Aine Fox

England’s adult social care system is means-tested, unlike the NHS, and people with assets above £23,250 generally receive no council help, leaving some to sell their homes or rely on unpaid carers. England is less generous than other UK nations and countries, while 889,000 people receive publicly funded long-term care and more than 408,000 are awaiting assessments, support or care-plan reviews. The sector has about 96,000 vacancies and an estimated 1.9 million older people have unmet care needs. Reform costs could range from an additional £4 billion a year for an £86,000 lifetime care cap to £7.5 billion for Scottish-style free personal care or £18.5 billion for an NHS-style system by the mid-2030s. Prime Minister Andy Burnham is seeking cross-party agreement on reforms amid concerns that failures in social care are increasing pressure on the NHS.

Adult social care in England is means-tested rather than free at the point of use, requiring people with savings above £23,250 to fund their own care and sometimes sell assets. The system is less generous than those in many other countries and parts of the UK, while public understanding of its funding remains limited. Demand is high, with 889,000 people receiving publicly funded long-term care in the year to March 2025, hundreds of thousands awaiting assessments and an estimated 1.9 million older people with unmet needs. Workforce shortages remain severe, with about 96,000 vacancies, strengthening calls from Andy Burnham and others for urgent reform and better pay for carers.

Girlguiding has introduced its first major uniform redesign in more than 30 years. Co-created with thousands of girls and designed by HemmingwayDesign, the 30-garment, 15-accessory collection prioritises comfort, practicality, sustainability and personal choice, with members able to wear just a top from the range as uniform. The launch comes shortly before a policy change requiring transgender girls to leave the organisation following its decision to restrict membership to girls and young women after the 2025 UK Supreme Court ruling on biological sex.

The British Muslim Trust recorded 70 attacks on Muslim places of worship across the UK in the year to July, equivalent to roughly one every five days, as mosques face months-long delays in receiving government-funded security support. Incidents included vandalism, arson, intimidation, online abuse and threats. BMT chief executive Akeela Ahmed called for the £40 million security fund to be devolved to local authorities to speed up delivery, while the Home Office said it was processing applications as quickly as possible and had increased protective-security funding to record levels. Official data also showed anti-Muslim religious hate crime in England and Wales rising from 2,690 to 3,199 offences in the year to March 2025. The government has introduced a non-statutory definition of anti-Muslim hostility as part of a broader social-cohesion strategy.

An Ipsos survey finds that 83% of Britons believe the UK is heading in the wrong direction, alongside declining satisfaction with living standards, falling confidence in the NHS, weaker belief in social mobility and diminished trust in politicians. New Prime Minister Andy Burnham has promised to restore hope and run a cost-of-living-focused government, beginning with an £850 million cut to household electricity bills from 1 October. Ipsos advises the government to deliver visible improvements in daily life amid a fragmented and polarized political landscape.

A record 7.4 million low-income UK households were unable to afford at least one basic essential, including food, toiletries, heating, clothing or shoes, during the previous six months. Joseph Rowntree Foundation research found that hardship is increasingly affecting households not receiving means-tested benefits, homeowners without mortgages, older people and families without disabilities. Households receiving Universal Credit remain the most affected, with 84% unable to afford an essential item. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has pledged to make his administration a “cost-of-living government” and announced an £850 million electricity-bill tax cut, but experts warn that the measure does not match the scale of the crisis. The JRF called for action on rental costs, energy affordability and the adequacy of Universal Credit.

An Ipsos survey of 2,576 people across Great Britain found that 83% believe the country is heading in the wrong direction and needs major changes. Only 52% are satisfied with their living standards, confidence in politicians and social mobility has declined, and just 25% describe Britain’s healthcare as good quality. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has responded with an optimistic message and an £850 million reduction in household electricity bills, but Ipsos says his government must deliver tangible improvements and communicate transparently about difficult policy choices to rebuild public trust.

Andy Burnham says his father Roy, who has Alzheimer’s, is unaware of his impending appointment as prime minister. Drawing on his family’s experience, Burnham pledges to prioritise long-delayed adult social care reform, criticising past governments for failing to act and vowing to use political capital to create a fairer, potentially universal care system. He recounts past failed reform attempts, including Conservative attacks on his 2010 proposals, and argues that fixing social care is essential to relieving pressure on the NHS. Burnham signals openness to funding changes, including ideas he has previously supported, and stresses the urgency of addressing the system’s inequities.

Andy Burnham says his father, Roy, who has Alzheimer’s disease, is unaware that his son is about to become prime minister. Burnham describes the moment as both a family achievement and a sadness, and says his personal experience has strengthened his determination to reform England’s social care system. He criticizes the current system as unfair and inefficient and pledges to pursue a universal national care service as a major priority.

Proposed reforms in England and Wales would shift marriage licensing from venues to celebrants, potentially allowing legally binding ceremonies in forests, beaches, castles, canal boats, cruise ships and private gardens. The changes are intended to reduce wedding costs, simplify religious ceremonies and allow humanists to conduct legally recognised weddings, helping couples avoid separate personal and legal ceremonies. The Ministry of Justice says safeguards, including in-person interviews, would protect against forced, predatory and sham marriages. Ministers argue the reforms would modernise outdated rules and could generate substantial additional economic activity, while Independent readers debate whether extravagant weddings have become unnecessarily expensive.

Ofcom has opened an investigation into TikTok’s age-inference system amid concerns that it may not reliably protect children from harmful content. The regulator also says that about a quarter of the UK’s most popular pornography services still lack age verification, with Google and Bing searches making them accessible. Ofcom has fined operators of 24 pornography sites more than £4 million and is urging technology companies and search engines to implement stronger age-assurance measures.

Ofcom has opened an investigation into TikTok’s use of age inference, which estimates users’ ages from their behaviour, amid concerns that it may not adequately protect children from harmful content. TikTok says it complies with the UK Online Safety Act and will cooperate with the regulator; potential penalties could reach £18 million or 10% of worldwide qualifying revenue. Ofcom also reported that many pornography services still lack effective age checks and that Google and Bing make some of those sites easy to find, prompting calls for stronger safeguards across platforms, search engines, operating systems and devices.

Proposed reforms in England and Wales would allow couples to marry in unconventional locations including forests, beaches, cruise ships and private gardens. The Ministry of Justice plans to move licensing from venues to celebrants, simplify religious ceremonies and permit legally binding humanist weddings, potentially reducing the need for separate ceremonies among couples with different beliefs. Safeguards such as in-person interviews would remain to prevent forced or sham marriages. The changes could reduce wedding costs and generate an estimated £139 million in annual economic benefits.

Government proposals would allow couples in England and Wales to legally marry in a wide range of new locations, shifting licensing from venues to celebrants and enabling ceremonies on beaches, in forests, at sea, or in private gardens. The reforms aim to reduce wedding costs, simplify legal recognition for religious and humanist ceremonies, and strengthen safeguards against forced or sham marriages. Economic analysis suggests an increase in weddings could generate substantial additional spending. Government ministers argue that the changes modernize outdated rules, while reader comments highlight concerns over the high costs and increasing extravagance of contemporary weddings.

Awaab’s Law will require social landlords in England to respond more quickly to serious housing hazards, with excess heat and cold, falls, structural dangers, fire, electrical risks and hygiene issues added from 30 November. Emergency hazards must be addressed within 24 hours, while other serious problems have staged deadlines intended to make homes safe within 15 days and begin longer-term repairs within 12 weeks. The rules followed the 2020 death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak from a respiratory condition linked to mould exposure. Excess heat caused solely by unusually high outdoor temperatures is excluded unless a defect in the home worsens the problem, as climate experts warn that overheating risks are increasing across UK homes.

The Church of England defended a World Cup-themed prayer after online criticism that it was trivial and referenced Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal. Ahead of the General Synod meeting, a representative questioned the prayer’s creation and approval process. Bishop Michael Ipgrave explained that prayers for social media are crafted by trained staff and often use informal, accessible language to reach broader audiences. He noted that while the prayer drew criticism on X, it received positive responses on other platforms such as Facebook.

The UK government is extending the Cladding Safety Scheme to multi-occupancy residential buildings under 11 metres in England, prioritising properties judged to pose the greatest fire-safety risks. Applications are due to open in August and Homes England will administer the scheme, although no funding total has been disclosed. The measure aims to protect leaseholders from remediation bills, but campaigners warn that limited funding and bureaucracy could prolong delays. The National Housing Federation supports the change, while End Our Cladding Scandal argues that the government must address all internal and external building defects rather than cladding alone. The government is also backing an FCA review of insurance premiums for buildings affected by fire-safety risks.

England’s 1am World Cup last-16 match against Mexico has prompted debate over whether children should stay up to watch and attend school the next day. Manager Thomas Tuchel encouraged children to watch, while Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said parents should decide and stressed that pupils should still attend school. The National Education Union suggested that schools consider a more flexible Monday morning, with some potentially showing match highlights.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer formally apologised in Parliament on behalf of the UK state for historical forced adoptions, calling the practice a stain on the country’s history. The apology followed a 2022 recommendation by the Joint Committee on Human Rights and came after similar apologies from Wales, Scotland and the Church of England. Campaigners sought acknowledgement of wrongdoing, acceptance of responsibility, trauma-informed counselling and improved access to adoption records. The moment was marked by sadness because some long-standing campaigners, including Veronica Smith, died before the apology was delivered.

The UK Government is set to issue a formal apology for historical forced adoptions affecting an estimated 185,000 babies between 1949 and 1976, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer expected to deliver the statement in Parliament. The decision follows years of campaigning and recommendations from the Joint Committee on Human Rights, as well as apologies already issued by administrations in Wales and Scotland and by the Church of England. Campaigners emphasise the need for recognition of wrongdoing and improved support for affected mothers and adoptees, though the announcement comes too late for some key advocates who have died or become too frail to witness it.

More than one million children in England are currently engaged with mental health services, according to the children’s commissioner Rachel de Souza. Active referrals have nearly doubled since 2018–19, with anxiety the leading reason for referrals and suspected autism referrals rising by 47 percent. Waiting times remain severe: the weighted average is 128 days, and 16 percent of children awaiting treatment have waited more than two years.

Over one million children in England had active referrals to mental health services in the 12 months to March 2025, nearly double the figure from 2018–19. Data from the Children’s Commissioner highlights rising demand driven primarily by anxiety, suspected autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions. Waiting times remain long, with more than 60,000 children waiting over two years for treatment. The report cites increasing distress among young people, better recognition of conditions and changing help‑seeking behaviour as contributing factors. A call is made for coordinated action across health, education and social care to meet growing needs and improve outcomes.

Matthew Hyndman, a contestant on The Traitors, has backed the UK Government’s proposed ban on conversion practices in England and Wales. He described being pressured in his twenties to publicly repent for being gay and undergo counselling or leave an evangelical Christian community. Hyndman said the proposed legislation would send a clear message that LGBT+ people are not broken and do not need to be cured. The draft bill would criminalize abusive practices intended to change a person’s sexual orientation or transgender identity, with possible fines or imprisonment, and has been welcomed by a charity supporting survivors as an important first step.

Almost 1.6 million children in England, including more than 70,000 babies, reportedly live in homes that regularly overheat. National Housing Federation polling found that overheated homes disrupt sleep for seven in ten parents and affect concentration for nearly half. Housing groups are urging ministers to include overheating protections in social-housing upgrades, while climate scientist Chloe Brimicombe warns that UK infrastructure is not prepared for rising heat and calls for building designs that prioritize summer cooling.

Almost 1.6 million children in England, including more than 70,000 babies, live in homes that regularly become uncomfortably hot. Polling found that overheated homes disrupt sleep for seven in ten parents’ children and affect concentration for nearly half. Housing and climate experts warn that increasingly frequent heatwaves could worsen the problem, with up to 92% of existing homes potentially at risk of overheating. The National Housing Federation and Chartered Institute of Housing are calling for stronger building regulations, large-scale cooling retrofits and government support to make social and future housing resilient to higher temperatures. Health authorities have also issued guidance for protecting children from heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

A University of Newcastle study of 408 Australian adolescents found that 85% of under-16 participants still used platforms covered by Australia’s social-media ban three months after it took effect. Many encountered easily bypassed age checks, while others used fake accounts or private browsing. Researchers said there was insufficient evidence of an early reduction in social-media use, but cautioned that the policy’s effects may take years to emerge. Experts stressed the study’s small, self-reported sample and said implementation challenges do not yet prove the ban has failed. The findings raise questions for the UK, which plans similar restrictions, while child-safety groups argue that age limits must be accompanied by stronger platform design and content-safety measures.

Andy Burnham describes himself as Catholic by upbringing but not particularly religious, while saying Catholic social teaching underpins his politics. He has criticized the Catholic Church’s later emphasis on sexuality and was alienated by Pope Benedict XVI’s vision of a smaller, purer church, but regarded Pope Francis warmly. Burnham’s support in principle for assisted dying puts him at odds with the Catholic Church, although he insists that any law must include strong safeguards and properly funded hospices.

Health Secretary James Murray has confirmed that the UK’s Pathways puberty blocker trial will proceed after regulators approved a modified protocol with stronger safeguards, including minimum participant ages, enhanced monitoring and withdrawal mechanisms. The trial, run by King’s College London, was paused in February amid regulatory concerns and a legal challenge, and recruitment will not resume before 1 August. Critics including Conservative figures Caroline Johnson and Kemi Badenoch, backed by J.K. Rowling, argue that the research risks irreversible harm to vulnerable children and should be cancelled. Murray said generating reliable clinical evidence, as recommended by the Cass Review, was the most appropriate way to guide future decisions. A legal case challenging the trial’s ethical approval is due before the High Court on 27 July, while new data shows thousands of children remain on waiting lists for NHS gender services in England and Wales.

England’s Children’s Commissioner Rachel de Souza has described the murder and sexual abuse of 13-month-old Preston Davey by his adoptive father as a failure of the state and safeguarding system. Preston had been taken to hospital multiple times, seen by professionals and involved in a police call before his death. Jamie Varley received a whole-life sentence for murder, while John McGowan-Fazakerley was jailed for 25 years for allowing the death. An independent review led by Oldham Council will examine whether agencies missed opportunities to protect Preston, alongside national scrutiny. The case has renewed calls for stronger information-sharing, professional curiosity and accountability, with the Government pointing to child-protection reforms and plans for a new Child Protection Authority.

The Church of England has apologised for the lifelong pain, trauma, stigma and indignity experienced by mothers and children affected by forced adoption in Church-affiliated homes, particularly between 1949 and 1976. Archbishop of Canterbury Sarah Mullally said survivors had nothing to be ashamed of and pledged greater openness, learning and change. Campaigners welcomed the apology cautiously, with the Movement for an Adoption Apology calling it a first step while the Adult Adoptee Movement criticised the lack of consultation and attention to adoptees. The Church said its redress scheme, expected by the end of 2026, could provide payments of £5,000 to £660,000 in exceptional cases alongside therapy and spiritual support, although eligibility will be assessed individually. The apology follows commitments from the UK Government and earlier apologies by the Welsh and Scottish administrations and the Catholic Church.

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has promised a full apology on behalf of the UK state to survivors of historic forced adoption in England. An estimated 185,000 children were taken from unmarried mothers and adopted between 1949 and 1976 in England and Wales, with the practices extending beyond those dates. The commitment follows years of campaigning and criticism of the previous government’s refusal to issue a formal apology. A parliamentary committee has also called for better access to adoption records, trauma-informed support, and a detailed assessment of possible financial redress and survivor-led remedies, drawing on schemes in Ireland, Northern Ireland and Australia.

Kim Leadbeater marked the tenth anniversary of her sister Jo Cox’s murder by warning about deepening divisions in UK society. She urged political leaders to avoid extreme positions, divisive rhetoric and dangerous language, and recalled Cox’s belief that people have more in common than divides them.

Kim Leadbeater has warned that divisive political rhetoric and dangerous language could push people toward extremism and violence, speaking on the tenth anniversary of her sister Jo Cox’s murder by neo-Nazi Thomas Mair. She urged political leaders to acknowledge public concerns about immigration, living costs and housing without stoking division. Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised Cox’s legacy and called for communities to stand against hatred. Leadbeater encouraged people to honour Cox through the Great Get Together and other local acts of connection and solidarity.

Grenfell survivors and bereaved families are preparing for the final anniversary at which any part of Grenfell Tower remains, while continuing to demand accountability. Police and prosecutors say up to 20 companies and 57 individuals could face charges including corporate gross negligence manslaughter, fraud and health and safety offences, with decisions expected before the 10th anniversary. The public inquiry found the 2017 fire avoidable and blamed decades of governmental and industry failures, including the use of combustible cladding and insulation and the manipulation of safety tests. Demolition has upset some families who wanted part of the tower preserved, while a separate memorial project is expected to produce a final design in 2027.

Researchers at University College London, supported by the NSPCC, found that physical punishment is associated with poorer academic performance and increased antisocial or aggressive behaviour among children in England. The findings prompted criticism of England and Northern Ireland for retaining the legal defence of “reasonable punishment,” while Wales and Scotland have banned corporal punishment. The Department for Education said it has no current plans to introduce a ban in England.

A UCL study supported by the NSPCC finds that children in England who experienced physical punishment between ages three and seven were more likely to have poorer educational attainment and to display antisocial behaviour by age 14. Researchers say England and Northern Ireland missed an opportunity by retaining the legal defence of reasonable punishment, while Wales and Scotland have banned corporal punishment. Advocates, including children's commissioners and a Labour MP, support reform, whereas Conservative peer Lord Jackson argues that a ban would be disproportionate and could criminalise caring parents. The Department for Education says the government has no immediate plans to legislate against smacking.

The Centre for Ageing Better is urging people to stop using common ageist phrases such as “over the hill” and “stuck in their ways.” A survey of 4,000 UK adults found that such language affects people from their late 40s onward, with older adults also being labelled “dinosaurs” or told they are past their sell-by date. Campaigners Harriet Bailiss and Katherine Crawshaw say seemingly harmless expressions reinforce prejudice, undermine confidence, and can damage people’s work, health and relationships as they age.

Campaigners from the Centre for Ageing Better are urging people in the UK to stop using common ageist expressions such as “over the hill,” “stuck in their ways” and “past their sell-by date.” An Opinium survey of 4,000 adults found that these phrases are frequently directed at people from their late 40s onward, and that many adults also use them. The campaigners argue that seemingly harmless language reinforces prejudice, undermines confidence and can contribute to older people being overlooked for jobs, healthcare and other opportunities.

Cera plans 50 government-backed training programmes for people aged 18–24 and over 50, with participants receiving a Level 1 health and social care qualification and guaranteed interviews for care assistant roles. The initiative aims to address unemployment and labour-market inactivity while helping relieve severe recruitment and retention problems in England’s adult social care sector. It follows Alan Milburn’s warning that nearly one in seven 16–24-year-olds in the UK is not in employment, education or training and that lack of work experience is a major barrier to employment.

Ofcom has strengthened its online safety codes, requiring technology platforms to prepare for surges in illegal content during crises such as terror attacks and civil unrest. The measures include temporary response teams, post-crisis reviews and, for large platforms, dedicated channels for sharing information with law enforcement. The rules address false communications and state-sponsored misinformation, including false claims linked to the 2024 Southport riots, but must first be presented to Parliament by the UK Government before taking effect.

Ofcom has proposed strengthened online safety rules requiring technology platforms to prepare crisis protocols and respond quickly to surges in illegal content, such as hate speech, terrorist material, false communications and state-sponsored misinformation. The measures follow disorder in England after the 2024 Southport murders, when false claims about the attacker circulated online. Platforms would need temporary crisis response teams, post-crisis reviews and, for the largest services, dedicated communication channels for law enforcement. The changes require government approval and parliamentary scrutiny before taking effect.

Metropolitan Police data shows antisemitic hate crimes in London rose 72 percent from April to May, reaching 255 incidents, with Barnet accounting for 30 percent. Islamophobic hate crimes increased 33 percent over the same period to 179 incidents, with Westminster recording the most. The rises followed the publication of a UK Government definition of anti-Muslim hostility and coincided with events including the Unite the Kingdom rally. A government-commissioned review also found routine ostracism of Jewish people within the NHS, prompting antisemitism adviser John Mann to describe anti-Jewish racism as a national emergency.

Metropolitan Police data shows antisemitic hate crimes in London rose 72% from 148 in April to 255 in May, with Barnet recording the highest number. Islamophobic hate crimes increased 33%, from 135 to 179, led by Westminster. The figures follow several apparent antisemitic incidents, including an arson attack at a former synagogue, and a controversial Unite the Kingdom rally associated with anti-Muslim rhetoric. A government-commissioned review also reported routine antisemitism in the NHS, prompting the government’s adviser to call anti-Jewish racism a national emergency.

A review led by Lord John Mann found that Jewish NHS staff and patients may hide their religious identity and suffer antisemitism in silence, including routine ostracism and delayed or avoided treatment. The Department of Health and Social Care will introduce a new staff standard, require anti-racism training for NHS trust leaders, and update training for 1.5 million staff to cover antisemitism and anti-Muslim hostility. Mann’s recommendations are due to be presented to Parliament.

A Law Commission report recommends creating a legal framework that would allow England and Wales to approve and regulate emerging funeral practices such as human composting and water cremation. The framework would address environmental protection, public health, safety, dignified treatment of human remains, and religious and cultural considerations. The proposal follows Scotland’s decision to legalise water cremation.

A review led by the government’s antisemitism adviser, Lord John Mann, found that some Jewish NHS staff experience routine ostracism and feel compelled to hide their identity, while some Jewish patients delay or avoid treatment because of fears of antisemitism. The government accepted the review’s recommendations and announced a new staff standard, mandatory anti-racism training for NHS leaders, updated equality training covering antisemitism and anti-Muslim hostility, and national guidance on handling discrimination. Mann warned that the NHS’s universality is undermined when Jewish people cannot expect equal treatment.

The Law Commission has recommended giving the Westminster and Welsh governments powers to approve and regulate emerging funeral methods, including water cremation and human composting, in England and Wales. Water cremation uses hot water and chemicals to accelerate decomposition, while human composting transforms remains into nutrient-rich soil. Any new framework would need to protect public health, safety, the environment, human dignity, and religious and cultural practices, with effective oversight and facility inspections. The proposals would not require anyone to use a particular method and follow wider recommendations to address a shortage of burial space.

Sikh studies professor Jagbir Jhutti-Johal warned that Nigel Farage’s call for “pure cold rage” after the murder of 18-year-old Henry Nowak could create fear among minority communities and deepen mistrust. She criticized claims that the case proves two-tier policing without clear evidence. Nowak’s family has called for an investigation into police conduct but urged that his death not be used to fuel division. Sikh MPs and Labour politicians condemned attempts by Reform UK and Restore Britain to politicize the killing and seek a ban on the kirpan, noting that the ceremonial knife was not used in the attack. Political leaders and the Sikh community called for calm, accountability and protection of religious freedom.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan is expected to support banning social media access for under-16s unless technology companies can demonstrate that their platforms are safe for children. He argues that a ban alone would not solve the problem and is calling for platforms to address harmful algorithms and online misogyny. Khan will also announce £1 million in London funding for vulnerable boys and young men, including school support, a programme for fathers and football-based mentoring focused on toxic masculinity.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan is expected to support banning social media access for under-16s unless technology companies can prove their platforms are safe for children. His position follows the UK government’s consultation on online harms and Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s promise of “game-changer” action, although Starmer has not endorsed a ban. Khan also argues that restrictions alone will not solve online harms, calling for algorithmic changes and accountability over the spread of misogyny. He is expected to announce a £1 million package supporting vulnerable boys and young men through schools, a fathers’ programme and football mentoring.

The UK government has introduced updated guidance on single-sex spaces following the Supreme Court’s April 2025 ruling that the terms “woman” and “sex” in the Equality Act 2010 refer to biological sex, while trans people remain protected under the gender-reassignment characteristic. Equalities Minister Bridget Phillipson said the code would help organisations such as hospitals and leisure centres make practical decisions about facilities including toilets. Women’s rights campaigners welcomed the guidance, while trans rights activists stressed the importance of protecting trans people’s participation in public life. The revised code, the first update since 2011, covers nine protected characteristics and will undergo 40 days of parliamentary scrutiny before it can take effect.

Ofcom says TikTok and YouTube remain insufficiently safe for children because personalised feeds continue to expose young users to harmful content. Around seven in 10 surveyed 11- to 17-year-olds reported encountering harmful material, a rate that had not improved after online-safety duties took effect. Snapchat, Roblox and Meta agreed to additional measures addressing grooming, age checks and direct messaging, although Ofcom remains unconvinced that platforms can effectively prevent under-13s from accessing their services. The regulator is scrutinising further commitments and may impose fines, while charities support stronger enforcement and the companies defend their existing safety measures.

A survey of UK residents, young people, university students and employers found widespread concern that artificial intelligence could cause job losses and deepen economic inequality. Fifty-seven per cent of the general public expect widespread unemployment, while 22 per cent fear AI-driven displacement could trigger civil unrest; that figure rises to 34 per cent among students. Most respondents believe the economic gains will go mainly to wealthy investors and large corporations rather than workers or society as a whole.

A survey of British workers, young people, university students and employers found widespread anxiety about artificial intelligence’s impact on employment. Fifty-seven percent of the public expected widespread unemployment, 22% believed job losses could happen quickly enough to cause civil unrest, and 69% of workers worried about the broader economic effects. Students were especially concerned, with 34% fearing civil unrest. Although most workers did not expect AI to replace their own jobs, respondents generally believed its economic gains would benefit wealthy investors and large companies more than workers or society. King’s College London researchers highlighted risks to entry-level employment while arguing that effective training, policy and institutional support could lead to higher productivity and broader opportunities.

Modern-slavery referrals to the UK Home Office reached a record 23,411 in 2025, with UK nationals accounting for 22 per cent of cases. A report commissioned by Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner Eleanor Lyons warns that rising living costs, debt, insecure work, global conflict and migration pressures are increasing vulnerability, while artificial intelligence and other technologies enable traffickers to recruit and control victims at greater scale and anonymity. Emerging threats include digital labour exploitation, online sexual exploitation, forced surrogacy and organ harvesting. Lyons urged the Government to appoint a ministerial committee, increase funding for specialist police units, launch a public-awareness campaign, hold businesses accountable and adopt a long-term strategy. The Government said it is reviewing the system and reducing the backlog of cases.

The Metropolitan Police are preparing a significant operation for 16 May, when a Nakba Day pro-Palestine march and a Tommy Robinson-backed “Unite the Kingdom, Unite the West” rally will take place in London, alongside the FA Cup final at Wembley. The force will impose Public Order Act conditions on routes, assembly points and post-march gatherings to prevent serious disruption and disorder. Officials and Jewish community leaders have raised concerns about antisemitism at some pro-Palestine demonstrations, while also acknowledging the right to protest Israel’s actions. The Met says it cannot impose a general ban and that any moratorium on marches would require Parliament to act.

Police are reviewing upcoming London public events, including a 16 May Stop the War Coalition march marking Nakba Day, after the UK terrorism threat level was raised to severe following stabbings in Golders Green. The Community Security Trust, terrorism legislation reviewer Jonathan Hall, Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage have raised concerns that pro-Palestinian demonstrations can facilitate antisemitism and have called for stronger action. The Stop the War Coalition rejects any link between its marches and recent antisemitic attacks, condemns antisemitism and says its demonstrations support Gaza and oppose the Israeli government’s actions.

Police are reviewing whether upcoming demonstrations, including a major Stop the War Coalition march in London on May 16, can proceed after the UK terrorism threat level was raised to severe following stabbings targeting two Jewish men in Golders Green. Counter Terrorism Policing said it would assess events and security measures, while terrorism legislation reviewer Jonathan Hall called for a moratorium on pro-Palestinian marches. The Community Security Trust and Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis linked the protest environment to rising antisemitism, whereas Stop the War rejected that connection, condemned antisemitic attacks and defended the marches as opposition to Israel’s conduct in Gaza. A separate rally promoted by Tommy Robinson is also scheduled for the same date.

Archbishop of Canterbury Sarah Mullally described her Vatican meeting with Pope Leo as warm, encouraging and hopeful. The two leaders discussed peace, reconciliation, justice and the churches’ pastoral responsibilities, while Pope Leo urged Anglicans and Catholics to overcome their differences and deepen cooperation. Mullally declined to say whether Donald Trump’s public criticism of the pope was discussed, emphasizing the broader needs of the world and the church’s role.

Archbishop of Canterbury Dame Sarah Mullally met Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, describing the encounter as warm, hopeful and significant for strengthening Anglican–Roman Catholic relations. The two leaders prayed together and discussed peace, reconciliation, justice, conflict and pastoral care, while Pope Leo urged Anglicans and Catholics to overcome their differences. Mullally avoided commenting on Donald Trump’s criticism of the Pope and a controversial image shared by the US president, but reiterated her support for peaceful and just solutions to conflict. Her four-day visit aims to deepen cooperation between the two churches, and she extended an invitation for Pope Leo to visit the United Kingdom.

Archbishop of Canterbury Sarah Mullally condemned violence against civilians and urged the Church to defend human dignity, welcome refugees and pursue peace. Her remarks came during a four-day pilgrimage to Rome ahead of a private meeting with Pope Leo XIV, whose anti-war statements she has supported. The visit is intended to strengthen Anglican–Roman Catholic relations, with Mullally and the Pope scheduled to pray and discuss shared concerns at the Vatican.

The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill is expected to lapse after its final scheduled committee-stage sitting in the House of Lords, having run out of parliamentary time amid more than 1,000 proposed amendments and accusations of filibustering. The Bill, introduced by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, passed the Commons but with a reduced majority, while opponents argue that safeguards were weakened and the legislation is unsafe. Supporters may seek to revive the measure as a new private members’ Bill after the next King’s Speech, or potentially use the Parliament Act if the legislation is approved by the Commons in two successive sessions. Leadbeater intends to enter the next private members’ Bill ballot, although peers opposing the measure argue that a change of this scale should not be pursued through backbench legislation.

A new animation called What Is Dyslexia?, voiced by Jeremy Irons and Liv Tyler, seeks to counter negative portrayals of dyslexia. Made By Dyslexia says research involving 5,000 dyslexic people found that online descriptions often emphasize difficulties and can harm children’s expectations for their futures. The film presents dyslexia as a different and potentially advantageous way of thinking, following a young girl who learns about successful dyslexic historical figures. Its release follows Donald Trump’s mocking remarks about dyslexia.

A new Made By Dyslexia animation, voiced by Jeremy Irons and Liv Tyler, aims to counter negative portrayals of dyslexia by emphasizing strengths such as creativity, imagination and problem-solving. The campaign follows Donald Trump’s criticism of Gavin Newsom, which Newsom condemned as bullying people with learning disabilities. A survey of 5,000 dyslexic people and family members found that many believe online descriptions focus excessively on difficulties, undermine children’s confidence and fail to explain dyslexic strengths. The film follows a girl named Lola as she discovers the achievements of dyslexic figures and learns to view dyslexia as a different way of thinking rather than a weakness.

Billy Bragg and former Conservative MP Sajid Javid are supporting a campaign encouraging people to celebrate St George’s Day through shared English values rather than exclusionary nationalism. A virtual pocket museum highlights 50 objects, people and events associated with Englishness, while exhibitions and merchandise aim to promote social cohesion. The campaign follows controversy over England and Union flags and concerns that national symbols can be linked to racism or intimidation. British Future research found that 39% of people in England would avoid displaying the England flag for fear of appearing aligned with the far right, while 81% disliked associations between the flag, racism and intimidation of minorities.

Strip searches of children in England fell by 56% from 854 in 2020 to an estimated 377 in 2024, but the Children’s Commissioner says too many remain unnecessary, unsafe and poorly recorded. Some searches occurred in public or without an appropriate adult, and 30% involved children previously searched. Black children were almost five times more likely than white children to experience force during a search. The National Police Chiefs’ Council and Home Office outlined revised guidance and safeguards, while the commissioner called for strip searches to be used only as a last resort and for stronger accountability.

Ofcom has opened a formal investigation into Telegram after evidence from the Canadian Centre for Child Protection raised concerns about child sexual abuse material on the platform. The UK regulator is assessing whether Telegram has met its duties under the Online Safety Act and warned that non-compliance could lead to fines of up to £18 million or 10% of worldwide qualifying revenue, as well as potential court orders to block access in the UK. Ofcom also launched investigations into Teen Chat and Chat Avenue over alleged risks involving illegal content and child grooming.

Victims of the UK Post Office Horizon, Windrush and infected blood scandals are estimated to be owed £15 billion in compensation. By February, only £3.5 billion had been paid, leaving £11.4 billion outstanding, with infected blood victims accounting for about £12.8 billion of the total. The National Audit Office said many eligible claimants have faced prolonged waits and inaccurate processing estimates, although newer compensation schemes have begun applying lessons from earlier delays to accelerate payments.

A National Audit Office report found that victims of the UK’s Post Office Horizon, Windrush, infected blood and LGBT veterans scandals are owed an estimated £14.9 billion, of which £11.4 billion remained unpaid by February. Around £12.8 billion of the total relates to the infected blood scandal. Although newer schemes have improved payment rates and more than 80% of eligible Horizon claims have received final payments, many claimants have waited over a year and schemes have struggled with underestimated demand, backlogs and uncertain estimates of eligibility. The government says more than £5.1 billion had been paid by the end of March and that it is improving access and delivery, while oversight bodies warn that substantial work remains to ensure all eligible victims receive compensation promptly.

Archbishop of Canterbury Sarah Mullally has expressed solidarity with Pope Leo’s calls for peace amid an escalating dispute with Donald Trump. Trump criticized the Pope as weak and urged him to focus on religious leadership rather than politics, contrasting with his earlier praise following Leo’s election. Mullally, who is due to meet the Pope in Rome, called on political leaders to pursue peaceful and just solutions to conflicts.

Archbishop of Canterbury Sarah Mullally expressed solidarity with Pope Leo XIV’s calls for peace and urged political leaders to pursue peaceful and just solutions to conflict. Her statement followed Donald Trump’s criticism of the Pope as weak and ineffective, contrasting with Trump’s earlier praise after Leo’s election. During an Africa tour, Pope Leo condemned war, religious manipulation and leaders who pursue military, economic or political gain, while Trump defended a deleted Jesus-like image of himself and denied comparing himself to Christ.

More than half of adult social care workers reportedly begin caring for people with dementia without receiving dementia training. Research commissioned by the Alzheimer's Society found that only 47% received such training during induction, while just one-third of existing training packages met recommended standards. The charity is calling for mandatory, comprehensive training after only 52% of surveyed staff said they felt highly competent in providing dementia care.

Research commissioned by the Alzheimer’s Society found that only 47% of social-care staff in England receive dementia training during induction, meaning more than half begin caring for people with dementia without prior instruction. Many training packages contain only one or two hours of dementia-specific content, and just 39% meet recommended standards for staff who regularly support people with dementia. The society is calling for mandatory training, while sector leaders say underfunding must be addressed so workers can access comprehensive training and be paid to attend. The findings come as dementia cases in the UK are expected to rise from around one million to 1.4 million by 2040.