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apprentices stood outside

By Armstrong Watson

9th February 2026

Armstrong Watson marks National Apprenticeship Week with growing trainee cohort and appointment of firmwide Technical Training Director

Armstrong Watson is marking National Apprenticeship Week by celebrating the growing number of trainees beginning their careers with the firm, and by strengthening the support they receive following the appointment of Technical Training Director, Chris Soan — former Associate Dean of Education at Newcastle University Business School.

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By Sally Jones

6th February 2026

Bank interest and partial exemption – A new VAT risk for law firms?

Recent increases in interest rates have led many professional services firms to earn more interest on client funds held in deposit accounts. As bank interest may be treated as a VAT-exempt supply, law firms and other businesses with significant interest income should assess whether this additional income affects their ability to recover VAT on overhead costs under the partial exemption rules.

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By Armstrong Watson

5th February 2026

Accounting trainees share experience of apprenticeships

As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2026, accounting trainees Fern Varah and Alex Rose have shared their experiences of working towards their qualifications and the opportunities provided to them along the way. 

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By Mark Beauchamp

5th February 2026

Celebrating apprenticeships and busting the myths

Apprenticeships have been surrounded by many myths over the years, and it’s important to set the record straight as times have changed. While apprenticeships were once the domain of skilled occupations, they are now available in nearly all professions.

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Cyber deal

By Armstrong Watson

3rd February 2026

Armstrong Watson partners with Chamber of Commerce to improve cyber defences across D&G

Armstrong Watson Cyber Security Solutions has joined forces with Dumfries and Galloway Chamber of Commerce to boost cyber resilience among the region’s business community.

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id scan

By Adam Pattison

2nd February 2026

Companies House ID verification FAQs for company directors and PSCs

From 18 November 2025, identity verification became a legal requirement for company directors, People with Significant Control (PSCs), and others responsible for filing company information.

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legal sector

By Huw Nicholls

2nd February 2026

Planning for and completing an Accountant’s Report: Key recommendations for law firms

The Solicitors Regulation Authoroity (SRA) has produced guidance to assist in the planning and completion of an Accountant’s Report. The SRA recommends that this is not just read by reporting accountants but by law firms too. From a law firm perspective, the guidance helps firms understand what procedures will ensure client money is properly safeguarded, and what factors might lead to a reporting accountant qualifying their report.

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Law firm

By Douglas Russell

30th January 2026

How can law firms thrive in 2026?

In 2026, the legal sector continues to face a challenging economic outlook with key pressures including rising operational costs, talent shortages, AI adoption and a regulatory landscape that is rapidly evolving.

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By Lindsey Cooper

22nd January 2026

Challenges facing UK Pharmacies in 2026: Navigating financial constraints and rising costs

UK pharmacies are navigating a complex landscape marked by funding cuts, rising operational costs, regulatory changes, technological advancements, and workforce challenges, but there are way they can look to improve their position by following some best practice guidance. 

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Corporate finance deal

By Armstrong Watson

21st January 2026

Family service station business sold as founder retires after almost three decades of success

A long-standing family business operating four service stations across Dumfries and Galloway has entered a new chapter following its successful sale to Grove Retail Limited.

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