Why introductions matter in public affairs
Public affairs often starts with a simple question: who do we need to speak to? I've been speaking with NHBF Interim President about this question on the NHBF YouTube channel. For organisations trying to influence policy, raise an issue or build a relationship with Government, the answer is rarely as straightforward as sending a letter to…
Policy Update: 2026 elections and the hair & beauty sector
First published on the NHBF website. Last week, elections took place across England, Scotland and Wales. These were not a UK general election, so the UK Government has not changed. However, the results still matter for our sector. Local councils and devolved governments make decisions that affect high streets, business rates, skills, apprenticeships, enforcement and…
Autumn Budget: What It Means for UK Hair & Beauty Businesses
First published on the NHBF website. Rachel Reeves has been very clear about how she wants today’s Budget to be seen: a set of ‘fair and necessary choices’ designed to be ‘built on fairness and fueled by growth’. She doesn’t want a return to austerity and promises to avoid a spree of reckless borrowing. For…
Scotland policy update: Meeting MSPs and tracking new rules for beauty and aesthetics
First published on the NHBF Website. On Tuesday 27 January, I was back at the Scottish Parliament on behalf of NHBF Members, meeting with MSPs (Members of the Scottish Parliament) to talk through what’s happening in the sector right now and what needs to change if Scotland is serious about creating a thriving high street and…