Day: January 30, 2023

More than 600,000 self-employed to miss self-assessment deadline?

Handelsbanken Wealth & Asset Management research shows self-employment is changing

More than 600,000 self-employed people think they will miss the January 31st deadline for completing self-assessment tax returns and paying any money owed, new research* from Handelsbanken Wealth & Asset Management shows.

Data** from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) shows that a week before the deadline (January 24th), around 3.4 million had still to file returns for the 2021/22 tax year and it is expecting 12 million returns in total compared with 10.8 million for the 2020/21 tax year.

Handelsbanken Wealth & Asset Management’s research found young men aged 18-34 are most likely to believe they will miss the deadline, with 13% of them fearing they won’t respond in time.

The study highlights how the rising number of self-assessment returns reflects changes in the way people are employed. It found half (50%) of working adults say they are a PAYE employee with no additional income while, more than a quarter (28%) are retired, meaning that nearly a third (29%) – 9.4 million people –are self-employed in some capacity. Many will have PAYE jobs and self-employment income on the side, while some will be entirely self-employed.

Men (25%) are more likely than women (16%) to have an income stream from self-employment, while younger adults aged between 18 and 34 are much more likely to be self-employed at 40%, compared with older age groups. Just 20% of those aged 35 to 54 are self-employed to some extent, and only 10% of those aged 55-plus have additional self-employed income.

The West Midlands is the UK’s ‘capital of the side hustle’, with 21% of workers saying they are PAYE with additional self-employed income compared to 10% for the UK as a whole.

Overall, the West Midlands has the highest number of people who make money through self-employment, with 33% of adults needing to fill in a self-assessment tax return, ahead of London (32%) and the South West (28%).

The rise of the side hustle is partly down to the cost-of-living crisis, but is also being driven by people deciding to follow their passion alongside their PAYE employment.

More than a third (35%) said they became self-employed to do something they are passionate about, while around a quarter (24%) did it to supplement the income they receive from their main job, due to the pandemic and cost-of-living crisis. Job satisfaction is more important to younger people, with 24% of those 18-34 saying they became self-employed because they were not enjoying their job, dropping to 21% for 35–54 and just 10% for the over 55s.

Mark Collins, Head of Tax at Handelsbanken Wealth & Asset Management said: “While tax doesn’t have to be taxing, as the old HMRC adverts say, filling in self-assessment forms becomes a little more complicated when people have a range of income streams from different sources.

“There is plenty of help available from HMRC however there is the possibility of a £100 fine for being late with further penalties kicking in after three months. This highlights the importance of seeking advice, being organised and keeping a close eye on your tax records, including business income and outgoings, throughout the year.”

Anyone struggling to complete forms can visit GOV.UK to access a wide range of resources including guidance, webinars and YouTube videos.

Edinburgh-based Trevor Jones new artwork: EthBoy takes over Oxford Street in London for a day

The latest chapter in a unique programmable art project by NFT leading artist, Scottish-based Trevor Jones is due to drop tomorrow. (January 31, 2023) 

Already a pioneer of NFTs in the art world, he initially painted Ethereum Boy, a play on Picasso’s Paul Dressed as Harlequin the image, as part of an exploration of crypto cubism in tribute to Picasso’s creative genius. 

Trevor then partnered with crypto artist Alotta Money and digital artist, producer and DJ Don Diablo to create the precedent-setting ETHEREAL Collection for a programmable Async Art project. This was the first drop to be included in a ten-part series with the concept that the painting changes daily in response to uncontrollable outside variables such as Ethereum price fluctuations, gas fees and even the birthday of Vitalik Buterin, founder of the Ethereum network whose baby face features in the painting. 

The experiment, with the programmable accessories layer, follows Vitalik as he experiences life’s highs and lows with each new chapter released as an NFT every six months over five years, meaning each animation consists of approximately 182 days of changes.

Tomorrow sees the launch of the fourth chapter of the initiative, featuring guest musical artist, world-renowned DJ Sasha. 

And, to mark the partnership and Vitalik’s birthday, EthBoy will today take over the prestigious space in the windows at luxury store Flannels, 167 Oxford St, London, for this unique collaboration between art and music to be enjoyed from this famous location for a one-day exclusive. 

DJ Sasha comments:“ Trevor was one of the first artists that I noticed and was inspired by when I first became aware of NFTs.  

“After dipping my toe into the space with the LUZoSCURA and most recently the TEN drop, the chance to collaborate with Trevor came up – and of course, I jumped at it. I love the story that ETH Boy tells – continually documenting the events happening in this brave new digital art world. I wanted the audio accompanying the piece to capture the highs, lows and bittersweet turbulence of ETH Boy’s last 6 months. “ 

The artwork is a 1/1 and collectors of previous Chapters featured in the series will also receive ownership revenue, with portions of the profits allocated to all purchasers, thus symbolizing future stakes in the work of not only Trevor Jones himself, but all collectors involved. 

The owner of the EthBoy NFT will receive a signed, limited-edition print of the original oil painting. 

Trevor Jones, best known for his iconic Bitcoin Angel, based on his painting of Bernini’s baroque marble sculpture The Ecstasy of St Teresa, says: “In such a fast-paced and volatile space, having the opportunity to take the lead in an innovative, long term project with the late, great Alotta along with many of the biggest name musical artists exploring web3 is an honour and a privilege.  

“Many in the web3 community think in terms of months rather than years and therefore this half-decade-long collaborative project will undoubtedly become a historic work of art and a grail for the 10 collectors/partners involved.” 

Mark Dale, founder of W1 Curates says: “Our digital exhibition space is a one-of-a-kind public art platform dedicated to bridging the gap between digital art and the traditional art world.

“Located in the prime location of Oxford Street, London, our site offers brand new state-of-the-art floor-to-ceiling digital screens, providing a unique interactive experience for the viewer. It’s an honour to bring this unique art and music collaboration to Life. This project is all about connecting people through music and art, and we want to share it with as many people as possible”. 

A fine art graduate and traditional painter, Trevor has worked at the intersection of art and technology for more than a decade and experimented with QR code paintings and augmented reality (AR). When he invested in Bitcoin in 2017 it inspired a new creative direction, leading to his crypto-themed AR paintings and his passion for NFTs in art. 

His Art Angels podcast, on which he features various internationally based digital artists, has also been responsible for hugely boosting the earnings of those he has chosen to promote. 

Healthy Heart Tip: Healthy Hearty Soups

Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Tip, written by the Health Promotion and Education Team at Heart Research UK

Healthy Heart Tip: Healthy Hearty Soups

Soups are great for lunch or dinner, or even as a snack between meals in a mug. When planned properly, soups can be a healthy, balanced meal and be a great way to increase your intake of vegetables. They’re usually a low cost per portion, great to make in bulk and convenient to warm up in a hurry or take out and about in a flask.

We’ve outlined some tips for building a balanced, nutrient-dense soup below:

Base

A great soup starts with a tasty base. Sautéed onions, celery and garlic make a wonderful starter for most soups.

Next select your stock, homemade is best and the most cost effective as you can make it from leftover meat bones and vegetables. Shop-bought stock cubes can be high in added salt and sugar so if you are using these make sure you choose a low-salt and low-sugar variety or leave it out altogether.

You can use herbs and spices to add depth of flavour.

Carbohydrates

White potatoes, sweet potatoes, wholewheat noodles/pasta, and brown rice are all great options for adding to soup.

They provide a healthy source of carbohydrates to give you the energy you need to fuel your body.

Vegetables

All vegetables work well in soups, try choosing ones you wouldn’t usually eat to increase the variety in your diet.

Butternut squash, parsnips, carrots, cauliflower and broccoli are great options.

Protein

Protein is often forgotten in soups, but it is an important nutrient for growth and repair in the body. It also helps us feel fuller for longer which can help us maintain a healthy weight.

Healthy sources of protein include chicken, turkey, fish and low-fat cheeses. Plant based options such as different varieties of lentils and beans are healthful options, and these are a cheap option for bulking up soups.

For more tips on how to stay healthy, sign up for our weekly healthy tips at:

 www.heartresearch.org.uk/healthy-tips.

To help keep your heart healthy, why not try out some of our Healthy Heart recipes from our website: https://heartresearch.org.uk/heart-research-uk-recipes-2/.

Or have a look through our Healthy Heart cookbook filled with recipes from top chefs, celebrities and food bloggers:

https://heartresearch.org.uk/heart-research-uk-cookbook/.

Call for nominations to join Hostelling Scotland’s Board of Trustees

Start 2023 with a new and exciting adventure!

Hostelling Scotland, the not for profit, self-funded charity, who operate a network of nearly 60 exceptional quality assured youth and affiliate hostels throughout Scotland, and facilitate a number of youth and community initiatives, is on the lookout for new members to join its Board of Trustees.

The organisation is very keen to receive applications from as wide a range of talented people as possible irrespective of their religion or belief, gender, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, political belief, relationship status or caring responsibilities.

With the challenging economic climate Hostelling Scotland would love to hear from applicants with skills and experience in managing operational change, charity/corporate governance, law, risk management, and youth travel and hospitality.

Margo Paterson, CEO of Hostelling Scotland, said: “Hostelling Scotland is open to all. We are committed to inclusion and diversity and we want our Board of Trustees to be representative of the wide range of talented people we have in the communities we serve throughout Scotland.

 “We value greatly the benefits of having different points of view and experiences on our Board.  We particularly welcome applications from first time Trustees and highly motivated individuals across all age groups and backgrounds, with a wide range of skills and experiences, and the capacity and commitment to grow into the role.”

“If you are looking for a new and exciting adventure and keen to do something great.  If you believe you have the enthusiasm and drive to help shape the future of hostelling in Scotland, we would love to hear from you.”

To express an interest and receive a nomination pack and application form, please email: companysecretary@hostellingscotland.org.uk. 

Please note: a formal nomination form is required to be completed by 10 March 2023.

Don’t hide behind ‘fine’ – seek out your breathing space

As Breathing Space Day approaches on 1st February 2023 the message for people across Scotland who might be feeling down is one of hope and support.

Scotland’s mental health service, Breathing Space,  is encouraging people to open up when they are feeling down, instead of hiding behind the phrase we all use, ‘I’m fine’.

Opening up to friends, colleagues, or family is a good place to start but the service’s trained advisers know it’s not for everyone. It recommends finding ways to support one’s own breathing space in ways to suit them which might include a brisk walk, a favourite TV show or podcast, a good book, a feel-good play list or simply some time to sit quietly with their thoughts and feelings.

Breathing Space benches across the country provide spaces for a quiet moment or a quick chat. Breathing Space unveiled its 50th bench recently in Golspie, Highland, in partnership with Change Mental Health as they marked50 years of supporting people.

Mental Wellbeing Minister Kevin Stewart said: “Looking after our mental health and wellbeing is as important as looking after our physical health. That message is especially relevant now, given the continuing challenges which we all face in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic and cost of living crisis.

“Breathing Space is a free service providing vital out-of-hours support to people across Scotland who are feeling low, stressed, or anxious. I am pleased to highlight the help available and to support Breathing Space Day.

“I would urge anyone who is experiencing low mood, anxiety or distress in their lives to get in touch with Breathing Space or to look at the range of helpful advice on the website.”

Tony McLaren, National Coordinator of Breathing Space, said: “We are all finding our way in uncertain times right now. If you are struggling to find your own breathing space, please don’t hide behind ‘fine’. Our team are here for you and you can lift the phone or contact us on webchat to open up. 

“Our advisors at Breathing Space are available in the evenings and at the weekends on 0800 83 85 87 or through web chat, to listen and offer information and advice.”

Dobbies: Give a gift that will grow

Houseplants are the new bouquets according to a recent survey by Dobbies Garden Centres, in which 24% of Edinburgh residents said they preferred to receive houseplants rather than cut flowers because they last longer.

A further 31% of Brits said they would happily give a houseplant as a gift.

Houseplants are the ultimate sustainable gift, especially for Valentine’s Day, where a long-lasting houseplant acts as a reminder to your loved ones for years to come.

Dobbies’ Edinburgh and little dobbies’ Stockbridge stores have a wide range of cost-effective houseplants are the perfect way to show your appreciation for your partner with a gift that will last. With a multitude of positive effects, houseplants have air-purifying benefits, and can enhance your home, as well as your wellbeing. 

From the green-fingered plant parent to the novice gardener, Dobbies has a houseplant to make everyone feel good. Follow Dobbies’ Senior Houseplant Buyer Claire Bishop’s top tips on ensuring your gift will grow to its fullest potential:

“Houseplants make a beautiful addition to any space with their greenery and colour.

“If you are in search of a romantic but low-maintenance plant, Phalaenopsis will make an impression. These are one of the most popular houseplants, and flowering houseplants are a key trend for 2023. They make a wonderful present for anyone, coming in a range of colours as well as being easy to care for. Place them in bright, centrally heated room (but out of direct summer sun) and watch them bloom!

“Our limited edition Anthurium Clarinervium is ideal if you prefer a tropical look, with its stunning deep green leaves overlain with decorative white. Native to southern Mexico, this rare houseplant loves humidity and would find itself at home in a shower room or steamy kitchen. Ensure its soil is damp but not over-saturated by misting regularly.

“Aglaonema’s stunning variegated leaves and variations of colours lend a pop of colour to any home, guaranteeing your loved one will be thrilled to receive this patterned beauty. This houseplant loves a warm, consistent temperature so keep away from any cold air drafts. In lower light areas, aim to periodically rotate your plant for even growth.”

Visit in store or online at www.dobbies.com to explore Dobbies range of houseplants and Valentine’s gifting ideas, with plenty of styles and sizes to suit every budget and space.

For top tips on caring for houseplants, listen to Claire’s advice on the Positively Plants podcast www.dobbies.com/podcasts

Letter: Edinburgh schools encouraged to take part in NSPCC Number Day this Friday

Dear editor,

Schools across Edinburgh are being encouraged to sign up to NSPCC Number Day to help more children engage with and enjoy maths.

Number Day is aimed at nurseries and schools, with teachers and pupils raising vital funds for the NSPCC.

The event takes place this Friday, February 3, with free curriculum-based downloadable activities available to schools across the country.

The event is being supported by veteran children’s TV presenter and maths enthusiast Johnny Ball.

The funds raised from this event could help fund NSPCC school’s programs like Speak Out Stay Safe, which teaches children in an age-appropriate way to recognise the signs of abuse and speak out if something is worrying them.

If you would like to know more about taking part in the NSPCC’s forthcoming Number Day please visit: www.nspcc.org.uk/support-us/charity-fundraising/schools-fundraising-ideas/number-day/

Our school’s team is also recruiting new Speak Out Stay Safe volunteers in specific areas of Scotland to deliver workshops in primary schools to years five and six.

To find out more about becoming a Speak Out Stay Safe volunteer please email volunteerrecruitment@nspcc.org.uk

Sincerely,

Georgia Hall-Newell,

NSPCC Schools Coordinator for Edinburgh

The Sixth ‘Walk for Autism’ campaign returns this spring

Walk for Autism is returning in 2023 with a spring in its step

Walk for Autism 2023 will be one of the most successful campaigns in its history. The annual fundraising campaign invites participants from up and down the country to walk 10,000 steps per day for eight days wherever they choose. 

The walking week begins on March 26 and ends on World Autism Awareness Day, April 2.

In 2022, the campaign saw over 3,800 walkers step up to the Walk for Autism challenge. Together, they raised £407,448.48 and totalled 211.6 million steps. The money raised from Walk for Autism helps to fund autism projects across the UK and Ireland, along with funding for specialist staff.

Last year’s campaign provided funding for a Health and Wellbeing Lead, who runs wellbeing groups ranging from football sessions, to cycling and hiking. Thanks to these projects, autistic people attending the groups have developed stronger social connections, built self-confidence, and felt the benefits to their mental and physical health. 

Walk for Autism Fundraising Manager, Liz Oakley said: “This campaign is so close to our hearts, as we see how much of an impact it makes every year. It really helps to improve the quality of life of the people we work with, and allows us to create communities for people who need them.

“Taking part is also a brilliant opportunity to spend time outdoors and improve your health and wellbeing. It’s important to us that the challenge is inclusive to all abilities, so whether you opt for short walks each day, walking the dog, or take on longer hikes, the challenge can work around you.

“Walk for Autism also includes steps from everyday activities, such as pottering in the garden or walking upstairs. Every step counts and makes a difference.”

The 2023 campaign has been further boosted by the support of Bridgerton and Emmerdale star Simon Lennon, who will once again be stepping out in support of the Walk for Autism campaign.

Simon said: “I’m delighted to take part in Walk for Autism again this year because it’s really important to get everyone in the UK walking and talking about autism and it’s fun too.

“Many people taking part have a special connection to autism and they are doing their bit to help raise funds for autism projects around the UK and Ireland.”

The team are encouraging walkers to complete their steps by walking and talking with family and friends, at their own pace. Those who sign up and raise their first £20 will be sent a free ‘Walk for Autism’ t-shirt to assist in their fundraising.

Liz added: “Autism affects more than 700,000 people in the UK and Ireland. It’s amazing to see the difference that our walkers make each year, and essential that we continue to help as many people as possible through our fundraising efforts.”

Walk for Autism is a campaign led by Autism Initiatives Group, a national charity committed to improving the lives of autistic adults and children and their families across the UK and Ireland. Founded in the 1970s, the charity recently celebrated its 50th anniversary.

You can now sign up for Walk for Autism at www.walkforautism.co.uk

Police seek witnesses to fatal road accident on Oswald Road

A 52-year-old man has died following a one-vehicle road crash on Oswald Road, Edinburgh, at the junction with South Oswald Road.

The crash involved a silver Ford Focus Zetec and took place around 5.10pm on Sunday, 29 January, 2023. The driver was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, where he was pronounced dead.

The road was closed until 8.55pm.

Sergeant Jill Kirkpatrick, from the Edinburgh Road Policing Unit, said: “Our thoughts are very much with the deceased’s family and friends at this time.

“Our enquiries into this incident remain ongoing and we continue to appeal to anyone who was in the Oswald Road area, or who believes they saw the Ford Focus nearby prior to the crash, to please come forward.

“We are also keen to speak to anyone in the area who may have dashcam or private CCTV footage, as we carry out enquiries into this incident.

“Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting incident 2466 of 29 January, 2023.”

Business confidence dips for Scottish firms in January

Bank of Scotland Business Barometer for January 2023 shows: 

  • Business confidence in Scotland fell five points during January to 10% 
  • As National Apprenticeship Week approaches 27% of businesses in Scotland say investing in training and development presents the biggest opportunity for growth in the next six months 
  • Overall UK business confidence reaches six-month high at 22% with twice as many businesses optimistic about the economy than in December   

Business confidence in Scotland fell five points during January to 10%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Bank of Scotland Commercial Banking. 

Companies in Scotland reported lower confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, down 17 points at 8%.  When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, up six points to 12%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 10%.  

Scottish businesses identified their top target areas for growth in the next six months as evolving their product and service offer (42%), investing in sustainability (29%) and investing in their teams (27%).  
 
The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide. 
 
A net balance of 14% of businesses in the region expect to increase staff levels over the next year. This is up from December when a net balance of 11% of businesses reported plans to make new hires.  

Overall UK business confidence climbed in January, with firms reporting their highest confidence levels since July last year.  

Business confidence increased by five points to 22% and the net balance of businesses feeling optimistic about the economy doubled on December’s reading to 16%. 

Ahead of National Apprenticeship Week (6-12th February) 30% of businesses across the UK reported that they are looking at opportunities to grow by investing in staff development and training. A net balance of 17% of firms reported plans to create new jobs in the next twelve months. 

Chris Lawrie, area director for Scotland for Bank of Scotland Commercial Banking, said: “Ongoing pressures from wider economic challenges are clearly continuing to impact Scottish businesses, but confidence remains in positive territory and firms’ resilience shines on.  

“Over the next few months as concerns such as rising costs continue, it is important firms keep a close eye on cash flow. Having reserves ready for when challenges hit makes managing turbulent periods easier. We’ll remain by the side of Scottish firms to help them successfully navigate the months and years ahead.”    

For the second month in a row, confidence in the manufacturing and service sectors increased, with manufacturing rising to 28% (up 15 points) and services up to 25% (up seven points). 

Business confidence in construction was down two points to 27%, while retail confidence fell for the second month in a row to 7% (from 13%), the lowest level since February 2021. 

Paul Gordon, Managing Director for Relationship Management, Lloyds Bank Business & Commercial Banking, said: “After a challenging 2022, it’s heartening to see confidence rising for the second consecutive month.

“This is the first back to back increase since September 2021. There is no doubt that the business environment remains challenging and uncertainty still remains, but this improvement in optimism is very welcome as we start 2023.  

“With pay expectations tempering, trade expectations set to improve, and a clearer way forward on energy price support, this may give businesses a bit more certainty and the confidence they need to inspire investment and promote growth.” 

Hann-Ju Ho, senior economist for Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “Business confidence continues to improve following the December boost. Firms are clearly more optimistic about the wider economy and this is driving the increase, helped by precursory signs that wage and other cost pressures may be easing. 

“It is still a tough environment for businesses, with high energy bills remaining a concern during the winter months, but there are grounds for optimism for 2023 if inflation starts to trend lower.”