UP to 60 local authorities are planning to pull money out of certain building societies, it was reported yesterday.

Arlingclose, an independent organisation that advises councils on their investment strategies, has told its 60 local authority clients to withdraw their money from all building societies apart from Nationwide, according to ITV News. But the Building Societies’ Association stressed that the sector remained sound, adding that societies had significant reserves. Adrian Coles, director general of the Building Societies’ Association, said: “There is no need for individual investors in building societies to be concerned in any way about the safety of their investment. Building societies have very significant reserves. Their accumulated profits over the years haven’t been given to shareholders – they’ve been kept in the business for rainy days just like this.”

STRESS RISK: Stress levels are soaring because of the recession, increasing the risk of accidents at work, according to a survey by insurance firm RSA. The firm published a “stress map’’, showing which areas of the UK suffering the most stress, amid warnings that millions of working days are being lost. However, workers in the North of England are the least stressed, the research among 2,000 adults showed. One in five of those questioned said they were more likely to face a workplace accident because of rising stress levels.

SEMINAR DATE: Places are still available for a seminar focusing on good management techniques.

Managing People in the Downturn organised by Nepic, North-East Process Industry Cluster, takes place on Tuesday, at the Wynyard Rooms, Billingham, near Stockton. The seminar is aimed at site directors, senior managers and human resources professionals. The cost is £40 andVAT for members, and £100 and VAT for non-members. To book a place, call Emma Youdale on 0191-516-4400 or email emma.youdale@nepic.co.uk AWARDS LAUNCHED: The 2009 HJ’s British Hairdressing Business Awards have been launched to recognise and reward salons and individuals for their business skills and acumen. The 13 categories range from independent salon to junior of the year and salon design of the year.

For further information about the awards, contact daniel.eversfield@rbi.co.uk