Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Scientists comment on a government pledge of £21.7bn for carbon capture projects.
Prof Stuart Haszeldine, Professor of Carbon Capture and Storage at the University of Edinburgh, said:
“This is fourth time lucky for CCS in the UK. After 3 false starts on projects with single sources to capture CO2, a change of philosophy has produced multiple industrial CO2 capture projects, mutually supporting pipelines feeding into secure geological stores. This ambitious and complex pathway is starting to convert the world’s first nation to industrialise coal use into the world’s first nation to decarbonise industry.
“The UK’s long CCS design journey started in 2005 with an unexpected offer from BP – not accepted by Government, leading to a competition to retrofit coal power electricity not awarded in 2011, then last minute cancellation in 2016 of funding for gas powered capture, and from 2018 a pivot to industrial projects mutually supporting shared pipelines and stores.
“CCS has operated successfully and safely in the Norwegian North Sea since 2006. But the debate between Perfect or Pragmatic on CCS still exercises those commentators and campaigners who prefer to completely escape from fossil fuels. However, hundreds of CO2 injections into geological storage worldwide have been competed with no leakage. But providing energy from adequate supplies of renewable electricity, and electrolysis to make green hydrogen, will not be installed for several decades. CCS provides achievable steps to rapidly decrease emissions at industrial scale, starting a transition into a lower carbon future. This is a revolutionary leap in energy systems.
“Perception of price remains the biggest blockage to routine installation of CCS. But the cost of government subsidy for the first projects will be spread between across the national energy system – equivalent to a fraction of penny each kilowatt hour. At full decarbonisation, CCS will cost around 15 pence per litre of petrol – much less than annual market price variations, and affordable.
“Anticipating successful CCS operating projects, the UK government now needs to plan future CCS projects to operate without government grant support. Existing policies are mis-directed to pay for permissions to emit. What is needed for the future is a payment reward for storage of CO2. That can be achieved by an extended obligation on oil company suppliers of fossil carbon to capture and store CO2 emissions arising from their products. That principle was legally established for development of new oilfields in the UK Supreme Court ‘Finch’ case in June 2024.”
Declared interests
Stuart Haszeldine is not funded by hydrocarbon companies or CCS developers supported by government
The Isle of Wight Council’s Adult Community Learning team is excited to announce the launch of its autumn programme, offering a diverse range of workshops and courses.
Whether you’re interested in improving your functional skills in English and maths, exploring ICT, or engaging in arts, crafts, health, and wellbeing activities, there is something for everyone.
There are also FREE online short courses available.
Alternatively, you can speak to a member of staff by calling 01983 817280 or visiting The Learning Centre at Westridge, Ryde.
If you’re looking to develop your skills further, perhaps to retrain or return to work, you can book a careers appointment with Claire Rixon, our information, advice, and guidance professional.
Claire can assist with CV writing, covering letters, and application forms, and provide support with career changes, redundancy, education, and training. To book an appointment, call 01983 817280.
Drop-in sessions are also available at Westridge, Ryde centre every Friday from 9.30am to 12.30pm during term time. No booking is necessary; just pop in during these times.
For those needing help with online learning or computer access, the ICT drop-in dates for this term are:
18 October
15 November
29 November
13 December
If you need advice with job applications, the drop-in dates are:
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Right wing separated from airframe in-flight, Radnor Range, Powys, 5 October 2023
This statement provides an update on the ongoing AAIB investigation into an accident involving a UAS CGT 50 unmanned aircraft at Radnor Range, Powys on 5 October 2023. During a demonstration flight, the unmanned aircraft suffered a structural failure of the right wing. It entered an uncontrolled descent, striking the ground near to some personnel working on the range. There were no injuries.
The investigation, which is nearing completion, has considered the reason for the structural failure, and for the ground personnels’ proximity to the aircraft’s flight path. A final report will be published in due course.
The latest report presenting estimates of the size and performance of Jersey’s economy in 2023 has been published today by Statistics Jersey.
The report presents estimates of the size and performance of Jersey’s economy, measured according to an internationally agreed framework. Estimates are provided for calendar year 2023 as well as historical data.
Summary – in 2023
Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
GDP increased by 7.3% in real terms compared with 2022.
GDP was £6,575 million.
GDP per head of population increased in real terms by 7.0% compared with 2022.
GDP per head of population was £63,500.
The increases in both GDP and GDP per head of population were above the previous 10-year average.
Sectoral breakdown – Gross Value Added (GVA)
The annual increase in overall GDP was driven by the financial and insurance activities sector, particularly as a result of increased net interest income in the monetary intermediation (banking) sub-sector.
The largest percentage increase in GVA was observed in the financial and insurance activities sector which increased in real terms by 19.4% in 2023.
Excluding the financial and insurance activities sector, the GVA for the rest of the economy increased in real terms by 0.4%.
Labour productivity
Productivity, measured as GVA per full-time equivalent (FTE) worker increased by 8.8% in real terms in 2023.
This annual increase was again driven by increased profits in the financial and insurance activities sector which recorded a real-term increase in productivity of 19.8%.
Police and Crime Committee – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am
Policing protests and large-scale events in the capital is putting increased strain on the Metropolitan Police Service, with the Met describing protests since October 2023 as the “greatest period of sustained pressure since the Olympics in 2012.”
The Police and Crime Committee will hold the first meeting of its investigation into public order policing in London.
Panel 1: 10:00am – 11:30am
Matt Parr, former Inspector, HMICFRS
Lord Walney, former Government Independent Adviser on Political Violence and Disruption
Kirsty Brimelow KC, Barrister, Doughty Street Chambers
Panel 2: 11:35am – 1:00pm
Jodie Beck, Policy and Campaigns Officer, Liberty
Professor Geoff Pearson, Professor of Law at the University of Manchester and Academic Director of the N8 Policing Research Partnership
Tom Southerden, Programme Director, Law & Human Rights, Amnesty International
David Spencer, Head of Crime and Justice, Policy Exchange
Planning and Regeneration Committee – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 2pm
The London Plan does not define ‘social value’, but it is referred to in various policies and supporting texts.
In the first meeting of its investigation into how social value is considered in planning decisions for markets and arches, the Planning and Regeneration Committee will question experts, local authorities and industry representatives about what it means, how it’s measured, and how it can make a difference to Londoners.
The guests are:
Panel 1: 2.00pm – 3.15pm
Maria Adebowale-Schwarte, Commissioner for the London Sustainable Development Commission
Tony Burton, Founder of Civic Voice and Chair of Community Review Panels in Old Oak & Park Royal and Dacorum
Dr Myfanwy Taylor, Lecturer in Urban Economics and Planning, University College London
Guy Battle, Chief Executive Officer at Social Value Portal
Stephanie Edwards, Co-Founding Director Urban Symbiotics
Panel 2: 3.30pm – 4.45pm
Krissie Nicolson, CEO London Trades Guild
Nicholas Kasic, manager of Portobello Road Market and convener of the London Street Trading Benchmarking Group
Sarah Goldzweig, Research and Project Officer at Latin Elephant
Stephen Biggs, Corporate Director, Community Wealth Building, London Borough of Islington
Bryce Tudball, Head of Spatial Planning, London Borough of Haringey
New scheme will promote good growth and design in neighbourhoods across the capital
New Town Architects appointed to support the future development of ten locations in London
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has appointed ten built environment experts to support the capital’s boroughs to improve the quality of high streets and public spaces, in a brand-new pilot scheme.
The Town Architects programme, which is being piloted for two years, forms part of the Mayor’s £1.25m Local Growth Capacity Support Programme which aims to support local growth and the design of public spaces in London. The programme builds on the Mayor’s work to support the creation of safe, inclusive and sustainable neighbourhoods and economic growth by ensuring that boroughs are better equipped and can utilise the skills of planners and architects to help shape better places in their local areas.
We know that high streets are struggling and the need to make them more attractive, sustainable and enjoyable places to live in and visit is as vital as ever. Recent data from City Hall shows huge demand for greater knowledge sharing and the upskilling of existing teams as local boroughs increasingly struggle to promote built development and growth in areas across the capital. [1]
The experts, known as ‘Town Architects’, will help to build much-needed capacity within local boroughs and will directly support Chief Placeshaping Officers and Design Champions to review project proposals and help develop a strategic vision for the local area.
They have been selected from the Mayor’s diverse panel of Design Advocates to support his vision for good growth and ensure that new buildings and public spaces will benefit all Londoners by promoting quality and inclusion in the built environment. Their expertise spans a broad range of areas, including architecture, master planning, high streets, public realm, and design quality management.
London’s placeshaping capacity is central to delivering the Mayor’s Good Growth by Design principles, which seek to ensure that London’s growth is both economically and socially inclusive and sustainable. The Town Architects pilot will address this gap in capacity by working with local authorities to bolster and enhance in-house skills, knowledge, and expertise to help shape better places and promote quality and inclusion in the built environment.
Jules Pipe, the Deputy Mayor for Planning, Regeneration and the Fire Service, said: “We are pleased to be launching this pilot scheme to promote the future development of key areas in the capital.
“By drawing on the expertise of the Mayor’s Design Advocates, local boroughs will have the expertise and support they need to boost design quality to improve their high streets and public spaces and promote positive neighbourhood placemaking, helping to build a better and more sustainable London for everyone.”
Holly Lewis, Mayor’s Design Advocate and Director of We Made That, said: “I’m thrilled to have the chance to continue to support the London Borough of Hackney in my new role as Town Architect. Hackney Central is just one of many places in London experiencing rapid change, with many exciting projects underway. With the support of this programme, I look forward to the opportunity to work alongside the borough in achieving the best possible outcomes for Hackney’s diverse communities.”
Suzanne Johnston, Interim Director, Economy, Regeneration and New Homes, Hackney Council, said: “We are delighted to be working with Holly Lewis in her role as Hackney’s new Town Architect. We’re passionate about the need for good design in our built environment.
“Whether it’s promoting high quality buildings and public spaces or ensuring that Hackney Central is inclusive and easy to get around, Holly’s considerable expertise will complement the Council’s own in-house design expertise, to make sure Hackney’s buildings and public spaces work for everyone.”
MORE AFFORDABLE houses were built in Dundee last year than private homes, according to the latest figures. The annual Dundee Housing Land Audit for 2024, revealed that 483 homes were completed, 58% of which were for social rent. Steven Rome, convener of Dundee City Council’s fair work, economic growth and infrastructure committee said: “It has been another positive year for house building completions. “The Housing Land Audit is a fascinating insight into the city’s economic progress, and I would urge anyone who has an interest to get involved with the consultation.” Lynne Short, depute convener of Dundee City Council’s neighbourhood regeneration, housing and estate management committee added: “New housing is the foundation of what we need to do to help make Dundee a more attractive place to live and work and only by working across private, public and social housing will we deliver for the city.” The annual audit provides a source of information which is important to the council in its work monitoring the Dundee Local Development Plan, representing a factual statement of land supply within Dundee City Council’s boundary up until March 31, 2024. This year’s audit has found: During the 2023/2024 period of the audit there were 483 housing units completed; the 483 completions comprise of 282 units (58%) of affordable housing and 201 (42%) private housing. This is the highest level of affordable housing completions in Dundee since 2006; and 83% of the completions in 2023/24 were on brownfield land and 17% were greenfield completions. Following the consultation period, comments from stakeholders will be reviewed and any amendments made as necessary before the Dundee Housing Land Audit 2024 is finalised and published. This year’s draft Dundee Housing Land Audit has now been published for a period of consultation until 23 October 2024 you can find it at https://www.dundeecity.gov.uk/service-area/city-development/planning-and-economic-development/dundee-housing-land-audit
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments
The Charity Commission has issued an Official Warning to the National Council for Christian Standards in Society (NCCSS) for failing to follow its advice.
The regulator previously issued the charity with advice, making clear it must separate its charitable work from the political lobbying activities of Christian Voice, a connected, non-charitable body.
Advice given included ensuring a separate entity carries out any non-charitable work, evidencing a clear division of how each organisation is run and removing ‘Christian Voice’ as the charity’s working name on the Register of Charities. The trustees did not take sufficient steps to act on this advice, which has led the regulator to now issue an Official Warning.
The Official Warning sets out actions the charity’s trustees need to take to rectify the misconduct and/or mismanagement, including acting on previous advice. The regulator has also identified that the charity needs to amend its ambiguous purposes to ensure they are exclusively charitable. Failing to take remedial steps to address issues identified by the regulator can result in the charity facing further regulatory action.
Tracy Howarth, Assistant Director for Casework at the Charity Commission, said:
It’s clear this charity has not taken our previous advice on board and so we have issued an Official Warning with the expectation that changes are made at pace. When carrying out any activity, trustees must consider how it helps meet their charitable purposes and if they are acting within charity law. We, and the public, expect this of charities as a minimum.
This intervention should serve as a reminder for all trustees to take any advice and guidance they receive from us seriously. As regulator, we issue guidance to help trustees ensure their charity is run well to deliver for beneficiaries. If we step in, we’re giving advice to help avoid further regulatory action.
The Charity Commission is the independent, non-ministerial government department that registers and regulates charities in England and Wales. Our ambition is to be the expert Charity Commission that is fair, balanced, and independent so that charity can thrive.
More than 200 pupils in Leeds have become the latest local youngsters to benefit from a scheme that makes journeys to and from school safer, healthier and more enjoyable.
School Streets create a safer and more pleasant environment for children and families by restricting motorised traffic and turning the space outside school gates into a pedestrian and cyclist-only zone during pick-up and drop-off times.
A total of 15 schools in Leeds have previously signed up to the scheme, which aims to ease traffic congestion and tackle poor air quality while also improving safety.
Now two more – Ireland Wood Primary and St Bartholomew’s Primary – have followed suit.
And last week, a celebration event was held at Ireland Wood Primary School to mark the introduction of its new School Street on Raynel Gardens.
Leeds City Council’s new safe and sustainable travel mascot, Arlo the Owl, named by pupils from the school, guided pupils from the Park and Stride location at High Farm car park, across the new School Street, showcasing the benefits of a vehicle-free environment.
Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said:
“I’m thrilled to see two more schools joining the School Streets programme in Leeds this year, as it continues to make a significant difference in promoting road safety and sustainability in local communities. With just over 30% of primary school children in Leeds still driven to school, the school run contributes to congestion, pollution, and increased road safety risks around schools.
“School Streets are a key part of our commitment to Vision Zero, the council’s ambition to eliminate serious and fatal road injuries by 2040. By creating safer, vehicle-free spaces, we’re making the journey to school healthier for children and their families. This initiative aligns with our vision of making Leeds a city where you don’t need a car.”
Ian Blackburn, Headteacher at Ireland Wood Primary School, said:
“We are really pleased to have a School Street so our pupils can travel safely and actively to and from school.
“Reducing traffic around school during peak times will help to improve road safety and encourage more families to choose active modes of travel like walking, cycling, wheeling and scooting. This initiative supports us to promote healthy lifestyles and foster independence for our pupils.”
Last year, 28,955 school children across Leeds participated in 596 sessions that the council’s road safety trainers delivered to promote safe and sustainable travel.
Safe behaviours and people are at the heart of the Vision Zero Strategy and is one of five key themes. The other themes are safe roads, safe speeds, post collision care and safe vehicles. To achieve Vision Zero everyone needs to play their part and travel safely. A pledge to play a part in eliminating road deaths can be signed here.
A FASCINATING talk on travel, an insight into the mind of a local crime writer and the tale of an amusing encounter with a Time Lord are among the events on offer next week for Green Libraries Week.
From 7-13 October, Green Libraries Week will put Leicester’s libraries in the spotlight, featuring everything from poetry and author talks to energy advice and craft activities – and it’s all free.
On Wednesday at St Barnabas Library, crime author Champak Chauhan will talk about his work, his background in Leicester and how he came up with the character of DI Rohan Sharma, a relatively new and inexperienced homicide detective charged with finding a psychopathic killer.
Join award-winning travel writer Ash Bhardwaj (pictured) for a talk at the Central Library on Thursday (10 Oct), when he’ll be giving a fascinating insight into his motivations for travel, how to do it better, and how it can help us to live a more fulfilling life. Ash’s journeys have included a recent 8,500km overland expedition from the top of Norway to Romania; retracing the footsteps of a Second World War special mission by British forces in the Albanian Alps, and accompanying renowned explorer Levison Wood for 700 miles of his Walking The Nile expedition in Uganda and Sudan.
Also on Thursday, Lizzie Lamb and Adrienne Vaughan from the Romantic Novelists’ Association will be detailing their writing adventures at Knighton Library. “A Funny Thing Happened on the way to the Typewriter” will include tales of amusing encounters with a starry cast of writers, actors, singers, royals, and even a Time Lord!
As well as author talks and readings, there are lots of events taking place to highlight the diverse range of activities that take place at libraries, with a focus on climate and sustainability.
Find out about conservation and volunteering with Leicester Environmental Volunteers at Hamilton Library on Tuesday 8 October; or join one of the energy advice drop-in sessions taking place at Leicester’s Central Library on Monday 7, Thursday 10 and Friday 11 October, from 11am-1pm.
Leicester Adult Education will be offering free taster sessions and learning activities at city libraries throughout the week, and craft and wellbeing activities will also be on offer.
Everything is free, but spaces may be limited, so booking is advised. To book, call or drop in to your local library.
Assistant city mayor for neighbourhood services Cllr Vi Dempster said: “Libraries Week is an opportunity for people to discover all that their local library has to offer. Activities are taking on a ‘green’ theme, which gives us a great chance to show people how easy it can be to live more sustainably. I hope people will really enjoy getting involved with Green Libraries Week.”
More information and a full list of everything that’s on offer throughout the week is available at leicester.gov.uk/librariesweek
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The Secretary of State has reappointed John Mothersole as the England Committee Chair and Kate Still as the Scotland Committee Chair for a second term of two years commencing on 14 May 2024.
John Mothersole
John Mothersole has held senior local government posts in UK cities including London, most recently as Chief Executive of Sheffield City Council. Since standing down from that post in December 2019 after 11 years, John has taken on a series of non-executive roles which now include Chair of The Sheffield College, trustee of a community care charity and advisory roles with companies involved in regeneration and environment. He was also an assessor for the Grenfell Tower Public Inquiry, a role that concluded with the publication of the final report in September 2024. Prior to being selected as Chair of the National Lottery Community Fund England Committee John was a member of that committee.
John has been heavily involved in the policy agenda for UK cities through the Core Cities network, the Northern Powerhouse initiative and with Government in securing city and city region devolution deals and participating in trade missions.His early career was in the arts, primarily in London and the North-East, and he sees a highlight of that part of his career being the reopening of the Roundhouse in London which enabled its subsequent redevelopment.
Kate Still
Kate is currently conducting the Independent Review of Community Learning and
Development across Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government. She was a Board
member of ERSA for many years, Chair of Employment Support Scotland and a Fellow of
the Institute of Employability. Kate started her career as a teacher after completing an MA
(Hons) in Politics at Glasgow University.
She has over 25 years of relevant experience in delivery of education, apprenticeships, skills, employability and community enterprise and regeneration programmes across multiple sectors, including 15+ years in the Charity sector. Kate has a passionate desire to make a difference coupled with the drive to achieve impact on issues of poverty, equality and diversity and social justice. Kate has held strategic leadership roles at EU and UK levels including Management of EU aid programmes to Central and Eastern Europe. A former Board Member of Strathclyde European Partnership, she completed her MPhil in European Policy research at Strathclyde University in 2011.Kate has held Director roles previously with the Prince’s Trust, Rathbone and Wise Group.
Remuneration and Governance Code
These positions are remunerated at £24,000 per annum. These appointments have been made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments. The appointments process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Under the Code, any significant political activity undertaken by an appointee in the last five years must be declared. This is defined as including holding office, public speaking, making a recordable donation, or candidature for election. John Mothersole and Kate Still have not declared any significant political activity.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The Immingham Eastern Ro-Ro Terminal application has today been granted development consent by the Secretary of State for Transport.
The application comprises a new roll-on/roll-off facility comprising a new jetty with three berths, improved hardstanding, Terminal buildings and an internal side bridge to cross over existing port infrastructure.
The application was submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for consideration by Associated British Ports on 10 February 2023 and accepted for Examination on 06 March 2023.
Following an Examination during which the public, Statutory Consultees and Interested Parties were given the opportunity to give evidence to the Examining Authority, recommendations were made to the Secretary of State on 25 April 2024.
This is the 53rd transport application out of 144 applications examined to date and was again completed by the Planning Inspectorate within the statutory timescale laid down in the Planning Act 2008.
Local communities continue to be given the opportunity of being involved in the examination of projects that may affect them. Local people, the local authority and other Interested Parties were able to participate in this six-month Examination.
The Examining Authority listened and gave full consideration to all local views and the evidence gathered during the Examination before making its recommendation to the Secretary of State.
The decision, the recommendation made by the Examining Authority to the Secretary of State for Transport and the evidence considered by the Examining Authority in reaching its recommendation are publicly available on the project pages of the National Infrastructure Planning website.
Journalists wanting further information should contact the Planning Inspectorate Press Office, on 0303 444 5004 or 0303 444 5005 or email:
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
YJB Chief Executive, Steph Roberts-Bibby reflects on her visit to the UK’s first secure school and its unique focus on education, healthcare and wellbeing.
The secure school’s education centre.
Back in May, I joined Minister Argar and the Youth Custody Service to visit the UK’s first secure school and explore its revolutionary approach to youth justice. As we toured the site, what stood out to me was an unmistakeable feeling of care.
The Oasis Restore secure school has now opened its doors and has started to welcome its first children.
What does the secure school offer?
The school, which was a former secure training centre, felt worlds away from my experiences as a prison officer at Feltham young offender’s institution (YOI) in 1997 and other adult prisons throughout my career, with more similarities to university accommodation than custody. The environment felt compassionate and child-orientated, nurturing children to change, grow and learn.
Security was built into the infrastructure without feeling oppressive, but still appropriately secure – there were no bars on the windows, no keys or locks, only wristband-operated fobs. It was these subtle differences that made me leave Oasis Restore feeling hopeful.
The bedrooms were calming and quiet with private ensuite bathrooms and built-in computer screens for doing homework and watching TV. The attention to detail throughout was evident. There was artwork on the walls, and soft blankets and sofas in the shared living spaces. These are incredibly important to help children learn to cohabit and foster a sense of community and responsibility.
Oasis Restore provides family rooms with kitchens so that children can cook and eat with their families when they visit. Our guide Dr Sadie pointed out that this can be very culturally important when living away from home, not least for successful rehabilitation but also for rebuilding existing family relationships. Siblings often visit with families, and evidence shows that intergenerational and sibling offending is common, so having a space promoting learning, togetherness and care is key to prevent further offending among families.
A shared living area in one of the flats at the secure school.
The site boasts brand-new state-of-the-art facilities, including 3D printers in the design technology classroom, a hair and beauty salon and even music recording booths. While other sites do provide similar facilities, never had I seen them at this standard before. These facilities provide a wide range of educational opportunities, including core academic subjects and vocational training in areas like barbering, drama and catering, that children might otherwise have never been exposed to.
Therapeutic sensory rooms are also woven throughout the site. These supportive spaces have soft beanbags and padded walls to support children to regulate their emotions during the day and take time out when needed.
Looking to the future
As the tour was finishing, I stopped to speak to a restorative practitioner who was showing some of the creative activities on offer for children. She explained that she would be supporting children through every part of their day at Oasis Restore, be that walking with them to the education centre in the morning, or just being there to chat.
When I asked her what part of the new school she was most looking forward to, she said, “I’m just excited for the children to come now.” It’s clear that what makes this approach to youth custody different isn’t just the holistic model or the modern facilities; it’s the people.
Strong relationships between staff and children are at the heart of the Oasis model, to truly understand a child’s journey. Oasis Restore’s team are highly trained and committed to providing responsive, psychologically informed and developmentally appropriate models of support and education for children in their care. Relational practice is also crucial, with staff committed to loving children like their own, and this shone through from the practitioners I spoke with at the school.
The Oasis secure school is a prime example of how custody for children can and should be done: care-focused, needs-led and with children at the heart. This model inspires hope for the future about how we can best support children to go on to live crime-free lives and make our communities safer places with fewer victims.
What is a ‘secure school’?
The first-of-its-kind secure school in Rochester houses children who are on remand or sentenced to custody. But what exactly is a secure school?
Oasis Restore places education and healthcare at the heart of its approach to support children and steer them away from reoffending. This unique model was recommended by Charlie Taylor, the HM Chief Inspector of Prisons, who has long advocated for a different approach to children in custody. In 2016, prior to becoming Chair of the Youth Justice Board from 2017-2020, he conducted an independent review of the youth justice system
The Oasis Restore philosophy
At the Youth Justice Board, we have long advocated for a rethink of how children are cared for in custody. This is because our evidence tells us that to be effective, secure settings must be small and replicate a safe family home environment with a sense of community and trust. They should also have excellent healthcare and education provisions.
The Oasis Restore model mirrors this, and I was pleased to see that these values shine through when visiting the school. Oasis Restore is guided by the understanding that children are different from adults. Its philosophy ensures that each child’s voice is heard and valued, and opportunities are created for them to contribute within a school community.
In the words of the school: “Oasis Restore is a secure school enabling young people to live their best lives, through education, wellbeing, and hope.”
The secure school gives children the opportunity to make positive choices about their futures upon release from custody. By equipping them with essential skills and education, the school not only benefits children but hopes to reduce crime rates and make our communities safer places to live with fewer victims.
Who is the Oasis Restore secure school for?
Although the number of children in custody is the lowest on record since records began (an average of 440 children were in custody between 2022-23), we know that the children who remain in the secure estate are vulnerable and often have complex needs.
Lower education levels are also likely. The same dataset also found that young adults who receive custodial sentences have lower levels of educational attainment, with only 37% achieving the expected level of English and maths by the end of key stage 2 compared with 53% of peers with non-custodial sentences.
The secure school will care for children aged between 12-18-years-old who are on remand or sentenced to custody. It will be home to up to 49 children at any one time, both girls and boys. Every child will be enrolled in formal education or training and encouraged into further study or employment on release. This innovative new model of care will promote rehabilitation and contribute to positive outcomes for children, leading to fewer victims and safer communities.
The Discovery-i education centre at the secure school.
What makes Oasis Restore different?
The Oasis Restore secure school is unique in its approach and Steve Chalke, founder of Oasis Charitable Trust, said to visitors at the opening event: “From the day children arrive, the focus is on preparing them for the day they leave.”
The school has been co-designed with children working with youth justice services and will be registered as both an academy and a secure children’s home. It will be inspected by Ofsted and held to the same standards as other schools across England.
While the current secure estate is not fit for purpose, the secure school offers a Child First redesign. It’s an innovative, holistic approach to custody for children within a secure setting. This is what distinguishes the secure school from existing youth custody provisions and sends a message to children that they are valued; something many may not have experienced growing up.
I spoke to a colleague from NHS England during the visit, a key partner in the development of the school, and heard about just some of the wellbeing services on offer, including advice on dieting, smoking, body image, as well as wider mental health and physical health support.
Education at the school is based on the reflective practice model, with a therapeutic approach to learning. It is recognised that many of the children who will live at the secure school are likely to be disengaged from education and so staff are specially trained to focus on one-to-one support and children’s individual needs, which their curriculum will be tailored around.
A place of hope
The secure school is a place where children can feel safe and be supported by well-trained staff who are committed to developing positive purpose. We at the YJB support and advocate this approach in line with the evidence base. I echo the words of Ed Cornmell, Executive Director of the Youth Custody Service, when he says the school represents a “revolutionary change for the youth justice system.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
UK Statement for Item 9 General Debate on racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related forms of intolerance. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.
Location:
Geneva
Delivered on:
(Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)
Thank you Mr Vice President,
The UK condemns all forms of racism, racial discrimination and xenophobia and related forms of intolerance. We remain steadfast in our commitment to combatting it, at home and abroad.
We celebrate Black History Month this October in the UK. That is a moment to reflect on the impact of black heritage and culture on our country and our place in the world. It’s a chance to celebrate the enormous contribution of black Britons in all walks of life. It is also a chance for us to acknowledge some of our country’s most painful history.
As in all societies, challenges persist. Ongoing efforts to address racial and ethnic inequalities are essential to ensure better outcomes for all communities.
The UK stands firmly against the scourge of racism and is committed to taking further meaningful action domestically and internationally to shape a better society for all. This includes bringing forward new legislation to tackle persistent racial inequalities. We are dedicated to fostering a society where everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity or background, can thrive and live a life free from discrimination and intolerance.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3
UK Statement on racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related forms of intolerance. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.
Location:
Geneva
Delivered on:
(Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)
Thank you Mr Vice President,
The UK condemns all forms of racism, racial discrimination and xenophobia and related forms of intolerance. We remain steadfast in our commitment to combatting it, at home and abroad.
We celebrate Black History Month this October in the UK. That is a moment to reflect on the impact of black heritage and culture on our country and our place in the world. It’s a chance to celebrate the enormous contribution of black Britons in all walks of life. It is also a chance for us to acknowledge some of our country’s most painful history.
As in all societies, challenges persist. Ongoing efforts to address racial and ethnic inequalities are essential to ensure better outcomes for all communities.
The UK stands firmly against the scourge of racism and is committed to taking further meaningful action domestically and internationally to shape a better society for all. This includes bringing forward new legislation to tackle persistent racial inequalities. We are dedicated to fostering a society where everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity or background, can thrive and live a life free from discrimination and intolerance.
Four fun and informative pop-up events are to be held across St Albans District to celebrate Older Persons’ Day.
St Albans City and District Council has organised the events, called Flourishing Lives, along with partner organisations to highlight the contribution older people make to our community.
There will be opportunities to socialise and find out about services that keep older residents safe, connected and independent.
Anyone can drop in for a chat over a cup of tea at the pop-up events in St Albans, Wheathampstead, London Colney and Redbourn.
Council officers will be available to explain a range of services including housing and the welfare benefits older people may be entitled to.
Citizens Advice, Communities 1st, Age UK and other groups which work with older people will be present. Information on issues such as the location of warm spaces during cold spells will be available.
Representatives from Hertfordshire Police, Trading Standards and the Fire Service may be in attendance to talk about issues such as crime prevention.
Free refreshments will be provided with the pop-ups taking place at:
Wheathampstead, Marford Memorial Hall, Monday 21 October, 10am to 12:30pm;
St Albans Civic Centre, Wednesday 23 October, 1pm to 3:30pm;
Redbourn Village Hall, Thursday 24 October, 9:30am to 12pm;
London Colney Caledon Centre, Monday 28 October 10am to 12:30pm.
The International Day of Older Persons is celebrated around the world every year in early October and is followed by weeks of special events.
Amanda Foley, the Council’s Chief Executive, said:
It is important that we join in with organisations all over the world to celebrate our fantastic older people and the great contribution they make to our communities.
We also want to make older people aware of all the services and opportunities available to them so they can lead fulflling lives and not become socially isolated.
These free events offer information about how to participate in a range of social and fund activities, including art and keep-fit clubs. There will be details about volunteering too.
These are relaxed occasions. Everyone is welcome to drop in for a chat, pick up leaflets, discover new activities and discuss any issues they have.
Media contact: John McJannet, Principal Communications Officer, St Albans City and District Council: 01727-919533; john.mcjannet@stalbans.gov.uk.
Eligible households in York which aren’t heated by mains gas are being given free energy-efficiency boosts by the Council for greater comfort, lower bills and less carbon output.
During this month of environmental action in York (14 September-12 October), residents are being urged to check their eligibility and grab a grant for measures suitable for their home.
The grants are for up to 60 households which are owned or privately rented. They offer energy-efficiency measures suitable for homes ranging from insulation upgrades to modern low-carbon heating systems or even photovoltaic panels. Eligible homeowners can get 100% grants and eligible private landlords can get 66% grants.
Eligible homes must:
have a total household annual income of £36,000 or less, or live in specific areas
be heated primarily by non-gas fuel such as oil, liquid petroleum gas (LPG), coal, solid fuels or electricity
have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or lower.
If the household is eligible and the home is suitable, the grant can be used for one or a number of improvements. These could include:
Wall, loft and floor insulation
New, efficient low-carbon heating system
Solar photovoltaic (PV) which generate free electricity
High heat-retaining electric storage heaters.
Sixteen postcodes in York have been identified where residents can automatically qualify for the grant if their home isn’t heated mainly by gas and has an EPC rating of D or below. Residents can see if they live in a pre-qualified area using this interactive map – simply add the address or postcode in the search bar to find out.
Residents living outside those postcodes in a home with an EPC rating of D or below and isn’t heated mainly by gas, will be eligible only if their household income is £36,000 or less.
If a home’s EPC rating is unknown, please contact the Council’s delivery partner, Clear Climate, to discuss an assessment as part of your application.
Steve Coupland, a resident of Stockton on the Forest, applied and qualified for a grant for his bungalow. For the council, contractor Clear Climate assessed his home and installed 300 millimetre-thick loft insulation, and a low-carbon heating system via an air source heat pump (ASHP) which is about three times more efficient than LPG, oil, electricity and gas boilers.
The ASHP now provides him with hot water for a new central heating system and six new radiators, the system can be controlled by a phone app or a control panel. He has access to instant hot water throughout his home fed by his new accompanying insulated hot water tank.
Steve said:
The loft insulation has made a vast difference already: it’s 300mm deep now which is really warm so I’ve not needed to switch on my new heating yet. The installation was a fantastic job: clean and tidy and they were in and out in three days.
“Last winter was a bit grim, but this year I’m hoping the insulation and heating system will halve my bills at least.”
Cllr Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Housing, said:
Don’t wait to get your grant! The improvements will help your home stay cooler in summer and warmer in winter, while saving on carbon emissions and on your energy bills. They’re designed not to be too disruptive to install – and you’ll certainly feel the difference when they’re in.
“If you’re eligible, please take up this terrific offer to benefit you and future generations who live in your home!”
Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment, said:
Every house is different and the solution for your home will be tailor-made to ensure that it is more comfortable and cheaper to run. We look at each house construction and where it needs insulation to stop heat escaping. Then we check if it’s suitable for electricity generating panels and/or identify the most effective form of low-energy heating with the lowest carbon impact.
“60 upgrades are on offer and we want them all to be used; check if you qualify and get in touch with the team.”
City of York Council is writing to eligible residents and is working with contractor Clear Climate to deliver this project, and who are visiting pre-qualified postcodes.
Other funding is being used by the Council to improve energy efficiency in council homes.
To find out if you and your home are eligible and to see the pre-qualifying postcodes, please visit http://www.york.gov.uk/HUG or contact Clear Climate by calling 0191 710 2550, texting 0786 090 7354 or emailing sales@clearclimate.co.uk.
Access to printing facilities in libraries across Stoke-on-Trent are set to be improved by installing Wi-Fi printing.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council were successfully awarded £300,000 from the Libraries Improvement Fund and one part of this project is to improve the printing facilities across all six libraries in the city.
It means people will now be able to print from their own device instead of relying on computer libraries, a move which will make working or studying at the library even more appealing.
Digital access in Stoke-on-Trent libraries is evolving to meet customer needs. The trend points towards library users preferring to bring their own device instead of relying on library computers.
In the years 2023/24, there were 248,276 visits to the libraries in the city, with 16,552 Wi-Fi logins and 41,345 logins onto the public PCs.
By securing this grant funding, this will enable residents who access Wi-Fi with their own devices to make use of printing facilities.
Customer experience will be made easier and quicker and for Stoke-on-Trent libraries and it will be a source of support for people who do not have access to printing.
Councillor Alastair Watson, Cabinet member for Financial Sustainability and Corporate Services, said: “I welcome this grant funding and another stage in the journey of giving libraries the digital edge alongside the books.
“By installing this printing software, it will free up staff time at the libraries, so they can assist customers who may struggle, due to limited I.T knowledge. It will also provide extra support to those without access to these digital facilities or who see the library as part of their social experience.
“I hope residents will make good use of it and enjoy the library space.”
The go live launch for wireless printing is Monday, October 14. Between Monday October 7 and Friday October 11, 2024, work will be underway to install the wireless printing capabilities.
There’s a common thread linking our experience of pandemics over the past 700 years. From the black death in the 14th century to COVID in the 21st, public health authorities have put emergency measures such as isolation and quarantine in place to stop infectious diseases spreading.
As we know from COVID, these measures upend lives in an effort to save them. In both the recent and distant past they’ve also given rise to collective unrest, confusion and resistance.
So after all this time, what do we know about the role public health communication plays in helping people understand and adhere to protective measures in a crisis? And more importantly, in an age of misinformation and distrust, how can we improve public health messaging for any future pandemics?
Last year, we published a Cochrane review exploring the global evidence on public health communication during COVID and other infectious disease outbreaks including SARS, MERS, influenza and Ebola. Here’s a snapshot of what we found.
A key theme emerging in analysis of the COVID pandemic globally is public trust – or lack thereof – in governments, public institutions and science.
Mounting evidence suggests levels of trust in government were directly proportional to fewer COVID infections and higher vaccination rates across the world. It was a crucial factor in people’s willingness to follow public health directives, and is now a key focus for future pandemic preparedness.
Here in Australia, public trust in governments and health authorities steadily eroded over time.
Initial information from governments and health authorities about the unfolding COVID crisis, personal risk and mandated protective measures was generally clear and consistent across the country. The establishment of the National Cabinet in 2020 signalled a commitment from state, territory and federal governments to consensus-based policy and public health messaging.
During this early phase of relative unity, Australians reported higher levels of belonging and trust in government.
When state, territory and federal governments have conflicting policies on protective measures, people are easily confused, lose trust and become harder to engage with or persuade. Many tune out from partisan politics. Adherence to mandated public health measures falls.
Our research found clarity and consistency of information were key features of effective public health communication throughout the COVID pandemic.
We also found public health communication is most effective when authorities work in partnership with different target audiences. In Victoria, the case brought against the state government for the snap public housing tower lockdowns is a cautionary tale underscoring how essential considered, tailored and two-way communication is with diverse communities.
The much-touted “miracle” drug ivermectin typifies the extraordinary traction unproven treatments gained locally and globally. Ivermectin is an anti-parasitic drug, lacking evidence for viruses like COVID.
Australia’s drug regulator was forced to ban ivermectin presciptions for anything other than its intended use after a sharp increase in people seeking the drug sparked national shortages. Hospitals also reported patients overdosing on ivermectin and cocktails of COVID “cures” promoted online.
The Lancet Commission on lessons from the COVID pandemic has called for a coordinated international response to countering misinformation.
As part of this, it has called for more accessible, accurate information and investment in scientific literacy to protect against misinformation, including that shared across social media platforms. The World Health Organization is developing resources and recommendations for health authorities to address this “infodemic”.
National efforts to directly tackle misinformation are vital, in combination with concerted efforts to raise health literacy. The Australian Medical Association has called on the federal government to invest in long-term online advertising to counter health misinformation and boost health literacy.
People of all ages need to be equipped to think critically about who and where their health information comes from. With the rise of AI, this is an increasingly urgent priority.
Australian health ministers recently reaffirmed their commitment to the new Australian Centre for Disease Control (CDC).
From a science communications perspective, the Australian CDC could provide an independent voice of evidence and consensus-based information. This is exactly what’s needed during a pandemic. But full details about the CDC’s funding and remit have been the subject of some conjecture.
Many of our key findings on effective public health communication during COVID are not new or surprising. They reinforce what we know works from previous disease outbreaks across different places and points in time: tailored, timely, clear, consistent and accurate information.
The rapid rise, reach and influence of misinformation and distrust in public authorities bring a new level of complexity to this picture. Countering both must become a central focus of all public health crisis communication, now and in the future.
This article is part of a series on the next pandemic.
Rebecca Ryan receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council through funding to Australian Cochrane entities, and was previously commissioned by the World Health Organization to undertake a rapid evidence review on communication for COVID-19 prevention and control (2020).
Shauna Hurley 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.
Managing Director David Massie pictured with Hagen Wagner, Highland Opportunity (Investments) Limited Investment Manager
Highland Opportunity (Investments) Limited (HOIL) has recently provided The Apprentice Store Ltd with funding towards their ambitious business development. HOIL, The Highland Council’s business loan company, supports Highland based businesses and encourages applications from all business sectors, including community organisations. Interested businesses benefit from straightforward loan conditions and a tailored offer to support their project. HOIL has financially supported more than 1,200 local start-up businesses, community organisations and growth projects within the Highland Business community since it was established in 1986.
The Apprentice Store approached HO(IL) for a working capital loan of £25,000 to help achieve their growth aspirations. Currently based in the Impact Hub in Castle Street, they are about to relocate to larger premises in Academy Street, where they will be the flag ship tenant of an innovative, vibrant and friendly co-working space in the centre of Inverness.
The Apprentice Store was founded in 2016 and have a unique setup, whereby they support employment of young people and inclusivity on an apprenticeship basis, led by a number of mentors. To date, the company has trained and employed more than 23 young people. The business understands how important computer systems are in a modern business. From their Scottish base in Inverness they offer a range of quality remote IT services for small and medium sized businesses throughout the United Kingdom and Europe.
Councillor Paul Oldham, Chair of HOIL said: “The Apprentice Store’s way of working, that encourages young people to work in IT while staying in the Highlands rather than feeling they have to move away, has got to be good news for the Highland economy.
“HOIL’s accessible and affordable business finance helps promote business across the area. It’s an important part of the Council’s aim to keep business vibrant and growing in the Highlands.”
David Massie, Managing Director of the Apprentice Store Limited said: “The Apprentice Store approached HOIL to secure some funding and found the application process quick and easy to complete. This funding will help our social purpose of creating sustainable employment to young people who have challenges of entering the workforce. Our clients from across the UK in the public, private and sectors help support continuous employment by outsourcing their IT services to The Apprentice Store. Our team return on our client’s commitment by offering quality IT support and development services as they care about the opportunity offered to them by The Apprentice Store and its clients.”
The Highland Council and Eastern Airways have agreed a number of changes to scheduled flight times on the Wick-Aberdeen air route.
The changes have been carefully considered to reduce cancellations and restore public trust. All partners have reiterated their commitment to protecting the service and retaining flights six days a week.
Highland Council and Eastern Airways met last week and agreed the following key measures:
Measure
Rationale
Protect Wick/Aberdeen as a 6-day service
Essential for business connectivity and wider economy
Reduce from twice-daily to daily flights on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday
Very low demand for morning midweek service. Consolidated flight improves aircraft availability, reduces impact of winter weather, eases staffing pressures, provides a more sustainable service
Earlier departure times on afternoon/evening flights
Reduces chance of adverse weather disruption in winter. Improves onward connectivity with Manchester, Humberside, Birmingham and London
Retain Sunday service unchanged
Strong demand for Sunday flight
No price changes until March 2025
Maintain value for money and work to restore passenger confidence
Guaranteed offer of refund or taxi transfer in cases of cancellation
Reassures passengers concerned about travel in adverse weather
The new timetable will come into effect on Monday 14 October, and operate throughout the winter until March 2025.
These changes are designed to protect the future sustainability of the service, which is funded by Transport Scotland and the Highland Council as a public service obligation (PSO). PSO status is awarded to services that provide ‘lifeline’ connectivity but would not be viable to operate on a commercial basis. The Wick-Aberdeen route is regarded as crucial to the north Highland economy and the wider community. It provides better access to employment, leisure, healthcare and social opportunities whilst making it easier to do business across Scotland and the rest of the UK.
The Wick-Aberdeen route has enjoyed considerable early success, with passenger growth of 25% in the second year and monthly passenger numbers often exceeding one thousand. However, over the past 12 months, overall reliability fell from upwards of 90% to an average of 85%, while September 2024 dipped to 79%. This reflects a number of cancellations caused by operational issues or adverse weather.
Partners believe the new timetable will deliver meaningful service improvements in the months ahead.
Roger Hage, Eastern Airways, said: “We are acutely conscious that recent service levels have fallen short of the standards our passengers expect. We have listened to passenger feedback and on discussion with partners we have decided to make some changes which we believe will deliver improvements in the Wick-Aberdeen service. We hope to restore confidence in the service and welcome an increased focus on onward connectivity to allow easier use of Aberdeen through the more challenging winter months.”
Malcolm MacLeod, Assistant Chief Executive (Place) of the Highland Council said: “In light of recent issues with the service, all stakeholders got around the table and had a deep and constructive conversation about improving service standards. We believe that these changes are the right move to create a more reliable and sustainable service, and we are confident from our discussion with Eastern Airways that the changes will bring immediate improvements.
“We view the Wick-Aberdeen flights as a lifeline service to the north Highlands and we all remain absolutely committed to making a go of it. We would ask passengers and the wider community to support the service as we deliver these improvements.”
Stakeholders will continue to regularly review service performance and work together to deliver positive progress in the months ahead.
Full details of the new timetable can be found online or by visiting easternairways.co.uk
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on cooperation between the UN and the African Union.
Location:
United Nations, New York
Delivered on:
(Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)
I will make three points.
First, the UK welcomes the African Union’s leadership in championing multilateralism and supporting stability and prosperity across Africa. We praise the AU’s work driving and sustaining peace and security on the continent and its focus on putting women and youth at the centre of peace-making, peacekeeping and peacebuilding.
We welcome African leadership in this council and have long supported permanent African representation.
Second, we reaffirm our support for the deepening cooperation and partnership between the UN and the AU to advance our shared objectives. This is especially evident in Somalia.
We express our gratitude to the AU and troop contributing countries who, with the coordination and input of the UN Support Office for Somalia, have worked tirelessly to improve security in Somalia through the ATMIS mission.
We look forward to receiving the proposals by the UN and AU, in consultation with Somalia and international stakeholders, finalising the mission design for ATMIS’ successor, in line with Resolution 2748.
It is imperative that the final mission is financially viable and deliverable, and that it supports Somalia’s efforts to eventually assume full responsibility for, and ownership of, its security.
Third, we welcome the work of the joint UN-AU taskforce to prepare implementation of Resolution 2719, including in the critical areas of joint planning and decision making, financing and budgeting, human rights compliance, and protection of civilians. Sustained close collaboration between the UN and the AU will be essential to ensure 2719’s success.
We encourage member states to continue to support the AU in developing their frameworks. We look forward to receiving the joint roadmap, including a realistic assessment of needs and timeframes, and welcome this Council being kept updated on progress.
President, in conclusion, the UK looks forward to further collaboration, cooperation and partnership between the UN and the AU. This will be vital to help silence the guns and tackle the greatest challenges and conflicts on the continent.
We look forward to the consultations between the UN Security Council and the AU Peace and Security Council later this month.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
A study published in The Lancet Public Health looks at vaping trends in adults who have never regularly smoked.
Prof Peter Hajek, Professor of Clinical Psychology and Director of the Health and Lifestyle Research Unit, Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), said:
“Some people have genes and circumstances leading them to like nicotine products. Traditionally, they ended up smoking, but some are now discovering vaping without becoming smokers first. If vaping did not exist, they would be smoking. The study authors point this out.
“The just-released figures from the Office for National Statistics show that UK smoking prevalence is under 12%, an all-time low. If much less risky alternatives are allowed to continue to compete with cigarettes, smoking (and heart disease, lung disease and cancers that it causes) will continue to decline as well.
“The UK and USA, which allow vaping, have seen significantly faster declines in cigarette sales and in smoking among young and low income people than Australia, which bans vaping. Sweden, which is the only EU country that allows use of low-risk oral tobacco, has by far the lowest smoking prevalence. Efforts are needed to limit use of nicotine products in adolescents but if more adults (as well as adolescents) are taking up vaping instead of smoking it may in fact be good news.”
‘Vaping among adults in England who have never regularly smoked: a population-based study, 2016-24’ by Sarah Jackson et al. was published in The Lancet Public Health at 23.30 UK time Wednesday 2 October 2024.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3
Banks to be given new powers to protect consumers against scams.
New rules extend maximum delay for suspicious payments by 72 hours
Gives banks more time to investigate and break the spell of fraudsters
Banks will be given new powers to delay and investigate payments that are suspected of being fraudulent, helping to protect consumers against scammers.
New laws proposed by the Government today will extend the time that payments can be delayed by 72 hours where there are reasonable grounds to suspect a payment is fraudulent and more time is needed for the bank to investigate.
This will give banks more time to break the spell woven by fraudsters over their victims and tackle the estimated £460 million lost to fraud last year alone.
Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Tulip Siddiq said:
Hundreds of millions of pounds are lost to scammers each year, targeting vulnerable communities and ruining the lives of ordinary people.
We need to protect these people better, which is why we are giving banks more time to investigate suspicious payments and break the criminal spell that scammers weave.
Minister of State with Responsibility for Fraud, Lord Sir David Hanson said:
Fraud is a crime that can devastate lives, and anyone can be affected.
That’s why measures like this are so crucial to provide banks the investigative powers they need to better protect customers from this appalling crime.
Fraud accounts for over a third of all crime perpetrated in England and Wales, making it the most prevalent form of crime commitment in the country. This has been driven by a growing number of purchase scams and the emergence of so-called ‘romance scams’, where victims target vulnerable people and trick them into transferring large amounts of money by pretending to be interested in a romantic relationship.
The new rules will help protect people against these types of scams by allowing banks up to an additional 72 hours to investigate suspicious payments. Currently banks must either process or refuse a payment by the end of the next business day.
Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy, Rocio Concha said:
This is a positive step in the fight against fraud. While it should not affect the vast majority of everyday payments, it’s important that banks can delay a bank transfer and take action if they think a customer is being targeted by a scam.
These measures should be used in a careful and targeted way. Financial firms of all sizes should also ensure they share intelligence and work with the police and other authorities to shut down accounts used for fraud and pursue the criminals behind them.
UK Finance Managing Director of Economic Crime, Ben Donaldson said:
UK Finance has long called for firms to be allowed to delay payments in high-risk cases where fraud is suspected, and we are delighted to see proposed new laws supporting this.
This could allow payment service providers time to get in touch with customers and give them the advice and support they need to avoid being coerced by the criminals who want to steal their money. This could potentially limit the psychological harms that these awful crimes can cause and stop money getting into the hands of criminals.
Banks who have reasonable grounds to suspect a payment is fraudulent will need to inform customers when a payment is being delayed. They will also need to explain what the customer needs to do in order to unblock the payment.
The need for evidence to trigger a delay will help protect people and businesses from unnecessary payment delays. Banks will also be required to compensate customers for any interest or late payment fees they incur as a result of delays.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments
The charity regulator for England and Wales has today (3 October 2024) opened a statutory inquiry into Barnabas Fund (also known as Barnabas Aid) after identifying several serious concerns regarding its compliance with charity law and the use of charitable funds.
The Commission is investigating issues, including allegations of unauthorised payments to some of the current and former trustees and related parties, allegations that the charity’s founders have inappropriate control or influence over how the charity operates, and possible unmanaged conflicts of interest. The inquiry will also seek to establish if the charity’s structure and relationship with Nexcus, a US-based subsidiary, is in the best interests of the charity. Some of these issues have since been reported on in the media.
Due to concerns that the charity’s funds may have been misused in the past, and questions as to the trustees’ oversight, the Commission has used its powers to temporarily restrict any transactions the charity intends to make which are over £4,000. This is to protect the charity’s significant income and assets – Barnabas Fund reported an income of over £21m and assets of over £2.3m in its latest accounts.
The inquiry opened on 17 September 2024, escalating from a regulatory compliance case. It will examine whether the trustees are running their charity in line with their legal duties and charity law; particularly in relation to managing finances, conflicts of interest, and preventing unauthorised trustee and third-party benefits. The investigation will also check if spending is correctly recorded, examine relationships with other organisations, and explore the influence of non-leaders on decision-making.
The inquiry will also consider:
whether the charity is operating in furtherance of its objects
whether there has been any misconduct and/or mismanagement by the trustees in the administration of the charity
The scope of the inquiry may vary if additional regulatory issues emerge. The opening of an inquiry is not a finding of wrongdoing.
It is the Commission’s policy, after it has concluded an inquiry, to publish a report detailing what issues the inquiry looked at, what actions were undertaken as part of the inquiry and what the outcomes were.
Ends
Notes to editors
The Charity Commission is the independent, non-ministerial government department that registers and regulates charities in England and Wales. Its ambition is to be an expert regulator that is fair, balanced, and independent so that charity can thrive. This ambition will help to create and sustain an environment where charities further build public trust and ultimately fulfil their essential role in enhancing lives and strengthening society.
On 17 September the Charity Commission opened a statutory inquiry into the charity under section 46 of the Charities Act 2011 as a result of its regulatory concerns that there is or has been misconduct and/ or mismanagement in the administration of the Charity.
The Charity Commission has issued an order under s76(3)(f) of the Act to the trustees restricting all transactions over £4,000.
A statutory inquiry is a legal power enabling the Commission to formally investigate matters of regulatory concern within a charity and to use protective powers for the benefit of the charity and its beneficiaries, assets or reputation. An inquiry will investigate and establish the facts of the case so that the Commission can determine the extent of any misconduct and/or mismanagement; the extent of the risk to the charity, its work, property, beneficiaries, employees or volunteers; and decide what action is needed to resolve the concerns.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2
A new manufacturing plant will be home to hundreds of high-skilled jobs, delivering faster tube journeys and regional growth.
Transport Secretary celebrates opening of a new world class rail manufacturing plant in Goole, supporting 700 high-skilled jobs
the site will build new state-of-the-art Piccadilly Line trains to deliver more reliable, accessible and faster journeys across London
comes ahead of the government’s International Investment Summit, to drive forward its national mission for growth
Hundreds of jobs, faster tube journeys and regional growth will be delivered thanks to a new rail manufacturing plant officially opened by Transport Secretary Louise Haigh today (3 October 2024).
The Secretary of State will attend Siemens’ Rail Village in Goole to celebrate the formal opening of its new £200 million site.
The plant will be home to hundreds of high-skilled jobs where almost 100 new state-of-the-art Piccadilly Line trains will be manufactured and assembled.
In a further boost to the region, Siemens Mobility is also announcing up to a further £40 million towards a new Bogie Assembly and Service Centre at the site which will create up to 200 extra jobs.
The world class hub has been made possible by the government’s funding settlements with Transport for London (TfL), giving Siemens the confidence to invest in the site.
It represents the scale of what can be achieved through joint public and private sector support – and underlines the government’s commitment to attracting international investment.
The grand opening comes ahead of the government’s International Investment Summit on 14 October 2024, which will bring together some of the world’s most influential companies and major investors.
The summit will be an opportunity for the Prime Minister and Cabinet to outline how the government will provide the certainty and opportunities businesses need to make Britain the best place in the world to invest.
The government is focused on creating the conditions for businesses to invest, through trust partnership and stability. We will fix the foundations by investing in the jobs, industries and infrastructure of the future to rebuild Britain and make everyone, everywhere better off.
As part of this drive, the Transport Secretary is working to end the ‘boom and bust’ approach to rail manufacturing by delivering a long-term industrial strategy for rolling stock.
Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh, said:
This impressive, world-class facility will be transformational to Goole and its people, providing a boost to the region’s economy and supporting hundreds of skilled jobs.
Its opening demonstrates the importance of high quality, long-term investment to pave the way for employment and growth.
I know how vital rail manufacturing is to our economy, which is why we will not sit on our hands when it comes to supporting it. For too long, the cycle of boom-and-bust has held back this sector.
That’s why I am determined to put an end to the stop-start approach to investment and provide the industry with the certainty it needs to deliver a railway that is fit for the future.
The new Piccadilly Line trains are expected to start serving the London Underground network next year, delivering a boost to reliability, extra services for passengers and increased capacity.
They will be fully air-conditioned and more accessible, creating more comfortable journeys for the travelling public.
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said:
This train manufacturing facility in Goole is a fantastic example of the expertise we don’t have and how investment in London benefits the whole country. This factory, where the new state-of-the-art Piccadilly line trains will be built, will create up to 900 direct jobs and support another 1,700 in the supply chain, delivering great benefits to the wider UK economy, showing that where London succeeds, the whole country succeeds and vice versa.
I’m excited to continue working together with the new government to build a better, fairer and more prosperous London, and country, for everyone.
Sambit Banerjee, Joint CEO at Siemens Mobility said:
After more than a decade of tremendous dedication and hard work, we have officially opened our state-of-the-art Rail Village in Goole, which is testament to our commitment to the North of England.
None of this would have been possible without the brilliance, perseverance and passion of our people and I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved together.
We’ll assemble 80% of London’s new Piccadilly line trains and all future Siemens trains for the UK including our Verve battery train here in Goole and I’m pleased that we are supporting the local supply chain in the process.
Our further investment in the Bogie Assembly and Service Centre will only add to our ability to transform rail and transport for everyone, right here in Goole.
Today’s announcement reinforces the Transport Secretary’s commitment to rebuild the railways and deliver infrastructure fit for the future and to strengthen connectivity and grow the economy.
Released by: Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Minister for Regional NSW, Minister for Western New South Wales
The Minns Labor Government is inviting regional councils to apply for a share of $3 million in funding for projects that will support the delivery of more well-located and affordable homes.
From today, regional councils will be able to apply for between $20,000 and $250,000 for individual projects as part of the NSW Government’s Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund.
Delivering more well-located homes near transport and services has been central to the NSW Government’s planning reforms so far and we’re not done.
As regional NSW plans for and delivers more homes to its growing communities, the Minns Government is supporting that growth by funding strategic planning projects.
Councils can use the funds to speed up new housing strategies, prepare infrastructure and servicing plans and make local planning amendments for the delivery of more diverse and affordable housing supply.
These projects will support regional NSW work towards its housing target of 55,000 homes during the National Housing Accord.
The first round of the program funded 20 projects across 19 councils to support the delivery of 40,000 homes. Among them was $107,400 for Port Stephens Council’s partnership with Homes NSW on a sub-precincts masterplan to support the delivery of affordable housing in Raymond Terrace.
The second round allocated $2.9 million to 16 councils to support the delivery of nearly 23,800 homes across regional NSW, including $230,000 to Federation Council to undertake a stormwater-servicing plan supporting 5,600 homes across the Murray region.
All NSW councils outside Greater Sydney are eligible for funding. Round three opens today and closes at 12pm on Friday 22 November 2024.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:
“The housing crisis is hitting regional communities just as hard as it is hitting Sydney, and the Minns Government wants to make sure they have the resources to plan for and deliver more homes in all parts of the state.
“As regional communities grow and evolve, this funding will help deliver the important planning work needed to boost housing supply, affordability, and diversity.
“The NSW Government is working with regional councils on a coordinated planning approach to deal with regional housing challenges.”
Minister for Regional NSW and Western NSW Tara Moriarty said:
“We really encourage councils to apply and help us unlock the delivery of thousands of new regional homes sooner.
“This funding will support more homes, which means more jobs and better communities in regional NSW.
“Their submissions will then be assessed by an independent panel using a published criteria.”
Headline: From the eyes of veterans, photography exhibition explores life in military service
Published: 3 October 2024
Released by: Minister for Veterans
A new temporary photography exhibition has launched at the Anzac Memorial, showcasing rare glimpses into life in military service as captured by ex-serving personnel.
Accompanied with stories from veterans, the Point & Shoot exhibition honours a range of modern conflicts, peace operations and service from the Second World War onwards.
The purpose of the exhibition is not to display perfectly captured photos but to share raw moments frozen in time that ex-service personnel thought were worth remembering.
Point & Shoot is the concept of Point Assist founder Mark Direen, a former Infantry and Special Forces soldier with over 20 years military service including six overseas deployments.
Mark took a plethora of photos to document what he saw during service. His experiences became the impetus for this project, which launched onto the national stage in 2022 and continues to grow.
The exhibition is open for a limited time only – until Sunday 6 October. Entry is free. The Memorial’s opening hours are 9am to 5pm, seven days per week.
“For Australians who have not served, it can be difficult to understand what military life looks like, including the unique sights and encounters that come with conflict or peacetime operations.
“Point & Shoot is an intimate opportunity to see through the eyes of our veterans and to reflect on their experiences during service.
“Thank you to Mark Direen and the other ex-service men and women who so candidly contributed their personal photos to this exhibition.”
Veteran and photographer Mark Direen said:
“Operating in remote, high threat environments as a combat soldier was both physically and mentally demanding.
“It was behind the lens of a camera that I found stillness and meaning and it was then I wondered, maybe others do this too and so the concept of this exhibition began.
“Through this collection of images, I also hope to shine a light on the sacrifices of the many that allow these stories to be told.”