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FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

FIRE SAFETY

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

ISSUE 33.5

Business Information for Local and Central Government

GROUNDS MANAGEMENT

PARKS,

PITCHES &

PLAY

Managing green spaces to respond to changing conditions PLUS: SCAFFOLDING | DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION | PROPERTY CARE | FRAMEWORKS

Innovative IPs we can license out

ed photon-based data transmission

Innovative IPs we can license out

fast secure QKD using Entangled photon-based data transmisssion

Innovative IPs we can license out

Entangled photon-based data transmission

Post quantum signature For post quantum QKD antispoofing

fast secure QKD using Entangled photon-based data transmisssion Drone detection With quantum radar Patent Pending Entangled photon-based data transmission

Hyperbolic geolocation Does not require satellites Penetrates indoor

Post quantum signature For post quantum QKD antispoofing

Offline prepaid cash

Post quantum signature AU2020225314A1, CA3128869A1, CN113811874A1, KR20210153595A1, EP3928232A1, US-2025-0330452A1, FR3092923B1, FR3140457A1, WO2020169542A1, JP7617008B2, JP7617008B2, US11914754B2, US12301549B2 , US20240111717A1, US20240160792A1, US20250279986A1 , US11956367B2 , US20240089240A1 , US12299179B2 ; photonic communication and secure transmission : CN117957795A1, CN116584054A1 , CN117957795A1, EP4374511A1, EP4374510A1, EP4374511A1, FR3125658B1, FR3125659B1, FR3125658A1, Drone detection FR3145455B1 , WO2023001721A1, WO2023001720A1 , WO2023001721A1 ; Router : US20240106539A1, FR3139396A1, FR3139396A1, WO2024052314A1 FR3120134A1, US12066558B2, With quantum radar FR3120130A1, US20220268874A US10643198B2 FR3080934B1CN110443595B

CARROUSEL DIGITAL 66, avenue des Champs Elysées 75008 Paris Hyperbolic geolocation Does not require satellites France Penetrates indoor

Patent Pending

Comment

Editor’s Comment Government Business 33.5

Welcome to E Business Information for Local and Central Government

with us on Linkedin: LINKEDIN Connect @government-business

P ONLINE P MOBILE P FACE-TO-FACE

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Issue 33.5 |

Business Information for Local and Central Government

Contents

Contents Government Business 33.5 7

15 NEWS

24 HOUSING

44 SMART BUILDINGS SHOW

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

30 ELEMENTAL LONDON

49 SCAFFOLDING

64 UK CONSTRUCTION WEEK

FACILITIES & ESTATES

FIRE SAFETY

57 LONDON BUILD 2026

FIRE SAFETY

69 GROUNDS MANAGEMENT

29 - 30 SEPT 2026 | OLYMPIA, LONDON

75 FRAMEWORK

84 DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

HEALTH & WELLBEING

INTERNATIONAL SECURITY EXPO

RTX SCOTLAND

WHITE LABEL WORLD EXPO

Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Business Information for Local and Central Government

Flat Roofs

Be Compliant, Never Compromise.

Attention to detail ensures your Bauder flat roof solution performs exactly as your building demands

Competency matters to us, it is what builds trust, reliability, and long-term success in every flat roof project we deliver.

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News

LGR

Government launches review of local government reorganisation The government has launched a review of local government reorganisation, to ensure it is robust and aligns with new government priorities. Following updated and privileged legal advice, ministers will now review the plans for Local Government Reorganisation. The review was announced by the Secretary of State in Parliament and will cover decisions Essex, Hampshire, Norfolk and Suffolk, which have now been withdrawn. Plans for 14 other areas are also being paused and reviewed. Local elections in May 2027 will still go ahead on existing council boundaries. Reorganisation in Surrey will not be affected by the review and the two new unitary authorities – East and West Surrey – will go live in April 2027. Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Angela Rayner said: “As we are now determined more than ever to devolve power closer to the people we represent, it’s only right that as the new Secretary of State I make sure that everything we do is working towards that plan to change Britain. “The Prime Minister told the House last week, he was ‘prepared to look at local government reorganisation’ and he asked me as his Communities Secretary to ’do that’...

COUNCILS

£91m for high-cost council services The government has announced a £91 million fund to help 14 councils with expensive services including adult social care and temporary accommodation. The funding will help the councils modernise services, harness AI and reduce their reliance on emergency support. The money will go to 14 councils in England that already receive Exceptional Financial Support, a mechanism to help councils under the most severe financial pressure balance the books. Minister for Local Government, Devolution and Regional Growth, Jim McMahon OBE said: “Councils have been under enormous strain from a broken funding system and spiralling demand for services like care and temporary accommodation. “That’s why we took action from day one to fix the foundations by addressing the causes of those issues, from reforming the outdated local government funding system to tackling homelessness, challenges with children’s services and in the SEND system. “This targeted support for councils facing the toughest pressures is the next step forward, helping end reliance on emergency funding and providing a blueprint for reform across local government.” READ MORE

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Business Information for Local and Central Government

News

PLANNING

Mayors given more powers to speed up developments Mayors in England will be given ‘call in’ powers to take the most important planning decisions in their areas. Mayors will now be able to take over key planning applications which impact on local growth, and direct a council to take it forward or refuse it. The change is backed by ten mayors from across the political spectrum and will give them powers similar to those of the Mayor of London. Schemes with more than 150 homes, more than 15,000 square metres of commercial space, or any building over 30 metres or taller, roughly ten storeys will be in scope. Mayors will also be able to grant up-front permission for development, so that building can begin without a developer having to apply. The majority of applications will still be decided by councils.

VISITOR LEVY

Powers for local leaders to introduce Overnight Visitor Levy Mayors and local leaders are to be given the power to introduce an Overnight Visitor Levy. The government has said that the levy will be charged as a percentage of the cost of the accommodation, not as a flat fee. The money will benefit tourist areas with the money being invested back into the community to support regional tourism, help manage the footfall of visitors, and improve areas for those living there. Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Angela Rayner, said: “Our amazing towns and cities, and our picturesque rural and coastal communities welcome millions of visitors every year – local leaders should have the power to make the most of that popularity. “This measure will give mayors the choice to raise and reinvest funding where it’s needed most. It’ll help support the local services, public spaces and attractions that both residents and visitors rely on, with decisions taken by people who know their area best.” Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: “This is something I’ve been calling for over many years, so I’m really pleased the government is taking forward plans to give Mayors the power to introduce a visitor levy locally... CONTINUE READING

Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Business Information for Local and Central Government

S A F E “It was a pleasure working with Archway FM. They helped us with the funding application process and the subsequent project management for the entire buildingʼs cladding replacement. Philip is a consummate gentleman and openly shared the burden on our behalf.ˮ - Andrew Cantwell RTM Director

YOUR TRUSTED CLADDING REMEDIATION PARTNER Archway FM delivers end-to-end cladding remediation, from initial assessments through to funding and final EWS1 sign-off. We've remediated hundreds of homes across England, working with freeholders, property managers, local authorities, and RTM directors to restore safety to their buildings. 100% Funding Success Rate

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News

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Whitehall officials to be seconded into mayors’ offices Government departments will second officials into mayoral authorities to work with local mayors. The Prime Minister convened mayors from across England for the first No10 North “virtual situation room”, where he announced new measures to put more Whitehall capacity behind local leaders and help unlock good growth in every postcode. This follows direct requests from mayors at the first meeting of the National Economic Council in July, where local leaders called for stronger local capability, faster decisionmaking and a closer partnership with government. Starting in the autumn, high-performing civil servants will be seconded into mayoral authorities to build capability and capacity and accelerate the transfer of power to local areas. As part of an initial pilot, every mayoral authority will receive between five and ten civil servants on a six–nine-month secondment. There will also be a new Civil Service Fast Stream pilot in Yorkshire and Humber, providing more opportunities to build successful careers in regions outside London and an expansion of the Future Leaders Scheme, a civil service programme to develop high potential individuals, to mayoral...

HOUSING

Social and Affordable Homes Programme set to begin The government has announced the first wave of funding from the £39bn Social and Affordable Homes Programme. The Prime Minister and Housing Secretary have announced nearly £10 billion of allocations to build thousands more quality council, social and affordable homes. The first wave of funding will support the delivery of more than 70,000 homes across England. This is the first stage of a ten-year programme. £2 billion of the funding will be spent in Mayoral areas outside of London. It will go to 33 Strategic Partners, including councils, housing associations and other providers. Alongside housing associations, councils will be awarded Strategic Partner status with Homes England. Around 60 per cent of homes delivered through these partnerships are expected to be for Social Rent. Prime Minister Andy Burnham said: “No child should be raised in a hostel room and no family should wait ten years for a front door of their own. I have said from my first day in this job that everything starts with a good home. “Nearly £10 billion will go to councils and housing associations to build genuinely affordable homes, most of them for social rent, in the places where families are waiting longest. “Councils built this country out of a housing crisis once before. Backed properly, and trusted to get on with it, they will do it again.”... CONTINUE READING

Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Business Information for Local and Central Government

Asbestos management is a legal duty under CAR 2012. Dutyholders must identify asbestos risks, maintain effective management plans, and ensure anyone responsible is properly trained. Failure to comply can lead to prosecution, unlimited fines, and serious reputational damage. AAA Training Co Ltd is a BOHS Approved Training Provider delivering industry-recognised asbestos qualifications, including the BOHS P405 Management of Asbestos in Buildings and RP405 Refresher. Our experienced tutors provide practical, compliance-focused training for estates teams, housing providers, local authorities, NHS trusts, and property professionals.

Online, classroom, or on-site.

aaa-training.com

enquiries@aaa-training.com 01787 313137

Government launches three new taskforces

Review of local government funding formula in Wales: READ MORE

The government has launched three new task forces in the new Office for the Prime Minister & Cabinet aimed at tackling the cost of living, local regeneration and essential services. The three taskforces will coordinate departments and ministers, focusing on the priorities set out by the Prime Minister to Cabinet and driven forward by First Secretary of State, Louise Haigh. The taskforces will be fully integrated with No10 and across government to deliver the change the public expect to see. The cost of living taskforce will look to address the long-term issues facing families. The government says action has already been taken in this area, including cuts to bus fares, support with energy bills and cracking down on subscription traps. The public control taskforce will examine how public control across housing, water, energy and transport can be utilised to return them to public service, and bring down costs for families. The community renewal taskforce will work with local leaders to create a genuine plan to rebuild Britain, without just replicating previous high street strategies. Communities will be supported to drive through solutions, and deliver growth in every postcode...

News

COST OF LIVING

More top news stories from www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Wales announces National Energy Strategy: READ MORE PM announces new plan to tackle homelessness: READ MORE £2.5 million for community groups: READ MORE 42 new Young Futures Hubs to open across England: READ MORE Business rates cut for Welsh high street hospitality and leisure venues: READ MORE

ENERGY

£30 million for local energy People’s Power projects will enable communities across the country to build and control their own clean energy supply that will help to cut bills, grow local wealth and tackle the climate crisis. Local authorities and community energy groups will be able to progress plans for their own clean power projects, such as solar panels on local buildings, village-owned wind farms and hydro schemes in nearby rivers. It is hoped this will put money back in the pockets of communities and allow them to join in UK-wide climate action. Prime Minister Andy Burnham said: “I know many people are worried about climate change and feel like they’ve got no control over where their energy comes from, or how they can actually make a difference. “Today we’re changing that by giving people power. Whether it’s solar panels on a local library or a community-owned wind farm, we’re letting people decide what clean energy projects they want and making sure they feel the benefits of the clean energy transition in their pockets too.” Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh said: “All of us felt deep concern for our climate during the record-breaking temperatures we experienced this summer... CONTINUE READING

Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Business Information for Local and Central Government

Advertisement Feature

Versatile sports lighting solution delivers competition-ready performance for every level of play John Charles Stadium is one of Leeds’ premier multi-sport venues, hosting everything from professional rugby league fixtures to community sport and training. However, its ageing metal-halide floodlighting was no longer delivering the required performance, with declining lighting levels, poor uniformity and increasing maintenance demands

Leeds City Council (LCC) appointed Urbis Schréder to modernise the stadium’s lighting, with a solution that would improve performance, increase operational flexibility and reduce energy consumption, while working within the project’s budget and site constraints. Delivering performance within budget A key requirement was achieving lighting suitable for competitive rugby league. While the Rugby Football League (RFL) requires a minimum average illuminance of 500 lux with 70 per cent uniformity, LCC targeted 600 lux with 70 per cent uniformity to provide greater flexibility for future use. Initial designs explored broadcast-level lighting of up to 1200 lux. However, this would have required significantly more substantial infrastructure and investment. Instead, the project team developed a solution around new 20-metre columns, retaining the existing concrete base plates where structural assessments confirmed they remained suitable. This helped avoid additional civil works and associated costs.

Given the site’s high wind exposure, careful attention was paid to structural loading. Each column was fitted with five BRITELINE GEN3 floodlights, comprising four size 3 luminaires and one size 2 unit, helping to reduce overall weight and windage while still achieving the required lighting performance. Structural calculations and windage assessments were independently verified by Valmont Structures, with installation delivered in partnership with MSF. To further enhance operational flexibility, Schréder’s ITERRA control management system, was integrated into the scheme. This allows lighting levels to be adjusted according to activity, from higher output for competitive fixtures to reduced levels for training and community sport. This ensures the right amount of light is delivered when it is needed, without unnecessary energy consumption. Improving safety and maintenance The upgrade also delivered practical operational benefits. Control gear and drivers were relocated to the base of each column, giving maintenance teams safer, ground-level access while reducing the need for specialist equipment and working at height. Despite challenges including ageing cabling and existing foundation constraints, the upgrade has improved visibility, reduced maintenance requirements and delivered greater operational control. M FURTHER INFORMATION

sales@urbis-schreder.com

A flexible and adaptable floodlighting solution Following detailed design development, Schréder’s BRITELINE GEN3 floodlights were selected for their efficiency, versatility and high-output performance.

Business Information for Local and Central Government

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT | www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Facilities Management

Sustainability, insourcing and the capability challenge A greener public estate will only be achieved through a professional workforce with the skills, knowledge and credibility to translate ambition into action, according to IWFM’s Mike Agate Not so long ago, sustainability sat in a fairly defined space within many estates teams. There might be a carbon reduction programme, perhaps an energy manager, and a series of environmental targets sitting alongside the day job of keeping buildings operational and services running. But it’s a distinction that’s largely disappeared. Today, sustainability is a factor in nearly every significant decision made within facilities management. Procurement, maintenance, workplace design, retrofit programmes, asset lifecycle planning, cleaning specifications, waste strategies and supplier performance all carry environmental implications. Workplace and facilities managers are now expected to balance operational performance, public value and environmental outcomes simultaneously. This is positive, and fully in line with the growing understanding that net zero ambitions will be delivered through day-to-day operational decisions as much as through major capital projects. The pressing question however is whether public sector organisations have the

capability they need to deliver those ambitions themselves? This matters because the sustainability imperative is gaining urgency just as government is encouraging departments and public bodies to take a more strategic view of how services are delivered. The publication of PPN 024 and the associated Public Interest Test marks an important development in that respect. Rather than outsourcing almost by default, public estates are being charged with assessing how services are delivered against a broader set of considerations, including long-term value, resilience, accountability and organisational capability. The accompanying guidance also recognises that where insourcing is being considered, organisations need sufficient lead time to develop the skills, capacity and operational readiness required to bring services back in-house successfully. For facilities management – the function that will ultimately translate these choices into practical outcomes – the issue is not simply E Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Business Information for Local and Central Government

www.polyplas.com.tr www.polyplas.com.tr

Capability – the foundation of sustainability Every procurement decision, maintenance intervention, lifecycle assessment and workplace change relies so some degree on professional judgment. Ambitious environmental targets have little value unless facilities teams possess the skills required to turn them into practical, measurable outcomes. The organisations making the greatest progress are often not those with the most ambitious targets, but those with the strongest internal capability. Teams of professionals who understand the operational realities of service delivery and can translate strategic objectives into meaningful action. That capability requirement will only grow. Professionalisation matters This is one reason why the government’s ambition for 90 per cent of FM, workplace and maintenance senior practitioners and leaders to achieve accreditation with an approved professional body by 2030 is so significant. The target is sometimes viewed through the lens of workforce planning or career development. However, it is just as significant as a statement of intent about the future of public sector estates. Professional accreditation provides a benchmark of competence in an increasingly complex operating environment. It

Facilities Management

F whether services are outsourced, insourced or blended. It is whether the people responsible for those services have the professional expertise to deliver better environmental performance. And that’s where the FM profession may face its biggest challenge over the coming decade.

Professional accreditation provides a benchmark of competence in an increasingly complex operating environment establishes common standards, supports continuing professional development and gives organisations greater assurance that practitioners are equipped for the responsibilities placed on them. That matters because, as we’ve seen, facilities managers are being asked to do more than ever before. Understanding environmental legislation, carbon reporting, sustainable procurement, data analysis, building performance and organisational resilience – these are not niche specialisms. They are rapidly becoming part of the core skillset required to manage modern public estates effectively. At the same time, many organisations continue to face challenges around recruitment, succession planning and the attraction of new talent into the profession. If government is serious about building long-term capability within public estates – something that is at the core of its ten-year Education Estates Strategy, as one example – then professional development cannot be treated as secondary. It must be considered part of the infrastructure itself. The role of professional bodies Professional bodies like IWFM have a critical role in supporting that ambition.As service delivery models evolve and sustainability E

Business Information for Local and Central Government

Facilities Management

Public bodies are being encouraged to think more deliberately about long-term capacity, resilience and control F expectations continue to rise, organisations need a clear understanding of what good professional practice looks like. They need frameworks that define competence, support learning and help individuals develop throughout their careers. This takes on an even greater significance as public estates plan to bring services back in-house. Insourcing may provide greater control over delivery, but it also places greater responsibility not just to develop the knowledge and capability needed to manage those services effectively, but to evidence that capability. IWFM, at the heart of the facilities management profession, helps bridge this gap by defining professional standards, by providing recognised pathways into the sector, by providing professional accreditation to members, supporting their continuous development and ensuring standards keep pace with the changing demands of the role. And through its strategic partnership with the Cabinet Office, and close relationships across the Government Property Profession, IWFM’s support for capability within public estates provides something that is often overlooked in discussions about skills: professional confidence. As responsibilities continue to broaden, facilities managers, especially at a senior level, will increasingly be required to contribute to strategic conversations around sustainability, public value, service design and organisational performance. Professional development helps ensure they are equipped not simply to participate in those discussions, but to lead them. Beyond an estates issue Viewed this way, sustainability ceases to be solely an environmental challenge. It is a workforce challenge, a leadership challenge and, increasingly, a capability challenge. The Public Interest Test introduces an important discussion about how public services should be delivered and where capability should sit. Whatever conclusions individual organisations reach, the direction of travel is clear. Public bodies are being encouraged to think more deliberately about long-term capacity, resilience and control.

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For facilities management professionals, that should be welcomed. For many years, IWFM has argued that effective stewardship of public assets requires investment not only in buildings and infrastructure, but also in the people responsible for managing them. The growing focus on sustainability, combined with the renewed interest in insourcing, provides a timely opportunity to reinforce that message. What does this all mean? In the years ahead, perhaps the most important sustainability investment public sector organisations can make will not be in the buildings themselves, but in the capability of the teams entrusted to manage them. The sustainability agenda will continue to evolve, and priorities within that agenda will continue to shift – in the afterglow of a historic heatwave, that is clearer than ever. New technologies will emerge, regulatory expectations will change and pressure on public sector organisations to improve environmental performance and adapt to climate change will only increase. Those developments will shape the future of our public estates, but they should not distract from the fundamental point. Any sustainability strategy will live or die according to the skills of the people responsible for delivering it. As government places greater emphasis on capability, professional FM accreditation and informed decisions about service delivery, there is an opportunity to recognise that sustainability and professional development are not separate priorities. They are intrinsically linked. M FURTHER INFORMATION

www.iwfm.org.uk

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT | www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Case Study: Ditton Fields, Cambridge Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund Client: Cambridge City Council Delivery Partner: Aran Insulation Ltd Retrofit Consultants: 2035 Assessments Ltd No. of Homes: 94 Standard: PAS 2035:2023

PROJECT SUMMARY

OUR ROLE

Cambridge City Council appointed Aran Insulation and 2035 Assessments Ltd to upgrade 94 homes in Ditton Fields through the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund, improving energy eﬃciency and reducing fuel costs.

2035 Assessments delivered PAS 2035:2023 retroot design and coordination, including reviewing retroot assessments, preparing technical designs, carrying out site inspections, providing quality assurance throughout the project and managing lodgement to the TrustMark Data Warehouse.

TECHNICAL APPROACH

OUTCOMES

A fabric--rst strategy was adopted using Johnstone’s Stormshield EWI System for its moisture and re-resistant properties. Designs were prepared in line with BR 262, NHBC standards and Approved Document L to reduce risk and support long-term performance.

All homes achieved RdSAP Band C, helping to reduce energy bills, improve comfort and support healthier living conditions, while contributing to Cambridge City Council’s wider carbon-reduction and fuel-poverty objectives.

“We highly commend the consistent professionalism demonstrated by 2035 Assessments, along with the technical expertise aﬀorded to us. Their co-ordination has ensured we are able to deliver high quality solutions which directly align with the aims of this scheme: reducing fuel poverty, lowering carbon emissions and improving living conditions for our residents.” Steph Salmon, Cambridge City Council

info@2035assessments.com 01284 413397

SCAN TO LEARN MORE

The Old Station, Higham Bury St Edmunds, Suﬀolk, IP28 6NE

Facilities & Estates

Returning this autumn is the premier event for built environment professionals The premier event for built environment professionals returns this autumn as Facilities & Estates Management Live takes over the iconic Business Design Centre in London on 20th and 21st October 2026 Organised by KPM Media, the team behind the award-winning Facilities Management Journal (FMJ), this major trade show stands out by focusing purely on the unique needs of facilities and estates management practitioners. The exhibition is completely free to attend, offering a rare opportunity to access top-tier industry education, cutting-edge products, and high-value networking. Industry professionals can secure their entry by signing up online for complimentary tickets directly through the Facilities & Estates Management Live website. Backed by Industry Giants and Professional Bodies Reflecting its status as a vital industry gathering, Facilities & Estates Management Live 2026 is proud to announce global leader CBRE as the event’s headline sponsor. Joining them to drive innovation across the show

floor are fellow leading sponsors Eptura, Biffa, and Singu, each bringing unparalleled expertise in workplace technology, waste management, and smart building solutions. The strategic value of the event is further underscored by the formal support of the industry’s most influential professional bodies, including the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM), the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE), and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Amplifying the event’s reach across the sector are partnerships led by Facilities Management Journal (FMJ), alongside i-FM.net, and Workplace Futures. This powerful coalition of sponsors, institutions, and media authorities ensures the event addresses the most pressing operational and strategic issues facing businesses today. E Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Business Information for Local and Central Government

Facilities & Estates

F A Hub for Broad Sector Expertise The modern built environment demands require cross-functional collaboration, and this event provides the ultimate meeting point. The show is carefully tailored for decision-makers and practitioners across the full spectrum of FM and Estates job roles, including operations, procurement, health & safety, compliance, workplace environment, IT, building services, energy management and sustainability. Delegates will learn, hear about best practice, feel inspired, and find targeted solutions to streamline their day-to-day challenges. Whether you manage a single corporate workplace, oversee a diverse public sector estate, or direct multi-site commercial operations, the event serves as a comprehensive platform to align your operational goals with modern industry standards. Three Specialist Content Theatres At the heart of the event’s educational offering are three conference-quality seminar theatres. Expanding on the success of 2025, the 2026 seminar programmes are designed to mirror the rigorous editorial standards of FMJ, exploring the complex challenges, opportunities, and fastmoving trends defining the future of the sector. The theatres will host inspiring keynote sessions alongside highly interactive, expert-led panel discussions. Sessions will delve into critical, pressing themes such as: Meeting strict Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and sustainability targets; Navigating the real estate and spatial challenges of managing a permanent hybrid workforce; Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data technologies to revolutionise

Business Information for Local and Central Government

building maintenance; Staying ahead of ever-tightening building regulations, safety codes, and compliance frameworks; The educational tracks give delegates the chance to gather practical takeaways, hear directly from industry trailblazers, and earn valuable Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points to advance their careers. For more detailed information regarding the educational tracks and daily schedules, visitors can view the full breakdown on the 2026 Seminars online at Facilities & Estates Management Live website. Unmatched Networking Opportunities With thousands of industry professionals expected to gather under the iconic roof of the Business Design Centre, the event acts as a powerful networking catalyst. It provides an ideal space to share knowledge with peers, discuss common operational roadblocks, and build lasting business partnerships. From rising professionals looking to expand their sector knowledge to seasoned directors seeking strategic suppliers, the event accommodates every tier of experience.

Facilities & Estates

Our full list of confirmed exhibitors to date is as follows

Discover Over 100 Leading Suppliers Beyond the seminar theatres, the main exhibition hall will buzz with innovation. Visitors will have direct access to more than 100 leading suppliers, all showcasing the latest products, services, advice, and solutions. This diverse marketplace allows teams to source everything from Total Facilities Management, hard & soft services and IT software, to equipment, energy management and professional associations. Meeting suppliers face-to-face gives delegates a unique hands-on opportunity to test new technologies, compare service providers, negotiate contracts, and discover smarter ways to reduce operational costs while improving building performance. Mark your calendar Don’t miss the UK’s most focused gathering for the estates and facilities sector. Mark your calendar for 20–21 October 2026 and register for your complimentary ticket today via the Facilities & Estates Management Live Ticket Portal. M FURTHER INFORMATION

https://facilities-estates.co.uk

Aaron Access; Accent Services; Accruent; Akita; Apex Radio; Asckey; Ask Porter; Assurity Consulting; Avalon Parking; Beaver Floorcare; Biffa; Big Change; BIS Consult; Brook Green Supply; Buckleys; Building Transformation; CBRE; CC Cousins; CC Glass & Glazing; Clevertronics; Complii; CreevX; Dinggly; EcoVision; Edwards Energy; Elite M&E; Endersham; Enterpack / Oklin; Eptura; Ergotron; Expansive; Fast Keys; Find My Staff; FixFlo; Flood Control Iternational; Ford Mainwaring; Geo Shield; Glasdon UK; Gordian; Gurkha Security Services; Hubstar; Hygiene Contracts; ILECS Lift Consultants; Infraspeak; Intelli Park; iSite; IWFM; Joblogic; Keytracker; London Drainage Facilities; Mainteno / Redro; Manutan; Matrix Booking Systems; Mecsia; Method Recycling; Metro Rod; Moneypenny; More Than Safety; MRI Software; National Parking Control; Nationwide Fire & Security; Nespresso; Neutral Carbon Zone; NG Bailey; Normec Latis Scientific; Nu-Phalt Contracting; Omega Red; Omni Power; Orkin UK; Power Towers; Pro Astra (Appleson Judd); Proceed Solutions; Raedam; RAM Building Services; Rehlko; Rock Compliance; Sanaway Washrooms; SimPro; SINGU; SiteGrid; Skyguard; Spectrum Specialist Services; Sunbelt Rentals; Supply Connect; SWG; Tactical ES; Test Inc.; Thames Valley Controls; The Fire Protection Association (FPA); The Office Management Group; Thomann Hanry; Total Gutter Maintenance; TSE Power; Vergo Pest Management; Volta Compliance; Waste Solve; Whiff Away Group

Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Housing

Rising energy costs could increase the risk of mould in homes Paul Walker, technical manager at the PCA, explains why local authorities and social landlords should prepare now for the colder months Ofgem has announced that the energy price cap will increase by 13 per cent from 1 July to 30 September 2026. Although the increase applies during the summer, it places further pressure on household finances and is likely to affect how people prepare for the colder months. For many residents, the main concern will be that energy costs are rising again. Some people during the colder months will respond by lowering their thermostats, heating fewer rooms or using their heating for shorter periods. Others may delay switching it on for as long as possible, while some residents may be unable to maintain suitable temperatures throughout their homes. The housing sector cannot control energy price rises, but it can make sure that homes are as prepared as possible for reduced heating use. It is important that checks are made to ensure that ventilation works correctly, heating is distributed effectively, and insulation defects

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and cold spots are identified. Residents should also understand how the systems installed in their homes are intended to operate. This requires access to surveyors with the knowledge to assess the building fabric, internal moisture, heating and ventilation together. Why reduced heating can contribute to damp problems Heating should not be presented as the only way to control dampness or mould. A warm home can still experience problems when ventilation is inadequate, moisture production is high, water ingress occurs, or there is another building defect. However, heating remains an important part of the balance between temperature, moisture, ventilation and the thermal performance of a property. When heating is reduced, walls, ceilings, windows and other surfaces become colder. This is particularly important at external

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Relative humidity and mould Relative humidity needs to be understood to understand its relationship with mould. Relative humidity describes the amount of water vapour in the air compared with the maximum amount it can hold at its current temperature. Warm air can hold more water vapour than cold air, so when air cools, its relative humidity rises even if no additional moisture has been introduced. Air in the centre of a bedroom may therefore have an acceptable temperature and relative humidity. However, conditions can be very different when that air reaches a colder external wall or window reveal. As the air next to the

Housing

corners, window reveals, ceiling junctions, thermal bridges and walls behind furniture. These areas can experience high humidity even when conditions in the centre of the room appear reasonable. Government cold-weather guidance recommends heating regularly occupied rooms to at least 18°C, but this may not be affordable for every household. Simply advising residents to turn up the heating is not an adequate response when cost is the main barrier. Housing providers should instead consider whether the property is performing as effectively as reasonably possible when using less heating. If residents can only afford to heat their homes for limited periods, the building’s heating, insulation and ventilation systems need to make the best possible use of that energy.

There is also a common misconception that visible condensation is required before mould can develop surface cools, the local relative humidity rises. This helps explain why mould often develops in corners, behind wardrobes, around windows and in other cold areas. Heating raises both air and surface temperatures. When heating is reduced, surfaces remain colder for longer and may remain sufficiently humid to support mould growth. Normal activities such as cooking, bathing, washing clothes, drying laundry and breathing release water vapour into a home. The important question is not whether residents create moisture, which is unavoidable, but whether the building can manage that moisture under the conditions of its occupancy. There is also a common misconception that visible condensation is required before mould can develop. Condensation is the formation of liquid water when moist air cools against a sufficiently cold surface. However, mould can begin to grow before droplets appear if humidity near the surface remains high for prolonged periods. The absence of visible condensation should not therefore be treated as proof that atmospheric moisture is not contributing to the problem. E

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Housing

Residents should not be expected to recognise technical faults F Making homes work effectively Housing providers cannot guarantee that residents will be able to heat their homes to an ideal temperature, but they can ensure that avoidable defects do not increase the risk of doing so. Heating systems should be capable of effectively warming the property, while radiators and other heat emitters should have suitable outputs and be positioned to allow heat to circulate freely. Furniture, curtains and decorative covers may obstruct heat distribution, while poor radiator placement can leave parts of a room consistently colder. Cold areas may indicate missing insulation, thermal bridging, air leakage or weaknesses in the heating layout. Where households are using less heating, it becomes even more important that the heat they can afford is distributed efficiently. Housing providers should therefore consider the heating system’s performance and layout rather than relying solely on the thermostat setting recorded during an inspection. Ventilation is equally important. Residents may switch off extractor fans or whole-home ventilation systems because they assume continuous operation is expensive. The actual running cost depends on the type of system, its settings and the household’s electricity tariff, but it may be much lower than expected. Residents should receive clear, property-specific information explaining whether the system should run continuously, how boost controls work, what maintenance is required, how faults should be reported and the likely operating cost. They should also understand the possible consequences of switching it off. When ventilation is disabled, moisture from cooking, bathing, laundry and normal occupation is more likely to remain indoors. Combined with colder surfaces, reduced moisture removal can significantly increase the risk of mould. Social landlords therefore need to know what type of ventilation is installed in each home and whether it is performing correctly. A fan may appear to be operating while providing inadequate airflow due to poor installation, blocked ductwork, dirty filters, incorrect settings, or insufficient maintenance.

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Its performance should be assessed, rather than judged by whether it can be heard running. Residents should not be expected to recognise technical faults, particularly when they have not been given clear information about how the system is intended to operate. The value of competent investigation Reduced heating may be an important factor in a mould case, but it should not serve as a convenient explanation that prevents a full

Qualifications do not replace experience or a thorough inspection

Housing

investigation. Defective ventilation, poor insulation, thermal bridging, plumbing leaks, penetrating dampness and other building defects may also be involved. A competent surveyor should consider these possibilities and establish how the different factors interact. Housing providers therefore need surveyors who understand both dampness in buildings and residential ventilation. The PCA’s Certificated Surveyor of Timber and Dampness in Buildings qualification, or CSTDB, assesses knowledge of dampness, timber defects and the legal and health and safety aspects of investigation. The Certificated Specialist in Dwelling Ventilation qualification, or CSDV, focuses on the design, assessment and performance of residential ventilation, including the Building Regulations and Approved Document F. A surveyor holding both qualifications brings together knowledge of the building fabric, moisture diagnosis and ventilation performance. This combination can be particularly valuable in complex mould cases where several factors may be contributing. Qualifications do not replace experience or a thorough inspection, but they help housing providers identify people who have been trained and examined in the areas required to investigate the problem properly.

Preparing for winter In conclusion, the increase in the energy price cap should be treated as an early warning. As households become more concerned about energy costs, heating is likely to be used less often and more selectively. This is likely to increase mould complaints. Local authorities and social landlords should review the performance of ventilation systems, heating output and layout, recurring cold spots and the information provided to residents. Previous cases where mould was cleaned without a detailed investigation should also be reconsidered. These measures cannot remove the financial pressure created by rising energy costs, but they can ensure that homes are not placed at greater risk because essential systems are defective, misunderstood or operating inefficiently. As energy costs rise, making every part of the home work as effectively as possible will become increasingly important. M FURTHER INFORMATION

www.property-care.org

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Elemental London

Addressing decarbonisation challenges at elementalLONDON The need for practical, scalable energy efficiency solutions has never been more pressing for those at the sharp end of the UK’s energy transition. Against this backdrop, elementalLONDON (25-26 November, Excel London) has positioned itself as the must-visit event for built environment professionals working to advance the efficiency of commercial, industrial and large-scale residential projects Incorporating CIBSE Build2Perform Live and co-located with London Build Expo, the event has become the meeting place for both the specification community and the wider supply chain, providing a vital bridge between high-level policy and real-world execution. With public sector organisations responsible for vast, complex portfolios, an integrated approach that balances operational cost, carbon efficiency, and occupant health is vital. elementalLONDON focuses squarely on big buildings, be they commercial, industrial or large-scale residential, honing

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in on practical HVAC solutions for those with design, specification, installation and maintenance responsibilities. Live content programme At the core of elementalLONDON is a comprehensive conference programme featuring expert speakers spanning government, academia, engineering, and frontline delivery. The agenda is carefully curated across dedicated theatres and stages, enabling attendees to create an itinerary that meets their specific needs.

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Elemental London

UK Housing Stage Tailored for local authorities, housing associations, and residential developers, this stage addresses topics such as accelerating the UK’s housing delivery, designing social housing for people, place and community, low carbon heating for large residential projects, and putting social value at the heart of UK housing development. Climate Solutions Theatre The climate solutions itinerary explores the technologies and strategies transforming heating, cooling and energy systems in commercial, industrial and public buildings. From heat pumps and heat networks to future-ready HVAC, this theatre focuses on scalable solutions, industry trends and realworld implementation. Sessions include O optimising connected buildings, delivering healthier commercial buildings, decarbonising the NHS, protecting our buildings from flood risk, and the battle against overheating. CIBSE Build2Perform Live As part of a long-term strategic partnership with CIBSE, Build2Perform Live returns to elementalLONDON with a dedicated content programme focused on the future of building services and building performance. The agenda will build on the success of the 2025 programme, which brought together leading engineers, consultants and policymakers to explore the biggest challenges in delivering high-performance, Net Zero buildings, and will deliver even greater technical depth and strategic insight.

Sustainability Arena Delivered in partnership with London Build, the Sustainability Arena expands the conversation to the wider built environment, bringing together the audiences from both events to meet a shared goal. Highlights from the timetable include inclusive approaches to sustainable construction, next steps for the UK’s heat pump roll-out, will AI help or hinder the road to Net Zero? How do we deliver on government heat network targets? What’s in the UK Net Zero Building Standard? and Tackling Embodied Carbon in UK Construction. Core themes targeting government priorities The conference content directly mirrors the policy directives, statutory challenges, and funding requirements currently shaping central and local government agendas. The Future Homes Standard and Building Regulations, addressing damp, mould, and E

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Elemental London

F indoor air quality, decarbonising healthcare and education, the great heat network debate, and the upward mobility and green skills are also topics on the agenda. The London Build Expo conference programme Visitors to elementalLONDON will also have access to all stages at London Build Expo. With over 900 speakers across 17 stages, as well as more than 40 networking events, London Build delivers a broad and deep content programme. In addition to the Sustainability Arena, London Build Expo’s stages include: Fire Safety Arena; AI & Digital Construction Arena; Architecture Stage; Modern Methods of Construction Stage; Interior & Fit-Out Stage; Health & Safety Stage; Civils & Infrastructure Stage; Innovation Arena; Skills & Marketing Stage. Meet with world-class solution providers Beyond its speaker programme, elementalLONDON brings together more than 200 leading manufacturers, technology developers, and service providers. The show floor offers a hands-on opportunity to evaluate market-ready technologies, compare performance, and establish trusted supply chain partnerships. Key exhibiting leaders spanning heating, cooling, ventilation, energy management, and building systems include: HVACR and clean heat pioneers; top tier brands including Baxi, Danfoss, Mitsubishi Electric, Panasonic,

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Rinnai, NIBE, General HVAC Solutions UK, and Worcester Bosch showcasing lowcarbon heat pumps, hybrid systems, HIUs, and commercial boilers; smart controls and energy efficiency; Giants such as Siemens, Resideo, Belimo, and Fronius UK, presenting advanced building management and control systems, and microgrid integrations designed to slash operational energy waste; air, water, and building systems; specialists such as Polypipe Building Products, Vectaire, S&P UK Ventilation Systems, Wavin, and Showersave, exhibiting solutions that enhance indoor air quality, efficiency, and compliance; merchants and wholesalers; market leaders in the heating and cooling sectors, including Wolseley and Beijer Ref, spotlighting a range of products and services for the specification and contracting communities. Connecting the supply chain Collaboration is essential to meet the challenges facing the industry. elementalLONDON brings together thousands of professionals representing local authorities, central government departments, housing associations, Tier One contractors, engineering consultants, research bodies, manufacturers and distributors under one roof. With over 40 structured networking events, facilitated meet-the-buyer sessions, and informal roundtables, elementalLONDON and London Build Expo offer those in the public sector an invaluable opportunity

Elemental London

to share knowledge with peers, benchmark progress, and learn from successful models. Two unmissable days Whether your objective is to discover new technologies, build supply chain relationships, network with peers, or refresh your knowledge, elementalLONDON delivers actionable insights and proven solutions that enable you to condense months of meetings and work into two packed days. Plus, there’s a raft of social events going on to ensure your event experience is the right mix of educational and enjoyable. Event details Dates: 25-26 November. Location: Excel London Co-locations: London Build Expo, CIBSE Build2Perform Live 10 reasons to attend elementalLONDON and London Build Expo Join 25,000+ attendees from across the construction space, including contractors, architects, civil engineers, developers, local authorities, housebuilders, housing associations, government, and industry organisations. Discover cutting-edge innovations from 650+ exhibitors showcasing the latest products, services, and technologies transforming construction. Learn from 900+ inspiring speakers across 17 conference stages covering key themes such as AI & Digital Construction, Fire Safety, Sustainability, and Diversity & Inclusion, Earn CPD points with

300+ hours of accredited training, interactive workshops, and educational sessions designed to boost your professional development. Experience the UK’s biggest Festival of Construction, featuring DJs, musicians, live performances, celebrity guests, entertainment, and competitions. Explore the future of building performance, with dedicated content and solutions focused on HVAC, energy efficiency, heating, cooling, ventilation and the technologies helping improve the performance of buildings. Network with thousands of industry professionals at exclusive events co-hosted with leading bodies, including the UK’s largest networking events for Women in Construction and Diversity in Construction. Access unique features, such as the Architect’s Hub with project displays and 3D models of upcoming projects from top UK architects. Be part of an inclusive movement, with initiatives like the Ambassador Programme supporting Women in Construction, Diversity, Digital Construction, and Mental Health in Construction. Stay ahead of the curve by gaining insights into emerging trends, sustainability practices, and digital transformation impacting the construction sector. M FURTHER INFORMATION

elementalLONDON website London Build Expo website elementalLONDON conference agenda London Build Expo conference agenda elementalLONDON and London Build Expo exhibitors Free tickets (access to both events) here Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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complysense.co.uk info@complysense.co.uk +44 (0) 1293 989339

Here at Comply Sense we offer a variety of products and training to suit your needs with the aid of Virtual Reality. If you’re looking for the best and most practical way to train your staff or you are a trainer looking to add a unique selling point to your fire training courses then look no further than the Vobling VR Fire Trainer. The Vobling VR Fire Trainer offers many VR scenarios with access to use the main 6 extinguishers plus a lithium extinguisher, as well as the ability to create your own scenarios with our new passthrough mode where you can create your own fires with Augmented Reality.

Ready to Put Your Team Inside a Fire? Schedule a live demo with our team and see the Vobling VR Fire Trainer in action. No commitment required — just a genuinely eyeopening 30 minutes.

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Another of our most popular products we offer is Virtual Life Support which brings you face to face with a collapsed victim in multiple different scenarios testing your ability to give accurate CPR with option of giving rescue breaths, measuring the depth and rate of your compressions as well as ensuring you can use an AED properly. We offer both the Vobling VR Fire Trainer and Virtual Life Support as both individual products as well as including them in our own Fire Warden and First Aid courses.

Fire Safety

Choosing the right fire safety contractor: why competence should never be an afterthought In today’s building safety landscape, selecting a fire safety contractor has never been more important. The introduction of the Building Safety Act, increased scrutiny of fire safety standards and a growing focus on accountability have fundamentally changed expectations for those responsible for managing public buildings says the FIA Whether overseeing schools, hospitals, social housing, offices or other public sector estates, Responsible Persons and procurement teams are expected to demonstrate that the contractors they appoint are competent to carry out critical fire safety work. It is no longer enough to simply award a contract based on cost or previous relationships; organisations must be able to show they have exercised due diligence when selecting suppliers. The challenge, however, is that fire safety is a highly specialised industry. From fire detection and alarm systems to emergency lighting, portable extinguishers, fire doors, passive fire protection and fire risk assessments, each discipline requires specific technical

expertise. Most procurement professionals are not fire safety specialists, making it difficult to judge whether a contractor genuinely has the knowledge, skills and experience required. So how can organisations make informed decisions? The answer lies in looking for independent evidence of competence. Competence is more than a recommendation Competence has become one of the defining themes of modern building safety legislation. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, Responsible Persons have legal duties to ensure that fire precautions are E Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Lockdown Alarm

ASYRA wireless Lockdown Alarm System for schools and public buildings – Safe, Secure & Simple With Martyn’s Law and awareness of threats to the public and public buildings evolving, we have launched our established Lockdown Alarm solution into the UK market. • Safe signalling with products from our approved Siren and Visual alarm ranges and universal interface options. • No expensive control panel required with the Android App interface for system status and fault monitoring. • Ideal for small nurseries to large schools and other public access buildings with secure scalability from 2 devices upwards. • Fast installation enabling weekend installs escaping end of term restrictions. • Versatile configurations provide solutions suited to your specific needs. • Simple to to use with low maintenance costs with up to 4 year battery life.

+44 (0)1873 821550 sales@fircrofttech.com

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Why experience alone isn’t enough Many organisations understandably look for contractors with years of experience or positive references. While these remain valuable considerations, they should not be the sole basis for selection. Experience does not necessarily demonstrate that a contractor continues to operate to recognised industry standards or that its quality systems are independently monitored. Similarly, attractive pricing should never be viewed in isolation. A significantly lower quotation may reflect reduced investment in staff training, quality management or technical oversight.

Attractive pricing should never be viewed in isolation

Fire Safety

F appropriate and properly maintained. The Building Safety Act 2022 has reinforced this focus by placing greater emphasis on competence throughout the construction and building management sectors. For public sector organisations, the implications are significant. If a fire safety system fails because it was poorly designed, incorrectly installed or inadequately maintained, the consequences can extend far beyond financial loss. Enforcement action, legal liability, disruption to public services, reputational damage and, most importantly, risks to life can all follow. Choosing a competent contractor is therefore not simply best practice – it is an essential part of meeting legal responsibilities and protecting building occupants.

Fire safety systems are expected to perform correctly when lives depend on them. The true cost of inadequate workmanship often only becomes apparent during an inspection – or worse, during an emergency. The safest approach is to seek independent evidence that competence has been assessed objectively. Understanding Third Party Certification Third Party Certification (TPC) provides exactly that. Rather than allowing companies to simply declare themselves competent, TPC requires an independent certification body to assess an organisation against an established certification scheme. This assessment typically examines: technical competence; staff qualifications and training; installation and maintenance procedures; quality management systems; documentation and record keeping; and ongoing compliance with relevant standards. Only organisations that successfully meet these requirements are awarded certification. Importantly, certification is not permanent. Regular surveillance audits – typically every six months, ensure that standards continue to be maintained over time. E

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Fire Safety F For clients, this provides reassurance that competence is continually monitored rather than assessed only once. Why UKAS accreditation matters When reviewing certification, it is important to understand who has issued it. In the UK, the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) is the Government-appointed national accreditation body responsible for assessing certification bodies against internationally recognised standards. While anyone can establish a certification body or write a certification scheme, only UKAS-accredited certification bodies have demonstrated that they operate independently, competently and consistently. This distinction gives purchasers confidence that certification has real value.

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A contractor certified to maintain extinguishers should not automatically be assumed competent to install fire alarm systems or undertake fire risk assessments unless Before appointing a contractor, organisations should verify that: the certification body is UKAS accredited; the certification is current; the scope covers the work being commissioned; and the certification has not expired or been suspended. Most certification bodies make this information available through online registers, making verification a straightforward part of the procurement process.

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Fire Safety

Fire safety systems represent long-term investments that protect lives Ensuring the contractor’s certification matches the scope of work is therefore an important part of supplier selection. Certificates of Conformity provide additional assurance Many Third-Party Certification schemes also require contractors to issue Certificates of Conformity once work has been completed. These certificates provide documented evidence that installations or maintenance have been carried out in accordance with recognised certification requirements. For building owners and Responsible Persons, they offer valuable evidence for Building Control, insurers, auditors and Fire and Rescue Services, while also supporting future maintenance and compliance records. Maintaining accurate documentation throughout the life of a building is becoming increasingly important as expectations around the ‘golden thread’ of building information continue to develop.

Different work requires different competence One common misconception is that certification in one area automatically demonstrates competence in another. In reality, fire safety covers numerous specialist disciplines, each requiring its own expertise. Recognised Third Party Certification schemes exist for a wide range of services, including: fire detection and alarm systems; emergency lighting; portable fire extinguishers; fire risk assessments; fixed gaseous extinguishing systems; sprinkler systems; fire doors; and passive fire protection. A contractor certified to maintain extinguishers should not automatically be assumed competent to install fire alarm systems or undertake fire risk assessments unless they hold certification for those activities as well.

Procurement that focuses on long-term value Public sector procurement rightly seeks value for money. However, value should never be confused with selecting the lowest initial price. Fire safety systems represent long-term investments that protect lives, assets and the continuity of essential public services. The costs associated with replacing poorly installed systems, rectifying defective work or responding to enforcement action can quickly outweigh any savings made during procurement. A robust contractor selection process should therefore consider: Independent Third-Party Certification; technical competence; relevant experience; quality management arrangements; ongoing maintenance capability; references from comparable projects; and compliance with current British Standards. Ultimately, choosing a fire safety contractor is about more than meeting a procurement requirement; it is about ensuring that those entrusted with protecting people and buildings can demonstrate the competence, quality and accountability that effective fire safety demands. L Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Advertisement Feature

Lithium battery storage: Ecospill become exclusive LOXXER partners in the UK Ecospill has become the exclusive UK partner for LOXXER, a European specialist in purpose-built lithium-ion battery storage and charging products

The partnership gives UK organisations access to a comprehensive range designed to help manage the growing risks associated with storing, charging and transporting lithium-ion batteries in the workplace. Lithium-ion batteries are a modern-day problem, powering everyday equipment, from laptops and mobile devices to e-bikes and power tools. Although safe when used correctly, damaged, defective, uncertified or noncompliant batteries can enter thermal runaway. This self-reinforcing reaction can cause intense heat, fire, explosions and toxic gases, with the potential to spread between nearby battery cells. Research from QBE shows that UK fire services attended 1,760 lithium-ion battery-related fires during 2025, equivalent to one incident every five hours and an increase of 147% since 2022. LOXXER develops products specifically around these risks, rather than adapting general fire-storage cabinets. Its range includes lithium-ion battery storage and charging cabinets, individual and outdoor charging lockers, bespoke containers, transportation and storage boxes, fire-containment blankets and accessories. Selected cabinets are certified to VDMA standards, which establish test requirements for fire-protection storage

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cabinets containing portable lithium-ion batteries during thermal runaway. Depending on the product and specification, systems can include smoke and temperature detection, active ventilation, automatic charging shutdown and connections to existing fire alarm systems. Optional certified aerosol fire-suppression and M2M monitoring systems are also available on selected products. Darren Purdy, group head of sales at Ecospill, said: “Businesses are increasingly asking how they can store and charge lithium-ion batteries more safely. Our partnership with LOXXER gives them access to a specialist range, backed by the practical knowledge and ongoing support they expect from Ecospill. “We can help organisations understand their risks, identify suitable products for their site and put appropriate measures in place.” For more than 15 years, Ecospill has helped organisations manage workplace risks through specialist products and services, working alongside the UK’s leading health, safety and PPE distributors. The LOXXER partnership expands that approach into one of the fastest-growing safety challenges facing modern workplaces. Businesses interested in reviewing their lithium-ion battery storage and charging arrangements can contact Ecospill directly for an initial conversation about their requirements and options. Its team will discuss the site, equipment and working environment before guiding the enquiry through Ecospill’s trusted UK distribution chain. M FURTHER INFORMATION

To learn more, email sales@ecospill.org.uk or visit the Lithium Battery Storage range on the Ecospill website

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Fire Safety

Bridging competence: strengthening fire risk assessment capability Jess Mullis, curriculum manager at the Fire Protection Association, outlines how new British Standards and emerging certification requirements are reshaping fire risk assessment competence and why assessors must begin aligning with them now The fire safety sector continues to evolve at pace, particularly in how competence is defined, measured and evidenced, and there is now an increasing expectation for practitioners to demonstrate competence against British Standards. The recent changes to fire safety legislation represent the most significant overhaul of regulations in the sector since World War II, affecting a wide range of professionals – from fire engineers and risk assessors to construction managers and property managers. These new regulations will impact all aspects of fire safety work, including fire risk assessment competency requirements. The catalyst for these changes was the Grenfell Tower tragedy, which exposed critical failings in fire safety practices and prompted a robust regulatory response, with a flurry

of regulatory activity, including 11 major consultations currently underway. New legislation and new standards A key legislative development was the Building Safety Act 2022, which introduced the Building Safety Regulator, new gateway processes for high-rise and high-risk buildings, and, crucially, new duty-holder requirements. These require building owners and contractors to appoint competent persons for fire risk assessments and to provide adequate resources for them to perform their duties. The responsibility for ensuring competency is now embedded in contracts and cascades down the supply chain, fundamentally changing how services are procured and delivered. With the implementation of new legislation, the definition of competency is becoming E Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Fire Safety

The government has already confirmed its intent to legislate for mandatory competency and certification Therefore, fire risk assessors and those commissioning assessments must therefore begin aligning with the new standards and pursuing relevant qualifications and certifications now.

F much more granular and role-specific, which represents a fundamentally different approach to how competency is being assessed. Professionals must now demonstrate up-todate knowledge, skills, and experience relevant to the specific type of building and assessment they are performing. To this end, two new British Standards were introduced in August 2025 to support this shift, namely BS 9792:2025 - Fire risk assessment. Housing. Code of practice, and BS 8674:2025 Built environment. Framework for competence of individual fire risk assessors. Code of practice, which sets out the competency framework for individuals conducting fire risk assessments. These are the key documents for reference both for those wishing to be qualified and certified as a fire risk assessor, as well as for those selecting and appointing a fire risk assessor for their building. The government has already confirmed its intent to legislate for mandatory competency and certification, with a public consultation on the precise details having taken place earlier this year. Full mandatory certification requirements could potentially come into force by 2028-2029. As the new standards referenced above already carry weight in law and are being used as benchmarks in court and by regulators, professionals should not simply wait for this legal deadline before ensuring their compliance. As the government regulates the fire risk assessment profession, mandating thirdparty certification and ongoing competency validation, including periodic requalification and revalidation, those working in this space must be aware of the potential legal penalties for those commissioning and producing fire risk assessments that do not meet those requirements.

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Driving competence Historically, routes into fire risk assessment have varied, with limited consistency in how competence was defined and verified. The arrival of BS 8674:2025 and the move towards third-party certification is changing that, establishing clearer expectations around demonstrable competence. By setting out of a framework for fire risk assessor competence, BS 8674:2025 is shaping the expectation for fire risk assessors. This new standard has become a reference point for the sector and governmental direction, with the government confirming that mandatory competence requirements for fire risk assessors will be introduced. There will, therefore, be a large number of people who have performed fire risk assessments in the past who already have existing training and knowledge in this task, however their competence will need to be verified through UKAS-accredited certification bodies. This could include those who have already achieved the NEBOSH Certificate in Fire Safety, whether they are working in dedicated fire safety roles, supporting organisational compliance as Responsible Persons, or operating in broader health and safety positions. NEBOSH equips these individuals with the knowledge to undertake fire risk assessments, particularly in low-to-medium risk environments, but the emerging landscape increasingly calls for formal demonstration of competence against BS 8674:2025. Against this backdrop, the Fire Protection Association has launched a new bridging course – ‘NEBOSH Fire Safety Certificate to FireQual Level 3 Certificate in Foundation Fire Risk Assessment’. This provides a progression route that validates existing knowledge and understanding while aligning it with current expectations. It is equally relevant for those looking to move more fully into fire risk

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Structure and content The course format reflects the needs of experienced learners. The course is an assessment-only programme, completed over four weeks. The content focuses on the principles and scope of fire risk assessment in buildings presenting low to moderate risk, alongside the practical application of knowledge relating to building design, construction, and maintenance. Learners are required to submit a fire risk assessment report for low-to-moderate premises, aligned with the foundation competency level of BS 8674:2025, completed within the last six months – the report should demonstrate recognised methodologies, clear

Learners are expected not only to understand core concepts but to demonstrate their ability to apply them

Fire Safety

assessment roles. By gaining a FireQualaccredited qualification, learners can evidence their competence in a way that is recognised by duty holders, clients, and certification schemes. This is an example of the drive within the sector to help fire risk assessors demonstrate their competency to the newly mandated levels and will allow individuals who have been awarded and can evidence their NEBOSH Certificate in Fire Safety to align to the criteria set out in BS 8674:2025. By doing so, it will signal to those commissioning fire risk assessors that this individual can evidence their competence. Rather than duplicating existing knowledge, the course focuses on addressing the expectations from BS 8674:2025, enabling learners to convert prior learning into a formally recognised FireQual Level 3 qualification. By creating this course, the FPA recognises that while NEBOSH provides a strong grounding in fire safety principles, there is a growing need for competence pathways for fire risk assessors.

communication of findings, and appropriate recommendations for duty holders. They are also required to analyse a fictional fire risk assessment case study (provided) and respond to a series of questions relating to the strengths and weaknesses of the report, the requirements of fire safety signage, and the role of fire safety engineered solutions in design compliance. A key strength of the course is its emphasis on applied knowledge. Learners are expected not only to understand core concepts but to demonstrate their ability to apply them in a structured and professional manner. Why it matters The introduction of this bridging course reflects a wider shift in the fire safety profession. It provides a practical route for individuals to align their existing knowledge with recognised competency standards, without duplicating prior learning. For employers and duty holders, this alignment offers greater assurance of competence, supports compliance with evolving standards, and promotes a more consistent and professional approach to fire risk assessment. M FURTHER INFORMATION

Full course details, including dates, fees and application information, are available via the FPA website: thefpa.co.uk/training.

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Smart Buildings Show

Smart Buildings Show the UK’s only dedicated commercial smart buildings conference and exhibition Smart Buildings Show returns to ExCeL London on 14th-15th October 2026. In 2025, the UK’s only dedicated commercial smart buildings conference and exhibition enjoyed its biggest event yet with more exhibitors than ever before and 3,500 attendees passing through the doors over two days This year’s show will see over 100 exhibitors gathered together under one roof, showcasing the hottest new trends in the industry. What’s more, the dedicated conference programme will feature over 120 speakers in four separate theatres. New administration New Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s administration — marked by its 10-year national plan and major commitments to housing infrastructure — signals a pivotal shift for commercial real estate. His focus on devolution and sustainable public delivery directly elevates the urgency of smart buildings,

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which leverage automation, IoT, and data analytics to optimise energy efficiency and cut carbon emissions in line with national targets. This makes Smart Buildings Show even more significant. As the UK’s premier event for intelligent building technology, it provides the essential industry responses to Burnham’s evolving sustainability mandates, showcasing the exact decarbonisation tools needed to modernise Britain’s built environment. Sustainability targets As public bodies face continuing pressure to reduce costs, improve services and meet ambitious sustainability targets,

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Smart Buildings Show

the buildings they own and operate are becoming an increasingly important part of the equation. This is where Smart Buildings Show 2026 comes into focus. The event is designed for professionals involved in the design, construction, management and operation of smarter, more efficient buildings – and that includes local and central government, alongside housing associations, infrastructure, healthcare, education, engineering, IT and facilities, property and estates professionals. For Government Business readers, the relevance is particularly clear. The show brings together disciplines that are increasingly interconnected across the public sector. Property and estates teams now need to consider energy performance alongside digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, building management systems, data, workplace technology and the wider drive towards net zero. Diversity of attendees The breadth of professionals attending reflects this convergence. Previous visitors have included energy and sustainability managers, directors of housing and property delivery, heads of facilities and IT, technology delivery specialists, engineers, workplace managers, digital transformation leaders and senior construction and programme managers.

That makes the show potentially valuable not only for technical specialists, but also for senior decision-makers responsible for investment and long-term asset strategy. Smart-building technology can provide better visibility of how buildings perform, helping organisations identify inefficiencies, manage energy consumption and make more informed decisions about upgrades and operations. E

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Smart Buildings Show

F For public-sector organisations managing large and often ageing estates, the opportunity is to move beyond viewing smart technology as an isolated IT or facilities project. Instead, it can form part of a broader strategy for making buildings more economical for owners and more functional for occupants – precisely the approach the show aims to support. The venue The choice of ExCeL London as the home of Smart Buildings Show is more than a matter of convenience. Situated in the Royal Docks, the venue is one of London’s major exhibition and conference destinations, with the City and Canary Wharf close by and strong transport connections through Custom House, served by both the Elizabeth line and DLR. For a national audience of government estates, property, facilities and technology professionals, that accessibility makes it a practical location for a show focused on the future of the built environment. There is also a particularly appropriate connection between the venue itself and the themes being explored at the show. ExCeL describes itself as one of the world’s

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most connected venues, while its visitor infrastructure includes high-capacity Wi-Fi designed to support large numbers of connected devices. That makes the venue a useful real-world backdrop for discussions around connectivity, networks, digital infrastructure and the increasingly datadriven nature of building management. Sustainability provides an even stronger link. ExCeL is certified carbon neutral under

PAS 2060 and has set a target of achieving net zero by 2045. Its sustainability measures include renewable electricity backed by Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin, on-site solar generation, a zero-waste-tolandfill policy and systems designed to reduce water and resource consumption. For public-sector visitors, this gives the event an important practical dimension. Smart Buildings Show is exploring technologies including energy efficiency, building automation, AI, data analytics, digital twins, HVAC, lighting and controls, cybersecurity and digital infrastructure. Rather than considering smart-building technology solely through presentations and product demonstrations, visitors can consider the challenges in the context of a major operational venue – one that has to manage energy, connectivity, visitors, facilities and resources at scale. Explore new solutions With free attendance, the Smart Buildings Show offers government estates, property, technology, sustainability and facilities professionals an opportunity to explore new solutions, learn from organisations facing similar challenges, meet suppliers and peers, and assess where smarter buildings could deliver practical benefits. Smart Buildings Show links attendees to the newest innovations and insights in the smart buildings sector. It provides the knowledge needed to help you make informed decisions on how to create buildings that are more cost-effective for owners and more efficient and comfortable for occupants. Pay a visit to ExCeL London on 14th-15th October to meet with industry-leading exhibitors and hear from those who are at the forefront of driving forward the future of smart, efficient spaces. The Conference Once again Smart Buildings Show will host a two-day Conference covering a wide range of key issues and topics from the smart buildings industry. Visitors will enjoy free access to the best speakers from across the sector. The 2026 programme spans four theatres covering Energy Management; Controls & Networks; IT & Digital Infrastructure; and Management & PropTech. Topics include building automation, connectivity, AI, cybersecurity, data and analytics, digital twins,

Get the information you need to make your buildings more economic and functional Be part of the latest thinking and share the experience of other organisations

Smart Buildings Show

Why Visit?

See what’s new in the industry and keep up to date with latest innovations and technologies Learn from case studies in similar situations and organisations to yours Catch up with your current suppliers and meet new ones Find new partners and business opportunities Network with your peers from other organisations Find ways of saving money Visit the exhibition of leading vendors Free to attend

energy efficiency, HVAC, sensors, software, sustainability and workplace management. The 2026 programme spans four theatres covering Energy Management; Controls & Networks; IT & Digital Infrastructure; and Management & PropTech. Topics include building automation, connectivity, AI, cybersecurity, data and analytics, digital twins, energy efficiency, HVAC, sensors, software, sustainability and workplace management. M FURTHER INFORMATION

For further information and free registration visit: www.smartbuildingsshow.com

Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Scaffolding

Compliance in scaffolding design: a closer look at the third pillar NASC takes a closer look at what compliant scaffolding design really involves, from design routes and limits of compliance sheets to client duties, safe buildability and managing changes throughout a project In the previous edition of Government Business, NASC set out three tests for good scaffolding procurement: credibility, competence and compliance. A credible firm, employing competent staff, working to a compliant design. The first two are straightforward to verify at tender stage. The third is where clients tend to have least confidence, because it involves engineering rather than document checks. This is a closer look at what compliant design means in practice. Every scaffold is designed There is a widespread assumption that scaffolding design applies only to unusual or complicated structures, and that a straightforward scaffold on a straightforward building does not really need designing. That assumption is wrong and correcting it changes what a client asks for. Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, every scaffold must be designed. There are two

legitimate routes to satisfying that. The first is erection to a recognised standard configuration, evidenced by compliance sheets produced via NASC’s ePortal which includes TG20 for tube and fitting scaffold and TG30 for system scaffold. System scaffold manufacturer user manuals can also be used to provide these standard configurations. The second is a bespoke design produced by a competent scaffold designer, supported by calculations. There is no third option. If a scaffold on your site has neither a compliance sheet nor a bespoke design behind it, something has been missed. Understanding the limits of a compliance sheet Compliance sheets exist because most scaffolds are variations on a small number of well understood forms. NASC’s TG20 and TG30 guidance sets out pre-engineered E Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Specialised Design Consultant providing bespoke designs for Scaffolding and Temporary works For all manner of projects from listed monuments, museums, churches, and other commercial properties. Designs that meet the client requirements, that are sympathetic to their surroundings with a keen eye for public safety whilst being compliant with the latest standards.

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NASC guidance is clear that a system for managing design variations should be in place

Scaffolding

F configurations, designed to BS EN 12811 and recognised by the HSE, covering the majority of everyday scaffolds. A compliance sheet contains everything needed to build the specified structure and can be produced quickly for any job sitting inside the envelope the guidance covers. The word to focus on here is ‘envelope’. Compliance sheets have limits, and once a scaffold exceeds them, whether through height, loading, bay size, sheeting or the way it must be tied to the building, the compliance sheet no longer applies. A bespoke design with calculations is then required, produced by a competent designer working to the appropriate design standard. NASC publishes guidance on commissioning that work in TG21 A Guide to Commissioning Scaffold Design, and CG6 Scaffolding Design. The risk for clients is rarely that a contractor ignores this. Reputable contractors do not. The more common problem is a scaffold that starts inside the envelope and drifts outside it, because the programme changed, because another trade needed heavier loading, or because sheeting went on that was not originally specified. The scaffold was compliant when it went up and stopped being

compliant when the work changed around it. This highlights the importance of a clear and comprehensive design brief from the outset. The scaffold should be designed not simply for the conditions known at the point of erection, but with its intended use, loading, sequencing and reasonably foreseeable modifications considered throughout its life. A clear brief, developed in accordance with the relevant regulations and guidance, and with the principles of BS 5975 applied where appropriate, should establish those requirements from the outset and provide a clear basis for managing changes as the project develops. NASC guidance is clear that a system for managing design variations should be in place. For a client, this is a more revealing question at tender stage than most of the standard ones. Ask how a contractor handles a change of use mid contract, and the answer tells you a good deal about how they work. E

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Scaffolding

A scaffold can be perfectly sound once complete and still be difficult or hazardous to build

F What a design should contain Where design drawings are produced, they should show an elevation of the scaffold with every tie position marked, stating the tie classification: light duty at 3.5kN, standard at 6.1kN, or heavy duty at 12.2kN. Ties deserve attention because they are the point at which the scaffold depends on your structure rather than on itself. Anchors installed into concrete or masonry must be tested in accordance with NASC TG4, five percent of the total number of ties and a minimum of three, whichever is greater, and proof loaded to 1.25 times the required tensile load. Records must be kept and copies issued to you as the client. Design carries CDM duties Scaffold designers hold duties under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 like any other designer. NASC guidance is explicit that designers must consider and evaluate the risks involved in erecting and dismantling their proposals, and design to eliminate or reduce risk and ensure safe buildability as part of the brief. That phrase, safe buildability, is worth holding onto. A scaffold can be perfectly sound once complete and still be difficult or hazardous to build. A design that has not considered the erection and dismantling sequence pushes that problem onto the scaffolders. Clients rarely E Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Scaffolding F see this, but it is one of the clearest markers of a design done properly rather than produced to satisfy a documentation requirement. What the client has to provide Design compliance is not something a client can procure and then step away from. The information a contractor receives at tender and design stage determines the quality of what comes back. That includes what the scaffold is for and which trades will use it, the loads it will carry, how long it will be in place, whether it needs sheeting or netting, and what access is required. On access, NASC guidance SG25 sets out a hierarchy putting permanent staircases and hoists first and ladder access considerably lower. It is the client or principal contractor, not the scaffolding contractor, who is responsible for assessing what a project needs and recording it in the client brief. A scaffold serving an occupied residential block calls for a different access solution from one serving a short roof repair, and that judgement belongs to the client. Public sector projects also carry considerations a contractor cannot anticipate without being told. Occupied buildings, public footfall, school terms, ward access and evacuation routes all shape what a compliant design looks like. Providing that information early is a condition of getting a design that works.

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Public sector projects also carry considerations a contractor cannot anticipate without being told. What the client should receive, and what happens next When a scaffold is completed, it should be inspected in accordance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and formally handed over with the paperwork that goes with it: report of inspection, design drawings and calculations, or the relevant compliance sheet, together with tie testing records. NASC guidance SG35 covers handover, and until it takes place the scaffold should display a ‘do not use’ notice. One point here is regularly missed by clients and carries real consequences. Once a scaffold has been handed over, responsibility for the statutory inspection every seven days sits with the hirer or user, not the scaffolding contractor. Organisations that assume this is covered by the contract can find themselves months into a project with an uninspected scaffold and no record to show. If you have no competent inspector in house, you can instruct the contractor to carry out the duty on your behalf, but that must be a separate instruction rather than an assumption.

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Mark Collinson, head of technical at NASC, said: “Compliance in scaffolding design is not about generating paperwork. Every one of these requirements exists because something went wrong at some point and the industry learned from it. For clients the practical test is simple.

Scaffolding

Ask to see the compliance sheet or the design before the scaffold goes up Ask to see the compliance sheet or the design before the scaffold goes up and ask what happens if the job changes. A good contractor will have the answer ready, because they will have asked themselves the same question already.” Checking design compliance is not complicated. It means knowing that every scaffold must be designed, knowing which of the two routes applies, ensuring there is a clear and suitably detailed design brief, and asking to see the evidence before work starts. Just as importantly, it means understanding how the scaffold is intended to be used, how changes and modifications will be managed throughout its life, and what your own duties are once the scaffold is handed over. Clients who ask those questions consistently tend to get better scaffolds, from contractors who were going to do it properly anyway. M FURTHER INFORMATION

NASC technical guidance is available at nasc.org.uk.

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London Build 2026

Housing, infrastructure and innovation: London Build 2026 Across the UK, local authorities, housing providers and public sector organisations are navigating increasing pressure to deliver new homes, improve existing buildings, invest in infrastructure and meet ambitious sustainability targets. At the same time, digital technologies and new approaches to construction are creating opportunities to improve how projects are planned, delivered and managed London Build 2026 will bring these conversations together on 25-26 November at Excel London, providing a platform for government, local authorities, housing providers, developers, contractors, architects and other built environment professionals to share expertise and explore practical approaches to delivery. Co-located with elementalLONDON, the event will bring together construction, design, HVAC, energy efficiency and building performance, with 25,000+ attendees, 650+ exhibitors and 900+ speakers across 17 CPD-accredited conference stages.

Housing delivery at the heart of the agenda Housing will be a major focus at London Build, with the UK Housing Stage providing a dedicated platform for discussions around development, planning, investment and delivery. The programme will bring together representatives from local authorities, housing providers and the private sector, including Naisha Polaine, executive director - growth at Barnet Council; Councillor Victor Chamberlain, deputy leader and executive member for neighbourhoods, strategic E Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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London Build 2026

F planning and wellbeing at Southwark Council; and Michael Baggett, director of land & partnerships at Platform Housing. One of the key sessions, “Government & Industry Collaboration: Accelerating the UK’s Housing Delivery”, will explore how greater collaboration between the public and private sectors can support housing delivery. Speakers include Richard Cook, chief development officer at Clarion Housing Group; Andrew J Taylor, group planning and sustainability director at Vistry; Councillor Mina Parmar, deputy mayor at the London Borough of Harrow; and Councillor Henry Higgins, chair of the Hillingdon Planning Committee. Housing will also feature across other stages, with sessions exploring social housing, modern methods of construction, digital collaboration and the role of design in supporting the delivery of high-quality homes and communities. Harnessing digital transformation Digital transformation is increasingly influencing how public sector organisations plan, procure and manage built environment projects, from data and AI to digital twins and connected systems. The AI & Digital Construction Arena will explore these developments through sessions including “Digital Transformation, AI & Data Reshaping the UK’s Real Estate” and “Driving UK Housing Delivery Through Digital Collaboration”. The programme will bring together perspectives from across housing and property, including Dr Ade Awonaike, head of data and business intelligence at A2Dominion; Edward Carpenter, group head of corporate compliance and assurance and One Housing head of risk at Riverside; and

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Reuben Ayeni, planning manager - urban/ suburban property and investment at L&Q. These discussions will consider how digital tools can support better decisionmaking, collaboration and efficiency across the project lifecycle, with lessons that are increasingly relevant to public sector clients and asset owners. Building a more sustainable built environment Sustainability will be another central theme, with the Sustainability Arena bringing together professionals to explore decarbonisation, embodied carbon, energy efficiency and the transition towards net zero. BAM UK & Ireland will sponsor the Sustainability Arena, supporting a programme of conversations around the practical steps needed to deliver more sustainable buildings and infrastructure. Sessions will include “Tackling Embodied Carbon in UK Construction”, bringing together sustainability leaders from organisations including BAM, Structure Tone London, Galliford Try, McAleer & Rushe and Mace Construct. elementalLONDON will complement these discussions with a dedicated focus on HVAC, energy efficiency and building performance. Its Climate Solutions Stage and CIBSE Influence Theatre will explore issues including decarbonisation, retrofit, heat networks and the future performance of buildings. For local authorities and public sector organisations responsible for large property portfolios, these conversations offer an opportunity to explore approaches to improving building performance while supporting wider climate and energy goals.

London Build 2026

Fire safety, infrastructure and delivery Fire safety remains a critical priority across the built environment, particularly for organisations responsible for housing and public buildings. The Fire Safety Arena will bring together experts to examine the Building Safety Regime, firestopping, compliance and the practical challenges of delivering safer buildings. The Civils & Infrastructure Stage will provide another important area of discussion, focusing on the planning, delivery and management of the infrastructure needed to support growing communities and development across the UK. Together, these stages reflect the breadth of challenges facing public sector clients, from housing and regeneration to safety, infrastructure and long-term asset management. Discover the latest solutions Alongside the conference programme, 650+ exhibitors will showcase the latest products, technologies and services across construction, infrastructure, sustainability and building performance. Exhibitors include Wavin, ROCKWOOL, Siniat & Promat by Etex, Qvantum, CEF and Kidde Group, offering public sector professionals the opportunity to explore solutions and connect with organisations supporting projects across the built environment.

The Architect’s Hub will showcase upcoming projects and innovations through a walkthrough gallery, offering insight into the developments and ideas shaping the built environment. Meanwhile, the Networking Hub will provide a dedicated space for attendees to meet industry peers, partners and organisations working across construction and design. With 17 CPD-accredited stages, interactive workshops, live demonstrations, networking opportunities and 650+ exhibitors, London Build and elementalLONDON offer two days of learning, collaboration and knowledge sharing. For government, local authority and public sector professionals, the events provide an opportunity to hear directly from those delivering projects across the UK, explore emerging approaches and technologies, and build connections that can support better outcomes across the built environment. M Event Details: Dates: 25-26 November, Location: Excel London FURTHER INFORMATION

Free tickets are available here.

Connecting people, projects and ideas Beyond the conference programme, London Build will provide opportunities for public sector professionals to connect with peers and explore the latest solutions across the exhibition floor. Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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CELEBRATING

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ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

Framework

Construction Professional Services 2 Construction Professional Services 2 (CPS2) offers a flexible route to market for construction professional services, allowing buyers to either run a competitive procurement process or make a direct award where permitted, depending on the complexity and value of their requirement The Construction Professional Services 2 framework from Government Commercial Agency allows the public sector to access a range of technical advisory services to support building and civil engineering projects of all sizes. Running from April 2026 to April 2030, the framework provides access to advisory services that support construction and civil engineering projects of any size, including defence and international projects, as well as Flood Risk and Asset Management (FRAM) services available exclusively to the Environment Agency. The framework provides a range of benefits designed to support public sector organisations in procuring advisory services efficiently and effectively. Value for money is achieved through the selection of suppliers using both qualitative and commercial assessment criteria, ensuring a balance between quality and cost.

The lot structure has been designed to meet a wide range of public sector requirements, providing flexibility across different project types and sectors. Pricing arrangements include capped contract rates for overheads, profit, and labour, helping customers maintain cost certainty and transparency throughout delivery. The framework offers considerable contractual flexibility, with no minimum contract value and no fixed contract length for call-off contracts. It also promotes collaborative working through the use of the Framework Alliance Contract, encouraging strong partnerships between customers and suppliers. A fast and flexible procurement route is provided through the ability to use and adapt a range of commonly used contract forms, enabling organisations to align contracts with their own governance and operational E

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We’re delighted to have been named as a supplier on the CPS2 Framework Our teams bring experience in placemaking and regeneration, supporting projects across all sectors of the public estate. From early strategic advice and masterplanning through to design, delivery and project management, we provide a seamless, end-to-end service that helps turn these ambitions into practical, lasting outcomes.

www.ahr.co.uk

RM6356 Construction Professional Services 2 (CPS2) Framework Lot 1

Lot 2

Lot 3

General Infrastructure and Built Environment (multidisciplinary)

Architectural Services

Project Management

Further details

F requirements. Customers also benefit from access to technical and commercial expertise from the framework management team, together with guidance documents and templates available through the CPS Knowledge Hub. Social value considerations can be tailored to the specific needs of each further competition. This may include increasing local supply chain expenditure, creating apprenticeship opportunities, and supporting initiatives that reduce pollution and environmental impact. Lots Lot 1: General Infrastructure and Built Environment provides access to a broad range of construction professional services to support infrastructure and built environment projects across the UK at various stages of delivery. Lot 2: Architectural Services offers professional architectural expertise for public sector construction projects, including design leadership, multidisciplinary coordination, and compliance with regulatory and sustainability requirements. Lot 3: Project Management provides experienced project management support for public sector construction projects, covering programme and budget management, team coordination, risk management, and compliance oversight. Lot 4: Commercial Management delivers commercial management services to support procurement, cost control, contract administration, and compliance with public sector procurement requirements. Lot 5: Defence provides construction professional services for defence projects, with security-cleared personnel and processes to meet the specific security requirements of defence establishments. Lot 6: Defence Enhanced offers specialist construction professional services for highly sensitive defence projects, requiring enhanced security clearances and robust procedures to manage additional security requirements.

Framework

Social value considerations can be tailored to the specific needs of each further competition Lot 7: International provides construction professional services for projects and programmes delivered internationally, supporting clients such as the MOD and FCDO, as well as UK-based activities. Lot 8: Nuclear offers construction professional services for projects within the nuclear sector and other highly regulated environments, supporting delivery across multiple project stages. Lot 9a: Flood Risk and Asset Management (FRAM) - Technical Services is exclusive to the Environment Agency, providing technical flood risk and asset management services throughout the project lifecycle. Lot 9b: Flood Risk and Asset Management (FRAM) - Environmental Services, again exclusive to the Environment Agency, provides environmental specialist services to support flood risk and asset management activities across all project stages. Lot 9c: Flood Risk and Asset Management (FRAM) - Commercial and Programme Management is also exclusive to the Environment Agency, providing commercial and programme management expertise for flood risk and asset management projects throughout the project lifecycle. How to Buy Buyers can access Lots 1-8 by registering to the framework and either running a competitive procurement process or making a direct award where permitted. Competitive awards are suitable for complex or higher-value requirements, while direct awards can be used for simpler, lower-value requirements where a competition would not add value. Lots 9a-9c are managed separately by the Environment Agency. CPS2 provides a straightforward and compliant procurement route for accessing specialist construction professional services. Whether through competition or direct award, buyers can select the most appropriate approach to secure value for money and meet project requirements efficiently. M FURTHER INFORMATION

www.gca.gov.uk/agreements/RM6356 Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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UK Construction Week

From AI to Net Zero UKCW Birmingham unveils the construction reset driving the sector’s next industrial revolution As the construction sector enters a pivotal moment, UK Construction Week Birmingham has launched a bold new theme – The Construction Reset – designed to act as a catalyst for renewed growth and a more resilient, future‑ready industry. Anchored around three core pillars – Building Better, Building Smarter and Building Responsibly – this year’s event (NEC, 29 September to 1 October) will spotlight the most pressing challenges and emerging opportunities facing housebuilders and developers. The programme aims to spark fresh thinking, accelerate innovation and support the sector’s shift towards higher productivity and long‑term sustainability. The theme has already gained strong backing from politicians, business leaders and industry experts, each offering their own view on what a meaningful “Construction Reset” should deliver. A keynote speaker at last May’s sister event, UKCW London, Rt Hon Sir James Cleverly MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Housing, Communities & Local Government, commented: “A construction reset means recognising that we cannot tax and regulate our way to growth. The reset I want to see is one where the government removes barriers rather than adding them, scrapping stamp duty, cutting red tape and backing builders.”

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Central to The Construction Reset will be a refreshed Main Stage programme, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, clients, contractors, manufacturers and innovators to showcase what’s already working, where real progress is being made and the practical actions that can accelerate delivery, improve productivity, drive sustainability and unlock growth. The three-day event will feature: Built-for-purpose sections; Roofing, Cladding & Insulation – a dedicated destination for contractors, installers, specifiers and designers who want to explore the latest innovations in durability, efficiency and weather protection and architectural impact; Digitalisation & AI – see how technology, automation, and AI are redefining the way we plan and build; Futurebuild Innovation Showcase – new for 2026, bringing together some of the most innovative products, technologies, materials and solutions transforming the built environment; Building & Onsite Safety – featuring products and systems supporting safer buildings and safer sites; Equipment, Tools & Hire – explore the newest tools and equipment driving productivity; Construction Training & Services – connect

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Varied programme of talks and workshops Five theatres will offer a varied programme of talks and workshops from industry experts and thought leaders: The Construction RESET stage - sponsored by Barbour ABI; Building Safety and Occupational Safety Stage; Building Envelope Stage; Digitalisation & AI Stage - sponsored by Zutec; Futurebuild Innovation Stage. The Construction RESET stage Built around the core themes of Building Better, Building Smarter and Building Responsibly, the Construction RESET stage – one of five theatres at UKCW Birmingham – will welcome an array of leading luminaries, including: Jackie Rigby, assistant director – Regeneration, Partnerships and Major Projects, Homes England; Tim Balcon, CEO, CITB; Sarah-Jayne Pizzie, construction deputy director, Ministry of Justice; Saul Humphrey, president, Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB); Emma Osmundsen, chair, Passivhaus Trust Board; Alison Nicholl, head of constructing excellence, BRE; Prof. David Hancock, construction director and infrastructure practice lead, His Majesty’s Treasury, Expert Advisory Team & NISTA; Paul Beeston, Partner – head of industry and Service Insight, Rider Levett Bucknall. Main Stage seminar highlights include: Tuesday 29th September, 10.30am – 11.15am The Construction Reset: What Needs to Change and What Happens if We Don’t? [Build Better]

This session will examine where the industry can unlock growth, improve performance and build a future-ready workforce through innovation, collaboration and new career pathways. Speakers: Jackie Rigby (Homes England), Saul Humphrey (Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), Tim Balcon (CITB)

UK Construction Week

with experts in project delivery, compliance, training, and professional support.

12.30pm – 1.15pm Housing at Scale: The Race to 1.5 Million Homes This session will examine the opportunities created by planning reform, New Towns and strategic growth areas, while exploring whether more scalable delivery models can help increase capacity. With political focus, investment and innovation aligning, the next five years could represent the biggest opportunity for housebuilding in a generation. Speakers: Ed Griffiths (Barbour-ABI); Emma Osmundsen (chair, Passivhaus Trust Board) 2.15pm - 2.45pm Who are the people changing construction for the better? Announcing the UKCW Role Models Winners for 2026 With three categories: Rising Star, Pioneer and Icon, UKCW Role Models recognises outstanding achievement at every stage of a career. This special session will reveal the 2026 winners and celebrate the exceptional leadership, innovation and impact that E

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UK Construction Week F have earned them recognition as some of the industry’s most inspiring role models. Presenters: Rebecca Rickwood (CEO, Gement Group), Siu Mun Li (director, Constructing Siu-lutions Ltd) Wednesday 30th September 11.30am – 12.15pm Constructing the Gold Standard: Choosing the Right Framework for Better Supply Chain Partnerships This panel will explore how the principles of the Construction Excellence Gold Standard are reshaping procurement, moving beyond lowest-price tendering towards fairer risk allocation, earlier supply chain engagement and longerterm collaborative relationships. Moderator: Alison Nicholl (Head of Constructing Excellence, BRE & DfE) Speakers: Prof. David Hancock (Construction Director and Infrastructure Practice Lead, His Majesty’s Treasury, Expert Advisory Team & NISTA); Rob Byrnes (Frameworks Director, Vinci Building UK) 2.30pm – 3.15pm Net Zero That Pays: Making Commercial Sustainability Work in Construction An opportunity to examine how whole-life carbon, material choices, energy performance and retrofit strategies are increasingly shaping procurement decisions, project outcomes and competitive advantage.

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Speakers: Ste Garlik (strategic lead for decarbonisation & retrofit, building design partnership & chief executive, Association for Environment Conscious Building (AECB)); Will Arnold (head of sustainable materials, Useful Simple Trust) Thursday 1st October 12.30pm – 1.15pm AI in Construction: Reimagining How Real Applications Deliver Real Results [Build Smarter] This session will showcase real examples of AI being used to automate repetitive tasks, improve document and data management, accelerate design coordination, enhance project controls and increase productivity across construction workflows. Speakers: Paul Beeston (partner - Head of Industry and service insight, Rider Levett Bucknall); Meghan Davies (co-founder, Cammina) 1.30pm - 2.15pm The New Industrial Revolution: How Digital-First Construction Can Finally Scale Productivity How digital-first approaches, combined with standardisation, better data and new ways of working, can help the industry move away from fragmented project-byproject delivery towards more repeatable, efficient and scalable systems. Moderator: Trudi Sully (industrialised construction director, Mott MacDonald and co-chair Building Better: Community of Practice (BB:CoP)

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UK Construction Week

Speakers: Lilian Ho (Associate Director – Digital & BIM, UK+I Architecture + Design , AECOM); George Mokhtar (Director, Turner & Townsend) Build Connect Lounge Another key feature at UKCW Birmingham will be the Build Connect Lounge – a chance to join focused partner-led conversations, workshops and clinics. The Build Connect Lounge will be more than a networking area. It will act as a live event hub where key partners can host their own roundtables, workshops and clinics aligned to the Construction Reset themes. The Client & Buyer Exchange The Client & Buyer Exchange is where visitors will be able to meet buyers, specifiers and project teams, and turn conversations into commercial opportunities. It will be a more focused and purposeful evolution of traditional meet-the-buyer activity. Martin Hurn, UKCW Birmingham Editorial Director, said: “The Construction Reset will position UKCW as a more intentional

marketplace and industry meeting point, built around the real challenges, opportunities and partnerships shaping construction today.” Leading brands Sponsored by Barbour ABI, Zutec, Wyre, HotelPlanner and Build Warranty, UKCW Birmingham will feature over 250 leading brands; 200 speakers and over 150 hours of CPD accredited seminars across four stages, alongside a series of built-for-purpose sections. M FURTHER INFORMATION

To find out more and register free for UKCW Birmingham, click here

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Landscape tools L EF training has changed Local authorities are increasingly adopting battery-powered landscape equipment to support sustainability goals and modernise operations. Lantra's refreshed Landscape Tools Suite provides industry-recognised training and certification pathways for hedge trimmers, trimmers, leaf blowers, leaf vacuums and multi-tools, helping organisations develop a safe, competent and future-ready workforce.

Grounds Management

Delivering resilient green spaces in challenging times The Grounds Management Association sets out how councils can respond to climate pressures, budget constraints and rising public expectations by adopting strategic, evidence‑based approaches to grounds management Local authority grounds teams are operating in an increasingly challenging environment. Budget pressures, changing weather patterns, growing environmental responsibilities and rising public expectations are placing significant demands on parks and open space services. Yet well-managed green spaces remain essential community assets, supporting sport, recreation, biodiversity, health and wellbeing. The most successful authorities are responding by adopting more strategic, evidence-based approaches to grounds management, focusing on resilience, sustainability and workforce development to deliver high-quality public spaces despite ongoing resource constraints. Managing grounds effectively with limited resources Maintaining standards while managing reduced budgets remains one of the biggest challenges facing local authority grounds teams. Rather than maintaining every site to the same

specification, many councils are prioritising resources according to site usage, community value and operational need. Understanding how spaces are used and establishing realistic quality standards is fundamental. Sports pitches, formal parks, housing green spaces and informal recreation areas all require different approaches. Developing annual maintenance plans for individual sites enables teams to target resources more effectively and identify where interventions such as aeration, scarification or renovation work are most needed. Regular assessments and measurable data can help inform maintenance priorities and budgeting decisions. Forward planning is equally important. Maintenance programmes should account for machinery breakdowns, staff absences and weather-related disruption. Building flexibility into operations helps ensure services remain effective throughout the year. E

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important role in maintaining high-quality sports pitches and public green spaces.

F Drought, water scarcity and changing weather patterns Climate change is having a growing impact on grounds management. Longer periods of drought, more intense rainfall events and increasingly unpredictable seasonal conditions are making traditional maintenance schedules less reliable. For sports pitches and amenity grassland, hotter summers can lead to reduced grass cover and increased wear, while wetter winters can create drainage issues and reduce usability. As a result, maintenance programmes increasingly need to respond to prevailing conditions rather than historic practice. Flexibility is becoming one of the most valuable tools available to grounds managers. Regularly reviewing maintenance programmes and adapting operations to weather conditions can help maximise resources, improve playing surfaces and protect valuable green assets. Choosing resilient and appropriate grass species Selecting the right grass species is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve resilience and reduce maintenance requirements. Different sites present different challenges, including drought, heavy wear, shade and poor drainage, making site-specific selection essential. Modern seed mixtures increasingly contain cultivars bred for drought tolerance, wear resistance and rapid recovery. Using a mix of species and cultivars improves resilience and reduces dependence on a single grass type. Selecting high-quality certified seed appropriate to local conditions can improve surface performance, reduce long-term costs and support sustainability objectives. As climate conditions continue to change, grass species selection will play an increasingly

Grounds Management

Climate change is having a growing impact on grounds management

Irrigation and water management Effective water management is becoming essential for local authorities. While professional sports venues may have sophisticated irrigation systems, councils often need to manage limited water resources carefully and cost-effectively. Best practice includes prioritising irrigation on high-use sites, improving soil structure to increase water retention, reducing compaction through aeration and considering rainwater harvesting where practical. In many cases, improving soil health and selecting droughttolerant grasses can provide greater long-term benefits than increasing irrigation alone. As water becomes an increasingly valuable resource, efficient management will be critical to maintaining quality while supporting wider sustainability goals. Biodiversity and environmental considerations Biodiversity is now a key consideration for councils managing public spaces. However, biodiversity and amenity provision do not need to be competing priorities. Successful authorities recognise that different areas can deliver different outcomes. High-maintenance sports pitches, play areas and formal parks continue to provide significant social value, while lower-maintenance grasslands, wildflower meadows and native planting schemes can support wildlife and improve ecological resilience. The challenge lies in identifying the right balance and managing each area according to its purpose. Clear communication with local communities is equally important, helping residents understand the environmental benefits of changing management approaches and reduced mowing in selected areas. Sustainable approaches to mowing and maintenance Mowing remains one of the most resourceintensive activities undertaken by grounds teams. Increasingly, authorities are moving E Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Grounds Management F away from blanket mowing schedules and towards site-specific management plans. High-profile parks and sports facilities may require more frequent cutting, while less intensively used areas can often be maintained with reduced mowing frequencies. This can lower fuel consumption, reduce costs and support biodiversity without compromising the user experience. Technology also offers opportunities to improve efficiency. GPS-guided line marking systems, digital maintenance planning tools and emerging automation technologies can reduce labour demands and allow staff to focus on higher-value maintenance tasks. Balancing amenity, accessibility and biodiversity Demand for outdoor recreation continues to grow while local authorities face pressures on budgets and land availability. Councils must balance the need to provide quality sports and recreation facilities with environmental ambitions and financial realities. Many authorities are addressing this challenge by investing in strategically important hub sites. Concentrating resources on key locations can improve pitch quality, increase carrying capacity and allow more people to participate in sport and recreation. At the same time, less intensively used areas can be managed differently to support biodiversity and reduce maintenance requirements. Partnership working is also becoming increasingly important in helping local authorities sustain sports facilities. A strong example is Vision Redbridge Culture and Leisure’s Community Ownership Programme, which has successfully transferred greater responsibility for cricket square maintenance and management to

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Concentrating resources on key locations can improve pitch quality local clubs and community stakeholders while retaining strategic oversight and support. The programme demonstrates how community ownership can protect valuable sports infrastructure, improve local engagement and create a sustainable long-term maintenance model. By encouraging clubs to play a greater role in the stewardship of the facilities they use, resources can be targeted more effectively while maintaining quality standards and community access. The initiative has delivered positive outcomes for both facility users and the local authority, helping secure the future of cricket provision while fostering a stronger sense of ownership and responsibility within the community. It is a model we are increasingly encouraging other local authorities to consider as a long-term option for sustaining cricket square maintenance and reducing future pressures on stretched budgets and resources. Planning for extreme weather and climate resilience Extreme weather events are expected to become more frequent and severe. Flooding, storms and prolonged droughts all present operational challenges for grounds teams, making climate resilience an essential component of long-term planning. Measures such as improving drainage infrastructure, investing in soil health, selecting resilient plant species and reviewing machinery

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suitability can help authorities adapt to changing conditions. Maintenance schedules may also need to evolve as growing seasons become longer and weather patterns become less predictable. The ability to anticipate and adapt to future challenges will increasingly define successful grounds management. Investing in skilled grounds management staff People remain the most important asset in any grounds management operation. The sector faces an ageing workforce, and many councils risk losing valuable expertise through retirement. At the same time, the knowledge and skills required to manage green spaces are becoming increasingly complex. Well-trained staff are better able to respond to climate challenges, identify developing issues, operate specialist equipment and implement innovative maintenance practices. Councils that invest in training and professional development are often better placed to attract and retain skilled employees while building organisational resilience. The Grounds Management Association (GMA) plays a vital role in supporting professional development across the sector. Through industry-recognised training, qualifications, technical guidance and learning opportunities, the GMA supports grounds managers at every stage of their career, from apprentices and new entrants through to experienced practitioners, supervisors and senior leaders. Investing in continuous learning helps ensure grounds teams have the skills and confidence needed to meet the evolving challenges facing parks, sports facilities and public green spaces.

Supporting communities, health and wellbeing Well-maintained parks and open spaces deliver benefits far beyond appearance. They support physical activity, grassroots sport, social interaction, mental wellbeing and community cohesion. They provide places where people can exercise, relax, connect with nature and participate in community activities. At a time when public health and wellbeing remain key priorities, investment in grounds management should be viewed not simply as a maintenance expense but as an investment in healthier, more resilient communities. High-quality green spaces make a measurable contribution to quality of life and play an essential role in creating attractive, sustainable places to live.

Grounds Management

Well-maintained parks and open spaces deliver benefits far beyond appearance

Looking ahead The future of local authority grounds management will require organisations to be increasingly strategic, adaptable and innovative. Financial pressures are unlikely to disappear, while climate change and rising public expectations will continue to create new challenges. However, councils across the UK are already demonstrating that it is possible to deliver high-quality green spaces through smarter planning, targeted investment and flexible management approaches. Innovative models such as Vision Redbridge’s Community Ownership Programme show how partnership working can help sustain valued facilities, while investment in skills ensures grounds teams are equipped to meet future challenges. By embracing sustainable practices, developing resilient landscapes and investing in people, local authorities can continue to create parks and open spaces that support communities, biodiversity and wellbeing for generations to come. M FURTHER INFORMATION

To find out more about Grounds Management Association training and learning opportunities, visit www.thegma.org.uk. Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Health & Wellbeing

Designing healthier workplaces: setting conditions for success Dr Audrey Fleming, head of culture change & psychosocial safety at the British Safety Council sets out how organisations can support their staff to better wellbeing at work Workplace wellbeing is no longer simply offering employees a wellbeing app, resilience training or access to an employee assistance programme to ‘fix’ people. Increasingly, the focus is shifting towards psychosocial safety and fixing the workplace environment: specifically, how we design, organise and manage work affect people’s health and performance. These can no longer be considered intangible and organisations will be increasingly expected to adapt. Australia has already embedded explicit duties to manage psychosocial risks within its work health and safety framework across all states, territories and the Commonwealth. Under the model Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) regulations, employers must manage psychosocial risks, with specific

consideration given to factors including job demands, systems of work, workplace interactions and how work is managed, organised and supported. The UK is also currently developing a clearer regulatory focus. In December 2025, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) issued a Notice of Contravention to the University of Birmingham following an investigation into its arrangements for managing work-related stress. The HSE identified shortcomings including generic stress risk assessments, insufficient employee involvement and control measures that had not been effectively implemented. The UK courts are sending a similar message. In March 2026, a former Jockey Club Racecourses employee was awarded £990,000 after the High Court found that the organisation had failed to E Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Health & Wellbeing

Psychosocial risk is increasingly being treated as a health and safety issue of global GDP annually. The report highlights the relationship between health and the way work is designed, organised and managed. The direction of travel is clear: psychosocial risk is increasingly being treated as a health and safety issue, not simply an HR or employee wellbeing issue indicating that collaboration between internal functions is required.

F respond appropriately to repeated warnings about duty of care towards the employee, which resulted in severe workplace stress. The wider evidence is stark. The International Labour Organisation’s 2026 global report estimates that psychosocial risk factors are linked to more than 840,000 deaths each year, nearly 45 million disability-adjusted life years and economic losses equivalent to 1.37 per cent

From wellbeing initiatives to healthier work The challenge becomes that when organisations attempt to improve wellbeing, the response is often still heavily focused on the individual. Yes, tertiary provisions such as, meditation sessions, resilience training, mental health first aiders, fitness initiatives, and broader employee assistance programmes can provide some personal and social value. However, they do not address the workplace stressors; preventative measures are effective and this is where resources should be focused. When workloads are persistently excessive, people perceive having little control over how they work. Where roles lack clarity, organisational change is poorly managed or employees simply lack support, this frequently E

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Health & Wellbeing

F results in frustration leading to stress response. Consider that physical hazards are acute in nature where psychosocial hazards are more chronic with signs and symptoms often missed. Creating a sustainable healthy workplace needs to be the organisational strategy. This proposition is consistent with the World Health Organisation’s Healthy Workplace Model, which takes a holistic view of workplace health through four interconnected avenues of influence: the physical work environment; the psychosocial work environment; personal health resources; and enterprise involvement in the community. This model is important because it challenges organisations to look beyond isolated initiatives and contributes towards a strategic, tangible, and measurable healthy workplace. A healthy workplace emerges from the collaborative interactions between the physical environment, the way work is organised, the resources available to individuals and the wider culture and values of the organisation. Psychosocial hazards are a workplace risk ‘Psychosocial safety’ is sometimes considered as a complicated term for something fundamental: how the work environment affects our psychological, physical and mental health.

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This is why psychosocial hazards need to be identified and assessed, then managed,

A holistic approach to creating a healthy workplace A holistic approach towards a healthy workplace recognises that for people to thrive and perform requires creating the optimal environment.

This includes strategically identifying and managing the hazards, consulting with people and leadership and providing the resources required. It also involves promotion through awareness, competency and having access to work/life balance options, flexibility and health screening and surveillance provision. And when people need to be protected, access to external professional support and resources.

Health & Wellbeing

Psychosocial hazards arise from aspects of work organisation and design, and their social and environmental context, including increasing work demands, excessive working hours, poor support, job insecurity, bullying and harassment, and inadequate recognition. Crucially, these are not characteristics of individual employees; they are created and amplified by organisational systems and decisions. This is why psychosocial hazards need to be identified and assessed, then managed, incorporating appropriate tools and processes, alongside other existing organisational risks. The ISO 45003:2021 standard provides guidance for managing psychosocial risks within an occupational health and safety management system. Designed to complement ISO 45001, it provides a systematic approach to preventing work-related injury and ill health while promoting psychological health and wellbeing. However, this guidance standard does not provide any suggested tools and is not legally binding.

Designing the conditions for success So, what does this mean in practice? Firstly, organisations need to identify where their risks are. Employee surveys and wellbeing data will likely provide useful insight, but they need to be combined with organisational information and meaningful conversations with workers. Absence, turnover, working hours, grievances, incidents, workload and employee feedback can all contribute towards revealing themes and trends. Secondly, organisations need to look upstream. If employees are reporting stress due to workload, the solution should not be a wellbeing webinar or wellness initiative. The organisation should ask whether staffing, deadlines, priorities, resources, job design and management practices are contributing to the problem. If people are experiencing burnout, identify what is driving sustained exposure to excessive demands. If employees feel powerless, examine levels of control they have over their work and whether decision-making structures support autonomy. If organisational change is causing confusion and anxiety, examine how change is communicated, planned and implemented. Moving from intention to action A policy is not a systemic change; a training course is not a control measure of a risk assessment. For many organisations, the biggest challenge is not realising that workplace wellbeing matters, the challenge comes from converting intention into improving the working environment through leadership commitment, functional collaboration and work redesign; empowering people to thrive. The emerging regulatory landscape reinforces the urgency, but the opportunity needs to be more person-centric than compliance. This is where healthier workplaces begin. M FURTHER INFORMATION

www.britsafe.org Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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International Security Expo

Shaping the future of global security Returning to Olympia, London on 29 - 30 September 2026, International Security Expo will bring together thousands of security professionals from across the world The event will offer an unrivalled opportunity to explore the latest products coming to market from a wide selection of manufacturers and solution providers; from the biggest names in the industry to up-and-coming innovators. Visitors will hear from a range of experts on key security issues, be able to check out live demonstrations and forge new connections via numerous networking opportunities. Hear from industry & government experts On two theatres packed with essential talks – the Global Counter Terror & Security Summit (sponsored by Vikela and in partnership with Counter Terror Business) and the International Security & Resilience

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Conference (sponsored by OpusAperio, Seagate & Duality and in partnership with Resilience First) – a host of government speakers and security experts will offer the type of content you won’t find anywhere else. Representatives from UK Government will use the event as an opportunity to provide updates on policy and the current state of homeland and international security, with many heads and senior representatives of government agencies and organisations talking. Speakers include Shaun Hipgrave, director Protect and Prepare in the Home Office’s Homeland Security Group; Abu Ahmed, deputy director, head of Joint Security and Resilience Centre (JSaRC); Supt Stephen Fosher, head of NaCTSO (National Counter Terrorism Security

International Security Expo

Office); Elliot Thornton, space resilience manager at the UK Space Agency; Commander Elizabeth Chappel, deputy senior national co-ordinator Protect & Prepare at Counter Terrorism Policing; Michelle Russell, chief executive at the Security Industry Authority (SIA); Anita Friend, deputy director of UKDI (Find & Grow) (UK Defence Innovation); Professor Annette Southgate, deputy director S&T and ACE (Accelerated Capability Environment). With the guidance for Martyn’s Law having recently been published, this will offer the ideal time to assess how the implementation is going from both the policymakers and those in charge of enforcement. Figen Murray OBE, the driving force behind the legislation, has recently take on the role of chair of International Security Expo and will be providing an introductory welcome, as well as chairing a Martyn’s Law panel. Talks elsewhere will cover key topics affecting senior security professionals, discuss the latest terrorist threats, the impact of the current geopolitical crises and explore resilience which remains inexorably linked to security. For the past five years, the UK Minister of State for Security has attended and provided a keynote on the Summit. Last year Dan Jarvis MBE MP said of the event during his keynote: “This event showcases the very best that our security sector has to offer, and I learn a lot from the collective wisdom in this room and in the hall out there.”

solutions and innovations crucial for those who head up the security and resilience of critical national infrastructure, transport hubs, the public sector, private sector businesses, or are involved in homeland and international security There will be over 300 global exhibiting brands representing all sectors of the industry; from screening & scanning and perimeter security; to access control, intelligence and drone & counter-drone, and much more besides. The popular Innovation Award & Trail returns, highlighting some of the groundbreaking work exhibitors are doing. With a judging panel comprised of Advisory Council members and other industry leaders, the E

The home of global security innovation Innovation will be found in abundance at this year’s International Security Expo. The exhibition floor will be packed with products,

International Security Expo F Trail will guide visitors to all the shortlisted exhibitor stands, with the overall winner announced during the Networking Drinks Reception on day one of the event. Meet government departments & agencies A central feature of the event, this year’s Government Zone will feature stands from numerous UK Government departments, agencies and organisations who are responsible for the various aspects of homeland security. Government exhibitors will include JSaRC & the Home Office, NaCTSO, SIA, FCDO Services, UKDI, RISC, DBIST Police CPI, CSSC and British Transport Police. The Government Zone offers an unprecedented opportunity to engage with and receive updates from so many departments and agencies responsible for homeland security in one place over two-days. See products and techniques brought to life The all-new Data Centre Live Demonstrator, in partnership with CrisisCast, will guide visitors on a walk-through of a coordinated perimeter breach combined with a sophisticated cyber intrusion, as exhibitor products are deployed to detect, contain and recover. The ever-popular LPCB Live Testing Lab will have a packed schedule of perimeter security products tested by forced-entry experts, showing why they have achieved LPCB certification. Whilst teams from CBRNUK and Counter-EO UK will be running

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demonstrations in the Counter Threat Pavilion showing how they deal with suspected chemical, biological and explosive threats. The Perimeter Protection Zone will be packed with manufacturers from this sector, whilst both the Drone & Counter-UAV Trail and Border Security Trail will lead visitors to exhibitors who specialise in these areas. The Counter Threat Pavilion and SCEG Pavilion will also showcase members from their specialist Groups. Where physical & cyber security converge As cybersecurity becomes an ever-increasing concern for those working throughout government and the public sector, attendees can benefit from an all-encompassing view of both physical and cyber security thanks to co-located International Cyber Expo. Various global suppliers will showcase the latest technological advancements and cutting-edge solutions shaping our digital world, with many speaking on the Tech Hub Stage offering a deep dive why their products and solutions are so effective. The Global Cyber Summit (sponsored by Huntress Labs & Rootshell Security) will pull together a fantastic selection of speakers to cover ongoing cyber threats, priorities and challenges, plus much more. Government speakers on the Summit will include Baroness Lloyd of Effra CBE; Insp Charlie Morrison, head of Cyber Griffin, City of London Police Cyber PROTECT Team; Chris Day, clinical lead for Cyber Operations at NHS England. A cyber-focused Government Zone will offer the opportunity to meet with a selection of

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International Security Expo

departments and agencies focused on the cyber threat, including DCMS (Department for Culture, Media & Sport), NCA (National Crime Agency), Metropolitan Police, Welsh Government and Cyber Griffin. New chair & event director Of her appointment to the role of chair of International Security Expo Figen Murray OBE said: “for many years it has been clear how important this event is to the global security industry – from the wealth of innovation on display to the incredible speakers who impart their knowledge and experience, along with the unique opportunity to engage with the UK Government. I know first-hand just how valuable this has been in the long journey to get Martyn’s Law signed into legislation. The event is one of my highlights of the year.” Taking on the role of group event director earlier this year, Hayley Simpson said: “I’m very excited at the prospect of this year’s events. They have an incredible purpose and reputation, and it’s an honour to be in the position to lead them. The team have been doing a superb job pulling everything together

for what is set to be another fantastic edition. The quality of people registering is as fantastic as ever, and this year’s Global Meetings & Delegations Programme looks set to bring in some exceptional attendees from the world over. I very much look forward to connecting with the industry this September.” M FURTHER INFORMATION

Find out more about International Security Expo & International Cyber Expo 2026 and register for your free pass: internationalsecurityexpo.com/gov-business

VI SI T U S AT :

International Security Expo Stand F115 London, UK | 29–30 September, 2026 OR ONLI NE AT SA F EGUA RDMEDICA L.COM

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Digital Transformation

The balancing act of delivering world-leading digital public services Heather Cover‑Kus, associate director for central government and education at techUK, examines how delivering world‑leading digital public services now requires balancing sovereignty, security, capability and public interest Weighing up the factors Things move fast in tech and famously slowly in government. What does that mean for public sector technology? Unsurprisingly, it’s a mixed picture. The UK is ambitious about its approach to technology, and bold in its desire to deliver seamless digital public services; however, there are many variables to be weighed in the pursuit of that goal that might slow things down. To

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deliver world-leading public services today, a government must consider speed, cost, effectiveness, and trust. In many ways, at its core, governance has always been an exercise in managing scarcity and balancing trade-offs. How should the budget be split between investing in the long-term benefits of education versus the immediate, lifesaving demands of healthcare?

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Digital Transformation

Should the Government spend on roads and bridges or airports and harbours? Every policy decision carries an opportunity cost. In the current digital age, the decisions around delivering public services are more complex with a growing number of factors to consider and balance. AI or robotics? Speed or security? Invest to save or lower cost now? There are two issues that have recently become important factors in public sector digital considerations – sovereignty and public interest. While these issues are not necessarily new, they have come to the forefront in light of the current financial and geopolitical context of the UK. This article explores the impact of these two issues on public sector digital services and the tech supplier community that works with government to deliver them. The Sovereignty Scale In an increasingly connected world, the issue of digital sovereignty is clearly becoming more pressing. This growth in importance is the result of a two main factors. The first is cross-border digital services – with the increased use of cloud computing and data centres, national borders are often crossed to deliver services that are efficient and cost-

effective. Data is constantly pinging across the globe. Moreover, those services are delivered by multinational tech companies with interests in many countries. The second is geopolitical shifts. There is no doubt that there has been a seismic shift in global alliances recently. We are operating in a new geopolitical reality where traditional allies no longer behave predictably, and, conversely, certain non-traditional partners are proving to be surprisingly more reliable. These factors taken together have transformed sovereignty from a theoretical preference into a necessary consideration. When traditional geopolitical anchors shift, governments start to more deeply examine the network of interconnected cross-border digital services and the impact on digital services. In a new geopolitical landscape, what does it mean to have digital sovereignty? Despite its growing importance, digital sovereignty is probably the most cited yet least understood priority in modern policy. Everyone has a different interpretation of what it means. The Government has not provided a functional definition to operate from, so suppliers will often adopt a definition that aligns with their own commercial E Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Digital Transformation

F interests. We see a recurring pattern where the definition shifts to suit the specific agenda of the provider. In reality, there is no “one size fits all” definition to be had. Issues of sovereignty will have a different significance in the defence and national security space than they do in education or health. Context matters. Additionally, issues of cost, control of data, and technical capability will all factor in considerations of the importance of sovereignty. Essentially, sovereignty is linked to issues of security and resilience and is an important factor to consider in what world-leading digital public services looks like for the UK. We watch with interest to see how the government in the UK, and indeed other jurisdictions around the world will approach the issue of digital sovereignty as decisions on sovereignty will have a huge impact on the tech supplier market.

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The Government also must weigh up whether to procure from the market or develop in-house Reframing the Public Interest Test The Government also must weigh up whether to procure from the market or develop in-house. While the build versus buy debate is not new, the Government has recently announced a new “Public Interest Test”, compelling departments to assess whether outsourced service contracts over £1 million could be delivered more effectively in-house. This test impacts over 95 per cent of central government contracts by value. They argue that this change will deliver value for money and provide “taxpayers a fairer deal by ending outsourcing by default”.

Digital Transformation

However, this approach to procurement sets up a false tension and creates the impression that building in-house is better for the public than buying from the market. When it comes to technology, the choice of build vs buy is not a good versus evil debate. Private sector markets have an important role to play in driving innovation. Those companies are the creators and the risk takers. They sometimes offer capabilities and skills that are not always easy to find (in scale) in the public sector. Although the public sector is rapidly growing the size of its digital professional class, there is still a lack of digital skills in government. By the same token, government procurement plays an important part in supporting and developing markets and SMEs in particular. Government spending is a key element of economic growth and public procurement helps support and sustain native industries. Along with steel and shipbuilding, AI and energy

The path forward is found only in the delicate balance between security, sovereignty, and capability infrastructure was recently recognised as critical for national security, with new guidance prioritising contracts for British business, where necessary, to protect our national security expected to be published. There will be times when developing inhouse may be more cost-effective, or secure, or possibly even faster – and in these instances, it is in the public interest to do so. But one hopes that all procurement decisions are already undertaken with public interest in mind. If this is the case, the new Public Interest Test will not move the needle much and there won’t be many savings to be had here. Balance for a Smarter State In a world characterised by fragmentation, there are no easy answers or “off-the-shelf” solutions for digital governance. The path forward is found only in the delicate balance between security, sovereignty, and capability. Every choice to prioritise one will inevitably strain the others. M FURTHER INFORMATION

www.techuk.org Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Scotland’s one-stop industry event that’s all about the truck and everything related to it.

REGISTER NOW RTX Scotland will take place from 18-19 November 2026 at the SEC Glasgow. This exciting free-to-attend event brings together Scotland’s road transport community, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore the latest vehicles, equipment, and cutting-edge industry innovation first hand.

RTX Scotland

RTX Scotland returns to Glasgow bigger and better for 2026 Bigger exhibition, extended opening hours and enhanced networking opportunities announced following successful launch event RTX Scotland will return to Glasgow’s Scottish Event Campus (SEC) on 18-19 November 2026 with a significantly expanded exhibition, longer opening hours and enhanced networking facilities following a highly successful inaugural event. Organised by Road Transport Media, RTX Scotland was launched as the Scottish sister

exhibition to the UK’s leading Road Transport Expo (RTX), providing hauliers, fleet operators, logistics professionals and industry suppliers with a major road transport event closer to home. Following strong support from operators, manufacturers and suppliers during its debut year, organisers have announced a series of E Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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RTX Scotland

RTX Scotland brings together fleet operators, hauliers, logistics professionals, vehicle manufacturers and service providers F enhancements designed to deliver even greater value for exhibitors and visitors in 2026. The expanded event will feature a larger exhibition hall to accommodate more exhibitors, two full exhibition days running from 9am to 5pm, and increased catering and networking areas throughout the venue to encourage business meetings, industry discussions and relationship-building. Vic Bunby, RTX Scotland Show Director, said: “The response to our launch event exceeded our expectations, with strong visitor attendance and overwhelmingly positive feedback from exhibitors and attendees alike.”

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“We’ve listened carefully to what the industry told us and have acted on that feedback. For 2026, we’re expanding the exhibition space, extending opening hours and creating more opportunities for networking and business conversations throughout the venue.” “Our aim is to provide Scotland’s haulage and logistics community with the most valuable industry event in the country, giving operators direct access to leading suppliers, manufacturers and industry expertise under one roof.” RTX Scotland brings together fleet operators, hauliers, logistics professionals, vehicle manufacturers and service providers from across the road transport sector, creating a platform for networking, knowledge sharing and business development. Visitors will be able to explore the latest trucks, trailers, workshop equipment, fleet management technology, compliance services and transport solutions, while engaging directly with suppliers and industry experts.

RTX Scotland

Knowledge Zo A key feature of the event will once again be the Knowledge Zone, which will host a programme of free-to-attend seminars, panel discussions and expert presentations focused on the issues shaping Scotland’s haulage and logistics sector. Topics will include fleet decarbonisation, vehicle compliance, road safety and other key operational challenges facing transport businesses today. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage with speakers, participate in live discussions and gain practical insights from fellow operators and industry specialists. Hayley Tayler, RTX Head of Content, said: “We’re shaping the seminar programme around what matters most to the industry. The Knowledge Zone is designed to provide practical insights and real-world experiences that visitors can take back to their businesses.” “We’re still developing the programme, so if there are topics you’d like to see covered or speakers you’d like to hear from, we’d love to hear your suggestions.”

Topics will include fleet decarbonisation, vehicle compliance, road safety and other key operational challenge At a time when transport businesses continue to face challenges around operational efficiency, vehicle investment, decarbonisation and workforce development, RTX Scotland offers operators a convenient opportunity to assess new products, compare solutions and discuss the issues shaping the future of the industry. Building on the success of its launch event, RTX Scotland 2026 is set to strengthen its position as a key meeting place for Scotland’s road transport and logistics community. Registration is now open Attendance is free for industry professionals. Visitors can secure their free ticket now and join thousands of transport professionals at the SEC, Glasgow, on 18-19 November 2026. M FURTHER INFORMATION

For more information and to register, visit: www.roadtransportexpo.co.uk/scotland Issue 33.5 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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White & Private Label Expo

The White & Private Label Expo is back in London – 11th & 12th November The White and Private Label Expo brings together suppliers and specialists offering public sector organisations a practical way to assess manufacturing partners and strengthen procurement strategies Public sector bodies across the UK are under sustained pressure to deliver better value without compromising on standards, whether that means uniforms for frontline staff, promotional merchandise for public engagement campaigns, or own-brand products sold through visitor centres, museums and other publicly run venues. Budgets are tighter than ever, procurement decisions face greater scrutiny, and taxpayers rightly expect that every pound spent on goods and services

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represents demonstrable value. For local authorities, government departments and public sector organisations looking to develop or expand a product range, finding the right manufacturing partner, whether for a modest trial order or a fully specified, custom-made line, has never mattered more. The White & Private Label Expo returns to London this year, bringing together 16,000 attendees with the suppliers equipped to meet the particular demands of public sector procurement.

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT | www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

White & Private Label Expo

Designed for procurement teams, local authority buyers and public sector organisations at every stage of sourcing, here’s what visitors can expect at Excel London on 11th & 12th November. 300 white & private label manufacturers From small-scale trial orders to large-scale bespoke manufacturing, the show floor covers the full range of sectors relevant to public sector needs, including uniforms and workwear, promotional and campaign merchandise, and retail products for councilrun and publicly funded venues. Visitors have the opportunity to meet suppliers face-to-face, assess quality and compliance firsthand, and identify manufacturers capable of meeting the specifications, certifications and procurement standards that public sector contracts require. For buyers accustomed to lengthy tender processes, the chance to compare multiple suppliers in a single visit offers a genuinely efficient alternative. 100 expert seminars & keynote talks Hear from a carefully selected group of industry specialists across both show days. Sessions cover the practical realities of sourcing and delivering products within a public sector context, from ethical and sustainable manufacturing to navigating supply chains, managing procurement frameworks and ensuring value for money

is demonstrable at every stage. The programme is designed to equip attendees with insight they can apply directly to their own sourcing decisions, regardless of the size or complexity of their organisation. Four shows, one complimentary ticket The White & Private Label Expo is co-located with three further shows: Smart Retail Tech, Ecommerce Packaging and Labelling, and Retail Supply Chain & Logistics Expo. A single E

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White & Private Label Expo

F complimentary ticket grants access to all four, making Excel London a genuine onestop destination for public sector buyers who need to consider not only manufacturing but also packaging, technology and logistics as part of a wider procurement strategy. Bringing these considerations together under one roof allows visitors to build a more complete picture of a potential supplier relationship in the space of two days, rather than across a series of separate engagements. Why it matters for public sector buyers Public procurement carries a particular set of obligations that don’t apply in the same way to private sector buyers. Transparency, accountability and demonstrable value for money sit alongside more familiar considerations like quality, lead times and cost. The White & Private Label Expo offers public sector attendees the chance to engage directly with manufacturers who understand these requirements, ask detailed questions about sourcing, materials and ethical standards, and gather the kind of firsthand evidence that can support a robust procurement case. For organisations under pressure to justify

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every decision to elected members, auditors or the public, that level of direct engagement is difficult to replicate through desk-based research or written tender responses alone. Reserve your place Tickets to the White & Private Label Expo are complimentary. Visit www. whitelabelexpo.co.uk for more information and to register for two days of sourcing, insight and professional exchange at Excel London on 11th & 12th November. M FURTHER INFORMATION

www.whitelabelexpo.co.uk

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AHR Architects

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Back Care Solutions

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Bauder

Polyplas

Capsule Homes

RTX Scotland 2026

Carrousel Digital

IFC

Safeguard Medical

Comply Sense

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Cornerstone Management Services

Shine Workplace Wellbeing

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Townsend and Renaudon

Elco Scaffolding

Tubular Techniques

FDL Generators

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