Ros Wynne Jones

Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice, which supports Sophie Charles and thousands of other children, siblings and carers, faces a planned £1 million deficit and daily running costs of about £20,000. Sophie, who has the severe genetic condition STXBP1, relies on the hospice for clinical, emotional and social support after her brother Ben died from the same condition at 17. The hospice says government funding covers only about a third of sector income, while rising energy costs, higher National Insurance and the cost-of-living crisis are worsening the shortfall. Campaigners and hospice leaders are urging Andy Burnham’s planned social care reforms to fully include children’s palliative services, warning that closures would increase pressure on the NHS and leave families without essential support.

Nigel Farage won the Clacton by-election decisively, but Count Binface secured an unusually large vote for a novelty candidate, reflecting frustration with mainstream politics. Residents expressed sharply divided views: some saw Farage and Reform UK as the town’s best hope, while others criticized his absence from the count, his time abroad and the failure to use a reported £5 million donation to address Clacton’s economic decline. Farage is also facing a parliamentary investigation over allegedly undisclosed financial support. Despite the election’s farcical candidate list and political theatrics, many locals valued the renewed political engagement and civic participation.

Bev Craig’s decisive 66.3% to 33.7% victory over Reform UK’s Sian Astley is presented as the payoff from Andy Burnham’s risky decision to contest the Makerfield seat and leave the Greater Manchester mayoralty. The result gives Craig, the first female and LGBTQ+ leader of Manchester City Council, control of the region’s £3 billion mayoral authority while Burnham establishes a national political base in the North. The column argues that Labour has regained support in outer towns that recently voted Reform, contrasting the result with Reform leader Nigel Farage’s weaker performance in Clacton and suggesting the election marks a broader shift in political power.

A Bolton scrapyard and car-washing social enterprise, Genuine Futures CIC, is helping young people classified as NEETs gain work experience, confidence and a sense of purpose. Luis Green says the project transformed his outlook after two years of unemployment and isolation, while Cameron Hughes-Richardson describes it as giving him a future. Founder Sam Smith argues that education reform alone will not resolve the crisis, calling for investment in trusted adults, grassroots organisations and long-term support to prevent young people from entering a path through exclusion, care and prison. The feature follows Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s pledge to tackle Britain’s rising NEET population, reported to exceed one million, and highlights the need to treat technical and academic routes with equal respect while creating more practical opportunities.

Marie-France van Heel, wife of new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, is portrayed as intelligent, private and reluctant to embrace the role of a traditional political spouse. Her family experiences with illness, including her sister’s death from breast cancer and her own preventative surgery, helped shape Burnham’s views on the NHS and social care. Despite her professional career in marketing and charitable involvement, she tends to stay out of the political spotlight. The article highlights the Burnham family’s grounded, human approach as the couple adjusts to life connected with Downing Street, reflecting the values that inform the Prime Minister’s political priorities.

A Syrian family resettled on the Isle of Bute more than a decade ago has built a lasting life in the Scottish community. Zakarya Fasi established a barbershop, his son Yahya runs a café and plays football, and Abdul is engaged to local islander Abbie Cameron. Despite early media hostility and some local trepidation, the family received support from residents, learned English, worked and volunteered, while contributing to the island’s social life. Their story challenges narrow definitions of Scottish identity, presenting belonging as rooted in shared community, affection and participation rather than birthplace.

Andy Burnham’s ascent to Labour leadership is marked by an emotional, optimistic pitch for a renewed political style as he prepares to become the UK’s next prime minister. He invokes party figures who shaped his politics, outlines plans to address long‑neglected issues such as social care, and emphasizes unity over factionalism. His message centres on restoring hope and shifting political culture, signalling what he promises will be the biggest change in British politics in four decades.

Community food advocates highlight the growing problem of UK food deserts, where processed products are easier to find than fresh produce. A Citizens Advisory Council working with the government’s food department calls for an overhaul of the food system to improve access, affordability and fairness. Public polling shows strong cross-party support for healthier, more sustainable food policies, while local projects such as the Queen of Greens mobile greengrocer demonstrate successful community-led solutions. Citizens involved in the inquiry describe significant barriers to obtaining fresh foods and emphasize the need for national action to create a fairer, more equitable food system.

Candidates to replace Andy Burnham as Greater Manchester mayor took part in community-focused hustings at Stretford Public Hall, a venue saved by local residents and now central to grassroots service delivery. The event highlighted growing interest in power-sharing arrangements with local communities and the emergence of ‘Manchesterism’ as a political philosophy emphasizing trust in local decision-making. Attendees’ ideas will contribute to a regional People’s Charter, while key speakers underscored the need for participatory democracy and stronger collaboration between authorities and residents. The hall’s transformation was presented as a working model for the proposed ‘No10 in the North.’

Nigel Farage’s resignation as MP for Clacton is framed as another in a long pattern of performative departures, highlighting contradictions in his claim of being persecuted while facing investigations over undeclared financial gifts. The piece criticizes his self-presentation, diminishing electoral momentum for Reform UK, and internal party tensions. It contrasts Farage’s assertion of exceptional victimhood with the deaths of Jo Cox and David Amess, and challenges his effort to cast a Clacton by‑election as a battle between ordinary people and the establishment.

Multiple families describe traumatic NHS maternity experiences involving inadequate care, poor communication and partners being dismissed during critical moments. Two major reviews by Donna Ockenden and Baroness Amos identify widespread failings, staffing shortages and discrimination across multiple NHS trusts. Parents report severe infections, coerced procedures and emotional trauma, prompting apologies from several hospitals. Advocates argue for greater partner involvement and systemic reform, while the government’s response, including a new maternity commissioner and funding commitments, is seen by many as insufficient.

Single parents across the UK face widespread discrimination in the private rental sector, with intrusive questioning, refusal of viewings, higher deposits and income-based rejections contributing to housing insecurity. A new report finds 65 percent of single parents experience rental discrimination, while eviction risks and insufficient Local Housing Allowance deepen hardship. Personal accounts describe homelessness, reliance on family, and severe financial strain. Advocates call for stronger legal protections and better alignment of housing benefits with real rents, arguing that current government measures remain inadequate.

Andy Burnham’s rise toward potential national leadership is traced through his public persona, his longstanding commitment to social justice causes, and his defining moment supporting the Hillsborough families. His grounded style, regional identity, and political convictions are highlighted through anecdotes from his career, his collaboration with Steve Rotheram, and his response to injustices faced by working-class communities. The narrative depicts a shift in Labour politics following Keir Starmer’s resignation and positions Burnham as a figure whose authenticity and focus on systemic inequality resonate strongly with supporters.

Victoria Starmer played a central role in supporting Keir Starmer as he delivered his resignation as UK Prime Minister, with the article describing her as his trusted confidante during a period of political isolation. Keir Starmer’s departure is portrayed as dignified, contrasting with the scandals that plagued previous leaders, and his achievements, including reductions in child poverty and NHS waiting lists, are highlighted. Despite restoring Labour’s electability, his leadership is depicted as ultimately underwhelming, hindered by early missteps and a loss of moral authority following the Mandelson scandal. The piece suggests that Victoria was instrumental in encouraging him to step down amid shifting party loyalties and rising support for Andy Burnham.

A renovated former bank in Grimsby has been transformed into the CARE Hub, a homelessness support centre built around the ideas of beauty, dignity, and stress reduction. The £2m project now draws more than 100 visitors a day and offers housing support, crisis services, a food pantry and future medical facilities. King Charles visited the centre, meeting service users and selecting wallpaper for the next renovation phase, reinforcing a sense of community value. Staff emphasise that the welcoming, non-institutional design helps people seek assistance earlier and reduces crisis situations. Personal stories from visitors highlight the hub’s impact in providing stability, support and renewed self-worth.

Andy Burnham’s decisive Makerfield by‑election victory is presented as a pivotal moment for Labour, demonstrating his ability to win in a strongly Reform‑leaning region. Local voters describe renewed confidence in Labour driven by Burnham’s regional roots, campaign message, and broad coalition of supporters, including women and party factions. While some residents still back Reform and express concerns about immigration, many others say Burnham’s reputation as Manchester mayor motivated them to return to Labour. The result is framed as a significant challenge for Keir Starmer as Labour seeks to counter Reform nationally, positioning Burnham as a potential future leader capable of uniting disparate groups and reshaping the party’s prospects.

Kim Leadbeater reflects on the decade since her sister Jo Cox was murdered by a far‑right extremist, urging more open discussion of the ideological context behind the killing while continuing to highlight Jo’s legacy of unity and compassion. She describes the emotional impact on her family, her own path into Parliament, and her work on issues such as assisted dying. Rising far‑right violence in the UK underscores her call to confront extremism directly, even as she continues efforts that honour her sister’s values, including community campaigns and advocacy tied to Jo’s causes.

The piece marks the tenth anniversary of MP Jo Cox’s murder and warns that political and social division in the UK has worsened, with recent hate incidents in several cities. The Mirror is launching a new phase of its Britain Talks project to encourage conversations between people with opposing views, using match-making technology developed with Die Zeit. Brendan Cox and Katie Amess initiate the effort by sharing experiences, and readers are invited to sign up to join a community aimed at countering extremism and rebuilding social cohesion.

Families of murdered MPs Jo Cox and David Amess reflect on their shared grief and call for greater decency and safety in British politics. Brendan Cox and Katie Amess describe how their loved ones were targeted for their political beliefs yet dedicated themselves to serving their communities with openness and compassion. Both express concern about ongoing threats facing public officials, including rising abuse and the role of social media in enabling harassment. They highlight continued work in their relatives’ legacies and emphasize the need for dialogue, understanding, and humanity across political differences.

Women across Makerfield strongly condemn Reform UK candidate Rob Kenyon for misogynistic posts and his refusal to apologise, arguing his behaviour misrepresents local men and threatens women’s rights. Polling shows Andy Burnham leading decisively among women, while Kenyon’s support skews male. Community members highlight Reform’s policies on reproductive rights and mental health as further concerns, and prominent figures including Carol Vorderman and broadcaster Mike Sweeney criticise Kenyon publicly. With the by-election approaching, female voters are poised to play a decisive role in the outcome.

A £2.7 million National Lottery Community Fund investment is being directed toward revitalising social clubs across deprived areas in England, supporting projects aimed at expanding membership and strengthening community roles. Stubshaw Cross Social Club, currently serving as Andy Burnham’s by-election campaign base, highlights renewed attention on such clubs, while examples in Clacton and London demonstrate growing membership, diverse activities and cultural significance. Partnerships with organisations including Stir to Action and Power to Change aim to restore clubs as vital community hubs with expanding social, cultural and economic functions.

Community gardening led by Postcode Gardener Ollie Lister is revitalizing neglected spaces in Swansea, improving wellbeing for residents facing health challenges and social isolation. Supported by Friends of the Earth and The Co-op Bank, the initiative engages locals in creating nature-friendly front gardens and public spaces, fostering connection, biodiversity and pride. Participants describe benefits ranging from improved mental health to greater community interaction, with similar projects extending across England and Wales.

Elon Musk is accused of exploiting the murder of Henry Nowak to inflame division in Britain through repeated posts that spread misinformation and far‑right narratives during the period when UK reporting restrictions prevented factual media coverage. Musk’s posts, amplified by extremist groups and political figures including Nigel Farage and Tommy Robinson, contributed to unrest and violence as false claims circulated widely, including misidentifications generated by his AI tool Grok. Despite the victim’s family urging against politicisation, protests turned violent, and senior politicians including the Prime Minister and Labour MP Jess Asato have begun publicly challenging Musk’s influence and actions as social tensions escalate.

HM Pasties, founded by former prisoner Lee Wakeham, provides employment and support for ex-offenders who help produce award-winning pies sold at major football stadiums. The Oldham-based social enterprise combines secure work with counselling and training, enabling staff to rebuild their lives and reduce the risk of reoffending. Growing rapidly since its launch, it now supplies thousands of products weekly to sports clubs and retailers, supported in part by regional investment and the HM Pasties Foundation, which offers additional services to aid long-term rehabilitation.

Community groups across the UK highlight the impact of kindness as the Million Acts of Hope campaign celebrates volunteers supporting neighbours through hardship. Stories from Bradford, Birmingham, Hatfield, Cardiff and Greater Manchester show grassroots efforts ranging from food support and language help to inclusive cycling and disability support programs. Volunteers and service users describe how empathy, connection and shared resilience have transformed lives during difficult times, reinforcing the campaign’s message that hope and solidarity are widespread despite ongoing social and economic challenges.

Local election losses are described as a pivotal warning for Labour, whose early governing period is criticised as slow, inward‑focused and lacking a unifying vision. Keir Starmer is portrayed as principled but politically ineffective amid rising populism and a growing Reform UK threat. Despite policy achievements on workers’ rights, pay and green investment, the party is said to have failed to convince voters that meaningful improvement is possible. The piece urges Labour to rapidly change direction to prevent a national swing toward the far right in the next general election.

Government expansion of free primary school breakfast clubs prompts calls from Magic Breakfast and campaigners to extend support to secondary students, citing evidence that skipped breakfasts harm wellbeing and educational outcomes. Willenhall Academy in Walsall demonstrates the impact of breakfast provision amid high local deprivation, with staff reporting improved attendance, concentration and behaviour. The Department for Education says funding for participating secondary schools will continue next year, while Labour’s new child wellbeing legislation underlines broader goals to reduce poverty. Magic Breakfast urges government commitment to ensure no child starts the new school term without breakfast.

Residents in Tredegar, birthplace of the NHS, express deep divisions ahead of Welsh Senedd elections as some traditional Labour supporters question their loyalties, fearing gains by Reform UK and Plaid Cymru. Concerns over austerity, underfunding, and political disillusionment fuel voter uncertainty, while Neil Kinnock urges commitment to Labour’s rebuilding efforts and warns that alternatives would deepen division and stall progress. The article highlights local tensions, shifting political identities, and the symbolic weight of Aneurin Bevan’s legacy amid Wales' changing political landscape.

Great Yarmouth faces a surge in far-right political activity ahead of local elections, driven by the newly formed Great Yarmouth First party backed by Rupert Lowe and linked to Restore Britain. Despite warnings from HOPE not Hate about extremist elements within the movement, many residents express interest in the party’s focus on local issues such as healthcare and infrastructure. Social media, particularly Facebook, is cited as a key driver of radicalisation among older voters, while tensions between Reform and Great Yarmouth First reflect broader national struggles on the right. The town’s significant investment in regeneration contrasts with its political volatility as voters weigh competing claims and rising extremist rhetoric.

Amu Gib, a Palestine Action activist held without trial for nearly ten months, is standing as a candidate for the Islington Independents while detained in HMP Bronzefield. Accused alongside four others of damaging RAF aircraft in protest over alleged UK support for Israeli military actions, Gib recently ended a prolonged hunger strike and continues to face severe restrictions. Supporters, including prominent writers and activists, have appealed for bail, arguing their detention undermines democratic rights. Prosecutors cite terrorism-related charges linked to the proscription of Palestine Action, a move criticised by Amnesty International. Gib maintains their innocence and expresses determination to continue campaigning despite imprisonment, as voters in Finsbury Park prepare to decide whether to elect an incarcerated candidate.