Carpenter Box hosts Investment and Tax Seminars to share practical actions for the tax year end and beyond

Carpenter Box is hosting two breakfast briefings  on 5 and 12 March in Horsham and Chichester for individuals and business owners keen to hear how they can best navigate the current tax and investment landscapes. Tax and financial planning experts will share clear, actionable guidance on the key steps to consider as we move into the 2026/27 tax year, including investment, pension and inheritance tax planning opportunities that are available now or shortly after the year end.

Carpenter Box Partner and Head of Private Client Services, David Crowter, commented: “Planning ahead of the tax year end is one of the most effective ways to improve financial outcomes, yet many opportunities are missed without timely advice. This seminar will focus on the current economic climate and practical financial and tax planning actions you can take around the end of the tax year, helping you make informed decisions, protect your wealth and plan with confidence for the year ahead.”

Joining Carpenter Box’s David Crowter, the speaker line-up brings together specialists from CB Financial Advisers and LGT Wealth Management, offering a joined-up perspective across tax, investment and financial planning. 

The sessions will provide a concise overview of recent tax announcements, including relevant measures from the upcoming Spring Forecast and the 2025 Autumn Budget, to give context to planning decisions. This will include commentary on the recent announcement to increase the planned inheritance tax threshold for business owners and farmers, with insight into how this may influence longer-term planning.

The events will be held at South Lodge Hotel, Horsham: 8-10am on Thursday 5 March, and Harbour Hotel, Chichester: 8-10am on Thursday 12 March. More information and booking is at https://www.carpenterbox.com/event/investment-and-tax-seminar-2026/

Photo caption

Left to right: David Crowter (Carpenter Box) and Roy Thompson (CB Financial Advisers).

Turning Tides Pioneer New Alcohol Recover Method

At Turning Tides, the organisation believes that everyone deserves access to recovery. That belief has driven their Recovery Project to adopt a bold and ambitious approach to alcohol recovery—one that is now achieving outcomes that quietly outperform national averages.

The program was launched over 10 years ago by Turning Tides after the team recognised that people who were most heavily dependent on alcohol were being excluded from treatment. Head of Operations, Niall Read, explained:
“At the time, the main treatment providers would not assess people who couldn’t blow under the drink-drive limit, which is .35 on a breathalyser. Because some of the clients we work with are so highly alcohol dependent, the first thing they do when they wake is drink due to severe withdrawal symptoms. There was no kind of treatment option for them.”

For people who are alcohol dependent, stopping drinking suddenly brings on severe withdrawal symptoms such as seizures and, unlike any other drug, it can cause death. A new treatment method was needed if Turning Tides was to help those suffering with alcohol dependency.

The Managed Alcohol Withdrawal (MAW) Program

The Managed Alcohol Withdrawal (MAW) programme gradually and safely reduces alcohol intake under close clinical supervision within a trauma‑informed residential setting.

Turning Tides’ Recovery Project became the only service in the UK to support people to recover from alcohol addiction using alcohol itself, rather than replacing it with addictive medication such as benzodiazepines. This approach provides both reduced withdrawal symptoms and avoids introducing another addictive substance.

Following Turning Tides’ success, other services are now adopting this method in different settings, and the organisation’s work was recently featured by ITV. The latest coverage includes interviews with Recovery Project Manager, Grant Purser, and former client Mark Hounsome, who shares his journey and his love for sobriety.

Person‑Centred Care That Works

The MAW programme is carefully tailored to each individual. Only one person completes the programme at a time, enabling intensive, round‑the‑clock support.

Before entering the programme, clients work with the organisation’s Substance Misuse Nurse and their GP to assess medical history and physical health. They complete a drinks diary—sometimes using bottle tops to calculate amounts if a diary feels overwhelming—so that reduction can be planned safely and realistically.

Once in the programme:

• Alcohol is provided in measured amounts throughout the day in a clinical setting
• Only one type of alcohol is used, agreed with the client
• Reduction happens gradually over 20 days
• Withdrawal symptoms and wellbeing are constantly monitored

Substance Misuse Nurse Louise Slaney explains:
“Alcohol is the most dangerous substance to withdraw from. It has to be done slowly, with constant monitoring. By reducing alcohol itself rather than replacing it with medication, we often see fewer severe withdrawal symptoms and a better psychological experience.”

This is person‑centred care in action—meeting people where they are, listening to their needs, and building recovery with them, not for them.

Clients who complete the MAW programme then move into the main Recovery Project house, staying between nine months and two years. From there, they progress into Turning Tides’ lower‑support accommodation and, ultimately, into their own homes.

Recovery is not a single moment; it is a journey that is not always linear.

Accountable, Evidence‑Led Results

The programme has been running successfully for over 10 years, with extremely low drop‑out rates. Since 2019, 34 people have completed managed alcohol withdrawal through the Recovery Project:

• 79.41% remained sober for at least three months
• 41% achieved long‑term sobriety of a year or more

By comparison, national data suggests that only around 46–47% of people exit alcohol treatment successfully, and long‑term sobriety rates are significantly lower among people with complex needs, including homelessness.

The MAW model has been developed in collaboration with local GPs, addiction specialists, and independently reviewed by respected clinicians, including Dr Marian de Ruiter MB BS MRCPsych.

This reflects Turning Tides’ commitment to accountability—continually reviewing, refining and validating their work to ensure it is safe, effective and genuinely life‑changing.

Why This Matters Now

Demand for homelessness and addiction services continues to rise across the Southeast, while pressure on NHS services grows.

Turning Tides believes it is vital to ensure that recovery remains possible for all who want it.

As Niall Read notes:
“It’s about using an approach that actually works for people who are usually written off as ‘too difficult to treat’. We would love to reach more people and open up more Recovery Projects like this across West Sussex.”

With the right support, investment and collaboration, this model has the potential to save lives and change the national conversation around addiction, homelessness and recovery.

https://www.turning-tides.org.uk/

Kreston Reeves announces new chapter as it joins AAB to accelerate growth

Accountants and business advisers Kreston Reeves and AAB have today announced a landmark deal, creating an accounting and advisory powerhouse with national and international reach for ambitious organisations and individuals. This will take the combined business beyond £200 million in annual revenue. 

With seven offices across London, Kent and Sussex and more than 550 people, Kreston Reeves is highly regarded for its high-touch, personalised client service and its strong supportive culture. 

 AAB, supported by Goldman Sachs Alternatives, is one of the fastest growing mid-market professional services firms having secured 18 deals across the UK and Ireland in the last four years.  

The joining of Kreston Reeves and AAB reflects the evolving and increasingly competitive accounting landscape. It will further strengthen Kreston Reeves’ investment in its people, technology and tools enabling the firm to deliver an even better service to clients wherever they are based. For AAB, the partnership gives the firm a growing London and South East presence with Kreston Reeves becoming their hub in the region. 

Richard Spofforth, Managing Partner at Kreston Reeves, said: 

“This is a significant milestone for our business, people and clients. Building on the strengths we have at Kreston Reeves, it will create new opportunities for our talented colleagues. For our clients, it will provide them with access to broader specialist expertise together with greater geographic reach.  

  “Most importantly, AAB shares the same values as Kreston Reeves, giving us a combined platform for sustainable long-term growth." 

Emma Lancaster, Chief Executive at AAB, said: 

“This is a major milestone for AAB and a clear demonstration of our ambition to become the leading professional services firm serving the mid-market. Growing the group beyond £200 million revenue is not about growth for growth’s sake - it’s about building a resilient, sustainable business that delivers long-term value for our clients, our people and our communities.

“This is our third deal since our investment deal with Goldman Sachs Alternatives was completed two months ago, and we are hugely excited about the future opportunities ahead as we continue to scale by combining businesses who share our dedication to putting clients at the heart of everything we do.”

Jose Barreto, Partner, and Mihir Lal, Managing Director, Private Equity at Goldman Sachs Alternatives, said: 

"We are very excited about the strategic combination of AAB and Kreston Reeves. This partnership accelerates our vision for a national presence across the UK and Ireland, delivering essential scale in the South-East of England. The deep cultural alignment between AAB and Kreston Reeves will strengthen the collective offering for both customers and employees."

AAB’s strategic expansion plan is set to continue with further investment opportunities already under discussion to strengthen its regional and national footprint. In combining with Kreston Reeves, AAB will employ over 1,800 people across 23 locations in the UK and Ireland.
 
The partnership is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to close in Spring 2026.

Kreston Reeves was advised by Rothschild & Co (financial adviser) and Shoosmiths (legal adviser).

Lainy Russell - International Women's Day Feature

This IWD we're celebrating some of the female leaders, founders and entrepreneurs in our Chamber. In this feature we talked to Lainy Russell from Flourish.

1. How did you get to where you are today?

My business evolved from working in education and senior management.  I was drawn to the students that were ‘difficult’ to manage and staff that seemed to mirror similar behaviours. This led to learning more about the ‘why’ behind behaviour. What I soon realised was the reasons were complex. Along the way I attended many courses, worked alongside a neuroscientist and read, researched and studied independently for over 30 years. I wanted to make the information, accessible, easy not only to understand, but with real tools you can pick up and use every day. Hence the name ‘Flourish’, as that is my mission for all clients.

2. What would you tell your younger self?

As a teen: keep dreaming big, you have plenty of time and you are freer now than you are ever going to be

In my 20’s: you can make anything a reality, it’s all about belief, learn to manage your mind and keep expecting the dream

In my 30’s: Don’t listen to advice from people who aren’t where you want to be

In my 40’s: Put your fingers in your ears when around negative people, don’t let it seep into your thinking, it’s never too late and you’re still allowed to dream big!

3. What advice would you give to the next generation of women in business?

Cultivate self-belief above all else, because when you are confident about what you do, it creates an invisible ‘energy’ that makes others feel safe around you and drawn towards you.

Never listen to people who don’t share or understand your dream, they cannot give you moral support or good advice because they are in the wrong place. 

Look at your competitors as potential collaborators, they are not the enemy, they are your tribe!

Hone your craft, never stop learning, always be curious; learn to love change and be flexible because your business will undoubtedly take you on many journeys.

Finally, age isn’t a barrier, you are not too young or too old, that type of thinking is called ‘conditioning’ and you need to erase that from your mind, and put a new message in there.

You can find out more here about this year's International Women's Day agenda - Rights. Justice, Action. For ALL Women and Girls.

Lisa Kerr - International Women's Day Feature

This IWD we're celebrating some of the female leaders, founders and entrepreneurs in our Chamber. In this feature we talked to Lisa Kerr from Think Exceptionally.

1. How did you get to where you are today?

I’m a Deloitte-trained Chartered Accountant with over 20 years in senior finance, operations and HR roles. In 2020, I launched what became Think Exceptionally to help businesses grow and individuals thrive. Around the same time, I was diagnosed Autistic and ADHD – a turning point that reshaped my purpose and fuelled my neurodiversity work. I trained as an ICF-Certified ADHD Life Coach and completed additional neurodiversity-inclusive coaching training to give others the support I didn’t realise I needed during my corporate career. Now I blend consulting, coaching, and speaking to turn complex challenges into opportunities to help people and organisations flourish.

2. What would you tell your younger self?

I’d tell my younger self that you’re not broken, you’re different, and that difference is powerful. Stop trying to fit systems that were never designed for your brain. Your sensitivity, intensity, and curiosity are strengths, not flaws. Burnout isn’t a personal failure; it’s a signal you’ve been pushing too hard to be ‘normal’. Ask for support sooner. Trust your instincts more. You don’t need to earn rest or prove your worth. One day, the things you struggle with now will become the very reason you help others thrive.

3. What advice would you give to the next generation of women in business?

I’d tell the next generation of women in business to stop waiting for permission. You don’t need to be more confident, more qualified, or more likeable to take up space. Build careers or businesses that work with your life and your brain, not against them. Question systems that reward burnout and silence difference. Learn your boundaries early and defend them without apology. Surround yourself with people who challenge you and support you, not just those who look impressive on paper. Community is important so find your tribe. Your perspective is valuable precisely because it’s unique. Use it boldly.

You can find out more here about this year's International Women's Day agenda - Rights. Justice, Action. For ALL Women and Girls.

Sonia Baker - International Women's Day Feature

This IWD we're celebrating some of the female leaders, founders and entrepreneurs in our Chamber. In this feature we talked to Sonia Baker from Sight Support Worthing.

1. How did you get to where you are today? (max 100 words)

I grew up in Brighton and after being very artistic at school, randomly ended up working for the Crown Prosecution Service for 11 years presenting criminal cases in the Magistrates court. I developed some invaluable skills there and having always been a creative, it taught me to be evidenced based in my thinking. However, after having young children I needed more flexible work, so I left and spent several years trying to find my ‘purpose’! I’ve always been an all-rounder who likes variety and luckily I found leadership in the nonprofit sector – which pretty much encompasses everything!

2. What would you tell your younger self? (max 100 words)

Vocation, vocation, vocation! Some young people are academic and know very early they want to be, say, a doctor, but others aren’t or don’t. I would tell any young person starting out to seize any opportunity for work placements, volunteering, or apprenticeships to build your professional experience. You’ll not only build knowledge but valuable soft skills as well. That’s how you’ll find what you love to do. And what you don’t!

3. What advice would you give to the next generation of women in business? (max 100 words)

To remain curious about everything and never stop learning. Also, being able to give back to your local community through your work whether through sharing your knowledge or volunteering or even occasional fundraising. Not only is it incredibly personally rewarding, it boosts your ESG profile and makes business sense!

www.sswcharity.org.uk

You can find out more here about this year's International Women's Day agenda - Rights. Justice, Action. For ALL Women and Girls.

Lisa Hector - International Women's Day Feature

This IWD we're celebrating some of the female leaders, founders and entrepreneurs in our Chamber. In this feature we talked to Lisa Hector from Link to Hope. 

1. How did you get to where you are today?

I’ve spent over two decades leading a UK charity working across Eastern Europe, growing it from small beginnings into something sustainable and impactful. Along the way, I’ve made plenty of mistakes — but each one has been part of the learning. The role has required constant adaptation, awareness of the changing external environment, and the ability to lead through uncertainty and change. Much of my journey has involved setting direction and bringing others with me. Coming from a corporate background, I expected the transition to be easier, but working in the non-profit sector has given me a level of experience and responsibility I could never have imagined. Leading a Christian organisation, my work is faith-based, and that has always been the guiding focus behind my decisions.

2.What would you tell your younger self?

Get a mentor early on and don’t be afraid to move more quickly. Don’t let things happen to you — make them happen. I started out in an era where I could be the second most senior person in a room full of men and still be asked to make the coffee. Thankfully, things have changed, but I would tell my younger self not to stay in toxic environments. Choose roles where you can be yourself, grow, and use your strengths — not ones that keep you boxed in by expectation. Be more confident, trust your instincts, ask for help sooner, and never underestimate the power of relationships.

3. What advice would you give to the next generation of women in business?

Build strong networks, seek out mentors, and support other women along the way.  You have a unique set of attributes and skills that no-one else has.  Don't compare yourself to people that you think have done better or have got up the career ladder faster.  Its your journey,  make it the one you want it to be and be happy with what you have achieved not what others have.

You can find out more here about this year's International Women's Day agenda - Rights. Justice, Action. For ALL Women and Girls.

Sam Pewsey - International Women's Day Feature

This IWD we're celebrating some of the female leaders, founders and entrepreneurs in our Chamber. In this feature we talked to Sam Pewsey from People Finding Consultancy. 

1. How did you get to where you are today?  

I got here through a combination of nearly 20 years working in recruitment for other people and a deep desire to do it differently. I wanted to be part of my clients’ teams as a true in house recruiter, which led me to build the People Finding model. Alongside that, losing my dad caused me to step back and reassess life, work and purpose. That perspective pulled me back to recruitment because helping people is what I love. It’s been built through hard work, reflection, feedback, adaptation, trusting my instincts and showing up every day.  

2. What would you tell your younger self?

You are not too sensitive, too emotional or too much. Those things are your strength. Stop trying to fit into boxes that were never designed for you and trust your gut earlier. Confidence doesn’t arrive fully formed, it’s built by doing the scary things anyway. You don’t need to have it all figured out to take the next step and you are allowed to change direction as you grow.

3. What advice would you give to the next generation of women in business?

Build businesses that work for your life, not at the expense of it. You don’t need to copy loud models of success to be taken seriously. Kindness, integrity and emotional intelligence are commercial strengths, not weaknesses. Find people who support you, ask for help sooner, listen to your own instincts and remember that rest is productive. Success looks different for everyone and you get to define what that means for you.

www.peoplefindingconsultancy.com

You can find out more here about this year's International Women's Day agenda - Rights. Justice, Action. For ALL Women and Girls.

Janet Webb - International Women's Day Feature

This IWD we're celebrating some of the female leaders, founders and entrepreneurs in our Chamber. In this feature we talked to Janet Webb of Janet Webb Consulting

Like most people working in HR and L&D, I fell into it. But I fell into it because I grabbed opportunities when they came my way. Those opportunities included management responsibility in Selfridges, The NHS and East Sussex County Council. I also ran some pretty heavy projects at ESCC, in a wide range of departments. So when I was made redundant in 2026 it seemed natural to grab the chance to go it alone and support businesses with their staff development and projects.

2. What would you tell your younger self?

Life is going to throw all sorts of junk at you – some of it awful. But the good stuff is going to be utterly brilliant, beyond what you can imagine. You will be surprised and what you can achieve. So, take a deep breath, be straightforward with people, notice who is in your tribe and cherish the moments of joy. It’s a roller coaster – you can scream with fear or scream with excitement; it’s your choice.

3. What advice would you give to the next generation of women in business?

Build your network, say yes to things when they come along (even if they are completely out of left field) and never stop being curious and learning. These things will give you a solid foundation and poise from which to excel in whatever you do. And don’t worry about other people being aggressive or putting you down. That stuff belongs to them; don’t waste your time trying to deal with it. Just be polite and respectful, step up and over and forward on to greater things.

www.janetwebbconsulting.co.uk