AUDIO NEWS: MPs back calls to slash red tape for SME builders and OTT tackles mental health stigma

An all-party parliamentary group throws support behind a plan to reduce red tape, OTT launches mental health campaign and tradespeople warned about overloading vans

A group of MPs have backed calls to slash red tape for small and medium sized housebuilders.

The all-party parliamentary group (APPG) has supported a nine-point plan by developer Pocket Living to accelerate construction through a series of targeted regulatory exemptions.

Sara Edwards, chair of the parliamentary group said that SME housebuilders have the flexibility to transform local communities that large developers don’t, but “these builders face disproportionate costs, stifling their contribution.”

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On The Tools has launched a series of videos to break down the stigma surrounding mental health in the trades.

Created as part of its Lost City fundraising initiative, the suicide prevention campaign aims to normalise therapy and encourage tradespeople to seek support.

The videos feature real tradespeople sharing their personal mental health experiences.

A survey by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) released in May estimated that 28% of those working in the industry had experienced suicidal thoughts at least once in the last year.

To donate to the Lost City campaign click here.

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Tradespeople could face fines of up to £300 and be deducted penalty points if they overload their vans, experts from Leaseloco.com have warned.

All commercial vehicles have a gross vehicle weight (GVW), which drivers are responsible for complying with. 

Overloading a van will increase its braking distance, reduce control and heighten the risk of tyre blowouts.

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