Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Climate change conferences in Dashoguz, Balkanabat, Turkmenabat, Buzmeyin and Ashgabat.
The Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) stands as a unique and significant platform for students.
With encouragement and support from the President of Turkmenistan (and in the lead up to the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change), a series of youth conferences on climate change were held in Turkmenistan across all ‘velayats’ (regions) including: Dashoguz, Balkanabat, Turkmenabat, Buzmeyin and Ashgabat. These events brought together young people to discuss current environmental issues and looked at finding ways for Turkmenistan’s youth to actively participate in solving problems related to climate change.
The Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) participants
The Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) is a unique and significant platform, as the youth-led climate initiative fully supported by the Turkmen government. This initiative was introduced by the British Embassy in Turkmenistan back in 2021, supported by the United Nations Coordinators Office and other UN agencies. Fellow embassies have since lent their support, including the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in 2023 and the Embassy of Azerbaijan in 2024. The biggest leaders of this movement are however the Sustainable Development Goal Ambassadors and climate activists who have campaigned throughout the years.
The Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) stands as a unique and significant platform
Hosting the series in different cities has allowed local youth to address climate issues specific to each location. This ensures that local challenges are recognised and tailored solutions are developed to meet needs. Through LCOY, Turkmenistan’s youth are at the forefront of driving change, positioning themselves as critical players in the challenges against climate change.
Local authorities across the D2N2 region are proud to announce the launch of Mockingbird, a pioneering and award-winning programme led by The Fostering Network, which transforms the delivery of foster care.
This innovative model has been successfully implemented across fostering services in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby, and Nottingham (D2N2), creating a strong, resilient, and supportive network for children, young people, and foster families.
Mockingbird constellations have been established in every local authority fostering service across D2N2. Each constellation consists of up to ten satellite families (fostering households) supported by a Hub Home Carer and a liaison worker. The Hub Home Carer plays a key role by offering both planned and unplanned sleepovers, emotional and practical support, and organising monthly social events to strengthen the bond between families. These events will range from movie nights to picnics and BBQs, creating opportunities for carers and young people to form lasting relationships.
The Mockingbird programme is funded through the Department for Education’s Fostering Recruitment and Retention grant, which also supports the Foster for East Midlands fostering recruitment hub. With continued success and subject to future funding, the goal is to expand the Mockingbird model even further across the D2N2 region, enabling more foster families to benefit from the programme.
The official launch event was held in August at the Woodland Adventure Zone, Portland College in Mansfield. Attended by fostering families, key stakeholders, and special guests, the event marked an exciting milestone for the fostering community. Heads of service from each local authority, including Andy Smith, – Derby City Council’s Strategic Director of People Services, Rachel Miller, Nottinghamshire County Council’s Service Director for Children’s Commissioning and Resources, and representatives from The Fostering Network, joined local councillors and colleagues from the Department for Education (DfE) to celebrate this achievement. The Cabinet Members for children from Derby City Council and Nottingham City Council were in also in attendance.
Mockingbird has been running successfully in England since 2015, with constellations established throughout the country. In recognition of its impact, the programme was awarded the Big Impact Award at last year’s Third Sector Awards, with judges praising it as “a fantastic and innovative project, bringing real change and with demonstrable impact”. They described it as “a sea-change in the way foster care is delivered.”
Andrea Dore, Mockingbird Team Manager said,
This event marked the coming together of our fostering families across the D2N2 region to celebrate friendships, having fun, making memories, and building a strong sense of community. I am so proud of what we have all collectively achieved in a few short months.
This community-based model of fostering is working, and we are already seeing really positive outcomes. Our foster carers feel better supported, and our young people are making friends, enjoying sleepovers, and building relationships with safe, trusted adults outside their immediate fostering families.
What I love most is that everyone in our fostering families is included in the activities and events we offer, and the support provided by our Hub Home Carers is invaluable.
Sarah Olowo, Mockingbird Coach from the Fostering Network said,
I am extremely proud to be part of the Mockingbird launch for D2N2, a lot of hard work and effort went into the implementation phase and launching. It was wonderful to see the Mockingbird model come to life; you can see the foster carers and young people forming their micro communities of support with one another supported by their fantastic hub home carers and liaison workers.
A truly heartwarming experience seeing the young people of all different ages bonding with their hub home carers and building friendships with one another. Each constellation is unique, but you can see they share many of the Mockingbird core values as that sense of family, having fun and building safe communities shone throughout the day.
Andy Smith, Derby City Council’s People Service Director said,
As the Strategic Director for People Services in Derby I was delighted to represent the four Directors of Children’s Services across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire at the official launch of our Mockingbird programme. It was inspiring to speak to carers and hear first hand what a difference being part of a constellation is making to the lives of children and carers, which is even more impressive given that constellations have only been in place for a relatively short space of time.
It was clear to see and hear that young people and foster carers are forming friendships and building relationships, with some lovely examples of young people accessing sleepovers for the first time.
Overall, foster carers told me they are feeling more supported with hubs becoming more self-sufficient. It was a great launch event with a real buzz around the park. Well done and thank you all!
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Space professionals from organisations across the UK will descend on Manchester in July 2025 for the UK Space Conference.
Sponsored by the UK Space Agency, the biennial event brings together organisations with an interest in space to meet, network, discover business opportunities and help shape the future of the space sector. The event will be held at Manchester Central on 16 to 17 July 2025.
Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency, said:
Following successful conferences in Newport and Belfast, and after opening new satellite offices across the UK this year, we are excited to host the UK Space Conference in Manchester, the world’s first industrial city.
We look forward to welcoming attendees from across the UK, forging new collaborations and championing the benefits of the space industry as a key provider of jobs, prosperity and innovation.
The UK space sector generates £18.9 billion and employs 52,000 people – and supports critical national Infrastructure, including energy grids and healthcare services.
Colin Baldwin, Executive Director of UKspace, official trade association of the UK space industry, said:
UKspace is delighted to be supporting the 2025 UK Space Conference. This biennial event, organised by and for the sector through our strong and connected ecosystem, brings us together to discuss key issues and opportunities including addressing skills challenges, supporting fit-for-purpose regulation, spreading sustainability standards and promoting private investment – all of which underpins the long-term health of the sector.
This first UK Space Conference under the new government will enable the sector to showcase how it plays a significant role in the delivery of the Government’s five missions – high growth, safer streets, clean energy, opportunity for all and a society that is fit for the future.
In the early 19th century, the rapid growth of Manchester’s cotton industry drove the town’s expansion, putting it at the heart of new, global networks of manufacturing and trade. The city is now the heart of the wider region’s thriving space sector, which comprises over 180 organisations and over 2,300 space professionals – collectively termed the North West Space Cluster.
Companies based in Manchester include graphene specialists Smart IR, who are using breakthrough technology to control infrared thermal radiation and Graphene Innovations Manchester, who have ambitions to develop human rated graphene space structures. MDA Space UK is expanding their workforce and operations in all their UK locations, including their site near Manchester Airport, where their growing team designs and delivers digital systems and payloads for telecoms satellites.
A night time view of Manchester from space. Image: NASA
The North West sector has been supported by investment from the UK Space Agency’s Local Growth initiative and STFC’s (Science and Technology Facilities Council) industrial cluster development, which is helping to drive its expansion, accelerate innovation and seize commercial opportunities.
STFC’s Alan Cross, Development Manager, North West Space Cluster, said:
From Jodrell Bank’s early breakthroughs to launch vehicle testing at Spadeadam in Cumbria, the North West has a proud legacy of driving space exploration and innovation. Today, as the UK reaches for new frontiers, the North West’s space sector is thriving.
Manchester’s satellite manufacturing and the University of Liverpool’s missions to the International Space Station are just two standout examples of this, and the UK Space Conference 2025 in Manchester will showcase this vibrancy and progress.
Dr Phil Carvil, Head of STFC’s North West Cluster Programmes said:
As we leverage space to tackle 21st-century challenges and prepare for humanity’s return to the Moon, the North West Space Cluster is excited to welcome the UK Space Conference 2025 to Manchester.
Our businesses and institutions across the region are leading the way in space innovation and collaboration, inspiring our next generations that they too can take part in shaping the future of space and benefiting society as a whole.
Renowned for being the birthplace of scientists James Joule and John Dalton, and sparking their discoveries in thermodynamics, meteorology and atomic theory, the region now boasts world class expertise in materials science and has unique capabilities in nuclear materials for deep space applications. A University of Manchester lab holds a world-leading range of equipment for simulation of and experimentation into material behaviours in the extreme conditions of space exploration.
The largest scientific instrument in Human history, the Square Kilometre Array Observatory, is headquartered in Cheshire alongside the University of Manchester’s prestigious Jodrell Bank Observatory. With investment from both the UK and European space agencies, the National Nuclear Laboratory is also developing the next generation of deep space power systems in Cumbria.
Kevin Craven, CEO of ADS Group said:
The UK space sector is growing, unlocking significant opportunities for economic growth throughout the UK whilst delivering innovative solutions to domestic and global challenges.
I’m delighted to see the UK Space Agency take its biannual conference to Manchester and we look forward to the event as an integral part of the space sector calendar.
In 2023 the UK Space Conference was hosted at the ICC in Belfast and brought over 1,700 leaders together from national and international industry, government and academia to Northern Ireland for three days and generated a direct economic impact of £1.7 million through visitor spend alone. Local stakeholders in Northern Ireland reported that bringing the conference to Belfast provided Northern Ireland with a unique opportunity to promote its capabilities to an influential global space audience as well as to exchange ideas, plans and encourage development and success in the emerging space age.
Sheffield welcomed Homes England to the city so development partners could come together and see progress on the latest projects and discuss future opportunities.
Homes England Chief Executive Officer Peter Denton visited five sites across Sheffield alongside senior Sheffield City Council representatives and other development partners. The visit was arranged to see first-hand some of the developments that either have recently been completed or are ongoing and has been achieved by those multiple partners.
The visit was born from the ongoing work of the Sheffield Together Housing Growth Board, which is chaired by the Chief Executive Officer of Sheffield City Council and includes Homes England, the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, the Sheffield Property Association and the South Yorkshire Housing Partnership.
This partnership is key for the area in bringing housing experts together to find ways of hitting housing targets and making sure the demand for good quality, safe, affordable homes across Sheffield is met.
The group visited three different housing sites last Monday (16th September) as well as the newly opened largest purpose-built food hall in Europe, Cambridge Street Collective – which has recently been crowned British Food Hall of the Year 2024 at the British Street Food Awards.
The trip culminated in a stay at Sheffield city centre’s latest hotel development at the Radisson Blu – part of the ongoing Heart of the City II development.
The first visit of the day was at the Capital & Centric-developed Eye Witness Works, the former cutlery factory in the city centre’s Devonshire Quarter.
Here, Sheffield City Council Chief Executive Kate Josephs joined Mr Denton and representatives of Homes England and Capital & Centric to tour the development of apartments and town houses and see some of the new properties available to rent for families and professionals in the city centre.
After a walk across Sheffield city centre which took in the Pound’s Park development, the visit stopped at Cambridge Street Collective to see the thriving food hall up and running that has recently been crowned British Food Hall of the Year 2024 at the British Street Food Awards.
WATCH: Homes England visit highlights the benefits of partnership working in hitting targets
From here, the next stop was the Together Housing development on Meadowsweet Close and Sorrel Way, just off Ferrars Road in Tinsley.
Here, Council leader, Cllr Tom Hunt, ward councillors, local MP Clive Betts and Homes England representatives were shown around the development by Together Housing Chief Executive Kevin Ruth and other members of the housing association to see how partnerships such as this can build affordable housing for those in Sheffield that need it.
Finally, Cllr Hunt and the Council’s Chair of the Housing Committee, Cllr Douglas Johnson, met the visit at the Citu-built Little Kelham affordable housing site off Alma Street in Kelham Island to see a range of new affordable homes being built in partnership with Great Places for city residents near to the city centre.
The visit was a chance to show how, together, partnerships can help regeneration and development projects deliver, increase the number of affordable homes and bring housing and economic growth opportunities to Sheffield.
Cllr Douglas Johnson, Chair of Sheffield City Council’s Housing Committee, said:
“The range of partners is really important because the truth is that no single body can produce the amount of new housing that we need in this country right now.
“We need councils, housing associations, Homes England and private developers to all contribute towards this bigger goal of good quality and imaginative housing for the future so that everyone can have a home they can afford.”
Kate Josephs, Sheffield City Council’s Chief Executive Officer, said:
“We’re really proud of the partnership work we’ve led through the Council, with Homes England, with the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, with housing associations and the Sheffield Property Association.
“The Sheffield Together Housing Growth Board is all about delivering the homes we need in our city. Together with all our partners, we are pushing ahead to meet our housing targets and provide great new places for people to live in our city.”
Cllr Tom Hunt, Leader of Sheffield City Council, said:
“Across the city we are working hard to increase the number of new homes in our city. Everyone should have a safe, secure and affordable place to call home. Good quality homes are fundamental for enabling everyone to live happy, healthy lives.
“It is great to see new housing developments being completed across our city. I am excited to see more homes being developed in the coming months and years ahead.”
Kevin Ruth, Chief Executive Officer of Together Housing, said:
“It was great to be part of Homes England’s tour of Sheffield and to meet so many people who are as passionate about driving support and investment into the city as we are at Together Housing.
“The growing need for affordable housing is affecting so many in the region, which is why we were thrilled to have Peter Denton and Sheffield City Council members visit our newest housing community in Sheffield to see first-hand the impact of investment. We welcome the prospect of more opportunities for developing communities in the region and hope to see the steps that are being taken to do so, continue.”
Sheffield City Council is in the midst of agreeing its new Housing Strategy for the next 10 years, which is in its draft stage having gone through two rounds of public consultation this year. The final Strategy is planned to be brought before the Council’s Strategy & Resources committee meeting this autumn for full approval and ratification.
This summer saw City of Wolverhampton Council join forces with social impact developer Capital&Centric and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) to challenge competing teams of renowned architects to put forward their ideas to turn the 5 acre former Sainsbury’s site and historic St George’s Church into a new neighbourhood for the city.
The team made up of Mikhail Riches and Periscope practices has been crowned the winner.
Locals flocked to a Dragon’s Den style public consultation event at the University of Wolverhampton at The Halls in July, where each of the 4 teams (made up of 12 collaborating architect practices) pitched their ideas, with people able to give their opinions on their favourite. The competition was overseen by Angela Brady, a former RIBA President.
Angela Brady OBE said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for architects to be in competition together, working as a team with other architects to reinvent this disused part of Wolverhampton. All teams came up with vibrant ideas, which made it really hard to pick a winner.
“The Mikhail Riches and Periscope team had the edge with their vision, particularly with its retrofitting of the Sainsbury’s building in such an imaginative way. Also the 3 distinct zones they pitched could really create a great future for the area.
“This sort of collaboration between Council, developer, RIBA competitions office and architects I think allows a more joined up end result and is a model that other areas should follow.”
The winning submission proposed a vibrant and varied neighbourhood of sustainable new homes, as well as lush outdoors spaces; boulevards and green streets; shops, cafes and bars; and community spaces.
They proposed to retain and repurpose parts of the former Sainsbury’s building – in turn saving embodied carbon. The practices have also put the St George’s Church at the heart of the community, surrounding it with new public squares for pop up cultural events, intimate courtyards and social spaces for people to come together.
The winning design will form the basis of the evolving St George’s masterplan, with a pre planning application submission to follow later this year.
The announcement comes as part of Wolverhampton’s annual Business Week, that this year explores the power to boost economic growth through housing. St George’s also features as one of the major opportunities in the council’s Wolverhampton Investment Prospectus.
Councillor Chris Burden, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “St George’s is a fantastic opportunity to create a game changing neighbourhood of which the city can be proud. It’s a critical part of our citywide plan to unlock investment in considered development that delivers much needed homes and new opportunities for our communities.
“The architects teams all produced outstanding design proposals and we are relishing the opportunity to work with the winners, Mikhail Riches and Periscope, to further develop their ideas.
“It is fitting that this news comes during Wolverhampton’s Business Week, with its flagship event, the Business Breakfast, focusing on economic growth through housing, and we believe St George’s provides the opportunity to set a new design benchmark for brownfield regeneration in the city.”
Developers Capital&Centric are leading delivery of the St George’s site, drawing on their experience of repurposing historic spaces and building standout new neighbourhoods across the UK, all with an acute focus on social impact. With a competition winner now selected, their next step will be to draw up more detailed designs.
John Moffat, joint managing director at Capital&Centric, said: “From start to finish the St George’s architectural competition has been inspiring, from the variety of designs the architect teams put forward, to the people that came out to have their say on the options. The decision was a tough one, but the design by Mikhail Riches and Periscope is a deserved winner.
“St George’s is a standout opportunity to take a redundant city site and turn it into something special for the community – retaining some of the existing buildings whilst creating interesting and welcoming new spaces where people want to spend time. We’ll be spending the next few weeks looking over the winning design with the team of architects and the council to fine tune the plans, so it’s primed for us to submit a phenomenal pre-planning application submission.”
Labour claim they can’t afford to give pensioners the winter fuel allowance or scrap the two-child benefit cap, while giving the nuclear weapons programme a bottomless pit of money
More in Peace
Speaking on the UN International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, Scottish Green co-leader Patrick Harvie has urged the Labour government to scrap the Trident nuclear weapons system and use its funding to reinstate the winter fuel payment, scrap the two-child benefit cap and build a fairer, greener future.
Since entering office, the Labour Chancellor Rachel Reeves has launched a new wave of austerity, cutting the winter fuel payment for pensioners and upholding the cruel two-child benefit cap and rape clause which were introduced by the Tories. However, the Scottish Greens are calling for the UK government to use the money it is pouring into nuclear weapons to reverse these brutal austerity measures.
Speaking on International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, Scottish Greens Co-Leader Patrick Harvie said: “Nuclear weapons are an obscene moral evil that should have no place in 21st-century society. Yet, there are still vast numbers of warheads scattered across the planet, and hundreds of them are based here in Scotland on the Clyde.
“The Labour government claim that they cannot afford to give pensioners the winter fuel allowance or scrap the two-child benefit cap, yet they are yet again marching lockstep with the Tories in committing to giving the nuclear weapons programme a bottomless pit of money.
“The eye-watering sums that are being poured into nuclear weapons would be far better spent lifting children and families out of poverty and tackling the climate crisis, which is the greatest security threat we face.
“But even if Trident had no cost implications, keeping it would still be totally immoral. There can never be any justification for weapons which are only capable of indiscriminate mass killing, or the brutal legacy such as those left by the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki 80 years ago.
“If we want to take a stand for global peace, we must lead by example. I look forward to the day when an independent Scotland can rid nuclear weapons from our waters and fully commit to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The CMA has found that Tereos failed to comply with a requirement to produce information in connection with its recent investigation into Tereos’ deal with T&L Sugars.
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has imposed a fine of £25,000 on Tereos SCA and Tereos United Kingdom and Ireland Limited (together Tereos) for failing to provide relevant information in relation to the T&L Sugars/Tereos merger inquiry.
As part of the CMA’s phase 2 investigation, a notice was sent to Tereos under section 109 of Enterprise Act 2002 (the Act) requiring the production of certain minutes and internal documents in relation to its board and corporate governance. Tereos responded to the notice, however, following further enquires by the CMA it was found that Tereos failed, without reasonable excuse, to provide a full response.
In particular, the CMA Inquiry Group found that Tereos’ interpretation of the scope of the notice was unjustifiably narrow and untenable when viewed in the context of the object of the merger inquiry and that the failure was capable of having an adverse impact on the CMA’s investigation.
In order to reach sound decisions that benefit consumers and the UK economy as efficiently as possible, it is essential that the CMA is able to gather all the evidence it requires. Parties must therefore comply, on time and in full, with requests for information from the CMA during an investigation.
Richard Feasey, Chair of the independent inquiry group which led the investigation, said:
It’s important that firms respect the UK merger review process – which includes providing all the information we need to promptly progress our investigation.
Firms and their advisers must not apply their own narrow, artificial interpretation of our formal information gathering requirements– as Tereos has done so here. Had they responded properly then Tereos could have avoided this fine altogether.
Currently, where there is a failure to comply, without reasonable excuse, with a requirement of a notice under section 109 of the Act, the maximum fixed penalty the CMA is able to impose is £30,000. This is due to increase to 1% of the total value of a business’s worldwide turnover once amendments introduced by the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (DMCCA) come into force.
A copy of the full notice is available via the case page.
Tereos was represented in the CMA’s investigation by its solicitors, Squire Patton Boggs.
The CMA received and considered the documents relevant to the notice under section 109 of the Act from Tereos in advance of clearing the merger on 3 September 2024.
Where a party fails, without reasonable excuse, to comply with investigatory requirements such as a notice requiring the production of documents, the CMA may impose an administrative penalty on that party. The CMA has published guidance Administrative penalties: Statement of Policy on the CMA’s approach (CMA4) on the CMA’s approach and powers in relation to imposing administrative penalties. A draft version of an updated version of the guidance, incorporating changes by the DMCCA was recently consulted on and the CMA is currently analysing feedback following the consultation closing on 23 August 2024.
The DMCCA received Royal Assent on 24 May 2024. It is currently anticipated that the relevant parts (Part 2, section 143(1) and Schedule 10 paragraph 17) of the DMCCA which relate to the amount of a penalty that can be imposed by the CMA under section 111 of the Act will enter into force in December 2024 or January 2025. These amendments to the Act increase the maximum penalty amount that can be imposed on a business for not complying, without reasonable excuse, with a notice under section 109 from £30,000 to 1% of the annual worldwide turnover in the case of a fixed penalty and from £15,000 to 5% of the daily worldwide turnover of the business in the case of a daily amount.
For media enquiries, contact the CMA press office on 020 3738 6460 or press@cma.gov.uk.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Joint Statement by the United States, Australia, Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and Qatar.
The situation between Lebanon and Israel since October 8th, 2023 is intolerable and presents an unacceptable risk of a broader regional escalation. This is in nobody’s interest, neither of the people of Israel nor of the people of Lebanon.
It is time to conclude a diplomatic settlement that enables civilians on both sides of the border to return to their homes in safety.
Diplomacy however cannot succeed amid an escalation of this conflict.
Thus we call for an immediate 21 day ceasefire across the Lebanon-Israel border to provide space for diplomacy towards the conclusion of a diplomatic settlement consistent with UNSCR 1701, and the implementation of UNSCR 2735 regarding a ceasefire in Gaza
We call on all parties, including the Governments of Israel and Lebanon, to endorse the temporary ceasefire immediately consistent with UNSCR 1701 during this period, and to give a real chance to a diplomatic settlement.
We are then prepared to fully support all diplomatic efforts to conclude an agreement between Lebanon and Israel within this period, building on efforts over the last months, that ends this crisis altogether.
Salford City Council has announced the appointment of Alan Caddick to the post of Interim Director of Housing Transformation.
Alan joins the council having held a similar role at a local authority in the North East. Previously in his career, he served as the Director of Housing for two of the London authorities and was the Director of Housing and Residential Growth at Manchester City Council. It is also a welcome return for Alan who worked for the council some years ago in the role of Lead Officer for the Charlestown and Lower Kersal New Deal for Communities.
Councillor Tracy Kelly, Deputy City Mayor and Lead Member for Housing and Anti-Poverty said “Alan brings with him an incredible wealth of knowledge and experience of the housing sector, within local authorities, so I’m looking forward to working with him to deliver the quality affordable housing our residents and communities deserve.
Alan said “I am really pleased to be rejoining Salford City Council. Salford is a vibrant and dynamic place to live, work and visit, so I am looking forward to being a part of the team that helps to transform our communities and provide a range of housing opportunities for all of our residents”.
“Across the city the demand for suitable housing remains one of our main priorities and I am looking forward to the challenges, and the opportunities that we will encounter as the renaissance of our communities continues.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The mitigation measures will help to prevent the spread of ASF across the border, protecting the pig sector worth over £8 billion to the UK economy
Immediate measures have been introduced to protect pig farmers and industry from an African swine fever (ASF) outbreak.
ASF is a highly contagious and deadly disease in pigs and wild boar that can be transmitted through infected meat, but poses no risk to human health. The new safeguarding rules will help protect UK livestock by mitigating its spread across the border to the UK.
To safeguard the UK’s pig and farming industries, personal imports of pork and pork products from the EEA (European Economic Area), the Faroe Islands, Greenland and Switzerland will be banned from tomorrow (Friday 27th September), unless such products are manufactured and packaged to EU commercial standards and weigh less than a maximum of 2kg.
An outbreak of ASF could have a significant impact on the UK’s £8 billion pig industry, as well as its annual pork and pork product exports worth £600 million. It is estimated that an outbreak could cost the UK between £10 million to £100 million.
Biosecurity Minister Baroness Hayman said:
African swine fever is a deadly disease wreaking havoc in Europe.
These new measures will protect British pig farmers and pork products, preventing infected meat from being brought over the border and threatening our biosecurity.
The UK has never had an outbreak ASF, and commercial meat imports are routinely checked at the border to ensure infected goods do not reach UK shores.
Preventing an outbreak of ASF in the UK remains one of Defra’s key biosecurity priorities, and it keeps policy on personal meat and dairy imports under constant review, as well as works closely with devolved governments on contingency planning and preventing an incursion from infected goods.
Those found to bring pork or pork products illegally may be fined up to £5,000 in England. Products will be seized and destroyed on arrival.
Defra is investing £3.1 million to Dover Port Health Authority for 2024/25 to help Border Force tackle illegal meat imports and keep African Swine Fever out of Great Britain.
TORONTO, Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Xtract One Technologies (TSX: XTRA)(OTCQX: XTRAF)(FRA: 0PL) (“Xtract One” or the “Company”), a leading technology-driven threat detection and security solution that prioritizes the patron access experience by leveraging AI, today announced that its SmartGateway screening solution was selected to secure UBS Arena in New York. This contract is enabled through the Company’s partnership with Oak View Group (OVG), a global sports and entertainment company. UBS Arena, an 18,000-seat capacity venue located in New York’s historic Belmont Park, is home to the National Hockey League’s (NHL) New York Islanders.
Xtract One will provide fast and frictionless fan screening to optimize UBS Arena’s patron experience while bolstering safety and security. The SmartGateway will secure key entrances for sports games, concerts, family shows and other live events held at UBS Arena. Together with Oak View Group, Xtract One is working towards providing high-quality experiences for customers while enhancing the comfortability and safety they feel when attending high capacity events.
“We are pleased to have been selected by UBS Arena and the New York Islanders to secure their premises, another noteworthy accomplishment after recently achieving DHS certification,” said Peter Evans, CEO of Xtract One. “We are in active communication with many NHL teams and are excited by the rapid increase in interest that the DHS award has helped facilitate. This latest deployment, expected to be completed in the current quarter, perfectly blends the historic backdrop of the venue with our next-generation SmartGateway AI technology. Xtract One’s advanced systems will enhance and strengthen UBS Arena’s mission to provide safe, entertaining events for millions – giving patrons the best time possible. We’re excited to have them as a client and look forward to continue revolutionizing the customer experience.”
Xtract One’s SmartGateway system leverages AI-powered sensors to detect threats without invading guest privacy and comfort, making the screening process for high throughput venues more efficient without compromising accuracy. The SmartGateway scans patrons for weapons and other prohibited items as they enter the space in a discreet manner, enhancing patron experience by reducing security line wait times while still prioritizing their safety.
“At UBS Arena, guest experience is always paramount. We want our guests to have a best in class experience every time they walk through our doors,” said Mike Sciortino, General Manager of UBS Arena. “For your safety and the safety of others, our screening process is now frictionless using Xtract One technology. There is no need to remove any items, including small bags and coats. Guests will be able to walk directly through the screening system for an expedited security process.”
About Xtract One Xtract One Technologies is a leading technology-driven threat detection and security solution leveraging AI to provide seamless and secure patron access control experiences. The Company makes unobtrusive threat detection systems that enable venue building operators to prioritize and deliver improved patron experiences while providing unprecedented safety. Xtract One’s innovative Gateway product enables companies to covertly screen for weapons at points of entry without disrupting the flow of traffic. Its AI-based software allows venue and building operators to identify weapons and other threats inside and outside of facilities, and receive valuable intelligence for optimizing operations. For more information, visit http://www.xtractone.com or connect on LinkedIn, X, and Facebook.
About UBS Arena UBS Arena is made for music and built for hockey. New York’s newest premier entertainment and sports venue and proud home of the New York Islanders is developed in partnership with Oak View Group, the New York Islanders, and Jeff Wilpon. The state of the art arena has welcomed top artists from around the globe since opening in November 2021 including Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, Chris Stapleton, Dua Lipa, Drake, Harry Styles, Marc Anthony and Suga. The venue delivers an unmatched live entertainment experience for guests including clear sightlines and premier acoustics.
UBS Arena is at the forefront of sustainability, recently achieving Zero Waste TRUE Silver certification in May 2024 in addition to its LEED Green Building Certification and carbon neutrality for operations.
Located on the historic grounds of Belmont Park, UBS Arena is located just 30 minutes by LIRR from Grand Central or Penn Station and is easily accessible from across the region via mass transit or car. To plan your trip, please visit UBSArena.com/plan-your-trip.
For additional information, please visit UBSArena.com or @UBSArena on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
About Oak View Group Oak View Group (OVG) is a global sports and entertainment company founded by Tim Leiweke and Irving Azoff in 2015. OVG is focused on being a positive disruption to business as usual in the sports, live entertainment, and hospitality industries and currently has eight divisions across five global offices (Los Angeles, New York, London, Philadelphia, and Toronto). OVG oversees the operations of Climate Pledge Arena at Seattle Center, UBS Arena in Belmont Park, NY, and Moody Center in Austin, TX as well as arena development projects for Acrisure Arena in Palm Springs, CA; Co-op Live in Manchester, UK; and projects for Arena São Paulo in São Paulo, BZ; Baltimore Arena in Baltimore, MD; FirstOntario Centre Arena in Hamilton, ON; a New Arena and entertainment district in Las Vegas, NV; and a New Arena in Cardiff, Wales. More information at OakViewGroup.com, and follow OVG on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Forward Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements that are not historical facts, including without limitation, statements regarding future estimates, plans, programs, forecasts, projections, objectives, assumptions, expectations or beliefs of future performance, are “forward-looking statements”. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “estimates”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, events or developments to be materially different from any future results, events or developments expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risks detailed from time to time in the continuous disclosure filings made by the Company with securities regulations. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other risk factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements. The Company has no obligation to update any forward looking statement, even if new information becomes available as a result of future events, new information or for any other reason except as required by law.
Last month, a delegation led by Brendan Crabb, head of the Burnet Institute, a prestigious medical research body, met Anthony Albanese in the prime minister’s parliament house office.
Its members, who included Lidia Morawska from Queensland University of Technology, a world-leading expert on air quality and health, also blitzed ministers and staffers. They were pitching for the federal government to spearhead a comprehensive policy on clean indoor air and for the issue to be put on the national cabinet’s agenda.
They pointed out to Albanese that indoor air is an outlier in our otherwise comprehensive public health framework. Despite people spending the majority of their time inside, indoor air quality is mostly unregulated, in contrast to the standards that apply to, for example, food and water.
There are multiple health and economic reasons to be concerned about this air quality but a major one is to limit the transmission of airborne diseases, such as COVID.
For many of us, COVID has become just a bad memory, despite its lasting and mixed legacies. For instance, without the pandemic, fewer people would now be working from home. More small businesses would be flourishing in our CBDs. Arguably, fewer children would be trying to catch up from inadequate schooling.
While the media have largely lost interest in COVID, and people are now rather blase about it, the disease is still taking a toll.
In 2023 there were about 4,600 deaths attributed to COVID, and almost certainly more in reality, given Australia that year had 8,400 “excess deaths” (defined as actual deaths above expected deaths).
Up to July this year there were 2,503 COVID deaths.
In nursing homes, whilst survival rates from COVID are much improved with vaccination and antivirals, as of September 19, there were 117 active outbreaks with 59 new outbreaks in that past week. There had been 900 deaths for the year so far.
Long COVID has become a serious issue, with varying respiratory, cardiac, cognitive and immunological symptoms. It is estimated between 200,000 and 900,000 people in Australia currently have long COVID.
The Albanese government is presently awaiting the report it commissioned into how the COVID pandemic was handled.
The inquiry has looked at the performance of the Morrison government, but its terms of reference didn’t include the states. That limits its usefulness, but there were politics involved, given high profile state Labor governments.
Not that the state and territory leaders of that time are around anymore (apart from the ACT’s Andrew Barr). Those faces that became so familiar from their daily news conference have disappeared into the never-never: Victoria’s Dan Andrews, Western Australia’s Mark McGowan, New South Wales’ Gladys Berejiklian, Queensland’s Annastacia Palaszczuk.
COVID variously made or tarnished leaders’ reputations. McGowan, in particular, reached stratospheric heights of popularity. Andrews deeply divided people.
In general, however, COVID boosted support for leaders and increased public trust in them and in government. In times of uncertainty, the public looked to known institutions and to authority figures. Since then, trust has eroded again.
Experts came into their own during the pandemic but then found themselves in the middle of the political bickering. In retrospect, some of them were wrong.
In the broad, especially in terms of the death rate and the economy, Australia navigated the crisis well. But drill down, and the story is more complex, as documented by two leading economists, Steven Hamilton (based in Washington and connected to the Australian National University) and Richard Holden (from UNSW).
In their just-published book, Australia’s Pandemic Exceptionalism, their bottom-line conclusion is that Australia was very impressive in its (vastly expensive) economic response but it was a mixed picture on the health side.
While Australia was quick out of the blocks in closing the national border and bringing in other measures, it fell down dramatically on two fronts. The Morrison government failed to order a wide variety of vaccines and it failed to buy enough Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs).
The “vaccine procurement strategy was an unmitigated disaster,” Hamilton and Holden write. This was not just “the greatest failure of the pandemic – it was arguably the greatest single public policy failure in Australian history”.
“We put all our vaccine eggs in just two baskets”, both of which failed to differing degrees. This was “a terrible risk to take. Pandemics are times for insurance, not gambling,” they write.
“And while our tax and statistical authorities marshalled their forces to operate much faster and more nimbly to serve the desperate needs of a government facing a once-in-a-century crisis, our medical regulatory complex repeatedly ignored international evidence and experience, and our political leaders capitulated to their advice. And then the prime minister told us that when it came to getting Australians vaccinated:‘it’s not a race’”.
The failure to order every vaccine on the horizon meant when production or supply problems arose for those that were hoped for or on order, the rollout was delayed.
After this bungle, “stunningly, we turned around and repeated these same mistakes all over again” by not obtaining and distributing freely massive numbers of RATs. In this failure, “our federal government showed the same lack of foresight, the same penny-wise but pound-foolish mindset that it had displayed in the vaccine rollout”.
The authors blame Scott Morrison, then-health minister Greg Hunt, then-chief medical officer Brendan Murphy, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), and the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) for the health failures, which prolonged the lockdowns, cost lives and delayed reopening.
Urging better preparation for the next pandemic, Hamilton and Holden have a list of suggestions. They stress we need to ensure we have mRNA vaccine manufacturing capability (on which there is fairly good progress). We must get vaccine procurement “right from the start” regardless of cost. Huge quantities of RATs should be procured as soon as they become available, ready to be used immediately.
A complete overhaul of the medical-regulatory complex should be undertaken. As well, Australia should continue to invest in “economic infrastructure”. In the pandemic, the economic effort was facilitated by having a single touch payroll system. “The first obvious candidate for improvement is a real-time GST turnover reporting capability.”
Perhaps a comprehensive indoor clean air policy could be added to the infrastructure list.
The government’s review will have its own recommendations. Crabb and his colleagues hope they include attention to indoor air quality, following advice from the Chief Scientist and the National Science and Technology Council.
Members of the delegation say they received an attentive hearing from the PM.
Anna-Maria Arabia, chief executive of the Australian Academy of Science, and a member of the delegation, says Albanese “understood that improving indoor air quality is a cornerstone requirement to preparing for future pandemics and [he] was attuned to the practical implications of having good indoor air quality systems, including schools and workplaces being able to stay open and functional, reduce absenteeism and boost productivity”.
What’s needed beyond awareness, however, is timely policy action. Pandemics don’t give much notice of their arrival.
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.
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
SPC AC 260600
Day 1 Convective Outlook NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK 0100 AM CDT Thu Sep 26 2024
Valid 261200Z – 271200Z
…THERE IS AN ENHANCED RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS FOR COASTAL AREAS OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA…GEORGIA…AND SOUTH CAROLINA…
…SUMMARY… Several tornadoes will be possible later today into tonight, in association with Hurricane Helene. The greatest threat is expected from parts of Florida into southeast Georgia, the Midlands and Low Country of South Carolina, and southern North Carolina.
…FL/GA into the Carolinas… Hurricane Helene is forecast to move north to north-northeast and accelerate across the eastern Gulf of Mexico today, with landfall expected in the Florida Big Bend region this evening. See NHC forecasts and advisories for more information. Increasing low-level flow/shear associated with Helene’s large wind field will overspread the Florida Peninsula this morning, southeast Georgia and parts of SC by this afternoon, and eventually into parts of NC later tonight. Low-level hodographs will become quite large, with 0-1 km SRH increasing into at least the 250-500 m2/s2 range. This will support tornado potential with any low-topped supercells that are able to develop and persist within Helene’s rain bands.
Due to Helene’s large size and fast forward speed, a broad region from Florida and Georgia northward into the Carolinas will see some risk for tornadoes. During the day, Helene’s rain bands will overspread the FL Peninsula, with other outer bands potentially moving inland across parts of GA/SC and eventually NC through tonight. The Enhanced Risk has been maintained and expanded somewhat from extreme northeast FL into coastal GA/SC, where multiple low-topped supercells will be possible within an increasingly favorable environment. Some tornado potential will spread into parts of NC later tonight, with the northern extent of the primary tornado threat still somewhat uncertain and dependent on Helene’s forward speed and track.
…Hudson Valley vicinity into southern New England… An upper low will move eastward across southern Quebec and adjacent portions of New England today. Strong large-scale ascent will aid in the development of convection during the afternoon from southern New England into the Hudson Valley. Lapse rates will be weak and buoyancy modest at best, but enhanced mid-level flow through the base of the upper low will support moderate to strong deep-layer vertical shear. Consequently, a few stronger storms capable of gusty winds are possible, but confidence in sufficient destabilization is too low for severe probabilities at this time.
..Dean.. 09/26/2024
CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT
NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 1 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1300Z
Lancaster City Council and the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) have today announced a partnership to invest in and refurbish public park tennis courts in Lancaster.
New life will be breathed into two park tennis venues at Palatine Recreation Ground in Lancaster and Happy Mount Park in Morecambe. The £79,632 renovation will ensure that quality facilities are available for the local community.
The project is part of a nationwide investment delivered by the LTA and supported by the LTA Tennis Foundation, to refurbish public tennis courts across Great Britain, and open-up the sport to many more people.
This investment will see thousands of existing park tennis courts in poor or unplayable condition brought back to life for the benefit of communities across the country through renovation works, and improved court accessibility with new gate-access technology and booking systems.
Park tennis courts are vital in providing opportunities for children and adults to get active, delivering significant physical and mental health and wellbeing benefits to participants. Accessible facilities in parks are particularly critical to open-up the sport to those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and women and girls.
Lancaster City Council will also work with the LTA to organise weekly, free park tennis sessions for all ages, playing levels and experience – with equipment provided – meaning anyone can play tennis without needing to find someone else to play with or have their own racket. Local Tennis Leagues will also provide friendly, sociable, opportunities to get active through local competition.
Following the completion of renovation works, all courts and sessions will be available to book online via the LTA website http://www.lta.org.uk/play/
Work on both sites is expected to start in January 2025 and be completed by May 2025.
Lancaster City Councillor Joanne Ainscough, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Environmental Services, said: “The investment is fantastic news for our district. Parks are vital spaces in our community to support health and wellbeing and the Parks Tennis Project will be a much-welcomed enhancement. We are looking forward to working with the LTA on the project, which will enable local people to gain access to refurbished courts, play tennis and get active.”
Julie Porter, Chief Operating Officer at the LTA, said: “We are delighted to be working with Lancaster City Council to improve their park tennis facilities and provide more opportunities for anyone to pick up a racket and get active. This investment will mean that courts will be available for people to use for years to come. We will also be working closely with Lancaster City Council to ensure that the local community have a range of accessible opportunities to get on court, and open up our sport to many more people.”
Residents across Aberdeen can now apply for a free one-tonne community salt bag to treat icy roads and pavements in their neighbourhood during the winter months.
The applications have been opened earlier than normal this year and, although it has been an unusually warm September, winter is fast coming and the deadline for applying for the one-tonne community salt bags is 31 October, 2024, after which applications will not be processed.
The scheme is designed to help communities help themselves when winter starts and in addition, there will again be big community salt bins in strategic locations around the city.
Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “The weather has just turned autumnal and winter will be here before we know it.
“As always, the Council’s gritting teams will be working hard to treat roads and pavements, often under challenging conditions. On icy days, almost half of Aberdeen’s roads and the city’s busiest pavements on Union Street are treated before 7.30am.
“Unfortunately though, Council staff can’t be everywhere all the time. There are 620 miles of roads in Aberdeen, slightly more than the distance from the city to Paris, and 1,242 miles of pavements, the distance from here to Rome. That’s why the one tonne community salt bag scheme and yellow salt bins are so important – they help local communities to help themselves.”
The one-tonne community salt bags, like the salt provided in grit bins, will be for use only on public areas. A secure and accessible area, like a driveway, would have to be available for storing the one-tonne community salt bags.
Any residents or groups which would like a one-tonne bag should apply via One-tonne salt bags | Aberdeen City Council before 31 October. The community salt bags are delivered free of charge and are removed at the end of winter.
The locations for the big community salt bins are Bridge of Don (Laurel Drive), Garthdee (Asda car park – next to recycling facilities), Torry (Girdleness Road), Union Row, Crown Terrace (next to bins), Justice Street (next to recycling bins), Seaton Drive (car park on entry to Seaton Walk), Regent Court (car park), Northfield (Byron Square), Hilton (at the top of Anderson Road, next to Stewart Park), Rosemount (Leadside Road), Kingswells Park & Ride (next to recycling point and bins), Craibstone Park & Ride (west car park), Bridge of Don Park & Ride (next to recycling point and bins), Countesswells Road, Dyce (Asda car park-next to recycling facilities), Fernhill Drive (near Fernhill Road), Johnston Gardens North (at turning area), Tillydrone (Pennan Road beside the library).
Nominations open tomorrow (Friday 27 September) for candidates to stand in the forthcoming Colinton/Fairmilehead by-election.
The by-election is being held following the resignation of Councillor and former Transport and Environment Convener Scott Arthur.
On Thursday 14 November, Colinton/Fairmilehead residents will go to the polls to select a new councillor to represent the ward which also includes Bonaly, Dreghorn, Oxgangs and Swanston and has a current electorate of 19,226.
Voters have a range of options for casting their ballot – in person, by post or by appointing someone they trust to vote in their place, known as a proxy vote.
In order to stand as a candidate, individuals must submit nomination papers, which are available on the Council website, by 4pm on Monday 14 October.
Chris Highcock, Depute Returning Officer for Edinburgh, said:
The Notice of Election signifies the official start of the election period for Colinton/Fairmilehead. I would urge all citizens in the ward to make sure they are registered and have their details or preference of how they would like to vote up to date in plenty of time.
Anyone unsure about how to register, where to vote or how to vote by post can find more information on the Council website.
Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on Thursday 14 November. Details of where these are will be announced shortly.
People aged 16 and over and all those legally resident – including foreign citizens – can register to vote in this election. Find out more about elections in Edinburgh and how to register to vote on the Council website.
The deadline to register to vote is Tuesday 29 October 2024, to apply for a postal vote the deadline is Wednesday 30 October 2024, and for a proxy vote the deadline is Wednesday 6 November 2024.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has launched an online survey to seek views on future management of demersal fisheries in Celtic Sea and Western Channel.
MMO is leading development of the Celtic Sea and Western Channel demersal Fisheries Management Plan (FMP) which covers demersal stocks in English and Welsh waters in ICES areas 7e, 7f, 7g, 7h.
The FMP covers demersal species such as pollack, cod, monkfish/anglerfish, nephrops and skates and rays.
This online survey will help improve our understanding of the fisheries, including gaps in data, current issues and potential future management measures.
This survey will close on 31 January 2025.
Data collected from respondents will be used in the development of the FMP, which will subsequently go to public consultation and is due to be published by the end of 2025.
Anonymised and combined responses to this survey will be summarised with the published FMP documents. Please check out our privacy notice which explains how your data will be collected, stored and used.
Please email the FMP team at FMP@marinemanagement.org.uk if you would like any further information on this FMP.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The UK has sanctioned 5 ships and 2 entities involved in the Russian Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) sector.
The UK has sanctioned 5 ships and 2 entities involved in the Russian Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) sector.
This is the first time the UK is using its new ship specification power to target LNG vessels directly.
Today’s action builds on efforts alongside allies to bear down on Russia’s attempts to bolster its future energy revenues – the most critical source of funding for Putin’s war in Ukraine.
The UK has today, 26 September, taken decisive action to sanction 5 vessels and 2 associated entities involved in the shipping of Russian LNG, including from Russia’s flagship Arctic LNG 2 project.
LNG is an important source of funding for Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine. Russia has plans to expand its LNG revenues, aiming to grow their global LNG market share from 8% to 20%.
Earlier this year, the UK sanctioned Arctic LNG 2, alongside our allies in the US and EU. Since then, the project has been forced to slash production. Today’s action builds on this by targeting ships and entities involved in the Russian LNG sector, which engage with projects important to Russia’s future energy production.
The UK has now sanctioned 15 vessels and entities involved in the Russian LNG sector and we will continue to bear down on this important source of funding for Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine.
The vessels sanctioned today are:
PIONEER (IMO 9256602)
ASYA ENERGY (IMO 9216298)
NOVA ENERGY (IMO 9324277)
NORTH SKY (IMO 9953523)
SCF LA PEROUSE (IMO 9849887)
We are also sanctioning the following entities associated with the vessels:
OCEAN SPEEDSTAR SOLUTIONS OPC – The operator and manager of PIONEER and ASYA ENERGY.
WHITE FOX SHIP MANAGEMENT – The operator and manager of NORTH SKY
Notes to Editors
Ships specified under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 are prohibited from entering a port in the UK, may be given a movement or a port entry direction, can be detained, and will be refused permission to register on the UK Ship Register or have its existing registration terminated.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Ambassador Neil Holland voices UK support for the OSCE Programme Office’s work in Tajikistan, especially on border security, gender equality, and human rights.
Location:
Vienna
Delivered on:
(Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)
Ambassador Kempel, welcome to the Permanent Council and thank you for your report. Your presence after a long vacancy in the role is very welcome. The OSCE field missions need leadership – as well as reliable resourcing – to operate effectively. We again urge participating States to break the endless impasse over budgets and ensure that all OSCE institutions – including the important Border Management Staff College – are adequately funded to effectively fulfil their mandates.
I would like to highlight several areas of the Programme Office’s work today that are particularly important to the UK.
Firstly, the Mission’s work to promote gender equality and support those affected by domestic violence through the Women’s Resource Centres. The importance the UK attaches to addressing domestic violence cannot be understated. These OSCE centres support vulnerable women and help them engage in crucial advocacy with local administrations to prevent Gender Based Violence.
Secondly, the crucial role the Programme Office plays in facilitating cross-border cooperation and security. Tajikistan has undertaken valuable work in the demarcation of 94% of its border with Kyrgyzstan, highlighting the value of diplomacy and peaceful dialogue. We commend these efforts and look forward to seeing further progress. The UK is also committed to working with Tajikistan, its neighbours and the OSCE to mitigate the challenges arising from Afghanistan.
Finally, I want to commend the mission’s efforts in the human dimension, notably its support to the Government of Tajikistan to promote the rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners. I also welcome the Mission’s work with the Government of Tajikistan to embed human rights within government training courses. Issues remain: detention and prosecution of journalists and political opposition, including in but not limited to the Gorno Badakhshan autonomous region, is an issue of concern for the UK; and is undermining Tajikistan’s international reputation and prospects for investment.
Madam Chair, I would like to commend the Government of Tajikistan for their continued leadership on climate and water security, not least demonstrated by their water management event during the 31st OSCE Economic and Environmental Forum in Prague this month, as well as the Water Conference in Dushanbe in June. As climate change makes water access more competitive and harder to manage, cooperation and solutions become more vital.
From the environmental climate to the business one. For the Government of Tajikistan to make progress in its efforts towards driving economic development and improving the business climate, it must recognise the importance of offering a predictable business environment where business owners can generate profit. This will encourage quality foreign investment that can create clean growth and jobs for Tajik citizens.
To conclude, I would like to thank you again, Ambassador Kempel, for presenting your report today; and wish you all the best in your new role.
A postal ballot is to be held on the arrangements to propose a Business Improvement District (BID) for Fort William for a period of 5 years from 1 December 2024 until 30 November 2029.
A notice of ballot has been published today (Thursday 26 September 2024) and a copy of the notice will be issued by post to all persons eligible to vote in the Fort William BID area.
Ballot papers will be sent to all eligible voters on Thursday 3 October 2024 for return to CIVICA Election Services by no later than 5pm on Thursday 7 November 2024.
The ballot papers will be counted on Friday 22 November 2024, and the result of the ballot will be announced thereafter.
The ballot will be conducted entirely by post on behalf of the Ballot Holder and by the independent scrutineer, CIVICA Election Services.
The BID arrangements and proposals will be described in detail in the BID Business Plan, which will be issued to those eligible to receive a ballot paper, and copies will also be available on request from BID Fort William, MacLean House, Belford Road, Fort William, PH33 6BT; http://www.bidfortwilliam.co.uk; Email: mark@bidfortwilliam.co.uk or phone: 07804 484650.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments
The Charity Commission has today (26 September 2024) published the report of its statutory inquiry into Fashion for Relief, concluding the charity was poorly governed and had inadequate financial management.
As a result of its findings, which included multiple instances of misconduct and / or mismanagement, the Commission took action to disqualify three individuals from trusteeship (Bianka Hellmich for nine years, Naomi Campbell for five years and Veronica Chou for four years), recovered over £344,000 and protected a further £98,000 of charitable funds. These funds were used to make donations to two other charities and settle the charity’s outstanding liabilities.
Fashion for Relief, which has been removed from the register of charities, was set up for the purpose of poverty relief and advancing health and education by making grants to charities or other organisations and by giving resources directly to those affected.
The inquiry found that between April 2016 and July 2022, only 8.5% of the charity’s overall expenditure was on charitable grants. The inquiry saw no evidence that trustees had reviewed the charity’s operating model to ensure fundraising methods were in the charity’s best interest and costs were reasonable relative to income generated. It also found some of the charity’s fundraising expenditure was not reasonable.
The charity had held fundraising events for the Save the Children Fund and the Mayor’s Fund for London. The inquiry found that the trustees of Fashion for Relief failed to manage these partnership arrangements. Interim managers appointed by the Commission made payments to these two charities before the charity was wound-up.
The inquiry also found that unauthorised payments totalling £290,000 for consultancy services had been made to a trustee, Bianka Hellmich, which was in breach of the charity’s constitution. Whilst Ms Hellmich had proactively proposed repaying these funds, the Commission-appointed interim managers secured repayments to the charity.
Additionally, the inquiry found that the charity’s funds were held and applied on its behalf by external professional advisors (solicitors and accountants) rather than in a dedicated bank account in the charity’s name. After the Commission investigated transactions made under this arrangement, £54,000 was recovered to the charity from one professional advisory firm. These transactions were not identified or challenged by the trustees at the time.
Charity Commission Deputy Director for Specialist Investigations and Standards, Tim Hopkins, said:
Trustees are legally required to make decisions that are in their charity’s best interests and to comply with their legal duties and responsibilities. Our inquiry has found that the trustees of this charity failed to do so, which has resulted in our action to disqualify them.
This inquiry, and the work of the interim managers we appointed to run the charity in place of the trustees, has resulted in the recovery of £344,000 and protection of a further £98,000 charitable funds. I am pleased that the inquiry has seen donations made to other charities which this charity has previously supported.
The report detailing the full findings, regulatory actions and conclusions of this inquiry can be found on gov.uk.
ENDS
Notes to editors
The Commission publishes a range of guidance to help trustees understand their responsibilities under charity law, including 5-minute guides to decision making and on managing charity finances.
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. Find out more at About us – The Charity Commission – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
The person tasked with positioning Liverpool as the ultimate global destination has been appointed.
Natalie Wyatt has been announced as the new Managing Director of the Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP).
Natalie, who starts the role at the end of October, will be instrumental in the strategic development and management of LVEP, a newly established body dedicated to enhancing the Liverpool City Region’s thriving visitor economy. The role will focus on destination marketing, stakeholder engagement, and promoting tourism on both a national and international scale. This role is crucial in amplifying the region’s reputation as a premier visitor destination, leveraging the unique cultural and environmental opportunities that the city region offers.
Although yet to be officially named, the Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) has been put in place to significantly boost the region’s £5bn-a-year visitor economy, which currently employs around 51,000 people.
This partnership, supported by local authorities in the city region, will be delivered in collaboration with the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and Liverpool City Council. Chaired by Tony Hall CBE, Lord Hall of Birkenhead, LVEP aims to position Liverpool City Region as one of Europe’s major events capitals, maximising the economic benefits of its global appeal.
Natalie brings with her a wealth of experience and expertise having previously served as Head of Marketing and Revenue Growth at Merseyrail. In her previous role, Natalie led the development and delivery of marketing and passenger communication strategies, strategic partnerships, and supporting major events across the Liverpool City Region.
Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said:
“This new collaborative approach is about unlocking the full potential of the Liverpool City Region and this new appointment plays a pivotal role in its success. Liverpool has already excelled in events and self-promotion, but now, by uniting the entire region, we can achieve even greater impact.
“Through a one-front-door strategy, we’ll enhance our accessibility and visibility, showcasing our world-class attractions, thriving film industry, leadership in gaming and science, and rich cultural heritage.
“This partnership will cement the Liverpool City Region’s status as a key global player – accelerating our key strengths, developing our skills, connectivity and international positioning.”
Natalie Wyatt said:
“I can’t wait to get going and start to make a real, positive difference. I’m so pleased to be part of a team committed to devising and delivering a strategy which places our six amazing boroughs at the epicentre of everything.
“It will be LVEP’s ambition to amplify the City Region’s endless assets to such an extent, that we’re the first destination that comes to mind for anyone organising a major event, looking for new business locations or filming the next Hollywood blockbuster.
“By embracing innovation, fostering collaboration, and prioritising the well-being of both visitors and residents, LVEP will ensure Liverpool City Region remains a top destination on the global stage.”
A magical journey into the realm of fiction and fairy tales will transform one of the city’s most recognisable buildings during next month’s spellbinding Light Night Leeds.
The BookBinder is set to be one of the highly-anticipated cultural event’s most spectacular installations when it is projected onto the façade of the Queens Hotel on October 24 and 25.
A collaboration with the British Library, the enchanting, large-scale artwork is inspired by their vast collection, and features a stunning, specially commissioned animation and an immersive soundscape.
Led by a mischievous and powerful fairy tale figure, visitors can gather on the newly redeveloped City Square to watch a cast of birds, beasts and boats come to life across the iconic hotel.
Artists Illuminos, made up of brothers Rob and Matt Vale, were inspired by the British Library’s Flickr Commons collection, and have scoured its millions of images to create The BookBinder.
Rob Vale, from Illuminos, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing a new and exciting piece to Light Night Leeds, working directly with the team at the British Library to bring some of the remarkable gems that can be found in their Flickr Commons collection to life through The BookBinder.
“Their Flickr archive is an absolute treasure trove of unexpected, strange and fantastical drawings, prints and images, and we’ve loved diving into this world to conjure up The BookBinder.”
Jamie Andrews, Director of Public Engagement at the British Library, added: “At the British Library we are thrilled to again be involved with Light Night Leeds, a unique festival that brings art into public spaces in the city, brightening up dark autumn evenings. We’re delighted that this year Illuminos has taken inspiration from our Flickr Commons collection, which offers public access to millions of images and has formed the design behind The BookBinder, a beautiful, immersive celebration of storytelling that will delight visitors of all ages.
“Our collaboration with Light Night Leeds is part of a wider commitment, as we work towards establishing a major new public space for the British Library in Leeds, to work with local people and partners to open up our collection through events in the city.”
The BookBinder has been supported by insurance company Markel, based on City Square, The Queens Hotel and Schroders Personal Wealth. It forms part of Light Night Leeds, the UK’s largest light art festival where the public can engage with illuminated artworks created by artists from around the world.
Marking its 20th edition this year, Light Night Leeds will feature other large-scale projections, live street theatre and interactive installations that will incorporate some of city’s most recognisable locations.
To date, Light Night Leeds has attracted more than 1.1 million visitors to the city, with last year’s event alone seeing a record 200,000 people attending and generating an estimated £3.5m for the local economy.
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “Light Night is always an incredible spectacle, which transforms the city and brings thousands of people together to experience something truly special.
“It is also an occasion which forges important relationships and partnerships between our local businesses and cultural institutions, and we’re particularly thrilled to be working with the British Library and Markel on this year’s event and highlighting the important role they will have in Leeds for many years to come.”
Light Night Leeds 2024 takes place across the city from 6pm to 10pm on October 24 and 25, 2024.
The festival is supported by Leeds City Council, Arts Council England and many generous sponsors.
More details for the programme will be revealed in the coming weeks. Visit Home – Light Night (lightnightleeds.co.uk) and follow Light Night Leeds on social media for more information.
Portsmouth City Council’s Cabinet will consider a proposal to consult on a new council tax support scheme for working age Portsmouth residents on low income. The Council Tax Support Scheme for pensioners is not affected by these proposals.
At a meeting on Tuesday 1 October, Cabinet members will review a report seeking changes to the Council’s Local Council Tax Support (LCTS) Scheme from April 2025.
The proposal seeks to provide more financial help for those on the lowest incomes and create a ‘fairer and simpler’ scheme. Many of the approximately 7,500 working-age people claiming council tax support in Portsmouth would automatically receive an increase, without having to apply.
Portsmouth’s Local Council Tax Support scheme, adopted in 2013, was and continues to be based upon a now outdated means-tested ‘benefit’ scheme. Due to central government funding cuts, everyone receiving support from the working age council tax support scheme is currently required to pay at least 20% of their council tax bill, including those on the lowest incomes.
The proposal asks Cabinet to approve a public consultation, to seek people’s views on introducing a new banded council tax support scheme for working aged people from 1 April 2025. It would mean individuals and families would receive different levels of council tax support depending on which of the four proposed income bands they are in.
The report states the change would simplify the application process, increase LCTS take up, and reduce the current frequent reassessment of council tax bills to give most people greater financial stability.
The change would see the council tax contribution from those on the lowest incomes reduce from 20% to 10%, helping to support those most in need with the cost of living. The discount would reduce for those with higher incomes, meaning some residents’ council tax contributions would rise.
It’s estimated that just over 74% of working age LCTS claimants would either benefit or see no change under the new scheme, with 26% having to contribute more.
Leader Cllr Steve Pitt said: “With no additional central government funding, we have to consider options that would help the largest number of people in the greatest need. While the vast majority of people on the scheme would see a lift or see no impact by this proposal, there would be some whose support would reduce.
“So, if a consultation is approved next week, it’s crucial we hear from as many people as possible to consider the impact of this change before coming to any decision.”
If approved, an eight-week public consultation would launch shortly, and feedback would be considered by Full Council ahead of any decision early next year.
Each year councils are required to review their council tax support schemes, and currently around 100 local authorities, nearly a third, operate banded schemes similar to the one which Portsmouth is considering moving to.
The proposal would have no impact on pension-age claimants of the scheme, which offers pensioners up to 100% towards their council tax bill.
Support for older Portsmouth residents
To support its low-income older residents, Portsmouth City Council is reviewing a range of options, including how to use Household Support Funding when the government allocates the next round this winter.
Support for all residents who are struggling is available
The Cost-of-living helpline and online information hub, for help around essential costs, health and wellbeing, jobs, money and housing, and hardship funding people can apply for. The helpline is open weekdays from 9am-5pm (closes 4.30pm Fridays) on 023 9284 1047, or visit: http://www.portsmouth.gov.uk/cost-of-living-hub
Switched On Portsmouth, for help reducing energy bills, including referring to energy saving scheme and offering free advice. Call on 0800 260 5907 or visit http://www.switchedonportsmouth.co.uk.
Peeling back the layers on the Our Manchester Town Hall restoration project has been a labour of love for hundreds of craftspeople involved in its restoration.
It has been a painstaking process to repair and restore the Grade I-listed building’s key features while making it fit for the 21 century and ensuring that it is future proofed for the next hundred years or more.
A series of Our Town Hall lectures has captured some of the incredible work to repair and restore the building’s bricks and mortar and other heritage elements. Behind-the-scenes stories have given a detailed look at the meticulous and intricate work, some of which may not be instantly obvious once the work is done, and the building reopens.
The films of these Heritage Lectures are now available online and – along with exhibitions and a series of podcasts – they will form a treasure trove of archive material that will tell so much about the restoration of this much-loved icon of a building.
The Our Town Hall Heritage lectures have been delivered by several of the trades involved. They shine a light on the behind-the-scenes work, reveal a lot about the techniques and tools being used, and form an important part of each contractor’s social contract with the city.
Councillor Garry Bridges, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council said:
“We want to be able to share the Our Town Hall journey with residents and visitors so that they understand some of the complexities and elements that will not be visible to the untrained eye when the work is complete, and the building reopens.”We’re preserving the heritage, not replacing or changing it, and this is what we are calling the ‘Invisible Story’ of the Our Town Hall project. It’s the painstaking attention and long-learnt skills that are conserving the historic parts of the building to safeguard it for future generations of Mancunians.”
The lectures capture for posterity the care, attention, and detail with which the crafts people have carried out the work and will be available to watch here
Hirst Conservation about their work on internal paint finishes, including the fabulous Ford Madox Brown murals in the Great Hall.
The Mosaic Restoration Company about their work on the building’s many mosaic-tiled floors, including the famous Bees Landing.
The Cumbria Clock Company about how they’ve removed the clock from the building to give it a full MOT, testing and repair before re-installing it once building works to the tower are complete.
Recclesia and Shepley Engineering, two of our stained-glass contractors, spoke about their work on the 4,000+ windows that needed repairs and/or restoration.
Nicholson & Co, one of the two firms charged with removing, restoring, and repairing our magnificent Cavaille-Col organ before reinstating it into the Great Hall.
Caesar’s Conservation and Hatfields Conservation, two of the firms that have undertaken restoration and repair of the Town Hall’s furniture collection.
Purcell and Bullens Conservation, describing the restoration and repairs to the Albert Memorial in Albert Square.
Manchester Libraries Archives+ team have also attended each of the lectures. They have selected a range of relevant materials for each one, adding some historical context to the subject matter.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Emma Logan, UK Delegation to the OSCE, says that by disrupting cultural property trafficking, we can also disrupt broader Serious Organised Criminal activity.
Location:
Vienna
Delivered on:
(Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)
Thank you Chair for bringing together a set of very interesting speakers today.
The trafficking of cultural property, be it an antiquity or modern artwork, can be an enabling element to conflict, non-state threats and can facilitate money laundering for Serious Organised Crime (SOC). As today’s panel has illustrated, the protection of cultural property from intentional destruction, looting and trafficking becomes far more complex during times of war.
I will pick up on three points that have been mentioned today. Firstly, the need for continued cooperation of international organisations, agencies and bodies was recently reaffirmed at the G7 in Naples; with Minister Bryant, Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and- Tourism, representing the UK. Today, we thank the OSCE for continuing the dialogue in this critical area.
Secondly, I want to add the UK voice to underline the importance of the OSCE’s Heritage Crime Taskforce. The UK Government has invested specifically in the OSCE project establishing the new national Heritage Crime Task Force in Ukraine. We plan to continue this partnership with the OSCE, and invest in the Taskforce beyond this project, as recognition of the critical role that cross-border cooperation plays in combating transnational crime, including the illicit trafficking of cultural property.
UK organisations are part of that cross-border cooperation. As an example, the Metropolitan Police recently assisted Homeland Security in investigations which revealed new evidence of money laundering by proscribed terrorist organisations through the UK and US art markets.
We agree with what many of other speakers have said: that by enhancing a collective understanding of the linkages between cultural property trafficking and wider Serious Organised Crime, and by demonstrating opportunities to disrupt broader harms through the cultural property lens, we can expose the harms of cultural property trafficking to a wider group of stakeholders. For example, the UK Department for Culture Media and Sport’s International Cultural Heritage Protection Programme has funded investigations into artefacts known to have been looted from Syria and trafficked through pre-existing networks. Providing information and assistance to law enforcement and prosecutorial authorities, namely the Met Police, OSCE and INTERPOL was integral to this project. Additionally the UK Government is a founding member of the Atrocity Crimes Advisory (ACA) Group, which supports Ukraine against Russia’s war of aggression through its own domestic criminal justice system. Over the last year, ACA has made concerted efforts to engage with national-level officials on issues relating to heritage crime.
The Met Police plays an important role in tackling the illicit trade in cultural property, with the support of expertise from the museum and antiquities sectors. Earlier this month, the Met played a pivotal role in repatriating the largest antiquity back to Iraq, a stone relief carving depicting a winged genie from the Palace of Nimrud, looted from Iraq after the first gulf war.
Lastly, every panellist has mentioned recommendations of what more needs to be done. For the UK, we recognise that our museums and art market businesses need to undertake more provenance research and engage more actively in the identification and authentication of looted items. And in cases where looted and illicitly-traded objects cannot be seized, we need to find effective ways within existing legal systems and by cooperating with the trade, so that they can be returned to the country or community to which they belong.
In conclusion, we should continue making the point that by disrupting cultural property trafficking, wider SOC activity can also be disrupted. This may stimulate engagement and a more effective response across operational, policy, programming, and diplomatic partners. The UK remains committed to being part of this network to combat illicit trade in times of war and peace.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The SIA has carried out a surprise nationwide operation in conjunction with HMRC and Home Office Immigration Enforcement to tackle labour exploitation.
On Wednesday 18 September 2024, compliance and criminal investigation officers from the Security Industry Authority (SIA) led an extensive enforcement and intelligence-gathering operation at 35 separate locations across the United Kingdom.
The SIA mounted the operation to address concerns regarding tax evasion, fraudulent employment status, breaches of National Minimum Wage legislation, immigration offences, and breaches of the Private Security Industry Act 2001 within the private security industry.
The SIA mounted the operation to address concerns regarding tax evasion, fraudulent employment status, breaches of National Minimum Wage legislation, immigration offences, and breaches of the Private Security Industry Act 2001 within the private security industry.
Paul Fullwood, the SIA’s Director of Inspections and Enforcement, said:
This action involved all of our regional teams in a dynamic and co-ordinated effort to disrupt and dissuade those who direct or facilitate labour exploitation. We are taking the fight to the criminals and thereby supporting legitimate private security business and protecting the public. We would like to thank HMRC and Home Office Immigration Enforcement for their support in this important work.
The operation was one of a number of enforcement actions which the SIA has planned across the country under Operation EMPOWER, which is intended to tackle the problems associated with labour exploitation.
Ronnie Megaughin, the SIA’s Head of Compliance and Inspections, said:
This successful operation highlights our commitment to tackling these harmful and unlawful activities by unscrupulous individuals and businesses. For every corrupt and criminal action carried out to maximise profit, there is the strong likelihood of a victim who is being deprived of their rights. We will continue to work with industry representatives, law enforcement partners, and fellow regulatory agencies to create a hostile environment within the private security industry for these criminals. Operation EMPOWER will be a long-running and focused operation. I encourage anyone with information concerning unlawful activity within the industry to contact us.
The Security Industry Authority is the regulator of the UK’s private security industry. Our purpose is to protect the public through effective regulation of the private security industry and working with partners to raise standards across the sector. We are responsible for licensing people who do certain jobs in the private security industry and for approving private security companies who wish to be part of the voluntary ‘Approved Contractor Scheme’. We are marking 20 years since we were set up in 2003 and issued the first SIA licences in April 2004.
The SIA is an executive non-departmental public body, sponsored by the Home Office. For more information, visit: http://www.gov.uk/sia.
This October holidays, we are arranging a range of activities to support children and families across Perth and Kinross throughout.
This offer is being across Perth and Kinross. There will be a main session daily which is open to all families, no pre-registration will be required. Families can turn up on the day and join in the fun. There will also be smaller group sessions in different localities which will require pre-registration in advance.
A new Smoke Free website has launched to help people in Coventry and Warwickshire quit smoking.
It provides details of local free, confidential stop smoking services, as well as resources and information about smoking and vaping. It was created through a partnership between Warwickshire County Council (WCC) and Coventry City Council (CCC) with funding from the UK Government.
The website is part of a national effort championed by the UK Government to create the first ever smoke free generation. Under this initiative, earlier this year both councils received funding to increase local authority-led stop smoking services and support to reduce smoking rates across Coventry and Warwickshire.
An estimated 18.4% of people aged 18+ smoke in Coventry and 13.9% in Warwickshire. In Warwickshire, this varies across the district and boroughs. (Source: Annual Population Survey, Office for National Statistics, 2022.) Those who wish to quit often struggle due to their addiction to nicotine – over 80% of smokers start before they turn twenty, most as children (Source: Tobacco and Vapes Bill 2024). The new Smoke Free website and enhanced services and initiatives aim to tackle this by providing evidence-based support that is free, non-judgemental, and easy to access.
People aged 12+ who live, work, or are registered with a GP in Coventry or Warwickshire are entitled to free support. Smokers who sign up to their local stop smoking service get access to the following:
12 weeks of one-to-one support (face-to-face or virtual) with a specialist stop smoking practitioner.
People who quit smoking with the support of a stop smoking service are three times more likely to quit for good.
A male Warwickshire resident, aged 67, who recently accessed the Warwickshire stop smoking service said : “I have smoked for over 50 years and smoking 30 cigarettes a day I never in a million years thought I could do it, all of the staff I have spoken to during my journey have been amazing and I thank them very much for helping me get where I am today. I have quit and remain confident that I will continue to stay quit for the future ahead.”
Allison Duggal, Director of Public Health in Coventry said: “The website will help people to access services and it really makes sense to work alongside Warwickshire colleagues.
“We have a particular focus on young people, in fact I started smoking myself at a young age and it doesn’t surprise me that eight of 10 smokers started before they turn 20.
“I managed to stop 21 years ago, but I know it is not an easy process for people. We have lots more work to do to help people through the process of stopping. It’s about managing cravings, withdrawals and the reliance that people have with smoking.
“People from the age of 12 can access free support so we want everyone to know there is help available.”
She added: “I feel so much healthier and it’s why I feel able to train for my first marathon.”
Councillor Margaret Bell, Portfolio Holder for Social Care and Health at WCC, said: “We know how challenging quitting smoking can be, but having the right support makes all the difference. Our new website is part of a wider enhancement of the stop smoking support available to people in Warwickshire.
“Smoking has a huge impact on an individual’s health – quitting can reduce your risk of developing dementia, lung disease, heart disease, cancer and stroke. Stopping smoking also boosts your mental health and wellbeing. We encourage any residents who smoke to visit the website and learn more about the support available, and in doing so, take their first step towards happier, healthier lives.”
Smokers are encouraged to learn more by visiting smokefreecw.co.uk. Free stop smoking support can also be accessed via phone on 0800 122 3780 for Coventry services or 0333 005 0092 for Warwickshire services.
Stopping smoking is hard, but when a new baby is due, quitting smoking is one of the best choices people can make as a family to give their baby the best start in life. Across Coventry and Warwickshire, there are specialist Stop Smoking in Pregnancy advisors trained to support pregnant people and their families through their journey to stop smoking. Information on stop smoking in pregnancy services.
Both WCC and CCC are also increasing the awareness of the impact of vaping, with the clear message: if you don’t smoke, don’t vape and children should never vape. Vaping information and advice.
Further work is being scoped to provide additional support and initiatives to reduce smoking prevalence across Coventry and Warwickshire with a particular focus on priority groups.
The Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2025/26 – 2029/30 sets out the investment priorities of the Council and its local Housing Association partners for affordable housing over the coming years.
The SHIP sits alongside the Local Housing Strategy (LHS) as one of the main delivery plans for additional local housing. It has been developed through engagement with Registered Social Landlords, the Health and Social Care Partnership, tenants, housing developers and the Council’s Housing, Planning and Economic Development teams.
Since 2016/17 the Council and its partners have delivered almost 2,000 affordable homes in Perth and Kinross, averaging 274 affordable homes per year against our target of 210.
The projection for 20024/25 is an additional 223 affordable homes, and then a yearly average of 230 new affordable homes over the next five years.
A report on the updated SHIP to be considered by the Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee on Wednesday 2nd October estimates that the Council and its local housing partners could deliver an additional 1,152 new affordable homes over the period 2025/26 – 29/30, using Scottish Government subsidies and local investment.
This housing will be provided through Council new build projects, replacing older homes, bringing empty homes back into use as housing, buying back ex-Council homes, re-modelling existing buildings for new housing and buying ‘off-the shelf’ housing from developers.
The homes will:
All be built to the highest standards, with energy efficiency measures included to help meet local and national climate change targets.
Include housing for people with particular needs, helping them to live independently and happily in the community.
Be built in areas of high demand, including rural areas, giving people access to housing of a type and in an area suitable for their current and future needs.
Housing and Social Wellbeing Convener, Councillor Tom McEwan, said: “High quality affordable homes significantly enhance the overall quality of life for the people who live in them. This in-turn has a positive effect on social issues such as health, employment opportunities and poverty, and that is why delivering more affordable housing is a priority for this Council.
“With demand for housing in Perth and Kinross continuing to rise, and the housing needs of our communities becoming more complex, our commitment to provide a wide range of affordable housing options remains a key strategic aim.
“We have made great progress over the last five-years in Perth and Kinross, consistently delivering more new affordable homes than our target. Here in Perth and Kinross we have a very good working partnership with our partner housing providers, and this has been one of the key factors in the success we have seen.
“I am pleased that the updated SHIP for the next five years continues to be very ambitious. This plan will help us achieve the outcomes set out in our Local Housing Strategy and support the Scottish Government’s ‘Housing to 2040’ agenda which states that everyone should have a safe, energy-efficient home that is affordable and meets their needs, in the place where they want to be.”
Members of the Committee will be asked to approve the updated SHIP and its submission to the Scottish Government.
