NewzIntel.com

Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Derry secures Best City Category at Ulster in Bloom

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Derry secures Best City Category at Ulster in Bloom

    29 October 2024

    Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr has praised the dedicated Council staff for their hard work and dedication after the city was once again recognised at the Translink Ulster in Bloom awards in Bangor this week.

    Derry City and Strabane District Council secured the 2024 title in the Best City Category at the Awards.

    Mayor Barr extended her congratulations to the Streetscape team within the Council on their success.

    She said: “Once again our city has secured this accolade in recognition of the fantastic work carried out by our teams to make our city look tidy, clean and inviting for residents and tourists. This award showcases the great work being done to bring biodiversity, plants and flowers into our public spaces. A huge thank you to everyone involved.”

     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: York care leavers celebrate award nomination

    Source: City of York

    Young care leavers from York’s Care Leavers Forum ‘I Still Matter’ are celebrating being nominated for a prestigious national award this Care Leavers’ Week (28 October-3 November).

    The group, which represents care leavers across the city, and City of York Council’s Pathway Team, which supports care leavers, have been shortlisted for the National Voice Awards 2024 in The Collaboration Award category.

    The shortlisting highlights the work the team and ‘I Still Matter’ group have been doing to work together to reshape and design the new local offer for care leavers. The project included consultations with wide groups of care leavers to ensure the new offering was designed around lived experiences, and includes increase support for care leavers who are parents and improvements to financial support, leisure and travel offering and wellbeing support. The awards will be announced on 30 October.

    National Care Leavers’ Week gives young care leavers the opportunity to challenge the perceptions given to them and raise awareness of the issues those in care face, whilst also celebrating the incredible things many go on to achieve. The theme this year will be: All of us, we are one.

    Events are being organised across the city to celebrate care leavers and the family, carers, friends, and mentors who support them.

    The council is also launching its new Care Leavers’ Offer during Care Leavers’ Week. The document sets out what young people leaving care can expect from the council and how they can access help and support.

    Danielle Johnson, the council’s, Director of Safeguarding, Children’s Services said:

    We want to support our young people as they make the transition from care through to independent living and beyond, just as most parents support their children well into adulthood.

    “In York, we’re incredibly fortunate to have the support of some fabulous businesses and partners who help support our care leavers, through opportunities or Christmas gifts, work experience placements or apprenticeships. I’d like to thank all those who have helped support our care leavers over the last year. It really does take a village – or in our case, a city – to raise a child.”

    Abbie, a care leaver, said:

    We’ve spent a lot of time working with the pathway team to co-produce the new offer.

    “We wanted an offer that was tailored more to the individual rather than a blanket offer – because we all need different things at different times.”

    Find more information on helping care leavers.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lord Mayor issues Poppy Appeal volunteer plea

    Source: City of Coventry

    The Lord Mayor of Coventry has called on people to volunteer and help the Royal British Legion with this year’s Poppy Appeal.

    The Legion has recently launched the appeal but is short of volunteers across the city.

    It needs people who can spare a few hours between now and Remembrance Day to help with tasks such as delivering poppies to stores, distributing collecting tins, or even standing and collecting for an hour or two if they have  the time.
     

    Lord Mayor, Cllr Mal Mutton, said: “The Legion always does an incredible job to help our city and its residents mark Remembrance Day and wear their poppies with pride. The sight of all those little flowers on lapels means a great deal to me personally, and I know to others around the city.

    “Sadly, this year there is a real shortage of volunteers and the Legion desperately needs some help so it can continue its great work to raise funds for those who have served and their families.

    “Coventry is a city of peace and reconciliation and we are always so proud to show our support on Remembrance Day, so if you can spare a few hours to help, please volunteer. Every little helps.”

    Also, the Legion is asking people to spread the word of the call for volunteers, especially around community groups.

    Anyone who can volunteer is asked to contact the Legion at CoventryNo1.Treasurer@rbl.community>

    Tuesday, 29th October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Work to start on Griffith Station upgrade

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Work to start on Griffith Station upgrade

    Published: 29 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Minister for Transport

    Work to make Griffith Station safer and more accessible will soon begin after the Minns Labor Government signed off on long awaited upgrade plans.

    Promised but never delivered by the former Liberal National Government, the upgrade will include:

    • a new boarding zone

    • tactile indicators

    • new ambulant toilets

    • upgrades to existing ramps

    • modification to the ticket counter and waiting room and

    • improvements to wayfinding and lighting.

    A new coach bay, bus shelter and accessible car space will also be constructed, along with a new accessible path from the station to the car park.

    Made possible thanks to an investment from the Minns Labor Government’s $800 million Safe Accessible Transport program, the Griffith station upgrade will ensure local transport is made more inclusive for people with disabilities and other mobility challenges.

    Joss Group has been awarded the construction contract, with work to start in late 2024 and be completed by mid-2025, weather permitting. 

    Minister for Transport Jo Haylen said:

    “Public Transport should be safe and accessible places for everyone. That’s why the NSW Government is investing $800 million in the new Safe Accessible Transport Program, to make sure our public transport is as safe and inclusive as possible.

    Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

    “Regional communities like Griffith have had to wait too long for accessibility upgrades and the Minns Labor Government is acting to right this wrong and improve access.

    “The work we are doing at regional stations like Griffith won’t just improve access to public transport; it’ll mean passengers with disabilities and mobility challenges will have better access to healthcare, education and job opportunities that all enrich our regional communities.”

    Independent Member for Murray Helen Dalton said:

    “The community has waiting a long time for these upgrades.

    “These upgrades will help make our station accessible to everyone in our community, which is incredibly important.”

    NSW Labor’s spokesperson for Murray Bob Nanva said:

    “I’m pleased to see these improvements being made Griffith have been designed to support and improve accessibility for passengers, including people with disability, parents or carers with prams and the elderly.

    “Community feedback helped shape the final upgrade package and I look forward to seeing the final result next year.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Second reading speech – Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024

    Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

    Check Against Delivery

    Introduction

    The digital economy has unleashed enormous benefits for Australians. But it has also increased the privacy risks we face through the collection and storage of enormous amounts of our personal data.

    The Privacy Act 1988 represented the first time that a comprehensive, integrated set of legal rules protecting interests in privacy existed in Australia. On introducing it, Attorney-General Lionel Bowen told the Parliament that “enormous developments in technology for the processing of information are providing new and, in some respects, undesirable opportunities for the greater use of personal information.”

    In that respect, little has changed. Evolutions in technology and the way people use it continue to vex those who share information online, and those charged with regulating it. It is essential that Australians are protected by a legal framework that is flexible and agile enough to adapt to changes in the world around them.

    The Privacy Act has not kept pace with the adoption of digital technologies. The vast data flows that underpin digital ecosystems have also created the conditions for significant harms – like major data breaches that have revealed the sensitive information of millions of Australians, exposing us to the risk of identity fraud and scams.

    Strong privacy laws and protections are critical to building public trust and confidence in the digital economy, and driving the investments needed to keep people’s data safe.

    The right to privacy is a fundamental human right. As Sir Zelman Cowen said in his 1969 Boyer Lectures, a person without privacy is a person without dignity. We must be vigilant in ensuring that evolving technology does not erode our ability to protect information about who we are, what we do and what we believe from being misused.

    The Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 is a significant step forward for Australian privacy law. It begins the much-needed work of updating our privacy laws to be fit-for-purpose in the digital age.

    With this Bill, the Australian Government is taking the next step to ensure Australians’ privacy is respected and protected. It implements a first tranche of agreed recommendations of the Privacy Act Review, ahead of consultation on a second tranche of reforms.

    It also delivers on a commitment made by the Albanese Government following the National Cabinet held in May to address gender-based violence, by outlawing the practice of “doxxing”, or the malicious release of personal data online.

    Schedule 1 of the Bill will amend the Privacy Act to enhance its effectiveness, strengthen the enforcement tools available to the privacy regulator and better facilitate safe overseas data flows. It will require the development of a Children’s Online Privacy Code, streamline information-sharing in emergencies and following eligible data breaches, and increase transparency when entities are automating significant decisions which use personal information.

    Schedule 2 of the Bill will introduce a new statutory tort to provide redress for serious invasions of privacy.

    Schedule 3 of the Bill will amend the Criminal Code Act 1995 to introduce new criminal offences to target the harmful practice of doxxing.

    Schedule 1 – Privacy Act amendments

    Schedule 1 begins the work of bringing Australia’s privacy protection framework into the digital age. The amendments re-affirm the Government’s view that entities have a responsibility to protect Australians’ personal information and not treat it merely as a commercial asset.

    Children’s privacy

    While all Australians face privacy risks in the online environment, children are particularly vulnerable. For many Australian children, social media has been part of their lives from the time they were born. They have never lived in a world without it.

    It has been estimated that by the time a child turns 13, around 72 million pieces of data will be collected about them.

    This Bill will require the development of a Children’s Online Privacy Code which will apply to social media and other internet services which are likely to be accessed by children. The Children’s Online Privacy Code will specify how these entities must comply with privacy obligations in relation to children. The Code will align to the extent possible with similar codes in like-minded countries, such as the United Kingdom.

    The Code will be developed by the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner, which will be provided with $3 million in funding over three years to do this important work.

    Information-sharing declarations after data breaches and emergencies

    Cyber incidents are growing in number, speed and sophistication. Data breaches are exposing millions of Australians to risk of fraud, identity theft and scams. This Bill will promote the importance of implementing technical and organisational controls – such as encrypting data and training staff on data protection – to address information security risks.

    It will also support more effective responses to data breaches by introducing eligible data breach declarations. A declaration will permit the sharing of personal information following a notifiable data breach for the purpose of preventing or reducing the risk of harm to individuals.

    Sharing information under these circumstances will enable entities such as banks to act quickly to prevent the misuse of compromised credentials. Safeguards are included to ensure that a declaration can only be made for a purpose that is related to preventing or reducing a risk of harm to individuals arising from a misuse of personal information from the eligible data breach.

    An eligible data breach declaration can be issued quickly and will make clear the kinds of personal information that may be shared, and with whom they may be shared, which may include state and territory agencies.

    Similarly, emergency declarations made under the Act permit personal information sharing following disasters or emergencies to support response efforts, including to assist affected individuals. The Bill will require emergency declarations to specify the kinds of personal information, types of entities permitted to share information and the purposes for which it may be shared. These changes will ensure that individuals’ privacy is protected while also addressing their broader interests, and will support enhanced coordination with states and territories in emergencies and disasters. 

    Overseas data flows

    The flow of information across national borders is critical for international trade and services in a globalised world. To support the free flow of information with appropriate protections, the Bill provides for countries with substantially similar data privacy laws to Australia to be prescribed. Businesses and individuals will be able to have greater confidence that personal information will be kept safe. This will also reduce costs for business when entering into contracts and agreements with overseas entities.

    Enforcement

    Effective enforcement of the Privacy Act is essential to protect Australians’ interests. This Bill expands the suite of regulatory powers available to the Information Commissioner to effectively enforce the Act and provides a broader range of enforcement options available to do so. This will include new civil penalties and infringement notices for less serious privacy breaches.

    To investigate potential privacy breaches in an increasingly complex digital landscape, the Information Commissioner requires modern investigative powers. This Bill provides the Information Commissioner with additional powers, including for search and seizure, which may be exercised under warrant when investigating breaches of the Act, and scalable enforcement options.

    The Bill will empower a court to make appropriate orders where it has determined that an entity has breached a civil penalty provision, which may include compensation for loss or damage suffered.

    Effective privacy protection requires proactive regulatory action. This Bill also strengthens the Information Commissioner’s capacity by expanding monitoring and assessment functions. The Bill also introduces new public inquiry powers which will enable the Information Commissioner to inquire into specified matters as directed or approved. This will enable the Information Commissioner to keep closer oversight of threats to privacy, including issues of a systemic nature, as they emerge.  

    Automated decision making

    The safe and responsible development and deployment of automated decision making presents significant opportunities. These systems have the potential to increase the efficiency, accuracy and consistency of decisions, and they present opportunities for improved outcomes in health, environment, defence and national security.

    The Bill will provide individuals with transparency about the use of their personal information in automated decisions which significantly affect their interests. Entities will need to specify the kinds of personal information used in these sorts of decisions in their privacy policies.  

    Importantly these requirements will apply to decisions that are wholly or substantially automated, ensuring that the new requirements cannot be avoided by ‘tokenistic’ human involvement in a decision-making process.

    Schedule 2 – statutory tort for serious invasions of privacy

    A statutory tort applying to breaches of privacy has been talked about in Australia for a long, long time – as early as 1969, when Sir Zelman Cowen, then Vice-Chancellor of the University of New England, endorsed legislation to create an actionable right to seek redress for breaches of privacy.

    There is currently no tortious right of action for invasion of privacy under the Act or any other Commonwealth, state or territory statute. The creation of a statutory tort was recommended by the Australian Law Reform Commission in its 2014 Report “Serious Invasions of Privacy in the Digital Era”, which I commissioned in 2013. It has been recommended by many other inquiries before and since.

    In its 2014 report, the Commission stated the creation of a statutory tort would “fill an increasingly conspicuous gap in Australian law, helping to protect the privacy of Australians, while respecting and reinforcing other fundamental rights and values, including freedom of expression”.

    Schedule 2 to the Bill will provide a new statutory cause of action, or tort, for individuals who have suffered a serious invasion of their privacy. This will include an intrusion on a person’s physical privacy, so the tort will complement the Privacy Act, which focusses on the narrower concept of information privacy.

    There are parts of our lives that we reasonably expect to be able to keep to ourselves. The freedom to enjoy a private and family life, and express ourselves and our beliefs in safety, is critical to our wellbeing and dignity.

    Ensuring that individuals have a clear right to seek a legal remedy against people or entities who seriously invade their privacy is a key part of ensuring that our privacy laws keep pace with community expectations and advances in technology.

    Schedule 2 to the Bill provides that an individual has a cause of action for serious privacy invasions, either by an intrusion upon the individual’s seclusion – for example by physically intruding into their private space – or by misuse of their information, in circumstances where the individual had a reasonable expectation of privacy.

    A plaintiff will have a cause of action without having to prove that any damage arose from the invasion of privacy. The damage or harm a plaintiff suffers will be a relevant factor in assessing the seriousness of the invasion, and the remedies that may be awarded.

    For a claim to succeed, the plaintiff will need to demonstrate the public interest in protecting their privacy outweighs any competing public interest raised by the defendant.

    In addition to the public interest balancing test, a range of defences will apply, including where the conduct of the defendant was required or authorised by law or was necessary because of a serious threat to life, health or safety.

    The Bill will provide specific exemptions from liability under the tort, including for journalism, enforcement bodies and intelligence agencies. These exemptions are important to protect press freedom and ensure that legitimate activities of government can be delivered effectively.

    The journalism exemption provides that invasions of privacy which occur in the course of the collection, preparation or publication of journalistic material, by a journalist, their employer, or someone assisting them, would not be liable under the tort. The Bill requires that to be considered a ‘journalist’, the person must work in that professional capacity and be subject to applicable standards of professional conduct or a code of practice.

    The journalism exemption also operates in addition to the requirement that a court balance the public interest in the plaintiff’s privacy with other public interests. This may involve consideration of the public interest in freedom of the media, or freedom of expression.

    A court will have the flexibility to choose the remedy or remedies that are most appropriate in the circumstances. This may include compensation for non-economic loss or an order requiring the defendant to apologise to the plaintiff.

    Schedule 3 – doxxing criminal offences

    Schedule 3 of the Bill will amend the Criminal Code 1995 to create new criminal offences targeting the release of personal data in a manner that is menacing or harassing—a practice known as ‘doxxing’.

    The prevalence of social media and online platforms has rapidly increased the capacity of malicious individuals to obtain personal data, and to release that online—either to the public at large on social media platforms, or to their associates on forum and messaging platforms.

    Doxxing exposes victims to significant and enduring harm, including public embarrassment, humiliation, shaming, discrimination, stalking and identify theft and financial fraud.  It can lead to threats to a victim’s life and safety, and the lives and safety of their families and friends. It can inflict significant and lasting psychological harm.

    Doxxing is a damaging form of abuse that can affect all Australians but is often used against women in the context of domestic and family violence.

    The creation of this offence also responds to a recent, shocking incident of a group who were targeted with doxxing on the basis of their religion.

    The Bill creates a new offence that applies where a person:

    • uses a carriage service to make available, publish or otherwise distribute the personal data of one or more individuals; and
    • the person does so in a way that reasonable persons would regard as being menacing or harassing towards those individuals.

    The new offence will carry a maximum penalty of 6 years’ imprisonment.

    The Bill also introduces a further offence, with a more serious maximum penalty of 7 years’ imprisonment, where a person or group is targeted because of their race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, intersex status, disability, nationality or national or ethnic origin.

    The Government recognises that there are circumstances in which people legitimately publish and distribute personal data, including individuals’ names, contact details and movements.

    The new offences will apply only where a reasonable person would consider the conduct to be, in all the circumstances, menacing or harassing, to ensure that legitimate conduct is not inappropriately criminalised.

    ‘Personal data’, in the context of these new offences, means information about an individual that enables them to be identified, contacted or located. This includes their name, photograph, telephone number, email address, online account, residential or work address, and place of education or worship. This definition recognises that doxxing can occur in a number of different ways.

    The Albanese Government is committed to the protection of Australians from online harm, and these new offences will ensure that perpetrators of doxxing are held to account.

    These new offences will complement work that is underway across government, to strengthen online safety for all Australians.  This includes the takedown powers of the eSafety Commissioner, the Cyberbullying Scheme and the Adult Cyber Abuse Scheme under the Online Safety Act 2021.

    Conclusion

    This Bill is an important first step in the Government’s privacy reform agenda, but it will not be the last. Over the coming months, the Attorney-General’s Department will develop the next tranche of privacy reform for targeted consultation, including draft provisions. The Government is approaching this important reform work carefully, to ensure increased privacy protections are balanced alongside other impacts, and that we deliver the fairest outcome for all Australians.

    After many years of inaction, this Labor Government is committed to genuine privacy reform. The Australian people expect no less – for themselves and their children.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Medal success for Derby Arena track cyclists

    Source: City of Derby

    Track cyclists who train at Derby Arena velodrome have secured stunning success at two national and international championships.

    Derby track cyclists recently competed in both the 2024 National Masters Track Championship in Newport, Wales and the 2024 UCI Masters Track World Championships, held in Roubaix, France. To be a Masters rider in the track cycling world, you must be aged 35 or above.

    At the National competition, Derby’s track cyclists were the most successful in the velodrome. Our riders took home 27 gold medals and National Jerseys, 27 silver medals and 22 bronze medals. They also secured a couple of national records for good measure!

    A tougher test would await a few weeks later in France, with the best Masters track riders in the world competing. Once again, Derby’s riders were up to the test. They won 33 gold medals, along with the coveted rainbow jerseys that that come with World Champion status. With seven silver and four bronze medals, plus two world records and a national record set, it was a truly amazing championships for Derby.

    Derby Arena’s state-of-the-art velodrome has been integral to the success of several Team GB cyclists, including some of this year’s Olympic medallists. It has become a beacon for both aspiring and elite cyclists aiming to reach the pinnacle of the sport, and now boasts four World Champions among its coaches.

    Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Streetpride, Public Safety and Leisure said:

    Derby Arena is a landmark venue that inspires participation in cycling, whilst encouraging people of all ages and abilities to take part in a diverse range of leisure activities and events.

    I’d like to congratulate the Arena’s Masters cyclists on their staggering success at the National and World Championships. To have national and world champions working and training in our velodrome is amazing and a true example for young cyclists of what can be achieved.

    Whether you’re beginner or accomplished cyclist, we offer you the unique opportunity to train in the same environment as these world-class champions. Everyone is welcome, so why not give it a try?

    Derby Arena has recreational, training and racing opportunities for everyone, with specialist sessions for novices, children, juniors, women-only, seniors and veterans. Visit the Derby Arena website or call 01332 640011 to find out more or book your session.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor convenes emergency rough sleeping summit, as he warns rough sleeping in the capital will get worse before it gets better

    Source: Mayor of London

    • Sadiq convenes emergency roundtable with the Minister for Homelessness and Rough Sleeping, boroughs, leaders and experts in the sector to find long-term solutions to the capital’s rough sleeping crisis
    • Sadiq announces new ‘Homes off the Streets’ initiative, with £4.8m investment providing support for people previously sleeping rough in 3,500 long-term homes
    • The Mayor reiterates his mission to end rough sleeping by 2030 but warns the scale of the challenge and legacy of previous Government underinvestment means things could get worse before they get better 
    • City Hall’s rough sleeping budget has quadrupled since Sadiq has been Mayor
    • Around 17,600 people have been helped off the capital’s streets since Sadiq was first elected through the Mayor’s services alone, with 75 per cent staying off the streets for good

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today renewed his ambition to work closely with the new Government, London’s homelessness sector and experts to tackle the rising numbers of people ending up on the streets as he warned ‘the situation will get worse before it gets better.’

    Sadiq is convening an emergency roundtable with the Minister for Homelessness and Rough Sleeping, Rushanara Ali MP, boroughs and leaders from the NHS, local government, homelessness charities and former rough sleepers to officially launch a call for evidence that will inform his plan of action on rough sleeping in London. 

    The Mayor’s plan of action, due to be launched next year, will establish a shared mission for ending rough sleeping, including the scale of funding required and the best mechanisms for achieving this ambition by 2030.  

    Whilst Sadiq is optimistic that rough sleeping can be ended with strong leadership, sufficient resources and the right strategy, he is warning that the scale of the challenge and the legacy of years of underinvestment from the previous Government in housing and support means that things could get worse this winter before they get better.   

    Sadiq is also today announcing a new ‘Homes off the Streets’ initiative, which builds on the Mayor’s Clearing House scheme and is being delivered by City Hall, with funding for support to help more Londoners in their recovery from homelessness.

    The £4.8m funding will ensure that former rough sleepers at 3,500 properties across the capital can support themselves and stay off the streets for good. It will provide advice and support in areas such as accessing financial advice, applying for benefits and using public services.

    The Mayor also intends to work with social landlords to increase the number of properties available in the future through his ‘Homes off the Streets’ initiative to ensure as many rough sleepers as possible can stay off the streets for good.

    London has long been at the forefront of delivering innovative long-term solutions to homelessness and rough sleeping and was one of the early adopters of a housing-led approach to tackling rough sleeping. Sadiq’s Homes off the Streets scheme builds on this legacy and is a pillar of his wider ambition to end rough sleeping for good by 2030.  

    Rough sleeping has been rising in London and across the country, with London hit hard by previous Government cuts to key services and a national slowdown in housebuilding. Latest figures collated by City Hall for 2023/23 show the total number of people sleeping rough in London has continued to rise, with a 20 per cent increase in the number of new rough sleepers compared to the same period last year. [1] 

    In response to the capital’s worsening crisis in rough sleeping, the Mayor has delivered record funding to homelessness charities and service providers and significantly increased City Hall’s rough sleeping budget. At £36.3 million, the budget in 2023/24 is now more than four times the £8.45 million a year it was when Sadiq took office in 2016. Around 17,600 people have been helped off the capital’s streets since 2016 through the Mayor’s services alone, with 75 per cent staying off the streets for good.   

    Sadiq is clear that ending rough sleeping in London for good will require every sector to step up and play their part – from health to housing, and social care to wider society – backed by greater investment.

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “We know we can bring down rough sleeping – it’s exactly what was done during the pandemic, and also two decades ago.

    “However, with rough sleeping in London and across the country on the rise, the reality is that the situation will get worse before it gets better.

    “Today I am bringing together Ministers, boroughs and leaders from the NHS, local government, homelessness charities and former rough sleepers, so we can work hand-in-hand to tackle this growing emergency. Providing funding to get vulnerable people off the streets and helping them to start rebuilding their lives is at the centre of our plan. 

    “There’s so much more we need to do at all levels of Government and wider society – as we work together to build a better, fairer, more prosperous London for everyone.” 

    The Minister for Homelessness, Rushanara Ali said: “To end homelessness for good we must tackle its root causes, not just its symptoms. We can only do this by working together across government, with councils, charities, experts, and front-line services. 

    “This is why the summit is so important because not only will it bring all these stakeholders together, but we will also hear from those with first-hand experience of homelessness to help inform the Government’s long-term strategy to get us back on track to ending homelessness for good.”

    Filmmaker Lorna Tucker-McGarvey, who slept on the streets of London for 18 months as a teenager said: “I strongly believe that we can end rough sleeping with the right support, so I’m really pleased that the Mayor of London has convened today’s emergency rough sleeping summit.

    “It is powerful to have a seat at the table alongside others with lived experience of homelessness, and I hope our stories will drive forward the goal of ending rough sleeping in London by 2030.”

    Cllr Grace Williams, London Councils’ Executive Member for Housing & Regeneration, said: “Rough sleeping is the most visible form of London’s homelessness emergency.

    “Tackling rough sleeping requires a range of policy measures, as well as close partnerships between different agencies and investment in the frontline services keeping people off the streets.

    “London boroughs play a pivotal role. We are proud to be working alongside the Mayor, the voluntary sector, and other partners in tackling this crisis. Together we can make faster progress towards ending rough sleeping for good.

    Charlie Culshaw, Director of L&Q Living, said: “We’ve been a key partner in the Clearing House initiative since its inception and, with significant funding from the Mayor’s Office, we have seen it go from strength to strength. Adopting a housing-led approach to homelessness has the benefit of ensuring access to expert advice from those with unrivalled experience of helping people transition from rough sleeping to having a roof over their heads.

    “As one of the UK’s leading housing associations we’re proud to support the Homes off the Street initiative to build on this success. We’re committed to continuing our support for the Mayor’s mission of bringing an end to rough sleeping by 2030 and ensuring that more people have a home to call their own.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Oxford Christmas Light Festival – partnership opportunities for local businesses

    Source: City of Oxford

    Tuesday, 29 October 2024

    The 2024 Oxford Christmas Light Festival returns this year from 15 to 17th November, with opportunities for local businesses to get involved.

    Each year, over 20 organisations in Oxford work with local communities to create an array of events, installations and activities across the city and its surrounding neighbourhoods.

    More than 20,000 people participate in or watch the festivities during the launch weekend.

    Much-loved community event

    Details of the Light Festival programme are published in advance on the Festival website, attracting over 13,000 online visitors, while more than 60,000 people view social posts about the activities. 

    As preparations begin to launch the festival programme, it’s now the ideal time for Oxford’s businesses to join the celebration, reaching thousands of Oxford’s residents while supporting a cherished cultural celebration that brings the city together and marks the start of the festive season. 

    Boost your brand

    Partnering with the festival offers a great opportunity to boost your brand’s visibility and enhance community engagement, all while helping to create an unforgettable festival experience for the city.

    The Oxford’s Christmas Light Festival is an important part of Oxford City Council’s commitment to ensure the arts, culture and events are accessible to all.

    To learn more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities, visit the Oxford Christmas Lights Festival website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scotland’s Redress Scheme

    Source: Scottish Government

    An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland.

     

    Scotland’s Redress Scheme statistics have been published for the period from December 2021 to June 2024.

    They show that over the first 30 months of the scheme:

    • 1,585 (97%) of applications were eligible for financial redress with offers made
    • 56 (3%) of applications were deemed not eligible
    • 1,488 awards were made totalling £76,663,543 after deductions
    • 971 (65%) were Individually Assessed Payments, 412 (28%) were Fixed Rate Payments and 105 (7%) were Next of Kin awards
    • Of the 110 apologies requested, 69 (63%) were delivered by June 2024

    Background

    Scotland’s Redress Scheme Statistics December 2021 – June 2024

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

    This is an Official Statistics publication providing data on applications, outcomes and payments made, fees and costs, as well as apologies made under Scotland’s Redress Scheme. It builds on last year’s publication of figures from December 2021 to June 2023.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Homicide in Scotland, 2023-24

    Source: Scottish Government

    An Accredited Official Statistics Publication for Scotland

    Scotland’s Chief Statistician today published Homicide in Scotland, 2023-24. The publication provides information on crimes of homicide recorded by the police in Scotland in 2023-24. The main findings are:

    In 2023-24, 57 victims of homicide were recorded, 10% (or five victims) more than the 52 victims recorded in 2022-23.

    Over the latest 10 year period from 2014-15 to 2023-24, the number of victims fell by 10% (six victims) from 63 to 57.

    Over the latest 20 year period from 2004-05 to 2023-24, the number of homicide victims in Scotland fell by 58% (or 80 victims) from 137 to 57.

    The greatest reduction in homicide victims over the last 20 years has been amongst young people aged 16-24. In the five years between 2004-05 to 2008-09 there were 125 victims in this age range. This dropped to 29 across the latest five years between 2019-20 to 2023-24.

    Of the 57 victims recorded in 2023-24, 77% (44) were male and 23% (13) were female.

    In 2023-24, 85 persons were accused of homicide, of which 81% (69) were male and 19% (16) were female. For all the 57 homicide victims recorded in 2023-24, the associated case was solved.

    For each of the last 20 years, the most common method of killing was with a sharp instrument. In 2023-24, a sharp instrument was the main method of killing for 49% (or 28) of homicide victims.

    For the latest year of 2023-24, the majority (64%) of male victims were killed by an acquaintance (28 of 44 male victims). Female victims were most likely to be killed by a partner or ex-partner (38%, or five of 13 female victims).

    Whilst most recorded incidents of homicide in these statistics have one victim and one accused, some incidents can have multiple victims and/or accused. There were 57 homicide incidents recorded in 2023-24, 12% (or six incidents) more than the 51 recorded in 2022-23.

    Background

    The full statistical publication can be accessed at: Homicide in Scotland 2023-24

    The term “sharp instrument” includes knives, broken bottles, swords, sharpened screwdrivers and any other pointed or edged weapons.

    Further information on Crime and Justice statistics within Scotland can be accessed at https://www.gov.scot/collections/crime-and-justice-statistics/

    Accredited official statistics are produced by professionally independent statistical staff – more information on the standards of accredited official statistics in Scotland can be accessed at: About our statistics

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Westminster City Council invests nearly £4 million in dedicated SEND facilities for young people and their families  | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Recognising an increase in demand for services for children with special education needs and disabilities (SEND), Westminster City Council has expanded its extensive current offer by investing nearly £4 million in dedicated SEND facilities for young residents and their families.  

    A brand-new SEND facility has opened in the south of Westminster – known as Tresham South, and a major refurbishment and expansion of our facility in the north of Westminster – known as Tresham North, has taken place to greatly improve our SEND provision right across the city. 

    £1.8 million has been spent on our brand-new Tresham South site in Pimlico in response to parents and carer feedback. This site includes our Short Breaks service – a place for children with SEND to experience unforgettable activities and develop vital skills, while giving their families time away from their caring responsibilities, as well as a new council-funded campus for College Park Special School. 

    The new Short Breaks centre contains two main activity rooms that cater for lots of different types of free flow play: one for older children and one for younger children. It also features arts and craft spaces and a main hall for larger group activities. The school’s facilities include a sensory room, occupational therapy suites and seven classrooms to provide an additional 50 school spaces for SEN children.  

    College Park School and the Short Breaks service also share several state-of-the-art facilities – these include a sensory room with a number of exciting elements, a soft play area, and a large playground space with an outdoor play area.    

    In the north of Westminster, £1.9 million of council funding has gone towards significant refurbishment and expansion to our existing popular Tresham North Short Breaks centre near Edgware Road. This provides cutting edge and expanded facilities, including an outside cinema, two soft plays, youth zone and facilities for children with complex health needs.

    Our expanded Short Breaks service addresses the council’s desire to increase SEND provision in the south of the city. It offers eligible children a local place where they can socialise, enjoy activities and learn in a safe and nurturing environment.    

    The development of all SEND provision across Westminster, including these new facilities, happens in collaboration with Make it Happen, a parents’ forum for those with children and young people who have special needs and disabilities.  

    At our opening event for our new Short Breaks Facility in the South of Westminster, Charlie Lynch, said:   

    Having this centre will really help my son socially, physically and emotionally. Nothing like this exists to include children with learning disabilities in the community. It gives them a chance to make friends, learn who they are as individuals, and have a safe space to play as part of a community.  

    Claire Sheppard, Headteacher at College Park Special School, said:  

    Westminster City Council have been instrumental in making this place work, making it the best it can be and has been really supportive in everything we do. It’s been amazing having local councillors and a great education department that are willing to invest in our children with special needs, knowing that there is such a demand.  

    Kayleigh Lloyd, our Short Breaks Service manager said:   

    The additional provision in the south of the city is something we’ve been really looking forward to. We cannot wait to welcome more of our families so they can access this new free, and fully accessible facility, that I know will be really enjoyed by all the children who attend here.  

    Cllr Aicha Less, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children at Westminster City Council said:   

    The council remains committed to a forward-thinking approach for special educational needs and disabilities provision. By actively consulting with local communities, we aim to understand their needs and identify the best way to provide comprehensive support. Our goal is to ensure that every child and young person with SEND receives the care, opportunities and resources they deserve, and these brilliant new facilities will help us to make that a reality in Westminster.  

    Note to editors:  

    Our Short Breaks service provides a number of different types of activity for children with SEND up to the age of 18 who have a package to attend the centres with a school holiday scheme, Saturday provision and after school activities. The aim is to provide valuable respite for parents and carers, as well as fantastic play and leisure activities for the children who attend. We have two centres within the city – Tresham North and Tresham South. To find out more about our Short Breaks service you can visit: https://www.westminster.gov.uk/shortbreaks. 

    College Park Special School is a local authority school in Westminster for children with autism and complex learning difficulties.

    Find out more about support for children with SEND on our family information hub – Family Information Hub | SEND Local Offer 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Administrator Samantha Power at a Swearing-in Ceremony for Emily Coffman-Krunic as Mission Director for Bosnia and Herzegovina

    Source: USAID

    ADMINISTRATOR SAMANTHA POWER: Dobro jutro [good morning], here. Dobar dan [good evening], there. 

    It’s really great to be part of this event. Jim [Hope], really lovely to hear from your perspective. Jim has most recently been our Mission Director in Ukraine, and this is the first ceremony that I’ve had the chance to hear him emcee. But, it’s great to hear from a fellow Mission Director what these ceremonies mean. Certainly, they mean the world to us. 

    Ambassador [Michael] Murphy, as much as you think you know about Emily, you are about to learn much more. You will have a lot more ammo to use in various interagency deliberations. But, I want to thank you for joining and doing so in the spirit you did, I’ve actually – we haven’t had the chance to meet in person – but I devour your cables and your tweets. But above all, I have the greatest respect for just how you have not taken the easy path there and really stood. I think, very strongly in the face of an awful lot of resistance and many many headwinds – for not only American values but ultimately for the dignity of the people of the country and of the region. Really, really grateful to you for that. I’ve admired you from afar for a long time. 

    I do want to recognize – and Emily and I just talked about the tragedy of the historic floods that have really besieged really small communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, very specifically Jablanica and Konjic. I know that Ambassador Murphy and Emily are already working with affected communities to support recovery efforts and even visited and met with the affected people. That means the world, I’m sure, to them, that someone has their back. But, our thoughts, of course, go out to those communities. There’s a lot coming at the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and when the floods pile on, it must be very overwhelming. So again, just a reflection of how much the American people care about the people of the country, and you all are incredible ambassadors for that. 

    Emily has a full house here today, in person and online, and maybe breaking some records if we add up all the miles traveled for each of the family members. But, we have her father Daniel and her mother Blanche, beaming in on the screen. And, here in the audience, we have her sisters Elizabeth, Ginny, and Julie. Ginny flew in all the way from England, and, incredibly, Julie has made the time to be here today after spending the past few weeks helping hurricane recovery efforts in western North Carolina. 

    And again, the parallel between what happens in Bosnia and the extremity of that and what happens here is just a reminder of the universality, sadly, of these challenges these days. 

    Thank you to the sisters, you seem like an incredibly close-knit group. I was like, “Are you thinking of visiting?” And they were like, “Ah, we’ve been there many times, you know!” So, I know Emily is incredibly lucky to have you in her corner. 

    We’re also joined by Emily’s children, of course – by Adrian, who studies engineering at the University of North Florida, and Emily’s daughter Stella, who began her own studies recently in anthropology in Amsterdam. I know that through your lives you’ve had to make big changes often to accommodate mom’s spirit of public service – leaving schools, and friends, and communities. So, thank you for your own sacrifices. You are the reason your mom does everything she does. So, thank you. 

    Alright, this is your life portion. 

    Emily was born in Jacksonville, Florida, to two parents we just got to see, who instilled in her the value of helping others. Her mom was a nurse before becoming a great caretaker for her four daughters, and then her mom worked at a local school. Emily’s dad was a pilot in the Navy and then a lawyer. 

    As a child, Emily was a go-getter who loved adventure, apparently. Although she was not the oldest, I’m told that she was the one who always directed the games among the girls. Emily went on to earn her degree in philosophy from Texas Christian University, before working at Merrill Lynch, where she saved up enough money to keep fueling her adventures. 

    She went to Guatemala for three months to learn Spanish and to Chile for six months to teach English to children of the indigenous Mapuche people, where she caught the spark, I guess, for international development work. Emily went on to earn her master’s in international peace and conflict resolution at American University, while also volunteering at the International Rescue Committee. 

    One day, Emily heard that the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, OSCE, was looking for people to support Bosnia and Herzegovina’s very first municipal elections since the war. The country, as all of you know, had emerged from a horrific conflict with the signing of the U.S.-brokered Dayton Accords just the year before, and tensions were high as elections neared – with the question of whether the Dayton agreement could result in lasting peace and whether democracy really could be meaningfully ushered in. 

    Emily still had two months left in her degree program, but everyone she talked to, including the professors whose classes she would be skipping out on, said, “You have to do this. This is too important not to do.” 

    But, she was conflicted, because she was clearly a better student than I was. And so, she called her dad, and he was the last person she just had to make sure that she wasn’t doing something crazy. Her dad, Dan, of course, was worried about her going to war-torn Bosnia – again, the bullets had barely ceased firing, and this election was really soon after the war had ended.

    But, Emily asked him, and he expressed some reluctance, you know, given that the headlines had recently been very grim. But, Emily asked him, “Dad, what exactly were you doing when you were 27?”

    And his answer was, “I guess I was flying jets off aircraft carriers in the ocean…”

    So, Emily went on, booked her ticket with everybody’s full support. As you heard, she went on to work in Bosnia and Herzegovina for eight years, eventually joining the World Conference of Religions for Peace, one of USAID’s partners in Bosnia and Herzegovina as the Chief of Party.

    Emily knew that for development efforts to be effective there, after such vicious inter-ethnic conflict, there needed to be enhanced communication and cooperation. The demonization across lines had been very, very intense.

    Muslims, Croats, Bosnian Serbs, Orthodox Christians, Catholics, Jews – everyone kind of had to come together in dialogue. So, as you heard again from Ambassador Murphy, she and her team founded this inter-religious council of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and it really has, over the years, worked to mobilize faith leaders, faith communities, in service of reconciliation and rebuilding. 

    The work has never been easy. The demons, not only from the wars of the 1990s, but dating even further back, loom large. The misinformation which really impedes, you know, the ability to sustain, sometimes, that trust that those encounters can breed – all of that makes it immensely challenging.

    But, Emily continued to help the council members establish common ground and find productive ways to work together. Over these last decades, this Council has played an important role on everything from organizing youth reconciliation, to addressing gender-based violence, to facilitating the protection of holy sites for all groups.

    I think this shows a characteristic that has defined Emily’s work over the years. Even in incredibly difficult environments where the odds seem low of succeeding, she has managed to help people see that there is a path forward, if they can come together.

    In Rwanda, Emily arrived at a time when the democracy team’s funding had been nearly zeroed out for two years in a row. The Mission was actually considering stopping all democracy and governance programming. But, Emily understood that supporting democracy, again as Ambassador Murphy reinforced, was, in fact, fundamental to advancing development. 

    To make enduring progress on any front, developmentally, citizens have to be empowered to demand and work toward the change that they want in their own communities. They also have to be able to, through raising their voice at the ballot, be able to get rid of leaders who are corrupt or governing poorly and in a way that isn’t bettering the lives of citizens. 

    In the words of Joseph Rurangwa, an FSN in Rwanda, Emily “fought for DG’s identity” – fought for democracy and governance’s identity. Apparently, she worked day and night to convince partners, donors, and colleagues that democracy and governance was worth the investment. 

    Emily went to battle, and Emily won. The Mission in Rwanda didn’t just revitalize the small democracy team that Emily had come to lead. It created an entirely new standalone democracy and governance office. The office went from having two activities in other portfolios to an entire portfolio of 13 democracy and governance activities: from training journalists, to hosting election roundtables for citizens and human rights training for Rwandan youth, to even creating the Mission’s first-ever activity supporting the LGBTQI+ community in Rwanda. Joseph says, “Emily steered the boat in troubled waters, and with her at the helm, 800,000 flowers bloomed all at once.” 

    In Jordan, where Emily started as the Democracy, Rights, and Governance Office Director and ultimately became the Deputy Mission Director, she helped manage a portfolio completely unknown to her: water. Water is a huge, huge issue, as everyone knows. For Jordan, specifically, the country is the third most water scarce country in the entire world. And, while a country is considered to face water scarcity when it has less than 500 cubic meters of water per person per year, Jordan has just one-fifth of that. Just to give you a sense of the magnitude of this challenge. And water, as we know, again, all of us, from our own lives, is necessary for just about everything. 

    Jordan’s water portfolio is the largest budget for any single portfolio for USAID, and it is also a country – one of the few countries in the world – where USAID finances large infrastructure projects. So, it was a huge task, and though Emily had no formal background in water, she quickly became fluent in everything from project finance to major infrastructure construction. One colleague at the time says, “Emily came to the job with so much humility and curiosity. It really inspired all of us to feel like we were all in this together.”

    Emily led the team as they took on two tasks. First, while Jordan had an existing water sharing agreement with its neighbor Israel, Emily knew that in spite of the complex relationship between the countries, they could and should share more water. 

    So, she and the team helped negotiate an agreement in which the two countries agreed to double the volume of water that they shared. This was a historic agreement that spared further water rationing in Jordan. But, Emily also knew that to meet the scale of need, Jordan needed to develop its own desalination ability, turning saltwater into drinkable water. So, she oversaw the design and procurement of the third-largest desalination project in the world, leading it through political negotiations, financial hurdles, and technical discussions, as donors, partners, diplomats, and elected officials came together to achieve a workable plan. Emily’s efforts paid off. 

    USAID was able to catalyze nearly $3 billion against our $300 million pledge from donors like the Development Finance Corporation, the European Union, and the Islamic Development Bank. When construction is complete, slated to be in about five years, the project will pump newly desalinated water from the south of Jordan, 280 miles uphill, to the population centers of Jordan, who need the water for daily life – through pipes that are so big that you can actually drive a car through them. This single desalination project will meet a full 40 percent of Jordan’s water needs, transforming its water security.

    Emily has spent the past year, of course, applying the skills that she honed leading these kinds of ambitious projects in difficult environments in the Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where she returned to serve as Deputy Mission Director. We are told that the first two weeks that Emily was back on the ground in Bosnia and Herzegovina, she met every single person at the Mission, from the Ambassador to the Foreign Service Officers to the Foreign Service Nationals to the cleaning staff, to get to know all of those who are part of her new team.

    When it was announced that she was going to be the new Mission Director, her predecessor, Courtney Chubb – an extraordinary Mission Director in her own right – but as Courtney described it, when word went out that she was going to be promoted, the Ambassador was completely overjoyed. And, as Courtney put it, “I’ve never seen so many smiles on the faces of our Mission staff.”

    And just to say a word about that Mission staff and having a chance to engage you all directly, you’re extraordinary. Our Foreign Service Nationals – as Courtney and I discussed when I was on the ground there on a visit, and Emily and I just discussed – you all are really some of the leading lights in the world. The amount you know, the amount you have achieved, the amount you have circumnavigated, all that stands in your way to make the peace enduring and to try to strengthen checks and balances and institutions. Many of our FSNs in Bosnia and Herzegovina have been there more than 20 years, some more than 30 years. It’s just an incredible team. And to have as a Mission Director, as you do, someone who so values you and recognizes how much she has to learn from you every day, that’s the best kind of teamwork that can be expected.

    So, there is no better person, I think, in something of a returning home, second home really, to Emily but for Emily Coffman-Krunic to be taking the helm as the Mission Director in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

    Bosnia and Herzegovina is a special place. It is a country whose people continue to experience incredible hardship. I talked earlier about the flooding, but there’s a lot of man-made disasters happening in Bosnia and Herzegovina, because so many elected leaders do not put their people first. Some do, and they are extraordinary, what they put up with as well.

    But, when institutions don’t work always on behalf of the people, it makes what the people do to make development happen even more impressive. And, the efforts that the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina have made, initially, to rebuild, to revitalize, to grow, really speak just to the resilience of all communities, and it’s an inspiration for those of us who only get to visit every now and then. 

    Since 1996, the U.S. government has provided more than $2 billion, including $1.5 billion from USAID alone, in assistance in efforts to support, again, those on the ground who are building a democratic and inclusive European country. One of the most complicated government structures in the world, makes things very, very challenging. It is hard, often, for leaders to agree on the kinds of basic policies or basic initiatives that the people really expect from them. When they agree, it can be very challenging to operationalize those efforts. But nonetheless, again, there is so much good that is happening on the ground. 

    The virulent nationalism that lives on, usually most vocally in those who don’t know how to or don’t care to deliver basic services for the citizens of the country, continues to threaten the progress that has been made. We see the direct targeting of NGOs and development partners. We see attacks on independent media. We see, basically, threats to this effort to build a strong, independent, and vibrant European country, which is so clearly what young people in the country want. 

    USAID has an incredibly important role to play in support of the whole country team’s effort to push back against these challenges. We are working to counter harmful nationalistic rhetoric and narrative, with the goal of strengthening the security and the dignity for individuals and for communities within the country. We are expanding our work with independent media, with civil society, with investigative journalists. We are working to contribute to economic development, to help the private sector drive growth, and to include all groups like LGBTQI+ communities, women and Roma populations, in the progress that the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina are trying to drive. 

    Now, Emily, I want to end these remarks on something your son Adrian told us. We asked Adrian what it was like to grow up and to travel the world with you. And Adrian said, “I always knew that what my mom did was helping people. It made me want to be a better person.” 

    So, Emily, I think it’s safe to say you’ve made so many of us here want to be better people, even I, just listening to your journey, but also seeing what you’ve been doing on the grounds in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and in Jordan, just during my time here. And, what I love about your spirit is you never give up. You don’t care about the odds. You just invest body and soul, bring questions and not answers in the first instance, empower your teams, and you have one of the best teams in the world there, as you well know, and you do it all with an eye to future generations and what would mean the most. 

    So, we are thrilled that you’re our Mission Director in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and I look forward to making it official and swearing you in. Congratulations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: OPDC pioneers innovative, money-saving technology as one of England’s first Heat Network zones

    Source: Mayor of London

    Old Oak & Park Royal paves the way for England’s future sustainable energy solutions as one the government’s first heat network zones.

    Announced as one of six designated heat network zones, Old Oak and Park Royal will be home to a new district heat network. The project, spearheaded by the Mayor of London’s development corporation, OPDC, will use pioneering innovative technology that draws waste heat from data centres to provide low-cost, low carbon energy to over 10,000 new homes, businesses, and a major hospital.

    The six selected towns and cities, including Leeds, Plymouth, Bristol, Stockport and
    London are part of the government’s plan to accelerate the delivery of heat networks across England in areas where zones are likely to be designated in the future. The
    learnings from these pilots will inform the work to reduce bills, enhance energy
    security, and achieve net zero by 2050.

    OPDC’s new heat network is expected to deliver 95GWh of heat across five phases between 2026 and 2040. The project was awarded £36m from the government’s
    Green Energy Heat Network Fund in November 2023 with procurement for a partner to help develop the network now in the final stages, an announcement on the successful delivery partner is expected in early 2025. In September, the corporation announced the acquisition of the site for the heat network’s energy centre in Park Royal. Before the site is transformed into the nerve centre for the new district heat network, OPDC is using the former warehouse building as a new circular economy hub, where small businesses recycle waste into new and useful products, including film and TV sets, furniture and other household items.

    OPDC’s district heat network will be in London’s largest Opportunity Area, benefitting new and existing communities living and working in the corporation’s planned new urban district. OPDC’s regeneration plans will see tens of thousands of new and affordable homes and 250,000m2 of commercial, retail and leisure development, high-quality public realm and community services and facilities, all surrounding HS2 and the Elizabeth Line at the new Old Oak Common Station.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New UK-EU Competition Cooperation Agreement

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UK Government and the European Union have formally concluded technical negotiations on the UK-EU Competition Cooperation Agreement. 

    • Negotiations conclude to support international cooperation on competition 

    • Will allow for closer cooperation between CMA and EU’s competition authorities 

    • New agreement will supplement UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) 

    The UK Government and the European Union have formally concluded technical negotiations on the UK-EU Competition Cooperation Agreement. 

    This agreement is aimed at improving cooperation between the UK’s and EU’s competition authorities, allowing for greater dialogue between the Competition and Markets Authority in the UK and

    European Commission and the National Competition Authorities of the EU Member States. The agreement will ensure more effective enforcement of global competition laws, helping to support businesses both in the UK and EU as well as protecting consumers.

    This is expected to help when it comes to work on similar or parallel cases going forwards – for example cooperating and sharing information on investigations into companies for unfair competition practices which cross borders between the UK and EU Members States. This agreement is one example of where we can strengthen UK- EU cooperation for mutual benefit.

    Announcement complements the Prime Minister’s call at the International Investment Summit for UK regulators to support the Government’s growth mission.

    The UK and EU have negotiated the agreement with a view to signature in the coming year. Parliament will have the opportunity to consider the agreement in detail once the text is published for scrutiny.

    Business & Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: 

    This forthcoming agreement recognises the importance of our continued cooperation between UK and EU competition authorities. This milestone underscores our shared recognition of the importance of international cooperation in an increasingly globalised economy.

    When competition law is enforced well across global markets, it helps to ensure businesses and consumers are protected while supporting economic growth, which is why this agreement is so important.

    Sarah Cardell, CEO of the Competition and Markets Authority, said: 

    We welcome this cooperation agreement, which will allow us to work even more closely with EU competition authorities on shared cases and common competition issues – without unnecessary barriers. 

    Effective competition has a key role to play in driving economic growth so, with many companies now operating globally, it’s important that competition authorities can cooperate more freely with each other to get the best outcomes for fair-playing businesses and consumers.

    The UK Government is committed to promoting open and fair competition globally to ensure the best opportunities for UK businesses and consumers, which is why the agreement will help support those global aims via close international cooperation. 

    These types of agreements help to establish how competition authorities work with their overseas counterparts by providing a framework on how to work together.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Public advised of traffic and travel disruption ahead of Strabane Halloween festivities

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Public advised of traffic and travel disruption ahead of Strabane Halloween festivities

    29 October 2024

    To allow the Halloween festivities to take place in and around the town centre in Strabane next week there will be some minor traffic and travel disruptions on Thursday, 31st October that members of the public should bear in mind.

    Castle Street will be closed from 7am-6pm on Thursday, 31st October to facilitate the Halloween Family Friendly Events which are planned for the town centre.

    The fireworks display will take place at 7pm from Melvin Running Track.  The pedestrian footbridge and paths around Melvin Running Track will be closed to the public from 6.45pm-7.30pm to facilitate the fireworks. There will be restricted access for residents only on Melvin Road and Ballycolman Estate from 6.30pm-7.30pm. Members of the public are advised to use Strabane Sigersons GAA car park or the town centre car parks.

    Drivers are reminded that normal on-street parking restrictions will be in place and are advised not to obstruct any resident or business, or access for emergency services. Accessible viewing will be available at Melvin Arena carpark.

    The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr reminded everyone coming to Strabane to enjoy the Halloween festivities to make themselves aware of any disruptions which could affect their journey.

    “There are only a few days to go until we all come together to celebrate Halloween in Strabane. Council has worked hard to keep disruption to a minimum, but it would be beneficial if everyone could familiarise themselves with any closures ahead of next Thursday. Plan ahead and think about where you will park your car or how you will get to the fireworks display. Please adhere to the advice of Council staff when you are out and about,” she continued.

    “I hope everyone has their costume picked and are ready to enjoy the fireworks and all the Halloween entertainment planned for the Strabane area. Plan ahead, stay safe and have fun everyone.”

    Any residents with domestic pets who find that their animals may be sensitive to fireworks may wish to take measures to reduce the impact upon their animal for the display between 7pm and 7.20pm. Council apologises for any inconvenience this may cause.

    If you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact Liz Cunningham on 028 71 253 253 or email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: York welcomes national children’s leaders to celebrate success

    Source: City of York

    UK government minister for Children and Families, Minister Janet Daby, with Matty, a young person from the Staying Close Programme

    Published Tuesday, 29 October 2024

    Young people and social workers in York met national children’s leaders last week as part of a visit to find out more about City of York Council’s work to transform services for children and young peo

    The government minister for Children and Families, Minister Janet Daby; Frances Oram, Children’s Social Care Reform, DfE; and Isabelle Trowler CBE, Chief Social Worker, met young people and children’s social care teams in York earlier this month [Wednesday 2 October].

    The Minister met young people from York’s I Still Matter, a group for young care leavers; as well as young people on the Staying Close programme, who are provided with wrap around support in their transition to live independently.

    The Minister also visited Clifton Family Hub, which will be home to York’s new dedicated SEND hub. Plans for the new hub gained approval last month and will bring together professionals from education, health and social care in the same place, supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and their families.

    The visit follows a period of significant change in the service, which has seen an end to the use of agency social workers, creating more consistency for children and families; the adoption of a new model of working, which puts children and young people at the heart of everything the teams do; and a significant reduction in the number of children in care, thanks to better early support for families.

    Martin Kelly, OBE, City of York Council’s Corporate Director of Children, Young People and Education, said:

    “I’m pleased that local young people have been able to share their own experience of our services with national leaders.

    “I hope their feedback about how our new-look services have helped them will help shape national policy around children and young people in the future.

    “I’d like to thank everyone who met the Minister and her colleagues over the course of the day. It was fantastic to hear the personal stories and see the positive impact our services make first hand. I’m incredibly proud of the team here in York and the work they’ve done to put children and families at the very heart of everything we do.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ed Whiting OBE set to be appointed new permanent Leeds City Council chief executive

    Source: City of Leeds

    Full council to formally approve appointment in November

    Leeds City Council has today announced Ed Whiting OBE is set to be appointed as its new permanent chief executive.

    Following an extensive recruitment process which ended last week, full council will be asked to formally approve the recommendation of its employment committee to appoint Ed into the role when it meets at Civic Hall on Wednesday 13 November.

    Ed is currently Director of Cities and Local Growth in the Department for Business and Trade and Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government, based in Leeds, and is leading place-based economic growth partnerships with UK Mayors and other leaders.

    He has also held senior civil service roles in HM Treasury and 10 Downing Street. Previously he was Director of Strategy for Wellcome, where he led the development of their new organisational strategy and global partnerships, and was the executive sponsor for equality, diversity and inclusion.

    Ed is very familiar with Leeds having grown up in the city. He now lives in West Yorkshire with his partner, David, and they are foster carers to a young baby.

    Leader of Leeds City Council Councillor James Lewis said:

     “Throughout the extensive recruitment and selection process, Ed’s understanding of Leeds, our collective city ambitions, our values, our challenges and ideas for the future made him the best candidate for the role. I am looking forward to working with Ed as we move forward with our positive vision for the future, one which recognises the amazing strengths and opportunities we have and focuses on tackling poverty and inequality, whilst delivering high-quality public services for everyone who lives and works in our city.”

    On his recommendation for the post Ed Whiting OBE said:

    “I’m over the moon to be recommended to full council as our next chief executive. I love Leeds and am excited to be part of the next chapter of our city’s story. Through the recruitment process I’ve enjoyed getting to know Team Leeds better, and have been impressed with the dedication across our council team and partners, and the strong shared commitment to do their best for all Leeds residents.

    “I’m looking forward to joining the team as we work together on both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for our brilliant city.”

    Ed is expected to join the council early next year, with Mariana Pexton remaining in post as interim chief executive until then. The new permanent chief executive succeeds Tom Riordan CBE, who left the council last month after 14 years in the role.

     

    ENDS

     

    For media enquiries please contact:

    Leeds City Council communications and marketing,

    Email: communicationsteam@leeds.gov.uk

    Tel: 0113 378 6007

     

     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Virgin Media O2 and Jangala help Coventry people connect

    Source: City of Coventry

    Virgin Media O2 has helped thousands of people affected by data poverty get online with free WiFi through its partnership with technology charity, Jangala.

    Virgin Media O2 and Jangala have reached a milestone of providing more than 1,000 internet-enabling ‘Get Boxes’ to charities and local authorities across the UK. The organisations are committed to rolling out 5,000 Get Boxes by April 2025.

    A Get Box is a book size device which can be plugged in to provide an instant and secure WiFi network, powered by free O2 mobile data, ensuring that those in need can stay connected.

    The O2 mobile data is provided by the National Databank, founded by Virgin Media O2 and charity, Good Things Foundation, which is like a foodbank but provides free O2 data, texts and calls to those who need it.

    It forms part of Virgin Media O2’s sustainability strategy, the Better Connections Plan, and the company’s goal to connect one million digitally excluded people through free and affordable connectivity and services.

    Free, fast and secure WiFi

    Get Boxes are helping low-income families and people who would otherwise be disconnected get online via free fast and reliable WiFi.  Those already benefiting include people who are unemployed, the elderly, those who are living in temporary accommodation and refuges.

    It means they can access essential services, such as applying for work, booking medical appointments, or building their skills via online training courses, and is helping them stay connected to loved ones.

    The devices, which can connect up to 20 people at time, have been distributed by local authorities, including Coventry City Council, and the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, as well as charities such as digital inclusion charity, AbilityNet, and Roundabout, a youth housing charity providing shelter, support and life skills to young people aged 16-25 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

    Coventry City Council has received hundreds of Get Boxes to help vulnerable residents living in temporary accommodation get online.

    The council has partnered with organisations such as Valley House and the Salvation Army, and distributed the devices to places such as hostels and houses across the city.

    Cllr Richard Brown, Cabinet Member for Strategic Finance and Resources at Coventry City Council, said:

    “All aspects of our lives are increasingly heading online. Employment opportunities, public services and everyday tasks rely on the Internet more than ever.  That’s why we are working so hard to reduce the digital divide in our city.

    “Having such supportive, committed partners like Virgin Media O2 and Jangala has been essential to the continued success of that work.

    “These Get Boxes are really fantastic pieces of kit and the feedback we’re getting from residents is excellent.”

    Grace*, who has been using a Get Box to get online, said:

    “I was very happy. Like this, I can speak more with my family. I have not seen them for one year. I cried with happiness when I got the box.”

    Nicola Green, Chief Communications and Corporate Affairs Officer at Virgin Media O2, said:

    “Virgin Media O2 is proud to be leading the way in helping those in need to get online.

    “Our partnership with Jangala is providing a lifeline to thousands of people who otherwise would be disconnected, giving them access to the online world so they can do everything from booking medical appointments to accessing digital skills training, or simply staying in touch with loved ones.

    “It builds on the measures Virgin Media O2 is taking to tackle data poverty. Whether it’s free O2 data from the National Databank, rehoming devices and data with people who need them via Community Calling, or offering reduced broadband and mobile plans for people receiving benefits, we’re committed to helping people in need stay connected.”

    Rich Thanki, Managing Director at Jangala, said:

    “Jangala is very proud to be partnering with Virgin Media O2 to help connect thousands of people across the UK who have faced digital exclusion, helping people access important services, communication with family and friends and all that Internet access brings.

    “Our low-cost and open source Get Box, designed at the outset of the Covid lockdown, and our work with Virgin Media O2, the National Databank, local councils and groups across the UK, is a great demonstration of the power of collaborative tech for good”

    Organisations can apply for Get Boxes by visiting Jangala’s website.

    Virgin Media O2 also supports Jangala’s global Emergency Response programme, where the company provides funding and O2 data for Jangala’s award-winning Big Boxes. Big Boxes are deployed during global humanitarian crises, enabling disaster response teams and communities to access WiFi.

    On top of this, Virgin Media O2 has also rehomed 20,000 smartphones with people who need them as part of its Community Calling initiative with environmental charity, Hubbub.

    *Name has been changed.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Local entrepreneur sets up shop in city centre Pop Up

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Local entrepreneur and e-tailer JAQUARD&Co are the second business to open in the city centre Portsmouth Pop Up shop. This business started online last year and has already achieved a six figure turnover selling quality home furnishings and décor. They will open for business on Saturday 2 November in the Portsmouth Pop Up shop located in Cascades.

    Paula Haq, entrepreneur and owner of JAQUARD&Co said:

    “I am thrilled to take on the Portsmouth Pop Up shop as a new experience for one of my brands. Not only will it give me exposure and new insights, but it is also a development for my business that I am grateful to explore.

    With the success of JAQUARD&CO online, I would love to see my small business expanding here in Portsmouth alongside the other upcoming brands I’m working on.

    The Portsmouth Pop Up scheme is a great opportunity for me to test run a physical store alongside my online business and grow my business”

    The Portsmouth Pop-Up shop, a joint venture between Portsmouth City Council, Cascades, and Flude, opened in February to address the increasing demand for business space in the city. The first tenant, Goly Natural, a local natural skincare business, has been so successful that they plan to establish a permanent shop next year.

    The Portsmouth Pop Up enables local entrepreneurs and small businesses to trade in a high street location without the commitment or cost of a longer-term lease.

    Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of the council with responsibility for Economic Development said:

    “Despite changing behaviour on the high street, the retail property market remains promising. Pop Up shop schemes can help to bring life back into towns and city centres, whilst giving independent businesses a great opportunity to have a shop front in a prime retail location.

    It is fantastic to see the Portsmouth Pop Up initiative thriving and supporting local businesses like JAQUARD&Co to grow. This is a fantastic example of how we’re working together to regenerate the city centre. “

    Paula added:

    “I’ve been buying and selling products and services since I was 21 alongside my everyday job. When I bought my first house , decorating was my favourite thing to do. The homeware market was short on the things I wanted and instantly that became a business idea.

    I’m very excited to be opening my first ever store and I’m ready for the challenge”

    JAQUARD&Co move into Cascades ready for Christmas offering a range of simple, quality and affordable home furnishings and décor including, cushions, throws, candles, ornaments, dinnerware and kitchenware.

    Businesses can apply to rent the pop-up shop in Cascades, in Portsmouth’s city centre for a minimum of 13 weeks giving them a chance to engage with customers and launch products and services.

    For more information about Portsmouth Pop Up 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: EPA prevents chemical accident Consent Agreement and Final Order issued to protect Dudley, MA

    Source: US Environment Protection Agency

    BOSTON (Oct. 25, 2024) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Agency (EPA) announced a settlement of its administrative penalty and compliance case against Shield Packaging Company in Dudley, Mass. for alleged violations of the chemical accident prevention and preparedness provisions of Clean Air Act.

    The company, an aerosol products manufacturing operation, was issued an EPA compliance order in November of 2023 to correct alleged violations of the Clean Air Act’s Risk Management Program and General Duty Clause, which were identified after EPA’s August 2021 inspection. The company has been complying with the compliance order, and under the recent settlement, will pay a penalty of $219,500.

    “Workers and those living near businesses have a right to be free of worry about chemical accidents. Facilities storing and handling extremely hazardous substances must remain compliant with the laws and requirements to keep workers and neighbors safe,” said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “EPA will continue to enforce regulations that protect communities and prevent harmful accidents.”

    Background

    On August 4, 2021, representatives from EPA Region 1 conducted an announced inspection at the facility to assess compliance with the requirements of Clean Air Act (CAA) Section 112(r), including the Risk Management Regulations (RMP) and other federal environmental laws and regulations.

    Shield Packaging Co. provided various information and documents to EPA both during and after the inspection. EPA issued an administrative notice of violation and compliance order to the company in November of 2023 for many, but not all, of the following violations that EPA subsequently included in the penalty: 

    CAA 112(r) Risk Management Regulations and Process Hazard Analysis Violation (40 C.F.R. § 68.67): Shield Packaging Co. violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to timely update its Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) for the facility’s processes that involve flammable chemical propellants. PHAs are important to help a facility analyze potential causes and effects of a chemical release and help prevent them. RMP regulations require PHAs to be updated at least every five years.  

    CAA 112(r) RMP Compliance Audit Violation (40 C.F.R. § 68.79): Shield Packaging Company violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to timely audit the company’s compliance with the RMP requirements. The company is required to evaluate its compliance with these requirements at least every three years and produce an audit report to verify that procedures and practices developed under RMP regulations are adequate and are being followed at the Facility. The report must also respond to the identified deficiencies at the Facility and document that they have been corrected.  

    CAA 112(r) RMP Mechanical Integrity Procedures Violation (40 C.F.R. § 68.73): Shield Packaging Company violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to establish mechanical integrity procedures for its tanks that store chemical propellants. The company is required to establish and implement written procedures to maintain the ongoing integrity of its process equipment. The company’s 2018 Compliance Audit Checklist revealed that the Facility had no written plan to maintain the mechanical integrity of its process equipment.

    CAA Section 112(r) RMP Training Procedures Violation (40 C.F.R. § 68.71): Shield Packaging Company violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to train the employees involved in certain operating processes and document the training.

    CAA Section 112(r) RMP Emergency Planning and Response Action Plan Violation (40 C.F.R. §§ 68.90 and 68.95): Shield Packaging Company violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to establish an adequate emergency planning and response action program which is important for a facility to have in case of an accidental release of any flammable gases.

    CAA Section 112(r) RMP Operating Procedures Violation (40 C.F.R. § 68.69): Shield Packaging Company violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to annually recertify its written operating procedures. The operating procedures also lacked essential precautions to prevent exposure to chemicals, such as a requirement to use personal protective equipment or including gas detection.

    A copy of the Final Consent Agreement and Final order is available upon request.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Five-year plan commits to Sheffield being a proud dementia-friendly city Sheffield has a new citywide dementia plan to provide people with dementia and their families with the right support and care. 28 October 2024

    Source: City of Sheffield

    Sheffield’s skyline

    Sheffield has a new citywide dementia plan to provide people with dementia and their families with the right support and care.

    The Council, key partners across the city, people living with dementia and their families have all worked together to inform the plan, which aims for Sheffield to become a proud dementia-friendly city.

    It will be discussed next week by members of the Adult Health and Social Care Policy Committee who will be asked to approve the plan, which will run from 2025-2030.

    Councillor Angela Argenzio, Chair of Adult Health and Social Care Policy Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: “Our vision is to make sure people with dementia are supported by being in the right environment, with the right support around them. At committee today, the Council and its key partner organisations signed up to a five-year plan, designed as a result of research and conversations with providers and people and families with lived experience of dementia. It focuses on what they have said is important to them.

    Nine commitments make up the plan:

    • Sheffield will become a Dementia friendly city
    • More will be done to prevent, reduce, and delay, the risk of developing dementia
    • Improved access to dementia diagnosis at the earliest possible stage for the people of Sheffield.
    • Support will be personalised, local and accessible, to help people with dementia to remain independent for as long as possible
    • High quality support to families and carers of people living with dementia in Sheffield will be provided
    • People living with dementia and their carers will receive care and support that recognises and works with them as individuals
    • Families and staff will be supported to plan ahead to reduce the likelihood of dementia related crisis
    • Improved care for people with dementia attending hospital
    • Personalised, good quality palliative and end of life care when needed

    Councillor Angela Argenzio added: “We’re driving this work forward with the NHS South Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, all of our partners from both the statutory, voluntary sector and working with communities because we need to be better at supporting the diverse needs of this group of people.

    “In Sheffield, we know that our success will be because we have adopted a multi-agency approach in supporting people across the city. It’s the working together that will be key. Supporting people with dementia and their families and those who work with dementia effectively will only be possible by having a focus on doing the things that we know have been agreed as a result of what people living with dementia have told us is important. Working in partnership is key to us all making progress together.

    “One of the biggest highlights from the results showed how difficult lives can become for those living with dementia if there isn’t consistency. Consistency makes a world of difference. Our job is to make sure they are fully supported, and we want to achieve this through these commitments.”

    Grace Stead from ‘Enrichment for the Elderly’ delivers Dementia Stars training in the city funded by Sheffield City Council through Dementia Advice Sheffield. This training helps professionals and volunteers understand dementia better and the training is designed to meet the diverse needs of Sheffield’s communities.

    Grace said: “When supporting my nan with dementia people just didn’t understand how best to support her. The negative impact on her, me and those around her was huge. These dementia commitments will help us to put people with dementia at the centre of what we do, working together to support the person with dementia and the people around them with better understanding at the heart of it.” 

    People in the city who have done Dementia Stars training speak highly of the difference it has made to them: 

    “I wish I would have had this training years ago; it would have helped me support my mum better who had dementia, but it will now support my practice.”

    “This has been the best learning experience I have ever had! Inspiring, it makes you want to make a difference to people’s lives.”

    More information about dementia training is available here: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/sheffield/our-services/dementia-services-professionals/das-training/

    It’s estimated that there are over 6,000 and up to around 7,300 people aged over 65 currently living with dementia in Sheffield, which is between 6.7% and 7.7% of the 94,840 people aged 65 years and over in the city. Approximately 140 people under 65 in Sheffield live with young onset dementia. Dementia support and awareness in Sheffield has increased over the last 5 years, however, the growing impact of an aging population on dementia prevalence means the number of people living with dementia is predicted to keep increasing.

    The Council is committed to helping to prevent and reduce the risk of developing dementia right across a person’s life through the many programmes for which it holds responsibility to deliver. There are ways that some types of dementia can be prevented, or the risk of dementia reduced. Dementia risk includes factors starting at early years and education; and includes environmental factors such as exposure to air pollution. 

    Some risk factors that can be changed to reduce the risk of dementia are similar to those recommended to people to keep their heart and circulation healthy such as increasing physical activity, reducing alcohol consumption, and reducing smoking. Social contact is really important for everyone, and this is the case for people at risk of developing dementia or who already have dementia. Research has also found that using aids for hearing and visual problems can also reduce the risk.

    Sheffield Dementia Action Alliance (SDAA) is a network of organisations who want to help communities, organisations and businesses do more for people affected by dementia: reducing stigma, increasing understanding, and making small but significant changes to buildings and environments to make them more accessible for people with dementia. Over the past 5 years SDAA has recruited and supported over 80 members who have made over 200 pledges to make their organisations more dementia friendly. This has included community centres, train operators, places of worship, theatres, libraries, charity shops and pubs.

    Work on the strategy and what it aims to achieve will be formally launched on the morning of Wednesday 27th November at an event for people with dementia and their families, providers, and partners. Taking place at Niagara Conference and Leisure Centre, Niagara Road, Sheffield, S6 1LU, resources, advice, information and more on the city’s dementia plan will be available.

    There are limited spaces so early booking is advised at Dementia Strategy Launch Event Tickets, Wed, Nov 27, 2024 at 9:30 AM | Eventbrite

    The new citywide Dementia Strategy 2025- 20230is here and there is a range of resources and information on www.sheffielddirectory.org.uk

    More information about risk and prevention is here: Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2024 report of the Lancet standing Commission – The Lancet

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Unregistered boats on River Thames: fines and costs total £18,000

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Clear warning to unregistered boat owners on the Thames as owners failed to register their boats despite warnings. More to face court in coming months

    Lindum, owned by Battersea boater Drystan Brod

    Staines magistrates’ court had a busy day on 22 October as 14 owners were sentenced to pay more than £18,000 for failing to register their boats for use on the River Thames.

    Environment Agency enforcement officers discovered these vessels during spot checks in December 2023 at Penton Hook Marina in Surrey. The inspection showed unacceptably high levels of registration evasion with a quarter of the boats in the marina, around 125 vessels, failing to have been registered. Every boat-owner was traced and given ample warning and opportunity to register their boats correctly.

    The court was told that all owners had skipped the annual registration fee, determined by the length and width of the boat. A couple of them had skipped it twice. Duncan Heyward and Tony Davies, both of Chertsey, were found guilty of owning two unregistered vessels and had to pay compensation accordingly.

    The highest charges were issued to Drystan Brod of Battersea for his boat, Lindum – more than £2300 including costs, fines, compensation and victim surcharge. Full details of all fines below.

    Colin Chiverton, environment manager for Surrey at the Environment Agency, said:

    This was a great day for the majority of Thames boat-owners who register their vessel with us every year. Just like us, they’re fed up with seeing this unlawful behaviour take place on the river every year. We’re pleased with this outcome, and it sends a clear warning to all unregistered boat owners – it’s just not worth the risk.

    At the end of November, we have another day in court with a further 14 owners facing the music. So, if you have an unregistered boat on the Thames, you should know that our enforcement teams are still out in October, patrolling the river and checking for valid registrations.

    Renewal invitation letters for 2025 registrations on the River Thames are to be sent in November to everyone that registered their boat this year and owners are encouraged to register early to ensure their boats are compliant by 1 January, when the new season starts. The Environment Agency’s approach to non-registration on the Thames has changed – boat-owners are given ample opportunity to register their boat. However, once a summons has been issued, it won’t stop court proceedings, even if the boat owner subsequently pays their registration fee.

    Similar to excise duty for road vehicles, boat registration fees allow the Environment Agency to manage and maintain more than 600 miles of inland waterways across England, keeping them open and safe for thousands of boaters to enjoy.

    Background:

    Owners of powered or non-powered boats, including paddleboards, must register their boats annually with the Environment Agency for use on the non-tidal River Thames.

    Boat registration on the Thames starts on 1 January every year. Any boats found on the water after that date, without having registered, may be liable to a fine.

    In mid-September 2024 during a river wide census, Environment Agency officers recorded the locations of 10,890 boats on the river.

    Boats can be registered by calling 03708 506 506 or going to River Thames: boat registration and application forms – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

    Offender/age/address/boat[s]/pleas/compensation order/costs/victim surcharge/fine

    Des Higgins, 64, of Graham Court, Northolt, Middlesex, PRINCESS BURFORD. Pleaded not guilty then changed plea at court to guilty. £803.60. £250. £80. £120.

    Stephen Hale, 54, of Bridge Court, Chertsey, Surrey. LADY RUTH. Found guilty in absence. £994.14. £275. £88. £220.

    Drystan Brod, 50, of Birley Street, Battersea, London. LINDUM. Found guilty in absence. £1724.00. £275. £88. £220.

    Duncan Hayward, 40, of Hill Rise, Richmond, Surrey. MAVERICK III/TT MAVERICK III. Found guilty in absence – 2 offences. £1065.15/£23.20. £275/nil. £24/nil. £60/NSP

    Mark Geeson, 53, of Gaston Way, Shepperton, Middlesex. PORTIA. Found guilty in absence. £970.47. £275. £88. £220

    Tony Davies, 70, of St Annes Road, Chertsey, Surrey. BULTRUG/REDWATCH. Pleaded guilty at court – 2 offences. £923.13/£887.64. £250/nil. Nil/nil. No separate penalty/NSP.

    Andrew Graham, 53,  of Wellington Terrace, Basingstoke, Hampshire. BUSTAROON. Found guilty in absence. £757.44. £275. £88. £220.

    Hugo Handford, of Chichester Road, West Wittering, West Sussex. DAJA. Found guilty in absence. £331.00. £275. £88. £220.

    Tim Cartwright, 64, of Elder Road, Bisley, Surrey. CHARLIE BEN. Found guilty in absence. £678.44. £275. £88. £220.

    Brian Harvey, 60, of Queens Road, Hersham, Surrey. SEA DANCER. Found guilty in absence. £520.74. £275. £88. £220.

    Scott Cole, 52, of Grafton Road, Acton, London. ALKYON. Found guilty in absence. £284.04. £275. £88. £220.

    Lee Davis, 49, of Meadow View, Chertsey, Surrey. TUBS. Found guilty in absence. £473.40. £275. £88. £220.

    Maciej Firla-Cuchra, 49, of The Broadway, Laleham, Surrey. JEWNA. Found guilty in absence. £426.06. £275. £88. £220.

    David Harding, 73, of Easton, Wells, Somerset. Le BATEAU DE BOIS. Pleaded not guilty, then changed plea at court to guilty. £736.02. £275. Nil. NSP.

    Contact us:

    Journalists only: 0800 141 2743 or communications_se@environment-agency.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dinosaur Trail brings roar-some fun to city centre

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Locals and visitors alike took part in a new dinosaur trail in the city centre throughout the October holidays. 

    The Iconic Bricks Dinosaur Trail was a two-week event from 12th to 27th October which saw 18 brick model dinosaurs placed in businesses across the city centre, with free car parking also available in two city centre car parks. 

    Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Christian Allard said: “It has been wonderful to see so many people taking part in the Iconic Bricks Dinosaur Trail and exploring our city centre. 

    “My grandchildren loved the trail, and I would like to extend my thanks to each business who took part and helped create a fun and exciting atmosphere across the city centre.”

    Education and Children’s Services Convener Councillor Martin Greig said: “This has been a great way for all ages to visit the city centre and take part in a fun new event. 

    “Dinosaurs are always a popular attraction for children and adults alike and has helped capture imaginations.” 

    Visitors taking part in the trail were able to get an insight into how each model was made and learn more about the creations, including how many bricks were used to build the model and learn a fun dinosaur fact. 

    Monica and her family from Aberdeen said: “This has been lovely for the children and a great free activity to do. We have enjoyed walking around the city doing the trail.” 

    Businesses taking part in the trail recorded seeing increased footfall, with the Maritime Museum having had its busiest week since 2019. 

    Kenny Bruce, Trinity Centre Aberdeen Manager, said: “Trinity Aberdeen was delighted to take part in the Ionic Bricks Dinosaur Trail this year, the event has brought increased visitors to the centre and seen our stores offer unique dinosaur discounts in Shot n Roll and Resting Brunch Face, even a special guest appearance from The Works mascot Rex the Dinosaur.

    “It’s fantastic to support an event that offers customers a chance to come and explore our city centre.”

    Lynne Clark, Communications Lead for Michies Pharmacy, said: “The Iconic Bricks Dinosaur Trail has been a roaring success for Michies! It has been a joy to see so many children and families through our doors, many of whom have never visited Michies before. It was a wonderful initiative to get people out and about having fun and exploring our city centre!”

    The Hidden Lego Minifigure Trail also ran throughout the October Holidays, which saw small Lego figures hidden across ten shop windows around the Upperkirkgate and Belmont Street area for people of all ages to find in a treasure-hunt style challenge. 

    Once each minifigure was found, there was the chance to enter into a prize draw to win an Aberdeen Gift Card worth £20. 

    Additional activities also took place throughout the October Holidays across businesses taking part in the trail, including storytelling and dinosaur-themed Bookbug. 

    The Iconic Bricks Dinosaur Trail received £30,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 

    Free weekend parking is still available in the Denburn and Frederick Street car parks throughout October and the first weekend in November. Parking for £1 will be available after 5pm at Virginia Street, the Gallowgate, Frederick Street, Summer Street, Chapel Street, West North Street and the Denburn. Normal charging rates will resume from 8am.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More Scottish energy projects unlocked to deliver clean power

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Consultation on proposed changes to improve the planning system for large energy projects in Scotland

    • UK and Scottish governments set out proposals to streamline the system for determining energy infrastructure consents in Scotland
    • consultation to reform outdated processes with the aim to cut delays and create a fairer system, in which communities can have their say from the outset
    • the move could help to unlock Scotland’s pipeline of energy projects, driving forward the UK’s clean power mission and energy independence

    The planning process for new clean energy infrastructure in Scotland will be improved under UK and Scottish government proposals to reform outdated legislation that can delay new projects being built. 

    In collaboration with the Scottish Government, the UK government has today (28 October) launched a consultation on proposed changes that will make the system for considering large energy projects in Scotland more efficient, while also ensuring that affected communities can have their say on proposals at the right time in the process. 

    Currently it can take up to four years to approve large electricity infrastructure projects in Scotland, such as power lines and onshore wind farms, under UK legislation that has been in place since 1989.

    This system can create uncertainty for investors and communities, which in turn can lead to higher costs being passed onto bill payers. In England and Wales, new large-scale electricity projects can take around half as long on average to be determined compared to Scotland, thanks to previous legislative reforms to streamline the process. 

    By making vital updates to the energy consents system in Scotland, the UK and Scottish governments aim to support the rollout of new clean energy projects while giving communities early and meaningful opportunities to be heard. The consultation proposes making it a requirement that communities and wider stakeholders are consulted at pre-application stage. 

    Energy Minister Michael Shanks said:  

    Scotland has huge potential to propel the UK towards our clean power by 2030 goal, with its natural resources, energy expertise and highly skilled workforce.  

    Together with the Scottish Government, we are modernising outdated bureaucratic processes to make sure Scotland is firmly open for business as we build the UK’s clean energy future.  

    This will help to accelerate new clean, homegrown energy – taking us a step closer to energy independence and protecting billpayers from the rollercoaster of volatile fossil fuel markets for good.

    Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin said:

    These long-awaited UK legislative reforms will help support Scotland realise our clean power ambitions, while providing investors with confidence that a more robust and efficient process is being applied.

    This will in turn support our net zero ambitions, enable economic growth and ensure our communities have an enhanced opportunity to be heard.

    Today’s announcement forms the next step in joint work from the two governments to cement Scotland’s role in making the UK a clean energy superpower.  

    It comes after the UK government confirmed Aberdeen as the headquarters for the publicly-owned company Great British Energy, that will own and invest in clean power projects across the UK. This month, Scottish and UK governments also signed an agreement to support clean energy supply chains and infrastructure, via new partnerships between Great British Energy and Scottish public bodies. 

    The proposed reforms aim to provide developers and communities with an updated system when submitting plans for large clean energy projects. The changes cover the entire process from pre-application to challenging decisions, tackling issues that have already been addressed in England and Wales under previous reforms. They include: 

    • Pre-application requirements: New standardised processes for both onshore and offshore developers to engage with local communities and stakeholders before submitting an application to the Scottish Government for new energy infrastructure. This will involve communities at an earlier stage and improve the quality and speed of applications, with new powers for the Scottish Government to reject any that do not meet requirements. The Scottish Government will also be able to charge fees for pre-application services, helping to deliver the new system effectively. 

    • Appealing decisions: Standardising the appeals process, with set criteria for challenging decisions on new energy infrastructure and a 6-week time limit in which objections can be raised. Currently challenges to large onshore projects must be brought by judicial review within three months, which can lead to lengthy delays.  

    • Public Inquiries: Reforming the public inquiry process which is automatically triggered when Planning Authorities raise objections to new energy infrastructure. These inquiries can take an average of 18 months and have cost the Scottish Government £1.9 million since 2021. Under the proposals, inquiry sessions will still be held where necessary, but other forms of decision making will also be deployed on a case-by-case basis guided by a specialist reporter.

    • Changes to planning consent: New powers to allow the Scottish Government to revoke, suspend or vary consents for energy infrastructure projects under specific circumstances. This will allow for necessary amends to be made, without the applicant having to restart the process. 

    • Necessary wayleaves: A new power for the Scottish Government to charge developers a fee for submitting wayleave applications to place overhead lines on private land. Similar fees are charged in England and Wales, and will help the Scottish Government to meet an expected increase in applications in the rollout of new clean energy projects.   

    Notes to editors:  

    The consultation, launched today, will run for 4 weeks until 26 November. Read more about the consultation.

    All decisions on new energy infrastructure projects in Scotland are devolved and applications over 50MW are made to the Scottish Government. The UK government is responsible for energy policy and the legislative framework (i.e. Electricity Act 1989) is reserved for the UK Parliament.  

    Changes to the Planning Act 2008 (such as Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects) helped to speed up decision making on energy infrastructure projects in England and Wales. The proposed reforms in this consultation will update the approvals process for energy infrastructure in Scotland.  

    Following the consultation process, the UK government will bring forward the necessary legislation as soon as Parliamentary time allows.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK statement for 75th session of the UNHCR Executive Committee

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UK general statement delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Simon Manley, at the 75th session of the UNHCR Executive Committee, October 2024.

    Location:
    Geneva
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    Thank you, Chair, High Commissioner,

    Let me start by paying tribute to those humanitarians who have so tragically lost their lives in the past year – not least among them the UNHCR colleagues whom we have lost in the course of their duties in Lebanon. They have paid the ultimate price in their labour for peace and humanitarianism.

    We are deeply concerned about the escalating humanitarian situation in the Middle East and in Lebanon. The UK emphasises all parties’ obligation to comply with international humanitarian law and to ensure protection for civilians and civilian infrastructure. My government has been clear: the fighting must stop, the hostages must be freed, and there must be safe and free humanitarian access to those in need.

    Turning to the themes of the Executive Committee, as we face future uncertainties and ever-increasing global displacement, we need to continue to work in solidarity and in unity to find solutions. Forcibly displaced persons demand and expect that the international community takes responsibility.

    My government’s commitment to multilateralism and multilateral solutions is clear and deep-rooted. The UK will work hand-in-hand with UNHCR to respond to the growing list of protracted and emerging crises. We will tackle climate and nature emergencies and global development challenges together, by working for peace and promoting global economic development and growth to develop sustainable solutions. And we welcome the High Commissioner’s recent visit to London and the contact he has had with UK Ministers.

    But clearly, the situation in countries of origin needs international attention too. We need to address root causes and invest in early anticipatory action that builds resilience and independence. We need partnerships that promote local leadership. And we need to empower women and girls.

    Where needs arise, UNHCR must continue to provide protection for the most vulnerable. But clearly, more predictable and more sustainable support is needed so that increasingly stretched resources can be used more efficiently to keep pace with rising needs. UNHCR’s ongoing commitment to reform, efficiencies and effectiveness is an important part of this.

    The UK is committed to seeking sustainable solutions together. Not just because inclusion in national systems is the right thing to do, but also because it is the smart thing to do. And we support national ownership and the leadership of hosting countries, who I want to recognize here for their generosity, where this is in refugees’ best interests.

    This is why, at last year’s Global Refugee Forum, the UK highlighted the need to look beyond traditional humanitarian partnerships to galvanize joint sustainable action. And we have been working hard with our partners over the last ten months to put those commitments into action.

    We must be led by the needs of displaced people wherever and whenever we find them. But I want to point to two specific crises which demand our attention. Firstly, Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine in flagrant breach of the UN Charter. This year, the UK provided £100 million in humanitarian assistance and like my Czech colleague I want to pay tribute to the British people who have extended sanctuary to almost 300,000 Ukrainians since the start of the invasion.

    And Sudan which is perhaps the world’s most severe humanitarian crisis with almost 25 million people in need of assistance. Thank you, High Commissioner, for speaking out so clearly about the scale and horror of the conflict. We have provided almost £100m in assistance for Sudan this year.

    And finally, on statelessness, we are grateful to UNHCR for its leadership of the I Belong campaign. The achievements are a strong foundation on which to launch the Global Alliance, which the UK is honoured to join. We know statelessness can be ended, and we look forward to working with others on this shared mission.

    I’ll end by reiterate the UK’s gratitude to all UNHCR staff who tirelessly provide assistance to those who need it, so often in such difficult and dangerous circumstances. Let us, through the Executive Committee, show them our sustained support.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Coastguard station is ‘great news for both the team and the island’

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    After around 40 years in the same station, a coastguard rescue team on the Isle of Wight has a new home.

    Needles Coastguard Rescue Team standing outside their new station

    Needles Coastguard Rescue Team is now operating from its new station at Golden Hill Fort in the Freshwater area, offering a spacious, modern and well-equipped space to prepare for search and rescue missions.

    With a dedicated training room and washing and drying facilities, and located in the heart of the community, the team of 11 volunteers will be even more ready to respond to those in need.

    Senior Coastal Operations Officer Andrew Woodford said:

    This is great news for both the team and the island, as we are now in a much better place to respond to call outs and undertake training activities.

    The station is future-proof so it will be there for officers for years to come, it looks the part, and has all the facilities we need in a much more suitable space.

    A fit-for-purpose station is such an important part of coastguard training and response, so this is a brilliant addition to the service which will have clear benefits.

    After 12 months of planning and costing more than £200,000, the building and fit-out took around three months to complete, with the final touches added in October, marking its operational status.

    An official opening ceremony for the new station will take place later this year.

    Press office

    Email public.relations@mcga.gov.uk

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

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Help create a fairer private rented sector in Westminster | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Westminster City Council is inviting tenants, landlords, property agents and anyone with experience or an interest in the private rented housing sector to have their say on the council’s proposals to introduce a new property licensing scheme in parts of the city.

    The scheme, if approved, would apply to private rented homes that are occupied by a family or a maximum of two sharers. It is known as selective licensing.

    The private rented sector (PRS) continues to grow across the country and Westminster has the largest PRS in England. With the ongoing national housing crisis, an increased shortage of social housing and home ownership unobtainable for many, private rented housing is often the only viable option.

    In 2021, the council introduced a boroughwide additional houses in multiple occupation (HMO) licensing scheme to improve safety standards for tenants living in small HMOs. The council want to ensure the safety of more residents and are now proposing that privately rented homes of all types (not just HMOs) should be licensed in 15 wards across the borough. This will help the council to tackle poor housing conditions and antisocial behaviour in the PRS.

    Councillor Matt Noble, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters, said:

    We know that most landlords and agents operating in Westminster provide homes that are safe, of a high standard and managed well. When properties are not safe and well managed, the impact upon the lives of tenants and the wider community can be detrimental. Sometimes this is because landlords are not aware of their responsibilities and sometimes this is because criminal landlords knowingly flout housing laws.

    “We want to ensure that all private rented properties are operating legally and, above all else, safe.

    “Before any decisions are made, we need the views of everyone in the borough, especially those that live in a private rented home.”

    Westminster City Council is consulting about a licensing scheme which, if it is introduced, could come into effect from spring 2026.

    The consultation runs until Sunday 19 January 2025, and everyone can share their views by visiting www.westminster.gov.uk/prs

    Paper copies will be available at libraries throughout the city and can be requested by emailing [email protected] or calling 020 7641 6161.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chancellor: “We will build a Britain where those who can work, will work”

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Ahead of Budget later this week, the Chancellor pledges work and welfare overhaul so people who can work, do work.

    • £240 million Get Britain Working package to include work, skills and health support for disabled people and long-term sick.
    • Benefit reform to be accelerated from this autumn to give more people access to employment support.

    Ahead of the Budget, the Chancellor has unveiled a £240 million cash-injection to accelerate the rollout of local services to help people back into work and drive down inactivity.

    The intervention comes as stark figures show that the UK remains the only G7 country that has higher levels of economic inactivity now than before the pandemic, with 2.8 million people out of work due to long-term sickness, which is holding back productivity and stunting growth. 

    The funding is partly set to go towards boosting the rollout of Get Britain Working “trailblazers” in local areas, which will bring together and streamline work, health, and skills support to disabled people and those who are long term sick.

    These trailblazers will focus on reaching people who are not normally in touch with the system, by enabling local areas to help them access existing support in skills, education, employment, or health but also testing new early interventions targeted at the specific barriers they are facing to work.

    Recognising that poor health is a key driver of economic inactivity, these trailblazers will also ensure work and skills support is better integrated with the health service, to ensure people get the joined-up health and employment support they need to get back into work and stay in work.

    The government will also work in close partnership with mayors to develop these trailblazers, to ensure these local services are tailored to meet the unique employment and inactivity challenges in different areas.

    Benefit reform is also set to be accelerated this year, with 800,000 people on the old Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) benefit to be moved onto Universal Credit (UC) from this autumn instead of 2028.

    This move will bring more people into a modern benefit regime, continuing to ensure they are supported to look for and move into work. 

    It comes ahead of the Get Britain Working White Paper – set to be unveiled later in the Autumn – which will set out the government’s ambitious plans for reform to break down barriers to work.

    The reforms will be underpinned by an approach of high expectation and high support as well as a belief in mutual obligations: the responsibility to work if you can, backed up by proper support and real opportunities to get a decent job.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

    Due to years of economic neglect, the benefits bill is ballooning. We will build a Britain where people who can work, will work, turning the page on the recent rise in economic inactivity and decline and towards a future where people have good jobs and our benefits bill is under control.

    Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall said:

    Millions of people have been denied the opportunity to build a better life. This includes one-in-eight young people who have had their hopes of a brighter future dashed and written off before they’ve even begun.

    Through our Get Britain Working plan, we will ensure every young person is supported to find earnings or learning, while our new jobs and careers service will transform opportunity for all, as we deliver the fundamental reforms needed to tackle spiralling inactivity, grow the economy, and take our first steps to our ambitious 80 per cent employment rate.

    Unlocking barriers to work and tackling inactivity is at the heart of plans to improve living standards for everyone across the country and delivering on the central mission of driving growth.

    By creating more good jobs through investment, reforming employment support, fixing our NHS, making work pay through our Employment Rights Bill, and devolving power out of Westminster as set out in our forthcoming English Devolution White Paper, we will ensure many more people can benefit from the dignity and purpose that comes with work.

    These reforms will support more people into jobs alongside the Plan to Make Work Pay, that will make sure that those jobs provide security, a decent wage, and the genuine two-sided flexibility needed so people can thrive at work.

    This plan is central to the Government’s efforts to repair the damage done to the economy, fix its foundations, and rebuild Britain so it becomes a country of growth, not decline.

    Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce said:

    The high number of working age people who are economically inactive is a real and daily concern to employers. Many firms are struggling to fill job vacancies, and this is constraining their operations and profitability. 

    We welcome further cash investment into tackling economic activity. Businesses will be pleased to hear about plans to improve skills, health and employment support for people who want to work – alongside support for young people to start and build their careers.  

    It’s important these changes are delivered quickly to help firms develop thriving workforces, so they can grow and invest further in the years to come.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Could you provide an opportunity for a young person leaving care?

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Could you help change the life chances of a young person leaving care? If so, the Council would love to hear from you.

    We are asking businesses to consider offering a job opportunity to a care leaver. Compared with other young people locally, care leavers are around nine times more likely to not be in education, training or employment when they enter adulthood.

    Councillor Jemima Laing, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, said; “Care leavers are our city’s young people, and we need to work together as a city to ensure they have a successful future.

    “Care leavers face significant challenges over and above those normally experienced by our children and young people, but with the right support they can succeed in managing the move to independent living and a career. Supportive employers can play a vital part in ensuring they have the same opportunities in life as other young people.

    “Over the last five years, on average we have 180 young people leaving care in Plymouth every year.

    “We are very keen to hear from local employers who are willing to give our care leavers a chance, who can offer an apprenticeship, or a work placement for a vulnerable child trying to navigate the difficult path of leaving care and moving to independent living.  We are asking for your help to ensure that our care leavers get the same opportunities in life as other young people.

    “Offering a care leaver a job opportunity will give businesses a chance to invest in young people who have bright ideas and shows that they are a supportive organisation willing to give young people a chance at starting a career.”

    If you are thinking of offering an apprenticeship, the government offers a bursary which is paid to the apprenticed care leaver after they have maintained their apprenticeship for 60 days. The bursary aims to support care leavers as they move from care into independent living and work.  

    The Council has developed a free pastoral leadership programme through On Course South West, for managers and employers that employ care experienced young people. These programmes can be personalised for your business with flexible delivery options. The flexible programme includes short courses on safeguarding, trauma informed practice and mental health awareness, visit: On Course South West

    As an approved apprenticeship training provider, the Council can offer support to businesses to develop an apprenticeship or supported apprenticeship programme, contact apprenticeships@plymouth.gov.uk for more information.

    For more information, visit: Care leavers | PLYMOUTH.GOV.UK

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Calling on garden waste customers in Plympton!!

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Unfortunately, due to internal issues we are unable to pick up garden waste collections in the Plympton Erle and Plympton Chaddlewood area tomorrow (Tuesday 29 October).

    But don’t worry – collections have been rescheduled for Friday!

    We are sorry for the inconvenience.

    See the below list of roads that are impacted:

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