Talk Business Magazine September 2014 | Page 17

NEWS Latest stories NEWS B ritain has been revealed as a nation of hidden business fleets, with onethird of British drivers who drive as part of their job being uninsured for business miles, according to research from telematics company, Masternaut. On average, these drivers clock up 4,708 uninsured business miles per year whilst driving for work. 70% of those surveyed said that their employers do not provide any driver training to ensure they drive safely and efficiently, despite legislation being in place that obliges them to do so. A fifth of respondents (19%) One-third of business drivers not insured Almost 5,000 miles are covered by each uninsured driver on average said that they have had an accident whilst driving for work. When asked who would be liable for such an accident, 80% said it would be their responsibility, while 20% thought an accident would be their employer’s. Martin Hiscox, CEO and chairman of Masternaut, commented: “Driving for work is recognised as one of the most dangerous occupations, and these findings clearly demonstrate a vital need for employers to educate staff on safe driving practises. The insurance industry is spending £2.2 billion on claims annually. This is the tip of the iceberg when you consider on-costs, downtime and the cost to businesses that self-insure.” The research results come from a survey of 2,000 UK employees that drive as part of their job – commissioned by Masternaut – to discover the true extent of Britain’s cloaked fleets. SMEs missing out on up to £2,000 The Government’s Growth Vouchers Scheme can offer funding for strategic business advice B usinesses in England can take advantage of a scheme by the Government designed to offer business advice to SMEs and entrepreneurs. Those companies based in England with less than 49 employees, that have been actively selling goods or services for at least one year, and have not paid for strategic business advice in the last three years are eligible for the vouchers. This Government programme helps small businesses get strategic business advice on finance and cash flow, recruiting and developing staff, improving leadership and management skills, marketing, attracting and keeping customers, and making the most of digital t V6