NewzIntel.com

Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plans to help people sleeping rough in Manchester this winter

    Source: City of Manchester

    Manchester City Council is activating its plans for cold weather this winter to ensure that there is a warm space indoors for people who want one when the weather is below zero.

    Every year, the Council, working alongside Manchester Homelessness Partnership and health services, provides additional accommodation during periods of severe cold weather, so that no one has to sleep outside in freezing weather. 

    Year-round provision, funded by Manchester City Council , at Etrop Grange hotel in Wythenshawe already exists to help people off the street and into accommodation with support services in place to help them move on. However, we know that in periods of extreme cold weather more people are likely to accept an offer to come inside. 

    From November 1, these efforts are enhanced and council officers alongside Manchester Homelessness Partnership members, operate a system of increased outreach.  

    When the weather is forecast to drop below zero, even for one day, severe weather emergency protocol is called leading to increased outreach which operates until 4.30am. This allows officers to support people into accommodation paving the way to connect them with any additional support that they need and carry out housing assessment to find a suitable move on pathway.  

    Councillor Joanna Midgley, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council said: 

    “We work year-round to help people off the streets, giving them access to the support they need to help them get on with their lives. 

    However, as it gets colder, people are more likely to accept help and come inside. This is why we expand our outreach offer and our officers, along with partner agencies, work into the early hours seeking out people who have bedded down so that we can offer them the opportunity to come indoors and access additional support. 

    This is especially important as sometimes coming inside in cold weather is the impetus that they need to accept help that we, along with our partners, can provide. It is often the first step on the road to a better, healthier future.” 

    Amanda Croome, Head of Homelessness for Caritas, speaking on behalf of Manchester Homelessness Partnership, said:  

    “There are a range of charities that support people experiencing homelessness in our city, coordinated through the Manchester Homeless Partnership. 

    “All year round we work alongside the Council to support their provision and to help people in Manchester who find themselves homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. That support can comprise many different aspects, from finding new homes, day and evening/weekend services with free food, showers, specialist advice and supported accommodation. It also includes access to vital health and wellbeing services and expert drop-ins. 

    “Anyone can become homeless at any time, for a wide range of reasons – whether that’s changes to financial circumstances, accidents, sudden unemployment, or no-fault evictions. But, everyone deserves a safe, secure place to call home and we’re incredibly grateful to local people, businesses and other organisations who support these charities to make sure that people get the assistance they need to find and keep tenancies of their own.” 

    If you’re concerned about someone that you have seen sleeping rough in Manchester please contact Manchester City Council homelessness

    More information on MHP – Manchester Homelessness Partnership 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Recruitment of board members to the International Fund for Ireland

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland invites expressions of interest for appointment to the Board of the International Fund for Ireland.

    The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified people for appointment to the Board of the International Fund for Ireland (IFI) for an initial period of three years commencing on 1 March 2025.

    The IFI was established as an independent international organisation by the Irish and UK Governments in 1986 to promote economic and social advance and peace and to encourage contact, dialogue and reconciliation among communities throughout Ireland.  The IFI is active in Northern Ireland and the six border counties of Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Monaghan, Cavan and Louth.

    Under Article 6 of the Agreement between the UK and Irish Governments establishing the IFI, Board Members are to be appointed jointly by both Governments. The Board comprises six members and a Chair. The two Governments agree on the nomination of the Chair and each Government nominates three Board Members, with all requiring approval of both Governments. The two Governments work to ensure that Board membership is cross-border and is as reasonably diverse as possible.

    The Board has responsibility for ensuring the proper functioning, governance and strategic development of the IFI, as well as approving the number of, and the level of funding for, projects and programmes supported by the IFI.

    Board Members will serve on a part-time basis and receive remuneration of £11,000 per year. Expenses associated with attendance at meetings of the Board and its sub committees will be covered. 

    Board Members normally serve for a term of three years, and are eligible for renewal once, subject to the agreement of both Governments.

    Essential experience/attributes

    • A record of providing successful strategic vision, leadership and direction at a senior level, to include the ability to think, plan and act strategically develop strategies and experience of successful change management.
    • Be able to demonstrate strong judgement skills including the ability to analyse complex issues to help inform sound decisions.
    • Possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to achieve consensus, develop and maintain building positive strategic relationships with stakeholders and to work successfully as part of a team.
    • Possess a robust understanding of corporate governance, financial and risk management arrangements and demonstrated experience in one or more of these areas.
    • A sound understanding of the peace and reconciliation challenges facing communities across Northern Ireland/southern border counties of Ireland.
    • Ability to demonstrate a high level of professional and personal integrity, propriety and probity. 

    Desirable experience

    • Previous experience of having served as a Board Member/Chairperson.
    • Previous experience of/familiarity with the Civil Society Organisations/voluntary sector

    Expressions of interest (no longer than 2,000 words) should be accompanied by a Curriculum Vitae and cover letter outlining how candidates fulfil the experience and attributes set out above.

    Further information on the work of the IFI is available – www.internationalfundforireland.com

    Applications

    Persons interested in being considered for appointment as a Board Member should submit an application by email by 29/11/2024 to Info.ifi@finance-ni.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Green Council leaders call for funding boost in Budget

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    Ahead of the Labour government’s first Budget on Wednesday, Green Party Council leaders are warning of the urgent need for proper funding for local councils and services, after many years of damaging austerity.  

    Local Government Association analysis shows that service spending in 2022/23 was 42.1% lower than it would have been had service spend moved in line with cost and demand pressures since 2010/11. This means that councils have made £24.5 billion in service cuts and efficiencies over this period [1]. 

    Local councils deliver a huge range of statutory services, from child protection to waste and recycling services and temporary accommodation. They are also uniquely placed for real action on achieving net zero and to protect and restore other services vital to health and wellbeing in the community such as sports, arts, leisure and green spaces.  

    Tony Dyer, Green leader of Bristol City Council, said: 

    “Local Government provides many of our most essential services, from social care, to education and affordable housing. After years of cuts, if we do not see a real terms increase in local government funding then these services will falter and our communities will suffer.

    “We desperately need a boost to our funding to enable proper resourcing of core and statutory services, especially those creating the most pressure on council finances such as adult social care, children services such as SEND, and temporary accommodation provision.”  

    Caroline Topping, Green leader of East Suffolk Council, said: 

    “As Green Party leaders of local Councils, we welcome the new government’s manifesto commitment to multiyear funding settlements and an end to wasteful competitive bidding, which has stressed already overstretched officer capacity and council resources. Even successful bids have often come with strings attached and time scales that hamper delivery. We expect and look forward to a completely new relationship which puts council funding on a secure and sustainable footing.” 

    Emily O’Brien, Cabinet Member for Climate, Nature and Food Systems on Green-led Lewes District Council, said: 

    “Funding for council-led home insulation programmes is an example of the win-win that Councils can help deliver – cutting both carbon emissions and household energy bills. We have worked hard with neighbouring Councils to maximise insulation with the limited resources we have. National funding will immediately accelerate this and deliver savings and comfort to our tenants.”

    Ellie Chowns, Green MP for North Herefordshire and former cabinet member for environment, economy and skills on Herefordshire Council, said:

    “After so many years of austerity, local councils absolutely need the funding to deliver those basic services which everyone uses. Getting the basics right at local level is essential for the government to deliver on bigger national plans. Now is the time for a new government to set a new course for renewed investment in local public services.”

    Notes

    [1] Further funding cuts for councils would be disastrous; urgent funding and reform is needed | Local Government Association

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: There is no justification for denying civilians in Gaza access to life-saving aid: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council open debate on the situation in the Middle East.

    Location:
    United Nations, New York
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    President, the death of Hamas’ leader, who had the blood of innocent Israelis and Palestinians on his hand, must be a turning point in this dreadful conflict, which has now claimed over 43,000 lives in Gaza. 

    This is the time to urgently seize a ceasefire in Gaza and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages who have suffered in inhumane conditions for over a year.

    The humanitarian situation in Gaza is horrific. Acute malnutrition is now a reality for many. This month, the least aid has entered Gaza since the beginning of the conflict. 

    And the situation in northern Gaza is especially alarming. Gazans have been asked to evacuate the north in their hundreds of thousands. But there is nowhere safe to go. In recent weeks, just as we have seen throughout the conflict, Israeli strikes have hit designated humanitarian zones.

    On Thursday, we saw again profoundly distressing scenes after an Israeli strike on Al-Shuhada – a school-turned shelter in Nuseirat refugee camp, which killed at least 17 people, including nine children.  

    We remain very concerned too about the severe impacts of these strikes on civilian infrastructure, including healthcare facilities, which face critical shortages in medical supplies, food and water. Israel must comply fully with international humanitarian law. As my Prime Minister has said, the world will not tolerate any more excuses from Israel on humanitarian assistance. 

    There is no justification for denying civilians access to essential supplies. The Government of Israel must do more to protect civilians, civilian infrastructure, and allow aid to be delivered safely and at scale. Related to this, reports that UN agencies have had to postpone the rollout of the polio vaccine campaign in northern Gaza are deeply disturbing. Israeli authorities must allow aid workers to carry out this work safely and securely.

    We also unequivocally reject attempts to undermine or degrade UNRWA, which is the backbone of the humanitarian response in Gaza and a lifeline for hundreds of thousands of civilians there, and in the wider region. The allegations against UNRWA staff earlier this year were fully investigated. There is no justification for cutting off ties with UNRWA. Israel must abide by its obligations and ensure UNRWA can continue its lifesaving work. 

    President, we reiterate that northern Gaza must not be cut off from the south. Palestinian civilians, including those evacuated from northern Gaza must be permitted to return. There must be no forcible transfer of Gazans from or within Gaza, nor any reduction in the territory of the Gaza Strip. Civilians must be protected.

    In the West Bank, the level of llegal settlement expansion and settler violence is unprecedented. Israel must take action now to address this.  

    President, a sustainable solution to this crisis cannot and will not be achieved through unilateral action. The international community and this Council have been clear and unified in our commitment to the two state solution, which is the only viable path to a long term peaceful solution. 

     The Palestinian and Israeli people alike have a right to self-determination, safety and security, and we must all work together to provide a credible and irreversible pathway towards a two-state solution.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Army gives the lessons as STEM comes to Salisbury Plain

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Hundreds of Army cadets will try their hand at solving military-base challenges with STEM during their October half term.

    • Nearly 290 cadets are competing in STEM based challenges supported by 10 different Army units throughout half-term week.
    • The exercise is inspired by real Army STEM-based scenarios including how to provide vital aid through airlift operations.

    Hundreds of Army cadets will try their hand at solving military-base challenges with STEM during their October half term.

    Organised by the Royal Signals, and supported by 10 other Army units, the cadets are set to complete a range of STEM-based challenges built on real-life experiences soldiers have faced, from helicopter design to preparing goods for airlifting.

    With a participation rate of 40%, this year’s camp is well represented by the involvement of 116 young girls, with recent statistics estimating that women make up only 29.4% of the STEM workforce

    The challenges will be spread throughout Salisbury plain, with organisers utilising a range of terrains and encampments to set up their challenges with hopes to inspire the next generation. Minister for Veterans and People, Alistair Carns was among the military VIPs in attendance at this year’s cadet STEM camp visitors’ day at Middle Wallop military base.

    As part of the day, the minister participated in an activity, which involved applying the laws of physics and maths to ensure the safety of an airlift by a helicopter over distance.

    Minister for Veterans and People, Alistair Carns OBE MC MP said:

    This week will demonstrate to cadets how STEM is at the heart of our Armed Forces and everything we do.

    Integrating STEM into the cadet curriculum will help prepare cadets for the technology-driven economy of today and ensure they will be well prepared for adult life.

    The cadets also had the opportunity to speak to local industry experts on what kind of careers STEM can offer them. Representatives from Waterman Aspin Engineering, Ulysses Trust and Horiba MIRA Propulsion Development Centre were in attendance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Holbrooks primary on their way to becoming gold superheroes

    Source: City of Coventry

    Pupils at Holbrooks Primary have taken up the vaccine superhero challenge from Coventry City Council and have achieved silver status and on their way to achieving gold.

    A group of students were presented with an award and prizes by Councillor Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Cllr George Duggins, Leader of the Council, for recognising the steps they have taken to learn about immunisation and designing a bug character as part of the programme.

    The Vaccine Superhero programme, run by Coventry City Council’s Public Health and School-Aged Immunisation Service (SAIS), is currently working with twenty-six primary and SEND schools with two schools attaining Silver awards and Holbrooks working towards Gold. 

    Cllr Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health, Sport and Communities at the Council said:  

    “I’d like to congratulate Holbrooks Primary for their hard work and commitment in achieving silver status in this important Vaccine Superhero programme.

     “I am delighted to see that here in Coventry, our schools, communities, public health and NHS teams have been working hard together to address the concerning rise in of vaccine preventable illnesses, such as measles.

    “It’s not too late for other schools to sign up for the scheme.  For more information, search vaccine superhero on the Council website.” 

    Nicki Kelsall, Deputy Headteacher at Holbrooks Primary School, added:

    “At Holbrook Primary School, we recognise the importance of childhood immunisations to ensure that children have the best possible protection against dangerous diseases.  By educating the children in a fun and exciting way we hope to increase the uptake of immunisations in our community and ensure that the children are fully protected to have a healthy start in life.”

    Attendees were provided with an overview of the programme’s progress to date, celebrated the achievements of participating schools, and welcomed new schools to the programme.   

    Since the launch of the programme, pupils have delved into the world of microbes, learning about their roles, appearance, functions, and how to prevent illness.

    Schools have been highly engaged, participating in various creative activities with Hill Farm Primary School recently earning a Silver award through an experiment by investigating mold growth on bread and its relation to the role of microbes in vaccines.  Holbrooks Primary School is on track for the first Gold award, having started their journey before the summer break.

    For more information or to register for the programme visit Coventry.gov.uk/VaccineSuperhero

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City Council Celebrates National Care Leavers Week with a Supportive Programme of Events

    Source: City of Liverpool

    During National Care Leavers Week (28 October – 3 November), the Council is proudly recognising the achievements of care-experienced young people with a week that promises a mix of enriching activities designed to uplift and empower care leavers.

    These activities include:

    • A relaxing mindfulness session, providing care leavers with the chance to unwind, de-stress and learn techniques for nurturing mental wellbeing.
    • Workshops on team building, skills identification and effective communication from organisations Thrive and Catch 22.
    • A dedicated workshop will provide insights into recognising and managing mental health challenges, offering a safe space for open discussions and resources for seeking help.

    We encourage care leavers from across the city to get involved. Find out more here.

    Liverpool’s commitment to supporting care leavers extends beyond the events of National Care Leavers week.

    Recent initiatives such as the Care Leavers’ Conference at St George’s Hall, hosted by Liverpool City Council and the Lord Mayor of Liverpool Cllr Richard Kemp, successfully brought together businesses and organisations to raise awareness and create new opportunities.

    Looking ahead, the Council is also preparing for the Celebration of Achievements, an annual event recognising the accomplishments of care leavers, from educational successes to personal milestones.

    To further mark National Care Leavers’ Week, Liverpool will light up its civic buildings in blue on Wednesday 30 October, symbolising our solidarity with care leavers across the city.

    Liz Parsons Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care said: “Liverpool City Council firmly believes that every young person leaving care deserves a bright future.

    “This celebration is an opportunity for the public, professionals, carers, decision-makers and the media to come together, celebrate our care leavers and their achievements and raise awareness of the challenges that our young people can face.

    “Through continued support and empowerment our young people can achieve their full potential.”

    Mollieanne, who is care-experienced herself, is a passionate advocate for other young people who have been in care. She added: “Celebrating and supporting care leavers is so important because it reminds us that we are valued, and our achievements matter. National Care Leavers Week isn’t just about recognition, it’s about empowering us to believe in ourselves, showing that we’re not alone, and that there are people who care about our future.

    “It’s a chance to come together, share our stories, and find strength in knowing that our experiences make us resilient. When we feel supported, we can overcome any challenge.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sheffield extends hand of friendship to Nablus A Declaration of Friendship has been signed between the City of Sheffield and the City of Nablus on the West Bank in Palestine, at a virtual ceremony today (Tuesday 29th October 2024). 29 October 2024

    Source: City of Sheffield

    Cllr Johnson, Cllr Hunt, the Lord Mayor and Cllr Mohammad signing the declaration

    A Declaration of Friendship has been signed between the City of Sheffield and the City of Nablus on the West Bank in Palestine, at a virtual ceremony today (Tuesday 29th October 2024).

    The declaration outlines the intention of both cities to promote friendship, understanding and exchange experience and knowledge in different fields and areas, including education and environment. 

    The agreement is a statement of intention and is not legally binding and will be reviewed every 12 months by both parties.

    Councillor Jayne Dunn, Lord Mayor of Sheffield City Council, said:

    “I am delighted that today we have entered into a Friendship Agreement with the City of Nablus.

    “In recent years, our two cities have developed strong cultural and educational links and that is why we believe extending a hand of friendship is appropriate.

    “I look forward to seeing what our two societies can learn from each other.”

    In November 2023, Sheffield City Council’s Strategy and Resources Committee agreed on a Partner City Policy. In this policy, the Council committed to producing an annual review of all their relationships with international cities.

    This review provided the Council with the opportunity to address any requests that had been made to establish relationships with Sheffield, with the only outstanding request coming from Nablus.

    In the past five years, Sheffield and Nablus have already established cultural and educational links.

    Going forward, connections will be developed in areas that both cities share similar aims and goals, including youth services and their sports offer.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Braintree Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering Charges

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    BOSTON – A member of a nationwide drug trafficking ring was sentenced on Oct. 25, 2024 in federal court in Boston for drug trafficking and money laundering. During the investigation, over 160 pounds of pure methamphetamine, as well as an AK-47, a Glock with no serial number, two loaded Smith & Wesson handguns and over 4,200 rounds of ammunition were seized. An illegal marijuana grow operation with hundreds of marijuana plants was also dismantled.

    Patrick O’Hearn, 64, of Braintree was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 15 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release. In March 2024, O’Hearn pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, as well as one count of money laundering conspiracy and one count of money laundering.

    O’Hearn was charged along with 10 others in September 2021 in a 15ifteen count superseding indictment.  

    O’Hearn was part of a large-scale methamphetamine distribution network that distributed significant quantities of pure methamphetamine throughout New England. The investigation began in late 2020, when O’Hearn’s methamphetamine supplier Reshat Alkayisi was identified as a large-scale methamphetamine trafficker, who distributed multi-pound quantities to customers throughout the New England area. O’Hearn was subsequently identified as one of Alkayisi’s regular large-scale distributors who routinely purchased methamphetamine and redistributed it throughout the Boston area. Bank records indicated that O’Hearn paid Alkayisi at least $100,000 between January and July 2021. O’Hearn also purchased over $465,000 worth of methamphetamine from Alkayisi between January and May 2021.

    O’Hearn conspired with Alkayisi to launder their drug proceeds. As part of that money laundering conspiracy, Alkayisi used O’Hearn’s residence as the address for his shell company that he used to launder drug proceeds.

    In July 2021, O’Hearn was arrested and over 680 grams of pure methamphetamine was seized, as well as small quantities of cocaine, ketamine, MDMA and other controlled substances from O’Hearn’s residence. Over $213,000 in cash was also found in O’Hearn’s residence and in bank safe deposit boxes.

    Alkayisi pleaded guilty in April 2024 and in September 2024 sentenced to 23 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release. O’Hearn is the 10th defendant to be sentenced in the case. The remaining defendant has pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing.

    Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts Department of Correction; Norfolk County Sherriff’s Office; and Concord, Hudson, Peabody, Reading, Watertown and Waltham Police Departments. Assistance was also provided by the Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire and Maine State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alathea Porter and Katherine Ferguson of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. 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.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Chris Kaba’s criminal history shouldn’t change how we think about the Martyn Blake trial – but it could affect future cases

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Tara Lai Quinlan, Associate Professor in Law and Criminal Justice, University of Birmingham

    Members of Chris Kaba’s family at a march on the anniversary of his death. Shutterstock

    Two years after fatally shooting 24-year-old Chris Kaba in the head, the London Met Police firearms officer Martyn Blake was acquitted of Kaba’s murder.

    As soon as the trial concluded, newspapers published information about Kaba that they were barred from reporting during the proceedings. Chief among the details was the news that Kaba had allegedly shot a man in both legs at a nightclub days before his own death, although he was never prosecuted for or convicted of the crime.

    The post-trial publication of details of Kaba’s alleged criminal history should not affect how we view Blake’s prosecution and acquittal. But it will have implications for future cases where black men are killed by police. It will also further damage already-strained relationships between black communities and police.

    Kaba was shot by Blake after police stopped the car he was driving in south London. Kaba was unarmed. Police did not know that Kaba was driving, but believed the car had been connected to a shooting the night before. Blake told the court he fired his weapon because he believed his colleagues’ lives were at risk.

    The jury was not told of Kaba’s prior convictions during the trial, nor should they have been. Kaba was not on trial – Martyn Blake was. So this information did not play a role in their decision to acquit. Because Kaba was killed by Blake, Kaba’s prior convictions were not relevant in Blake’s trial. We correctly shun victim-blaming when it comes to other victims: it should be no different in this case, in which Kaba was the victim.

    Had Kaba been alive and testified for the prosecution against Blake, the judge could have considered whether his prior criminal convictions were relevant to his testimony and credibility. But disclosure of a witness’s previous convictions is rightfully very narrowly construed by the courts, and would have to meet a specific legal standard.

    Racial stereotypes

    The research is clear that when a person of colour is killed by police and posthumous information about the victim is released to the public, it has an impact on public perceptions of blame, sympathy and empathy for the black victim and police shooter, and perpetuates racial stereotypes. And this seems to be what is occurring here.

    Studies have shown for decades that black people, men in particular, are first and foremost viewed as perpetrators by police and members of the public, not as crime victims. We have seen the impact of this in the many killings of unarmed black men by police in the US, from Michael Brown to Eric Garner to George Floyd.

    These stereotypes have also played a role in cases in the UK. Black men and boys are often treated by the criminal justice system and the media as somehow responsible for their own deaths. For instance, Stephen Lawrence, who was killed in 1993 by a group of white men while waiting at a London bus stop, was regarded by police for a long time as a suspect, not a victim.

    Or Dea-John Reid, a 14-year-old black boy who was chased and killed by a group of white teens and adults in Birmingham in 2021. After his death, police initially doubted racism played a role in the killing, and it was suggested at the trial that Reid was involved in instigating events leading to his killing. While multiple defendants were brought to trial, only a 15-year-old boy was convicted of manslaughter for Reid’s death. Two adults, aged 36 and 39, and two other teenagers were acquitted of his murder.

    Police chiefs are asking the government to make it harder for the Crown Prosecution Service to charge officers.
    Svet foto/Shutterstock

    For decades, scholars have tracked how black men are viewed through the lens of the myth of criminality. This view, rooted in slavery and colonialism, erroneously suggests black men have a propensity for criminality. It persists today in crime figures that show minority ethnic people disproportionately represented in every stage of the criminal justice process.

    Yet the reality from government offending surveys is that black and white people commit crimes at the same rates. The myth is reinforced through the criminal justice system, which focuses on some crimes (and alleged criminals) more than others through decisions around deployment of personnel and resources, and decisions to arrest, charge, prosecute and sentence in disproportionate ways.

    For example, police stop and search rates for decades have been disproportionately shown to target black men. Arrest rates show similar disproportionate outcomes. These disparities are not due to a propensity for criminal offending, but rather the implicit and explicit stereotypes of the justice system.



    Read more:
    Stop and search disproportionately affects black communities – yet police powers are being extended

    These stereotypes mean that people of colour, and black men in particular, are not seen as deserving victims when they are the victims of crime or police wrongdoing.

    Academic research, as well as government inquiries by Lord Macpherson and Baroness Casey, have observed how policing culture is embedded with these stereotypes.

    Future of policing

    Following the Blake verdict, police leaders have called for further protections for officers who use force while on duty (even if not deadly force). The government has said that officers charged in future cases will stay anonymous unless convicted.

    The UK legal system already has rigorous standards for investigating, charging and convicting individuals, including police officers, of wrongdoing. Moreover, is it important to bear in mind that misconduct prosecutions in court against police officers are already very rare.

    Blake was the first officer in England ever charged with murder for killing someone on duty, and therefore none have ever been convicted of murdering a member of the public while on duty. There are therefore already sufficiently robust due process protections in place for officers charged with a crime and they do not require further enhancing.

    At a time when police have lost the trust of many of the communities they are meant to protect, particularly ethnic minority Britons, this sends the wrong message to the public that police can act without accountability.

    “We went two steps forward in terms of building relationships and it just feels like we’ve taken a step back,” said Anthony King, who runs a youth crime reduction organisation in London, of the Blake verdict.

    The persistence of negative racial stereotypes of people of colour generally, and black men in particular, continues to put black communities in a position of being overpoliced and yet underprotected. Treating Chris Kaba as a suspected criminal ahead of seeing him as a victim will only further this inequality.

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

    – ref. Chris Kaba’s criminal history shouldn’t change how we think about the Martyn Blake trial – but it could affect future cases – https://theconversation.com/chris-kabas-criminal-history-shouldnt-change-how-we-think-about-the-martyn-blake-trial-but-it-could-affect-future-cases-242051

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: From a scream to a whisper – ‘quiet horror’ novels are making a comeback

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nick Freeman, Reader in Late Victorian Literature, Loughborough University

    Readers need to be imaginative rather than being startled by jump scares. zef art/Shutterstock

    Ever since its inception with Horace Walpole’s novel The Castle of Otranto (1764), a delirious mixture of violent death and familial conspiracy, gothic literature has been a restless cultural form, constantly mutating and assuming new guises but always exploring the darker side of life. Sometimes, its fashions are those of the historical moment. Sometimes they are initiated by a book enjoying unprecedented commercial success.

    One of these was Thomas Harris’s The Silence of the Lambs (1988). After the film adaptation scooped five Oscars in 1991, the deviant genius became the villain of choice for gothic films and novels. For a time, the violent merging of the crime thriller with the “body horror” of 1980s cinema ensured that the genre was dominated by such characters. Usually (though not always) men with high IQs, elevated artistic taste and ingenious ways of torturing and killing their fellow human beings, Hannibal Lecter and his ilk became modern icons.

    In the wake of such influences, crime novels (and films) got bloodier and horror novels grew longer. John Connolly’s first novel, EveryDeadThing (1999), for example, spent 470 pages documenting the murderous activities of a serial killer who mutilated his victims in the style of Renaissance anatomical drawings.

    In recent years however, there has been a reaction against these excesses. So-called “quiet horror” has become increasingly popular on both sides of the Atlantic. Perhaps taking its name from a 1965 collection of short stories by Stanley Ellin, which was literally called “quiet horror”, this is a genre that prizes suspense and subtlety over graphic bodily violence.

    The novelist Selena Chambers characterises quiet horror as exploring “the unexplained, the suppressed, the supernal [otherworldly], the material, the cosmic, and the secular … everything we cannot see, or verbalise and fail to feel concretely”. As she implies, suggestion is crucial.

    Readers need to be patient and imaginative, sensitive to the nuances and implications of language and willing to respond to spooky ambiguities rather than being startled by jump scares or “gross out” imagery.

    Slasher movies usually treat their characters as no more than fodder for the next brutal killing. Quiet horror, by contrast, takes character development far more seriously and imbues its stories with greater psychological depth. This in turn can enhance readers’ involvement. Put simply, those who dislike “splatter fiction” are more likely to care what happens to a well-rounded, sympathetic character than a stereotypical US teenager about to be put under a steam hammer.

    Women and quiet horror

    Female novelists have been at the forefront of this style of writing since the Victorian period. Elizabeth Gaskell’s tales, including The Old Nurse’s Story (1852), a chilling tale of a family curse, are foundational works.

    A long line of women writers have explored how the familiar, the domestic, the marital and the homely can be imbued with subtle terrors, from loneliness and isolation to paranoia, alienation, captivity and psychological trauma.

    The haunted house does not need to contain a typical ghost. From Elizabeth Bowen’s The Demon Lover (1945) to Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House (1959), to Sarah Waters’ The Little Stranger (2009) and beyond, the complex and fraught relationships between a dwelling and its occupants have frequently engaged women writers’ imaginations.

    The continuing success of Susan Hill’s The Woman in Black (1983) in its literary, theatrical and cinematic incarnations has helped ensure that quiet horror, particularly tales which recall the golden age of the ghost story a century or so ago, are once again much in vogue. This can be seen in the bestselling novels of Michelle Paver, such as Dark Matter (2010) and in anthologies such as The Haunting Season (2021).

    At the same time, readers are increasingly rediscovering forgotten practitioners of the genre. One such figure is Elizabeth Walter (1927-2006). As a writer (and the editor of Collins Crime Club for 30 years from the mid-1960s) Walter recoiled from sadistic violence, cardboard characterisation and haphazard plotting.

    Shirley Jackson was a master of ‘quiet horror’.
    Wiki Commons, CC BY

    After five collections of stories, beginning with Snowfall and Other Chilling Events (1965), she retired from writing supernatural fiction in the mid-1970s as the traits she didn’t like were becoming dominant within Anglo-American gothic. Many of her stories are set in the border country between England and Wales and draw upon folklore and a sensitivity to landscape to create creepily unnerving works such as The Sin Eater (1967) and Telling the Bees (1975).

    I edited a collection of Walter’s writing titled Let a Sleeping Witch Lie (2024). Spanning the ten years from Snowfall to her final collection, Dead Woman and Other Haunting Experiences (1975), the stories within anticipate some elements of Phil Rickman’s Merrily Watkins novels which also involve Welsh border settings, supernatural elements, and police procedural, though they lack Rickman’s religious dimension.

    There is no sense of providence at work in Walter’s borderlands, only ancient and mysterious menace. Marriages tend to be unhappy, families harbour terrible secrets, and the old ways continue to overshadow the present. Fifty years since her final collection, Walter’s work might be more relevant than ever before.

    Quiet horror has never really been away, but it seems to finding a new audience, one which both looks to its past and relishes its present.


    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

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

    – ref. From a scream to a whisper – ‘quiet horror’ novels are making a comeback – https://theconversation.com/from-a-scream-to-a-whisper-quiet-horror-novels-are-making-a-comeback-241945

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Norman coin hoard becomes England’s most valuable treasure – it could have been worth a lot more

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Chloe Duckworth, Reader in Archaeological Science & Public Engagement, Newcastle University

    There is clearly giddy excitement in the shaky footage showing hands scrabbling in the soil in the Chew Valley in south-west England. A close-up shot captures someone pulling silver coin after silver coin from the churned earth as a woman laughs “there’s pennies everywhere.” The video accompanied news reports in 2019 of the monumental find by seven detectorists of a hoard of silver coins dating from the time of the Norman conquest in the 11th century.

    The hoard has just been purchased for a whopping £4.3 million by the South West Heritage Trust. While this might be the largest amount ever paid for such a discovery, as an archaeological scientist I can tell you that much of its historical value was lost the moment it was pulled from the ground.

    Such stories of amateur finds are easy to get behind. Detectorists are the underdogs – amateurs who are driven by their passion for the past to spend their free time diligently searching for hidden treasures.

    The nation’s love of such stories was seized upon in Mackenzie Crook’s gently hilarious television show, Detectorists (2014). As reflected in the series, however, metal detecting has a fraught relationship with archaeology.

    The videos showing the detectorists scrambling excitedly in the dirt.

    While both involve digging up remains of the past, the two groups have different opinions on what is most important when it comes to such finds. For archaeologists, the finds themselves are often less important than the context in which they were discovered – the opposite is true for detectorists.

    The detectorists in the Chew Valley were acting within the law. They first sought permission from the landowner, and ensured the find was reported to the authorities. However, as the video of the discovery shows, the coins were dug out haphazardly.

    Archaeologists would have gone about this in a different way, following a scientific process of excavation and recording. This is because once excavated the contextual information is destroyed forever.

    For instance, when speaking about the Chew Valley Hoard on Radio 4’s PM programme, Professor Michael Lewis, head of the Portable Antiquities Scheme (a voluntary government-run programme that records small finds of archaeological interest by members of the public), struggled to answer any specific questions about the circumstances in which the hoard had originally been interred. This is because of the way it had been dug up.

    To dig or not to dig?

    Archaeology today employs a unique system of excavation, a sort of reverse engineering of the sequence of past events. This comes complete with intensive recording, sampling of soils and other processes designed to minimise the loss of information.

    In the case of hoards – deliberately buried caches of valuables from a time before banks and safes – this method of recovery can preserve information about the date of burial and whether the items were deposited in a single episode or over time. It can also help ascertain what organic materials were originally present and even provide insights into the meaning of the objects for those who deposited them.

    We saw this sort of process able to take place in 2014 after detectorists found the Galloway Hoard – more than 100 gold, silver, glass, crystal, stone and earthen objects from the Viking age. These amateurs contacted the relevant authorities before digging it up, which meant it was possible, through expert recovery, to reconstruct the precious textiles and other containers in which the objects were originally buried.

    Many countries, including Greece, strictly outlaw the use of metal detectors for treasure hunting, although many people continue to do so in secret. In the UK, the hope is that by legalising reporting and offering purchase of treasure, the finds can at least be preserved for research and for public viewing.

    However, there isn’t anything in this approach to stop the unscientific method of recovery, which will continue to rob us of much more that we might have known. This leaves the question of whether such finds should even be dug up at all.

    Archaeology is a relatively young discipline, but the surviving remains of the distant past are a finite resource. Land development, climate change, mechanised agriculture, population growth, war, looting and desecration are threats facing archaeological sites the world over.

    In recent years professional archaeologists have responded by excavating the bare minimum. We might dig ahead of construction works and large infrastructure projects such as HS2. Sometimes we excavate because a site is threatened by coastal erosion or other environmental changes. When we dig purely for the sake of research, or as part of a community project, we focus on partial recovery, prioritising survey, geophysics and “test-pitting” (a sort of archaeological keyhole surgery).

    In all cases we must also ensure that there is enough money to cover the conservation and protection of the things we dig up, and, crucially, publish the reports of their excavation, with all its insight into the context of the finds.


    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

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

    – ref. Norman coin hoard becomes England’s most valuable treasure – it could have been worth a lot more – https://theconversation.com/norman-coin-hoard-becomes-englands-most-valuable-treasure-it-could-have-been-worth-a-lot-more-242359

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Medieval Women: In Their Own Words at the British Library is unmissable

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Diane Watt, Professor of English, University of Surrey

    The British Library’s breathtaking new exhibition, Medieval Women: In Their Own Words, brings to life the experiences, stories and voices of women from the distant past.

    The show covers the period from 1100 to 1500, and a range of mainly western countries and cultures. Many of the women featured are from the elite ranks of society: queens, princesses, noblewomen and nuns.

    On first entering the gallery, visitors encounter a striking late 13th-century carved stone figure of Eleanor of Castile, who was queen of England from 1274 until her death in 1290. It’s one of a series of 12 memorials commissioned by her bereft husband, Edward I, to mark the sites where her body was temporarily set down on its funeral procession from Lincolnshire to Westminster.

    Also on display near the entrance are examples of the work of Hildegard of Bingen and Christine de Pizan. Hildegard was a German abbess, mystic, composer and scholar, and de Pizan was the first professional woman writer in France.

    Both were exceptional, highly educated and privileged women, but the exhibition doesn’t limit itself only to the most famous medieval women.

    These lovely illuminated manuscripts contrast with the next item, a much more mundane – if touching – missive from a woman named Alice Crane. Crane is only known to historians because she corresponded with her friend Margaret Paston during the 15th century. Paston was a Norfolk gentry woman and prolific letter writer. This is one of the few letters we have from the time that testifies to friendship between women. Alice writes: “Thanking you for the great cheer that I had of you when I was last with you with all my heart.”

    This first part of the exhibition is titled “Private Lives” and explores topics such as cosmetics and perfume and women’s medicines and healthcare. Visitors are introduced to women medical practitioners and wet-nurses and find out about education and domestic piety.

    There are displays about pregnancy and pregnancy loss, love and marriage, adultery and divorce and property ownership and inheritance. Margery Brews’s Valentine letter (believed to be the oldest example of a Valentine’s day note) and Gwerful Mechain’s poem in praise of the “cunt” are both displayed – and recited.

    One of the most striking items on display is a birthing girdle – a parchment covered in prayers and illustrations that was believed to have talismanic properties. Birthing girdles were intended to protect both mother and baby during labour.

    The public lives of medieval women

    Powerful women visually dominate the second part, “Public Lives”. It includes an arresting portrait of Henry VIII’s grandmother, Lady Margaret Beaufort, founder of two Cambridge University colleges, and the skull of a lion thought to have been owned by the Margaret of Anjou, leader of the Lancastrians in the Wars of the Roses.



    Read more:
    How Henry VIII’s grandmother used a palace in Northamptonshire to build the mighty Tudor dynasty

    Military conflict is an important theme – there is a book chronicling the history of Shajar al-Durr, Sultana of Egypt, who defeated a crusader army. Nevertheless, several documents provide insight into lives less known.

    There’s the chancery bill of Maria Moriana, whose name suggests she was a woman of colour. A record of a debt owed to the Jewish businesswoman Licoricia of Winchester who was subsequently murdered in what was very likely a hate crime is displayed. As is a Venetian contract for the sale of an enslaved Russian called Marta. And the record of the interrogation of Eleanor Rykener – a sex worker we would likely recognise today as a trans woman.

    Books produced or sold by women scribes, notaries, printers and booksellers lead the visitor into the main display of manuscripts of works by women writers, from Marie de France, a secular poet in the court of Henry II, to Juliana Berners, the probable author of a treatise on hunting, fishing and heraldry.

    “Spiritual Lives” introduces nuns, mystics and heretics. There are records relating to Joan of Arc, the peasant French military leader of the hundred years war, who was captured and executed by the English. A letter bearing Joan’s signature is exhibited for the first time outside her mother country (in the land of her persecutors, to boot).

    Here visitors also encounter the manuscripts of The Revelations of Divine Love by Julian of Norwich and The Book of Margery Kempe. These are two of the earliest works by women to have been written in English and have been brought to life by the artist Tasha Marks in an arresting scent installation. Julian’s satanic torments are conjured up by the stink of sulphur. Kempe’s scent of angels is evoked by notes of honey, strawberry and caramel.

    The curators have done an extraordinary job in making this material accessible to a wide audience. Information panels provide context and correctives. They reveal that the gender pay gap was around 25% at the end of the 15th century, and that only around 1% of women became nuns.

    There are interactive displays that can tell you if you would have grounds for medieval divorce, or if you’d have been vulnerable to witchcraft charges (warning: don’t keep a box of stolen penises).

    The exhibition draws attention to the sheer diversity of the lives and experiences of medieval women in England and beyond, from the quotidian to the sublime. Providing abundant evidence of their learning and scholarship, skills and ingenuity and creativity and artistry, it is, quite simply, unmissable.

    Medieval Women: In Their Own Words is at the British Museum from October 25 2024 to March 5 2025.


    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    Diane Watt has received funding from the AHRC, British Academy and Leverhulme Trust.

    – ref. Medieval Women: In Their Own Words at the British Library is unmissable – https://theconversation.com/medieval-women-in-their-own-words-at-the-british-library-is-unmissable-242258

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government appoints Judicial Member for the Senior Salaries Review Body

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Appointment of Mark Emerton as Judicial Member for the Senior Salaries Review Body.

    The Government has appointed Mark Emerton as the Judicial Member for the Senior Salaries Review Body.

    This role is responsible for supporting the delivery of the annual reporting cycle for the remit of the Judiciary and the Major Judicial Review. Mark Emerton will work with the Senior Salaries Review Body, which provides independent advice to the Prime Minister and senior ministers on the pay of many of the nation’s top public servants. 

    The SSRB’s remit covers senior civil servants, the judiciary, the senior military, certain senior managers in the NHS, Police and Crime Commissioners and chief police officers.

    Mark is a retired employment judge and former member of the Judicial College Board. He is an experienced judicial trainer, and has previously served as Chair of Havant Judicial Standing Committee and as a Diversity and Community Relations Judge.

    The appointment process for this role was in full accordance with the Commissioner for Public Appointments’ Code of Practice.

    Mark will start his role in October. He takes over from Sharon Witherspoon, a former judicial member, who in April 2024 was appointed interim judicial member to the SSRB for a period of six months.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Weather doesn’t dampen the spirits of Foster Portsmouth Great South Run team

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Three children in our care, three of our foster carers and two of their birth children completed the three races on Saturday which did dawn bright and clear.

    Wearing branded running vests, they hoped to raise awareness of Foster Portsmouth and the need for more foster carers from diverse backgrounds to provide a safe home for the vulnerable children and young people in Portsmouth.

    Foster carer Emma shared:

    “I really enjoyed the run. Unlike Sunday, Saturday had perfect conditions, sunny but not too warm and no wind. I managed the race nice and slow and steady, and ended by finishing faster than my goal. I really enjoyed the atmosphere and supporters. Two birth children and two of our foster children gave me ‘power-up’ high fives and shouted how proud of me they are. My youngest wore the medal for the rest of the morning.”

    Emma’s son and two of the children in her care also took part in the junior and mini races,

    “They did so well! Our 10 year old started strong and went off fast with some of the biggest kids. He had slowed down a bit, but then when he heard and saw us on Avenue de Caen, he began to sprint and sprinted right to the end. It was his second time running the junior Great South Run and he managed to come 25th!”

    “Our seven year old boys, one fostered and one birth child, did the mini run with my husband, Chris, assisting them. They set off together and both worked hard and ran the whole course. They were both so pleased and proud of themselves at the finish line. The boys loved the encouragement and high fives, and especially loved the goodie bags, finishers t-shirts and medals!”

    “We sat in a play park and shared fish and chips for lunch afterwards, which was the perfect end to a busy morning!”

    Unfortunately the remaining 15 foster carers and council staff in the Foster Portsmouth team were unable to take part this year in the 10-mile race on Sunday 20 October due to the weather.  However, they are determined to take on the challenge again for us in 2025.

    Cllr Suzy Horton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council, commented:

    “Despite the weather cutting the weekend short, we’re really pleased that three of the children in our care could once again join our team for this year’s Great South Run’s other races. It made the day extra special to see them enjoy taking part and achieving something new.”

    “With the team of eight taking on the challenge of the first three races in our running vests, we were still able to once again successfully shine a light on the pressing need for new foster homes in the city and the surrounding area.”

    “I was pleased to start the 5km race on the day, seeing off these foster families and many of Portsmouth’s and other local residents about to take in the sights of our great city.”

    “Everyone at Foster Portsmouth would like to express their thanks to every member of the team, whether they were able to take part in the end or not.  We hope the Saturday team of eight have enjoyed a well-earned break since.”

    Foster carers receive a competitive financial package, local round the clock support and ongoing quality training including through our mentoring scheme and our innovative award-winning Mockingbird programme which provides a support network of other foster carers similar to that of an extended family.

    The 5km race was also completed by foster carer Tania shared that the young person in her care who also completed the junior race on behalf of Foster Portsmouth:

    “She really enjoyed it – ran the whole way! I’m so proud of her!”

    Foster carer Rob, who ran the 5km with daughter Laura, reported:

    “Luckily the 5k was still on. The weather was actually really nice with sunshine and a little breeze to keep us cool. Lauren and I proudly wore our Foster Portsmouth vests, and plenty of people commented and shouted our names as we ran by.”

    “I’m super proud of Lauren running with me after having her baby daughter Rosie just 12 weeks ago! Rosie came to support us but was asleep from start to finish!”

    “We really enjoyed our run and saw quite a few familiar faces including a couple of children who have spent respite care with me.”

    The council welcomes all enquiries about fostering. Portsmouth City Council’s foster carers all share the same commitment and motivation to make a positive difference to a child’s life. This could be a short or long-term arrangement for a child, young person or siblings until they’re ready to live independently or be reunited with family, support for children seeking asylum or children with a disability, supported lodgings to develop their independent living skills, a parent and baby placement, or respite care.

    Foster Portsmouth needs more foster carers from diverse backgrounds to reflect the children and young people we look after in our city. Anyone aged 21 or over with a spare bedroom could foster with Foster Portsmouth regardless of their age, gender, faith, ethnicity, sexuality, marital or work status, or whether they rent or own their own home. 

    For more information on fostering with Foster Portsmouth, contact the Fostering SouthEast recruitment team on 0300 131 2797, visit www.foster.portsmouth.gov.uk or email info@lafosteringse.org.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pay boost for millions of workers next year

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Chancellor announces pay rise for over 3 million workers next year, as National Living Wage rises by 6.7%.

    • Chancellor announces pay rise for over 3 million workers next year, as National Living Wage rises by 6.7%
    • Pay boost worth £1,400 a year for an eligible full-time worker – a significant move towards delivering a genuine living wage.
    • 18-20 National Minimum Wage will rise by £1.40 per hour – the largest increase on record – and marks first step towards a single adult rate.

    Over 3 million workers will receive a pay boost after the Chancellor confirmed the National Living Wage will increase from £11.44 to £12.21 an hour from April 2025.  

    The 6.7% increase – which is worth £1,400 a year for an eligible full-time worker – is a significant step towards delivering the manifesto commitment to make sure the minimum wage is a genuine living wage.  

    The National Minimum Wage for 18 to 20-year-olds will also rise from £8.60 to £10.00 an hour – the largest increase in the rate on record. This £1.40 increase will mean full-time younger workers eligible for the rate will see their pay boosted by £2,500 next year. This marks the first step towards aligning the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage to create a single adult wage rate, which would take place over time. 

    The move comes ahead of the Budget tomorrow which will fix the foundations to deliver change by fixing the NHS and rebuilding Britain, while ensuring working people don’t face higher taxes in their payslips. 

    It builds on the commitment to be a pro-business, pro-worker, pro-growth Government. It delivers a key plank of the Plan to Make Work Pay, which is already set to boost the pockets of the lowest paid workers by up to £600 a year through the Employment Rights Bill.  

    The plan will boost productivity, creating a workforce that is fit and ready to help us deliver our first mission to kickstart economic growth – with good jobs and growth in every part of the country making everyone, not just a few, better off.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    This Government promised a genuine living wage for working people. This pay boost for millions of workers is a significant step towards delivering on that promise.

    Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    Good work and fair wages are in the interest of British business as much as British workers.

    This government is changing people’s lives for the better because we know that investing in the workforce leads to better productivity, better resilience and ultimately a stronger economy primed for growth.

    Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said:

    A proper day’s work deserves a proper day’s pay.

    Our changes will see a pay boost that will help millions of lower earners to cover the essentials as well as providing the biggest increase for 18–20-year-olds on record.

    The minimum hourly wage for an apprentice is also boosted next year, with an 18-year-old apprentice in an industry like construction seeing their minimum hourly pay increase by 18.0%, a pay bump from £6.40 to £7.55 an hour.     

    These increases will mean 3.5 million workers will receive a pay rise this year in total. They confirm the Low Pay Commission’s recommendations, whose advisory remit was overhauled by ministers in July to consider the cost of living.

    Hilary Jones, Ethics Director at Lush Cosmetics said:

    Lush staff making and selling our  products are crucial to our success, so we commit to the Living Wage Foundation’s independently calculated real living wage rates each year to feel confident our rates of pay are fair and that our staff can afford what they need to thrive, not just survive.  In these tough times where the cost of living continues to rise, it is great to see the Government increase minimum wage closer to these calculations to support the hardest working and most vulnerable workers across the UK.

    Baroness Philippa Stroud, Chair of the Low Pay Commission, said:

    The Government have been clear about their ambitions for the National Minimum Wage and its importance in supporting workers’ living standards. At the same time, employers have had to deal with the adult rate rising over 20 per cent in two years, and the challenges that has created alongside other pressures to their cost base.

    It is our job to balance these considerations, ensuring the NLW provides a fair wage for the lowest-paid workers while taking account of economic factors. These rates secure a real-terms pay increase for the lowest-paid workers. Young workers will see substantial increases in their pay floor, making up some of the ground lost against the adult rate over time.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ACP Statement on Gulf of Maine Lease Sale

    Source: American Clean Power Association (ACP)

    Headline: ACP Statement on Gulf of Maine Lease Sale

    Lease sale generated $21.9 million for the U.S. Treasury 
    ATLANTIC CITY, NJ, October 29, 2024 – The American Clean Power Association (ACP) released the following statement from Anne Reynolds, ACP Vice President for Offshore Wind after the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) concluded a successful lease sale for the development of floating offshore wind farms in the Gulf of Maine. Four lease areas offshore Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire, were sold in today’s auction facilitated by BOEM, generating $21.9 million in revenue for the U.S. Treasury. The provisional winners were Avangrid with two leases and Invenergy NE Offshore Wind LLC, a subsidiary of Invenergy, with two leases. Once fully developed, these projects are expected to generate enough energy to power over 2.3 million homes:
    “American Clean Power commends the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management for conducting this wind energy lease sale in the Gulf of Maine, marking the first opportunity for deploying floating wind technology on the East Coast.
    “Governor Janet Mills and Maine’s proactive approach to floating offshore wind technology deserves recognition. Today’s lease sale, along with Maine’s procurement planning, is a significant step toward achieving the state’s three-gigawatt offshore wind goal.
    “As New England continues to use more and more electricity, this growing power demand can be met with clean, pollution-free offshore wind generation. Development in the Gulf of Maine will not only generate needed electricity but create jobs and investment for New England.
    “With today’s lease sale building on earlier deepwater auctions on the West Coast, the United States is truly on track to become a global leader in floating offshore wind technology.”
    Additional Background:    
    Offshore wind will play an important role in achieving Maine’s target of generating 100 percent of the state’s electricity from renewable sources by 2040, and Massachusetts plans to procure 5.6 GW of offshore wind energy by 2027. 
    BOEM’s lease sale follows extensive environmental analysis and thorough public engagement resulting in incorporation of feedback from a variety of stakeholders. The commercial lease gives the awardee the exclusive right to propose a project in the area and obtain federal review of its proposal. BOEM plans to continue growing the offshore wind sector by facilitating up to 12 offshore wind energy lease sales through 2028, including a second sale in the Gulf of Maine. 
    Most of the world’s usable offshore wind resources exist at depths greater than 60 meters, which according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is the limit where fixed-bottom support structures can be placed – instead, floating substructures are needed.  
    There are strong economic incentives to develop floating wind technology that can make capturing these resources cost competitive.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Company Charged with Conspiring to Sell Misbranded N95 Masks to Hospital in Early Months of COVID-19 Pandemic

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Department of Justice
    U.S. Attorney’s Office
    District of Massachusetts 

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    October 29, 2024

    This is the second company charged in connection with the scheme; three individuals also charged with misbranding N95 masks

    BOSTON – A California company, and three individuals who owned and managed the company, have been charged and have agreed to plead guilty to charges relating to the shipment of facemasks that were misbranded as N95 respirators during the earliest phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States.  

    Advoque Safeguard LLC (ASG) was charged with one count of conspiracy to introduce misbranded devices into interstate commerce with intent to defraud or mislead, in violation of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. Jason Azevedo, 33, of Cedar Creek, Texas; Paul Shrater, 51, of Simi Valley, Calif.; and Andrew Stack, 52, of Santa Cruz, Calif., were charged with one count of introduction of misbranded devices into interstate commerce. Plea hearings have not yet been scheduled by the Court.  

    Earlier this month, a second company, JDM Supply LLC (JDM), and two individuals, Daniel Motha and Jeffrey Motha, were charged and agreed to plead guilty in connection with this investigation. In addition, in August 2023, another individual, Jason Colantuoni, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit price gouging.  

    According to the charging documents, in the spring of 2020, during the earliest phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States, ASG and JDM conspired to ship facemasks that were misbranded as National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)-approved, N95 respirators. It is alleged that one hospital, identified as “HOSPITAL 1,” accepted and paid for hundreds of thousands of purported N95 masks that were manufactured by ASG and sold to HOSPITAL 1 by JDM.  (HOSPITAL 1 did not use the masks, which were eventually returned to ASG.) It is further alleged that ASG and JDM misled the hospital into believing that the ASG masks were NIOSH-approved N95s, when in fact they were not. In August 2020, a NIOSH lab tested a sample of the ASG masks that had been shipped to HOSPITAL 1. All 10 ASG masks tested between 83.94% and 93.24% filtration efficiency, and thus fell under the 95% minimum level of filtration efficiency required for N95 respirators.  

    The charge of conspiracy to introduce or deliver for introduction into interstate commerce a misbranded device with intent to defraud or mislead provides for a fine of $500,000 or twice the pecuniary gain or loss of the offense, whichever is greater and up to five years of probation.  The charge of introduction or delivery for introduction into interstate commerce a misbranded device provides for a sentence of up to one year in prison; up to one year of supervised release; and a fine of $100,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division; Fernando McMillan, Special Agent in Charge of the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations; Christopher Algieri, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, Northeast Field Office; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Michael J. Krol, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bill Brady and Howard Locker of the Health Care Fraud Unit are prosecuting the case.

    On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus and https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus/combatingfraud. 
        
    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline via the NCDF Web Complaint Form.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RI Delegation Delivers Major Funding for Freight Rail Infrastructure Improvements

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02)

    PAWTUCKET, RI – Highlighting the importance of well-maintained rail networks, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressmen Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation will award $19,524,497 to upgrade key segments of freight rail tracks owned by Providence & Worcester Railroad (P&W) and New England Central Railroad (NECR).  The overall project is expected to cost about $26 million, with $19.5 million in federal funding and a $6.5 million local match.  Approximately 55.5 percent of the work will be done along P&W tracks in the Ocean State at a total cost of roughly $14.46 million.

    The improvements will replace up to 48,000 feet of older, lighter rail, install 7,900 ties, and rebuild fourteen public grade crossings on the Providence & Worcester Railroad main line in Rhode Island, and reconfigure the tracks and replace nine track turnouts in the Valley Falls, Rhode Island P&W freight yard.  The improved track turnouts will increase spacing and allow for more clearance for hazardous material shipments.

    When it is completed the new track should result in enhanced operational efficiency with fewer delays and faster travel times.

    The federal funding is administered by the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) and made possible through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, which funds projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of both passenger and freight rail.

    These CRISI program funds are made possible through a combination of annual appropriations and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 (Public Law 117–58), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

    “I’m pleased to deliver federal funds for these freight rail fixes.  This is a smart investment in helping Rhode Island companies and business sectors get products and materials where they need to go safely, quickly, and efficiently.  Making freight rail safer, more reliable, and more resilient for shippers will help strengthen our supply chains.  It will also benefit local drivers on the road by addressing deficiencies at railroad crossings that contributed to vehicle damage,” said Senator Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee who helped secure a total of $2.97 billion for the FRA in the fiscal year 2024 appropriations bill and helped set aside $100 million specifically for the competitive CRISI grants. 

    “This federal investment in Rhode Island’s freight rail infrastructure is a win-win for Rhode Island businesses and the public,” said Senator Whitehouse.  “Our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is at work supporting economic growth and keeping supply chains running smoothly and safely.”

    “The infrastructure bill passed by Congressional Democrats and the Biden-Harris administration is once again delivering for Rhode Island by replacing aging infrastructure and putting people to work,” said Rep. Seth Magaziner. “This federal funding will upgrade our state’s rail system to transport goods quickly and efficiently, and help local businesses compete in the national economy.” 

    “Freight rail is an essential part of Rhode Island’s economy and supports good paying jobs for workers in our state and across the region,” said Congressman Gabe Amo.  “Thanks to this $19.5 million federal investment Senator Jack Reed helped secure, our rail systems will be safer and more efficient for the businesses and shippers who need strong supply chains for goods to be transported.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: $4 million extra funding for improved access to advice and advocacy for tenants as part of plan to make renting fairer

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 29 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading

    The Minns Labor Government is further supporting tenants across NSW when they need it most, with a funding boost to the Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services.

    The network of 21 local not-for-profit organisations, help tenants to understand their rights, support them during negotiations and in resolving disputes, and assist and advocate for them at the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

    Funded by NSW Fair Trading, these services will be boosted by $1 million extra a year until 2028. In 2024-25, funding has increased to $16.2m.

    The funding boost follows the Minns Labor Government’s recent passage of the most significant rental reform package to assist renters in over a decade. The new reforms will:

    • Ban no grounds evictions;
    • Limit rent increases to only one per year;
    • Make it easier to have pets in rentals;
    • Ensure fee-free ways to pay rent; and
    • Ban renters paying for background checks.

    In addition to these historic new reforms to help tenants across the state, last financial year, NSW Fair Trading responded to 393,000 rental enquiries. Where tenants required greater help, they could access the free assistance of a local Tenants Advice & Advocacy Service.

    The network responds to around 30,000 requests a year for tenancy advice from renters in private and social housing, boarders, lodgers, and land lease community residents.

    The service also provides ongoing assistance to approximately 10,000 tenants annually.

    Find out more information about the Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services.

    Minister for Fair Trading and Better Regulation Anoulack Chanthivong said:

    “NSW has millions of renters who come from diverse backgrounds and communities spread right across the state.

    “The Tenants Advice & Advocacy Service provides local support through a network of highly-skilled  advocates who work to ensure quality advice and advocacy is available to all renters in NSW.

    “The funding boost will mean the services can reach even more renters and keep this critical information service free.

    “This is another step forward to get renters a fairer deal.

    “This is part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to build a fairer system for renters.”

    NSW Rental Commissioner Trina Jones said:

    “This funding will provide critical support to the millions of people renting in NSW.

    “The tenant advice program supports people in their own communities helping Fair Trading to increase our reach and support for renters.

    “This funding is another example of how the NSW Government is taking action to support renters across the state.”

    Chief Executive Officer of Tenants Union of NSW Leo Patterson Ross said:

    “We welcome this additional funding which will make it easier for renters to seek the expert, free advice, and practical advocacy that the Tenants’ Advice and Advocacy Program provides.

    “This funding increase will ensure services can continue to provide the same high quality advice we have for the past 30 years.

    “Tenants’ Advice and Advocacy Services are an important part of resolving disputes fairly. We help ensure renters know where they stand and help avoid prolonged disputes and unnecessary tribunal applications.

    “We look forward to continuing to work with the NSW Government to cover funding needs that have emerged with the growing renting population and as important tenancy reforms come into effect.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New Key Worker Accommodation arrives in Narrandera

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 29 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Regional Health

    Three new key worker accommodation units have been delivered to Narrandera Health Service as part of the NSW Government’s $45.3 million Key Worker Accommodation Program.

    Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park announced installation of the units is now underway off Adams Street on the north side of the campus.

    The modern and fit-for-purpose units will be fully furnished and self-contained. Each unit features a light-filled living and dining area, modern kitchen, bedroom with ensuite, an internal laundry and a screened verandah. One of the three units has also been designed to support accessibility needs.

    Secure access to the units will be provided and there will also be landscaping surrounding the units.

    The new units will assist the Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) with the recruitment and retention of health workers in the area, with staff expected to move into the new accommodation before the end of the year.

    MLHD is one of three regional local health districts to benefit from a $45.3 million investment to deliver accommodation for health workers across rural and regional NSW, under the Key Worker Accommodation Program, which is being delivered in partnership with Health Infrastructure NSW.

    Narrandera is the fourth site in NSW to receive new prefabricated units built off-site and modelled on a prototype unit completed earlier this year.

    An additional $200.1 million has been committed by the NSW Government to increase key health worker accommodation across rural and regional areas of the state as part of the 2024-25 NSW Budget. 

    Quotes attributable to Regional Health Minister Ryan Park:

    “It’s great to see the rollout of the key worker accommodation program throughout the Murrumbidgee Local Health District, and Narrandera being one of the health services to benefit.”

    “Recruitment and retention of staff in rural and regional hospitals is a priority for the Minns Labor Government, which is why we are committing a further $200.1 million to increase key health worker accommodation in the state.”

    “Securing suitable accommodation in regional areas can be difficult, so the new units will assist to remove one of the barriers preventing health care workers looking at making the move to a regional town to live and work.”

    Quotes attributable to Labor spokesperson for Cootamundra Stephen Lawrence MLC:

    “Narrandera is such a great community, and with the Murrumbidgee River and natural beauty of the town, healthcare workers should really consider it as a potential place to live and work, especially with this new accommodation available.”

    “The accommodation units are a positive attribute to the local hospital and the town of Narrandera, and we are looking forward to move-in day soon.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australia’s COVID inquiry shows why a permanent ‘centre for disease control’ is more urgent than ever

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jocelyne Basseal, Associate Director, Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID), Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney

    Christie Cooper/Shutterstock

    The long-awaited independent inquiry into Australia’s COVID response was released today, with lessons on how the nation could better prepare for future pandemics.

    The 868-page report outlined nine guiding recommendations and 26 actions, including 19 set for implementation over the next 12 to 18 months. These form the foundation for future pandemic preparedness.

    With initial strong national solidarity, Australia acted quickly to close national borders, the inquiry found. This bought crucial time, but Australia was not adequately prepared for a crisis of the scale of the COVID pandemic.

    Australia’s response lacked strong central co-ordination and leadership. Communication about public health advice was often conflicting or not appropriately communicated with the most vulnerable groups. Public trust was further undermined by a lack of transparency in decision-making, such as disease modelling, which underpinned important public health responses.

    In hindsight, the inquiry concluded a fully fledged Australian Centre for Disease Control (CDC) could have made a huge difference. In response, the federal government today committed A$251 milion to establish such a centre in Canberra.

    What did the inquiry find?

    1. Early rapid response and consensus helped keep us safe. As an inland nation, Australia was able to close its borders while preparing for the ultimate inevitable population-wide spread of SARS CoV-2. But it was unprepared for pandemic-related quarantines.

    2. Initially, the communication was clear and consistent. This didn’t last. Huge uncertainties, rapidly changing circumstances, differing opinions among experts and the politicisation of the response undermined communication strategies. Communication with diverse ethnic groups and vulnerable populations groups were often sub-optimal. In future, misinformation and disinformation needs to be addressed through improving health literacy and proactive communication.

    3. Our health-care infrastructure was lacking and couldn’t cope with emergency surge capacity, the inquiry found, although health-care workers “pulled together” remarkably. Aged care facilities were particularly vulnerable and had poor infection-control practices. More broadly, there were supply chain issues and inadequate stockpiles of essential infection prevention and control equipment, such as masks and gloves. Australia was unable to manufacture these and was left at the mercy of foreign providers.

    4. Analysing the genetic material of the virus and widespread testing were critical to tracking viral evolution and spread. Pathogen genomics in New South Wales and Victoria, for instance, allowed accurate tracking of virus variants and local transmission. But there was poor exchange of data between jurisdictions and limited national coordination to optimise data interpretation and response.

    5. Transparent, evidence-based decision-making was lacking. Disease models that informed key decisions were opaque and not open to scrutiny or peer review.

    6. Vulnerable populations, including children, suffered disproportionately. COVID-related school closures were particularly harmful as they affected learning, socialising and development, and disproportionately affected children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Strict social isolation also increased the risk of family violence, along with anxiety and other mental health impacts. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experienced higher risks due to the inequity of service provision and the social determinants of health.

    7. Research is important and should be rapidly scalable. Good surveillance systems for emerging infectious diseases and future pandemic threats should be in place. Patient specimens need to be stored so we can rapidly explore the mechanisms of disease and develop essential diagnostic tests. The inquiry recognised the need for Australia to develop its own vaccines and for access to mRNA technology was recognised as an important health security measure, given challenges in vaccine access.

    8. Global solidarity and co-operation create a safer word for all.
    The stark inequities in COVID vaccine access, opened major fault lines in international relationships and still complicate the drafting of a global pandemic treaty.

    9. Emerging diseases with a One Health focus should be recognised as a ‘standing threat’. In our modern interconnected world, with highly concentrated human and animal populations combined with stressed ecosystems, new diseases with pandemic potential will continue to emerge at an unprecedented rate. This requires a gobal focus.

    How could a CDC make a difference?

    One of the inquiry’s key take-home messages is that the lack of strong, independent, central co-ordination hampered our pandemic response.

    The inadequate flow of data between jurisdictions were major shortcomings that limited the ability to target responses. This is needed to understand:

    • transmission dynamics
    • the vulnerabilities in those with severe disease
    • the circulating viral variants.

    The inquiry also emphasised the need to analyse data in near real time.

    Good data drive evidence-informed and transparent policy. This is a crucial area for a future Australian CDC to address. The CDC will function as a “data hub”, with Canberra offering the ideal location supporting a multi-jurisdictional “hub-and-spoke” model.

    Australia’s new CDC is expected to be launched by January 2026, pending legislation approval. The ongoing challenge will be to ensure it delivers optimal long-term health benefits for all Australians.

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

    – ref. Australia’s COVID inquiry shows why a permanent ‘centre for disease control’ is more urgent than ever – https://theconversation.com/australias-covid-inquiry-shows-why-a-permanent-centre-for-disease-control-is-more-urgent-than-ever-239498

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Making a difference in communities and social care: Westminster’s Community Catalysts Programme leads local change | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Since the launch of the Community Catalysts Programme in Westminster earlier this year, the initiative has achieved remarkable success in fostering innovative, local micro-enterprises that support residents with learning disabilities, older people, and those with dementia.

    Funded by Westminster City Council, this two-year programme empowers local residents and community organisations to establish and grow sustainable community micro-enterprises through dedicated support, business advice and mentorship. From drama workshops to fitness and music sessions, these micro-enterprises are thriving, creating opportunities for social engagement and meaningful connections. Residents now have access to a diverse range of activities that improve mental and physical wellbeing, while also addressing some of the longstanding challenges within social care.

    Among the early success stories are Dende Collective, offering drama and arts activities for older people; Colliers Wood Shanty Singers, providing engaging musical experiences; and Creative Yoga Workshops, running accessible yoga sessions for all abilities. These enterprises exemplify the programme’s aim to foster independence and enable individuals to follow their passions while contributing meaningfully to their communities.

    Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, Cllr Nafsika Butler-Thalassis, said:

    “We’re thrilled to see how the Community Catalysts Development Programme is transforming the way we think about social care in Westminster.

    Community Catalysts is not just creating businesses; it’s building a network of compassionate, local support that understands and responds to the unique needs of our residents. This programme is a testament to what can be achieved when we empower our communities to be part of the solution to social care challenges.

    The creativity and commitment of the micro-enterprises we’ve supported so far have been inspiring, and we’re excited to see even more residents get involved.”

    Andre Pink, Artistic Director of Dende Collective, also expressed the value of the programme:

    “Community Catalysts has been a helpful resource for us, offering support in areas like safeguarding, risk assessments, and connecting us with others in the community.

    As a small organisation, their input has streamlined some of the behind-the-scenes work, allowing us to focus more on what we’re passionate about — involving a wide range of diverse audiences with live theatre and making a positive difference locally.”

    As the programme continues to grow, Westminster City Council and Community Catalysts are calling on more local residents to join the network and set up or grow their own community enterprises. Whether you have an idea or an existing group that needs support, the programme is here to help turn those ideas into sustainable, impactful ventures.

    For more information on how to get involved or to access services provided by these new enterprises, visit the Community Catalysts website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ghana’s Minister for National Security highlights the important role the country plays in the region The University of Aberdeen welcomed the Minister for National Security in Ghana, the Honourable Albert Kan-Dapaah, in a visit where he shared the important role Ghana plays in upholding democracy and resolving the security challenges in the region.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    The University of Aberdeen welcomed the Minister for National Security in Ghana, the Honourable Albert Kan-Dapaah, in a visit where he shared the important role Ghana plays in upholding democracy and resolving the security challenges in the region.
    The delegation, which also included Emmanuel Dadzie, Technical Director at the Ministry of National Security and Mrs Ann-Marie Ekpale, Head of Human Resource at Ministry of National Security, was given a tour of the University’s 500-year-old campus and met with the Lord Provost of Aberdeen, Councillor David Cameron on Monday (October 28).
    Relations between the UK and Ghana are rooted in long-standing economic, political and cultural connections, since Ghana became independent from the UK in 1957. More recent commercial oil exploration and energy transition has led to the exchange of experiences and ideas with the industry in Aberdeen. Mr Kan-Dapaah was presented with a football shirt by Aberdeen Football Club in recognition of the connections between the regions.
    The Honourable Minister spoke during his visit on the political and security situation in the West African region and underscored the urgency for West Africa’s longstanding friends to empower the region to meet ongoing multidimensional challenges.
    He shared his perspectives on the decline in democracy in the region and highlighted the impact of the ongoing great power rivalry as a factor shrinking the space for meaningful regional and international security cooperation. 
    The speech also stressed the role of Ghana in upholding democracy and resolving the security challenges in the region and the upcoming General Elections and the country’s preparedness to ensure free, fair and peaceful elections.
    The University of Aberdeen has a large number of Ghanian students and more than 500 alumni including Hon. Prince Hamidu Armah, MP for Kwesimintsim Constituency, Western Region, who studied for a PhD in Mathematics Education at the University of Aberdeen.
    Many retain strong links with their Alma mater and in 2022 an Alumni Chapter for the University of Aberdeen was established in Accra.
    The Chapter aims to foster connections among graduates living and working in Ghana and serves as a bridge between alumni in Ghana and the broader University of Aberdeen community, helping to maintain and strengthen professional and personal ties beyond graduation.
    The University also has an active Ghana Students Society helping to create a sense of community among students, helping them connect, support each other, and build strong friendships while studying abroad. It promotes cultural exchange and understanding by organising events, workshops, and activities that showcase the traditions, customs, and history of Ghana.
    Dr Manu Lekunze, Lecturer in Politics and International Relations, introduced the Minister’s talk by highlighting why European security planners cannot ignore security developments in West Africa.
    He said: “These reasons include West Africa’s proximity to Europe, significant demographic change, strategic resources, and great power meddling that has implications for Europe
    “We were pleased to welcome the Honourable Minister to the University of Aberdeen and to hear first hand his insights into the role Ghana plays in the security challenges of the region.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: BP results: Labour must properly tax obscene profits and reverse Winter Fuel Payment cut

    Source: Scottish Greens

    29 Oct 2024 Climate Climate Breakdown

    Labour must crackdown on anti-climate profiteering and fund our green transition.

    More in Climate

    The UK Government must close the loopholes in the windfall tax and use it to end the cruel cuts they have made to Winter Fuel Payments, say the Scottish Greens.

    The call, from party Co-leader, Patrick Harvie, comes as oil giant BP has published results that show eye-watering profits of $2.3 billion for Q3 2024 alone.

    Mr Harvie said:

    “All over our country there are households and families dreading a long, cold winter while fossil fuel giants and polluters are making a killing.

    “Shamefully, the Labour government has chosen to cut the Winter Fuel Allowance, plunging hundreds of thousands of pensioners into fuel poverty while companies like BP are celebrating obscene levels of profit.

    “We can’t continue with business as usual if we are to have any kind of liveable future.

    “It is time to tax that wealth properly and use it to lift people out of poverty, make the transformative investment we need in green energy and finally break the link between fossil fuel prices and household bills.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Social landlords continue to build new homes, according to RSH statistics

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Today (29 October 2024) the Regulator of Social Housing published statistics about the social housing sector.

    Today the Regulator of Social Housing published statistics about the social housing sector, including stock ownership and rents as of 31 March 2024. 

    Returns from all private and local authority registered providers show that the sector provides around 4.5 million homes across England, with a net increase of nearly 43,000 social homes since 2023. 

    This overall increase has been driven by approximately 24,800 more Affordable Rent homes and 17,300 more low cost home ownership homes. There was also a small increase of roughly 700 social rent homes. 

    Private registered providers had a net gain of around 5,200 social rent homes, although this was partially offset by a decrease of around 4,500 social rent homes for local authorities (likely to be driven by right to buy sales and other schemes). 

    Private registered providers built, purchased or acquired the majority of new homes in the sector, accounting for 85% of the total increase in Affordable Rent and 96% for low cost home ownership properties. 

    The statistics show that 82% of social homes in England are general needs (social rent and Affordable Rent), while supported housing makes up 11% and Low Cost Home Ownership 6%. 

    Private registered providers also reported that 71% of homes had an energy efficiency certificate rating of EPC-C or above, and a further 22% had a rating of EPC-D.   

    Just over 511,000 homes were surveyed by landlords during the year. Over the year, these surveys and other provider activity identified nearly 42,000 homes which did not meet the Decent Homes Standard; 37,500 properties were remediated to bring them up to the DHS and 1,800 were sold or demolished.  

    A further 5,200 buildings were excluded from having to meet DHS requirements due to circumstances which prevent or limit remediation works. 

    As expected, rents increased over the year. The average increase in general needs (social rent) average weekly net rents was 7.2% between 31 March 2023 and 31 March 2024 (in line with the limit set for 2023/24 ). The average weekly general needs rent in England was £105.22, though this varied across  the country. Average rents were lowest in the North East (£88.11) and highest in London (£129.83). 

    Rents for local authorities are lower on average than for housing associations.  

    Will Perry, Director of Strategy at RSH, said: 

    It is reassuring to see the sector continuing to build and acquire much-needed new social homes across the country, despite a challenging economic environment.  

    This data provides a rich source of insight into the sector as a whole, helping us understand the challenges facing both landlords and tenants.   

    Landlords should ensure they hold accurate, up-to-date data to inform strategic decisions, especially around rents and the condition of homes. 

    Notes to editors 

    1. Local authority social housing data was formerly collected through the Local Authority Housing Survey. Since 1 April 2020 it has been collected by RSH through the Local Authority Data Return, when RSH took on the responsibility for regulating local authority rents. Private registered provider data has been collected by RSH though the Statistical Data Return since 2012. 

    2. Both local authority and private registered provider stock and rents statistics are designated as Accredited Official Statistics by the UK Statistics Authority. 

    3. There were 1,592 providers on RSH’s register on 31 March 2024. Of these, 226 were local authorities and 1,366 were private registered providers. 

    4. Homes include self-contained units such as houses and flats and non-self-contained bed spaces, referred to collectively as units in the data. 

    5. Of the c. 4.5 million units of social housing stock owner by registered providers, private registered providers own 2.9m homes while local authority registered providers own 1.6m homes. 

    6. The limit on annual general needs rent increases between 2023 and 2024 was 7.0%. Additions to stock, units with exceptions and PRPs setting set rents in line with the prevailing formula rent rate when re-letting units can lead to the average year-on-year change being higher. 

    7. The Regulator of Social Housing promotes a viable, efficient and well-governed social housing sector able to deliver and maintain homes of appropriate quality that meet a range of needs. It does this by undertaking robust economic regulation focusing on governance, financial viability and value for money that maintains lender confidence and protects the taxpayer. It also sets consumer standards and may take action if these standards are breached and there is a significant risk of serious detriment to tenants or potential tenants.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Supporting food and drink businesses

    Source: Scottish Government

    New funding to promote regional products.

    Projects from across Scotland are being awarded grants of up to £5,000 to help to promote regional food and drink products and open up new markets.

    Food festivals, workshops and markets celebrating produce from shellfish to whisky are among the 17 local and collaborative projects to receive support from the latest round of the Scotland Food & Drink Partnership’s Regional Food Fund.

    The Fund, managed by Scotland Food & Drink, supports regional growth by backing projects to promote and sell produce from their areas.

    Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said:

    “We have some of the best food and drink in the world – the industry is worth £15 billion to our economy, supports thousands of jobs and businesses and is a success story at home and internationally. The Regional Food Fund is providing much-needed support to local businesses, producers and community groups to showcase the best products that their regions have to offer.

    “Through this fund we have seen more than £750,000 awarded from the available funding to successful projects across Scotland. This round of funding celebrates some incredible produce at some wonderful locations that mean people will benefit from it all across the country, whether taking part in cookery events on Arran, learning about wild food in Glasgow or improving their culinary skills at Fife’s Cambo Snowdrop Festival.

    “I look forward to hearing how each of these exciting projects develops.”

    Scotland Food & Drink Head of Regional Food Fiona Richmond said:

    “It’s truly exciting to support 17 more collaborative food and drink projects through this latest round of the Regional Food Fund. The quality of the applications reflects the passion and commitment to enhancing local food and drink initiatives, which are vital to the continued growth of Scotland’s food, drink, and tourism sectors.

    “We congratulate all this year’s recipients and are eager to watch these projects unfold in the coming months, knowing they will leave a lasting and positive impact on communities across the country.”

    Background

    Regional Food Fund | Scotland Food & Drink (foodanddrink.scot)

    In 2018, the Connect Local Regional Food Fund was launched consisting of 4 funding rounds, which saw more than £350,000 awarded across 78 projects. In 2021, the Scotland Food & Drink Partnership’s Regional Food Fund was launched in place of the previous Connect Local Regional Food Fund. This will be the fifth round of the fund under Scotland Food & Drink which has seen more than £400,000 awarded across 87 projects to date.

    The successful applicants in this round are:

    Bellevue Farm, Arran. Development of Eating Facility          £5,000

    In collaboration with Arran’s Food Journey regional food group, project will create a catering facility within Bellevue Barn which can be used to showcase local produce & offer unique eating experiences.

    Cambo Heritage Trust, Fife. Made in Fife at the Cambo Snowdrop Festival £4,989

    Project builds on success of the café, snowdrop festival and Green Market programme to host market events with cookery workshops featuring ‘root to stalk’ methods and provide a space for other regional food and drink traders with the opportunity to showcase their products in a range of markets called ‘Made in Fife’ at Cambo Gardens.

    Clyde Fishermen’s Trust/Clyde Fishermen’s Association, Glasgow. Festival of the Sea £5,000

    Winter festival of the Sea, building on track record of delivering seafood festivals. Event will provide a collaborative showcase that brings together West Coast fishermen, seafood producers, and culinary experts to celebrate Scotland’s rich fishing heritage and exceptional produce.

    Dornoch BID, Highlands. Food on the Firth £1,300

    Series of out of season, food-focused weeks in Dornoch covering different sectors such as meat and shellfish.

    East Lothian Food and Drink, East Lothian. East Lothian Food and Drink Recipe Book £5,000

    East Lothian  Project will create a recipe book that features East Lothian Food and Drink members. From cocktails from Buck & Birch to non- alcoholic mocktails featuring Brose Oats. From our East coast seas to our rolling hills and farmland.

    Essential Edinburgh, Edinburgh. Eat Out Edinburgh £5,000

    Eat Out Edinburgh will be celebrating all things food and drink at a quieter time of the year, encouraging locals to eat out in the city centre supporting their local producers, suppliers, hospitality businesses and the local economy. Funds will support a promotional campaign to achieve this.

    Falkirk Delivers, Falkirk. Falkirk Producers Market Growth Initiative       £4,725

    Project aims to expand the reach and impact of the market by attracting new food and drink vendors and enhancing their promotional capabilities. Fund will support free stalls for 15 producers and digital campaign.

    Fife Whisky Festival Ltd, Fife. Fife Whisky Festival £4,985

    New Sunday event to showcase smaller, local food and drink producers under the festival umbrella. Event will provide cross-selling and marketing opportunities.

    Food Lochaber (part of Lochaber Environmental Group), Highlands. Food Lochaber £5,000

    Project aims to encourage Lochaber producers to work together to sell to local customers and, where appropriate, increase their production of food by giving them access to an online market place run by the producers.

    Forth Valley Food & Drink. Flavours of Forth Valley £5,000

    Forth Valley  Development project to support growth & sustainability of the group. Activities include strategic review; member showcase and local food film screening events.       

    Galloway Food Hub CIC, Dumfries and Galloway. Galloway Food Hub PR Campaign £5,000

    PR & digital campaign to promote this online marketplace for local producers.  

    Granton Project CIC, Edinburgh. The Pitt Market £5,000

    Creation of first collaborative market with local producers, street food traders and the community. This event will showcase the best of regional produce and local entrepreneurs and startups.       

    Great Perthshire. Perth & Kinross Farmers Markets          £5,000

    Project will bring the existing four Perth & Kinross farmers’ markets together to present a shared proposition to their customers & shoppers, collaborate on good practice & common objectives. Working group, shared information strategy & forum are amongst some of the activities planned.     

    Rosemains Steading CIC, Midlothian. Rosemains Steadings Markets £5,000

    Creation of regular markets at this collaborative hub for entrepreneurs, featuring new stalls, tastings & demonstrations.  

    Scottish Food & Drink Histories Partnership Lab (University of Glasgow), Glasgow. Scottish Food Heritage Symposium: Tea £5,000

    In partnership with Mackintosh at the Willow, project will debut a one-day symposium of history talks, live demonstrations, tasting sessions & panel discussions.     

    Scottish Maritime Museum, Ayrshire. Christmas Market £5,000

    Expansion of Christmas market to include food and drink producers in collaboration with Ayrshire Food An’ A’ That regional food group

    Scottish Wild Food Festival, Glasgow. Wild Food Producers Showcase, £5,000

    Various initiatives to increase promotion & sales of wild food products/wild food tourism experiences such as wild food directory; digital activities & market stalls at events     

    TOTAL         17 Applicants                   TOTAL GRANT CLAIM FUNDING   £80,999

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Short Term Lets Licensing Statistics, to 30 June 2024

    Source: Scottish Government

    An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland.

    • There were at least 30,299 applications for a short-term licence as of end June 2024. 82% (24,810) of these applications were validated. Not all authorities report applications still to be validated to the Scottish Government as they are not required to.
    • The majority (82%; 24,913) of these applications were received before the 1 October 2023 cut off for existing hosts and operators to apply for a provisional licence to continue operating whilst waiting for a full licence confirmation.
    • The majority (18,965 or 76%) of validated applications relate to secondary letting (i.e. where a non-primary residence is let out), with 2,575 (10%) being for home sharing, 1,937 (8%) for home letting, and 1,333 (5%) for a mixture of home sharing and letting.  Similar proportions are reported for licences granted.
    • 21,075 licences or exemptions were in operation as of 30 June 2024. Full licences accounted for over three quarters (76% or 16,052) of this number and 22% (4,560) were provisional licences pending a final decision. There were 461 temporary licences and exemptions.

    Background

    The full publication is available at Short Term Lets Licensing Statistics, Scotland, to 30 June 2024.

    This statistical publication reports on the operation of the short term lets licensing scheme under the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 (Licensing of Short-term Lets) Order 2022.

    Official statistics are produced in accordance with the Code of Practice for Statistics.

    As advised in our May publication, there was likely to be a revision to the number of validated applications reported in the quarter before the October 2023 cut off for existing operators to apply and continue operation provisionally. As local authorities worked to validate large numbers of applications received. As expected, we report a large revision upwards (from 7,989 to 14,116) for July to September 2023, with smaller revisions in other quarters.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Housing Options (PREVENT1) statistics in Scotland, 2023-24

    Source: Scottish Government

    An Official Statistics in Development Publication for Scotland.

    An annual update on Housing Options (PREVENT1) Statistics covering 2023-24 has been released today.

    Findings for that period show:

    • There were 44,952 Housing Options approaches (from 42,161 unique households). This is an increase of 5% compared to 2022-23.
    • The number of open Housing Options cases has been increasing over time, although the latest figure of 29,900 as at 31 March 2024 is 1% lower compared to 2023 (30,075).
    • General housing options advice (20% of all approaches), asked to leave (17% of all approaches) and risk of losing accommodation (11% of all approaches) are the most common reasons for approach.
    • Over a fifth (21%) of approaches are from parental / family home or relatives; 18% are from a private rented tenancy.
    • The most common prevention activity is general housing advice (43%), informing clients of their rights under homelessness legislation (28%) and rent, repairs, referrals and negotiations with landlords (12%).
    • Just under half of Housing Options approaches resulted in a homelessness application (49%). This is less than 52% in 2022-23 and 57% in 2021-22. However, this is a numerical increase in the last year from 21,390 to 22,105 (3%).
    • Across Scotland it took an average of 180 days to close a Housing Options cases (that did not result in a homelessness application). This has increased from 137 days in 2022-23.

    Background

    The full statistical publication is available on our website.

    The Housing Options (PREVENT1) 2023-24 publication presents information on Housing Options Services in Scotland from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024. The statistics are based on administrative data collected by local authorities in the course of providing Housing Options services that are available when households seek assistance for housing-related issues.

    The bulletin includes information on the number of approaches made, details on the reasons for the approaches made, the activities undertaken, and the outcomes achieved.

    Official statistics are produced by professionally independent statistical staff – more information on the standards of official statistics in Scotland is on the Scottish Government website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The ‘Legacy’ of Phil Coulter on stage at the Alley Theatre

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    The ‘Legacy’ of Phil Coulter on stage at the Alley Theatre

    29 October 2024

    The music and memories of Derry musician Phil Coulter take centre-stage in his new show which comes to the Alley Theatre on Saturday, 9th November.

    In ‘Legacy: More Songs, Stories, Melodies and Memories’, Phil takes a fresh look back into 60 years at the top of his game – so much music, so many songs, so many new stories, distilled into two hours of vintage gold.

    “I don’t let the old man in”, explains Phil Coulter, quoting his hero Clint Eastwood on how, at 82, he’s keeping his pedal to the metal with his new Autumn tour.

    Commentators who thought that a sell-out run of show celebrating his 80th year was a kind of grand finale certainly underestimated the man, his boundless energy, and his incredible staying power. It turns out that there’s a legion of loyal Phil Coulter fans who can’t get enough of the affable Derryman. They wanted to hear more of his music, his classic songs, and his ever-changing store of music biz stories. 

    Bringing their own special magic to the proceeding are his special guests George Hutton and Geraldine Branagan, proven favourites with Phil’s fans.

    Quality from beginning to end. This is a show not to be missed.  Tickets are £30 available from the Alley Theatre website www.alley-theatre.com or call the box office on 028 71 3844444.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –