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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.

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.”

Access Control Partnership Brings Post-Quantum Mobile Security to Azure Access Controllers

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Access Control Partnership Brings Post-Quantum Mobile Security to Azure Access Controllers

Sentry Interactive technology will be incorporated into Azure Access CP Series controllers, allowing organisations to adopt readerless mobile entry while preparing for the next generation of cybersecurity threats.

A new collaboration between Sentry Interactive and Azure Access is set to bring post-quantum security and embedded mobile access to a wider range of access control installations.

The partnership will integrate Sentry’s software development kit (SDK) into Azure Access CP Series network controllers, enabling mobile credentials to be used without requiring customers to remove and replace their existing reader infrastructure.

The development offers organisations a more flexible way to introduce mobile entry, potentially reducing installation costs and the amount of additional hardware required. It also gives installers more options when upgrading existing systems or specifying new access control projects.

A key element of the agreement is the focus on protecting access credentials against future cybersecurity risks. Advances in quantum computing could challenge conventional encryption, making the development of new security approaches increasingly important for the access control sector.

Sentry’s platform brings together post-quantum cryptography and readerless technology. Its architecture isolates the mobile credential security layer, with the aim of maintaining protection as cyber threats and computing capabilities evolve.

Denis Hébert, Chairman and CEO of Sentry Interactive, said: “The future of access control is embedded mobile access in a post-quantum world.

“Quantum computing is fundamentally changing the security landscape, and our industry is not yet prepared for what that means. By working with Azure Access, we are getting ahead of that disruption and helping to lead the transition rather than reacting to it.”

For Azure Access, the integration expands the functionality available through its CP Series controllers. Customers will be able to explore mobile access options without the traditional requirement to replace reader infrastructure, while benefiting from Sentry’s approach to credential security.

Evan Zinger, General Manager of Azure Access, said: “Our partnership with Sentry Interactive gives Azure Access customers and installation partners more ways to deploy mobile access without the traditional cost and complexity of replacing reader infrastructure.

“By incorporating Sentry’s technology into our controllers, we’re expanding installation flexibility while offering advanced credential security designed for the future.”

Top 5 HR Consulting Firms in London for Growing Businesses in 2026

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Top 5 HR Consulting Firms in London for Growing Businesses in 2026

London hosts a diverse HR consulting landscape that includes both global firms and specialised boutique practices. For SMEs, scale-ups, and multi-site organisations operating across Greater London, outsourcing HR can reduce costs, improve compliance with employment legislation, and free leadership to focus on business growth rather than people admin. HR consulting can provide a scalable and cost-effective alternative to maintaining a full in house HR team, especially when you’re growing fast and the regulatory environment keeps shifting.

Top 5 HR Consultants in London for 2026

The firms below are ranked, with Avensure as the primary recommendation. Each profile covers why they stand out, who they’re best for, key strengths, and what to watch out for.

1. Avensure

Avensure is a leading UK HR and employment law consultancy with a dedicated London-focused HR consulting service. Since 2011, they’ve built a reputation for combining outsourced HR with round-the-clock employment law advice, backed by technology platforms like PeopleCloud that streamline HR admin, payroll data, and employee records management. Avensure supports over 5,000 UK businesses annually, making them one of the largest providers in this space.

Why Avensure Stands Out

Avensure’s combined HR and employment law model is ideal for London businesses worried about tribunals and compliance. Their team can assist companies in understanding and implementing legal obligations related to employment, and compliance with evolving UK employment legislation is a core part of the service – including compliance monitoring and updates pushed proactively to clients.

They provide end-to-end HR support: contracts, HR policies, employee relations casework, disciplinaries, grievances, and investigations. Their experience spans sectors common in London including hospitality, retail, professional services, and care providers. Local experts ensure compliance with UK employment law, reducing tribunal claims.

Best For

Avensure is best for London SMEs (5–250 staff) that want to fully outsource day-to-day HR and employment law risk management. It’s a strong fit for fast-growing businesses without internal HR, and owners who need clear, action-oriented expert advice rather than theory.

Key Strengths

  • 24/7 UK-based employment law advice line
  • Template and bespoke documentation (handbooks, contracts, policies)
  • Specialist support with ACAS early conciliation and tribunals, including insurance-backed protection
  • On-site or remote investigations and HR processes
  • PeopleCloud platform for managing absence, leave, documents, and e-signatures
  • Dedicated London landing page addressing the capital’s regulatory and labour-market environment

Possible Limitations

  • The outsourced model may feel less suitable for larger organisations with an established HR team and internal legal counsel.
  • Fixed-fee retainers may not suit micro-businesses that only need occasional advice – though pricing starts from around £200 per month.

2. Fitzgerald Human Resources

Fitzgerald HR is a full service HR consultancy that has been operating since 2008, providing strategic HR support, HR projects, and outsourced day-to-day HR for London-based organisations. Their People Partnering model gives clients a named HR consultant who works closely with the company, functioning as an embedded HR business partner.

Why Fitzgerald HR Stands Out

Their focus on long-term HR partnerships and strategic planning sets them apart. Rather than only fire-fighting issues, Fitzgerald HR helps build HR strategy, organisational design, and people development roadmaps. An HR consulting firm like Fitzgerald can introduce structured performance management systems and provide an objective perspective on workplace culture and issues. They deliver tailored solutions for employee management – not off-the-shelf templates.

Best For

Ideal for scaling businesses (50–500 staff) that need both operational HR and higher-level people strategy. Particularly strong for organisations going through change – restructures, mergers, or rapid expansion across London and the South East. Their clients include NGOs, charities, private wealth firms, and professional services companies.

Key Strengths

  • HR audits and strategic roadmaps aligned to organisational goals
  • Performance management frameworks and employee lifecycle planning
  • HR policies tailored to UK law and sector-specific requirements
  • Training and expert guidance for line managers on difficult conversations
  • Project support such as implementing HR systems, designing reward frameworks, and improving employee engagement

Possible Limitations

  • Retained partnerships and strategic projects may be over-spec for very small businesses needing ad hoc HR documents.
  • Pricing and minimum engagement levels may be higher than helpline-only or template providers.

3. Clover HR

Clover HR is an HR consultancy with strong coverage in London, known for outsourced HR services and on-demand HR advice. Clover HR has been providing HR services since 2017 and now has over 50 HR professionals on its team, with a central London office in Farringdon.

Why Clover HR Stands Out

Their flexible support packages range from pay-as-you-go telephone support to fully outsourced HR management for London clients. They focus on making HR straightforward and jargon-free – a real difference for owner-managed businesses. HR consultancies often help improve recruitment processes and employee retention strategies, and Clover HR delivers on both.

Best For

A strong choice for London SMEs between 10–200 employees needing day-to-day HR help plus guidance on people performance. Works well for businesses that want to keep HR practical and commercially focused.

Key Strengths

  • Employee relations casework – consultants assist with grievances and disciplinary actions
  • HR documentation, absence management, and performance management
  • Support with recruitment campaigns and talent planning
  • Convenience for business owners who prefer remote-first support with the option of in-person visits
  • Retainers starting from approximately £300 per month

Possible Limitations

  • While they support HR strategy, they may not be the best fit for very large or highly regulated enterprises needing deep specialist teams.
  • Some highly complex projects (e.g. global mobility, due diligence for acquisitions) may require more niche providers or an external provider with deeper legal resources.

4. Lotus HR

Lotus HR is a London-focused consultancy that has been operating since 2010, offering bespoke HR advice, strategic people planning, and hands-on employee relations support. Based in London, they emphasise tailoring HR solutions to each organisation’s culture and growth stage.

Why Lotus HR Stands Out

Lotus HR’s strength lies in employee relations, conflict resolution, and building better communication between management and staff. HR outsourcing provides access to specialised expertise, and Lotus exemplifies this with highly responsive, personalised support. They help enhance company culture through engagement initiatives and feedback loops, and their access to specialised HR expertise helps businesses manage employee grievances effectively. HR outsourcing also enhances employee retention through better strategies – something Lotus tracks closely, reporting a 95% client retention rate.

Best For

Ideal for SMEs and charities in London facing complex employee relations issues or needing to professionalise their HR foundations. Well-suited to organisations seeking boutique-style, personalised support from dedicated HR experts.

Key Strengths

  • Bespoke HR policies aligned to each company’s unique needs and culture
  • One-to-one management coaching on handling sensitive situations
  • Handling grievances, disciplinaries, restructures, and redundancies
  • Focus on culture, engagement, and communication as differentiators
  • Small business packages starting from approximately £195 per month

Possible Limitations

  • As a smaller, bespoke provider, capacity for very large multi-site rollouts may be lower than national firms.
  • Organisations wanting a 24/7 helpline model may prefer larger outsourced HR providers like Avensure.

5. BP Collins (HR2Help)

BP Collins’ HR2Help service is a law-firm-backed HR consultancy offering HR consulting from London (Gracechurch Street, EC3V) and nearby offices. Their HR professionals and HR consultants work alongside employment solicitors, blending HR practice with legal rigour.

Why BP Collins Stands Out

The advantage of integrated legal and HR advice is significant for London businesses facing high-risk issues like dismissals, restructures, and disputes. HR consultants help businesses navigate complex compliance requirements, and BP Collins makes this seamless by keeping solicitors and HR experts under one roof. HR compliance includes monitoring updates to employment legislation, and effective HR compliance improves employee experience and retention – both areas where BP Collins delivers structured support through HR health checks, policy audits, and detailed action plans.

Best For

Employers who want extra reassurance on legal compliance, or who are already using law firms for other services. Also well-suited for businesses undergoing major change programmes, redundancies, or complex employee exits in London.

Key Strengths

  • HR health checks and compliance audits with clear action plans
  • Training for managers on HR topics and development areas
  • Redundancy and outplacement support, leadership coaching
  • HR consultants can assist existing HR teams, not only act as a fully outsourced HR function

Possible Limitations

  • Legal-firm-associated consulting can be priced at a premium compared with some pure HR boutiques.
  • Very small businesses needing occasional basic templates may find simpler providers more cost-effective.

How to Choose the Right HR Consultant in London

The “best” choice depends on your business size, sector, risk profile, and internal resources. Consider whether you want full outsourcing, support for an existing HR team, or help with specific projects.

Choose Based on Your Business Size and In-House HR Capacity

Micro and small businesses (under 50 staff) should lean towards providers offering flexible outsourced HR and helpline services – Avensure and Lotus HR both serve this range well. Mid-sized companies might benefit more from strategic HR business partners who can complement or upskill internal HR – Fitzgerald HR excels here. Larger organisations should look for consultancies that can slot into complex structures and deliver specialist projects alongside an HR manager or existing HR function.

Choose Based on Risk and Complexity of HR Issues

Businesses with frequent employee relations cases or restructuring growth plans should prioritise firms with strong employment law backing – Avensure and BP Collins lead in this area. Industries with higher regulatory demands (healthcare, financial services, charities) may need more specialist or legally aligned advice. HR consultants help improve staff retention through better strategies, and choosing a firm with the right range of expertise makes a real difference.

For context, London’s market also includes long-established names like Moore Kingston Smith, which has been providing HR services since 1923, as well as firms such as Hunter Adams. But the five providers above consistently surface as strong matches for growing businesses in the capital.

Choose Based on Budget and Engagement Model

Compare common models: monthly retainers, pay-as-you-go advice, day rates for projects, and fixed-fee audits. Assess value by looking beyond headline price – what’s included in terms of site visits, documentation, training, and tribunal representation matters. Get clear proposals and service-level expectations before signing any contract.

Which HR Consulting Option Is Best for You?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but matching your profile to the right provider simplifies the decision. Many businesses find that a short exploratory call with two or three firms reveals the best fit quickly.

  • Choose Avensure if you want a strong all-round option for outsourced HR and employment law cover for your London SME.
  • Choose Fitzgerald Human Resources if you’re scaling quickly and need strategic HR leadership alongside day-to-day support.
  • Choose Clover HR if you need flexible, practical HR help that fits around a smaller budget and a lean in-house team.
  • Choose Lotus HR if your main challenge is employee relations, culture, or communication and you want hands-on, bespoke support.
  • Choose BP Collins (HR2Help) if you’re facing complex or high-risk HR situations and want tight integration with employment law expertise.

Final Thoughts

London’s HR consulting market is broad, but focusing on your business goals and risk profile narrows the field fast. Whether you need to outsource your entire HR function, manage a restructure, or simply ensure compliance with the latest employment law updates, there’s a consultancy on this list that fits.

Outsourcing or partnering on HR can free London leaders to focus on growth while staying compliant and building stronger teams. The right external provider doesn’t just handle HR admin – they make your organisation more resilient, more attractive to talent, and better prepared for whatever comes next.

Entrepreneur launches new business growth system as Blesatech celebrates 10th anniversary

News Team
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Entrepreneur launches new business growth system as Blesatech celebrates 10th anniversary

A decade after founding Blesatech Consultancy Services, Dr Sariki Abungwo is introducing a new approach to business growth aimed at helping entrepreneurs move beyond the constant pursuit of new customers. The company’s tenth anniversary coincides with the launch of Infinite Business Growth Systems (IBGS), a proprietary methodology developed by its founder and CEO to connect marketing, technology and business strategy.

The launch reflects the transformation of Blesatech from its beginnings as an IT consultancy in Cameroon into a UK-based business consultancy offering a wider range of solutions for entrepreneurs.

For Dr Abungwo, the ten-year milestone is also an opportunity to recognise the experiences, challenges and personal influences that have shaped his progress as a business owner.

Blesatech was originally founded in Cameroon and takes its name from Dr Abungwo’s mother, Blessing, who inspired his entrepreneurial ambitions. When he moved to the UK in 2017 to pursue further education, he continued building the business, expanding its activities beyond its original IT-focused services.

The consultancy now provides an integrated range of support covering business strategy, website creation, digital marketing, customer relationship management and automation, helping businesses improve how they attract and manage customers.

Through working with entrepreneurs, Dr Abungwo noticed that many businesses were experiencing similar difficulties. Although considerable effort was being spent generating interest and attracting leads, the systems required to turn those opportunities into paying customers and secure ongoing business were often missing.

“Many business owners aren’t struggling because they lack ambition or aren’t working hard enough,” said Dr Abungwo. “Businesses are constantly chasing leads, following up with prospects and wondering where their next customer will come from. I believe they deserve systems that help them grow without everything depending on their daily efforts.”

His response was to develop Infinite Business Growth Systems, drawing on his experience of running a business over the past decade and his professional background in technology and digital transformation.

Dr Abungwo is a Fellow of the British Computer Society and a member of Forbes Coaches Council. His work focuses on helping businesses make better use of technology and innovation to support commercial development.

The IBGS methodology is structured around six connected areas: Reliability, Reputation, Readiness, Reach, Resell and Remarketing.

These principles provide a framework for managing the complete business growth process, from building a credible reputation and attracting potential customers to converting enquiries, developing customer relationships and encouraging repeat purchases.

“Having more followers doesn’t necessarily mean having more customers, and having more customers doesn’t automatically mean having a more profitable business,” Dr Abungwo explained.

“The real opportunity lies in connecting the systems that attract customers, convert their interest into sales and keep them coming back. That’s what Infinite Business Growth Systems is designed to help businesses achieve.”

The approach differs from services that concentrate solely on advertising, marketing or lead generation. Instead, it examines the entire customer experience and brings together business planning, technology and customer relationship systems to create a more joined-up growth strategy.

IBGS also provides the foundation for dedicated Blesatech services such as Socials That Sell, which helps organisations turn social media interest and engagement into business opportunities.

To accommodate different business requirements, Blesatech will deliver the methodology through a range of options, including training and educational programmes, coaching, guided implementation and done-for-you services.

This flexible approach is intended to help entrepreneurs identify their particular barriers to growth before deciding which solution is most suitable, rather than applying the same package to every business.

With Blesatech now entering its second decade, Dr Abungwo is keen to build on the foundations established since the company’s creation.

“What began as an idea inspired by my mother has grown into something much bigger,” he added. “Ten years in business has taught me that success isn’t simply about how quickly you grow. It’s about the value you create, the people you serve and whether what you’re building can last.”

“Looking ahead, my vision is to help more entrepreneurs move from constantly chasing their next customer to building businesses that grow more consistently, predictably and profitably.”

Business owners can explore the new methodology and discuss their individual requirements through a strategy consultation being offered by Blesatech as part of the launch.

Further information about Infinite Business Growth Systems and consultation bookings is available at www.blesatech.co.uk.

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