• Swindon & Wiltshire Economy
• Friday July 11 2025

Insolvency-related activity in Thames Valley falls for third month

Insolvency-related activity fell for the third consecutive month in the Thames Valley and Wiltshire, according to R3, the UK’s restructuring, turnaround and insolvency trade body.

R3’s analysis of data provided by Creditsafe indicated a drop in insolvency-related activities from 223 in May to 163 in June.

The figures include administrator and liquidator appointments together with creditors’ meetings, and the fall in the South East is part of a cautiously optimistic picture nationally, with decreases in eight UK regions.

Neil Stewart, chairman of R3’s Southern and Thames Valley region – which includes Wiltshire and Berkshire – said: “June’s figure is the lowest since August 2022, excluding the usually skewed January data. It’s a positive sign and a reason to be hopeful.”

“With interest rates holding at 4.25 per cent and a potential reduction on August 7, the financial markets appear relatively stable. And the economy is growing – only by 0.7 per cent, but it is growing.

“Against that, April’s rise in employer National Insurance contributions continues to weigh heavily, and the fall in retail sales volumes by 2.7% in May reflects continued consumer caution.

“Add to that ongoing global uncertainties and, on a national level, the financial burden the country may have to bear in light of the U-turn on welfare cuts which will leave a black hole in the Chancellor’s coffers and could prompt tax rises.”

He added: “Businesses still face an uncertain future with a multitude of pressures cascading down from higher levels.

“It all comes down to confidence – consumers must feel secure enough to spend and businesses must ensure that their product or service is desirable, priced right and can see them through to future investment.”

Neil, a Regional Associate Director at insolvency litigation financing company Manolete Partners Plc, urged business owners across the South and Thames Valley to remain vigilant.

“Our message to directors is simple: be alert to signs your business could be financially distressed and seek expert guidance and support as soon as they show themselves.

“If you’re having problems paying wages, staff or suppliers, if stock is starting to pile up, or if you’re worried about your business and its finances, that’s the time to speak to a qualified advisor.”

“Most R3 members offer an initial consultation free of charge, giving business owners a chance to understand their options before matters become critical.”