Pulborough's economy is built on a mix of independent retailers, hospitality businesses, professional services, tradespeople and rural enterprises. While today's Budget was primarily presented as a package to ease household cost pressures, several measures could have positive knock-on effects for local traders.

More Money in Residents' Pockets

The headline announcement of a £100 household energy payment for many households, combined with measures designed to reduce energy costs, could increase disposable income for local residents

For Pulborough's independent shops, cafés, hairdressers and service providers, this may translate into greater consumer confidence and spending over the winter months. Businesses often benefit when households feel less pressure from essential bills.

Fuel Duty Freeze Helps Rural Communities

The extension of the 5p fuel duty cut until next July is particularly significant for rural areas.

Many Pulborough businesses rely on vehicle travel, whether for deliveries, customer visits, mobile services or commuting staff. While the saving per journey may seem modest, freezing fuel duty avoids additional costs at a time when many firms continue to face inflationary pressures.

Businesses likely to benefit include:

• Builders and tradespeople
• Garden and landscaping services
• Care providers
• Delivery businesses
• Self-employed professionals travelling across West Sussex

Higher Wages Could Support Local Spending

The increase in the National Living Wage to £13.21 per hour will raise earnings for many workers.

For traders, this has two potential effects. On one hand, employers with lower-paid staff may see wage costs increase. On the other, higher earnings can lead to increased spending power among local consumers, benefiting businesses that depend on local trade.

In communities such as Pulborough, where many businesses serve local residents rather than national markets, increased household spending can be especially valuable.

Hospitality Sector Receives Direct Support

Among the business-specific announcements was a 20% reduction in business rates for pubs, clubs and music venues.

While details are still emerging, any reduction in business rates could be welcome news for hospitality venues facing continued pressure from energy, staffing and supply costs.

For village and community venues, lower overheads may provide greater resilience during quieter trading periods.

Stability for Planning and Investment

Perhaps just as important as the individual measures was what the Budget did not contain. The Chancellor chose not to announce increases to the main rates of Income Tax, National Insurance or VAT.

For small businesses, certainty can be as valuable as direct support. The absence of major tax rises may allow business owners to plan investment, recruitment and pricing with greater confidence.

The Local Verdict

For Pulborough traders, the Budget offers a mixture of direct and indirect benefits rather than a major business support package. The strongest local impacts are likely to come from:

• Household energy support that leaves residents with more disposable income.
• Continued fuel duty relief for a rural, car-dependent community.
• Potentially stronger consumer spending through higher wages.
• Business rates support for hospitality venues.
• Greater tax stability for business planning.

While some employers will need to absorb higher wage costs, many Pulborough businesses will be hoping that increased household confidence translates into more customers through their doors over the coming year.

For more information click here

The current severe drought conditions aren’t just an environmental story — they’re an economic one.

For Pulborough, the Arun Valley and wider West Sussex, sustained low rainfall and depleted reservoir stocks translate into real‑world pressures for local businesses, especially those already operating on tight margins.

Here’s what it means, sector by sector, with a focus on the kinds of businesses that shape Pulborough’s local economy.

1. Agriculture & Land‑Based Businesses

This is the sector hit first and hardest.

Impacts

• Reduced crop yields due to low soil moisture and restricted irrigation.
• Early harvesting and lower‑quality forage, forcing farmers to buy winter feed earlier and at higher prices.
• Abstraction licence restrictions — over 1,353 restrictions nationally, with Arun/Rother farmers among those affected.
• Higher livestock stress during prolonged dry spells.

Local reality

Arun floodplain farmers around Pulborough, Coldwaltham and Hardham are already reporting:

• Lower grass growth
• Increased reliance on stored water
• Pressure on grazing land
• Business risk
• Cashflow tightening, higher input costs, and reduced resilience heading into winter.

2. Hospitality, Cafés, Pubs & Restaurants

Water‑intensive businesses feel the pinch quickly.

Impacts

• Higher water bills if companies adjust tariffs during drought periods.
• Operational constraints if Temporary Use Bans return (e.g., outdoor cleaning, garden areas).
• Supply chain disruption — local produce becomes more expensive or less available.

Local reality

Pulborough’s pubs, cafés and restaurants may see:

• Reduced availability of local meat, dairy and produce
• Increased costs for cleaning, food prep and cooling systems
• Pressure to demonstrate water‑efficient practices to customers

Business risk

Higher operating costs and reduced menu flexibility.

3. Trades & Service Providers

Plumbers, decorators, car valets, gardeners, landscapers and cleaning companies all face constraints.

Impacts

• Restrictions on water use (e.g., pressure washing, garden irrigation).
• Delays in outdoor work due to soil shrinkage, ground instability or fire risk.
• Higher demand for leak detection and water‑efficiency upgrades — a potential opportunity.

Local reality

• Gardeners and landscapers may need to redesign planting schemes around drought‑resilient species.
• Car valets may face limits on water‑based services.
• Builders may encounter ground movement affecting foundations and drainage.

Business risk

Reduced service scope — but also new opportunities in water‑saving retrofits.

4. Retail & High Street Businesses

Lower river flows and environmental stress affect footfall indirectly.

Impacts

• Reduced tourism to nature‑based attractions (Pulborough Brooks, South Downs).
• Higher cooling and ventilation costs during prolonged dry heat.
• Potential supply chain issues for food, flowers, plants and local goods.

Local reality

• Lower Street traders may see:
• Fewer visitors during extreme heat or wildfire warnings
• Higher costs for keeping shops cool
• Reduced availability of local artisan food products

Business risk

Lower footfall and higher overheads.

5. Tourism, Leisure & Outdoor Activity Providers

The Arun Valley’s outdoor economy is sensitive to environmental conditions.

Impacts

• Wildfire risk limiting access to South Downs trails
• Low river levels affecting canoeing, angling and wildlife tours
• Habitat stress reducing wildlife sightings at Pulborough Brooks
• Local reality
• The Wey & Arun Canal Trust may face navigation limits.
• Wildlife‑based tourism may see fewer visitors during habitat stress periods.

Business risk

Seasonal downturns and reduced visitor satisfaction.

6. Offices, SMEs & Home‑Based Businesses

Even businesses not directly tied to water use feel knock‑on effects.

Impacts

• Higher utility costs
• Pressure to adopt water‑efficient practices
• Potential business‑continuity planning requirements if drought escalates
• Local reality

Pulborough’s SMEs may need:

• Water‑saving policies
• Staff guidance on drought resilience
• Contingency plans for supply interruptions (rare, but now monitored daily)

Business risk

• Incremental cost increases and compliance obligations.
• Government Guidance & Support

Key Government Messages

Environment Secretary Dame Angela Eagle:

“We are working closely with water companies to protect public supplies… and I’d urge everyone to think about how they can use water wisely.”

Water Minister Emma Hardy:

“We are prioritising protecting public water supplies… allowing water companies to keep more water in depleted reservoirs where necessary.”

Where businesses can find official guidance

Drought & dry weather updates: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-activates-plan-to-protect-consumers-as-severe-drought-declared-in-parts-of-england

Water management for businesses: https://www.gov.uk/environment/water-management

Abstraction licences & restrictions: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/water-abstraction-flexible-options-in-exceptional-dry-weather

What Local Businesses Should Do Now

Immediate actions

• Audit water use
• Fix leaks and inefficient systems
• Switch to drought‑resilient planting (landscapers, nurseries)
• Review supply chains for drought‑sensitive goods
• Communicate water‑saving measures to customers
• Medium‑term actions
• Consider rainwater harvesting
• Install low‑flow taps and appliances
• Update business‑continuity plans
• Engage with local resilience forums
• Collaborate with other traders via Lower Street Association or Pulborough business networks

The businesses that fare best will be those that treat this period not as a temporary inconvenience but as a signal to adapt.

Three themes stand out.

1. Efficiency is now a competitive advantage

Water‑saving measures aren’t just environmentally responsible — they reduce operating costs, strengthen resilience and demonstrate leadership to customers who increasingly expect sustainable practice. Even small steps (fixing leaks, switching to drought‑resilient planting, reviewing cleaning routines) add up.

2. Supply chains will feel the strain

From agriculture to hospitality to retail, drought disrupts the flow of goods. Businesses that diversify suppliers, plan ahead for shortages and communicate clearly with customers will navigate the coming months more smoothly than those who wait for problems to arrive.

3. Collaboration strengthens the whole community

Pulborough’s business community is tightly knit. Sharing information, coordinating responses and supporting one another — whether through local business groups, the Parish Council or informal networks — will help everyone manage uncertainty. Drought resilience is easier when approached collectively.

Local businesses can play their part — and protect their own future — by acting early, staying informed and building drought‑smart habits now.

Pulborough has weathered many challenges, and its businesses have shown time and again that they can adapt with creativity and determination. This drought period is another moment to do just that: tighten operations, plan ahead and stay connected.

The Government’s message is clear:

“We are prioritising protecting public water supplies… and working closely with businesses and water companies to safeguard future resilience.”

Pulborough Post — Business Drought Resilience Checklist

For businesses in Pulborough, Stopham, Nutbourne, West Chiltington, Coldwaltham, Hardham and the wider Arun Valley

1. Protect Your Water Supply

• Check for leaks in taps, toilets, pipes, irrigation systems and outdoor fixtures.
• Install low‑flow taps, aerators, and efficient appliances.
• Review your water bills for unusual spikes.

If you rely on boreholes or private supply, monitor groundwater levels and ensure pump maintenance is up to date.

2. Reduce Water Use in Daily Operations

• Switch to water‑efficient cleaning routines.
• Use closed‑loop systems where possible (e.g., for cooling or washing).
• Reuse greywater for non‑hygiene tasks where safe and permitted.
• For hospitality: adjust kitchen prep, dishwashing cycles, and ice machine usage.

3. Adapt Your Outdoor Spaces

• Replace thirsty plants with drought‑resilient species.
• Mulch beds to retain moisture.
• Reduce or eliminate pressure‑washing of outdoor areas.
• For trades and landscapers: redesign client gardens with low‑water planting schemes.

4. Strengthen Your Supply Chain

• Identify suppliers most affected by drought (local produce, flowers, dairy, meat).
• Build backup suppliers for drought‑sensitive goods.
• Communicate early with customers about menu changes, stock shortages, or price adjustments.

5. Prepare for Operational Disruption

• Review your business continuity plan for water‑related risks.
• Ensure staff know what to do if water pressure drops or supply is interrupted.
• Store small quantities of emergency water for essential operations (not for general use).
• For agriculture: plan forage, feed and irrigation needs early.

6. Protect Staff & Customers During Heat and Dry Spells

• Provide cooling, shade, and hydration for staff.
• Adjust working hours for outdoor teams during extreme heat.
• Maintain indoor temperatures safely for customers and vulnerable visitors.

7. Stay Compliant

• Check whether Temporary Use Bans (hosepipe bans) apply to your business activities.
• If you hold an abstraction licence, monitor Environment Agency updates daily.
• Keep records of water‑saving actions — useful for inspections or grant applications.

8. Communicate Clearly

• Tell customers what you’re doing to save water.
• Share drought‑related changes to services or products.
• Encourage staff to report leaks or inefficiencies immediately.

9. Collaborate Locally

• Coordinate with neighbouring businesses on Lower Street, Station Road and the wider parish.
• Share resources, advice and updates.

Send your advice and updates to editor@pulboroughpost.co.uk . We’ll publish a list. Let’s help each other out by sharing ideas and working together. 

10. Stay Informed

Gov.uk drought updates: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/drought-management-for-england/drought-how-it-is-managed-in-england

Gov.uk water news: https://www.gov.uk/environment/water-management#news_and_communications

This briefing summarises the latest business‑relevant crime trends for Pulborough, Coldwaltham and Amberley, and sets out what local traders should be aware of.

District Overview: Shoplifting and ASB Leading Business‑Related Crime

Across Horsham District, shoplifting remains the most common business‑specific offence, accounting for a significant proportion of all retail‑related crime. Anti‑social behaviour (ASB) also continues to rise district‑wide, affecting town centres, hospitality venues and public‑facing businesses.

Other business‑impacting categories include:

• Criminal damage to shopfronts, signage and vehicles
• Other theft, including tools, stock and equipment
• Commercial burglary, which remains low but still relevant for rural businesses

Pulborough Snapshot: Lower Crime, But Rising Disruption

The Pulborough policing area (Billingshurst, Shipley, Pulborough & Coldwaltham) recorded the following business‑relevant offences in the most recent monthly data:

• Shoplifting: 9 incidents
• Anti‑social behaviour: 21 incidents
• Criminal damage & arson: rising year‑on‑year (+22%)
• Commercial burglary: down 35%

While Pulborough’s shoplifting levels remain far lower than Horsham town, ASB and criminal damage are increasing faster locally than district averages.

Key Issues Affecting Local Businesses

1. Shoplifting

Incidents remain modest but persistent. Convenience stores, small retailers and village‑centre shops are most affected.

2. Anti‑Social Behaviour

ASB has risen sharply (+62% year‑on‑year). For businesses, this often presents as:

• Loitering or nuisance behaviour near shopfronts
• Youth‑related disturbances
• E‑bike and e‑scooter misuse
• Evening‑economy disruption

3. Criminal Damage

Damage to windows, signage, vehicles and outdoor equipment has increased. This is often linked to ASB hotspots.

4. Burglary

Commercial burglary is significantly down, a positive trend for business security.

Case Study 1: Operation Scramble — Impact on Local Traders

Sussex Police has launched Operation Scramble, targeting illegal e‑bike and e‑scooter use — an issue increasingly linked to ASB and suspected drug activity around business premises.

In the 12 months to June 2026, police received 2,504 reports of illegal riding — a 53.7% increase. Young people account for the majority of identified riders, prompting a focus on education and engagement.

More information: https://www.sussex.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rs/road-safety/advice-escooters/

Businesses experiencing e‑vehicle‑related ASB are encouraged to report incidents with What3Words, time, date and location.

Case Study 2: Operation STOP — GPS Tagging Cuts Shoplifting Across Sussex

A new GPS‑tagging scheme aimed at prolific shoplifters is delivering striking reductions in repeat offending and giving retailers renewed confidence that action is being taken.

Operation STOP, launched in East Sussex in 2025 and now operating across Sussex, combines GPS tracking with intensive rehabilitation support to tackle the underlying causes of persistent shop theft. The initiative is led by Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne, working with Sussex Police, East Sussex County Council, the Probation Service, Change Grow Live (CGL) and the Co‑op.

How the Scheme Works

Offenders are fitted with GPS tags as part of Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs), allowing police to monitor movements in real time and identify when individuals enter exclusion zones such as high streets, retail parks or specific stores.

Alongside enforcement, offenders receive tailored support, including addiction treatment, mental‑health interventions and help with housing, employment and stability. The approach aims to reduce reoffending by addressing the root causes of shop theft rather than relying solely on punitive measures.

Results: Offending Drops Significantly

An independent evaluation by the Centre for Public Innovation found that all eight offenders in the initial cohort reduced their offending, and five committed no further crimes after being tagged.

Why It’s Working

• Real‑time monitoring: Police can quickly identify breaches and gather strong evidence.
• Rehabilitation at the centre: Support services tackle addiction, trauma, homelessness and other drivers of repeat theft.
• Strong partnership model: Retailers, police, probation teams and support agencies share intelligence and coordinate interventions.

Support Behind the Scenes

The scheme includes a Business Crime Navigator, funded by Southern Co‑op, the Probation Service and East Sussex County Council. The Navigator helps offenders access housing, healthcare, substance‑misuse services and employment support — key factors in reducing repeat offending.

Impact for Local Retailers

For businesses across Sussex — including those in Pulborough — Operation STOP offers:

• Greater confidence that persistent offenders are being monitored
• Stronger evidence for police investigations
• Reduced disruption from repeat shoplifters
• A safer trading environment for staff and customers

The project currently has capacity for 30 GPS tags across East Sussex, West Sussex and Brighton & Hove, with plans to expand as the pilot continues.

What Pulborough Businesses Can Do

• Strengthen reporting
• Use 101 for non‑urgent incidents
• Use 999 for emergencies
• Provide What3Words for precise locations
• Improve deterrence
• Maintain good lighting
• Use visible CCTV or door‑mounted cameras
• Secure outdoor stock, tools and equipment
• Work with local networks
• Join local business WhatsApp groups
• Engage with Neighbourhood Watch
• Share intelligence with neighbouring traders
• Support youth engagement
• Local youth provision and positive activities help reduce ASB at its source.

Pulborough Neighbourhood Wardens: Support for Businesses

Pulborough’s Wardens work closely with traders, hospitality venues and commercial landlords to address ASB and environmental offences. They:

• Carry out high‑visibility patrols
• Hold enforcement powers
• Are accredited by Sussex Police
• Can act on low‑level ASB and environmental offences
• Work preventatively with partner agencies

Contact Pulborough Wardens: Carol: 07584 337475 Lottie: 07584 337476 mailto:pulborough.wardens@horsham.gov.uk

Pulborough remains a safe place to run a business

Pulborough remains a safe and supportive place to run a business. Shoplifting levels are relatively low, and commercial burglary continues to fall. The main challenge for traders is the rise in anti‑social behaviour and associated low‑level disruption — issues that can be effectively managed through strong reporting, good deterrence measures and close partnership with Wardens and Sussex Police

You can:

• Explore their business pages https://www.horsham.gov.uk/business
• Sign up to their business e-newsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest advice and support to help you start, manage and grown your business https://www.horsham.gov.uk/email-newsletters
• Engage with Start or Grow Your Own Business – a page of resources specifically for start ups Start or grow your own business | Horsham District Council
• Browse the Business Funding page, for links to local grants and other funding opportunities www.horsham.gov.uk/business/business-funding
• Join in with Business Training Programmes Business Training Programme | Horsham District Council
• Find useful resources and information to help your business to become more sustainable and unlock a host of business benefits www.horsham.gov.uk/business/net-zero-business
• Utilise the newly revised planning pre-application service to support your business on the path to submitting a successful application www.horsham.gov.uk/planning/planning-applications/pre-application-planning-advice
• Horsham District Wellbeing offers free services to help manage your stress, stay healthy and keep you and your business moving forward. To find out more, contact them on 01403 215111 or visit Horsham District Wellbeing / Provided by West Sussex County Council and Horsham District Council
• Here in Pulborough you can also engage with the Enterprising Horsham

 What is Enterprising Horsham?

 Horsham District Council has released a new Enterprising Horsham Economic Prospectus aimed at boosting local prosperity, supporting businesses and strengthening skills across the District.

 The strategy sets out five priorities:

• greener growth
• business support
• vibrant places
• investment attraction
• improved training pathways

 Initial actions include:

•  a Green Business Strategy
• refreshed business support
• sector‑specific plans
• skills group to help residents access better jobs.

The plans aim to keep Horsham competitive, resilient and attractive for businesses and communities.

Pulborough‑Focused Rural Benefits

Pulborough’s rural economy is set to benefit from Horsham District Council’s new Enterprising Horsham Economic Prospectus, which places strong emphasis on supporting villages, land‑based industries and local enterprise.

The Prospectus recognises the importance of rural communities like Pulborough, where small businesses, farms, creative industries and visitor‑economy operators form a vital part of the local economy.

Planned actions — including sector‑specific support for land‑based businesses, improved access to training, and a renewed focus on strengthening high streets and village centres — are expected to help rural enterprises adapt and grow.

For Pulborough, the strategy could mean better business advice, stronger links with training providers, more support for sustainable practices, and improved visibility for local producers and visitor attractions.

The Council says the Prospectus will help ensure rural communities remain vibrant, resilient and central to Horsham District’s future prosperity.

Click here to read the full prospectus.

Rural businesses benefit from sustainability grants

Beyond short‑term economic support, HDC is investing in long‑term resilience through the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) and Green LEAP grants. Several Pulborough‑area businesses have already benefited.

Architectural Plants, one of the area’s largest employers, installed 86 solar panels and battery storage with REPF support. The upgrade now powers irrigation pumps and laboratory facilities, cutting carbon emissions and reducing energy bills. The improvements also strengthen the business’s AP Homegrown apprenticeship programme, which provides training for young people entering horticulture.

Nearby, Jacob’s Bagels used REPF funding to install solar panels, achieving a reduction of more than 1.5 tonnes of carbon emissions. The bakery reports lower operating costs and improved long‑term sustainability.

Skills, innovation, and business engagement

HDC’s business engagement team continues to visit Pulborough employers to understand local challenges and connect them with funding, training, and apprenticeships. Officers have supported land‑based businesses, hospitality venues, and micro‑enterprises seeking advice on licensing, premises, and business rates.

The Council’s Net Zero Business Hub and climate network provide ongoing guidance for companies working towards carbon reduction targets.

A growing support ecosystem

Taken together, these measures form a multi‑layered support system for Pulborough’s business community. From crisis response to long‑term sustainability planning, HDC’s approach aims to help local enterprises survive economic shocks, reduce costs, and invest in greener, more resilient operations.

Local businesses can find more information on grants, training, and support via the Enterprising Horsham portal.

For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK, keeping up with these changes while managing everyday operations can be difficult.

With over 5.4 million SMEs in the UK making up 99% of all businesses, these organisations are vital to the economy. However, they face unique IT challenges that can impact growth, security, and efficiency.

1. Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware remains one of the most disruptive threats, encrypting systems and demanding payment for restoration. UK SMEs are particularly vulnerable due to limited cyber‑resilience planning.

How to reduce the risk

• Maintain offline, immutable backups.
• Apply security patches promptly.
• Train staff to spot phishing attempts.
• Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR).

Useful resource:

National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) ransomware guidance: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/ransomware/home

2. Phishing and Social Engineering

Attackers increasingly target people rather than systems. Phishing emails, fake invoices, and impersonation scams continue to rise.

How to reduce the risk

• Provide regular staff training.
• Use multi‑factor authentication (MFA).
• Deploy email filtering and anti‑spoofing controls (SPF, DKIM, DMARC).

Useful resource:

NCSC phishing guidance: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/guidance/phishing

3. Data Breaches and Poor Data Handling

Misconfigured systems, weak access controls, and accidental data leaks can lead to GDPR violations and reputational damage.

How to reduce the risk

• Enforce least‑privilege access.
• Encrypt sensitive data.
• Conduct regular data audits.
• Train staff on GDPR responsibilities.

Useful resource:

Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) data protection guidance: For organisations | ICO 

4. Weak Passwords and Credential Theft

Compromised passwords remain a leading cause of breaches. Attackers often use stolen credentials purchased on the dark web.

How to reduce the risk

• Require MFA for all accounts.
• Use password managers.
• Enforce strong password policies.
• Monitor for compromised credentials.

Useful resource:

NCSC password guidance: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/passwords

5. Outdated or Unpatched Software

Unpatched systems create easy entry points for attackers. Many high‑profile breaches exploit known vulnerabilities.

How to reduce the risk

• Enable automatic updates where possible.
• Maintain an asset inventory.
• Prioritise patching based on risk.

Useful resource:

NCSC vulnerability management guidance: Cyber security advice for small to medium sized organisations | National Cyber Security Centre - NCSC.GOV.UK

6. Insider Threats (Accidental or Malicious)

Employees, contractors, or volunteers can unintentionally expose systems—or deliberately misuse access.

How to reduce the risk

• Implement role‑based access controls.
• Monitor unusual account activity.
• Provide clear policies and training.
• Foster a positive, transparent culture.

Useful resource:  Reducing data exfiltration by malicious insiders | National Cyber Security Centre - NCSC.GOV.UK

7. Supply Chain and Third‑Party Risks

A business is only as secure as its suppliers. Attackers increasingly target smaller vendors to reach larger organisations.

How to reduce the risk

• Vet suppliers’ security practices.
• Include cyber clauses in contracts.
• Monitor third‑party access.
• Require MFA and secure file‑sharing.

Useful resource:

NCSC supply chain security guidance:  Supply chain security guidance | National Cyber Security Centre - NCSC.GOV.UK

8. Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attacks

DDoS attacks overwhelm websites or online services, causing downtime and financial loss.

How to reduce the risk

• Use DDoS protection services (often included in cloud hosting).
• Implement rate‑limiting and traffic filtering.
• Prepare an incident response plan.

Useful resource:

NCSC DDoS guidance:  Denial of Service (DoS) guidance | National Cyber Security Centre - NCSC.GOV.UK

9. Cloud Misconfigurations

As more UK organisations move to Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and cloud hosting, misconfigurations have become a major cause of breaches.

How to reduce the risk

• Use secure default configurations.
• Enable logging and monitoring.
• Review access permissions regularly.
• Follow cloud provider security baselines.

Useful resource:

NCSC cloud security guidance: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/cloud

10. Lack of Incident Response Planning

Many organisations still lack a clear plan for responding to cyber incidents, leading to slower recovery and greater damage.

How to reduce the risk

• Create an incident response plan.
• Test it annually.
• Assign clear roles and responsibilities.
• Maintain contact details for key partners (IT support, hosting provider, insurers).

Useful resource:

NCSC incident management guidance:  Incident management | National Cyber Security Centre - NCSC.GOV.UK

Building a More Resilient Digital Future

Cyber threats will continue to evolve, but UK businesses can significantly reduce their risk by investing in people, processes, and secure technology. The most resilient organisations are those that:

• Treat cybersecurity as a leadership priority
• Build a culture of awareness and accountability
• Use trusted frameworks such as Cyber Essentials and ISO 27001
• Review and update their defences regularly

For many community‑based organisations, the first step is simply starting the conversation—openly, transparently, and with a commitment to continuous improvement.

Achieving net zero isn’t just a national ambition—it’s a local opportunity. Horsham District Council (HDC) has set clear climate goals and provides a wealth of guidance to help organisations reduce emissions, cut costs, and build resilience.

For businesses across the District, now is the moment to align with this direction of travel and demonstrate leadership in sustainability.

Why Net Zero Matters for Local Businesses

Reaching net zero means reducing greenhouse gas emissions as far as possible and balancing any remaining emissions through removal or offsetting. HDC defines this clearly in its climate documentation, emphasising that both direct and indirect emissions must be addressed.

For businesses, the benefits are tangible:

• Lower energy and fuel costs
• Greater resilience to future regulation
• Enhanced reputation with customers and partners
• Improved ability to attract investment and talent
• Contribution to a healthier, more sustainable local economy

Steps To Net Zero

Step 1: Understand Your Carbon Footprint

Before taking action, businesses need a clear picture of their emissions. Horsham District Council conducts an annual carbon audit of its own operations—an approach that businesses can mirror. In 2023/24, the Council’s audit identified emissions from buildings, fleet, water, waste, and procured goods and services.

Businesses can follow the same structure:

• Direct emissions: energy use in buildings, company vehicles
• Indirect emissions: purchased goods and services, waste, business travel, leased spaces

Useful starting point:

HDC’s overview of emissions and reduction targets

• Reducing the Council’s carbon emissions – Find out how they are doing it Reducing the Council's carbon emissions | Horsham District Council

Step 2: Improve Energy Efficiency in Buildings

Buildings are one of the largest carbon hotspots identified in the Council’s Climate Action Strategy.

Actions businesses can take:

• Switch to LED lighting
• Improve insulation and glazing
• Install smart meters and energy‑management systems
• Consider heat pumps or hybrid heating solutions
• Review energy tariffs and explore renewable electricity contracts

These measures often deliver immediate cost savings as well as carbon reductions.

Step 3: Rethink Transport and Logistics

Transport is another major emissions source across the District. The Council has already reduced its own direct emissions by electrifying parts of its fleet and switching to cleaner fuels.

Businesses can:

• Transition to electric or hybrid vehicles
• Encourage active travel (cycling, walking)
• Introduce car‑sharing schemes
• Optimise delivery routes
• Reduce unnecessary business travel through digital meetings

Step 4: Reduce Waste and Improve Resource Efficiency

The Climate Action Strategy highlights waste and circular economy principles as key system interventions.

Practical steps:

• Conduct a waste audit
• Reduce single‑use materials
• Reuse packaging and materials where possible
• Improve recycling facilities
• Work with suppliers to minimise waste in the supply chain

Step 5: Review Procurement and Supply Chains

Indirect emissions—those from purchased goods and services—make up a significant proportion of the Council’s own footprint. In 2019/20, procured goods and services accounted for nearly half of its total emissions.

Businesses can:

• Choose suppliers with strong sustainability credentials
• Request environmental data from vendors
• Prioritise local suppliers to reduce transport emissions
• Build sustainability criteria into procurement policies

Step 6: Explore Offsetting (Responsibly)

HDC’s Carbon Reduction Plan acknowledges that some emissions will remain and will require offsetting.

Businesses should:

• Prioritise reduction first
• Use high‑quality, verified offset schemes
• Consider local nature‑based solutions where possible

Step 7: Engage Staff and Customers

Behaviour change is one of the Council’s core “enablers” for climate action.

Ideas include:

• Staff training on sustainability
• Incentives for low‑carbon commuting
• Visible sustainability commitments in marketing
• Customer engagement campaigns

Step 8: Align with HDC’s Climate Action Strategy

The Council’s Climate Action Strategy provides a comprehensive roadmap for the District to reach net zero and climate resilience by 2050. It outlines enablers (governance, finance, education) and system interventions (buildings, transport, energy, waste, land use).

Businesses can use the Strategy to:

• Benchmark their own plans
• Identify partnership opportunities
• Understand local priorities and expectations

Further Information from HDC

Here are the most relevant HDC resources for businesses:

• Reducing the Council's carbon emissions | Horsham District Council

Overview of targets, emissions data, and reduction progress

• Climate Action Strategy

The District’s roadmap to net zero and climate resilience.

Horsham District's Climate Action Strategy

• Carbon Reduction Plan (2024–2030)

Detailed actions and pathways for reducing direct and indirect emissions

Horsham-Carbon-Audit.pdf

Final Thoughts

Businesses across Horsham District have a vital role to play in shaping a low‑carbon future. By taking practical steps—aligned with the Council’s strategy and supported by local resources—organisations can reduce costs, strengthen their reputation, and contribute to a thriving, sustainable District.