Late payments. Two words that strike anxiety – and often financial strain – into the hearts of small business owners everywhere. But we have recently seen renewed energy in tackling this persistent issue with the appointment of Emma Jones as the UK’s new Small Business Commissioner.

At ACCA, we’ve been vocal supporters of the Office of the Small Business Commissioner (OSBC) since its inception under the Enterprise Act 2016. We’ve also had the privilege of working closely with Liz Barclay, whose time in the role brought energy, urgency and a real sense of connection with the small business community. Barclay has been a powerful voice for fairness, and we pay sincere tribute to the impact she made, through both policy work and direct engagement with business owners and advisers.

We now look ahead with optimism as Jones takes the baton. As founder of Enterprise Nation, Jones brings deep insight into the realities of running a business in the UK. She knows the pressures and potential of entrepreneurship and understands the structural issues that continue to undermine small business resilience – chief among them, poor payment practice.

Why this matters

Late payments are not a minor inconvenience – they are often a threat to survival for small and growing businesses. For many of our ACCA members – whether they’re running SMEs or advising them – this is a daily and damaging reality. In some cases, poor payment practices can tip a viable business into failure.

In a time when the UK economy is crying out for growth, innovation and job creation, it’s vital that small businesses aren’t strangled by cash flow issues caused by delayed payments. If we truly want SMEs to thrive, they must be paid promptly, fairly and consistently.

A critical first step

Jones steps in at a key moment. The government’s upcoming small business strategy and expected consultation on the Prompt Payment Code will demand immediate attention. These are both areas where her leadership can drive real progress – and we stand ready to support that work.

The road ahead

Appointment alone is not enough. Jones will need the backing of ministers and departments if real change is to be delivered. We at ACCA will continue to hold government accountable to its promise to ‘crack down’ on late payments.

This is a pivotal moment. Let’s ensure it becomes a turning point for small business resilience and fairness.

Join the conversation. How has late payment affected your business or your clients? What changes would you like to see in the government’s small business strategy?