'Culture of indifference towards safeguarding' found at Belfast church

A recent report has revealed troubling issues related to safeguarding at one of Northern Ireland’s most prominent churches, Whitewell Metropolitan Tabernacle in Belfast. The findings, obtained by BBC News NI, point to a longstanding “culture of indifference towards safeguarding” within the church. This inquiry was initiated after an alleged inappropriate behavior incident involving a senior… Continue reading 'Culture of indifference towards safeguarding' found at Belfast church

Reform's Laura Anne Jones' racist WhatsApp slur 'caused hurt'

Members of the Chinese community in Wales have expressed that a racial slur used by a Reform UK politician caused significant pain and distress. Laura Anne Jones, the party’s sole representative in the Welsh Parliament, is returning to the Senedd chamber following a two-week suspension over her use of this offensive term during a WhatsApp… Continue reading Reform's Laura Anne Jones' racist WhatsApp slur 'caused hurt'

Catherine's Christmas message of love in uncertain times

The Princess of Wales has shared a Christmas message emphasizing the significance of kindness during times that can feel “fragmented or uncertain.” In a letter addressed to attendees of her carol concert at Westminster Abbey on Friday, Catherine highlighted the impact of quiet and compassionate acts. She wrote, “The time, care and compassion you give,… Continue reading Catherine's Christmas message of love in uncertain times

Chinese mega embassy could bring security advantages, says No 10

The UK government has indicated that the proposal for a large new Chinese embassy in London could offer “security advantages,” despite criticism and concerns raised by opponents. Currently, China operates seven separate diplomatic sites spread across the capital. The plan to consolidate these into a single mega embassy is seen by officials at No 10… Continue reading Chinese mega embassy could bring security advantages, says No 10

Sixth form student killed in Tadcaster minibus crash named

A teenager who tragically lost her life in a road accident involving a minibus and a car in North Yorkshire has been identified. The victim, Eleanor Hague, was a 16-year-old student attending the sixth form at Tadcaster Grammar School. The fatal collision took place on Monday on Toulston Lane when the minibus carrying Eleanor collided… Continue reading Sixth form student killed in Tadcaster minibus crash named

Army fixing 6,000 support trucks grounded over safety issues

Repairs are currently being carried out on 6,000 support vehicles of the British Army that were recently taken out of service due to safety concerns, according to a defence minister’s statement to Members of Parliament. Luke Pollard described the suspension of the entire fleet of support lorries as a demonstration of “the system working properly,”… Continue reading Army fixing 6,000 support trucks grounded over safety issues

Talbot Green murder-accused saw gun days before killing, court hears

A man facing allegations of murder in connection with a fatal shooting in Talbot Green has told the jury that he observed a firearm two days prior to the incident. Joanne Penney, aged 40, was fatally shot on 9 March while opening the door to a flat at Llys Illtyd in Talbot Green, Rhondda Cynon… Continue reading Talbot Green murder-accused saw gun days before killing, court hears

Trans girls banned from joining Girlguiding

The UK-based organisation responsible for girl guide groups has declared it will no longer admit trans girls as members. This decision means that individuals who are biologically male but identify as girls will be excluded from joining the groups. According to Girlguiding, this change comes in light of a Supreme Court ruling earlier this year… Continue reading Trans girls banned from joining Girlguiding

Families of Hillsborough victims ‘very, very angry’ as police escape punishment – video

Phil Hammond, an important advocate in the pursuit of justice related to the Hillsborough disaster, has passed away. Throughout his life, Hammond played a significant role in supporting the families and campaigning for accountability following the tragic events at the football stadium. His dedication to the cause was widely recognized by those involved in the… Continue reading Families of Hillsborough victims ‘very, very angry’ as police escape punishment – video

Legal bid to have Palestinian flag taken down denied, High Court rules

A High Court judge has ruled against an urgent legal application seeking to remove the Palestinian flag from Belfast City Hall. The attempt was made by Ann McClure, a member of the Traditional Unionist Voice (TUV), following a council vote that allowed the flag to be flown for a 24-hour period. Ms McClure’s legal team… Continue reading Legal bid to have Palestinian flag taken down denied, High Court rules