Author: Sam Allcock

A new study has highlighted an “urgent need” for substantial reform in the UK to address a range of interlocking crises, including economic decline, regional disparities, and declining state capacity. Researchers from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) and the Hertie School in Berlin, Germany, have used the Berggruen Governance Index (BGI) to assess the UK’s performance in democratic accountability, state capacity, and living standards. The study underscores that austerity measures implemented after 2010 and the decision to leave the European Union have left “long-term scars” on the UK economy, contributing to what the report describes as an “economic…

In a move aimed at modernising talent acquisition across the region, a consortium of 13 local authorities and key services in Greater Manchester and Blackpool has selected inploi’s candidate experience platform. The decision follows a competitive pitch and involves a substantial six-figure investment over a four-year period. The partnership, led by Wigan Borough Council under the banner ‘the greater.jobs Collaboration,’ marks a significant upgrade to the region’s recruitment processes. The authorities and services now adopting inploi’s platform include Bolton, Bury, Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford, Wigan, as well as Transport for Greater Manchester and…

UEFA has unveiled a major new partnership with Kaizen Gaming, one of the leading names in GameTech, naming its premium brand Betano as the official global sponsor of the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Conference League. This sponsorship will take effect from the 2024/25 season and extend through to the 2026/27 season. Additionally, Kaizen Gaming’s Greek and Cypriot brand, Stoiximan, will serve as the competition’s sponsors in those respective countries. The announcement, made in Monaco prior to the UEFA men’s club competition draws, marks a significant extension of the successful collaboration between UEFA and Kaizen Gaming. This partnership builds on…

Starting a tech company can be an exciting but challenging endeavor, especially when it comes to securing the necessary funds to turn your vision into reality. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the funding landscape and find the best financial backing for your tech startup. 1. Assess Your Financial Needs Budgeting: Start by outlining your financial needs. This includes costs for product development, operational expenses, marketing, legal fees, and more. Projection: Develop a detailed financial projection for at least the first year. This will help you understand how much funding you need and for how long. 2. Bootstrapping…

Former England and Surrey batsman Graham Thorpe has died at 55, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced. A standout left-hander, Thorpe played 100 Tests and 82 one-day internationals from 1993 to 2005, amassing 6,744 Test runs with 16 centuries. After retiring, he coached New South Wales, Surrey, and the England team from 2010 to 2022. The ECB described him as “one of England’s finest batters” and a cherished figure in cricket, expressing deep shock and noting the joy he brought to fans and teammates throughout his 13-year international career. "He brought much joy to fans of English…

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a crucial component for businesses aiming to enhance their online presence and drive growth. Effective SEO practices improve a website’s visibility in search engine results pages (SERPs), attract more qualified traffic, and contribute to long-term business success. Here’s a look at the significant benefits of SEO for business websites and how it supports growth. 1. Increased Organic Traffic One of the primary benefits of SEO is its ability to drive organic traffic to a business website. By optimizing your website for relevant keywords and improving its overall quality, you increase the likelihood of appearing higher…

Falling behind on loan payments can be a stressful and challenging situation. Whether due to unexpected expenses, job loss, or other financial difficulties, being unable to pay your loans can have serious consequences, including damaged credit scores and increased debt. However, there are steps you can take to address the issue and find a resolution. Here’s a guide on what to do if you’re unable to pay your loans. 1. Assess Your Financial Situation Before taking action, it’s crucial to understand your financial situation thoroughly. Start by reviewing your income, expenses, and outstanding debts. Create a detailed budget to identify…

Introduction Adopting healthy eating habits is crucial for maintaining overall well-being and preventing chronic diseases. By incorporating nutritious foods and making mindful choices, you can enhance your energy levels, improve your mood, and support long-term health. Here are ten essential eating habits that can contribute to a healthier life. 1. Prioritize Balanced Meals A balanced meal includes a mix of macronutrients: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with a variety of vitamins and minerals. Aim to fill half your plate with vegetables and fruits, a quarter with lean proteins like chicken or beans, and a quarter with whole grains like brown…

Introduction As technology advances, so do the tactics of cybercriminals. Staying informed about the latest cybersecurity trends is essential for businesses to protect their data, maintain operational integrity, and safeguard their reputation. Ransomware Attacks Ransomware attacks have become increasingly common and sophisticated. Cybercriminals use malicious software to encrypt a victim’s data and demand a ransom for its release. To protect against ransomware, businesses should implement comprehensive backup solutions, employee training programs, and advanced threat detection systems. Phishing and Social Engineering Phishing attacks, which deceive individuals into divulging sensitive information, continue to be a significant threat. Cybercriminals use fake emails, websites,…

Cloud computing has revolutionized how businesses manage their IT resources and operations. By offering scalable, on-demand access to computing resources over the internet, cloud computing eliminates the need for costly on-premises infrastructure and provides a range of benefits to organizations of all sizes. Benefits of Cloud Computing One of the key advantages of cloud computing is its cost-effectiveness. Instead of investing in expensive hardware and software, businesses can use a pay-as-you-go model, where they only pay for the resources they consume. This flexibility allows companies to scale their IT infrastructure according to their needs, reducing waste and optimizing costs. Cloud…

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not just a buzzword but a transformative force in the business world. AI technologies, including machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision, are reshaping how businesses operate. By analyzing vast amounts of data, AI helps companies make informed decisions and predict future trends with greater accuracy. One of the most visible applications of AI is in customer service. Chatbots and virtual assistants, powered by AI, provide 24/7 support, handle routine inquiries, and free up human agents to tackle more complex issues. This not only improves efficiency but also enhances the customer experience. In addition, AI…

Golf enthusiasts and casual gamers alike can enjoy a variety of fantastic golf games available on Android. These games offer a range of experiences, from realistic simulations to fun, arcade-style gameplay. Here are five amazing golf games you should try on your Android device: 1. WGT Golf WGT Golf (World Golf Tour) is a top-tier golf simulation game that offers an incredibly realistic experience. With stunning graphics, real-life courses, and a variety of game modes, WGT Golf stands out as one of the best golf games on Android. Players can compete in tournaments, challenge friends, and participate in virtual tours…