Fencer gets £10k fine for power cable hit
AFI members are being encouraged to take advantage of the free LineWatch Safe Digging eLearning module — a simple but essential course designed to help fencing contractors work safely around underground utilities and remain compliant with industry safety requirements.
The online training module has been developed specifically to improve awareness of underground services and reduce the risk of potentially life-changing incidents caused by striking buried cables or utility infrastructure during excavation works.
The importance of safe digging practices has recently been highlighted following a prosecution brought by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), after a fencing contractor suffered serious burn injuries when he struck a live underground electrical cable while installing fencing on a construction site.
The incident occurred in Manchester in May 2024, when a contractor using a breaker to prepare fencing installation works struck a live cable, resulting in electric shock injuries and severe burns to his chest, stomach and arms.
Following an investigation, HSE found that suitable controls had not been implemented to identify and manage underground services before excavation work began. The company involved was subsequently fined £10,000 and ordered to pay costs after pleading guilty to safety breaches.
Commenting on the case, HSE inspector John Padfield said:
“Underground services are widespread and represent a significant risk.
“It is important measures are taken to identify them before any excavation work is undertaken.”
The case serves as an important reminder for all fencing contractors of the need to follow safe systems of work, review utility plans and ensure operatives understand the risks associated with excavation and groundworks.
To help support safer working practices across the fencing industry, AFI is promoting the LineWatch Safe Digging course, which is available free of charge to AFI members.
The course:
- Is completely free to access
- Takes approximately 20 minutes to complete
- Can be completed online at any time
- Includes a certificate upon successful completion
- Helps improve awareness of underground utility risks and safe digging practices
The training is suitable for fencing contractors, landowners, farm workers and anyone involved in excavation or ground preparation works.
By completing the module, contractors can help protect themselves, their teams and the public, while demonstrating a proactive commitment to health and safety compliance.
AFI encourages all members to complete the training and share it with colleagues, subcontractors and clients where appropriate.
Access the free LineWatch Safe Digging course here:
👉 https://www.safe-digging.co.uk/
AFI Continues to Lobby Government Over Steel Tariffs, Quotas and CBAM Concerns
The Association of Fencing Industries (AFI) continues to actively engage with government and industry stakeholders regarding growing concerns over the impact of steel safeguard measures, tariffs and the forthcoming Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) on UK manufacturing.
With new steel trade measures due to take effect from 1st July 2026, alongside continuing volatility in global steel prices driven by geopolitical instability and energy market disruption, many businesses across the fencing, perimeter security and wider construction sectors are becoming increasingly concerned about the future cost and availability of steel products.
AFI members have raised serious concerns that many of the steel products affected by quotas and tariffs are either no longer manufactured within the UK or are unavailable in sufficient quantities to meet domestic demand. This leaves UK manufacturers heavily reliant on imported raw materials simply to continue manufacturing within the UK.
The Association has been working to ensure policymakers fully understand the practical realities facing manufacturers and contractors operating across the fencing and perimeter security sector.
Particular concerns have been raised around the potential unintended consequences of current safeguard mechanisms, including:
- increased raw material costs,
- longer lead times,
- reduced stock availability,
- additional administrative burdens,
- and the growing risk of imported fabricated products becoming more commercially competitive than UK manufactured goods.
Many members are warning that the cumulative impact of tariffs, quotas and CBAM-related compliance could place significant pressure on UK manufacturing competitiveness at a time when the industry is already managing inflationary costs, labour shortages and ongoing supply chain challenges.
CBAM itself is expected to introduce substantial additional administration linked to embedded carbon reporting, verification, compliance and certification requirements throughout the steel supply chain.
While AFI fully supports the protection and long-term sustainability of UK steelmaking, the Association continues to stress that policy measures must also recognise the importance of protecting downstream UK manufacturing businesses that add value, support employment and supply critical infrastructure projects throughout the country.
The fencing industry remains a vital part of the UK infrastructure and construction economy, supplying products and systems used across:
- highways,
- railways,
- schools,
- prisons,
- utilities,
- security infrastructure,
- and major public sector projects.
AFI is continuing to gather evidence directly from members in order to present a clear picture of the likely economic and operational impact these measures may have across the sector.
The Association will continue to engage constructively with government departments and industry bodies to ensure the voice of the fencing and perimeter security industry is fully represented throughout ongoing discussions.
Members with concerns or examples of potential impacts are encouraged to contact the AFI so that evidence can continue to be collated and presented as part of the Association’s ongoing lobbying activity.
9 Weeks to Go – Entries Open for the 2026 UK Fencing Awards
With just 9 weeks remaining until entries close, now is the time to put your projects, teams and achievements forward for the 2026 UK Fencing Awards.
Taking place on 12th November at Old Trafford, this year’s awards are shaping up to be one of the biggest celebrations of the fencing industry yet — and we’re delighted to officially reveal that Sir Geoff Hurst will be joining us as guest speaker for the day.
As one of the UK’s most iconic sporting figures, Sir Geoff will help make what is already set to be a fantastic evening even more memorable.
Categories for 2026 include:
- Agricultural & Equine
- Domestic
- Gates & Barriers
- Industrial
- Sports & Education
- Security
- Temporary Fencing & Hoarding
- Highways & Railways
- Supplier of the Year
- Project of the Year
- Apprentice of the Year
- NEW: Women in Fencing
We are also continuing to invite nominations for the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising individuals who have made a lasting contribution to the fencing industry.
Lifetime Achievement nominations: info@theafi.co.uk
Whether you’re showcasing a standout project, recognising emerging talent, celebrating a trusted supplier, or nominating someone who has helped shape the industry, this is your opportunity to be recognised.
Enter now: www.afiorg.uk
With entries already coming in from across the sector, excitement is continuing to build ahead of November — but with only 9 weeks left to enter, now’s the time to get involved.
You’ve got to be in it to win it.
AFI & AFA Best Practice Day Heads to the Northeast This October
The Association of Fencing Industries (AFI), together with the Agricultural Fencing Association (AFA), is pleased to announce that the next Best Practice Day will take place on 15th October 2026 at Northumberland College – Kirkley Hall Campus, Newcastle upon Tyne.
Following the continued success of previous Best Practice Days across the UK, the Northeast event will once again bring together fencing contractors, suppliers and industry professionals for a full day of practical demonstrations, hands-on learning and networking.
Running from 9am – 3pm, the day is designed specifically for those working in agricultural fencing and will focus on delivering practical skills and techniques that attendees can take straight back to site.
The event programme will include:
- Live fencing demonstrations
- Hands-on workshops and training sessions
- Technical guidance and expert advice
- Service location and safety demonstrations
- Industry exhibitors and suppliers
- Networking opportunities with fellow contractors and professionals
The AFI & AFA Best Practice Days continue to provide an important platform for promoting high standards, sharing industry knowledge and showcasing best practice techniques across the fencing sector.
Kirkley Hall’s excellent land-based facilities make it an ideal venue for the event, offering the perfect environment for practical demonstrations and contractor engagement.
Further details, exhibitor announcements and ticket information will be released in the coming weeks.
📅 15th October 2026
📍 Northumberland College – Kirkley Hall Campus, Kirkley, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE20 0AQ
For further information, contact: info@theafi.co.uk
MILEAGE RATES INCREASE FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 15 YEARS
In a welcome move for workers and business owners alike, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced the first increase in mileage allowance rates in over 15 years.
As part of a broader package aimed at easing the pressure of rising living costs, this change could put more money back into the pockets of employees and the self-employed who rely on their vehicles for work.
The Approved Mileage Allowance Payment (AMAP) rate has been frozen at 45p per mile for the first 10,000 miles since 2011. However, in her statement to Parliament on Thursday 21 May 2026, Rachel Reeves confirmed that the rate will now rise by 10p to 55p per mile.
Even better, this increase is backdated to April 2026, meaning it applies to all eligible business mileage already undertaken in the current tax year.
As Reeves stated: “I can today announce a 10p per mile increase in tax free mileage rates, backdated to April 2026, benefiting those who need to drive for work, from care workers to plumbers.”
How the new rates work
- 55p per mile for the first 10,000 miles in a tax year
- 25p per mile for any mileage above 10,000 miles
- Applies to cars and vans only
- Covers both employees and self-employed individuals
It’s important to note that all other mileage rates remain unchanged and will be reviewed at the next Budget.
AFI Members Can Access Free TrustMark Registration
The Association of Fencing Industries (AFI) is proud to offer free TrustMark registration for AFI members operating in the domestic fencing sector.
As an official TrustMark Scheme Provider, AFI is helping members demonstrate the very highest standards of professionalism, customer service and technical competence — while giving homeowners greater confidence when choosing a fencing contractor.
TrustMark is the UK’s only Government-Endorsed Quality Scheme for work carried out in and around the home. By becoming TrustMark registered through AFI, members can align themselves with a nationally recognised mark of quality and trust, helping them stand out in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
The scheme has been designed to support reputable contractors while raising standards across the fencing industry. AFI members who register will also gain access to the Trading Standards Approved scheme, subject to successful intelligence checks, providing an additional level of consumer reassurance and business credibility.
TrustMark registration offers a wide range of practical business benefits, including:
- Use of the recognised TrustMark logo across marketing and business materials
- Increased visibility through the TrustMark “Find a Business” online directory
- Access to TrustMark’s free business portal
- Consumer protection and dispute resolution support
- Enhanced customer confidence and trust
- Access to Trading Standards registration opportunities
The scheme applies to domestic fencing contractors and supports businesses working across a range of domestic fencing and gate installation services.
AFI’s partnership with TrustMark reflects the association’s continued commitment to promoting quality, safety and professionalism throughout the fencing industry.
Pete Clark, CEO of AFI, commented:
“Our collaboration with TrustMark enables AFI members to gain national recognition for their professionalism while offering peace of mind to customers. Together, we are setting the benchmark for excellence in the fencing industry.”
Members interested in registering for TrustMark through AFI can find out more by visiting the AFI website.
For more information, visit:
https://afiorg.uk/trustmark-registration/
DEFRA Capital Grants 2026: guidance now available
Guidance for the 2026 Capital Grants offer is now available on GOV.UK.
The Capital Grants 2026 manual consists of:
- applicant’s guidance
- agreement holder’s guidance
- terms and conditions
A total of £225 million will be invested through Capital Grants this year to help farmers and land managers carry out environmental improvements across England.
Applications open in July, with funding available for a variety of capital items to support hedgerow and tree planting, restore boundaries, improve natural flood management, and support better air and water quality.
The available items will continue to be organised into the same 6 groups as last year’s offer:
- boundaries, trees and orchards
- improved water quality
- improved air quality
- improved natural flood management
- assessments
- improvements
Funding limits will continue to apply to 4 of these groups:
- Up to £25,000 for the air quality, natural flood management and water quality groups
- Up to £35,000 for the boundaries, trees and orchards group
Applications can include items from these groups up to the relevant funding limit, alongside items from the assessments and improvements groups.
In the same way as last year’s offer, you can submit one eligible application for each Single Business Identifier (SBI) you manage.
Demand for last year’s offer was very high, and we expect strong interest again this year.
Capital Grants have already delivered important benefits for the environment, nature recovery and farming practices across England.
Last year’s offer committed funding for more than 1,200km of new hedgerows, creating valuable habitats for birds and pollinators.
It also supported the renewal of more than 800 concrete yards, helping improve slurry and effluent management and reduce pollution entering watercourses.