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Good morning
Here is your newsletter from Branston Adams including our anticipated announcements in the Autumn Budget.
If you would like any further information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01252 728598 or email info@branstonadams.co.uk
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Minister urges businesses to take cyber security seriously
The Security Minister, Dan Jarvis, has urged business leaders to act now to strengthen their cyber resilience, warning that cybercrime is one of the biggest threats facing the UK economy.
Speaking at the launch of the National Cyber Security Centre’s (NCSC) 2025 Annual Review, he reminded businesses that cyber security is no longer just a technical issue – it’s a board-level one.
A growing threat
The numbers tell the story. The NCSC handled more than 200 serious cyber incidents in the past year – more than double the previous year. These are the types of incidents that can disrupt essential services, cause financial damage, or even threaten national security.
Big names like Marks & Spencer, The Co-op and Jaguar Land Rover have all faced attacks this year. But Jarvis was clear that businesses of all sizes can be affected by cyber-attacks.
Tools to help businesses
The good news is that practical help is available. NCSC is expanding its support for businesses of all sizes.
- Cyber Action Toolkit: Designed to help sole traders
and small firms take their first steps in protecting their systems and
data.
- Cyber Essentials certification: A recognised
badge showing that a business is protected against common threats. For
small organisations (under £20m turnover), full certification also
includes automatic cyber liability insurance.
- Early Warning service: Over 13,000 organisations now
receive alerts about potential cyber-attacks, giving them valuable time to
act.
- Takedown Service: Has removed over 1.2 million
phishing campaigns, with half taken down within an hour.
Why this matters for business owners
For many businesses, cybersecurity is often treated as a low-priority issue until something goes wrong. Jarvis encouraged that this approach change. He said, “It’s not a case of if you will be the victim of a cyber-attack, it’s about being prepared for when it does happen.”
Beyond any immediate financial cost, reputational damage can last far longer. Customers, suppliers and investors increasingly want to know that the businesses they work with are taking security seriously.
It’s not just an IT issue
Jarvis’s speech revealed that government ministers and security chiefs have written a letter to the CEOs of all companies in the FTSE 100 and FTSE 250, as well as a number of other leading UK firms.
The letter requests that these businesses make cyber risk a Board-level priority and sign up to NCSC’s Early Warning service.
Interestingly, the letter also requests that these companies require Cyber Essentials in their supply chain. This is because supply chain cyber-attacks are increasing, but it appears that only 14% of UK businesses assess the cyber risks posed by their immediate suppliers.
What to do next
If your business hasn’t reviewed its cyber protections recently, now’s the time.
- Start
with the basics: Visit the NCSC website and make use of the Cyber Action Toolkit.
- Consider
Cyber Essentials certification: In view of the
direction being encouraged, you may find that your customers start to
expect that you hold this certification. You could also consider whether
requiring it of your suppliers would benefit you.
The message for business owners from the Minister’s speech is simple: act now, not later. Cyber security isn’t just an IT issue – it’s part of protecting your livelihood, your team and your reputation.
New Cyber Toolkit Helps Small Businesses Strengthen Their Defences
Small businesses across the UK are being urged to take simple, practical steps to protect themselves from growing online threats – and a new free toolkit from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) aims to make that much easier.
The Cyber Action Toolkit, launched this week at the NCSC’s Annual Review, offers tailored guidance to help sole traders, micro businesses and small organisations strengthen their cyber security.
NCSC’s latest annual review warns that every organisation with digital assets is a potential target for criminal cyber attackers. NCSC’s CEO, Dr Richard Horne, urged all businesses to ‘act now.’
A growing problem
Recent figures show that 42% of small businesses reported a cyber breach in 2024, while more than a third of micro businesses faced phishing attempts. Many small firms admit they simply don’t know where to start – often because cyber protection feels complicated or time-consuming.
The NCSC’s new toolkit aims to help with that. It breaks cybersecurity down into simple, achievable steps for businesses, with straightforward actions tailored to their size and needs.
What the new toolkit offers
The Cyber Action Toolkit is free to use and provides:
- Personalised
cyber security guidance. - Step-by-step
actions tailored to business size. - Progress
tracking and rewards to recognise each improvement you make.
It’s structured around three levels – Foundation, Improver and Enhanced – so businesses can progress through the levels at their own pace and build their resilience gradually.
As you put in place the basic measures recommended by the toolkit, this can be a good starting point in later working towards Cyber Essentials certification.
Taking the first step
For busy business owners, cybersecurity can easily fall down the to-do list. But the reality is that small steps now can save a lot of time and stress later, and the Toolkit seems to be a useful tool in helping with that.
You can access the Cyber Action Toolkit free through the NCSC website.
See: https://cybertoolkit.service.ncsc.gov.uk
Why getting minimum wage calculations right matters more than ever
Matthew Taylor CBE, author of the influential Taylor Review of Modern Working Practices, has been appointed as the first Chair of the new Fair Work Agency – a body that’s set to change how the UK enforces employment rights.
The Agency, which launches in April 2026, will become a single point of contact for workers and employers.
Government figures suggest that 900,000 UK workers have holiday pay withheld each year and nearly 20% of minimum wage workers are underpaid.
The Fair Work Agency will be given stronger powers to investigate and tackle employers. These include workplace inspections, civil penalties for underpayments, and the ability to bring proceedings against an employer on behalf of a worker.
At the same time the Agency is being tasked with providing support to businesses on following employment laws so that employers who want to do the right thing aren’t being undercut by those who don’t.
With the Agency not being launched until next April, now is the time to review how your business calculates pay.
If you’re unsure whether your pay systems are up to date or need help understanding how upcoming changes in employment law might affect your payroll, we would be happy to help you! A quick review now could save a costly investigation later.
What the CMA’s new powers over Google mean for UK businesses
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has confirmed that Google has been designated with strategic market status (SMS) for its general search and search advertising services – marking a major moment in how the UK regulates big tech.
This follows a detailed investigation and consultation that confirmed that Google has substantial and entrenched market power in general search and search advertising. It appears that more than 90% of searches in the UK take place on Google’s platform.
The new designation doesn’t accuse Google of any wrongdoing, nor does it introduce immediate changes. But it gives the CMA the power to step in with targeted, proportionate interventions to ensure that general search services are open to effective competition. It also means they can make sure that businesses that rely on Google can be confident they are being treated fairly.
The move is part of the UK’s new digital markets competition regime, which came into force at the start of 2025.
For small and medium-sized businesses, the potential benefits are significant. Over time, we may see fairer advertising pricing, more transparency in how search results and ad placements are managed, and fewer barriers for newer platforms and services trying to compete.
Nothing changes immediately, but consultations on possible interventions are expected later this year. It’s a space worth watching – especially for businesses that depend heavily on Google Ads or organic search visibility.
How to Save on Childcare Costs with the Tax-Free Childcare Scheme
Running your own business often means juggling a lot – and for many, that includes childcare. With autumn school breaks rapidly approaching, HMRC is reminding working families that the Tax-Free Childcare scheme can be a good way to make some savings.
What’s on offer
Through the scheme, you can get up to £2,000 a year toward childcare costs for each child up to the age of 11, or up to £4,000 (up to the age of 16) if your child is disabled. The government adds £2 for every £8 you pay into your childcare account – and you can use that money to pay for approved childcare, such as nurseries, wraparound childcare, after-school clubs, or holiday clubs.
Your childcare provider needs to be signed up to the scheme before you can pay them, so you do need to check with them to see that they’re signed up.
It’s completely flexible: you can pay in whenever you like, use it straight away, or leave it in the account until needed. If your plans change, any unused money can be withdrawn.
Who can use it
You don’t need to be on a payroll to qualify – self-employed parents can use the scheme too. Your family may be eligible if:
- Your
child is 11 or under (or 16 if they have a disability). - You
and your partner (if you have one) earn, or expect to earn, at least the
National Minimum Wage or Living Wage for 16 hours a week on average. - You
each earn less than £100,000 per year. - You’re
not claiming Universal Credit or childcare vouchers.
How to get started
You can apply online by visiting the Tax-Free Childcare section of GOV.UK. Each child needs their own account, and the government top-up is added to each one separately.
Once your account is open, you’ll need to reconfirm your details every three months to keep the top-up payments coming.
With school holidays around the corner, now’s a good time to check if you’re eligible and set up your account – especially if you’re self-employed or running a small business and need reliable childcare to keep work flowing smoothly.
New funding announced to help UK communities showcase local traditions
A new £1 million “Best of British” fund has been launched by Airbnb, supported by VisitBritain, to help communities and small tourism businesses turn local customs and traditions into memorable visitor experiences.
The fund, which will offer grants of up to £100,000, aims to help local businesses develop experiences that celebrate Britain’s culture, heritage and creativity – from centuries-old customs like maypole dancing and cheese rolling, to regional food, music and arts events.
The initiative follows research showing that, while many holidaymakers are keen to find authentic local experiences, half of UK adults have never taken part in a traditional British event. There’s also a clear appetite for change – 61% of people said they would be more likely to book a UK break “off the beaten track” if these traditions were better promoted.
VisitBritain’s Chief Executive, Patricia Yates, said, “We encourage all eligible tourism businesses and organisations to apply to the fund.
The scheme will award funding in four categories: Nature & Outdoors, Food & Dining, Music & Arts, and Culture & Heritage. Applications are open until 23 November 2025, with funding to be distributed next year.
For small tourism operators, community groups or heritage sites, this could be an opportunity to secure investment, attract more visitors, and strengthen local identity – all while contributing to the growth of sustainable, experience-led tourism across the UK.
For details and to apply, see: https://www.airbnb.co.uk/e/bestofbritishfund
CMA Publishes Review and Proposals for the Vet Industry
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published proposals to overhaul how the veterinary market works. While this review focuses on vet businesses, its findings provide some useful insights for businesses of all types – particularly around transparency, communication, and customer confidence.
What’s happening
The CMA’s investigation found that many pet owners struggle to understand what they’re paying for when they visit the vet. Prices are often unclear, comparisons are difficult, and complaints can be hard to make when things go wrong.
The market has also changed dramatically in recent years. Independent practices have been bought by larger corporate groups, and yet many clients don’t realise who actually owns their local surgery. Between 2016 and 2023, average vet prices rose by more than 60% – well above inflation – and in some cases, prices increased faster after businesses were taken over by bigger groups.
The CMA concluded that the current regulatory system doesn’t keep up with how the sector now operates. It regulates individual professionals, but not the businesses behind them.
The proposed changes
To address these issues, the CMA has suggested a wide-ranging package of 21 measures. The proposals include:
- Requiring
vet businesses to make ownership clearer and to be more open about their
services and fees. A price cap of £16 on prescriptions is also proposed.
- Requiring
vets to explain where clients might find cheaper medicines and to provide
prescriptions automatically, with a cap on what practices can charge for
issuing them.
- Providing
clear price information when pet owners are choosing a treatment, putting
estimates of prices for treatments over £500 in writing and providing
itemised bills.
- Making
it easier for customers to compare local options through an improved “Find
a Vet” website that will include price information.
- Modernising
the regulatory framework to cover veterinary businesses, not just
individual vets, to ensure proper standards and fair handling of
complaints.
The CMA’s consultation runs until 12 November 2025, with their final decision expected by March 2026. They are encouraging vet businesses to carry on and make changes that would benefit their customers in the meantime.
What it means for other business owners
Even if you’re not in the pet care world, there are some good lessons here.
The CMA’s proposals underline how crucial transparency and clear communication have become in building client trust.
Customers increasingly expect to understand how a service is structured, who owns the business, and what they can expect to pay.
The CMA’s final decision is due in early 2026, but the message for business owners is already clear: transparency builds trust, and trust sustains long-term client relationships.
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Anticipated Announcements in the Autumn Budget 2025
Media speculation is intense ahead of the Autumn Budget, not only due to economic challenges and expected tax rises but also regarding the Chancellor’s credibility. Branston Adams highlight the importance of understanding these potential changes for financial planning. Here are the main areas where significant announcements are anticipated:
Income Tax and National Insurance
- Extended Threshold Freezes: The freeze on
personal and higher-rate income tax thresholds (currently until 2028)
is likely to be extended, potentially to 2030. This
“fiscal drag” is estimated to generate around £8bn annually
by pushing more individuals into higher tax bands.
- The £12,570 personal
allowance and £50,270 higher-rate threshold have been
frozen since April 2021. - Pensioners receiving only
the state pension may soon be liable for income tax as their pensions
rise above the personal allowance threshold.
- Income Tax Rate Increase: Despite previous
denials, a rise in the main rate of income tax by 1p or 2p is
being considered to generate substantial revenue. This would be the first
such increase since 1975.- National Insurance (NI)
Changes:- Widening the scope of NI
to include landlords and working pensioners is rumoured. - There is speculation about
self-employed individuals paying more NI, possibly at an employee’s rate. - A suggestion from the
Resolution Foundation, whose members now hold influential positions in
the Treasury and DWP, involves a 2p cut in NI combined
with a 2p increase in income tax. This would tax
pensioners and landlords who currently don’t pay employee NI, though it
contradicts the Chancellor’s pre-election promise on income tax. - An 8% National
Insurance charge on rental income is being considered, potentially
adding £1,057 per year to the bills of landlords earning
between £50,000 and £70,000.
Inheritance Tax (IHT) Reforms
- Extended Threshold Freezes: The £325,000 nil-rate
band and the £175,000 residence nil-rate band, already
frozen until April 2028, may see this freeze extended further,
potentially to 2030. - Lifetime Gifting Limit: A cap on the amount
that can be gifted tax-free during a lifetime before death could be
introduced. - Restricting Taper Relief: The existing taper
relief, which reduces IHT on gifts made at least three years before death,
may be restricted or reduced. - Business and Agricultural
Property Relief (BPR/APR) Changes: A new £1 million allowance
on combined BPR and APR will apply from April 2026. Relief
at 100% will apply up to this allowance, with 50% relief
on values above it. This means the other 50% of the value
above £1 million will be subject to the 40% IHT
rate. - Pension IHT: From April
2027, unused pension funds and death benefits will be included in the
deceased’s estate for IHT purposes.
Property and Wealth Taxes
- Council Tax Reform: A reform or complete
replacement of council tax, possibly with a property tax based on value,
has been rumoured. This would be a significant change requiring
substantial work and consultation. - “Mansion Tax” /
CGT on Main Residence: Discussions about a possible capital gains tax charge on
homes exceeding a certain value (e.g., £1 million) have
re-emerged, which would limit the existing main residence exemption. - Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT)
Changes: Reforms
or abolition of SDLT are being considered, possibly by making sellers,
rather than buyers, liable for the tax on higher-value properties (e.g.,
over £1 million). - Wealth Tax: The Chancellor has
indicated that an annual wealth tax is not currently being considered due
to logistical challenges and mixed success in other countries. - Business Rates: Changes to business
rates are expected, including a reduction in the Retail, Hospitality, and
Leisure relief from 75% to 40% with
a £110,000 cap. The standard business rates multiplier
increased to 55.5p in April 2025, impacting
many businesses. The system is also set to be digitalised by 2028. - VAT Reforms: Potential changes
include lowering the VAT threshold to bring more small businesses into the
system, reclassifying goods and services (e.g., moving from zero or
reduced rates to the standard 20% rate), and making some
currently exempt services (like financial services and education) subject
to VAT.
Capital Gains Tax (CGT)
- Rate Increases: Rumours of aligning
CGT rates with income tax rates persist, potentially rising to 20%, 40%,
and 45%. - Investor Behaviour: Such a move could
discourage investment and potentially lead to lower revenue than
anticipated.
Pensions
- Taxing Pensioners: A proposal suggests
making pensioners pay employee National Insurance on their employment
income. - State Pension Age: The State Pension age
is currently 66 for men and women and is expected to rise
to 67 between 2026 and 2028. - Pension Commission: The government has
revived the Pensions Commission to address the risk of future pensioners
being poorer than current ones and recommend changes. - Retirement Factors: Changes to retirement
factors, which determine how much members receive based on their
retirement choices (e.g., taking a tax-free lump sum), will come into
effect for those retiring on or after October 1, 2025.
These potential changes underscore the importance of forward planning and seeking professional advice. Branston Adams can provide tailored guidance on navigating these complex tax landscapes and ensuring compliance with HMRC on behalf of individuals and businesses.
Stuart Morrison and Emma Selby *Flexspace Operator*1 Comment-
Thanks Paul –
- Cyber Action Toolkit: Designed to help sole traders
