Business and Other Briefings

DWP: A business guide (Growing your customer base to include disabled people) aimed at making more firms aware of the potential spending power of disabled people and encourage them to capitalise on the success of the London 2012 Games has been launched. Commonly referred to as the ‘purple £’ the combined spending power of disabled people in the UK is £80bn a year.
 
Research shows that there are 2 main barriers to SMEs focusing on disabled customers:
* Low awareness of how they could boost their sales & profits by making their business more attractive to disabled customers.
* Fear & discomfort with disability coupled with a narrow understanding of ‘access’ and confusion about what is meant by ‘reasonable adjustments'.
 
The guide provides an explanation of why SMEs should consider making their businesses more accessible, their legal obligations as well as some practical but inexpensive changes they could apply to make their services more accessible to disabled customers. It’s a practical guide for businesses which gives common–sense and often low–cost solutions, which can make a big difference to a disabled customer.
Press release & links
 
HMRCRevenue & Customs Brief 26/12 This Brief explains the withdrawal of the reduced rate of VAT on energy saving materials installed in buildings used for a relevant charitable purpose following infringement proceedings commenced by the European Commission.
 
HMRCRevenue & Customs Brief 25/12
This brief explains the position following the Upper Tribunal decision in the case of The Bridport and West Dorset Golf Club case (FTC/74/2011). The appeal concerned the VAT liability of green fees charged by the golf club to non-members.
 
HMRCRevenue & Customs Brief 24/12
 This Brief asks for comments on draft revised guidance on sampling for a capital allowances claims in respect of fixtures.
 
HMRCRevenue & Customs Brief 23/12
This Brief announces publication of HM Revenue & Customs guidance on Group 16 - Supplies of services by groups involving cost sharing which is to be found in VAT Information Sheet 07/12.
 
HMRCRevenue & Customs Brief 22/12
This Brief provides a statement of HM Revenue & Customs' policy on the place of supply of services connected to land following discussions at EU level.
Spotlight on women at Serco – Anita’s story