Analysis from Asthma + Lung UK reveals a stark north/south divide in the likelihood of someone with a lung condition being hospitalised or dying. The leading lung health charity’s CEO, Sarah Woolnough, urges UK governments to end the lung health lottery by investing in earlier diagnosis, improved care and respiratory research. » Read More
Net zero is the UK’s chance to become Europe’s economic powerhouse once again. We have the windiest seas, much of Europe’s carbon storage potential, and a world-leading offshore wind industry. But with the USA and EU offering enormous subsidies to entice green investment away from our shores, we risk becoming uncompetitive unless the Chancellor uses
This week’s announcement by the government to establish new community wealth funds from the expanded Dormant Assets Scheme to provide long-term investment for rebuilding some of the most deprived neighbourhoods in England is hugely welcome. The announcement, which follows four years of campaigning by local authorities, civil society funders, » Read More
In an interview on Times Radio last week, Steve Baker MP described how during a period of bad depression he relied on his employees for emotional support, including requesting that ‘his youngest staffer’ ‘come into his office’ to ‘ask him silly questions’ to help him through one of his lowest points. » Read More
Most people would agree that the US has a toxic political culture. Bernie Sanders, in the UK this week, makes the point that both blue and red are in hock to big money. The information space is completely dominated by echo chambers which make reasoned political argument ever more unlikely. » Read More
The health service is living through one of the worst winters in its history. Patients are sicker, there are more of them and the ability of doctors and other health professionals to treat them is under severe strain. At the heart of the challenge is the vexed issue of workforce – ensuring the number of
This week, by fully mitigating the benefit cap, the Scottish government has taken a hugely significant step forward in its efforts to reduce child poverty. Its clear statement that families should get the support they need through our social security system, rather than be penalised by an arbitrary limit, is laudable. » Read More
Sudden news of the Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announcing that she is due to stand down as Leader within months – after eight years – has sent shockwaves through Holyrood and beyond. During a time of political turmoil, her iron-clad grip on the Scottish Parliament is coming to an end. » Read More
This week, the government unleashed their much-awaited plan to tackle “recreational” drug use, with much of the rhetoric to-date centring around “middle-class cocaine users” and the need to implement “tough consequences” to tackle drug use. Whilst those in the drug policy reform space were anticipating the worst, there are small green shoots that offer reasons…
Last week, over 8 million households received their first of two cost of living payments, a long overdue recognition by the government that, while the cost of living crisis is affecting us all, its impacts remain profoundly unequal. Households on means-tested benefits will receive £326 directly into their bank accounts, with a further payment of…
