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Category: Great Britain

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor’s Violence Reduction Unit secures funding boost to deliver key youth work interventions driving down violence

    Source: Mayor of London

    • Government invests £9.4m in violence prevention in London
    • New funding to build on delivery of youth workers embedded in hospital and police custody
    • Data shows 90 per cent of young people arrested did not reoffend and three-quarters reduced their risk of harm as a result of interventions by youth workers
    • National investment to work alongside Sadiq’s record funding for prevention and early intervention work

    The Mayor of London’s Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) has secured £9.4 million investment from the Home Office to build on youth work intervention programmes that are working to drive down violence in the capital.

    New funding will enable London’s VRU to deliver key violence prevention work, which includes embedding teams of skilled and experienced youth workers in hospitals and in police custody, to offer support, guidance and a route away from violence for young people.

    Youth workers will continue delivering diversionary work from eight A&E hospitals and four Major Trauma Centres. Delivered by St Giles Trust, Catch22/Redthread and Oasis, hospital locations are determined by the levels of young victims of violence in the surrounding area. 

    It builds on a programme which has supported more than 3,100 young people since 2022, and contributed to significant reductions in young people deemed high risk to others or to further violence. After engaging with a youth worker, 77 per cent reduced their risk of harm from others and 73 per cent felt safer post intervention.

    Government investment in the VRU, which was set up by the Mayor in 2019 and the first in England and Wales, will also fund youth workers embedded in police custody suites across London. The Divert and Engage programmes, which involves youth workers embedded in police custody, are reaching 10,000 young people at a point of crisis with two-thirds achieving positive outcomes in reintegration into education, training or employment. 

    For those up to 18, nearly 90 per cent arrested for violent offences did not reoffend over the next 12 months following engagement with a youth worker.  

    Youth workers based in hospital and in police custody provide an opportunity to intervene in a young person’s life much earlier. Known as the ‘reachable, teachable moment’ skilled youth workers engage with young people when they arrive at hospital with injuries or after having been arrested – the time when they are most receptive to changing their behaviour.

    Clinical leads in hospitals across the capital have worked in partnership to provide opportunities for youth workers to speak confidentially to young people, giving them the support and guidance they need.

    National funding will also be used for diversionary activities through sport and works alongside the Mayor’s record investment in prevention and early intervention, which is working to tackle school exclusions, mentoring and a commitment to fund a further 250,000 positive opportunities for young people.

    The Mayor, the Director of the VRU, Lib Peck, and the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Kaya Comer-Schwartz, were today joined by Diana Johnson MP, the Crime and Policing Minister, at a visit to the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel. It’s one of 12 hospitals delivering the youth work intervention programme. Since 2022, St Giles Trust youth workers have supported 550 young people who had been involved in violence, including knife injury, gunshots, or self-harm. Last year, interventions by youth workers resulted in 85 per cent of young people they engaged with no longer involved in gang activity, and led to an 83 per cent reduction in their risk of harm and involvement in violence.

    Policing Minister, Dame Diana Johnson said: “Tackling violence and making our streets safer is at the heart of this government’s Plan for Change. We have already banned zombie-style knives, are fast progressing our ban on Ninja swords and are strengthening age-verification checks for buying knives online. 

    “But we cannot do this alone. One of the first things the Prime Minister did was launch the Coalition to tackle knife crime, which brings together different communities and voices to ensure our work will actually make a difference to young people.

    “I am grateful to the London VRU and the Mayor of London for the vital work they already do, supporting vulnerable young lives in exceptionally difficult and complex circumstances, and today we have committed to a £9.4 million investment to ensure this continues.” 

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I am committed to tackling violence and building a safer London for everyone by being tough on crime and tough on its complex causes.

    “Alongside record investment in policing, I set up and fund the Violence Reduction Unit as part of my commitment to prevention and investing in young Londoners.

    “I welcome the Government’s investment and support so that we can continue delivering targeted interventions that we know are working to divert young people away from violence and towards opportunity.” 

    Lib Peck, Director of London’s Violence Reduction Unit, said: “We firmly believe that violence is preventable, not inevitable. But key to this is approach is the role that youth workers play in changing the lives of young people every day in London.

    “Evidence now firmly shows that embedding youth workers in hospitals and custody suites has impact in cutting reoffending rates and offering young people a route away from violence.

    “We are really pleased to secure the funding and backing we need to continue supporting the life-changing impact that youth workers have on young people to keep them save and able to thrive in our great city.”

    Tracey Burley, Chief Executive of St Giles, said: “Collaborating with staff at The Royal London Hospital and Barts NHS Trust has been transformative. By integrating our lived experience approach to tackle violence, we seize a critical opportunity during hospital stays to positively impact young lives.

    “We are deeply thankful to the London VRU, Royal London Hospital and Barts NHS Trust for partnering with us and sharing our belief in the power of first-hand experience to drive meaningful change to young people’s lives and wider communities.” 

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council Leader welcomes LGBT+ History Month

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    The rainbow flag flying above the City Chambers

    This February marks the 20th anniversary of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender plus (LGBT+) History Month, with Council Leader, Jane Meagher, showing her support.

    Following the repeal of Section 28, LGBT+ History Month was created to recognise and honour the contributions of the LGBT+ community.

    The Council will mark the annual celebration by flying the rainbow flag above the City Chambers for the entire month of February.

    Council Leader Jane Meagher said:

    LGBT+ History Month is an opportunity to reflect on the history of the LGBT+ rights movement and campaign for equal rights. On the twentieth anniversary of this vital awareness month, we must recognise those individuals who have pushed the boundaries and advocated for social progress, creating a more inclusive world for all of us.

    We are proud of Edinburgh’s diversity and that anyone is welcome to make the city their home, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. It’s important that we demonstrate our support by proudly flying the rainbow flag above the City Chambers for the month of February. The flag is an international symbol of LGBT+ pride, showing all who live in and visit our city that we not only value but champion respect, tolerance, and inclusivity for all.

    Published: February 5th 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government ramps up efforts to end HIV transmissions in England

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Over 20,000 self-testing and self-sampling kits will be made available to help end HIV transmissions by the end of the decade.

    • Public health campaign to end HIV transmissions in England by 2030 given £1.5 million fund from government
    • Funding will increase testing, reduce stigma, tackle health disparities and raise awareness
    • The Prime Minister became the first serving G7 leader to have an HIV test on camera

    Over 20,000 self-testing and self-sampling kits will be made available to help end HIV transmissions by the end of the decade.

    The packs are part of a public health campaign to end the virus transmissions in England by 2030 and has been backed by £1.5 million in government funding.

    To mark National HIV Testing Week, the government has also announced it will extend the national HIV prevention programme – HIV Prevention England (HPE) by a year.

    The campaign, delivered by the Terrence Higgins Trust and local partners, carries out vital work to increase testing for groups disproportionally affected by HIV and reduce stigma, as well as raise awareness of ways to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

    The Prime Minister has given his backing by becoming the first ever serving leader of a G7 nation to take a self-testing HIV test on camera, demonstrating that getting a test is quick, easy, free, and confidential.  

    After undertaking a test, the Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, said:

    It is really important to do it, and I am pleased to have taken part too. It’s easy, it is quick, and during Testing Week you can get a test free – so it is a great time to also take part.

    If people test, they will know their status, it is better that people know and that is a good thing because you can then get treatment to help meet our target to end new HIV transmissions by 2030.

    Speaking in the House of Commons, Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:

    Getting tested for HIV is quick, free and confidential and I would like to pay tribute to the leadership of my Right Honourable Friend the Prime Minister, for becoming the first in history to take a HIV test, the first leader in the history of the G7 to take a HIV test.

    As a former member of the independent HIV commission, I’m determined that this government will deliver our commitment to end new transmissions of HIV in England by 2030 and we’ll set this out shortly in our new Action Plan.

    It comes as polling by YouGov, on behalf of HIV charity Terrence Higgins Trust, has found that more than 80% of adults in England are unaware it is possible to test for HIV at home. However, when prompted as an option, at-home testing was the most popular way to know your HIV status, with 44% of people saying it would be their preference.  

    Since the introduction of self-testing kits, home testing has increased in popularity, especially among women and some ethnic minorities who are less likely to test through their local sexual health services.

    They can be ordered this week by anyone in England from www.startswithme.org.uk to use at home.

    The funding follows on from £27 million announced by the Prime Minister to extend the NHS England innovative opt-out HIV testing in emergency departments, announced ahead of World Aids Day.

    The move supports the government’s Plan for Change by ensuring people can get timely access to diagnostics and care if they need it, while supporting the shift from sickness to prevention. It precedes the new HIV Action Plan, which is expected later this year.

    Speaking at the House of Commons today, Public Health and Prevention Minister Ashley Dalton said:

    Increasing HIV testing is a vital step towards meeting our goal and will be a core element of our new HIV Action Plan published later this year.

    That’s why we are investing over £4.5 million to deliver a national prevention programme.

    And that’s why today, I can announce that we will extend the programme for a further year to March 2026, backed by an extra £1.5 million.

    Richard Angell OBE, Chief Executive of Terrence Higgins Trust said:

    National HIV Testing Week is an award-winning campaign and we are so pleased that it will be back next year. The continued success of this partnership between Terrence Higgins Trust and the Department for Health and Social Care delivers 25,000 HIV at-home tests across England and is crucial in our joint mission to end new HIV cases by 2030.

    England can be the first country in the world to end the epidemic, but we are not yet on track to do so. A new HIV Action Plan for England will turbo-charge those efforts. We are delighted that Sir Keir Starmer and Wes Streeting are leading from the front in this mission.

    Testing can also take place in community settings, not just at-home or at sexual health services.

    The UK Health Security Agency has published its community testing survey results today, which show in 2023, testing in community settings – such as nightclubs, festivals, and voluntary sector premises – increased by 7% compared to 2022.

    The report also found nearly a quarter of all tests were reported among individuals being tested for HIV for the first time. It also highlights the impact of National HIV Testing Week, noting that there was a 22% increase in the number of tests carried out in this time compared to 2022.

    Dr Tamara Ðuretić, Head of HIV Section at the UK Health Security Agency, said:

    HIV can affect anyone, no matter your gender or sexual orientation. It’s good to see HIV Testing Week once again highlighting the hugely important role regular testing plays in helping to prevent new infections, alongside condom use.

    Testing allows people to have access to free prevention interventions such as PrEP (HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis) and, should you test positive, ensures timely access to treatment that saves lives and prevents the virus being passed on.

    NHS Chief Executive, Amanda Pritchard, said:

    Increasing the early detection and diagnoses of HIV, enables the NHS to provide people with better access to the latest and most effective life-saving medication, which can prevent long-term health issues and reduces the chance of unknown transmissions to others.

    Boosting opportunities to test for HIV, including through home testing and the highly successful NHS emergency department testing programme, is crucial. We would encourage anyone who could be living with HIV to order a test and get checked.

    Further information:

    • During National HIV Testing Week this week, anyone in England can order a free HIV test from www.freetesting.hiv to do at home.
    • Alongside free postal test kits being available during National HIV Testing Week, there are also testing events and drop-ins happening across England. A variety of online, postal and face to face testing is also available year-round through local authority commissioned sexual and reproductive health services.
    • The government is also supporting the international effort to ending HIV/AIDS, a further £37 million, announced in November 2024, will go to towards increasing access to vital sexual and reproductive health services and support for vulnerable and marginalised people across the globe.
    • This is in addition to the government’s ongoing contribution to international efforts to tackle HIV/AIDS, totalling at least £497 million in 2023, which works to tackle stigma and improve testing, enable greater access to HIV prevention pill PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) and better post-diagnosis support.
    • All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc.  Total sample size was 2071 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 29th – 30th January 2025.  The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 18+).

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Welsh and UK Government Ministers visit GE Aerospace to Highlight Support for Welsh Aerospace Sector

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Wales Office Minister Nia Griffith MP and Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy Rebecca Evans MS, met with engineers, apprentices, and senior management to discuss ambitions of both Welsh and UK Governments to drive innovation and sustainability in the aerospace sector. 

    Wales Office Minister Nia Griffith MP with GE Aerospace apprentices.

    Wales Office Minister Nia Griffith MP today visited GE Aerospace’s world-class maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in Nantgarw, to reaffirm the UK Government’s commitment to supporting high-skilled jobs, cutting-edge innovation, and economic growth in Wales as part of its forthcoming Industrial Strategy.

    Joined by Rebecca Evans MS, Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Ministers met with engineers, apprentices, and senior management to discuss how GE Aerospace’s investment in its MRO capabilities aligns with the broader ambitions of both Welsh and UK Governments to drive innovation and sustainability in the aerospace sector. 

    With more than 1,300 employees, GE Aerospace’s Nantgarw site is one of the largest and most advanced engine MRO facilities in the world, servicing engines for global airlines, including the GE90 and CFM56, and playing a key role in supporting sustainable aviation. With Welsh Government financial support, Nantgarw will also be home to the GE9X engine upon int entry into service.

    As part of its long-term commitment to Wales, GE Aerospace recently announced a multi-million-pound investment in its Nantgarw MRO facility, further strengthening its capabilities and ensuring it remains a global leader in engine maintenance and repair. The investment is part of GE Aerospace’s global, multiyear $1 billion MRO spending surge that was announced last Autumn.

    The visit follows the Chancellor’s recent Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) funding announcement, which provides significant UK Government support for research into next-generation aviation technologies, reinforcing the UK’s leadership in the industry.

    Dame Nia Griffith MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Wales said:

    The UK’s aerospace sector is a cornerstone of our economy, and Wales plays a critical role in its success. 

    Our Industrial Strategy is a vital part of achieving our number one mission of growing the economy, and we are committed to seeing that companies like GE Aerospace get the support and investment they need to remain at the forefront of innovation in a highly competitive sector, in order to help us achieve that economic growth.

    The recent ATI funding announcement further demonstrates our commitment to developing greener, more efficient aviation technologies while securing high-quality jobs for the future.

    Steve Edwards, Managing Director at GE Aerospace’s site in Wales said:

    The Wales team is proud to provide world-class MRO services for our global airline customers. While we continue to focus on safety, quality, delivery and cost in that order, we are equally excited about the future. Looking ahead, our site will become the new overhaul home for the GE9X engine, the largest the most powerful commercial aircraft engine ever built. 

    Government support, including initiatives such as the Aerospace Growth Partnership along with long term funding for the Aerospace Technology Institute, will continue to provide companies such as GE Aerospace the confidence to grow, invest and mature new technologies and capabilities in the UK. 

    Rebecca Evans MS, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning said:

    Wales is a centre of excellence for aerospace-related manufacturing and maintenance activities, and this world-leading facility by GE Aerospace is another feather in the cap for our thriving aerospace sector.

    Our £5m funding contribution has helped equip the facility and the current workforce to upskill, while developing the next generation of aircraft engineers through training and apprenticeships. This means high-value employment opportunities for people living in the surrounding communities.

    The visit underscored the strong partnership between industry and government in driving innovation and investment, ensuring that companies such as GE Aerospace and the wider aerospace sector remain at the forefront of the UK and Welsh Governments’ industrial strategies.

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Saving Lives, Delivering the Future: Heroes in Uniform and Scrubs

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    Story by: Chiara M. Caputo

    U.S. Navy Medicine and Training Command (USNMRTC) Sigonella highlights the accomplishments of three remarkable physicians who have dedicated their lives to serving both their patients and their country. These leaders in military medicine embody the values of innovation, resilience, and selfless service.

    Through their tireless efforts, these physicians have not only advanced medical care within the Military Health System but have also paved the way for future generations of leaders in medicine and the armed forces. Each of their stories highlights a profound commitment to excellence and a passion for making a difference, whether on the battlefield, in clinics, or through groundbreaking research.

    We honor their contributions and celebrate their unwavering dedication to health care, military service, and the pursuit of a healthier, stronger future. Through their stories, we hope to inspire future generations and showcase the unwavering commitment of these women in uniform and in diverse roles in Navy Medicine.

    Brandi L Sakai, MD
    Commander, USN
    Board Certified Emergency Medicine Physician

    Born in Welsh, Louisiana, on June 6, 1981, Cmdr. Sakai grew up with a passion for science and the ocean. After graduating from the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts in 1998, she pursued marine biology, studying diverse ecosystems from the marshes of Louisiana to Scotland’s marine mammals and the vibrant reefs of the Virgin Islands. Her work at the Roy L. Schneider Hospital’s barometric pressure chamber sparked her drive to combine science with service, graduating cum laude with a B.S. in Biology.

    In 2005, she commissioned in the Navy through the Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) and began medical school at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center. Hurricane Katrina hit during her training, and Commander Sakai worked tirelessly in pop-up clinics, providing care and vaccinations to displaced communities. This experience shaped her dedication to serving others in times of crisis.
    Her Navy career has been marked by leadership and innovation. From integrating Marine medical services in Japan to creating advanced training programs for shock trauma care, she has consistently raised the bar for military medicine. As the Senior Medical Officer in Okinawa and later the Department Head of Emergency Medicine in Guantanamo Bay, she improved operations, ensured top-tier care, and earned recognition for her commitment to excellence.

    Beyond her professional achievements, Commander Sakai is a certified Emergency Medicine Diplomate and a devoted wife and mother of two. When she’s not scuba diving, sailing, or baking, she’s embracing projects that reflect her passion for problem-solving and innovation.

    Reflecting on her career, Cmdr. Sakai shared, “I had many jobs that many would consider a career. I was a PADI scuba instructor and manager of the storefront of a tour operation in St. Thomas US Virgin Islands (USVI). If you took a cruise to the island, you walked past our store on the docks. We may have said hello two decades ago! After doing the job for 5 years, I felt that I had learned all that I could, and there was no chance for advancement based on performance, so I knew that I needed something new and challenging. After getting my degree in Marine Biology and presenting environmental research to the Senate on USVI fisheries and the impact of hotel expansion, I realized that I enjoyed talking and educating people one-on-one, and speaking to rooms and presenting posters wasn’t going to make me happy. I volunteered at the local Emergency Department, and the variety and mental challenge of solving a puzzle on every patient kept me coming back. I decided to turn it into a career, but I also hated to stay in one place (there was a big wide world to explore), so I joined the Navy and never looked back. I did a General Surgery internship, and the Chaplain and I were the only Naval Officers in my first duty with the Marines in Iwakuni, Japan for 3 years. Being part of the Marines for 3 years to start my career really shaped me and set the tone for all my OCONUS tours since. My husband was an Ombudsman and found a great career as a financial educator that allows him to work virtually. If you need advice on mainland Japan, Korea, Okinawa, or Guantanamo Bay, or love medicine and want to explore your options give me a ring.”

    Meagan G. Chauvin, MD, FACOG
    Lieutenant Commander, USN
    Director of Medical Services/Staff Attending OBGYN

    A Houston, Texas native, Lt. Cmdr. Meagan Chauvin has built a remarkable career in military medicine. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with Distinction from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2010, she completed her Medical Doctorate at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston in 2014. She completed her Obstetrics and Gynecology residency in 2018 at Naval Medical Center San Diego.

    Her first assignment as a staff OB/GYN took her to Naval Hospital Guam, where she led the OB/GYN Clinic as Department Head and earned Board Certification in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Later, at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital in Virginia, she became Department Chief of the Women’s Health Clinic, further demonstrating her leadership and dedication to women’s health.

    Now serving as the Director of Medical Services at Naval Hospital Sigonella in Italy, Lt. Cmdr. Chauvin continues to lead with excellence. Among her awards are the Defense Meritorious Service Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal.

    Lt. Cmdr. Chauvin is also a proud wife to Matthew Gerard Chauvin and mom to three children—EJ, Madeline, and Ellie—balancing her professional success with a fulfilling family life. Reflecting on her career, LCDR Chauvin shared, “I was inspired to become an OBGYN, because I loved taking care of women across their lifespan and developing long-term relationships with my patients. In addition, I love welcoming babies into the world and being part of helping patients grow their families. I joined the Navy after being inspired by classmates from high school who also went to service academies. The Naval Academy was an amazing experience that led me to the most important job I can imagine, supporting Navy women and families as an OBGYN. I am proud to follow in the Navy tradition of my great grandfather, who served on a troop transport ship in WWI, and my grandfather, who joined via the Navy V-12 program during WWII.”

    Kristen Shafer, MC
    Lieutenant, USN
    Emergency Medicine Attending

    Born in New York, New York, Lt. Shafer discovered her passion for science and outreach early in life. After earning her bachelor’s degree in chemistry pre-medicine at Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2014, she brought the wonders of chemistry to life for local elementary students through her self-created Chemistry Magic Show.

    In 2015, she pursued her Master of Science in Space Physiology and Health at King’s College London, where her thesis explored visual function and impairment in dynamic environments. She collaborated with the United Kingdom space program’s Mission X initiative, blending her love of science with public engagement.

    Lt. Shafer joined the Navy through the HPSP program and earned her Doctor of Medicine from Stony Brook University in 2020, graduating early to assist with the initial surge of COVID-19 patients in New York. She went on to complete her Emergency Medicine Residency at USNMRTC Portsmouth in 2024, where she expanded Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) outreach programs, inspiring over 300 high school students annually.

    Now an Emergency Medicine Attending at USNMRTC Sigonella, Lt. Shafer continues her commitment to both medicine and mentorship. As Emergency Response Committee Chair, she oversees emergency preparedness, and as a liaison to local DoDEA schools, she is developing a mentorship program to introduce students to healthcare careers and military opportunities.

    With a passion for outreach and academic medicine, LT Shafer embodies the Navy’s mission to serve both on and off the field, inspiring the next generation of leaders. Reflecting on her career in emergency medicine, Lt. Shafer said, “In emergency medicine, we need to be ready for whatever comes in the door at any time. Military medicine lets me practice that medicine and be comfortable providing care not just at any time, but any place in the world and to a population that is dedicated to serving others and making a difference.”

    USNMRTC Sigonella is one of The Defense Health Agency’s Overseas Military Treatment Facilities (MTF). The staff are comprised of active duty service members, General Service (GS), contractors, and Local Nationals. It ensures maximum readiness by providing high-quality, safe patient and family-centered care to maximize force health protection for all beneficiaries, to included NATO and transient DoD forces in the U.S. Fifth Fleet and U.S. Sixth Fleet areas of operation.

    The U. S. Naval Academy (USNA) offers a variety of academic curriculums that prepare their graduates for a rewarding military career. Graduates of the USNA will accept a commission for 5 years of active duty service in the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps. For more information regarding the USNA visit: https://www.usna.edu/homepage.php.

    If you are already in or plan to attend school to be a physician, dentist, optometrist, physician assistant or clinical psychologist, the Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) will pay your educationally based tuition and fees for up to four years of school and provide a monthly stipend paid directly to you. After graduation, you’ll join the Navy’s active duty team as a commissioned officer. In return, you agree to serve a minimum of 2 years on active duty or year for year of scholarship, whichever is longer.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NW Mutual chooses Preston for retail and business customer banking

    Source: City of Preston

    Preston has been chosen as one of the locations for NW Mutual branches, offering a mutual bank service for retail and business customers in the North West.

    NW Mutual Ltd, the co-operative society behind pioneering plans for a mutual bank serving retail and business customers in the North West of England has revealed Preston as one of its locations for approximately 60 proposed branches spanning the region.

    Dave Burke, a highly experienced financial services executive with an extensive background in launching, building and managing regulated businesses, has been appointed as the chief executive of NW Mutual Ltd. Dave Burke said:

    “Our market research, supported by a large body of public research and information, shows a proven need and demand for a bank that’s trustworthy, democratic, ethical, deeply rooted in the North West and that enough people and businesses in the region would use to make it a great success.

    “The North West is more than capable and large enough to create and sustain a prosperous bank. When we achieve our goals, our mutual bank will recycle more than £900m of money from the North West back into the region.

    “This is serious money and it’s already here but it’s not. We want to stop it leaking out and heading south, north or east.”

    Having already registered NW Mutual Ltd with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), regulator of financial services firms and markets in the UK, David is preparing a banking licence application to submit to the Bank of England in late 2025.

    If the licence is granted by the Bank of England, the first bricks and mortar branch is planned to open in the third quarter of 2026, with a full roll-out proposed for the first quarter of 2027. So far, about £1m has been invested to build the systems and financial model of NW Mutual, prepare the banking license application and analyse its market.

    Following a decision by Preston City Council Members at full council in January, Preston City Council has committed £250,000 to NW Mutual Ltd becoming the first North West authority to pledge money to supporting the bank’s plans to date.

    Councillor Matthew Brown, Leader of Preston City Council said:

    “For too long much of our mainstream banking system has failed to serve our communities and local businesses. Across the North West region more than half of our branches have disappeared in the last 10 years and small businesses especially struggle to secure the finance needed to expand.

    At Preston City Council we want to do something about that by directly investing in the NW Mutual as a viable cooperative and ethical alternative. We are delighted to hear plans for the first branch to open in Preston and market research shows the public would welcome this new model of banking owned by and run in the interest of local people.”

    The proposed ‘bricks, clicks and flicks’ business model of NW Mutual will deliver hi-tech and staffed branches, complemented by mobile and online banking, providing retail and small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) customers with a full range of financial products and services.

    Visit NW Mutual to learn more.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Vegetable oil fuel rolls out to more bin lorries

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    Following a successful trial of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) in several of its bin lorries, Perth and Kinross Council is now extending the use of the fuel to more of its large fleet vehicles.

    HVO is used, filtered vegetable oil and it provides an environmentally-friendly alternative to diesel that helps reduce carbon emissions from previously fossil-fuelled vehicles. As a result of the six-month trial in 2024, a significant reduction in carbon emissions from the six lorries has been achieved, namely a saving of` 87 tonnes of CO2. 

    Starting from 3 February 2025, the process of running down the diesel supply in a further 18 bin lorries based at Friarton in Perth and swapping to HVO is moving forward. It is estimated that a reduction of around 500 tonnes of CO2 a year could be achieved with the changeover. 

    Convener of Climate Change and Sustainability, Councillor Richard Watters said: “The trial introduction of HVO to our bin lorries has proved to be a real success by providing a simple, readily available and much greener fuel source. It reflects the commitment we have made to reducing our carbon footprint and I look forward to seeing more of our vehicles out on the road powered by HVO.” 

    Vice-Convener, Councillor Liz Barrett said: “I warmly welcome this very significant reduction in our CO2 emissions from refuse collection.  It shows great progress towards our targets to reduce emissions from Council vehicles.  I’d like to thank our Waste Management and Fleet teams for their commitment to making a difference.” 

    Last modified on 11 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Help keep our city tidy

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    The Council is asking everyone to help keep our city tidy by using bins provided for litter and dog waste, or taking waste home with them, to avoid the risk of being issued with a fixed penalty notice (fine).

    City wardens are to be given support to help tackle dog fouling and littering following calls from citizens for increased action against offenders.
    Aberdeen City Council has entered into an agreement with National Enforcement Solutions (NES), which will be empowered to issue fixed penalty notices from Wednesday (12 February).

    “Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “We have heard the feedback from our residents and share the frustration about the problems caused by littering and dog fouling. Dog waste can be harmful, especially to young people. 

    Littering is unacceptable and unsightly. Litter pollutes the environment and is harmful to wildlife. We all share responsibility of looking after our city. It is important to dispose of refuse carefully to keep streets and open spaces clean and to avoid receiving a penalty notice.”  

    Council Co-Leader Councillor Christian Allard said: “The National Enforcement Solutions team will support our wardens – the message to the people of Aberdeen remains the same. Please look after our environment by picking up after your pets, and using the litter bins provided, or take your waste home.”

    The NES team, and City Wardens, will both use digital technology to issue on-the-spot fines for littering, and dog fouling. City Wardens can also issue on-the-stop fines for fly tipping offences. 

    Community Safety Officers will also be undertaking investigations where reports require more in-depth investigation.  

    Where notices are handed out, they will include information on the different methods of payment and dates by which they should be paid so these should be read carefully.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Funding awarded to Nairnshire Community Regeneration projects

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Two projects which will bring welcome improvements to Nairn beach and harbour have received a total of £19.8K from the area’s Community Regeneration Fund.

    Community Regeneration Funding is an umbrella term for a number of funds that are available for communities and organisations to access in Highland.

    The first project will help to make the popular East Beach Harbour and Pier area more accessible to people of all abilities. The area is very popular with walkers with its close proximity to various local amenities at the Nairn links. Enhancing the path network will help the area increase its visitation and more visitors to walk to nearby local businesses.

    The second project will look to install a beach shower unit at Nairn Links for beachgoers and those pursuing water sports. Nairn’s vibrant water sports community currently has no shower facilities so this addition will provide a convenient station for users to wash off sand and saltwater after their activities.

    Cllr Michael Green, Nairnshire Area Chair said: “We are delighted to support both projects which will bring welcome improvements to our coastal offering. Nairn beach and harbour is a popular spot for locals and visitors to stroll along and it is right that everyone should be able to enjoy this pastime, no matter their ability. The beach shower unit will also be a great addition to our beach front and its intended location close to the splashpad will help to maintain the operation of the Team Hamish site.

    “I can also confirm that the Committee has recently agreed an uplift to the Team Hamish Nairn Links Regeneration Phase 2 Project to include a new path section linking the Marine Road carpark passed the cottages to reach the Links path at the cricket pavilion. This is another development that will improve accessibility for all at the popular Links area.”

    11 Feb 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Nairn and Cawdor roads capital programme approved for 2025/26

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    A proposed list of prioritised roadworks has been agreed by Nairnshire Committee Members, which will be funded out of The Highland Council’s Capital Budget allocation for 2025/26.

    Councillors have agreed funding allocations for specified locations for roads resurfacing works including footpath reconstruction/resurfacing works which can be funded from the capital allocation.

    The estimated local allocation for Nairn and Cawdor (based on 2024/25) is £586K comprising £391K for overlay/inlay works and £195K for surface dressing works.

    Cllr Michael Green, Nairnshire Area Chair said: “I am pleased we were able to agree a list of prioritised roadworks which will make travel in and around the Nairn and Cawdor areas smoother and will result in improved transport links for locals, visitors and businesses.

    “We also recognise that there are some prioritised roads which will have works carried out should funds become available, such as any finalised increase in capital budget allocation and any potential underspend being carried forward.”

    The local allocations capital budget for 2025/26 remains to be established, which will be calculated from the approved capital budget allocation.

    The full list of prioritised roads for the Nairnshire area can be found in the Area Roads report to the Nairnshire Area Committee. 

    Reports are available to download from the Council’s website.

    11 Feb 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Garage rent increase agreed in Nairnshire 2025/26

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Garage rents for the Nairnshire area will increase by 20% for 2025/26 as agreed at today’s Area Committee.

    Councillor Michael Green, Chair of the Nairnshire Area Committee, said: “Garages and garage sites within Nairnshire are competitively priced, and even taking today’s agreed increase into account, our rates still sit below the average across all other areas in Highland.

    “Equally, we recognise that the majority of our garages are used by local residents for storage purposes, with the Council’s offering at a fraction of the cost of commercial solutions.”

    Garage Rent for Council Tenants will increase by £1.60 to £9.62. Meanwhile, Garage Rent for non-tenants will go up by £1.92 to £11.54 per week.

    For Garage Sites, the weekly rent for Council Tenants will increase to £1.12. Garage Site Rent for Non-Tenants will also increase to £1.34.

    As a result, the increase will bring a total of £21,949.78 annually based on current occupancy.

    11 Feb 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Construction begins on £1million new fish pass at chalk stream

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    The Environment Agency has started construction of a £1million new fish pass at Turf Lock on the River Lark at Mildenhall in Suffolk.

    The River Lark is a chalk stream and one of just over 200 in the world.

    The aim of the work is to enable the free flow of native wild brown trout, eels and coarse fish. This will allow them to access habitat in the River Lark upstream of Mildenhall for spawning and foraging.

    The project is part of the Brecks Fen Edge & Rivers Landscape Partnership Scheme,  supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

    The partnership is hosted by Suffolk County Council and includes local councils, the Environment Agency, Anglian Water, Natural England, and many more.

    Work will be carried out to remove two weirs that are currently impeding the fish and eels’ progress at Turf Lock. Once this work is done a new fish passage known as a rip rap rock ramp will be created using natural limestone boulders. A rip rap rock ramp provides shelter to the fish as they go between them. This work will take around three months to complete.

    Chalk streams are a ‘valuable natural resource’

    Lou Mayer, Environment Programme Manager for the Environment Agency said:

    It’s fantastic to see work beginning on this important nature recovery project, as part of the catchment-based approach.

    Chalk streams are an incredibly valuable natural resource which the Environment Agency are working hard to restore and protect through working in partnership.

    Turf Lock is one of three structures in Mildenhall that will need modification for fish passage. Through consultation with Mildenhall Town Council, West Suffolk Council, landowners and local residents we are hopeful that we can continue to work in partnership to improve the biodiversity of the land around the river as well.

    Councillor Philip Faircloth-Mutton, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Communities and Equality said:

    Suffolk County Council is proud to support excellent partnership projects such as this, that deliver meaningful, and lasting outcomes to protect and enhance Suffolk’s biodiversity through the restoration of our valuable chalk steam habitats.

    Ian Shipp, West Suffolk’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture said:

    We welcome this work which will benefit the river and support biodiversity in line with our own strategic priority for environmental resilience and thank all of those involved for their hard work in delivering such a complex scheme.

    Whilst this work is carried out the footpath from the path adjacent to the works will be closed, on the North side of the River Lark, from the bridge at Mill Street, to the access track adjacent to the cricket field. An alternative route will be signposted.

    Background

    • The Environment Agency is funding this project from the Water Environment Improvement Fund, which has been used to unlock £3million of Lottery Heritage Fund for the Brecks Fen Edge and Rivers Landscape Partnership scheme, delivering heritage conservation projects on the Breck’s fenland fringe, key freshwater habitats and primary river corridors.  
    • The Catchment based approach is about working together, through engaging people, groups and organisations from across society to help improve our precious water environments. The Environment Agency is a partner organisation of the River Lark Catchment Partnership.
    • The River Lark’s Catchment Partnership objective is to make improvements to habitat and ecological status of the river. The River Lark Catchment Partnership
    • The River Lark has been identified as a flagship river for The Chalk Stream Restoration Project nominated as a Flagship catchment by Anglian Water and supported by the River Lark Catchment Partnership. 
    • One of the ways to do that is by removing restrictions to migratory fish species and unlocking river habitat improvements further upstream as part of a holistic approach to nature recovery.  

    About The Brecks Fen Edge & Rivers Landscape Partnership Scheme

    • The Brecks Fen Edge & Rivers Landscape Partnership Scheme is a National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) funded Landscape Partnership Scheme for the Brecks.
    • BFER is hosted by Suffolk County Council and has delivered a series of new and exciting community-based landscape and heritage conservation projects, focused on the Brecks’ fen edge and river corridors over a 5 year period (2020-2024). The partnership is made up of regional, national and local organisations with an interest in the area, community groups and members of the community.
    • The Scheme outputs have concentrated on the key Fen Edge and Freshwater habitat areas within the Brecks, with the aim of delivering real understanding of water-based heritage and conservation issues, and positive conservation changes on the ground. This area encompasses a unique landscape in Britain with an incredible and much overlooked heritage and biodiversity.

    About The National Lottery Heritage Fund

    • Brecks Fen Edge and Rivers (BFER) Landscape Partnership scheme has been awarded £1.97 million by The National Lottery Heritage Fund
    • Using money raised by the National Lottery players, the NHLF inspires, leads and resources the UK’s heritage to create positive and lasting change for people and communities, now and in the future. National Lottery Heritage Fund.

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Building consensus on Council Tax reform

    Source: Scottish Government

    Future of local taxation to be considered.

    The public will be invited to submit their views on how to make the Council Tax system fairer, as part of wider efforts to explore options and build a consensus for potential reform.

    As part of a joint programme of engagement by the Scottish Government and COSLA, independent analysis will also be commissioned to examine the Council Tax system accounting for market changes, reforms, and improvements.

    This will inform public engagement later this year, followed by a Scottish Parliament debate on the findings and proposed policy reforms.

    Finance Secretary Shona Robison said:

    “Partnering with COSLA, we want to examine ways to make Council Tax fairer, which will help to continue to deliver better public services across Scotland.

    “By working closely with local authorities and listening to the public, we will be seeking a consensus on a local taxation system that is fairer, financially sustainable and fits a modern Scotland.”

    COSLA Resources Spokesperson Cllr Katie Hagmann said:

    “Local Authorities wish to see a fair and proportionate Council Tax, which benefits people and communities. 

    “COSLA is looking forward to working with the Scottish Government on a programme of engagement with the public, with the shared goal of achieving a better, fairer system of local taxation.”

    Background

    Programme of engagement:

    Expert and independent analysis will be commissioned, including to provide high level analysis and modelling on alternative scenarios and reforms of the system.

    Following that, a range of activities to seek the views from a wide range of people from across Scotland will be undertaken, consisting of three key elements:

    • A formal public consultation process.
    • A number of public events or ‘town hall’ meetings held over the autumn months, ensuring a reasonable geographical spread and diversity.
    • A set of focused discussions with key stakeholders and experts.  

    The public engagement will aim to capture a wide spectrum of opinions and considered responses, ensuring a diverse range of perspectives, including representation from those paying Council Tax across different bands.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Funding boost to tackle gender-based violence

    Source: Scottish Government

    Delivering Equally Safe Fund increased.

    More than 100 organisations across Scotland working to tackle violence against women and girls will share in a funding uplift of £2.4 million.

    The funding boost will bring the total Scottish Government investment in Delivering Equally Safe, which funds projects to prevent violence and support survivors, up to £21.6 million for the year ahead subject to the 2025-26 Budget being approved.

    Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart announced the funding increase on a visit to SAY Women – a Glasgow charity offering safe accommodation and emotional support for young survivors of sexual abuse who are facing homelessness.

    Ms Stewart said:

    “Grassroots organisations across Scotland are at the heart of tackling violence against women and girls. Their work is fundamental to creating a country free from gender-based abuse.

    “This funding boost will support these organisations, will help prevent abuse occurring and ensure that women and girls who have experienced violence can continue to access the support they deserve.”

    SAY Women CEO Pam Hunter said:

    “SAY Women is delighted to receive the additional funds. This will go towards increasing our investment into projects for the young women within our services.

    “In the face of the rising cost of living, increase in N.I contributions and inflation, the organisation made the challenging executive decision to limit the variety of activities on offer to those in our care so that we may allow the staff to have a fair living wage. This additional funding will reinstate many of the services that were temporarily paused so that SAY Women may continue to do the good work supporting young women affected by sexual violence and homelessness.”

    Background

    The Delivering Equally Safe Fund supports organisations across Scotland in their work to tackle violence against women and girls, and has done since 2021.

    The Delivering Equally Safe fund is the Scottish Government’s funding programme to support third sector organisations and public bodies to contribute to the objectives, priorities and outcomes of the Equally Safe strategy – Scotland’s strategy to prevent and eradicate violence against women and girls.

    A £19.2 million funding extension to allow these organisations to continue their work until March 2026 was announced in December 2024, provided the Scottish Budget 2025-26 is approved by parliament: Preventing violence against women and girls – gov.scot

    This funding uplift of £2.4 million brings the fund total for 2025-26 to £21.6 million.

    The organisations funded through Delivering Equally Safe are as follows:

    Organisation

    Aberdeen City Council

    Aberdeen Cyrenians Ltd

    Aberlour Child Care Trust

    Action for Children

    Amina – the Muslim Women’s Resource Centre

    Angus Women’s Aid

    Argyll & Bute Rape Crisis

    Argyll & Bute Violence against Women and Girls Partnership

    Argyll & Bute Women’s Aid SCIO

    ASSIST, Glasgow City Council

    Barnardo’s Tayside

    Barnardo’s Falkirk

    Border Women’s Aid Ltd

    British Red Cross Society

    Caithness & Sutherland Women’s Aid

    CEA Committed To Ending Abuse

    Central Advocacy Partners

    Children 1st

    Clackmannanshire Women’s Aid

    Close the Gap (SCIO)

    Deaf Links

    Dumbarton District Women’s Aid

    Dumfries & Galloway Council

    Dumfries & Galloway Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Support Centre

    Dumfriesshire & Stewartry Women’s Aid

    Dundee City Council

    Dundee International Women’s Centre

    Dundee Women’s Aid

    East Ayrshire Health & Social Care Partnership

    East Ayrshire Women’s Aid

    East Dunbartonshire Association For Mental Health

    East Dunbartonshire Women’s Aid SCIO

    East Lothian and Midlothian Public Protection Committee

    Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre

    Edinburgh Women’s Aid Ltd

    Edinburgh Women’s Aid Ltd

    EmilyTest

    Engender

    FENIKS Counselling, Personal Development & Support Service Ltd

    Fife Council

    Fife Rape and Sexual Assault Centre

    Fife Women’s Aid

    Forth Valley Rape Crisis Centre

    GEMAP Scotland Ltd

    Glasgow and Clyde Rape Crisis

    Glasgow Women’s Aid

    Grampian Women’s Aid

    Hemat Gryffe Women’s Aid Limited

    INVERCLYDE WOMEN’S AID SCIO

    Inverness Women’s Aid

    JustRight Scotland SCIO

    Kenyan Women in Scotland Association (CIC)

    Kibble Education and Care Centre

    Kingdom Abuse Survivors Project

    Lanarkshire Rape Crisis Centre

    LGBT Youth Scotland

    Liber8 (Lanarkshire) Ltd

    Lochaber Women’s Aid

    Monklands Women’s Aid

    Moray Rape Crisis

    Moray Women’s Aid

    Motherwell & District Women’s Aid

    Multi-Cultural Family Base

    North Ayrshire Women’s Aid

    North Lanarkshire Council

    Cumbernauld & District Women’s Aid SCIO

    Orkney Rape & Sexual Assault Service (ORSAS) SCIO

    Perth & Kinross Council

    Perthshire Women’s Aid

    Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre, Perth & Kinross

    Rape and Sexual Abuse Service Highland

    Rape Crisis Grampian

    Rape Crisis Scotland

    Renfrewshire Council

    Renfrewshire Council, Children’s Services, Women and Children First

    Renfrewshire Women’s Aid SCIO

    Respect

    Ross-Shire Women’s Aid

    Rowan Alba Ltd

    Sacro

    SafeLives

    Saheliya

    Sandyford – NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde

    SAY Women

    Scottish Borders Council

    Scottish Borders Rape Crisis Centre (SBRCC)

    Scottish Commission for Learning Disability

    Scottish Women’s Aid

    Shakti Women’s Aid

    Shetland Rape Crisis

    Shetland Women’s Aid (SCIO)

    South Ayrshire Women’s Aid

    South Lanarkshire Council

    South West Grid for Learning Trust Ltd

    Stirling & District Women’s Aid

    The Highland Council

    The Improvement Service

    The Star Centre

    The Venture Trust

    West Dunbartonshire Council

    Western Isles Rape Crises Centre

    Western Isles Women’s Aid SCIO

    West Lothian Council

    West Lothian Women’s Aid (WLWA)

    White Ribbon Scotland

    Wigtownshire Women’s Aid

    Women’s Aid East and Midlothian Ltd

    Women’s Aid Orkney

    Women’s Aid South Lanarkshire and East Renfrewshire

    Women’s Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre Dundee and Angus

    Women’s Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre Dundee and Angus

    Women’s Support Project

    YWCA Scotland

    Zero Tolerance

    The latest Equally Safe Delivery Plan, published in August 2024, sets out next steps to address violence against women and girls.

    Frontline projects funded through the Delivering Equally Safe Fund have supported 67,004 adults, children and young people since 2021.

    SAY Women is a charity that offers safe semi-supported accommodation and emotional support for young women aged 16 to 25 who are survivors of sexual abuse, rape or sexual assault and who are homeless, or threatened with homelessness.

    SAY Women receive funding through the Delivering Equally Safe Fund, and with this uplift this will increase from £52,009 to £58,770 in 2025/26. Funding is in place to support a full Sessional Team to support young women to participate in additional mental health/wellbeing activities contributing to wellbeing improvements aiding in preventing homelessness.

    SAY Women are also supported by the Scottish Government’s Survivors of Childhood Abuse Support (SOCAS) Fund. The fund supports 22 organisations across Scotland who work with adult survivors of childhood abuse. SAY Women have been allocated £190,000 for the period of the Fund (1 October 2024 – 31 March 2026) to provide specialised support to young women survivors of childhood sexual abuse who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Big Brush Club expands to all primary schools in Devon

    Source: City of Plymouth

    A supervised toothbrushing scheme, known as the Big Brush Club, has been running in some areas of Devon, Plymouth and Torbay since 2023. However, the scheme, which is provided for children aged 3 to 5-years old, is now being rolled out to all primary schools in Devon who have an early years nursery, pre-school or reception class provision.

    Children at Ernesettle School with Bob the Badger, mascot of the Big Brush Club

    It is funded by NHS Devon, in partnership with Devon County Council, Plymouth City Council and Torbay Council, and delivered by dentist provider At Home Dental.

    Jonathan Bouwer-Davies, Clinical Dental Adviser for NHS Devon said: “We know a quarter of five-year-olds have tooth decay which can, in severe cases, lead to children needing hospital treatment.

    “Understanding how to brush your teeth properly is an important life skill for children. It takes schools five minutes a day and the benefits can be life-long.

    “I am proud that Devon is the first area in the south west to extend the scheme to all primary schools thanks to the collaboration between NHS Devon, Devon County Council, Plymouth City Council and Torbay Council.”

    Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care at Plymouth City Council, said: “We’re absolutely delighted that the supervised toothbrushing scheme will now be available to all schools across Plymouth.

    “When it comes to dental health, we know that prevention is better than cure and this is exacerbated by the difficulties our residents are experiencing when they try to access NHS dental care, so it’s absolutely vital that children create healthy habits at a young age.

    “We really hope that all schools across the city take up this offer, as it has such a huge benefit for children.”

    L-R: Clare Foster, Project Manager at At Home Dental, Bob the Badger mascot, Councillor Mary Aspinall, Reena Patel, South West Consultant in Dental Public Health at NHS England and Anna Mansfield, Project Facilitator at At Home Dental.

    Under the scheme, teachers hold short, daily toothbrushing sessions for three- to-five-year-olds alongside lessons about self-care, healthy eating and reducing sugar.

    Chief Operations Officer from At Home Dental, Hayley Beaumont, said: “Our team of dental nurses work closely with teachers, pupils and parents to provide advice, support and training on promoting oral health.

    “Each child is provided with a toothbrush and toothpaste pack to take home, encouraging toothbrushing to be a part of their normal daily routine.

    “The children love doing it with their friends and the teachers report that it not only reduces problems with teeth but also school absence.”

    Rapper and health activist Professor Green is helping the NHS raise awareness among families about the importance of children looking after their teeth, by launching an exciting competition to all primary schools across the south west.

    Every child aged between three – five years old has been invited to take part in a competition with a music category and a colouring category. The competition, which will run until the end of May, will give children the chance to win some fantastic prizes for both themselves and their school. Professor Green will join a judging panel for the competition.

    Professor Green said: “I am chuffed to be able to support the NHS supervised toothbrushing in schools scheme, and to be judging a competition which gives young children a creative outlet, while also teaching them the importance of brushing their teeth at least twice a day.”

    He says he only realised later in life how not brushing properly twice a day affected his own physical and mental health – so now takes this seriously with his own son alongside a healthy diet.

    Oral health is seen as a marker of wider health and social care inequalities including poor nutrition and obesity. 

    Prof. Maggie Rae, South West Deputy Public Health Director at the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, concludes: “The Big Brush Club is a fantastic example of forward-thinking, early intervention work that supports the government’s mission to improve the health of the nation.

    “The NHS in the south west is absolutely committed to tackling the many unfair disparities of health outcomes across our society.”

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council seeking public’s feedback on leisure facilities

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Council seeking public’s feedback on leisure facilities

    11 February 2025

    Derry City and Strabane District Council are inviting the public to have their say on its leisure services through an online survey.
    The Customer Satisfaction survey aims to gather customer feedback on a range of factors including the quality of facilities, value for money, cleanliness and quality of service.
    Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Lilian Seenoi-Barr, urged as many people as possible to complete the surveys to allow them to provide the best possible service in the future.
    “We want to get a better understanding of what the public’s expectations are from our leisure services so we can tailor them to meet user needs and make informed decisions about future projects,” she said.
    “We want as many service users as possible to take the survey – the more people who give us feedback the more we can give the public what they want.
    “The survey is open to anyone and we want everyone to give us their feedback regardless of your level of fitness and physical activity.”
    Derry and Strabane District Council operate ten Leisure facilities in the region offering a wide range of both indoor and outdoor sporting activities.
    The centres are Foyle Arena, Bishop’s Field, Templemore Sports Complex, Brooke Park, Derg Valley Leisure Centre, Riversdale Leisure Centre, Melvin Sports Complex, Brandywell Stadium, Waterside Shared Village and City Baths.
    The closing date for the surveys is Sunday March 2nd and you can access online at derrystrabane.com/leisure or at the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HV9JWGV
     

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Deputy Mayor attends Strabane Health and Wellbeing event

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Deputy Mayor attends Strabane Health and Wellbeing event

    11 February 2025

    There was a great turn out at a special health and wellbeing event held this week in Strabane, featuring helpful advice and information from a range of local organisations.

    The event was delivered in partnership with Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Age Friendly Programme, Sports Development team, the Strabane Health Improvement Project, Neighbourhood Health Improvement Project and Strabane District Caring Services.

    As well as information stands offering advice on support available locally, those attending took part in cookery demonstrations and talks on nutrition, and found out more about complementary therapies, advice on avoiding trips and falls, and skin scanning.

    The event was attended by Deputy Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Alderman Darren Guy, who took the opportunity to remind people how important it was to regularly check for any signs or symptoms that could be of concern.

    “I found the health and wellbeing event at Melvin extremely informative, with lots of experts on hand to advise and offer support in relation to a number of health areas,” he said afterwards.

    “Sometimes going to a doctor can be intimidating and lots of people feel they don’t want to add to the pressures on the health service by asking advice about minor issues. But those smaller problems can be signs of more serious conditions and it’s vitally important that we get them checked out.

    “By taking part in regular screenings we can keep on top of our health, and there is lots of support out there when it comes to fitness, nutrition and alternative therapies that have wide-ranging benefits. I want to thank everyone who took part in this week’s session, and encourage people to keep an eye out for future events in their area.”

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scientific approaches to reduce methane emissions from farm animals

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    In November 2024, a social media storm saw people posting videos of themselves pouring milk down their sinks citing food safety fears. The health scare went viral after an announcement by Arla that they were trialling a new animal feed additive called Bovaer, which is scientifically proven to reduce methane in farm animals. What should have been a good news story about how science and innovation can help agriculture to get to net zero very quickly turned into a health scare complete with conspiracy theories about Bill Gates trying to poison us.

    In fact adding additives to animal feed is just one of a myriad of exciting new science and innovation ideas in the works exploring different approaches to reducing methane emissions from farm animals. This Background Briefing will bring in experts across the agricultural field to explain the science behind some of these techniques, which include genetic breeding approaches, vaccine candidates and ways to alter the ruminant microbiome as well as the feed additives. The FSA’s Chief Scientist will also be with us to answer any remaining questions around Bovaer and the systems in place to test for the safety of dairy products.

    Irish and UK based journalists came to this SMC briefing to hear the science behind some of these approaches.

    Speakers included:

    Prof Robin May, Chief Scientific Advisor, Food Standards Agency (FSA)

    Prof Chris Reynolds, Professor of Animal & Dairy Science, University of Reading

    Prof Richard Dewhurst, Professor of Ruminant Nutrition & Production Systems and Head of the Dairy Research Centre, Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC)

    Prof John Hammond, Director of Research, The Pirbright Institute

    Dr Sinead Waters, Senior Researcher in Host Microbiome Interactions, University of Galway

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  • MIL-OSI Global: How to make a change in your life – and stick to it

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Abigail Parrish, Lecturer in Languages Education, University of Sheffield

    PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock

    Is there a change you’d like to make in your life? Perhaps you’d finally like to write the novel you’ve been thinking about for years. Perhaps you think you should start saving for a holiday or a deposit on a house or flat. Maybe you would like to improve your fitness.

    That’s great. But we all know it can be hard to stick to these kinds of changes. Gym membership figures suggest half of new members quit within six months, and many of us have the evidence of once-loved hobbies scattered around our homes.

    To write that book, for instance, you’re going to have to find time to do it, and stick with it when the going gets tough and initial enthusiasm has worn off.

    Ready to make a change? The Quarter Life Glow-up is a new, six-week newsletter course from The Conversation’s UK and Canada editions.

    Every week, we’ll bring you research-backed advice and tools to help improve your relationships, your career, your free time and your mental health – no supplements or skincare required. Sign up here to start your glow-up at any time.

    First, you should ask yourself why you’re doing it.

    My research looks at the psychology of making changes through the lens of what is known as self-determination theory, which proposes that there are different forms of motivation. These range from, for instance, being motivated to do something because someone is making you do it, to being motivated because you think it’s fun.

    Looked at like this, big changes, such as training for a new career, and smaller ones, like joining a weekly fitness class, are all the same. What matters is the reason you have for doing it.

    Find the right reason

    You might have more than one reason for making a change. Perhaps you want to start something because it’s a TikTok trend and everyone else seems to be doing it, or maybe the suggestion is coming from someone in your life. These are external reasons to do something, and this type of motivation is less likely to lead to success.

    Focus on the ones that are “internalised” – that come from within yourself. If you can find a reason why the change is important to you and you have your own motivation to make it, you’re much more likely to stick with it. It needs to be something that is aligned with your values – something you believe in.

    So what you’re doing doesn’t even have to be something you enjoy, as long as it’s something you feel is important to you.

    Think of deciding to save money, for example. This isn’t an activity that is inherently fun for most people, but the act of saving might be important because of what it represents or leads to – the holiday at the end of it, or the house you could buy with the money you put away. When you start to waver in your goal, thinking of that personal reason will help you keep going.

    You don’t necessarily have to enjoy something to be motivated to keep doing it.
    New Africa/Shutterstock

    There are two other important concepts from self-determination theory mixed up in the idea of an action being aligned with personal values. When you do something that comes from your values, you should be acting with autonomy – doing something you want to do, not something other people have made you do.

    That’s a key construct in the theory, but it can be hard to align with things like work or study. Perhaps your goal is to apply yourself at work or to get a good grade in your studies. But most people have a boss, or a supervisor, and their role is to instruct you on what to do.

    If you’re a teacher, you have to work to the school’s timetable, whether you like it or not. But in the jobs where you are most motivated, you will be able to make some choices for yourself. Teaching is an interesting example of when this doesn’t work, because in England this very structured job has become even more so in recent years, coinciding with a recruitment and retention problem in the profession.

    Teacher autonomy is widely studied and considered important even outside of self-determination theory, and a perceived lack of autonomy is likely to be one of the reasons people might want to quit their job.

    Eyes on the goal

    The other really important thing is your goal in making the change. The best kind of goal is an autonomous one, relating to something that is intrinsically important to you. This might be competing at a high level in your sport, because it will give you joy and satisfaction to be the best you can be. This means you will put up with hardships and challenges, and you will keep going even after a bad day.

    By contrast, if your goal is an external one, you might find things more difficult. This includes if you’re doing something for a reward, rather than because something is personally important to you. So if you want to write a bestselling novel to become famous or rich, you may find that as the going gets tough, your motivation slips and work grinds to a halt.

    If you are doing something because other people want you to, even other people who care about you, you will struggle. This may mean that some changes are just not meant to be – or it might mean changing your mindset and how you look at the goals you are aiming for.

    Try to get the support of people who care about you and who you care about, whether this be family and friends, or a new community at your sports club, for example. And finally, keep an eye on your goals. Any change which you are engaging in for yourself because you value it and can see the benefits, is likely to be a lasting one.

    Abigail Parrish does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. How to make a change in your life – and stick to it – https://theconversation.com/how-to-make-a-change-in-your-life-and-stick-to-it-237248

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Jobs on wheels: Mobile Jobcentre vans deliver work support directly to local communities in drive to boost employment 

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    New scheme comes as part of the government’s drive to help people back into work and kickstart economic growth under its Plan for Change

    • New ‘Jobcentre on wheels’ service launched to drive up employment across Great Britain.
    • Any member of the public – as well as DWP customers – can access job support through the mobile Jobcentres being tested in Bolton and parts of Wales.

    New mobile Jobcentres are pulling up to football matches and retail parks to deliver vital employment support directly to local communities.

    The vans have been visiting family hubs, retail car parks and mosques in regions with particularly high levels of unemployment and inactivity as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) tests new and inclusive ways to help people back into work. This includes a van pitching up at Bolton Wanderers Football Club last weekend to provide job support to fans on match day.

    In Bolton alone, nearly 1-in-3 of people are currently inactive, with unemployment significantly higher than the national average. This van and others like it are performing a vital service to areas like Bolton, breaking down barriers to opportunity and bringing the expertise and support of the DWP straight into the heart of the communities that need it most.

    The mobile Jobcentres are staffed by experienced Work Coaches who offer expert support with job searching, training opportunities and can provide information to those with health conditions or disabilities and accessing childcare costs.

    As well as existing customers, the service is open and accessible to all members of the public and forms part of the government’s wider plans to tackle inactivity, support people into jobs and make everyone better off under its Plan for Change.

    With the vans in Bolton, Flintshire, Denbighshire and Wrexham already proving a success, a van in Scotland will launch later this month and cover Moray and the Highlands.  

    The Minister for Employment, Alison McGovern, saw the Bolton mobile Jobcentre in action today (Monday 10 February) as members of the local community received advice outside the Great Lever Family Hub, a Start Well Children’s Centre. 

    Minister for Employment, Alison McGovern, said:

    For too long, people have been denied the opportunity of securing a good job and getting on in their career. Under our major employment reforms, we want to see everyone, in every corner of the country, become better off.

    This mobile Jobcentre is a perfect example of an inclusive and accessible DWP solution that ensures no one misses out on the job support they deserve. Getting more people back into work is a key part of our Plan for Change to deliver economic growth, create better opportunities and put more money into the pockets of working people.

    Sam Ashton, a Work Coach based on the Bolton mobile Jobcentre, added:

    The new Bolton mobile Jobcentre hit the road in January and has already pulled up in various locations across the town including at the Toughsheet Community Stadium. We have been supporting customers with a whole host of needs, whether that is with their job search, or accessing childcare costs.

    We’re really looking forward to helping even more people in harder to reach areas and make it much easier for them to access our services.

    The government is delivering on the biggest reforms to employment support in a generation as set out in the Get Britain Working White Paper. Key measures include overhauling Jobcentres, introducing a Youth Guarantee to ensure all people aged 18 to 21 are earning or learning and connecting local work, health and skills plans. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ombudsman should be resigning in light of judgement, not appealing it

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    TUV leader and North Antrim MP Jim Allister said:

    “The Ombudsman – having been slapped down on a number of occasions on the issue of her findings of collusion – should be resigning, not appealing this judgment.

    “An appeal will see yet further waste of public money in what is increasingly appearing to be a mission to damage the reputation of a proud police force which stood between Northern Ireland and anarchy for 30 years and paid a shocking price for so doing.

    “In light of this appeal, the Justice Minister needs to revisit her comments in the Assembly today and withdraw her support for the Ombudsman.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Explainer: what does it actually mean to ‘firm’ renewables?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peta Ashworth, Professor and Director, Curtin Institute for Energy Transition, Curtin University

    Large power grids are among the most complicated machines humans have ever devised. Different generators produce power at various times and at various costs. A generator might fail and another fills the gap. Demand soars in the evenings and on hot days. In Australia, eastern and southern states trade power across borders. Meanwhile, Western Australia has two grids and the Northern Territory has several.

    But these complicated machines are undergoing major change, as we shift from large fossil fuel plants to cleaner forms of power. Wind and sun are now the cheapest way to produce electricity. These renewable sources will soon overtake coal and gas – they’re already averaging 40% of power flowing through the national grid.

    Solar and wind are often called “variable” renewable energy sources. Variable, here, refers to the fact the sun doesn’t always shine and the wind doesn’t always blow. On sunny, windy days we get lots of cheap power. But on still nights, we might get little.

    This is where “firming” comes in. To firm renewables is to convert this cheap but variable source of power into what we really want: a reliable supply of electricity, there when we need it. Big battery projects are one way to do it. But there are others.

    Solar and wind are often called ‘variable’ renewable energy sources.
    Damitha Jayawardena/Shutterstock

    How does firming work?

    Storage is the best known way to firm renewables. As floods of cheap power come in, you can store it for later use.

    Storage can be performed by grid-scale batteries, where the power is stored directly. But it can also be done by pumped hydro, where water is pumped uphill when power is cheap and plentiful and run back downhill, through turbines, when power is harder to source.

    Firming can also be done by virtual power plants – aggregated fleets of smaller batteries in homes and electric vehicles.

    Gas peaking plants are another way of firming renewables. In the future, gas plants will go from being a mainstay to the equivalent of a backup generator, fired up only when needed.

    Generally, energy storage facilities offer either short- or long-term firming. As more renewable power enters Australia’s grids, we will need both. This is because they offer different levels of storage and response times.

    Short term can be as short as seconds to a few hours. Batteries are a common way to provide short-term firming, because they can ramp up very quickly to tackle sudden fluctuations in supply or demand. These fast-response systems help stabilise the grid by smoothing out spikes caused by changing weather.

    Long-term firming can be for hours, days or even weeks. This includes large-scale battery storage or back-up generators such as gas plants. Long-term options are crucial to maintain power supply during extended periods of low renewable generation, such as still, cold days and nights in winter.

    Firming turns cheap solar and wind into reliable, stable power.
    Taras Vyshnya/Shutterstock

    How are we tracking with firming renewables?

    In recent years, large-scale battery announcements have ramped up. Almost 8 gigawatts of battery capacity is now in progress or anticipated to start construction shortly. But the pipeline of future projects is much larger: 75 gigawatts of firming will be required.

    While renewable power is cheap, to make it useful and reliable in addition to storage, we need transmission lines to connect large renewable zones to cities and towns. All this adds extra costs.

    As the level of renewables in our power grids inches higher, firming costs increase. This is especially true when a grid goes from 95% to 100% renewables, when there’s a sudden jump in cost.

    This is why experts have argued for keeping a few gas peaking plants. While they are not emission-free, they are flexible and can start up much more rapidly than coal. They will likely play a key role in firming the grid during renewable droughts and extreme demand – an estimated 5% of the year. That sounds small, but they will be essential.

    Eventually, gas peaking plants could switch to hydrogen, if the fuel becomes cost effective. This would cut emissions further.

    Firming – at home?

    Homes with batteries can also help firm the network by joining a virtual power plant. These networks of batteries can be digitally coordinated to function as a single power plant, helping stabilise the grid.

    If a home owner signs up to a virtual power plant program, they hand over some control in return for income. Technologies such as this can support grid stability by charging or discharging in response to supply fluctuations.

    These networks are a flexible energy resource. They can inject power to the grid instantly if there’s a sudden drop in solar or wind generation. They can also soak up surplus energy.

    These aren’t hypothetical. Several are running or in development in Australia, such as the AGL virtual power plant in South Australia, SolarHub in New South Wales and the new ARENA-funded Project Jupiter in Western Australia, which will commence soon.

    Is firming helping?

    Firming technologies are already helping in high-renewable grids overseas. Big batteries now allow California’s grid to absorb more renewables, by soaking up daytime solar and releasing it at evening peak.

    Power from renewables such as solar need to be firmed to maximise use in the grid.
    The Desert Photo/Shutterstock

    We’re seeing the benefits of firming locally, too.

    On January 20 this year, a heatwave in Western Australia triggered a new record for peak electricity demand – 4.4 gigawatts – in the state’s main electricity network, the South West Interconnected System.

    In response, recently built battery storage at Kwinana, Collie, and Cunderdin stored excess power and discharged it at peak times.

    The next day, dense clouds swept in, slashing solar output and reducing peak demand. In response, gas generators increased output to firm the grid.

    Firming technologies are already playing a vital role in keeping our electricity supply stable, reliable and resilient – and it’s just the start.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Explainer: what does it actually mean to ‘firm’ renewables? – https://theconversation.com/explainer-what-does-it-actually-mean-to-firm-renewables-248134

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Parliamentary statement on antisemitism

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    A holy synagogue defiled by a hateful swastika.

    A childcare centre deliberately set on fire. 

    Nazi slogans – copied from the darkest pages of history – spraypainted across Jewish cars and Jewish property.   

    To a person, these have been cowardly acts, conducted under the cover of darkness, designed to bully and intimidate and threaten the Jewish people of our great state.

    But we are here today, as a parliament, as representatives of this open and tolerant state, to say in an unambiguous way that this campaign of hatred will fail.

    It will fail – because the Jewish community is strong.

    It will fail – because our Jewish friends have an entire state behind them – with the laws and the resources and the solidarity needed to destroy the poison of antisemitism wherever it takes root.

    Mr Speaker, the Jewish people of New South Wales are proud, but they are understandably exhausted.

    As one parent told the media earlier this month: “I’m just tired. I want it to stop. I am sick of waking up to find out something else has happened.”

    Some of the stories we are hearing will break your heart.

    Of schoolkids – who are now afraid to wear their uniforms in public as they walk down the street to their local school.

    Or of parents – who have started driving their kids everywhere – so they don’t have to risk a trip on the bus or the train. 

    We will not be a state where someone feels like they have to remove their yarmulke just to walk down the street.

    Where people are made to hide their heritage – because of the ignorance, the bigotry, the racism of other people – people they’ve never met before.

    Mr Speaker, that has never been New South Wales. 

    And today – and in coming sessions of parliament – we will introduce new and stronger laws that target this kind of antisemitism and racial hatred.

    These laws we hope will send the clearest possible message.

    These are serious crimes.

    And if you’re going to commit these acts – if you are thinking about spreading racial hatred on our streets –you will face these full penalties.

    These changes include:

    • A new offence targeting the display of Nazi symbols on or near a synagogue.
    • An act to create an aggravated offence for graffiti on a place of worship.
    • Laws designed to stop people from harassing other people, or intimidating other people from recognising their religion and worshipping at religious buildings.

    We’re also backing these laws in as well, Mr Speaker, with more funding for the Hate Crime Unit in the NSW Police.

    More training and support for local councils. 

    We believe they’re strong laws, that will be a genuine deterrent, and we want to put resources behind them.

    And send a message that if you’re going to get involved in this kind of bastardry: the police will track you down – they will find you – and you will be punished. 

    Mr Speaker, one public act of antisemitism is too many.

    A summer of rolling hatred is obviously intolerable.

    Operation Shelter, stood up by the NSW Police, has arrested 173 people – with over 460 charges.

    Strike Force Pearl is now targeting vandalism and arson, and we’ve doubled the number of detectives on the case.

    But we do recognise that no one in this place will be judged by the laws we pass, or the taskforces that are established.

    We’ll be judged by the crimes that are stopped – and the feeling of safety that can return to our community as a result.

    I know David Ossip is here today as President of the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies. I’d like to acknowledge his guidance and support as well as his personal strength and leadership throughout these very difficult times.  

    Mr Speaker, for as long as modern Australia has existed, Jewish people have made their home in this state.

    In 1788, there were eight Jews on the First Fleet.

    They were victims of poverty in East London, like later Jewish migrants who were fleeing pogroms in Eastern Europe, and those who settled here after the great evil of the Shoah.

    For generations of Jewish people, Australia has offered a promise.

    And that promise has been very simple.

    Despite centuries of horrifying violence – Australia would be different.

    Australia would be safe.

    This would be a country that accepts and celebrates these ancient people – a place where this community could live and prosper in peace.

    In the 1860s, a Rabbi travelled here from Jerusalem, Rabbi Jacob Levi Saphir, and he was amazed at what he found: “The Jews live in safety and take their share in all good things of the country.

    “In this land, they have learnt that the Jews are good people, and hatred towards them has entirely disappeared.”

    This is in 1860, Mr Speaker.

    I think it’s important we observe that the vast, vast majority of Australians of different ethnicities, nationalities, faiths, religions celebrate and love our Jewish friends and fellow citizens.

    We work together – we often send our kids to the same schools – we live side by side.

    In a democratic country like Australia there will be debate about foreign policy issues, wars, conflicts, rights.

    And of course that includes the Middle East.

    I have to say Mr Speaker, I’ve found that most Australians – regardless of their race, religion or perspective – want, would argue for, and indeed many pray for, Israeli and Palestinian children to live in peace in that holy land – and an end to all wars.

    We must, however, make it absolutely clear that nothing that happens overseas, in any context can ever be used as a pretext for hate, antisemitism or division here in Australia.

    People have come from around the world – from different races and religions – because we are a peaceful, tolerant country that has been free of this kind of racial or religious division and ancient hatreds.

    And we can’t bend on this principle. 

    No one is entitled to bring their bigotry to our country – and we won’t tolerate it.

    In New South Wales – we will never harbour the poison of antisemitism.

    Antisemitism is a particularly sinister, shape shifting in form, and the bigotry is widespread. 

    So often – what has begun as hate speech against the Jewish people has led to violence, it has led to persecution, it’s led to murder, and it’s led to genocide.

    That is the reason we’re here today.

    As a state – as a community – as a Parliament – as friends and neighbours – so that we can root out this kind of behaviour – and end this shameful chapter of the history of the state.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Progress on joint water trading framework

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Progress on joint water trading framework

    Published: 11 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Water

    The NSW and ACT Governments are taking important steps towards developing the first joint water trading framework to deliver an extra 6.36 gigalitres (GL) of water to the environment.

    Both jurisdictions are working closely together to develop a robust water trading framework that will help them meet their commitments to the Commonwealth’s Murray-Darling Basin Plan.

    Once in place, the framework will enable environmental water from the ACT to be released into the Murrumbidgee River in NSW through Burrinjuck Dam, supporting healthier rivers, ecosystems and communities.

    Currently, there is no way that water can be transferred into NSW from the ACT under the Murrumbidgee Regulated River Water Source Water Sharing Plan, so the NSW Government is proposing to amend these rules by 1 July 2025.

    Targeted information sessions and consultation that will provide more detail on the amendments to establish a water trading framework will be carried out in late February 2025.

    To learn more, visit the web page about the Murrumbidgee region.

    NSW Minister for Water Rose Jackson said:

    “As a fellow signatory to the Murray-Darling Basin Plan, we want to support the ACT in meeting its environmental water targets and ensuring everyone is doing their bit to restore our rivers.

    “The reality is the national capital is landlocked by our state, and they can’t deliver this water back to the system without our help.

    “The proposed water trading framework will not only be good news for the environment – it will also allow us to explore how we can work together to improve access and support greater regional development in the future.”

    ACT Minister for Water Suzanne Orr said:

    “This is an important step which will benefit our local waterways and fulfill our commitment to return water to the system.

    “Improving river flows within the Murrumbidgee River catchment not only helps support the Murray-Darlin Basin but also catchment health, the environment and regional communities.

    “I look forward to continuing to work closely with the NSW Government to progress this critical work.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Hassan, Pappas Join Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for New Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Facility to Increase Efficiency and Support Shipyard Workforce

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    ** Shaheen secured full authorization for the Shipbuilding Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP) projects at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in the Fiscal Year 2025 NDAA**

    (Portsmouth, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and U.S. Representative Chris Pappas (NH-01) delivered remarks at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard’s new Waterfront Production Facility. The facility will house training and production facilities at the shipyard and construction was funded through the Navy’s Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP). This and other projects under SIOP will increase maintenance capacity at public shipyards. Shaheen secured full authorization for SIOP projects at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 NDAA. You can view photos from the event here.  

    “One of the real advantages we have over our adversaries is our attack submarines, and we want to make sure that those nuclear submarines are on the water as much as possible. This new facility makes our shipbuilding workforce more efficient, saving time and money, which is exactly what we need to strengthen our national security,” said Senator Shaheen. “It also reaffirms the key role that Portsmouth Naval Shipyard plays not only in our local economy, but also in our nation’s shipbuilding industry, bringing and keeping good-paying jobs for Granite Staters.” 

    “With the construction of the new Waterfront Production Facility, the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard remains equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century,” said Senator Hassan. “The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is an indispensable pillar of our national security and today’s ribbon cutting marks the latest chapter in the history of Portsmouth helping keep America safe, secure, and free.” 

    “I was pleased to take part in the ribbon cutting of this state-of-the-art facility that will help the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard continue to achieve America’s national security goals well into the future while preserving this installation’s storied history. It is an honor to represent the Shipyard and the men and women who serve there in Congress, and I remain committed to ensuring that they always have the support and resources needed to do the job and complete the mission,” said Congressman Pappas.

    Senator Shaheen has long advocated for New England’s shipbuilding industry and workforce, including through authorizing funding and workforce development for Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Through the FY 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, Shaheen secured full authorization for the Shipbuilding Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP) projects at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, which will expand the Shipyard’s capacity to maintain America’s fast-attack submarine fleet. As a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations and Armed Services Committees, Senator Shaheen helped secure this funding beginning in the FY 2019 funding legislation, which she has continued in ensuing years. Additionally, in the FY 2025 government funding bills, Shaheen worked to include a $9.5 million Congressionally Directed Spending add for a new parking structure at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard—which will contribute to quality of life for Shipyard’s workforce. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Thousands of Australian pets may soon have ‘useless’ microchips. It’s a symptom of a bigger problem

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Bronwyn Orr, Veterinarian, Southern Cross University

    Mitchell Orr/Unsplash

    Late last year, rumours swirled online that HomeSafeID, a private Australian pet microchip registry, had stopped operating.

    On Feburary 5 2025, a notice appeared on the HomeSafeID website, ostensibly from the site’s administrator. It states the website “is likely to go offline” soon due to unpaid bills. This means the database of information stored on HomeSafeID would also go offline.

    There has been no official word from HomeSafeID as to the status of the company. HomeSafeID did not respond when The Conversation reached out for comment.

    According to the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC), the company is still registered and no insolvency notice has been published. However, it’s possible HomeSafeID has stopped operating or will do so in the near future.

    If this happens, any pet with a HomeSafeID registered microchip would no longer have searchable microchip details. If these pets become lost, vets and shelters will have no way of finding or verifying their owner.

    The situation is a symptom of a bigger problem with pet microchip registries in Australia – a lack of national oversight.

    Why should you microchip your pet?

    If your pet goes missing, their microchip is key to you being reunited. Vets and shelters can scan a stray animal’s microchip, search one of the seven microchip registries in Australia, find the pet owner’s details and contact them. Pet microchips significantly increase the likelihood lost pets will be reclaimed by their owners.

    In fact, microchipping pets is a legal requirement in all states and territories of Australia except the Northern Territory, although it is required in the City of Darwin. In New South Wales, fines for failing to microchip your pet range from A$180 to $880.

    A pet microchip should contain up-to-date details of the pet’s owner so they can be contacted if the animal becomes lost.
    Todorean-Gabriel/Shutterstock

    If HomeSafeID does go offline, many pets will have microchips that don’t connect to a database any more, making them essentially useless.

    It’s difficult to estimate the scale of the problem, but it could affect hundreds of thousands of pets, including ones adopted from RSPCA Queensland.

    According to ASIC, RSPCA Queensland was a part-owner of HomeSafeID until 2020. A spokesperson for the charity told The Conversation it has no current partnership with HomeSafeID, and “don’t know the extent of how many animals are affected”. Yesterday, RSPCA Queensland issued advice for pet owners to check their registration details.

    Where are microchip details stored?

    There are currently seven registries in Australia. Five are privately owned, including HomeSafeID, and two are owned by state governments, in NSW and South Australia. Pets microchipped in those states are meant to be registered with the state registry.

    The five private registries jointly fund a website called Pet Address, which allows you to search the five private databases to find where your pet’s details are stored.

    However, Pet Address doesn’t cover the state registries – these have to be searched separately. Only NSW vets and “authorised identifiers” (such as shelters) can access the pet owner details stored in the NSW registry.

    If a pet is moved to another state but their owner doesn’t update the registry, their microchip won’t be readable in the new location by non-NSW vets and shelters.

    There are currently no rules, regulations or even guidelines around how private pet microchip registries should operate in Australia. If a microchip database were to cease operating, there is no safety net to ensure information is automatically moved to another database.

    A vet can scan your pet’s microchip to retrieve the number and find out the registration details.
    Lucky Business/Shutterstock

    What can I do to make sure my pet’s microchip is up to date?

    Given current uncertainty around the HomeSafeID registry, pet owners across Australia should check their pets’ microchip numbers and find out which database they’re registered in.

    If you don’t already know your pet’s microchip number, vets and shelters can use a microchip scanner to find that number for you. Then, you can run it through Pet Address or the SA and NSW registries where relevant, to find out which database the number is registered on.

    If your pet’s microchip is currently with HomeSafeID, it might be prudent to move your pet’s details to another database. You can do this by contacting one of the other microchip registries and applying to register with their database (this may involve a small fee).

    Australia needs national coordination on pet microchipping

    Given it’s mandatory to microchip dogs and cats, it might seem strange there are no regulations or guidelines around how microchip registries should operate. However, this is a symptom of a much bigger issue.

    There is almost no national leadership or collaboration on companion animal issues in Australia. Pets are firmly the domain of state governments, with the federal government only really involved in the export and import of companion animals.

    There are, however, avenues for national coordination. The renewal of the Australian Animal Welfare Strategy is one, and the national Animal Health Committee is another.

    Regardless of who takes responsibility, it’s clear a round table on pet microchipping is urgently required to prevent hundreds of thousands of pets walking around with microchips that don’t work anymore.

    Otherwise, lost pets may find themselves at shelters and pounds unnecessarily, and animals that might have otherwise been returned home could end up being adopted, or worse, euthanised.

    Bronwyn Orr is a Director of the Walk In Clinic For Animals and Veterinary Support Group.

    – ref. Thousands of Australian pets may soon have ‘useless’ microchips. It’s a symptom of a bigger problem – https://theconversation.com/thousands-of-australian-pets-may-soon-have-useless-microchips-its-a-symptom-of-a-bigger-problem-249492

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Fire trail upgrades for NSW opal fields

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Fire trail upgrades for NSW opal fields

    Published: 11 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Lands and Property

    Northwest communities around the Lightning Ridge opal fields are now better protected from bushfires following the Minns Labor Government’s completion of more than $1.35 million in fire trail upgrades and other protection works.

    At Lightning Ridge, a network of 34 fire trails spanning approximately 28 kilometres has been established through upgrades to existing access tracks on a Crown land reserve managed by the Lightning Ridge Area Opal Reserve.

    A further 6 fire trails at Grawin covering about 6.7 kilometres, and 13 fire trails at Glengarry covering about 17 kilometres upgrades were also undertaken.

    Work included hazard reduction burns, the removal of excess vegetation, and improving fire trails to meet Rural Fire Service standards. Upgrades involved grading, drainage improvements to prevent erosion, and compacted gravel surfacing of some trails for year-round access. Turning and passing bays were also installed to support firefighting efforts. 

    Separately, Crown Lands and the Rural Fire Service collaborated on a $34,500 project to install and fence a 110,000-litre water supply tank to support firefighting at Grawin and surrounds.

    These critical upgrades undertaken by Crown Lands, with the support of the Soil Conservation Service, Rural Fire Service, Lightning Ridge Area Opal Reserve land manager, Walgett Shire Council, and community members will improve emergency access and help safeguard residents, businesses, and the local environment from the threat of bushfires.

    Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

    “These critical fire trail upgrades enable firefighters to do their job battling bushfires.

    They are imperative to improving emergency access to help keep communities protected against bushfires.

    There are over 1,180 fires trails on Crown land across NSW covering over 2,120 kilometres and over 660 hectares of bushfire asset protection zones, with Crown Lands delivering projects each year to help guard against bushfires.”

    Member for Barwon Roy Butler said:

    “Following the recent bushfires in the Lightning Ridge area and the massive effort from firefighters to contain it, this is incredibly welcome news from the NSW Government, and I hope this work continues throughout NSW.

    Firefighters rely on a network of roads, trails, and tracks to prevent, manage, and contain bushfires. Maintaining NSW’s fire trails by removing excess fuel loads is critical to keeping firefighters safe and helping them reduce the risk and impact of fires on people, property, and the environment.

    Reducing fuel loads also significantly reduces the severity and impact of bushfires and assists emergency services in controlling and managing them.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Supporting Orkney’s farmers and food producers

    Source: Scottish Government

    Plans for new abattoir get funding boost.

    Orkney’s farmers, crofters and producers could benefit from a new local abattoir which will help them bring their produce to market, benefit the island’s economy and support high-welfare meat production.

    First Minister John Swinney visited Orkney Auction Mart, which has received a £15,000 grant as a lead partner to help build the business case for a new, fit-for-purpose processing plant.

    The funding is part of the Scottish Government’s Small Producers Pilot Fund, which this year has provided a total of £256,500 to support private kill abattoirs including in Shetland, Wishaw, Barra, Dingwall and Mull.

    By creating more localised supply chains, the Fund aims to increase the proportion of food grown and processed by small farms and small holders, and consumed within the community.

    The First Minister said:

    “The Scottish Government is committed to supporting small producers and strengthening Scotland’s food supply chain. We know that local marts and abattoirs play an important role in supporting island businesses and ensuring the best animal welfare.

     “A new facility in Orkney would bring many benefits for the people who live and work here, supporting economic growth in the area and the future sustainability of the island’s food production industry.  We will continue to work with HIE and the Orkney Islands Council as the project develops.”

    Chair of Orkney Auction Mart Alan Corrigall said:

    “We were delighted to welcome the First Minister to Orkney to explain, first hand, how vital a new abattoir is for our community. Our case has been well received and we very much welcome the Scottish Government’s support.  We’re looking forward to working in partnership with local butchers and other stakeholders, to build a strong business case for this important project.”

    Background

    Supporting Scotland’s small producers – gov.scot

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 10,000 more apprentices as Government slashes red tape to boost growth  

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Shorter and flexible apprenticeships and new English and maths requirements to boost skills and support employers  

    Up to 10,000 more apprentices will be able to qualify per year as the government cuts red tape to boost economic growth by giving employers more flexibility over maths and English requirements. 

    Rules slowing down the training of workers in key industries like construction will also be changed as the government reveals plans to turbocharge growth industries with reduced bureaucracy for apprenticeships and new leadership also appointed for Skills England.  

    Leading employers have been calling for these changes. Businesses will now be able to decide whether adult learners over the age of 19 when they start their apprenticeship course will need to complete a level 2 English and maths qualification (equivalent to GCSE) in order to pass it. This means more learners can qualify in high demand sectors such as healthcare, social care and construction, helping to drive growth and meet government targets in key areas such as housebuilding.

    This could mean as many as 10,000 more apprentices per year will be able to complete their apprenticeship, unlocking opportunity in communities all over the country and breaking the link between background and success. It does not mean that apprentices won’t be assessed on core English and maths skills relevant to their occupation, but it does mean that apprentices will be able to focus more on their paid work.

    The minimum duration of an apprenticeship will be reduced to eight months, down from the current minimum of 12 months.

    Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson said:  

    Growing the economy and opportunity for all are fundamental Missions of our Plan for Change, and we are determined to support apprentices throughout this National Apprenticeship Week and beyond.

    Businesses have been calling out for change to the apprenticeship system and these reforms show that we are listening. Our new offer of shorter apprenticeships and less red tape strikes the right balance between speed and quality, helping achieve our number one mission to grow the economy. 

    Skills England will be a major driver in addressing the skills gaps needed to support employers up and down the country and I look forward to working with the new leadership.

    Craig Beaumont, Executive Director, Federation of Small Businesses said:  

    It’s encouraging to see Government shorten the length of apprenticeships, and give employers the right to decide whether Level 2 English and Maths is needed. These flexibilities should help SME employers fill skills gaps faster.

    These announcements come as the Education Secretary kicked off National Apprenticeship Week yesterday, which celebrates the achievements of apprentices around the country and the positive impact they make to communities, businesses, and the wider economy.  

    The plans also follow the Prime Minister’s announcement in October, when he pledged to reform the new growth and skills offer to ensure young people are better supported.   

    Three trailblazer apprenticeships in key shortage occupations will look to pioneer the new shorter apprenticeship approach, with apprentices in green energy, healthcare and film/TV production set to be able to take on these new courses.   

    Changes to the minimum length of an apprenticeship will be introduced from August 2025 subject to the legislative timetable, with changes to English and maths requirements coming into effect immediately. This will be hugely beneficial to employers in sectors like construction which have an urgent need for qualified workers, helping to meet the government’s mission to build 1.5 million homes by the end of this parliament.   

    The Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, has also announced that Phil Smith CBE will chair Skills England, the new nationwide body for skills, with Sir David Bell serving as Vice Chair. Tessa Griffiths and Sarah Maclean will jointly serve as CEO, while Gemma Marsh will serve as Deputy CEO. 

    Phil Smith is the former chair and CEO of international tech and telecoms giant Cisco. He brings extensive industry experience in digital, tech and innovation leadership and his appointment signals the seriousness of the government’s plan for growth, unlocked via a national vision for skills.   

    Sir David Bell has four decades of experience in the education and skills sector and is currently Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Sunderland  

    Phil Smith CBE said:

    I know from my time in industry how valuable direct engagement from employers can be in shaping government policy. 

    We need a dynamic skills system that can drive economic growth, and I’m excited to be involved in shaping Skills England as part of that.

    Sir David Bell said:   

    I look forward to working with Phil Smith, other colleagues in Skills England, and the Department for Education to help deliver economic growth and meet the nation’s skills needs. 

    I know from my experience in public policy and higher education that providing the skilled workforce which Britain requires depends on industry, government and education organisations working together. I am very confident therefore that Skills England will provide the strategic oversight to make that happen.

    Skills England will bring together key partners to meet the skills needs of the next decade across all regions of England. More than 700 stakeholders have already been engaged through roundtables, webinars and engagement events. 

    It will work with employers, national, regional and local government, providers, and unions to identify skills shortages and provide strong strategic direction for the skills system.  

    One of Skills England’s first orders of business will be to identify which apprenticeships would be best served by the shorter duration approach. Skills England will prioritise key shortage occupations as per the industrial strategy, helping to boost growth under our Plan for Change.   

    Euan Blair MBE, founder and CEO, Multiverse said: 

    This important announcement will do so much to widen and expand access to apprenticeships and should be welcomed as a move to put our skills system at the heart of the growth Mission. For years this requirement has created an artificial barrier between apprenticeships and those who could benefit from them, including young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and older workers whose roles are at risk of job displacement, while often diluting the quality and purpose of an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships are about giving as many people as possible the ability to improve their career prospects and contribute meaningfully to their employers: this move helps to underline that focus.

    Sharon Blyfield, Head of Early Careers at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners GB, said:

    At Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, we believe that the inclusion of functional skills as an exit for apprenticeships have often hindered many people from reaching their full potential. The announced changes will help make apprenticeships a more viable option to more people, not only new recruits but also for our current employees who missed out on these skills during their school years. These changes will enable them to successfully complete their apprenticeships without added barriers, which is brilliant news.

    Alex Hall-Chen Principal Policy Advisor, Sustainability, Skills, and Employment said:

    Apprenticeships are a vital tool in tackling the UK’s persistent skills shortages, and this announcement is a welcome step in removing unnecessary barriers to increasing apprenticeship numbers. 

    Research with IoD members clearly showed that giving employers flexibility when it comes to English and Maths qualifications for adult apprentices has the potential to unlock more apprenticeship opportunities. 

    Employers are well-placed to judge whether English and Maths qualifications are the most appropriate route to evidence or develop the literacy and numeracy skills needed for success in the given career path.

    Chris Bailey, Starbucks UK Early Careers Manager said:

    Starbucks UK welcomes the announcement around relaxing the requirements of functional skills for learners 19yrs+. Removing this significant barrier will support our commitment to enrolling more apprentices, particularly those who may have previously faced challenges with functional skills assessments. By embracing this change we can empower more of our Partners to gain valuable recognised qualifications, develop their skills, and progress within Starbucks and their careers.

    Lisa Pinfield, Group Director of Performance & Development, Capita said: 

    Making Functional Skills requirements more flexible for apprenticeships will open doors for more adult learners, especially those from diverse backgrounds. By removing unnecessary barriers, employers can welcome a wider pool of talented apprentices who bring valuable skills and experience. This change will help businesses grow, support social mobility, and give more people the chance to succeed through apprenticeships.

    Jo Rackham, Executive Director of People of the John Lewis Partnership, said:

    Apprenticeships help us build and retain the skills we need to deliver brilliant service to our customers and power our growth. They’ve helped 5,000 employees, or as we’re called Partners, progress in their careers since 2017.

    We welcome the relaxation in functional skills requirements. It’s an important step towards the reform needed to help more people access apprenticeships.  Gaining GCSE Maths and English qualifications can be a significant barrier to starting or completing one and we believe it will help more disadvantaged people, including those who leave the care system or those with learning disabilities, make a career for themselves.

    Matthew Percival, Future of Work and Skills Director, CBI said:

    Apprenticeships have an important role to play in building the skills for growth. Greater flexibility on minimum length and on English and Maths requirements will help businesses to offer more workers the opportunity to add to their skills.

    DfE media enquiries

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    Published 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Is Steve Smith set to become the best? What data says about Test cricket’s elite 10,000+ run club

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ronnie Das, Associate Professor in Data Analytics, The University of Western Australia

    In the recent Border-Gavaskar series against India, Steve Smith agonisingly missed out reaching 10,000 Test runs in front of his home crowd at the Sydney Cricket Ground, falling short by just one run.

    However he entered the “10K club” in style after hitting his 35th century against Sri Lanka in the series won by Australia, 2-0.

    Smith is now the 15th batsman to join the exclusive club and the fourth Australian to do so, after Allan Border, Steve Waugh and Ricky Ponting.

    The illustrious group of players who have reached 10,000 is headed by Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar (15,921 runs) with Ponting (13,378) second and South African Jacques Kallis (13,289) third.

    Among this group, Tendulkar, the West Indies’ Brian Lara and Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara were fastest to 10,000 in terms of innings batted (195), just ahead of Ponting (196). Smith was fifth fastest (205 innings).

    But where does Smith sit among this group of truly elite batsmen? How does he compare to his fellow Australians? And can he eventually reach the pinnacle and overtake Tendulkar at the top of the mountain?

    The challenges of modern cricket

    Modern day cricket is physically, emotionally and psychologically demanding.

    The physical demands, coupled with fixture congestion, make it tough on athletes’ bodies. Research also suggests psychological pressures have a heightened impact on players’ thinking, feeling and overall performances.

    The evolution of lucrative Twenty20 games has also meant cricketers often play in these shorter-format leagues instead of resting between Test series.

    Smith is one of many elite cricketers still playing all three formats of the sport.

    While some batsmen continue to score well into their late 30s, more often than not performance declines in these twilight years of a batter’s career.

    Smith turns 36 in June.

    Judging the best

    The 10,000 run club is the hallmark of batting excellence in Test cricket.

    It is regarded as the pinnacle of a batsman’s career achievement.

    Together (at the time of writing) the players in the 10K club have scored 181,947 runs, with 541 centuries and 818 half centuries.

    The highest individual score belongs to Lara, who scored 400 (not out) against England in 2004.

    Lara also maintained a very high strike rate (60.51) throughout his career.

    A strike rate is a batsman’s run scoring efficiency per 100 balls – the higher the strike rate, the faster the batter scores. A higher strike rate puts more pressure on opposition bowlers and when a batter scores quickly, it allows more time for their team’s bowlers to take the 20 wickets required for a Test victory.

    Only Ponting (a strike rate of 58.72 per 100 balls) closely matches Lara’s calibre, but England’s Joe Root (57.47) is enjoying a late-career renaissance and is closing the gap.

    Compare that to the Border and Sunil Gavaskar era (late 1970s–early 1990s) when runs were not as easy to come by – these two ended their career with low (41.09 and 43.35 respectively) strike rates.

    What about Smith?

    In his second match, his strike rate was an exceptionally high 75.75 but, since then it has dipped to 53.58 as Smith has become a more balanced batsman.

    Another way to judge a batter’s impact is their centuries per innings rate.

    Smith has the highest century per innings rate (17.48%) among the 10K club.
    He recently scored his 36th century, matching his modern-day peer, Root. But Root has played 72 additional innings.

    In terms of overall centuries, Tendulkar leads the way having scored a staggering 51 centuries during his Test career (six more than Kallis, in second). However, Tendulkar did it over a mammoth 329 innings – 38 more than anyone else on the list.

    How the Australians compare

    Across generations, the four Australians have shown different styles of play in achieving the landmark.

    Data shows Border was the most consistent player among them, with his average remaining relatively steady through his career, while Waugh improved his performance after a lacklustre start to his career.

    Smith hit his peak at around his 75th match and Ponting around his 115th match, before their run scoring dropped.

    In terms of batting positions, data suggests Smith has scored most of his runs coming in at number four. Border was most dominant coming in at four and five.

    Ponting dominated as a number three batsman, while Waugh was very consistent at number five.

    How far can Smith go?

    Considering Smith’s age (35), current form and the physical demands of modern cricket, our findings suggest it will take him at least another three to four years to surpass Ponting.

    That may be achievable but Smith’s year-long ban after the 2018 “sandpapergate saga” makes reaching Tendulkar’s mark extremely unlikely.

    However, there is a chance Smith ends up with the best average in the club.

    His batting average currently sits at 56.74, with only Sangakkara (57.4) higher.

    Considering his current form, with four centuries in his past five Test matches, there’s every chance this modern-day great retires atop the tree in that metric at least.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Is Steve Smith set to become the best? What data says about Test cricket’s elite 10,000+ run club – https://theconversation.com/is-steve-smith-set-to-become-the-best-what-data-says-about-test-crickets-elite-10-000-run-club-248891

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –