My best friend promised she'd have my baby and now I'm a mum

Georgia Barrington recently became a mother, but the experience of childbirth was not hers—it was her closest friend, Daisy Hope, who carried and gave birth to Georgia’s daughter, Ottilie, in October. This profound gesture stemmed from a promise they made to each other during their teenage years, rooted in a deep and lifelong friendship. The… Continue reading My best friend promised she'd have my baby and now I'm a mum

Black Friday: How to make sure you're getting a good deal

As Black Friday approaches, shoppers in the UK find themselves inundated with emails and adverts promoting sales. Originally a US tradition following Thanksgiving, this event has now been fully embraced by UK retailers. What started as a one-day sale has expanded into a period spanning several weeks before and after the official date. Yet, research… Continue reading Black Friday: How to make sure you're getting a good deal

NI education: Schools told to continue providing RE based on 'holy scriptures'

The Department of Education has emphasized that schools should continue delivering Religious Education (RE) grounded in “holy scriptures.” Additionally, educational institutions remain legally obligated to conduct collective worship, such as daily assemblies. This guidance was issued by Education Minister Paul Givan in a letter addressed to school principals. The minister’s communication followed a UK Supreme… Continue reading NI education: Schools told to continue providing RE based on 'holy scriptures'

Former Brexit Party MEP denies taking payment from pro-Russian campaign

A former Member of the European Parliament (MEP) associated with Nigel Farage’s Brexit Party has strongly denied receiving payments linked to a pro-Russian influence operation within the European Parliament. David Coburn, who also led the UK Independence Party (UKIP) in Scotland, has been mentioned in WhatsApp exchanges involving Nathan Gill, a disgraced ex-MEP. Gill was… Continue reading Former Brexit Party MEP denies taking payment from pro-Russian campaign

Seventh Met Police officer sacked over BBC Panorama investigation

Following a BBC investigation, a seventh officer from Charing Cross police station has been dismissed for expressing discriminatory views about Muslims. Metropolitan Police constable Sean Park was also found to have boasted about ignoring an incident where another officer allegedly used excessive force, reportedly stamping on a detainee’s ankle, according to Scotland Yard. The Panorama… Continue reading Seventh Met Police officer sacked over BBC Panorama investigation

No changes to Scottish income tax plan, Shona Robison says

The Scottish government has confirmed it will maintain existing income tax rates and will not introduce new tax bands in its upcoming Budget, according to Finance Secretary Shona Robison. Although tax thresholds may be adjusted, this could result in higher earners paying increased amounts in tax. Robison emphasized the goal of providing “certainty” in the… Continue reading No changes to Scottish income tax plan, Shona Robison says

Ex-soldier caught on CCTV in Livingston police station petrol bomb attack

Jamie Taylor, a 34-year-old former soldier from Bo’ness, has admitted to endangering the life of a police officer during a petrol bomb attack at the Livingston police station in West Lothian. On 30 May 2025, Taylor threw three molotov cocktails at police vans outside the station. Prior to the incident, he had informed his mother… Continue reading Ex-soldier caught on CCTV in Livingston police station petrol bomb attack

Warnings after care leavers face increase in homelessness

Recent data reveals that young people leaving care in England are experiencing a notably higher rise in homelessness compared to their peers in the wider population. Concerns have been raised about the so-called “devastating care cliff,” which occurs when support is withdrawn as soon as these individuals turn 18 and leave the care system. Alongside… Continue reading Warnings after care leavers face increase in homelessness

I already feel judged for having a Motability car – the Budget didn't help

Young disabled individuals have expressed strong dissatisfaction with the recent significant amendments to the Motability scheme, marking the first major changes since its inception nearly five decades ago. Chancellor Rachel Reeves revealed in the Budget that the insurance costs covered within Motability leases will now be subject to tax, and VAT will be applied to… Continue reading I already feel judged for having a Motability car – the Budget didn't help

Starmer could have scrapped child benefit cap last year – why did he wait?

During a recent post-Budget visit to a community centre in Rugby, Warwickshire, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer displayed a rare and notable passion, a sharp contrast to the often robotic tone for which he is frequently criticized. Speaking candidly, Starmer expressed a deeply personal commitment to reducing child poverty, describing it as both a political… Continue reading Starmer could have scrapped child benefit cap last year – why did he wait?