits.

More than 5,500 people have graduated from Event Academy since it began operating in 2012. The new campaign celebrates the professional achievements of those graduates, with separate Diploma and Postgraduate lists featuring individuals who have progressed into significant industry roles.

Among the alumni recognised are professionals responsible for the delivery of major sporting events. Emma Thomas works as a Football Operations Manager Consultant for FIFA, while Madeleine Hollis was Venue Operations Co-Ordinator for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

The Hall of Fame also reflects the breadth of opportunities available within the events sector. Graduates have moved into positions across luxury, corporate and entertainment organisations, with Abbey Mercer working as an Operations Co-Ordinator at IMG and Tiziano Piervisiani having served as Event Producer for Eurovision 2022.

Other former students are involved in managing operations at high-profile locations, including the Royal Botanic Gardens. Alumni are also contributing to the organisation of major international technology events, established music festivals and prestigious corporate occasions across the world.

Tania Tilbrook, Head of Marketing at Event Academy, said: “We are incredibly proud to launch the Hall of Fame and formally recognise the outstanding global impact our alumni are making. When our students join us, they bring raw passion and ambition. Through our rigorous, hands-on methodology, we transform that potential into the practical expertise required to deliver high-stakes events to millions of attendees. Seeing our graduates at the helm of the world’s most significant cultural and sporting moments is the ultimate validation of our educational approach”.

The Academy says its graduates’ career progression is underpinned by training that prioritises practical skills and direct exposure to the events industry. It offers a range of routes into the profession, including degree-alternative courses, intensive diplomas and postgraduate programmes.

Event Academy also states that it is the only provider of event management courses accredited by the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM). Its programmes place emphasis on industry placements and professional networking, giving students opportunities to develop experience beyond the classroom and build connections that can support their careers.

The Hall of Fame is intended to recognise the results of this approach and demonstrate the range of opportunities available to those pursuing a career in the global events industry.

Pharmacist urges public to turn to pharmacies as NHS winter pressures mount

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Pharmacist urges public to turn to pharmacies as NHS winter pressures mount

Ahsan Bhatti, Superintendent Pharmacist at licensed online pharmacy Quick Meds and owner of Frankley Pharmacy in Birmingham, explains why your local pharmacy could be your first port of call for common health concerns this winter.

As winter approaches, the familiar NHS winter pressures are starting to make national news headlines again. Seasonal viruses, respiratory infections and other cold-weather illnesses can put extra strain on GP surgeries, urgent care services and A&E departments.

For patients, that can mean another winter of trying to get an appointment when they need medical advice or treatment, but there’s another option that many people still overlook: their local pharmacy.

Many people still think of pharmacists as simply the people who dispense GP-issued prescriptions, but our role has actually grown considerably over the years. Today, qualified pharmacists can offer advice, assess a range of common conditions and, where appropriately trained and authorised, prescribe treatment.

That’s especially useful when getting seen quickly by your local GP proves difficult. Last winter, it was reported that an additional 300,000 patients waited for a month to see a GP compared with the previous year – so knowing when your pharmacist can help could help you get treated much sooner. 

The NHS Pharmacy First scheme has now made it much easier to access treatment at community pharmacies for common conditions without needing a GP appointment, but part of the reason people still don’t use pharmacies enough is the lack of awareness of the types of issues a pharmacist can help with. 

As an example, we typically see and treat patients with common health and lifestyle issues uch as colds, sore throats, sinus problems, migraines, cystitis, thrush, bacterial vaginosis (BV), urinary tract infections (UTIs), period pain, acne, rosacea and impetigo, as well as lifestyle issues like hair loss, erectile dysfunction (ED) and weight management.

If you’re suffering with any of these issues, you might automatically head straight to your GP. But depending on your symptoms, medical history and the treatment needed, Pharmacist Independent Prescribers can prescribe any licensed medicine within their scope of clinical competence, including antibiotics. 

You don’t necessarily have to visit a pharmacy in person, either. Licensed online pharmacies across the UK like Quick Meds, who are registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council, can offer consultations with qualified clinicians, including senior prescribing pharmacists, allowing patients to seek advice and treatment remotely through an established clinical process.

These services are especially important for people juggling work, caring responsibilities or difficulties getting out of the house, as well as in cases where patients may feel embarrassed to discuss their concerns face to face. 

It’s always important to check the legitimacy of your chosen online pharmacy, though. The pharmacy website should clearly display the name of the owner, the name of the superintendent pharmacist, the name and physical address of the pharmacy, and the registration number of the pharmacy. If the online pharmacy offers a private prescription service, the website should also state the name and registration number of all prescribers.

Winter is one of the toughest times of year for the NHS, but by turning to pharmacies for non-urgent conditions, patients may be able to access the advice and treatment they need while helping to ensure GP appointments are available for those who need them most.

For more information or to book an online consultation, visit www.quickmeds.co.uk.

AI-written compliance documents could leave businesses unprepared for accreditation, consultancy warns

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AI-written compliance documents could leave businesses unprepared for accreditation, consultancy warns

Businesses using artificial intelligence to produce compliance policies without properly understanding the requirements behind them could be putting their accreditation prospects at risk, according to compliance advisory firm JVR Consultancy.

The firm says that although AI can help businesses draft and organise documentation, relying on it to create policies without examining how they apply in practice risks undermining a key part of the compliance process.

Companies applying for supplier accreditation, certification or approval through schemes and standards such as Constructionline, Achilles UVDB, CHAS, SafeContractor, RISQS, ISO management systems and certain cyber assurance certifications may need to submit a range of policies, procedures and supporting evidence. These typically cover subjects including health and safety, quality management, environmental responsibilities and workforce competence.

JVR Consultancy believes these documents must be based on the organisation’s actual operations and procedures, rather than simply containing language designed to meet an assessment requirement.

“AI can produce a very professional-looking policy very quickly, but having the document is not the same as understanding what sits behind it,” said Steven Sandhu, Managing Director of JVR Consultancy.

“Writing a policy properly forces you to walk through what actually happens within your business. You have to consider the risks, who is responsible, what controls are in place and what happens if something goes wrong.

“That thinking is part of the value of developing the policy. If you simply ask AI to produce the document for you, you can skip the process that helps you understand what the policy means for your organisation.”

One concern is that AI-generated policies can appear convincing while describing processes and arrangements that are not actually followed by the business, the consultancy says.

Auditors are also becoming more familiar with generic documentation and may identify policies that fail to provide sufficient detail about how an organisation works. This could include references to responsibilities, monitoring systems, controls or procedures that have not been properly established or implemented.

Producing individual documents separately can create further difficulties if they contain conflicting information about roles, responsibilities or how particular processes should be carried out.

These weaknesses can become particularly evident when assessors ask businesses to provide evidence supporting their written policies. Where documentation claims that checks are completed, records are kept or specific procedures are followed, the organisation must be able to show that these activities happen in practice.

There may also be direct financial implications for businesses that do not pass an assessment. Reassessment can involve additional fees, potentially making the apparent savings from quickly generating documentation with AI an expensive false economy.

The risks extend beyond accreditation, particularly in sectors where health and safety procedures are essential to protecting employees and others. Policies that do not accurately reflect working practices can have serious consequences.

“When you’re dealing with activities or working environments where there are safety risks, getting health and safety procedures wrong can put lives at risk,” Sandhu said. “Auditors take these requirements particularly seriously because they’re there to prevent accidents and injuries. If a business can’t demonstrate that the right procedures and controls are in place, it risks failing its assessment. This isn’t simply paperwork you need to produce to get through an audit.”

JVR Consultancy stresses that AI can still be a valuable tool in compliance work, provided it is used to support rather than replace the development of policies based on an organisation’s genuine activities, risks, responsibilities and working methods. Appropriate human knowledge and expertise remain essential.

As organisations expand, their management systems and the evidence needed to demonstrate compliance are likely to become more complex. Keeping policies and supporting records accurate and up to date should therefore be treated as a continuing business responsibility, rather than a task completed only when accreditation is required.

“AI doesn’t know your business or how it operates. It can’t replace that understanding. We’ve spoken to clients who have used AI to draft policies, only to find that the documents didn’t adequately reflect their actual working practices,” Sandhu added.

“The fact that AI can help you write something shouldn’t replace the process of understanding it. A compliance policy isn’t just something you submit. It should be something your business can follow.”

JVR Consultancy works with organisations in rail, construction, utilities and other regulated industries, providing support with accreditation preparation, management system development and improvement, and ongoing compliance.

Oudh Shop Sees 40% Growth in UK Demand for Arabian Oud Fragrances, Oils and Gift Sets

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Oudh Shop Sees 40% Growth in UK Demand for Arabian Oud Fragrances, Oils and Gift Sets

Oudh Shop, a family-owned UK retailer specialising in Arabian oud perfumes, attar oils and alcohol-free fragrances, has reported a 40% increase in customer demand over the last 12 months. Perfume oils and multi-fragrance bundles have emerged as the strongest-performing product categories, reflecting changing preferences among UK fragrance buyers.

The increase comes amid growing appreciation for oud fragrances throughout the UK, with an expanding number of Western perfume brands introducing premium oud-inspired collections. Against this backdrop, Oudh Shop continues to focus on making authentic Arabian oud products more accessible and affordable, bringing traditional fragrances within reach of everyday consumers rather than limiting them to specialist fragrance boutiques and high-end department stores.

Two product categories have been particularly influential in the retailer’s recent growth. The first is oud and musk perfume oil, commonly referred to as attar. These concentrated, alcohol-free fragrances are attracting customers who appreciate how the oils gradually develop on the skin. They are also popular among those seeking a wudu-friendly fragrance option instead of conventional alcohol-based perfumes.

The second area of increased interest is fragrance bundles and gift collections. Increasingly, shoppers are opting for multi-fragrance perfume sets that allow them to experience several scents from one perfume house rather than purchasing a single full-sized bottle. This approach provides greater variety, making it easier to select different fragrances for everyday wear, special occasions and changing preferences. An example is Anfar’s Element Edition, a collection of three extrait fragrances inspired by wood, sand and fire.

“Customers are increasingly looking for different fragrance options while still expecting genuine products,” said Shah, founder of Oudh Shop. “We are seeing stronger sales of fragrance sets and attar oils compared with individual bottles. People enjoy having a selection of scents that they can choose from depending on their mood, the occasion or the day. At the same time, authenticity matters. They want confidence that they are purchasing genuine oud rather than synthetic alternatives. Making authentic Arabian fragrances accessible has always been central to our business, and that commitment remains the same as we continue to expand.”

Oudh Shop is an authorised stockist of Oudh Al Anfar, Anfar London and Adyan, alongside a selection of fragrances from Ajyad and Asten. Across these brands, the retailer offers more than 200 fragrance options, with prices starting at £14.99.

Having served over 6,000 customers throughout the UK, the business also operates a wholesale service for independent retailers and resellers, as well as offering international shipping. Customers placing UK orders above £20 are eligible for complimentary Royal Mail Tracked 24 delivery. A 30-day returns policy is also available.

Customers can browse the complete fragrance collection and discover the latest offers through oudhshop.co.uk.

Garden office may meet planning rules but still put homeowners on collision course with neighbours

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Garden office may meet planning rules but still put homeowners on collision course with neighbours

Homeowners planning to add a garden office should consider more than whether the structure complies with permitted development rules, as its design and position could still lead to disagreements with neighbours, warns UK garden building manufacturer Garden Buildings Direct.

The advice comes amid continued demand for home working facilities. Office for National Statistics figures show that 28% of working adults in Great Britain were working on a hybrid basis between January and March 2025. Meanwhile, research released by Confused.com in July 2026 found that one in 10 UK homeowners and renters experience disagreements with neighbours at least once a month.

Garden Buildings Direct is urging homeowners not to assume that staying within planning restrictions automatically means a garden office will be acceptable to those living nearby.

James Rice, garden buildings expert at Garden Buildings Direct, said: “Most garden office disputes do not begin with the office itself. They begin when a building affects the property next door through its height, position, windows, lighting or drainage. Meeting the permitted development rules is important, but it does not automatically make every design neighbour friendly. A garden office can remain within the planning limits and still cause tension if it blocks light, overlooks a private garden or becomes difficult to maintain without entering someone else’s property.”

In England, permitted development rules limit the height of an outbuilding located within two metres of a boundary to 2.5 metres. However, these allowances do not cover flats or maisonettes. Planning permission is also needed for any outbuilding within the grounds of a listed building, while additional restrictions apply to designated areas, including conservation areas and national parks.

The company recommends checking requirements with the local planning authority before starting work. It says resolving potential issues in advance is generally much simpler than having to modify or remove a completed building following a complaint.

The location of the office is another important consideration. Although there is no general requirement for a garden building to be positioned a specific distance from a wooden fence, placing it directly against a boundary can make it difficult to access guttering, treat timber or carry out repairs. Homeowners should also remember that they cannot assume they will be able to enter a neighbour’s garden to maintain their building.

Windows can create further concerns if they overlook neighbouring properties. Garden Buildings Direct suggests considering frosted glass, blinds or alternative window positions to maintain privacy while still allowing daylight into the office.

Drainage and the impact on neighbouring gardens should also be considered before installation. Rainwater must be managed within the homeowner’s property rather than running into land next door. This makes the positioning of gutters and drainage particularly important where a roof slopes towards a boundary.

Height restrictions alone do not guarantee that a garden office will feel unobtrusive. A structure can comply with the permitted limit but still dominate a neighbouring patio, window or seating area. The company says adjusting its position or opting for a lower roof could help reduce the impact.

The way the office is used can also become a source of irritation. External lighting, loudspeaker calls and doors opening and closing early in the morning may all affect neighbours. Recommendations include directing outdoor lights downwards and away from nearby windows, taking calls indoors, closing windows during noisy meetings and avoiding unreasonable working hours.

Certain building projects may also involve legal responsibilities. Work directly on or close to a boundary, alterations to a party wall or excavation near a neighbouring building and below the level of its foundations could come under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, which applies in England and Wales. Garden Buildings Direct advises homeowners to explain their plans and expected installation dates to neighbours in advance, even where formal notification is not required.

Confused.com’s research also found that 61% of people involved in a neighbour dispute had spoken directly to their neighbour about the issue, while 18% had contacted their local council to make a report.

Rice added: “Speaking to the neighbours does not replace planning permission or any formal notice that may be required, but it can prevent misunderstandings. Sharing the proposed position, height and installation dates gives them an opportunity to raise practical concerns before the work begins. A small adjustment at the planning stage could be much easier and less expensive than dealing with a complaint once the garden office is already in place.”

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