Month: July 2025

Aldermore Bank has committed £25 million in funding to support the rapid expansion of Osprey Charging’s nationwide network of ultra-fast electric vehicle (EV) charging hubs.
The funding forms part of a wider £110 million senior debt facility co-arranged with a lending group including Novuna Business Finance, Société Générale, and the UK Government’s National Wealth Fund. The capital injection will enable Osprey to accelerate the deployment of high-performance EV charging infrastructure at key locations across the UK.
The move supports the UK’s transition to zero-emission transport ahead of the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel vehicle sales, helping to meet rising demand for public EV charging and remove barriers to adoption.
Founded in 2016, Osprey Charging is now one of the UK’s leading public charging networks, delivering rapid and ultra-rapid charging with uptime exceeding 99%. The company places strong emphasis on customer experience, ensuring that charging hubs are located for maximum convenience and reliability.
Rather than prioritising sheer volume, Osprey’s growth strategy focuses on building trusted charging destinations that deliver value for drivers, with robust operations and long-term financial sustainability.
The company’s success has been recognised with several industry accolades, including Business Green’s Fast Track Company of the Year 2025, Zapmap’s EV Driver Recommended Network for five consecutive years, and Best EV Rapid Charging Network by Transport + Energy in both 2023 and 2024.
Lauren Pamma, Head of Energy and Infrastructure at Aldermore, commented: “Getting the UK ready for the EV transition means delivering infrastructure that drivers can count on. Osprey’s approach of putting customer experience and site quality at the heart of their strategy aligns perfectly with our commitment to backing sustainable, future-ready businesses.”
Ian Johnston, CEO of Osprey Charging, added: “We’re thrilled to be starting a new relationship with Aldermore, whose support is helping us deliver reliable, customer-focused charging at scale. Their funding will directly support our mission to build charging hubs that drivers trust and value – places I’d be happy to stop and recharge with my own family.”
As EV adoption continues to climb and the UK’s charging infrastructure scales up to meet demand, this funding marks a significant milestone in delivering clean, convenient transport solutions nationwide.
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Aldermore provides £25m funding package to boost Osprey’s EV charging hub rollout

Jeremy Clarkson has launched a scathing attack on UK advertising regulators after his latest beer advert—described as his “most expensive” and “most heartfelt” yet—was pulled from TV, radio and cinema for breaching compliance rules.
The advert, created to promote his Diddly Squat Farm’s Hawkstone lager, featured a 34-strong choir of British farmers singing a deliberately explicit rendition of a classic opera tune. Clarkson and his Clarkson’s Farm co-star Kaleb Cooper join in with the punchline: “F*** me, it’s good,” before Clarkson swigs a pint and signs off with, “Hawkstone. It is f****** good.”
Despite Clarkson’s claim that the ad was intended as a spirited tribute to British farming, regulators have deemed it non-compliant with advertising standards due to its explicit language. As a result, it has been banned from television, radio and cinema broadcasts.
Speaking from his Cotswolds-based Diddly Squat Farm, the 65-year-old presenter accused regulators of stifling creativity and humour.
“It’s a cock-up, as usual,” said Clarkson. “I’ve made my biggest, most heartfelt, and frankly, most expensive advert ever, and it’s been banned. The fun police in their beige offices have decided that the public can’t be trusted to watch it.”
“Apparently, it’s ‘not compliant’. With what, I have no idea. Common sense? If the regulators won’t let the people see it, then perhaps the newspapers will. I’m asking every editor in the country: will you publish my banned ad?”
The backlash comes just days after the final episodes of Clarkson’s Farm Season 4 dropped on Prime Video, with many fans expressing disappointment at the show’s darker, more downbeat tone.
While the first season of Clarkson’s Farm charmed viewers with its comedic take on the former Top Gear presenter’s foray into agriculture, the latest season focuses on Clarkson’s fraught attempt to open a pub—The Farmer’s Dog—and has been described by some fans as “too stressful to enjoy”.
On Reddit, viewers shared their reactions to the series’ tonal shift.
“This season was too much. It wasn’t the fun farming show with Jezza doing stupid and smart at the same time,” wrote one fan.
“Lacking in genuine laughs and feel-good moments,” said another, while a third noted that it felt “more like an existential crisis than entertaining chaos”.
Despite the controversy, Hawkstone lager continues to perform well commercially, buoyed by Clarkson’s cult following and his high-profile Amazon series. But as the battle between brand creativity and broadcast regulation continues, Clarkson’s frustration with what he sees as overreach from regulators appears unlikely to cool.
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Jeremy Clarkson slams regulators as ‘most expensive’ Hawkstone beer advert is banned

Riding a motorcycle offers a unique sense of freedom and adventure, but it also comes with serious risks. When accidents happen, the consequences can be severe, leading to injuries that change lives forever.
These injuries don’t just affect physical health; they disrupt daily routines, careers, and emotional well-being. For many riders, the road to recovery involves more than medical treatment—it means dealing with complex legal realities that affect their future.
The law plays a crucial role in how motorcyclists cope after an injury. It determines who is responsible, what compensation is possible, and how justice is served. While many riders focus on healing, understanding the legal framework is essential to protect their rights and secure fair outcomes. This relationship between injury and law shapes the experience for thousands each year.
Beyond the immediate aftermath, many motorcyclists face long-term consequences that require ongoing support. The intersection of physical recovery and legal matters can create stress, making it vital for riders to have access to clear information and compassionate guidance. This combination of factors influences how riders rebuild their lives after serious accidents.
The types of injuries motorcyclists often face
According to one law firm, motorcycle accidents tend to result in a range of injuries that are often more severe than those in car crashes. Common injuries include broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord damage, and road rash. Unlike car passengers, motorcyclists lack the protection of a steel frame or airbags, making them more vulnerable to impact. These injuries can lead to long hospital stays, ongoing therapy, and lasting disability.
The effects stretch far beyond immediate physical damage. Chronic pain, reduced mobility, and mental health challenges like anxiety or depression frequently follow. The cost of treatment and rehabilitation is often overwhelming, adding financial stress to an already difficult situation. For riders, these injuries transform not only their bodies but also their lives.
In many cases, injuries cause significant lifestyle changes, forcing motorcyclists to adjust their daily activities or work capacity. This shift often leads to emotional challenges as well, as individuals come to terms with altered abilities and future uncertainties. Awareness of these broader impacts is essential in shaping supportive legal and medical responses.
The role of the law in motorcycle injury cases
As stated by Donaldson & Weston, legal rules surrounding motorcycle injuries focus on determining liability and securing compensation for victims. The law requires proof that another party acted negligently or violated regulations, leading to the accident. This can involve drivers, property owners, or manufacturers. For injured riders, the legal process often involves gathering evidence, dealing with insurance companies, and possibly going to court.
Motorcycle laws vary by region but commonly include specific provisions aimed at rider safety and liability. Helmet regulations, speed limits, and road maintenance standards all play a part in shaping legal outcomes. The law also considers the rider’s own actions, such as whether they followed traffic rules or wore protective gear, which can influence the case. This complex legal landscape makes professional advice essential.
Additionally, recent changes in legislation and court rulings have affected how claims are handled, sometimes making it harder or easier for riders to prove fault. Staying updated on these changes helps riders and their advocates prepare stronger cases. The evolving nature of motorcycle law means riders must remain informed and proactive to protect their rights.
Protecting rights while focusing on recovery
After an injury, motorcyclists must balance their physical recovery with the legal steps required to protect their interests. Filing claims and pursuing compensation often requires detailed documentation of medical records, accident reports, and witness statements. This process can feel overwhelming when health issues demand full attention.
Support from legal professionals can help simplify these challenges. Experienced lawyers guide injured riders through paperwork, negotiations, and court procedures. They ensure that claims are thorough and deadlines are met, allowing riders to focus on healing. Protecting legal rights does not need to be separate from recovery but can be an integrated part of rebuilding life.
It is also important for riders to communicate openly with their support networks during this time. Family members, healthcare providers, and legal representatives all play roles in ensuring that recovery and legal processes move forward smoothly. Coordination among these groups contributes to a stronger foundation for the future.
How communities and policies influence safety
The broader environment plays a significant role in preventing motorcycle injuries. Community efforts such as improving road conditions, enforcing traffic laws, and promoting rider education all contribute to reducing accidents. Policymakers and local authorities influence these areas through legislation and public awareness campaigns.
Insurance policies also affect the outcome for injured riders. The availability and limits of coverage shape how compensation is handled. In some places, specific protections for motorcyclists exist, while others rely on general rules. Awareness of these policies helps riders understand what support they can expect and encourages advocacy for better protections.
Community groups and rider organizations often step in to fill gaps by providing resources and education. Their work raises awareness about safe riding practices and pushes for improvements in law and infrastructure. This collective effort enhances safety and helps shape policies that prioritize motorcyclists’ well-being.
Taking charge of health and legal matters after injury
Serious motorcycle injuries demand attention to both health and legal concerns. Riders who manage these aspects proactively increase their chances of a smoother recovery and fair treatment. Medical care addresses the immediate physical needs, while legal action safeguards financial and personal rights.
Balancing these challenges requires determination and support. Families, healthcare providers, and legal experts form a network that helps injured riders regain control. The law is not just a distant concept but a tool that shapes the reality of life after injury. Embracing this reality empowers motorcyclists to rebuild their futures with clarity and confidence.
Moving forward, injured riders can focus on rebuilding not only their bodies but also their sense of security and independence. Taking control of legal matters alongside health fosters resilience. This approach enables motorcyclists to face the future with hope, knowing they have taken important steps to protect what matters most.
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How the law shapes the reality for motorcyclists after serious injuries

The Canadian Academy of Osteopathy (CAO) is a leader in osteopathic education in Canada. It was founded in 2003 by Robert Johnston in Hamilton, Ontario. Johnston wanted to bring back the true principles of classical osteopathy. He believed that real osteopathy was about more than just techniques. It was about teaching students how to think critically and solve problems.
The CAO is known for its high standards. It trains over 500 students each year at its Hamilton and Calgary campuses. Students earn a diploma in Osteopathic Manipulative Science and many go on to work in private clinics or start their own businesses.
One of the school’s most unique features is its proprietary method, called Collective Mechanics. This system gives graduates a precise way to assess and treat patients. Many patients say they feel the difference after being treated by CAO-trained practitioners.
Johnston also believes in giving back. The CAO operates a free student clinic to serve the community while giving students real-world experience, a commitment that has resulted in over 200,000 free treatments delivered to local communities since the clinic’s inception. This represents more than $17 million in free osteopathic care to CAO communities.
The CAO stays true to its roots, offering flexible programmes for students from all backgrounds. It teaches original osteopathic concepts while also preparing students for successful careers.
Johnston’s vision is simple. “We are here to teach people how to help others heal,” he says. Today, the CAO stands as a respected name in osteopathy education and continues to grow its influence worldwide.
Inside The Canadian Academy of Osteopathy: An Interview with Robert Johnston
The Canadian Academy of Osteopathy (CAO) has become Canada’s leading institution for osteopathic manual practice. Founded in 2003 by Robert Johnston, the CAO has trained hundreds of students in classical, principles-based osteopathy. In this candid interview, Johnston shares the story behind the school, its unique approach, and where he sees the future of osteopathy heading.
Q: How did the idea for The Canadian Academy of Osteopathy’s current curriculum first come about?
Robert Johnston:
It really started with a frustration. I felt that osteopathy was drifting away from its original principles. People were focusing too much on techniques, rather than on understanding why the body works the way it does. I wanted to bring back a deeper, more thoughtful approach. So after founding the school in 2003, and teaching our early curriculum for a few years, we started to raise the bar for osteopathic education and pivot toward the founding principles of the profession.
Q: What was the biggest challenge in those early days?
Honestly, it was helping people understand that we weren’t just another training programme. We were focused on something different—teaching students how to think critically. We weren’t handing out simple step-by-step methods. We wanted students to learn the foundational principles and apply them to any situation they faced. It took time to build that trust.
Q: The CAO now trains over 500 students every year. What do you think attracts students to your school?
A big part of it is our commitment to those principles. We also offer flexibility. Many of our students are working while they study, and we’ve designed our programme to accommodate that.
But what really makes us different is our proprietary system—Collective Mechanics. It’s a method we developed by myself over the years. It allows our graduates to assess and treat patients with a level of precision and efficiency that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Q: Can you explain more about Collective Mechanics and why it matters?
Think of it as a structured way of understanding the body’s movements and connections. It’s not about just fixing one problem—it’s about seeing how everything works together. This model gives our graduates a kind of roadmap for treatment.
Patients often tell us they can feel the difference. They say that treatment from a CAO-trained practitioner feels more complete, more targeted.
Q: You also run a free student clinic. Why was that important to you?
From the start, I wanted to make sure students had real clinical experience before they graduated. But it wasn’t just about training—it was about giving back. Our student clinic provides free care to the communities around both our campuses in Hamilton and Calgary. It’s been very rewarding to watch it grow. Students get hands-on learning, and the community benefits from access to osteopathic care.
Q: The CAO has a strong international presence, too. How did that develop?
That came naturally over time. We’ve always believed in learning from others. For years, I have lectured internationally and have written books on classical osteopathy. These experiences allow us to bring a broader perspective to our students here in Hamilton.
Q: How do you see the future of osteopathy and the CAO’s role in it?
There’s a growing demand for osteopathic manual practitioners, if they are well trained. People want treatments that are drug-free and focus on helping the body heal itself.
At the CAO, we’re staying true to osteopathy’s roots, but we’re always evolving. Our focus remains on teaching principles and critical thinking. That’s what sets our graduates apart.
We also encourage our students to take charge of their careers. Many of them go on to open their own clinics or work in multidisciplinary settings—from athletic clinics, to women’s clinics to professional sports organisations.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a career in osteopathy?
Be curious. Don’t just look for a quick solution or a checklist. Osteopathy requires deep thinking and patience. You’re working with the body’s natural systems, and that takes respect and understanding.
I always tell students: it’s not about memorising techniques. It’s about learning how to think like an osteopath.
Q: Finally, what keeps you motivated after all these years?
It’s simple. Seeing students grow, watching them become confident practitioners, and hearing stories of how they’ve helped people—that keeps me going.
And knowing that we’re training practitioners who will carry these principles forward! That’s something I’ll never take for granted.
Read more:
How The Canadian Academy of Osteopathy Is Reshaping Osteopathic Education

For the first time in its history, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has reported that more UK small firms expect to shrink, sell up or shut down over the next 12 months than anticipate growth—a worrying signal for the wider economy.
According to the FSB’s Q2 Small Business Index (SBI), 27 per cent of small businesses expect to contract, close or be sold in the coming year, outstripping the 25 per cent who are planning for growth. It marks the first time the balance has tipped towards pessimism since the index began.
In stark contrast, the first quarter of 2025 painted a far more optimistic picture. Back then, almost half (48 per cent) of small businesses expected to grow, with just 18 per cent bracing for contraction or closure. Now, nearly half of all respondents (49 per cent) say they expect to remain the same size—up from 34 per cent previously—suggesting a marked stall in ambition and activity.
The findings come at a pivotal moment as the Government prepares to publish its long-awaited Small Business Strategy. Industry leaders are urging ministers to ensure the strategy delivers concrete measures to boost growth and remove obstacles that are weighing heavily on the UK’s 5.5 million small firms.
Overall confidence among business owners has continued its downward slide, with the headline confidence index dropping to -44 points in Q2, down from -41 in Q1. The report attributes much of the gloom to mounting financial pressure from April’s rise in employer National Insurance contributions and the increased National Living Wage. Anxiety is also growing around the proposed Employment Rights Bill, which is expected to introduce further obligations and potential costs for small employers.
More than two in five (42 per cent) small businesses expect their revenues to decline in Q3, while just 27 per cent forecast a boost. Hiring sentiment remains equally subdued. Twice as many firms reduced their headcount in Q2 (20 per cent) than increased it (9 per cent). A similar pattern is forecast for the next three months, with 19 per cent planning job cuts and only 8 per cent looking to expand their teams.
When asked to identify the biggest barriers to growth, the majority (64 per cent) of small firms cited the struggling domestic economy. The tax burden followed at 39 per cent, with labour costs close behind at 37 per cent—both directly linked to recent policy changes, including employer tax hikes.
Tina McKenzie, Policy Chair at the FSB, warned that the report’s findings should serve as a wake-up call to Government.
“For the first time in the history of the Small Business Index, more firms are predicting contraction than expansion. That should ring alarm bells at the heart of Government,” she said.
“Confidence is not just low—it’s stagnant. That’s a serious threat to the UK economy. If small businesses, which make up the backbone of our economy, are bracing for decline, then growth on a national level is in jeopardy. The upcoming Small Business Strategy must be bold, targeted and urgent.”
She also pointed to two urgent areas for action: late payment culture, particularly from big corporates, and the use of personal guarantees in small business lending—both of which she described as “enormous brakes on growth.”
On the proposed Employment Rights Bill, McKenzie expressed concern that it would deter job creation.
“The Employment Rights Bill will add £5 billion in extra costs per year onto employers. It’s no surprise that nine out of ten small firms are worried. The extension of day-one unfair dismissal rights will make it even riskier to take on new employees—especially those who may be further from the labour market. That’s bad for business, and it’s bad for social mobility.”
With small firms feeling squeezed from all sides, the next steps from Government will be crucial—not only to reverse the confidence slump, but to prevent a significant contraction in the UK’s entrepreneurial base.
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More small firms expect to shrink than grow, warns FSB

Clear, uninterrupted communication is the backbone of any successful team.
Whether you’re managing a live event, operating a construction site, coordinating a film crew, or handling warehouse logistics, seamless dialogue between team members boosts performance and minimizes errors. This is where a wireless intercom headset becomes a game-changer.
The Evolution of Team Communication
From Shouting to Seamless
In the past, teams often relied on shouting, hand signals, or rudimentary walkie-talkies to communicate. These outdated methods are not only inefficient but also prone to miscommunication. The introduction of wireless headset intercom systems has transformed how teams stay connected, making it possible to talk hands-free, in real-time, without interference.
Benefits of a Wireless Intercom Headset
Real-Time, Two-Way Communication
The core feature of a wireless two-way communication headset is the ability to send and receive audio in real-time. Unlike push-to-talk systems, these headsets allow for natural, uninterrupted conversations that mimic face-to-face interaction. This is especially important in high-stakes or fast-paced environments where every second counts.
Full Duplex Capability
Full duplex wireless intercom headset allows multiple users to speak and listen at the same time—just like a regular phone call. This eliminates delays and misunderstandings caused by half-duplex systems, where only one person can speak at a time. Full duplex is essential for roles requiring constant feedback, such as live event production, sports coaching, and security operations.
Hands-Free Operation
Many job roles demand the use of both hands. Technicians, stage managers, medical staff, and warehouse workers can’t afford to stop what they’re doing to operate a walkie-talkie or cell phone. An all-in-one wireless intercom headset worn comfortably on the head allows for completely hands-free communication, significantly boosting productivity.
Use Cases Across Industries
Live Events and Stage Productions
Coordinating lighting, sound, visuals, and performers during a live show requires precise timing. A professional wireless intercom headset ensures everyone—front of house to backstage—is perfectly synchronized, reducing the risk of on-stage errors or delays.
Film and TV Production
Directors, camera operators, and crew members depend on real-time communication to capture the perfect shot. Wireless headsets eliminate the need for verbal relays and reduce noise disruptions on set.
Construction and Industrial Worksites
Loud machinery and expansive sites make verbal communication nearly impossible. A wireless headset intercom keeps foramen, crane operators, and laborers connected without the need to stop work or shout over noise.
Healthcare and Emergency Services
In hospitals, coordination between surgeons, nurses, and technicians is crucial. In emergency response situations, fast, accurate communication can save lives. Wireless intercom systems are indispensable tools in such environments.
Features to Look For
Durability and Comfort
A professional wireless intercom headset should be designed for long hours of wear. Look for headsets with lightweight materials, adjustable bands, and padded earcups. For outdoor or industrial use, durability against dust and water is a must.
Long Battery Life
Downtime due to dead batteries can cripple team performance. Choose headsets with long battery life (8–12 hours or more) and quick charging capabilities.
Range and Signal Clarity
Whether you’re working in a stadium, warehouse, or film set, the range of your intercom matters. Opt for systems with extended wireless range and strong signal clarity to maintain connection across large areas.
Expandability
Your team may grow over time. Choose a wireless headset intercom system that supports multiple users and allows you to easily add or remove headsets as needed.
The Financial Case for Intercom Investment
Reducing Errors and Downtime
Communication breakdowns can lead to mistakes, delays, or even accidents. Investing in all-in-one wireless intercom headsets minimizes these risks, leading to smoother workflows and better outcomes.
Lower Operational Costs
While the upfront cost may seem significant, the long-term savings are clear. Improved communication reduces the need for rework, enhances safety, and speeds up processes—ultimately lowering operational costs.
Professionalism and Team Morale
When your team is equipped with the right tools, including professional wireless intercom headsets, their performance improves and morale increases. It also sends a strong message to clients and stakeholders about your commitment to quality and efficiency.
Overcoming Common Concerns
Interference and Privacy
Modern wireless systems operate on secure, dedicated frequencies, minimizing the risk of interference or eavesdropping. Some even offer encrypted communication for added security.
Setup and Usability
Today’s wireless intercom systems are incredibly user-friendly. Most come pre-paired and can be used straight out of the box with minimal training. Controls are intuitive and designed for use even with gloves.
Future-Proofing Your Team
Scalability and Integration
As technology evolves, intercom systems continue to improve. Many now offer integration with mobile apps, cloud storage, and other tools. Investing in a wireless two-way communication headset now ensures your team is ready for future demands.
Remote Collaboration
With the rise of remote work and hybrid operations, some wireless intercom systems even support long-range or internet-based communication, allowing teams in different locations to stay connected.
Conclusion
In today’s fast-paced, detail-oriented work environments, reliable communication is non-negotiable. A wireless headset intercom system is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity for any team that values efficiency, safety, and collaboration.
Whether you’re managing a stage production, operating a construction site, or coordinating healthcare professionals, investing in full duplex wireless intercom headsets and all-in-one wireless intercom headsets is a smart decision that pays off in performance and peace of mind.
 
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Why Every Team Should Invest in a Wireless Intercom Headset

The UK government has launched a £2.5 billion, decade-long strategy to accelerate investment, innovation and job creation across the country’s automotive sector, as it races to lead the global transition to zero-emission vehicles.
Dubbed DRIVE35, the initiative is part of the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy and sets out a bold ambition to significantly increase advanced manufacturing investment by 2035. The programme will offer a suite of new and expanded funding competitions, targeting everything from large-scale EV gigafactories to innovative automotive start-ups and supply chain scale-ups.
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds hailed the initiative as “the biggest set of announcements for the sector in the last decade”, adding that DRIVE35 would give industry the certainty it needs to invest and grow in Britain.
“We’re helping British carmakers get to the front of the pack by working hand in hand with investors to build a globally competitive EV supply chain,” said Reynolds. “Economic growth is our number one priority, and this programme will help deliver it – with high-quality jobs, increased exports and a cleaner transport future.”
The government has committed £2 billion in capital support to 2030, with an additional £500 million for research and development to 2035, creating what ministers say is a long-term, globally competitive offer for investors and manufacturers.
The launch comes as Britain continues to lead in EV adoption: over 382,000 electric vehicles were sold in 2024, making the UK Europe’s largest EV market and third globally. With more than 82,000 public charge points now installed nationwide – and one added every 30 minutes – the infrastructure is already scaling to meet growing demand.
The automotive sector currently supports 132,000 UK jobs and contributed £21.4 billion in GVA in 2024. The government believes the transition to net-zero is the biggest industrial opportunity of the century – and one Britain is well placed to seize.
As part of the wider Industrial Strategy, the Department for Business and Trade also confirmed more than £300 million in direct support for key UK auto projects, including:

Over £100 million in capital funding through the Automotive Transformation Fund to support UK-based EV manufacturing.
£140 million in combined public and private investment in R&D across 50 projects, including partnerships with Mercedes and Jaguar Land Rover.
£18 million under the new Connected & Automated Mobility (CAM) Pathfinder programme.

New investment announcements include:

Astemo Ltd bringing £100 million to Bolton to develop next-generation EV inverters, creating over 220 high-value jobs and boosting regional supply chains.
Dana, a Tier 1 automotive supplier, confirming £15 million to scale EV component production in the West Midlands, supporting over 100 direct roles.

Industry body SMMT and delivery partners including the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC UK) and Zenzic welcomed the announcement.
“The creation of this dedicated programme is further evidence of the sector’s importance to economic growth,” said Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of SMMT. “DRIVE35 must now be implemented at pace to ensure the UK is amongst the leaders in next-generation automotive technologies.”
“This new investment underlines government’s commitment to securing advanced manufacturing in the UK,” added Ian Constance, CEO of APC UK. “It will support innovation, drive scale-up and encourage global investment in the UK’s growing zero-emission supply chain.”
Applications for the first round of competitions open tomorrow, with the government urging businesses across the country to seize the opportunity.
Read more:
UK government launches £2.5bn DRIVE35 strategy to supercharge zero-emission auto manufacturing securing thousands of British jobs

One in six UK workers is now struggling to pay their bills at the end of every month, according to a major new study that lays bare the ongoing impact of the cost of living crisis — even as inflation cools and real wages begin to rise.
New data from the Work Foundation at Lancaster University reveals that 17 per cent of workers surveyed say they regularly struggle to cover essential outgoings. A further 40 per cent report having little or no disposable income left over for savings, holidays or emergencies.
The findings come as separate figures from the Office for National Statistics show that more than a quarter of UK adults (26%) cannot afford an unexpected but necessary expense of £850 — the highest proportion since September 2024.
Ben Harrison, director of the Work Foundation, warned that Britain’s deep-rooted pay stagnation is still shaping day-to-day life for millions. “Raising living standards is not just about figures on a spreadsheet — it’s about workers feeling financially secure,” he said. “Four years on from the start of the worst cost of living crisis in a generation, our analysis shows workers continue to feel the impact of nearly 20 years of stagnating pay packets.”
The pressure on household finances is fuelling a dramatic rise in the number of workers taking second jobs. Official data shows that 1.23 million people now juggle multiple roles — the highest number on record and a 10 per cent increase on the year.
“Second jobs are sometimes glamorised as side hustles or optional extras, but economic necessity is often the key motivation,” said Harrison. “Despite a period of sustained pay increases, many workers still aren’t earning enough in their main jobs to cover essential costs.”
Younger workers are especially vulnerable. Half of all 16- to 24-year-olds surveyed said they feared losing their job in the next 12 months, amid a wider slowdown in the UK labour market. The unemployment rate has climbed to 4.6 per cent — a four-year high — and both vacancies and payroll growth have slowed under the weight of rising payroll taxes and still-high interest rates.
Despite recent wage growth outpacing inflation for the first time in years, expectations of real pay rises remain low. Only 25 per cent of older workers aged 55 to 64 believe they will receive a pay increase above inflation this year.
With consumer demand still fragile and real incomes under pressure, the findings are likely to intensify calls for the Bank of England to accelerate interest rate cuts to ease borrowing costs and boost confidence.
Markets are now pricing in a quarter-point rate cut as early as August, although the Bank has said it wants clearer evidence of cooling wage growth before making further moves.
Economists say the figures highlight the disconnect between headline indicators — such as GDP and inflation — and the real-life experiences of millions of workers. As Harrison put it: “We need a shift in focus from short-term fixes to long-term solutions that genuinely improve the financial security and quality of life of working people.”
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One in six UK workers struggling to pay bills as second jobs hit record high

The UK government is exploring emergency options to save Speciality Steel UK (SSUK), a major South Yorkshire steelmaker employing more than 1,400 people, as fears mount it could collapse into administration following a critical court hearing next week.
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds is said to be actively considering contingency plans, including the possibility of taking the company into public ownership if its parent, Liberty Steel, fails to secure new funding or a buyer. The move would mark the second time in recent weeks the government has taken control of a major UK steel plant, following its intervention at British Steel’s Scunthorpe works.
SSUK, which operates sites in Rotherham and Sheffield, is part of Sanjeev Gupta’s GFG Alliance – a global industrial group that has faced financial turmoil since the 2021 collapse of its main lender, Greensill Capital. Liberty has produced no steel at Rotherham for more than a year due to cash shortages, despite housing the UK’s largest electric arc furnace. The company has, however, continued to pay staff.
Gupta, who is based in the UAE, remains in protracted negotiations with Greensill administrators and is also the subject of a Serious Fraud Office investigation, which began in 2021, into suspected fraud and money laundering. GFG Alliance denies any wrongdoing.
According to court filings, previous attempts to sell SSUK have failed, but Gupta has told unions he is in “advanced talks with a major investor” ahead of the insolvency hearing. A union source said they were still awaiting details of the potential deal but warned that if the company enters administration, ministers must act to protect jobs and strategic assets.
Community union, which represents many Liberty staff, said: “Should the worst happen next week, the government will need to step in to protect jobs and the strategically important assets.”
Reynolds has previously told Parliament that SSUK’s workers were “a national asset” and part of the UK’s wider steel strategy. Officials close to the Business Secretary say he has ruled out injecting government funds while Gupta remains in control of the business, but would be open to support if the company enters administration.
One option under consideration would mirror the government’s approach at British Steel in 2019, when an official receiver kept the business running while a buyer was sought. In Liberty’s case, officials believe a sale would be more straightforward because its electric arc furnaces are cleaner and more cost-efficient than traditional blast furnaces.
A Liberty Steel spokesperson said the company was still hopeful of securing a future for the business: “Speciality Steel remains a valuable business with strong demand, particularly in aerospace, defence and energy. Our plan has always been to keep Speciality Steel going and to run it well.”
GMB national secretary Andy Prendergast added: “GMB strongly supports government intervention to maintain operations whilst a sustainable plan is found for this crucial player in one of our key industries.”
The situation presents an early test of the new Labour government’s industrial strategy and its commitment to preserving strategically important British manufacturing. With SSUK having lost £340 million in the past four years, ministers will be under pressure to act decisively to avoid mass job losses in a politically sensitive region.
Sources within government say the plants’ high-grade, lower-carbon steel production fits with the UK’s broader economic and environmental goals – and could make SSUK an attractive proposition for future investors, once control passes from Gupta.
With the insolvency hearing scheduled for Wednesday, the coming days will prove critical. If no private funding or buyer materialises, the government is expected to act quickly to prevent the collapse of one of the UK’s few remaining specialist steelmakers.
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