JSOservices

13/10/2026

If you're a sole trader (or landlord) and your turnover is heading past £30,000, this one's worth a quick look.

HMRC has recently reminded people that Making Tax Digital for Income Tax comes in for that group from 6 April 2027. In practice, that means keeping digital records, using compatible software, and sending quarterly updates of your income and expenses.

You can sign up early on GOV.UK and get used to it in your own time. The £30,000 threshold is based on income before expenses, so it's worth checking whether it applies to you.

This is general information, not tax advice. Check GOV.UK or speak to your accountant if you're unsure.

09/10/2026

Is now really the worst time to start a business in Britain? 🇬🇧

With the cost of living continuing to squeeze households and small businesses alike - and Jeremy Clarkson recently warning people against starting a business in the UK - it would be easy to think so.

But is that the whole story?

Just Starting Out has been featured in All Post News, looking at the realities facing new business owners right now, why starting small may actually make more sense than ever, and why those taking the leap need better support to get those crucial first customers.

Have a read 👇

https://allpostnews.co.uk/2026/10/08/the-new-uk-platform-built-to-give-new-businesses-a-fighting-chance/

As rising costs pile pressure on businesses across Britain, a newly launched platform is taking a different approach – helping the country’s newest business owners find customers, build credibility and access practical support without adding another hefty bill to the pile. Britain has spent the ...

05/10/2026

Two months today, it's Small Business Saturday UK 🛍️

On Saturday 5 December, people are encouraged to shop small and back the businesses in their own community. If you've just started out, whether you've come straight from studying or you're building something new later in life, it's a brilliant day to be ready for.

A few things you could sort over the next eight weeks:

- Make it easy to find you. Check your online listings, social pages and contact details are up to date.
- Ask your first customers if they'd be happy to leave a short review.
- Plan something simple for the day, like a pop-up, a small bundle, or a behind-the-scenes post.
- Team up with another local business and share the spotlight.

Those first introductions are often the hardest bit. That's what we're here for at Just Starting Out: helping new business owners get introduced to early customers, with a friendly community along the way.

What are you planning for Small Business Saturday? Tell us below 👇

29/09/2026

Are you a student with a skill that could earn you money? 🎓

Maybe you already have a little side hustle, or perhaps you've been thinking about turning something you're good at into a business.

You don't have to wait until you graduate...

Just Starting Out is a UK-wide platform built specifically for people at the beginning of their business journey - helping you get in front of potential customers, build reviews and start creating a reputation for yourself.

And there's an even better reason to give it a go right now...

Join today and get our Trailblazer membership (normally £99) absolutely FREE for 12 months!

Set up your profile, tell people what you do, and start putting yourself out there.

👉 www.juststartingout.co.uk

Know a student with a skill? Tag them or send this their way!



Image credit: Envato

22/09/2026

During a work experience placement with us, Edgar wrote the script for this film, recorded the voice-over, pulled on a green-screen suit, and helped wrangle the basset.

We’re still growing ourselves, and where we can support someone starting out through real work experience, we want to. This is us walking the walk: give someone a chance to make something, then share it with pride.

Huge thanks to Edgar for the words, the voice, and the unglamorous bits that make a film work.

New in business, or know someone who is? Have a look: https://juststartingout.co.uk

What was your first proper work experience like? Drop it in the comments.

10/09/2026

Getting your first customer can be a bit of a Catch-22...

You’ve started the business. The website is live. The branding is done. You’re ready to go.

There’s just one small problem…

Customers want to see reviews, testimonials and examples of your previous work before they choose you.

But to get those reviews, testimonials and examples, somebody has to choose you first!

It’s something that Abi and Richard have seen time and time again while speaking to and researching people at the very beginning of their business journey.

And for those starting out in the creative industries, it can be particularly frustrating. Being new to business doesn’t necessarily mean being new to your craft - but how do you prove that before somebody gives you that first opportunity?

A big thank you to Holly and the Creative Business News team for giving this one some much-needed attention 💙

And perhaps a little reminder for all of us when we're choosing who to buy from...

Every business with 100 reviews once had none.

Somebody had to go first.

Starting a creative business has never been easier. A website can be built in an...

03/09/2026

Plumber? Gardener? Accountant? Dog walker? Designer? Tutor? Photographer?

Whatever your profession, starting out comes with the same big challenge - getting yourself seen and finding those all-important first customers.

That’s exactly why we built Just Starting Out.

A place created specifically for new and early-stage business owners to get found, build credibility, connect with others and grow - whatever it is you do.

And right now, you can join completely FREE. 💛

Take a look and create your profile today 👇
www.juststartingout.co.uk

21/08/2026

We're proud to be partnering with The Business Show London again for 2026! 🙌

Taking place at ExCeL London on 11th & 12th November, The Business Show brings together entrepreneurs, start-ups, small businesses and some brilliant names from across the business world - all under one roof.

If you're starting or growing a business, it's a great opportunity to learn, make connections, discover new ideas and meet people who could genuinely help you on your journey!

And even better - tickets are completely FREE!

📅 11th-12th November 2026
📍 ExCeL London

We'll be sharing plenty more in the run-up to November, but for now, get the dates in your diary!

19/08/2026

🚀 WE’RE LIVE!

Just Starting Out is now live nationwide 🇬🇧

If you’re starting a business, building a side hustle or trying to find those all-important first customers, you can now sign your business up completely FREE.

For a limited time, new business owners can access our Trailblazer Plan, worth £99, for free.

Check it out👉 www.juststartingout.co.uk

Revolutionise your startup journey with Just Starting Out.

10/08/2026

How much should you have to pay to nominate your business for an award?

ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!

You’ve done the hard work. You’ve grafted. You’ve taken the risks. You’ve probably spent money you didn’t really have to spend.

The last thing you need is to be charged for the privilege of having that hard work recognised - and then offered the optional framed certificate for another £395. 🙈

We don’t think recognition should come with an entry fee.

That’s why the Just Starting Out Start Up Awards will ALWAYS be completely free to enter.

No nomination fee.
No entry fee.
No charge if you actually win.

You’ve already paid your dues by building the business 💙