Lloyds Bank has appointed Jamie Kemp to the role of Invoice Finance Area Director for Scotland and the North East, as it strengthens its support for businesses across the region.
Jamie has over 11 years of experience in the finance sector, with experiencing spanning across retail, private and commercial banking. Over the last 4 years, Jamie has specialised in Invoice Finance and has been recognised by UK Finance as their Top Foundation and Certificate student.
In his latest role, Jamie held the title of Business Planning Manager for the Invoice & Asset Finance Sales division where he was responsible for overseeing and supporting national delivery and performance.
Jamie Kemp commented:“I am delighted to lead a team of highly experienced Invoice Finance professionals to deliver bespoke solutions for small to medium sized enterprises. The current climate is making the cost of operating more and more challenging for businesses.
“I’m looking forward to supporting those businesses based in the North East and Scotland through these challenging times as much as possible in my new role alongside my team.”
Ben Stephenson, the Head of Specialist Client Solutions at Lloyds Bank, added:“We are pleased to welcome Jamie into the role of Invoice Finance Area Director. He brings with him a wealth of banking and finance experience, which will stand him in good stead to excel in this role and provide exceptional service for our clients.”
While starting his new role, Jamie is also hiring for an Invoice Finance Field Sales position (Associate Director level) based in and around Glasgow. The role has been designed to attract enthusiastic and talented individuals which may be new to the Invoice Finance industry.
It offers a substantial period of training, supported by a comprehensive learning plan, which includes undertaking the Invoice Finance Foundation Course, UK Finance’s entry-level qualification. This should ensure that the successful candidate has the best possible start to a career in Invoice Finance.
Households are being offered 23 money-saving hacks to use in 2023 as experts reveal the best ways to save little and often throughout the year
Consumer experts at NetVoucherCodes.co.uk have identified useful ways to save cash by completing monthly saving challenges as well as advice on how to knock hundreds off holiday expenses.
The cost-of-living crisis spiralled over the last year and the rising costs of food and expenses have left families worried about how they can manage their finances in the new year.
Brits can save little and often by taking early preventive steps to save their cash, from sticking to a digital budget planner to track how much they’re spending, to investing in a smart meter so they can monitor how much gas and electricity is being used in the home.
Lucinda Fox, online consumer expert at NetVoucherCodes.co.uk said: “December is one of the most expensive months of the year, which is why many families are left tight for cash when it comes to January.
“We’ve faced one of the toughest years when it comes to saving money, as every household expense has been rising from petrol to food and of course our energy bills.
“As we head into 2023, we’re offering households simple tips on how to stick to measurable budgets so they don’t have to worry about overspending or be left strapped for cash towards the end of the year.
“We’ve found various ways to save over the next year such as following budget planners and booking holidays a year in advance.”
Start the year off by investing in a digital budget planner so you can visually track how much you’re spending and in which areas. This way you can monitor which outgoings can be cut down to help save hundreds off your monthly budget.
Get a smart meter
Having the physical amount in front of you can let you see clearly how much is being spent on gas and electricity. It means you can knock £20 off the electric bill if devices that aren’t being used are still turned on.
Start a side hustle
A savvy way to earn extra cash in the new year is to earn more and spend less by starting a side hustle. This can simply be done from home whether it’s selling clothing on apps or completing free online surveys to earn rewards.
Enter free giveaways
Social media giveaways are also an easy way to grab a freebie. While it’s all down to chance, it’s worth doing as the only effort you’ll likely be putting in is following the company’s social page and tagging a friend in the comments.
Set measurable savings goals
While it’s great to save as much as possible, don’t just throw everything into savings only to realise there’s not enough money left to pay for the bills. Be reasonable with how much you can save and by putting aside a steady amount to start with.
Shop during sale events
January sales are one of the prime sales events over the year, where many retailers knock down their prices after the Christmas rush. If you have family or friends with birthdays coming up, make the most out of the sales to save on the costs.
Book 2024/25 holidays now
When it comes to travel prices, the earlier you book, the better. Many companies offer zero deposit schemes where you pay the holiday off on a cheaper monthly basis rather than all in one go. Have a look at travel voucher codes to save up to 30% on future trips.
Shop around for deals
Have a look at different outlets offering the same type of products, both online and in-person. This also applies to supermarkets during seasonal events where better promotions can be found by shopping around.
Join community groups for free activities
Signing up for online community groups means you have access to wider information about free local activities going on in the area. This will help even further when it comes to half term to prevent overspending on days out.
Sign up for loyalty schemes
Each time you decide to shop at a retailer, have a look if they have an app available or go straight to their website and join their reward schemes. This can result in freebies or discounts on your next visit.
Book free cancellation trips
Booking free cancellation trips can provide extra insurance to get money back on a cancelled trip. This can be extremely helpful if there are ongoing strikes over the course of 2023 that could impact you getting to your destination.
Sign up for email subscriptions
Even if they end up in your junk mail, it’s worth signing up for email subscriptions every time you purchase an item online, as you can be offered exclusive free items or early discounts before they go live to other consumers.
Freeze leftovers from Sunday roasts
Freezing food and meal prepping is always a handy way to save on food costs. With prices set to rise again in the new year, it’s also worth saving the leftovers from a Sunday roast and batch-cooking them into lunches for the rest of the week to save a few quid.
The 50:30:20 split
A popular TikTok trend from 2022 is one to follow through in the new year. When the monthly wage comes through, allocate 50% of it on bills and essentials, 30% on leisure and 20% on savings.
Use a credit card
When buying a large purchase item, pay for it on finance or directly by credit card to build up your credit score. But only do so if you can realistically manage to fit the payment into the monthly budget.
Have spend-free weekends
Dedicate one weekend a month where you’re going to have a spend-free weekend, where you can go for long walks in the park, get crafty in the kitchen with existing cupboard ingredients, or even just settle down and binge-watch a new TV show.
Use fakeaway recipes
A fakeaway is always a delicious budget treat to have on a Saturday night. Fried chicken and homemade pizzas might take a little longer to make but the rewards are just as tasty.
Notepad mystery box
Write down different amounts you’d like to put into your savings on separate pieces of paper and put them into a bowl. Every Sunday, draw out a different amount to determine how much money you will be putting into your savings that week. This is a great way to save little and often, just remember to keep it realistic!
Check for tax rebates
Often many find themselves accidentally paying too much tax, which can be reclaimed on the Government website. Even if it’s £30 – it’s still worth a look.
Take part in free subscription trials
Brands offer freebies by signing up for subscription deals, whether it’s entertainment packages or beauty products. These can often be cancelled shortly after, so make sure to do so to prevent being charged.
Stick to non-branded foods
These can cost nearly 50% less compared to other products even if there’s a lack of difference in price and quality. Veggies and meats often taste the same so it’s worth investing in the non-branded versions to cut down on weekly meals.
Put locks on banking pots
Virtual banks often allow for savings pots to be locked and only accessible on certain dates. Having the visual lock on display can help prevent the temptation of taking cash out on a frequent basis.
Stick to the plan
Don’t just stick to the budget for January and forget about it for the rest of the year, make it a personal goal that you’ll stick to the saving targets so that the rewards will be greater by the end of next year.
Scotland’s ambition to become Europe’s leading space nation by 2030 is being given a boost under the guidance of a group of global experts from the space industry.
The Scotland International Space Advisory Committee (SISAC) consists of members of the Scottish Government’s GlobalScot programme – a network of Scots in business around the world – who have come together voluntarily to provide advice and identify opportunities to achieve a £4 billion share of the global space market and 20,000 jobs in the sector over the next seven years.
Scotland is making huge advances in the space sector, with the first orbital launch from Scottish soil due in 2023.
Both SaxaVord Spaceport in Shetland and Space Hub Sutherland – working alongside Scottish-based launch manufacturers – are months away from lift off. Space Hub Sutherland will host launches by owners Orbex from next year.
SaxaVord Spaceport will offer a multi-pad, multi-user, launch facility with multiple launch partners, including Scottish-based Skyrora which has developed its own eco-friendly fuel, Ecosene, made of waste plastics.
As well as its launch capabilities, Scotland is also world leading in small satellite manufacturing, with Glasgow building more satellites than any other place in Europe. Expertise in data gathering and analysis makes Scotland the data driven capital of Europe, hosting the largest centre for informatics and having more than 170 data sciences companies.
And our world class research institutions have been demonstrated, as Scottish skills and innovation played an important role in the development of the instruments on board the James Webb Space Telescope.
Business Minister Ivan McKee said: “Space brings great opportunity for Scotland in terms of the economic development it delivers, its relevance for the climate change agenda and the power it has to inspire the next generation. That is why the Scottish Government has identified it as a priority in our National Strategy for Economic Transformation.
“The space sector is a key opportunity for the future, and we will continue to build on our strengths. The expertise and insight offered by the members of SISAC will be hugely beneficial to our progress.
“I am grateful to the members of this new committee for volunteering to come together to help Scotland live up to its full potential in growing the space sector.”
Chair of SISAC Joanna Peters said: “It is the intent of the SISAC to help fuel and ignite a national passion toward a space-based economy by capitalising on its strong heritage of exploration, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
“Working with the GlobalScot organisation and our network of national and international leaders, we aim to develop strategic recommendations, building upon precise and transparent advocacy, influence, consultation, and development.”
As pupils and students return to school following the Christmas break, UKHSA is reminding people that winter illnesses continue to circulate at high levels.
Following simple steps can help protect children, minimise the spread of illness in education and childcare settings and protect wider communities.
Professor Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Adviser at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), said: “It’s important to minimise the spread of infection in schools and other education and childcare settings as much as possible. If your child is unwell and has a fever, they should stay home from school or nursery until they feel better and the fever has resolved.
“Helping children to learn about the importance of good hand hygiene is also key, so practice regular handwashing at home with soap and warm water. Catching coughs and sneezes in tissues then binning them is another simple way to help stop illness from spreading.
“Adults should also try to stay home when unwell and if you do have to go out, wear a face covering. When unwell don’t visit healthcare settings or visit vulnerable people unless urgent.
“Remember that flu vaccination is still available for all eligible groups and is the best protection against the virus. We have seen good uptake in older age groups but vaccination among young children remains low. Flu can be very unpleasant and in some cases can lead to more serious illness. Getting your child vaccinated protects them and others they come into contact with, and it’s still not too late.”
Scotland is set for a week of unsettled weather as the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), Scotland’s flood forecasting and warning authority, is advising Scots and visitors to Scotland to keep updated, be mindful of potential disruption, and plan ahead for any travel across the period to the weekend.
The guidance comes after last week’s significant flooding in the run-up to New Year which saw Scotland’s environment protection agency issue 10 Regional flood alerts, 29 local flood warnings and a severe flood warning in place for Dumfries. Impacts across the country were significant, with levels at the River Nith being the highest ever recorded, and higher than Storm Frank in 2015 and flooding in December 1982.
Across the coming days, prolonged rainfall on Tuesday and Wednesday, combined with melting snow, is likely to see minor river and surface water flooding, across the country, with the potential for impact on transport routes.
Whilst peak river levels in Southern Scotland, including the Tweed and the Nith, are expected to be well below those experienced last week, given the saturated nature of the ground, minor disruption is likely on some transport routes with isolated property flooding in places.
Marc Becker, Flood Duty Manager at the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), said: “Across New Year’s week we’ll see Scotland face a further period of unsettled weather.
“Prolonged rainfall on Tuesday a”nd Wednesday, combined with melting snow, is likely to see minor river and surface water flooding, across the country, with the potential for impact on transport routes.
“Whilst peak river levels in Southern Scotland, including the Tweed and the Nith, are expected to be well below those experienced last week, given the saturated nature of the ground, minor disruption is likely on some transport routes with isolated property flooding in places.
“Across the week we’ll see Scots and visitors to Scotland out and about, travelling home or returning to work. We’re urging people to keep updated, register for SEPA’s free Floodline messaging service, be mindful of potential disruption, and plan ahead for any travel across the period to the weekend.”
Scots can add one more New Year’s resolution by signing-up for SEPA’s free Floodline message service by calling 0345 988 1188 or by clicking floodlinescotland.org.uk
Staying informed
Check the latest information on SEPA’s regional Flood Alerts and local Flood Warnings at sepa.org.uk/floodupdates.
Don’t walk through flood water – 15cm of fast flowing water could be enough to knock you off your feet and hazards can be hidden under the water.
Drive with care, and do not travel through deep fast flowing water. It only takes 30cm of fast flowing water to move an average family sized car.
If you’re walking beside rivers be extra careful of wet footpaths and small watercourses.
Consider deploying flooding protection products if required.
What’s the difference between a Flood Alert and a Flood Warning?
We use forecast weather information provided by the Met Office combined with our own observation of rainfall and river levels and advanced hydrological modelling to provide advance warning of flooding.
Regional Flood Alerts are early advice that flooding is possible across a wider geographical area. The purpose of the Alerts is to make people aware of the risk of flooding and be prepared. We normally issue them 12 to 24 hours in advance of the possibility of flooding.
Flood Warnings are more locally specific and are issued for areas where we have gauges on rivers to measure the exact river height. They are issued at shorter notice when we are more certain that a specific area will be affected.
An increasing number of respiratory viruses in Lothian is heaping extra pressure on the hospital system.
Cases of Flu are surging and there are still high levels of COVID andRespiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), as well as norovirus, causing hospitals and GPs in Lothian to be stretched beyond capacity.
Calum Campbell, Chief Executive, NHS Lothian, said the sector as a whole was already experiencing significant pressures because of an increase in emergency patients and large numbers of delayed discharge patients, before this latest increase in infection rates.
He added: “Our teams across the health and social care system are facing sustained and relentless challenge. The system is under horrendous pressure and the challenges our teams are facing are uncharted.
“We are experiencing more cases of infection – flu, COVID and RSV, as well as norovirus – than ever before.
“In order to maintain our patient flow through the hospital and retain beds for the most urgent of cases, we need to support people to go home quicker after their treatment and reduce any preventable admissions. That is where the public can help.
“Please take sensible precautions to prevent infection, especially if you have underlying health conditions or plan to be with those that do””
The Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, St John’s Hospital, the Western General Hospital and the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People are all at full capacity.
Dona Milne, Director of Public Health and Health Policy, NHS Lothian, urged people to help reduce the spread of infections to protect themselves and the most vulnerable in their communities.
She said: “Although they can be mild infections for many, RSV and Flu can be extremely serious for some people causing them to require urgent hospital treatment. We have now reached extraordinary levels of flu in Scotland that we haven’t seen for many years.”
“We are asking anyone who has cold or flu like symptoms to help limit the spread of infection and reduce the chances of passing it to someone who will become very unwell.
“Stay at home if you feel unwell. And if you do have to go out, please wear a mask. People should also remember to wash their hands, and cough or sneeze into a tissue and bin it.”
People in Lothian are also being reminded to stock up their medicine cabinets with paracetamol and cold remedies so they can treat common illnesses at home.
Anyone who has cold type symptoms, such as a runny nose or mild cough, or who has a sore throat without a temperature and can eat and drink, is likely to have a viral illness and does not need to contact their GP. They should drink plenty of fluids and rest and get additional help and advice from NHS Inform or their local pharmacy.
The most up to date information on Strep A can be found at:
– Over 50 per cent of the range has been cut in price –
Morrisons is cutting 130 prices across its entry-level products to help customers’ money go further throughout the January squeeze.
The cuts include important fresh and frozen products for family meals and lunch boxes, together with cupboard essentials and household products to help customers across their shop.
Morrisons has invested over £16 million to make these cuts as customers look for help on their weekly shop after the expense of Christmas and as the cost of living crisis continues to impact household grocery budgets.
Fresh products such as bacon, cooked chicken and cheese which can be used to make hearty meals have had their prices reduced as well as fruit and vegetables including apples, pears and potatoes.
Frozen ready meals, fish fingers and prawns have been cut along with cupboard fillers like tins of beans, chopped tomatoes and tuna chunks. Household essentials such as laundry powder, washing up liquid and dishwasher tablets have also seen their prices slashed as have toothbrushes, toothpaste and sanitary products.
Morrisons entry level range has 263 products, 28 of which were new additions within the last six months. This month the range will grow further with the introduction of cherry tomatoes, easy peel oranges, green beans and mixed peppers.
David Potts, Chief Executive, Morrisons, said:“Our Savers range offers customers great value on the products they buy every day.
“We want to do all we can to help when it comes to the cost of grocery shopping and by investing in the range and cutting the prices further, our customers will see a noticeable impact on their budgets at a time when they really need it.”
Morrisons price cuts will be communicated to customers via TV, radio, press, digital display and social media as well as email and online activity.
On the website, the Savers range will be highlighted on the homepage under Morrisons ‘More Way to Save’ section and until January 22nd, the seasonal aisle in Morrisons stores will feature displays of the ambient Savers products in one place to help customers shop the breadth of the range, while the fresh and frozen items will have prominent displays in their aisles to help customers identify them.
SAVERS PRICE CUTS: BREAKFAST EXAMPLES
WAS
NOW
MORRISONS SAVERS WHITE LOAF MEDIUM SLICED 720g
£0.45
£0.39
MORRISONS SAVERS ORANGE MARMALADE 454G
£0.52
£0.33
MORRISONS SAVERS ORANGE JUICE FROM CONCENTRATE 1L
£0.89
£0.75
MORRISONS SAVERS MUESLI 1KG
£1.39
£1.25
SAVERS PRICE CUTS: MID-WEEK DINNER EXAMPLES
WAS
NOW
MORRISONS SAVERS ITALIAN STYLE HARD CHEESE 170G
£1.70
£1.59
MORRISONS SAVERS PASTA SAUCE 440G
£0.57
£0.39
MORRISONS SAVERS LONG GRAIN RICE 1KG
£0.71
£0.48
MORRISONS SAVERS TUNA CHUNKS IN BRINE 145G
£0.65
£0.55
MORRISONS SAVERS CHILLI CON CARNE 392G
£1.49
£0.97
MORRISONS SAVERS PLUM TOMATOES IN TOMATO JUICE 400G
Explore unspoilt beaches, abundant wildlife, and beautifully quaint streets on a visit to … Scotland.
It doesn’t get bonnier than the country’s best-kept secret, the magnificent South West coast, which is why Rabbie’s (www.rabbies.com) is offering a new, unforgettable two-day tour to the hidden gem.
Journeying from the grandest forest in the UK to a castle scarred by the brutal battles of the past, Rabbie’s Scenic South West of Scotland tour encompasses both the stunning beauty and fascinating history of Scotland, and is available to book now with tours starting in May 2023.
On the two-day tour, visitors will navigate the historically rich and environmentally stunning region. Head deep into the largest forest in the UK, Galloway Forest, to look up at the dark skies and be left in awe at the stunning night sky above.
Travel to Scotland’s most southern point, the Mull of Galloway, to enjoy amazing views of the peninsula’s wildlife and cliffs. Trek through the ancient woodland and mountain vistas located in the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere. With memorable views of the lochs and mountains, enjoy this peaceful walk through a truly untouched wilderness.
Join Rabbie’s Two-Day Scenic South West of Scotland tour departing from Glasgow from £145 per person.
For more information about Rabbie’s and its tour offerings, visit www.rabbies.com.
Drivers are being warned to check their car components to ensure their vehicle survives the harshness of winter weather.
Motoring experts fromLeaseCar.uk are urging drivers to follow their winter vehicle survival guide by checking the engine’s coolness and monitoring oil levels to ensure their safety on the road.
With heavy rain and snowstorms expected over the next few months, the coldness of winter weather can worsen the condition of car components quicker.
Driving in winter can already be quite a challenge for motorists, but following this guide can help to ensure motorists are protected and don’t have to worry about their car breaking down.
Tim Alcock fromLeaseCar.uk said: “Winter can be one of the toughest times for drivers on the road as the disruptive change in weather can damage a vehicle’s durability.
Image credit: Pexels
“Winter-proofing your car by regularly checking tyre pressure and knowing what to look out for when the car battery is damaged can not only prevent you from serious harm but other drivers too.
“This useful guide will help motorists prepare for the winter cold and which noticeable red flags to look out for when hitting the roads.”
Here is LeaseCar.uk’s winter vehicle guide to keep safe and protect your car:
1. Tyres
In colder weather, tyre pressure tends to drop drastically and if you notice your car starting to sway, this could be down to underinflation. Tyre pressure decreases every 10 degrees, so it’s vital to check the levels every two weeks and inflate when needed, otherwise it can lead to difficulties when braking and accelerating.
2. Oil
Oil tends to thicken in chilly temperatures, which can make it difficult to pump through the engine. It’s recommended to use 5W30 oil in winter to help with thinning the oil to ensure the car runs smoothly.
3. Car battery
Turn on the car for a few minutes before setting off to decrease the chances of the batteries stalling. Once the temperature drops, less power will be omitted which can make it difficult to start the vehicle up in the cold winter mornings. If the problem repeatedly happens, immediately take it to a mechanic, as it could mean the battery has broken from the cold and will need replacing.
4. Bulbs
As the days get darker throughout winter, make sure the front lights and brake lights are fully working before setting off on your journey. Lights not only give us a clear view of the road but they ensure we’re visible to other drivers. Failure to check your lights can lead to a fixed fine if your brake lights aren’t working; if broken visit the nearer garage as soon as possible.
5. Heating
The feeling of warming up in the car when the weather is freezing outside is indescribable, however it can become quite easy for the heating to stop working during these conditions. This will mean there is a fault with the engine coolant, which could be blocked or even worse, a leak, which would mean it needs to be taken in for repairs.
