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For a successful business, you need a viable business idea, the skills to make it work and the funding. Discover whether your idea has what it takes.

Forming your business correctly is essential to ensure you are protected and you comply with the rules. Learn how to set up your business.

Advice on protecting your wellbeing, self-confidence and mental health from the pressures of starting and running a business.

Learn why business planning is an essential exercise if your business is to start and grow successfully, attract funding or target new markets.

It is likely you will need funding to start your business unless you have your own money. Discover some of the main sources of start up funding.

Businesses and individuals must account for and pay various taxes. Understand your tax obligations and how to file, account and pay any taxes you owe.

Businesses are required to comply with a wide range of business laws. We introduce the main rules and regulations you must comply with.

Marketing matters. It drives sales and helps promote your brand and products. Discover how to market your business and reach your target customers.

Some businesses need a high street location whilst others can be run from home. Understand the key factors from cost to location, size to security.

Your employees can your biggest asset. They can also be your biggest challenge. We explain how to recruitment and manage staff successfully.

It is likely your business could not function without some form of IT. Learn how to specify, buy, maintain and secure your business IT.

Few businesses manage the leap from start up to high-growth business. Learn what it takes to scale up and take your business to the next level.

Don't rush the return to work warns RoSPA

19 May 2020

A leading health and safety body has warned that a badly thought-out return to work could spell financial disaster for businesses.

The government and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have developed detailed guidance on how different workplaces can be reopened safely, to allow those who cannot work from home to return to the workplace.

But the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has warned businesses not to rush the process and it says that if the guidelines are not strictly adhered to, they could face legal proceedings.

Dr Karen McDonnell, RoSPA's occupational safety and health policy adviser, said: "It's so important that businesses follow [the government guidelines] and get their employees' return to work right, not just for the health and wellbeing of their staff and the wider community, but also for their financial future.

"Get it wrong, and there could be serious repercussions for the bottom line, either in the event of an outbreak happening or the organisation becoming known for having a lax attitude to safety. And let's not forget that health and safety is all about people - enabling workers and others to go home to their loved ones safe and healthy at the end of each day. This should be at the forefront of employers' minds."

Dr McDonnell has urged employers and other organisations not to rush the process. She said: "It's vital we all get this right … any organisations thinking of cutting corners should heed this warning. You may also be risking criminal and civil proceedings as a result of any poor practice."

RoSPA has developed an at-cost review service for organisations looking to reassure themselves about their preparations for returning to work. The COVID-19 Back-to-Work Review costs £184 and includes a site visit by a RoSPA expert. Participating businesses that follow the guidelines will be given a RoSPA-branded certificate of compliance for display.

Errol Taylor, RoSPA chief executive, said: "Our new COVID-19 Back-to-Work Review will give employers confidence to open their doors, and employees and members of the public peace of mind as they step through them."

Written by Rachel Miller.

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