June 14th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

Potholes can cause serious problems for cyclists. A sudden impact can throw you from your bike, force you into traffic or cause a collision with another road user.

If you are involved in a cycling accident caused by a pothole, taking the right steps afterwards can help to protect your health and safety. It can also make it easier to keep a clear record of what happened, what injuries were caused and what losses you experienced.

Check for Injuries and Move to Safety

Your first priority should be safety. Check yourself and anyone else involved for injuries. If anyone needs urgent medical attention, call 999 straight away.

If it is safe to do so, move away from traffic. Move your bicycle out of the road if you can do this without risk. If the accident has happened in a busy area, stay in a safe place and wait for help.

Do not put yourself at risk by standing in the road to inspect the pothole or take photographs.

Even if you feel able to continue your journey, you should seek medical advice if you have any pain, discomfort or signs of injury. Some symptoms can become more noticeable later. A medical record may also be useful if you decide to seek advice about a cycling accident claim.

Record the Location of the Pothole

Once it is safe, make a note of the exact location of the pothole. This may include:

• The road name
• The nearest house number, junction or landmark
• The direction you were cycling
• Whether the pothole was in a cycle lane or close to the kerb
• The date and time of the accident

You can also use your phone to drop a pin on a map. Apps such as What3Words can also help you record a precise location. This can be useful if the pothole is on a long road or in an area without clear landmarks.

Take Photographs and Videos

Evidence can help show what happened and the condition of the road at the time of the accident. If it is safe, take clear photographs or videos of:

• The pothole
• The surrounding road
• Damage to your bicycle
• Damage to your helmet
• Damage to your clothing or cycling equipment
• Skid marks, debris or loose road surface
• The weather and lighting conditions
• Any visible injuries

Try to include something for scale, such as a shoe or water bottle. Only do this if you can stay safe and avoid stepping into traffic.

If it is not safe to take photographs at the scene, you may be able to return later when the road is quieter. You should only do this if it is safe and lawful.

Get Details From Witnesses

If anyone saw the accident happen, ask for their name and contact details if you are able to do so.

Witnesses may be able to confirm that the pothole caused the cycling accident. This can be especially useful if the road defect was hard to see, if another road user was involved or if the accident happened quickly.

You do not need to ask them for a formal statement at the scene. A personal injury solicitor can take witness statements later if you decide to make a claim.

If another road user was involved, exchange details with them as you would after any road traffic accident. Where a vehicle was involved, take the driver’s name, contact details, registration number and insurance details.

Report the Pothole to the Right Authority

Potholes are usually the responsibility of the local council or highways authority. The organisation responsible will depend on the type of road and where the accident happened.

You should report the pothole as soon as possible. This can create a record of the road defect. It may also help reduce the risk of another cyclist or road user being injured.

When you report it, include the location, photographs and any details about the accident. Keep a copy of your report and any reference number you receive.

Consider Whether to Report the Incident to Your Insurer

A cycling solicitor will be able to include all relevant losses in your cycling accident claim. This includes injury-related losses, treatment costs, rehabilitation needs, damaged equipment, lost earnings and other expenses linked to the accident.

You may also want to consider whether you should report the incident to your insurer. If you decide to do this, give accurate details about the date, time, location and circumstances. Keep copies of any emails, letters and notes of phone calls.

Keep Records of All Losses

A pothole cycling accident can involve more than damage to your bike. Depending on what happened, you may also experience other losses.

Keep records of any:

• Bicycle repair costs
• Bicycle replacement costs
• Helmet replacement costs
• Cycling equipment replacement costs
• Alternative transport costs
• Medical appointment costs
• Prescription costs
• Evidence of time away from work
• Damage to personal items
• Care or support needs

You should keep receipts, invoices, bank statements and written confirmation from your employer if you needed time away from work.

Do Not Arrange Repairs Before Gathering Evidence

You may need to repair your bicycle quickly, especially if you rely on it for commuting or family commitments. However, before repairs are carried out, take photographs of the damage.

You should also ask the bike shop or mechanic for a written report or estimate. They may be able to confirm whether the damage is consistent with hitting a pothole.

Keep damaged items where possible. This may include your helmet, clothing, lights, panniers or other cycling equipment. These items may help show the force of the impact and the effect of the accident.

Consider Whether You Could Make a Claim

If a pothole caused your cycling accident, you may be able to seek compensation for your injuries, bicycle damage and related losses. These claims may be made against the council, highways authority or another organisation responsible for maintaining the road.

Useful evidence may show:

• Where the pothole was
• What condition the road was in
• How the cycling accident happened
• What injuries were caused
• What damage was caused
• What losses you experienced

As well as keeping your own record of events, you should speak to a specialist solicitor. They can explain your options, gather further evidence and advise whether cycling accident compensation may be available.

Why a Pothole Cycling Accident Should Not Be Treated As Bad Luck

It is easy to dismiss a pothole cycling accident as bad luck. This can be especially true if the damage seems minor at first. However, roads must be maintained to a safe standard. A dangerous pothole may show that the issue should have been repaired sooner.

Reporting the pothole and raising the issue with the right authority can also help protect other cyclists and road users.

If the accident has caused injury, bicycle damage or other losses, it is worth understanding whether you have grounds to take the matter further. A cycling accident solicitor can review what happened and explain whether you may be able to claim compensation.

June 12th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

New research by Nationwide suggests 2026 summer holiday plans are being reshaped due to global uncertainty, with many opting to delay or cancel trips, stay in the UK or keep options open.

This is backed by Nationwide’s own spending data, which highlights a -1.2% fall in average holiday spending year on year. Customers spent an average of £498 on holidays between January and April last 2025, compared to £492 in the same period this year, reinforcing signs of more cautious consumer behaviour.

The poll of 2,000 people, conducted in May, found that almost a quarter (23%) say global events have already changed their holiday plans. Among those affected, the most common responses include delaying decisions (28%), increasing flexibility (22%) and booking UK holidays instead of travelling abroad (23%). Others are choosing cheaper trips (17%) or shorter breaks (16%), while some 15 per cent are cancelling holidays altogether (15%), or switching to day trips (15%).

Concerns linked to Iran and fuel costs are influencing decisions, with 18 per cent of those whose plans have changed saying this is a reason they are not going away this year. Overall nervousness remains high, with over four in ten (41%) cautious about booking holidays and a third holding off or keeping plans flexible.

Mark Nalder, Payments Director at Nationwide, said: “Our latest research shows that uncertainty this year is having a clear impact on people’s holiday plans. It could also be we are seeing the rise of the ‘delaycation’ as many choose to delay booking holidays, while a growing number are cancelling plans or opting for UK staycations to keep a tighter grip on their finances and budgets. Quick transfer features and budgeting tools like those on our app can be a big help when balancing spending and manage money when plans change”.

June 10th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

British Airways and American Express are celebrating 25 years of partnership with an exclusive anniversary Avios-Only flight from London Heathrow to New York JFK for British Airways American Express^® Cardmembers.

Departing on 15 October 2026 and returning on 18 October 2026, the one-off flight will offer exclusive discounts across every cabin, with every seat onboard available exclusively to eligible Cardmembers booking with Avios.

Return tickets will start from just 25,000 Avios in World Traveller – in a nod to the milestone anniversary – with no cash payment required, giving Cardmembers exceptional value. British Airways American Express^® Cardmembers can register interest here, from today until 23.59 (BST) on 24 June 2026, to ensure they receive booking instructions ahead of booking opening on 15 July 2026.

To mark the 25-year anniversary, Cardmembers will be treated to a one-of-a-kind getaway. In addition to an exclusive onboard experience, including specially curated food and drink offerings, there will be an invitation to a private event at the iconic One Vanderbilt in Manhattan with spectacular views across the New York skyline.

Customers travelling in First will also receive a complimentary BLADE helicopter transfer between JFK and Manhattan upon arrival, taking Avios redemptions to new heights.

Caroline Bouvet, Vice President, UK Products at American Express, said: “Through our 25-year partnership with British Airways we have rewarded our Cardmembers’ everyday spending with valuable travel rewards and memorable experiences. We’re delighted to celebrate this milestone with our mutual customers through an exclusive anniversary flight, combining exceptional Avios value with a truly memorable trip to New York.”

Colm Lacy, Chief Commercial Officer, British Airways, said: “For 25 years, our partnership with American Express has set the standard for rewarding loyalty, creating exceptional travel experiences for millions of customers. This exclusive anniversary flight is a fitting way to celebrate that milestone, and we’re delighted to be giving cardmembers the chance to turn their loyalty into a truly unforgettable journey to New York.”

Cardmembers who register will receive booking instructions the day before booking opens. From 15 July 2026, they will be able to book up to four seats in their chosen cabin and may also use up to two Companion Vouchers. Any additional travellers do not need to be Cardmembers.

To be eligible to book, Cardmembers must register their interest before 23:59 (BST) on 24 June and have sufficient Avios in their own British Airways Club account for all the seats they wish to purchase. Seats are limited and will be offered to pre-registered Cardmembers on a first-come, first-served basis once bookings open.

June 8th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

If you aren’t in control of your finances, then it’s reasonable to claim that you aren’t in control of your life or your destiny. Your long-term spending priorities, like a deposit for a house, or a pension pot, might end up being undermined by short-term, frivolous spending decisions.

So, how can we solve this problem? Let’s take a look a few key tips for staying in control of your spending.

Understand Where Your Money Is Going

Before you attempt to cut costs in a meaningful way, you’ll need an idea of what those costs amount to. Get a budget together for the average month. Review old bank statements, and try to divide spending into essential and non-essential. Fortunately, many modern digital banking services will provide tools that make this much easier to do.

Cut Household Bills Without Cutting Comfort

Of course, just because a give expense is ‘essential’ doesn’t mean that you can’t lower it. By comparing services and costs from different energy, broadband, and mobile phone providers, you may find that you can save money without compromising on the quality of the service you enjoy.

Shop Smarter Rather Than Spending Less

Often, you might find that spending big on quality items might help you to spend less in the long term. Price comparison services, discounts, and loyalty schemes might all offer scope for savings. The same goes for the second-hand market, which can often lead to major savings, too. Second-hand jewellery often represents much greater value than the pieces you buy fresh off the rack.

In short, cutting down on spending doesn’t always mean that you need to give up the things that you really appreciate. If you go into the task of reviewing your spending thinking that you’re going to end up giving things up, then you’re likely to put it off – perhaps indefinitely. But the truth is that this is rarely necessary.

Find Everyday Savings That Add Up Over Time

Often, it’s not the major items of spending that make the biggest difference, but the small, seemingly minor ones. It’s easy to leave savings on the table when it comes to things like food shopping, transport, and energy usage, because these areas of spending so often amount to a myriad of smaller costs.

For example, when it comes to spending on energy, you might find that changes in your heating habits make a big difference to the amount you spend over the course of a given winter. Try to keep the temperature on your thermostat low, and to dial down the temperature in rooms that don’t need it, like hallways and spare bedrooms. In the long term, the savings that you accrue will add up.

Finally, you might consider performing a financial ‘health check’ every so often. This is a review that will ensure that your spending remains aligned with your goals, and that you haven’t slipped back into bad habits.

June 5th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

In order for a person to have been the victim of negligence, by definition, they will need to have suffered harm. This harm can take many forms, including financial harm – and determining the extent of this financial harm can have a direct bearing on the amount of compensation a court is willing to pay.

Understanding what professional negligence can cost

The money we lose out on because of professional negligence can be direct, or indirect. You might pay for a service that falls below the expected standard, like a lawyer, consultant, or surveyor. Or, you might suffer additional expenses as you rectify all of the problems caused by the service. Or, you might miss out on opportunities to make money, that you would otherwise have been able to take advantage of. For example, if you’ve been given advice that causes you to lose your ability to drive, then you might end up losing work in your job as a tradesperson.

The hidden financial consequences beyond the initial loss

Of course, the costs we endure are sometimes compounded by knock-on effects. If you have had to borrow money in order to cover your expenses, then you’ll also face the cost of interest. If you’ve been given bad advice, then you might have found yourself in legal trouble. Delays in a given project, or disruption of the services that your business would have provided, should also be considered.

In other words, it’s a mistake to focus solely on the immediate financial impact of the negligence you’ve suffered. Instead, assess the full extent of your losses, and try to gather as much evidence as possible.

Gathering evidence and documenting financial losses

The more detailed the paper trail that you present to the court, the greater the likelihood of compensation. This might include financial records, invoices, reports from experts, and other correspondence. Think about the specific claims you’re making, and what evidence might support them. This is where the right specialist legal advice from professional negligence solicitors can be crucial: it will help you to distinguish between good evidence and bad evidence.

Exploring routes to financial recovery

The right way to get back on your feet might vary, depending on the extent and nature of the losses you’ve suffered. You might set in motion a complaints procedure, or try to reach a settlement through one of several alternative dispute resolution methods. Most cases of this kind are clear-cut, and a good lawyer will be able to determine in advance whether a payout is likely. This will allow both sides to avoid the costs of a protracted legal dispute in court.

June 4th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

American Express has launched a series of limited-time ‘Invite a Friend’ offers across eight Consumer Cards and two Business Cards. Available until 21 July 2026, these offers give existing Cardmembers and their referred friends the chance to earn enhanced Avios, Cashback, and Membership Rewards^® points.

Harry Mole, Vice President at American Express, said: “At American Express, we reward our Cardmembers through their everyday spending, and these limited-time referral offers give existing Cardmembers and their friends and family even more ways to enjoy the benefits and experiences their Cards can unlock this summer – whether they’re travelling, dining out or enjoying live entertainment and sporting events.”

The Platinum Card^®

Successfully referred friends can earn 80,000 bonus points when they spend £6,000 in the first three months – worth £400 in Gift Cards*. Existing Platinum Cardmembers can also earn 25,000 Membership Rewards points for a successful referral. T&Cs Apply.

Platinum Cardmembers earn 1 Membership Rewards point for every £1 spent on purchases. Other Card benefits include £400 in global dining statement credit each year, complimentary access to over 1,550 airport lounges, and elevated hotel benefits. The Platinum Card^® has a representative APR of 685.3% variable, incorporating a £650 annual fee.

American Express® Preferred Rewards Gold Credit Card

Successfully referred friends can earn 35,000 bonus points when they spend £3,000 in the first three months – equivalent to £175 in Gift Cards*. Existing Gold Cardmembers can also earn 20,000 Membership Rewards points when they refer a friend who is approved. T&Cs Apply.

Gold Cardmembers earn 1 Membership Rewards point for every £1 spent on purchases. Other Card benefits include up to £10 back each month on Deliveroo and four complimentary Priority Pass™ airport lounge visits every year.

The Gold Card has a representative APR of 85.8% variable, calculated including a £195 annual fee. The Card has no annual fee for new Cardmembers in the first year.

American Express^® Business Cards

American Express^® Business Gold⁴ and American Express^® Business Platinum⁵ Cardmembers can also benefit from this limited-time offer until 21 July 2026.

Business Gold Cardmembers can earn 25,000 Membership Rewards^® points for each successful referral, while Business Platinum Cardmembers can earn up to 35,000 points. Referred businesses can also earn boosted welcome bonuses – 50,000 points for Business Gold and 90,000 for Business Platinum, when they’re approved and meet the spend threshold in the first three months. 90,000 points are worth £450 in Gift Cards*. T&Cs Apply.

About Membership Rewards^®

The Membership Rewards Programme is available on selected American Express Consumer, Business and Corporate Cards. In addition to transferring points to hotel and airline partners, Cardmembers can use their points on almost anything they buy on their Card, from online shopping to reducing their Card balance.

Additional enhanced ‘Invite a friend’ offers

Existing and new Cardmembers can also earn enhanced cashback, Avios and points bonuses across six other Consumer Cards.

May 29th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

Many founders step into minority investment deals thinking ownership equals control, only to find the fine print shapes decisions far more than they expected.

Minority funding can still be a smart route, especially when you’re working with experienced investors from a mid-market private equity background who understand growth journeys. And it’s becoming even more relevant, with a growing focus in the UK on improving access to equity funding for founders, such as the £500m government investment to boost growth and opportunity. The difference comes down to how deliberately you approach the structure.

Assuming minority investment means full control

Holding more than 50% of the equity doesn’t automatically mean you call the shots. Investors often negotiate rights that influence decisions regardless of shareholding, so you can end up with less freedom than you expected.

You might see this in practice when founders want to move quickly, like hiring a senior leader or entering a new market, and suddenly need sign-off they didn’t factor in.

Focus on how decisions get made rather than just how equity is split. Push for clarity on which decisions remain entirely yours and which require approval, then stress test those scenarios against your growth plans.

Failure to plan governance and shareholder protections

A minority deal only works smoothly when governance is properly mapped out. Without a solid shareholders’ agreement and aligned articles, there might be confusion and friction. Good governance shapes how decisions get made and how accountable people are when the pressure’s on, something wider UK guidance consistently reinforces

For example, agreeing in advance on how budgets get approved or how disputes escalate can save you from stalled decisions when cash flow tightens or strategy changes.

Overlooking future funding implications

Every clause you agree to today shapes your next raise, and founders often underestimate how restrictive that can be.

Investors may secure rights to maintain their ownership in future rounds or limit your ability to bring in new capital on certain terms. That can slow you down when you need funding quickly or force compromises on valuation.

Map out your next two funding rounds before you agree to anything and check the deal supports that path.

Not understanding the impact of negative control clauses

Negative control sounds technical, but it has very real day-to-day consequences. These clauses allow minority investors to block specific decisions, even if they don’t run the business.

In practice, this might cover taking on debt or approving major spend. You might still run operations, but key strategic moves sit behind a gate you don’t fully control.

May 29th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

You move money online almost without noticing. A quick tap pays for shopping and subscriptions renew in the background. That ease saves time, but it also creates opportunities for criminals. You rarely see the risk until something goes wrong, and by then the damage can feel frustratingly avoidable. A few deliberate habits can change that. When you slow down slightly and question what sits in front of you, you protect your money.

Understanding Common Online Money Risks

Online risks often look ordinary at first glance. You might receive a phishing message that appears to come from a delivery firm, asking for confirmation. Requests like this work because they feel routine. Criminals also take advantage of data leaks, using stolen email and password combinations to access accounts. A minor charge can open the door to repeated payments or account misuse. When you recognise how these tactics work, you notice details that do not quite fit, such as unusual links or messages that push for quick action without explanation.

How to Pay Safely Online

Your choice of payment method plays a direct role in how well you can respond if something goes wrong. Credit cards often give clearer routes to dispute transactions, while digital wallets reduce the need to share your card number with every site. These layers make it harder for someone to misuse your details. If you are paying for bingo promotions on your phone, for example, take a moment to check that the website shows a secure connection and uses recognised payment providers. You can also enable instant payment notifications through your banking app, which lets you spot unfamiliar activity straight away and act quickly.

Protecting Your Accounts and Devices

Reusing passwords or skipping updates makes it easier for others to get in without your knowledge. Devices also store sensitive information, so weak security there can undo good habits elsewhere. Set up unique passwords for each account and store them in a password manager. This reduces the impact if one service becomes compromised. Adding two-factor authentication creates an extra step that blocks most unauthorised access.

Spotting and Avoiding Scams Before You Pay

Scammers rely on urgency to push decisions. A message might warn that your account needs immediate action or suggest a payment problem that must be fixed quickly. That pressure aims to stop you thinking clearly. Pause and verify any unexpected requests using official contact details rather than links in the message.

Turning Awareness into Everyday Control

Being careful online requires consistency. Each time you check a detail or question a request, you reinforce habits that protect your money. These small actions build confidence, so you rely less on reacting to problems and more on preventing them. You stay in control by approaching with intent. Treat each transaction as a choice rather than a routine step, and you create a steady, reliable way to manage your finances online.

May 29th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

Every business relies on equipment to keep operations running smoothly but knowing when to replace rather than repair can be a difficult and costly decision. Making the decision to replace business equipment can feel like a major financial commitment. Hold on too long, and you risk rising maintenance bills, inefficiency, and unexpected downtime. Replace too early, and you may miss out on valuable remaining lifespan. The key is recognising the tipping point where an upgrade becomes not just beneficial, but essential.

Rising Maintenance and Repair Costs

One of the most obvious indicators that your equipment is nearing the end of its useful life is a steady increase in maintenance and repair expenses. Occasional servicing is expected, but if breakdowns become more frequent or costly, it may no longer be economical to keep the item running. A helpful rule of thumb is the “50% rule”: if repair costs exceed half the price of a new replacement, upgrading is usually the smarter financial decision. Constant repairs not only strain your budget but also reduce reliability, making it harder to plan operations confidently. In many cases, investing in new equipment with a warranty can eliminate these recurring costs and provide peace of mind.

Declining Efficiency and Performance

As equipment ages, its performance naturally deteriorates. Machines may take longer to complete tasks, produce lower-quality outputs, or consume more energy than newer models. This decline in efficiency can have a direct impact on your productivity and profitability. Modern equipment is often designed with improved technology, offering faster processing times, better precision, and enhanced energy efficiency. For example, upgrading to new boilers can significantly reduce energy consumption while improving heating performance and reliability. If your current equipment is slowing down your workflow or increasing your operational costs, it may be costing your business more than it’s worth. Replacing underperforming assets can boost output, reduce energy bills, and improve overall operational efficiency.

Increased Risk of Downtime

Unexpected breakdowns can be extremely disruptive. Downtime not only halts productivity but may also result in missed deadlines, dissatisfied customers, and lost revenue. The older your equipment becomes, the more likely it is to fail at critical moments. If your business relies heavily on specific machinery, even short periods of downtime can have significant consequences. Frequent interruptions can also put additional pressure on your team, forcing them to work around unreliable systems. Replacing ageing equipment before it fails entirely helps you avoid unplanned disruptions and ensures continuity.

Compliance and Safety

Regulations and safety standards evolve over time, and older equipment may no longer meet current compliance requirements. Using outdated machinery can expose your business to legal risks, fines, and potential liability issues. Additionally, older equipment may pose safety hazards to employees, especially if it lacks modern safety features. Protecting your workforce should always be a top priority. Upgrading equipment ensures adherence to the latest standards, reduces the risk of accidents, and demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.

Replacing equipment is not just about reacting to failure, it’s about making a strategic decision that supports long-term savings and business growth. By monitoring maintenance costs, performance, reliability, and compliance, you can identify the optimal time to invest in upgrades.

Ultimately, well-timed equipment replacement can improve productivity, reduce operational costs, and keep your business running smoothly making it a smart investment rather than an unnecessary expense.

May 27th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

Estate planning is one of those tasks people don’t think they personally need to do, or it’s only for people who are wealthy with assets, property or businesses that need taking care of when they die.

But estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy, far from it, it’s for everyone who has anything that needs protecting when they are not here or when someone is ill, a relationship breaks down or when things don’t go to plan.

Let’s take a look at some reasons why estate planning matters more than you might think.

Your Partner Might Not Have Legal Protection

If you’re married or in a civil partnership, these carry automatic legal rights. However, cohabitation does not. If you’re not legally married and you die without a will, then they have no automatic rights to inherit anything, regardless of how long you’ve been together, whether you own a home jointly or how financially dependent they are on you.

They might be able to make a legal claim against the estate; however, nothing here is automatic, which is why estate planning is vital for these relationships. You can outline your wishes, and your written will will dictate what happens next if it’s legally binding.

The Wrong Person Could End Up Raising Your Children

If you have children and you die without naming a guardian, the decision over who raises them then passes to the court. This might not end with your preferred choice being chosen as a suitable person to raise. The court process also takes time and creates uncertainty at times when your children need love, care, compassion and security. 

Naming a guardian in your will costs nothing, but having it stated and in a properly drafted document gives everyone peace of mind in this situation.

Blended Families Create Legal Complexity

Families aren’t as clear-cut these days as they once were, and when you’re in a blended family, i.e. second marriages, stepchildren or have children from previous marriages, the legal waters get murky.

You need a clear will, or intestacy rules will apply here. And these rules aren’t made for modern families, far from it.

Assets can pass in ways that exclude the people you love or provide for, as the law does not account for alternative family setups.

Documenting everything in your will and ensuring those you love get what you want to have is the only way to cut down on or eliminate disputes after the fact from unclear estates. Experts like the team at Jones Whyte can help you understand the complexities of situations like this and plan your will, so you cover all possibilities legally.

Your Business Could Be At Risk

If you run a business and you die, what happens next? Not many people think this through clearly, and it’s one loose end you need to tie up before it’s too late. If there’s no succession plan in place, the consequences can be immediate. Who has the authority to make decisions? Who can access accounts? Who manages staff and negotiates with suppliers? Without any documented arrangement, your operations will stall fast, and your business will be worse off for it.

A power of attorney covering your business affairs alongside a clear succession plan removes this uncertainty and protects your business.

Care Costs Can Significantly Reduce What You Pass On

If you need long-term residential care, this can eat into your estate and significantly change what you have left to pass on.

For many people, particularly those with property, a significant portion of what they intended to leave behind can be consumed by care fees.

However, there are legitimate ways to structure your estate to take this into account, but these options require time to put them in place and retrospective planning once care is already needed is more limited and in some circumstances not possible at all.

You Lose Capacity Before You Lose Your Life

Your will only takes effect after your death, but what happens if you lose the capacity to make decisions before then? A lasting power of attorney offers a period where you are alive but unable to make decisions independently. Whether this is due to an illness, injury or cognitive decline, having a person who can take over for you is invaluable at this stage. Without it, your family has no legal authority to act on your behalf, and obtaining that through the Court of Protection is a slow, expensive, and stressful process. While you can, have this arranged prior to not being able to, so you can control what happens in this type of situation.