Rank: New forum user 
|
I am currently working in a full time Health & Safety role for an organisation. I am however offered private work on occasions. This seems to be getting quite regular and I have to turn it down. I would however like to take on some private work in my spare time but would want to keep this legit and not go to jail...hmmm.
Can anyone help me with what I actually need to set up a small concern giving advise only, maybe undertaking a few Risk Assessments, Safe systems, basic Health & Safety training and possibly some manual handling training also. Many of you are probably doing it already and I could benefit from your experiences.
Many thanks.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rank: Super forum user 
|
It may be more beneficial to look in the career forums and search on those setting up consultancies.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rank: Forum user
|
The HMRC runs courses regarding setting up business, my wife has atteded these and have been great regarding the tax implications and what expenses you can claim relief on. Also don;t forget the PI insurance but shop around for quotes as they can vary
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rank: Super forum user
|
Have you checked the terms and conditions in your contract of employment? Many will exclude the employee from taking on work for third parties for financial or material gain or require this to be authorised by the employer. You will also need to ensure that any outside client does not represent a possible conflict of interest with your main employer. Finally, make sure you cannot be accused by your main employer of using any of their equipment, facilities, etc. for gain due to external activities.
This is not meant to be negative, by the way, just a note of caution to ensure that you do not find yourself in difficulties. Not knowing your relationship with your current employer, but if this is good, then explaining the them what you propose doing and ensuring that they have no objections could be a good move.
Chris
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rank: Super forum user 
|
Good advice up to now - here's my little contribution.
Further to Chris's advice look out for any conflict of interest with your employer and any client you may work for.
Employ an accountant - once. That way you will find out what you can and cannot claim for, how to set up your accounts etc.
Once you have a set of accounts you can do them yourself following the same format.
Fill out your self employed tax return, at the end of your tax year. This can start at any point in the year you want it to. If you feel the need to - speak to IR&C for further advice. You may be surprised by the tax you have to pay? (Balancing payments for the following year effectively mean you pay twice as much tax as you think you should).
Put away your tax money - little and often. and do the tax return as early as you can. That way you know exactly what you have to pay and when. You don't want a big bill to hit you late in the payment year..
PI Insurance is essential, the most common level is £1m. Search on Internet and you will get a good deal. Pay monthly DD.
Don't take on too much while employed - nothing worse than your main employer getting hacked off with you being tired from all that extra work, remember who is paying your main salary.
Do you drive a company car? If so your employer will not like you using it for your self employment.
Use your own car and get it insured business use.
What about your mobile? Is it a company phone? Same goes as for the car.
Finally - as I have learned over the past few years use this forum for advice and guidance. You don't know what you don't know!
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rank: Forum user
|
do agree with you Chris....... keep it up... cheers
|
|
|
|
|
|
You cannot post new topics in this forum.
You cannot reply to topics in this forum.
You cannot delete your posts in this forum.
You cannot edit your posts in this forum.
You cannot create polls in this forum.
You cannot vote in polls in this forum.