UK bans hidden fees and fake reviews to protect shoppers
New consumer laws taking effect today ban hidden “dripped” fees and fake reviews, aiming to save UK consumers an estimated £2.2bn annually. Under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumer Act 2024, businesses must display all unavoidable fees upfront, including booking and installation charges.
Optional extras like seat upgrades remain excluded. The crackdown also targets fake online reviews, influencing 90% of consumer purchases. At least 10% of product reviews are estimated to be fake. The reforms aim to protect consumers, restore trust in digital markets, and prevent dishonest businesses from undercutting those that play fair.
NHS faces up to 100,000 job cuts amid cost-saving push
Hospitals across England may slash over 100,000 jobs due to a sweeping NHS cost-cutting drive ordered by Health Secretary Wes Streeting and NHS chief Sir Jim Mackey. Trusts have been told to halve corporate costs by year’s end, potentially cutting 3% to 11% of their workforce. NHS leaders warn that redundancies could cost £2 billion and are urging the Treasury to fund them.
Critics argue that the cuts risk undermining care, with back-office roles like digital and recruitment being key to efficiency. Despite government claims of progress and investment, health experts caution that cutting staff doesn’t always equate to greater efficiency.
Designing for sustainable high-performance
According to Culture Amp’s new report, high performance isn’t about hiring “superstars” but creating the right conditions for all employees to thrive. Based on data from over 500,000 employees, the study found only 2% sustain high performance across multiple review cycles. Performance peaks and valleys are natural and shaped by workplace conditions, leadership, and feedback culture.
Key drivers include strong engagement, clear role alignment, goal-setting, and meaningful feedback. Employees under high-performing leaders are four times more likely to excel. The takeaway: organisations must design intentional systems that support long-term performance rather than relying on exceptional talent alone.