NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Import ban of cattle, pigs, sheep, and deer from Austria to protect farmers

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Import ban of cattle, pigs, sheep, and deer from Austria to protect farmers

    The government has stepped up measures to prevent the spread of foot and mouth disease (FMD).

    The government has stepped up measures to prevent the spread of foot and mouth disease (FMD), following a further confirmed case in Hungary, close to the Austrian border.  

    Due to the proximity of the new Hungarian case to the Austrian border, the decision has been made to suspend the commercial import from Austria of cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, wild ruminants and porcines (including deer and wild boar), and their untreated products such as fresh meat and dairy.   

    The UK Government had already taken action to suspend the commercial import of these products from Slovakia, Hungary and Germany.   

    Action is already underway with local authorities and traders to address possible risks from goods on the way to GB. Such goods must be pre-notified and wider border systems in place will prevent consignments entering GB.  

    In addition, travellers can no longer bring meat, meat products, milk and dairy products, certain composite products and animal by products of pigs and ruminants (including non-domestic species), or hay or straw, from Austria.  

    This is in addition to the action already taken by the UK Government to prevent the personal import of these products from Germany, Hungary and Slovakia to Great Britain.

    The UK Chief Veterinary Officer is urging livestock keepers to remain vigilant to the clinical signs of FMD following the recent outbreaks in Hungary and Germany. There are no cases in the UK currently.  

    FMD poses no risk to human or food safety, but is a highly contagious viral disease of cattle, sheep, pigs and other cloven-hoofed animals such as wild boar, deer, llamas and alpacas. Livestock keepers should therefore be absolutely rigorous about their biosecurity.  

    FMD causes significant economic losses due to production losses in the affected animals as well as loss of access to foreign markets for animals, meat and milk for affected countries.    

    UK Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss said:  

    Following the detection of a second foot and mouth disease case in Hungary, with a restriction area crossing the border into Austria, we have taken action to prevent the commercial import of potentially risky goods from Austria.  

    I would urge livestock keepers to continue exercising the upmost vigilance for signs of disease, ensure scrupulous biosecurity is maintained and to report any suspicion of disease immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.

    Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner said:

    We will continue to protect our nation’s farmers from the risk posed by foot and mouth disease.  

    This is why we have acted immediately to impose import restrictions on Austria, we will continue to keep the situation under review and will not hesitate to add additional countries to the list if the disease continues to spread further.

    What you can do    

    If you’re an animal keeper, read about how to spot foot and mouth disease and report it.    

    If you’re an importer or exporter, read about the import restrictions for foot and mouth disease.   

    Clinical signs to be aware of vary depending on the animals, but in cattle the main signs are sores and blisters on the feet, mouth and tongue with potentially a fever, lameness and a reluctance to feed. In sheep and pigs, signs tend to manifest with lameness with potential for blistering.      

    While horses and companion animals are not susceptible to FMD, hay feed or straw bedding, if sourced from an infected area, could act as a fomite and therefore also prevented from entering GB.  

    Maintaining good biosecurity is essential to protecting the health and welfare of herds and critical to preventing the spread of diseases such as FMD and preventing an outbreak spreading.    

    Foot and mouth disease is a notifiable disease and must be reported. If you suspect foot and mouth disease in your animals, you must report it immediately by calling:    

    • 03000 200 301 in England     

    • 0300 303 8268 in Wales     

    • your local  Field Services Office in Scotland    

    For more information, visit: Imports, exports and EU trade of animals and animal products: topical issues – GOV.UK

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Updated SORP: charities encouraged to respond to consultation and be ready for change

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Updated SORP: charities encouraged to respond to consultation and be ready for change

    The joint SORP-making body has today launched a public consultation on the next version of the charities accounting and reporting framework.

    The ‘Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities’ (‘the SORP’) ensures consistency and transparency across the sector, making charity accounts comparable, understandable and useful for donors, beneficiaries, and the public alike.  

    It has been updated following an extensive development process informed by the views of engagement partners and a sector specific SORP Committee.  

    The SORP-making body is now inviting comments on the draft as the feedback will help shape the final version, which is expected to be published in autumn 2025 and effective from January 2026.  

    The SORP has been updated to reflect changes introduced by the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) to FRS 102, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland – and in particular to reflect changes to how charities will need to recognise certain types of income and certain types of leases in their accounts. The consultation is seeking views on how the revised requirements are explained in the context of charities. Charities are also encouraged to ready themselves for these two changes, the substance of which is already decided.

    Improvements are also proposed in other areas that are within the discretion of the SORP-making body. These are to make the SORP more straightforward to navigate for charities, and to improve information for beneficiaries, donors and the public about how charity resources are stewarded. These proposed changes include:  

    • introduction of 3 tiers based on income levels to ensure proportionate reporting, whilst also meeting the information needs of users   

    • advancing reporting in important areas such as impact reporting, reserves, going concern and volunteers 

    • introduction of proportionate reporting for environmental, social and governance issues. 

    The SORP-making body is keen to hear the views of charities, preparers, auditors and independent examiners of charity accounts, trustees, employees and beneficiaries of charities and others who may use charity accounts including donors, funders, financial supporters and other stakeholders. 

    The consultation on the ‘Exposure Draft of the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities’ will run from 28 March 2025 for 12 weeks.  

    The joint SORP-making body comprises the Charity Commission for England and Wales, the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator and the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland. The Charities Regulator for the Republic of Ireland is an observer on the SORP-making body. 

    Charity Commission for England and Wales Chief Executive David Holdsworth CEO, said:  

    Some charities have to prepare accounts using the Charities SORP, whilst others choose to do so. The framework promotes transparency and accountability over the stewardship of the resources charities hold, which is vital to public trust and confidence in the sector. This new draft has been developed through extensive engagement with experts including through the SORP Committee, and can be improved further through this formal consultation. I really encourage charities and others with an interest or experience to give us their feedback.  

    Charity Commission for Northern Ireland Chief Executive, Frances McCandless, said: 

    The SORP plays a crucial role in setting accountancy standards for charities. To ensure it evolves to meet modern expectations and supports those preparing, reviewing, and reading charity accounts, we need your input. This consultation is a key opportunity for those who use the SORP to shape its future. With implementation approaching in January 2026, and as FRS 102 will not be changing, now is also the time for charities to start thinking about how they can be ready to report under the new standards.  

    Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) CEO, Katriona Carmichael, said:  

    The Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) helps promote trust and confidence in charities by enhancing transparency and accountability of how a charity’s resources are managed. The Exposure Draft SORP has been developed by experts in charity finance to ensure that charities can keep up with developments in modern financial reporting. It’s with this in mind that I’d encourage charities applying the SORP and others to contribute to this consultation process, and take action now to prepare for the upcoming changes in accounting standards that are reflected in the Exposure Draft SORP. 

    ENDS  

    Notes to editors 

    1. More information about the Charity SORP, including the consultation on the ‘exposure draft’, can be found at https://www.charitysorp.org/  

    2. The Charity SORP applies to charities preparing accruals accounts under UK-Irish Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (GAAP).  The SORP provides guidance on FRS 102 the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102), as well as setting out sector specific requirements. More information about FRS 102 can be found here

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Homeless, HIA and Telecare services switching to council

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Customers will be able to access all the services as normal, with new email and phone contact details as follows:

    The new arrangements aim to realise operational benefits while continuing to deliver a seamless customer service.

    Improvements for customers include a new face to face offer alongside the introduction of a new housing advice service.

    This follows public consultation that identified residents want more face to face advice and support to help them stay in their accommodation.

    The new model is also in line with councils up and down the country having to manage rising costs and a huge increase in demand for Temporary Accommodation.  

    Councillor Steve Evans, the council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Housing, said: “We need to prevent more people losing their homes and through quality advice and support we will be able to offer that.

    “The proposed Housing Advice and Homeless Prevention Service will manage the growing demand and improve residents’ ability to make well informed decisions regarding their housing options.

    “We would like to thank Wolverhampton Homes for helping thousands of residents over the years and we have worked closely with them to make the transition to the remodelled service as smooth as possible.”

    The transfer of the HIA and Telecare from Wolverhampton Homes to the council will provide the opportunity to streamline services and give the council greater oversight on the delivery of the housing adaptations service, which impacts on services within the council such as adult social care, children’s services and occupational health.

    Councillor Evans added: “Wolverhampton Homes has been a key partner in the review of the HIA and Telecare and is supportive of the services being transferred to the council.

    “The transfer will further simplify the ability for all services involved in both policy development and assessment and delivery of adaptations to work under one governance framework ensuring quick and timely decision making when needed as well as further encouraging a shared knowledge and resource base.

    “The delivery of adaptations and telecare are an integral part of council functions and services. The council’s ability to ensure that elderly, vulnerable and disabled persons have access to aids, adaptations and technology supports people in remaining in their homes and will likely have a positive impact on their health and wellbeing, In addition, it also alleviates the pressures on health and social care services by reducing hospital admissions and the need for long term care both in and outside of the home.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New programme of council road and footway improvements to help tackle potholes across city

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    A budget of £9.2 million for the highways capital programme 2025/26 was bolstered by an additional £500,000 council investment to help fix and prevent surface defects at last month’s council cabinet meeting.

    It will see dozens of roads and footways across the city given a new lease of life.

    Some of the roads included in the approved programme of improvements for 2025/26 – a mixture of resurfacing and surface dressing – can be seen in the attached list alongside approved footway improvements, with others to be confirmed.

    Councillor Qaiser Azeem, City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and Green City, said: “Addressing potholes is a priority for City of Wolverhampton Council as we understand how important a safe and well maintained highways network is for all modes of transport.

    “While we carry out thousands of repairs to potholes every year, and will continue to do so, prevention work is key in the long term.

    “That is why we are investing in a further programme of resurfacing and other surface treatments informed by condition surveys and inspections across the network, identifying where improvements can make the most difference.

    “This approach is considered best practice nationally and will help us to reduce the need for reactive repairs in the long run.”

    Surface dressing can extend the life of roads, reducing the need for reactive repairs. It is completed quickly with little disruption to traffic. Where more extensive work is required, full resurfacing projects are completed.

    Over the past 5 years the council has treated more than 560 square kilometres of carriageway by resurfacing or surface dressing and repaired more than 58,000 defects in roads and footways – up to 44 per working day.

    Pothole repairs are carried out throughout the year too as the council strikes a balance between preventative and reactive work. 

    The highways capital programme also funds road safety and traffic management work, upgrades to car parks, streetlighting upgrades and more.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man who glorifed Lee Rigby murder recalled to prison after Met Counter Terrorism investigation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command have ensured that a registered terrorist offender who glorified the murder of Lee Rigby has been sentenced to four-and-a-half years’ in prison after he breached his notification requirements.

    Royal Barnes 34 (28.08.90) was convicted in March 2014 of inciting terrorism overseas and three counts of transmitting a terrorist publication following the murder of Lee Rigby, a British soldier, in Woolwich.

    Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said: “Monitoring those convicted of terrorism-related crimes is a key part of our work to ensure that they are not posing any further risk to the public.

    “Terrorism offenders are subject to strict notification requirements once they have completed their sentences, and we are proactive in making sure they are sticking to these. As this case shows we will not hesitate to take action should we identify any breaches and it should also send a message that there are serious consequences for those who do so.”

    Barnes was sentenced to five years and four months in jail in 2014 after he produced videos, posted on Youtube, showing footage of the scene and calling for British-based Muslims to fight the government.

    He was released from prison in September 2016, but recalled in June 2017 for breaching his licence when he was found in possession of an iPhone which he hadn’t notified officers about. He was then released again in May 2019 and was subject to a number of ‘Part 4’ notification requirements.

    On 26 October 2023 he was arrested for breaches of these notification requirements relating to use of a vehicle, mobile phone and email account. He was also found to have been involved in fraudulent activity related to possession of bank cards.

    He pleaded guilty to these offences on 25 October last year and was sentenced on 28 March, at the Old Bailey, to three-and-a-half years in prison for the two breaches and a further 12 months, to be served consecutively, for the fraud offence.

    He must serve at least two thirds of his sentence in custody before being referred to a parole board.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens concerned by Government delays to relationships education guidance

    Source: Scottish Greens

    28 Mar 2025 Education

    Schools must feel safe for all pupils. Education can help to end violence against women and girls.

    More in Education

    With extreme misogyny on the rise, the Scottish Greens are deeply concerned that new guidance for teaching young people about relationships and sexual health could face further delay.
     
    Green MSP Ross Greer has worked since 2016 to update this teaching guidance, with a focus on tackling violence against women and girls by introducing content on the importance of consent. The current guidance was produced in 2014 and is woefully inadequate. It does not include a section on consent in sexual relationships, nor is it fully LGBTQ-inclusive.
     
    Mr Greer was heavily involved in drafting new guidance during the Scottish Greens’ time in government. This was published and consulted on in 2023, but the results of that consultation and the Scottish Government’s response are only now being published.
     
    In the government’s response to the consultation, they have said that they will ‘further develop/clarify’ sixteen areas of the guidance, which will likely lead to a further delay to its introduction. This is despite the increased recognition that many boys and young men are being radicalised by extreme online misogyny, as highlighted by the recent Netflix series Adolescence.
     
    The Scottish Greens have urged the Scottish Government to listen to the positive feedback already received from young people, highlighting the survey and focus group work carried out by Youngscot and the Scottish Youth Parliament.

    Scottish Greens’ education spokesperson Ross Greer MSP said:

    “Violence against women and girls is rampant across society and sadly our schools are no exception. Twice as many girls feel unsafe at school because of sexism as they did a decade ago. Teaching all pupils, but especially boys and young men, about the importance of consent is essential to tackling this and making our schools safer. It cannot wait any longer.
     
    “I have spent close to a decade trying to fix this guidance. The draft we produced and consulted on two years ago starts with a substantial section on the importance of consent in relationships. This was based on years of evidence gathering which proved that far too many pupils were leaving school having received education on sex and relationships which didn’t cover this crucial concept.
     
    “As the Netflix drama Adolescence has highlighted, teachers and schools need more resources and support to protect women and girls, and to support men and boys. Another long delay means they are still stuck with decade-old guidance which is woefully out of date.
     
    “The Scottish Government needs to set a clear deadline for finishing what we started. This guidance must be ready to go no later than when the new school year starts in August.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Spring Statement heralds further boost to growth in Scotland

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Spring Statement heralds further boost to growth in Scotland

    Scottish Secretary welcomes Chancellor’s £2.2billion defence budget boost to create more jobs and opportunities in the sector as part of Plan for Change

    Growth is central to the Spring Statement announcements and Plan for Change, as Sec of State Ian Murray championed at the signing of the Argyll & Bute Growth Deal recently

    Chancellor Rachel Reeves this week pledged a new era of security and national renewal as she delivered a Spring Statement to kickstart economic growth, protect working people and keep Britain safe. 

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray has welcomed her measures, including a £2.2 billion increase in the UK-wide defence budget for 2025-26, on top of £2.9 billion announced at Autumn Budget.

    Mr Murray said:

    We are living in an increasingly insecure world, and the extra £2.2 billion for defence – on top of the £2.9 billion announced at Autumn Budget – will make Britain stronger and safer. This is a huge boost for Scotland’s world-leading defence sector, which delivers Scottish economic growth and more highly-skilled jobs. The increase will also mean better homes for our military personnel and families, including the thousands based in Scotland. 

    Today’s announcements underpin the great strides being made by the UK Government in achieving stability in our public finances. There have been three interest rate cuts since the general election. Next week the increase in the minimum wage will mean a pay rise for hundreds of thousands of workers in Scotland and our employment rights legislation will deliver the biggest upgrade in workers’ rights in a generation. 

    The Spring Statement also delivered an extra £28 million for the Scottish Government. That is on top of their £4.9 billion extra from the budget, creating a record £47.7 billion settlement for 25/26, announced at the Autumn Budget. This is the biggest budget settlement in the history of devolution and an end to austerity. The Scottish Government must now use that wisely – to improve Scotland’s failing public services.” 

    This latest defence boost builds on the Chancellor’s recent visit to Babcock in Rosyth where she also announced that UK defence exporters would benefit from a £2 billion increase to UK Export Finance lending capacity. 

    Her Spring Statement underlines that growth is at the heart of the UK Government’s Plan for Change with £13 billion of additional capital spend allocated alongside the defence funding boost.

    It follows the Budget in the autumn where it was announced that the Scottish Government will be provided with a £47.7 billion settlement in 2025/26 – the largest in real terms in the history of devolution. This includes an additional £3.4 billion through the Barnett formula, with £2.8 billion for day-to-day spending and £610 million for capital investment.  

    The measures announced this week top up these Barnett consequentials by a further £28 million in 2025/26.

    The Scottish Government continues to receive over 20% more per person than equivalent UK Government spending in the rest of the UK, translating into over £8.5 billion more in 2025-26. Block Grant funding from 2026-27 onwards will be confirmed at Phase 2 of the Spending Review, which concludes on 11 June 2025. The Chief Secretary to the Treasury will meet with his counterparts from the devolved governments to discuss their priorities ahead of its conclusion.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dame Karen Pierce visits Bosnia and Herzegovina

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    Dame Karen Pierce visits Bosnia and Herzegovina

    UK Special Envoy for the Western Balkans, Dame Karen Pierce, used her visit to reiterate the UK’s commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    UK Special Envoy for the Western Balkans, Dame Karen Pierce, paid her first official visit in this role to Bosnia and Herzegovina on 27-28 March.

    Dame Karen Pierce, one of the UK’s most experienced diplomats, has been appointed the UK Special Envoy for the Western Balkans in February this year, taking over from Air Chief Marshal The Lord Peach.

    Dame Karen Pierce began her visit with talks with the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina members, Chair of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Minister of Foreign Affairs in which she reiterated the UK’s steadfast commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s stability and security.

    Dame Karen Pierce said:

    It’s an honour to have been appointed as the UK’s Special Envoy for the Western Balkans – a region of great personal attachment to me, and to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina so early on in my role. The UK remains fully committed to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    I am visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina in a moment of political crisis. It is important to underline that BiH has the institutions and mechanisms to respond to this crisis. An early domestic resolution will enable further progress on the country’s EU path. For our part, the UK will continue to support BiH in fulfilling its Euro-Atlantic aspirations.

    This autumn, the UK is hosting the Berlin Process summit with Western Balkans leaders to support stability, security and economic co-operation in the region Dame Karen Pierce discussed objectives and delivery with Amer Kapetanovic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, a key regional partner.

    During the visit, Special Envoy Dame Karen Pierce also met human rights defenders, journalists, and project partners with whom the UK works on a range of issues for the benefit of citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

    In her meeting with leaders and representatives of the biggest religious communities of Bosnia and Herzegovina, she urged them to work together to deescalate political crises and to build trust between communities: preserving peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina is paramount.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK A Day in the Life of our Deputy Speakers

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    The House of Commons has three Deputy Speakers, who fill in for the Speaker in the Chamber and have a range of parliamentary duties. For the first time in history all of the Deputy Speakers are women. We accompanied them and their private secretary, Abi, to see what a day for them looks like.

    #womenshistorymonth

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXw-8oP_kHg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Success at the 2025 Local Government Awards!

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Councils throughout Northern Ireland celebrated as the ten award winners of the 2025 Local Government Awards were announced at an event hosted by Barra Best at the Game of Thrones Studio in Banbridge last night (Thursday 27 March).

    Coordinated by the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA), the awards ceremony also marked the 10th anniversary of the newly established councils and the evolving role of councillors, who are vital in advocating and delivering for their communities and the wider region.

    This year’s awards attracted 69 entries and were designed to celebrate the exceptional efforts of councils in their communities. They highlighted the innovative service provision, new initiatives, and the personal commitment of councillors, local government staff, and local government partners.

    The award categories focused on showcasing the dedication, hard work, and creative approaches that local councils demonstrate daily, while also creating opportunities for local government staff and elected members to shine.

    Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council collected two awards on the night.

    Food Heartland took home the award for ‘Best Outcome of the Past Decade Award.’ This council-led initiative connects farmers, food producers and chefs across the borough to work collaboratively to foster a vibrant food culture and showcase the region’s exceptional culinary offerings.

    Local Government Awards 2025. Best Outcome of the Past Decade Award. Winner: Food Heartland – Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council. The award was presented by Jonathon Carr West, CEO, LGiU.

    ABC Place Plans, which helps to empower communities, promotes collaboration and integrates sustainability to strengthen civic pride, enhance wellbeing and ensure long-term prosperity and resilience of our towns and cities, won the ‘Innovative Planning for the Future Award.’

    Local Government Awards 2025. Innovative Planning for the Future Award Winner: ABC Place Plans – Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council. The award was presented by Stephanie Singer, Director, Quadra Consulting.

    NILGA President, Cllr Alison Bennington stated, “Councils across Northern Ireland are committed to enhancing the communities they serve while also supporting broader government and civic initiatives. Our councils undertake valuable work and dedicate time and resources to modernise and improve their areas for local communities, businesses, and visitors, as well as for wider government and civic society.

    “The Local Government Awards are a testament to these services and provide benchmarks for broader government. They offer fantastic learning tools for councils in an environment where every penny and resource counts.

    “We can improve by learning from the best. This is a passion of NILGA, which is evident in each of our ambitious and resourceful councils. Congratulations to our winners and finalists and thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate and support the 2025 Local Government Awards.”

    Celebrating a “Decade of Achievement” for Northern Ireland’s councils, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said “Councils play a central role in delivering a wide range of services and in helping to develop and grow the local economy – making life better for all our citizens.

    The Minister continued, “Councils have made significant progress, taking on planning responsibilities, introducing Community Planning, and working in partnership with central government to develop and deliver City and Growth Deals. This has brought decision-making closer to local communities, ensuring services are tailored to meet specific needs. Local councils have also driven economic regeneration by partnering with businesses, investing in infrastructure, and promoting tourism. Initiatives like Labour Market Partnerships and the £1 billion investment in City and Growth Deals are creating jobs, boosting entrepreneurship, and enhancing connectivity.”

    APSE Chief Executive Mo Baines remarked, “Across local government, day in and day out, our unsung frontline heroes go above and beyond to deliver for their local communities. The Local Government Awards highlight their commitment to the goals of continuous improvement and excellence in public services. From maintaining beautiful parks and managing waste collection to attracting businesses and promoting arts, culture, and leisure, it is a privilege to recognise the fantastic work that local councils do on the front lines.”

    The awards cover ten categories, with sponsor partners and support bodies including agendaNi, the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE), CCLA Good Investment, Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), Hays Recruitment, the Local Government Information Unit (LGiU), the Local Government Staff Commission (LGSC), Quadra Consulting, the Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI), and the William Johnston Memorial Trust (WJMT).

    Also shortlisted for the awards were the Inclusive ABC Initiative (Local Government Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award), Council-wide Quality Management System (Best Use of Data and Technology Award) and ABC Safeguarding Officer, Gary Scott (Employee of the year).

    Click here for a full list of the winners.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British Ambassador visits Peten to strengthen conservation of the Mayan Forest

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    British Ambassador visits Peten to strengthen conservation of the Mayan Forest

    UK assistance continues advancing forests protection and sustainable livelihoods of communities in Peten, as the British Ambassador endorses a conservation agreement during her visit.

    Ambassador Juliana Correa visited Petén on 26-28 March to learn about the progress of projects supported by DEFRA’s Biodiverse Landscapes Fund (BLF). She met with local authorities, implementing partners and communities. 

    On 26 March Ambassador Correa had discussions with representatives of the National Council of Protected Areas (CONAP) about the achievements and challenges in natural resource management in the region. She also met with implementing partners of the Guatemalan Mayan Forest sub-landscape, who presented progress in ecosystem restoration, fire prevention, and sustainable forest management. 

    Representatives of the communities of Cruce a La Colorada, La Pasadita, Paso Caballos, San Miguel, and San Miguel Poptún, explained to the Ambassador how their Climate-Smart Community Development Plans were helping them to better adapt to the effects of climate change and improve their environmental resilience. 

    During a visit to Uaxactun on 27 March, the Ambassador participated as witness in the signing of a Conservation Agreement between the BLF’s leading implementing organization Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), CONAP, and other partners, reaffirming the United Kingdom’s commitment to protecting forests and strengthening community governance models. As part of the focus on sustainability, she visited a forest nursery and a community sawmill, where she learned about the impact of responsible forest management and its contribution to the local economy. 

    On 28 March, the Ambassador toured the Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Association (ARCAS) rescue centre, an organization that has received support from the United Kingdom for the conservation of endangered species and to promote environmental education. Finally, he met with FORESCOM, an organization that promotes the sustainable use of timber and non-timber products, contributing to the economic development of communities and the protection of forests. 

    DEFRA’s Biodiverse Landscapes Fund seeks to strengthen the resilience of ecosystems and communities in regions of high ecological value, such as the Mayan Rainforest. The UK is investing in precious areas covering Guatemala and Belize, which compose the largest tropical forest in Mesoamerica and is a refuge for endangered species. The BLF’s activities in Peten are carried out by WCS, and other implementing partners.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Have an egg-cellent Easter with FREE school holiday activities

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Friday, 28th March 2025

    There will be over 10,000 opportunities for fun this coming Easter thanks to the work of Stoke-on-Trent City Council and the Hubb Foundation.

    Families have access to free activities over the school break as part of the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme.

    This year’s Easter HAF will run from Monday 14th April to Friday 25 April and offer free activities and trips, alongside a healthy meal. There are lots of activities on offer that cater to a wide range of interests, from sports to arts and crafts.

    This year, there is a new booking system launching as well, which is designed to be easier for parents to use when booking or cancelling sessions for their children. This will be available to parents from 4pm on Friday 28th March.

    Councillor Sarah-Jane Colclough, cabinet member for education and anti-poverty, said: “With lots of fun activities available for free and a new booking system that will make life easier for parents, I encourage all parents in the city to check out the booking website to see what’s on offer. I guarantee there will be something your child will enjoy!”

    Councillor Sarah Hill, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “It is important that all children have access to opportunities they need to help them thrive and enjoy their time off school this Easter.

    “The HAF programme offers a chance for children to do something really fun, whilst eating a healthy meal during the holidays, which can bring added pressure on parents. Check out the new booking system to see what is going on.”

    HAF sessions can be booked on the new platform here: https://eequ.org/stokeontrenthafwiththehubbfoundation

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The results of the VI International Arctic Forum “The Arctic: Territory of Dialogue” have been summed up

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The 6th International Arctic Forum “The Arctic: Territory of Dialogue” was held in Murmansk on March 26–27. The organizer was the Roscongress Foundation with the support of the Russian Government.

    “The International Arctic Forum “The Arctic: Territory of Dialogue” – 2025 was attended by about 1.3 thousand participants and media representatives from 21 countries, as well as about 230 representatives of Russian and foreign businesses from more than 110 companies. The business program included 20 events with the participation of more than 150 speakers. The forum turned out to be truly international and significant. At the plenary session, the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin announced a number of fundamental decisions for the socio-economic development of the Arctic. The most important task of the IAF is to discuss current problems that the Government of Russia, federal ministries and regions must jointly solve for the successful operation of enterprises, improving the standard of living of people, supporting the territories as a whole,” emphasized Deputy Prime Minister – Plenipotentiary Representative of the President in the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev.

    The IAF has become a platform for international dialogue on issues such as the development of the Northern Sea Route, increasing the investment and entrepreneurial potential of the Arctic zone, as well as environmental issues, humanitarian and cultural cooperation.

    “Right now, the Arctic is becoming a territory of opportunities for the entire country. Given the revision of traditional technological chains, given participation in large-scale Arctic projects, huge prospects are opening up for enterprises across the country and creative, artistic people. The development of the Northern Sea Route as the main transport artery in the Arctic, the construction of new railway approaches to northern ports will also have a multiplier effect for the entire country. Within the framework of the upcoming major international forums, including the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum and the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, the Arctic theme will be taken into account and allocated to a separate block of the business program of events,” said Anton Kobyakov, Advisor to the President of Russia, Executive Secretary of the Organizing Committee for the Preparation and Holding of the International Arctic Forum “The Arctic – Territory of Dialogue”.

    One of the central topics of the forum was the discussion of state policy in the Arctic, aimed at the comprehensive development of the Far North and the growth of the well-being of the region’s residents.

    “The mechanisms of state support need to be improved for the accelerated development of the macro-region, the implementation of investment projects, and the improvement of the quality of life of people. Based on the results of the implementation of the first stage of the Arctic development strategy until 2035, proposals will be prepared to update this fundamental document,” said Minister for the Development of the Far East and Arctic Alexey Chekunkov at a joint meeting of the State Council commissions on the development of the Arctic and the Northern Sea Route.

    The forum was held under the motto “Live in the North!” The event brought together representatives of federal and regional authorities, businesses and the expert community.

    “Our strategic plan is “Live in the North!” This is the motto of today’s forum. For us, this is a plan in addition to national projects. Clear, worked out with people, designed, aimed at ensuring investment growth and, of course, increasing people’s incomes and their quality of life,” noted Murmansk Region Governor Andrei Chibis during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin as part of the MAF.

    Business program

    The business program of the forum included 20 sessions divided into four thematic blocks: “The Arctic and the NSR: how to win in the competitive struggle of world routes”, “The Arctic and the NSR: a pole for attracting investments”, “The Arctic and the NSR: development of key settlements”, “International cooperation and ecology”. More than 150 speakers took part in the discussions.

    The forum included a joint meeting of the State Council commissions on the development of the Arctic and the Northern Sea Route, which united five State Council commissions – in the areas of “Northern Sea Route and the Arctic”, “International Cooperation and Export”, “Energy”, “Youth and Children”, and “Efficient Transport System”.

    The session “The Arctic: Bridges of Cooperation between Peoples and States” summed up the results of the VIII International Scientific and Practical Conference “The Universe of the Polar Bear: Effective Cooperation in the Arctic”.

    Also, for the first time, the MAF hosted a special session dedicated to the role of women in the development of northern regions – the “Arctic Living Room”.

    Plenary session

    The key event of the forum was the plenary session with the participation of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

    “Development of the Russian North, overcoming the challenges of harsh nature, the state’s entry into new promising frontiers – these tasks inspired many generations of our ancestors: sailors and Novgorod merchants of the Middle Ages, Arctic pioneers of the 16th and 17th centuries, industrialists of the 18th and 19th centuries, scientists, polar explorers, engineers, workers of the Soviet Union, teams of companies of modern Russia, which launched large Arctic projects in the early 2000s. And today, the northern vector of development is in the foreground, it is our sovereign, historical choice. And this means that the tasks that we set and solve in the Arctic, the projects that we implement here, must be of an appropriate, historical scale, with an expectation of decades, maybe even centuries. We will do everything to strengthen Russia’s global leadership in the Arctic, and, despite all the current difficulties and complexities, we will ensure the comprehensive development of this region and create a solid foundation for future generations,” the head of state noted.

    Participants

    The forum brought together about 1.3 thousand participants and media representatives from 21 countries, including Russia (Argentina, Great Britain, Venezuela, Vietnam, Germany, India, Kazakhstan, Qatar, China, UAE, Republic of Belarus, Republic of Korea, Russia, USA, Serbia, Singapore, Turkey, Finland, France, Switzerland, Japan).

    The forum was attended by Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Maxim Oreshkin, Presidential Adviser and Special Representative of the President for International Cooperation in Transport Igor Levitin, Presidential Aide Alexei Dyumin, Presidential Aide Nikolai Patrushev, and Presidential Adviser Anton Kobyakov.

    The forum was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Vitaly Savelyev and Deputy Prime Minister – Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev, Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Northwestern Federal District Alexander Gutsan, Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Siberian Federal District Anatoly Seryshev, Minister for the Development of the Far East and Arctic Alexey Chekunkov and Minister of Industry and Trade Anton Alikhanov.

    The forum participants included seven heads of federal services and agencies and ten heads of constituent entities of the Russian Federation.

    The Chairman of the Committee of Senior Arctic Officials, Norwegian diplomat Morten Höglund, addressed the forum participants with a video message. In addition, the forum site was visited by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Korea Lee Do-hoon.

    The forum brought together about 230 representatives of Russian and foreign businesses from more than 110 companies.

    ​

    Media

    The forum was attended by 305 media representatives from Russia and nine foreign countries (Great Britain, Venezuela, Vietnam, Germany, Qatar, Serbia, Turkey, Finland, France).

    ​

    Agreements

    Nine agreements were signed at MAF-2025:

    ● PJSC Rosseti North-West, JSC Rosseti Scientific and Technical Center and the Novosibirsk State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering signed a strategic partnership agreement;

    ● JSC Far East and Arctic Development Corporation signed an agreement on information interaction with the Association of Tour Operators of Russia, as well as with JSC Arsenal on cooperation in the extraction and enrichment of rare metal ores in the Murmansk region within the framework of the Kulyok – Rare Earths project with a total investment volume of 10 billion rubles;

    ● The Federal Agency for Nationalities Affairs and PJSC Mining and Metallurgical Company Norilsk Nickel signed an additional cooperation agreement;

    ● a cooperation agreement was signed between the Government of the Republic of Karelia and Vodohod LLC;

    ● the Ministry of Property Relations of the Murmansk Region and the public-law company Roskadastr signed an agreement on the implementation of the pilot project “Involvement of real estate objects in economic circulation in the Murmansk Region”;

    ● the government of the Murmansk region and the Avito company signed a cooperation agreement;

    ● the government of the Murmansk region, Sberbank of Russia PJSC and the V.A. Almazov National Medical Research Center signed a cooperation agreement;

    ● The Arkhangelsk Region Government and the United Volunteer Center of the Murmansk Region signed an agreement on cooperation in the development of volunteerism and strengthening cooperation in the regions of the Arctic zone, scaling up practices to support the wives of military personnel in the Northern Fleet.

    Sports program

    The sports program included eight events. The Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of Russia in the Northwestern Federal District Alexander Gutsan and the Governor of the Murmansk Region Andrei Chibis took part in the ceremonial event dedicated to the 90th Festival of the North. The program of competitions, which will last until mid-April, included cross-country skiing, biathlon, speed skating and alpine skiing, bandy and others.

    For the forum participants, Arctic team building, exercise in ties, ice floating, alpine skiing and snowboarding, snow fights, as well as an introduction to traditional sports of the peoples of the North were organized.

    The forum included a presentation of the Arctic Mosaic sports, health and strength festival, which will be held annually in different regions of the Arctic zone. Under the auspices of the MAF, the IV All-Russian Arctic Games were held in Salekhard and Labytnangi, the program of which included nine sports.

    The final and largest event of the MAF-2025 sports program will be the 51st Murmansk Ski Marathon. On March 29 and 30, 2.5 thousand athletes will take to the start line of the 25 km and 50 km races at the Dolina Uyuta sports complex. The marathon participants will be Olympic winners and medalists Nikita Kryukov, Alexey Petukhov, Maxim Vylegzhanin and Alexander Bessmertnykh.

    Cultural program

    The cultural program included the opening of the Taste of the Arctic gastrofestival, where a joint team of restaurateurs and chefs from the subjects of the Russian Arctic zone presented a menu of regional cuisine. The Sami Village and the Taste the North ice bar operated on the site. There was also an Arctic crafts fair.

    The Murmansk Regional Museum of Local History offered the forum participants excursions that told about the uniqueness of the Murmansk Region. Thematic exhibitions were timed to coincide with the MAF. Among them was an exhibition of paintings dedicated to the development of the Arctic and the Northern Sea Route, from the collections of the Murmansk Regional Art Museum.

    There was also a ceremony of donating works of art to the Murmansk Region and the opening of the exhibition “H2O. Art about water and more…”. Seven paintings and three sculptures were donated to the Murmansk Regional Art Museum from the Siyanie Contemporary Art Center and the collections of Vladimir Nekrasov and Andrey Malakhov.

    In addition, forum participants were able to take a tour of the icebreaker Lenin, the world’s first vessel with a nuclear power plant, which provided navigation along the Northern Sea Route for about 30 years. The icebreaker has guided thousands of ships through the Arctic and traveled a total of 654,400 nautical miles. It has now become a calling card of the Murmansk Region and one of the most visited tourist sites in the Kola North.

    The Murmansk Drama Theatre hosted an “Art Cocktail”, during which the audience saw the play “Prologue to the Murmansk Region” and a concert by the Pacific Fleet ensemble.

    On March 30, a creative evening of People’s Artist of Russia Alexander Oleshko “Set the Mood” will take place.

    ​

    Project “Soul of Russia. Arctic”

    As part of the project, seven films were screened in partnership with Roskino, including the films North Pole and Village of Widows, which were dedicated to the Year of Defender of the Fatherland and the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

    Creative meetings “Inspired by the Arctic” were held, during which viewers met with the production designer of the Soyuzmultfilm studio, creator of the animated series “Umka” Anna Popova, director of the film “North Pole” Alexander Kott, scriptwriter and producer of the film “Widows’ Village” Olga Martisova.

    During the children’s program “Arctic Film Vacations” they showed “The Best Episodes of Soyuzmultfilm Series” and “Warm Animation from Soyuzmultfilm”.

    The business program included a session entitled “The Northern Creative Path: A Territory of Business Opportunities,” where the contribution of creative industries to the economic growth of the northern territories, the use of the wealth of national cultural traditions to create unique brands, and other issues were discussed.

    Expert and analytical support

    The Roscongress Foundation’s information and analytical system continued to develop the Summary service, which uses artificial intelligence to obtain brief analytical summaries of discussions with descriptions of key conclusions, problems, and solutions voiced during the discussions.

    Based on the results of the forum, an analytical report “Results of the International Arctic Forum 2025” will be prepared, which will be available in electronic form in the information and analytical system of the Roscongress Foundation roscongress.org.

    Expert and analytical support for the forum was provided by experts representing the country’s leading scientific and educational centers that conduct research on a wide range of topics on the Arctic agenda, including the Murmansk Arctic University, the Northern (Arctic) Federal University named after M.V. Lomonosov, the St. Petersburg State University of Economics, the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, the National Research University Higher School of Economics, the G.P. Luzin Institute of Economic Problems of the Kola Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Institute of Regional Economic Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, etc.

    Partners

    The co-organizer of the forum is the state corporation Rosatom, the strategic partner is PJSC Rosseti, the strategic scientific partner is the National Research Center Kurchatov Institute, the communications partner is the media holding MAER, the business program partners are VTB Bank, PJSC Novatek, MMC Norilsk Nickel, PhosAgro, and the business partner is VEB.RF.

    The information partners were the TV channel Rossiya 24, MIA Rossiya Segodnya, the TASS information agency, MIC Izvestia, the Vedomosti newspaper, the RT TV channel, the Business FM radio station, Sputnik, the Arguments and Facts newspaper, Rossiyskaya Gazeta, the Mir TV channel, the Komsomolskaya Pravda publishing house, Lenta.ru, Gazeta.Ru, Shkulev Media – Vokrug Sveta, the Federal Press information agency, the Expert magazine, the Regional Russia magazine, Vesti FM, the NEWS.ru portal, the GoArctic portal, the Arktik-TV TV channel, the Murmansk State Television and Radio Broadcasting Company, the TV21 TV channel, the Murmansk Herald, the Vecherniy Murmansk newspaper and the Severpost information agency.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: From censorship to curiosity: Pope Francis’ appreciation for the power of history and books

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Joëlle Rollo-Koster, Professor of Medieval History, University of Rhode Island

    Pope Francis delivers the Angelus noon prayer in St. Peter’s Square, at the Vatican, on Nov. 10, 2024. AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia

    In January 2025, while doing research at the Vatican archives, I heard Pope Francis’ Sunday prayers in St. Peter’s Square. The pope reflected on the ceasefire that had just gone into effect in Gaza, highlighting the role of mediators, the need for humanitarian aid, and his hope for a two-state solution.

    “Let us pray always for tormented Ukraine, for Palestine, Israel, Myanmar, and all the populations who are suffering because of war,” he concluded. “I wish you all a good Sunday, and please, do not forget to pray for me. Enjoy your lunch, and arrivederci!”

    A few weeks later, Francis was admitted to the hospital, where he remained for more than a month, receiving treatment for double pneumonia.

    In those weeks of uncertainty, I thought back to the pope’s words that Sunday afternoon. They encapsulate Francis’ image: a spiritual leader using his influence to try to bring peace. He is also a down-to-earth man who wishes you “buon appetito.”

    Francis does not fear addressing contemporary politics, unlike many of his predecessors. And some popes have closed their eyes to not just current events but past ones: learning and history that threatened their vision of the church.

    As a medievalist, I appreciate Francis’ contrasting approach: a religious leader who embraces history and scholarship, and encourages others to do the same – even as book bans and threats to academic freedom mount.

    People in St. Peter’s Square watch a broadcast as Pope Francis makes his first appearance since entering the hospital.
    AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia

    Infamous index

    For 400 years, the Catholic Church famously maintained the Index Librorum Prohibitorum, a long list of banned books. First conceived in the 1500s, it matured under Pope Paul IV. His 1559 index counted any books written by people the church deemed heretics – anyone not speaking dogma, in the widest sense.

    Even before the index, church leaders permitted little flexibility of thought. In the decades leading up to it, however, the church doubled down in response to new challenges: the rapid spreading of the printing press and the Protestant Reformation.

    The Catholic Counter-Reformation, which took shape at the Council of Trent from 1545-1563, reinforced dogmatism in its effort to rebuke reformers. The council decided that the Vulgate, a Latin translation of the Bible, was enough to understand scripture, and there was little need to investigate its original Greek and Hebrew version.

    Bishops and the Vatican began producing lists of titles that were forbidden to print and read. Between 1571-1917, the Sacred Congregation of the Index, a special unit of the Vatican, investigated writings and compiled the lists of banned readings approved by the pope. Catholics who read titles on the Index of Forbidden Books risked excommunication.

    In 1966, Pope Paul VI abolished the index. The church could no longer punish people for reading books on the list but still advised against them, as historian Paolo Sachet highlights. The moral imperative not to read them remained.

    The title page of a version of the Index Librorum Prohibitorum, published in 1711.
    National Library of Slovenia/Drw1 via Wikimedia Commons

    Historian J.M de Bujanda has completed the most comprehensive list of books forbidden across the ages by the Catholic Church. Its authors include astronomer Johannes Kepler and Galileo, as well as philosophers across centuries, from Erasmus and René Descartes to feminist Simone de Beauvoir and existentialist Jean-Paul Sartre. Then there are the writers: Michel de Montaigne, Voltaire, Denis Diderot, David Hume, historian Edward Gibbon and Gustave Flaubert. In sum, the index is a who’s who of science, literature and history.

    Love of humanities

    Compare that with a letter Francis published on Nov. 21, 2024, emphasizing the importance of studying church history – particularly for priests, to better understand the world they live in. For the pope, history research “helps to keep ‘the flame of collective conscience’ alive.”

    The pope advocated for studying church history in a way that is unfiltered and authentic, flaws included. He emphasized primary sources and urged students to ask questions. Francis criticized the view that history is mere chronology – rote memorization that fails to analyze events.

    In 2019, Francis changed the name of the Vatican Secret Archives to the Vatican Apostolic Archives. Though the archives themselves had already been open to scholars since 1881, “secret” connotes something “revealed and reserved for a few,” Francis wrote. Under Francis, the Vatican opened the archives on Pope Pius XII, allowing research on his papacy during World War II, his knowledge of the Holocaust and his general response toward Nazi Germany.

    An attendant opens the section of the Vatican archives dedicated to Pope Pius XII on Feb. 27, 2020.
    Alberto Pizzoli/AFP via Getty Images

    In addition to showing respect for history, the pope has emphasized his own love of reading. “Each new work we read will renew and expand our worldview,” he wrote in a letter to future priests, published July 17, 2024.

    Today, he continued, “veneration” of screens, with their “toxic, superficial and violent fake news” has diverted us from literature. The pope shared his experience as a young Jesuit literature instructor in Santa Fe, then added a sentence that would have stupefied “index popes.”

    “Naturally, I am not asking you to read the same things that I did,” he stated. “Everyone will find books that speak to their own lives and become authentic companions for their journey.”

    Citing his compatriot, the novelist Jorge Luis Borges, Francis reminded Catholics that to read is to “listen to another person’s voice. … We must never forget how dangerous it is to stop listening to the voice of other people when they challenge us!”

    When Francis dies or resigns, the Vatican will remain deeply divided between progressives and conservatives. So are modern democracies – and in many places, the modern trend leans toward nationalism, fascism and censorship.

    But Francis will leave a phenomenal rebuttal. One of the pope’s greatest achievements, in my view, will have been his engagement with the humanities and humanity – with a deep understanding of the challenges it faces.

    Joëlle Rollo-Koster does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. From censorship to curiosity: Pope Francis’ appreciation for the power of history and books – https://theconversation.com/from-censorship-to-curiosity-pope-francis-appreciation-for-the-power-of-history-and-books-250734

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ruth and Phil – 35 years of parent and child fostering

    Source: City of Derby

    Ruth and Phil have dedicated their lives to fostering, providing a loving and stable home to children and young parents in need. This March, they will celebrate an incredible 35 years as foster carers, a journey that has touched the lives of over 300 children. Their story is one of kindness, patience, and unwavering commitment to helping others, making an invaluable contribution to the fostering community.

    Over the years, fostering has evolved, becoming more professional with better support and respect for carers. Ruth and Phil have embraced these changes, adapting to new training and digital record-keeping. One of Ruth’s unique approaches is writing letters to the children in her care, rather than just keeping bullet-pointed notes. “It gives them a picture of their growing up,” she explains. “When they look back, they won’t just see reports and assessments; they’ll see their own story, their milestones, and memories.”

    Specialising in parent and child fostering, Ruth and Phil offer a safe home for young parents and their babies, helping them navigate the challenges of early parenthood. They have supported young mothers, some arriving before birth and others straight from the hospital, ensuring they receive the care and guidance needed to develop their parenting skills. Their role requires 24/7 support, attending appointments and being constantly available, yet they describe it as incredibly rewarding. “You see the difference you’re making every day,” says Phil. “Watching a young mum grow in confidence, seeing her bond with her baby, and knowing you’ve helped create that stability—it’s an amazing feeling.”

    Their dedication extends beyond fostering. Ruth has worked closely with local authority professionals to improve awareness and support for parent and child fostering, advocating for better resources and recognition. Despite the difficulties of recruiting carers for this specialised role, she remains committed to encouraging others to step forward. “If you have the heart for it, don’t let doubts hold you back,” she advises. “Start the process, have the conversations—you never know where it might lead.”

    Family is at the heart of Ruth and Phil’s fostering journey. With five children of their own, 14 grandchildren, and their first great-grandchild on the way, they embrace every foster child and parent as part of their extended family. “From the moment they walk through our door, they’re family,” Ruth says.

    Ruth and Phil’s impact on fostering cannot be overstated. Their years of dedication, their ability to create a home filled with love and learning, and their passion for helping young parents succeed make them truly remarkable. Their story is one of hope, compassion, and the power of family.

    Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Council’s Cabinet Member for Foster East Midlands praised Ruth and Phil’s dedication, stating,

    Their commitment to fostering is truly inspiring. Their specialist skills in parent and child placements provide invaluable support to local authorities, helping vulnerable families stay together. They’ve changed countless lives, offering stability, love, and guidance to children and young parents in need.

    Right now, there is an urgent need for local authority foster carers. Across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire, over 3,300 children are in care, but only half find foster homes. More carers are needed for children of all ages, especially for siblings, teenagers, children with special need and parent and child.

    Foster for East Midlands Councils, is a regional fostering hub which was launched in collaboration with four local councils in May 2024 to enhance recruitment and support for foster carers. This dedicated team guides prospective carers through every step of the process from enquiry to application. Once approved the support network of the councils provides 24/7 support and comprehensive training ensuring carers are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of children in their care.

    For more information, visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk, attend a fostering information event, or call us at 0303 3132 950.

    Upcoming Foster for East Midlands Councils information events:

    Register on the webpage https://fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk/events/

    • ONLINE – Wednesday 2 April,30pm to 7.30pm, join our zoom call.
    • IN PERSON Wednesday 9 April, 6pm to 7pm, Tesco Bulwell, NottinghamNG6 8EQ,
    • ONLINE Tuesday 15 April,12pm to 1pm, join our zoom call.
    • IN PERSON Wednesday 23 April, 6.30pm to 7.30pm, Buxton Methodist Church, Chapel Street, BuxtonSK17 6HX
    • IN PERSON Thursday 8 May, 5pm to 6pm, Newark Library, Beaumond Gardens, Newark-On-Trent, Nottinghamshire NG24 1UW

    Ruth and Phil have dedicated their lives to fostering, providing a loving and stable home to children and young parents in need. This March, they will celebrate an incredible 35 years as foster carers, a journey that has touched the lives of over 300 children. Their story is one of kindness, patience, and unwavering commitment to helping others, making an invaluable contribution to the fostering community.

    Over the years, fostering has evolved, becoming more professional with better support and respect for carers. Ruth and Phil have embraced these changes, adapting to new training and digital record-keeping. One of Ruth’s unique approaches is writing letters to the children in her care, rather than just keeping bullet-pointed notes. “It gives them a picture of their growing up,” she explains. “When they look back, they won’t just see reports and assessments; they’ll see their own story, their milestones, and memories.”

    Specialising in parent and child fostering, Ruth and Phil offer a safe home for young parents and their babies, helping them navigate the challenges of early parenthood. They have supported young mothers, some arriving before birth and others straight from the hospital, ensuring they receive the care and guidance needed to develop their parenting skills. Their role requires 24/7 support, attending appointments and being constantly available, yet they describe it as incredibly rewarding. “You see the difference you’re making every day,” says Phil. “Watching a young mum grow in confidence, seeing her bond with her baby, and knowing you’ve helped create that stability—it’s an amazing feeling.”

    Their dedication extends beyond fostering. Ruth has worked closely with local authority professionals to improve awareness and support for parent and child fostering, advocating for better resources and recognition. Despite the difficulties of recruiting carers for this specialised role, she remains committed to encouraging others to step forward. “If you have the heart for it, don’t let doubts hold you back,” she advises. “Start the process, have the conversations—you never know where it might lead.”

    Family is at the heart of Ruth and Phil’s fostering journey. With five children of their own, 14 grandchildren, and their first great-grandchild on the way, they embrace every foster child and parent as part of their extended family. “From the moment they walk through our door, they’re family,” Ruth says.

    Ruth and Phil’s impact on fostering cannot be overstated. Their years of dedication, their ability to create a home filled with love and learning, and their passion for helping young parents succeed make them truly remarkable. Their story is one of hope, compassion, and the power of family.

    Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Council’s Cabinet Member for Foster East Midlands praised Ruth and Phil’s dedication, stating, “Their commitment to fostering is truly inspiring. Their specialist skills in parent and child placements provide invaluable support to local authorities, helping vulnerable families stay together. They’ve changed countless lives, offering stability, love, and guidance to children and young parents in need.”

    Right now, there is an urgent need for local authority foster carers. Across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire, over 3,300 children are in care, but only half find foster homes. More carers are needed for children of all ages, especially for siblings, teenagers, children with special need and parent and child.

    Foster for East Midlands Councils, is a regional fostering hub which was launched in collaboration with four local councils in May 2024 to enhance recruitment and support for foster carers. This dedicated team guides prospective carers through every step of the process from enquiry to application. Once approved the support network of the councils provides 24/7 support and comprehensive training ensuring carers are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of children in their care.

    For more information, visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk, attend a fostering information event, or call us at 0303 3132 950.

    Upcoming Foster for East Midlands Councils information events:

    Register on the webpage https://fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk/events/

    • ONLINE – Wednesday 2 April,30pm to 7.30pm, join our zoom call.
    • IN PERSON Wednesday 9 April, 6pm to 7pm, Tesco Bulwell, NottinghamNG6 8EQ,
    • ONLINE Tuesday 15 April,12pm to 1pm, join our zoom call.
    • IN PERSON Wednesday 23 April, 6.30pm to 7.30pm, Buxton Methodist Church, Chapel Street, BuxtonSK17 6HX
    • IN PERSON Thursday 8 May, 5pm to 6pm, Newark Library, Beaumond Gardens, Newark-On-Trent, Nottinghamshire NG24 1UW

    Ruth and Phil have dedicated their lives to fostering, providing a loving and stable home to children and young parents in need. This March, they will celebrate an incredible 35 years as foster carers, a journey that has touched the lives of over 300 children. Their story is one of kindness, patience, and unwavering commitment to helping others, making an invaluable contribution to the fostering community.

    Over the years, fostering has evolved, becoming more professional with better support and respect for carers. Ruth and Phil have embraced these changes, adapting to new training and digital record-keeping. One of Ruth’s unique approaches is writing letters to the children in her care, rather than just keeping bullet-pointed notes. “It gives them a picture of their growing up,” she explains. “When they look back, they won’t just see reports and assessments; they’ll see their own story, their milestones, and memories.”

    Specialising in parent and child fostering, Ruth and Phil offer a safe home for young parents and their babies, helping them navigate the challenges of early parenthood. They have supported young mothers, some arriving before birth and others straight from the hospital, ensuring they receive the care and guidance needed to develop their parenting skills. Their role requires 24/7 support, attending appointments and being constantly available, yet they describe it as incredibly rewarding. “You see the difference you’re making every day,” says Phil. “Watching a young mum grow in confidence, seeing her bond with her baby, and knowing you’ve helped create that stability—it’s an amazing feeling.”

    Their dedication extends beyond fostering. Ruth has worked closely with local authority professionals to improve awareness and support for parent and child fostering, advocating for better resources and recognition. Despite the difficulties of recruiting carers for this specialised role, she remains committed to encouraging others to step forward. “If you have the heart for it, don’t let doubts hold you back,” she advises. “Start the process, have the conversations—you never know where it might lead.”

    Family is at the heart of Ruth and Phil’s fostering journey. With five children of their own, 14 grandchildren, and their first great-grandchild on the way, they embrace every foster child and parent as part of their extended family. “From the moment they walk through our door, they’re family,” Ruth says.

    Ruth and Phil’s impact on fostering cannot be overstated. Their years of dedication, their ability to create a home filled with love and learning, and their passion for helping young parents succeed make them truly remarkable. Their story is one of hope, compassion, and the power of family.

    Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Council’s Cabinet Member for Foster East Midlands praised Ruth and Phil’s dedication, stating, “Their commitment to fostering is truly inspiring. Their specialist skills in parent and child placements provide invaluable support to local authorities, helping vulnerable families stay together. They’ve changed countless lives, offering stability, love, and guidance to children and young parents in need.”

    Right now, there is an urgent need for local authority foster carers. Across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire, over 3,300 children are in care, but only half find foster homes. More carers are needed for children of all ages, especially for siblings, teenagers, children with special need and parent and child.

    Foster for East Midlands Councils, is a regional fostering hub which was launched in collaboration with four local councils in May 2024 to enhance recruitment and support for foster carers. This dedicated team guides prospective carers through every step of the process from enquiry to application. Once approved the support network of the councils provides 24/7 support and comprehensive training ensuring carers are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of children in their care.

    For more information, visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk, attend a fostering information event, or call us at 0303 3132 950.

    Upcoming Foster for East Midlands Councils information events:

    • ONLINE – Wednesday 2 April,30pm to 7.30pm, join our zoom call.
    • IN PERSON Wednesday 9 April, 6pm to 7pm, Tesco Bulwell, NottinghamNG6 8EQ,
    • ONLINE Tuesday 15 April,12pm to 1pm, join our zoom call.
    • IN PERSON Wednesday 23 April, 6.30pm to 7.30pm, Buxton Methodist Church, Chapel Street, BuxtonSK17 6HX
    • IN PERSON Thursday 8 May, 5pm to 6pm, Newark Library, Beaumond Gardens, Newark-On-Trent, Nottinghamshire NG24 1UW

    Register your place on the events web page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 28 March 2025 Donors making a difference to maternal health & newborn health: the urgent drive to save women’s lives across the world

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Sarah Wambui Chege monitors a patient in active labour and listens to the baby’s activity at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, a government county referral hospital serving the residents of Nairobi’s populous Eastlands area. Photo credit: WHO/Khadija Farah

    Globally each year 287,000 women die in pregnancy or childbirth. Most maternal deaths are caused by severe bleeding, high blood pressure, pregnancy-related infections, complications from unsafe abortion, and underlying conditions that can be aggravated by pregnancy (such as HIV/AIDS and malaria).

    Most maternal deaths are preventable with access to high quality healthcare. Ending preventable maternal death must remain at the top of the global agenda.

    WHO works with a range of partners and national health authorities across its six Regions to strengthen maternal health services for all pregnant women. Read below powerful stories about a wide range of WHO activities, with many women’s lives being saved, thanks to donors’ support.

    Driving down maternal mortality in Mozambique

    In Mozambique, a protracted civil war had a devastating impact on public health services and infrastructure. In 2000, Mozambique had one of the world’s highest rates of maternal mortality, with roughly 1 in 160 women dying from pregnancy or childbirth complications.

    The country has since made significant strides by making maternal health one of its top priorities. In 2023, Mozambique’s maternal mortality ratio was 223 deaths per 100 000 live births; a 53% drop in maternal mortality since 2000.

    Several critical interventions have contributed to this. Between 2017 and 2021, 106 new health facilities opened across the country, increasing access to health services, and the number of human resources for health and health technicians increased by around 15%.

    WHO supported the country to establish a maternal death surveillance and response system, provided technical and financial support to the Ministry of Health to update the training package on Emergency Obstetric and Neonatal Care, and trained 40 national trainers across all 11 of Mozambique’s provinces. In 2021, WHO collaborated with health authorities to shape a comprehensive community health strategy.

    Read the full story

    Cambodia’s sustained progress in improving maternal, newborn and child health

    A nurse is assisting a mother breastfeeding in a referral provincial hospital in Cambodia. WHO/Yoshi Shimizu

    In early 2000’s, Cambodia faced alarming maternal, newborn and child health indicators. The maternal mortality ratio stood at 437 per 100 000 live births, while newborn and child mortality rate accounted for 37 and 124 per 1000 live births respectively.

    Today, skilled birth attendance is near universal, with 98.7% of births attended by trained health professionals and 97.5% of women giving birth in a health facility. Between 2014 and 2021-2022, neonatal and under-five mortality rates declined by 54%, from 18 to 8 and from 35 to 16 per 1000 live births respectively. Cambodia achieved its SDG targets for reducing neonatal and under-five mortality eight years ahead of schedule.

    The strong leadership of the Ministry of Health provided clear strategies for advancing maternal and newborn health. Two coordination platforms were established and convened regularly to align efforts within the Ministry and with health partners. With technical dsupport from WHO and funding from the Korea Foundation for International Healthcare, the Early Essential Newborn Care Coordination Committee plays a crucial role in harmonizing national and sub-national efforts, monitoring progress through regular reviews, mobilizing resources to scale up practices, and ensure consistency in care delivery.

    Read more on Cambodia’s way forward

    Working with traditional birth attendants in Latin America

    Mercedes Panamantamba, traditional birth attendant from Otavalo, Ecuador, receives training provided by PAHO on the use of biomedical tools to complement ancestral practices. Photo credit: PAHO/WHO

    In rural and remote communities of Latin America, ancestral practices such as traditional midwifery have been passed down from generation to generation. In these areas, where geographical barriers and cultural differences can hinder access to healthcare centres, the practical and spiritual support of traditional birth attendants can make the difference between life and death.

    The WHO Region for the Americas (Pan American Health Organization – PAHO), with support from the Government of Canada, has been working with over a thousand traditional birth attendants in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Honduras, and Peru since 2021 to provide them with knowledge of warning signs to help prevent maternal and neonatal deaths.

    PAHO conducted training sessions and knowledge dialogues on topics such as family planning, prenatal care, identification of warning signs, and childbirth care. Meetings have yielded results that can benefit the entire region, such as the development of the tool for promoting culturally safe childbirth.

    These activities are part of ‘Improved health of women and adolescent girls in situations of vulnerability’, a joint project between PAHO and Global Affairs Canada.

    Read about the success of combining knowledge of ancestral and modern medicine.

    No woman should die giving birth in Tanzania

    Dorcas Simon, an informal trader in Kigoma region, Tanzania, who said it took the timely transportation of her newborn child and her to the hospital to save their lives. Photo credit: WHO/Clemence Eliah

    In Kigoma region, Tanzania, maternal mortality was on the rise due to difficult access to health facilities and other factors. The region had limited capacity in terms of a referral system and diagnostic capacity.

    “Looking at the year 2020, we had 119 maternal deaths. In 2021, they dropped to 75 but in 2022 there were 102 deaths.” Dr Jesca Leba, Regional Medical Officer, Ministry of Health, Kigoma Region, Tanzania.

    The Government of Tanzania with support from WHO and partners set out to address this problem. With funding from the Norwegian Embassy, WHO procured ambulances for easy transportation of pregnant women. The ambulances have so far served over 2000 women from various districts across the region. Additionally, 15 ultrasound machines were provided for health facilities and 300 health workers were trained how to use them.

    The Chief Medical Officer in Buhigwe District Health Centre appreciates the donor support with ultrasound equipment that expanded the centre’s capacity to provide services. Photo credit: WHO/Clemence Eliah

    Today, the Kigoma region has since witnessed a sharp decline in maternal mortality from 119 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births in 2020 to just 26 in 2024.

    See this photo story.

    Birth plan helps reduce maternal deaths in Cote d’Ivoire

    Ms Konaté followed the entire process of the birth plan. Her baby was born in good conditions at the urban health center in the Belleville district, in Bouaké. She is congratulated by the midwife who gives her the baby. Photo credit: WHO Côte d’Ivoire

    In Cote d’Ivoire, in 2017, the maternal mortality rate was 614 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births, (Demographic Health Survey 2012) far from the target of 140 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births expected by 2030. In 2021, WHO, with support from the Swedish Government and the French MUSKOKA fund, targeted the Gbeke region, which has one of the highest mortality rates in the country, through the “Gbeke Là-Haut Là” initiative.

    The initiative included implementation of a childbirth preparation or delivery plan, starting with first prenatal consultations, an emergency trolley in the delivery room and capacity-building for midwives in the management of risk factors during pregnancy and childbirth.

    By 2022, 46% of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics benefited from a childbirth preparation plan, compared to none previously. 181 midwives from 18 health facilities were trained in key life-saving clinical skills.

    Between 2019 and 2022, the proportion of maternal deaths at Bouake University Hospital from the 3 urban health districts of Gbeke fell from 93% to 36%, a reduction of 57%. The proportion of maternal deaths due to post-partum haemorrhage fell by 27%, from 56% to 29%.

    Read how birth plan helps reduce maternal deaths in Cote d’Ivoire

    Research in Indonesia influences policy

    Close patient monitoring by nurses in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Gatot Soebroto Army Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia. As one of the SMART recommendations for mortality review. Photo credit: WHO/IndoXplore

    WHO and European Union supported the Ministry of Health and partners to conduct crucial research on the impact of COVID-19 on maternal and newborn health and to better understand disruptions to essential health services, with the aim of building a stronger, more resilient health system.

    Researchers analyzed the medical records of 4 945 pregnant women and their newborns and interviewed programme managers and health workers from eight selected hospitals in four provinces of Java Island.

    WHO and the Ministry of Health will use the findings to inform the development of national guidelines aimed at strengthening the health system’s capacity to better respond to acute public health events and minimize disruptions to essential services, including for maternal and newborn health.

    Read the full story on how WHO, Ministry of Health and partners analysed the impact of COVID-19 on maternal and newborn health

    Maternal care services strengthened in Port au Prince, Haiti

    The maternity ward at the Eliazar Germain Hospital. Photo credit: PAHO/WHO

    The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and PAHO/WHO are jointly supporting 3 hospitals in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area to provide maternal health services. This is to support the emergency response of the Ministry of Health and Population and improve access to health care, made increasingly difficult by the current security situation.

    Support includes the supply of essential medical equipment and products, and the installation of a reliable power supply system, ensuring constant availability of electricity. Support beyond maternity services responds to urgent needs in sexual and reproductive health. Kits for the management of abortion complications and kits for the management of sexual violence have been distributed for this purpose.

    Since the partnership was set up, 62 physiological deliveries and 45 caesarean sections have been recorded in the 3 beneficiary hospitals. These activities were made possible with the financial support of the European Commission Humanitarian Aid (ECHO), the Central Emergency Response Fund (UN CERF) and WHO’s Contingency Fund for Emergencies.

    Find out more about PAHO/WHO and UNFPA joint support to Haitian health authorities.

    Saving lives in flood- and drought-affected areas in Somalia

    WHO Representative to Somalia Dr Reinhilde Van de Weerdt (left) met with H.E. Mr OKANIWA Ken, Ambassador of Japan to Somalia, to express appreciation for Japan’s support. Photo credit: WHO Somalia/M. Saydahmat

    A 12-month project led by the WHO Country Office in Somalia over the course of 2023 reached over 3 million people affected by drought or flood. The Government of Japan supported the project with a grant of over US$ 700 000. Working with the Ministry of Health and Human Services, WHO aims to mitigate the health impacts of recurrent climate shocks, food insecurity and disease outbreaks, especially cholera, while strengthening health system resilience.

    Thanks to Japan’s funding, WHO was able to deploy 369 community health workers and 121 mobile outreach teams in drought-affected areas. These provided essential health and immunization services to local population with a special focus on children and pregnant and lactating women. The project aims to provide help to about 900 000 flood- and drought-affected people in Somalia.

    Read more about Japan and WHO’s new project on the WHO Somalia.

    Meeting the health needs of Malians displaced by security crisis

    Meeting the health needs of Malians displaced by security crisis. Photo credit: WHO AFRO

    In 2023, more than 72 500 people were displaced in Mali because of clashes between rival armed groups, inter-community conflicts and military operations by the Malian armed forces against non-state armed groups.

    To help Mali maintain delivery of quality health services in areas impacted by insecurity, WHO, supported by UN CERF is providing medicines and other consumables to the Health Ministry, and helping to upskill health workers on the ground. WHO is also supporting mobile clinics to reach isolated populations in the centre of Menaka and the two districts worst impacted by the insecurity, Tidermane and Anderamboukane.

    Thanks to the mobile clinics, Aissata, a displaced person in Ménaka city centre, was able to receive the care she needed. She was monitored throughout her pregnancy, which saved her life and that of her baby. “If it wasn’t for the free consultation that day, I don’t know what I would have done,” the young mother says.

    Read more about WHO support for meeting the health needs of Malians displaced by security crisis.

    WHO urges expansion of lifesaving midwifery care for women and babies

    Shakila, midwife, measuring height of the fundus on a pregnant woman at the mobile clinic organized by WHO at the Garm Abak of Waras district in Bamiyan, Afghanistan. Photo credit: WHO/Rada Akbar

    Strengthening midwives’ role in maternity and newborn care services would save millions of lives each year while significantly enhancing women’s overall experience of care, according to a new publication released by WHO and partners.

    The publication, transitioning to midwifery models of care: A global position paper, outlines the benefits and key components of midwifery care models, where midwives serve, within broader teams, as the main healthcare provider for women and babies during pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period.

    Recent modelling shows that universal access to midwifery care could avert more than 60% of all maternal and newborn deaths and stillbirths – amounting to 4.3 million lives saved annually by 2035.

    The position paper on midwifery models of care was prepared by WHO together with a coalition of leading health professional associations, UN agencies, non-governmental organizations and women’s group, including the Burnet Institute, Collectif interassociatif autour de la naissance, the Council of International Neonatal Nurses, the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), the International Pediatric Association, Jhpiego, the UNFPA, and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), with financial assistance from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

    Listen to WHO Director-General’s message on Linkedin thanking everyone who contributed for the development of the position paper.

    ***

    WHO’s work is made possible through all contributions of our Member States and partners. WHO thanks all donor countries, governments, organizations and individuals who are contributing to the Organization’s work, with special appreciation for those who provide fully flexible contributions to maintain a strong, independent WHO.

    This feature reveals support of partners and donors from Burnet Institute (Collectif intersasociatif autour de la naissance), Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Canada, CERF, the Council of International Neonatal Nurses, the European Union, International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), the International Pediatric Association, Japan, Jhpiego, French MUSKOKA, Norway, Sweden, the UNFPA, and UNICEF.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear Energy Bolsters the Engineering Team Overseeing the Development of its ODIN™ Microreactor with Three Additional Leading Professionals

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, N.Y., March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, today announced that three additional professionals have joined its U.K.-based nuclear science and engineering partner Cambridge AtomWorks, led by Professors Ian Farnan and Eugene Shwageraus. Cambridge AtomWorks personnel are leading the development of NANO Nuclear’s ODIN™, a low-pressure coolant microreactor.

    Radwan Nassim Kheroua joins as a Nuclear Systems Engineer, Luke Godfrey as a Senior Nuclear Engineer, and Jake Miles as a Nuclear Engineer. Their appointments finalize NANO Nuclear’s latest round of additions to its engineering team, building on the previously announced roles for Andrew Steer, Ph.D., as NANO Nuclear’s Head of Regulatory Engagement and James Leybourn and Simon Boddington as Senior Nuclear Engineers.

    Figure 1 – NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. Appoints Radwan Nassim Kheroua as Nuclear Systems Engineer, Luke Godfrey as Senior Nuclear Engineer, and Jake Miles as Nuclear Engineer.

    Mr. Kheroua previously served as a Research Engineer in Reactor Thermal-Hydraulic Modeling at Framatome, where he carried out his first industrial research in nuclear fusion, working on plasma physics at CEA Cadarache and tritium monitoring with the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority’s Culham Centre for Fusion Energy (UKAEA CCFE). He brings extensive expertise in reactor accident analysis and fuel safety case justification.

    Mr. Godfrey previously served as Lead Thermohydraulic Engineer at Moltex, focusing on molten salt heat transfer, coupled reactor system modeling, and safety case development. During his time at Moltex, he was integral to designing the SSRW and FLEX reactors, leading thermal hydraulics, developing coupled simulation tools, contributing to safety cases development, planning verification and validation activities, and designing key experiments.

    Mr. Miles earned a BSc in Physics from the University of Leeds and later completed a Master’s degree in Nuclear Energy at the University of Cambridge. He briefly researched reactor physics and shutdown systems for high-temperature gas-cooled reactors before transitioning to the nuclear maritime industry, where he specialized in modeling and simulation of Molten Chloride Fast Reactors and their systems. In his new role, he will focus on shielding design and core optimization for the ODIN microreactor, supporting the technology’s ongoing development.

    “We are very pleased to continue expanding our engineering team with some of the top talent in the field of nuclear energy,” said Professor Ian Farnan, Lead of Nuclear Fuel Cycle, Radiation and Materials of NANO Nuclear. “These additions bring us a wealth of technical knowledge and a deep understanding of nuclear technologies that will be leveraged to support the development and advancement of our proprietary microreactor systems.”

    “With the additions of Mr. Kheroua, Mr. Godfrey and Mr. Miles, together with our other recent hires, I believe we are assembling a leading team of nuclear engineers,” said Professor Eugene Shwageraus, Lead of Nuclear Reactor Engineering of NANO Nuclear. “Their specialized expertise further strengthens our design process and supports a robust development schedule, ensuring we continue building on our momentum effectively.”

    As NANO Nuclear continues to expand its operations, it remains committed to developing cutting-edge nuclear solutions that redefine the global energy landscape. The addition of Mr. Kheroua, Mr. Godfrey and Mr. Miles’ cutting-edge engineering talent will support NANO Nuclear’s endeavors to tackle the particular challenges associated with the ongoing development of the proprietary ‘ZEUS’ and ‘ODIN’ microreactors, as well as the KRONOS MMR™ Energy System and the LOKI MMR™ high-efficiency nuclear systems for remote and off-grid applications.

    “It is a pleasure to welcome our newest additions to the engineering team overseeing the development of the ODIN microreactor,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer of NANO Nuclear. “We’ve assembled a group of highly skilled professionals for this project, and I’m confident their arrival will significantly accelerate our development timeline and strengthen the ODIN microreactor’s path toward demonstration, regulatory approval and ultimately commercialization.”

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

    NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include patented KRONOS MMR™ Energy System, a stationary high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that is in construction permit pre-application engagement U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in collaboration with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, and the space focused, portable LOKI MMR™, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.

    Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.

    HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.

    NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

    For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/

    For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact:

    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

    PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE:

    NANO Nuclear Energy LINKEDIN
    NANO Nuclear Energy YOUTUBE
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    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. In this press release, forward-looking statements includes those related to the anticipated benefits to NANO Nuclear of the appointment of the nuclear engineers, as well as the Company’s regulatory plans in general, each as described herein. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state or non-U.S. nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 58: UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the Human Rights Situation in Mali

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    UN Human Rights Council 58: UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the Human Rights Situation in Mali

    UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the Oral Update of the Independent Expert on the Human Rights Situation in Mali. Delivered by the UK Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

    Thank You Mr Vice President.

    We thank the Independent Expert for his report. His mandate is ever more vital following the withdrawal of the Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA). We also welcome the cooperation of the Malian authorities in facilitating the Expert’s first visit and encourage their continued collaboration.

    As we have heard, the human rights situation remains grave. Increased reports of gender-based violence, and violence against children are particularly concerning. Civic space continues to shrink, key opposition figures remain detained, and civil society organisations disbanded.

    We therefore encourage authorities to create the necessary conditions for free, fair and inclusive elections, as soon as possible.

    Mr President, the UK urges the Malian authorities to further strengthen independent accountability mechanisms, including for alleged incidents committed by military personnel and Russian proxies. These actors continue to create deep-rooted insecurity for the Malian people.

    Mr Gonzalez, as reports of human rights violations and abuses persist, international accountability processes remain vital to hold perpetrators to account.  What more could the International Criminal Court do to enhance accountability under the existing referral?

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Decarbonisation in the maritime sector is a priority for the MCA

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Decarbonisation in the maritime sector is a priority for the MCA

    The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is focussed on securing a clean, green maritime future for everyone.

    The launch of the Department for Transport’s Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy is enforcement of just that, outlining ambitious goals for the maritime sector. This includes reducing fuel lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by 30 per cent by 2030, 80 per cent by 2040, and achieving zero emissions by 2050.

    From supporting the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition, which funds a diverse range of sustainable projects, to welcoming the world’s first dual-fuelled ammonia-powered vessel to the UK, the MCA is already at the forefront of supporting and developing these significant changes to the maritime sector.

    Marine Guidance Notice 664 is just one important example of the MCA’s work in this field, which has enabled around 25 vessels using emission reduction, autonomy and other forms of ‘smart’ maritime technology to be considered using a flexible process as an alternative to prescriptive requirements.

    MCA Director of UK Technical Maritime Services Fraser Heasley said:

    Decarbonisation in the maritime sector has always been a priority for the MCA, with our experts advising on future fuels, the placement of wind farms, green shipping corridors, and training a new generation of green seafarers, but there is always more work to be done.

    We welcome the Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy, and look forward to working further with DfT, industry, ship owners and operators, energy companies, investors, and research centres, to make the goals of the strategy a reality.

    Read more about DfT’s Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy here –Course charted for carbon free shipping by 2050 – GOV.UK.

    Press office

    Email public.relations@mcga.gov.uk

    Press enquiries (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm) 0203 817 2222

    Outside these hours or on bank holidays and weekends, for media enquiries ONLY, please send an email outlining your query and putting #Urgent in the subject title.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Modeling the term structure | Discussion paper 07/2025: Christoph Memmel, Lotta Heckmann-Draisbach

    Source: Bundesbank

    Non-technical summary

    Research Question

    The term structure of interest rates, i.e. the representation of the interest rates in dependence of the maturity, may have a complex course. Usually, it is increasing, meaning rates (per year) are higher for longer maturities. Depending on the horizon, the term structure can be modelled with a different number of parameters. The representation with more parameters increases the precision, but also increases the complexity, which may hamper the search for closed-form solutions for relevant variables. How many parameters are therefore optimal for which purpose and application?

    Contribution

    We present a model for the term structure of interest rates that depends on two parameters, namely one parameter for the short-term interest level and one parameter for the slope. This model makes it possible to derive closed-form solutions for important values of risk management (present value, duration and convexity) and we give a new interpretation to the convexity, namely as the sensitivity of a bond with respect to the slope of the term structure.

    Results

    In our study of Germany (period 1975-2023), we show empirically that the term structure of German government bonds can be well described by the presented model if the horizon is about one year (or longer). In different applications, we estimate the contribution of maturity transformation to the German banks’ interest income to about 12% and we deduce an estimate for the probability of the interest hike in 2022/23.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Third cycling and walking investment strategy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Written statement to Parliament

    Third cycling and walking investment strategy

    The government will publish a third cycling and walking investment strategy setting out its long-term vision for active travel.

    On 12 February (2025) we announced almost £300 million of funding for walking, wheeling and cycling schemes in 2024 to 2025 and 2025 to 2026. This will deliver 300 miles of brand new pavements and cycle routes to enable 30 million more journeys by walking and cycling every year. It will lead to 43,000 less sick days a year to ease pressure on the NHS.

    The second phase of the Spending Review is now underway and the government will set out its spending plans for future years, including funding for walking, wheeling and cycling later in the spring.

    I am today informing Parliament of my intention to publish a third cycling and walking investment strategy (CWIS3) following the conclusion of the Spending Review. This will allow us to say more on the long-term funding for active travel, as required by the 2015 Infrastructure Act. The government will consult on CWIS3, with relevant stakeholders, ahead of its publication.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Emergency power packs for communities

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Dozens of emergency battery packs which will ensure power during storms have been handed over to community resilience groups and vulnerable people across Aberdeen.

    Aberdeen City Council gave the potentially life-saving equipment to Peterculter Community Resilience Group, Cults, Milltimber and Bieldside Commnuity Resilience Group, Bridge of Don and Danestone Community Resilience Group, and Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnership (ACHSCP).

    Aberdeen City Council Communities, Housing, and Public Protection Committee vice convener Councillor Del Henrickson said: “We are very pleased to hand over the emergency power packs to these community organisations and ACHSCP.

    “They will make a big difference to how communities can help themselves during storms or other incidents and could potentially be life-saving. We want to thank Scottish and Southern Energy’s Community Fund for their contribution, too.”

    The resilience groups will use the packs to power equipment needed at rest centres during storms or other emergency incidents. They can use them to charge phones, use heaters, boil kettles and be more safe during power outages.

    Neil Chalmers, a member of the Peterculter Resilience Group, said: “The members of our resilience team wish to extend their thanks to SSEN for funding this very useful piece of kit and to Aberdeen City Council for facilitating the donation.  We are sure it will be a valuable asset for our community.

    “Although we all hope to avoid power outages, knowing that we should be able to maintain operations in such circumstances is reassuring.  We are looking forward to working out the best way to deploy it.”

    ACHSCP is delivering the packs to vulnerable clients who reply on powered medical equipment.

    Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnership business, resilience and communications lead Martin Allan said: “Storms with power loss are difficult enough for most people but are particularly difficult for vulnerable people.

    “The power packs being distributed to vulnerable people will make a huge difference to them staying connected with emergency services and keeping warm.”

    Aberdeen City Council applied for funding for the scheme from Scottish and Southern Energy’s Community Fund where councils could apply for funds to help their local areas, in the wake of Storm Arwen in 2021/2022.

    Gary Bartlett, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks Distribution’s head of region, said: “It’s great to see the financial support we’ve provided to further improve the resilience of people and communities in the north-east coming to fruition in this way. 

    “The provision of safe and reliable battery packs will mean that more vulnerable people will now be able to stay in their familiar surroundings in the rare event their power goes off.  

    “Our funding for the purchase of dozens of battery packs is just one of the many ways we’re delivering greater resilience for the customers and communities we serve. The £100million we’re investing every year to make supplies for people in the north of Scotland ever more resilient means the network has become stronger and even more reliable. The provision of these battery packs will give some of our most vulnerable customers further peace of mind.”   

    Pic caption: Councillor Del Henrickson, Martin Allan of ACHSCP, Natalie Henderson of SSEN, Neil Chalmers of Peterculter Community Resilience Group, Gus Glass and Colin Morsley of Cults, Bieldside and Milltimber Resilience Group, and Pastor Iain Duthie of Bridge of Don and Danestone Community Resilience Group

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Vicon’s new markerless system enabling Dreamscape Immersive’s latest VR experience

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    28 March 2025

    Oxford Metrics plc

    (“Oxford Metrics” or the “Group”)

    Vicon’s new markerless system enabling Dreamscape Immersive’s latest VR experience

    New location-based VR technology to launch at Dreamscape’s Geneva flagship store in partnership with Swiss research partner, Artanim

    Oxford Metrics plc (LSE: OMG), the smart sensing and software company servicing life sciences, entertainment, engineering and smart manufacturing markets, announces that Vicon, its motion capture division, will be powering Dreamscape’s latest Location Based Virtual Reality (“LBVR”) experience, with its recently launched Vicon Markerless system.

    For Dreamscape, markerless motion capture can now provide a more true-to-life adventure than any other immersive VR experience by allowing more free-flowing movement and exploration without the need for markers and less user gear. Bringing smoother user journeys, this technological upgrade also has a major impact on staff operations and will ultimately facilitate Dreamscape’s international locations rollout.

    Located exclusively at their flagship store in Geneva, this new technology will be implemented across all industry sectors where Dreamscape is active including Entertainment, Education and Corporate solutions.

    Entitled ‘The House of Wonders’, the new six person, markerless and multimodal LBVR experience has been created in partnership with Audemars Piguet, the Swiss haute horlogerie manufacturer. ‘The House of Wonders’ experience delves participants into the hidden depths of enchanting workshops, where they meet a cast of passionate artisans and participate in the creation of a mechanical marvel. The VR technology bringing the experience to life was developed in collaboration with Artanim, the Swiss research institute.

    Imogen O’Connor, Oxford Metrics CEO commented on the collaboration: “Hot off the heels of our markerless launch, it’s great to announce that our innovative technology will be powering Dreamscape’s latest VR experience. Collaborating with Dreamscape on this project offered Vicon a unique opportunity to continue our work with a world leader in Location Based Virtual Reality and demonstrates the value of our markerless motion capture technology. This is only the beginning. Vicon’s system is a first-of-its-kind platform for markerless motion capture for creators, story tellers and 3D artists across Location Based Virtual Reality, Game, Film and Episodic TV.”

    Commenting on the new experience, Caecilia Charbonnier, Co-founder & CIO of Dreamscape, said: “We’ve long anticipated the moment when markerless motion capture could transition from concept to reality, reaching the level of precision needed to unlock its full potential. With Vicon’s decades-long legacy of setting the gold standard in motion capture technology and Dreamscape’s unwavering mission to create seamless, immersive experiences, our collaboration on this project was a natural fit.”

    The collaboration between Vicon and Artanim was key to ensure the desired requirements for the VR use case were met.

    Sylvain Chagué, co-founder and CTO of Artanim and Dreamscape, said: “Delivering best in class virtual body ownership and immersion in VR demands both accurate tracking and very low latency. We dedicated substantial R&D efforts to evaluating computational performance of machine learning-based tracking algorithms, carefully implementing and refining this multi-modal tracking solution – seamlessly integrating full-body markerless motion capture and VR headset tracking for an unparalleled experience.”  

    For further information please contact:

    Oxford Metrics +44 (0) 1865 261860
    Imogen O’Connor, CEO  
    Zoe Fox, CFO
    Emma Colven, Head of Communications    		  
    FTI Consulting +44 (0)20 3727 1000
    Matt Dixon / Emma Hall / Jemima Gurney  

    About Oxford Metrics

    Oxford Metrics is a smart sensing and software company that enables the interface between the real world and its virtual twin. Our smart sensing technology helps over 10,000 customers in more than 70 countries, including all of the world’s top 10 games companies and all of the top 20 universities worldwide. Founded in 1984, we started our journey in healthcare, expanded into entertainment, winning an OSCAR® and an Emmy®, moved into defence, engineering and smart manufacturing. We have a strong track record of creating value by incubating, growing and then augmenting through acquisition, unique technology businesses.

    The Group trades through its market-leading division Vicon, Industrial Vision Systems, and recently acquired, The Sempre Group. Vicon is a world leader in motion measurement analysis to thousands of customers worldwide, including Red Bull, Imperial College London, Dreamscape Immersive, Industrial Light & Magic, and NASA. Industrial Vision Systems is a specialist in machine vision software and technology for high precision, automated quality control systems trusted by blue-chip, smart manufacturing companies across the globe including BD, DePuy, Jaguar Land Rover, Johnson & Johnson, Zytronic and Alkegen. Sempre is a measurement specialist solving manufacturing challenges across multiple industries. Through their expert in-house consultants and partnerships with over 25 well-known manufacturers including Jenoptik, Renishaw and Micro-Vu, Sempre offers an extensive range of products and software to customers in aerospace, automotive, medical, energy and precision engineering.

    The Group is headquartered in Oxford with offices in the United Kingdom, United States and Germany. Since 2001, Oxford Metrics (LSE: OMG), has been a quoted company listed on AIM, a market operated by the London Stock Exchange. For more information about Oxford Metrics, visit www.oxfordmetrics.com.

    About Dreamscape

    Dreamscape Immersive is a world-leading VR company pioneering immersive experiences for entertainment, enterprise, and education.

    Dreamscape combines the emotional power of Hollywood storytelling, the visceral excitement of major theme parks and cutting-edge motion capture technology to create stories and worlds that push the boundaries of virtual reality.

    Dreamscape was founded in 2017 by technology experts, cinematic heavyweights, and live events professionals. The company’s location-based VR venues began rolling out across the United States and the Middle East in December 2018 to unprecedented audience enthusiasm. Most recently, Dreamscape introduced Dreamscape Learn, a new partnership with the nation’s leading innovator in education Arizona State University, to transform learning through exploration. The company is headquartered in Los Angeles, California, with its European headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. To learn more about Dreamscape, visit our site at: dreamscapeimmersive.com.

    About Artanim

    A Swiss leading non-profit center in motion capture technologies, Artanim Foundation was founded in Geneva, Switzerland in 2011. The foundation pursues two strategic lines of research related to motion capture:

    • Virtual and augmented reality: Artanim develops virtual or augmented reality applications that emphasize on real-time interaction and virtual characters animation using state-of-the-art technologies. Part of this R&D effort has resulted in the commercial exploitation of story-based full-roam VR experiences as offered by Dreamscape, the leading VR company, leveraging Artanim’s breakthrough VR platform to create the ultimate immersive experience for location-based entertainment and education.
    • Medical research: Artanim combines motion capture with 3D medical imaging to better understand individualized human joint structures and to improve diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders.

    Besides its research activities, Artanim develops award-winning interactive installations that can exploit the potential of virtual and augmented reality, user performance and interactive control to provide new ways of experiencing digital content. For more information about Artanim, visit: artanim.ch.

    About Reach announcements

    This is a RNS Reach announcement. Reach is an investor communication service aimed at assisting listed and unlisted companies to distribute media only / non-regulatory news releases into the public domain. Information required to be notified under the AIM Rules, Market Abuse Regulation or other regulation would be disseminated as an RNS regulatory announcement and not on Reach.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Russia on Moldova | Security Council Stakeout | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Dmitry Polyanskiy, the Deputy Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the United Nations, on the situation in Moldova.

    Referring to news reports that a politician was detained in Moldova, Russian Deputy Ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy called the situation “intolerable” and described the region as “not stable.” The Moldovan ambassador said Polyanskiy’s statements were “misleading.”

    Speaking to reporters at UN headquarters today (Mar 27), Russian Deputy Ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy said his delegation had drawn the Security Council’s attention to the detention of Yevgenia Gutsul, the leader of Moldova’s Gagauzian autonomy and “a famous opposition politician, meaningful politician” according to Polyanskiy.

    “This is not the first case when the Moldovan authorities harass political opposition in this country,” said Polyanskiy. While stressing that Moscow had no intention of interfering in Moldova’s domestic affairs, he added that the Council “has a preventive function,” and urged members to act to prevent “a very bad and unstable situation.”

    Polyanskiy referenced Moldova’s recent presidential elections, which he said, “were largely contested and proceeded in a very, very controversial atmosphere.” He also cited “provocations against Transnistria” and political developments in neighboring Romania, describing the region as “not stable.”

    Responding shortly afterward, Moldovan Ambassador Gheorghe Leucă called the statement by Polyaskiy “misleading.” He also said, “The preventive detention of Yevgenia Gutsul, a member of the Shor criminal group, falls strictly within the competence of the prosecutorial authorities of the Republic of Moldova,” Leucă said.

    According to the Moldovan envoy, the charges are not related to Gutsul’s political role. “Her detention is not related to her role as the head of the Gagauzian autonomy, but rather to her involvement in a criminal organization,” he said.

    Leucă emphasized Moldova’s commitment to due process and judicial independence. “The Republic of Moldova is a state governed by the rule of law, where the rights of all individuals are fully protected,” he said. “Every accused person has their guaranteed right to a fair defense and the opportunity to prove their innocence in accordance with legal procedures.”

    “Any interference of any country in the internal affairs of the Republic of Moldova, as of any other state, are unwarranted and unacceptable,” Leucă concluded.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hdlC0BUSDs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – BUDG to discuss support for displaced Belgian workers – 31.03.2025 – Committee on Budgets

    Source: European Parliament

    © Image used under license from Adobe Stock

    The Commission proposed to adopt a decision to mobilize the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund for Displaced Workers (EGF) in favour of Belgium to support the reintegration in the labour market of 2 397 workers no longer active at Van Hool, due to the company’s bankruptcy. The Commission proposed to mobilise EUR 7 999 015 for Belgium, representing 85 % of the total costs of the proposed actions for reintegration.

    In his draft report, the rapporteur Janusz Lewandowski (EPP) agrees with the Commission on the eligibility of the demand put forward by Belgium and therefore proposes to adopt the decision to mobilise the EGF.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The tiger who came to Canterbury: family exhibition to launch in time for school break  

    Source: City of Canterbury

    Home  »  Latest News   »   The tiger who came to Canterbury: family exhibition to launch in time for school break  
    Image credit: Image: © Kerr-Kneale Productions Ltd, 1968

    Families can spend the Easter holiday immersed in the world of Judith Kerr’s The Tiger Who Came to Tea at The Beaney’s latest exhibition. 

    Opening on Saturday 5 April, the interactive exhibition by children’s literature centre, Seven Stories, includes family-friendly activities alongside reproductions of the author’s beloved illustrations from the famous picture book. 

    Visitors will get to learn all about Judith Kerr, play in the famous kitchen, get creative and help make the tea party, as well as join the tiger for tea at the table. 

    Free sensory bags, designed to help visitors with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) explore the exhibit, will also be available.  

    First published in 1968, The Tiger who Came to Tea has been enjoyed by thousands of children who have gone on to share it with their own children and even grandchildren too. 

    Kerr deposited her life’s work with Seven Stories in 2008 and is one of the most significant collections of artwork by a single illustrator in the Seven Stories collection. 

    The exhibition was created as a celebration of 50 years of the beloved children’s book. 

    Head of Culture, Leisure and External Development, Michelle Moubarak, said: “The Tiger Who Came to Tea holds a huge sense of nostalgia across multiple generations, and I can’t wait to see children, parents and grandparents all engaging with the exhibition in different ways. 

    “We’re looking forward to seeing lots of families enjoying the Easter holidays out at the exhibition, including on Easter Monday when we will be opening The Beaney specially for the final day of the school break.” 

    Drop by The Beaney’s Special Exhibitions Room to see the display until Sunday 8 June 2025 (closed Mondays expect 21 April). 

    Admission is free, with donations encouraged.   

    Find out more about The Tiger Who Came to Tea exhibition on The Beaney’s website. 

    Visitors looking to explore the rest of The Beaney can also take part in the museum’s popular family trail, Mischief at the Museum: The bugs that came too!  

    Take part in interactive puzzles and learn all about interesting insects in the museum collection. 

    Trails cost £6, which includes a participation prize and entry into a prize draw for the chance to win £100 in Curzon Cinema vouchers. 

    Published: 28 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ECB Consumer Expectations Survey results – February 2025

    Source: European Central Bank

    28 March 2025

    Compared with January 2025:

    • median consumer perceptions of inflation over the previous 12 months decreased, while median inflation expectations for the next 12 months and for three years ahead remained unchanged;
    • expectations for nominal income growth over the next 12 months increased, while expectations for spending growth over the next 12 months decreased;
    • expectations for economic growth over the next 12 months became more negative, while the expected unemployment rate in 12 months’ time increased;
    • expectations for growth in the price of homes over the next 12 months remained unchanged, while expectations for mortgage interest rates 12 months ahead declined.

    Inflation

    The median rate of perceived inflation over the previous 12 months decreased in February to 3.1%, from 3.4% in January. This is its lowest level since September 2021. Median expectations for inflation over the next 12 months were unchanged at 2.6%, as were those for inflation three years ahead at 2.4%. Inflation expectations at the one-year and three-year horizons thus remained below the perceived past inflation rate. Uncertainty about inflation expectations over the next 12 months decreased slightly in February to its lowest level since January 2022. While the broad evolution of inflation perceptions and expectations remained relatively closely aligned across income groups, over the previous year and a half inflation perceptions and expectations for lower income quintiles were, on average, slightly above those for higher income quintiles. Younger respondents (aged 18-34) continued to report lower inflation perceptions and expectations than older respondents (those aged 35-54 and 55-70), albeit to a lesser degree than in previous years. (Inflation results)

    Income and consumption

    Consumers’ nominal income growth expectations over the next 12 months increased to 1.0% in February from 0.9% in January. Perceived nominal spending growth over the previous 12 months decreased further to 4.9% in February, from 5.1% in January and 5.2% in December. This decrease was observed across most income groups. Expected nominal spending growth over the next 12 months also decreased to 3.5% in February, the same value as in December, from 3.6% in January. (Income and consumption results)

    Economic growth and labour market

    Economic growth expectations for the next 12 months were more negative, standing at -1.2%, compared with -1.1% in January, but still above the December value of -1.3%. Expectations for the unemployment rate 12 months ahead increased to 10.5%, the same as in December, from 10.4% in January. Consumers continued to expect the future unemployment rate to be only slightly higher than the perceived current unemployment rate (10.0%), implying a broadly stable labour market. Expectations for both economic growth and the unemployment rate remained broadly stable in the previous fourth months, fluctuating within a narrow range. (Economic growth and labour market results)

    Housing and credit access

    Consumers expected the price of their home to increase by 3.0% over the next 12 months, which was unchanged from January. Households in the lowest income quintile continued to expect higher growth in house prices than those in the highest income quintile (3.5% and 2.7% respectively). Expectations for mortgage interest rates 12 months ahead declined slightly to 4.4% from 4.5%. As in previous months, the lowest income households expected the highest mortgage interest rates 12 months ahead (5.0%), while the highest income households expected the lowest rates (3.9%). The net percentage of households reporting a tightening (relative to those reporting an easing) in access to credit over the previous 12 months declined, as did the net percentage of those expecting a tightening over the next 12 months. (Housing and credit access results)

    The release of the Consumer Expectations Survey (CES) results for March is scheduled for 29 April 2025.

    For media queries, please contact: Nicos Keranis, Tel: +49 172 758 7237

    Notes

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Work begins on new accommodation for personnel at RAF Digby

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Work begins on new accommodation for personnel at RAF Digby

    Work to build four new accommodation blocks for personnel has officially begun at RAF Digby, in Lincolnshire.

    The project team celebrate breaking ground in the project at RAF Digby. MOD Crown Copyright.

    A ground-breaking ceremony was held on 26 March 2025, after the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) awarded a £65 million contract to Galliford Try earlier this year. Arcadis will join the project as a Technical Support Provider. The contractors will use local suppliers and labour where possible. 

    The project, delivered on behalf of Strategic Command, will see the construction of 276 single occupancy en-suite bedrooms for junior ranks, spread across four blocks. Each block will also contain a kitchenette, laundry rooms, drying rooms and social spaces.  

    The buildings have been designed with sustainability at the forefront, as part of an MOD and wider government initiative to meet net zero targets by 2050. Solar panels and air source heat pumps will be installed onto the buildings, as well as temperature-controlled heating zones, energy efficient LED lighting, electric vehicle charging points and a system to recover heat from wastewater in the showers.  

    Operated by Strategic Command, RAF Digby is the RAF’s oldest station, established in 1918. 

    Shaun Purdy, Project Manager for DIO Major Programmes and Projects, said:  

    I am excited for construction to officially start on this important project to enhance the experience for our dedicated service personnel based at RAF Digby.

    This new accommodation not only represents a significant step in modernising military accommodation, but also in our commitment to sustainability. With features such as solar panels and air source heat pumps built into the design, we are delivering accommodation that will reduce our environmental impact for years to come.

    Wing Commander Neil Hallett, Station Commander RAF Digby, said:  

    It is incredibly exciting for Strategic Command to now see this project underway and watch the site transform to deliver modern accommodation that will directly benefit the service personnel based at RAF Digby.

    Jon Marston, Managing Director for Galliford Try Building East Midlands, said: 

    We are delighted to be working in partnership with the DIO in delivering this important project. Our business has a strong track record in providing high-quality accommodation for our service personnel, and we look forward to working with all the stakeholders involved to create a fantastic new facility for RAF Digby.

    The contract also includes provision of car parking, street lighting and landscaped outdoor communal areas.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over 700 Landlord Licenses issued and £45,000 in fines as Salford improves housing conditions

    Source: City of Salford

    A review of Salford City Council’s Selective Licensing Scheme in Eccles, Barton, and Winton shows it is helping to improve housing conditions and make landlords more responsible.

    Introduced in September 2022, the five-year scheme ensures landlords meet required standards for privately rented properties, helping to tackle poor property and tenancy management. So far, 704 properties have been licensed under the scheme, with more applications in progress. The council is also taking action against landlords who have not yet applied.

    The scheme, which requires landlords to obtain a licence and meet a set of management conditions, has helped ensure that privately rented homes meet safety standards, including annual gas safety checks, functioning smoke alarms, and electrical safety compliance. Over 400 landlords and property managers have been checked to make sure they are responsible and fit to manage rental homes.

    Lead Member for Housing and Anti-Poverty, Councillor Tracy Kelly, said: “This scheme is making a real difference by improving private rental housing in Eccles, Barton, and Winton. It ensures tenants have safe, good-quality homes while holding landlords to account. We will continue to work with landlords who follow the rules but take strong action against those who don’t.”

    The scheme has also helped to resolve tenant complaints, improve landlord engagement, and support wider enforcement efforts. So far, the council has issued civil penalties amounting to £45,250 against landlords failing to comply, demonstrating a firm stance on upholding housing standards.

    Salford City Council will keep working to find unlicensed properties and make sure landlords follow their responsibilities, helping to improve housing for local people.

    This is in line with our organisational priority to ensure a good home for all as everyone deserves a decent and affordable place to call home.

    Get more information on the Selective Licensing Scheme. 

    Share this

    Date published
    Friday 28 March 2025

    Press and media enquiries

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 28 March 2025 Departmental update Second WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health concludes with powerful commitments to protect public health

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The Second WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health has concluded with major commitments from over 50 countries, cities and organizations ready to tackle air pollution and safeguard health.

    Jointly organized with the Government of Colombia, it brought together more than 700 participants from 100 countries, including government representatives, UN agencies, civil society, scientists, and health societies, to accelerate action on air pollution and public health.

    A shared goal to reduce the health impacts by 50% by 2040 was agreed upon to save millions of lives every year. Furthermore, new funding pledges and policies were proposed as commitments.

    At the high-level session, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, urged leaders to respond to a global call to action: “It is time to move from commitments to bold commitments. To achieve clean air, we need urgent actions on all fronts: financial investment in sustainable solutions, such as in clean energy and sustainable transport; technical enforcement of WHO global air quality guidelines; and social commitment to protect the most vulnerable in our most polluted regions.”   

    Gustavo Petro, President of Colombia, attended the high-level day of the Conference, emphasizing Colombia’s determination in the fight against air pollution: “Air pollution claims more victims than violence itself. Poisoning our air costs lives in silence – this conference reinforces our determination to implement policies for both the environment and the health of our people.”

    Among the pledges made during the Conference, countries, UN agencies and civil society organizations demonstrated commitment towards the right path.

    • The Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development of Colombia,Lena Yanina Estrada Añokazi, committed to strengthening efforts across sectors to address air pollution through actions in surveillance and public health. The country will support initiatives that improve air quality, promote a clean energy transition by advancing clean technologies in industry and transportation, and develop early warning systems for wildfire prevention and mitigation.
    • Spain committed to achieve a carbon-neutral health-care system by 2050 through emission reduction, multi-sectoral collaboration and promoting innovation.
    • The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland reaffirmed its commitment to tackling air pollution by chairing the Forum for International Cooperation on Air Pollution (FICAP), setting health-based PM2.5 (fine particulate matter 2.5) targets, and launching a comprehensive air quality strategy. This will include stricter standards, improved public access to air pollution data, and community engagement. The United Kingdom also committed to support Africa’s air quality efforts.
    • Brazil is committed to strengthening interministerial cooperation advancing key initiatives, the establishment of the National Air Quality Policy, the updating of air quality standards based on WHO guidelines as a Legal Framework, and the monitoring of the impact of these initiatives on reducing mortality that is due to exposure to air pollution.
    • China is committed to stronger air quality standards, smarter health protection systems, and enhanced international cooperation. The country will continue its efforts to achieve national environmental and climate goals for 2030, 2050, and 2060.

    On behalf of the co-chairs of C40 cities, representing almost 100 of the world’s biggest cities, the Deputy Mayor of London, Mete Coban, committed to reducing air pollution, and supporting WHO’s 2040 target and roadmap, and called on other national governments to expand investments in clean air solutions, strengthen air quality monitoring systems, and recognize cities as key partners in developing and implementing clean air strategies.

    The Clean Air Fund (CAF) committed to continuing to support WHO in demonstrating the benefits of life-saving clean air actions. It also committed to allocate an additional US$ 90 million over the next two years for climate and health efforts.

    Pledges from health associations and civil society organizations included support for the integration of air pollution and the health of the planet into medical education and equipping health-care professionals with the knowledge and tools to address its health impacts.

    “The commitments made at this Conference demonstrate the global momentum to address air pollution as a critical public health issue,” said Dr Maria Neira, Director, Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health at the World Health Organization. “WHO remains dedicated to supporting countries in translating these commitments into concrete actions that protect lives and promote well-being.”

    With a strong foundation of commitments and partnerships, the global community is now better positioned to drive meaningful change in the coming years.

    For further information

    More information about the Conference and videos of sessions

    MIL OSI United Nations News –