NewzIntel.com

Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: G7 Foreign Ministers’ statement on Iran and the Middle East

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    G7 Foreign Ministers’ statement on Iran and the Middle East

    Joint Statement of the G7 Foreign Ministers on Iran and the Middle East

    Joint statement:

    We the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, met in The Hague on June 25, 2025, where we discussed recent events in the Middle East.

    We reiterate our support for the ceasefire between Israel and Iran announced by U.S. President Trump, and urge all parties to avoid actions that could further destabilize the region.

    We appreciate Qatar’s important role in facilitating the ceasefire and express our full solidarity to Qatar and Iraq following the recent strikes by Iran and its proxies and partners against their territory. We welcome all efforts in the region towards stabilization and de-escalation.

    We reaffirm that the Islamic Republic of Iran can never have nuclear weapons, and urge Iran to refrain from reconstituting its unjustified enrichment activities. We call for the resumption of negotiations, resulting in a comprehensive, verifiable and durable agreement that addresses Iran’s nuclear program.

    In order to have a sustainable and credible resolution, we call on Iran to urgently resume full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) as required by its safeguards obligations and to provide the IAEA with verifiable information about all nuclear material in Iran, including by providing access to IAEA inspectors. We condemn calls in Iran for the arrest and execution of IAEA Director General Grossi.

    We underscore the centrality of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) as the cornerstone of the global nuclear non-proliferation regime. It is essential that Iran remains party to and fully implements its obligations under the Treaty.

    We reiterate our commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. In this context, we reaffirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. We reiterate our support for the security of Israel.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to wildfires in Scotland, including in the Highlands and Moray

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on wildfires in Scotland. 

    Prof Rory Hadden, Chair of Fire Science, University of Edinburgh, said:

    “It is widely expected that the number of wildfires will increase in Scotland (and the UK) as we see more periods of extreme weather driven by climate change.  The recent fine weather means that vegetation has dried out and becomes susceptible to ignition sources.  Even a small heat source such as a BBQ or campfire can initiate a wildfire either by direct flame contact with vegetation, or by igniting a smouldering fire in dry vegetation and soils which will later transition to a flaming fire.

    “Once vegetation is ignited, a fire will grow extremely rapidly especially if there is wind and/or dense vegetation.  This is especially true given the recent weather conditions in Scotland and means that typically it will be challenging to fight without proper resources.  Also a smouldering fire in soils may only transition to flaming some hours after it is ignited (and there may be no obvious signs that smouldering has been ignited).  Once ignited a fire will spread rapidly through vegetation, moving fastest in the direction of the wind and up slopes.  Poor access, difficult terrain and extensive vegetation coverage means that the fire can spread over large areas relatively quickly.

    “The impacts of these fires are of course significant.  There is a huge cost to the fire and rescue services in fighting and managing these fires – drawing resources from a wide area.  There is the destruction of natural capital – the countryside provides important ecosystem services that we all rely on and these are impacted negatively by wildfires.  Loss of vegetation impacts on wildlife.  The smoke is harmful and can impact on people large distances away, exacerbating respiratory conditions.  If the fire burns into peat soils then the loss of carbon to the atmosphere will be significant and may drive future climate change.  There is also possibility of loss of property as fires move towards settlements (farms, villages, towns).

    “While there is ongoing research on this topic, there is lots we do not know around the changes in risk to people, property and environment posed by wildfires in Scotland and the UK.  The fire and rescue services are adapting but there is currently no national fire danger assessment tool or clear coordination at Government level in Scotland.  We need to work on finding measures to manage fire risk in Scotland and the UK, including fuel load management (e.g. prescribed burning, mechanical means) as well as communications with stakeholders and the public to advise of periods of higher fire danger.  This is critical because as well as climate change, we are in a period of significant changes in land use (including rewilding) across Scotland and the UK.

    “It is important to note that the leading cause of wildfires is people.  We all need to do our part when visiting the countryside to ensure we do not bring ignition sources – pack a picnic instead of a BBQ, and only have campfires in designated areas.”

    Declared interests

    Prof Rory Hadden: “Funding declaration:

    US Department of Agriculture, Forest Service;

    US Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology;

    Funding on unrelated projects from Defence and Security Accelerator;

    UKRI EPSRC.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Graves of three soldiers killed in Normandy identified

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Graves of three soldiers killed in Normandy identified

    Three soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in 1944 now have named graves at Banneville-la-Campagne War Cemetery in Normandy.

    David Little, the nephew of Trooper Little stands at the graveside of his uncle with his wife, daughter and the military party. MOD Crown Copyright.

    The family of a soldier killed during the Battle of Normandy has visited the newly named grave of their loved one, who has now been identified after an 80-year search for closure.

    Rededication services took place on 26 June at CWGC Banneville-la-Campagne War Cemetery in Normandy for Trooper Francis Dominic Kelly and Trooper Victor Terrence Little, both of 1st Northamptonshire Yeomanry, and Private John Aneurin Protheroe of 2nd Battalion The Monmouthshire Regiment, all of whom died in August 1944. 

    The identifications were made following research by Ministry of Defence’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), known as the ‘MOD’s War Detectives’, the National Army Museum and Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC).

    Trooper Little’s nephew, David Little, attended the moving ceremonies to pay their respects. He said: 

    We were so wonderfully surprised when JCCC contacted us regarding our Uncle Vic as there has always been a sadness that Victor’s remains had never been found. We’ll always be grateful for the work of the JCCC War Detectives in enabling us to attend the rededication service of dear Victor on behalf of his parents and siblings.

    Headshot of Tpr Francis Dominic Kelly (courtesy of the Kelly family).

    Robert Gore, the grandson of Pte Protheroe could sadly not attend the service. He said: 

    My Grandfather was posted missing believed killed in 1944 when my mother was 13 and my aunt 3 years old. My mother has kept his memory very much alive with her stories to me and my 4 siblings.

    When I was about 10 I read a novel where a soldier goes missing but eventually comes home alive. As a 10 year-old, that was always my fantastic hope that my grandfather would reappear. The identification of his grave at Banneville is the culmination of that dream even though he never came back alive and my mother is now also dead. I, my siblings and cousins are all grateful for the efforts of the MoD in this regard and we offer our heartfelt thanks.

    The identifications came after a researcher submitted cases to the CWGC suggesting possible locations for their graves. Following further investigation by CWGC, the National Army Museum and the JCCC, the identities of the 3 soldiers were confirmed. 

    Pte John Aneurin Protheroe (courtesy of the Protheroe family).

    The services were organised by the Ministry of Defence’s JCCC, known as the ‘War Detectives’, with representatives from The Royal Corps of Signals, The Royal Regiment of Artillery and The Royal Welsh in attendance.   

    Rosie Barron, JCCC Caseworker, said:  

    It has been a pleasure to work with the military party to organise these services and to have had the families of Trooper Little and Private Protheroe present. It is important that the memory of these men is honoured, and a strong reminder that the fighting in Normandy did not end on D-Day, but that the Battle of Normandy lasted until the end of August 1944 and was hard won by the Allies.

    All 3 men had previously been commemorated on the Bayeux Memorial to the missing. The CWGC has now replaced their headstones with named markers and will care for them in perpetuity. 

    Fergus Read, Commemorations Case Officer at the CWGC, said: 

    It is an honour to have been involved in the research that led to the formal identification of these men. It is a privilege to play a part in establishing where these casualties of the battles in Normandy are buried. This now allows the Commission to care for their named graves, in perpetuity.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Graves of four soldiers killed in 1940 identified in France

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Graves of four soldiers killed in 1940 identified in France

    Four British servicemen who died during World War Two in France have been rededicated, bringing closure to families after more than 85 years.

    The rededication service for Gunner Humphries attended by his great nephews. MOD Crown Copyright.

    Last week’s rededication services for Private (Pte) William Falconer, Gunner (Gnr) Joseph Humphries, Signalman (Sig) Edmund Roberts and Major (Maj) Richard White-Cooper were all held at Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) Le Grand-Lucé War Cemetery near Le Mans, France, on 24 June.

    The families of Gnr Humphries, Sig Roberts and Maj White-Cooper attended the rededication service, as well as serving soldiers of The Royal Corps of Signals, The Royal Regiment of Artillery and The Royal Welsh.

    They were some of many British servicemen remaining in France after Operation Dynamo, which saw the mass evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) through Dunkirk. As the Germans advanced across France, fighting continued and further evacuations were made from ports along the northern and western French coasts.  

    Maj Richard White-Cooper (courtesy of the White-Cooper family).

    All 4 men had been brought to 9th General Hospital located in the Chateau at Le Grand-Lucé either for treatment or burial. Casualties that died while in the hospital’s care were being buried at the site of Le Grand-Lucé War Cemetery close by. As they were missing, all 4 men had previously been commemorated on the Dunkirk Memorial. 

    The graves were recently identified after John Hawthorn, the husband of Sig Roberts’ granddaughter, submitted a case to CWGC hoping to have Sig Roberts’ final resting place confirmed. After extensive research by CWGC, the National Army Museum and JCCC, the graves of all 4 men were identified. This means that all casualties buried in Le Grand-Lucé War Cemetery have now been identified. 

    John Hawthorn said:

    Words are not adequate to express the emotions I had when I got the email from Rosie Barron telling me that the JCCC were happy to confirm they recognise that Sig Edmund Roberts is buried in the CWGC cemetery at Le Grand Luce, France. Brian, his son and my father-in-law, was only 3 years old when Eddie died on 13 June 1940. He never knew where or how his father died, nor where his body rested. 

    The only commemoration was a name on the Dunkirk Memorial. Having a headstone to mark Eddie’s grave provides the family with closure, comfort, and the opportunity to visit a specific place to pay our respects. We are eternally grateful to the tireless work of CWGC and the JCCC, and especially Rosie for all she has done.

    Headshot of Sig Edmund Roberts (courtesy of the Roberts family).

    The services were organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘War Detectives’.  

    JCCC Caseworker, Rosie Barron, said:

    The story of what happened to those members of the BEF still left in France following the Dunkirk evacuations is rarely told. These services highlight the dangers experienced by these men in the struggle to hold the German Army back, and to evacuate from ports further west. Regrettably these men all lost their lives in the confusion of this period. It is a privilege to have met their families and to know that their stories have been concluded.

    CWGC has replaced the headstones over the graves and will care for them in perpetuity, ensuring these brave servicemen are remembered with honour.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership: Joint Statement

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership: Joint Statement

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs H.E Musalia Mudavadi met in London on 2 July 2025 and reflected on the new Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership

    Speaking as they met at London’s Guildhall in the margins of the Africa Debate, Foreign Secretary David Lammy MP and Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs H.E Musalia Mudavadi said:

    As Commonwealth nations, the Republic of Kenya and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland enjoy a deep and vibrant relationship, rooted in our shared history, shared values and set apart by the exceptional talents of our people.

    The new Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership 2025-2030 will provide a comprehensive framework to progress our shared objectives, strengthening the bilateral relationship and delivering growth for both our countries.

    The Partnership will focus on areas of shared interest and strength, including green growth, climate and nature, science and technology, and security and stability. We will be laser-focussed on delivery – creating jobs, enhancing links between our academics, innovators and scientists, and protecting the environment, nature and our people.

    Kenya is a gateway to the East African market with over 300 million people with combined GDP of over USD 400 billion (Kshs.52 billion). UK-Kenya trade is valued at £1.8 billion (Kshs.218 billion). UK companies are among the largest employers in Kenya. This new partnership will deliver £1 billion (Kshs.177 billion) for the UK economy in export finance, engineering jobs and defence manufacturing jobs in Northampton and County Durham.

    The Partnership will see Lloyd’s of London enter the Nairobi insurance market as a gateway to the East Africa Market valued up to £0.5 billion (Kshs.88billion).

    Over the next five years, Kenya and the UK will deliver on high value investment deals of mutual benefit to both economies.

    This includes Nairobi Railway City, a flagship project, which exemplifies what is possible when ambition meets partnership. Railway City is worth up to £150 million (Kshs.26billion) with the potential for 10,000 direct and indirect jobs in Kenya. Procurement for construction of the first phase of the project has now launched with opportunities ranging from commercial real estate and hospitality to tech innovation and student housing.

    Both countries have agreed to explore a new Digital Trading Agreement and to aim to double trade by 2030 in areas like financial services, digital and technology, and defence and security.

    The Kenya and UK governments will further their global leadership on climate and nature through the Partnership, mobilising at least £200 million (Kshs.35billion) for Kenyan climate adaptation, keeping the 1.5 C temperature goal in reach and unlocking green energy transitions and nature-based solutions.

    Under science and technology, the Strategic Partnership will harness the potential of science, research, innovation and technology partnerships, including on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies, to drive inclusive growth, job creation and sustainable development.

    Finally, this new strategic partnership will strengthen our joint response to regional terrorism, illicit finance, cyber attacks and organised crime, keeping our people safe.

    Through the UK-Kenya Security Compact, which we signed today, both countries will prioritise efforts to reduce irregular migration, and support regional stability. The renewed Compact is designed to address both traditional and emerging security threats. Priorities include tackling risks from digital spaces and new technologies, reducing irregular migration, and countering illicit finance. The partnership will continue to build on its strong foundation, ensuring that previous achievements are sustained and that new challenges are met with a coordinated, forward-looking approach.

    This high ambition Strategic Partnership will enable us to go far, together, for a more prosperous and secure future for both our great nations.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Kings Worthy resident’s flora photographs recognised with new board

    Source: City of Winchester


    The efforts of a keen photographer to document the flora of Topfield open space have been recognised by Winchester City Council.  

    A new information board has been created from the photographs of Kings Worthy resident Mervyn Edwards, who has been recording and photographing the different flowers he identifies at Topfield throughout the year. 

    Mervyn Edwards with Cllr Jackie Porter at the new board 

    Mervyn showed one of his pictures to Winchester City Council Cabinet Member for Place and the Local Plan, Cllr Jackie Porter. From there, with the help of council officers from the Natural Environment team, Mervyn’s photos were compiled into an information board for the benefit of any visitors to the space. 

    The board was unveiled after a short ceremony, attended by Mervyn, who was joined by family, friends and neighbours.  

    Councillor Porter said: “I first became aware of Mervyn’s photographic prowess when I visited him and he showed me his beautiful picture. 

    “When I then saw his unique record of every single flower that he had seen on Topfield throughout the year, I knew that this was something to be shared with every visitor.  

    “Mervyn should be very proud that this board will be used by generations of Topfield visitors. The time and effort photographing the flowers has already engendered a real connection with the ecology of this area for future generations. His photographic record will be an inspiration to visitors for years to come, and we would like to offer him our gratitude and thanks.” 

    Among those who have already benefitted from the board are the local Kings Worthy Guides and Rangers, who recorded June’s flora in bloom for a local database which will enable the community to see nature’s progress at the open space over the coming years.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • 2nd Test: England win toss and opt to bowl against changed India, Bumrah rested

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    England won the toss and opted to bowl in the second test against India at Edgbaston on Wednesday, with the tourists making three changes and resting pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah as they manage his back for the series.

    Sai Sudharsan and Shardul Thakur were dropped from the line-up, with Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar and Akash Deep coming into the playing 11 while Bumrah is set to return for the third test at Lord’s which begins on July 10.

    “This is an important match for us but the third match at Lord’s — there may be something more in the wicket and we thought we’ll play him (Bumrah) there,” Indian skipper Shubman Gill said.

    “We were very tempted to play (Kuldeep Yadav) but looking at the last match we wanted to add some depth to the batting. This year has been a year of chaos, a lot of teams who haven’t won a lot have won, so maybe that’ll change fortunes for us.”

    England named an unchanged line-up after winning the first test by five wickets, with fast bowler Jofra Archer not getting a look-in despite being named in the squad.

    “When you bring Jofra Archer back you consider everyone in your squad. It was a really good team performance last week and the bowlers performed well,” England captain Ben Stokes said.

    “With the ball you understand the conditions a bit more. We’re in good order here.”

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: KGV Football Complex scores twice at prestigious awards ceremony

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    These awards recognise the outstanding collaboration and integration that underpinned the successful delivery of the £8.1 million KGV Football Complex. Delivered by Portsmouth City Council thanks to funding from the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation, the project transformed the area into a state-of-the-art football and youth facility in the north of Portsmouth.

    These awards recognises the strong teamwork behind the creation of the £8.1 million KGV Football Complex. Portsmouth City Council and the Football Foundation worked together to create a modern football and youth centre, replacing an outdated, vandalised pavilion with no all weather pitches.

    Funded by Portsmouth City Council, the UK Government (including the Youth Investment Fund and Changing Places Fund), and the Football Foundation, the project exemplifies how early engagement, a shared vision, and integrated delivery can overcome complex challenges and deliver exceptional outcomes.

    From the outset, Portsmouth City Council brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including funders, community groups, and technical experts, to co-create a facility that meets the strategic needs of the city. The project was supported by the council’s in-house teams, including parks and open spaces officers, procurement experts, architects, landscape architects, construction inspectors, quantity surveyors, mechanical & electrical engineers, and buildings services professionals.

    In addition, the appointment of Hampshire FA as the future operator of the complex took place at the same time as the procurement of LST Projects as the design and build contractor. This unique but critical collaborative arrangement ensured that the design was informed early on by operational insight.

    Key to the project’s success was:

    • Early and ongoing engagement with all partners and the local community to shape the scheme.
    • Integrated delivery across disciplines, ensuring design, construction, and operational needs were aligned.
    • Effective risk management and resolution of complex land ownership issues through collaborative decision-making.
    • Fair and transparent supply chain practices, including prompt payments and clear communication across all tiers.

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council said:

    “These awards are a powerful endorsement of what can be achieved when we work together. The KGV Football Complex is a shining example of collaboration, bringing together partners, professionals, and the community to create something truly special for Portsmouth.”

    Cllr Lee Hunt, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Leisure and Sport said:

    “This demonstrates our commitment to providing excellent sports facilities across Portsmouth, which are accessible to all and support a wide range of activities. We are only part of the way through on our journey, with more exciting developments to come in the coming years which will provide a sustainable future for sport and leisure across the city.”

    Jimmy Marsh, Senior Quantity Surveyor from LST Projects said:

    “It was a real pleasure and privilege for the LST team to work collaboratively with PCC and the FA throughout the entire build process.  Re- purposing the derelict pavilion and surrounding areas into an excellent sporting and amenity facility has been a source of huge pride and to be recognised by the SECBE with two awards is a fantastic achievement for all of us involved.”

    Neil Casser, Hampshire FA CEO said:

    “We are delighted that King George V Football Complex was recognised as a winner at the SECBE Construction Industry Excellence Awards in the Integration and Collaborative Working category. It is a fitting tribute to the team effort that made the project possible.  King George V Football Complex is a fantastic hub site and will be enjoyed by many generations in the city and surrounding areas for years to come.  We also congratulate Portsmouth City Council for also scooping the “Client of the Year” award making it a double success.”

    Since opening in October 2024 under the stewardship of Hampshire FA, the KGV Football Complex has welcomed over 70,000 visits, with peak usage reaching 81% capacity. It is already transforming grassroots sport and youth engagement in the city, providing a vibrant, inclusive space for positive activity.

    The Football Foundation is the Premier League, The FA and Government’s charity that delivers outstanding grassroots facilities, more and better places to play, transforming lives and communities where it is needed most.

    The Foundation’s goal is to unlock the power of pitches ensuring every community has a great place to play regardless of gender, race, disability or place.

    Since its creation in 2000, the Foundation has invested £1.2 billion to improve grassroots facilities across the country – including 1,200 3G pitches, 14,000 grass pitches and 1,600 changing rooms. This has attracted an additional £1.5 billion of partnership funding – totalling over £2.7 billion investment in grassroots football so far.

    In partnership with local authorities, County FAs and other community stakeholders, the Foundation has created Local Football Facility Plans for every local authority in England. These Plans act as a blueprint for providing the grassroots football facility improvements that each community needs and deserves across the country.

    Visit footballfoundation.org.uk for more information on the Foundation and view the Plan for your local area.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Businesses showcase tough justice tech to Government ministers

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Businesses showcase tough justice tech to Government ministers

    Thousands of criminals could soon be managed by revolutionary new technology to enhance how the justice system monitors offenders and cuts reoffending.

    • Businesses pitch new technology to Ministers that will deliver safer streets, contributing to the Government’s Plan for Change  
    • Strict 24/7 surveillance and enhanced AI could monitor criminals in the community more closely than ever before 
    • New “smell-detector” AI device could detect substance abuse inside and outside prison

    On Tuesday 01 July, seven top tech companies pitched their ideas to the Prisons and Probation’s Minister, James Timpson, as part of a Dragon’s Den style pitch, after being whittled down from over 90 submissions.  

    The finalists included companies developing AI home monitoring which will toughen up punishment outside of prison. Cameras would be installed inside offenders’ homes, with artificial intelligence used to analyse offenders’ behaviours ensuring they comply with licence conditions.  

    Other radical tech ideas included ‘smell detector’ devices which use synthetic brain cells and AI to replicate the behaviour of a human nose. The tech will help deliver enhanced surveillance and detect the use of drugs, such as Spice or Fentanyl, offering prison and probation a swift way to detect drugs and boost staff safety.  

    Additional proposals included software to standardise how staff input information on offenders, alongside transcription tools to cut the administrative burden and cost to taxpayers, while allowing staff to focus more of their time on cutting crime. 

    The successful businesses will have their proposals considered for pilot rollouts, helping staff on the front line to tackle violence in prison and monitor offenders. 

    This follows the Government’s response to the Independent Sentencing Review, which recommended the greater use of technology and community sentencing in a bid to tackle the inherited crisis in our prisons system. 

    Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending Minister, James Timpson, said:  

    We inherited a justice system in crisis and in need of reform. Prisons and probation are working in analogue while tech drives forward a new digital age.

    That’s why we have invited companies to present bold new ideas to help us deliver tough punishment and enhanced surveillance. Embracing new technologies will help us to protect victims, reduce reoffending and cut crime as part of our Plan for Change.

    In the Spending Review, the Government announced that the Probation Service will receive up to £700 million, an almost 45% increase in funding. This new funding will mean tens of thousands more offenders can be tagged and monitored in the community.  

    These technological solutions follow the publication of recent research that confirms curfew tags, which keep offenders at home and off the streets during certain times, can reduce reoffending by 20 per cent. This demonstrates how even older technology is supporting punishment in the community and cutting crime.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Join dozens of others and Swap to Stop smoking

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Launched by the City of Wolverhampton Council last year, Swap to Stop provides free vaping kits and behavioural support to help people stop smoking.

    The service is delivered over a period of 12 weeks by trained members of staff who offer free vape starter kits alongside support and weekly ‘check-in’ sessions at community venues to help people on their quitting journey.

    Scores of people have already come forward to get help – with over 135 quitting as a result. Others are invited to sign up for free at Swap to Stop. http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/health-and-wellbeing/swap-to-stop  
    www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/health-and-wellbeing/swap-to-stop.

    The Government is offering a million free ‘Swap to Stop’ vaping kits as part of its aims for the country to become ‘smokefree’ by 2030. The council has made these available at a range of community venues, including the city’s eight Family Hubs and Central and Warstones libraries.

    Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “Stopping smoking is the best thing you can do for your health and the health of those around you.

    “It is still the single largest preventable cause of death in England, accounting for around for 64,000 deaths annually. Almost every minute of every day someone is admitted to hospital with a smoking-related disease – but, when you stop smoking, there are almost immediate improvements to your health.

    “And it’s not just your body which will benefit, your purse or wallet will too. On average smokers spend around £40 per week on tobacco – and that means you could have around £2,000 extra to spend a year by quitting, or even more if you are a really heavy smoker.

    “Nicotine vaping is substantially less harmful than smoking and is also one of the most effective tools for quitting, and it’s fantastic that over 135 residents have already been able to quit using the support available through Swap to Stop.

    “We are delighted to be extending the programme for another 12 months so, if you want to quit smoking, please sign up today.”

    For more help and support to stop smoking, please visit Quit Smoking. https://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/health-and-wellbeing/quit-smoking. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plan ahead: Dawsons Corner and Stanningley Bypass improvements enter next phase

    Source: City of Leeds

    Over four weeks starting on Saturday 26 July 2025, road repairs and resurfacing works will take place on the Stanningley Bypass, as part of the £44.179m Dawsons Corner and Stanningley Bypass improvement scheme.

    Road users are now being urged to prepare to plan ahead, as traffic management (contraflow where vehicles are directed to travel in the opposite direction to the normal flow of traffic) works begin later this month to make improvements to the A647/A6120 Dawsons Corner junction, with repairs and resurfacing works on the Stanningley Bypass.

    The work has been planned to coincide with the reduced levels of traffic over the school summer holidays, allowing for these works to progress as quickly as possible with some significant disruption expected to journeys over the coming weeks.

    Traffic management will be in place 24/7 along with 30mph speed limits to help complete this work efficiently and for the safety of all road users. During the set up and switch around of the traffic management, there will be partial closures of the bypass and some of the access/slip roads will have local diversions.  Access to Pudsey train station will be maintained at all times.

    The road traffic management system will safely allow repairs and surfacing works to take place, starting northbound from 8pm Saturday 26 July until 9 August and then southbound from 5am Sunday 10 August, until Sunday 24 August.

    The Owlcotes Shopping Centre slip road will be closed to facilitate changes to the traffic management on the following dates:

    • Saturday 26 July 8pm-5am
    • Saturday 9 August 8pm-5am
    • Saturday 23 August 8pm-5am
    • Sunday 24 August 8pm-5am (contingency date)

    Over the previous three summer holiday periods the council has carried out Stanningley Bypass joint and resurfacing repairs work, as part of the highway’s annual maintenance programme. The road works involve the repair of over 140 structures on Stanningley Bypass and associated resurfacing works.

    These changes to the junction when complete will reduce congestion and delays, helping to support economic growth across Leeds and Bradford, as well as improve air quality. Improvements will see better traffic flow, with bus journey times reduced and safer crossing facilities for cyclists and pedestrians.

    Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said:

    “The team are working hard to minimise disruption by planning, co-ordinating and sequencing large highways schemes across Leeds. They need careful planning with other works, not always in our control and events across our busy city. We have done lots of work to try and minimise the disruption these works will create, but what ever the amount of planning there may be some delays.

    “Starting from 26 July, to coincide with four weeks of the school summer holidays, please plan ahead when travelling between Bradford and Leeds (A647) or using the (A6120) outer ring road through Dawsons Corner. You will need to allow extra time for your journeys, be patient and follow the signed road diversions in place. For more information, please see the Dawsons Corner project website https://dawsonscorner.commonplace.is/.

    “We thank everyone for their ongoing patience while we continue to work hard to minimise the disruption over the summer and thank those who have already changed the way they travel into and around the city centre.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Championing the role of science

    Source: Scottish Government

    New Chief Scientific Adviser appointed.

    Professor Calum Semple OBE has been appointed the Scottish Government’s next Chief Scientific Adviser (CSA).

    He will take up the position on 5 August 2025 on an initial three-year term.

    Professor Semple is a Consultant in Paediatric Respiratory Medicine at Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust and became Professor of Outbreak Medicine and Child Health at the University of Liverpool in 2018.

    He has held key advisory roles during public health emergencies, serving as a UK Government adviser during the 2009 Swine Flu pandemic, on the World Health Organisation Scientific Advisory Committee during the Ebola Emergency and as a member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies during the Covid pandemic.

    The role of CSA includes:

    • providing Scottish Government Ministers independent scientific advice on issues of strategic importance
    • championing Scotland’s world-leading science and research base and the role of science in the economy and society
    • inspiring the next generation of scientists and encourage diversity in the STEM (science, technology engineering and mathematics) workforce.

    Business Minister Richard Lochhead said:

    “Science is the bedrock of our society and economy and at the heart of government decision making. From health to the economy to the environment and everything in between, it is a fundamental part of our everyday lives.

    “I am delighted to welcome Professor Semple to the role of Chief Scientific Adviser and look forward to his valuable insight and advice as the Scottish Government continues to work with our world leading science sector to highlight Scotland’s strengths as a science nation and ensure it is front and centre of everything we do.”

    Professor Semple said:

    “I am thrilled to have this opportunity to work for the people and government of Scotland, providing evidence and scientific advice to support our policymakers. I particularly look forward to collaborating with Scotland’s vibrant communities of scientists and engineers in our schools, universities and industries, who inspire and drive the innovation essential for future economic growth. I will ensure that science and evidence remain at the heart of how we shape a fairer, greener, and more prosperous Scotland.

    “I would like to thank my wife, friends, and colleagues at the University of Liverpool and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital who support my career and enabled this important appointment. Their encouragement and collaboration have been vital to my journey.”

    Background

    Professor Semple was raised in Glasgow and Edinburgh. He qualified in medicine from the University of Oxford after completing a PhD in Clinical Virology at University College London and a Bachelor’s Tripos in Cell Pathology, Immunology, and Virology at Middlesex Hospital Medical School.

    His clinical academic training in Paediatric Respiratory Medicine began in 2002 when he was awarded a Department of Health National Clinical Scientist Fellowship at the University of Liverpool and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.

    He was appointed Consultant in Paediatric Respiratory Medicine at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in 2006 and was promoted to Professor of Outbreak Medicine and Child Health at the University of Liverpool in 2018.

    He will retain these positions, albeit with reduced activity, during his appointment to the Scottish Government.

    Professor Semple has been studying severe viral outbreaks since 1989 and co-founded the International Severe Acute Respiratory and Emerging Infection Consortium (ISARIC) in 2012. He has led research on HIV/AIDS, Bronchiolitis, Influenza, Ebola, Mpox, COVID-19, and Hepatitis, with a focus on disease characterisation and clinical countermeasures. His work has been supported by the Wellcome Trust, UK NIHR, and UKRI MRC. For his leadership of medical research activities in Sierra Leone between 2014 and 2016, he and his team were awarded the Queen’s Ebola Medal for Service in West Africa. In 2019, he received a Commonwealth Award for his ongoing work with Ebola Survivors.

    Professor Semple has held key advisory roles during public health emergencies, including serving as a UK Government advisor during the 2009 Swine Flu pandemic, on the WHO Scientific Advisory Committee for the Ebola Emergency – STAC-EE (2014–2017), the New Emerging Respiratory Viral Threats Advisory Group – NERVTAG (2014–2023), and the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies – SAGE for COVID-19 (2020–2022).

    He was appointed OBE in 2020 for his contributions to the COVID-19 response and was elected a Fellow of the Faculty of Public Health by distinction in 2022. His leadership is marked by integrity, collaboration, inclusivity, and clear communication.

    He enjoys spending time with his family, dogs, beekeeping, playing the pipes, and fly fishing.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joy as ambitious and caring school maintains high standards

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    They visited Green Park at the end of April and, in their report published recently, found that staff have ‘high expectations and a deep understanding of all pupils’.

    The school, which supports learners aged three to 19 with complex physical and medical needs, provides a ‘safe and calm’ environment, with pupils feeling ‘motivated and happy to learn’.

    The ‘progressive and personalised’ curriculum is ‘exciting, broad and ambitious’, with a breadth of subjects and topics that supports pupils’ engagement and attention and which are delivered ‘consistently well’.

    Through creative approaches to teaching, such as songs, pictures and textured materials, ‘pupils engage in their learning’ and ‘achieve well’.

    Work on improving pupils’ communication ‘is a strength’, enabling them to learn well, become more independent and to play an active part in the school community.

    The school prepares pupils for adulthood effectively, offering a range of opportunities beyond the classroom including residential visits, horse riding and swimming, all of which help pupils ‘develop new skills and confidence as they venture into the wider world’. In sixth form, students benefit from increased opportunities to improve their independence, enjoying work experience and travel training.

    Pupils behave well, with the school using a ‘range of strategies to promote and reward positive behaviour’. Staff are committed to promoting good attendance, and pupils enjoy ‘being in school and attend regularly’.

    Leaders are ambitious for all pupils and have created ‘a positive culture for learning’ which is ‘supported effectively’ by governors who know what is working well and where to focus for improvement.

    Inspectors concluded that the school has a ‘committed and passionate staff team that makes Green Park an exciting place where pupils will continue to flourish’. And they confirmed that the school has taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection, when it was judged to be Good.

    Headteacher Lorraine Dawney said: “I am so proud of the achievements of our learners; they rise to every new challenge and astound us every day by their progress.

    “Our vision is to prepare them for ‘Learning for Life’ and the inspection recognised that we aspire for all children to reach their full potential each and every day.  

    “I would like to personally thank all staff; I have such a fabulous team of caring and committed professionals who always give 100% to our learners. I also want to celebrate the partnership with parents, carers and governors as it is their support and dedication that creates a school where children flourish.”

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “This is a brilliant outcome for Green Park School and reflects the commitment of everyone involved. The school’s focus on pupil independence, communication and wellbeing is inspiring.

    “We’re incredibly proud of the work being done at Green Park to ensure children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive the best start in life, and I’d like to thank the staff, families and pupils for their continued passion and hard work.”

    Latest data shows that 97% of schools in Wolverhampton are currently rated either Good or Outstanding by Ofsted, the highest ever.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £5.6million project launched to explore how man-made structures affect our seas University researchers will work alongside a range of institutions from across the UK and in Norway on the £5.6 million initiative, which will be led by Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML). The ValMAS (Value of Marine Artificial Structures) project is a major new research effort to understand the full impact of man-made…

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    University researchers will work alongside a range of institutions from across the UK and in Norway on the £5.6 million initiative, which will be led by Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML).
    The ValMAS (Value of Marine Artificial Structures) project is a major new research effort to understand the full impact of man-made structures in the ocean, ranging from offshore oil, gas and wind energy infrastructure to shipwrecks. These are collectively known as marine artificial structures (MAS).
    The project, which will focus on the North Sea with wider applicability across the UK and beyond, aims to create tools and evidence that will help decision-makers manage these structures in ways that support clean energy, protect nature, and benefit society.
    MAS have potentially significant footprints at all stages of their lifecycle through demonstration, construction, operation, and finally decommissioning. As marine space is increasingly squeezed, this large-scale development will inevitably lead to environmental, social and economic trade-offs.
    While these structures can provide habitat, support blue carbon capture, or enhance biodiversity, they can also pose risks that are not yet fully understood.
    Professor Nicola Beaumont, project lead from PML, said: “Thousands of artificial structures have been installed in the marine environment, and many more are on the horizon as part of the UK’s transition to a clean energy future.
    “ValMAS will give policymakers and industry the tools they need to make informed decisions that align with both net zero targets and nature recovery goals.”
    The research is co-funded by Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and the industry-sponsored INSITE Programme.
    Professor Astley Hastings CEng, from the School of Biological Sciences, will lead work in Aberdeen alongside marine eco-toxicologist Dr Rebecca von Hellfeld, and Dr Kate Gormley, an interdisciplinary researcher specialising in coastal and marine environmental management, working to fill the experimental knowledge gaps on marine contaminants mobilisation and marine growth on structures. Professor Anne-Michelle Slater, from the University’s School of Law, will work on the policy and legislation relating to the environment surrounding marine structures.
    Professor Hastings said: “ValMAS will map marine artificial structures to develop a natural capital framework that reflects their ecological, economic, and social value, identify research gaps and foster collaboration, and model future climate scenarios to assess impacts on biodiversity, fisheries, and carbon storage. The project will also examine public perceptions and economic trade-offs to support a fair energy transition and create advanced decision support tools for use by policymakers, regulators, and industry.
    “While evidence, tools and models around natural capital and MAS exist, access to and uptake of these resources remains limited. There is a pressing need to translate this knowledge into strategic, value-based decision-making that is practical, user-driven, and ready for real-world application.”
    Other project partners include the Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Cardiff University, Natural England – the government’s adviser for the natural environment in England, SUERC – Centre For The Isotope Sciences, University of Glasgow, the University of Strathclyde, EFTEC, Ecologos, NIRAS, Marine Energy Wales, the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation, The Shellfish Association of Great Britain, and the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations. It also brings together another 20+ partners from academia, government, NGOs and industry, including major energy operators.
    Tracy Shimmield, Director of Research and Skill at the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) said: “NERC is delighted to announce the launch of ‘The Value of Marine Artificial Structures (ValMAS)’ programme, which seeks to inform nature positive policy solutions for the management of all life stages of Marine Artificial Structures (MAS). The ValMAS project, which is cofounded with industry, builds on the work achieved by the INSITE programme. It will deliver evidence of the interplay between the ecological, economic and social values of MAS, to build a better understanding of their environmental value across sectors in the North Sea. Evidence generated will inform decision making on the best outcomes for the environment when it comes to decommissioning.”
    Professor Beaumont added: “This is not just about infrastructure, it’s about people, nature, and building a future where sustainable energy systems work in harmony with marine life.”
    The project will begin in August 2025 and run for four years.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reappointment of the Judicial Appointments and Conduct Ombudsman

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Reappointment of the Judicial Appointments and Conduct Ombudsman

    His Majesty The King has approved the reappointment of Douglas Marshall as the Judcial Appointments and Conduct Ombudsman.

    His Majesty The King, on the recommendation of the Lord Chancellor, has approved the reappointment – for 5 years from 1 March 2026 – of Douglas Marshall as Judicial Appointments and Conduct Ombudsman.

    The reappointment of the Judicial Appointments and Conduct Ombudsman is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments and has been made under Paragraph 1 of Schedule 13 of the Constitutional Reform Act 2005.

    Biography

    Douglas Marshall is Pathways to Impact Manager at Childlight; Global Child Safety Institute based in Edinburgh, working to combat the global pandemic of child abuse. His previous career included 30 years’ service with Cumbria Constabulary retiring as a senior detective. At the latter end of his service, he was the Deputy National Co-ordinator on Operation Hydrant (the national policing response, oversight, and co-ordination of non-recent child sexual abuse). He returned to Cumbria Constabulary completing five years as a Police Staff Senior Investigating Officer. During his police service he was Senior Investigating Officer on several high-profile cases in Cumbria. He is formerly a director of a private investigation company in Scotland and has a consultancy for investigations.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from areas in South Africa and UK suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (July 2) that in view of notifications from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Mkhondo Local Municipality in South Africa and Wrexham County of Wales in the United Kingdom (UK), the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the above-mentioned areas with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

    A CFS spokesman said that Hong Kong has currently established a protocol with South Africa for the import of poultry meat but not for poultry eggs. According to the Census and Statistics Department, no poultry meat was imported into Hong Kong from South Africa in the first three months of this year. Moreover, Hong Kong imported about 210 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat, and about 440 000 poultry eggs from the UK in the first three months of this year.

    “The CFS has contacted the South African and British authorities over the issues and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from areas in South Africa and UK suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (July 2) that in view of notifications from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Mkhondo Local Municipality in South Africa and Wrexham County of Wales in the United Kingdom (UK), the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the above-mentioned areas with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

    A CFS spokesman said that Hong Kong has currently established a protocol with South Africa for the import of poultry meat but not for poultry eggs. According to the Census and Statistics Department, no poultry meat was imported into Hong Kong from South Africa in the first three months of this year. Moreover, Hong Kong imported about 210 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat, and about 440 000 poultry eggs from the UK in the first three months of this year.

    “The CFS has contacted the South African and British authorities over the issues and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: England’s mayors gather to pledge national walking, wheeling and cycling network, backed by government

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    England’s mayors gather to pledge national walking, wheeling and cycling network, backed by government

    National active travel network will provide 3,500 miles of safer routes for better connectivity, targeting areas where health and air quality are poorest.

    • national active travel network to give healthier and greener travel options to millions across the nation
    • pledge to deliver an initial 3,500 miles of safer routes to schools, shops and high streets, workplaces and transport hubs
    • projects will help tackle the country’s inactivity crisis, easing pressure on the NHS and boosting productivity, as part of government’s Plan for Change

    Ministers are backing a coalition of 11 of England’s combined authority mayors, who have signed an ambitious joint statement pledging to create a national active travel network, enabling millions of happier, healthier and greener journeys from Berwick to Bristol.

    West Yorkshire’s Tracy Brabin, South Yorkshire’s Oliver Coppard, York and North Yorkshire’s David Skaith, Hull and East Yorkshire’s Luke Campbell, the North East’s Kim McGuinness, the West of England’s Helen Godwin and the East Midlands’ Claire Ward met with National Active Travel Commissioner, Chris Boardman, and the UK’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Chris Whitty, in York yesterday (1 July 2025) to kickstart the plans.

    Greater Manchester’s Mayor Andy Burnham, Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotherham, Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen, West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker and Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Mayor Paul Bristow have also signed the pledge published today. In addition, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has added his signature in support of the agreement.

    Launching in autumn 2025, the programme will begin with Mayoral combined authorities agreeing an initial network of 3,500 miles of safer routes connecting housing to schools and high streets, targeting areas where health and air quality are poorest, helping to reduce stark health inequalities.

    This will help more of their regions’ 20 million residents meet recommended activity levels, reducing risks of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and depression while supporting the government’s Plan for Change by easing pressure on the NHS and boosting growth. The new routes and projects will focus on prevention rather than cure, by building health and wellbeing into everyday activities.

    The multi-region project will begin work in around 1,000 schools, creating 300 safer routes for people walking, wheeling and cycling.

    National Active Travel Commissioner, Chris Boardman, said:

    Our regional leaders have today marked the start of an exciting chapter by pledging to give people across the country more transport choice.

    We know that more walking, wheeling and cycling will improve our country’s mental and physical health, but it will do much more, it’s the foundation for thriving integrated public transport networks, it increases access to work, boosting local economic growth and it will give millions of children more independence.

    People will only consider travelling actively if it is easy and safe. That’s what the mayors have today pledged to do and that’s why government is backing them. It’s going to have a hugely positive impact on millions of people’s daily lives.

    Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, said:

    I know I am one of many who enjoy the physical and mental health benefits that come with walking or cycling to work or school.

    That’s why this government is investing £616 million over the next 4 years, on top of £300 million announced in February, to give more people around the country high-quality and healthy ways to get around, and supporting mayors’ plans to create a joined-up network.

    It is a key part of our Plan for Change, boosting local businesses, growing local economies and easing pressure on the NHS.

    As part of the agreement, the Mayors have committed to:

    1. Work with the Department for Transport, Active Travel England and local authorities to create a country-wide national walking, wheeling and cycling network, comprising local networks that are safe and easy to use. This will give their regions’ 20 million residents access to high-quality, safe routes in their communities.
    2. Transform the school run by delivering high-quality, safer routes in neighbourhoods nationwide.
    3. Boost regional integrated transport networks by giving people easy walking, wheeling and cycling access to buses, trams and trains, which will link to new housing and support local economic growth.

    The initiative comes as recent research shows 1 in 6 early deaths could be prevented with regular moderate exercise. Meanwhile, a study from 2023 to 2024 found that, in England, 35.8% of year 6 children were overweight or living with obesity, with 22.1% living with obesity.

    Chief Medical Officer Professor, Chris Whitty, said:

    Increasing physical activity has health benefits across the life course. As part of this, we need to make walking and cycling more accessible and safer, as well as access to green space easier and more equitable.

    This will help remove barriers to improving physical activity levels and could significantly improve the health of England’s increasingly urban population.

    The first wave of improving active travel routes to schools will include the delivery of proven and popular schemes, including school streets, traffic calming measures, new crossings and better pavements, clear of obstructions.

    Regional mayors will lead local implementation with interventions tailored to their communities’ needs and develop programmes to enable more active travel, such as walking and cycling buses for children.

    The programme will be delivered using regional resources with additional targeted investment from Active Travel England, improving efficiency by combining separate funding streams in a mission-led approach.

    General enquiries

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A new chapter in how we finance development: Baroness Chapman statement

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    A new chapter in how we finance development: Baroness Chapman statement

    Minister for Development Baroness Chapman delivers UK national statement at the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) in Seville.

    Good afternoon, everyone.

    Seville must be the start of a new chapter in how we finance development and sustainable growth over the next decade.

    FFD4 sets out three critical shifts; and the UK will respond.

    Firstly, helping countries to raise more of their own revenues.

    The UK will support countries to raise more finance domestically, and manage it better, by sharing expertise from our own revenue authority and finance ministry.

    And we will work with all partners to take urgent action to tackle unsustainable debt. We cannot do this alone.

    We will work through the G20 to strengthen, expand and reform the Common Framework, ensuring timely and predictable relief for debt distressed countries.

    We will work with partners to maintain momentum on reforms to the existing debt architecture including to make restructurings quicker and more efficient.

    We must also ensure future debt sustainability by pressing for more responsible and transparent lending and borrowing and scaling UK-championed clauses that pause debt repayments when a crisis hits.

    The second is on mobilising international finance at scale.

    Increasing access to finance from all sources, beyond ODA.

    Leveraging and multiplying wherever we can.

    We need private capital at a much greater scale in developing countries. We are proud to launch a coalition of governments, finance institutions, and investors at FFD4.

    With the aim of mobilising high-quality finance for emerging and developing economies through stock exchanges.

    We will work with the UK industry experts to unlock and scale up global institutional capital, develop local currency markets and help to tackle exchange rate risks in developing countries.

    I will look at the evidence on the barriers to investment, and if there need to be changes to our regulatory approach, I will need to work with international partners and groups to build a coalition to call for those changes.

    And we welcome the ambition to triple the size of MDB financing. This will require stretching balance sheets and using guarantees, but that can only get us so far. 

    We will also need to inject more capital into some MDBs, which is why the UK supports a capital increase for the World Bank’s IBRD, conditional on reforms.

    If agreed, this could unlock billions of dollars annually.  

    We have heard the call to explore new sources of climate finance. That is why we have committed to and are pushing for agreement on the International Maritime Organisation’s Net Zero Framework.

    The third is making the system work better for developing countries.

    This means getting behind countries own priorities and plans.

    It means putting women and girls at the heart of everything we do. 

    It also means simplifying and streamlining the aid architecture, so it is easier for countries to engage and access finance.

    We must do more through multilateral organisations that pool and multiply resources, and drive reform across the multilateral system to make it faster, more effective and more sustainable.

    That is why we are proud to be GAVI’s largest investor, as announced last week at the GAVI replenishment.

    It also means creating a fairer system where developing countries have greater voice and participation to shape the outcomes they need.

    That is why the UK is calling for more voice and representation for low-income and vulnerable countries in the World Bank and IMF.

    And ensuring countries can better handle shocks and build resilience to climate change.

    It is unacceptable that only 2% of crisis finance is pre-arranged when 35% of shocks are modellable. 

    That is why we are launching a global coalition to scale up the use of pre-arranged finance. And we will work with the insurance industry to help deliver this.

    I am proud that the UK will be the first country to report and publish our annual pre -arranged finance figures.

    This work is urgent and cannot wait.

    So let us make Seville a springboard for what can and must come next.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Next phase of Melton Road street scene improvements to begin

    Source: City of Leicester

    THE next phase of a rolling programme to repair and improve pavements, street furniture and bollards along Melton Road is now underway.

    Leicester City Council is carrying out the scheme to spruce up public areas for local businesses and residents.

    Old, uneven and broken slabs will be replaced with high-quality block paving. Existing tree pits will be covered with a porous resin-bound material to help improve drainage, and new drainage channels will also be installed where required. Damage footpaths caused by tree roots will be repaired. New bollards, as well as new cycle racks where possible, will also be installed to prevent vehicles parking on the pavement.

    The improvement work is being carried out between Ascot Road and Herbert Road, on the outbound side of Melton Road, and between Acorn Street and Marfitt Street, on the inbound side.

    Work will be carried out in sections to help minimise disruption to pedestrians and nearby businesses and is expected to take around 50 weeks to complete.

    To ensure a safe working environment, some short-term lane restrictions on part of Melton Road may be required. These will be managed with temporary traffic signals.

    The work, which will cost around £685,000, is being funded through the city council’s annual highways maintenance programme.

    It will be the second phase of a planned programme of investment to improve several sections of footway along Melton Road in coming years, subject to funding. Work to replace the existing uneven pavement on the outbound stretch of the busy shopping street, between Ascot Road and Checketts Road, was carried out last year.

    City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “This ongoing investment in repairing and replacing broken and uneven pavements on  Melton Road will help improve the look and feel of area and make it more attractive for residents and shoppers.

    “Projects like this are an important part of ensuring that our neighbourhood shopping streets and busy routes into the city stay looking their best.”

    The Melton Road scheme is taking a similar approach to improvements recently completed on Narborough Road, following a three-year rolling programme of investment to repair and spruce up sections of footway.

    Letters have been sent to local residents and businesses informing them of the work.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Further consultation on future of council-run care centres

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Published: Wednesday, 2nd July 2025

    The city council is running a phase 3 consultation on the future of its three council-run care centres: Kenrick, Perry Tree and Ann Marie Howes.

    Perry Tree care centre

    This follows feedback from the previous two consultations and takes into account the government commitment to integrated health and social care and an analysis of the current and future demand for social care support in Birmingham.

    The revised proposed option would mean Birmingham City Council keeping the three Care Centres open, providing residential and respite care at Kenrick centre and integrated and intermediate care across Ann Marie Howes and Perry Tree centres.

    The latter would support improved hospital discharge and enable people to regain their independence before going home.

    The proposal would deliver a minimum of £2.8m of savings with the remainder of the original savings delivered through several schemes which support more efficient hospital discharge through the better care fund.

    Cllr Khan said: “This revised option demonstrates that we have listened to local people on the future of the care centres and that the commitment we have with health partners on the integration of health and social care will improve outcomes for local people.

    “I would urge people to take part in this latest consultation to provide us with feedback on the revised option.”

    The consultation can be found here on the Birmingham Be Heard website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coventry to consider £15 million investment in Housing Support services

    Source: City of Coventry

    Coventry City Council’s Cabinet will consider a major £14.8 million investment in housing support services in response to a 90% increase in people seeking housing help since 2020.

    The proposed re-commissioning of Housing Related Support Services will see the creation of five specialist support programmes, including a new dedicated service for women with complex needs – addressing a gap identified in current provision.

    If approved, the investment will fund services from April 2026 for an initial two years, with the potential to extend for up to six years.

    The move represents a further shift towards a prevention-first approach, aiming to keep people in their homes rather than responding only when they reach crisis point.

    Councillor Naeem Akhtar, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, said: “This significant investment demonstrates our commitment to tackling homelessness in Coventry.

    “We’ve seen a dramatic increase in people needing our help – a 36% rise in approaches to our homeless service, in just one year between 2022/2023 and 2023/2024.

    “We need to act now to provide the right support for our most vulnerable residents, with a focus on preventing homelessness before it happens.”

    The proposed services will support five key groups: adults with complex needs, older single people (25+), young people (18-24), families, and women with complex needs.

    The complex needs provision will include specific support for rough sleepers and emergency accommodation during severe weather.

    The council’s latest Homelessness Review identified that “friends and family no longer willing to accommodate people” is the biggest single cause of homelessness, particularly affecting young people without children.

    The new services will support delivery of Coventry’s Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy (2025-2029), which focuses on three key themes: early intervention and prevention, targeted crisis support, and move-on and tenancy sustainment.

    If approved, the tender process will begin in August 2025, with contract mobilisation over the autumn and winter months ahead of the April 2026 start date.

    The services will complement the council’s existing temporary accommodation provision and help reduce pressure on increasingly expensive emergency housing options.

    Wednesday, 2nd July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council partnership secures long-term base for Coundon Court FC

    Source: City of Coventry

    Coventry City Council has partnered with Coundon Court Football Club to secure its future at Coundon Hall Park, establishing the site as the long-term home of the local club.

    After being accepted onto the Football Foundation’s Home Advantage Programme, the club is set to take on a 25-year lease of the pitches at Coundon Hall Park.

    The Football Foundation’s Home Advantage Programme is supported by the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation. It aims to support grassroots clubs and organisations across the country to take on long-term leases or licences of the sites they play at.

    The club will also have the opportunity to apply for up to £250,000 in grant funding from the Foundation to improve the facilities at Coundon Hall Park. This could include security fencing, storage units, grounds maintenance machinery and catering cabins.

    Councillor Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Sport, said: “It’s been fantastic to work with Coundon Court Football Club to secure their future at Coundon Hall Park.

    “Supporting local sports clubs which give members of our community the opportunity to get out, get active and take part in something they enjoy is really important.

    “This support from the Football Foundation and the Home Advantage Programme will make a real impact and firmly cement the club’s future. In addition, it will show how this could be a model across the city of best practice.”

    Coundon Court FC is a 3-star England Football-accredited club with over 30 teams, and disability and community programmes. Named ‘Club of the Year’ by Birmingham County FA, it’s proudly rooted in the local community.

    Barry Morris, Club Secretary at Coundon Court Football Club, added: “We see this as a huge opportunity for our club to have a home of its own, enabling us to offer more football provision within the local community.

    “After collecting the ‘Club of the Year’ accolade from Birmingham FA for the second time in 4 years, we already have a fantastic foundation to work from and will continue to progress.

    “Thanks to Coventry City Council and the Football Foundation for their support and confidence in working with our club on this exciting and innovative project.”

    The planned Coundon Cycleway has also been designed to accommodate the improvements at the park.

    Councillor Patricia Hetherton, Cabinet Member for City Services, said: “We have planned the route of the Cycleway to allow for a full range of activities in the park – this includes allowing room for the exciting new multi-use games area and future football pitches – spaces where local young people can come together, be active, and have fun.

    “The Coundon Cycleway scheme, funded by Active Travel England, will create a new cycleway through the park by utilising existing paths and well-trodden pedestrian routes. The project will also enhance the area with new lighting, benches, and tree planting. Additional improvements include the installation of extra bins and CCTV in both car parks, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable environment for all visitors.”

    Robert Sullivan, CEO of the Football Foundation, said: “The Football Foundation is working closely with our partners – the Premier League, The FA and Government – to unlock the power of pitches for more grassroots clubs and enable them to take pride in the place they call home.

    “We know that local authorities often lack the resources to maintain their grass pitches to a high standard, and yet the process of transferring management is often seen as complicated, expensive and therefore unattractive.

    “Through our Home Advantage Programme, the Foundation plans to provide the support and funding needed to transfer over 1,750 grass football pitches like the ones at Coundon Hall Park from local authorities to grassroots clubs and organisations across the country.

    “As well as a higher chance of success on the pitch, home grounds provide a space for people to come together through sport and help strengthen communities based on a shared sense of belonging.”

    To find out more about the programme visit the Football Foundation’s website.

    Image caption: Ant Hasker – Facilities and Investment Lead, Birmingham County FA, Eddie Gormley – Coundon Court FC Club Chairman, Peter Howarth – Coundon Court FC Volunteer, Barry Morris – Coundon Court FC Secretary, Lee Garratt – Coundon Court FC Club Manager Coordinator, Councillor Patricia Hetherton – Cabinet Member for City Services and Tim Wetherhill – Coventry City Council Parks Manager

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coventry Music and Go CV strike a chord with new partnership

    Source: City of Coventry

    Following the success of the city’s first-ever Coventry Schools’ Arts Week, Coventry City Council is proud to announce an exciting new partnership between Coventry Music and Go CV.

    This initiative, launching in September 2025, will open up more opportunities for young people and families across Coventry to engage with music, helping to break down financial barriers to participation.

    As part of this new collaboration:

    • Go CV+ members will receive a 25% discount on direct billed music lessons with Coventry Music.
    • All Go CV card holders – regardless of card type – will enjoy free access to nearly all Coventry Music Groups.

    This partnership represents a significant step towards making music education and community engagement more accessible and inclusive for all.

    Councillor Dr Kindy Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills at Coventry City Council said: “Music has the power to inspire, unite, and transform lives. This new partnership between Coventry Music and Go CV will ensure that more children and young people can access high-quality music opportunities, regardless of their background. It’s another step towards a fairer, more creative Coventry.”

    The announcement follows a hugely successful Coventry Schools’ Arts Week, which saw schools across the city come together in a vibrant celebration of creativity. The new partnership builds on this momentum, strengthening the Council’s commitment to cultural growth and lifelong learning.

    Councillor Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health, Sport and Wellbeing said: “It’s fantastic to see another exciting expansion of the Go CV scheme. Go CV continues to make a real difference for people across our city — helping families save money, access fantastic opportunities, and enjoy all that Coventry has to offer. It’s a great example of how we can support local communities and promote health, wellbeing and inclusion.”

    Go CV, which is used by over 125,000 residents in the city, gives access to discounts and offers when visiting local attractions. Through the Go CV mobile app, savings can be made when shopping at local businesses too.

    Residents living in Coventry can join Go CV for free via the Go CV website. Businesses interested in partnering with Go CV and creating an offer for Coventry residents can register for free via the business portal.

    More about Coventry Music

    To keep up to date with the latest news, sign up for the Your Coventry email newsletter or follow the Council on Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

    Wednesday, 2nd July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government to boost legal aid funding to support those at risk of eviction

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government to boost legal aid funding to support those at risk of eviction

    Vulnerable individuals at risk of eviction and homelessness will find it easier to access legal services, thanks to a historic boost in civil legal aid funding confirmed today (2 July) by Minister Sarah Sackman. 

    • Response to consultation sees first major funding rise for housing and immigration legal aid fees in 30 years 

    • Funding uplift aimed at helping those facing homelessness and speeding up asylum processing 

    • An additional £20 million a year investment marks next step in government’s Plan for Change to rebuild legal aid sector 

    Following feedback from a consultation into civil legal aid, the Government will uplift the rates paid for all housing and immigration legal aid work. Providers will see significant increases in all fees, with the overall spending in these categories increasing by 24% for housing work and 30% for immigration work. This represents a significant investment – the first since 1996 – resulting in an increase of £20 million a year once fully implemented.   

    This extra funding means more people will get the support they need, when they need it – reducing stress and preventing delays in housing cases. At the same time, it will help speed up decision-making in immigration cases, ensuring a fairer, faster process for everyone involved. This is part of the Government’s Plan for Change to make the justice system more efficient, fair and accessible. 

    Justice Minister, Sarah Sackman KC MP, said:   

    This vital investment marks a turning point for civil legal aid by boosting funding to build capacity in the sector, helping to enable individuals, regardless of background or income, to uphold their legal rights.

    As part of our Plan for Change we are ensuring that our legal aid providers can deliver vital support where it’s needed most.

    This investment will help to ensure effective access to justice for some of the most vulnerable in our society, supporting a more stable and sustainable legal aid sector – one that is fit for the future and attracts and retains the brightest and the best practitioners.   

    Later this week a separate consultation on uplifting fees for criminal legal aid for solicitors by up to £92 million will conclude. It’s part of the Government’s wider work to invest in the legal aid system and deliver swifter justice for victims alongside Sir Brian Leveson’s independent review of criminal courts. 

    Notes to editors:   

    On Civil Legal Aid Consultation    

    • The Government ran a consultation on increasing legal aid fees for those working in the housing (housing and debt) and immigration (immigration and asylum) sectors, proposing to increase fees to a rate in the region of £65/£69 per hour (non-London/London), or provide a 10% uplift, whichever is higher. Fixed fees will be uplifted by the same percentage as the increase in the underlying hourly rate for that work. This will be implemented as soon as operationally possible with costs scaling up to £20m at steady state. This will increase overall spend by 24% for housing and 30% for immigration.  

    • The changes would mean for example that the fixed fee for Housing work will increase by 42% from £157 to £223 and the fixed fee for asylum legal help will increase by 35% from £413 to £559.  

    • Evidence from the Review of Civil Legal Aid (RoCLA) Call for Evidence included responses from providers that aspects of the current Civil Legal Aid contractual requirements can be unnecessarily restrictive. The consultation sought to gather further evidence for improvements to arrangements for remote advice and face-to-face advice based on client needs.    

    • We plan to implement these fee uplifts as soon as operationally possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ofsted publishes research on vulnerability commissioned from the National Children’s Bureau

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Ofsted publishes research on vulnerability commissioned from the National Children’s Bureau

    The report looks at how Ofsted might consider vulnerability in the context of its inspection and regulation work.

    Ofsted has today published a research report it commissioned from Research in Practice at the National Children’s Bureau (NCB). Research in Practice undertook an evidence review to explore key messages from policy and research before holding 2 phases of stakeholder focus groups. Over 400 participants took part, including professionals from all the sectors Ofsted inspects, young people, parents and carers, and Ofsted staff.

    Read the full report: From trait to state: how Ofsted might consider conceptualising vulnerability for inspection and regulation.

    Sir Martyn Oliver, Ofsted’s Chief Inspector, said:

    I am grateful to Research in Practice at the National Children’s Bureau for carrying out this research for us. It provides useful insight as we continue to develop our work related to vulnerability in children and learners.

    I am committed to putting disadvantaged and vulnerable children at the heart of everything we do.

    Dez Holmes, Director of Research in Practice, said:

    We are hugely grateful to over 500 colleagues across the country for contributing to this fascinating project. The rich expertise of early years, education, further education and social care professionals has been invaluable in helping us at Research in Practice to think through what vulnerability means for children, young people and families. 

    We appreciate the opportunity Ofsted provided. It is rewarding to do work that is explicitly conceptual, whilst potentially being able to influence practice and policy.  

    The work colleagues do across the education and social care sector is as vital as it is complex. Vulnerabilities are varied and affect everyone in different ways. We are delighted to have been able to support critical thinking and reflection.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pride in London 2025 – information for businesses and residents | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Pride in London is taking place on Saturday 5 July. Pride has returned to the heritage route it has used since 2022: commencing on Piccadilly near to Hyde Park Corner, travelling along Piccadilly, crossing Piccadilly Circus, turning into Haymarket, then turning left towards Trafalgar Square and dispersing on Whitehall Place.

    View the Pride in London interactive parade map

    The event areas include:

    • Trafalgar Square – Main stage
    • Golden Square – The World Stage
    • Leicester Square – LGBTQI, Women and Non-Binary Stage
    • Dean Street – The Cabaret Stage
    • Soho Square – Trans and Non-Binary Stage, with Pride in London Community Market
    • Victoria Embankment Gardens – The Family Area

    All event areas run from 12pm to 8pm with the exception of the Family Area which will run from 12pm to 6pm.

    Road closures

    During the event, vehicle access and parking along the parade route and in the event areas, including Piccadilly and Soho, will be restricted.

    Find out more about road closures during the parade

    Once Piccadilly is closed to traffic, the only route into the area around St James’s Square/South of Piccadilly will be via Marlborough Road and St James’s Park. Local access into this area will be possible via St James’s Park roads during Pride due to the Royal Parks keeping the roads open (unlike a usual Saturday)

    There are also pedestrian crossing points across Piccadilly which go in both directions.

    Resident parking

    Zone G Permit holders will be able to park in Resident Parking Bays in E (Mayfair) and F (north of Oxford Street) zones during the event parking suspensions. This will be from 6:30pm on Friday 4 July 2025 to 8:30am on Monday 7 July 2025.

    Find out more about our parking zones.

    Information for businesses

    Businesses should be aware of road closures and arrange for any deliveries or waste collections to take place outside of the road closure times, as vehicles will not be allowed to travel through. Commercial waste should not be left out on street during the event and must either be collected outside of the road closure times or stored within the premises.

    Pride offers the opportunity for businesses to be involved in the event, which may include extending your business operation into the street. Full details on this is provided in the Pride Business Pack, including how to get in touch with the relevant Pride team and information on licensing.

    If you are a licensed premises, you must follow the conditions of your premises licence.

    If you are located in the Soho or surrounding areas and would like to do anything that impacts the highway (including pavements) outside of your normal operation, you must apply to do so. The Pride in London footprint can become very crowded and so it may not be possible to grant permission for some requests.

    In all other areas we ask you to consider if al-fresco street dining can be operated safely. Pride in London will not provide any barriers or security staff to enable you to manage al-fresco dining.

    For more information about licensing and conditions to be observed, please refer to the Business Information Pack or email rbl@prideinlondon.org for a copy. 

    Parks

    The following Westminster Parks and Gardens will have altered opening hours and may have sections closed for public access due to the set up of the event:

    Victoria Embankment Gardens

    • Bandstand paved area and some of the central pathway will be closed on Friday 04 July
    • The Gardens will be open to the public for the event from 12pm to 6pm on Saturday 5 July
    • it will reopen at 7am on Sunday 6 July

    Leicester Square Gardens

    • East side of the Gardens will be closed on Friday 4 July
    • The Gardens will be open to the public for the event from 12pm to 8pm on Saturday 5 July
    • it will reopen at 10am on Sunday 6 July

    Golden Square Gardens

    • North and East side of the Gardens will be closed on Friday 4 July
    • The Gardens will be open to the public for the event from 12pm to 8pm on Saturday 5 July
    • it will reopen at 10am on Sunday 6 July

    Soho Square Gardens

    • North West side of the Gardens will be closed on Friday 4 July
    • The Gardens will be open to the public for the event from 12pm to 8pm on Saturday 5 July
    • it will reopen at 10am on Sunday 6 July

    St Anne’s Church Gardens

    • The Gardens will be closed to the public on Saturday 5 July
    • it will reopen at its normal time of 10am on Sunday 6 July

    Further Information

    If you wish to contact the Pride in London Resident and Business Liaison team, please email rbl@prideinlondon.org

    You can also contact them on the day of the event on 0204 576 9744

    To contact our Events and Filming Team please email: eventsandfilming@westminster.gov.uk

    If you have a noise or street problems to report on the night, please use the Report It webpage

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Supervision gaps can lead to child abuse – what can be done?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Marg Rogers, Senior Lecturer, Early Childhood Education; Post Doctoral Fellow, Manna Institute, University of New England

    Suwatchai Pluemruetai/Shutterstock

    The horrific allegations of child abuse by an early childhood educator in Victoria came to light at a time when the early learning sector was already under fire for previous abuse revelations and safety breaches.

    Parents of young children in early learning services have good reason to be concerned, and it’s important to understand the way learning environments and grooming behaviours interfere with supervision.

    Recent worrying developments

    In March this year, an ABC Four Corners investigation revealed a rising number of breaches and safety concerns in Australian early childhood services.

    Recently, in Queensland, a paedophile was allowed to keep abusing children in services for years because agencies didn’t share complaints about an educator’s sexually abusive behaviour.

    In Australia, 50.4% of children aged five and under, and 35.3% of children aged 12 and under use approved care services such as daycare or after-school care. That’s more than 1.4 million children from more than a million families.

    The vast majority of services and educators are doing an excellent job of educating and caring for our children.

    But due to the recent spate of incidents, many parents have raised important questions about the level of supervision of children, and how acts of abuse can occur in busy services where there are a large number of people.

    Supervision policies and ratios

    There are national standards, laws and regulations about ratios applicable to services in all states and territories, with some very minor variations.

    The ratios between educators and children depend on the type of service and the age of the children. Babies up to 24 months need one educator for every four children. For 24-36 months, this generally increases to one educator for every five children.

    Preschoolers (3-5 years) require one educator for up to 11 children.

    According to government regulations, children should not be alone with educators.

    But challenges to active supervision include:

    • educator leave

    • a lack of casual educators

    • attrition

    • educator burnout and busyness

    • times of stress (including assessment and rating) when vast amounts of paperwork need to be done, reducing active supervision

    • loopholes such as “under the roof” ratios where every adult in the building (such as cleaners, administration staff and cooks) are illegally counted as educators

    • one-to-one times between children and educators, such as nappy changing and toileting

    • quiet and secluded spaces for children which can be very difficult to supervise, like tents and cubby houses.

    Grooming and supervision

    Grooming interferes with effective supervision in early childhood services.

    Abusers of children make the child feel special by giving them special presents, treats and sharing secrets with them. The child then feels cherished, seeking out the abuser.

    Using a variety of tactics, they usually isolate the child from those they are closest to, meaning they are less likely to disclose abuse.

    Abusers groom not only children but also parents, other educators and management. During this process, they are building trust and dependence.

    Children who are being groomed seek out the abuser, which means the child looks happy spending time with the adult, which seems innocent to those supervising.

    What changes are needed?

    While some improvements have been made, much more needs to happen to fix the long-neglected issues that allow abuse in early learning settings.

    Attracting more staff is a starting point, with more than 20,000 educators needed in Australia. This may require equal pay to school teachers with the same qualifications, and an overall improvement in wages.

    And the status of early childhood educators needs to be lifted within the community.

    Effective child protection training is also needed for educators that covers grooming behaviours.

    Additionally, parents need training on these behaviours and how to recognise signs their child might be being abused.

    Children need to learn ways to protect themselves from harm. They need to know what to do if someone asks them to keep secrets (different to surprises), pressures them to do something they don’t want to do, or uses threats.

    Overall, we need agencies responsible for child protection within and between states and territories to talk to each other and systems that work together to keep our children safe.

    If this story has raised any issues for you, please contact one of the services below:

    • 1800 Respect, National counselling helpline: 1800 737 732
    • Bravehearts, counselling and support for survivors of child sexual abuse: 1800 272 831
    • Child Wise, counselling provider: 1800 991 099
    • Lifeline, 24-hour crisis support and suicide preventio: 13 11 14
    • Care Leavers Australia Network: 1800 008 774
    • PartnerSPEAK, peer support for non-offending partners: (03) 9018 7872

    Marg Rogers received Commonwealth funding for her postdoctoral fellowship with the Manna Institute.

    – ref. Supervision gaps can lead to child abuse – what can be done? – https://theconversation.com/supervision-gaps-can-lead-to-child-abuse-what-can-be-done-260284

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Customers to receive up to £2000 for water service failures

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Customers to receive up to £2000 for water service failures

    Uplifts to Guaranteed Service Standard Scheme will result in up to tenfold increase for customer compensation when they’ve been failed by water companies

    • Increase to water company reimbursements put more money back into customers’ pockets when their services are hit
    • Triggers for compensation to be expanded to include company failure to conduct meter readings and installations
    • One of Environment Secretary’s first promises in office delivered as government rolls out plan to reform the water sector

    Water companies will increase compensation payments to customers up to tenfold from today (2 July), ensuring that the public are more fairly reimbursed for supply issues and low standards of service.  

    Customers will automatically receive more money for issues such as continued low water pressure and cancelled appointments. 

    A key step in the government’s mission to reform the water sector, the move marks the first uplift in compensation rates in 25 years, with the government recognising the urgent need to bring payments in line with inflation and properly compensate households for poor service. 

    Severe issues such as flooding will see customer compensation double from £1,000 to up to £2,000, while households suffering consistent low water pressure will be automatically eligible to receive up to £250 – a huge uplift from the previous compensation rate of just £25.  

    From today, no action will be needed from eligible customers as payments will automatically be credited back to their accounts. 

    Environment Secretary Steve Reed said:  

    Too many water companies are letting down their customers – with leaking pipes, poor water supply and low water pressure.  

    The Government is holding water companies to account by making them put money back into people’s pockets when they fail their customers.

    The government is also working with water companies to expand the list of circumstances that will trigger compensation payments. Compensation for when customers are asked to boil their water due to contaminated supply will come into force later this year. 

    The standards, outlined in the Guaranteed Standards Scheme, set out a baseline for customer service in the water sector. They include providing timely restoration of water supply following an interruption, responding to written complaints and managing the risk of sewer flooding.  

    This comes as part of the government’s action to cut sewage spills and attract investment in the sector, including:  

    • Strengthening regulation to ensure polluting water bosses who cover up their crimes now face two-year prison sentences.
    • Banning unfair bonuses for bosses of six polluting water companies.
    • Launching a record 81 criminal investigations into sewage pollution.
    • Securing £104bn in private sector investment to upgrade crumbling sewage pipes and cut sewage by nearly half by 2030.
    • Launching the Independent Water Commission led by Sir John Cunliffe to modernise the water industry and work with companies and their investors to make the industry one of growth and opportunity.

    Mike Keil, Chief Executive of the Consumer Council for Water (CCW), said:  

    Customers expect to be treated fairly when their water company lets them down, so we’re delighted the Government has moved at pace to strengthen service standards.”  

    This should give people peace of mind they now have far stronger protection from a much broader range of water company service failures – from the slow installation of water meters to the mishandling of debt recovery. As well as bolstering payments for thousands of customers, these changes mark an important step towards restoring trust in the water sector which is at an all-time low.

    David Black, Chief Executive of Ofwat said: 

    We welcome these improvements to guaranteed standards and payments for customers. 

    When customers suffer from problems like low pressure, disruptions to supply or sewer flooding they can experience major stress and inconvenience, and payment amounts must recognise the disruption to their lives when standards are not met.  

    These new changes are another way to make sure customers are protected when companies get it wrong.

    Annex A

    Summary of updates to payment levels for existing standards:

    Existing Standards Coming into force date Old GSS payment New GSS payments Uplift
    Household Non-Household Household Non-Household Household Non-Household
    Appointments not made properly 2 July £20 £40 100%
    Appointments not kept Uprated payments to existing standard – 2 July
    Amended standard 1 Oct    		 £20 £50 150%
    Account queries not actioned on time Uprated payments to existing standard – 2 July
    Amended standard 1 Oct    		 £20 £40 100%
    Requests to change payment arrangements not actioned on time Uprated payments to existing standard – 2 July
    Amended standard 1 Oct    		 £20 £40 100%
    Complaints not actioned on time Uprated payments to existing standard – 2 July
    Amended standard 1 Oct    		 £20 £40 100%
    Less than 48 hours’ notice of planned supply interruption of more than 4 hours 2 July £20 £50 £50 £100 150% 100%
    Supply not restored on time 2 July £20, and £10 for each subsequent 24 hours £50, and £25 for each subsequent 24 hours £50, and £50 for each subsequent 12 hours £100, and £100 for each subsequent 12 hours 150% for initial payment,
    400% for subsequent payment and halved subsequent payment period    		 100% (for both initial and subsequent payment)
    and halved subsequent payment period
    Low pressure 2 July £25
    (once per financial year)    		 £50, up to five payments per financial year – equivalent to just over the average water bill.
    Automatic £250pa for customers with ongoing low pressure    		 100% and increased annual maximum by 10x
    Internal flooding from sewers 2 July Payment equal to annual sewerage charges
    (Minimum payment of £150. Maximum of £1000)    		 Payment equal to annual sewerage charges, at minimum of £300 and maximum of £2000 Min and Max increased by 100%, with provision for repeated incidents in a year to warrant further increases to the maximum (see fig 1)
    External flooding from sewers 2 July Payment equal to 50% of annual sewerage charges
    (Minimum payment of £75. Maximum of £500)    		 Payment equal to 50% of annual sewerage charges, at minimum of £150 and maximum of £1000 Min and Max increased by 100%, with provision for repeated incidents in a year to warrant further increases to the maximum (see fig 1)
    Failure to make automatic GSS payment 2 July £10-20 depending on standard £10-50 depending on standard £40 £100 100-200% depending on standard, consolidating all payments to one value for households and one value for non-households

    Figure 1 –Repeat Sewer Flooding payment bands

    Max Min
    Internal Sewer Flooding £2000 + £500 per repeat occurrence within 12 months £300 + £100 per repeat occurrence within 12 months
    External Sewer Flooding £1000 + £250 per repeat occurrence within 12 months £150 + £50 per repeat occurrence within 12 months

    Summary of new standards

    New Standard Coming into force Information GSS payments
    Household Non-Household
    Core Priority Services 1 Oct The company must keep a list of customers whose circumstances (such as medical or disability) are such that they require additional services to be provided in certain circumstances.

    The company must provide the relevant service to the customer in response to an incident and must inform the customer if they are added to the Core Priority Services Register.

    		 £100 N/A
    Domestic Customer in Arrears 1 Oct Giving information relating to the customer’s non-payment to a Credit Reference Agency or beginning legal proceedings to recover the debt without giving the customer an ‘outstanding charges notice’ and an opportunity to make payment arrangements or make representations in connection with them. £150 N/A
    Reading of Meters 1 Oct The water company must read a customer’s water meter (excluding smart meters) at least once every 13 months £40 (£80 for each subsequent 13-month period) £40 (£80 for each subsequent 13-month period)
    Moving to Measured Charging Supply of Water 1 Oct The water company must (subject to some exceptions) install a water meter upon request and then begin to charge the customer on the basis of the volume of water used.

    If the company fails to do this within the relevant time, the water company must pay the customer.

    		 Payment equivalent to charges payable in the period from the date that charging by volume should have started until meter fitted and charging by volume begins. N/A
    Water Quality Notices 1 Oct Payment is to be made to a customer if a water quality notice is served and supply is not restored by the end of a 48-hour period.

    		 If a notice is in place for longer than 48 hours, £40 plus £20 per additional 24 hours that the notice is in place, up to a maximum of the customer’s annual water supply (not including sewerage services) bill If a notice is in place for longer than 48 hours, £60 plus £40 per additional 24 hours that the notice is in place, up to a maximum of the customer’s annual water supply (not including sewerage services) bill
    Indexation 2 July The payment amounts will increase in line with the consumer price index when this increases by 10% (using September 2025 as the baseline) and rounded to the nearest £5

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New online appeals service launching for all local planning authorities

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New online appeals service launching for all local planning authorities

    The Planning Inspectorate’s new digital appeals service is being rolled out nationally following successful pilot with five London boroughs.

    National rollout begins 

    We’re pleased to announce the national rollout of our new online appeals service following its successful pilot phase. This represents a significant milestone in our digital transformation programme. 

    The service has been thoroughly tested with five London boroughs (Barnet, Greenwich, Havering, Richmond upon Thames, and Bromley) who have been handling both householder appeals (fast-track cases) and section 78 (full planning) appeals through the system. 

    Phased rollout approach 

    We’re using a phased approach to roll out the service: 

    • Cohort 1: Two local planning authorities have recently joined the pilot – Gloucestershire County Council and Gosport Borough Council. 
    • Cohort 2: We will increase the number of authorities joining towards the end of July.
    • National rollout: All authorities in England will join the service by December 2025. We will be sharing more details after the summer. 

    Benefits for local planning authorities 

    The new service offers several important improvements: 

    • streamlined submission and management of appeals, making the process more efficient 
    • a user-friendly LPA dashboard for reviewing and monitoring cases, following GOV.UK design principles 
    • improved communication between all parties, reducing paper-based processes 
    • continuous improvement of the system based on user feedback  

    Show and tell for LPAs 

    Last week, we ran a ‘show and tell’ attended by around 800 people from over 230 local planning authorities to showcase the new service and outline the changes. Recording of the session is below: 

    Appeal a planning decision service Show and tell 

    We received a wealth of excellent questions during the session and, while we managed to answer some of them live, we weren’t able to address all of them in the time available. We’re currently working through these questions and will aim to provide comprehensive responses as soon as possible. 

    Thank you 

    We want to thank our pilot local planning authorities for their valuable feedback and collaboration, which has been crucial in refining the service. We’re also grateful to our project team, casework teams and inspectors for their hard work in developing this system. 

    Further information 

    To stay updated on developments, follow the Planning Inspectorate on LinkedIn or sign up for email alerts via our subscription form.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –