Category: Business

11:44:26 GMT • 14 January 2025

Best Fundraising Ideas for Sports Clubs

2 November 2022

•

5 mins read

Contributors

Mandy has been with Starpeak Insurance Solutions since 2018, starting in sales in the consumer department and mov...

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Sports clubs play a valuable role in the lives of millions of people all over the country. As well as building friendships and helping their communities, they also encourage people to live more active lifestyles, improving physical and mental health as a result.

Fundraising is a vital part of ensuring that sports clubs can continue to function, thrive and achieve the goals that players and staff alike work so hard for. This guide highlights some of the best fundraising ideas for sports clubs that you may not have considered.

Why is fundraising so important?

The vast majority of sports clubs are made up of, and run by, volunteers who do it for the love of their respective sports. This often means that they run on very small budgets, so what may seem like relatively small fundraising efforts – or small, unexpected bills – can have a major impact on their futures.

That’s why it’s so important for sports clubs to leave no stone unturned in exploring ways to make money. Every pound earned could go towards better kit and equipment, paying for team trips and tours across the country and abroad, repaying any debts incurred, or making improvements to pitches and facilities.

Good ideas for fundraising

Of course, there are many fundraising ideas that are part and parcel of running a sports team: pitchside advertising, kit sponsorship, website ad space and programme sales, for example. The following ideas take things a little further and consider fundraising that will produce one-off rather than regular income:

Race and quiz nights

One of the simplest and cheapest events to run is a competition night in your clubhouse, or at whichever pub is your usual meeting point. A race night gives participants the opportunity to ‘bet’ on filmed races and win either cash or spot prizes. Quiz nights, meanwhile, can cost as little as a few pounds to put together, and are especially popular in winter when people are looking for cheap indoor social activities. In either case, you should use some of the takings to provide prizes, and keep the rest as raised funds for your club.

Community activities

Getting involved in events taking place in your local area can get your club’s fundraising in front of a wider audience and build goodwill among residents. Stalls at summer fetes and festivals are good ways of attracting donations and need just a few players or staff to volunteer. As a way of attracting more interest, consider how you can get the public involved in playing your sport, such as a penalty game for football clubs, or a putting challenge for golf clubs.

Participation events

Connected to the previous point, consider holding your own open day, where people of all ages and abilities can come and sample your sport for themselves. It can be daunting for new people to enter a team environment full of existing friendships, so inviting people to events in exchange for a donation can help drum up interest and get you new players. And if you can get local street food vendors, music acts and microbreweries to take part, you might find yourself with your own annual fundraising festival!

Team challenges

Setting your team and coaches a real challenge that puts their minds and bodies to the limit can gain real interest, publicity, and donations from people in your area. This could be something as simple as giving up alcohol or volunteering to pack shopping bags at the local supermarket, or something as grand as running marathons, climbing mountains, or cycling long distances. The only limits are your initial outlay and your ambition!

Grant applications

Remember that raising funds doesn’t have to rely on the charity or interest of the community. Sports clubs are eligible for a wide range of grants, provided by public bodies to encourage healthier lifestyles. Check regularly to see if you’re eligible for the likes of Sport England small grants, the Community Asset Fund, and National Lottery funding.

Cover your sports club for less with Protectivity Insurance

As well as proactive fundraising, good insurance cover is just as essential for sports clubs up and down the country. Protectivity’s comprehensive sports club insurance options include public liability, employers’ liability, equipment cover and clubhouse cover, giving players and staff alike peace of mind. Combined with expert support and available from just £42 a year, our cover plays a key part in keeping people safe and securing your club’s finances.

Take a closer look at all of our sports club insurance options sports club insurance quote.

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11:43:53 GMT • 14 January 2025

3 of the Best Dog Grooming Training Courses for Beginners

26 October 2022

•

6 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

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If you’re a dog lover, a career in dog grooming sounds like the dream, right? Not only will you be able to spend time with pooches of all shapes and sizes, but you’ll also get the satisfaction of making them look their very best.

While mandatory qualifications aren’t needed to become a dog groomer, completing a dog grooming course will help you stand out from the crowd. Here, we cover the best courses for beginners to learn the tricks of the trade and leave you with a certificate or diploma under your belt to impress potential clients.

Dog grooming training providers

Where you choose to complete your training is entirely up to you. You can obtain your dog grooming qualification from a college, a specialist training provider, or through City & Guilds.

City & Guilds

City & Guilds provide services to training providers, employers, and trainees across a variety of sectors, for people to progress in their careers and have the skills to fulfil their duties in the workplace. Their qualifications and apprenticeships are highly regarded by employers across the world. You can study both Level 2 and Level 3 dog grooming training with City & Guilds.

Colleges

Several colleges across the UK offer dog grooming courses suitable for beginners, but you may need to attend a college that specialises in agriculture and animal welfare. Colleges such as Moulton College in Northamptonshire and Capel Manor College in London offer courses to help you on your journey to becoming a professional dog groomer.

Specialist dog grooming training providers

Alternatively, you can undergo dog grooming training through a specialist provider. Providers like Four Paws Groom School, located in Cheshire, Kent and Herefordshire, offer courses to suit every level of experience. You can learn how to groom your own dog in one day or complete a 30-day iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in dog grooming.

Dog grooming qualifications and training courses

When it comes to pampering pooches, you’ll want to make sure you do the best job possible. While having a dog grooming qualification isn’t essential to kickstarting your dog grooming career, it can help you promote your service and could make the difference in someone trusting you with their dog or going elsewhere. Here are some respected dog grooming qualifications and training courses for you to consider:

Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants

Looking for a course to introduce you to the art of dog grooming? A Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Artists is your go-to training course if you’re looking to work in the dog grooming industry. The course will be run by a City & Guilds qualified groomer/tutor.

To earn the qualification, you’ll need to complete several units, some of which are optional and some mandatory, including:

– Cleaning and bathing dogs

– Controlling and restraining animals

– Handling payments from clients

Level 3 Certificate in Introductory Dog Grooming

Once you’ve completed the Level 2 Certificate, you may want to further your training with the Level 3 Certificate in Introductory Dog Grooming. Once completed, you can progress in a career as a professional dog groomer.

The Level 3 certificate is suitable for those who have experience working in the industry or have completed a related qualification such as the Level 2 certificate.

To achieve this certification, you’ll do a practical demonstration of what you’ve learnt or an assignment, as well as a written test to prove your knowledge.

Achieving this qualification will show future employers or customers that you have all the technical skills and knowledge needed to practice dog grooming to a high standard. If you’re looking to stand out against the crowd of dog groomers, having training under your belt is a great way to demonstrate your dedication to and passion for dog grooming.

Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming

After completing the Level 2 Dog Grooming Assistant certification, you can progress your knowledge and skills further to become a professional dog groomer, by studying for the Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming.

The diploma will provide you with the practical skills to professionally style dogs with all types of coats, as well as those who need adjustments to the grooming process due to health conditions. You’ll also receive all the training needed to ensure you’re fully prepared to work as a professional dog groomer, in line with legislation and welfare requirements.

If you’re looking for training that will give you the practical skills and knowledge needed to work as a professional dog groomer, completing the Level 3 diploma is a great option. Once completed, you could go on to work for a business, or as a self-employed dog groomer.

Costs of dog grooming training

How much your dog grooming training will cost will depend on the course you choose to study.

Absolutely Animals are pet grooming specialists based in London, they offer several types of dog grooming courses, including City & Guilds qualifications. They price the Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants at £900, and the Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming at £980.

Just4Paws offer an all-inclusive City & Guilds dog grooming course, with plenty of hands-on experience with a variety of dog breeds. Through this course, you’ll complete both the Level 2 and Level 3 City & Guilds qualifications, as well as a professional pet first aid course and salon training. This is a 30-day course, as well as a minimum of 150 hours of home study, priced at £5,650 part time with full time options also available.

How much these qualifications are will vary by salon and provider, so you may want to compare courses across different providers to get the best price.

Next steps after qualifying

With the right experience and qualifications, you could become a self-employed dog groomer and work from home or become a mobile dog groomer who visits owners’ homes. Alternatively, you could open your own salon or teach dog grooming classes. Being a dog groomer is a rewarding career where no two days are the same. If you’re an animal lover who is seeking a career that doesn’t feel like work, dog grooming could be the perfect choice for you.

Get your dog grooming insurance today from Protectivity

Are you a dog groomer who wants reassurance at work, should something go wrong? Perhaps you run your own dog grooming salon or operate on a mobile basis. Whatever your circumstances, having an affordable, quality Dog Grooming Insurance policy in place can give you the peace of mind that should disaster strike, you have the support you need to put things right. Your insurance policy will include a range of benefits such as Public Liability Insurance and cover for any specialist equipment you use at work. Get a quote today for dog grooming insurance and put your mind at ease.

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11:43:24 GMT • 14 January 2025

How to Set Up a Sports Coaching Business in the UK

24 October 2022

•

6 mins read

Contributors

Mandy has been with Starpeak Insurance Solutions since 2018, starting in sales in the consumer department and mov...

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Sports coaching has gained real popularity as a business and career option in recent years. Being a sports coach is rewarding, helps you keep fit, supports you play an active role in your local community, and allows you to build a successful life for yourself.

Because it’s so popular, it isn’t easy to create an enterprise that succeeds long-term, but it’s by no means impossible. In this guide, we’ll explore all the basics you need to know around setting up a sports coaching business, from qualifications and funding, to marketing and insurance.

Why look at starting a sports coaching business?

There’s lots to enjoy from starting your own sports coaching business. To begin with, you’ll be your own boss, and the good decisions you make and the hard work you put in will have a direct influence on your own success. You’ll get to work in a sport (or sports) that you love, impart your wisdom on keen people who feel the same way, and get to savour their achievements as they reach their goals.

From a business point of view, sports coaching businesses can get off the ground relatively quickly and with a small financial outlay. This means you don’t need to take huge risks getting into debt or making big investments, and you can gradually build as you go.

Key considerations when setting up a sports coaching business

You may think that starting out with a sports coaching business just needs some kit, a park and a few willing customers. Well, it’s not quite that simple, but every challenge along the way can be addressed. In particular, you should ensure that these seven areas are covered off:

Qualifications and credentials

Technically speaking, there is no legal requirement to be qualified to operate as a sports coach. However, getting the right credentials is strongly recommended for two reasons: it helps you build a solid reputation and because many insurers won’t cover you without them.

Start by exploring the official qualifications for your chosen sport (the Sport & Recreation Alliance has a list of all the fully accredited bodies). You’ll likely need at least Level 2 to run coaching sessions yourself, and Level 3 if dealing with serious competitive athletes. Also, don’t forget to find out if you need a DBS check, which is very likely if you intend to coach children.

Business model

Before you start, you should work out exactly what you want to do with the business, and that involves asking yourself a lot of questions. Which sport (or sports) do you want to coach? Are you coaching by yourself, or will you hire other coaches? Will you be coaching adults, children or both? Where will you provide your coaching? What is your ultimate long-term aim, either financially or in terms of your own personal achievement? Answering these questions can help you establish a solid business model, and market research can help you work out how viable it’s likely to be.

Initial budget

With that business model in place, you can then assess the level of investment you need to get up and running. You’ll need appropriate kit and equipment to run sessions, especially for sports where your customers may not be able to keep or bring their own. You’ll need to fund associated costs like insurance (more on that later), work out how you’ll manage with transport of yourself and your equipment, and predict venue hire costs (such as a football pitch if you’re a football coach).

Accounting and legal considerations

As with any business, there are certain regulatory and financial requirements you’ll need to comply with. First of all, you should have a business bank account that keeps income and expenditure separate from your own finances, and you should keep fully up-to-date with financial records at all times. You will also need to register either as a sole trader or a limited company with Companies House and submit tax returns (and pay taxes) to HMRC each year. If you don’t feel confident enough to look after these matters, look at hiring the services of a professional accountant to do it for you.

Marketing and advertising

There’s plenty to consider in how you present your business and how you get yourself noticed by potential customers. You’ll need a name for your business, and some corporate branding (many small creative agencies specialise in this work for small businesses). With this in place, you can then develop a website and social media channels to gain interest and consider appealing and regular content that will gain views: writing a blog on your website and promoting it via social media is a good place to start.

Client referrals

Given that there are so many sports coaching businesses vying for attention through advertising and social media, you shouldn’t neglect more traditional ways of marketing like word-of-mouth. Getting a recommendation from a friend, relative or colleague is still hugely powerful in convincing a prospective customer to look at a business, so it remains a great way to expand your customer base. Offering referral discounts to existing customers can encourage them to proactively spread the word and get your name out there in the community.

Insurance

One thing that you absolutely mustn’t overlook for your sports coaching business is insurance. That’s because you never know what might happen next and what you might have to deal with: an accident or injury that sidelines you for a period of time; equipment that’s lost, damaged or stolen; or even an incident involving one of your customers that results in them lodging a compensation claim against you. A comprehensive insurance policy takes care of every eventuality, protecting you against potential financial loss or business disruption.

Get sports coaching insurance with Protectivity

Whatever sport you’re coaching, it’s vital that you have good-quality insurance in place for every eventuality. At Protectivity, we’ve been insuring sports coaches and sports coaching businesses like yours for the past 30 years, and we offer competitive, flexible rates. Our range of policies incorporate public liability, professional indemnity, participant injury cover, equipment cover and personal accident insurance.

With Protectivity, you can have peace of mind that your business is protected and give your customers reassurance that they can train and achieve their goals safely. Take a closer look at our sports coaching insurance options.

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11:43:08 GMT • 14 January 2025

How to Become a Dog Groomer?

21 October 2022

•

6 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

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Britain is a nation of dog lovers, and for many people, there’s no lengths to which they won’t go to keep their treasured pooch fit, healthy and pampered.

It’s no surprise, therefore, that dog grooming is booming. All over the country, enterprising people are taking full advantage of the surge in demand for grooming and related activities. So, if you love dogs, you love taking care of them and you’re looking for a career opportunity, there’s never been a better time to become a skilled, trained groomer.

In this guide, we’ll look at all the key qualifications for dog grooming you can get, the most important skills you’ll need, salary expectations, and why you shouldn’t overlook dog grooming insurance.

What qualifications for dog grooming are required?

There is no official legal requirement to gain any dog grooming qualifications. However, that doesn’t mean to say that it can’t be extremely valuable to get them, as it makes it more likely that you can get a job with a dog grooming company or attract more customers if you decide to go down the self-employed route.

If looking at dog grooming courses for beginners, then expect to take between one and three months to get a recognised City & Guilds qualification, either at Level 2 or Level 3. There are many different courses available, and we recommend finding one that is fully accredited with the PIF (Pet Industry Federation). That will give you the best chance of getting the training you need.

For less formal support, training and education, it may also be worth exploring what the British Dog Groomers’ Association (also part of the PIF) has to offer.

How much money do dog groomers make?

If you’re just starting out in the dog grooming world, then you’ll most likely be employed as a junior or apprentice with an established business. According to the National Careers Service, dog groomers will typically start on relatively low wages, but can work their way up to around £20,000 per year in time.

Where you can start to earn a lot more money is when you have the experience and skills to branch out on your own and go self-employed. Your earnings will then be tied to how much you charge per hour, less tax and operating expenses. In the UK at present, typical rates for freelance dog groomers generally run at around £20-30 per hour, prices varying depending on location, the size and condition of each dog, and its general temperament. However, it’s entirely possible to earn substantially more than this: top-quality groomers are known to charge as much as £80 an hour.

You should also be aware that most owners take their dogs for grooming at evenings and weekends because they’re at work during the day, and so you should expect to work less sociable hours as a matter of routine.

What skills are needed for dog grooming?

Dog grooming is a very specific job that demands a certain level of skills. Most importantly, you need the right attitude: it can be a decidedly unglamorous job and not every day will be like Crufts.

Of course, pets will misbehave. You may well get bitten, and they may well go to the toilet on you, so you’ll need the right mentality to keep dogs calm and shrug off any incidents. You’ll also need to feel comfortable around other people’s pets, and comfortable communicating with demanding owners: sometimes it isn’t always the dogs that are highly strung…

If you’re self-employed, you’ll also have lots of responsibilities to consider from a business perspective, including understanding typical costs. For example, you’ll need to build a compelling website full of high-quality images and videos of your work and create a presence on social media so you become known in your area and develop a following. You’ll also have a number of administrative duties to fulfil, such as registering and self-assessing your tax to HMRC, organising your schedule, managing your finances and expenses, and arranging good-quality insurance cover.

Why is dog grooming insurance important?

If a dog owner comes to you and wants you to groom their dog, they will have the basic expectation that you will care for their dog as much as they do. This means behaving with the very highest standards of diligence and professionalism. However, no human being is perfect, and sometimes things can, and will, go wrong.

It’s in these situations that having professional dog grooming insurance in place is absolutely vital, especially one that is tailored to the specifics of your work. You should look for a comprehensive policy that brings together many different types of cover, including (but not necessarily limited to):

– Public Liability Insurance: if you accidentally injure someone or damage property in the course of your work, this cover takes care of any legal costs incurred if you find yourself in court as a result

– Care, Custody and Control: if an animal under your care is lost, becomes ill or is injured, this type of insurance covers any compensation that becomes due to the owner

– Specialist Equipment: your valuable equipment, from grooming tables to cutting kit, can all be covered in the event of loss, theft or damage. If you’re intending to operate as a mobile groomer, you should ensure your vehicle is adequately covered, too

Get dog grooming insurance with Protectivity

At Protectivity, we provide a variety of comprehensive packages for every type of dog groomer at every level of experience. Our pet business insurance includes public liability cover, protection for up to £30,000 of specialist equipment, and up to £100,000 of Care, Custody and Control cover, it can deliver reassurance and confidence for you and owners alike.

Take a closer look at all of our dog grooming insurance options here.

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11:42:52 GMT • 14 January 2025

How to Ask for Event Sponsorship

4 October 2022

•

6 mins read

Contributors

Mandy has been with Starpeak Insurance Solutions since 2018, starting in sales in the consumer department and mov...

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If you’re planning or hosting an event, have you considered looking for sponsorship? Whether it’s a private, public or commercial event, sponsorship can grow demand, visibility or attendance to support your efforts and make the occasion one to remember.

This guide gives you all the information you need to learn how to: get event sponsorship, identify opportunities for sponsorship and find the right sponsorship for your event.

What is event sponsorship?

Event sponsorship is when an organisation or individual provides financial assistance in return for promotion. Sponsorship comes in several different ways, which can be a direct payment or the supply of goods or services with the aim of enhancing the event’s success.

The sponsor should receive a benefit in return for their support. This could be visibility through signage or branding, free tickets for staff members, access to participants’ data or the opportunity to speak at the event. Whatever the perk for the sponsor, the objective will always be to receive exposure and grow their own business simultaneously.

Why is sponsorship important for events?

Gaining event sponsorship is a brilliant way of attracting investment, visibility and participants to your event, as you will:

– Create partnerships with new companies or business owners

– Receive a healthy contribution towards the budget, so that you can plan and execute the best occasion possible by providing better catering, hiring more staff or marketing your occasion to a wider audience

– Add credibility to your event which would take years to build organically (sponsorship can show that a company believes your occasion is going to be a success)

Through their additional contacts and resources, your sponsor can also use their resources to increase the quality of your event. Your sponsor may be able to deliver professional services or provide their expertise to supply quality goods that can enhance participants’ experience throughout the day.

How to find event sponsorship

One of the key aspects of gaining event sponsorship is finding the right brands to sponsor your event and ones that will provide the right type of sponsorship.

Firstly, you must understand the objective and background of your own event. If you’re planning a small gathering, you’re unlikely to receive sponsorship from a global, well-known company. Instead, you should be realistic and target the right size of sponsor, it will also be beneficial to target sponsors who will have a vested interest in your event. This may be for geographical reasons if it’s a local company, or a businessman who wants to grow their reputation in your community.

You’re also more likely to receive sponsorship from brands that share the same values as the event you’re hosting. For instance, if the aim of your gathering is to promote health and fitness, a local fast-food takeaway is not the best brand to work with to share your message.

A good place to start is to target brands who are open to sponsoring an event. It’ll take a lot less convincing to get them on board as they’re already accustomed to sponsorship, and you may be able to charge more if they have a pre-existing sponsorship budget. As a result, we recommend using dedicated sponsorship websites such as sponsorseeker.co.uk to find your perfect partner before reaching out to businesses.

A great organiser is always able to attract the best sponsorship deals from brands that will have the most benefit to the event. You can find out more about developing your event management skills here.

How to get event sponsorship

The first step of asking for sponsorship is having a clear idea of what you want from your prospective sponsor. The sponsorship package should be a win-win for both sides, so the package should clearly set out what the perks will be for both the organiser and the sponsor.

You should consider incorporating varying price brackets, so that your potential sponsor can choose the level of input they want to commit to. The more expensive the package, the more benefit for the sponsor and while you may have to concede more control over your event the more money they will add to your budget.

To maximise the sponsorship, the package could cover part of the event (for example, one day of a weekend event), or cover multiple days at an increased cost. By having a package that covers a part of the event, this will give you the option to have multiple sponsors across different days. Ensure that you alter the targeting of your sponsorship package for each brand that you are approaching to sponsor you, so that they get more focused and relevant experiences.

If you have a target brand in mind, attempt to identify a specific person from the company such as the sponsorship or marketing manager, or someone higher up if possible. This will allow you to contact the decision-makers who will have more influence over whether they want to sponsor your event or not. Using generic email addresses or contact forms risks your approach reaching the wrong person or being lost amongst spam folders.

Sponsorship examples

If you need some event sponsorship ideas, then branded items can help you activate the marketing spend of your sponsors. These items can help you ensure that your package is unique and innovative and entice brands to choose your occasion to sponsor. Examples of items that can be branded include:

– Photo frames

– Unique Wi-Fi name or password

– Giveaway items

– Charging stations

– Sponsored live stream

– Ticketing or wristbands

Get event insurance with Protectivity

No good event takes place without good insurance cover that protects the health, well-being and interests of organisers, visitors and sponsors alike.

Whether you’re an organiser or a stallholder, get a free, instant quote for Event Insurance and ensure you’re not left out of pocket as a result of any unforeseen circumstances. For larger scale events its also worth considering events cancellation insurance.

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11:42:37 GMT • 14 January 2025

How to Market a Dog Walking Business

17 August 2022

•

4 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

Get dog walking insurance from Protectivity

Do you love dogs? Then a dog walking business could allow you to run a business doing something you truly love. As with any enterprise, success is likely to lie in its marketing. So, here’s a few tips and suggestions about how to market a dog walking business.

About Us

As with any other business, there are risks – in the case of dog walking, the main risks are that an animal in your care gets injured, lost, or even killed. You may also face claims from a member of the public, if a dog in your care injures them or their dog. You might even lose the keys to your clients house and need to get the locks changed as a result. Our specialist Dog Walking Insurance can safely cover each of these risks.

Publish your website

It’s practically impossible for any business to thrive without a website – so it’s well worth devoting the time and resources to building and publishing a website that best markets your dog walking business.

Invest in the software

Along with your website, remember that there is a wide range of software to assist in just about every aspect of running your business – and, in this case, software designed to capture and manage your bookings will prove a real boon.

For example, Pet Sitter Plus is an online scheduling and invoicing software system designed specifically for dog walking businesses. Time To Pet is another specifically designed software system for dog walkers (and pet sitters) including real-time updates and in-app messaging.

Make the most of social media

Your customers are almost certain to be using some of the many social media platforms – so why not join the conversation and seize the opportunity to market your dog walking business along the way?

When promoting your business, demonstrate your professionalism by making sure your customers know you are fully certified and insured. Engage with posts to show that you are knowledgeable and helpful – and always keep it professional.

Blog it

Combine your following on social media with a blog on your website. A focused and carefully crafted blog can play a crucial role in marketing your business – so spend the time, imagination, and creativity writing an engaging and regular blog.

Use your blog to answer your customers’ questions – or those you wish they’d asked – and to emphasise the benefits and advantages of the dog walking services you offer.

Post reviews (get the reviewer’s permission first) and photos (again, get permission from the dog’s owner to use any images).

Promotional materials

Today, it might be tempting to concentrate so much on electronic media that you overlook good old-fashioned marketing through hard copies of marketing and promotional materials – such as leaflets, flyers, and business cards.

You don’t need to stop there but could also give promotional handouts such as toys for prospective customers’ dogs.

Claim your business page

Many of your prospective customers will be turning to online listings from local businesses to find dog walking services in your area. So, make sure you’re included on as many of those listings sites as possible – many of them will offer a free listing for your business page, so claim it.

Partnerships

Keep a keen eye open for any opportunity to partner with existing businesses and organisations in your area. These might include contacts with your local animal shelter, pet shops, dog food and accessories suppliers, or organisations offering pet therapy to local care homes, hospitals, and hospices.

Summary

Your start-up costs for a dog walking business are likely to be minimal. (You may wish to read our How to start a dog walking business blog for more information). However, you can splash out on marketing the enterprise so that you are making the most of your presence in the market, capturing vital clientele, and growing your business to that all-important profitable bottom line.

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11:42:05 GMT • 14 January 2025

Who Needs Public Liability Insurance?

25 July 2022

•

4 mins read

Contributors

Mandy has been with Starpeak Insurance Solutions since 2018, starting in sales in the consumer department and mov...

Who needs Public Liability Insurance? If you run any kind of business, you will need this type of insurance cover – it could save you a small fortune. And as we’ll see, some companies could benefit from the protection of Public Liability Insurance more than others.

About Us

If you are in any business, you run the risk of a customer, suppliers, or even a passing member of the public suffering an injury or having their property damaged and holding you and your business liable.

To provide indemnity, effectively, protection against your potential financial losses in meeting any such claim, Public Liability Insurance is at the heart of a number of our business insurance packages – including our Pet Business Insurance, Event Cancellation Insurance and Personal Trainer Insurance.

Is Public Liability Insurance a legal requirement?

Although it offers sound financial protection against the potential losses to your business from claims of liability, Public Liability Insurance (PLI) is not a legal requirement.

Nevertheless, by arranging this cover – which is almost certain to have been put in place by other reputable businesses in similar enterprises to your own – you may be demonstrating just how seriously you take your mission and the customers you serve.

When is Public Liability Insurance required?

Public Liability Insurance is designed to protect you and your business against claims for injuries or property damage suffered by any third party.

Give it just a moment or two’s thought, and you may realise that these are risks which could be faced by just about any business, however large or small, in whatever area of activity.

What types of businesses need PLI?

In some businesses, you may face those risks more frequently than others – despite all the reasonable precautions you have taken to avoid them.

If you run a pet business, a customer might claim that they suffered an injury when one of the animals in your care bit or scratched them, for example.

If you are in the business of organising events, there are all manner of occasions. Such as when one of the guests or participants suffers an injury or has their property damaged and holds you responsible.

If you are a personal trainer, one or more of your exercise routines might have left a client with injuries for which they hold you liable.

Do I need Public Liability Insurance for a private party or a wedding?

You might be surprised by the extensive range of situations in which you can be held responsible for another person suffering an injury or having their property damaged – and, if you are held liable, of course, you may be ordered to pay substantial compensation.

Even if you have organised a private party – or a function such as a wedding reception – simply by taking on that role of organiser, you also assume responsibility for taking reasonable care that none of your guests is injured. If they are, they may claim damages from you – and PLI needs to be there to indemnify you against such claims.

What happens if I don’t take out Public Liability Insurance?

If you have not taken out PLI, you may still be held liable if someone is injured or has their property damaged – you may still be ordered to pay the appropriate amount of compensation.

Of course, without any Public Liability Insurance, you must meet the compensation costs from your own pocket and without the indemnity offered by PLI.

Summary

Your liability for injuries sustained by third parties or damage to their property can prove extremely expensive if you are ordered to pay compensation for their losses.

Although public liability risks may be more significant in some enterprises than others, you are likely to need the protection of PLI whatever your line of business – indeed, you may even find it necessary when organising a private function, party, or wedding reception; running a pet business; or being a personal trainer.

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11:40:46 GMT • 14 January 2025

Pension vs Property Investment

25 July 2022

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4 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

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Whether you’re looking to top up other sources of income or regard it as your livelihood, returns on your investments can assume an important role. Some people focus on building their pension pot and others may focus on property investment. Or, some may do a bit of both.

In comparing pension vs property investing, which of the two is likely to come out on top? Which is expected to deliver more attractive returns? Which carries the greater risk?

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There are some forms of insurance that can support your pension income as an investment in your family’s financial security. But our Rent Guarantee Insurance offers more immediate safeguards for the rental income you rely on from your property investment.

Not only can you protect the income from tenants who have defaulted on what they owe, but our Rent Guarantee Insurance package will also cover (up to set limits) the costs associated with any necessary legal action against your tenant.

Pension investing – the pros and cons

There is little doubt that the government is a firm proponent of investing in your pension – it provides a whole raft of incentives designed to encourage this form of saving and investment.

Those incentives typically include compulsory contributions from your employer, tax-free lump sum withdrawals, tax-free growth of your savings, and generous tax relief on your contributions to your pension funds.

So much for the pros – the most significant con when comparing pension vs property investment is that you cannot access your pension savings until you reach the age of 55. And if you do access your pension early, you may be liable to pay tax on it.

Property investment – the pros and cons

There is no limit on the number of properties you may invest in given adequate funding. Moreover, the steady income stream – not to mention the likely capital appreciation you may realise when the property is sold – may prove an especially lucrative investment. Indeed, many people see property investment as an alternative form of a pension plan.

Unlike the contributions you make to your pension plan, however, there are no tax breaks or incentives for property investment. So, you might consider that the risks associated with property investment – a slump in property prices, for example – might counter the potential benefits.

Which has the better potential returns?

Typically, investment decisions are made on the strength of two overriding factors – risk and return. The two are opposite sides of the same coin. Generally speaking, the greater the risks associated with any particular investment, the more attractive you would expect the returns.

The flip side, of course, is the safer any investment, the poorer the returns may be by comparison.

You need to think about the tax incentives for investing in your pension versus the more attractive potential returns come from the steady rental income and capital appreciation through property investments.

Which is less risky?

Pension schemes – whether defined benefit or defined contribution – are regulated by either the Pensions Regulator or the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Defined benefit schemes are further protected by the Pension Protection Fund (PPF) – which can step in to make compensation if an employer goes bust or if there are insufficient funds in the scheme to meet its pension payment obligations.

There is no such regulation or protection of investors in property – so pension investment may be regarded as considerably less risky than property investment.

Summary

Your comparison of pension vs property investing will consider the tax incentives for pension planning and the relatively lower risk associated with pension investments. However, while they might be safer, the returns on your pension investment may likely be lower – and you will be unable to access those funds until you are at least 55 years old.

For quicker, more accessible, and potentially more attractive returns, you might take the risk of property investment.

We strongly recommend you carry out due diligence and seek independent financial advice before making any decision as what investment option is the most appropriate for your own unique financial circumstances.

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11:41:02 GMT • 14 January 2025

How to become a Pilates Instructor

8 June 2022

•

4 mins read

Contributors

Mandy has been with Starpeak Insurance Solutions since 2018, starting in sales in the consumer department and mov...

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Pilates offers low-impact routines for building agility, flexibility and strength, attracting some 12 million adherents worldwide*. As an indication of its popularity in the UK, Pilates retained its place during the recent pandemic.

So, if you enjoy Pilates, why not turn your passion into a business and learn how to become a Pilates instructor?

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Whenever your business is built on personal relationships with your clients – but especially Pilates training that involves close personal contact – there is always the risk of public liability claims. Protection against these makes our Pilates Instructor Insurance so critical for anyone contemplating this kind of business.

Our policies also extend to professional indemnity insurance – another vital safeguard for anyone in the business of offering advice and making recommendations on physical fitness – together with cover for the equipment you use.

Becoming a Pilates instructor

If you are interested in becoming a Pilates instructor, let’s take a closer look at what you need to know.

What skills do you need?

A core quality will be your empathy towards and concern for other people. This will be backed up and demonstrated by the power and understanding of your verbal and non-verbal communication skills.

You will exercise those qualities in the way you watch and observe your clients in action – giving particular attention to their movements and posture. As a result, you can inspire and motivate your clientele in a common quest to mould better versions of themselves.

To achieve this, you must understand and gain extensive knowledge of posture and movement.

What qualifications do you need to be a Pilates instructor?

The entry-level qualification is the Level 3 Diploma in Teaching Mat Pilates. With this training, you can become a Pilates instructor with the authority to teach the routines either to groups or on a one-to-one basis.

The length of your training course will depend on a whole host of factors – mainly determined by the amount of time you can commit and the work you put into the course. Typically, students qualify between four and nine months.

As you develop your skills as a Pilates instructor, you may want to underscore your sense of professionalism and recognition of the level at which you can offer Pilates training by gaining your Level 4 Certificate in Mat Pilates.

Our blog Pilates Teacher Training and Qualifications discusses what qualifications you’ll need in a bit more depth.

Can you make a living as a Pilates instructor?

Yes, you can! How much you will earn depends on how many hours a week you want to work and whether you are starting your own business or employed by a gym etc.

For example, with the former, it will take time to build up your clientele and therefore your earnings.

Sources say that if you are working as a fulltime Pilates instructor, you may be able to earn between £22k-£52k a year**.

Get teaching and get insured

Once you have qualified, you can apply to teach Pilates. You can look for opportunities advertised online or at your local gym. Or, you can start your own Pilates business.

Whichever way you decide to instruct Pilates, you need to make sure that you have Pilates Instructor Insurance to protect you and your clients.

Sources say that if you are working as a fulltime Pilates instructor, you may be able to earn between £22k-£52k a year**.

Summary

Being a Pilates instructor means you are your own boss and doing something you love. In addition, it allows you to earn an income while working reasonably flexible hours.

The popularity of Pilates globally and in the UK means that you are unlikely to be struggling too hard to find customers. However, the success of your business is likely going to depend on your development of the appropriate attitudes and aptitude, qualifications, and equipment – safeguarded, of course, by our Pilates Instructor Insurance.

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