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The Property Insurance Market Update Part 1   Over the past three years, the UK Property Insurance market has faced significant challenges, driven by the cost of materials, labour shortage, inflation and a change in reinsurance (capacity and cost for insurance on large losses) which has resulted in double digit rate increases.   In 2023,…

Autumn Newsletter 2023   We are pleased to enclose your copy of our autumn newsletter, Covernotes.   A digital PDF version is available to download here.   This issue of Covernotes contains the following articles:   Start your ‘Martyn’s Law’ Terror Security Planning Right Now Make Contract and Intention Identical to Avoid a Co-insurance Claim…

Preserving History: A Guide to Storing Classic Cars   The classic car could be the ultimate ‘toy’ for the high net worth individual, with many beautiful cars taking pride of price in the discerning collector’s armoury, but how should these pieces of history and works of art on wheels be stored? Whether you're an avid…

A Guide to Freight Forwarders Insurance in the UK   Introduction Every year, a significant number of shipping containers is lost during transit. This, coupled with the occurrence of damaged goods upon delivery, has emphasised the importance of insurance in the logistics sector. Let's delve into the world of Freight Insurance and Cargo Insurance –…

Lithium batteries in the home – how to protect against fire The use of lithium-ion batteries in household items has increased due to their ability to store more energy, providing longer usage times. While these batteries are generally safe when used properly, there can be serious consequences if they are not handled correctly. Here are…

The personal motor insurance market – challenging times The UK motor market has seen month-on-month premium rate increases over the last few months as Ernst and Young (EY) tell of insurers experiencing their “worst performing year in a decade in 2022”. This is due to: Rising inflation Higher wages Historical low premiums Increase in cost…

Warehouse & storage conditions for insurance purposes Warehouses are essential for many businesses, providing a safe and secure place to store inventory, raw materials, and finished goods. However, not all warehouses are the same, and different warehouse storage conditions are required for different types of products. In this blog post, we will explore why it…

The widening gap of property underinsurance   Concerns grow as an increasing number of UK properties are now underinsured. With the gap between property rebuild costs and their sums insured widening at an alarming rate.   RebuildCostASSESSMENT.com has complied figures from their annual report on rebuild costs and has concluded, from almost 27,000 rebuild valuations…

Underinsurance risk to HNW individuals   High net worth individuals are falling prey to underinsurance in the face of rising inflation rates and the pressures of the UK’s cost of living crisis. New research from specialist insurer, Ecclesiastical, supports this, with a statement released on the 19th  June 2023 revealing that of 119 brokers interviewed…

Important changes in the home claims market   One of the effects of a challenging financial climate is changes in the home claims market. In 2022, UK construction costs rose to a 40-year high as we saw prices soar in raw materials, fuel and energy, and this has meant unprecedented challenges for insurers. There are…

Summer 2023 Covernotes Newsletter   We are pleased to publish our summer 2023 Covernotes newsletter.   A digital PDF version is available to download here. This issue of Covernotes contains the following articles:   Why offering private medical insurance could be good for your business Earthquakes highlight imperative nature of supply-chain risk mitigation Don’t cause…

Understanding the challenges of written-off vehicles: implications for car owners and insurers The fast-paced automotive industry is currently facing a troubling issue. The issue involves a growing number of vehicles that insurers write off due to delays in parts supply, causing frustration among car owners and uncertainty in the insurance industry. This article aims to…

Understanding Social Engineering At the heart of cyber security, understanding social engineering is crucial. This psychological manipulation is often overlooked, and can dupe unsuspecting individuals into revealing confidential information. Predators employ cunning tactics, influencing victims to break standard security practices, so it's essential to recognise this covert threat in our digital age. Recognising these attacks…

Ascend's Charity Fundraiser   Last Wednesday, six members of Ascend Broking participated in the remarkable Essex Super Sleepout charity fundraiser. They braved a night sleeping rough at The Essex County Cricket Ground to raise funds for two worthy charities: CHESS Homeless Charity in Chelmsford and the Essex Cricket Foundation.   CHESS Homeless Charity provides support…

Motor trade underinsurance Underinsurance is a common problem in the motor trade industry, where businesses often struggle to obtain adequate coverage for their vehicles, equipment, and premises. Underinsurance occurs when a business fails to insure its assets for their full value. As a result, this can leave the business exposed to significant financial losses in…

Paul “Benno” Bennett at the National Over 70’s England Trials We are thrilled to announce that Paul "Benno" Bennett, a prominent member of Ascend, is set to compete in the National Over 70's England Trials on April 6th, 2023. Bennett's passion for football has not faded over the years. He continues to play over 45's…

Why Business Interruption is so Important for Coffee Roasters   Coffee roasters, like any other business, need to have plans in place for business continuity in the event of unexpected disruptions or emergencies. Business continuity planning is the process of developing strategies and procedures. it enables a business to continue operating during and after an…

As an insurance broker who provides expert support and advice for businesses in the construction industry, we keep a close eye on MMC, or Modern Methods of Construction. What is insurance for modern construction? MMCs are currently revolutionising the construction industry by providing new ways of building that are faster, cheaper and more sustainable than…

Haulage insurance is a crucial aspect of any transportation business. It protects business owners from financial losses arising from theft, damage to goods in transit, accidents and other unforeseen events. However, finding the right haulage insurance policy can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to the industry. This is where a…

Are you Fully Aware of your Business’s Exposures? Are you a business owner? Then, you need to know the different risks your business may face. These could be things like cyber threats, fire, floods, and other potential losses. These problems could cause financial loss, damage to your property, or even legal troubles. But don't worry,…

Warehouse and storage conditions for insurance purposes Why is it important to know your warehouse storage conditions for insurance purposes? Knowing your warehouse storage conditions is crucial for insurance purposes. Insurance companies require accurate information about your products’ storage conditions to provide the right coverage for your business. Failure to provide accurate information about your…

Commercial insurance policies are designed to protect businesses from unexpected losses. However, just because a business has an insurance policy does not guarantee that they will receive coverage when they file a claim. Insurance companies have a responsibility to properly evaluate claims and only pay out when the terms of the policy have been met.…

Underground cable strikes can have catastrophic consequences for groundwork companies, often resulting in significant financial losses and reputational damage. However, with the right insurance coverage, owners of these companies can mitigate their risk and protect themselves from the financial burden that often accompanies such incidents. The Importance of Insurance Coverage As a groundwork company owner,…

Hired in plant insurance is an important type of insurance for businesses that rely on plant or equipment rentals. It provides protection against damage or loss of equipment that is rented from a third party. Hired in plant insurance claims can be complex, and it is important to understand the process in order to ensure…

How to Prevent Keyless vehicle Theft Keyless vehicle theft is on the rise, fuelled in part by both the higher demand for used cars and vans, and gaps and shortages in the supply chain for replacement parts due to Brexit and Covid. The Home Office reports that every five minutes in the UK, a vehicle…

Directors and Officers (D&O) insurance is an important aspect of the wholesale industry, as it protects the leaders of a company from potential legal claims related to their decision-making processes and actions. The wholesale industry involves large transactions and complex operations, making D&O insurance a critical component for ensuring the stability and success of companies…

The Difference Between ‘Joint Names’ and ‘Composite Insured’ Construction Insurance Most people in the construction industry will know that contract works are usually determined by standard form contracts called JCTs (or Joint Contracts Tribunal contracts) which outline the responsibilities and obligations of all parties involved in the project i.e., the employer, contractors, and any subcontractors.…

How Your Business Can Reduce Their Motoring Costs Rising motoring costs are a concern for all businesses that have a motor fleet. If you run a fleet of vehicles as part of your business, you’ll be keeping a close eye on balancing the cost of keeping your fleet on the road with the difficulties of…

Safety Practices Regarding Lithium-Ion Batteries Lithium-ion batteries (also known as li-ion batteries) are in many everyday appliances - both in the workplace and the home - and have become commonplace, but they pose a fire risk not everyone may be aware of. Let’s take a closer look at these batteries and the sensible precautions you…

Why all businesses require Directors and Officers insurance   Directors and Officers liability insurance (D&O insurance) provides financial support and defence against potential investigations into the behaviour of your executives and the possibility of them being sued. Without such insurance, the company will be left to pick up the tab from their own resources. Or,…

What can fleets expect in 2023? 2022 was a wild ride for the trucking industry, but as we enter autumn many are wondering what will happen next. Sean Storey of Capital Equipment spoke recently at NationaLease, offering his thoughts during their recent Annual Meeting about how he thinks things may play out over the coming…

3 changes in Transportation in 2023 The transportation industry is always adapting to changing times and circumstances. With such an influential impact on other sectors, it’s important for businesses in this space to keep themselves informed about what will come next year so they can plan accordingly – both now (to avoid surprises) as well…

8 Ways to Tackle Underinsurance Underinsurance can be devastating, especially when it comes to your business property and its contents, should you ever be in the unfortunate position of having to make a claim. Here are 8 ways to avoid it: Get your property valued regularly The cost of building materials has risen significantly in…

Top 6 Cyber security trends to watch out for in 2023 - Rise of automotive hacking - Potential of artificial intelligence - Mobile is the new target - Data breaches: prime target - Targeted ransomware - Insider threats Rise of automotive hacking: The use of wireless communication systems in modern vehicles has created a vulnerability…

What is Part Product? In the last few weeks I have seen trade advertising from different major insurers announcing that their Construction policy now has an optional extension for what is known as Part Product. Well, this is not something new, as I have been including this important extension since the early 1990s. Liability Insurance?…

Phoenixing: Construction bosses who 'phoenix' firms could now face fines or bans Construction is one of the UK industries that suffers the most from ‘phoenixing’ – folding a firm to avoid debts, then starting up a near identical business with a new name. Now directors who do this could face hefty fines or being banned…

How does cyber insurance work and what does it cover? How does cyber insurance work? You have a small business that sells leather goods online and you collect customer data including credit card numbers. You are hacked by cybercriminals who steal all this information from 1K of your customers' accounts- making them victims, too! Your…

Why you need cyber insurance... The risks of cyber crime have never been more prevalent, with attacks on businesses increasing each year. Cyber risk insurance is a must for any company that holds personal data or stores business critical information electronically. If your computer system fails due to interference from outside forces, you could lose…

10 UK Cybercrime statistics Did you know as of October 2022, 39% of UK businesses have experienced a cyber attack, the same as in 2021. However, the figure has dropped since 2020 (46%). “Cyber crime is the greatest threat to every company in the world.” - According to 31% of these businesses, they were attacked…

Autumn Risk Bulletin In this issue: - Welcome to Autumn - Autumn weather - Road traffic collisions - Sharing the road space safely - Engineering inspection - Slips, trips, and falls - Building enclosures, balconies, terraces and outside heating - Escape of water - Aviva’s specialist partners Download the autumn risk bulletin Here. Bought to…

Guide to motor claims inflation In this issue: - Executive summary - Pandemic impact - Brexit - War in Ukraine - Technological advancement - What about injury claims? - It’s not all bad news - What’s AXA doing to help? - Vehicle damage claims - Injury claims Download the motor claims guide Here. There are…

Electric Cars and What to Consider... The ban on new petrol and diesel cars is fast-approaching, with the cut-off date of 2030 looming on the horizon, and the number of electric cars on the road is rapidly increasing, accounting for 11.6% of UK new car sales in 2021. Yet, many are still hesitant to opt for electric vehicles for…

The UK Broker Awards We’ve done it again! Ascend have bagged their 9th award, by winning the Customer Service Award at the UK Broker Awards on 16th September. The UK Broker Awards are the leading platform for national recognition within the insurance broker market. Held last week at The Brewery, in the City of London,…

The Insurance Times Awards 2022 Ascend Broking Group is thrilled to be nominated for 3 awards in the upcoming 2022 Insurance Times Awards – bringing our total number of nominations up to 30! Designed to recognise and celebrate excellence and innovation across the breadth of UK general insurance, these awards shine a light on outstanding…

Digital Broker of the Year 2022! Organiser: Broker Innovation Awards Category: Digital Broker of the Year Date: 8th September 2022 We are delighted to have been awarded Digital Broker of the Year 2022 at The Broker Innovation Awards. The Broker Innovation Awards recognise the specific implementation of an innovation in insurance brokerage, be it in service…

AXA UK warns of serious fire risk of lithium batteries - Improper storage and damage to the lithium-ion batteries in electric bikes and scooters can result in devastating fires - AXA has covered almost half a million pounds of losses over the last two months on fires caused by lithium batteries - Not leaving the…

Ascend Broking Summer Newsletter 2022 Welcome to our summer newsletter. This month I would like to raise 2 key exposures to your business – underinsurance and your personal negligence exposure. Underinsurance - why inflation can have a major impact on your insurance A not-so-well understood risk is the impact of inflation on insurance and the…

How hauliers can manage the risks associated with inflation The current inflationary and supply chain challenges in the UK has added pressure on historically thin profit margins for fleet and haulage operators. Here are some tips to help with risk management. - Proactive accident avoidance strategies. - Managing inexperienced drivers - Driver training programmes. -…

We are now proud sponsors of Chelmsford City FC! We are delighted to announce that we have extended our support to Chelmsford City FC with an agreement to become the Club’s official sponsor for the 2022/2023 season. General Manager, Phil Crowe, said: "Ascend Broking Group and MD Matthew Collins have been excellent supporters of the…

Ascend Broking cover notes Summer 2022 Explaining issues that affect your insurance... In this issue: - Insurance fraud does not pay - Bullying: workplace trials and tribunals - Business travel polices offer many benefits - Inflation impacts on property insurance - Cover your event eventualities - Is it covered? DOWNLOAD COVER NOTES Insurance fraudsters beware! The…

A new study has found that a third of people (35%) are likely to choose an electric vehicle for their next vehicle purchase as a result of the recent fuel crisis. Based on the findings of the survey, Volkswagen Financial Services UK reported that the number of used electric vehicles it finances increased by 76…

Motor dealers: are you EV ready? The interest in electric vehicles is now increasing as automakers strive to meet the governments goal of net zero emissions by 2050. This month, the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) revealed that over 200 dealers have been accredited under its Electric Vehicle Approved (EVA) programme, which has been reopened.…

Motor Trade supply disruption Ever since the COVID-19 outbreak, supply chains have faced major disruptions in the automotive industry. Several manufacturing companies have had to modify their approaches as a result of the impact of the pandemic on the supply and demand from customers, businesses, suppliers and governments. According to a recent survey conducted by…

Motor Trade business continuity: 3 tips to combat change Managing a diverse and agile supplier network is now a top priority in the auto industry and essential to remaining competitive. No matter if shifting to the production of electric vehicles, dealing with the current semiconductor shortage or mitigating everyday disruptions, the automotive OEM and aftermarket…

Ascend nominated for 4 awards at the Broker Innovation Awards 2022! The Broker Innovation Awards seeks to reward companies, employees and teams that truly understand their customers and the market. The Broker Innovation Awards culminates in The Broker Innovation Award, a recognition of a specific implementation of an innovation in insurance brokerage, be it in service delivery, pricing, technology,…

Rolex and Patek Philippe owners watch for underinsurance Some luxury watches have more than tripled in price – even for second-hand watches – meaning that many clients are at risk in the event of a loss of a huge gap between the insured value and the replacement cost. This is called Underinsurance. The economy has…

Inflation rate for motor claims settled in 2021 reached 6.2% Average claims settlement times in Q1 2021 were two months longer compared to the same period in 2019. Motor claims inflation is expected to accelerate in 2022 following a 6.2% increase in 2021, according to new research published by our network partner Willis Towers Watson (WTW).…

Vulnerable road users' awareness guide for employers In conjunction with AVIVA we are pleased to share with you our new VRU awareness guide for employers. The document includes: - Statistics on incidents involving VRUs. - A closer look at some of the key emerging risks such as updates to the law and guidance as well…

What employers should do during a heatwave? The Met Office has issued an ‘extreme heat’ warning, meaning there is a real danger to health for the UK population. What does this mean for those of us that are working during the heatwave? Are employers obligated to keep the temperature in the workplace below a certain…

Directors & Officers: Motor Trade What is Directors & Officers (D&O) Insurance? Director and Officers Insurance is sometimes known as “Management Liability” and it’s there to protect you financially against any claims made against you personally as a director, partner or officer of your business. From health and safety concerns to a claim for breach…

5 mega trends to watch in 2022 Global economic developments and insolvency exposures 2021 proved to be volatile for businesses and their officers, pummeled by a ‘perfect storm’ of exposures: from the economic downturn to a global pandemic to unstable political developments and an unprecedented warning of insolvencies to come. Markets are expected to remain…

Ascend nominated for 4 awards at the UK Broker Awards 2022! The UK Broker Awards seeks to reward companies, employees and teams that truly understand their customers and the market. Ascend Broking has been shortlisted for: - Commercial Lines Broker of the Year - Digital Broker Award - ESG Broker Champion - Sustainability - Customer…

What is the structure of D&O insurance? The structure of a D&O insurance policy depends on which of three insuring agreements are purchased (ABC policies are generally chosen, as these are standard form policies for publicly listed companies. For private or non-profit companies, only AB policies would be used) [see table]. Directors and officers are…

The UK Health & Protection Awards 2022 – SMP Healthcare for Best Small Protection Advice Firm Wednesday 12 October 2022, London Hilton on Park Lane The UK Health & Protection Awards is the eminent celebration of excellence in professional standards and innovation shown by intermediaries and providers to individuals and corporate customers across the disciplines…

Ascend attend the British Insurance Brokers’ Association The British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA) is the UK’s leading general insurance intermediary organisation representing the interests of insurance brokers, intermediaries and their customers. BIBA membership includes around 1800 regulated firms, employing more than 100,000 staff. General insurance brokers contribute 1% of GDP to the UK economy; they…

Did you know? • 36% of all burglaries are crimes of opportunity, with burglars letting themselves in through unlocked doors or windows. • You are ten times more likely to be burgled if you don’t have basic security. Even something as simple as putting strong locks on your doors and windows will keep your house…

Employment Practice Liability cover - what is it? The Cause British law works on the principle that someone accused of wrongdoing is innocent until proven guilty.  In the workplace this means that when handling a disciplinary issue with a member of staff the employer must follow due process, investigate the allegation and be sure that…

Engineering contractors Engineering plays a hugely important part of the UK economy, accounting for more than a quarter of the UK’s total GDP with nearly 50,000 contractors working in the sector. The vast majority of engineering contractors are experienced professionals and rarely make mistakes – but understanding the risks involved with each project is important…

What to do after a burglary If you've been through the unsettling experience of a burglary, you're certainly not alone. According to security experts IFSEC Global, there is an attempted burglary every 45 seconds in the UK; every 76 seconds there's a successful one. The idea an intruder has entered your house can come as…

Motor Fleet - 8 tips to keep your insurance cost down Our specialist transportation division is able to provide our clients with exclusive discounts often not available in the open market and our integrated IT system ensures you benefit from instant quotes and immediate cover. Motor fleet - Haulage Fleet Motor Fleet - Courier Fleet…

What is business interruption? At the outset of your claim, it is essential that work is focused on establishing liability acceptance from your insurance company. A delay in getting liability accepted on a commercial loss can have dire consequences for any business’s future, as cash flow can be impacted for several months. With Morgan Clark…

The 8 most unusual requests made by high net worth customers to insure! A household name insurer looking back over the last ten years, Aviva has listed its strangest claims and requests for insurance cover from its high net worth customers, including an ornamental Ferrari, a 72 foot dinosaur and a pesky badger! Aviva has…

Why an independent broker? We know that buying insurance can be difficult. Searching the market for the right product at the right price can be exhausting – and once you’ve found a product, how do you know that you’ve got the right level of cover? An independent insurance cover can make the process much easier,…

Why insurance is important to you and your family Protection for you and your family Your family depend on your financial support to enjoy a decent standard of living, which is why insurance is especially important once you start a family. It means the people who matter most in your life may be protected from…

What are your self-insurance options? Self-insurance is one way businesses can maintain some control over their own risks, while still being able to purchase protection at higher entry levels when needed, through an insurer - at rates much lower than those offered by traditional programmes. What can self-insurance programmes cover? Almost any type of traditional…

D&O insurance explained D&O insurance policies offer liability cover for company managers to protect them from claims which may arise from the decisions and actions taken within the scope of their regular duties. 5 key insurance issues - Increased corporate governance means more D&O exposures - D&O insurance covers claims resulting from managerial decisions that…

How to get redundancy right Last month P&O Ferries found themselves in deep water after dismissing 800 of their employees without notice via a video message. Redundancy is a tricky issue to navigate, here’s how to make it as painless as possible for both employer and employee: Is redundancy appropriate? To follow a fair redundancy…

Ascend Broking Cover notes Spring 2022 Explaining issues that affect your insurance In this issue - Business Interruption - Construction Delays - Martyn’s Law - Flooding - Is it covered? DOWNLOAD COVER NOTES Business success typically relies on a business carrying out its planned activities uninterrupted. It can, therefore, be beneficial to have insurance to…

Ascend is shortlisted at The British Insurance Awards 2022 for Commercial Broker SME/Mid-Corporate of the Year About the British Insurance Awards The British Insurance Awards celebrate ingenuity and exceptional achievements in the UK insurance industry over the past 12-18 months. Their aim is to put the spotlight on companies that are embracing innovation and positively…

In conjunction with AVIVA we have prepared an interactive spring risk management guide on how you can take reasonable precautions to protect your business against the common risks encountered in the spring months. DOWNLOAD RISK MANAGEMENT GUIDE This edition focuses on: - Simple risk assessment advice specifically for the season - Assessing how equipped you…

Our Why This year, we want to support another local charity that focuses on children and families in the local community. Having read what Kids Inspire are doing, we jumped at the chance to make them our charity of the year! Three of our team have decided to take up the challenge to cycle from…

5 key areas you need to be aware of for spring - An Aviva Risk Management Solutions guide: April showers The UK continues to experience unpredictable extremes of weather as climate change becomes more of a factor. Spring 2020 was the sunniest ever recorded, but we only have to look back to spring 2012, where…

Two-fifths of London firms at risk of climate-fuelled flash floods London is facing an increasingly urgent problem as climate change increases the risk of flash floods. The capital's 42% at-risk commercial buildings are vulnerable to surface water flooding, which caused chaos last summer when torrential downpours hit London. Imagine a city where every commercial or…

Why cyber risk should be a priority for every boardroom Cyber security is a top priority for many organisations, but the task can seem daunting. It’s now possible to make your business more secure with less risk to be hacked into, thanks not only to modern technology and resources like analytics tools—but also by making…

Is my jewellery underinsured? The demand for expensive jewellery such as watches and rings are increasing at a great rate. In some cases, supply can't keep up, causing prices to rise. In the last 10 years some jewellery has seen a higher increase in value than gold. Could this affect your insurances? With the rises…

Ascend are crowned Commercial Broker of The Year at The National Insurance Awards 2022 The first awards of the year and a major event in the insurance sector, aiming to highlight and honour innovation and achievement. We competed against and fought off some worldwide nationals and we are delighted to have been awarded this award…

What to do after storm damage Recent storms Eunice and Franklin hit the UK hard this February, causing plenty of destruction. So, what do you need to do, following a storm, if damage has been caused to your business or property? The clear up operation Report your claim as soon as possible. Contact us with…

Download our guide on the recent Highway Code changes. We have recently seen a new set of Highway Code changes set to be adopted as law. This will have an impact on all drivers and could even expose fleet operators to negligence claims as more responsibility will fall to drivers. - New Hierarchy of Road…

What insurance do I need to be a courier? With many companies growing an online presence, the courier industry has boomed due to more and more people ordering online and businesses looking to couriers to help them with their distribution. So, if you're reading this with the idea of entering the industry, this could be…

Two storms are forecast to bring disruptive winds, rain and potential snow to many UK areas from today. Both yellow and amber weather warnings have been issued for Storm Dudley, which is expected to impact the north of the UK and Wales from Wednesday afternoon. Wind gusts may reach up to 80-90 mph in some…

ERN explained - Everything you need to know ERN stands for Employers Reference Number. This reference is made up of two parts: - A three digit HMRC office number - A reference number unique to your business Depending on when this number was issued to you, it can look slightly different. - If issued prior to…

Why you need a transport specialist broker At Ascend we provide transport specialist insurance. We have 100+ combined years of experience in the transport insurance market. We even have an account executive who is an ex-driver himself. Therefore, we have a good insight into the industry and what risks you may face, with great access…

What is a virtual fleet manager, and why do you need one? A virtual fleet manager is an invaluable asset for business owners who rely on a large number of vehicles to conduct their operations. By using a fleet manager, business owners can improve their efficiency and optimise their resources. In this blog post, we…

Brexit causing more distribution delays in 2022 Some lorries bringing goods from the EU to the UK have been stuck at the border for four days. The disruption has been blamed on "terrible" new Brexit red tape. Truck drivers have reported queueing for up to eight hours trying to get through customs controls at the…

Big issues facing the UK haulage industry in 2022 Covid and Brexit will continue to affect the haulage industry in 2022, but there are other questions in the UK haulage industry that will unravel as the year goes on. Newly trained HGV drivers – will they be in it for the long haul? You may…

Chubb insurance launch a new Risk Management guide, designed specifically for businesses involved in the technology sector. The technology industry is fast moving and, in today’s environment, technology companies are constantly exposed to a multitude of known and unforeseen risks. The aim of this guide is to highlight the challenges faced by businesses and to…

Welcome, Steven! We are delighted to announce the addition of Steven Gillespie to Ascend Broking, as an Account Executive. Steven joined Ascend in December 2021, having previously worked at Devitt Insurance for 8 years across multiple departments including Personal Lines, High Net Worth and Commercial. He has a keen interest in the Motor Trade and…

Bad weather reinforces the need for sound fleet insurance policy Winter weather fleet insurance policy Significant storms, like many we have witnessed in recent years, and bad weather prevent many workers from being able to report for work, creating significant declines in revenue for the duration of the bad weather, or even for a longer…

Winter is coming...! And with it, undoubtedly, will be periods of snow and ice, not only providing jeopardy on our roads, but posing an issue when it comes to walking anywhere. All it takes is for you to step incorrectly onto an icy patch and you can fall over. While the odd stumble may not…

With temperatures dipping and heavy rain in the forecast, many businesses could find themselves unprepared when normal winter weather suddenly turns extreme. A severe cold spell or abnormal levels of snowfall could cause significant interruption to your business’s operations, in addition to property damage and potential safety issues for staff, visitors and general members of…

What is a Multifactor Authentication (MFA)? What is MFA? Multifactor Authentication (MFA) is the use of two or more authentication factors. MFA is successfully enabled when at least two of these categories of identification are required in order to successfully verify a user’s identity prior to granting access. Something you know: A password or passphrase…

Managing your exposures – the sport & leisure industry   Some risks are common to all in the property and casualty areas, such as exposures for fire, flood or slips & trips. In addition, Business Interruption is a big consideration for those with a reliance on a specific location – for example a hotel or leisure…

Multi-Factor Authentication Special Edition 2021 Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) requires the user to provide two or more methods to verify their identity in order to access a resource. Instead of just asking for a username and password, MFA requires one or more additional verification factors, which decreases the likelihood of a successful cyber-attack. Solely having a…

Why travel insurance is more important than ever as we reach the end of 2021 Travel insurance has never been so important as we continue to navigate Covid-19 in our overseas holidays and trips. It will cover you for unexpected situations both while away and in the run up to your holiday, from losing your luggage to covering…

Christmas opening hours   24th December – 9am to 1pm 25th December – closed 26th December – closed 27th December – closed 28th December – closed 29th December – 9am to 4pm 30th December – 9am to 4pm 31st December – 9am to 1pm 1st January – Closed 2nd January – Closed   Outside emergencies can be…

National Insurance Awards 2022 – Finalist – Commercial Insurance Broker of the Year On the 5th December the judging panel announced the finalists for the 2022 National Insurance Awards. We are delighted to have been shortlisted for The Commercial Insurance Broker of the Year 2022. Thank you to our clients, insurers, and the team at…

We have launched a new unique combination of cloud-based management systems, onsite risk consultancy and engagement. Ascend Risk management systems can be deployed across your business in minutes, delivering day-to-day functionality, visibility and accountability to your risk management process. We can also provide onsite risk consultancy to help you develop your risk controls including: -…

Why should hauliers use Returnloads? Is your business currently facing pressure to improve efficiency and increase profitability? This is the situation for many haulage companies today. From poor fleet management to the resources that are wasted on empty journeys, your current working practices could be costing your business unnecessarily. Returnloads is a platform designed to provide…

Top 5 causes of workplace injuries Employee safety is a top priority for any employer. Employees are the driving force of your business and need to be able to work in a safe environment to ensure efficiency and productivity. Knowing the most common workplace injuries and ways to prevent them can decrease the number of…

Lowering employment practices liability risks Employment practices liability insurance (EPLI) is a critical type of cover that provides various protections for policyholders. Employers face a variety of risks related to employment practices liability claims. These claims became more common every year in the UK between 2015 and 2018. An EPLI policy can have a major…

How COVID-19 is changing Mergers and Acquisitions The pandemic's effects on the economy and innovation open opportunities for retail investments Fundamental shifts in retail have created “not just new ways of shopping,” says John Potter, U.S. Deals Partner at PwC — they’ve also created “new ways of being.” Potter, who advises corporate and private equity…

Any use of hand-held mobile phone while driving to become illegal Police will soon be able to more easily prosecute drivers using a hand-held mobile phone at the wheel after the government strengthens existing laws to further improve road safety. It is already illegal to text or make a phone call (other than in an…

Investing in your drivers By investing in driver and vehicle safety you can save 78% in damage costs and 7% in fuel, according to Driving for Better Business figures. Who wouldn't want that? But there is no doubt it'll cost you to invest into Driving for Work schemes, so you may be thinking -  is…

5 ways to improve your motor fleet and reduce premiums Motor fleet is a large percentage of a company's insurance spend. These 5 easy to follow tips could help you improve your motor fleet claims experience and reduce your premiums. 1. Motivate your drivers Motivating drivers to perform well can be a highly effective method…

The financial implications of operating without Professional Indemnity Insurance Operating without professional indemnity insurance leaves your business open to claims and, in turn, huge financial risk. The costs of a claim can quickly reach hundreds of thousands and even millions. Most insurers offer policies which provide cover from an indemnity limit of £50,000 as standard.…

Acquisition of SMP Healthcare We are delighted to announce that from the 5th November 2021, SMP Healthcare Ltd has become part of the Ascend Broking Group. Based in Chelmsford, Essex and established in 2014, the team at SMP Healthcare provide access to a wide range of Health and Protection insurance policies on both personal and…

Deciding how much professional indemnity cover you need This is a common issue. Ultimately, it depends on your business, your clients and your potential liability. Your professional indemnity insurance needs to be able to cover the total rectification costs of your negligence and the legal costs of a claim against you. Some professional bodies will…

Don't take the bait: how to safeguard your business from phishing attacks What is phishing? Phishing is more than just a misspelt variation of a popular countryside activity. It’s also a key risk to businesses – one that we all need to be aware of. Simply put, phishing is any attempt to trick a victim…

The insurance market is changing... what can you do about it? The insurance market operates in a similar way to many other marketplaces, in that it uses simple supply and demand principles. When there is an over-supply of product (too many insurance companies), prices are driven down; when supply is reduced or demand increases, prices…

Covid-19 has delivered one of the biggest shocks in modern history and has impacted the way we live our lives, from how we shop, to how we work, including how we get there.   One silver lining to the economic slowdown has been the fast and unprecedented reduction of CO2 emissions. As we start to…

Do small businesses need employment practices liability insurance (EPLI)? EPLI is a type of small business insurance that helps you pay for lawsuits related to workplace discrimination and harassment. The United States has several federal laws that make it illegal for employers to treat prospective, current, and former employees differently based on their sex, colour,…

Recognising and responding to abuse It can be extremely difficult for children, young people and vulnerable adults to speak out about abuse. Often the fear of negative consequences from speaking to anyone outweighs the safety it could bring. Some may delay telling someone about abuse for a long time, while others never tell anyone, even…

COVID-19: The Impact on Marine Protection and Indemnity Coverage Amid the tragic human impact of COVID-19 and governments' restrictions on travel and commerce, businesses are feeling the economic consequences of the pandemic. COVID-19 has reshaped the marine sector's risk landscape, and raised questions about shipowners' protection and indemnity (P&I) coverage and how this may be…

What are your options for reducing your fleet numbers? The current uncertainty in the haulage industry is causing people to think about their current fleet numbers. With a potential downturn in business, with driver shortages or just a reduction in volumes, it’s best to know your options so you can make the best decision. Own…

What Ascend's Private Hire insurance covers and the optional extras you can add to your policy At Ascend Broking, we believe that insurance should be simple. Nobody should have to read through pages and pages of insurance jargon to understand the cover they have in place.  In this post, we’ll look into what your Private…

Transport for London, Direct Vision Standard and HGV Safety Permit From October 2020, all vehicles (other than exemptions) over 12 tonne will need a safety permit to operate in London. TFL are introducing a Traffic Order that requires the operators of vehicles with gross weight over 12 tonnes to have a HGV Safety Permit to…

Cybersecurity Best Practices for an e-Commerce Website Recent decades have seen tremendous growth in online activities, including online shopping, thanks to the evolution of technology and e-commerce platforms. This growth was only accelerated by COVID-19 – the pandemic led many businesses, in an effort to stay connected with customers, to shift from traditional in-person communication…

Are you covering your volunteers correctly? Volunteers are the life and blood of many charitable organisations, but are you looking after them as you should be - and could you be leaving your charity exposed by not doing so? Under the Employer’s Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969, all employers are required by law to insure…

Top 6 tradesman insurance claim types Damage to property Property damage from work carried out by a employees and subcontractors come in many different forms, such as a gardener felling a tree that falls on to a property and damages it, a plumber fitting pipework that springs a leak, or an electrician installing wiring that…

A different way to pay for your car insurance: pay-per-mile Pay-Per-Mile car insurance No one likes paying for their car insurance. We’re forced to buy it. It’s a pain. However, some new types of insurance are making it a slightly less bitter pill to swallow. We all know there are a few black box options…

Worldwide Service at your request With a network of over 20,000 aircraft worldwide, we can take you anywhere around the world, which is why we take pride in operating 24 hours a day. We collaborate with our suppliers to ensure that every step of your journey has been catered for. Need to make a big…

How usage-based Fleet insurance works, it's benefits and how to get a quote with Zego At Zego, our Fleet insurance is designed to offer you a premium that matches the actual usage of your vehicles, so you always get a fair premium that is in line with your risk. Unlike traditional Fleet Insurance, for which you…

Increased risks from current haulage shortages Storage and distribution of raw materials and goods throughout the UK is the lifeline of business from manufacturing, hospitality, through to retail. The combination of Brexit and Covid-19 is impacting the supply chain and distribution channels, restricting both the movement of goods and people. This will affect: - availability…

5 Tips for Better Courier Van Insurance If you’re looking for courier van insurance, you may need some help choosing it. Courier insurance is a necessity for businesses in that realm and here are some top tips to get you the right coverage at the right time. Insure Your Van Even If It’s Not Being…

Who is Admiral Jet?   In short, we are an aircraft service provider that offers on-demand charter services tailor-made for your needs.   “It’s not the destination. It’s the journey.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson, Self-Reliance   This mantra may be about life, but at Admiral Jet, we take things literally. Our uncompromising standards of unparalleled…

Could you benefit from pay-by-mile car insurance? Traditional car insurance is not designed to benefit low mileage drivers. Millions of motorists around the UK who drive less than 7,000 miles per year are paying significantly more than those who spend more time on the road. After extensive research, pay-by-mile car insurers found the most popular…

Achieving profitable growth through long-term partnerships Over the past three years, Regions MD, Lee Mooney and, Sales & Distribution Director, Alex Hardy, have overseen a relationship model which has provided a strong partnership for brokers and exceptional growth balanced on sustainable profit. This success has been based upon doing things differently, building long-term partnerships and…

We arrange straightforward luxury flights, perfectly We understand that booking foreign air travel can be complicated right now. If you are trying to book the best travel arrangements this summer, whether for business or leisure, we can help. We make it simple for you - making all the necessary arrangements, as well as efficiently guiding…

Everything you need to know about courier insurance and becoming a self-employed courier driver DOES MY BUSINESS NEED COURIER INSURANCE? If your business involves transporting other people’s goods for hire and reward then it’s a necessity that you’re covered by courier insurance. Remember, if you’re transporting your own goods for delivery then you will not…

Assessing health & safety risks – Covid-19 guide When changing operations and ways of working, a key part of the decision-making process involves the assessment and management of risks. During this unprecedented time, it is crucial to carry out suitable and sufficient risk assessments. Organisations must do all they can to keep up with the rapidly…

All your questions answered about the catering with Admiral Jets Here are some of the common questions surrounding food and drink provided on your flight with Admiral Jets: I have a specific dietary requirement so what food will be available? Your Personal Account Manager will ensure all dietary requirements are accommodated. They will ask you…

Commercial Vehicle Show The Commercial Vehicle Show has just taken place at the NEC in Birmingham (31st of August to 2nd September, 2021), hosting over 200 exhibitors and welcoming representatives from commercial fleet operators, local authorities, vehicle service and repair businesses, distribution and courier operators and many others, at the largest opportunity for the industry…

Ascend Executive Newsletter Summer 2021 As we reach the end of another unusual summer in the UK, the things we hold dear to us are perhaps even more important and protecting wealth and assets remains a priority both for you and for us. We know that a life less ordinary demands insurance of an entirely different calibre…

Shareholder Protection Keep your business functioning if the worst happens One of the most serious events a business can suffer is the loss of a shareholder. Most businesses depend on their shareholders for leadership and direction – and the equity they provide. On the death of any shareholder, the Articles of Association or Partnership Agreement should stipulate…

What effect is COVID having on the hard market? It is well established that the insurance market is in a period of hardening. Experts within the industry have been analysing the forces at play and the phrase ‘perfect storm’ has been used to signify what is a uniquely challenging set of pressures affecting the market.…

Key Person Cover Protect your biggest asset - your staff.  Are there people within your business who are key to driving its profits, performance, technology and new sales? Is this person you? Every successful business relies on a team of key employees to enable it to thrive. This means that the loss of one of…

Travel in style with us! Ascend Broking are proud to be introducing our Private Jet concierge service exclusively for Ascend Executive customers. Quality and attention to detail you deserve for every step of your journey. Private jet charter is a great way for our clients to travel, and you’ll have access to a private concierge service…

The FCA calculates that 26,238 policyholders out of 41,666 who have had BI claims linked to the test case action accepted have received at least an interim payment so far! https://www.insurancetimes.co.uk/news/insurers-have-paid-968m-in-interim-and-final-bi-claims-payments-so-far/1438504.article Although you may or may not have received a settlement for your Business Interruption COVID claim, are you now happy in the knowledge that…

Welcome to our summer newsletter 2021! The Insurance Market While the rollout of a Covid-19 vaccine and the slow return to normality in 2021 has buoyed society & the market, there will still be challenges as the economy recovers from the deepest recession in modern history.   In the insurance sector, many expect this economic…

Welcome, David Lloyd! We are delighted to announce the addition of David Lloyd to the senior team at Ascend as Account Executive David’s insurance career spans 30 years and he spent the first 5 years as a personal lines advisor. He now focuses on motor fleet and motor trade business predominantly with a particular passion and…

D&O insurance explained 5 key insurance issues - Increased corporate governance means more D&O exposures - D&O insurance covers claims resulting from managerial decisions that have adverse consequences - D&O insurance is a complex cover requiring attention to what is and isn’t covered - Common risk scenarios include failure to comply with regulation or laws,…

Ascend are proud to announce our new charity of the year: Kids Inspire We are delighted to announce that Kids Inspire (registered charity number 1129513) will be our Charity of the Year for the remainder of 2021, and 2022. Ascend will be raising money in aid of Kids Inspire through various fundraising efforts, from taking…

Welcome, David! We are delighted to announce the addition of David Beswick to the senior team at Ascend as Commercial Director. David is a well-known figure in the insurance industry, starting his career with Norwich Union in the Norwich office working in claims, before moving to London as a personal lines broker, then City Wall…

Turners alerts customers over worsening driver shortage crisis “We’re close to the brink and so is everyone else,” said Turners (Soham) MD, Paul Day. “Are we delivering everything with a perfect service? No. Is everyone else? I don’t think they are. It’s getting worse. In another month it’s going to be really tight.” The UK…

The changing regulatory landscape in the UK and emerging risks Historically, D&O risks were weighted towards securities litigation in North America, with many other territories experiencing a benign claim environment. This has changed in recent years. According to Chubb’s own data, the average large loss cost for D&O policies in the UK has tripled and…

Welcome, Jo! Jo started her career in London, organising training events for a large firm of accountants during the 1980’s.   She then moved abroad in 1996 and spent six and a half years working in the Cayman Islands for a firm of solicitors.  It was whilst she was there that she attended the Cayman Islands…

Marine Cargo Insurance and its importance  Maritime transport is one of the safest channels for the movement of goods, however, inevitably, there are certain risks that, during their transfer, can generate damage or even total loss of cargo. That is why it is recommended to contract or enforce transfer insurance for all goods. The purpose…

The Role of Smartphones, Gamification and Rewards in a Business Driver Safety Programme If your employees drive for work, you know that keeping them safe on the road can be challenging. Increasing pressure to meet deadlines, driver distraction, and rising substance abuse use and stress levels are not helping. The pandemic's emptier roads have even…

Many SME business owners who are looking to exit their businesses may be unaware of the potential liabilities arising from their sale, as well as the full extent of cover available to them when they strike a deal with a buyer.  Warranty and indemnity (W&I) insurance has not been available to small and micro M&A…

Whiplash reforms – in place from now From the 31st  May new whiplash reforms came into legislation. WHAT DOES THIS MEAN? Historically, the limit for the Small Claims Track (the route to bring low value claims to court) was £1,000. The reforms will increase this limit to £5,000. This will mean that if a person…

Aim to plant 10,000 trees As part of our commitment to the environment we have launched our Ascend Forest initiative. We have been working closely with #Time4Trees. Time4Trees is a new company established by land restoration specialists Land Logical and M&M Environmental. Land Logical’s core business is restoring damaged land, such as landfills and other…

Law firm urges dental practices to obtain the right level of insurance as new judgment holds owner ’vicariously liable’ for negligence as opposed to the dentists involved. https://www.insurancetimes.co.uk/news/landmark-judgment-sees-major-insurance-implications-for-dental-profession/1437408.article The repercussions of this case mean that Dental Practice Owners can be held vicariously liable for the negligence of dentist professionals in their practice, speak to a…

Cyber threats and how they are being seen by the transport industry In the UK, according to the Government’s most recent Cyber Security Breaches Survey (June 2020) the extent of cyber security threats has widened and become more frequent with almost half of businesses reporting cyber security breaches or attacks in the previous 12 months…

Care for other road users Our roads are becoming more and more congested but not just for road vehicles. The desire to remain fit and healthy during lockdown has seen more people regularly out walking, running and cycling. Yet with so many more people now getting around on foot, bikes and now also on e-scooters,…

Vessel accidents have increased, are you prepared? It is  estimated that 3,000 containers have been lost at sea over the past few months alone. Compared to the 1,382 containers on average lost per year between 2008-2019, as reported by The World Shipping Council, that’s a big jump. What’s the reason for it? Why are vessel…

Covid-19 related claims: A practical guide for employees  Employers’ Liability overview   The responsibility of the employer Employers are responsible for the health and safety of their employees while they’re at work. If a current or former employee was injured or became ill at work, they may believe their employer is responsible and make a claim.…

As restrictions ease over the coming months businesses should be aware of potential Employers Liability claims in relation to COVID-19. This useful guide for employers includes preventative measures businesses can take to help manage these types of claims. Working from home It was supposed to be temporary, then it became less temporary, now many businesses…

Assessing health and safety risks through the pandemic and beyond When changing operations and ways of working, a key part of the decision-making process involves the assessment and management of risks. During this unprecedented time, it is crucial to carry out suitable and sufficient risk assessment. Organisations must do all they can to keep up…

Assessing health & safety risks through the pandemic and beyond FAQ   What COVID-19 hygiene plans need to be implemented? A risk-based approach should be applied to cleaning areas likely to be contaminated. The findings of the work activity and site risk assessment should influence cleaning and disinfecting plans (what, how, when, who, etc). Reference…

Managing Escape of Water Risk in Residential Premises What do property owners and managers need to do? Within the residential setting, there is no one thing that will prevent an EoW loss. A loss is usually a culmination of several adverse actions / factors. Therefore, in order to reduce the likelihood and severity of an…

Training to help HGV drivers avoid cargo theft launched by NAVCIS   Cargo theft is on the increase. Latest figures from NAVCIS, which is the police department responsible for dealing with freight crime, reveal 321 offences involving theft of HGVs or theft from HGVs have been reported since 1 January this year, amounting to losses…

What is FORS?   The Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) is a voluntary accreditation scheme designed to help fleet operators improve fleet standards within their organisation. FORS offers a range of tools that help drivers, fleet managers, and organisations measure and improve performance across all aspects of their fleet operations, and demonstrate best practice. What…

Organisations’ exposure and implications Access to organisations’ confidential information A data breach happens when an attacker gains illegal access to an organisation’s network through malicious activity, employee negligence, or third-party attacks. Data from millions of individuals was stolen in the well-publicised Blackbaud hack, affecting a number of charities. Such information can easily be sold on…

Back on the road   Journeys for bus and coach operators have been impacted severely by lockdown, but the industry is now looking forward to a resurgence in business when day trips and excursions can resume from 17 May. There are already signs that demand for domestic holidays is picking up. The news will come…

Industry slams new UK plan to increase fines for hauliers carrying migrants   The UK government plans to increase fines for hauliers found carrying illegal migrants into the country, but it has been warned the new penalties, which would apply “irrespective of driver compliance with security measures and schemes”, could exacerbate the worsening driver shortage crisis. The…

HGV Classes Explained: Licence Classes 1, 2 & More   You need different types of driving licences to drive different types of HGVs. HGV classes essentially outline the type of licence you need to drive any given HGV. In this post we’ll explain what the various HGV classes mean. We’ll also look at some of…

FORS updates van training to help improve driver safety   FORS has launched an update to its popular Van Smart eLearning module, to help upskill the growing fleet of light commercial vehicle drivers on our roads. The FORS Professional Van Smart eLearning module has been given an upgrade, including new learning scenarios and an updated…

Driving forward in a post-Brexit and COVID-19 world   The world saw a turbulent change when national lockdowns took place due to COVID-19. As businesses across the industries had to temporarily close, agility was key for them to survive but, alongside the pandemic, the UK has also gone through a transition of leaving the European…

Employee training Employees are vital to any business and can play a key role in safety and protection of the company and equipment. Companies should always check the backgrounds of any potential employees, if possible. Once on board, security guidelines and polices should be explained in detail and all staff need to be trained in…

Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer practice for international hauliers   The Department for Transport has published guidance for hauliers making international journeys. The guide, last updated on the 28th March 2021, covers everything a haulier needs to know when it comes to safety, including rules on COVID-19 testing for hauliers and other topics such as: – Driver…

Is my gym Covid secure?   Keeping yourself active is an essential part to your wellbeing. It is proven fact that exercise increases endorphins, which in turn lifts moods and makes you feel better. Being stuck in your own home for the last year has had major effect on people’s wellbeing, decreasing motivation while increasing…

The need for speed awareness   Most people who are caught speeding will receive a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) of a £100 fine and three points on their driving licence. It may be possible to avoid points and opt for a speed awareness course if one is offered, depending on which police force is handling the offence. The number…

A brilliant article by a Senior Risk Manager at QBE explains how you can protect your commercial kitchen from the risk of fire: If you operate a commercial kitchen, fire is one of the biggest risks.   Most kitchens will build-up deposits of fat, oil and grease in the ventilation system (most notably, inside the…

The Ascend Forest Project – planting 10,000 trees Ascend are helping to restore some of the world’s most threatened forests by planting a tree for every policy and vehicle insured in 2021. Where environmental change is concerned, everybody in the world benefits from trees, as they assimilate carbon dioxide (CO2) that in any case adds to a…

Road safety during Ramadan   Ramadan is the 9th month in the Islamic calendar and is a period during which participants observe strict rules that include fasting from food or water between sunrise and sunset. This year, it will start on the evening of Monday 12 April, and end on Monday 12 May. Workplace considerations…

Lorry drivers will be tested for Covid-19 before entering the UK amid surge in cases across Europe   Lorry drivers arriving in England from outside the UK will be required to take a Covid-19 test within 48 hours of arrival, the transport secretary has announced. Grant Shapps said that from April 6 hauliers, including drivers…

Is your contractors policy set up correctly? The insurance definition of BFSC & LOSC is different to the HMRC definition. Make sure you have the correct procedures in place to ensure your insurance policies respond in your time of need. Whilst it is difficult to provide an accurate definition (as the law does not provide…

TruckEast plants a tree for every Scania it sells   Scania dealer TruckEast has committed to planting and maintaining one tree for each retail Scania truck sold. The idea to create a TruckEast Woodland originated from a series of sustainability workshops the dealership held in 2019, where employees from across the business joined together to…

With the country opening again recently, business owners have been able to return to their livelihood. If you are returning to your shop, bakery or tearoom, this is the type of cover you will need to look at and review.   Shop insurance  Shop insurance  is an overview term for policies such as bakery insurance,…

What has Brexit meant for you?   With nearly 1 in 4 UK hauliers having already lost business due to Brexit, a survey reveals that many UK hauliers remain unprepared for the end of the Brexit transition period, with just 3% stating they are totally prepared for the transition. The majority stated they needed more…

The government have allowed care home residents in England two regular visitors indoors starting from the 12th April   An article taken from the BBC explained the updates to care homes starting from the 12th April, as the rest of the country also enjoyed the lifting of some restrictions.   The full article can be…

Buying a used vehicle?   The following 12 tips will help when buying a used car.   Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Check that the 17-digit vehicle identification number (sometimes know as V.I.N or chassis number) match each other around the vehicle. Typical locations are:   – Inside the driver’s door jam – Driver’s footwell – Boot…

Social media in the transportation and logistics industry   In the logistics and transportation industry, social media is used as a tool for business only. There aren’t many interactions with customers. Some companies are unaware of the parameter of social media comments about services or even the system. Social media tools might pose helpful information…

Charity shops off to a flying start following the lifting of restrictions Charity shops across the UK have seen an increase in donations, even the ones that have remained closed, with items being left outside the shops. Charities have requested that items are not dumped outside the front of the shops. Once items are dumped…

If you’re considering COVID-19 testing in your workplace, whether for employees, visitors or contractors, it’s important you are aware of the possible potential implications for your liability insurance covers.   Similarly, if you’re considering or are approached by a relevant authority about your premises/site being used as a testing facility (whether asymptomatic or symptomatic) or…

Is my business secure?   With everything starting to open again, business owners who haven’t been able to trade for the last year are able to get back to their livelihood and resume a bit of normality. The worst thing that could happen is to come back to your place of work and find it…

The Government is seeking to tighten the law around using a mobile phone whilst behind the steering wheel.   It has been an offence under UK law since 2003 to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving. Drivers caught can expect to receive a fixed penalty notice (FPN) of £200 and six penalty points on…

This Loss Prevention Standard contains guidance on how to reduce risks when you are planning to reinstate process plant and equipment that have been shut down or mothballed on a temporary basis, for example in response to a business downturn or forced closure due to external factors such as an epidemic/pandemic event This document is…

DFT Announces Funding for Electric Vehicle Charge points   The Department for Transport (DfT) has announced there will be a £50 million boost for electric vehicle (EV) charge points for those in leasehold and rented accommodation, as well as an expansion of the Workplace Charging Scheme. Denise Beedell, Logistics UK’s Policy Manager for Vans and…

Common insurance mistakes to avoid for your small business The easiest way to avoid liability and probable financial loss is to secure your business against unforeseeable circumstances. Failure to do so jeopardizes the chance of your venture’s success and exposes you to the danger of losing all you have built over the years. Although most…

The use of rail freight continues to increase Although during the pandemic passenger rail services were greatly reduced, the need for goods to be moved around the country continued, if not increased, due to the demand for food and hygiene goods. And it's not only tangible goods that rely on rail services; GB Railfreight, the…

The role of smartphones, gamification and rewards in a business driver safety programme   Due to the challenge of monitoring behaviour and engaging employees, driver safety has remained a blindspot for many companies – until now. Innovative smartphone-based solutions are giving health and safety leaders access to data-driven insights whilst enabling them to gamify and…

How trade credit insurance secures your cashflow   In the UK, nearly 1 in 7 SMEs fail to pay wages on time due to cashflow problems (source: Intuit Quickbooks, 2019). Granting trade credit has advantages, but also creates an account receivable that weighs on your clients’ working capital – it is cash that is not…

Care sector set to receive free PPE until March 2022 following Government announcement With the global pandemic still ongoing, the extension of free PPE to health and social care providers has been gratefully received. The Government confirmed the extension as the usage of PPE equipment is expected to remain high throughout the next financial year.…

Ready to reopen? Guidance for UK pubs and restaurants Re-opening pubs and restaurants after lockdown can’t be treated as standard. Proprietors and managers need to look at this as though they are opening for the first time, with a particular emphasis on health and safety.   Hospitality businesses have faced a difficult time, following months of compulsory closures…

Marine Cargo – ‘Ever Given’ Suez Canal blockage All customers with cargo onboard must contribute to the costs of the recovery and salvage costs to the Ever Given. If you have an Ascend Cargo insurance policy then this will be covered under the General Average extension – if you do not have marine insurance you…

Tips for new HGV drivers   If you’ve just passed your HGV license test and are now qualified to drive Heavy Goods Vehicles, the good news is that there are plenty of employment opportunities out there for you. With a current UK shortage of HGV drivers, now is certainly the time to be kick-starting a…

Hot tub claims almost tripled since 2020   Analysis of Aviva’s UK claims data reveals a year-on-year increase of 188%, in relation to accidental damage claims for hot tubs in 2020. Scenarios included a grass strimmer bursting an inflatable tub, birds pecking holes in a spa cover and an engagement ring ripping a tub lining.…

Charities need to be fraud aware The charity sector has an annual income of over £69 billion making the sector vulnerable from acts of fraud and financial crime. Charity trustees have a duty to manage their charity’s resources responsibly and ensure that funds are protected, applied and accounted for. Therefore they must make sure suitable…

Tips to stay focused on long drives   If you’re working in the logistics industry as a driver then you’re going to clock up some long hours on the road. If you’re not prepared for this, then handling such extensive journeys can be difficult and even dangerous. It’s important to make sure you know how…

Insurance predictions for 2021 This interview is with the Managing Director of LexisNexis Risk Solutions where he discusses the changes to the market.   Could you talk us through the current landscape for your industry as we look ahead to 2021? The insurance market is undergoing a huge transformation driven by changes in customer needs…

Coronavirus support for business guide   Download our financial aid guide detailing the assistance that is available to you following the 2021 budget.   As the UK prepares for the proposed Government roadmap to ease the lockdown restrictions, we want to ensure that our valued clients have access to the most up-to-date information to make your…

How to stay on top of Freight Liability (goods in transit) damage claims   Transport damage can be a serious issue in the haulage business. Making repeated claims on insurance can significantly increase premiums and there may be occasions when an insurer refuses to pay out, leaving the business with a significant bill. Staying on…

Abuse Cover The Charity Commission released their safeguarding strategy in 2017. The strategy sets out the duty of care charities must display when it comes to preventing abuse, with one major point being that safeguarding should not only apply to those who are most vulnerable, but actually any party who comes into contact with the…

Liability insurance giving you peace of mind   As a scaffolder or roofer, you will know the number of dangers that come as part and parcel of the job. There are a huge number of unique risks that you could face, including scaffold collapse, falls from height, inadequate safety equipment and bad weather. These risks…

Family faces £250,000 bill after insurer rejects claim for wrecked home   Home minor works… are you covered? With over 70% of UK homeowners not advising their insurer about renovation work being undertaken, it is no surprise that when things go wrong there are many cases where insurance cover is invalid. The builder has their…

Staying on top of sleep when you are on the road   If you’re a haulage driver in the UK  and are on the roads often, then you’ve probably found it challenging to get enough sleep and may be experiencing the consequences of too little. Around a third of the UK population only gets up…

The importance of public liability for your charity Public liability insurance is an important insurance cover requirement for all companies, so what is it and why do you need it? As an advice-based insurance broker, we thought we would share our knowledge with you on public liability insurance:   Public liability insurance explained: Public liability insurance is…

Navigating the modern cyber risks landscape   With cyber criminals becoming more sophisticated by the day, business must act now to shore up their defenses.   As recently as five years ago, cyber risk was widely perceived as a technological challenge. Protected by firewalls and virus protection software – not to mention the company IT…

Could your charity be underinsured?   The pandemic and the resultant hit to the economy has forced businesses to look at every cost to make savings and insurance is no exception. A major worry is that vital protection could be sacrificed for relatively small premium savings, making businesses more exposed. Recent research undertaken by Aviva…

How to reduce your carbon footprint for sustainable transport   There is an increasing need for every business to be more conscious of their carbon footprint. Across all sectors, but especially those where fuel consumption is high, a review of existing processes and systems is underway to identify opportunities to minimise the impact being made…

10 ways to reduce damage floods cause in the home   Around 400 homes were flooded as a result of Storm Christoph earlier this year, the Environment Agency has confirmed. Severe rain weather warnings, meaning ‘danger to life’, were issued for parts of northern and central England, while separate yellow warnings, meaning ‘be aware’, were…

HTA engage The Transafe Network to look at Safer Abnormal Load Escorting   The Heavy Transport Association has initiated the first in a new programme of projects that will look at various aspects of the movement of abnormal indivisible loads, analysing good practice from the UK and elsewhere in the world to ensure that movement…

COVID-19: Guidance on how to manage unhappy employees   At this strange time we’re living through, many employers are considering how they will bring back their employees from a period of furlough or a return to the workplace after a lengthy period of home working. Telephone conversations with the employee may have raised a distinct…

What are the effects of moving goods in the EU post-Brexit?   Following the UK leaving the EU, all trade with the EU is going to be different. A last-minute deal has helped with certain areas of trading, but what should you look out for when moving goods in the EU?   Tariffs The new…

COVID-19: How to reduce the risk of employers’ liability claims   As the country gradually moves towards the ‘new normal’, it is inevitable and understandable that employers will now be focusing on implementing the necessary changes to their working practices, allowing them to operate not only safely but also profitably. Business owners and, indeed, their…

Vehicle Load Security   There are legal requirements that require all loads carried on vehicles to be secure. We expect everyone to do this anyway. However, the requirements are to protect the people involved in loading, unloading, and driving the vehicles. When a vehicle changes direction, as a result of cornering, overtaking, braking or undulations…

Winter road safety tips for minibus operators   As the colder weather moves in, many minibuses will be being used out in local communities providing vital help to those in need. Mile for mile, minibuses are statistically less likely to be involved in an accident than cars, however they are often carrying young, elderly, or…

Overloaded Vehicles   It is a serious offence to overload a vehicle and both employer and driver are liable to prosecution in respect of every overload. Separate offences arise in respect of each axle, gross and train overload and this can give rise to multiple summonses and the potential for significant fines. The Traffic Commissioner…

Liability Insurance – Masterclass   “Any One Occurrence” or “in the Aggregate” Liability Policy Limits   Cover under a public/products or employers’ liability policy is underwritten on an “any one claim” basis. Professional indemnity is generally offered on an “in the aggregate”, meaning the total limit throughout the duration of the policy.   It is…

The FCA Supreme Court Test Case update   Overview The Supreme Court handed down judgment on the 15th January 2021 on the FCA Business Interruption Test Case. It held resoundingly in favour of the FCA (on behalf of the policyholders) in relation to all types of clause under consideration – “Disease” clauses, “Prevention of Access”…

Update: FCA Test Case: Business interruption extensions to COVID-19   The Supreme Court judgment in the FCA Business Interruption Test Case was published on Friday 15th January 2021.   The Supreme Court did find in favour of the FCA and policyholders on the areas of dispute on eight insurers in the test case.   Please…

Wheel Security   The Code of Practice for the selection and care of tyres and wheels for commercial vehicles (developed jointly by the Department for Transport, the British Standards Institute and industry and trade associations) recommends that following road wheel removal and refitting, the wheel nut torque should be re-checked after the vehicle has been…

Claimants for compensation on road traffic accidents are having to wait for more than a year before being heard in court.   The existing backlog in UK courts has only been aggravated by the pandemic, and a UK Insurer has calculated that around £240m worth of current claimant damages have been tied up in the…

Have you considered the potential impact to your charity should disaster strike? Have you considered a fire, flood, or an opportunistic hacker? If not, it might be time you did! Let us take a look at what’s covered under business interruption.   What is business interruption insurance? Business interruption insurance provides cover for losses following…

Drivers’ hours rules   Where you use analogue tachographs, you must also carry your driver smart card if you hold one, and all chart records (not photocopies), plus any legally required manual records for the current day and the previous 28 calendar days.   Where chart records have been made, they must be carried when…

Kick off the New Year making sure your charity is sufficiently covered As the New Year begins, it’s time to make sure your charity is ready for the year ahead. Carrying out an annual charity cover review to ensure that your insurance policies are adequate, suitable and represent value for money, is a clear demonstration…

Britain left the EU on 31 January 2020 and we are now in a transition phase – what can you do to prepare?   Working with the Markel team, please find the enclosed guide to preparing your business for Brexit.   This guide will talk you through Brexit and help you on your journey towards…

How to get the best price for your haulage motor fleet   It’s important to engage a broker that has a specialism in your industry, and Ascend has a specialist Transportation and Haulage division which has the knowledge and expertise in your sector – but how can you help and work together with your broker…

Travelling in Europe in 2021 The transition period for the UK to leave the EU ends on 31 December 2020. What does this mean for insurance abroad in 2021.   Unless an agreement is reached, it is likely there will be a legal requirement to carry a physical document known as a Green Card when…

Assessing risks as your charity prepares for the end of England's national lockdown As the end of our second national lockdown comes to an end, it’s important to look at how your organisation assesses its risks. The Health and Safety at work Act 1974 made it necessary for every organisation to think about how they…

In today’s digital world, cybercrime has become a powerful tool for criminals looking to steal data and extort money. The most dangerous of all the cyber attacks is phishing.   Phishing at a glance: Phishing is a type of social engineering attack often used to steal user data, including logon credentials and credit card numbers.…

Cyber risks that face the logistics industry   Threats targeting the transportation and logistics sector can come from many sources: criminals, terrorist groups, hacktivists, disgruntled or former employees, nation sales, competitors, traditional network operation mistakes, and many more. However, there is cover to help with many of these threats included within a Cyber insurance policy.…

New commercial vehicle scrappage scheme launched A new heavy vehicle scrappage scheme has been launched in London ahead of the introduction of tighter emissions standards for the Low Emission Zone (LEZ), which comes into force from March 1, 2021. More than 100 organisations have already pre-registered interest in the scheme, which will operate on a…

Cyber Insurance   Why some claims are not paid? The cyber insurance market has grown significantly in recent years. This is a trend which has continued through 2020, with new buyers coming into the market and existing buyers looking at expanded programmes. Whilst the overall awareness and knowledge of cyber insurance has improved, there is a lack…

Major mobile phone law change in 2021   The Government has announced plans to significantly tighten up the ban on using mobiles phones whilst driving. The changes will come into effect in 2021. In short, the current law: ·        is out of date – mobile phones today are no longer just used for calls and…

Every year the weather seems to get more extreme, both in summer and winter. This means that businesses need to start thinking ahead for preparing their commercial premises for winter. Allianz have prepared a great guide for preparing properties for the winter.   The Allianz guide gives great advice on precautions business owners should take…

How to keep in touch, communicate and put your employees and volunteers at the forefront during lockdown. As we come to the end of the first week of our national lockdown, it can be easy to focus on how your charity is doing, how many beneficiaries are being reached, how sales are going, how to…

New division to help larger businesses consider insuring in a new way Chelmsford-based insurance broker, Ascend Broking, has established a new arm to its award-winning business, as it endeavours to help clients of a certain size in Essex, London and beyond consider a new way of insuring their risks.   – The idea is, larger…

Looking after your drivers should be one of your main priorities Mental health used to be a very taboo subject but now discussions about mental health are a much more common, positive thing. Without positive mental health conversations and care, firms could lose a lot of good people and good drivers, not to mention the…

With the government announcing its backing for trade credit insurance to boost economic recovery, everyone is asking the same questions. What is it? And how does it help? Trade credit insurance allows small businesses to manage their risk effectively without having to take on huge debts. This means, with economic uncertainty, trade credit will allow…

Why charities need cyber insurance, regardless of their size With all the challenges and changes that Covid-19 is bringing we saw a sudden and near-total shift to remote working (and now a more measured transition to blended working) many charities have had to re-examine their existing cyber security practices.   In the past year 20% of charities…

All you need to know about the direct vision standard and HGV safety permit From 1st March 2021 (postponed from October 2020 due to COVID), all goods vehicles over 12 tonnes will require a permit to drive into Greater London. This includes vehicles from outside of the UK. Enforced by Transport for London (TfL), the…

With millions of employees working from home, the risk of cyber breaches is higher than ever. The reason working from home increases the risk of cyber attacks is due to: Weak network security – Multiple entry points for each business network – Family members on WIFI – and more. 60% of SMEs that suffer a…

In M&A deals. the seller typically holds liabilities should the deal fall through. If issues do occur then the seller will likely be financially responsible for any liabilities.   The risk can be diminished by taking out transaction liability insurance which will reimburse the policyholder should any loses occur.   By transferring risk over to…

Many contractors are now asking their subcontractors to have Professional Indemnity insurance in place to secure contracts. But what is it and what do you need to consider?   Professional Indemnity (PI) insurance provides:   1. Source cover from a reliable, long-term insurer – with the PI market open to transitioning from a soft market…

Six men have been sentenced to a total of 20 years for their part in supplying and exporting stolen vehicles to Northern Cyprus. The City of London Police, who led the investigation, identified in excess of 120 stolen vehicles linked to the organised crime group, with losses to industry of around £5 million.   The…

The recent COVID -19 High Court ruling   This provides some clarity for customers’ business interruption claims caused by COVID-19 pandemic.   The Background Following interruption to businesses due to the pandemic, insurers were showing inconsistency in dealing with claims. Many business interruption covers only provided property damage cover. However, some policies had infectious disease…

Construction is one industry that has been slow in embracing the considerable technological advances that the past decade has seen. Advancements have allowed for sites to be safer and more efficient. Technology also diminishes risk in many ways and, as the country eases itself out of lockdown, technology is extremely valuable. Many companies are increasingly…

Technological advances for motor fleet policies span far beyond telematics and driver assistance systems. New ways of connecting drivers to insurers directly allows for comprehensive gathering of data that can help claims. Cloud-based technologies, such as the Ascend Claims App, allows policy holders to upload pictures and files immediately so that insurers can access them.…

Although most businesses have always seen cyber insurance as a necessity, many will now realise its utmost importance in keeping them protected. The risk of cyber attacks has grown exponentially due to many working from home, leaving small businesses vulnerable to attack. Since 2015 there has been a 300% increase in small and medium size…

Ascend’s new style credit insurance has proved popular and has made its way onto Business Wire in Essex. Our new credit insurance protects small and medium sized business against a client with outstanding payments going insolvent. Read more about credit insurance here.  You can view this latest piece in Business Wire in Essex by clicking…

Essex start their Vitality T20 blast campaign against Middlesex tonight at Chelmsford. Essex Eagles, who are the current holders of the trophy, look to continue their fantastic unbeaten record in all competitions so far this year. With the likes of Simon Harmer and others in the squad we are confident they will perform yet again.…

An online survey of insurers’ changing priorities as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic by consultancy firms show a major focus on remote working for 2020 and 2021. The survey, which covered around 25 insurers globally, took place between 31st May and 11th June. Only 8% were very confident that the coronavirus pandemic will be…

As businesses return to work across the country, many employees will be worried about safety. Follow these five tips to keep your business safe and give your employees peace of mind. 1 Install hygiene screens – these will prevent contact between employees sitting next to each other at desks. By creating this barrier between work…

Essex have made it 3 wins from 3 in the Bob Willis Trophy, with a win over Sussex at Hove. Essex remain the only unbeaten team in the competition. Despite a few wobbles, Essex overcame the challenge to win by three wickets. This leaves Essex 16 points clear at the top of the South Group…

Directors and officers liability insurance rates will likely more than double for some sectors in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, as insurers respond to increased shareholder litigation over the past three years and future litigation over coronavirus-related exposures, according to a report by A.M. Best. The report rating agency noted that rates have already…

For business owners managing fleets of vehicles it’s essential that provisions are made to ensure all vehicles are safe and legal and to prepare drivers for returning to the road. The most important thing for managers to inspect is whether a vehicle is safe to drive. With many vehicles being stationary for many months, problems…

Essex are off to a winning start in the Bob Willis trophy with a win over rivals Kent at Chelmsford. The match was a tightly fought one with the result being very close in the end. Essex eventually won by 2 wickets. Essex’s standout performers were Ryan Ten Doeschate who hit 78 in the first…

In the second quarter of 2020, the cost of motor cover was at its lowest for four years. This fall reflects the impact that Corona virus has had on the UK, with motorists taking far fewer car journeys. The price of cover is down 3% from the first quarter of 2020. Motorists have clearly been…

Deloitte have released a 22-page document which informs on how businesses can get back to a new normal, and thrive. This document can be found in Ascend’s Covid-19 FAQ’s The document is based around 5 key principles: Reflect, Recommit, Re-engage, Rethink and Reboot. Deloitte say these principles lay the foundations to allow businesses to thrive…

With offices re-opening due to eased lockdown restrictions, many fear difficulties may arise in stopping cyber crime, as part of the workforce remains at home. With over 75% of companies saying that a large proportion of their employees will remain working from home, remote-working issues will remain for some time. A top worry for main…

Today Self Insurance Protect has been launched! This new, revolutionary area provides an alternative to traditional insurance. The benefits of Self-Insurance include: Lower fixed costs (program administration) Reduced losses through better loss control Improved cash-flow More visibility on claims control Improved overall performance Visit Self Insurance Protect today  Contact us on 01245 449060 to find…

We are delighted to sponsor Essex Cricket’s Paul Walter for the 2020 season. The left-handed all-rounder was Essex’s leading wicket-taker in 2017’s Natwest T20 Blast. Born in Billericay, Walter is proud to represent his home county at a first-class level and we are excited to see his successes in the coming season. Essex kick their…

Cyber criminals have jumped on the lack of cyber protection that many businesses have in order to steal valuable information and scam many small and large businesses. One particular attack came against EasyJet, showing that not only small businesses are vulnerable to attack. The Covid-19 pandemic is being used by cyber criminals for financial, political…

From the 10th of July holiday makers returning to England will not have to go into a period of quarantine with the FCO lifting its ‘all but essential’ travel rule.   Those returning from countries such as France, Spain, Barbados, Australia and Japan will no longer have to isolate. A full list of nations where…

Ascend Broking Group have launched a revolutionary new credit insurance facility on a per-invoice basis from just £5.60* per policy, making it much more affordable and than traditional credit insurance. Credit insurance allows your business to grow by offering credit terms to new buyers, knowing that you’re protected if things don’t go to plan. It…

Cities worldwide have seen significant decreases in emissions. Dolphins have returned to Southern Italy and in China many have seen blue skies for the first time in a long time. These of course are positive occurrences in what has been a rather bleak year. This may however spark a political turn globally in pushing further…

With many beginning to head back to work it is important that government regulations are followed to the letter. If regulations are not followed then should an incident occur, you may be liable. To help with this issue, Markel has produced a ten point checklist to ensure that you follow guidelines and are protected. You…

Fires are unfortunately all too common during maintenance and construction. Usually this is caused by inadequate control when using heat. While hazards are often controlled, with recent lockdown procedures it may be a case that there is an increase in hazards in the workplace. For projects that ended abruptly there will be challenges on how…

With lockdown measures being eased you should still remember that risks to business remain substantial and you should remain alert at all times. Unoccupancy Conditions: From 30 June 2020, business owners are advised take all necessary steps to protect their premises, including complying with their policy’s unoccupancy condition. Where this isn’t possible for any reason…

One of the many questions that has arisen relates to reporting requirements for the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). This article sets out some of the key HSE requirements and provides practical examples of how these may apply. Dangerous occurrences The HSE states that an unintended incident at work which has led to someone’s possible…

Legionnaires disease is caused by a bacteria called Legionella. Legionella thrives in water systems in unoccupied buildings where the water has become stagnant. With many premises being unoccupied for months the risk of this disease is very high.   Here are some tips to prevent the disease in your building:   – Flush out cold…

NMU have released advice to secure cargo and keep it safe while in transit. These tips should be followed in order to keep your cargo as safe as possible. 1. Know where your shipment is – Know where it should be at any given time, when it is stationary and when it is being transferred…

As Coronavirus stay-at-home measures begin to lift and businesses reopen, health and safety will be at the forefront of everyone’s minds. Businesses will be reviewing their Risk Assessments and control measures to ensure they minimise risk to their employees.   It’s not hard to imagine that in a few months we will start seeing and…

29% of insurance claims during lockdown have involved someone hitting an unattended vehicle. Insurance companies have said that this has increased 19% since the 23rd of March, when lockdown was introduced. A number of factors may have caused this. One being that there have been more parked cars due to people staying at home and…

Should the potential of risk and liability be a concern for reopening businesses? As businesses begin to reopen across the UK they need to plan carefully to mitigate risks.     Green light   You are given the COVID-19 protocol ‘okay’ to return to work so open your doors for business, staff are directed to…

Commotion gripping the USA has left many around the world wondering if their business is covered in the event of riots and civil disturbance. Are your vehicles covered? Vehicles are typically covered by a standard comprehensive insurance policy, providing payment for damages to the vehicle and its contents caused by fire or vandalism. Comprehensive cover…

Subcontractors – The Difference between LOSC and BFSC   The insurance definition of BFSC & LOSC is different to the HMRC definition. Ensure you have the correct procedures in place to guarantee your insurance policies will respond in your time of need. Whilst it is difficult to provide an accurate definition (as the law does…

Allianz have released their step by step guide for restarting your business to avoid the risk of legal action if procedures are not followed correctly. The guide includes notes on risk management, security and procedures to help manage your business in the post-lockdown period. With businesses looking to restart following loosening of lockdown procedures, many…

Employee and public liability claims, employment practices suits or directors & officers lawsuits could look much different in the age of COVID-19. While the industry is currently dealing the implications of the present pandemic, there are potential areas that could produce claims that we have not seen yet.   COVID-19 has fundamentally changed how we…

Risk Insight: How Coronavirus is affecting Cargo Insurance Customers What is the likely/potential impact on Supply Chain? All areas of the supply chain in or via countries impacted expect to face reduced capacity to handle goods due to restrictions on movements of people and cargo. These restrictions are likely to have a significant impact on…

Managing Your Exposures – Sport & Leisure Industry Some risks are common to all in the sector property and casualty exposures for risks such as fire, flood or slips & trips – liability. Also, Business Interruption is a big consideration for those with a reliance on a specific location – for example a Hotel or…

Are Women Safer Drivers? New Data Settles the argument “Drive like a Girl” data reveals 17-year-old men speed 130% more than women of the same age. To celebrate International Women’s Day, telematics insurance pioneer, drive like a girl (a trading style of Insure The Box who holds over five billion miles of driving telematics data),…

Gap Insurance is still important A third of drivers say having access to a car is more important than ever following the Coronavirus outbreak. A third of drivers say they’re more reliant than ever on having access to a car. The research from the RAC underscores the increasing reliance many drivers have on their cars…

Mothballed Construction Sites Part 2: Securing the Site In this second part of our two-part series focusing on construction sites, we will look at some of the best solutions for securing those projects that have been abandoned as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic. Click here to read Mothballed Construction Sites Part 1: Leaving the…

Reducing motor fleet cover The current uncertainty in the haulage industry is causing people to think about their current fleet numbers. With a potential downturn in business, drivers self‐isolating, or just a reduction in volumes, it’s best to know your options so you can make the best decision. Own vehicles – You can lay them…

Construction sites operating during the Coronavirus Construction sites operating during the Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic need to ensure they are protecting their workforce and minimising the risk of spread of infection. This guidance is intended to introduce consistent measures on sites of all sizes, in line with the Government’s recommendations on social distancing. Self-Isolation Anyone who…

COVID-19’s impact on driving tests Driving Theory tests are suspended until 08 May for now. You can book a theory test now for a date from 09 May. If your driving test is delayed and your theory test runs out before your next test, you will need to re-take a theory test (they are valid…

What can we expect as manufacturers respond to the coronavirus? The communicable disease already has several of the world’s most powerful nations in its grip, and the economic impact of this novel virus is starting to become evident. But what can we expect to see from the manufacturing sector as the battle rages on, and…

Understanding bodily injury in eHealth Technology is fundamentally changing the way healthcare is delivered, monitored, and addressed. And telemedicine – or the remote delivery of healthcare services – is one of the fastest-growing and most obvious examples of this shift. While the use of technology can deliver great benefits to patients, it also creates new…

58% of burglaries happen when someone is home Analysis of Office for National Statistics crime figures reveals 58% of people were home when burglars struck. 39% took place in the morning or afternoon rather than after dark. Victims cite difficulty sleeping, anxiety or panic attacks, and depression brought on by the incident. Six in ten…

COVID-19: Turning to telemedicine The use of telemedicine has been steadily on the rise for years, with companies around the world helping patients remotely. Since the arrival of COVID-19, major measures like social distancing have been implemented to fight the pandemic and this has seen an acceleration in the use of telemedicine. Regulation The World…

COVID-19 and the effect on haulage drivers Haulage drivers are having to keep working during the pandemic, but there has been little talk about how the crisis is affecting them. Before the current crisis, the sector was facing a struggle to maintain staffing numbers given its high proportion of older workers approaching retirement and the…

Keep on moving; managing cargo risk during the COVID-19 outbreak The impact of the COVID-19 virus and the measures put in place by governments and authorities to try to combat its spread are affecting all types of businesses across the whole world. In these times, the protection of health, safety and lives is paramount. While…

COVID-19 – protecting staff, buildings, vehicles and businesses Contamination Deep Cleaning service, through our managed repair business, Crawford Contractor Connection (CCC), is aimed at clients who require the skills of our technical and specialised cleaning contractors to provide decontamination and containment solutions following an outbreak and its subsequent disruption: – Full deep clean and decontamination of premises following…

UK bosses could face a wave of coronavirus – related Directors & Officers claims Administrators, managers, and directors of any company, regardless of its size or activities, shoulder significant responsibilities in relation to the way they conduct themselves and justify the trust placed in them. This may result in claims against them for actual and…

Entrepreneur Relief Confusion April 2020 – what can you do? The Chancellor’s Entrepreneur Relief name change will spread confusion and isn’t helpful to small businesses, warns Jarrovian Wealth. The reduction of the lifetime limit for Entrepreneurs’ Relief from £10 million to £1 million, announced by the Chancellor in his Budget last month, was a major blow to…

£10 million in losses due to COVID cyber scams The COVID-19 pandemic surging around the world has evolved into a full-blown scam epidemic since fraudsters have started exploiting coronavirus fears. Scams have included an impersonation of local and international health authorities such as the World Health Organization, as well as creating bogus online shops selling non-existent face…

Mothballed construction sites Part 1: Leaving the site This current situation opens up a host of new risks arising from the cessation of work, the biggest being an unoccupied property which presents a range of issues that must be addressed quickly. In this article, Ensurance provide advice on some new risks and offer some simple best-practice advice and…

HSE Statutory Inspections (LOLER & PSSR) For businesses that are currently closed either by election or being required to do so to meet COVID-19 related government advice or restrictions, the HSE have advised that access to visiting inspectors to undertake thorough examinations should still be provided. Download full HSE paper – Click Here

Managing your vehicles – SORN Where vehicles will not be required for a reasonable period of time, sorning (Statutory Off-Road Notification) and asking your insurer to reduce cover to ‘Laid Up’ risks only, as part of your normal vehicle declarations, is one way of helping manage your expenses. However, this does mean that you will need a secure off-road…

Given recent developments concerning the rise in reported cases of coronavirus worldwide, the outbreak is stoking fears among travellers. Many are wondering whether travel insurance will protect them in case they cancel their trip, become sick while abroad, or if their flight is grounded. So how do you know what you have cover for? It…

So how do you cater for such an event in your Business Continuity Planning? The outbreak of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV), in Wuhan City, Hubei Province of China, has prompted questions of how insurance policies might respond to claims stemming from business losses attributed to this infection prompting this White Paper. The primary virus infection,…

In conjunction with Hiscox Insurance company we have launched a new incentive for all existing customers with a Hiscox home policy with Ascend. All existing policyholders can claim a free LeakBot (RRP £149) and start protecting your home against the damages caused by hidden water leaks today The average cost of claims for water damage…

As we head into the start of a new year, we look at five critical employment regulation changes every UK commercial enterprise needs to be aware of heading into 2020. What important UK employment law changes come into effect in 2020? With the Government mired in the complications of Brexit, many employment law developments in…

Work in the electrical contracting industry can cover a wide range of services, and most contractors in the field will engage in some level of activity that may leave them liable if one of the products or services they provide causes injury or property damage to a third party. Electricians know they must have Public…

What you need to know about the new CPC requirements   As the deadline for Brexit approaches, commercial drivers need to ensure that their Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) qualifications are properly updated to avoid potential compliance issues on the road.   Specifically, the government recently released CPC requirements that lorry, bus and coach drivers…

As we become increasingly reliant on technology, the potential impact of cyber-related incidents continues to grow. Yet the cyber insurance market is relatively new in comparison to other lines of cover. So, what do we mean when we talk about cyber risk & what do you need to do to protect your business against this…

It is not long now to prepare for Brexit with the 31st January 2020 on the horizon. Our guide has been written with support from The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS). Brexit impact on business: which industries will be affected? For many businesses, there won’t be much to do. Staying on top…

Have you considered cyber insurance for your business? Cyber insurance is finding its way onto the agendas of businesses everywhere, but it’s still a relatively misunderstood class of insurance. Because of this, many companies find themselves confused about how cyber insurance actually works and are skeptical about whether it makes sense for their business to…

High winds and heavy rain can cause damage to properties, and flying debris poses a risk to your buildings, vehicles and any people caught out in the storm. Building maintenance carried out by skilled, competent people is the best line of defence against extreme weather. It helps prevent the elements penetrating walls and roofs to cause further damage to stock…

Working with Aviva we are pleased to enclose a guide to winter risk management –  you will find information on common risks, from extreme weather damaging buildings and causing dangerous driving conditions, to keeping your staff safe. Working with the Aviva Risk Management Solutions team please find enclosed the guide to winter risk management. In…

Water leaks can cause untold damage and disruption commercially – accounting for approximately a third of all claims by value. Working with the Aviva Risk Management Solutions team the enclosed guide to water damage has been prepared – which is especially apt over the winter season. In our guide you’ll find advice on how to…

Ascend crowned gold winner in Customer Champion of the Year 2019 and bronze in Independent Broker of the Year The Insurance Times awards are often referred to as the Oscars for the general insurance industry and this year the ceremony took place at the spectacular Grosvenor House Hotel in London’s West End on 22nd November…

While many customers might welcome the greater flexibility offered by in-home delivery services, there are also potential risk implications. For example: • Theft • Accidental damage to property • Malicious/criminal damage • Injury to a delivery driver (e.g. a trip or slip), which could lead to a personal injury claim   Theft could be a…

In September, two intrepid members of our team – Edwin Carter and Katherine Smithers – braved the elements to abseil down the side of the Olympic Stadium in Stratford, London. Raising £500 for Little Belsteads. Katherine said it was ‘a hair-raising experience but an exhilarating one’ – not one she would like to ‘repeat too…

The opening of the Ascend stables at Little Belsteads RDA in Little Waltham, Chelmsford, Essex. Ascend Broking & Little Belsteads RDA attend the opening of the new stables. Belsteads RDA is a registered charity that was inspired to provide interaction and riding opportunities to children with disabilities all over Essex. Based at The Belsteads School,…

New rules regarding safety permits for vehicles over 12 tonne come into force in October 2020. London has the highest number of cyclist v HGV accidents in the country, nearly twice the national average. From October 2020 all vehicles (other than exemptions) over 12 tonne will need a safety permit to operate in London. Firstly,…

We recently featured in the Essex Magazine following the launch of our high net worth & wealth management service – Ascend Executive. Essex insurance broker Ascend Broking goes from strength to strength      

5 members of staff recently completed the Nuclear 7.5km obstacle course in Kelvedon Hatch in very wet and muddy conditions. Matt Price, Alex Patten, Katherine Smithers, Max Collins and Eddie Carter excelled themselves by completing the last Nuclear 7.5km run of the year in horrendous conditions over farmland in Ongar on 3rd November 2019. In…

Listed buildings are beautiful, unique and, quite often, works of art. Owning one is not only something quite special, but means you have an obligation to maintain and protect it beyond that of a regular home. Indeed, the consequences of knowingly under-insuring a Grade I listed building could result in legal action and you’ll find…

As 2019 draws to a close, Ascend Broking reflects on its fundraising endeavours of the year and how we have supported the local community. Our current charity is the RDA facility, Little Belsteads Training and Livery. Peter Adams, Belsteads School, Eddie Carter & Katherine Smithers, Ascend Broking at the opening of the new Ascend Stables…

What if you provide advice and consultancy and there’s a mistake in the advice you’ve given? What if you provide an expert service and there’s a mistake in designs, plans or calculations? What if you handle people’s information and you face claims that you accidentally disclosed data or infringed on a client’s legal rights? If…

Max Collins & James Kemsley completed a 13,000ft Sky dive and raised an amazing £1600 for the Chess Charity. {{ vc_btn: title=CLICK+HERE+TO+DONATE+TODAY&style=custom&custom_background=%23212c43&custom_text=%23ffffff&size=lg&link=url%3Ahttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.gofundme.com%252Ff%252Fascend-broking-group-amp-little-belsteads-rda%253Futm_source%253Dcustomer%2526utm_medium%253Dcopy_link%2526utm_campaign%253Dp_cp%252Bshare-sheet%7C%7C%7C }}

The massive hacking of Marriott International reservation databases could lead to a £99m fine as the UK cracked down on privacy breaches with its second major penalty notice in two days. The cyber-attack, which Marriott disclosed in 2018, exposed information on 339-million guest records, including seven million related to British residents, the UK Information Commissioner’s…

With hundreds of thousands of Cyber-attacks per year, it is little wonder that some challenges are successful. We all know that Cybercrime is on the rise, but the reality is that we are only aware of the successful attacks on our practices, or the obvious attempts of attacks such as phishing or ransomware. According to…

Purchasing an annual policy protects your employees whilst they are traveling on your behalf, and an annual policy arranged through your broker takes the worry out of purchasing a policy every time they travel – or relying on the limited cover that may be provided through your credit card. Importantly, when an employee is sick…

Being a director is often challenging and potentially lucrative, but if the prospect of being sued is looming, it can be a lonely and alarming position. Directors and officers cover (D&O) provides a suit of armour in the face of legal action, with the insurer stepping in to provide guidance at the first sign of…

1. A logical option One of the gripes people find with insurance bought online is that it doesn’t actually cover you the way you want it to. When you get a quote online, think about the information you provide. Does it encapsulate your requirements? How can a quote be provided in such little information? An…

The Broker Innovation Awards – Start-up Broker of the Year 2019 WINNER We are delighted to have been crowned Start-up business of the year 2019 at The Broker Innovation Award 2019 held at Leonardo Royal Hotel, Tower Bridge in London. We also were finalists in another 3 categories including: • Commercial Broker of the Year…

Ascend have featured in a recent article in the Essex magazine about our Terrorism and Cyber Crime event on the 10th of September being held at Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford. The article gives details about the event and what the day will include. The event will give insights into protection from Cyber Crime and Terrorism…

It was announced on Monday 15 July by the Ministry of Justice that the Ogden Discount Rate will only marginally increase from the -0.75% level to -0.25% with effect from 5 August 2019. This is a disappointing result because the government had previously indicated to the industry and the financial markets that the rate would…

There are a number of lesser known or obscure driving laws and offences in the UK that could see drivers attract huge fines and penalty point endorsements. Having a dirty number plate There is a law which states that any number plate that is obscured by dirt or grime can be charged with a hefty…

Your premium is calculated based on your individual circumstances and the amount of cover you choose to take out to protect your business. Underinsurance occurs when you have not taken out the right amount of insurance cover for your needs. What does it mean if I am underinsured? Taking out insufficient insurance cover will essentially…

In May, a UK publishing-tech start-up business set up a crowdfunding website, to try to finance expansion into the USA, having already created 100-page biographies for 475 everyday individuals since its foundation in June 2015. You no longer need to be a celebrity to have a biography that records the memorable moments of your life.…

On the 10th September 2019 in partnership with Counter Terrorism Policing, National Counter Terrorism Policy & Essex Police you are invited to an engagement seminar for business of all sizes to be held at the Anglian Ruskin University, Chelmsford, Essex. The event will focus on the current threat from terrorism to the United Kingdom and…

Ascend have recently featured in an article in the East of England Business News. The article tells of our unprecedented success since our foundation just over two years ago, and of our recent success with insurance awards.   Click here to read about our recent success.

The continuing rise in escape of water claims has been identified by the Association of British Insurers (ABI) as an area of focus for 2018. In 2016, escape of water contributed to over a quarter of all domestic property insurance claims, ranking above ‘weather’ and ‘fire and explosion’. Between January and September 2017, these claims…

With the start of the new financial year on April 6 2018 came increases in the maximum basic awards that can result from employers dismissing staff unfairly. It has also introduced what could become potentially uncapped awards for claims such as discrimination and whistle-blowing. There has been a rise in the maximum total award for…

The rise to prominence of the term ‘fake news’ was certainly swift last year and the frequency with which it was banded about made it 2017’s word of the year. But it was not just a popular turn of phrase, but something that shook society, according to the Edelman Trust Barometer published on January 22nd…

If you are a tradesman or if you work for yourself, you will probably know by now that one simple mistake or mishap has the potential to be very costly, even to the extent of closing down your business. For this reason, tradesman insurance is essential if you want to safeguard your livelihood. For the…

Throughout July Europe has seen some remarkable temperatures being recorded. Record breaking heats of almost 40 degrees Celsius across Europe has made this summer the hottest on record. Despite the joys of ice-creams, beach days and swimming pools, there are also downsides. One van driver found this out the hard way. One van driver in…

Ascend are delighted to support The Belsteads RDA, a local charity based in Chelmsford providing disabled children in the local community the opportunity to learn to ride and interact with horses. The Belsteads School is situated within 11 acres of paddocks and links directly to a 150-acre nature reserve. The curriculum will take advantage of…

Heading up a company is not easy. Directors are governed by a plethora of laws and regulations threatening financial exposure and personal sanctions should any breach occur. It may not even be a result of their personal negligence. They may just have been unaware what others under their control and jurisdiction were doing. New legislation…

The ramifications of Spring 2017’s ‘Ogden Rate’ changes are being felt across the personal-injury-prevalent motor and higher-risk trades, but is this anything to worry about and what can be done to lessen the pain? The Ogden rate is a calculation applied to lump sum payments awarded to those who suffer injuries, the impacts of medical…

Getting the right holiday insurance is extremely important. In the event of a medical emergency or serious incident, it pays to have the right cover. Many an unwary traveller is faced with an unforeseen situation that results in an unexpected cost. Comprehensive holiday insurance can provide you with protection against many events that the typical…

Britain’s landscape is becoming increasingly tainted by the blight of fly-tipping – an escalating issue which puts farmers and private landowners under particular strain and which has the potential to bring about their financial ruin. In June 2017, a House of Commons briefing paper recognised the scale of the criminal activity surrounding the illegal disposal…

With new rules on the gender pay gap currently making the headlines, ensuring equality for employees and customers is a growing priority for many organisations.   The origins of the act It could be argued that the Equality Act 2010 has its roots in a 17th century piece of legislation – the Habeas Corpus Act…

More than half of British businesses suffer unfair negative reviews, according to research by online reputation management expert Igniyte, but 40% of SMEs never bother to check whether any damaging reviews about their business have been posted online. These worrying figures suggest many of today’s SMEs, lacking an in-house IT or marketing department that can…

With the UK seeing nearly unprecedented days of consistently hot and sunny weather, it seems that plant and other equipment has started suffering in the heat. We’ve seen a number of claims recently that have come from engines in plant catching fire on construction sites. We know you understand about maintaining your plant and keeping…

Hostile interventions by hackers in vehicle technology are not science fiction, as various cases have proven with different car manufacturers in the last few years. But what can be done about it? THE NIGHTMARE Imagine you’re driving with 100 other vehicles on a main road. As if by magic, the central locking engages, the radio…

For the first time, specific sentencing guidelines have been published for English and Welsh courts dealing with cases of unlawful act manslaughter, gross negligence manslaughter, manslaughter by reason of loss of control and manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility. The guidelines will be used for sentences imposed from 1 November 2018, but are retrospective in…

In many workplaces, the time for cultural shifts about mental health is long gone and now it’s a cultural heave that’s needed to propel change. Fifteen years have passed since Xerox CEO Anne Mulcahy first spoke the now well-worn phrase, “employees are a company’s greatest asset”. Despite all those years, can many employers honestly say…

What’s happening? We all know that the price of crude oil is a constant economic hot potato. Following continued rises in the price of oil, fuel prices are at their highest levels for over two years. Not only this, prices jumped at their fastest rate in 18 years during May, up to an average of…

The pressure on businesses to cut out the plastic waste that pollutes our oceans – as dramatically highlighted by Sir David Attenborough’s Blue Planet II has intensified month after month, but for those willing to provide alternatives to plastic, opportunity knocks. Transcend Packaging, based in Ebbw Vale, is a great example. This innovative business spotted…

Cambridge Analytica has been a name making global headlines lately, becoming infamous as the organisation which shook the digital world to its roots, following the Facebook data breach that saw the personal information of 87 million Facebook users. Whilst the manipulation of US voters was Cambridge Analytica’s mission, what a company whistle-blower has done is…

The proportion of UK firms reporting a cyber-attack has jumped, despite most businesses admitting they are under-prepared for breaches, according to research from Hiscox. The insurer found 55% had faced an attack in 2019, up from 40% last year. But almost three quarters of firms were ranked as “novices” in terms of cyber readiness. Hiscox…

Announcements surrounding autonomous cars have come thick and fast over the past few years. What is hardly ever mentioned is whether the world at large is ready for them. We’re only talking about fully autonomous vehicles, the fifth and final level of automation, choosing not to venture into the grey area where levels 1 to…

Following a recent update from the Insurance Fraud Taskforce, which was set up by the government to help reduce the level of insurance fraud, they’ve recently introduced two new initiatives to help customers understand what fraud looks like and the need to provide correct information when applying for an insurance policy. THE INSURANCE EXPERIMENTS In…

Insurance is often referred to as a ‘grudge purchase’, a necessary evil and something that only really delivers any value if the policyholder is propelled by an accident or incident towards the ‘moment of truth’ – the time at which they have to call on their policy and make a claim. At that point, it…

We are delighted to announce that Ascend Broking Group have been shortlisted for two awards in the British Insurance Awards 2019. The categories we have been shortlisted for are: Commercial Lines Broker of the Year – SME/Mid-corporate Insurance Start-up of the Year The 25th British Insurance Awards! In this historic year the BIAs will continue…

We recently moved into our new office located within the heart of the Chelmsford Business Park in Chelmsford. Located at 21 Springfield Lyons Approach, Chelmsford Business Park, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 5LB the new office features meeting rooms, open trading floor and a meeting area. We look forward to welcoming you for a coffee at our…

There was great excitement among architects in 2011 when Jack Levy, professor of mechanical engineering at City University London, unveiled his plans for the world’s first curved escalator – the ‘Levytator’. Promoted as both safer and more energy efficient compared to standard escalators, some hailed the ‘Levytator’ as a benchmark in the future of escalator…

Tut, tut. What would Colonel Sanders say? A chicken shop running out of chicken and one of the best-known brands in the world now facing reputational damage and ridicule. Picking through the bones of the sad story of KFC, which has left customers hungry, angry and even ringing police stations for help, after swapping distributor…

An HMRC tax investigation led to technology giant, Apple, being forced to pay £136m earlier this year, but nobody is off HMRC’s radar when it comes to tax investigations, as the many plumbers who ignored the option of an HMRC amnesty will testify. HMRC frequently selects businesses at random for tax investigations. However, companies, firms…

Cyber-crime is growing at a phenomenal rate and is hardly ever out of the news. Unfortunately, there is a still a sentiment prevalent within some British businesses that “it will never happen to me”, although the reality is that many businesses are being targeted every single day. When we asked one of our insurers for…

Since mid-January, the news headlines have been dominated by the collapse of the UK’s second biggest construction firm, Carillion. It is said that 30,000 supply chain businesses are directly, or indirectly, affected by its insolvency and inability to pay suppliers. Firms within the supply chain started to tumble like dominoes, as soon as Carillion’s position…

Whether it’s a quick espresso, a simple flat white, americano, macchiato, mocha or a frappucino with a dash of vanilla – your drink of choice will go great with our latest coffee guide. (Tea, juice, water, etc. will also probably be fine.) Coffee Customer: I’ve heard the expression ‘floating warehouses’…what are they? You: Floating warehouses,…

Seismic change could be underway within a buy-to-let property market that has changed little over the past ten years. A financial squeeze is beginning to be felt by many landlords and September 2017’s rental yields were the joint-lowest (below 5%) since records began in 2001. This market, which has boomed since 1996, when the mortgage…

Fending off the techno-thieves THE DAYS of hotwiring cars are long gone. Today’s thieves use a variety of sophisticated techniques to gain access to cars and start the engine. The police, car makers and the insurance industry are playing catch-up as techniques evolve and adapt quickly to modern cars. These measures are having some effect…

Anybody running a business, no matter how small, needs to consider business insurance. Whether you are self-employed or run a small or medium sized business you need a good insurance policy that protects you, your business and your sources of income. Business insurance comes in many forms, including tradesmen insurance, buy to let insurance and…

Following the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower, attention is rightly focused on the regulations surrounding fire safety. Ensuring that these are fit for purpose to protect both people and property is a top priority. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) recently called for a change to the regulations and a clearer framework of responsibility for…

The reasons why clients prefer to use a professional insurance broker, rather than price comparison and aggregator websites, are likely to be reinforced by the end of 2018, as regulators seek to create a more level playing field when it comes to professional standards. For some years now, there have been concerns about the way…

The ketchup or mayonnaise bottle is rapidly becoming an endangered species; those types of plastic that cannot be recycled are definitely feeling the squeeze. New pledges on the use of plastics have been issued by a variety of organisations, including every British supermarket. All have promised to ban the unnecessary use of single-use plastic packaging…

Welcome to Daisy Doardo and Alex Patten to the growing Ascend team We have two new additions to the Ascend office in Chelmsford. Daisy Doardo – Commercial Account Handler and High Net Worth Executive Daisy joins Ascend from Jelf where she was a high net worth specialist and has previous experience as an underwriter in…

We have put together information on common risks, from extreme weather damaging buildings and causing dangerous driving conditions, to keeping your staff safe. Plus, in each section there are links to more detailed information and risk assessment checklists, which you can tailor to your business. Plus, in each section there are links to more detailed…

Putting some environmental claims behind its product has landed giant ice cream brand, Ben & Jerry’s, in hot water. A consumer advocacy group, The Organic Consumers Association, says Ben & Jerry’s parent company, Unilever, is misleading the consumer when it comes to its ‘green’ statements. The association alleges the big-name brand cannot claim commitment to…

The hospitality sector needs to be on its mettle, as General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into effect on May 25 2018. Accommodation and hospitality providers in possession of information relating to previous guests and customers, perhaps in the form of addresses, credit card details, date of birth and passport number, must safeguard and justify…

In April 2018, the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) came into force in England and Wales. These regulations apply to both domestic and non-domestic rented properties, plus mixed-use developments, comprising both residential and commercial premises. Under MEES, it is now illegal for a landlord to let or renew a lease on a residential or commercial…

Congratulations to the whole team at Ascend Broking Group for our recent achievements in the Commercial Insurance sector. We are shortlisted for SIX awards at the annual Commercial Insurance Awards 2019 hosted by CIR Magazine.   Categories: Broker of the Year Categories: Regional Broker of the Year Categories: Growth Business of the Year Categories: Initiative of the Year Categories: Claims Team of the Year Categories: Social…

Another construction firm has gone bust, but this time it has attracted more attention than usual. Carillion’s suppliers are said to be owed a hefty £2 billion. This will have a knock-on effect for tens of thousands of businesses. The small firms that handled most of Carillion’s work will sadly be those most affected by…

Serious motor incidents involving HGV drivers always make the headlines, whilst a company car driver who carries out a motoring misdemeanour that negatively affects other road users can bring instant shame on the company name. A few years ago, preventing eventualities like this, which could conceivably have been avoided, would have seemed an impossibility in…

Stone masonry is one of the oldest trades in history, but is now also one of the modern-day workplace sectors most under scrutiny, as experts warn that silicosis could become the new asbestos. Silicosis is a long-term work-related lung disease to which anyone working with silica – naturally occurring in materials such as stone, concrete,…

2018 sees many new driving laws come into force, while other established laws are set to change. Staying on top of changes could help you avoid breaking any laws in the future. Take a look at our vehicle cameras to help your driving CHANGES TO TAX ON DIESEL CARS From April 2018, motorists buying a…

CURRENT CONTEXT – the HSE claims it has always had a “proportionate dispute process” since it introduced Fee for Intervention (FFI) in 2012, intended to lay the cost burden of HSE intervention on businesses that break health and safety laws, not on taxpayers. In September 2016, permission was granted for a judicial review of the…

MAKING THE MOST OF ONLINE OPPORTUNITY Fundraising encourages charities to be creative and stand out for all the right reasons. A change in public preferences alongside advances in digital capability have pave the way for many new fundraising opportunities. With technology enabling the success of many non-traditional fundraising ideas, we have put together a list…

British consumers are showing low levels of tolerance with the plastics industry and the implications for plastics manufacturers go way beyond the issue of what to do with the 3.7m tonnes of plastic waste sent to UK landfill each year. Whilst the public have long frowned upon single-use plastic bags, David Attenborough’s ‘Blue Planet 2’…

The use of modular building is nothing new but it seems to be gathering momentum. Two major companies made announcements recently. Redrow is trialling the use of modular garages at two of its regional divisions. The house builder is also installing service pods to homes at its Paddock Wood development at West Drayton near Heathrow…

During 2016/17, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) – the food-supply regulator in England, Wales and Northern Ireland – recalled 62 products. During the same period, Scotland’s FSS recalled 82 and the FSA and FSS together issued Allergy Alerts for 88 products. In February 2018 alone, product recalls made food news headlines for a variety of…

By 2030, it is suggested that there will be 76,000 drones in UK skies – a Sci-Fi lovers fantasy perhaps, but a phenomenon that will be very real and predicted to drive a 3.1% increase in productivity, as well as delivering a saving to the construction industry of £3.5 billion. Site surveys are one area…

Whilst many of us may wish for 15 minutes of fame, an Argyll-based hotel has secured its moment in the spotlight by preparing to serve midge burgers, making use of an abundance of wee insects that it can easily remove from its extermination machines. Midge-coated burgers are being touted as a potentially protein-rich ‘gourmet burger’,…

The motor vehicle repair industry employs 200,000 people in the UK. Most of these people work in small and medium sized businesses. Health and safety records are becoming worrying across the industry. During 2017, there has been a significant increase in the number of impact claims occurring for motor traders at their premises. These claims…

Britain’s withdrawal from the EU is scheduled for March 30 2019 and there will be ramifications in many industry sectors. But exactly how will it impact the insurance markets and company or individuals’ insurance policies? The simple answer is that nobody has an answer. Insurers are currently issuing renewals for dates stretching beyond the date…

Do evolving attitudes about how we work mean that the insurance provided for businesses is due a rethink? In the past, you would ask, ‘Where do you work?’ when getting to know someone. Now, you’re increasingly more likely to ask, ‘What do you do?’ instead. Attitudes to work are changing. Championed by millennials (who will…

If you have been considering a new home build or significant renovation of your property then it is likely that you will begin to seek the expert direction of architects, planners, builders and your insurance broker. In fact, many homeowners are reluctant to consider installing these security systems due to their unsightly nature. However, it…