Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Recruitment for a Senior Safety Assessor

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Senior Safety Assessor vacancy, working on authorising veterinary medicines in the UK.

    We have a vacancy for a Senior Safety Assessor.

    Job Title

    Senior Safety Assessor

    Grade

    G7

    Salary & Pension

    £ 59,900 per annum with Pension Scheme

    Annual Leave entitlement

    Commencing at 25 days

    Role

    This exciting and interesting job puts you at the heart of authorising veterinary medicines in the UK.  You will be a senior assessor within the Human and Environmental Safety Team, which is part of the VMD’s Authorisations Division.

    Assessment of data relating to human risk assessments being the primary focus, with the secondary requirement being the assessment of environmental safety.

    How to apply

    You must make your application via Senior Safety Assessor – Civil Service Jobs – GOV.UK where you will find a full job description.

    Closing Date

    24 February 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PSPRB response to the 2025-26 England and Wales remit letter and timetable.

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence from PSPRB Chair to the Minister of State for Justice relating to 2025-26 remit letter and timetable.

    Applies to England and Wales

    Documents

    PSPRB response to 2025-26 England and Wales remit letter

    Request an accessible format.
    If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email PSPRB@businessandtrade.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

    Details

    The correspondence sets out the response of the Prison Service Pay Review Body to the 2025-26 remit letter and sets out the timetable for the round.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Westminster City Council to Open New Community Hub in Pimlico in 2026 | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Westminster City Council has announced the planned opening of a brand-new community hub in the heart of Pimlico, set to launch in 2026. This transformative project is part of the Council’s ambitious Community Hubs Programme, striving to connect residents to the support they need across the city. The council opened two mini-hubs, at Victoria and Charing Cross libraries, in 2024.

    The new hub will be located at the historic site of the old Pimlico Library, at the junction of Tachbrook Street and Lupus Street, directly opposite Pimlico Station and the Bessborough Family Hub. Originally built as part of Westminster City Council’s vision for the Lillington Garden Estate, the mid-20th-century civic building is steeped in history and boasts a highly visible street frontage. This refurbishment will restore a valued community asset to full public use.

    The new Pimlico Community Hub is part of the council’s response to the priorities found during the Pimlico Community Conversations – the council’s engagement with over 400 local residents, organisations and businesses across the area. Through these discissions, it was discovered that the highest priority for the Pimlico community was more community activities, events, and spaces – and the new hub will respond to this need. The new hub will also help to improve the area around Pimlico Station, another priority highlighted by the Community Conversations.

    By breathing new life into the site, the hub will provide an inclusive space where residents can come together, access essential services, and participate in exciting community activities. The hub will also contribute to the council’s ambition to reinvigorate local high streets, and its central position will be easily accessible and highly visible, ensuring it becomes a vibrant focal point for residents and visitors alike.

    By creating spaces that bring people together, the council is delivering on its vision for a fairer, more equitable Westminster.

    Councillor Cara Sanquest, Cabinet Member for Communities, said:

    Through the Community Hubs Programme, we are reimagining our public spaces to better serve our communities. 

    “I am delighted and proud that we will be reopening the old Pimlico Library site as a Community Hub which will provide residents with access to face to face to support services from the council and other community organisations.”

    Cllr Jason Williams, Pimlico Project lead member,  said:

    I am delighted to welcome the opening of the Pimlico Community Hub which will bring much needed community activities and services at such a great location. We discussed the importance of Community spaces in the Pimlico conversation and it’s great to see this being delivered for our community for the benefit of all.”

    For more information contact mediateam@westminster.gov.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Members of Violent Gang Sentenced to Prison for Racketeering and Drug Trafficking

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    BOSTON – Two members of the violent Boston-area gang, Cameron Street, were sentenced to prison yesterday for their roles as drug traffickers operating on behalf of the criminal enterprise. During the investigation, 21 firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition were allegedly seized from 11 of the defendants.

    James Rodrigues, a/k/a “Bummy,” 34, of Boston, was sentenced this morning by U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young to 42 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. On Jan. 16, 2025, Rodrigues pleaded guilty to conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise (more commonly referred to as RICO or racketeering conspiracy) and conspiracy to distribute cocaine and cocaine base (crack cocaine).

    This afternoon, Judge Young sentenced Devante Lopes, a/k/a “D-Lopes,” 31, of Boston and Quincy, to 60 months in prison and three years of supervised release. In May 2024, Lopes pleaded guilty to RICO conspiracy; conspiracy to distribute marijuana; and possession with intent to distribute cocaine.

    Over the course of a two-year investigation, Rodrigues and Lopes were identified as Cameron Street members who were primarily involved in drug trafficking. Specifically, Rodrigues worked with other Cameron Street members to distribute hundreds of grams of cocaine and cocaine base (crack cocaine) from a stash house in Somerville. During the investigation, law enforcement made a series of controlled purchases from Rodrigues and other Cameron Street members. This included two separate occasions in which Rodrigues sold 48 grams of crack cocaine and 50 grams of crack cocaine, respectively, to a cooperating witness. During a search of the Somerville stash house in April 2022, 398 grams of cocaine along with packaging materials, two hydraulic presses, a digital scale, a cell phone and $14,986 in U.S. currency were seized.

    Lopes was a significant drug trafficker who, from 2019 through 2020, regularly used the mail to import large quantities of marijuana from California to Boston and neighboring cities. In exchange, Lopes shipped packages containing between $40,000 to $50,000 in cash. One of the packages intended for Lopes was intercepted by law enforcement and found to contain 2.6 kilograms (2,637 grams) of marijuana. Over the course of the investigation, a total of 24 packages of similar size were tracked as having been shipped from various address in California to Lopes. As a result, it is estimated that Lopes received 56.6 kilograms of marijuana.

    During a search of Lopes’ residence in April 2022, 800 grams of cocaine was seized from inside a bench by his bed along with digital scales, plastic bags commonly used for street-level sales, a bag of pink pills, a money counter, an empty Glock firearm box and a round of ammunition next to Lopes’ bed. During the search of Lopes’ apartment, remote cameras were discovered inside each room as well as two hidden compartments. One of the hidden compartments was concealed inside a shelf and contained approximately $5,000 in cash, a box of ammunition and foam cut-outs for a firearm. The second hidden compartment was found inside a mirror and contained a foam insert:

    A subsequent examination of Lopes’ cellphone revealed messages, images and videos connecting Lopes to members of Cameron Street, unlawful firearm possession and drug trafficking proceeds:

    According to court documents, the Cameron Street gang is a violent criminal enterprise whose members and associates are involved in a variety of criminal activities – including murders, attempted murders, armed robberies, carjackings, home invasions, human trafficking, as well as drug and firearms trafficking, among other offenses – in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston and surrounding areas. It is alleged that Cameron Street members use violence against rival gangs and witnesses, typically with the use of firearms, to maintain and enhance their status and the overall reputation of the gang, as well as to protect the gang’s power, reputation and territory. Members engage in drug trafficking activity and distributed kilograms of cocaine, cocaine base (crack cocaine), oxycodone and marijuana throughout Massachusetts.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Feld Division; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police; Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office; Suffolk, Plymouth, Norfolk and Bristol County District Attorney’s Offices; and the Canton, Quincy, Randolph, Somerville, Brockton, Malden, Stoughton, Rehoboth and Pawtucket (R.I.) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher J. Pohl and Charles Dell’Anno of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the cases.

    This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants named in the indictment are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
        
     

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: What has Brexit meant for the people of Scotland?

    Source: Scottish National Party

    With five years having passed since Scotland was dragged out of the EU as part of the UK, what has Brexit meant for people in Scotland?

    Brexit means…your weekly shop costs more than ever.

    Brexit means our NHS is missing out on thousands of doctors and nurses from the EU.

    Brexit means waiting in longer queues to travel abroad, and it has become much more difficult for anyone in Scotland to live or work in the EU – with touring musicians calling it a ‘catastrophe’.

    Scotland voted to stay in the EU.

    Scotland didn’t vote for Brexit.

    But the UK Government decided Scotland must Brexit.

    Brexit means there’s less public money, due to businesses losing revenue.

    Brexit means businesses who relied on buying goods from the EU, or selling to the EU, are having a really tough time of it.

    Thousands of businesses have had to close.

    Some politicians told us to  “vote No to stay in the EU” back in 2014. Bet they wish they could scrub those clips from the internet.

    Brexit means Scotland’s economy has lost out on billions of pounds due to trade barriers, with analysis showing exports have dropped by over 7%.

    Brexit means Nigel Farage is no longer the European Parliament’s problem. He’s now the UK’s problem.

    As he’s now the bookies’ favourite to be the next Prime Minister, he could soon be Scotland’s problem too.

    And Scotland didn’t vote for any of this.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Thinking of setting up a CIC? Take a look at our recent webinar

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    “From idea to Impact: Your Guide to setting up a CIC”. Take a look at our most recent joint webinar with the Business Support Service

    Picture advertising a webinar

    Take a look at our most recent joint webinar with the Business Support Service where they provide an insight to the free advice and guidance they can offer to you throughout your business journey; alongside a detailed explanation of how the CIC model operates and some great tips on how to complete a successful CIC application.

    “From idea to Impact: Your Guide to setting up a CIC”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dedicated team to serve businesses amongst DWP overhaul of employer support to Get Britain Working

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Ministers are encouraging UK businesses to work with Jobcentres to fill the thousands of jobs currently vacant as the UK goes for growth, the Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall set out today (30 January).

    • Following the Chancellor’s growth speech yesterday, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall visited fast growing UK retailer B&M – who successfully filled almost 3,000 vacancies using local jobcentres in 2024. 
    • The Work and Pensions Secretary has today set out overhaul the DWP’s approach to supporting employers to Get Britain Working again as part of Plan for Change.
    • Comes as just one in six businesses has ever used a Jobcentre to recruit with the latest data showing tens of thousands of vacancies in key sectors. 
    • New DWP team have built partnerships with 37 new industry leaders in just a few week as department transforms Jobcentres.

    It comes as the Work & Pensions Secretary visits B&M – a retailer that has had huge success using the Jobcentre network. As a fast growing UK retailer, B&M has filled almost 3,000 vacancies through the jobcentre network, with over 85% of new recruits coming directly through the DWP – benefiting jobseekers and the businesses’ growth. 

    The DWP has hit the ground running to reset engagement with employers through new teams to support employers, with dedicated account managers and a focus on growing the number of Jobcentre training programmes tailored to employer’s needs.

    As B&M has opened new stores across the country, it has teamed up with the local DWP team to run information sessions – offering interested candidates a guaranteed interview. 

    Over 73,000 jobs have been added to the labour market since the start of this Parliament according to the ONS, with new announcements in the Chancellor’s speech yesterday expected to add thousands more roles to the UK jobs market – including over 100,000 jobs in the local area around Heathrow. 

    However, new figures show only 1 in 6 employers surveyed reported using the JobCentre Plus network to hire for their business – highlighting the need for genuine reform. 

    That’s why as part of the Get Britain Working plan, the government will reform jobcentres by bringing it together with the National Careers Service to ensure people have better access to training and address local skills gaps and help train the workforce businesses need.

    The reforms to get Britain working and modernise the employment support offer are just one part of the Government’s Plan for Change, which will lay strong foundations to kickstart economic growth and break down barriers to opportunity across the country. 

    Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said: 

    To get Britain growing again, we need to get Britain working again.  

    As the HR department for the Government’s growth mission, our job is to work with businesses to meet their recruitment needs.

    To help employers grow, hire new staff, and boost opportunity in every corner of the country, we are determined to change our approach

    As part of reforming Jobcentres we will overhaul our service to better meet employer’s needs – turning the DWP into a genuine public employment service. So businesses can fill jobs and people can build a better life for themselves and their families.

    A B&M spokesperson said:

    There is a wealth of talent and experience in Jobcentres across the UK. We encourage other businesses to get in touch with their local Jobcentre and discover the talent that’s available in their community.

    The new dedicated team set up to support businesses of all sizes across the country with their recruitment needs has already added 37 new employers to the department’s roster in recent weeks, with notable names including Home Bargains, KFC and Swissport. 

    In a letter to CEOs from 10 of the UK’s top businesses, DWP ministers said that at a time when recruitment can be a major cost, the DWP “provides a service to help businesses grow and support people into work.

    To help other businesses replicate B&M’s success, the department is transforming its service for employers by:

    1. Hosting summits with employers and stakeholder representatives across sectors crucial to growth – including construction, social care and clean energy in the next three months. 
    2. Boosting the number of training programmes in these sectors on offer at Jobcentres to upskill jobseekers and provide employers with the work ready staff they need.   
    3. Serving employers through a dedicated team with highly experienced experts to provide recruitment support, including designing tailored campaigns to tackle large numbers of vacancies. 
    4. Providing an account manager for employers to get more information about how the JCP can help them and provide recruitment support – following feedback from businesses that they wanted an establish a single contact. 
    5. Commissioning Sir Charlie Mayfield to lead an independent review into the role of employers in reducing health-related inactivity and promoting healthy and inclusive workplaces – which is already underway.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study looking at ultraprocessed food consumption and obesity in Canadian children

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in JAMA Network Open looks at UPF consumption and obesity in Canadian children. 

    Dr Ian Johnson, Nutrition researcher and Emeritus Fellow, Quadram Institute, said:

    “This study is consistent with previous work suggesting an association between consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and obesity, and it is interesting to see the link established at such an early age (although the study only seems to find a link in boys, not girls).  However, as with most such studies, and as the authors themselves seem to acknowledge, the general nature and poor specificity of the definition of UPF makes it very difficult to establish any causal mechanism.”

    ‘Ultraprocessed Food Consumption and Obesity Development in Canadian Children’ by Zheng Hao Chen et al. was published in JAMA Network Open at 16:00 UK time on Friday 31 January 2025. 

    DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.57341

    Declared interests

    Dr Ian Johnson: “No conflict of interest.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government going further and faster to bring growth to Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Chancellor has committed to going further and faster to put more money in working people’s pockets across Wales.

    HM Treasury

    Working people and businesses across Wales are to benefit from reforms to drive investment and get Britain building. The Chancellor has committed to going further and faster to put more money in working people’s pockets across Wales and deliver on the UK Government’s Plan for Change. 

    Below sets out specific benefits for Wales as a result of the Chancellor’s decisions today (29 January).

    Wrexham and Flintshire Investment Zone 

    • Having confirmed funding for the Investment Zones programme at Autumn Budget, the government can now confirm that the Wrexham and Flintshire Investment Zone (IZ) will focus on advanced manufacturing.
    • There are major international businesses in the region including JCB and Airbus, which the IZ will support, as well as the wider advanced manufacturing supply chain in the region. At present the IZ is expected to generate £1bn of private investment, creating up to 6000 new high quality jobs.
    • The IZ’s interventions will be focused around sites in: 
      • Deeside and Deeside industrial estate which houses Tata Steel and Toyota; 
      • Hawarden Airport, where Airbus are based; 
      • Llay Industrial Estate – which houses a number of key aerospace businesses; and 
      • Wrexham Industrial Estate – which houses a wide range of advanced manufacturing business, including JCB. 

    Sustainable Aviation Fuel

    • The UK government is investing £63m into the Advanced Fuels Fund in 2025-26 and has today set out the details of how it will deliver a Revenue Certainty Mechanism to encourage investment into this growing industry. These measures will encourage more investors to back production in the UK, bringing good, high-skilled jobs to areas like South Wales.

    Inactivity Trailblazers

    • Getting more people back into work is crucial if we want a dynamic economy, and it is good for jobless people too. Over nine million people are inactive, of which a record 2.8 million people are out of work due to long-term sickness. The outdated employment support system is ill equipped to respond to this growing challenge.
    • We have committed £240m of investment towards 16 trailblazers including one for every MCA and one in Wales to tackle the root causes of inactivity, eight of which will be used to support the Youth Guarantee, the remaining eight will be focused on tackling health-related inactivity.
    • The Inactivity trailblazers will be delivered across Wales.

    National Wealth Fund Support

    • The government remains committed to working in close partnership with the Welsh Government through the National Wealth Fund to maximise investment opportunities to deliver growth in all corners of the UK.

    Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens said:

    I’m delighted that we are moving forward with the Investment Zone for Wrexham and Flintshire with £160 million from the UK Government to drive economic growth in advanced manufacturing.

    In December I met leaders from the advanced manufacturing sector at Toyota in Deeside and visited two hugely successful supply chain businesses. I saw the huge potential for growth and for building on the talent and expertise that already exists in this part of Wales.

    This Investment Zone will super-charge economic growth, create up to 6000 new jobs and generate £1bn of private investment which will have a transformational impact for people living and working in northeast Wales.

    The Chancellor is also reviewing the Treasury’s investment guidance in the Green Book to ensure it is being used to provide objective, transparent advice on public investment across the country, reporting at Phase 2 of the Spending Review.

    Pushing forwards with strategic infrastructure and investment across all four corners of the UK is key to delivering the UK Government’s Growth Mission. Bringing the productivity of major cities to the national average would deliver an extra £33bn in economic output, and measures set out today extend beyond this to kickstart a decade of national renewal.

    This is just the start, and further regional growth announcements will follow through the year. The government is hardwiring plans for regional growth into the Spending Review, and into plans for infrastructure, investment and the industrial strategy. The UK Government is also working with the Welsh Government to ensure the benefits of growth can be felt across Wales, including by partnering on the Industrial Strategy to support Wales’s considerable sectoral strengths.

    Tim Knowles, Founder and Managing Director of FI Real Estate Management, said: 

    As an investor in Wrexham for almost 20 years, we’re delighted to see the announcement that Wrexham and Flintshire will receive Advanced Manufacturing Investment Zone status, with three of our schemes on Wrexham Industrial Estate – Wrexham 1M, Wrexham 152, and Bridgeway Centre – forming part of the designated zone.

    Across these sites, we’ll be investing £115m to create new, high-quality industrial accommodation, supporting the creation of over 1,000 new jobs and delivering an estimated economic value of £1.2bn in Wrexham over the next 10 years.

    This is a significant milestone for North Wales, and we look forward to working in partnership with stakeholders to leverage this opportunity for strategic investment in the area, helping to supercharge the region’s advanced manufacturing sector.

    In collaboration with local authorities and wider stakeholders, we need to ensure that we capitalise on all the opportunities this moment brings. We’ve long recognised the potential for North Wales to become a thriving hub for innovation, and we’re excited that our developments can play an important part in this next chapter.

    Mark Turner, JCB’s Chief Operating Officer said:

    JCB has been a prominent feature of the industrial and economic landscape in Wrexham and Flintshire for over 45 years. Innovation is the lifeblood of our business and we welcome the creation of an Investment Zone in North Wales and hope that it will attract many other businesses to the area. As an advanced manufacturer of precision engineering components, JCB Transmissions looks forward to other advanced manufacturing businesses coming to the area. This could go a long way towards building the supply chain resilience of existing manufacturing businesses in the area, such as JCB.

    We place a lot of values on skills in our business and we look forward to the Investment Zone positively supporting skills development in the future. JCB continues to invest in our business in Wrexham and today’s IZ announcement bodes well for the economic development of the area in the future.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: London ETO celebrates Year of Snake and promotes liquor trade in Scotland

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London (London ETO), in collaboration with the China-Britain Business Council (CBBC), hosted the “Toast to the Snake” reception in Glasgow, the United Kingdom (UK), in the evening of January 30 (London time) to celebrate the Year of the Snake.

         Speaking at the reception, the Director-General of the London ETO, Mr Gilford Law, highlighted Hong Kong’s unique advantages under “one country, two systems” including the common law regime, the free flow of capital, people and information, and policy support from the Mainland. Mr Law emphasised that those strengths did not go unnoticed. He said, “Hong Kong saw a record number of 9 960 non-local companies operating in the city last year, representing a 10 per cent year-on-year increase, with 720 of them coming from the UK. The International Monetary Fund had also reaffirmed Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre and recognised the resilience of the city’s financial system.”

         Around 270 guests from the business, academic and cultural sectors as well as the Chinese community attended the reception. Among the guests were the Minister for Business of the Scottish Government, the Lord Provost of the City of Glasgow, and the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Edinburgh.

         In the morning of the same day, the London ETO and Invest Hong Kong sponsored CBBC’s China Consumer Scotland 2025 event, featuring among others a panel discussion on the opportunities arising from Hong Kong’s reduction of liquor duty as announced in “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address”. Mr Law highlighted in his welcome speech that various high value-added sectors, such as logistics and storage, tourism as well as food and beverage would also benefit from this new measure. He encouraged Scottish brands to grasp this opportunity.

         Speaking at one of the panel discussions, the Head of Business and Talent Attraction/Investment Promotion of the InvestHK London Office, Ms Daisy Ip said, “Hong Kong boasts a thriving premium spirits market and a diverse range of high-end bars and dining establishments, making it a significant growth market for spirits. The city offers well-developed cold chain logistics services, robust logistics networks, and seamless connection with the Mainland and key Southeast Asian markets. Hong Kong can serve as Asia’s hub for liquor trade and distribution.”

         The China Consumer Scotland 2025 event was attended by close to 50 business representatives who were related to the spirits industry or interested in the opportunities in the Chinese market.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NIE reps available in Derg area

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    NIE reps available in Derg area

    31 January 2025

    NIE representatives will be on site today Friday, 31 January 2025, for anyone in the Derg area that needs support and advice.

    They will have officials on site from 11am to 7pm at the following : –

    Plumbridge, Glenelly House

    Derg Valley LC (3-7pm only)

    For more info visit – https://www.nienetworks.co.uk/news/article/2025/storm-eowyn-assistance-centre

    Meanwhile our other Leisure Centres remain open and available for warmth, hot drinks, showers and power to charge devices

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Bringing art to life at the Tower Museum

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Bringing art to life at the Tower Museum

    31 January 2025

    This February the Tower Museum will be bringing the stories behind some famous art works to life as part of the Playful Museums Festival, which is supported by the Northern Ireland Museums Council, Derry City and Strabane District Council and funded by Art Fund.

    As part of this programme a series of events will be held in the Tower Museum on February 12th and February 19th, aimed at children under five.

    Led by the wonderfully creative MakeyUppers, the ‘Living Art – Stories behind the Art’ events will take a peep behind the frames of some well-known art pieces, to find out more about their history.

    The aim of the festival is to nurture creativity in young children from an early age, by promoting better understanding of the work through story-telling and interactive activities.

    Four sessions will take place in the Tower Museum’s learning space at 11am and 2pm on the 12th and 19th February and can be booked by families, carers and nurseries/ playschools.

    Archivist with the Tower Museum, Bernadette Walsh, encouraged people to book early to avoid disappointment. “The Art UK’s ‘Superpower of Looking’ learning programme is the inspiration for this series and the museum team here want to find new ways to make art and history more accessible to a wider audience. The events will provide an opportunity for children – as well as their carers and teachers – to really engage with art and see how the selected pieces link to their emotions, as well as people, places and objects they are familiar with.

    “Storytelling, based around the selected artworks, will allow the children to play, create and communicate. It’s a fun way to help equip children with the lifelong skill of visual literacy and nurture a love of not only viewing art but also making art. I would really advise booking ahead to ensure a space at the free events.”

    Each session will include a craft-based activity, constructive play and, or, sensory sessions and children can take home their own piece of art to enjoy.

    To book a place contact [email protected]

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A taste of South Africa at LegenDerry Food Month

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    A taste of South Africa at LegenDerry Food Month

    31 January 2025

    Fairley’s Flavours, the local artisan brand bringing the vibrant tastes of South Africa to Northern Ireland, is hosting exclusive cooking classes as part of this year’s LegenDerry Food Month.

    The programme is delivered by the LegenDerry Food Network with support from Derry City and Strabane District Council, and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Regional Food Programme.

    It’s the third outing for the festival which has become a firm favourite among local foodies, bringing new and exciting experiences to a growing audience keen to find out more about the authentic flavours of the North West’s dynamic food scene.

    The hands-on cookery classes will take place on Saturday, 15th February, at Eglinton Community Hall, offering couples a chance to dive into the rich, dynamic world of food, learning how to prepare dishes that highlight the best of both South African traditions and Derry’s exceptional local produce.

    Known for its bold artisan hot sauces, South African-inspired street food, and private catering, Fairley’s Flavours celebrates the fusion of global flavours with local ingredients, creating a unique culinary experience that’s both exciting and authentic.

    Two class times are available: 12pm–2.30pm and 3.30pm–6pm, with tickets priced at £120 per couple. Spaces are limited, so book now at fairleysflavours.co.uk.

    Hannah Ramraj of Fairley’s Flavours says: “Our mission at Fairley’s Flavours is to bring the bold and vibrant tastes of South Africa to Northern Ireland, using the incredible local ingredients we’re so proud of here in Derry. These classes are a celebration of flavour, culture, and creativity – a chance to share our passion for great food in a fun and interactive way. We’re thrilled to be part of LegenDerry Food Month and can’t wait to welcome everyone to cook, learn, and enjoy with us.”

    Guests will be greeted with a stunning cheeseboard featuring Dart Mountain Cheese, alongside soft drinks, tea, and coffee. At their cooking stations, participants will create their own sweet and savoury charcuterie boards, featuring a carefully curated selection of local and LegenDerry produce. Guests can take their finished boards home or enjoy them during the event.

    The main event is a BBQ masterclass, where Chef Fairley will share tips on lighting a traditional charcoal BBQ (or “braai” as it’s known in South Africa) before guiding guests in cooking their choice of ribeye steak or Foyle Bia Mara mussels. The meal will be completed with a freshly prepared sauce, Broighter Gold Rapeseed Oil, freshly baked bread, and a crisp green salad.

    To finish, guests will be treated to an indulgent dessert (soon to be revealed) that promises to leave a lasting impression.

    Book Now to Secure Your Spot: Spaces for these exclusive cooking classes are limited, so don’t miss your chance to experience the unique fusion of South African and Northern Irish cuisine.

    • Tickets: £120 per couple
    • When: Saturday, 15th February (12pm–2.30pm and 3.30pm–6pm)
    • Where: Eglinton Community Hall
    • How to Book: Visit fairleysflavours.co.uk

    Visit www.legenderryfood.com/events for full event listings and booking details.

    Or explore Visit Derry for things to see and do, accommodation. Plus, for places to eat and drink ww.visitderry.com.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Neighbours’ stand against drug-related activity helps Council evict a nuisance tenant

    Source: City of York

    Following a ruling by a District Judge yesterday, a Council tenant has been evicted as his drink and drug-related activities and anti-social behaviour caused misery for his neighbours

    The Council was granted a possession order by York County Court to end the tenancy of Dawon Belleh, aged 42 of 8 Oldman Court, Foxwood. Mr Belleh was evicted yesterday, Thursday 30 January 2025.

    This follows reports from neighbours to the Council and police about drink and drug taking and dealing, loud noise and arguments at the apartment, and an endless succession of visitors. The anti-social behaviour in the property and area was a continual source of disruption and concerns for local people who were worried about its impact on their families.

    City of York Council officers served a legal warning of eviction (a Notice of Intention to Seek Possession) on Mr Belleh, which he breached. This resulted in the Council being granted an eviction order (a Suspended Possession Order) by York County Court, to be activated only if further breaches were found.  

    Following complaints from neighbours and evidence of loud noise, drink and drug taking, numerous and anti-social visitors, the Council returned the case to York County Court where, after considering evidence, the Judge granted the Council permission to apply for a warrant of eviction.

    Mr Belleh asked the court to suspend the warrant of eviction which was refused on 30 January by the District Judge. Council officers then evicted Mr Belleh, advising him where he could apply for new housing, should he need it.

    Cllr Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Housing at City of York Council, said:

    Our tenancy agreements specify that criminal or anti-social behaviour can result in tenancies being ended. Thanks to Mr Belleh’s neighbours co-operating with the Council and police, their evidence and reports ensured that we were able to stop the nuisance they experienced from this tenant. This case sends a clear message we will take action to protect neighbours and free homes to tenants who respect and abide by the tenancy agreements.”

    Sergeant Charlotte Gregory of North Yorkshire Police, added:

    Drug use and antisocial behaviour has a detrimental impact of the quality of life for local people. It’s unacceptable and we’ll use all the powers and resources available to us to take action against those who make other people’s lives a misery.

    “This result is evidence of our joint working with City of York Council and my thanks go to them for their work that has culminated in this eviction. I hope local people are reassured that we will take action and will continue to do so, as part of Project Titan, a York-based operation to tackle drugs and the impact on our communities.”

    Please report anti-social behaviour here or report it to the police on 101 if a non-emergency.

    Anti-social noise levels can be reported here or by calling 01904 551525 Monday-Friday 8:30am-5pm, or by calling the Noise Patrol 01904 551555 from 9pm Friday to 3am Saturday and between 9pm Saturday to 3am Sunday.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Communities Together Grant – APPLY NOW!

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool City Council is creating a new plan to bring communities together and prevent future unrest following the widespread disorder last summer. We want local voluntary, community, and faith groups to join us in shaping this strategy.

    As we prepare to develop this strategy, we have received £57,000 from HM Government to support local projects. We invite voluntary, community, and faith groups in Liverpool to apply for funding to run small projects in their communities.

    Liverpool based VCF organisations can apply for a one-off grant up to a maximum of £2,500. Eligibility criteria and a list of project examples are provided within the Grant Specification available here.

    Organisations will be required to feedback to us what has been delivered, and play an active role in shaping the cohesion strategy throughout 2025. This might be through a written submission, a survey, or an informal meeting/conversation, whichever suits your organisation and community.

    We welcome involvement from both long-established and recently established groups across the city.

    • Helps communities to respond to periods of tension through initiatives that strengthen connections, promote unity and shared values.
    • Supports local partnerships in building stronger and more connected communities by funding projects in at-risk areas. 
    • Equips communities to challenge extreme narratives and ideologies that create division.
    • Brings communities together to improve cohesion and reduce divisions in places facing extremism challenges. 

    Apply online here for the Communities Together Grant programme.

    If you have a query that is not included in the Grant Specification please email communitestogether@liverpool.gov.uk  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Update on Everton Park Lifestyles Centre

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Earlier this month, the City Council had to close part of Everton Park Lifestyles Centre due to structural damage to the roof.

    This means the dry-side facilities, like the sports hall, gym, and squash courts, are temporarily closed, and we’re asking members to use these facilities at an alternative Lifestyles Centre. The swimming pool at Everton Park Lifestyles remains open and operational as usual.

    The City Council is working with a contractor to carry out a detailed assessment to inform recommendations on next steps. Once this is completed, there will be a tender and procurement process for the necessary remedial works.

    Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said: “We understand the concerns raised by our Lifestyles members, community and gymnastic groups who use the centre, and will keep listening and working with you to address them.

    “I am in regular contact with the City Council teams involved to ensure the issue will be resolved as soon as possible.

    “We’d like to thank everyone for their understanding and patience, and we’ll provide a further update once plans are finalised.”

    In relation to the Community Asset Transfer, discussions with Notre Dame Catholic Academy are ongoing, and the City Council remains committed to working together with them, to ensure the facilities have a sustainable future.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New service set to help Liverpool “Liv Life” to the full

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool residents looking to achieve and maintain a healthy weight can get support from a brand new service that has now launched.

    Liv Life Liverpool is free to access for anyone in the city and is informed by the findings set out in Public Health Liverpool’s groundbreaking State of Health in the City: Liverpool 2040 report.

    The programme is underpinned by behaviour change approaches following consultation with partners including the NHS, as well as the wider community. The aim is to support up to about 1,000 families and 2,000 adults in the first year.

    Anyone can sign up for Liv Life Liverpool via the website, they do not have to be referred by a professional, but need to meet eligibility criteria before a personalised plan is developed.

    Designed to support individuals, families and pregnant women, Liv Life Liverpool will also be aligned with the council’s Neighbourhood Model to ensure that services throughout Liverpool’s communities will be engaged.

    Liv Life Liverpool plans last for 12 weeks and include:

    • One-to-one coaching, with sessions taking place either in person or virtually
    • Weigh-and-stay or weigh-and-go groups
    • Physical activity groups.

    There will also be on-the-go support from the free Best-You app which can also help with reducing alcohol consumption and stopping smoking.

    All the different elements of the programme have been tailored to support people to develop knowledge and practical skills around food and cooking and physical activity which will ensure a successful and sustainable journey towards achieving a healthy weight.

    Almost two thirds of adults in Liverpool, 63 per cent, are overweight and about a quarter of children start primary school overweight, increasing to one in three children aged 11 being overweight or obese by the time they enter secondary school.

    You can follow Liv Life Liverpool on Facebook and Instagram.

    Liverpool City Council’s cabinet member for Culture, Health and Wellbeing Cllr Harry Doyle said: “Liv Life Liverpool is a brilliant toolbox for residents to use to support them to eat healthily and to get more active.

    “Trying to achieve a healthy weight can be daunting for many people. The team at ICE Creates understands this so have developed an evidence-based programme that has plenty of support built in to make sure that change is not only sustainable but enjoyable.

    “Whilst losing excess weight is important for reducing the likelihood of serious health conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure and type-2 diabetes, Liv Life Liverpool is about more than just the numbers on a scale. It’s about building healthy habits that will last a lifetime.”

    Matt Ashton, Liverpool’s Director of Public Health, said: “I am thrilled we are now offering the right support to create a healthy weight culture, that benefits everyone in Liverpool.

    “We’re excited to be on this journey to improve the health and wellbeing outcomes with our residents, and working in multiple partnership including ICE Creates, Liverpool City Council’s Neighbourhood Managers, Food Active and Feeding Liverpool.”

    ICE Creates’ Liv Life Liverpool’s service and engagement lead Jamie Prescott, said: “As service lead I am looking forward to engaging with the many excellent partners we have in this city, with the ultimate aim of helping people to make small but crucial changes. We want to help families and adults across Liverpool to improve their long-term health and believe this service can really make a difference.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Committee to consider proposals for early engagement on possible Visitor Levy

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    The Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee will next week be asked for approval to begin early engagement on the possibility of a Perth and Kinross Visitor Levy Scheme, with a view to allowing elected members to make a decision informed by local feedback at the end of this year.

    The Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act 2024 grants local authorities the power to introduce a levy on overnight accommodation, with the funds raised reinvested locally to enhance the visitor experience.

    While a scheme like this could create significant opportunities for local investment, Councillor Eric Drysdale, Convener of Economy and Infrastructure, explained the importance of first listening to residents and leaders in the tourism industry locally.

    Councillor Drysdale said: “It’s really important to be clear that the question to committee next week is not about whether or not to introduce a Visitor Levy Scheme, it’s about getting the support to start speaking to those most affected about what would need to be taken into consideration. The feedback from this early engagement is essential to make sure that we are able to make an informed decision before committing to the approach in Perth and Kinross.”

    Tourism is a significant part of the Perth and Kinross economy, but with high visitor numbers there is also an impact on our local communities.

    Councillor Drysdale added: “While visitors bring significant benefits to our local economy, there are also associated costs. The Council introduced the Visitor Rangers service because we recognised that investment was needed to support responsible tourism, and minimise the impact of visitors on our year-round residents.

    “With growing demands for critical services to protect health and social care, support pupils with additional support needs, and tackle poverty, we have a duty to explore any opportunities for additional sources of income which can be invested to support growing our visitor economy. That would then allow core funding to be focused on the services which are needed by the most vulnerable people in our communities.”

    If approved by committee the early engagement process will last between 6 and 10 months. A full report from the feedback received, along with a draft Visitor Levy Scheme developed during the engagement, would then be presented to councillors in December 2025 to consider whether or not to proceed with introducing a scheme. If approved in December, a statutory consultation period of 12 weeks and then an 18-month implementation would follow. As a result, the earliest possible date for a scheme being introduced would be Summer 2027. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Land Use Strategy must deliver nature restoration and secure our food 

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    Adrian Ramsay, Co-Leader of The Green Party of England and Wales, MP for Waveney Valley, welcomes the start of the consultation process for the Land Use Framework.

    “Food security and nature restoration are essential for our very survival. They must not be seen as in competition – the government must step up its efforts on both. 

    “We have one of the most nature depleted countries on Earth, yet we need our soils, pollinators and wider environment to be in a healthy state in order to secure our food supply – and farmers are crying out for adequate funding for nature friendly farming and natural flood management.

    “Climate breakdown is already threatening our ability to produce food, with droughts and flooding at different times of the year making life very hard for farmers.

    “This Land Use Framework represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to address these critical issues and ensure our communities are more self-sufficient and resilient in our food supply. For this plan to work and deliver for communities, the Government must work to diversify what food we produce, which will strengthen our food security.” 

    “A new framework could – and should – support  farmers to produce seasonal foods for local markets and tackle the power of the supermarkets who don’t give farmers a fair deal.”

    “This happens throughout this country, with businesses like Hodmedods in Suffolk growing beans and pulses or Glebe Farm in Cambridgeshire producing homegrown oats. These examples show that we can diversify food production reducing our reliance on imports, ensuring food security for future generations.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: World-leading AI cyber security standard to protect digital economy and deliver Plan for Change

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    British businesses will benefit from a world-first cyber security standard which will protect AI systems from cyber-attacks, securing the digital economy.

    • British businesses will benefit from a world-first cyber security standard which will protect AI systems from cyber-attacks, securing the digital economy
    • Security measures will unlock AI’s potential to transform public services and boost productivity as part of the government’s Plan for Change
    • New global coalition to tackle worldwide cyber skills shortage and strengthen security expertise

    Companies developing AI – from consumer apps to systems underpinning public services – will be able to better protect themselves from growing cyber security threats under steps set out by the UK government.

    The steps announced today under a new Code of Practice will give businesses and public services the confidence they need to harness AI’s transformative potential safely – supporting the government’s Plan for Change as the technology drives forward improvements to public services, turbocharges productivity, and drives growth across the economy. 

    With cyber attacks or breaches affecting half of businesses in the last 12 months, safeguarding AI systems is crucial as adoption accelerates across the economy. The world leading Code of Practice pioneered by the UK, equips organisations with the tools they need to thrive in the age of AI. From securing AI systems against hacking and sabotage, to ensuring they are developed and deployed in a secure way, the Code will help developers build secure, innovative AI products that drive growth and fuel the Plan for Change. 

    It sets out how organisations using AI can protect themselves from a range of cyber threats such as AI attacks and system failures. This can include steps such as implementing cyber security training programmes which are focused on AI vulnerabilities, developing recovery plans following potential cyber incidents, and carrying out robust risk assessments. 

    The voluntary Code of Practice will form the basis of a new global standard for secure AI through the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) – a major step which cements the UK’s position as a world leader in safe innovation.  With the UK AI sector generating £14.2 billion in revenue last year, these standards will help maintain growth while protecting critical infrastructure – building on the work of the AI Opportunities Action Plan.

    Minister for Cyber Security Feryal Clark MP said: 

    The UK is leading the way in setting global benchmarks for secure innovation, ensuring AI is developed and deployed in an environment that protects critical systems and data which are central to delivering our Plan for Change.  

    This will not only create the opportunities for businesses to thrive, secure in the knowledge that they can be better protected than ever before but support them in delivering cutting-edge AI products that drive growth, improve public services, and put Britain at the forefront of the global AI economy.

    The UK government has also published today an implementation guide for the Code, to support businesses as they shore up their cyber defences by providing a one-stop shop which brings together guidance and key steps to follow.  AI represents a generation-defining technology which is central to the government’s Plan for Change – holding incredible potential to transform public services, boost productivity and rebuild our economy. 

    NCSC Chief Technology Officer Ollie Whitehouse said:

    It is vital that we harness the transformative potential of AI securely so that our society can reap the benefits of new technologies without introducing avoidable vulnerabilities and cyber risks.

    The new Code of Practice, which we have produced in collaboration with global partners, will not only help enhance the resilience of AI systems against malicious attacks but foster an environment in which UK AI innovation can thrive.

    The UK is leading the way by establishing this security standard, fortifying our digital technologies, benefiting the global community and reinforcing our position as the safest place to live and work online.

    Building on this position of global leadership in cyber security, the UK has also spearheaded the launch of a new International Coalition on Cyber Security Workforces (ICCSW), alongside founding partners including Japan, Singapore, and Canada. The coalition – which emerged from the UK-led Wilton Park Summit in September 2024 – will help countries work together to tackle cyber threats and address the global cyber skills gap. 

    This new partnership will strengthen international cooperation on cyber security, breaking down barriers to career progression and increasing diversity in the sector. Current estimates show that supporting cyber skills will boost the £11.9 billion cyber security industry which will in turn help to drive growth in the British economy. 

    The UK is moving full steam ahead with plans to bolster our online defences through a new Cyber Security and Resilience Bill which was unveiled in last summer’s King Speech. Ahead of that legislation’s introduction, the government is also publishing its response to the Cyber Governance Code of Practice of today. In its response, the government warns that despite the massive disruptions cyber incidents can cause, boards and senior leaders often struggle to engage in cyber issues due to a lack of understanding, training, or time – making it more pressing than ever to ensure all sectors of the UK economy have the tools they need to address cyber threats. 

    To address this problem, DSIT has developed the Cyber Governance Code of Practice in collaboration with the National Cyber Security Centre and industry experts. The Code provides clear actions for directors to manage cyber risks effectively, enabling businesses to harness new technologies while building resilience. The government’s response outlines improvements to the Code based on extensive feedback, with the updated version set to be published in early 2025. 

    Notes to editors

    The Code has been developed in close collaboration with NCSC and a range of external stakeholders. See call for views response for more information.  

    The Code will be submitted into the European Telecommunications Standards Institute’s Securing AI Committee where it will be used to develop a global standard. 

    The government is working with industry and international counterparts to promote international alignment of security requirements for AI systems, including through monitoring the development of relevant standards in other standards development organisations. 

    The government will update the content of the Code and Implementation Guide to mirror the future ETSI global standard and guide once they are created. Read the full AI cyber security code of practice.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 300

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Popular Fit & Fed programme set to return to Plymouth this year

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Thousands of children in Plymouth will once again enjoy healthy lunches and activities at free ‘Fit and Fed’ holiday clubs this year.  

    Plymouth City Council has welcomed the confirmation of funding from the Department for Education’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme for 2025, which means the popular Fit and Fed programme will return during the Easter, summer and Christmas holidays.  

    The HAF programme aims to support families with children that receive benefits-related free school meals. Eligible children and young people are given the opportunity to get active, try new activities and enjoy healthy, nutritious meals at free clubs during the school holidays.  

    In 2024, more than 30,000 holiday club places were provided to children aged between 5 and 16 years old with a huge range of activities on offer including football, dance and water sports.  

    More than 1,000 ‘Teen Taster’ activity sessions were also offered specifically to teenagers, with activities including trampolining, bowling, go karting and adventure golf.  

    At Christmas, new family activities were also offered with 700 activity sessions for parents and carers to enjoy with their children for free, which included ice skating, swimming sessions and trips to the National Marine Aquarium.  

    Each summer, Fit and Fed goes on tour to parks and green spaces across the city to provide free fun days that are open to all families. Last year 2,750 healthy lunches were handed out at the four events, which also saw a number of local organisations provide advice on a huge range of topics including road safety, dental hygiene, healthy relationships and the cost of living.  

    Mini golf at Fit and Fed on Tour in Central Park

    Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Sport, Leisure and HR and OD, said: “Fit and Fed is an incredibly important programme and we’re delighted to have received confirmation that the funding will continue this year because it offers vital support to families throughout the school holidays.  

    “Not only do children and young people receive a healthy lunch, they’re also given the opportunity to get physically active, meet new friends and make special memories and we know that this all has a hugely positive impact.”  

    One parent of a child who attended a Fit and Fed club last year commented: “I am extremely grateful that my daughter was given this opportunity. It has certainly helped to grow her confidence and self-esteem.” 

    Louise Kelley MBE, Head of Active Wellbeing and Sport at Plymouth Active Leisure, welcomed the news. She said: “This funding makes a really difference to families in Plymouth. We are all aware of the ongoing challenges many families in the city face with the cost of living, so having access to fun, enjoyable activities in a safe and supported environment are essential.” 

    More information about this year’s Fit and Fed programme will be shared on the Council’s website later this year: www.plymouth.gov.uk/fit-and-fed.  

    If any organisation or holiday club provider would like be involved in Fit and Fed this year, please contact the Active Lifestyles team at Plymouth Active on [email protected].  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: World Cancer Day 2025 – United by Unique31 January 2025 ​In recognition of World Cancer Day on Tuesday 4 February 2025, Islanders are invited to join the World Cancer Day, Closer to Home event, taking place from 10am to 3pm at the Jersey Library. This… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    31 January 2025

    In recognition of World Cancer Day on Tuesday 4 February 2025, Islanders are invited to join the World Cancer Day, Closer to Home event, taking place from 10am to 3pm at the Jersey Library. 

    This event is an opportunity for anyone affected by cancer, as well as for healthcare professionals, to come together to access valuable resources and find out more about Jersey’s Cancer Strategy. 

    The following services will be attending the event: 

    • Cancer.je 
    • Jersey Hospice Care 
    • Travel and Oversees Team (GoJ) 
    • Improving the Cancer Journey Jersey (ICJJ) 
    • ABC Jersey 
    • Health Benefits – Work & Family Hub (GoJ) 
    • Income Support and Impairment – Work & Family Hub (GoJ) 
    • Jersey Cancer Relief 
    • Help2Quit 
    • Friends of Jersey Oncology 
    • Viberts 
    • LibertyBus 
    • CLIC Sargent 
    • Customer Experience Team (GoJ) 
    • Live Life Fitness Coach. 

    Jersey Cancer Strategy Implementation Committee Chair, Dr Elizabet Gomes Dos Santos, said: “This year’s World Cancer Day theme, ‘United and Unique’, reminds us that every cancer journey is different. Still our strength lies in coming together to provide comprehensive and compassionate care. 

    “By collaborating with charities and community organisations, we can unite our efforts to address the unique needs of each patient, ensuring they feel supported at every step of their journey. Together, we can build a future where no one faces cancer alone.”

    Attendees will have the chance to engage with various cancer charities, learn about support services and participate in a Q&A panel from 2pm to 3pm with those leading the strategy. 

    This interactive session will allow you to ask questions and gain insights from experts in the field, including: 

    • Dr Elizabet Gomes Dos Santos, Strategy Lead 
    • Kerry Le Crom, Lead for Improving the Cancer Journey Jersey 
    • Sarah Evans, Primary and Preventative Care 
    • Lorna Pirozzolo, Cancer.je, Voice of Cancer Patients 
    • Susie Hazeldine, Travel Office Manager 
    • Antonia Rubio, Cancer Advocate and Charity Ambassador. 

    To reserve a free ticket to attend the Q&A panel visit World Cancer Day – Q&A panel​.

    Cancer Advocate and Charity Ambassador, Antonia Rubio, said: “It’s so important to recognise that each person’s cancer journey is unique. Having the Cancer Strategy in place ensures that each person’s individual needs are being catered for. 

    “Through my own personal experience with cancer, it has been so wonderful to see the feedback I have provided being taken onboard by the Network to review as areas for potential development.”​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pavement parking ban in Edinburgh hailed a success one year on

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    The benefits of the pavement parking ban have been praised by Guide Dogs Scotland and Living Streets Edinburgh.

    The Council previously worked with these organisations to lobby for the introduction of controls in Scotland.

    Earlier this week (January 29) marked a full year since enforcement began against parking on pavements, at dropped kerb crossing points and double parking.

    We introduced these rules to make our streets safer for pedestrians and road users. Pavement parking particularly impacts people who use wheelchairs and mobility, those who are blind or partially sighted and people pushing prams or buggies. This practise also damages pavements, which are expensive to repair and become a trip hazard for everyone.

    Parking attendants have the powers to issue Penalty Charge Notices (PCN) to vehicles parked on pavements, some verges, at crossing points or double parked. A parking ticket will be issued at the national level of £100 but reduced to £50 if paid within the first 14 days. This follows a similar process to existing parking tickets issued in Edinburgh.

    You can find out more about these rules and report incorrectly parked vehicles on our website.

    Up to 26 January 2025 there had been 5,153 PCNs issued for footway parking, 1,612 for dropped kerb parking and 1,629 for double parking.

    Since enforcement began there has been an overall decreasing trend in PCN fines being issued for pavement parking – with the exception of the busier summer months.

    Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said:

    Since we first introduced these changes one year ago, we’ve seen many residents and visitors modify their parking habits accordingly, with the problem of pavement parking disappearing in many streets across our city. The overall gradual decrease in PCN fines for pavement parking also shows we’re headed in the right direction, ultimately we want to see zero fines.  

    Every driver is responsible for parking their vehicle considerately, and where this would not cause an obstruction to the pavement or road. We brought the pavement parking ban in to provide a safe and accessible environment for everyone, especially those with sight impairments, mobility issues or pushing buggies. We’ve also heard from many people who really appreciate clearer, wider pavements and who no longer need to walk on the road as a result of the ban.

    I’m proud that we took this decision to make our streets as safe and accessible as possible – and that local authorities across Scotland are now looking to Edinburgh’s lead and implementing schemes of their own.

    Transport and Local Access Forum Convener, Councillor Kayleigh O’Neill said:

    The pavement parking ban has been so well received in Edinburgh, and I am so grateful to everyone who has played a part in making that happen. Strong awareness, resident co-operation and Council enforcement has meant that disabled people, elderly people, those with buggies and prams, all have an easier time getting around.

    So many streets that have been blighted in the past are now free and accessible for people who move around the city like me who uses a power wheelchair. Pavements are for people and the enforcement of this ban reinforces that. It is great to also see that Glasgow has followed us and are beginning enforcement on their city streets from January 29.

    Policy and Campaigns Manager at Guide Dogs Scotland, Mike Moore said:

    One year on from the enforcement of pavement parking restrictions in Edinburgh, people with sight loss say it has made a real difference. By keeping pavements clear, the new rules have helped to ensure that people in the capital can get out and about safely, without the fear of being forced on to the road by inconsiderate parking.

    We welcome the start of enforcement in Glasgow this week, which marks an important step towards a consistent approach across Scotland. With both of Scotland’s largest cities now taking action, we hope to see continued progress by local authorities to make our streets safer and more accessible for all pedestrians.

    Living Streets Edinburgh Group Convener, David Hunter said:

    The City of Edinburgh Council deserves credit not only for being the first in Scotland to apply the national ban on pavement parking, but also for adopting a “no streets exempt” policy.

    This been the most significant change to make Edinburgh a safer and more attractive city for pedestrians since the introduction of widespread 20mph speed limits.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Global: Scottish teachers to strike over pupil behaviour – my research shows what they’re dealing with

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Moira Hulme, Professor of Education, University of the West of Scotland

    Teachers at a school in East Dunbartonshire, Scotland, are planning industrial action – not over pay but the behaviour of their pupils.

    It’s not the first time school staff in Scotland have taken this step. Teachers at a school in Glasgow took strike action in 2022 over “violent and abusive” pupil behaviour. A 2024 survey of staff in Aberdeen found that many had experienced violence and more than a third had been physically assaulted.

    Pupil behaviour is one factor – among others – severely affecting the wellbeing of teachers, as shown in my recent research with colleagues.

    Our national research project on teacher workload is a collaboration between the University of the West of Scotland, Cardiff Metropolitan University and Birmingham City University. We asked 1,834 teachers in primary, secondary and special schools in Scotland to fill out online diaries, logging how they spent their time over one week in March 2024.

    We found that long hours and high pressure were putting significant strain on teachers’ personal and professional lives.

    Time pressures

    Our study found that nearly a quarter of teachers’ lesson time was spent on low-level and serious behaviour interruptions. They spent time dealing with distressed behaviour and incidents of verbal and physical aggression, settling the class and working with pupils on individual plans to help them engage better with school.

    In 2023, research commissioned by the Scottish government on behaviour in schools found 67% of teachers experienced general verbal abuse, 59% physical aggression and 43% physical violence between pupils in the week preceding the survey.

    On average, our research found that teachers in Scotland worked 46 hours in a typical week. That is 11 more than their contracted hours. The reasons are complex, but we found patterns that repeated regardless of the kind of school teachers were in, their location or their experience. Teachers’ workload intensified when the demands made of them exceed the support and resources available.

    Teachers face increased levels of cultural and linguistic diversity in the classroom, as well as rising numbers of children with additional support needs. Schools’ access to specialist support is falling while pupil needs are rising. Child poverty and poor mental health are contributing to increasing social, emotional and behavioural issues.

    We found that teachers spent 58% of the non-teaching time in their contracted hours on planning and preparation to meet the diverse needs of their pupils.

    Preparation and planning takes up a lot of teachers’ time.
    Chiarascura/Shutterstock

    The remaining 42% was consumed with administrative activities, data management and reporting, communicating with colleagues, parents and external agencies. These demands left teachers with just 35 minutes a week, on average, for professional learning.

    High stress and low job satisfaction are driving people out of teaching. Over 75% of the teachers in our study said they were considering leaving the job prior to retirement.

    Inclusive education

    Another issue affecting teachers in Scotland is the country’s approach to the education of children with additional needs, which differs from the rest of the UK. The default position in Scotland is that all children should be educated in mainstream schools, unless there is compelling evidence that a specialist setting would better serve a child’s educational needs.

    But our research identifies growing disquiet among teachers regarding the capacity of Scotland’s education system to fully support this “presumption to mainstream”.

    The number of pupils with recorded additional needs in Scottish schools rose by 84% between 2014 and 2023. In 2024, pupils with additional needs in mainstream classes reached a record high of 284,448 pupils. This is 40% of all pupils – a rise from 28.7% in 2018.

    Among Scotland’s 2,445 publicly funded schools, 107 are special schools, down from 133 in 2018. A reduction of 392 additional support needs teachers between 2013 and 2023 means a single teacher may now have a caseload of more than 80 pupils.

    Worsening conditions

    Unfortunately, the pressure on teachers looks set to increase as funding challenges affect teacher numbers.

    Scotland’s 32 councils face an overall total budget gap of £585 million in 2024-25. Audit Scotland estimate that this shortfall in funding will increase to £780 million by 2026-27.

    A Scottish National Party 2021 manifesto pledge to recruit 3,500 more teachers and reduce teachers’ contact time remains unfulfilled. In 2023-24, 26 of Scotland’s 32 local authorities reduced teacher numbers while the ratio of pupils to teachers rose.

    Pressures are particularly acute in Scotland’s largest local authority, Glasgow, and are set to intensify. In 2024, Glasgow City Council employed 5,492 full time equivalent teachers, compared to 5,725 in 2022. In spring 2024, the city proposed cutting 450 teaching posts over three years as part of an “education service reform” to address a £100 million funding shortfall.

    In November 2024, parental volunteer group Glasgow City Parents Group failed to secure a judicial review of the council’s education budget cuts. Reducing the teaching workforce across the city by nearly 10% is unlikely to be without consequence for teachers’ workload and the quality of education.

    A resilient education workforce requires highly skilled professionals and a supportive professional environment. As the demands made of teachers intensify, they risk being reduced to institutional “shock absorbers” rather than nurturing leaders of learning.

    Systematic reform of the school curriculum, national assessment and school inspection is under consideration in Scotland. But this will take place against a backdrop of service demands and budgetary pressures that are deeply affecting teaching staff. This must be addressed in order to avoid compromising learning in Scottish schools.

    Moira Hulme received funding from the Educational Institute of Scotland.

    ref. Scottish teachers to strike over pupil behaviour – my research shows what they’re dealing with – https://theconversation.com/scottish-teachers-to-strike-over-pupil-behaviour-my-research-shows-what-theyre-dealing-with-247525

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prepare to be amazed as the NI Science Fair rolls into town

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Prepare to be amazed as the NI Science Fair rolls into town

    31 January 2025

    Science buffs across Strabane should prepare to be amazed as the NI Science Fair visits the Alley Theatre for a series of exciting events.

    Established in 2014, the NI Science Festival has grown to become the largest celebration of its kind on the island of Ireland, and one of the leading science festivals in Europe.

    For its 11th edition, the festival will present more than 300 events across Northern Ireland, focusing on our rich and diverse natural environment, our engineering and manufacturing heritage, sustainability, technology, the mind and body, and much more.

    The festival’s regional roadshow will touch down in Strabane with a series of events, including Chemistry & the Celts on Friday 14th February at The Alley Theatre. An immersive exploration into the world of the Irish Celts with Scientific Sue, this engaging show, supported by Almac, brings ancient traditions to life, blending the wonders of chemistry with the rich tapestry of Celtic history.

    Also taking place at The Alley is Look Closer where little explorers embark on a fun-filled journey of discovery into nature’s wonders with screenings of BBC/CBeebies Tiny Wonders followed by hands-on experiments in Mini Lab Zones where the budding researchers will get to use real microscopes and take a closer look at fascinating little curiosities from nature. 

    NI Science Festival director Sarah Jones said: “The NI Science Festival is a celebration of science, creativity, and the world around us, designed to be engaging and enjoyable for everyone. Over 12 days, the festival will pop up in venues across Northern Ireland, showcasing the incredible work of local researchers and scientists alongside some well-known guest speakers. This year’s programme is packed with exciting events for all ages, offering something for everyone. It’s an opportunity to embrace the joy of discovery, explore the power of ideas, and celebrate the possibilities science brings to our everyday lives.”

    Dr Frances Weldon, Associate Director STEM Outreach, Almac Group, said: “We are deeply committed to supporting STEM education at Almac and as such we’re delighted to partner with NI Science Festival in the Chemistry & the Celts show and to receive funding from the Arts & Business NI Investment Programme. Chemistry is a core discipline and career area at Almac. This collaborative project delivers entertaining chemistry content through arts and history, sparking children’s curiosity and stimulating them to think about chemistry as part of everyday life.”

    Tickets are available from the Alley Theatre website: www.alley-theatre.com or call the Alley Theatre Box Office on 028 71 384444

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coventry chosen to lead global UNESCO project

    Source: City of Coventry

    UNESCO has chosen the city of Coventry and Warwick Business School (WBS) to participate in its global project to highlight the role of culture in building a sustainable future for the planet. 

    In a significant stride towards global cultural sustainability, Coventry City Council in collaboration with WBS, has been selected to participate in the prestigious UNESCO Culture 2030 Indicators initiative.  

    It aims to measure and highlight culture’s vital contribution in achieving the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

    The UNESCO Culture 2030 Indicators project is a framework designed to monitor and evaluate the role of culture in sustainable development. 

    Coventry City Councillor Naeem Akhtar, Cabinet Member for Housing and the Communities, said: “We are honoured to be part of this ground-breaking initiative, along with Warwick Business School, to contribute to UNESCO’s global sustainability mission. 

    “Coventry is the home of many fantastic cultural organisations, artists, community groups and creatives, and we are delighted that UNESCO can see the value in working with Coventry as a city. 

    “This marks a major step forward in advancing global cultural sustainability, underscoring the essential role of culture in achieving the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.” 

    Mark Scott, Research Fellow at WBS who is a leading place and culture data expert with extensive experience of working with the local cultural sector and colleagues in Coventry City Council, said: “The UNESCO project encompasses a range of thematic indicators that assess various aspects of cultural impact, from heritage preservation to cultural participation and education. 

    “The inclusion of the city of Coventry and WBS in this project not only reinforces Coventry’s legacy as a City of Culture but also highlights Warwick Business School’s commitment to leveraging research and data to drive impactful global change. 

    “Being part of the UNESCO Culture 2030 Indicators project is a tremendous honour for WBS. This collaboration underscores our dedication to cultural sustainability and our role in shaping a better future through informed research and data-driven strategies.” 

    The collaboration between WBS, Coventry, and UNESCO is also supported by the UK Department for Culture, Media and Sport. This partnership aims to position the UK as a leader in cultural data management and sustainable development. By contributing to this ground-breaking project, WBS and Coventry are helping to shape policies and practices that will benefit communities worldwide. 

    Jonathan Neelands, Professor of Creative Education at WBS, said: “By contributing to this initiative, we are helping to position the UK as a leader in cultural data management and sustainable development, further cementing the School’s place on the international stage.”  

    Mark Scott and Professor Neelands were leads in the research and evaluation for Coventry UK City of Culture 2021 and continue to be involved in other Coventry data-led and evidence-based policy projects like the recent Coventry Cultural Place Profiler. Coventry City Council has a unique pool of cultural and other data that makes the partnership distinctive. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wales’s clean energy industry to be a ‘powerhouse’ for economic growth says Welsh Secretary

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Pembrokeshire has been identified as a key growth region for clean energy in Wales.

    Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens at Dragon LNG accompanied by Simon Ames, Managing Director at Dragon LNG.

    • Welsh Secretary champions clean energy in West Wales and sees how the sector will provide the jobs of the future.
    • UK Government economic growth mission delivers for Wales with £26 million investment in Celtic Freeport. 
    • Pembrokeshire identified as a key growth region for clean energy

    Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens has told clean energy industry leaders that they will play a vital part in helping to grow the economy in Wales.

    The discussion with key figures from the sector at RWE’s Pembroke Power Station today (30 January) was the latest in a series of round-table meetings chaired by the Welsh Secretary as part of her drive to deliver economic growth for Wales. 

    The UK Government is working with the Welsh Government and industry partners to develop floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea. This would see wind turbines built on floating platforms which means they can take advantage of the wind direction.

    The Welsh Secretary heard plans for how floating offshore wind could support up to 5,300 new jobs and generate up to £1.4bn for the UK economy.

    The UK Government has identified Pembrokeshire as a pilot area to develop a skilled clean energy workforce, which could see funding for targeted measures such as training centres and courses to up-skill workers. 

    Ports will be vital for supporting floating offshore wind. The UK Government has announced a partnership between The Crown Estate and Great British Energy which has the potential to leverage up to £60 billion of private investment into ports and clean energy supply lines. 

    The UK Government has also committed £26 million for the Celtic Freeport in Milford Haven and Port Talbot. The Celtic Freeport will encourage growth and investment by creating tax and customs incentives for business. 

    Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens said:

    My clear focus is on delivering the UK Government’s Plan for Change which will kickstart the economy and put more money in people’s pockets in Wales.

    We have a world class clean energy sector in Wales, with abundant natural resources and the potential to be a powerhouse for economic growth.

    I want to see a thriving industry which delivers both well-paid jobs and contributes to our mission to make the UK a clean energy superpower by 2030.

    The Welsh Secretary’s discussion with industry leaders took place on Thursday 30 January at RWE’s Pembroke Power Station and is the latest in a series of round-table meetings chaired by her as part of her drive to deliver economic growth for Wales. Ms Stevens has already met leaders from the digital and tech industry, the creative sector, the advanced manufacturing sector and the life sciences industry in Wales.

    At the end of 2024 the Welsh Secretary launched the Welsh Economic Growth Advisory Group to help shape UK Government efforts to boost growth and put more money in people’s pockets. The group is tasked with informing the UK Government’s new Industrial Strategy to boost key Welsh industries and shape Welsh priorities for the next Spending Review, both expected during Spring 2025.

    As well as talking to industry leaders the Welsh Secretary visited Dragon LNG in Milford Haven where she learnt more about their innovative plans to support proposals to decarbonise Wales’s heavy industries. 

    Simon Ames Managing Director at Dragon LNG said:

    It was a great honour to host the Secretary of State at Dragon and showcase the local talent at this fantastic facility.

    We deliver 10% of UK’s gas, ensuring resilience and diversity of supply from all over the world. 

    Through the transition to green energy we hope to develop our joint project with RWE on CO2 capture, liquefaction and shipping so that they can provide low carbon on demand power into the UK”. 

    Ms Stevens also toured Ledwood Mechanical Engineering in Pembroke Dock. The company specialises in designing, making and installing complex machinery and structures for the energy industries. There she spoke to apprentices, who are gaining skills which will be valuable in the clean energy industry, about their future ambitions. 

    Nick Revell Managing Director of Ledwood Mechanical Engineering said:

    There has been much discussion around the potential for the Welsh economy and local supply chain to capitalise on the potential of floating offshore wind and tidal power but the reality is that investors, developers and supply chain partners all have to have confidence that Governments in Westminster and Cardiff Bay will get behind this new industry.

    It’s time to stop talking and start doing so that we can remove barriers and move forward. We welcome the engagement with the Welsh Secretary and looking forward to working with her and Welsh Government to help make this happen.

    Albie Elliott, an apprentice with Ledwood Mechanical Engineering said:

    The clean energy industry will provide a great long-term career pathway for apprentices like me who want to live and work locally.

    It’s a real exciting time and I am proud to be working for a company like Ledwood that is based here in Pembroke and is at the forefront of the global energy processing sector.

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lord Justice Clerk appointed

    Source: Scottish Government

    Lord Beckett to succeed Lady Dorrian.

    First Minister John Swinney has welcomed the appointment of Scotland’s new Lord Justice Clerk by His Majesty the King.

    The Rt. Hon Lord Beckett will succeed the Rt. Hon Lady Dorrian as Scotland’s second most senior judge after she retires on Monday 3 February. As Lord Justice Clerk, he will also hold the office of President of the Second Division of the Inner House of the Court of Session and serve as the Chair of the Scottish Sentencing Council.

    A former Solicitor General, Lord Beckett was appointed as a Supreme Courts judge in May 2016, then elevated to the Inner House of the Court of Session in July 2023. He has been involved in work to review court procedures for sexual offence cases, improve trauma training for judges and simplify the guidance given to juries.

    Lord Beckett was nominated for appointment by the First Minister based on the advice of a selection panel.

    The First Minister said:

    “I offer my warmest congratulations to Lord Beckett on his appointment as Lord Justice Clerk, reflecting a long and distinguished career of service in Scotland’s legal system.

    “The Lord Justice Clerk is one of the Great Offices of State in Scotland and the second most senior figure in the judicial system, with a prominent role in the criminal appeals system. It is a significant appointment that requires careful consideration, so I am very grateful to the members of the selection panel for their advice before I nominated Lord Beckett.

    “Lady Dorrian was the first woman appointed to such a senior judicial office in Scotland. Her legacy will be significant, not only for that reason but as a result of her advocacy for vulnerable victims and witnesses, and her commitment to making court proceedings more transparent. Lady Dorrian leaves office with my gratitude and best wishes for the future.”

     Lord President Lord Carloway said:

    “Lord Beckett is a very experienced judge who has presided over some of the highest profile trials in recent times. He has been a member of the judiciary, for over 17 years, first as a Sheriff then as a High Court Judge. He was appointed to the Inner House of the Court of Session in 2023. His extensive knowledge of criminal cases, together with his work on evidence on commission and on case management in the High Court makes him an excellent appointment as Lord Justice Clerk. I wish him well in this extremely important office.”

    Lord Justice Clerk Lady Dorrian said:

    “It has been a huge privilege to be Lord Justice Clerk and I am pleased to be handing over to Lord Beckett. He is passionate about improving the experience of complainers and witnesses in court. He was part of the working group which I chaired on the management of sexual offence cases which will stand him in good stead for the reforms which will be coming in over the next few years. His experience will also be valuable as he takes over as Chair of the Scottish Sentencing Council. As a former Chair of the Judicial Institute and someone who has been leading the way on trauma-informed training for the judiciary, he is ideally suited for this role.”

     Background

    Lord Beckett was admitted as a solicitor in 1986, working in private practice before being admitted to the Faculty of Advocates in 1993. In 2003, he was appointed as an advocate depute and he became a Queen’s Counsel in 2005. He served as Solicitor General for Scotland in 2006, became a sheriff in 2008 and was appointed as an appeal sheriff on the establishment of the Sheriff Appeal Court in 2015. 

    Process for selecting the Lord Justice Clerk is set out in the Judiciary and Courts (Scotland) Act 2008. In line with those provisions, the First Minister established a panel and invited recommendations for individuals suitable for appointment. The members of the panel were:

    • Lindsay Montgomery CBE, Lay Chairing Member of the Judicial Appointments Board for Scotland
    • The Rt. Hon Lord Carloway, the Lord President
    • The Rt Hon. Lord Matthews, Inner House Judge of the Court of Session
    • Elizabeth Burnley CBE, lay member of the Judicial Appointments Board for Scotland

    Lord Beckett will be sworn in as the Lord Justice Clerk by Lord Pentland at a ceremony on Tuesday 4 February.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wolverhampton Art Gallery invites the public to take part in the largest ever exhibition of the region’s hobbies

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    It is an opportunity for the public to take part in Come As You Really Are, the largest ever exhibition of the UK’s hobbies. From makers and modifiers to crafters and collectors, Wolverhampton Art Gallery are working alongside Artangel and award winning artist and Spiderman enthusiast Hetain Patel to invite audiences to exhibit their hobbies in an exhibition at the gallery from 12 July to 5 October, 2025.

    The exhibition will bring together objects created, modified or collected by Midland based hobbyists, alongside contributions from people across the UK and a new artist film by Patel. Each hobby represents a decision to commit valuable time to living life on one’s own terms in a society dominated by consumerism. On display will be hundreds of unique hand crafted objects loaned by hobbyists of any discipline, such as costume and cosplay makers, crocheters and knitters, wood carvers and model makers, ceramicists, robotics engineers, origami specialists, augmented car enthusiasts and many more.

    City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, Councillor Chris Burden, said: “The joy of hobbies lies in their power to bring people together while celebrating individuality. Come As You Really Are is a unique opportunity to spotlight the incredible creativity and dedication of hobbyists in Wolverhampton, the Midlands and beyond. From cosplay to ceramics, every object tells a story of passion, perseverance, and self expression.

    “We’re thrilled to collaborate with Hetain Patel and Artangel to showcase these hidden talents and invite the public to share their own creations in this celebration of living life on one’s own terms. This exhibition promises to be as diverse and inspiring as the communities it represents.”

    Hetain Patel said: “I’ve always been obsessed by handmade things. Growing up in Bolton, in a working class culturally Indian household, we ate with our hands, and many of my relatives worked as part of the manual labour force in local factories. The empowering thing about hobbies is choice and doing something on our own terms. The creative act is really hopeful with huge benefits to us individually and something that connects us to others regardless of our differences.”  

    For the chance to be a part of the upcoming exhibition at Wolverhampton Art Gallery and to find out more information visit Wolverhampton Arts & Culture. It only takes a couple of minutes and all you need is a picture or two from your phone.

    To be eligible, respondents must be based in the UK and self identify as a hobbyist. The Wolverhampton exhibition aims to showcase hobbies across the Midlands region. By hobbyist we mean someone who engages with an activity on an ongoing basis. This might be daily, weekly or a couple of times a year.

    People may have many different ideas of what constitutes a hobby. On the form you will see a very comprehensive list of hobbies. Some are object based in that they result in the creation of an object e.g. knitting or woodworking. Others might be more ephemeral, such as skateboarding or gardening. All are eligible for the project. If a hobby is not on the list, respondents will be able to add it to the database by clicking, ‘my hobby isn’t in this list’ and typing it in when prompted.

    Hobbyists have until 30 March, 2025 to submit their hobbies for a chance to be part of the exhibition. Come As Your Really Are will open from Saturday 12 July until Sunday 5 October, 2025. The exhibition is free to the public. Wolverhampton Art Gallery is open Monday to Saturday from 10.30am to 4.30pm and Sunday from 11am to 4pm. For more information, please visit Wolverhampton Arts & Culture.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bowman, Brief Remarks on the Economy, and Perspective on Mutual and Community Banks

    Source: US State of New York Federal Reserve

    Let me begin by saying my thoughts and prayers are with the families of the passengers and crew who perished in the tragic flight accident in Washington, D.C. Wednesday evening.
    Thank you for the invitation to speak to you today.1 It is a pleasure to be with you virtually for your CEO Summit. I always enjoy the opportunity to meet bankers from across the country, especially New England, to learn about the issues that are important to you. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) concluded its January meeting earlier this week, so I will begin by offering some brief remarks on the economy, and then share my views on a number of mutual and community bank issues, before addressing some questions that were submitted by your members in advance of today’s meeting.
    Update on the Most Recent FOMC MeetingAt our FOMC meeting this week, my colleagues and I voted to hold the federal funds rate target range at 4-1/4 to 4‑1/2 percent and to continue to reduce the Federal Reserve’s securities holdings. I supported this action because, after recalibrating the level of the policy rate towards the end of last year to reflect the progress made since 2023 on lowering inflation and cooling the labor market, I think that policy is now in a good place to position the Committee to pay closer attention to the inflation data as it evolves.
    Looking ahead to 2025, in my view, the current policy stance also provides the opportunity to review further indicators of economic activity and get clarity on the administration’s policies and their effects on the economy. It will be very important to have a better sense of the actual policies and how they will be implemented, in addition to greater confidence about how the economy will respond.
    Brief Remarks on the EconomyThe U.S. economy remained strong through the end of last year, with solid growth in economic activity and a labor market near full employment. Core inflation remains elevated, but my expectation is that it will moderate further this year. Even with this outlook, I continue to see upside risks to inflation.
    The rate of inflation declined significantly in 2023, but it slowed by noticeably less last year. Without having seen the December data released this morning, I estimate that the 12-month measure of core personal consumption expenditures inflation—which excludes food and energy prices—likely remained unchanged at 2.8 percent in December, only slightly below its 3.0 percent reading at the end of 2023. Progress has been slow and uneven since the spring of last year mostly due to a slowing in core goods price declines.
    After increasing at a solid pace, on average, over the initial three quarters of last year, gross domestic product appears to have risen a bit more slowly in the fourth quarter, reflecting a large drop in inventory investment, which is a volatile category. In contrast, private domestic final purchases, which provide a better signal about underlying growth in economic activity, maintained its strong momentum from earlier in the year, as personal consumption rose robustly again in the fourth quarter.
    Some measures of consumer sentiment appear to have improved recently but are still well below pre-pandemic levels, likely because of higher prices. And since housing, food, and energy price increases have far outpaced overall inflation since the pandemic, lower-income households have experienced the negative impacts of inflation hardest, especially as these households have limited options to trade down for lower-cost goods and services.
    Payroll employment gains rebounded strongly in December and averaged about 170,000 per month in the fourth quarter, a pace that is somewhat above average gains in the prior two quarters. The unemployment rate edged back down to 4.1 percent in December and has moved sideways since last June, remaining slightly below my estimate of full employment.
    The labor market appears to have stabilized in the second half of last year, after having loosened from extremely tight conditions. The rise in the unemployment rate since mid-2023 largely reflected weaker hiring, as job seekers entering or re-entering the labor force are taking longer to find work, while layoffs have remained low. The ratio of job vacancies to unemployed workers has remained close to the pre-pandemic level in recent months, and there are still more available jobs than available workers. The labor market no longer appears to be especially tight, but wage growth remains somewhat above the pace consistent with our inflation goal.
    I hope the revision of the Bureau of Labor Statistics labor data, which will be released next week, will more accurately capture the changing dynamics of immigration and net business creation and bring more clarity on the underlying pace of job growth. It is crucial that U.S. official data accurately capture structural changes in labor markets in real time, such as those in recent years, so we can more confidently rely on these data for monetary and economic policymaking. In the meantime, given conflicting economic signals, measurement challenges, and significant data revisions, I remain cautious about taking signal from only a limited set of real-time data releases.
    Assuming the economy evolves as I expect, I think that inflation will slow further this year. Its progress may be bumpy and uneven, and the upcoming inflation data for the first quarter will be an important indication of how quickly this will happen. That said, I continue to see greater risks to price stability, especially while the labor market remains near full employment.
    Despite the prospect for some reduction in geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Asia, global supply chains continue to be susceptible to disruptions, which could result in inflationary effects on food, energy, and other commodity markets. In addition, the release of pent-up demand following the election, especially with improving consumer and business sentiment, could lead to stronger economic activity, which could increase inflationary pressures.
    The Path ForwardAs we enter a new phase in the process of moving the federal funds rate toward a more neutral policy stance, I would prefer that future adjustments to the policy rate be gradual. We should take time to carefully assess the progress in achieving our inflation and employment goals and consider changes to the policy rate based on how the data evolves.
    Given the current stance of policy, I continue to be concerned that easier financial conditions over the past year may have contributed to the lack of further progress on slowing inflation. In light of the ongoing strength in the economy and with equity prices substantially higher than a year ago, it seems unlikely that the overall level of interest rates and borrowing costs are exerting meaningful restraint.
    I am also closely watching the increase in longer-term Treasury yields since we started the recalibration of our policy stance at the September meeting. Some have interpreted it as a reflection of investors’ concerns about the possibility of tighter-than-expected policy that may be required to address inflationary pressures. In light of these considerations, I continue to prefer a cautious and gradual approach to adjusting policy.
    There is still more work to be done to bring inflation closer to our 2 percent goal. I would like to see progress in lowering inflation resume before we make further adjustments to the target range. We need to keep inflation in focus while the labor market appears to be in balance and the unemployment rate continues to be at historically low levels. By the time of our March meeting, we will have received two inflation and two employment reports. I look forward to reviewing the first quarter inflation data, which, as I noted earlier, will be key to understanding the path of inflation going forward. I do expect that inflation will begin to decline again and that by year-end it will be lower than where it now stands.
    Looking forward, it is important to note that monetary policy is not on a preset course. At each FOMC meeting, my colleagues and I will make our decisions based on the incoming data and the implications for and risks to the outlook and guided by the Fed’s dual-mandate goals of maximum employment and stable prices. I will also continue to meet with a broad range of contacts as I assess the appropriateness of our monetary policy stance.
    Bringing inflation in line with our price stability goal is essential for sustaining a healthy labor market and fostering an economy that works for everyone in the longer run.
    Perspective on Mutual and Community BanksTurning to banking, I will start with a brief discussion of the important role of mutual banks in the banking system before addressing other bank regulatory issues. One of the unique characteristics of the U.S. banking system is the broad scope of institutions it includes and the wide range of customers and communities it serves. Given this institutional diversity, regulators must strive to foster a financial system that enables each and every bank, no matter its size, to thrive, supporting a vibrant economy and financial system.
    Mutual Bank IssuesIn the Northeast, everyone is familiar with mutual banks given their significant presence in this region. Since the early 1800s, these banks have been dedicated to serving their local communities.2 Their ownership structure differs from traditional banks in that mutuals are owned by their depositors, rather than by shareholders. Like other community banks, they focus on local issues that are important to their communities and to their depositors.
    Many of the challenges mutual banks face are similar to those faced by other financial institutions, including competition from other banks, credit unions, and non-banks. But mutual banks also face unique issues that can add cost and expense to their operations. Two issues I would like to discuss are the challenges mutual institutions face raising capital, and unique procedural hurdles mutuals face in managing the dividend process. While these issues are unique to mutuals, both highlight the challenges of a lack of transparency, and insufficient focus on efficiency.3
    Just as with other community banks, a challenge for many mutuals is the difficulty of raising additional capital. This difficulty is exacerbated by their ownership structure, which typically requires mutuals to rely heavily on retained earnings. Although mutual institutions have historically been more highly capitalized relative to their stock-owned peers, if a mutual capital raise is needed, it would be helpful to provide some regulatory flexibility in the process. Recently, some mutuals have issued subordinated debt as a form of capital, but another form of regulatory capital may be preferable: mutual capital certificates.
    To date, it has been unclear whether mutual capital certificates qualify as regulatory capital. These instruments could provide mutual banks an additional way to raise capital without disrupting their mutual structure. In my view, the banking agencies should be receptive to these kinds of instruments to ensure that mutual banks can both raise capital and maintain their depositor-owned structure. Mutuals need clarity and transparency about the regulatory treatment of these instruments and whether they qualify as regulatory capital.
    Another concern for mutuals is the annual requirement to receive regulatory approval for a mutual holding company’s waiver of a dividend issued by its subsidiary bank.4 The Board practice is to require a mutual holding company to submit an application each year to implement a waiver. This prior approval requirement is complex and imposes significant costs on these small institutions, reducing the investment they can make in their communities. Because of the time and expense of these waiver requirements, it is possible that the inefficiencies of the required application process erode the value of a mutual holding company structure, which would further constrain a mutual bank’s ability to raise capital.
    Since the Board has nearly 20 years of experience considering these waiver requests, it seems appropriate to consider whether the applications process for these waivers is efficient. What lessons have we learned? Is the prior approval requirement effective in its review of holding companies waiving receipt of their dividends, or can this be resolved in a more efficient and cost effective manner? In my view, the Board should consider whether this process is effective and efficient in addressing concerns related to dividend waivers.
    Mutual banks, like all community banks, are vital to the economic success of their communities. It is critical that our applications process not act as a limit on a particular type of institution simply due to regulatory inaction or lack of clarity and transparency. Regulators must find efficient and effective ways to support a vibrant and diverse banking system that enables these and other small institutions to thrive while supporting and investing in their local economy.
    TailoringTransparency and efficiency are just two of the necessary components of a regulatory approach that promotes a healthy and vibrant banking system. Another component that I speak about frequently is the use of “tailoring” in the regulatory framework. For those familiar with my philosophy on bank regulation and supervision, my interest and focus on tailoring will come as no surprise.5 In its most basic form, it is difficult to disagree with the virtue of regulatory and supervisory tailoring—calibrating the requirements and expectations imposed on a firm based on its size, business model, risk profile, and complexity—as a reasonable, appropriate and responsible approach for bank regulation and supervision. In fact, tailoring is embedded in the statutory fabric of the Federal Reserve’s bank regulatory responsibilities.6
    The bank regulatory framework inherently includes significant costs—both the cost of operating the banking agencies, and the cost to the banking industry of complying with regulations, the examination process, and supplying information to regulators both through formal information collections and through one-off requests. In the aggregate, these costs can ultimately affect the price and availability of credit, geographic access to banking services, and the broader economy. The cost of this framework—both to regulators and to the industry—reflects layers of policy decisions over many years. But this framework could be more effective in balancing the mandate to promote safety and soundness with the need to have a banking system that promotes economic growth.
    For example, let’s consider costs. As regulatory and supervisory demands grow, there is often parallel growth in the staff and budgets of the banking agencies. We should not only be cognizant of these costs, but we should act in a way that requires efficiency while ensuring safety and soundness. Some degree of elasticity in regulator capacity is necessary to respond to evolving economic and banking conditions, as well as emerging risks, but there must be reasonable constraints on growth. Expansion of the regulatory framework is not a cost-free endeavor, and the costs are shouldered by taxpayers, banks, and, ultimately, bank customers.
    The bank regulatory framework has great potential to provide significant benefits, including supporting an innovative banking system that enhances trust and confidence in our institutions, and promotes safety and soundness. When we consider the benefits and the costs, we can institute greater efficiencies in both banking regulation and in the banking industry itself. The bank regulatory framework is complex, and the various elements of this framework are intended to work in a complementary way. As banks evolve—by growing larger, or by engaging in new activities—tailoring can help us to quickly recalibrate requirements in light of the new risks posed by the firm.
    But the regulatory framework, especially how supervisors prioritize its application to the banking industry, can pose a serious threat to a bank’s viability. For example, imposing the same regulatory requirements on banks with assets of $2 billion to $2 trillion under the new rules implementing the Community Reinvestment Act demonstrated a missed opportunity to promote greater effectiveness and efficiency.7 I question the wisdom of applying the same evaluation standards to banks within such a broad range.
    Likewise, supervisory guidance can provide fertile ground to differentiate supervisory expectations under a more tailored approach. While supervisory guidance is not binding on banks as a legal matter, it can signal how regulators think about particular risks and activities, and often drives community banks to reallocate resources in a way that may not be necessary or appropriate. The Fed’s guidance on third-party risk management is an example of this. Originally, this guidance was published in a way that applied to all banks, including community banks. Yet, it was acknowledged even at the time of publication that it had known shortcomings, particularly in terms of its administration and lack of clarity for community banks.8
    Tailoring is important for all banks, but it is particularly important for community banks. There are real costs not only to banks, but to communities, when the framework is insufficiently tailored, as community banks faced with excessive regulatory burdens may be forced to raise prices or shut their doors completely. These banks often reach unbanked or underbanked corners of the U.S. economy, not only in terms of the customers they serve but also in terms of their geographic footprint. We are all familiar with banking deserts and the challenges many legitimate and law-abiding businesses and consumers have in accessing basic banking services and credit. It is difficult to imagine that a system with far fewer banks would as effectively serve U.S. banking and credit needs and sufficiently to support economic growth.
    It is imperative that we keep the benefits of tailoring in focus as the bank regulatory framework evolves. A tailored regulatory and supervisory approach can help inform our policies on a wide range of industry issues that are likely to emerge in the coming years.
    Problem-Based SolutionsOne of the most difficult challenges on the regulatory front is prioritization, both for banks managing their businesses and for regulators deciding how to fulfill their responsibilities. At a basic level, the role of regulators is dictated by statute. Congress granted the Federal Reserve and other banking agencies broad statutory powers but has constrained how those powers may be directed through the use of statutory mandates, including to promote a safe and sound banking system, and broader U.S. financial stability. In the execution of these responsibilities, the Federal Reserve must also balance the need to act in a way that enables the banking system to serve the U.S. economy and promote economic growth. While these objectives are not incompatible, they do require us to consider tradeoffs when establishing policy.
    How can regulators best meet these responsibilities? As many of you may already know, I strongly believe in a pragmatic approach to policymaking.9 This requires us to identify the problem we are trying to solve, determine whether we are the appropriate regulator to address the problem based on our statutory mandates and authorities, and explore options for addressing the identified issue.
    As a first step, we must be attuned to the banking system and how regulatory actions affect that system. We oversee a wide range of banks of varying sizes, activities, affiliates, and complexity. These banks interact with a range of service providers, financial market utilities, payments providers, and non-bank partners, regularly competing with non-bank financial intermediaries. The banking system can be a key driver of business formation, economic expansion, and opportunity.
    As we look at the banking system, including the regulatory framework, we must focus on those issues that are most important to advancing statutory priorities. There is always the risk of misidentification and mis-prioritization, and that we fail to take appropriately robust action on key issues or focus on issues that are less material to a bank’s safety and soundness. Our goal should be to develop a better filter to promote appropriate and effective prioritization.
    FraudWe have seen several instances where this filter did not produce appropriate results, as we have recently seen with fraud. The incidence of fraud, particularly check fraud, has been rising substantially over the past few years, causing harm to banks, damaging the perceived safety of the banking system, and importantly hurting consumers who are the victims of fraudulent activity. Sometimes these efforts target vulnerable populations, like the elderly, who are particularly susceptible to certain forms of fraud.
    Despite this known problem, efforts by regulators have been frustratingly slow to advance, and seem to have done little to address the underlying root causes of this increase in fraud. Why has this important issue failed to garner greater attention from all of the appropriate regulatory and law enforcement bodies? Different governmental agencies may share an important role in addressing this problem, but the need for a joint and coordinated solution does not excuse collective inaction.
    Climate-Related Financial RiskOf course, not every issue falls within the scope of the Federal Reserve’s responsibilities. Even when policymakers identify an issue or priority that they would like to pursue, it is imperative to ask whether that priority falls within the scope of our mandate and authorities. Statutes and regulations, paired with the “soft” power of examination, can be deployed in ways that may not be primarily directed towards the priorities mandated for banking regulators. I’ve noted previously that the banking agencies’ climate-related financial risk guidance arguably pushes the boundaries of appropriate regulatory responsibilities. Banks have long been required to manage all material risks, including weather- and climate-related risks. And while this additional guidance seemed to do little to advance the goals of promoting the safe and sound operation of banks it, in effect, posed significant risks of influencing credit allocation decisions. Ultimately, banking regulators should not dictate credit allocation decisions, either by rule or through supervision. Bank regulatory policy should be used to address the needs of the unbanked and expand the availability of banking services. It should not be used to limit or exclude access to banking services for legitimate customers and businesses in a way that is meant to further unrelated policy goals, sometimes referred to as “de-banking.”
    Once we have identified problems and determined that they are within the Fed’s responsibility, we must consider alternative approaches to address them, focusing on identifying efficient solutions. New technologies and services often require novel regulatory and supervisory approaches, and we recognize that past approaches may not be effective. Often regulators take a “more is better” approach to regulation and guidance. Over the past several years, the banking industry has faced an onslaught of proposed and final regulations and guidance, materials that require a significant time commitment to review, to comment on, and to implement. Many times, these require changes to policies and procedures or risk management practices.
    It is critical that in our urgency to address issues in the banking system—particularly for community banks—that we consider not just the direct and indirect effects of regulatory action but also this cumulative burden. Community banks are resilient and dedicated to serving their communities, but at some point, the cumulative burden of the bank regulatory framework can adversely affect the availability and pricing of banking services and threaten the ongoing viability of the community bank model. The community banks in this country are important economically and to their communities, and we should strive to support these institutions and their ongoing viability.
    Other Notable Issues and ConcernsIn preparation for today’s event, conference attendees were asked to submit questions in advance. So before concluding my remarks I’d like to address a few of these, since we won’t be able to do a live Q&A session in this virtual format. Thank you for submitting your questions in advance.
    As community bankers, we are deeply invested in supporting the growth and resilience of our local economies. With ongoing regulatory pressures, what specific actions can the Federal Reserve take to ensure smaller institutions like ours remain competitive and capable of delivering the personalized service that our communities depend on?One of the things I think is critical in identifying how to support community banks is listening to the industry—which issues are top-of-mind for you? Being an effective regulator requires a degree of humility, and receptiveness to hearing about issues that affect the business of banking, particularly when there are alternative ways that regulators can better promote safety and soundness, or where regulatory actions have resulted in unintended consequences. At the same time, during my conversations with banks, a few themes have emerged that deserve attention. This will be a non-exclusive list, but hopefully will give you a sense of the types of issues and concerns that I hear about most frequently when talking to community banks.
    First, I think there is room to improve the transparency of regulatory communication. Banks should not be left to guess what regulators think about the permissibility of particular activities, or what parameters and rules should apply to those activities. Uncertainty discourages investments in innovation and the expansion of banking activities, products, and services, and can call into question whether internal processes and procedures are consistent with supervisory expectations. Banks already must confront the challenges of dealing with evolving economic and credit conditions, regulators should not compound these challenges through opaque expectations and standards.
    Second, I think we need to address shortcomings in the processing of banking applications, employing a more nimble and predictable approach specifically in the de novo formation and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) contexts. Today, the process to obtain regulatory approval can be influenced by many factors under a bank’s control—for example, the completeness of the application filed and responsiveness to addressing questions and providing necessary additional information. However, the timeline for application decisions is often uncertain and beyond the bank’s control. This can be due to questions about the minimum amount of capital needed and early-stage supervisory expectations (for a de novo bank), or uncertainty about the competitive effects of a transaction, or the filing of a public comment raising concerns about an application in the M&A context.
    Finally, I think regulatory and supervisory “trickle-down” is real and it has significantly harmed community banks. I am referring to regulators conveying expectations to community banks (for example, during the examination process) that lack a foundation in applicable rules or guidance, or that were designed for larger institutions, or based on a horizontal review of unique banks.
    It is very difficult to insulate community banks from the harmful consequences of “trickle-down,” and broader structural changes may be needed to shield them from inapplicable and unreasonable expectations. At the same time, we must preserve strong supervisory standards as banks cross asset thresholds, so banks that grow larger and riskier are subject to appropriately tailored and calibrated requirements and expectations. I would also note that some degree of “trickle down” has occurred over time because the regulatory asset “line” defining community banks has remained constant at $10 billion in assets for over a decade. During that time, the economy has grown significantly, and inflation has rendered this asset definition obsolete. Many “community banks”—as defined by business model and activities rather than asset size—now exceed the threshold and must comply with broader regulatory requirements that may be excessive.
    What support or guidance can community banks expect from the Federal Reserve as we navigate technological innovation and increased cybersecurity threats?Both innovation and cybersecurity are issues that are top of mind for me. Innovation has always been a priority for banks of all sizes and business models. Banks in the U.S. have a long history of developing and implementing new technologies, and innovation has the potential to make the banking and payments systems faster and more efficient, to bring new products and services to customers, and even to enhance safety and soundness.
    Regulators must be open to innovation in the banking system. Our goal should be to build and support a clear and sensible regulatory framework that anticipates ongoing and evolving innovation—one that allows the private sector to innovate while also maintaining appropriate safeguards. We must promote innovation through transparency and open communication, including demonstrating a willingness to engage during the development process. By providing clarity and consistency, we can encourage long-term business investment, while also continuing to support today’s products and services. A clear regulatory framework would also empower supervisors to focus on safety and soundness, while ensuring a safe and efficient banking and payment system.
    On cybersecurity, banks often note cybersecurity and third-party risk management as areas that raise significant concerns. Cyber-related events, including ransomware attacks and business email compromises, are costly in terms of expense and reputation, and are time-consuming events that pose unique challenges for community banks.
    The maintenance of cyber assets and technology resources required to support a successful cybersecurity program are often difficult for smaller banks. Regulators can promote cybersecurity, and stronger cyber-incident “resilience” and response capabilities by identifying resources and opportunities, such as exercises, for banks to develop “muscle memory” in cyber incident response.
    The Federal Reserve plays an important role in supervising banks and supporting risk management practices. For example, the Federal Reserve hosts the Midwest Cyber Workshop, with the Federal Reserve Banks of Chicago, Kansas City, and St. Louis.10 Over the past couple of years, this workshop has provided a forum to discuss cyber risk among community bankers, regulators, law enforcement, and other industry stakeholders. Community banks can also turn to the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) website, which includes the FFIEC Cybersecurity Resource Guide and links to other external cybersecurity resources.
    We know well that cyber threats pose real risks to the banking system, and we recognize that community banks may have unique needs in preventing, remediating, and responding to cyber threats. Regulators should, therefore, ensure that a range of resources are available to support banks and seek further opportunities to help build bank resilience against these threats.
    Community banks are integral to rural and underserved communities. How can the Federal Reserve support us in maintaining our presence in these areas, particularly amid ongoing consolidation trends?As I noted earlier, it is essential that the U.S. banking system is broad and diverse, including institutions of all sizes serving all the different markets across the country. Community banks play a particularly valuable role in rural and underserved communities, and we need to ensure that the community banking model remains viable into the future.
    To do that, we need to have a regulatory system in which both de novo bank formations and M&A transactions are possible. Viable formation and merger options for banks of all sizes are necessary to avoid creating a “barbell” of the very largest and very smallest banks in the banking system, with the number of community banks continuing to erode over time.
    M&A ensures that banks have a meaningful path to transitioning bank ownership. In the absence of a viable M&A framework, there is potential for additional risks, including limited opportunities for succession planning, especially in smaller or rural communities. Uncertainty related to the M&A process also may act as a deterrent to de novo bank formation, as potential bank founders may stay on the sidelines knowing that future exit strategies—like the strategic acquisition of a de novo bank by a larger peer—may face long odds of success.
    Another challenge particularly in rural markets are the competitive “screens” that are used to evaluate the competitive effects of a proposed merger. Using these screens often results in a finding that M&A transactions in rural markets can have an adverse effect on competition and should therefore be disallowed.11 Even when these transactions are eventually approved, the mechanical approach to analyzing competitive effects often requires additional review or analysis and can lead to extensive delays in the regulatory approval process. Reducing the efficiency of the bank M&A process can be a deterrent to healthy bank transactions—it can reduce the effectiveness of M&A and de novo activity that preserves the presence of community banks in underserved areas, prevent institutions from pursuing prudent growth strategies, and actually undermine competition by preventing firms from growing to a larger scale.

    1. The views expressed here are my own and are not necessarily those of my colleagues on the Federal Reserve Board or the Federal Open Market Committee. Return to text
    2. The first mutual banks in the United States were chartered in 1816. The Provident Institution for Savings and the Philadelphia Savings Fund Society were both chartered that year. See https://www.jstor.org/stable/2123609; https://www.mass.gov/info-details/history-of-the-division-of-banks. Return to text
    3. Michelle W. Bowman, “Reflections on 2024: Monetary Policy, Economic Performance, and Lessons for Banking Regulation” (speech at the California Bankers Association 2025 Bank Presidents Seminar, Laguna Beach, California, January 9, 2025). Return to text
    4. 12 CFR § 239.8(d). Return to text
    5. See, e.g., Michelle W. Bowman, “Tailoring, Fidelity to the Rule of Law, and Unintended Consequences (PDF)” (speech at the Harvard Law School Faculty Club, Cambridge, Massachusetts, March 5, 2024). Return to text
    6. See, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, Pub. L. No. 115-174, § 401(a)(1) (amending 12 U.S.C. § 5365), 132 Stat. 1296 (2018). Return to text
    7. See dissenting statement, “Statement on the Community Reinvestment Act Final Rule by Governor Michelle W. Bowman,” news release, October 24, 2023. Return to text
    8. See “Statement on Third Party Risk Management Guidance by Governor Michelle W. Bowman,” news release, June 6, 2023. Return to text
    9. Michelle W. Bowman, “Approaching Policymaking Pragmatically (PDF)” (remarks to the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches, West Palm Beach, Florida, November 20, 2024). Return to text
    10. See Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, and Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, “Midwest Cyber Workshop 2024,” June 25‑26, 2024. Return to text
    11. Michelle W. Bowman, “The Role of Research, Data, and Analysis in Banking Reforms (PDF)” (speech at the 2023 Community Banking Research Conference, St. Louis, MO, October 4, 2023); Michelle W. Bowman, “The New Landscape for Banking Competition (PDF),” (speech at the 2022 Community Banking Research Conference, St. Louis, MO, September 28, 2022). Return to text

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