A new manifesto, co-signed by over 60 charities, calls for a cross-government approach to mental health and reform of outdated legislation. It recommends a 'Mental Health Test' for policy development and increased funding for public health. MPs from various parties, including Labour, Liberal Democrats, and Conservatives, have expressed support for the manifesto's recommendations. Labour is particularly interested in adopting these recommendations and has committed to reforming the Mental Health Act. The manifesto aims to address mental health needs proactively and ensure parity between mental and physical health conditions. The Department for Health and Social Care has been contacted for comment.

The Home Office has reversed its commitments to modern slavery survivors, drawing criticism from charities and Labour MP Diana Johnson. The government decided not to proceed with the Places of Safety support model and a 12-month minimum support commitment, citing viability and existing support mechanisms. Critics argue these rollbacks will harm victims and fail to address human trafficking effectively. The National Referral Mechanism (NRM) has become more complex, and recent legislation has made it harder for survivors to access support. The Home Office defends its decision, emphasizing its commitment to existing support services.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is working to persuade Conservative MPs to support his new Rwanda immigration plan ahead of a critical House of Commons vote. The plan has divided the party, with moderates concerned about overriding international law and right-wing MPs wanting stricter measures. Key figures like Julian Smith, Matt Warman, and John Hayes are involved in brokering support. The legislation faces opposition in the House of Lords, and Sunak's approach has led to internal party chaos. The Prime Minister also faces scrutiny in the upcoming Covid inquiry.

Parents like Sifa in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zolaikha in Afghanistan are struggling to feed their children amidst a global hunger crisis exacerbated by conflict, economic instability, and climate change. The article highlights the dire conditions in refugee camps and the increasing number of children born into hunger. Save the Children emphasizes the urgent need for international cooperation and increased funding to address the root causes of malnutrition and prevent further deterioration of children's health and futures.

Parents like Sifa in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zolaikha in Afghanistan are struggling to feed their children amidst a global hunger crisis exacerbated by conflict, economic instability, and climate change. Organizations like Save the Children highlight the urgent need for international cooperation and increased funding to combat child malnutrition. The UK government is urged to step up its efforts in addressing this crisis. The article underscores the devastating impact of hunger on children's health, education, and future, calling for immediate and collective action to prevent further deterioration.

The new hypothecated tax proposed by the Government, following the Gambling Act White Paper, could disproportionately impact independent bookmakers like Jenningsbet, potentially leading to shop closures and job losses. The tax aims to raise funds for Research, Prevention, and Treatment of gambling-related harm but imposes a higher levy on independent bookies compared to other sectors like Adult Gaming Centres and the National Lottery. The Betting and Gaming Council estimates that 492 bookies will be affected by the 0.4% levy, which independent bookmakers argue they cannot afford. The text calls for the Government to reconsider the tax to avoid further economic strain on independent bookies.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has launched a manifesto ahead of the next General Election, urging political parties to prioritize animal welfare legislation, reform the Dangerous Dogs Act, modernize the Veterinary Surgeons Act, introduce minimum animal welfare standards in trade deals, and ensure access to veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland. The BVA emphasizes the need for stricter pet import measures, breed-neutral legislation, protection of the 'veterinary nurse' title, and safeguarding the UK's high animal welfare standards in trade agreements. The manifesto highlights the critical role of legislative reform in protecting animal health, public health, and the veterinary profession.

Around 70% of the UK government's largest private outsourcing partners hire PR firms specializing in Westminster lobbying. Concerns have been raised about the quality of public services provided by these firms, which have incurred significant fines without losing their status. The Commons Public Accounts Committee criticized government procurement practices for not providing value for money and lacking transparency. Calls have been made for the government to improve competition and transparency in outsourcing to better serve the public interest.

The article discusses the debate around the Police, Crime, Sentencing, and Courts Bill in the UK, particularly focusing on the impact of the criminal justice system on women. It highlights the government's plan to create 500 new prison spaces for women, which contradicts the 2018 Female Offender Strategy's goal to reduce the number of women in prison. The article cites statistics showing that many women are imprisoned for non-violent offences and that imprisonment can have detrimental effects on their mental health and family life. Charities and activists advocate for a reformed system that addresses the root causes of women's offences, such as addiction, poverty, and abuse, rather than relying on short prison sentences. The article suggests that by focusing on rehabilitation and support, the need for additional prison spaces could be eliminated, and re-offending rates could be reduced.

The author reflects on the unexpected grief experienced after deciding to stop having more children. Despite feeling prepared for motherhood due to past experiences, the transition to an 'empty nest' brings a sense of loss and the need to rediscover personal identity. The narrative explores the emotional challenges of letting go, the evolving relationship with growing children, and the bittersweet nature of moving on from the early years of motherhood. The author emphasizes the importance of appreciating past moments while embracing the present and future stages of parenting.

The Nationality and Borders Bill, aimed at deterring illegal entry into the UK, has been passed, drawing criticism from over 240 organizations for criminalizing refugees and undermining internationally recognized rights. The Refugee Council estimates that the bill could result in over 19,000 people fleeing conflict being imprisoned annually in the UK. Human rights charities and organizations, along with public support, have opposed the bill, which is seen as punitive rather than protective. Advocates vow to continue fighting the bill's implementation, offering support to refugees, and demanding change through democratic means.

The article highlights the plight of undocumented migrants during the Covid-19 pandemic, focusing on Chioma's story of homelessness and health struggles due to her immigration status. It underscores the need for the UK government to include undocumented migrants in the upcoming Covid Inquiry to address systemic neglect and public health issues. The Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants and other advocates call for a more inclusive approach to ensure that no one is left vulnerable due to their immigration status.

The article discusses the implications of the Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act (FOSTA) and the proposed SAFE TECH Act on sex workers and online platforms. FOSTA, which aimed to curb human trafficking by making websites liable for user content that could facilitate sexual exploitation, led to the shutdown of platforms like Backpage and Craigslist Personals, severely impacting sex workers' income and safety. The SAFE TECH Act seeks to reform Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which protects online platforms from liability for user-generated content. Critics, including sex workers and digital rights advocates, argue that this could lead to over-censorship and harm marginalized groups. The article highlights the views of various stakeholders, including sex workers, advocacy groups, and legislators, on the potential consequences of these laws and the need for inclusive and equitable legislation that considers the rights and safety of all individuals, including sex workers.

The article discusses Senator Cory Booker's proposed 'baby bonds' bill, the American Opportunity Accounts Act, which aims to address the racial wealth gap in the United States. The bill would provide every newborn with a $1,000 savings account, with annual top-ups based on family income. Upon turning 18, the funds could be used for education, home buying, or starting a business. The article highlights the stark wealth disparities between white and Black Americans and argues that inheritances significantly contribute to this gap. While the bill has support from some Democrats, convincing Republicans and middle-class white Americans of its broader societal benefits remains a challenge. The author, Lauren Crosby Medlicott, emphasizes the moral and economic arguments for the bill, suggesting that reducing poverty benefits the entire economy. She also suggests that financial education should be part of the initiative to ensure effective use of the funds.

The article criticizes the UK Home Office's decision to spend £28.2m on measures to prevent migrants from crossing the English Channel, arguing that it breaches human rights. It highlights the harsh treatment of refugees in France and calls for viable, safe routes for asylum seekers to reach the UK. The text expresses strong opposition to the current policies and supports the stance of charities and human rights organizations advocating for humane solutions.

The tragic death of Ugandan asylum seeker Mercy Baguma in Glasgow highlights the vulnerabilities faced by asylum-seeking mothers in the UK. The article argues for radical changes to the asylum system, emphasizing the need for additional support and mental health services for these mothers. It criticizes the current policy that prevents asylum seekers from working, suggesting that allowing them to work would improve their financial stability and mental well-being. The charity BEAM is mentioned positively for its efforts to help asylum seekers integrate into the community.

The article discusses the UK's homelessness crisis, highlighting the success of the 'Everyone In' scheme during the COVID-19 lockdown, which temporarily housed 5,400 rough sleepers. Despite its effectiveness, the government plans to discontinue the scheme, raising questions about its commitment to addressing homelessness. The article underscores the need for continued funding and a comprehensive approach to tackle the root causes of homelessness, including low pay, lack of social housing, and mental health issues.

The US President's recent immigration measures to combat Covid-19 are criticized for exacerbating xenophobia, a sentiment not unique to the US but also present in the UK, fueled by Brexit debates. The author, based in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales, observes the impact of such policies on survivors of human trafficking and the general public's fear of foreigners. The article argues for the importance of diversity and the need to reject xenophobia, even during the pandemic.

The author shares personal reflections on hosting an Eritrean refugee family in their home, highlighting the challenges and insights gained from the experience. The narrative emphasizes the importance of empathy, understanding, and the universal need for love and stability. It also touches on cultural differences in parenting styles and the misconceptions about refugees' needs, advocating for a more humanized perspective on refugees as individuals with unique stories and strengths.

The article discusses the history of the Greek island of Spinalonga, known for being a leper colony in the early 1900s. It highlights the tragic separation of families due to leprosy and the misconceptions about the disease's contagiousness. The narrative also touches on the eventual cure found in the 1950s and the current state of leprosy, particularly in poorer countries. The author reflects on societal prejudices and the importance of looking beyond outward appearances, inspired by the story of Spinalonga.

Lauren Medlicott reflects on the invaluable support and unconditional love provided by her sister, Hannah Crosby, during a challenging two-week period. Despite various personal and household challenges, Hannah's presence brought joy and stability, highlighting the unique bond and safety that a sister provides.