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The Evolving Games ― How the Olympics Changes With Society

Claire James
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The Evolving Games ― How the Olympics Changes With Society

The modern Olympic Games has come a long way from its ancient origins. But importantly, it has always been a celebration of culture. Unsurprisingly, there have been countless changes to the Games in its multi-millennia spanning history, no less so than the dropping of sacrifice from the official schedule. However, even since its modern revival, the mixture of tradition and innovation has made the Olympiad a unique event in our global lives. To celebrate National Sporting Heritage Day 2020, we look at how the Olympics have kept up with tradition but also introduced new sport to reflect changing times, and how the Games will likely progress into the future.

From Greece to Rio… de la Grèce à Rio

Between the first modern Games in Athens in 1896, to the most recent edition in Rio 2016, new sports and traditions have led to expectations that the Games must satisfy sports-obsessed people around the world. Some notable traditions include the torch relay, medal ceremonies, and the excitable opening and closing ceremonies.

The introduction of new sports at each Olympic Games also shows us how our culture and tastes have changed since the event’s rejuvenation. You may be surprised to find that some events which are staples of modern scheduling, are only recent introductions.

Mountain biking was only introduced at Atlanta 1996, and the triathlon at Sydney 2000. However, most surprisingly, tennis is a fairly recent reintroduction. After its discontinuation following the 1924 event, the sport only returned to the Olympics in 1992. The 68-year tennis break is a consequence of an institutional dispute over how to define amateur players, but now the event is recognised with the same prestige as a Grand Slam competition.

The introduction of new sports at Olympic Games indicates changing attitudes, moving closer to urban sports and ones of acceptance. When tennis was reintroduced, it was under the condition that all players regardless of age, sex, and ability were able to play.

Today, sport is becoming a haven of acceptance and in the international community, with gender inclusive events moving into the mainstream―the newest sports introduced to the event reflect this even more.

Skateboarding in the ‘Ollie-mpic’ Games

The delayed Games of the XXXII Olympiad in Tokyo will feature the much-anticipated inauguration of skateboarding as an official Olympic event. Skateboarding is one of five new sports being introduced to the programme, the others being baseball/softball, karate, sports climbing, and surfing.

There have long been calls for sports including skateboarding and other urban events to be included in the Games. Its inclusion marks a large step towards bringing the Games to a younger and more urban audience.

The development of the sporting programme marks bigger change than it may initially appear. The decision to include skateboarding in the Tokyo 2020 Games, which will now run in 2021, started in 2014, and was granted with unanimous approval. Host countries now also have an influence by recommending new events for their edition of Olympics, with Tokyo intending to focus on innovation and youth for the quadrennial event.

New names are appearing in the sphere of sport celebrity―one being Sky Brown, a twelve-year-old British skateboarder hoping that she will be successful at Tokyo next year.

Brown is still set to become Britain’s youngest ever Summer Olympian, even following the delayed commencement date resulting from the coronavirus pandemic. Brown says: “I feel like it doesn’t matter how old you are. […] I’m tiny and I’m going to be in this huge competition! You can do anything, no matter what age you are.”

Brown was only four when the Olympics were staged in London, with the official slogan ‘Inspire a Generation’. It will be interesting to see how the Games develop in the future and continue to support and introduce new faces to new sports.

Breaking from tradition

As with skateboarding, ‘breaking’ (or breakdancing as it is also known) has been recommended by the Paris 2024 Organising Committee to feature in their Olympic programme. A final decision on its inclusion is expected later this year.

As with sports introduced at Tokyo, the intention to include more “gender balanced, younger, and urban” events at Paris are driving the future of the Games.

There has previously been breaking at the Youth Olympic Games. While there was no British representation, it proved successful and popular among spectators.

With developing technologies, and the uncertainties surrounding social distancing leading into 2021, how we watch the Games in the future is also a focus for organisers. Intel has even announced plans for a 5G-based virtual reality experience for the Summer and Winter Games of 2020, 2022, and 2024. The platform will offer spectators and athletes alike immersive experiences and training solutions.

The Olympics has come a long way since 776BC, and with the ability to get a front row seat to the newest sports from the other side of the world, we’re sure that the future will continue to surprise us.

Change is inevitable, and adaptation is key to survival. Never has this been truer than for the Olympic Games, where issues surrounding sustainability, pandemics, and scandal have threatened its longevity and tradition. However, the ancient event is one that is open to innovation and thrives on new conventions. From ceremony to technology, the Olympics is safely preparing for the next generation.

Asbestos: What Are My Responsibilities as a Property Owner?

Claire James
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Asbestos: What Are My Responsibilities as a Property Owner?

It’s common knowledge that asbestos is a highly damaging group of microscopic fibres that can severely impact the health of our lungs if inhaled. Many wonder if there is an actual need for asbestos considering how dangerous it can be if not dealt with correctly. As of 1999, the use for asbestos was banned in the UK. However, during the 1950s-80s, asbestos was commonly used in buildings due to its strong resistance to chemical attacks, its poor ability to conduct heat, and its overall superb tensile strength.

With this in mind, it is important that property owners take on the responsibility of checking their buildings for this substance in order to protect their occupancies.

Asbestos and the dangers it involves

As previously mentioned, asbestos was a mineral fibre commonly used in building structures and additional maintenance work such as water supply lines, roofing materials, and for building insulation.

But when asbestos is inhaled, the fibres become trapped within your alveoli where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place. Since the fibres are lodged, they can irritate and scar lung tissue, resulting in damage or scarring of your lungs, making it difficult to breathe.

Although the immediate effects of inhaling asbestos may not be noticed at first, this can severely impact your health later in life. Health conditions such as asbestosis — an inflammatory disease that results in the scarring of the lungs — are a potential risk. In addition to this, cancer of the lungs can occur.

Taking health and safety seriously

With this in mind, finding out if there is a presence of asbestos in your buildings is essential. Before proven otherwise, always assume that there is.

Firstly, hiring a company that specialises in asbestos is advised to conduct an asbestos survey. They will be able to determine the locations, conditions and extent of asbestos within the property. After recording where the presumed asbestos is located, putting together a plan or drawing to illustrate where exactly this is should be done.

By hiring an asbestos company to do this for you, they will know the next steps to take in terms of the removal of the asbestos and whether it is in a damaged or disturbed condition. After this analysis has been concluded, it is essential you take on board their advice and follow their instructions on what to do next.

Are you a landlord? Here’s the asbestos need-to-knows

To help prevent your tenants being exposed to asbestos, Regulation 4 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012outlines that landlords have certain responsibilities towards this. Depending on the extent of the maintenance and repair of non-domestic premises the tenant agreed to, this will decide the degree of legal duty landlords have.

For those that rent out properties, the same concept applies. For all the ‘common’ areas the building includes, you have the responsibility to ensure no potentially harmful asbestos containing materials are found. These common areas include:

  • Staircases
  • Corridors
  • Roof spaces
  • Boiler and plant rooms
  • Outbuildings
  • Gardens

It is always important that you are aware and up to date with all the information regarding the responsibilities you have as a landlord to protect your tenants from exposure to asbestos. 

The consequences of not caring

As previously mentioned, depending on the extent of the legal duty both the tenant and the landlord have agreed upon in their contract, it can be up for debate who is responsible for dealing with asbestos issues. If the agreement excuses the landlord from any statutory compliance, this would mean that the tenant is obliged to comply with all common law and codes of practices that are presented — meaning the landlord would not be held accountable for any issues with the property. To add, it will also give the landlord the right to take direct action against the tenant for breaching their lease conditions.

Although, if this type of contract isn’t present, the responsibility usually is in the hands of the landlord. But again, this could differ if the tenant holds the greatest accountability over the premises.

As the Landlord and Tenant act of 1985 states, the property must be fit for human habitation before it can be leased. Part of this act states that any asbestos material that is in unsafe conditions must be dealt with before the property can be leased. If this is not the case, legal actions may be taken with the landlord.

Mind the Gap: Why 2020 Serves Up the Ideal Gap Year Opportunity

Sam Allcock
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Mind the Gap: Why 2020 Serves Up the Ideal Gap Year Opportunity

2020 is a year that will live long in the memory. It’s been a year of uncertainty in all walks of life as the Covid-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill. While employees suffered redundancies and furlough, the next generation of workers found their education put on hold.

Schools and colleges closed in mid-March before the UK Government announced that exams would also be cancelled, leaving students to rely on predicted grades from tutors. As they now enter the final furlong, with results day looming, the questions remain for what the next academic year holds.

While most colleges and universities are expecting to return in September, the uncertainty that shrouds how lessons will be fulfilled has led many prospective students to reconsider their options. Many are questioning the full payment of tuition fees at a time when standard face-to-face teaching is at a minimum, with the deferral to the 2021/22 academic year proving popular.

While gap years often give students the chance to delay a decision on which course they are best suited to, or even the bigger decision of nailing down a career they want to follow, this year could see students take the gap year. The only thing left to ask is, ‘What do I do with my gap year?’. Here, we take a look at the options.

Volunteer at an elephant sanctuary in Thailand

While a footloose and fancy-free travelling gap year might be off the table for the foreseeable future, with many countries primed for secondary lockdowns as winter approaches, volunteering could give you the chance to gain some worthwhile life lessons. Working with animals can bring many pleasures, so why not check out your options to volunteer?

Many organisations will provide accommodation in exotic locations in exchange for your volunteering services, so before you know it, you could be lapping up the attention of Thai elephants, the nation’s most treasured animal. Make sure to do your research though, as some organisations have been criticised in the past for harmful and unethical tourist practices.

Become a ski instructor in Austria

Make the hills come alive with the sound of music by signing up on a gap year ski instructor course in Austria this winter. The summer ski season was all but wiped out by the Covid-19 restrictions but with the slopes reopening, you could be whizzing down the best black runs in the Alps before you know it.

The option means you’ll not only have time to consider your educational options, but you’ll learn about leadership, teamwork, and make some memories.

Teach English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)

If you’re considering teaching as a career option, you could gain worthwhile insight into your future by signing up to a TEFL certification course. The standard course takes just 120 hours to complete and within weeks you could be jetting off to South Africa, Southeast Asia, or South America. With generally cheaper living costs and accommodation often being provided, it will not only provide a cost-effective way to see some of the world but allow you to explore teaching as a career option.

Get your rave on as a holiday rep in Ibiza

If you fancy a year of partying and making money before diving onto the next step on the career ladder, then consider holiday repping opportunities in Ibiza. Sun, sea, and cocktails sound like the ultimate way to spend a gap year, and you’ll be putting away some much-needed money. The life skills gained by being a counsellor, police officer, and confidant with revellers with live with you long into future employment.

Take on a gap year placement

Do you know the career you want to follow, but are unsure if university is right for you this year? If so, explore the opportunity to carry out a gap year placement. Thousands of students leave university and start their job hunt only to be hit with the automatic ‘But you have no work experience’ line.

Bypass the standard response by gaining the upper hand on your peers by diving into your industry now. It may be daunting to take on an internship when you haven’t completed your studies, but it’ll give you an idea of whether your chosen career is one you are suited to. Plus, it could be the difference between a rejection email and a job offer.   

However you decide to spend your gap year, make sure to research all the options properly. Partying in Ibiza may sound like a great way to unwind after the stresses of your A-Levels but keep one eye on your career ambitions and invest some time into preparing for university life, especially if you have only deferred for 12 months.

Sources

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/further-details-on-exams-and-grades-announced

Gap Year

Gap Year Placements

Five basic skills of receptionist by Graham Shear

ABC Staff
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Five basic skills of receptionist by Graham Shear

Currently, tourism is for many countries and regions, one of the main economic sectors and their business development engine.

So it is necessary to acquire specific skills that allow professionals to carry out their work in the most efficient way possible.

Not surprisingly, the receptionist figure is one of the most important in the hotel, since it is the first face that guests will see upon arrival.

At that time, the professional represents the brand’s image, and their work and know-how will depend on whether clients get a good or bad first impression.

Functions and qualities of a good receptionist:

The hotel receptionist is entrusted with different functions closely related to customer service. He is in charge of receiving guests and checking-in, managing everything related to reservations and cancellations, providing information about the hotel and even tourist information.

But the point of view of Graham Shear is different for the receptionist. The functions also extend to solving problems that customers may have and that are related to their accommodation and the monitoring of access to the establishment.

Hence, it is necessary to be a person with a good gift of people, vocation for service, good communication skills, and excellent work time management skills.

5 Basic Skills to Be a Receptionist

Let’s take a closer look at the receptionist’s qualities and professional skills to understand this professional profile better.

1-Communication skills:

For their work, whoever is at the reception of a hotel must communicate personally, phone, and even through email with different people.

That is why there is a need to be a good communicator and to handle different languages. But communicating does not just mean talking.

A good receptionist must also listen to their clients to give them the best possible service.

2-Administrative skills:

The receptionist work is also an administrative job, so the receptionist must have basic knowledge about office automation, managing an office, and managing the specific programs used by the hotel.

3-Organization skills:

This professional profile has a lot of freedom when it comes to managing their work time, so the worker must be able to organize the different tasks they have to attend so that everything is ready on time.

4-Social skills:

Some customers have a satisfactory experience, but some want to complain, even very demanding guests.

The receptionist must deal with them in a good way, so he must know how to treat each type of person and react to different situations, always putting his professionalism first and not taking things personally.

5-Resolutive ability:

If a client wants to know what to visit, which is the best restaurant to eat, needs more towels, or wants to buy something specific in an establishment and cannot find it, they will always check with the receptionist.

So this professional is also required to be proactive and a bit multi-tasking to act in all kinds of situations.

As per Graham Shear suggestion, it is an ideal job for people who like to be in front of the public and looking for a job in which there is never time to be bored. If you are looking to hire skilled receptionists for your hotel, consider partnering with a reputable hospitality recruitment agency to find the best candidates for your team, added hospitality recruitment London.

Period Poverty Throughout Covid-19 – What Challenges May It Bring?

Claire James
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Period Poverty Throughout Covid-19 – What Challenges May It Bring?

Currently, young girls are growing up in a world where essential period products are out of their financial grasp — and due to the Covid-19 outbreak, period poverty is having a harsher impact than ever before.

The Covid-19 outbreak we are currently living through, is difficult for everyone. However, studies have found that girls and young women are disproportionately affected by health emergencies. In addition to the impact the Covid-19 pandemic is having on girls’ mental health (40 per cent of young women ages 14-21 have said that lockdown has negatively impacted their mental health), the issue of period poverty is also more acute and urgent than ever.

Prior to the outbreak, Plan International UK announced that one in every ten teenage girls will have experienced the problem of not being able to afford sanitary products. This problem has been picked up by many campaigners that are pushing to overcome the financial barrier between girls and menstruation.

Let’s take a closer look at what we mean by ‘period poverty’, the impact of Covid-19, and what we can do to alleviate the financial strain that many women are facing.  

What is period poverty?

One way of understanding the hardships of period poverty is by discussing the ‘toxic trio’. The toxic trio refers to:

  1. A lack of vital education about periods, sex, and relationships in schools
  2. The cost of sanitary products
  3. The taboo and stigma surrounding menstruation

In relation to the financial aspect of period poverty, governments have come under fire for matters such as the tampon tax, referring to the profits from the VAT charge of 5% applied to sanitary products — and while this might be significantly less than the standard 20% VAT which applies to a whole host of other products, there is still dispute over whether we should be paying tax duties on these products at all.

In addition to government policies and the alleviation of financial strain, work must also be done to dismantle the stigma surrounding menstruation and educate girls everywhere about the normal, healthy process of having a period. Sadly, many still don’t have access to this education. As a result, girls across the globe are growing up in a climate where they can’t afford these essential items, they feel ashamed about their bodies, and they remain uneducated about important elements of menstruation.

What progress has been made — and what is still to be done?

The classroom is one of the key places for building an understanding of menstruation, and the government has already announced plans to introduce a thorough curriculum on relationships, sex, and health education.

In April 2019 in fact, the UK Government’s Department for Education announced its commitment to providing free sanitary products across England’s primary schools by early 2020. The Children and Families Minister in 2019, Nadhim Zahawi, covered some of the key concerns for period poverty campaigners, outlining the move as a step towards enabling girls to meet their full potential, while also leading happy, healthy lives.

However, the impact of Covid-19 has stunted this positive educational movement. Due to school closures, many vulnerable young people will have missed out on essential parts of their education this year — one of the more concerning areas that they may have forgone is sex education. As stated earlier, menstrual hygiene education is vital, and a lack of it is one of the key elements of period poverty.

Without proper menstrual education at these crucial ages, young girls will suffer more than necessary due to fear, confusion, and lack of knowledge about their period. They may also suffer at the hands of period stigma, without the proper education to break the taboos. Many girls feel like there is something wrong with their bodies and fall into the trap of feeling ashamed about the normal, healthy process of a period.

With the current ongoing crisis in mind, schools have had to adapt and find new ways to offer sex and relationship education to their pupils by moving to an online platform. Thankfully, the NSPCC has published resources, guidance, and training so that teachers can still offer these essential classes.  The young people’s sexual health and wellbeing charity, Brook has also created an e-learning platform which offers free training to adults working or living with young people, covering topics such as puberty, sex, relationships and mental health.

With this in mind, relationships education will become compulsory in all primary schools, and relationships and sex education (RSE) made compulsory in all secondary schools as of September 2020. Teachers and parents can now get to grips with the new curriculum using these online resources, or even embarking in one of the training courses offered by the NSPCC.

The Impact Of School Closures

All in all, we’ve made impressive progress over the last few years and the government now provides free period products in England’s schools. However, as a result of Covid-19 many of these are now closed or have been servicing a reduced number for the past few months.

With many young girls relying on their schools to provide them with sanitary products (as well as menstruation education), the closures have made sourcing essential products more difficult than ever. One report from the Independent found that a shocking one in ten girls have found it difficult to access or afford period products during lockdown, and a further one in ten were worried about leaving the house for their daily exercise in case of leaking. This has been made even more difficult for those who require organic tampons for heavy periods as they cannot afford basic products, let alone those specific to their cycles.

How has Covid-19 impacted people’s finances?

In the UK, as of the 18th of May, the share of people whose finances were most severely impacted by Covid-19 reached 24 per cent. Many businesses have faced turmoil, leaving a vast amount of employees unemployed or furloughed at a lower wage. In fact, as many as one in five British workers have been furloughed since the outbreak of the pandemic.

Because of this, people are finding it more difficult than ever to source necessities, such as sanitary products. Thankfully, charitable operations, many of which have seen a surge of volunteers since the furlough scheme was rolled out, have been working tirelessly throughout the Covid-19 crisis. After talking to volunteers at the West End Foodbank in Newcastle, we found out that companies (such as Morrisons) as well as individuals, have been generously donating sanitary products throughout the pandemic.

However, cycle-specific products should be kept in mind while making donations to charities such as foodbanks — try to vary the products you donate so that there is something suitable for everyone. For example, one Newcastle West End Foodbank volunteer informed us that sanitary pads are far more commonly donated than tampons. 

We also learnt that sanitary products are now being included in every pre-packed parcel, meaning that everyone who uses this foodbank now has access to some essential products for free.

Together, we can support foodbanks and other charities by learning which non-food donations are in great demand, dropping off donations to our local foodbank, or even volunteering there.

As well as raising awareness and staying educated regarding period poverty, it is helpful to donate sanitary products to your local foodbank and support charities such as ActionAid UK and Bloody Good Period. Together, we can get through this, but only if we continue supporting those who are vulnerable and in need of financial aid during this challenging time.

A Guide to Business Planning in 2020

Claire James
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A Guide to Business Planning in 2020

Despite Covid-19 being fundamentally a health issue, the socio-economic impact of the pandemic may ultimately prove to be far more impactful.

During the period between August 24th and September 6th 2020, 12% of the UK workforce were on partial or full furlough leave. Incredibly, 11% of businesses said that they were at moderate or severe risk of insolvency in the current climate, while this is likely to increase further when the furlough scheme ends officially on October 31st.

As a result of this, business planning has arguably never been more important than it is now. The question that remains, of course, is what steps can you take to safeguard your venture in the current climate?

Optimise Your Cash Flow

Let’s start with the basics; as no single business can thrive without being able to maintain a viable level of cash flow.

However, this can be challenging in the current climate, especially if we consider the decline in consumer spending and the fact that many businesses are recording lower turnovers as a result of lockdown restrictions.

In this instance, businesses can be impacted even more by extended invoice terms of 60 or 90 days, and in this respect, seeking out flexible or short-term financing could help to keep your venture viable.

Invoice financing may also offer some value, as this enables you to sell your accounts receivable and cash in on completed projects before repaying the loan when your clients settle their accounts.

Consider Diversifying Your Venture

Depending on the nature of your business, you may find that one or more of your revenue streams are restricted during the Covid-19 pandemic.

This is why it’s important to take a proactive approach to diversifying your interests, as you look to optimise your number of viable income streams and optimise turnover at a time when you need it the most.

To achieve this successfully, we’d recommend diversifying in a manageable and relevant way that suits both the brand and existing product range.

Also, consider diversifying in ways that don’t excessively increase your cost base, as this can impede profitability and negate any increases in revenue.

Transition Your Business Online

Even before 2020, the ecommerce market in the UK represented a huge and fast-growing marketplace.

However, the growth of this space has been accelerated by the coronavirus pandemic, with the virus expected to add £5.3 billion to UK ecommerce by the end of 2020. This is directly due to a significant change in consumer behaviour, while the trend shows no sign of abating anytime soon.

With this in mind, now is the ideal time to accelerate your own transition online, as you look to optimise your brand’s virtual presence and drive higher volumes of traffic to your website.

It’s also wise to prioritise mcommerce and mobile customers by creating a responsive site, with smartphones and tablets now accounting for just under half of all online sales in the UK.

How to Choose a Pension Provider

Claire James
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How to Choose a Pension Provider

A pension is a tax-efficient way of saving for your retirement. The idea is to put some of your hard-earned money aside now, ready for when you retire or for when you want to reduce the number of hours you’re working. If you want to know more about personal pensions and you’re looking for some tips on how to choose the right one for you, keep reading below.

What is a Personal Pension?

A personal pension (or private pension) is a tax-efficient way for people in the UK to save money for their retirement. You simply make regular payments into a pension scheme during your working life to create a pot of money for when you retire. Personal pensions are similar to workplace pensions, except they are organised by the individual and not their employer.

There are a number of different types of personal pensions to choose from, so it’s a good idea to do some research before choosing one that’s right for you. You may want a pension where you contribute a set amount of money each month or you may choose a stakeholder pension, which allows you to be more flexible with the amount of money you pay in.

Personal Pension Providers

Personal pensions are usually provided by insurance companies through:

  • Building societies
  • Banks
  • Your workplace

Any employee who is offered a pension through their workplace will need to find out if it’s a workplace pension scheme or a personal pension scheme. While they may sound similar, they are not the same thing. 

Choosing a Pensions Provider

There are so many pension providers on the market that it’s often hard to choose between them. To help you out, we’ve come up with a list of some of the things you need to consider when choosing your personal pension provider:

  • Search the market – you’ll need to shop around to find the best pension provider available. Take time to gather information about the different providers. This should include how much they charge and whether they have a good reputation.
  • Compare the products – once you’ve made a shortlist of the providers you’re interested in, you will need to compare their products. Ask for a key facts document for each plan you’re considering. The key facts document is a summary of all the important parts of the plan. All providers are expected to supply you with this document, so if a provider refuses to give you this information, make a complaint against them.
  • Check to see if you can afford the contributions – most personal pension schemes expect their customers to make a minimum payment each month. If you’re on a tight budget or you have an income that is irregular, then you should check to make sure you’ll be able to commit to making these payments. Before choosing a provider, it’s a good idea to work out how much you’re willing to contribute each month.
  • Find out about the charges – before choosing a personal pension provider, make sure you check to see what charges you’ll have to pay and when they need to be paid. Charges might include transfer charges, administration fees, charges for managing your investment, penalties for missed payments, or taking your money out of the scheme earlier. All of these things can affect the amount of money you will receive in the future. Remember, if you choose a stakeholder pension, these charges will be limited to a set amount.
  • Take your time – when it comes to choosing a pension, it’s important to take your time. Choosing the first pension provider you find is not the best idea. Make sure you don’t sign any documents until you’re happy with the policy, the charges, and the service they provide.
  • Look out for scams –we’ve seen a huge increase in the number of pension scams in the UK in the last few years. In 2015, a new law was introduced which allowed people to withdraw their pension money as a lump sum instead of it being paid out on a monthly basis. Many people chose to withdraw their money and re-invest it in a new investment opportunity. Unfortunately, many of these investment opportunities were fake, and people found themselves being conned out of their retirement money.

If you’re still unsure about which pension provider to choose, or how pension charges will affect you, check out the guide provided by Portafina. They are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and have helped over 14,000 people in the UK.  They also offer a free pension review service, which makes choosing a pension provider much simpler for you.

Things to Look Out for When Choosing a Pension Provider

As we mentioned above, different pension schemes come with different terms and conditions. Here are some of the things you need to find out before choosing your pension provider:

  • Is there an option to stop and start your pension contributions?
  • Is there a minimum or maximum amount you’re allowed to pay into the plan each month?
  • Can you pay in extra money on top of your regular contributions?
  • What charges will you be expected to pay?
  • Does the pension scheme offer investments that suit your needs?
  • How easy is it to contact the provider? – Are they available 24/7? Can you talk to them online, over the phone, etc.?
  • What help and support is available for you? – Will they monitor your investment options? Will they help you to plan for your retirement? Many people find that they need help choosing their investment options or planning for retirement, so knowing this information is extremely important.  

If you don’t currently have a personal pension, then now might be the perfect time to set one up. But before doing so, it’s important to remember to take your time and do some research into the different options available to you. Remember, different pensions have different terms and conditions attached to them, so you want to find which option will benefit you the most.

How to Run a Business from Home

Sam Allcock
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How to Run a Business from Home

If you’re dreaming of leaving your cubicle to start your own business at home, you’ll need to come up with a plan for how you’ll make that happen first. As much as we all dream of marching into our boss’s office and quitting in dramatic fashion, you’ll be at a disadvantage if you don’t have a strategy to make your own business a success.

Step 1: Figure Out Your Talents

What you’re good at should be at the foundation of your business. Are you creative? Are you analytical? Are you open to new experiences and self-motivated? Asking yourself if you’re capable of handling the rigors and stresses of self-employment is a first step you can’t skip.

Some people think they will love being their own boss, only to realize that they actually need the pressure and external structure of a traditional job. It takes a special personality to be able to wake up each day and find motivation to make your own business profitable. Self-employment is a big risk and you’ll need to decide if it’s something you’re willing to take on.

Step 2: Shore Up Your Finances

Before you strike out on your own, it’s important to determine whether or not you’ll have enough money to survive. The first few months of being on your own will likely be the hardest, so it’s critical to have enough funds to draw from if you need it.

You should also estimate your profits before you embark on starting your own business, so you know whether or not you can truly make a living.

Step 3: Write Out Your Business Plan

A business plan doesn’t just help you organize all the thoughts in your head, it’s also necessary if you’re planning on applying for a business loan.

Here’s what your business plan should include:

  • Executive summary of your business idea
  • Target market and competition research
  • Details about your target customer
  • Your marketing strategy and campaign ideas
  • Financial details
  • Your operational strategy

Step 4: Gather the Right Technology

You’re not going to be able to run a business with poor technology. Invest in great internet and a computer that can deal with seriously resource-intensive computing tasks. We recommend a computer tower over a laptop, but you can always get both. You can use your computer tower for your home office and have a laptop so you can do work on the go.

What are Some Home Business Ideas I Can Explore?

  • Make and sell homemade products through an online storefront.
  • Offer online consulting services for content, marketing, etc.
  • Teach online classes.
  • Start a dropshipping business.
  • Buy wholesale products and sell them for profit online
  • Buy an existing e-commerce business
  • Start a subscription box business
  • Sell vintage items online
  • Play video games professionally

What are the Pros and Cons of Owning My Own Business?

Pros of Owning Your Own Business

  • Low-investment businesses has fewer overhead costs like warehousing expenses.
  • You’ll have the option to sell locally or internationally.
  • You’ll enjoy a better work-life balance. This is especially great for stay-at-home parents or retirees.
  • You can create a family business where relatives or even your spouse can help out if necessary.

Cons of Owning Your Own Business

  • You might need to convert some of your home into a work space, which could mean losing a guest bedroom or storage space.
  • You need to comply with any regulations necessary for your type of business, which can be expensive.
  • If your business outgrows your home, you might need to rent out additional space and hire additional workers to help you.
  • Working from home can be lonely.

Conclusion: Starting Your Home-Based Business

Starting your home-based business starts with an idea. But an idea isn’t going to pay your bills. Make sure that you take the time to make a real strategy before you decide to ditch your day job. It’s also a good idea to shore up your personal finances and top off your emergency fund. Getting your business off the ground will likely leave you with less money than you’d like – so it’s important to have a big savings account. With these tips, you can start a home-based business and be your own boss. It’s time to get to work!

House Clearance London – Complete Checklist

Sam Allcock
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0
House Clearance London – Complete Checklist

Are you tired of the clutter in your house? It’s time to lighten the load and sort through the junk that has been piling up. For years you have been cramming up your space. But now you need to revitalise and reinvent your living space with a house clearance. Well, what better way to usher in new energy than to discard the old?

If you are living in a large house, clearing it by yourself might seem daunting. But like any mammoth task, it becomes much easier if you break it down to smaller, more manageable parts. This article will help you organise and streamline your house clearance with four simple steps. So onward to the checklist!

Time Management

Now before you dive headlong into your dusty attic, take a moment to plan. If you have a lot of stuff that you need to clear out, then you can’t do it all in one day. Manage your time and set some goals.

Keep at least half a day of every room and a couple of days for the basement and attic, if you are doing it alone. The last thing you want is to get exhausted halfway through. So unless there’s a rush or a deadline, take your time and go easy on yourself.

Having a schedule will also help in planning ahead of the disposal. But more on that later!

Color Code and Simplify

So you are ready to start sorting out what you will keep from what you will clear out. Colour coding them will save you a ton of time. All you need are three different coloured tapes. So go ahead and start taping the stuff you want to keep as green. Mark the things that you are selling/donating/recycling with orange tape and the rubbish with red.

This will simplify the whole process, and you can just move from room to room labelling out the stuff. Once you are done taping everything out, you can move the things into different spaces. Start with the rubbish since you can jostle it around without worry and it’ll free up more space for you to move the delicate things. Once they are grouped into separate places, you will be ready for the next step.

Ideally, you should end up with very little green-labelled stuff and a lot of orange and red. That toaster you got as a gift three years back and only used once? Time to tell it goodbye. If you are sentimental about your possessions, then ask over a friend to help lend you a more objective opinion. Clear out anything that you don’t use often.

Donations and Sales

The next order of business is to start getting the orange labelled things out your house! You can donate these to charity stores, give them away to friends and family or sell them off yourself.

  • If you want to donate a bulk of your things, then look up the nearby charity stores. But remember that they do not always accept damaged goods and can refuse a particular donation. You can also ask your family and friends to come to take what they need. This will lighten your load considerably without you having to put any effort at all to move the stuff around.
  • If you want to sell, you can participate in car boot sales for a small fee in and around London. You can also organise a garage sale. Put up a few flyers and advertise locally to attract a bigger crowd. If you have antiques or valuables to sell, then contact an antique dealer and send them pictures of what you have. Another lucrative option is putting them up for sale online on e-Bay or Etsy. Selling online might take a little more time and effort, but the rewards are high, and you can reach out to buyers globally.

Also, consider upcycling your junk to create useful items. Here are some great ideas that’ll make your home look fabulous and have a positive impact on the environment.

Throw Out The Rubbish 

Before you start throwing out the rubbish, you need to figure out how much space it will take up. Alter your plans accordingly. You can opt for any of three ways of disposal.

  • DIY – If you have the time in your hands, you can cram disposal bags into your car and drop them off at your nearest dump. You can also hire a van if there’s a lot of stuff that you need to throw out. Alternatively, you can contact your local council who will arrange a truck for bulky waste disposal (often for free or a  subsidised rate).

This is the best option if you have hazardous waste like paint, old fridges or TVs that you need to dispose of. However, you will need to notify the council weeks ahead of disposal to book your slot. So plan ahead if you want to opt for this. You can also get rid of the hazardous waste by dropping them off at a local recycling centre.

  • Skip Hire – If you have a lot of junk and you don’t want to wait for the council, then you can hire a skip at a flat rate. You will need a skip permit from the council, and possibly parking permits depending on where you leave. But this enables you to load it up and dispose of all the rubbish at one go. Compare your local skip hire rates to find the best option.
  • The easiest way is to hire a professional house clearance company to do all the heavy lifting for you. They will pack, clear and dispose of everything that you don’t want while you sit back and relax. House clearance in London is done in best way by the professionals like Junkbunk. The best part is that if you have sellable items that you want clearing out, these companies will give you a sizable discount for picking them up. So you will get all the benefits without the hassle.

Precautions

There are a few things to remember before you start. You will be moving around dusty old things so always wear a dust mask. If you have a dust allergy, then hire someone to clean everything up before you start sorting out your stuff.

Double-check the rubbish you are disposing of. A lot of people stuff documents and money in unlikely places and then forget about it. So take your time and sort through the things carefully, check between books and in the furniture you are selling off.

Well, there you have it. Complete each task in the checklist in order before moving on to the next. And before you know it, your house will be cleared of all the jetsam, opening up the space for new things in your life!

The Importance of Cyber Security for Online Gaming

Sam Allcock
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0
The Importance of Cyber Security for Online Gaming

The internet has changed how people do things. Everything from your buying habits to working and playing has turned upside down in the last 2 decades. Although the threats have always been there, change brings the need to predict new issues and adapt to ever-growing dangers of online security.

Online games and casino websites have always been prone to shady dealings, which accelerated the technology-driven development in online gaming and gambling companies. It also helped them realise how important it is to build reliable infrastructures.

For example, as the casino industry matured, review platforms like Playcasino started ranking websites using strict criteria, including payment and player security. This shift emphasised the importance of cyber security in the gaming industry. In this article, Jordan Carry, an online casino expert, explains the notion of cybersecurity and how gamers can protect themselves online. Moreover, sapphire.net can be a great consideration to visit if you are looking for the best Cyber Security Services in the UK.

What’s Cyber Security?

Online gambling platforms bring together personal information, consumer habits and transaction details. This fusion of essential user data creates an ample environment for various cybercriminals to develop.

While it’s convenient to be able to pay and play immediately, you should beware of a few things. You’ll find the threats described below, but first, let’s define cyber security and information security.

While both terms have a lot in common, the most primary distinction is that information security is all about the data. In contrast, cybersecurity refers to the network. Of course, malware can result in loss of personal data, but it also damages the underlying infrastructure.

What Threats Should You Anticipate?

Online gambling and cyber security experts ensure that the threats aren’t far-fetched. If you’re an enthusiastic player, you might’ve already faced one or more of them.

Threats That Come With Pirated Software

While pirating is illegal, it’s also dangerous for your network, computer and personal information. Games downloaded from torrents might come infected. The malware can also penetrate the system from the distributor’s link during download.

How to Stay Safe?

  • Use legitimate gaming platforms to download the games
  • Steer clear from shady torrent accounts and URLs

3rd Party Plugins, Cheats, Apps and Games

This point refers to mobile gaming, but PC users can also fall into this trap. The centralised platforms like Steam, Google Play or App Store streamline your gaming experience by having standard security procedures.

Games available as a separate download from an untrustworthy source can harm your ecosystem. Same goes for power-ups and plugins.

How to Stay Safe?

For this one, follow the same advice from the previous point.

Profile Hacking

Connected accounts, weak or repeating passwords, oversharing your real identity within a game community can ultimately make your profile more vulnerable. The internet is a wild place, and staying anonymous is the best decision you can make.

How to Stay Safe?

  • Create a separate password for each gaming account and keep them safe
  • Use multi-factor authentication (MFA), wherever possible
  • If you don’t know your gaming buddies in real life, stay private

In-Game Hacking

Most of today’s online games contain in-game valuables, collectables and characters. While some people develop and sell game characters and accounts, losing your meticulously-crafted in-game personality and achievements to hackers would be profoundly sad.

Data theft is more common for ‘rich’ player accounts. Cybercriminals can even be so bold as to demand ransom for the stolen in-game possessions.

How to Stay Safe?

  • Use MFA
  • Don’t play from public computers or always log out properly
  • Don’t share your passwords with anyone, even a close friend
  • Stay anonymous

Phishing

Phishing is a type of cybercrime where the offender poses as a legitimate institution to lure in a target into a scam. The victims might unknowingly give out their identity, banking details, passwords, and other sensitive information.

Phishing attempts in the online gaming scene might arrive in a few different channels:

  • Email
  • YouTube comment
  • In-game message

How to Stay Safe?

  • Keep your software updated
  • Use MFA
  • Backup your data
  • Don’t click URLs you don’t recognise

Keylogging Malware

This type of malware, like 3rd party cheats and phishing attempts, usually comes from unknown URLs and untrustworthy sources. The parasite program gets into your system and records your keystrokes, guessing your login, password and other private information.

How to Stay Safe?

  • Don’t click suspicious links

Cyber Bullying and Cyber Predators

Cyber crime in online gaming isn’t new. You can prevent the threats mentioned above with awareness, protection and caution. However, countering cyberbullying and cyber predators is a more substantial issue connected with parental control and in-depth understanding of the problem.

How to Stay Safe?

  • Educate the youngsters about the issue
  • Use virtual private networks (VPN) to mask your IP
  • Set up children protection software
  • Create a player profile using an alias
  • Mask your personal information with an alias

What Can the Companies Do?

Staying safe online cannot be a one-way street for a gamer because today’s gaming isn’t a closed system. Game developers and gambling platforms should be helping players with their user-centric approach.

Here are a few checkboxes a modern gaming company should cover:

  • User support and transparency
  • Clear Terms and Conditions
  • SSL encryption
  • Backend security
  • Transaction protection
  • Valid software license

Conclusion

It doesn’t matter if you’re playing at an online casino for real money or trying out Fortnite as a casual gamer. Everybody should prioritise cybersecurity in online games. Use the knowledge you gained from this article to set up a gaming environment where you can feel safe.

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