
Business
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Unlocking potential in Somerset businesses through supported internships
Has your business ever considered supported internships?
Taking on someone with specialist skillsets – a future team member who could truly make a difference to your organisation. Word is spreading, and more businesses are beginning to take an interest.
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How to spot and stop Christmas scam messages targeting your business
Christmas scam messages for UK businesses often mimic urgent delivery issues (fake fees/missed parcels), fake gift cards/promotions, CEO fraud (urgent payments), and phishing emails/e-cards to steal data or install malware, using urgency and fake legitimacy to trick staff into clicking links or sharing details.
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Bring free blood pressure checks to your workplace
Somerset businesses of all sizes are joining the Take the Pressure Off campaign – a joint initiative between Public Health Somerset and NHS Somerset – by offering on-site blood pressure checks for their staff.
From manufacturing and construction to retail, hospitality and logistics, many employers have already hosted pop-up sessions in break rooms, depots, offices and staff training days.
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The Good Business Fund helps purpose-driven organisations thrive
Just Enough Brave, in partnership with Altitude Design, offers the Good Business Fund to charities, social enterprises, and businesses with a clear social or environmental purpose.
Rather than a cash grant, the fund provides up to £15,000 worth of free creative and digital consultancy, helping organisations strengthen their brand, digital presence, and communications to maximise impact. This initiative champions sustainability and social value, giving mission-led organisations the tools to thrive.
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Toolkit introduced to support solicitors in addressing domestic abuse
Domestic abuse is a widespread issue impacting individuals, families, and support services across all communities. Solicitors often face challenges when assisting clients who may be hesitant to disclose abuse or unaware of their legal rights, making it crucial for legal professionals to have effective resources.
To address this need, we’re pleased to introduce the Domestic Abuse Toolkit for Solicitors – a practical, user-friendly resource designed to boost solicitors’ confidence and skills when supporting clients experiencing domestic abuse.
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Partner with us: Supporting inclusive workplaces
We’re seeking to collaborate with businesses/organisations that provide training, advice, guidance, or support to businesses around health conditions or disabilities – whether visible or hidden.
This includes expertise in creating inclusive workplaces and supporting employers/employees with diverse needs.
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Help shape Somerset’s skills future with LSIP
The Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) is a government-backed initiative designed to ensure that training and education in Somerset truly meet the needs of local employers.
By identifying current and future skills gaps, LSIP helps create a workforce that is ready for the challenges ahead.
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Have your say on Somerset’s budget for 2026-2027
We’re inviting businesses to share their views on the proposed budget for 2026-2027. Your feedback is vital in shaping priorities and ensuring resources are allocated where they matter most.
To help you understand the proposals and ask questions, join one of our online information sessions via MS Teams:
Your input can make a real difference. Please take a few minutes to contribute and help shape Somerset’s future.
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Join us this Christmas: help tackle homelessness in Somerset
As Christmas approaches – a time of warmth, generosity, and community – Somerset businesses have a unique opportunity to make a real difference for those facing homelessness in our county.
The Somerset Homelessness Partnership, made up of statutory agencies – including Somerset Council, the NHS, and the Probation Service – alongside representatives from the voluntary sector, has launched the Somerset Homelessness Charter: a county-wide commitment to make homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring.
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Economic development news
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Visit our news archive to stay informed on the latest business and economic developments shaping Somerset.
From growth opportunities and funding updates to insights on local initiatives, you’ll find everything you need to keep your business ahead.
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Upcoming events to highlight in this month’s edition
Boost workplace wellbeing with Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership’s (SASP) free, online Move More and Live Longer Better workshop on 15 January 2026, between 10am and 11.30am.
Learn practical ways to encourage physical activity and support healthier lifestyles in your workplace.
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Also, don’t forget to check the following websites for a series of insightful upcoming business events, ranging from online networking to in-depth workshops and in-person training sessions.
Whether you’re looking to expand your network, gain new skills, or explore new opportunities, there’s something for all business types.
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If your business needs support, has news, developments, or a good news story, please email the team at ecdev@somerset.gov.uk.
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