NewzIntel.com

Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Staff and volunteers celebrated at the NSW Health Awards

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Staff and volunteers celebrated at the NSW Health Awards

    Published: 25 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Health, Minister for Medical Research, Minister for Mental Health

    Staff and volunteers across the NSW health system have been celebrated for their dedication, compassion, innovation and outstanding achievements at the 2024 NSW Health Awards, held at the International Convention Centre in Sydney last night.

    The awards recognise the people, teams and programs in NSW Health that make such a significant contribution to the health and wellbeing of patients of the communities they care for. It is – most of all – a celebration of the team enriching health in millions of ways every day.

    Some of the innovative projects to win awards across the 13 categories included the use of artificial-intelligence to develop a wound app reducing average healing times, research to develop oral insulin as an alternative for injectible insulin expanding treatment options for diabetics and establishing a video interpreting service for multicultural communities.

    Awards were presented by Minister for Health Ryan Park, Minister for Medical Research David Harris, Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Regional Health Dr Michael Holland, and NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce AM.

    186 nominations were received across 13 categories, including:

    • Staff Member of the Year Award
    • Volunteer of the Year Award
    • Secretary’s Award
    • Environmental Sustainability Award
    • Excellence in Aboriginal Healthcare Award
    • Excellence in Multicultural Healthcare Award
    • Excellence in the Provision of Mental Health Services Award
    • Health Innovation Award
    • Health Research Award
    • Keeping People Healthy Award
    • Patient Safety First Award
    • People and Culture Award
    • Transforming Patient Experience Award

    The full list of winners and finalists and their projects is available on the ​​NSW Health website.​​

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:

    “I want to congratulate the winners and all 42 finalists for their outstanding contributions to our health system. Every day in NSW Health we see fantastic examples of care, dedication and innovation when it comes to improving the health and wellbeing of people across NSW.

    “It’s fantastic to see that five of the NSW Health Award winners are from rural and regional areas, highlighting the great care available to communities right across the state.

    “I would particularly like to highlight the great work of Dr Nhi Nguyen from Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, who was named Staff Member of the Year for her leadership across initiatives aimed at bridging the gap between clinicians, policy makers and the community.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson:

    “I offer my congratulations to the South Western Sydney Local Health District who took out the Excellence in the Provision of Mental Health Services award for their Aboriginal Mental Health Transfer of Care project.

    “This work has had a positive impact on hundreds of people and their communities, with a team of specialists set up to provide culturally responsive care and better discharge planning for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, nearly halving unplanned re-admissions.

    “Across every nomination in this category we see shining examples of a commitment to patient care and safety so I personally want to thank all the finalists for their dedication to providing compassionate mental health services right across the state.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Medical Research David Harris:

    “Sydney Local Health District were a deserving winner of the Health Research category, for their ground-breaking work to expand treatment options for people with diabetes. The team has created an oral insulin treatment that is preparing for clinical trials early next year.

    “It was a pleasure to celebrate the people helping position NSW as a global leader in health and medical research, and the work in Sydney Local Health District reflects many of the amazing initiatives underway in our state.”

    Quotes attributable to NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce AM:

    “NSW Health is very proud to celebrate the people and teams who are enriching health in millions of ways every day – our incredible healthcare staff and volunteers.

    “All of the nominees, finalists and winners reflect the incredible work our people do, in a wide variety of roles right across the public health system., and I thank them sincerely for it.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New technology to detect floods and bushfires

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: New technology to detect floods and bushfires

    Published: 25 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology

    Testing will soon begin on cutting-edge technology to improve early warnings about floods and bushfires in NSW.

    The NSW Government this week launched a proof-of-concept phase as part of a $3.3 million election commitment to build a natural hazards detection system.

    The testing will explore a range of scenarios to enhance the state’s response to natural hazards including innovative technology to detect floods and bushfires that can:

    • support early identification of flood water across roads
    • monitor rainfall and soil moisture data to predict floods
    • identify fire ignitions in remote locations
    • monitor soil moisture and fuel loads to support improved fire hazard reduction.

    Individual grants of up to $50,000 will be awarded to successful applicants through the program to support the testing of technologies over a six-month period to demonstrate their feasibility and benefits.

    The program delivers on an election commitment by the Minns Labor Government and is being led by the Office of the NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer (OCSE) in collaboration with the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA).

    The initiative directly responds to key recommendations from the 2020 Bushfire Inquiry and the 2022 Flood Inquiry, which called for the use of advanced detection systems to provide earlier warnings and give communities more time to respond to natural hazards.

    Businesses are encouraged to submit proposals addressing these challenges, with the potential to progress to the next stage of the program which includes scaling up and piloting technologies in real-world settings.

    Applications for Phase 1 are open until early December. Grant recipients from Phase 1 will be eligible to apply for Phase 2 through a competitive process.

    The outcomes of the pilot will help shape the design of a final product, ready for deployment in hazard-prone areas of NSW. For more information and to apply, visit: www.chiefscientist.nsw.gov.au/nhds.

    Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:

    “The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its election commitment to better protect communities living in high-risk areas that are prone to floods and fires through better detection systems.”

    “We are helping to develop new detection technologies and testing them in unique Australian conditions.”

    We are working to identify solutions that allow people to better anticipate natural disasters and prepare for evacuations.”

    “This program is not only important to help reduce the impact of disasters, but ultimately can help save lives.”

    Minister for Innovation, Science & Technology, Anoulack Chanthivong said:

    “This funding demonstrates the NSW Government’s commitment to innovation and technology to help improve our response to and preparedness for natural hazards.”

    “Supporting businesses to field-test their technologies with NSW Government agencies allows them to bring their innovations one step closer to commercialisation.”

    Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte, Office of the Chief Scientist and Engineer said:

    “NSW is looking to the future and investigating how cutting-edge technology can transform our response to natural hazards.”

    “By undertaking trials of groundbreaking technology solutions in real world conditions we will ensure that NSW residents are better prepared for natural hazards now and into the future”.   

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK announces support to help Uganda manage mpox outbreak

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK has announced up to £1 million (UGX 4.9 billion) to support Uganda’s response to the ongoing mpox outbreak in the country.

    Development Director Philip Smith and Minister of Health Hon. Jane Ruth Aceng shake hands during the meeting to announce UK’s support to Uganda’s response to the Mpox outbreak.

    The British High Commission in Kampala has announced that the UK will provide £1 million to Baylor College of Medicine and the Infectious Disease Institute to support Uganda’s response to the current Mpox outbreak. The support delivered through these expert partners will be aligned to the Government of Uganda’s overall Mpox respond plan. The funding will strengthen co-ordination of the response; surveillance, and risk communication and community engagement.

    Philip Smith, the Acting British High Commissioner to Uganda said:

    It is critical that we work with the Government of Uganda to counter this outbreak. We are pleased to announce this additional funding is being released immediately to support a timely response. The UK’s support will work in affected districts to improve the response to the outbreak on the ground. The UK will stand with the Government and people of Uganda in tackling this outbreak.

    Hon. Jane Ruth Aceng, Minister for Health said:

    We acknowledge that our collaboration with the UK dates back several years. The UK has always been a key partner with the Government of Uganda on our outbreak response. We appreciate the £1 million contribution via implementing partners Baylor Uganda and Infectious Disease Institute in supporting us respond efficiently to the Mpox outbreak.

    The support package builds on previous assistance the UK has provided Uganda. In October 2022, the UK contributed £2.2 million (UGX 9.3 billion) – and technical experts to support the Government of Uganda’s response to the Ebola outbreak. Between 2018 and 2020 the UK contributed nearly £10 million – over UGX40 billion – to support Ebola preparedness in Uganda. This has improved the Government of Uganda’s ability to respond to the current outbreak. For example, ambulances previously purchased by the UK via the WFP, and subsequently donated to the Uganda Red Cross, are now being used.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Russia poses a growing threat to global stability and international principles: UK statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Ambassador Holland condemns Russia’s growing threat to global stability, food security and maritime safety as it thickens ties with North Korea, steps up attacks in the Black Sea and seeks to circumvent sanctions.

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

    Thank you, Madam Chair.  It is with deep concern that I draw colleagues’ attention to reports of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) sending combat troops to Russia.  Our assessment is that it is highly likely that the transfer of these troops has begun.  Russia has already procured significant munitions and arms from DPRK, in direct violation of multiple UN resolutions.  The DPRK will surely extract a heavy price for its support. This has security implications for the OSCE region and should be of concern to us all.

    Madam Chair, at the beginning of its full-scale invasion, Russia attempted to blockade Ukrainian ports in a cynical attempt to choke Ukraine’s economy.  Under the July 2022 Black Sea Grain Initiative, Ukrainian grain was again able to reach those who needed it most across the world.  Regrettably, Russia unilaterally withdrew from the Initiative after one year and began missile strikes on Ukrainian ports and grain storage facilities.  300,000 tonnes of grain were destroyed between August and October 2023.

    Since then, Russia has repeatedly demonstrated its disregard for global food security and international principles, including freedom of navigation, the bedrock of global trade.  Between 5 and 14 October, Russian missiles struck four civilian ships in deliberate attacks on export infrastructure in Odesa, killing at least 10 innocent civilians and injuring many more.

    To obscure its illegal actions, last week Russia made false claims about the cargo these ships were carrying and threatened to continue targeting civilian ships using Ukrainian ports. It is unacceptable to target ships engaged only in the transportation of grain.

    Russia’s actions deliberately harm global food security. Hindering exports of wheat, maize and barley from one of the world’s top grain exporters hurts everyone, but especially the world’s most vulnerable.  The UK condemns Russia’s strikes. They have impacted shipments destined for the World Food Programme in Palestine and southern Africa. They also undermine the stability of the entire Black Sea region, affecting many others around this table.

    Russia also threatens maritime safety and security through a 600 vessel ‘shadow fleet’, used to circumvent international sanctions and provide funding for Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine.  Many of these vessels are unsafe, lack adequate insurance and engage in dangerous and deceptive shipping practices, including turning off radio transponders in violation of international regulations. These vessels break maritime law and pose significant risks to the environment, and maritime safety and security.

    The UK will continue to take action against this illegal and dangerous ‘shadow fleet’.  43 of its oil tankers have been barred from UK ports and from accessing British maritime services.  My Prime Minister launched a ‘Call to Action’ against the fleet in July, and we want to thank the 45 partners in this room who signed up to this.

    We cannot and will not ignore Russia’s violations of the laws and principles that underpin global trade and food security. They contravene its Decalogue obligations, including Article 10 on the fulfilment in good faith of obligations under international law.  We call on the Russian authorities to end this unjustifiable war and return to conformity with the OSCE’s foundational principles.  Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fratton Pocket Park a success

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    This week, local Councillors and staff from South Western Railway recognised the success and use of the newly opened ‘pocket park’ in Fratton that provides a safe route for individuals on their journey to and from the train station.

    Portsmouth City Council was granted funding from the South Western Railway Customer and Communities Improvement Fund to make improvements to the space between Fawcett Road and Goldsmith Avenue.

    The park boasts new benches with under seat lighting, bedding plants, and festoon lighting in the trees, whilst offering a safe route through to the train station. Pavement artwork has also been created in the space by local artist, Donna Poingdestre, following a collaborative effort by Portsmouth Creates, MOTIV8, and Articulate-Sage.

    The opening ceremony dedicated the ‘pocket park’ to Charles Burns, who played an active role in the Portsmouth Community for many years. Charles supported a number of initiatives to bring together community and culture to make Portsmouth a better place for all. A plaque has been placed in memory of Charles Burns, by the seating area.

    Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, said: “We are really pleased to have marked the opening of the Fratton ‘pocket park’ this week. It is a positive step forward in our efforts to create a greener and safer city to work and live in. 

    “It was great to see so many people attend the event which is a true reflection of the importance of these initiatives in our city, and we’re continuing to see an increasing number of people taking advantage of this space.”

    Peter Williams, South Western Railway’s Customer and Commercial Director, said: “It’s great to see that Fratton Pocket Park, which we were delighted to support through SWR’s Customer and Communities Improvement Fund, is now completed. We’re sure that the local community will greatly enjoy the benefits of this bright, new public space near Fratton Station”

    You can find out more about the South Western Rail Customer and Communities Improvement Fund here: Customer and Communities Improvement Fund 2022 | South Western Railway

    Ribbon cutting ceremony at Fratton Pocket Park

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Grattan on Friday: a possible Trump victory is making the Albanese government cagey about its 2035 climate target

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    If Donald Trump wins the US presidency on November 5, his victory will have profound implications for other countries on many fronts. Not least of them will be climate change policy.

    Perhaps the uncertainty now hanging over US politics was on the mind of Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen, who shilly-shallied this week over when he’ll announce Australia’s 2035 emissions reduction target under the Paris climate agreement.

    Bowen refused to be pinned down at the Australian Financial Review’s energy and climate summit on whether the target would be public before next year’s election. Neither his office nor that of the prime minister would be more specific later.

    Australia, like other countries, is required under the Paris agreement to put forward its target in February. But, also like other countries, Australia is focused on what’s happening in the US.

    Trump wants to take the US out of the Paris agreement for the second time. The first exit took effect immediately after his 2020 defeat and incoming President Joe Biden was able to reverse it at once. This time, there’d be no such quick turnaround.

    The Biden administration has been strongly committed on climate issues. If the US exited, the Paris agreement would likely be transformed.

    There may be other reasons why Bowen is being cagey about the 2035 target. Climate change and energy will be harder issues for Labor in this election, as it struggles with the realities of the transition, than in the 2022 one.

    In the run-up to that election, a desperate Scott Morrison pulled out all stops to win support within the Coalition to sign up to the 2050 net-zero emissions target.

    Labor was on the front foot, with a policy for a 43% reduction in emissions (on 2005 levels) by 2030, underpinned by a target of 82% renewable electricity by then. The election promise for consumers was a $275 cut in household power bills by 2025.

    Crafting a policy is often easier than implementing it. The journey to a clean energy economy is arduous.

    The $275 promise was quickly seen as unrealisable. The government has had to provide rebates to keep prices in check. The rollout of renewables is complicated by local resistance to some projects, including wind farms and transmission lines. At present, more than 40% of electricity comes from renewables.

    The cost-of-living crisis has increasingly dominated everything. Climate change remains a significant issue with people, but over time it tends to go up and down their scale of concerns, depending on changing circumstances.

    The Ipsos Climate Change Report, done annually, found in 2024 “strong notional support for the energy transition”, but low understanding of what progress had been made.

    Concerns about the negative impacts of the transition on cost of living and energy reliability have increased, particularly in the current high inflation environment. The perceived economic benefits of the transition are less clear, with many unsure about the impact on jobs and the broader economy.

    The emphasis on cost of living is influencing priorities for the energy transition, with Australians wanting to see energy prices and reliability prioritised. There is a growing sentiment that Australia should only take action if other countries are also contributing fairly to climate change efforts.

    Of course a summer of bad bushfires can change people’s priorities suddenly. Barring that, Labor is looking at a 2025 election in which it will be more on the defensive than the offensive on climate and energy issues.

    The opposition has already acted to sharpen the difference with Labor over the medium term targets. Peter Dutton will have no 2035 target before the election, and has questioned the 2030 target to which Australia is signed up, although he says a Coalition government would not leave the Paris agreement. He is also running hard on his controversial policy for nuclear energy.

    While Bowen is not clarifying whether he’ll announce the government’s target ahead of the election, it would be awkward for Australia not to meet the February deadline.

    There would not be a penalty, but it would be a bad look, especially given we are vying with Turkey to host, together with Pacific countries, COP31 in 2026. One unknown, incidentally, is whether a Coalition government would continue this bid, which the opposition has describes as a “vanity project”.

    If the government does announce the 2035 target before the election, the big question is how ambitious it will make it.

    Bowen will receive advice on this from the Climate Change Authority, to which the government has appointed, as head, former New South Wales Liberal Treasurer Matt Kean.

    In an earlier discussion paper, the authority said the evidence suggests

    A 2035 target in the range of 65-75% […] could be achievable and sustainable if additional action is taken by governments, business, investors and households […]. However, attempting to go much faster could risk significant levels of economic and social disruption and put progress at risk.

    A bold target would make the government more vulnerable, just when Labor would want the attention on the Coalition’s problematic nuclear policy. On the other hand, if the target were modest, that would be exploited by the Greens.

    Next month, Bowen will attend COP29 in Azerbaijan, where the central issue will be a financial goal, replacing the 2015 goal, for developed and major economies to help fund developing countries’ emission reduction efforts. Bowen, with Egyptian Environment Minister Yasmine Fouad, is leading the consultations on this, and so has a significant role at the conference.

    At the COP meeting, Bowen will get a better idea of where other countries are on their expected 2035 targets. He indicated this week he has already started taking soundings. “Obviously […] of course you think about international context.”

    By the time of COP, which runs November 11-22, America will have chosen its next president. The COP meeting will either be business-as-usual, looking to an incoming Kamala Harris presidency, or trying to anticipate the implications of a Trump administration that could be a major disruptor of international climate policy.

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

    – ref. Grattan on Friday: a possible Trump victory is making the Albanese government cagey about its 2035 climate target – https://theconversation.com/grattan-on-friday-a-possible-trump-victory-is-making-the-albanese-government-cagey-about-its-2035-climate-target-242107

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Northern Ireland: Anti-racism march to be held in Belfast as race hate attacks at all-time high

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Belfast For All – stand together against racism

    Race hate incidents to the end of June 2024 were already at record levels – before the summer surge in violence

    ‘Saturday’s march will be a show of support for victims and for all who live in fear that they could be next’ – Patrick Corrigan

    Large numbers of people are expected to march in Belfast on Saturday in opposition to ongoing racist attacks in the city.

    Following a surge in racist attacks in Northern Ireland during the summer, attacks have continued on a weekly basis, with police figures already showing 2024 as the worst year ever for racist violence in the region.

    Race hate incidents had already reached a record high in Northern Ireland by the end of June 2024, before this summer’s surge in racist attacks. A record 1,411 racist incidents and 891 racist crimes were recorded by the PSNI in the year ending June 2024, according to official police data released by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA).

    The annual figures showed that racist crimes represented almost 1% of all recorded crime during the period.

    Amnesty International is among the organisers of the ‘Belfast for All – stand together against racism’ march and rally which will take place in the city this Saturday and which has the support of scores of organisations, charities and political parties.

    Ahead of the march, Patrick Corrigan, Amnesty International’s Northern Ireland Director said:

    “Racist violence may have dropped from the headlines, but not a week goes by in this city without another family having their home attacked by racist thugs.

    “Saturday’s march will be a show of support for victims and for all who live in fear that they could be next.

    “The disgraceful events of August, when a racist mob was able to run amok in Belfast, attacking homes and businesses at will, must never be repeated. But neither must we accept the insidious, ongoing attacks which continue to happen under the cover of darkness week in, week out.”

    Saturday’s Belfast For All march and rally has been organised by United Against Racism, with support from Amnesty International, Belfast Islamic Centre and the NIPSA trade union, with people asked to meet at Writers’ Square at 11:30am before marching to Belfast City Hall.

    View latest press releases

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Global: There’s a crisis in special educational needs provision: here’s the situation across the UK and Ireland

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Cathryn Knight, Senior Lecturer in Psychology in Education, University of Bristol

    Ermolaev Alexander/Shutterstock

    In the UK and Ireland, children who have significant special educational needs and disabilities can receive their education outside mainstream school. This often takes place in “special schools” or “special classes”.

    In the UK, as well as the Republic of Ireland, legislation sets out that children have the right to attend mainstream education. This right cannot be refused based on the complexity of the child’s needs. However, many children are educated in specialist schools, and the devolved governments of the UK, and Ireland, have taken differing approaches to this provision.

    But there is a problem. Across the UK and Ireland, there are far fewer places available in specialist schools and classes for the number of children identified with needs significant enough to warrant a place.

    England

    In 2010, then-prime minister David Cameron set out the aim to “end the bias” towards including children with special educational needs and disabilities in mainstream schools.

    His government felt there had been an overemphasis on inclusion in mainstream schools. As a consequence, England has seen an expansion of specialist education provision. From 2015 to 2023, there has been a 47% increase in the number of pupils at special schools in England – from 109,177 to 161,072.
    However, as of May 2024, 4,407 children across England were waiting for school places in specialist provision.

    There has also been a large increase in the number of appeals against councils by parents or carers of children with special educational needs in England, challenging the decision made around a child’s school placement and provision.

    A new report from the National Audit Office on special educational needs suggests that the current system in England is unsustainable, with many councils set to run out of money by early 2026.

    Wales

    Wales has also seen a 25% increase in special school provision from 2017-18 to 2023-4.

    However, there has recently been a large decrease in the number of learners being identified with additional learning needs. This has coincided with the introduction of a new additional learning needs system.

    However, the proportion of all learners in special schools has increased. This means that this reduction in identification does not seem to have changed the number of those who require specialist placements.

    Scotland

    Scotland has taken a different route. Here, the legal right to mainstream schooling has been taken a step further: there is an underlying “presumption of mainstreaming”, in other words, a right to attend a mainstream school, although exceptions in which a specialist provision should be considered are set out.

    This presumption of mainstreaming means that there has been a reduction in the number of special schools. However, alongside this there has been an increase in the proportion of children not spending time in mainstream classes.

    There has been an increase in special needs provision in mainstream classes in Scotland.
    Evgeny Atamanenko/Shutterstock

    This implies that more children are being educated in units attached to mainstream schools, without necessarily participating in mainstream classes. A recent review has raised concerns that the children with additional support needs in mainstream schools are not having their needs met.

    Northern Ireland

    The number of children with a statement of special educational needs in Northern Ireland increased by 24% in the five years from 2017-18 to 2021-22. A Department of Education official recently told the Education Committee of the NI Assembly that there was a need for an additional 1,000 places for children with SEN. This would require 66 new special school classes and 94 new specialist classes in mainstream schools.

    Northern Ireland is addressing the increased demand for special school places by embarking on a programme to develop specialist provision in mainstream schools. It is important to note, however, that although attached to and often under the same roof as mainstream schools, these are separate, specialist classes for children whose needs would ordinarily have been met in special schools, if pupil places had been available.

    Republic of Ireland

    In the Irish republic, there has been a dramatic increase in demand for specialist provision. There has also been an increase in the number of special schools in recent years, from 123 in 2018-19 to 134 in 2024-25, and further schools are planned.

    However, the challenges experienced by children with SEN in accessing school places continues. Some children are receiving home tuition grants because they don’t have a school place, and even more students are waiting to secure a place for the school year 2024-25. To address this, the minister for education in Ireland is now able to compel schools to open special classes under amended legislation.

    The challenge

    The devolved governments of the UK, and the Republic of Ireland, are committed to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which upholds the right to inclusive education for all learners. This includes the right to be educated without segregation.

    Scotland have addressed this by reducing specialist provision – although there have been criticisms of how this has been implemented in practice. Elsewhere in the UK, the demand for specialist provision is leading to each government increasing the amount of specialist provision, as opposed to considering how the principles of inclusive education could be embedded in mainstream schools.

    In line with guidance from the UN, it is important to consider how mainstream schools can effectively support and include all learners. If these schools are designed to better accommodate a broader range of learners, the need for specialist placements could well decrease.

    However, criticisms of the Scottish system show that without adequate support, placing children with special educational needs in mainstream schools is not enough for students to feel fully included.

    Cathryn Knight receives funding from the ESRC Impact Acceleration Account.

    Joanne Banks receives funding from The Irish Research Council New Foundations Award.

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

    – ref. There’s a crisis in special educational needs provision: here’s the situation across the UK and Ireland – https://theconversation.com/theres-a-crisis-in-special-educational-needs-provision-heres-the-situation-across-the-uk-and-ireland-240264

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Students with special educational needs are years behind their peers – they need specialist teachers in mainstream classrooms

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Johny Daniel, Assistant Professor, School of Education, Durham University

    BearFotos/Shutterstock

    A new report from the National Audit Office into special educational needs provision in England has concluded that despite a significant increase investment over the last decade, “the system is still not delivering better outcomes for children and young people”.

    This is borne out by my research. Students with special educational needs in England are significantly behind in reading, writing and maths compared to their classmates.

    Laws like the 2014 Children and Families Act, which aimed to improve support for these students, haven’t closed the gap. My recent research suggests that we need to rethink current educational policies and practices.

    My study looked at data from 2.5 million year 6 students (aged ten and 11) between 2014 and 2019. It shows that students with special educational needs are significantly behind in key academic areas.

    On average, students with special educational needs are two years behind in writing and one and a half years behind in reading and maths. The gap in maths is growing, which is especially worrying. It shows that current educational strategies are failing these students.

    Not all students with special educational needs face the same challenges. Students with intellectual disabilities were, on average, more than two years behind in writing and maths. In contrast, students with autism spectrum disorder and visual impairment do somewhat better, especially in reading, but they are still, on average, about one year behind.

    Rethinking support

    Despite well-intentioned policies, current educational frameworks are falling short. A major issue is the heavy reliance on teaching assistants as the main support for students with special educational needs in mainstream schools.

    Teaching assistants are dedicated and play an important role in classrooms. However, research shows that their involvement can sometimes have negative effects on academic outcomes due to a limited range of teaching methods and lack of professional development. Over-relying on teaching assistants without specialised support might be one reason for the continuing achievement gap.

    This raises important questions. If we would not accept teaching assistants as the main instructors for typical students, it should not be acceptable for students with special educational needs, who have more complex learning needs.

    Support in schools also comes from special educational needs coordinators. They manage the school’s approach to supporting students with special educational needs. They handle administrative tasks, work with parents and outside agencies, and ensure legal compliance. But while their role is important, they usually do not teach students directly.

    One solution is to have specialised special education teachers in mainstream schools. This is not just a suggestion; it’s a critical need.

    Special education teachers are trained educators who work directly with students needing extra support. They teach tailored lessons, adapt teaching materials, and use specialised strategies to meet individual learning needs. Their focus is on providing hands-on educational help within the school.

    Learning from other countries

    Integrating special education teachers into our mainstream classrooms, as seen in countries such as the US and Singapore, could be the key to better supporting our students.

    In these countries, special education teachers are part of the mainstream classrooms. They complete certification programmes, learning advanced skills in assessing students’ needs, developing tailored support and creating individual education plans. They teach alongside general educators, ensuring that students with special educational needs are not left out but receive high-quality support.

    This approach addresses both academic and emotional needs in the classroom, providing an effective support system.

    Similar steps should be taken in England to establish comprehensive special education teacher training programmes. This could include postgraduate certifications in special education or specialised modules in existing teacher education programmes.

    Specialist teachers could help contain the attainment gap.
    PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock

    Inspection frameworks like Ofsted must include specific criteria to evaluate the presence and effectiveness of specialised support in classrooms for students with special educational needs.

    Schools should be encouraged to hire qualified special education teachers, and government funding models must be changed to support these professionals. Also, ongoing professional development should be a priority, ensuring that all educators expand their expertise in proven teaching methods.

    By aligning teacher training, hiring and policies, England can reduce its reliance on teaching assistants as the main support for students with special educational needs. Instead, schools can have strong support systems led by trained special education teachers. These specialists can work with teaching assistants and classroom teachers to provide more effective, targeted support.

    This change would provide students with special educational needs with improved overall quality of teaching and learning. This could lead to mainstream classrooms fostering a truly inclusive educational environment.

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

    – ref. Students with special educational needs are years behind their peers – they need specialist teachers in mainstream classrooms – https://theconversation.com/students-with-special-educational-needs-are-years-behind-their-peers-they-need-specialist-teachers-in-mainstream-classrooms-240147

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home Office hits 500 jobs milestone in Stoke-on-Trent

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Thursday, 24th October 2024

    More than 500 government jobs have been created in Stoke-on-Trent over the last two years.

    The huge employment boost comes as part of a long-term commitment by the Home Office to create hundreds of new roles in the city.

    The 500 new jobs include roles that are pivotal in operational activity across the country, as well as corporate functions.

    Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “We are so pleased to see that the Home Office has hit its target of bringing 500 new jobs to the city in such a short space of time. This is a huge milestone for Stoke-on-Trent.

    “We want to ensure our residents have access to good jobs with higher wages, so we are delighted that the Home Office has made this commitment to our city.”

    In 2023, the Home Office signed a lease for 38,000 sq ft of office space at the Two Smithfield building in the city centre – initially creating around 200 new jobs.

    Eighteen months on, that number has risen to more than 500 employees, most of which are local to Stoke-on-Trent.

    The government department had been in talks with the city council about building a brand-new base in the city which would house all of its Stoke-on-Trent workforce.

    Now the Home Office has confirmed that it is looking to sign a long-term lease for existing office space in the city instead, in line with its firm commitment to remain in the city.

    Cllr Ashworth added: “We will continue to work with the Home Office to ensure they can find a permanent home in the city and will look at how we can potentially use existing or repurposed sites while doing everything we can to ensure these new jobs remain in the city for the long-term.”

    Minister of State, Lord David Hanson said: “We are committed to having a strong presence in Stoke-on-Trent and by fulfilling our commitment to bring more than 500 jobs to the city, we will ensure the region has a huge part to play in tackling some of the biggest challenges facing the UK.

    “Since taking office I have held constructive discussions with local partners in the region and I look forward to building on these relationships to explore how the Home Office can provide further opportunities to Stoke-on-Trent.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Carols in the Chamber 2024

    Source: City of Preston

    This December, the Council’s Chamber will come alive with the sound of Christmas as the Mayor of Preston hosts the annual ‘Carols in the Chamber’.

    On Wednesday, 4 December, members of the community are invited to join the Mayor, civic leaders and Preston Gilbert and Sullivan Society, at Preston Town Hall for a heartwarming evening of traditional carols.

    Preston Gilbert and Sullivan Society will lead the audience in singing Christmas classics such as O Little Town of Bethlehem, Away in a Manger, Joy to the World, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, and Silent Night.

    Councillor Phil Crowe, Mayor of Preston, said:

    “This is a tradition that dates back many years, and I’m privileged to host this event once again. I look forward to welcoming the community for an evening of festivities and joyful singing.

    The money raised from the event will be going to my chosen charities which I am proud to support and all do fantastic work in their communities.”

    The evening will begin with a festive reception at 6:30pm, featuring complimentary mince pies and drink. Carols will commence at 7pm.

    Tickets for the evening cost £10, with all proceeds from the event going to the Mayor’s chosen charities:

    • Let’s Grow Preston
    • Disability Equality Northwest
    • Furniture for Education Worldwide.

    For tickets, please email The Mayor on themayor@preston.gov.uk, by 15 November 2024.

    Join us for an evening of music, community, and festive spirit, all in support of these causes.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council asked to approve £6.3m boost to Landbank Fund

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Members will be asked to approve the repayment of £6.308m to the Landbank Fund from income from Council Tax on 2nd homes, at the Highland Council meeting on 31 October. The additional money will support the Council in finding solutions to the Highland Housing Challenge.

    Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Cllr Ken Gowans said: “The Landbank Fund is a valuable mechanism which allows us to invest further in housing supply in the Highlands. The additional £6.308 million will boost our capacity to bring housing back into communities and help to address the housing challenge.” 

    The Highland Council has in recent years sought flexibility to the Council to utilise income from council tax on second homes to support the revenue budget. 

    Scottish Government granted flexibility to the Council to utilise income in 2022/23 and 2023/24 to support the revenue budget, rather than for affordable housing purposes, given the financial challenges being faced by the Council at that time. That flexibility was however conditional on repayment of income into the Landbank Fund within 3 years of the flexibility being exercised.  

    Through its budget plans, the Council has made provision for repayment back into the Landbank Fund, this through a combination of budget provision made in 2024/25 and reserves earmarked for this purpose.  In total, the sum due to be paid back is £6.308m covering the two financial years.

    24 Oct 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – INTA Delegation to the UK to exchange on EU-UK economic and trade relations – Committee on International Trade

    Source: European Parliament

    A delegation of six Members of the Committee on International Trade (INTA), accompanied by the Chair of the Delegation to the EU-UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly, will travel to London (UK) from 28 to 30 October 2024. The delegation, led by the INTA Chair, Bernd Lange (S&D, DE), will exchange with the UK government, parliamentarians and stakeholders on the trade aspects of the EU-UK Withdrawal Agreement, including the Windsor Framework, and the Trade and Cooperation Agreement.

    The context of this visit is the ‘reset’ of the EU-UK relations announced recently by the UK Prime Minister, the first review of the TCA due in 2026 and the upcoming democratic consent vote of the Northern Ireland Legislative Assembly on the continuation of the application of major provisions of the Windsor Framework in December 2024.

    The UK and the EU are also faced with the same challenges at global level regarding international trade. In the past decade, geopolitical and geoeconomic tensions have heightened, in part due to the strategic competition between the United States and China. In the last few years the situation has deteriorated further, notably due to the supply chain disruptions from the Covid-19 pandemic and to the impact of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, as well as recently the major crisis in the Middle East, bringing both competitiveness and economic security to the forefront.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Life Expectancy and Healthy Life Expectancy Report published24 October 2024 Public Health has published the Life Expectancy and Healthy Life Expectancy Report. This report describes life expectancy in Jersey for the period 2021-2023, and the Healthy Life Expectancy for the… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    24 October 2024

    Public Health has published the Life Expectancy and Healthy Life Expectancy Report. This report describes life expectancy in Jersey for the period 2021-2023, and the Healthy Life Expectancy for the period of 2022/2023.

    Key findings for Life Expectancy for 2021-23 include: 

    • life expectancy (at birth) for females in Jersey was 84.9 years, around 3.5 years higher than that for males (81.3 years) 
    • male life expectancy has increased by 1.9 years since the 2011-2013 period, whilst for females there has been no statistically significant increase or decrease. 
    • once people reach age 65 in Jersey, they can expect to live on average another 21.2 years 
    • average life expectancy in Jersey was around 2 years higher than that for England overall, and was around 1 year higher than the South West region of England. 

    Key findings for Healthy Life Expectancy for the 2022/2023 include: 

    • healthy life expectancy at birth for males in Jersey was 63.8 years, around 2.5 years higher than that for females (61.2 years) 
    • healthy life expectancy at age 65 for females in Jersey was 12.9 years, around 1.5 years higher than that for males (11.3 years) 
    • male healthy life expectancy at birth has remained statistically similar, and female healthy life expectancy is statistically lower between 2016-2018 and 2022/2023 
    • male healthy life expectancy at birth was statistically higher than in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, but similar to England. Female healthy life expectancy at birth was statistically similar when compared to the devolved nations of the UK.

    The full report is available online.​​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Isle of Wight Council reveals Active Travel Challenge winners! 24 October 2024 Isle of Wight Council reveals Active Travel Challenge winners!

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    The winners of this year’s Active Travel Challenge have been revealed!

    Run by the Isle of Wight Council as part of its Junior Travel Ambassador (JTA) road safety scheme, the challenge encourages children to walk, cycle, scooter or skate to and from school.

    Youngsters record their daily walking, cycling, scootering and running activities — those who complete at least three weeks of the challenge are entered into a prize draw to win a scooter.

    This year’s challenge was sponsored by Bailey Street Furniture Group Ltd and the winners were:

    • Skyla from St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Primary School
    • Max from Dover Park Primary School
    • Hayden from Newport CE Primary School

    St Thomas of Canterbury and Newport CE Primary schools were the joint winners in the schools’ category, with each receiving a Scooterpod scooter rack as their prize.

    Hayden said: “I feel so excited about using my new scooter! Walking and scooting to school is so important for everyone’s energy! It’s a great start to my day!”

    Skyla added: “Thank you for the amazing prize, I cannot wait to use my scooter going to school now!”

    Lewis Campbell, the council’s road safety officer, said: “Congratulations to all of the prize winners and thank you to the schools who took part in this years’ Active Travel Challenge. The challenge will be back next year and will be open to schools taking part in the JTA scheme.

    “Also, a massive thank you to our sponsors for supporting the challenge, who offered a free Scooterpod to support our promotion of active travel.”

    Around 25 primary schools have now signed up to the JTA scheme.

    Junior Travel Ambassadors meet regularly to share ideas and opinions about what they think needs to change to improve road safety for their school, as well as lead assemblies, activities and competitions throughout the academic year.

    They also look at ways they can promote sustainable modes of travel within their communities.

    For the JTA scheme, the council provides participating schools with assembly presentations, lesson plans, guidance, posters and other resources for free — there is no cost to take part.

    Schools can find out more by emailing roadsafety@iow.gov.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sutton Connect – a new Green Travel District to encourage sustainable travel

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Sutton Connect, a new Green Travel District for the Sutton Walmley, Minworth & Reddicap area, has been launched to help encourage sustainable travel.

    Developed alongside the Peddimore employment park and Langley Sustainable Urban Extension (SUE) developments, which will bring thousands of new jobs and homes to the area, Sutton Connect brings a range of partners and stakeholders together to coordinate activity and ensure both developments are well connected and sustainable with the necessary infrastructure, policies and supporting initiatives in place.

    The vision of Sutton Connect is for less congestion, less pollution, fewer accidents and healthier, safer, more productive communities.

    Councillor Majid Mahmood, Cabinet Member for Transport at Birmingham City Council said: “I am so pleased we have worked closely with partners to set up a Green Travel District (Sutton Connect) for this part of Sutton Coldfield, bringing everyone together to discuss transport issues and collaborate on opportunities to enhance sustainable travel across the area. This is exciting news for the entire region and will see investment in schemes and initiatives that benefit all those living, working and travelling locally.” 

    David Smith, Director, Planning & Communities, IM Properties, development partner for Peddimore site, said: “Sustainable travel that prioritises walking, cycling and public transport is central to the Peddimore vision, connecting local people in Birmingham, Royal Sutton Coldfield and neighbouring North Warwickshire with new employment opportunities. We‘ve created a striking landscape setting that sensitively links with the surrounding area and provides attractive, safe, and accessible active travel routes. This contributes to an engaging and welcoming workplace, supporting the wellbeing of employees and visitors, while minimising impact on the environment.”

    Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council are also backing the Green Travel District approach, seeing the benefits it will bring to the town. Councillor Simon Ward, Leader of Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, said: “The Green Travel District clearly supports our Active Travel Vision across the town where residents and visitors can leave the car at home if they wish and move safely and efficiently through our streets and spaces. Providing real green transport choices supports better health, economic and environmental outcomes and will ensure future generations can continue to enjoy the rich heritage, biodiversity and natural beauty of our town.”

    People can sign up for regular Sutton Connect updates for more information about this initiative and to find out what support and activities will be available in future.  

    To enable people to travel by public transport two new bus services have been launched to serve the Peddimore site.  The 64/X64 Birmingham – Peddimore/Minworth via Erdington, The Fort, Bromford & Castle Vale.  Also, the 68 Birmingham – Peddimore/Minworth via Lichfield Road, Tyburn Road is in line with Amazon shift times at Peddimore but may be suitable for those living/travelling locally.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Pandemic Institute celebrates three years of work

    Source: City of Liverpool

    The Pandemic Institute, a world leading facility committed to helping the world prevent, prepare, and respond more effectively to pandemics, celebrates three years of vital work to keep the public safe.

    Since opening in autumn 2021, the Institute has advanced research to predict and prepare for the next pandemic. It’s built resilience in society to respond and recover from COVID-19 and future health crises and worked to prevent disease outbreaks and epidemics from developing into pandemics.

    Ove the last three years The Pandemic Institute has:

    • Supported a portfolio of research worth more than £50m led by The Pandemic Institute’s investigators based at the University of Liverpool, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, and Liverpool John Moores University.
    • Established research industry partnerships with a value of more than £5m, strengthening the local economy and employment prospects. One such partnership is with CSL Seqirus, a global leader in influenza prevention. Together they are researching both the threat of seasonal influenza and the development of innovative approaches to pandemic preparedness and response.
    • Awarded £3.6m in critical pandemic research funding, and responded rapidly to emerging infections such as Mpox, which was recently declared a global emergency by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
    • Provided funding towards the development of diagnostics for some of the world’s deadliest viruses including Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF). Transmitted by tick bites, it has a mortality rate of around 30% but there is currently no vaccine. Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine has developed a rapid point-of-care lateral flow test, as well as conducting clinical trials to assess a potential treatment.
    • Supported researchers at Liverpool John Moores University who are looking at health inequalities and resilience in communities during a pandemic, and how future responses can be tailored and improved.
    • Invested in infrastructure including a new pre-clinical trials unit for testing new vaccines and treatments, based at the University of Liverpool.
    • Provided critical advice and support on pandemic prevention and preparedness to the UK Health Security Agency, Department of Health and Social Care, and other government departments.

    Professor Tom Solomon, Director of The Pandemic Institute said: “I’m incredibly proud of the work we’ve done in just three short years, helping to develop new diagnostic tests, treatments and vaccines, for emerging infection threats, and strengthening the research infrastructure.

    “Thanks to our dedicated and ongoing efforts we are in a position to rapidly mobilise funding for essential research and be flexible in times of swiftly changing circumstances.”

    Director of Public Health for Liverpool, Professor Matthew Ashton, said: “Liverpool has a rich history of delivering bold public health interventions, and the launch of The Pandemic Institute continued our long and proud tradition.

    “The funding shows the ongoing commitment to delivering an innovative response to pandemics on an international scale.

    “It is playing a vital role in the global work to tackle the next pandemic, wherever and whenever that will be, and we should be immensely proud of the foresight the city showed in establishing it.”

    What’s next

    The Pandemic Institute will continue to develop new infrastructure in Liverpool to harness the combined expertise of the region.

    In spring, The Pandemic Institute was awarded funding as part of the Liverpool City Region’s Investment Zone plans. Part of the £160m Government pledge will support the Institutes’ ambitions to build a new Pandemic Preparedness and Response Facility in Liverpool containing state-of-the-art research laboratories that will strengthen the UK’s infectious disease research and innovation capabilities.

    For more information about The Pandemic Institute visit www.thepandemicinstitute.org.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: MHRA reminds healthcare professionals to advise patients of the side effects of GLP-1 agonists and to report misuse

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is reminding healthcare professionals to ensure patients are aware of the known side effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.

    These medicines are used to treat type 2 diabetes or obesity, with the common risk of gastrointestinal side effects which may affect more than 1 in 10 patients. While most side effects for these medicines are mild, some may also be serious.   

    Healthcare professionals should also be alert for signs of misuse of these medicines in their patients, warn these patients that they are at risk of side effects and report any adverse reactions via the Yellow Card scheme.   

    GLP-1 receptor agonists approved for weight management, are effective treatment options for patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) higher or equal to 30 kg/m2 or for patients whose BMI is higher or equal to 27 kg/m2 and have a weight-related medical condition, such as cardiovascular disease.

    GLP-1 receptor agonists can only be prescribed by a registered healthcare professional.

    When appropriately used in line with the product licence, the benefits of these medications outweigh the risks for patients. However, this benefit-risk balance is positive only for those patients within the approved indications for weight management or type 2 diabetes as described in the product information.

    If patients obtain a private prescription (from a non-NHS prescriber), they should ensure this is dispensed from an authorised source, such as a registered pharmacy, to avoid the risk of receiving a falsified pen. They should be aware that some falsified medicines have been found to contain insulin, which if used, could cause severe hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) requiring urgent medical attention. 

    It is vital for patients to carefully read the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet and use the prescribed dose. Potential side effects of these medicines can include gastrointestinal conditions, such as vomiting and diarrhoea. In most cases, these are not usually serious, but may sometimes lead to more serious complications such as severe dehydration, resulting in hospitalisation. Patients are advised to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids throughout treatment.

    Gastrointestinal side effects are more likely to occur at the start of treatment or after a recent increase in dose. Healthcare professionals should also discuss the risk of serious, but less common side effects such as pancreatitis and gall bladder disorders.

    Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) can occur in non-diabetic patients using some GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight management and healthcare professionals should ensure patients are aware of the symptoms and signs of this condition, such as sweating, shaking, feelings of tiredness or weakness and confusion. Where this occurs, patients should eat or drink something that will raise their blood sugar quickly, and if symptoms persist they should seek medical attention.

    Patients prescribed GLP-1 receptor agonists should speak to a healthcare professional if they have any questions about potential side effects. 

    Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer, said:

    “All medicines carry a risk of potential side effects and GLP-1RAs are no exception.

    “We encourage healthcare professionals to ensure patients being treated with these medicines are aware of the common side effects and how to minimise risk.

    “The balance of benefits and risks outside the licensed indication has not been shown to be favourable. Please report cases of misuse especially if harm occurs”

    Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, said:

    “Weight-loss drugs have enormous potential. When taken alongside healthy diet and exercise, they can be game changers in tackling obesity and getting people back to good health. 

    “But these are not cosmetic drugs that should be taken to help get a body beautiful picture for Instagram. These are serious medicines and should only be used responsibly and under medical supervision. They’re not a quick fix to lose a few pounds and buying them online without appropriate assessment can put people’s health at risk.

    “Drugs approved for weight management should only be used by those tackling obesity, where diet and exercise has been tried first, and where patients are eligible.”

    Healthcare professionals should consult our Drug Safety Update for further advice.

    ENDS

    Notes to editors

    1. Further information is available in the Drug Safety Update.
    2. GLP-1 receptor agonists are used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity, with active ingredients including exenatide, lixisenatide, liraglutide, dulaglutide, semaglutide and tirzepatide. They work by mimicking the action of the natural hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin secretion, reducing glucagon secretion, slowing gastric emptying, and promoting satiety.
    3. Not all GLP-1 receptor agonists are approved for weight management, products can include the active ingredients semaglutide (Wegovy), tirzepatide (Mounjaro) and liraglutide (Saxenda). GLP-1 receptor agonists can be used alone or in combination with other diabetes medications. Some GLP-1 receptor agonists have also been approved for weight management in obese patients with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30 kg/m² or overweight patients with a BMI of 27 kg/m.
    4. Symptoms of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) can be found on the NHS website.
    5. Falsified medicines can cause a serious risk to health, patients should only receive prescriptions from authorised prescribers.
    6. A licensed indication refers to the approval to treat or manage a specific medical condition.
    7. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks. 
    8. The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care. 
    9. For media enquiries, please contact newscentre@mhra.gov.uk or 020 3080 7651.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lebanon Support Conference 2024: Minister Falconer intervention

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    The Minister for the Middle East attended the Lebanon Support Conference in Paris on 24 October 2024 to reiterate calls for a ceasefire in Lebanon.

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

    The situation in Lebanon is worsening daily, and civilian casualties are mounting.

    The risks of further escalation cannot be overstated. We cannot let Lebanon become another Gaza.

    This is why today the UK repeats our call for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Lebanese Hizballah.

    Let us not forget that this conflict started when Hizballah launched rockets at northern Israel, forcing the Israelis to flee their homes.

    The UK stands with Israel and recognises its right of self defence in the face of unlawful Iranian attacks.

    Iran must immediately halt those attacks, and stand down its proxies.

    Meanwhile, we are working with the Lebanese Armed Forces, the sole legitimate defender of that state, to support security and stability.

    I am pleased to be joined today by one of our most senior military officers, Air Marshal Harvey Smyth, who leads our work to support the Lebanese Armed Forces. We stand ready to do more.

    We are also committing £15 million to respond to the humanitarian emergency in Lebanon, supporting food, medicine and clean water.

    Many generous British citizens are now donating to the Disasters Emergency Committee appeal for Gaza, Lebanon and the wider region – my government will now pledge to match that generosity up to £10 million.

    The aid workers striving to alleviate suffering in Lebanon must be able to carry out their duties in safety – including UN workers, who have a vital role to play in resolving armed conflict and mitigating its impact.

    Britain condemns all threats to the security of UNIFIL.

    We call on all parties engaged in this conflict to take all necessary precautions to avoid civilian deaths and injuries and protect essential infrastructure.

    Before I conclude, let me reflect briefly on the wider crisis in the region.

    Following the death of the terrorist leader Yahya Sinwar, it is time for a new chapter in Gaza.

    We reiterate our call for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and an increase in humanitarian aid.

    We must focus all our efforts on stopping this cycle of violence.

    A political solution consistent with 1701 is the only answer – and the only way to secure a stable future for those on both sides of the Blue Line.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Report 11/2024: Collision between on-track machines near to Strood

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    RAIB has today released its report into a collision between on-track machines near to Strood, Kent, 16 November 2023.

    The site of the accident (courtesy of Babcock Rail).

    R112024_241024_Strood

    PDF, 7.15 MB, 37 pages

    This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.

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

    Summary

    At about 04:15 on 16 November 2023, an on-track machine driver was injured while coupling a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) to a tamper on the High Speed 1 (HS1) line near Strood, in Kent. The tamper, which had been stationary, moved and struck the driver after a second MPV collided with the other end of it at a speed of about 20 km/h (12 mph). This second MPV was being driven towards the tamper with the intention of coupling all three vehicles together at the end of a night shift.

    RAIB’s investigation found that it had become normal practice for this coupling operation to be undertaken with another vehicle approaching the other end of the tamper. The established method of working was for the approaching vehicle to come to a stand at a ‘holding point’ situated around 50 to 100 metres away from the stationary vehicles. The final movement would then be made at very slow speed and under control of the driver responsible for the coupling operation.

    However, on this occasion the second MPV did not stop at the holding point. This was because the driver propelling (reversing) the second MPV did not have a view of the railway in the direction of travel of the vehicle and was reliant on radio messages from a machine controller at the rear to know when to slow or stop the vehicle. On the night of the accident, the radio being used by the machine controller had developed an intermittent fault, which led to a breakdown in communication with the driver. Due to the design of the radio, neither the driver nor the machine controller were initially aware that communications had been lost. Although the machine controller subsequently realised that the radio was not working and alerted the driver that they needed to brake by a shouted warning, this occurred too late to avoid the collision.

    RAIB found that the type of radios being used during the movement did not transmit a constant ‘confidence tone’ which would have alerted staff to the loss of communications. It was also not normal practice for machine controllers to communicate constantly on long transit moves. In addition, RAIB found that the type of MPVs used on HS1 were not fitted with any facility for machine controllers riding on the rear deck to brake the vehicle, despite an internal recommendation to fit this facility after a previous similar accident in 2021.

    An underlying factor in this accident was that Network Rail High Speed, the infrastructure manager for HS1, did not have safe systems of work for propelling moves or working on track when engineering vehicles were running during a possession. A possible underlying factor was that the strategic safety assurance undertaken by HS1 Ltd, which has the concession to operate HS1, did not identify that the recommendation to fit a braking facility to the rear deck had been closed with no actions being taken.

    Since the accident, Network Rail High Speed has fitted its MPV fleet with emergency stop buttons adjacent to the rear deck, secure communications systems and is due to install a rearwards-facing camera, connected to an in-cab monitor.

    Recommendations

    RAIB has made four recommendations. The first three are addressed to Network Rail High Speed and the fourth to HS1 Ltd. The first recommendation aims to control the risks of engineering vehicle operation on HS1, while the second looks to keep staff working on the line safe by implementing a robust procedural framework. The third recommendation is that Network Rail High Speed ensures that internal recommendations and local actions are reviewed and implemented in a way that reflects their intent, and in a way that can be tracked and used to support safety decision‑making. The final recommendation is for HS1 Ltd to exercise effective strategic safety assurance of its suppliers.

    Notes to editors

    1. The sole purpose of RAIB investigations is to prevent future accidents and incidents and improve railway safety. RAIB does not establish blame, liability or carry out prosecutions.

    2. RAIB operates, as far as possible, in an open and transparent manner. While our investigations are completely independent of the railway industry, we do maintain close liaison with railway companies and if we discover matters that may affect the safety of the railway, we make sure that information about them is circulated to the right people as soon as possible, and certainly long before publication of our final report.

    3. For media enquiries, please call 01932 440015.

    Newsdate: 22 October 2024

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coventry shows its support for National Adoption Week by highlighting adoption journeys of all kinds

    Source: City of Coventry

    Adoption Central England (ACE), the regional adoption agency for Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Warwickshire, Coventry, and Solihull, is supporting this year’s National Adoption Week campaign

    Sponsored by Adoption England, and which continues until Sunday 27 October.

    The national campaign, YouCanAdopt, aims to raise awareness of adoption and dispel myths around who is eligible to adopt, as more adoptive parents are needed for those children who are waiting to join new families.

    A heartwarming video from the campaign demonstrates this through the stories of three adoptive families sharing their experiences in conversations onboard a train. This setting symbolises the adoption journey that conveys, despite the ups and downs and detours on the way, that it is overwhelmingly a positive and rewarding to do to provide a permanent family home to a child who is waiting for this opportunity. The film can be viewed at www.youcanadopt.co.uk

    Cllr Pat Seaman, Cabinet Member, Children and Young People said:

    “It remains vitally important that regional campaigns such as this continue to highlight the need, and reinforce the message, for families to step forward to provide that loving care and support that children of all ages are looking for.

    “There are around 60 children in the region currently waiting for adoptive families and we urgently need more people to come forward and welcome these children into their families.

    “The need to support and provide a loving and caring environment for children in care sadly remains a pressing need for many cities and towns, including Coventry.

    “Adoption Central England is a well-established adoption service with experienced staff who can guide and support you through the process and beyond and is keen to hear from anyone who is thinking about adoption.”

    “Therefore, I would encourage people out there in the local community to watch the new ‘Journey’ film and consider adoption, as it can play a massive and important role in improving many children’s lives.”

    Adopters can be any age, from any background, and can be single or in a couple. The most important thing is that they can provide a secure and loving home to a child, or children, and can be there to support them to thrive.

    Adoption Central England recognises the importance of supporting people on their adoption journeys and ensures adoptive parents are never alone and that there is a network of ongoing support around them. The nature of adoption has changed over the years and help is available for adoptive families as they deal with unique issues that only adoptive families experience.

    ACE welcomes enquiries about adoption from all section of the community and experienced adoption social workers are available to answer any questions you may have. The ACE website contains a wealth of information about becoming an adoptive parent, the children who are waiting, and of the ongoing support that is available to you through the service.

    To find out more about National Adoption Week, or to seek information or support, visit  www.youcanadopt.co.uk or contact Adoption Central England on ACE 0300 369 0556 or though the website on www.aceadoption.com

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: WHO – Regional health leaders agree to improve financing to achieve universal health coverage, prioritize digital health

    Source: World Health Organization (WHO)

    MANILA, 24 October 2024 – Health leaders from nations across Asia and the Pacific today endorsed action frameworks on health financing and digital health at the seventy-fifth session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for the Western Pacific.

    Health financing to achieve universal health coverage and sustainable development

    Despite recent reforms in health financing, public health spending in the Western Pacific Region remains inadequate to meet growing needs. In many countries, current policies have not yet achieved the goals of equitable service access and financial protection. As a result, families are being pushed into poverty from the financial burden of paying for health services. In 2019 alone, more than 300 million people in the Western Pacific faced catastrophic health costs. Medicines and outpatient care are the primary drivers of out-of-pocket spending, exposing critical coverage gaps in primary health care (PHC) systems.

    Increasing public health spending, prioritizing PHC and adopting comprehensive financing strategies to promote health in national development are essential to achieving universal health coverage(UHCUHC) and sustainable development.

    The Regional Committee, WHO’s governing body in the Western Pacific, today endorsed the Regional Action Framework for Health Financing to Achieve Universal Health Coverage and Sustainable Development in the Western Pacific. The Framework aims to improve health financing through five action domains: 1) greater reliance on public funding for health; 2) more equitable and efficient health spending; 3) financing PHC now and into the future; 4) strengthening governance for health financing; and 5) promoting health for all in economic and social policy.

    Accelerating digital health transformation

    The Regional Committee also considered digital health – the use of information and communications technology to manage health and promote well-being – which is playing an increasingly significant role in transforming health care by leveraging technology to increase access to care. Digital health is growing rapidly in the Western Pacific Region. However, these changes bring about new challenges related to governance, coordination with a wide range of actors, sustainable financing, and the ethical and secure use of digital health tools and data.

    The Regional Action Framework on Digital Health in the Western Pacificendorsed by the Region’s health leaders today will guide countries and areas in developing national digital health plans. It will also facilitate collaboration with WHO to advance national digital health strategies aligned with country priorities. The Framework calls on countries to prioritize governance, socio-technical infrastructure, financing and economics, digital health solutions, and data in strengthening health systems in the era of digital transformation.

    Achieving transformative primary health care

    Although more than 45 years have passed since primary health care (PHC) was identified as the cornerstone for achieving Health for All in theDeclaration of Alma-Ata, many health systems in our Region remain hospital-centric, while PHC is understaffed and under resourced. With countries facing rapidly ageing populations, an increased burden of NCDs and health security risks, a worsening economic outlook and other changes, transformative PHC is more critical than ever.

    In a panel discussion held at the Regional Committee on Tuesday, delegates from Cambodia and Singapore and a representative of the Asian Development Bank discussed how a transformative PHC approach – which emphasizes keeping people healthy rather than only treating the sick, and the importance of active community engagement and effective communication – can improve health outcomes.

    Recognizing the need to support countries in achieving transformative PHC, the Regional Committee in 2022 endorsed the Regional Framework on the Future of Primary Health Care in the Western Pacific. It highlights five strategic areas for health system transformation, covering models of service delivery, individual and community empowerment, the health workforce, health financing and enabling healthy environments. WHO is supporting countries with implementation of the Regional Framework.

    Improving oral health

    On Wednesday, delegates from Malaysia, Tonga and Vanuatu participated in a panel discussion on oral health. In the Western Pacific Region, the rate of oral diseases such as tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss has grown by 30% over the past 30 years. One in five adults over the age of 60 has lost all their teeth, causing difficulty in eating, poor nutrition and a lower quality of life.

    Oral diseases disproportionally affect poor and disadvantaged populations. But they are mostly preventable and can be treated in their early stages. Left unaddressed, they cause pain and reduce the quality of life of individuals affected. At the population level, they add to the burden of noncommunicable diseases and impact health systems and economies in the Region.

    The WHO Global Strategy and Action Plan on Oral Health (2023–2030)was developed in response to a 2021 World Health Assembly resolution calling for a shift in oral health policy planning from traditional restorative dental care to a focus on promoting oral health and preventing oral diseases. WHO is working to accelerate the implementation of the Global Strategy in the Western Pacific, making oral health an integral part of universal health coverage and improving access to essential oral health services for everyone, especially the vulnerable.

    Accreditation of non-State actors to attend Regional Committee meetings

    The Regional Committee for the Western Pacific also adopted a decision to formalize the procedure for non-State actors that are not already in official relations with WHO to be accredited as observers at their meetings. The decision highlights the valuable role that non-State actors play in society, recognizes their contributions to advancing public health and to supporting the achievement of WHO’s strategic objectives. It marks an important step towards strengthening regional health governance, and a more inclusive approach to knowledge sharing, dialogue and health policy making.

    Expected closure of the session, time and place of next year’s meeting

    The seventy-fifth session of the Regional Committee for the Western Pacific is expected to conclude tomorrow.

    Notes:

    The seventy-fifth session of the Western Pacific Regional Committee began on 21 October and is scheduled to conclude on 25 October at WHO’s Regional Office for the Western Pacific in Manila, Philippines. The agenda and timetable are available online. A livestream of proceedings, all other official documents, as well as fact sheets and videos on the issues to be addressed can be accessed here. For real-time updates, follow @WHOWPRO on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube and the hashtag #RCM75.

    Working with 194 Member States across six regions, WHO is the United Nations specialized agency responsible for public health. Each WHO region has a regional committee – a governing body composed of ministers of health and senior officials from Member States. Each regional committee meets annually to agree on health actions and to chart priorities for WHO’s work.

    The WHO Western Pacific Region is home to more than 1.9 billion people across 37 countries and areas: American Samoa (United States of America), Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia (France), Guam (United States of America), Hong Kong SAR (China), Japan, Kiribati, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Macao SAR (China), Malaysia, the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Mongolia, Nauru, New Caledonia (France), New Zealand, Niue, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (United States of America), Palau, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Pitcairn Islands (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland), the Republic of Korea, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and Viet Nam, Wallis and Futuna (France).

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home Secretary launches new support for Windrush victims

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Home Secretary commits to a ‘fundamental reset’ in the government’s response to the appalling Windrush scandal.

    Victims of the Windrush scandal will be better supported to apply for compensation through a £1.5 million fund as the Home Secretary sets out a ‘fundamental reset’ to the Windrush generation.

    The Home Secretary has today set out the first steps that the new government is taking to ensure justice is finally delivered for victims of the Windrush scandal. She will commit to working more closely with communities affected, and to appointing a new Windrush Commissioner to hold the government to account on the delivery of the recommendations in the Wendy Williams Lessons Learned Review. The Commissioner will act as a trusted voice for victims and Windrush communities and also champion improvements and lasting change.

    In a written statement, Yvette Cooper has published details of £1.5million in government grant funding, which will be used to increase advocacy support for victims applying to the Windrush Compensation Scheme.

    Within weeks of taking office, the Home Secretary re-established the Windrush Unit within the Home Office, to oversee its response to the scandal and embed lasting cultural change across the department. The unit was disbanded under the previous government in July 2023.

    These actions come as the Home Secretary later today chairs a roundtable discussion with key stakeholders and sets out the government’s renewed commitment to work with them to achieve justice for victims. This follows a separate meeting the Home Secretary has had with Wendy Williams, to discuss her vision for a changed Home Office.

    Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

    The Windrush scandal caused terrible pain and heartache for so many families in the Windrush generation and in wider Commonwealth communities. It is rightly recognised as a period of national shame.

    The hurt and anguish felt by so many has been compounded further for those who haven’t received the compensation and justice they are owed. The Windrush generation have been let down and we are committed to a fundamental reset of the response to this scandal.

    We are changing the government’s approach – working more closely with victims, stakeholders, and communities, as well as those affected by all the department’s work, to ensure a scandal of this kind can never happen again and dignity can be restored to those so tragically affected.

    The government is determined to hear first hand from the Windrush generation, their families and wider commonwealth communities to ensure that their experiences are listened to and learned from.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Launch of new Chell Heath Family Hub provides vital early help to children and families

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Thursday, 24th October 2024

    Families in Stoke-on-Trent are benefitting from help and support from a range of city council, NHS and voluntary sector services, thanks to the continued rollout of Family Hubs in the city.

    Chell Heath Family Hub officially launches on 24 October at the site of the former Stoke North Children’s Centre, Bishop Road, Chell Heath, as part of a project being delivered with over £3.5 million of Government funding.

    Family Hubs offer bespoke advice and guidance to local communities, empowering families and offering advice, guidance and support.

    They are also an important part of the city council’s Family Matters programme, which provides families in the city with all the tips, advice and opportunities they need to thrive.

    Councillor Sarah Hill, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “It’s great news that a brand-new Family Hub is launching in Chell Heath. The vision for Family Hubs is to create easily accessible family support for everyone, in the knowledge that strong family relationships enhance the wellbeing of individuals and communities alike. 

    “We know that more early support means more children can remain with their families and fewer children need to come into care. This means every Family Hub is extra vital early help to keep children safely with their families.

    “A Family Hub means that families in the area will have access to a wider range of services and activities with the ability to drop in and link with services to support families. It’s also a new and improved centre after we’ve carried out works to the building so I’d encourage families in the area to come down on 24 October and find out what’s on offer.”

    Alongside supporting children’s educational attainment, wellbeing and life chances, the Family Hub will provide activities and groups for children and families as well as help with household budgeting, discounted food, pregnancy advice and support. Previously these services could be disjointed and hard to navigate but Family Hubs provide a single access point to support from a range of services.

    At the launch event there was:

    • A market stall event for organisations to promote their services and talk to families about how these can be accessed
    • The Bread and Butter Thing offering affordable food
    • Activities and taster sessions for children and families including:
      • Taster sessions of free universal groups we offer for families (sensory activities, babbling babies sessions, craft activities etc)
      •  Parenting courses – practitioners will be on hand to talk about the group work offer, what sessions cover, share feedback from families and explain how families can access these groups
      • Peer support groups who will speak to families about the services and support they offer
      • Outdoor activities for children and families run by partner agencies  

    Family Hubs are currently open in Tunstall, Normacot and Bentilee with other sites currently being developed. For 24/7 access to services, or for families that prefer to access online, the city council’s Digital Family Hub is available at https://familyhub.stoke.gov.uk/

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Preston’s Activation of Active Travel Project

    Source: City of Preston

    Preston City Council are seeking proposals from potential partners to deliver high-quality active travel programmes in Preston.

    These programmes are:

    About the Activation of Active Travel Commissioning Fund

    Preston City Council has £30,000 of funding to invest in active travel from Lancashire County Council’s Activation of Active Travel Fund. This fund aims to put in place soft measures to support and encourage residents to change their behaviour and use existing active travel infrastructure.  

    The funding has been divided into three projects, tailored to the needs of Preston; Supporting Cycle Commuting, Accessible cycling events and widening participation in walking.

    The application process is now open, closing on Monday 18 November. Details on each of the three active travel projects for which the council are seeking to appoint delivery partners.

    Supporting cycle commuting

    This project aims to enable residents to use cycling as a mode of transport for shorter journeys such as travelling to work or the shops.

    The project will target underrepresented or vulnerable groups in the city and will support them to develop the confidence and skills needed to commute by bike and assist with route planning and testing.

    Accessible cycling events

    This project aims to increase the accessibility of cycling for those with a disability or long-term health condition.  

    The project will involve the organisation and hosting of a range of free of charge, accessible rides using existing cycling infrastructure in Preston. These events should take place in different areas of the city to allow all residents to take part. Adapted cycles and safety equipment should be available free of charge as part of these rides so that anyone can attend. 

    Widening participation in walking

    This project aims to increase the uptake of walking for underrepresented groups in the city such as ethnic minority groups or those with a physical and/or mental health condition.

    The project will train a network of walk leaders who will then lead walks on a voluntary basis for residents, who can take part free of charge. These walks will explore different areas of the city, this will help residents to discover local amenities and build their confidence to go out on walks in these areas on their own or with friends/family in the future.

    More details on each of the three projects and the application process can be viewed on the Preston’s Activation of Active Travel project page.  

    The timeline for these programmes

    The timeline for this project is:

    • Deadline for receipt of applications – 18 November 2024 at 17:00
    • Notification of application outcomes – W/C 2 December 2024 
    • Issuing of grant agreements – W/C 16 December 2024 
    • Project delivery commences – 5 February 2025 
    • Project delivery ends – 6 February 2026 
    • Final project report – By 28 February 2026 

    Additional Information

    Preston City Council actively applies and prioritises the principles of Community Wealth Building wherever applicable and appropriate. Community Wealth Building is an approach which aims to ensure the economic system builds wealth and prosperity for everyone.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Meet the Researcher: Derek Aguiar, CoE

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Looking at the research published by Derek Aguiar and his lab over the past few years – ranging from drug side effect prediction to modeling genetic variation to predicting the outcomes of motions submitted in legal trial proceedings – one might conclude he’s a jack of all trades. 

    Aguiar and Jonathan XIV. (Courtesy of Derek Aguiar)

    Actually, he’s a master of one: computer science (CS).

    Aguiar is an associate professor in the College of Engineering who believes there’s no limit to the potential applications of CS. He follows his own curiosity, which frequently lands him in interdisciplinary projects involving other schools and colleges at UConn or multi-institutional collaboratives. And he encourages his students to do the same. 

    “I’ve ‘adopted’ some students that specialized in other areas,” he jokes, by way of explaining the astonishing diversity of his lab’s research subject matter. 

    For his own part, Aguiar is chiefly interested in blending graph-theoretic algorithms with probabilistic machine learning approaches. These are the CS techniques he studied in his Ph.D. at Brown University and his postdoctoral scholarship at Princeton University. Combining them, he has developed new applications for genomics and genetic data to help understand complex disease. 

    Launching the Next Generation of Computer Scientists

    As a first-generation undergraduate at the University of Rhode Island, Aguiar didn’t yet realize that he wanted to pursue a career in research, or that such a thing was even possible. He graduated without lab experience (“This isn’t a good template for other people to follow,” he notes).  

    But then, while pursuing graduate studies at Brown, he realized how “beautifully” his life-long interest in CS could combine with biology. 

    “I really saw the mathematical, statistical, and algorithmic beauty in biology,” he says. “It has a long history – some very important and deep results [in biology] have come from statistics and computer science. That’s where I fell in love and became enamored with the blending of CS and biology.” 

    Now, Aguiar is dedicated to pursuing original research and mentoring students in CS. He doesn’t want any would-be computer scientists to miss the chance to conduct research in college, like he did – in fact, he’s helping them get a head start, by mentoring high schoolers from across the region. 

    Most of Aguiar’s high school mentees are from Glastonbury, where students are paired with researchers through the Advanced Research Mentorship program. A few enterprising students from other schools have also sought him out for mentorship as well. He recently worked virtually with a protege from Massachusetts who went on to enroll at UConn. 

    “They come to UConn for about two hours after their high school gets out, once a week,” Aguiar says, “and we work on CS and research projects together. Eventually, they present their research internally at their high schools, and some go on to present at the CT Science and Engineering Fair.” 

    Aguiar was also a co-organizer of the New England Computer Science Teachers Association New England conference, which was held at UConn Storrs for the first time last year. 

    From DNA to Honest Abe

    Most recently, Aguiar’s work has been supported by an NSF CAREER award; a four-year, nearly $200,000 award from the National Institutes of Health (NIH); and an award from the Horace Bushnell Memorial Hall Corporation, the foundation that operates the Bushnell Performing Arts Center in Hartford. 

    The first two awards support Aguiar’s work on genomics projects. The CAREER award will allow him to continue his work in modeling haplotypes: sets of DNA variants co-inherited along a single chromosome. Aguiar develops algorithms to help understand how these haplotypes are inherited and how they relate to complex diseases. 

    With the NIH funding, Aguiar is developing novel computational immunology programs to help determine the risk of cardiovascular disease among people with type 2 diabetes. One of the ultimate aims of this research is to enable further investigation into the casual relationship between type 2 diabetes and heart disease, a puzzle scientists have been trying to solve since the correlation was first identified. 

    With the Bushnell group, the research looks a bit different. Aguiar is working on a project that seeks to infuse a little theater and CS magic into middle school history lessons: he’s developing an AI version of Abraham Lincoln, using a large language model fed on Lincoln’s extensive body of written work and verbal addresses. 

    “The idea behind this project is to rethink how middle schoolers learn,” Aguiar says. 

    Instead of just reading or watching a documentary about Lincoln, this project will allow students to actually have a conversation with him, learning about his viewpoints and gaining a better understanding of his historical milieu. It seeks to fill a gap in middle-grade learning that Aguiar identifies as critical. 

    “Middle school students don’t really skip school – they’re always there – they’re just not very engaged,” he explains. “We’re trying to increase engagement by providing an experience in the social sciences where you don’t just read a book or listen to your teacher and then regurgitate facts. We’re trying to turn this into an experiential process where instruction is personalized for each student.” 

    What’s Next?

    Aguiar is currently collaborating with Rachel O’Neill, director of UConn’s Institute for Systems Genomics, on a project that will help identify irregular DNA formations that have been linked to increased mutation rates and cancer. 

    “DNA can actually fold into different structures, other than what’s known as B DNA – the canonical double helix structure,” he explains.  

    One of the major ways geneticists sequence DNA is through nanopore sequencing. In this process, an enzyme unzips DNA into single strands, which are then pushed through a microscopic sequencing device.  

    Aguiar and O’Neill discovered that these irregular DNA formations can impact the time it takes DNA to move through the process, since it takes longer for enzymes to disentangle these structures. 

    “We discovered that the genomic locations where these structures can form are associated with differential nanopore translocation times,” Aguiar says. “That hadn’t been done before.” 

    As he continues his career at UConn, Aguiar anticipates embarking on more exciting research across all domains.  He’ll also work to keep enacting his other central focus – supporting students, on whatever paths they choose to pursue. 

    “It’s super important that my students are well-rounded researchers, which includes being good communicators and educators,” he says. “But it’s not important for my students to follow in my footsteps – I want them all to do whatever makes them happy, and hopefully they are using what they learned in the process of earning their degrees!” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Lord Butler of Brockwell: Lord Speaker’s Corner | House of Lords | Episode 22

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    ‘I’d heard bombs before, so I knew it was a bomb.’

    Forty years ago this month, Robin Butler – Principle Private Secretary to Margaret Thatcher – was in the room with the prime minister when the Brighton bomb exploded nearby in their hotel.

    ‘This is our opportunity to show that terrorism can’t defeat democracy’

    Now Lord Butler of Brockwell tells the Lord Speaker about his experience, from their initial reaction to the blast, to going back to retrieve the prime minister’s papers, and shares Margaret Thatcher’s response to his suggestion she postpone the start of the Conservative Party Conference the next morning.

    ‘I devoted my life to assisting politicians with government.’

    Lord Butler worked closely with five prime ministers, from Edward Heath to Tony Blair. In this episode he shares his experience of working with each of them either as private secretary or cabinet secretary. He speaks about later work of prime ministers on Northern Ireland, negotiations with Europe, why he joined the civil service and the growing role of special advisers. He also shares his thoughts on reforming the Civil Service, arguing that ‘you’ve got to reform it constantly… But you’ve got to lead the Civil Service in my view, and not drive them’

    See more from the series https://www.parliament.uk/business/lords/house-of-lords-podcast/

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament #LordSpeakersCorner #LordsMembers

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XIws-4TrWLE

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Strengthening Defence Through Wargaming

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    In recent years, there has been a resurgence in using wargaming to support decision making across the MOD and, to some extent, wider government.

    MOD Crown Copyright

    In response, the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) established the Defence Wargaming Centre (DWC) at Portsdown West (PDW), significantly increasing its analytical wargaming capability and capacity. In concert with this, Strategic Command further enhanced MOD wargaming capability and capacity, a central part was the establishment of the Defence Experimentation and Wargaming Hub (DEWH) at MOD Southwick Park (SWP).

    The two organisations already work closely together and, this October, they formalised their relationship with the signing of a partnership charter. The charter sets out principles to ensure that the two centres operate coherently, consistently and efficiently in pursuit of a common set of goals.

    Against the backdrop of Southwick Park’s historic D-Day Map room, Rear Admiral Andrew Betton, Director Integrated Warfare Centre, Strategic Command completed the signing of the partnership principles already signed by Dr Tim Sheldon, Dstl Chief Delivery Officer (represented in the Map Room by Linda Knutsen, Dstl Head of Exploration).

    Rear Admiral Andrew Betton, Director Integrated Warfare Centre (Dir IWC), Strategic Command said: 

    In the spirit of ‘One Defence’, we are building a sustainable and effective Defence-wide wargaming enterprise that fosters innovation and supports the development of UK wargaming capability.

    Dir IWC, expands with: 

    This partnership between the Defence Wargaming Centre and the Defence Experimentation and Wargaming Hub has laid the critical foundation for a coherent, consistent, and efficient wargaming operation in support of MOD goals.

    This partnership is critical to the MOD’s goal of enhancing its overall wargaming capability and capacity across UK Defence. Together Strategic Command and Dstl are leading innovative ways to integrate wargaming as a key tool for decision support, experimentation, training and education, and strategic foresight.

    This collaboration sets out the shared vision of creating a unified, MOD-wide wargaming enterprise focused on delivering an efficient, effective, and sustainable wargaming structure across the MOD. Establishing a co-leadership model that ensures decisions impacting both the DEWH and DWC are made together, priorities are aligned, and demand for wargaming services are managed effectively.

    MOD Crown Copyright

    Linda Knutsen, Head of Exploration, Dstl said:

    Defence must be agile to respond to the pace of technological change and ever evolving threats.  Through wargaming, we help Defence leaders understand opportunities, threats and priorities – helping the UK and our allies maintain operational advantage.

    Rear Admiral Betton also recognised the efforts the wider team have played in the success of the wargaming partnership, stating that: 

    On behalf of Strategic Command, I would especially like to thank everyone who has been involved in this progressive journey of developing the Defence Experimentation and Wargaming Hub at Southwick Park and fostering the strong partnership with Dstl’s Defence Wargaming Centre.   Especially, the sterling efforts by Mike Larner, Head of the Defence Wargaming Centre for his nurturing leadership in facilitating this partnership.

    Mike Larner, Dstl’s Head of Defence Wargaming Centre said:

    This partnership is an exciting new chapter in the development of MOD’s wargaming capability. Bringing together the energy, expertise, facilities and networks of the DWC and DEWH will significantly enhance the already world-class UK wargaming capability.

    Captain Eugene Morgan (RN), Assistant Head Wargaming, Strategic Command said:

    “Wargaming provides a strong opportunity for collaboration across industries, government, and allies. It drives innovation and helps to build a stronger, more resilient defence capability benefiting both the MOD and the broader security community. This partnership between the Defence Wargaming Hub and Dstl will strengthen MOD’s capability and deepen the capacity to deliver robust evidence-based solutions.”

    MOD Crown Copyright

    The partnership between Strategic Command and Dstl represents a powerful commitment to strengthening the MOD’s wargaming capabilities. By working together, these two organisations ensure that wargaming becomes a core component of UK Defence strategy, helping shape preparedness and strategic foresight, ensuring resilience and readiness in an ever-changing global defence landscape.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Gorton Park mural revealed to remember historical roots

    Source: City of Manchester

    A vibrant new mural has been revealed in Gorton Park to remember the history of the area and celebrate its local people.

    The artwork follows several murals already hand-painted around Manchester including Levenshulme and the Gorton and Abbey Hey areas as part of a wider project to commemorate the community and encourage engagement with art and nature.

    The mural, designed and created by Richard Preston, ​​reflects the rich history of Belle Vue and Gorton as well as the local environment and wildlife of the surrounding Gorton Park.

    The Manchester artist, also known as Hearts Mural, has described his art as paying homage to the locomotive industry featuring the Gorton Tank, wildlife at the former Belle Vue Zoological Gardens and the area’s first Monastery built in 1872.

    The street art is displayed at Hideout Youth Zone, opposite Gorton Park, who have supported the project by involving the young people at their youth centre. 

    The excited youngsters joined in with a collaborative paint pen workshop and learned essential spray can techniques to help with the finishing touches to the mural. 

    Members of Gorton’s local community were present to see the mural officially revealed including those whose family worked on the steam engines and a racer from the Speedway races. 

    Other supportive partners and sponsors have been Brewers Stockport Decorators, Rosgal, Belle Vue Aces and Gorton Monastery.

    By going to see the artworks, residents and visitors alike are able to explore and learn more about the areas, helping to foster a greater sense of appreciation for the beauty and variety of their local area.

    Lee-Ann Igbon, Executive Member for Vibrant Neighbourhoods, said: “I am thrilled to be supporting the introduction of this new mural in Gorton Park to recognise and remember the terrific contributions of its community.

    “This mural follows on from several which have been hand-painted as part of bringing vibrancy to our green spaces, learning history and harnessing a thriving community spirit.

    “I want to say a huge thank you to our brilliant partners and the young people involved who helped make this latest art installation possible which will serve as a reminder and mark the trailblazers in their community for years to come.”

    Richard Preston, a local artist, said: “It was great to be a part of this project. I got to paint the history of the area on the best community centre, in a beautiful park and it was great to see the locals enjoying it coming together.

    “It’s great to work with the young people on this; it’s very important to me to show them that choosing art as a career is possible. They did a great job and hopefully I’ll return to teach them more.

    “Art is important for mental health and inspiring people. We all use art for different reasons. I use it because I think it’s important to make people smile.”

    Corey, a young member who supported the project, said: “It was really cool getting to help spray paint the wall design. I got to learn different tricks and techniques like how to round off and complete certain areas and create bold outlines to make things stand out even more. It was a fun challenge, and I really enjoyed it.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Inspection report published: An inspection of contingency asylum accommodation (November 2023 – June 2024)

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    This inspection examined the Home Office’s use of contingency asylum accommodation for asylum seekers.

    This inspection examined the Home Office’s strategies for dealing with an increasing demand for contingency asylum accommodation while needing to reduce the associated costs, in particular the costs of using hotels to accommodate those seeking asylum. In addition, it explored the Home Office’s processes and practices for assuring the performance of the private companies contracted to provide asylum accommodation, and the delivery of support and services to the “service users”.   

    The inspection was initiated by my predecessor, David Neal, and the bulk of the evidence was gathered between November 2023 and January 2024. However, it was not possible to complete the inspection in the usual manner as there was no Independent Chief Inspector in post from 21 February to 3 June 2024.

    In June 2024, I asked the Home Office for some additional information and updated evidence. I also visited the Bibby Stockholm, Wethersfield and Napier Barracks to see the accommodation at first-hand and to talk to those working and accommodated at those sites.

    My report identifies improvements I believe the Home Office can and should make, including in relation to strategies and plans, stakeholder engagement, governance, contract compliance and assurance checks, record-keeping and data quality, the provision of purposeful activities, safeguarding vulnerable people, organisational learning, and communication.

    In most cases, the underlying issues, such as poor or non-existent data, are not unique to contingency asylum accommodation and have featured in many previous inspection reports. In the case of assurance checks, previous recommendations have not been implemented. Aside from not holding the accommodation providers effectively to account, this means that “service users” have widely differing experiences of contingency asylum accommodation.

    However, I would like to draw particular attention to one long-standing, systemic issue that this inspection has again exposed.

    Lack of meaningful engagement with stakeholders and poor communication (“one-way”, telling rather than listening) from the Home Office about policies, practices and plans has been a recurring theme of inspections over many years. It is clear that the Home Office still has a long way to go to build trust and confidence in its willingness to be open and honest about its intentions and performance and any reluctance to share information, whether real or perceived, will be seen as evidence that it is not. Timing is all-important, and while there are risks in engaging early, it must avoid any hint of “too little, too late”.   

    The need for effective engagement and communication also extends to the “service users”. Others have reported on the impact on the mental health and wellbeing of asylum seekers, and in particular those accommodated at Wethersfield and on the Bibby Stockholm, of not knowing what will happen to them. This was all too evident through this inspection.

    In 2021, I wrote to the Home Office recommending that it create the means to keep individuals who had claimed asylum informed about where their claim was in the process. This was what each of them wanted to know more than anything else, and it has become even more of an issue with the removal of the six-month Service Level Agreement (SLA) for asylum decisions, backlogs and lengthening decision times, and legislative changes.

    I accept that with the numbers now in the asylum system this is a difficult time to introduce a new service that provides updates on individual claims, for example through text messages, a ‘hotline’, or an indicator on GOV.UK of current average waiting times. However, it is something that the Home Office should be striving to do as soon as it is practicable. The reintroduction of an SLA would be a start.

    This report makes nine recommendations. I am pleased that these have all been accepted, either in full or in part, and that in the latter cases the department has provided a clear explanation of why it is not accepting the recommendation fully and what it is doing towards addressing the spirit of the recommendation if not the letter. This is a complex area with lots of moving parts, and the ICIBI will no doubt wish to return to it at some point to consider and report on the various initiatives identified in the government’s response.

    Concerns over delays in the publication of ICIBI reports are well-known. I am therefore particularly pleased that this report has been published promptly. It was sent to the Home Secretary on 3 September 2024, so publication today is within the agreed 8-week timeframe. I am hopeful that this will continue.

    David Bolt, Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration

    24 October 2024

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –