Small Business Regulation: Making regulation work better for smaller businesses

The Report

Regulation plays an important role in protecting consumers and maintaining standards, but for many smaller businesses, navigating the regulatory landscape can mean duplicated paperwork, inconsistent approaches from regulators and local authorities, and unnecessary barriers to growth.

In partnership with Family Business UK, the Small Business Institute brings together insights from more than 870 businesses across the UK to examine the challenges they face and identify practical solutions.

The research contributed to the Government’s Small Business Regulatory Taskforce, whose report was published in October. The Government’s report draws on evidence from the Family Business UK and Small Business Institute surveys and focus groups, and sets out recommendations to simplify regulatory processes, improve guidance and reduce unnecessary administrative burdens.

Our report sets out recommendations across four key areas: planning and licensing, inspection, reporting, and barriers to growth. Its overarching message is clear: regulation should be designed with smaller businesses in mind from the start.

You can also read the Government’s Small Business Regulatory Taskforce report and the Government’s response.