AUDIO NEWS: Building firms in 'critical financial distress' jumps by 70% and right to work checks to be extended

The number of construction firms in 'critical financial distress' leaps by 70% in Q3, right to work checks to be extended to self employed subbies and plumber helps out a mum and baby

The number of construction firms in ‘critical financial distress’ has jumped by 70% — that’s according to Begbies Traynor.

The financial advisory firm also estimated there was a 14% increase in the number of construction businesses in ‘significant financial distress’.

Firms offering specialised design services, developing building projects or providing plumbing and heating installation saw the biggest increases in financial distress.

Begbies Traynor managing partner, Julie Palmer warned that many small and medium sized construction businesses were “close to the wire”.

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The government is planning to extend ‘right to work’ checks to self-employed subbies as part of a crackdown on illegal migrants and rogue employers.

Under proposals published last week, contractors will be legally required to carry out checks confirming that anyone working in their name is eligible to work in the UK.

Firms failing to carry out the checks risk hefty penalties, including fines of up to £60,000 per worker, business closures and prison sentences.

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A dad has praised the plumber who helped his wife and baby after they were in a car accident.

Alfred Masons said that Brett Shorter was an absolute star after he pulled over and waited with his wife and child for two and a half hours until he could reach them.

Brett even helped tow the damaged car home later that same evening

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