Leading UK powered access provider Nationwide Platforms has seen the second cohort of trainers graduate from its new IPAF trainee programme. Currently holding a 100% pass rate, the programme is designed to close the trainer skills gap and encourage younger people to become certified instructors. Jessica Taylor, Jennifer Roddis, Paulina
With a focus on strategic service development, RLB Partner Andrew Fettes-Brown has been appointed to RLB’s Global Board with effect from 1 January 2024. Andrew, who leads RLB’s data centres sector for Europe, will bring focus to RLB’s service transformation programme providing leadership, guidance and oversight in the development and
Following the acquisition of CHAS by Veriforce in January 2023, CHAS has announced its company brand name will become ‘Veriforce CHAS’, reflecting its position as a key part of the Veriforce group. The products and services of Veriforce CHAS, including its accreditation offerings and certification, will continue to be known as ‘CHAS’.
Product Manager for Schlüter®-Systems, Andrew Saxon, offers advice on best practice when planning and installing electric underfloor heating systems. Right back to Roman times, few things in the built environment can have delivered such a sense of comfort – and even luxury – as underfloor heating; yet the technology remains
Derek Horrocks, chair of the National Home Decarbonisation Group, said: “This announcement is another incredibly positive step towards decarbonising the housing stock up and down the country – and one we welcome with open arms at the NHDG. “We’re pleased to see that along with the public sector, private
Almost half of project management professionals working in the construction sector consider themselves to be neurodivergent, according to a new survey by the Association for Project Management (APM), the chartered membership organisation for the project profession. APM surveyed over 1,000 project professionals working in various UK sectors including construction in
HAVING discovered the headline-grabbing RAAC concrete in the roof above its stage, the 400-seat Key Theatre in Peterborough was forced to close in September over safety concerns. However, thanks to quick work from Pick Everard and Lindum Group, the curtain has now been able to up for panto season. To
In a strategic move that marks a new beginning, Prismo, previously under PPG Traffic Solutions EMEA and formerly known as Ennis-Flint, proudly announces a successful management buyout led by its existing management team, General Manager James Moore and Finance Director Andy Jourdain. The company is a world-leading manufacturer and supplier
Unlocking Financial Freedom: The Significance of ISAs for Young People When it comes to managing your finances as a young adult, one tool you should definitely have in your financial arsenal is an Individual Savings Account (ISA). ISAs are like the Swiss Army knife of savings and investments, offering a
Unite Students, the UK’s largest provider of student accommodation, is set to build a new 600-bed development at the heart of Bristol’s biggest ever regeneration project. Marsh Mills, which has a total development cost of £75million, is to be constructed adjacent to the University of Bristol’s new Temple Quarter campus,
Leading UK powered access provider Nationwide Platforms has seen the second cohort of trainers graduate from its new IPAF trainee programme. Currently holding a 100% pass rate, the programme is designed to close the trainer skills gap and encourage younger people to become certified instructors. Jessica Taylor, Jennifer Roddis, Paulina Stempnakowska, Robbie Hayhurst and Matt Dawson were the latest five participants to graduate. Previously, prospective trainers had to have a minimum of three years of operator experience before advancing to training others. However, this has resulted in many trainers retiring with no replacement, creating a subsequent skills gap. Designed and created by Nationwide Platforms’ Operational Training Manager Brian Sneddon and Senior IPAF Instructor Neil Laws in partnership with the International Powered Access Federation, (IPAF), the new programme accelerates the education process through a mix of face-to-face classes, on the job training and complimentary e-learning, over an intensive 10-15 week course. The course covers all aspects of operation, including an expected minimum of 150 operating hours, as well as administration and trainer management. The programme is tail ended by an intensive two-week assessment period that vigorously tests applicants’ knowledge and practical skills. Jessica, Jennifer, Paulina, Robbie and Matt had to travel to different locations to gain experience and knowledge from a variety of Nationwide Platforms depots. 23-year-old Jessica, from Teesside, came from an agricultural background and was used to operating machinery but lacked the management skills required to be a trainer. The course equipped her with the knowledge and tools to train others to match her operational experience. She commented, “The jump from operator to instructor is significant. It was eye-opening to learn how much I didn’t know, but the course quickly filled the gaps in my knowledge. I had the most amazing experience, with some great people who were always there to offer support. I would highly recommend this course to everyone.” Jennifer, 22, hailing from Hereford, previously worked on farms and construction sites, much like Jessica. Similarly adept at operating machinery, Jennifer found the IT side of the training the most challenging but the programme gave her all the support she required. She said, “Nationwide Platforms were extremely helpful, offering hands-on guidance. All the instructors were brilliant and went the extra mile to help us out. It could be extremely challenging having a great deal of information to absorb and memorise. However, as you progress, the wealth of technical information and safety information start to seep into the practical, hands-on training. I plan to take forward all I’ve learnt and do further training.” Paulina, mid-30’s and based in Leicester, was inspired by previous applicant Kelly-Ann Macgillivray to apply for the course. As a member of Nationwide Platforms’ fleet management team, Paulina had plenty of management and administration experience but far less hands-on operative knowledge. She said, “I saw how much Kelly-Ann benefited from doing this course, so when the opportunity arose, I didn’t hesitate. It’s been a tough but rewarding journey and I couldn’t have done it without the wonderful support of the tutors and other participants. One challenge I faced was the pronunciation of certain English words, as it’s my second language. Communication is vital when training other operatives, so I had to make sure my pronunciation was clear and correct. I’m now in a learning groove, and I’m keen to continue gaining more qualifications.” Robbie, 39, from Liverpool, previously worked as a regional driver within Nationwide Platforms and even before the IPAF programme came out had expressed interest in becoming an instructor. His goal now he has qualified is to upskill within the training department as much as possible. Matt, 57, from St Helens, has almost three decades experience as an SV (Specialist Vehicles) operator for Nationwide Platforms. Matt has extensive knowledge with the kit and has travelled the country operating the largest machines on prestigious projects. Now he’s qualified, he hopes to learn as much as possible with the training department. Now fully rounded trainers, the cohort are looking forward to advancing their careers with Nationwide Platforms, through further training and career development. Brian Sneddon said, “This course is a fantastic way to build your skill set in a safe and supportive environment. It’s been wonderful having a new cohort who embody the talented people we work with, displaying amazing passion and commitment to their education. “We couldn’t have done this without the support of Neil Laws, who continues to take this course from strength to strength, giving up much of his personal time to provide a high-quality training experience for the participants. I can’t wait to see more cohorts come through the programme and encourage anyone looking for a new career path or to continue their own development to apply.” As Nationwide Platforms continues to finetune the course, applications for the next intake are currently open to internal and external applicants to increase the number of IPAF certified trainers. For more information on the IPAF training programme visit: https://training.nationwideplatforms.co.uk/en-gb/ipaf-training-courses
With a focus on strategic service development, RLB Partner Andrew Fettes-Brown has been appointed to RLB’s Global Board with effect from 1 January 2024. Andrew, who leads RLB’s data centres sector for Europe, will bring focus to RLB’s service transformation programme providing leadership, guidance and oversight in the development and implementation of services worldwide across the key areas including sustainability and digital transformation. “To ensure we are providing the best solutions to our clients, we need to understand, embrace and integrate change in both the market and technology,” says Andrew Fettes-Brown. “Leading this work with colleagues from across the global practice will play a critical role in aligning our global service offerings with evolving market demands and technological advancements. I am excited to be leading this important work with my Global Board colleagues to drive the change our clients and industry needs to answer the questions of a modern property and construction industry into the future.” Russell Lloyd, current Global Board Director and RLB UK’s Head of Services, stepped down from the Global Board as of 31 December 2023. Russell, who has been part of the RLB team for over 30 years, will continue to work on key projects but will relinquish part of his senior management responsibilities. Andrew Reynolds, Global Chair for RLB and Chief Executive of RLB UK and Europe, comments, “First, I want to recognise the extraordinary insight, work and commitment Russell has given to RLB’s global team over the time he has served as a Global Board Director. His experience and expertise within the built environment and strategic ability to align services on a global platform have been invaluable to the business. Thank you, Russell. Second, I’d like to extend a welcome from all my Global Board colleagues to Andrew Fettes-Brown whose capability I know well in his work across the UK and Europe. Andrew will bring a fresh perspective and strong leadership to support the next stage of RLB’s global strategic service journey.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Following the acquisition of CHAS by Veriforce in January 2023, CHAS has announced its company brand name will become ‘Veriforce CHAS’, reflecting its position as a key part of the Veriforce group. The products and services of Veriforce CHAS, including its accreditation offerings and certification, will continue to be known as ‘CHAS’. Being part of Veriforce enhances CHAS’s stability and market impact, enabling CHAS to expand its reach and influence and build on its position as the UK market leader in risk prevention, compliance and supply chain management. Veriforce CHAS will continue to focus on delivering award-winning customer service while developing innovative products and services that help buyers, suppliers, and contractors thrive in an ever-changing market. This will include assisting customers in managing and mitigating risk across their supply chains in areas including health and safety, equal opportunities, diversity and environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices. As CHAS has done for 25 years, notably as a co-founder and pioneer of the Safety Schemes in Procurement (SSIP) and the Common Assessment Standard, Veriforce CHAS will remain at the forefront of setting compliance benchmarks that improve supply chain risk management standards. Meanwhile, contractors and suppliers will be able to continue to rely on Veriforce CHAS to help them comply with complex regulations and to provide recognised accreditations quickly, easily and cost-effectively. Commenting on the name change, Veriforce CHAS Managing Director Ian McKinnon says: “We are extremely proud to become an increasingly integral part of the Veriforce family during an exciting period for both our business and our customers. “The strength of Veriforce’s global experience will allow us to provide even more market-leading products and services. At the same time, it was important to us and our customers that the CHAS name, widely respected across industry and seen on 10s of thousands of vans all over the UK, was retained. Plus we will continue to maintain the outstanding customer service for which Veriforce CHAS is renowned.” CEO of Veriforce Colby Lane adds: “CHAS has a formidable reputation in the UK as a leader in supply change risk management and pioneer in setting compliance benchmarks. “We are excited to bring the Veriforce brand alongside CHAS’s very strong name and work together to deliver our mission to make the world of work a safer place for businesses, employees and the public.” Find out more at: http://www.chas.co.uk/ or call 0345 521 9111.
Product Manager for Schlüter®-Systems, Andrew Saxon, offers advice on best practice when planning and installing electric underfloor heating systems. Right back to Roman times, few things in the built environment can have delivered such a sense of comfort – and even luxury – as underfloor heating; yet the technology remains potentially problematic, with the quality of installation being pivotal to both the performance and the likely overall lifespan of the system. In many properties, the space heating is still primarily delivered via conventional radiators, but in refurbishment as well as new-build situations, electric underfloor heating systems are widely regarded as offering a speedy, economic and convenient solution for upgrading the comfort in bathrooms, particularly in the context of under tile installations. Instead of a cold and unwelcoming surface beneath bare feet, a correctly specified electric system can deliver controllable warmth, not just from below, but also creating a regulated temperature within the room-space itself. The more advanced and adaptable systems can further be incorporated behind tiled walls. Planning the installation is crucial, especially in larger bathrooms or sports changing rooms as even considering modern standards of insulation, the north side is often measurably colder than the south; with zoning being the obvious answer. As with the pipe runs to hydronic systems, the designer and contractor must create separate cable circuits, linking back to individual thermostats. Significantly, the two zones may well be of different sizes, and not necessarily feature the same number of cables. From a purely practical perspective, it is difficult to connect more than two heating cables into each thermostat, which is why Schlüter®-Systems DITRA-HEAT offers specifiers/customers a selection of 17 different cable lengths for the 240 Volt circuits – rising from 4.6 up to 244 linear metres to address areas from 1.1 m2 to 22.7 m2. They will offer an output of 136 W/ m2, with an actual limit on capacity of 3,600 Watts that can run from one thermostat. It is relevant here to highlight an issue common to many electrical underfloor heating systems, where the transition between the hot cable which delivers warmth to the floor build-up, and the cold stretch which connects to the thermostat, rely on a soldered connection. Unfortunately, such connections are inherently brittle and subject to failing; even months or years after the installation is complete. By contrast, the DITRA-HEAT cables, launched nearly a decade ago and enjoying a successful track record amongst both heating engineers and end users, feature a seamless transition between cold and hot legs. The cold leg is 4 metres long and employs a very thin strand wound around it, which reduces the electrical resistance to minimise the heat output generated; and this negates any problems of overheating where the connection is made to the thermostat. Also, while the competition tends to segment their hot cables down into shorter – generally 60cm sections – the DITRA-HEAT version contains multiple very fine, but strong strands which extend along the full length. And as an integrated system solution, DITRA-HEAT’s 4mm diameter cables are laid within a studded, fleece backed membrane, which serves as both an insulating carrier and a decoupling layer to help distribute stresses within the build-up. For floors, the cables are laid within every third row of studs, and every two behind wall tiling. While Schlüter®-Systems is justifiably confident in the design and robustness of its heating cables, the company always recommends that the installer runs two temperature sensors from the chosen position within the floor circuit, back to the wall, as there is always a possibility of one failing during the lifetime of the installation. In such a situation, it is then a simple matter to disconnect the first sensor from the thermostat and wire in the ‘spare’. Finally, Schlüter®-Systems recommends three stages of testing before you tile: as each zone is laid, then during spreading of tile adhesive to guard against damage caused by pushing the cable down with a trowel, and after the tiles are installed. Schlüter®-Systems continues to develop the DITRA-HEAT system, with the latest sophistication being the ability to control the heating output via a home’s Alexa, as well as using the manufacturer’s App, or via conventional controls. For further information, call 01530 813396 or visit https://www.schluter.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Derek Horrocks, chair of the National Home Decarbonisation Group, said: “This announcement is another incredibly positive step towards decarbonising the housing stock up and down the country – and one we welcome with open arms at the NHDG. “We’re pleased to see that along with the public sector, private owner-occupier and private landlords will benefit from this funding, with an extra £1.5 billion for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, and a new energy efficiency grant providing £400m to households in England. “The extra funding for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme gives the opportunity to tie this £7,500 offering into whole-house decarbonisation proposals for householders, which alongside ECO for fabric measures should create an attractive large-scale offering. This is alongside multiple other heat transformation schemes, and a new £500m local authority retrofit scheme to support 60,000 low-income and cold homes, including those off the gas grid. “Meanwhile, we’re especially pleased to see £1.25 billion for the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund within the funding, which will be match-funded to create £2.5 billion between 2025 and 2028. This is something we called for in the Autumn Statement and will give us that longer term to develop the area-based approach and use the economies of scale it affords. “The past five years have seen more government investment in decarbonisation than ever before. Excellent progress has been made, with nearly 50% of properties in England now having an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of C – up from just 14% in 2010. The government has now committed to spend £12.6 billion by 2028, a move that will genuinely make a difference to thousands. “Since our inception earlier this year, we made a concerted effort for this funding to be committed to, by writing directly to the Prime Minister, as well as making a request for this ahead of the Autumn Statement. We firmly believe that the decarbonisation of homes is about so much more than achieving net zero but rather it is also about supporting millions of people facing the impacts of the cost of living, energy, and health crises, which this announcement highlights. “This funding will provide the all-important long-term certainty for businesses within the sector too. This is again something we have spoken publicly about in recent months and called on the Prime Minister himself to assure. With more than £12 billion now committed, industry can be confident in making the investments needed for innovation and expanding the supply chain that will deliver this critical work. “As a group, we know the power we have together, with an estimation that 80% of the large-scale domestic retrofit in the UK will be carried out by our members. In 2024, we know we have a huge opportunity to work closely with the government on shaping policy through our growing partnership with DESNZ. Our working groups are established and already working towards achieving real outcomes together, and we look forward to continuing our position as a key driver for net zero – and of social change too.” To learn more about the NHDG, its aims and its members, please visit the website at: https://www.nhdg.org/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Almost half of project management professionals working in the construction sector consider themselves to be neurodivergent, according to a new survey by the Association for Project Management (APM), the chartered membership organisation for the project profession. APM surveyed over 1,000 project professionals working in various UK sectors including construction in the poll carried out by national research company Censuswide. In total across all sectors surveyed, 31% considered themselves to be neurodivergent, which includes conditions such as autism, ADHD and dyslexia. For the construction sector, the figure stood higher at 46%. Another 45% said they were not neurodivergent, 7% preferred not to say and 2% did not know. Some 96% of the construction sector respondents said they have informed their employer of their neurodivergence, in contrast to the survey’s overall average of 78%. Meanwhile, 88% said their employer, once notified, had made changes to the workplace or ways of working to accommodate their neurodivergence. This was also higher than the survey’s 81% average. Barriers facing project professionals in all sectors included ‘not feeling comfortable’ about telling their bosses (40% agreed) and ‘not seeing the point’ (23% agreed). One in four (25%) said they intended to do so, and 12% said they did not have an official diagnosis. Professor Adam Boddison OBE, Chief Executive of APM, said: “Our research shows almost half (46%) of project professionals in construction consider themselves to be neurodivergent, which is a significant proportion and far higher than the cross-sector average of 31% in our latest survey. “Employers in construction which embrace neurodivergence not only foster a culture of inclusivity and send out a powerful message that people with neurological differences are valued, but also benefit from unique strengths and perspectives that contribute to creativity, problem-solving and increased productivity. It can also unlock valuable insights into customers and stakeholders, leading to improved services and outcomes. Diversity in all its guises adds value to organisations. “Overall, the importance of encouraging a neurodivergent workforce cannot be overstated. Individuals must feel empowered and supported to do their best work, and once employers have created optimal conditions, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated, leading to higher levels of job satisfaction, retention rates and overall success across the built environment.” The survey also found that 73% of construction respondents agreed with the view that the project profession is one that is welcoming and supportive of people who are neurodivergent – a figure also higher than the survey’s average (64%). Another 18% neither agreed or disagreed, and 9% disagreed. When asked what construction employers can do to make the project profession more welcoming for neurodivergent individuals, 52% agreed on more internal training for staff on neurodivergence. This was followed by 46% agreeing on ensuring organisations are more aware of the benefits that neurodiversity can bring to the workplace. Another 30% agreed on changes to working models. Jenny McLaughlin, a Project Manager at Heathrow Airport, who has ADHD and dyslexia, described the survey’s findings as being a helpful snapshot of neurodiversity for the project profession to help shape workplace considerations and attitudes, and to ensure equity within project management. “Many neurodivergent individuals have experienced barriers and discrimination in some form. But as a project professional, you can provide the mandate to create a more systematic inclusive world – it is a challenge to relish,” she said. Jenny, who leads on systematic inclusion for Heathrow Airport’s solutions function, said neurodiversity represents “the fact that all of our brains are wired differently, as unique as a fingerprint”. She added: “There is no one right way to be wired, but society has been constructed to favour the majority, or neurotypical, which creates barriers to those of us who think differently.” Read more about Jenny’s experiences and reflections on neurodiversity in her APM blogs Neurodiversity in project management and Human labels and how they affect project benefits. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
HAVING discovered the headline-grabbing RAAC concrete in the roof above its stage, the 400-seat Key Theatre in Peterborough was forced to close in September over safety concerns. However, thanks to quick work from Pick Everard and Lindum Group, the curtain has now been able to up for panto season. To gain a full picture of the situation, Peterborough City Council contracted multidisciplinary consultancy Pick Everard to carry out building surveys and feasibility studies to assess the next steps. These surveys showed there was an immediate ‘red’ failure on RAAC reports. To ensure the theatre’s seasonal production could go ahead, a plan was immediately mobilised to design a secondary roof system underneath the main roof inside the main auditorium. With a timber design, materials were able to be procured very quickly utilising the local supply chain, allowing contractor Lindum to be completing the installation of the structure within a matter of weeks. Jenny Curtlin, Director at Pick Everard, said: “Panto season is such an important one for theatres, particularly from a business perspective in the current climate, so a key aim remained making sure that could go ahead. “That very pressing timescale meant that permanent removal of the roof was not an option until further down the line, so the project team mobilised a temporary solution with the secondary roof structure. Being able to pull together to get the work underway so quickly was critical, and the most impressive part of this project has been the speed from everyone involved. “We’re very proud to have played a key role in making sure theatregoers in the area will be able to enjoy the production of Aladdin – and that work was completed in time for the Key Theatre’s 50th anniversary too.” The new internal roof provides further structural support for the main roof, around which the lighting and sets have been installed as normal and ensures the safety of public, staff and stage crew. Councillor John Howard, deputy leader of the council, said: “It seems the genie granted Aladdin his wish and everyone who has booked tickets for the panto will be able to enjoy the show this Christmas, I’d like to thank the contractors who worked at pace to complete the project on time.” The council has also confirmed that a longer-term solution is already underway, with a complete roof replacement already in the design phase to make sure the theatre can remain a key part of Peterborough’s landscape for years to come. For more information, please visit https://www.pickeverard.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In a strategic move that marks a new beginning, Prismo, previously under PPG Traffic Solutions EMEA and formerly known as Ennis-Flint, proudly announces a successful management buyout led by its existing management team, General Manager James Moore and Finance Director Andy Jourdain. The company is a world-leading manufacturer and supplier of road markings and traffic safety solutions with a wide range of high-performance products, from hot-applied and preformed thermoplastics to innovative traffic paint, road studs, high friction surfacing, bridge expansion joints, crack sealants, MMA, epoxy, and indoor flooring paints. The MBO heralds a new era in the company’s long and illustrious history which stretches back to 1935. It will see the business return to its origins as it rebrands to Prismo. Renowned for its innovative approach to road safety, Prismo has been at the forefront of road marking products for over 88 years, and was the first to bring many new technologies and solutions to the market. Prismo has built a global reputation for outstanding quality, service, and innovation, and it is these pillars that still underpin the company today. The MBO also sees the company move to wholly independent ownership and the freedom that this brings. Commenting on his vision for the business, James Moore said: “This is a key turning point in the company’s history. The move to independent ownership will give us the freedom to implement our exciting strategy for growth and to drive the business forward. It will also allow us to provide a more personalised service to our customers and to deliver enhanced customer value.” James continued: “The return to the Prismo brand is also a pivotal move. Its long-standing success serves as a reminder to the market of our long history, our technical capabilities and our unmatched expertise within global traffic safety solutions.” The buyout includes the company’s flagship manufacturing plant in Chorley, UK, the largest and most sophisticated thermoplastic production facility in Europe, and additional plants in Italy operating under the esteemed Vernisol brand. Alongside these, the company maintains a strategic presence in South Africa, furthering its commitment to a global approach in traffic safety solutions. The Italian facilities, known for their high-quality waterborne and solvent-based paints, as well as MMAs, reinforce Prismo’s position as a world-leading manufacturer of sustainable traffic safety solutions. Vernisol, a respected name in the Italian market for over 42 years, will continue to operate as Vernisol by Prismo. “Our Italian operations, under the Vernisol brand, represent a vital part of our global strategy,” says Andy Jourdain. “We are excited to introduce Vernisol’s innovative products to a broader European audience, leveraging our combined expertise to enhance road safety standards worldwide.” The management team is enthusiastic about the future, emphasising the continued production of quality, sustainable products. “We are proud British manufacturers, dedicated to advancing British manufacturing and maintaining our status as a major exporter,” says Andy Jourdain. “Our focus remains on delivering products engineered for maximum road safety, backed by 130 years of combined expertise.” As the company moves into this next phase, it is keen to reassure its suppliers and customers that it is business as usual. James Moore said: “Our team is fully focused on ensuring a smooth transition, maintaining the high service and quality standards our customers expect. We’re excited about the future and the opportunities this new chapter brings for our staff, suppliers and customers alike.”
Unlocking Financial Freedom: The Significance of ISAs for Young People When it comes to managing your finances as a young adult, one tool you should definitely have in your financial arsenal is an Individual Savings Account (ISA). ISAs are like the Swiss Army knife of savings and investments, offering a range of benefits that can help you achieve your financial goals and secure your future. In this article, we’ll delve into why ISAs are so important for young people, exploring the various advantages they bring to the table. Tax-Free Growth and Earnings One of the most appealing aspects of an ISA is its tax-free status. Unlike traditional savings accounts or investments, the interest, dividends, and capital gains you earn within an ISA are not subject to income tax or capital gains tax. This means that as your money grows over time, you get to keep every penny of it. For young people just starting on their financial journey, an individual savings account could be a game-changer. It allows you to maximize the growth of your savings and investments without worrying about the taxman taking a slice of your hard-earned money. Flexible Saving Options ISAs come in various flavors, each designed to cater to different financial needs. The two most common types are Cash ISAs and Stocks and Shares ISAs. Cash ISAs function much like regular savings accounts, offering a safe and secure place to stash away your money, usually with competitive interest rates. On the other hand, Stocks and Shares ISAs provide the opportunity to invest in a wide range of assets, including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. This flexibility means you can choose the ISA type that aligns best with your financial goals, whether it’s building an emergency fund, saving for a house deposit, or investing for long-term wealth. Protection from Inflation Inflation is the silent enemy of your savings. Over time, the rising cost of living erodes the purchasing power of your money. But with ISAs, you can potentially beat inflation. By choosing investments within your Stocks and Shares ISA that have the potential for higher returns, you increase the likelihood that your money will grow at a rate that outpaces inflation. This means that your savings will have more buying power in the future, helping you maintain your standard of living. Emergency Funds and Rainy-Day Savings Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and it’s essential to have a financial safety net in place. ISAs are an excellent vehicle for building your emergency fund. With a Cash ISA, you have easy access to your money whenever you need it, making it an ideal place to park your rainy-day savings. Knowing that you have a cushion of cash readily available can provide tremendous peace of mind and financial security. Harnessing Compound Interest Albert Einstein once called compound interest the “eighth wonder of the world.” Compound interest is the magic that happens when your interest earns interest. Over time, this compounding effect can significantly boost your savings and investments. ISAs allow you to take full advantage of this phenomenon by sheltering your earnings from taxes. The earlier you start saving and investing, the more time your money has to grow through compound interest, giving young people a substantial advantage. Encouraging Financial Discipline ISAs encourage financial discipline by providing tax incentives for long-term saving and investing. When you know that your investments are protected from taxation, you’re more likely to leave your money untouched, allowing it to grow steadily over time. This can help young people develop good financial habits, such as regular saving and prudent investing, which will serve them well throughout their lives. A Path to Financial Freedom Ultimately, ISAs are not just about saving money; they’re about building a path to financial freedom. Whether your goal is to travel the world, retire early, or pursue your passions without financial constraints, ISAs can help you get there. By harnessing the benefits of tax-free growth, flexibility, and compound interest, young people can set themselves up for a future that’s financially secure and full of possibilities. In Conclusion In a world where financial stability and independence are paramount, ISAs are invaluable tools for young people. They provide a tax-efficient way to save and invest, offering a range of options to suit different financial goals and lifestyles. From tax-free growth and flexible savings to protection from inflation and the power of compound interest, ISAs empower young adults to take control of their financial future. So, if you haven’t already, consider opening an ISA today. Your future self will thank you for it.
Unite Students, the UK’s largest provider of student accommodation, is set to build a new 600-bed development at the heart of Bristol’s biggest ever regeneration project. Marsh Mills, which has a total development cost of £75million, is to be constructed adjacent to the University of Bristol’s new Temple Quarter campus, close to the city’s Temple Meads train station. A lease agreement is in place with the Russell Group university for at least half of the rooms. The property has planning permission for 596 beds and will open in time for the 2025/26 academic year. The building’s operational energy consumption has been reduced through a ‘fabric first’ approach. Energy efficiency has been considered during design and build phase through to the manufacturing of materials and their transportation to the site, as well as their installation and use throughout the operational lifecycle of the building. Air source heat pumps and solar panels will also be installed. The development’s embodied carbon saving is 7,300 tCO2e (tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent) over the lifecycle of the building. The development also meets the RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) Climate Challenge’s 2025 targets for embodied carbon in new residential buildings. The development site is in the heart of the Bristol Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone and St Philip’s Marsh, one of the UK’s largest regeneration projects. The property will also include communal features including study spaces, a roof terrace, a gym and cycle storage. Tom Brewerton, Group Development Director at Unite Students, said: “Bristol is where it all began for Unite Students and this new property is in a vitally important scheme for students in the city. Marsh Mills will be built alongside the University of Bristol’s new Temple Quarter campus plus the city’s Temple Meads train station. “This development is further evidence of Unite Students’ commitment to delivering new supply of high-quality student accommodation in cities where it is needed most. Marsh Mills will have a low-carbon impact on the environment and will be built and open in time for the start of 2025/6 academic year, adding to our portfolio in the city and contributing to the much-needed regeneration of the Temple Quarter and St Philip’s Marsh area of the city.” RG Group has been awarded the build contract and construction work is now underway. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals