Work-life balance in the field of healthcare

Many of us have been unlucky enough to experience a stressful workplace in our time. According to a 2018 study, around a third of workers in the UK felt that their work-life balance was poor; further, nearly three-quarters of all adults in the UK have felt overwhelmed by stress in the past year.

Work-life balance is hard to manage at the best of times, it seems. But in the field of healthcare, it can be even harder to manage. This is especially true within a National Health Service besieged by administrative failures and funding shortages, where staffing is tight and workloads harsh. Achieving a good work-life balance is vital.

Work-Life Balance and Mental Health

Indeed, seeking work-life balance is not just a matter of making your workload more manageable. A failure to unblur those lines between work and free time can also be deleterious to your mental health – with potentially disastrous consequences. Stress and low energy can lead to poor performance, which in healthcare can lead to serious consequences for patients. Just as you would put your oxygen mask before others in a turbulent aeroplane, so too should you put your health before your work.

Your employers will have a team of legal experts ensuring, alongside more specific measures such as patent protection and licensing, that the systems within the system (so to speak) are protecting employees and patients alike. But if they don’t, the infrastructure can fail the worker – in turn failing the programme and potentially the human lives that depend on it. Rather than relying on fallible institutions to ensure your needs, and by extension the needs of those in your care, are met, you could try to incorporate some basic thought processes into your routine.

Organisation and Priorities

The first of these is arguably the easiest: organisation. You should start by listing out your various work responsibilities, and organising them in two distinct ways. One should relate to your professional priorities, and the other to the time each task takes. Understanding these key bits of information is crucial, as you can draw up a rough schedule for your day that collapses these tasks into a reasonable and practicable schedule – within work hours.

Making Time for You

If you check out this dentist in Milford MA, they'll tell you that your "me" time should include doing activities you like, exercising, eating healthy food, and visiting a medical expert regularly.

Of course, all of this is designed to help you with one specific thing: the creation of more time for you. While time and task management skills are invaluable for progressing in healthcare and can make you a much better practitioner to patients, these are essentially ancillary benefits. What is more important is your mental health, as illustrated by the oxygen mask analogy earlier.

This philosophy can be incorporated into your organising. Have you left yourself ample time for breaks? Do you have opportunities to leave the lab, desk, or ward, and get some fresh air? Little breaks throughout the day can make a hard day much more bearable – and your life easier to boot.

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Tips for remote working while on the move

The horror of the first wave of the pandemic might be long gone, but COVID-19 changed the world forever. With the majority of us suddenly working from home, many employees started to realise that they suddenly had so much more time to themselves and could keep on top of household chores and avoid hours of commuting.

The same goes for employers who could reap the financial benefits of renting less office space and spend that money elsewhere. The result? Many people still working from home and enjoying a higher quality of life. And who says you need to stay in one place? With WFH, you can work and see the world at the same time! Here’s how.

Investigate your company policy

Before hitting the road with your laptop and mobile hotspot, you need to check that everything is above board. You definitely don’t want to be caught doing something you shouldn’t, as that could harm the future of your employment.

Ensure that you’re not breaching any regulations by checking whether you need pre-approval from your manager.Look into other details like core hours, whether you can manage your hours flexibly or how long you can stay away without being in the office.

Remember it’s not a vacation

It’s tempting to think that once you’re on the road you can relax, but remember you have a job to do! Yes, you can see some pretty awesome things along the way, but your professional duties still remain the same. If you start failing to meet deadlines, you could risk losing your job.

And whilst a vacation can be very relaxing, juggling travelling and work can be really exhausting. You’re likely not going to be able to see as much, but that’s the price you have to pay if you want to work whilst travelling. It’s up to you to make the absolute most of your weekends and days off.

Prioritise safety

Avoid your holiday getting interrupted or even postponed by getting your mode checked professionally before you leave, investing in motorhome insurance, and making sure that your car or van can be securely locked to limit robberies.

Create a comfortable workplace

Say goodbye to double monitors and espressos on tap; working whilst on the road comes with its fair share of discomfort and inconvenience if you’re not properly prepared. The bare minimum you need is a laptop; other extras like a mouse, webcam or keyboard is up to you.

When booking accommodation, make sure that there are quiet spaces for you to concentrate in. Some hotels offer printers and scanners to their guests (if that’s something you need), or you can investigate co-working spaces in the area.

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Pros and cons of a digital nomadic lifestyle

In the aftermath of Covid, more people work from home than ever before. Whilst the pandemic was a brutal scuppering of our freedoms, many of us realised that we had more time for ourselves without the commute to work, and that we could enjoy a higher quality of life overall.

And with this new approach to work has come a perceptible rise in the digital nomadic lifestyle, with people realising that they don’t actually need to be in any fixed place to earn money and make a living. So, why not do it on a beach in Bali?! Whilst this sounds idyllic, there are both pros and cons to this lifestyle. Here are just a few.

Complete freedom

The obvious advantage to being a digital nomad is the freedom that comes with it. No longer are you required to turn up at the office to do your hours, even if you don’t have that much work. Instead, you can do your work, regardless of your official hours, and enjoy the rest of the time doing what you love.

You can also be anywhere, which is the ultimate freedom. Whether it’s on a Europe tour or spending time at a dream destination, where you are and for how long is up to you.

Independence

Forget having to wait for your colleague to get out of their meeting before you can discuss your work together. Being a digital nomad often works best for freelancers who work on projects independently and are therefore not required to be in meetings from morning to night.

Your workload is completely manageable by you and needs very little input, leaving you free to complete your tasks with little to no obstacles in the way. This makes time management even easier.

Increased risk of burnout

Yes, the digital nomad life sounds incredible, but there are also some downsides to this lifestyle. A life on the road without work is hard enough. It demands you to be alert and organised at all times, knowing where you want to go next and dissuading you from stopping to rest.

Such a lifestyle, especially if you want to work alongside it, will inevitably lead to you not getting enough rest. With all the upheaval of moving from place to place, with the added stress of not having your own place to work and probably sharing rooms with strangers, there’s a lot for digital nomads to think about at any given time.

Financial instability

Travelling intensely in a different country can be expensive and can lead to some nasty surprises. With all the costs of travelling around plus accommodation, spending money and feeding yourself on a budget, there’s pressure to make enough money from your remote jobs to fund your lifestyle.

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Creating an optimal learning space at home: Tips for homeschooling parents

Homeschooling has become an increasingly popular choice for many parents seeking a more personalized and flexible education for their children. One crucial aspect of successful homeschooling is creating an optimal learning space at home. This article explores various tips for homeschooling parents to design an environment that fosters effective learning.

Choosing the Right Location

One of the first decisions homeschooling parents face is selecting the appropriate location for their child's learning activities. Whether opting for a dedicated room or a multipurpose space, it's essential to consider factors like noise levels and comfort. A quiet and comfortable environment sets the foundation for focused learning.

Setting Up the Essentials

Furniture and seating arrangements play a significant role in establishing a conducive learning space. Investing in ergonomic chairs and suitable desks can make a substantial difference. Additionally, ensuring proper lighting and ventilation contributes to a comfortable study environment.

How to Organize Learning Materials for Maximum Productivity

Benefits of Well-Organized Learning Materials

A well-organized learning environment leads to improved focus, better retention of information, and increased motivation. Additionally, it enables you to set realistic goals and measure your progress effectively.

Common Challenges in Organizing Learning Materials

Acknowledging the challenges is the first step towards overcoming them. From information overload to procrastination, we'll address common hurdles and provide strategies to navigate them.

Step-by-Step Guide to Organizing Learning Materials

• Evaluate Your Learning Goals

  Begin by understanding your learning objectives. Are you studying for an exam, enhancing professional skills, or pursuing a personal interest? Tailor your organization approach to align with your goals.

• Gather All Your Materials

  Collect all your physical and digital learning materials, including textbooks, notes, online resources, and any relevant tools. Having everything in one place simplifies the organization process.

• Categorize and Prioritize

  Sort your materials into categories based on subjects, topics, or relevance. Prioritize them according to urgency or importance, creating a clear hierarchy for efficient retrieval.

• Utilize Digital Tools

  Explore the plethora of digital tools available for organizing learning materials. From note-taking apps to cloud storage, leverage technology to streamline your educational resources.

• Additional Resources and Learning Platforms

  In the expansive landscape of digital resources catering to students, the role of EduBirdie shines as a time-saving beacon. Amidst the academic hustle, students often find themselves entangled in routine tasks. However, a game-changer emerges with the ability to pay EduBirdie to do assignments. This resource proudly claims its spot among the best on the internet for students. The efficiency is reflected in the thousands of orders they process every month, providing students with a valuable breather from the burdensome load of routine academic tasks.

• Create a Structured Storage System

  Establish a systematic approach to storing physical materials. This could involve labeled folders, shelves, or designated spaces for different subjects, ensuring easy access when needed.

• Establish a Regular Maintenance Routine

  Consistency is key. Set aside regular intervals to review and update your organizational system. This prevents clutter and ensures that your materials remain relevant to your learning journey.

• Stay Flexible and Adapt

  Learning is a dynamic process. Be open to adjusting your organization strategy based on evolving needs, new information, or changes in your learning environment.

Incorporating Technology

In today's digital age, technology plays a vital role in homeschooling. Parents should ensure they have the necessary devices and accessories for effective learning. A reliable internet connection is equally important for accessing online resources and virtual classes.

Personalizing the Learning Environment

Make the learning space inspiring by adding motivational and educational decor. Personal touches can include posters, artwork, or educational charts. Encouraging creativity in the learning environment stimulates a child's imagination and enthusiasm for learning.

Establishing a Routine

Consistency is key in homeschooling. Establishing a daily schedule helps children know what to expect and when. Balancing study and break times is crucial for maintaining focus and preventing burnout.

Engaging Learning Activities

Keep lessons interesting and interactive by incorporating hands-on activities. Consider outdoor learning opportunities to break the monotony of indoor study sessions. Engaging activities make learning enjoyable and memorable.

Supporting a Healthy Lifestyle

A healthy body supports a healthy mind. Provide nutritious snacks during breaks to keep energy levels up. Encourage short physical activity breaks to refresh the mind and maintain overall well-being.

Addressing Challenges

Distractions are inevitable in a home environment. Homeschooling parents must find effective ways to minimize distractions and create a focused learning atmosphere. Additionally, addressing the unique needs of multiple children with varying learning styles requires careful consideration.

Monitoring Progress

Regularly monitor and track your child's academic progress. Keep a record of achievements and areas that may need additional attention. Effective communication with teachers and peers is essential for a well-rounded learning experience.

Fostering a Positive Learning Environment

Encourage a growth mindset by celebrating achievements, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement fosters a love for learning and resilience in the face of challenges.

Networking with Other Homeschooling Parents

Joining local or online homeschooling communities provides a valuable support system. Sharing experiences and tips with other parents can offer insights and solutions to common challenges.

Adapting to Change

Flexibility is key in the homeschooling journey. As children grow and educational needs evolve, be open to adapting the learning space and strategies accordingly. Embracing change ensures continued effectiveness in homeschooling.

Creating an optimal learning space at home is a crucial aspect of successful homeschooling. From choosing the right location to fostering a positive learning environment, each tip contributes to a well-rounded educational experience. By implementing these suggestions, homeschooling parents can create a space where their children thrive academically and personally.

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Creating a productive workspace at home: 3 essential features

Thinking of setting up a work-from-home space or considering sprucing up your current setup? Looking to build something that’s as functional as it is relaxing?

Don’t worry if you’re not the most creative person in the world, we’ve provided some of our top tips to create a calming and productive working environment at home. From adjustable lighting to ergonomic seating, here are three essential types of items to include in a home office.

Set up proper lighting

Creating an office space that has sufficient lighting is paramount, not only to reduce eye strain but also to ensure you can work efficiently. If possible, try to let in as much natural light as possible. Doing so can reduce symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and blurred vision.

If you don’t have access to much natural light, you’ll need to find a way to supplement overhead lighting or include a floor or table lamp. Opting for adjustable lights is great for changing the brightness to how you see fit.

During the winter months, to combat those dark afternoons, consider getting a SAD lamp. These lights are specially designed to produce a much-needed boost of bright light that mimics sunlight. It’s most effective when used in the morning and can increase energy levels.

Include non-distracting entertainment

It’s clear that technology and other forms of entertainment are distracting. However, certain equipment can improve your productivity rather than hinder it. For example, smart tablets allow you to use software designed for efficient working, such as note-taking apps and time trackers.

Additionally, playing music is a great way of increasing motivation and keeping you focused. Look to invest in a turntable or vinyl record player to play your favourite songs. If there are others in the home who wouldn’t appreciate the noise, consider a pair of noise-cancelling headphones instead.

Choose ergonomic furniture

We might often catch ourselves sat hunched over our screens. As a result, our neck becomes sore and our back goes stiff. If you’re not comfortable, it’s highly likely you won’t be able to work as efficiently and concentrate on the task at hand.

Instead, design your office with an ergonomic chair that can properly support your back. These chairs are able to open up your blood vessels as a result of better posture, supplying the body with more energy.

You may even decide to get an ergonomic desk, which is ideal if you suffer from common injuries like repetitive strain and carpal tunnel syndrome. Rather than remaining seated for the majority of the day, these desks can be adjusted and raised so that you’re able to work at standing height.

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How to flourish in the gig economy

The UK’s infrastructural landscape has been shifting steadily since the start of this new digital age, with continued technological developments making way for new ways of working, and new ways of engaging in practice. Remote working has been the major topic of conversation in the past two years, on account of the pandemic accelerating adoption of more flexible home working policies. However, the pandemic was something of a distraction from an arguably more impactful shift, in the form of the gig economy.

Freelance working has always been a cornerstone of the UK’s skills infrastructure, but the expansion of freelancer platforms and gig economy industries has created even more fertile ground for sole traders and contract workers – with implications for both workers and businesses. From either perspective, how can one flourish in a new gig economy?

Employers

As a business owner, the new landscape of gig economy work is at once a world of possibility and a harbinger of potentially damaging changes. Not only are there new ways in which you can engage with freelancers or meet certain business needs, but also fresh competition to which you could lose some of your finest workers. How, then, should you engage with your business with the gig economy in mind?

Update Your Systems

Firstly, you should update your systems in order to better facilitate the hiring of freelancer workers. For smaller business, agility can be retained through using payroll outsourcing services, which improve efficiency and keep costs down while covering all bases with regard to worker situation.

Be People-Centric

The gig economy is a game of give and take. While you may lose talented workers to freelancing, you also gain some agility in covering workload through freelancers as opposed to salaried staff. Still, taking a people-first approach will yield the best results; try not to overload freelancers, and don’t be afraid to pay above market average to ensure longevity.

Freelancers

The other side of the coin, of course, is that which most are by now familiar: utilising the gig economy as a freelance operator. Between websites, work portals and app-based opportunities, there are many ways to make your way freelancing – but what should you be doing to make waves instead?

Know Your Worth

Crucially, you need to understand your own worth as a worker. This works two ways, though: as a green worker in your field, your work might not be up to the standard of others, making higher rates a poor choice; alternatively, you may be significantly undercharging for your knowledge and experience.

Network, Network, Network

Networking is vital to success in freelancing. Often it isn’t what you know, but who you know – even in a professional capacity. Networking amongst business owners gives you the opportunity to gain direct contacts and potential work, while networking with other freelancers can open you up to new opportunities and newer networks besides.

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Home office harmony: Balancing work and leisure

In the current era, where the line between work and home life is increasingly blurred, achieving harmony in a home office setting is paramount. This balance is not just about creating a productive work environment, but also about integrating leisure activities responsibly. One such leisure activity that can be both enjoyable and a test of time management is playing online games.

Crafting the Ideal Home Office Environment

Designating a Dedicated Workspace

The first step in creating a balanced home office is to establish a dedicated workspace. This area should be designed to minimise distractions and increase focus, ideally separate from spaces associated with relaxation and leisure.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Comfort and ergonomics play a crucial role in productivity. Investing in a comfortable chair, proper lighting, and ergonomic tools can significantly boost work efficiency and reduce the risk of physical strain.

Time Management Techniques

Setting a Structured Schedule 

Structuring the day with a clear schedule helps in delineating work hours from leisure time. This includes setting specific times for breaks and adhering to a consistent start and end time for work each day.

The Pomodoro Technique 

One effective time management method is the Pomodoro Technique, which involves breaking the workday into 25-minute focused intervals followed by short breaks. This can help in maintaining concentration and preventing burnout.

Integrating Leisure into the Home Office

The Role of Short Breaks

Short breaks are crucial for mental and physical well-being. They provide an opportunity to relax and recharge, which can boost productivity upon returning to work tasks.

Responsible Leisure Activities

Engaging in leisure activities like reading, meditating, or playing quick online games can be a great way to spend these breaks. For instance, playing a brief session of slots can be an entertaining way to unwind. However, it's important to engage in such activities responsibly and be mindful of the time spent on them.

The Case Study of Online Gaming

Using Slots as a Leisure Activity

Online games, especially slots, can be a fun and easy-to-access form of entertainment during breaks. They provide a quick diversion from work, helping to clear the mind and relieve stress.

Time Management and Online Gaming

It's essential to practice time management when engaging in online gaming. Setting a timer and limiting gaming to break periods can ensure that leisure time doesn't encroach upon work responsibilities.

Balancing Work and Leisure: Best Practices

Prioritising Tasks 

Effectively prioritising work tasks is critical. Tackling the most challenging tasks when concentration levels are highest, typically in the morning, can lead to more productive work sessions.

Creating Boundaries

Setting boundaries is key in a home office. This means not only physical boundaries between the workspace and leisure areas but also temporal boundaries between work time and leisure time.

The Psychological Aspect of Work-Leisure Balance

The Importance of Downtime

Downtime is not just absence from work; it’s a vital component of a productive lifestyle. It helps in mental rejuvenation, creativity, and maintaining a long-term work-life balance.

Recognising Signs of Burnout 

It’s important to be aware of burnout signs, such as prolonged stress, fatigue, or decreased interest in work. Acknowledging these signs early can help in taking corrective actions, like adjusting the work-leisure balance.

Technology’s Role in Balancing Work and Leisure

Utilising Productivity Apps

Technology can aid in achieving work-leisure balance through various productivity apps. These apps can help in tracking time, organizing tasks, and reminding you to take breaks.

Controlling Digital Distractions

While technology is a boon, it can also be a source of distraction. Using tools to limit notifications or block distracting websites during work hours can help maintain focus.

The Impact of Remote Work on Work-Leisure Dynamics

The Challenges of Remote Work

Remote work, while offering flexibility, also brings challenges in separating work from personal life. Without the physical separation of an office, work can easily seep into personal time.

Strategies for Remote Workers

Remote workers should be extra diligent in creating a structured routine, setting up a designated workspace, and consciously stepping away from work during off-hours.

Balancing work and leisure in a home office requires discipline, structure, and mindfulness. Integrating short, responsible leisure activities like playing slots can contribute to this balance, offering a mental break without derailing productivity. By setting clear boundaries, prioritizing tasks, and using time management techniques, one can achieve a harmonious blend of productivity and relaxation, leading to a more fulfilling and sustainable work-from-home lifestyle.

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Guide for Christmas gift ideas to impress your loved ones

Ho! Ho! Ho! Santa’s elves are working in full power to deliver Christmas gifts. Are you on his nice or naughty list?

As Santa Claus sorts through his list and gears up to get all the gifts packed on time, you can do your Earthly duty of spreading Christmas cheer among your friends and family. And mind you, there’s no naughty list on Earth. All your loved ones are on the nice list because this is the season of gift-giving. The air is filled with the heartwarming spirit of this holiday season as it is a time for celebration, love, and togetherness.

Do not let go of this opportunity to show your friends and family how much you care! And there’s no better to express your love and affection than buying thoughtful, incredible gifts for your near and dear ones.

Tips for successfully navigating the gift-giving maze

The perfect Christmas gift is a myth. Don’t put undue pressure on yourself to find the perfect gift. All you need to focus on is finding Christmas gifts for your loved ones that align with their specific preferences and interests. Also, brace yourself because you will be faced with myriad options. Consider the tips below to successfully navigate the maze of buying gifts.

●      Avoid last-minute rush: Don’t keep buying Christmas gifts as the last item on your to-do list before D-day. Buying gifts last minute means you won’t get all the amazing Christmas-related deals and discounts. Also, you will have to settle for what’s left because early shoppers have already bought the best ones. Even if you shop online, you may find most items are out of stock. So, don’t let this happen to you. Start buying gifts well in advance.

●      Know the likes and dislikes of the recipients: How can you buy impressive gifts for your loved ones if you don’t know what they like or dislike? You must take an interest in their lives to find out the gifts that resonate with their lifestyle and personality.

Need some specific gift ideas? Take a look

●      For the artsy and passionate creative

Are you looking for Christmas gifts for artsy people? Does the passion for self-expression and creativity fuel the recipients? Consider gifts that foster their creativity.

For instance, year-long art supplies for the painter in your group or musical instruments for the upcoming Jimi Hendrix or John Bonham would make for the perfect gift. It will ignite their passion for painting or music. Also, they will feel encouraged and seen.

If your loved one has been bitten by the shutterbug, the ideal present would be a new DSLR/SLR. And if the recipient already has a camera, the next best present would be a high-end camera lens, a subscription to a professional photography course, or a tripod.

Similarly, you can get diaries, journals, and writing accessories for the budding writer in your family.

No matter the passion and talent, if you look hard enough, you will indeed find gifts aligned with their hobby or professional pursuits.

●      For the gadget freak

Is the giftee tech-savvy? Do they love embracing new technology and go crazy over it? Then, do not look elsewhere. Consider gifts that will boost their digital experience.

Smart home devices make for an excellent gift. If they already have a smart speaker, consider giving them a smart lighting system or a smart thermostat. These devices will add automation and convenience to their home.

Besides smart home devices, tech gadgets like VR headsets, smartwatches, smartphones, and Google glasses make for an exceptional present to ensure the giftee has a fun Christmas.

You can even consider tech accessories, such as portable power banks, noise-canceling headphones, and wireless charging pads. If you are utterly confused, get them a gift card to an electronics store so they can pick what they want.

●      For the homebody

Picking up a Christmas gift for someone who loves staying home and enjoys their own company is both easy and difficult. For a homebody, comfort and relaxation comes first. You could think of gifts along the lines of bath bombs, essential oils, and other items that would enhance their bathing experience. Or you could consider home decoration items, a subscription to a gourmet food delivery service, books, etc. It is essential to know what the giftee likes doing when at home to choose the perfect gift.

●      For the adventure-seeker

To give fire to the adventurous spirit of the giftee, you can plan an adventure-filled weekend trip. It could be hiking, trekking, mountain climbing, snorkeling, or any kind of adventure activity. Camping is also a brilliant idea that will allow you to bond with the giftee.

Besides planning an adventurous weekend away, you can consider gifts like camping equipment or a hiking backpack. Travel vouchers make for a fantastic gift as they can be redeemed to travel to their dream destination.

So, there you have it. These are some Christmas gift ideas to inspire you. We hope you are feeling inspired and will quickly find the perfect gifts for your loved ones. Best of luck!

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Key 2024/25 tax year dates, deadlines & thresholds

Whether you’re working from home as a self-employed individual or an employee, it’s always helpful to know the latest tax year dates in the UK, which will come into force in April 2024. 

Here are the self-assessment tax return dates and VAT return dates for 2024/25.

Want to know the dates for 2023/24? Check them here. Or find dates for the 2025/26 tax year here.

When does the 2024/25 tax year start?

The 2024/25 tax year begins on 6 April 2024 and ends on 5 April 2025. 

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Self-assessment tax return dates 2024/25

Here are your Self Assessment tax return dates, and other important deadlines for individuals and self-employed in the 2024/25 tax year:

5 April 2024	2023/24 tax year ends
6 April 2024	2024/25 tax year begins
31 July 2024	Second Payment on Account (POA) for Income Tax for 2023/24
5 October 2024	Deadline for Self Assessment registration to notify chargeability of Income Tax/Capital Gains Tax for 2023/24
19 October 2024	Deadline for postal payments of CIS, Class 1 B NICs and PAYE to HMRC
22 October 2024	Deadline for electronic remittance of CIS, Class 1 B NICs and PAYE to HMRC
31 October 2024	Deadline for postal submission of Self Assessment tax returns for tax year ended 5 April 2024 to be received by HMRC
30 December 2024	Deadline for online submission of Self Assessment tax returns for tax year ended 5 April 2024
31 December 2024	Due date to file company accounts with Companies House for limited companies with 31 March 2024 year end
14 January 2025	Income tax due date for CT61 period to 31 December 2024
31 January 2025	Deadline for filing Self Assessment Tax Returns for tax year ended 5 April 2024 and 2023/24 Capital Gains Tax Balancing payment of tax due for 2022/23 and first Payment on Account for Income Tax for 2024/25
5 April 2025	2024/25 tax year ends
6 April 2025	2025/26 tax year begins

Deadlines for submitting VAT returns 2024/25

The deadline for submitting your return is 1 month and 7 days after the end of the VAT period, whether you pay your VAT monthly or quarterly. 

Here are the key dates for submitting VAT returns in the 2024/25 tax year:

7 April 2024	Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 29 February 2024
7 May 2024	Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 31 March 2024
7 June 2024	Deadline for VAT returns and payment Accounting Quarter period ending 30 April 2024 if filed online
7 July 2024	Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 31 May 2024
7 August 2024	Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 30 June 2024
7 September 2024	Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 31 July 2024
7 October 2024	Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 31 August 2024
7 November 2024	Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 30 September 2024
7 December 2024	Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 31 October 2024
7 January 2025	Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 30 November 2024
7 February 2025	Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 31 December 2024
7 March 2025	Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 31 January 2025

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PAYE tax rates & thresholds 2024/25

• Employee Personal Allowance: £12,570

• Basic Rate Tax Band: 20% on income between £12,571 and £50,270

• Higher Rate Tax Band: 40% on income between £50,271 and £125,139

• Additional Rate Tax Band: 45% on income above £125,140

• The standard tax code for 2024/25 is 1250L

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How to better manage your work-life balance in 2024

Many of us enjoy the perks of working from home – no tedious commute, no strict dress code, and no office politics. But for those of us who call the office our living room, and especially for remote workers who are not constrained to specific working hours, not having clearly defined time or physical spaces for us to compartmentalise our work, it can be difficult to even out the two, or even separate them in our heads. If you find yourself sending work emails at 9pm on a Saturday night, or struggling to get into a productive mindset, read on for our tips on how to make your time work more effectively for you in 2024.

We can’t magically add more time in our day, and not for a lack of trying. So how can we fix this? How can we reorganise how we spend our hours to become healthier and more efficient? We’ve conjured up a list of ways to help your work-life balance become just that – balanced. Read on to find out how.

Fail to Plan - Planning to Fail 

Planning your day, week, month or even year is a great way to stay on top of things. Keeping a 2024 diary is an easy way to do this, by writing in all the big events of the year in advance; weddings, parties, birthdays, anniversaries all in one place. Jotting down these dates will give you ones less thing to remember, and seeing them listed in advance will help you better schedule time to buy presents, make arrangements for work or childcare, or treat yourself to a snazzy new outfit.To stay even more on top of things - write a reminder a week or two before the date of big events, incase you need to reshuffle your schedule temporarily to get everything done.

Keeping a journal along with a diary can help visualise your day before you jump headfirst into things and lose motivation half-way through the day, allowing you to focus on the present as well as the future. Writing down your tasks in the morning or night before can help you understand which will require the most amount of time or energy, better helping you spend your hours wisely without getting overwhelmed.

Time Management Techniques

Time management is a difficult thing to get right. We try and try to complete all the tasks we need to in a day, get the right amount of sleep, eat three square meals at the correct times, get a workout in, and still have time left over to relax and reset before bed. Work becomes overwhelming, you start to get tired more easily and exercising soon becomes too difficult to fit into your busy day. Here are some ways to effectively manage your time.

Time Blocking

Time blocking is a great way to hold yourself accountable, by dedicating blocks of time to specific tasks, as though keeping appointments with yourself. Estimate how long each task will take and assign a chunk of time to it, then try to stay as on schedule as possible throughout the day. You can also do this with meals, household tasks, and short work breaks, to make sure you don’t become too distracted doing something else, or get carried away by something minor.

Task Batching

When making meals at home, you’ve probably realised there are many pockets of time within the cooking process where you can do other things, like washing utensils as you go rather than letting the dishes pile up. The same can be said for other daily home and work tasks. You can usually find a way to clump them together, therefore saving time and ultimately getting more done in a day.

ABCs

The ABC technique is all about prioritisation, with tasks divided up by you into three categories: A for urgent and important, B for important but not urgent, and C for not urgent nor important. Work your way down the list, ticking things off as you go. If you’re someone who divides their time up well but spends too much time on the wrong tasks, or tackles them before what should be prioritised, this will help get your day back on track.

The Two Minute Rule

This time management technique works best for those who have trouble constantly completing small, short tasks. For example, making a quick phone call to confirm a reservation, taking the bins out, sending a short email, or planning your route somewhere for the next day. These are easily accomplished tasks that, if left unchecked, can pile up and cause more stress than necessary. Set a timer for two minutes, and just get it done.

Setting Boundaries

When your office is a room in your own house, the lines between work and home can become easily blurred. If possible, keep a separate room in your house that is purely for work, or if not, a desk or specific chair at your table that you only use for office hours. For the same reasons that sleep experts recommend staying out of your bedroom unless you’re preparing to go to bed, having a designated workspace in your house will help you physically and psychologically create a barrier between your job and your relaxation time. Aside from this, when you step into your home office, or sit on your ‘work chair’, your brain will better assimilate into a working headspace, as well as more easily step out of it when 5 o’clock rolls around.

Having set hours is important for any work-life balance, but even more so when you don’t physically leave an office and mark the clear end of a working day. Try to avoid the temptation of checking your emails after-hours if you can, and if you work part-time or remotely, get into the habit of choosing specific days to work. This will help better separate your ‘days on’ and ‘days off’, and will also make it clearer to your employees when they can expect a response from you, and when you’re effectively ‘out-of-office’.

However you choose to structure your time, try to stick to habit-making routine, so that not only will you use your time more efficiently, but doing so will become second nature. The more we do with the time we have, the more accomplished we’ll feel, and including relaxation and leisure time into this formula is just as important. Using these tricks, you’ll increase productivity whilst still allowing yourself time to relax and do what you enjoy, improving your overall state of mind!

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Ensuring your home office is tidy: What you can do

Keeping your office or workplace clean and tidy can be difficult, even though it’s the space where you need calm and organisation the most. It’s easy for your home life to creep into the work area but it's important to have firm boundaries in place to separate the two and limit the clutter that builds up.  

This not only makes it a more productive place to work, but a tidy environment has significant benefits for your mental health. Here is what you can do to keep a neat and organised home workspace:  

Organised filing systems

Whatever industry you’re working in, you need a good filing system to prevent things from building up and creating clutter. Developing an organised filing system gives every item a designated place and can save you time when working on a project.  

If you’re more garaged-based and work in the construction or automotive sector, you should think about investing in toolboxes to keep your equipment safe and secure.

Declutter regularly  

The busier you get, the more cluttered and less productive your working environment can become. You can nip this problem in the bud early on by only keeping what you need. You can work more effectively by getting rid of anything that you haven’t touched for months.  

Though an extreme method, a quick way to determine which items are impeding your productivity is by getting rid of everything and then adding things back in as and when you need them. This means valuable real estate is not taken up and it's easier to stay on top of any mess generated throughout the working day.  

Make use of storage  

Storage is your best friend when tidying your home office so don’t be afraid to fill your space up with expandable folders, file boxes, a desk with drawers, or a file cabinet. Different jobs will have different requirements but there are plenty of creative home office storage ideas that will keep your space organised to perfection.  

If you have the budget, you could double up with wall and base storage. The built-in look allows you to maximise every inch of space available. 

Try a cleaner  

For those who are short on time, hiring a cleaner can help you keep your workspace (and home!) clean and tidy. These professionals will ensure that your office is spick and span, giving you one less thing to worry about.  

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Top health and safety tips for working from home

An employer's duty to ensure the safety of workers extends to those working from home. Organisations are responsible for keeping their employees safe and free from harm, regardless of where they work. Their safety should remain a top priority, even if they are working outside the office.

In this article, we lay out some of the top health and safety tips for working from home to ensure the well-being and safety of your employees. 

Set up a safe workspace

When asking their employees to work from home, one of the first things employers must do is set up a safe workspace. The work environment should be safe and comfortable, such as having proper desks, chairs, and lighting to ensure safety and comfort when maintaining a sitting position for the entire day.

Offices are set in a particular way to ensure that an employee's joints are aligned and well-positioned. Awkward positions can result in misaligned joints, resulting in pain and injuries. Employers should assist work-from-home employees in the proper setup of their workspaces.

If you need to work late, ensure you have proper lighting. Otherwise, your eyes will start to strain. Poor lighting can make your eyes and muscles work overtime. Bright or natural light is ideal for working on a computer. Low light can cause your eyes to strain easily.

Encourage workers to move between jobs. They should get up and move around throughout the day, not just lock themselves on their desks. Ideally, employees working from home should schedule movement breaks every once in a while to allow the body to reset and utilise different muscles.

Create a healthy and regular working routine

Employees must establish a healthy and regular working routine when working from home. Like working in the office, they should have a work schedule and aim to stick to it. They should follow a routine that signals the start and end of their working day. For instance, they can start with a cup of coffee to keep them pumped up for the day and end their work routine with a walk to the park. 

Employees should include taking regular breaks in their work schedule, such as an hour-long lunch break and short breaks. They should make the most of their break. Employees should avoid ending their break earlier just because they received an email from their boss, even when working from home. They should allow time to transition from taking a break to working again. 

Moving is crucial when working from home. Feel free to go out for a walk or perform some light exercises during breaks. But even when you are working, look for opportunities to move. Stand and do heel lifts while on a Zoom meeting, or you can do pelvic tilts while sitting in front of your computer. Remember, every bit of movement counts. 

Partake in health and safety training

Your workers must be safe and healthy regardless of where they are working, and this can be possible if you provide them with health and safety training. The training teaches employees to observe precautions while working from home, just as they would while working from the office. 

Health and safety training is mandatory for many industries. Authorities expect employers to train their staff to stay safe and healthy while working, even outside office premises. The training helps workers identify hazards and risks while working remotely, allowing them to do their jobs safely. It will also discuss legal duties relating to work-from-home setup and guidance to minimise mental and physical well-being risks.

Accidents can be costly, and you will be responsible for covering the costs if they are harmed on the job. As a result, investing in training is worthwhile. Choosing efficient and cost-effective online health and safety training courses not only ensures a well-prepared workforce but is also considerably less expensive than bearing the financial weight of expenses incurred as a result of workplace mishaps.

Implement cyber security practices

Working from home comes with cybersecurity risks. Aside from putting the remote workers' privacy at risk, working from home can also lead to a breach of company security. Unfortunately, many organisations do not have the infrastructure to support a work-from-home setup and have less security to protect their company data. In fact, most companies only have underlying cybersecurity measures designed to accommodate those working within their premises.

Companies allowing their employees to work from home should ensure their IT department has the infrastructure to handle the strain of remote users accessing their network or having numerous connections over private virtual networks.

Aside from ensuring the company's IT system can handle numerous remote workers, the management should also consider if their organisation has established security guidelines for remote working, including employees' use of personal devices for company business and remote access to company information systems.

One of the most essential cybersecurity practices companies should impose for those working from home is installing antivirus software, which can detect and block malware and other viruses that could harm the company's computer network and systems.

Manage your Stress Levels

While many think working from home is much less stressful, it can also leave you stressed and overwhelmed, especially if you have numerous workloads and deadlines to keep up with. So, just like working in an office setting, you should be able to manage stress while working from home. Getting into a work routine and structure while working at home is one way to avoid getting overwhelmed while working from home. 

Stick to a schedule when starting and ending your workday. And as already mentioned, you should include breaks in your schedule. By having a structure, you can tick off more tasks from your to-do list.

Not dressing up and commuting to work can also come with drawbacks. Since your home is now your office, it can be challenging to stop working, and you'll end up overworked. So, just like in your office, you must adhere to specific working hours even when you're at home.

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Best jobs in software engineering for remote working

Being able to work remotely is among the perks that software engineers can enjoy. If you have a knack for coding and dream of a job that transcends boundaries, consider stepping into the world of software engineering.

Software engineers can write code on their computers remotely and collaborate with their co-workers online. With apps like Slack and Zoom, working remotely as a software engineer has never been easier. With these tools, they can have meetings with colleagues as they work on a project and not have to meet in person. As long as you have a decent computer and a stable connection to the Internet, working remotely as a software engineer won't be a problem.

If this is the career path you wish to take, check out our list of the best jobs in software engineering for remote working.

Senior Software Engineer

If you want to take up leadership roles and believe you have enough experience in the field, you can become a senior software engineer according to Lumify Learn. As a senior software engineer, you'll spearhead projects that involve developing software, monitoring and testing software, and making upgrades. The role requires extensive knowledge and experience in programming and software development. Since the role doesn't require you to be present at the office most of the time, it is one of those roles that you can take up remotely.

You must have good leadership skills to be effective as a senior software engineer. Your role requires you to oversee a team of software engineers as they work on various software development projects. As a highly experienced professional, you will guide new and existing engineers in accomplishing software development projects, which you can do remotely.  

Senior software engineers have a critical role to play in every company. They provide leadership and mentorship to software engineers, thanks to their many years of experience, advanced training, and technical skills. Their expertise in software development allows them to oversee different projects that are intuitive for users. 

Some organisations require senior software engineers to attain a certain level of education, usually both a bachelor's and master's degree in computer science. The role also requires having at least six years of experience in software engineering and development.

Mobile Solution Director

Another leadership role you may be interested in is that of a mobile solutions director. For this role, you are responsible for the vision, strategy, and execution of mobile components. It's a rewarding and well-paid role that experienced software engineers can take. To qualify for the role, you must be an expert in technical mobile solutions. You must have the expertise to deliver a solid user experience based on excellent architecture and technology.

Since this is a remote job, you can perform your tasks anywhere. Like any director role, your job requires you to lead and manage. However, your key responsibilities focus on enhancing product value by incorporating different software products and updating existing ones.

To have a higher chance of bagging the role and standing out in a position like this, you must have expertise in mobile architecture and software development, including hybrid, web, native, and cross-platform options.

Electronic Engineer

Software engineers can also take on the role of electronic engineers. Depending on the employer, your role may require you to work on different software. Since this is a remote role, you will be designing and programming electrical content from the comfort of your home. 

But despite the remote nature of a work-from-home electronics engineer, you need to coordinate with other staff and engineers on some projects, which may require you to meet them in person. Nevertheless, you can perform most of your tasks remotely, and it's also possible to coordinate with the team in a remote setting. Having experience working with remote teammates can also help you stand out from others.

As an electrical engineer, you are responsible for more than just developing and programming electronic material; you are also responsible for creating an arrangement of innovation, bringing circuits to life, and generating the heartbeat of technology that connects us all.  

In this remote work, you'll delve into the intriguing area of electrical engineering, creating a complicated web of electronic assembly techniques with tools like AutoCAD. Consider collaborating with a recruitment company that specialises in electronic engineering to guide you not only to a well-paid job but to a meaningful career where your software knowledge can truly shine.

This position provides the flexibility of remote work while still including the excitement of occasional office visits or face-to-face client interactions—a beneficial combination that keeps your career journey both flexible and personally engaging.

Elite Coder

After acquiring several years of experience in software programming and development, you can become an elite developer. It's one of those coding jobs that you can do remotely. You will use your programming skills to write code and create software programs and applications. 

Elite developers are well-experienced software developers who write code to develop applications or software, from writing code for computer programs to developing systems for improved security and implementing updated coding to redesign web applications.

While coding skills are necessary to become an elite coder, you must possess core skills to be successful in this role. You must have strong written and verbal communication skills since coding requires translating written communication to a computer server.

You must have project management skills since your work can include working on multiple projects. It's also crucial for elite coders to have the ability to set due dates and maintain productivity to carry out different projects. 

Frontend Developer

Software engineers can also work as front-end developers, developing websites and apps using different computer programming languages like CSS, HTML, and JavaScript, allowing users to interact with and access the app or website.

Frontend developers create user interfaces (UI), which refer to the graphical layout of an application that identifies what each part of an application or website does and how it will appear. 

You're not just coding as a front-end developer; you're changing the web into a dynamic, visually attractive universe. Joining a dedicated front-end community opens the door to lifelong learning, collaboration, and the shared joy of transforming lines of code into fascinating digital experiences.

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Ensuring your home office is fire safe: A quick guide

In the dynamic landscape of remote work, our home offices have become more than just workspaces; they are the epicenters of productivity and creativity. However, amid the hustle, it's crucial not to overlook the critical aspect of safety. We’ve already showcased how to avoid accidents in the home office, but in this guide, we'll explore essential fire safety tips to ensure that your UK home office is not just efficient but also secure.

Understanding your emergency exit is just as important at home as they are in an office or public space.

The impact of fire-resistant equipment on safety

Investing in fire-resistant office furniture and equipment is not just a precautionary measure; it can be a game-changer in averting disasters. According to a study by the UK Fire and Rescue Service, offices equipped with fire-resistant furniture experience a 30% reduction in fire-related incidents. This statistic underscores the importance of selecting products that adhere to UK fire safety standards.

When setting up your home office, consider furniture and equipment with fire-resistant features. Beyond safety, these items often boast durability, making them a wise investment for the long term.

For cutting-edge fire protection solutions tailored to the UK, explore Aluprof's range of fire protection and smoke exhaust systems. Their commitment to quality aligns with UK regulations, ensuring you get the best protection for your home office.

The silent threat: faulty wiring

Faulty wiring is a silent menace that can escalate into a full-blown disaster. In the UK, faulty electrics are a leading cause of domestic fires, accounting for over 20,000 incidents annually. Ensuring your home office is equipped with modern, UK-compliant wiring is paramount to mitigating this risk.

Consider consulting a certified electrician to conduct an assessment of your home office's wiring. Upgrading to modern, UK-approved wiring not only enhances safety but can also improve energy efficiency, saving you money in the long run.

Crafting an emergency evacuation plan

Having a well-thought-out emergency evacuation plan is like having a safety net—it's essential. In the UK, statistics show that households with a documented evacuation plan are 75% more likely to escape a fire without injury. This emphasises the need for a clear, UK-specific plan for your home office.

Identify primary and secondary escape routes, establish a designated meeting point, and conduct regular fire drills. This not only ensures everyone is familiar with the plan but also enhances the efficiency of evacuation in case of an emergency.

“over 40% of UK homes do not have functioning smoke alarms”

The critical role of smoke alarms in early detection

Smoke alarms are your first line of defense against fires, providing early detection and precious seconds to evacuate. Shockingly, over 40% of UK homes do not have functioning smoke alarms, according to data from the UK Fire and Rescue Service. Installing and maintaining smoke alarms should be a non-negotiable aspect of your home office safety protocol.

Place smoke alarms strategically, ensuring they cover key areas of your home office. Test them regularly and change the batteries at least twice a year. This simple step significantly improves your chances of early fire detection.

For recommendations on selecting and installing smoke alarms in the UK, refer to the UK Fire and Rescue Service's guidance.

In the pursuit of a productive and efficient home office, don't overlook the critical importance of safety. By incorporating fire-resistant equipment, ensuring UK-compliant wiring, crafting a comprehensive evacuation plan, and installing smoke alarms, you're not just creating a workspace—you're building a haven.

Remember, the statistics are clear: proactive measures significantly reduce the risk of fire-related incidents. Prioritise safety, invest wisely, and cultivate a home office that not only fosters productivity but also safeguards what matters most—your well-being. Stay safe!

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Five ways to decorate your home office for the festive season

Christmas approaches with an unyielding pace and your office group chats are likely already awash with conversations about secret Santas and the inevitable Christmas Do. Working from home, as many in the UK are, you might find yourself somewhat removed from the company-mandated cheer of the conventional office. What could you do to celebrate the festive season in your home office, in a way that suits your style?

A Quintessential Christmas Tree

What better way to ring in the festive season than with a Christmas tree? Christmas trees to Christmas are what hash browns are to English breakfast – practically indispensable. Why not bring that indispensable Christmas cheer into your home office? A big bushy tree could form a lovely partial backdrop to your webcam if placed behind you, while a smaller one could feature baubles and trinkets from your family to keep your home office homely.

A Simple Wreath

Of course, Christmas trees are not everyone’s style. Some might think them a little too garish, or otherwise taking up too much space. Indeed, not all home offices are capacious enough to fit a Christmas tree, even if a slim four-footer. Besides, you might be keener on dressing the parts of your office that are visible by webcam.

In this instance, hanging a wreath on the wall behind you can be a small, simple, and elegant alternative. You could get one to decorate as you would a Christmas tree, you could create your own, or you could find a more minimalist affair that reflects your aesthetic more readily.

Stylish Christmas Lights

Lighting up your office is another way to get into the festive spirit – as well as a way to make your home working space feel much cosier as the winter weather descends. Hanging some festive string lights behind your desk could be a smart way to frame your monitor and illuminate your working space, and even eliminate the need for harsher task lighting – making working a much comfier endeavour. Alternatively, you could arrange lighting on the wall behind you to brighten up your webcam offering to your colleagues.

Garlands

Technically speaking, a wreath is a garland – but there are so many different types of garlands that you can employ, alongside your ambient lighting, to make all the corners of your office feel that bit more festive. Laying artificial garlands made of the same material as artificial trees can give you control over the extent of your decorations, and also present a much less messy way to decorate; no daily vacuuming-up of pine needles for you!

Desk Ornaments

Finally, we come to your desk, and the innumerable decoration possibilities therein. The desk is a grail for personal effects and comedy objet-d’art, and the festive season is no different. A snow globe from a friend or a funny trinket can combine Christmas with your fingerprint.

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18 essential VPN features you should be using

VPN is a powerful tool for securing online privacy and accentuating security. Since there are a myriad of VPN providers at your disposal offering a plethora of features, it is paramount to comprehend the features that are most useful. In this article, we will explore the top VPN features you should be using so you can beef up your digital freedom and online protection.

1. Strong encryption protocols

Strong encryption is the most important VPN feature. Encryption scrambles your data, so cybercriminals cannot read your data without the encryption key. Look for VPNs using the following protocols:

·      OpenVPN - This is a highly configurable, open-source protocol. It is known for its robust security and is a go-to choose for several VPN providers.

·      IPsec/L2TP - This protocol offers excellent security and is supported natively by most operating systems.

·      WireGuard - This is a high-performing, lightweight protocol gaining popularity for its modern cryptographic design and speed.

2. Leak protection

If VPNs are not properly configured, they may leak your data. Hence, you must look for VPNs offering leak protection. This means that your data will be protected even if the VPN is interrupted. You must opt for a VPN offering DNS leak protection, WebRTC leak protection, and IPv6 leak protection.

3. Diverse server locations

The server locations of the VPN provider play a key role in determining the performance and speed of the connection. As a rule of thumb, connecting to a server location closer to your range will offer optimum performance and better speeds. Also, if the VPN provider features a diverse server location, it means you can connect to any server of your choice. For instance, you can continue watching your UK-based shows while in the USA by using the UK VPN server and so on.

4. Kill switch

A kill switch is an essential feature that stops data leaks if the VPN connection is interrupted or suddenly drops. This feature terminates the Internet connection so that your data isn’t exposed.

5. Split tunnelling

The split tunnelling feature allows users to select which traffic goes through the VPN and the ones that can directly access the Internet. This is a useful feature for maintaining security and privacy while still accessing local devices and content.

6. No-logging

No-logging is a critical feature that ensures your data is not collected and your online activities are not stored by the VPN service provider. You must always choose a VPN service with this feature.

7. Multi-platform support

This is a handy feature as you can use the same VPN subscription across your devices, regardless of their operating systems. So, all your devices will be secure.

8. Multi-hop

This is also known as double VPN and routes connection through multiple servers in various locations, augmenting security and privacy. This feature makes it challenging for anyone trying to trace your online activity.

9. Malware and ad blocking

If the VPN comes with in-built malware and ad-blocking features, it will streamline your online browsing experience. Thanks to these features, the VPN will protect you from annoying ads and malicious websites.

10. P2P support

P2P support means you can engage in P2P torrenting or file sharing. This feature will ensure your uploading and downloading are synonymous and secure.

11. Responsive customer support

A responsive and supportive customer team is invaluable. You may run into technical problems and require support. Hence, look for VPN providers offering customer support via phone, chat, or email.

12. Stealth mode

This feature is also known as camouflage or obfuscation mode. It disguises your VPN traffic so it can bypass government censorship. This feature is essential if you are traveling to countries with restrictions on Internet usage.

13. Password manager

If the VPN comes with an integrated password manager, it will streamline your online experience by ensuring all your passwords are safe.

14. Access to streaming services

Do you need a VPN to stream content from around the world? Then, you must look for a VPN for streaming that lets you bypass geo-restrictions on various platforms, including Disney Plus, Netflix, and Hulu.

15. Speed optimization

Speed optimization is a feature that balances security and speed. This feature is valuable if you need faster connections to finish your tasks.

16. Server monitoring

If the VPN provider monitors their server round the clock, it means they can instantly address server problems. This will ensure stable and reliable connections.

17. Browser extensions

Look for VPNs offering browser extensions for Chrome and other popular web browsers. Thanks to these extensions, you can instantly enable secure browsing with a single tap or click.

18. Dynamic IP address

This feature means your IP address will change whenever you connect to the VPN. Since your IP address is never the same, it will be difficult for anyone to trace you and track your online activities.

How to select the right VPN for yourself?

Are you baffled by all the features mentioned above? The market is overflowing with VPN

providers, and all claim to be the best. When it comes to choosing the right VPN for yourself, you can remember these helpful tips:

• Make a list of the features that are most important to you. For instance, leak protection, a no-logs policy, a kill switch, multiple device support, and responsive customer support.

• Ensure you have a budget, and then compare the top VPN services offering the features you need. Select the right subscription for your budget.

• Remember to read the reviews before making your decision. This is going to ensure you are choosing a provider with a good reputation offering reliable services.

Do you want to make the most of your online browsing experience? Whether you want your online activities to remain secure or you wish to avoid annoying ads, a VPN comes in handy. The features mentioned above are some of the most essential to look for in a VPN service. However, the final choice depends on your specific requirements and the reason why you need to use a VPN.

Are you using a VPN? Do you have any recommendations for newbies? Leave a comment.

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Four great tech jobs for the at-home worker

The world has changed a great deal since the global coronavirus pandemic. Of the many ways in which both individual lives and international industries have been affected by those turbulent years, perhaps the most directly impactful came from the stay-at-home orders instituted both here and across the pond. Many have taken to working and even learning from home from websites like Tutor Hunt.

The Remote Revolution

With much of the workforce required to remain at home, a new dynamic quickly emerged within businesses; workers had to be able to complete their duties from home where possible. This led to an historic shift in working sensibilities, as companies raced to institute new remote collaboration tools and technologies to keep productivity high as possible.

The result since stay-at-home orders were lifted has been a dramatic increase in demand for remote roles. Working from home is much less expensive than commuting every day, while also giving workers more precious time with their families – not to mention the wider general control remote workers can have over their schedule. Most great jobs that offer remote working today are, naturally, in tech. With this in mind, which are the best tech roles for the remote worker?

Software Engineer

Software engineering is an extremely lucrative field in which to excel. With the right knowledge, you can install yourself as an essential component in some of the nation’s most exciting businesses – and you could do so in full-time roles or as a freelance contractor, too.

In salaried roles, you would be provided with most everything you’d need to perform your duties; as a freelance, you might have to source your own servers and equipment from a reliable supplier like RS Americas, but this investment would pay off handily over time.

Web Developer

Of course, your digital talents might not align with the industrial setting of many software engineering roles. Web development is another highly lucrative career path to follow, with the Internet (and now smartphone apps) being an integral part of the average American’s everyday life. Website- and app-building skills are in high demand, from UI developers engaging with the face of the site to the back-end developers ensuring everything runs smoothly. Whatever the specialism, web development work can be done entirely remotely.

Technical Project Manager

You needn’t be an engineer in the digital sense to build a meaningful tech career digitally. Engineers with expertise in structural or mechanical engineering are capable of remotely managing projects by reviewing schematics and blueprints or delegating site work to supervisors. From home, you can draw plans, consult with colleagues and investigate ideal paths forward with little difficulty or resistance.

Social Media Manager

Finally, social media management has catapulted from obscurity into one of the most common roles in digital within a remarkably short time frame. Again, all work exists in digital spaces, between social media platforms themselves and organizational platforms like Trello. Community engagement and content creation go hand in hand here, both of which being consummately easy to carry out from home.

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New Builds Vs. Older Properties – Which is best for at-home working?

The remote work revolution is nowhere near over; indeed, it seems to have only just begun. The pandemic was merely a catalyst for an inevitable shift in the world of work, as technological development has made it all the easier for the average citizen to access their work from home.

Naturally, then, the prospect of remote work has begun to feed into essential life choices – chiefly, the purchasing of a home. Making space for at-home work has become a key factor in house-buying decision-making, which leads us to our essential question: are new builds or older homes better for working at home?

Pro New: The Modernity of New Builds

New builds enjoy the luxury of modern development and technology; not only do they often feature the trappings of modern domestic life, but they are also constructed with modern-day processes and regulations in mind. Modern conveniences like power outlets with 5V USB sockets are simple modern conveniences but preface larger modern shifts in home design – such as the design of ready-made home office spaces.

Pro Older: The Character of Older Homes

While newer homes might have modern life inherent to their design, this does not make them inherently better for you to live in. Modern new builds often lack character, on account of having been built equivalent to hundreds of others in the same area – and not having had time to develop individual character against them.

Older properties, though, wear their years on their sleeves. No two pre-existing home is the same, as some period features may remain in some homes but not others, while evidence of prior renovations may remain. Older properties also often enjoy larger rooms, which means more space for a working environment and more opportunity to make it your own.

Pro New: Maintenance and Energy Efficiency

New builds are more energy efficient as a rule – and quite literally so, where new building regulations on thermal insulation require new builds to exhibit a base level of efficiency. Older homes can be easily retrofitted to meet these standards but at a potentially high cost.

New build homes are often certified with warranties, which offers an additional layer of protection for budding homeowners above and beyond the superior build quality of many new builds. That said, there are some poor projects that have seen corners cut, and which could incur costs for the uncareful. Older homes are not exempt from this by any stretch, though; they have had longer to develop structural issues, which are important to be caught by your conveyancer before purchase. This is where many conveyancing negligence claims are formed.

Ancillary Considerations

Irrespective of the form or quality of your potential home, there are extraneous factors that are important to consider in making your final decision. Location is everything when buying a home, and this certainly does not change even if you are working remotely.

You might require transport links for occasional in-office meetings or debriefs, or in order to visit the city centre or your family with ease. You might require proximity to a school for your children. Work-life balance is key, which can make rural locations with few amenities more demoralising for remote workers. Ironically, new builds are often more likely to be far from amenities, having often been built on the outskirts of pre-existing suburbs.

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Home office renovation: Is hiring a professional worth it?

With so many of us now either working from home full-time or part-time, having a comfortable and flexible home office to work from has never been so important. But, while it’s perfectly understandable that you might want to take the DIY route to save a little cash when renovating your spare room into a home office, should you go the extra mile and hire a professional to create the perfect home office?

Expertise 

Of course, the main reason to hire a professional for your home office renovation is access to their expertise and skills. Professionals will bring years of experience and a deep understanding of what works best for your space that you simply won’t have, no matter how many YouTube videos you’ve watched. A professional interior designer, for example, will assess your needs and design a home office layout that maximises productivity and efficiency by considering everything from lighting and storage to ergonomics.

Design Skills

Beyond functionality, a professional will also have a unique eye for aesthetics and an individual design style that could really make your space pop. They’ll know which colour schemes work (and which don’t), which materials make sense for certain spaces and so much more.

Time and Stress Savings

Renovating a home office, even a small one, can be a time-consuming and stressful endeavour. A professional, however, will have a streamlined process and can complete the renovation more quickly than even the most enthusiastic DIY enthusiast. This means you can start enjoying your upgraded workspace sooner with minimal disruption. Managing a renovation project can also be overwhelming, so wouldn’t it be nice to let somebody shoulder this responsibility?

Quality and Efficiency

Professionals will bring a level of precision and efficient workmanship that could be challenging to achieve on your own. They’ll have been doing this for years and will know exactly how to complete a task practically and fast without making a mess. They will also have an eye for detail that you might lack. The only downside is that, if you’re a person who likes things a certain way, they might not live up to your exacting standards.

Tools

Depending on the scale of the renovation project, you might require bespoke tools to get the job done and they could prove costly if you don’t have them already. More niche tools, such as drilling bits for tiles, for example, are not something you’d probably just have lying around in the garage but a professional interior designer definitely will!

Budget Considerations

Finally, while hiring a professional may seem like a more significant upfront expense, it can help you optimise your budget in several ways and actually end up saving you money. DIY projects, for example, can lead to costly errors that will take time and money to fix. Professionals will have the experience to avoid mistakes, ultimately saving you money. They will also be skilled enough to work within your budget, suggesting cost-effective materials and design choices that still achieve your desired outcome without breaking the bank.

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Creating an office at home: What to consider before starting?

With many Brits either working remotely full-time or doing hybrid work, having a home office has never been more essential. Not all homes have the space to dedicate an entire room to working, so sometimes you will have to get a bit creative to make it work.

Here are some things you should consider before setting up a permanent home office.

Budget and expenses

Home offices range from laptops on desks in a corner of a room that has other uses, to fully adapted spaces that are only used for working. As such, there can be a range of costs associated with creating your ideal space as well as furnishing and decorating it.

Lofts can often be underappreciated spaces when it comes to being functional within your home. Converting yours into a home office means you can be away from the hubbub of a family home, whilst not having to deal with a morning commute.

However, such a conversion can be costly. You may need to save up for a few months to afford it, but with travel expenses added on, it can be challenging. If you are over 55 and a homeowner you may be able to release some equity in your home to boost your renovation fund. Use an equity release calculator to see how much you may be able to release from your home, tax-free.

Choose the right location

Family life can be hectic and hard to manage when you are trying to get some work done. When thinking about your home office, location within your walls is key.

You will need to consider any noise disruptions that may occur. It can be hard enough to concentrate without listening to your toddler have a meltdown about the wrong-coloured plate! Make sure your office is far enough away that such things won’t disturb you.

Natural light should also factor into your decision. Workers who are exposed to natural light have a reduced amount of eye strain, sleep better and feel better mentally. If it isn’t possible to increase your natural light amount, then consider how you will light the room adequately.

Furniture selection

If you are furnishing a small home office, you should think about dual functionality pieces. For example, if you decide to turn the space under the stairs into a workspace, then you will need clever storage. There are desks on the market that are packed full of storage space.

If you do not want a chair sticking out into the hallway or living room, then you may want to use a foldaway chair and store it on a hook on the wall to keep it out of the way.

Walls are a great place to utilise when you are running low on space or storage. You could put up some shelving for folders and files. If you use tools daily, use a wire rack attached to the wall to store tools so that they are easily accessible whilst being tidy.

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