Don’t let end of life software wreak havoc on your organisation
12/12/2019
Microsoft, a top software provider for both individuals and businesses, recently announced plans to discontinue support to several of their major products as part of an effort to invest in newer technologies and services.
Use these tips to control your workplace’s winter weather risks
12/12/2019
Winter weather can create serious risks for both your organisation’s property and your employees.
Elevated falls are fatal: How to protect employees while working from height
12/12/2019
It’s no surprise that working from height comes with elevated risks. However, recent HSE data revealed that UK employers across industry lines are failing to implement the necessary safety measures to protect their employees during such operations.
The UK skills shortage is becoming severe: Here’s what you can do
12/12/2019
In the midst of an ageing workforce and constant increase in demand for digital expertise, the UK skills shortage certainly isn’t going anywhere in 2020.
Company fined after worker is struck by a moving vehicle
12/12/2019
A ferry operator has been fined after an employee suffered severe injuries from a moving vehicle incident.
The effect of Brexit on the insurance market
10/12/2019
We are all tired of waiting for this to conclude, whatever the outcome! 31st March 2019, 31st October 2019 now 31st January 2020 – who knows? Whether a General Election makes a difference remains to be seen.
Market News December 2019
10/12/2019
The UK insurance market is the fourth largest in the world and includes Lloyd’s, probably the industry’s most revered institution.
Company fined after worker fall from lorry
26/11/2019
A manufacturing company has been fined after an employee suffered multiple injuries due to a 'fall from height' incident. The worker was unloading a lorry at the manufacturing site when he fell from the lorry bed.
7 ways to reduce stress in the workplace
26/11/2019
According to the HSE, stress accounted for over 40 per cent of all work-related ill health cases and more than 50 per cent of all working days lost due to ill health over the last year. Read this guide for 7 strategies to reducing workplace stress.
Here’s why fire safety needs to be a top priority in your workplace
26/11/2019
Although summer has come and gone, there are still some burning-hot risks hiding in your workplace. Indeed, regardless of the temperature outside, an on-site fire could wreak havoc within your organisation at any time.
Data reveals compliance is a top risk for companies: use this guidance
26/11/2019
It's no secret that SMEs face unique risks when compared to the average business, given their size and financial limitations. However, recent research revealed that the biggest concern facing SMEs has nothing to do with managing costs, but rather following the law.
Would your business survive the loss of a key person?
26/11/2019
‘52% of businesses would cease trading in under a year if a key person died or became critically ill’ reports Legal & General’s ‘State of the Nation’ SME research. Although small and medium enterprises are more vulnerable, losing a key person can be detrimental to businesses of any size.
Sex discrimination claims are on the rise: here’s what you can do
26/11/2019
Although it has been nearly two years since the historic hashtag made its debut, recent data revealed that organisations throughout the UK are continuing to experience a significant rise in sex discrimination claims as a result of the #MeToo movement.
Finch to rebrand as Verlingue Ltd
26/11/2019
We're pleased to announce that on 1st January 2020, Finch will rebrand as Verlingue.
A new chapter is beginning for our company, and we're very excited about continuing our journey with you as Verlingue.
A new chapter is beginning for our company, and we're very excited about continuing our journey with you as Verlingue.
Recent Health and Safety News and Prosecutions
26/11/2019
Former Director sentenced after lorry spike incident
The former director of a now-dissolved landscaping company was recently prosecuted following a lorry spike incident that left a worker with life-changing injuries.
The former director of a now-dissolved landscaping company was recently prosecuted following a lorry spike incident that left a worker with life-changing injuries.
The upcoming changes to pension default funds
22/10/2019
As a result of increased economic uncertainty for UK markets over the last couple of years, leading UK pension providers have been changing their default fund investment strategies to increase returns for investors.
Impact of no-deal Brexit on EU citizens living in the UK
02/10/2019
Brexit has been an elephant in the room for the past three years, however, with the Government committed to the 31st October deadline, now is the time for employers to be very clear about the possible implications of employing EU citizens.
Increase in investment in employee wellness
01/10/2019
Throughout this year we have seen a rising trend in Wellbeing provision across all employers in the UK.
How will the increased Ogden rate affect your insurance?
17/09/2019
Lord Chancellor David Gauke recently announced a new Ogden Rate (also known as the Discount Rate) of -0.25 per cent for personal injury awards.
Revealed: Data finds employers aren’t taking staff risks seriously
17/09/2019
While your organisation is likely to have measures in place to protect your employees from common workplace risks, such as slips and trips or asbestos exposure, a recent survey discovered that many firms are failing to account for far more prevalent staff risks.
Why your board needs to bolster their cyber security involvement
17/09/2019
Although cyber-security has remained a top concern for UK organisations, recent data revealed that senior managers have yet to join the conversation.
Don’t ignore near-miss reporting – here’s why
17/09/2019
Following a serious accident on-site, many employers respond by re-evaluating their workplace risks and controls to determine what went wrong and how they can reduce the likelihood of future incidents.
Why it’s important to prioritise mental health in the workplace
13/09/2019
It's vital for your employees to feel comfortable and supported in sharing any worries or concerns they have regarding their health at work. Nevertheless, recent research found that this is rarely the case for UK workers - especially in the realm of mental health.
Verlingue bolsters its Marine and Transport expertise with the acquisition of the Groupe Eyssautier
05/09/2019
Today, Verlingue announces a new external growth operation in France with the acquisition of the Groupe Eyssautier (Paris, Marseille, London), ...
Intangible threats are the top culprits for Business Interruption
15/08/2019
Today’s evolving risk landscape contains a wide range of intangible threats—cyber-attacks, broken supply chains and the mental health of your employees, to name a few — that all have the potential to cause noticeable business interruption within your organisation.
Protect your business – theft against businesses is on the rise
25/07/2019
Theft is a serious concern for any organisation, regardless of size or industry. Worryingly, recent research has revealed that theft against businesses is on the rise.
5 risks which increase your D&O liabilities
25/07/2019
The last few years have seen a significant increase in directors and officers (D&O) being held legally accountable for organisational mistakes or failures.
Here’s how organisations are handling their cyber-security risks
25/07/2019
Every year, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport releases their annual Cyber Security Breaches Survey. This year’s data allows organisations to take a closer look at top cyber-threats, analyse the impacts of disruptive breaches and understand the importance of managing cyber-security.
Seeing the road ahead – Fleet Managers’ duty on employee vision
25/07/2019
It is general knowledge that it’s illegal to drive a vehicle without necessary corrective eye-wear and drivers who break the law can be fined, have points on their licence or even be jailed in extreme cases.
What can your business learn from the Notre Dame fire?
25/07/2019
As flames engulfed the Notre Dame Cathedral this April, the tragedy emphasised the grim reality that no building is immune to the costly consequences of a fire.
How Employee Benefits can help promote workforce productivity, engagement, and satisfaction
25/07/2019
Sometimes convincing senior management of the benefits of spending money on Employee Benefits (EB) can be a challenge. HR requests for additional budget will be assessed against other business requirements and often EB spend is moved to the category of 'nice to have but non essential'.
Verlingue becomes the 3rd largest broker in Switzerland following acquisition of MEEX
28/06/2019
Less than a year after buying London firm ICB Group, Verlingue has announced a new operation in Switzerland as part of its external growth: the acquisition of Bern-based insurance broker MEEX.
5 biggest issues for Directors and Officers
26/06/2019
The past few years have seen a significant increase in directors and officers (D&O) being held legally accountable for organisational mistakes or failures.
British Steel collapses into insolvency
20/06/2019
Lat month yet another substantial, seemingly unshakeable company had collapsed into liquidation. The compulsory liquidation puts 5,000 jobs at risk, as well as endangering 20,000 more in the supply chain, according to the BBC.
Finch’s online flexible benefits solution, Connect – helping you to attract, reward and retain your employees
22/05/2019
Our online benefits solution, Connect, continues to grow in popularity with our clients, who are looking at better ways of delivering their benefits to employees whilst at the same time, streamlining HR and Payroll administration.
Protecting yourself from the rise of keyless motor theft
23/04/2019
2018 was the worst year for motor thefts in a decade and was largely driven by sudden increases in both keyless and more traditional types of theft.
Mark Robinson to co-chair Pro-Manchester’s Technology sector group
06/04/2019
Finch technology expert, Mark Robinson, has been announced as the Co-Chair of Pro-Manchester's Technology sector group.
Are you looking to improve employee wellness and productivity at work?
25/03/2019
Vision care is rapidly becoming an essential healthcare management tool for many employers in the UK and overseas.
How a no deal Brexit will change driving in the EU
15/03/2019
Whether you plan to take your family on a continental road trip in the coming months or work for a transport organisation that frequently enters the EU, the results of Brexit may alter your current travelling agenda.
Building relationships at Arab Health 2019
10/03/2019
Finch’s Medical and Healthcare specialist, Emma Thornton, joined representatives from over 60 healthcare and life science companies for the Department for International Trade’s (DIT’s) Northern Powerhouse: Mission to Arab Health 2019.
Employer announcement – is your business ready for April’s pension contributions increases?
01/03/2019
Pension auto enrolment legislation came into force in October 2012, making it compulsory for all UK employers to have a pension scheme in place for their employees, enrol their employees in the scheme and pay pension contributions for them.
And the winner is…..
11/12/2018
Finch were delighted to sponsor the ‘International Company of the Year (£50m + turnover)’ award at Insider’s prestigious North West International Trade Awards which took place at the Lowry Hotel in Manchester last week.
Finch service recognised by Investor in Customers (IIC)
17/09/2018
We are delighted to announce that Finch have been awarded the prestigious Gold award by independent customer experience organisation, Investor in Customers (IIC).
French broker Verlingue triples its size in UK Market with acquisition of ICB Group
11/09/2018
Specialist corporate insurance broker Verlingue announced it has acquired independent UK broker ICB Group. Financial details of the deal were not released.
Twitter – 07/09/2018
We're very pleased to announce: ICB Group has joined @verlingue pic.twitter.com/hlkA4NBDc2
— ICB Group (@icbgroup) 7 septembre 2018
Twitter – 05/09/2018
Thank you for the warm welcome @finchinsurance , we are very excited to be working with you. https://t.co/WN1nrMO9Sf
— ICB Group (@icbgroup) 5 septembre 2018
Insurance broker snapped up by French group
05/09/2018
A Surrey-based insurance broker has been acquired by Verlingue in a deal which triples the size of the French acquirer's presence in the UK market.
The quote of the month by Neil Campling – Insurance age
04/09/2018
ICB Group CEO Neil Campling explains why the business sold to Finch-owner Verlingue
ICB Group joins Verlingue
04/09/2018
Verlingue and ICB announced that ICB Group, one of the UK’s leading insurance brokers, joined the Verlingue group.
ICB Group and Finch to collaborate after Verlingue completes acquisition
06/08/2018
Verlingue’s acquisition of ICB Group triples its size in the UK market
Finch Employee Benefits strengthens team with key appointment
05/07/2018
Finch Employee Benefits are delighted to announce the appointment of David Farebrother as a Senior Consultant.
Finch welcome technology expert, Mark Robinson, to the team
24/05/2018
Finch Insurance Brokers are delighted to announce the appointment of Mark Robinson as Client Director with responsibility for leading Finch’s Technology Practice.
Northwest Aerospace Alliance Annual Conference
24/05/2018
A fascinating conference! It was great to immerse ourselves in another industry, get a better understanding of the issues they face and improve our understanding of our clients' and prospective clients' challenges. We had a great day, met some interesting people and learnt a huge amount.
Will your insurance protect you from GDPR?
11/05/2018
Data Protection law is changing, and recent research shows that preparing for this is a top three concern for most Directors.
Finch Employee Benefits strengthens team with senior appointment
09/04/2018
Finch Employee Benefits are delighted to announce the appointment of Andy Russell as Senior Consultant responsible for heading up their Flexible Benefits proposition.
Finch joins key Aerospace industry body, the North West Aerospace Alliance (NWAA)
27/03/2018
We are delighted to announce our membership of the NWAA, as part of our commitment to the aerospace and advanced engineering sectors.
Finch joins key Hospitality industry body, UKHospitality
16/03/2018
As part of our ongoing commitment to the Hospitality sector, we are delighted to announce our membership of BKHospitality, a new trade body formed by the merger of the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (the ALMR) and the British Hospitality Association (the BHA).
Childcare vouchers – important announcement
15/03/2018
The Government has announced an extension to the deadline for joining the Childcare Voucher Scheme for a further six months. The Scheme was set to close to new entrants at the start of April, but the Government has now agreed to allow employees until at least October 2018.
Relieving the burden of Pension Scheme Governance
15/03/2018
Good pensions scheme governance has always been important, but more so now than ever.
Major changes to the Childcare voucher system
02/03/2018
Following years of speculation as to whether or not the Government will abandon the current childcare voucher scheme, Finch's Head of Employee Benefits, Mark Pugh, looks at how it will be phased out, and its replacement - Tax-Free Childcare.
Sample letter about the new Tax Free Childcare Scheme
02/03/2018
An example letter wording of how employers could communicate with employees re the childcare voucher changes and new Tax Free childcare scheme.
Auto enrolment pension contribution increases – are you ready for 2018?
12/02/2018
On the 6th April 2018, and then again on the 6th April 2019, employer and employee minimum contributions rates will increase for defined contribution qualifying schemes.
Auto enrolment pension contribution increases – are you ready for April 2018? Sample letter for communicating changes to your employees.
12/02/2018
On the 6th April 2018, employer and employee minimum contributions rates will increase for defined contribution qualifying schemes.
We recommend informing employees of the changes - please see our sample letter which can be adapted for your own use.
We recommend informing employees of the changes - please see our sample letter which can be adapted for your own use.
What did hospitality businesses learn from the 2017 terror attacks? John O’Hara, Account Director, Finch
02/02/2018
2017 took the world by surprise with its unprecedented number of devastating terror related attacks. Whilst we are all aware of the ever-increasing threat of terrorism, few would have predicted the extent of damage and destruction we saw last year.
Could your business be saving 13.8% on its employee pension scheme contributions?
23/11/2017
Could your business be saving 13.8% on its employee pensions schemes contributions?
Manchester businesses among the first to be targeted by the Pensions Regulator
23/11/2017
The Pensions Regulator announced earlier this year that they were undertaking spot checks (in the form of short notice inspections) to ensure employers, regardless of size, name or industry, are complying with their auto-enrolment duties, with Manchester being one of the first target areas.
Finch’s parent company, Verlingue, continues expansion in Europe
25/10/2017
The parent of corporate broker Finch Insurance, based in Manchester, has taken a majority stake in leading Swiss commercial insurance & Employee benefits firm S&P Insurance Group, which is headquartered in Luzern.
Increase in liability insurance costs on the horizon – Ged Smith
24/10/2017
For the last 12-15 years, buying liability insurance has been like sailing on calm seas with a following wind on a warm, quiet Saturday afternoon. Yes, there have been exceptions (the waste industry for instance) but for most businesses, the market has been very straightforward.
5 things you need to know before investing in coloured gemstones
10/10/2017
As physical objects gemstones have an intrinsic value, but they are increasingly viewed as a lucrative investment opportunity too. Here Finch Private Client specialist Karen Waugh explains some of the things to look out for if you’re thinking of making an investment.
Cyber-attack: your legal responsibilities as a company director
09/10/2017
It’s easy to assume that cyber-crime only happens to high profile organisations because those are the ones that make the news – like Equifax, Barclays and the NHS. But the reality is that all businesses have to take the threat of cyber-attack seriously.
Finch to hold Charity Fashion Show to raise money for Cornerstone
11/09/2017
Finch are to hold a ladies only charity fashion show by Lucy Cobb in aid of Cornerstone on Wednesday 18th October 2017 between 6pm-9pm at St Ann's Church in Manchester.
Tickets are £10 and include a glass of Prosecco.
Tickets are £10 and include a glass of Prosecco.
Finch’s 5-a-side charity football tournament raises nearly £3k for Cornerstone Day Centre
14/07/2017
Insurers, clients and solicitors joined Finch in a charity fundraiser which raised nearly £3,000 for their Charity of the Year, Cornerstone Day Centre, who also entered a team.
6 ways to manage your fleet insurance costs
13/07/2017
Well, if you believe the doom mongers, some fleet premiums could be about to soar following the recent Government changes to the Ogden tables and I can’t imagine anyone being happy about paying higher premiums.
Will all fleet premiums rise? Probably not, but those businesses with poor claims records
Will all fleet premiums rise? Probably not, but those businesses with poor claims records
How are class actions a danger to Medical Device Manufacturers?
12/07/2017
In a recent legal case, over 800 women have launched legal action against the NHS and the manufacturer of a vaginal mesh implant used to treat pelvic organ prolapse after childbirth, alleging that the devices ruined their lives, leaving them in debilitating and lifelong pain.
Exploring the Value of Employee Benefits – Interactive seminar and interview with Pensions expert, Sir Steve Webb
12/06/2017
A rare opportunity to ask former Pensions Minister and Director of Policy at Royal London about Employee Benefits, Pensions and his predictions for the Autumn budget.
Another successful HR Exchange Forum with Bhayani Law
17/05/2017
Finch's Robert Smith joined Jay Bhayani in hosting May’s HR Exchange last week.
Finch agrees exclusive partnership with Medilink
12/05/2017
Finch is delighted to announce the launch of a 3 year strategic partnership with Medilink (in the North West, North East and Yorkshire &Humber) as its exclusive Insurance and Employee Benefits partner.
New tax year, new changes – Robert Smith, Finch Employee Benefits
25/04/2017
New tax years often bring change. This year is no exception! Here’s a summary of the main changes taking effect from April 2017.
Welcome from Mike Latham, Group Managing Director
25/04/2017
An introduction to Finch
Finch vote for Cornerstone Day Centre as Charity of the Year
06/04/2017
Cornerstone Day Centre has won the staff vote to be Finch’s new Charity of the Year.
Finch raise over £10,000 for Macmillan
29/03/2017
Finch would like to extend a huge thank you to clients, insurer connections and everyone who has supported our drive to raise money for our Charity of the Year, Macmillan.