Jade Wright

The government plans to provide eligible Universal Credit households with bursaries worth up to £4,500 a year when a young person begins an apprenticeship, addressing an “apprenticeship cliff-edge” that can leave some families financially worse off. Small and medium-sized businesses may also receive up to £8,000 to recruit young apprentices, funded through the Growth and Skills Levy. Ministers and Action for Children say the measures will remove financial barriers to vocational training, while the Conservatives question whether the plans are properly funded.

HM Revenue & Customs reminds millions of Self Assessment taxpayers that the second Payment on Account is due on July 31, affecting self‑employed workers, landlords and others whose tax is not mostly collected through PAYE. Taxpayers can pay via the HMRC app, online or through instalment plans, and may request reduced payments if their income is expected to fall, though underpayment can incur interest. From mid‑July, Child Benefit data will be automatically added for those subject to the High Income Child Benefit Charge, and higher‑earning sole traders and landlords must comply with Making Tax Digital requirements. HMRC also warns taxpayers to stay vigilant against scams and keep account details updated.