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PRESS RELEASE : Millions to benefit from new health and wellbeing quiz [November 2025]
The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 24 November 2025.

Millions of Brits could boost their mood by spending 5 minutes taking a Healthy Choices Quiz launched by the government and the NHS.
- Government launches free 5-minute health quiz that reveals personalised steps to boost your mood and energy
- Research shows how 19 million people could boost their mood by making lifestyle changes, all while helping shift the NHS from treating sickness to preventing it
- Radio and TV presenters Melvin Odoom and Rickie Haywood-Williams share how taking the easy quiz gave them tips and advice to improve their health
Millions of Brits could boost their mood by making a simple healthy lifestyle change, according to new research ahead of the launch of a new online quiz today.

The 5-minute Healthy Choices Quiz, launched by the government and NHS, will give people across England personalised steps to boost their health, mood and energy.

The interactive mobile-friendly quiz has been designed to identify healthy changes that people can make and signpost to an array of trusted NHS resources to support healthier living.

Research from University College London estimates that 19 million adults in their middle years could boost their mood by making a healthy change. Increasing physical activity can improve mental wellbeing in just 4 weeks.

The quiz supports the government’s 10 Year Health Plan to shift the NHS from treating sickness to preventing it, and from analogue to digital healthcare – putting people in control of their own health through modern technology.

Health Minister Ashley Dalton said:

Taking this quick and easy quiz could be the first step for people to live healthier and happier lives.

We’re doing our part to cut smoking, obesity and provide better mental health support – this quiz gives people the chance to help themselves by taking advantage of expert NHS advice at the touch of a screen.

This simple, free and easily available quiz will bring expert NHS advice to your fingertips as part of our 10 Year Health Plan to move from treating sickness to preventing it.

The campaign aims to encourage adults – particularly those aged 40 to 60 and from more deprived backgrounds – to take control of their health and identify where they need support.

The quiz asks questions on a range of topics including nutrition, movement, smoking, vaping, alcohol consumption, mental health and sleep.

Users receive an overall score out of 10, along with tailored advice and links to free NHS apps and tools such as the Active 10 app to improve fitness or the NHS Every Mind Matters webpage which offers simple and practical advice to ease anxiety, manage stress, lift your mood and sleep better.

Radio DJs and TV presenters Rickie Haywood-Williams and Melvin Odoom are backing the campaign and feature in a short film where they share candid stories about their own health journeys and reveal their quiz results. They talk about the steps they have taken to improve their health, their motivations and the benefits they have experienced.

Rickie Haywood-Williams said:

Since becoming a dad, I’ve been more focused on my health – especially now my youngest is 3. I’ve started walking more and cycling when I can, and I’ve noticed a massive improvement both mentally and physically. Like most people juggling busy schedules, I still struggle with sleep and routine. I’ve got into the habit of eating late, and that’s one thing I’m trying to change.

That’s why I think the Healthy Choices Quiz is such a brilliant tool. It’s quick, easy and gives you a clear picture of where you’re at with your health. It gave me loads of practical tips that I can actually fit into my life. It’s not about being perfect – it’s about taking that first step and understanding how to start making changes that really make a difference.

Melvin Odoom added:

As I’ve got older, staying healthy has become a bigger priority, but it’s taken some trial and error to figure out what works for me. I’ve always loved running but going solo or training for marathons never stuck. Joining a running club changed everything – the social side and sense of community keep me coming back, and now being active is something I genuinely enjoy. I’ve also made changes within my lifestyle, like cutting down on drinking. Now I only have a drink on rare occasions, and the difference in my mood and energy is huge.

Eating better is still a work in progress, but the Healthy Choices Quiz gave me a fresh perspective – especially on things like fibre, which I hadn’t really thought about. It’s helped me figure out realistic changes that really fit my lifestyle, and given me some tools to get started.

A new review by University College London, using Health Survey for England data, highlights how millions could improve their health and wellbeing by making healthy lifestyle choices such as quitting smoking, drinking less alcohol, eating more healthily or moving more.

Dr Radha Modgil, NHS GP and broadcaster, said:

As a GP, I know how important it is to make healthy changes that fit into your everyday routine, but knowing where to begin can be tough – that’s why I’m excited about the new Healthy Choices Quiz.

It’s a simple first step that helps you understand where you’re at and gives you manageable tips that can boost your energy, lift your mood, and improve your physical and mental wellbeing.

Whether you’re building on progress or just getting going, you’ll be supported by free NHS apps, tools and advice that can help you move towards a healthier, happier future in a way that feels right for you.

The Healthy Choices Quiz is designed as an additional tool to help empower adults to live happier and healthier lives.

Other examples include a new digital NHS points scheme where people are rewarded for taking positive actions to improve their health. As announced in the 10 Year Health Plan, we will soon begin engaging with businesses to determine which behaviours should be incentivised.

Background information

Watch Melvin and Rickie taking part in the quiz.

Those who have tried the quiz are already seeing the benefit.

Melissa, 41, from London, said:

As a busy mum juggling work and family life, it’s easy for healthy habits to slip. I used to be really active, but after becoming a parent, I’ve had to rethink how I stay well. I’m now focusing on small, realistic changes – like improving my sleep and making better food choices when I’m low on energy.

Tools like the Healthy Choices Quiz are great for helping people like me find simple ways to get back on track. It’s pointed me in the direction of making healthier food choices, and shared some great advice on how to sleep better. I’d recommend others give it a go.

Craig, 49, from London, said:

Staying active is really important to me – whether I’m running, walking, or just making sure I hit my step count – but I’m always looking for ways to do a bit better. Taking the Healthy Choices Quiz gave me a fresh perspective and introduced me to NHS tools I hadn’t used before, like the Drink Free Days app.

They’ve helped me think more about balance, especially when it comes to food and alcohol, and I like that they offer flexible options that fit around my lifestyle. I’m not aiming for perfection, just small changes I can stick with and that feel achievable.

Ian, 59, from the West Midlands, said:

After years of walking miles every day as a postman, walking has remained a simple, low-impact way for me to stay active. I enjoy tracking my steps and often set myself goals to achieve, which makes it a little more fun when walking in adverse weathers. I know there’s still room to improve my lifestyle, but I’m taking it one step at a time.

Recently, I’ve started making changes to my diet by cutting out sugary snacks for healthier options. I’m always looking for ways to keep improving, and tools like the Healthy Choices Quiz offer helpful ideas to build on what I’m already doing.

Kristina, 41, from the West Midlands, said:

Life gets so busy and it’s so easy to forget about yourself, but it’s important to feel empowered in the choices you make. For me, I love going outside and moving when I have a spare moment – even if it’s just for a dog walk. I use it as a time to reflect and it has made a real difference to my mental health.

Taking the Healthy Choices Quiz was the first step that helped me understand where to start and how to feel healthier and happier – especially if, like me, you didn’t know where to begin.

Joanne, 45, from the south-east, said:

As someone with a busy professional and family life, when it comes to a healthy lifestyle it’s not about being perfect – it’s about doing what you can do, when you can. Life can feel like a loop of sleep, work, repeat, but it’s vital to break that cycle and make time for yourself every day, whether that’s walking, running or enjoying a nourishing meal.

I’d recommend the Healthy Choices Quiz as a first step for anyone looking to feel healthier and happier.

Dr Richard Piper, CEO at Alcohol Change UK, said:

Too many of us still struggle to understand the link between the alcohol we drink and the impact it is having on our daily lives – from poorer sleep and worsening mental health to long-term conditions. This is made harder by the myths and misinformation across health and lifestyle content, including alcohol. 

That’s why free, quick and easy interactive tools from trusted sources like this new Healthy Choices Quiz are an effective way to help more of us connect the dots between our lifestyles, including drinking habits, and our physical and mental health. Alcohol Change UK is proud to support the NHS and provide additional free, impartial tools and advice for anyone looking to change their relationship with alcohol.

Douglas Twenefour, Head of Clinical at Diabetes UK, said: 

Eating a healthy diet, moving more and cutting back on alcohol can lower a person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It can also be really beneficial for people living with all types of diabetes – helping them reduce their risk of serious complications, such as heart attacks and strokes.

The Healthy Choices Quiz gives people a clear snapshot of their mental and physical health, offering practical tips that can make a real difference to their overall wellbeing.

Dell Stanford, senior dietitian at the British Heart Foundation, said:

Making small changes to your diet can have a big impact on your heart health. Eating more fruit, vegetables, wholegrains and pulses while cutting back on foods high in salt, sugar and saturated fat is one of the most effective ways to protect your heart.

Alongside this, being physically active and avoiding smoking are also important steps people can take to maintain good heart health. This quick, 5-minute quiz is a useful way for people to understand what changes could make the biggest difference for them.

But individual action alone isn’t enough. We also need to create a healthier environment where nutritious, affordable options are the easiest choice for everyone. This includes making healthy food more accessible so improvements are within reach for all.
November 26, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : The United Kingdom will continue to work with all partners to implement Resolution 2803 and to forge a just and lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians, anchored in a two-state solution – UK statement at the UN Security Council [November 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 24 November 2025.

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Chargé d’Affaires to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Gaza.

Last week, this Council adopted Resolution 2803, sending a powerful message of international support for President Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza, and the diplomatic efforts of Qatar, Türkiye and Egypt.

This marks a pivotal moment after two years of horrendous suffering. And is crucial to cementing the ceasefire and charting a course towards lasting peace.

We urge all parties to abide by the ceasefire and we reiterate that Hamas must locate and hand over the bodies of the remaining three deceased hostages.

I will make three points.

First, Resolution 2803 must be implemented fully, effectively and in accordance with international law.

We need an International Stabilisation Force and trained Palestinian police deployed quickly to support the ceasefire and avoid a vacuum that Hamas could exploit.

Hamas should uphold their commitments under the 20-point plan to disarm and end their governance over Gaza.

Transitional arrangements must respect Palestinian sovereignty and self-determination and pave the way for a reformed Palestinian Authority to resume governance in Gaza.

Palestine must be run by Palestinians.

We look forward to the urgent formation of a Palestinian Committee alongside the Board of Peace.

Second, Resolution 2803 underscores the importance of the full resumption of humanitarian aid in Gaza.

The humanitarian situation remains catastrophic.

Heavy rains have deepened the misery, worsening shelter needs as winter closes in.

The United Nations has confirmed that over 1.5 million people are in urgent need of emergency shelter, yet Israel continues to restrict lifesaving aid.

Every crossing and route must be opened without delay, and essential items including shelter kits and medical supplies allowed in.

Last winter, at least eight newborns died of hypothermia in fewer than three weeks. Those deaths were preventable.

Israel must allow aid in now, without delay, and permit the United Nations, including UNRWA, as well as international non-governmental organisations, to operate freely and effectively.

Third, while the ceasefire in Gaza offers hope, stability in the West Bank is essential to any sustainable peace.

Yet we have seen further appalling incidents of settler violence during the olive harvest.

Last month, OCHA recorded more than 260 Israeli settler attacks, resulting in Palestinian casualties or damage to property.

This month, we have witnessed horrific arson attacks, including on a mosque, in the West Bank.

These unacceptable incidents must be thoroughly investigated and those responsible held accountable.

We also urge Israel to end its stranglehold on the Palestinian economy by releasing withheld clearance revenues, protecting correspondent banking arrangements, and facilitating shekel transfers from Palestinian banks.

And we reiterate our call on Israel to halt the expansion of illegal settlements, including the E1 plans.

This is a pivotal moment for the future of the region.

The United Kingdom will continue to work with all partners to implement Resolution 2803 and to forge a just and lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians, anchored in a two-state solution.

November 26, 2025
NEWS STORY : Senior Reform Party Politician Sent to Prison for Bribery

STORY

Nathan Gill, the former Reform UK leader in Wales and MEP, has been sentenced to more than ten years in prison after admitting to taking payments from pro-Russian operatives in exchange for making favourable public statements about Moscow. The judge described the scheme as a calculated operation that undermined democratic integrity, pointing to the sophistication of the arrangements and the damage done to public trust.

Gill’s conviction has landed Reform UK in an intensely difficult position. Nigel Farage has insisted he knew nothing of Gill’s activities and has attempted to distance the party from the scandal, but the political fallout has already become significant. Opposition parties are demanding an inquiry into the party’s links to Russia and questioning whether Gill’s behaviour reflects a wider failure in Reform UK’s oversight, vetting and internal controls.

The timing is particularly awkward for Farage, who has been trying to broaden his party’s appeal and present it as a credible national force. Instead, Reform finds itself answering uncomfortable questions about foreign influence and the conduct of its senior figures. Analysts warn that the scandal may hinder the party’s attempts to court new voters and could damage Farage’s long-held claim that he stands against political corruption and external interference.

Investigators found that Gill had received tens of thousands of pounds in covert payments, communicated with his handlers using coded language, and even attempted to travel to Russia while under suspicion.

November 21, 2025

PRESS RELEASE : Schools to cut bills with Great British Energy solar panels [November 2025]

The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 17 November 2025.

Schools across England to cut bills with Great British Energy solar panels.

23 schools have now installed Great British Energy solar panels and are cutting their energy bills with clean, homegrown power
Full list announced of over 250 schools across England that are set to benefit from Great British Energy and UK government funding for solar panels
Millions in savings will be reinvested into education

Pupils across the country will benefit from more money for textbooks and teaching, as Great British Energy’s solar rollout continues to help schools cut their energy bills.

As part of an expanded scheme to fund solar panels for NHS sites, military sites and schools, over 250 schools across England have signed agreements to benefit from a share of up to £100 million in funding from Great British Energy and government for new solar panels and other energy efficiency measures.

23 schools have now installed Great British Energy solar panels and are cutting their energy bills, from Notre Dame RC School in Plymouth to Christ The King RC Primary School in Manchester. This has allowed savings to be reinvested in school services as part of the government’s clean energy superpower mission, enabling communities to reap the benefits of homegrown, clean power.

This is part of the government’s drive to make all public buildings more climate resilient. The government is building all new schools to be climate-resilient and net-zero in operation as part of the School Rebuilding Programme.

Rocketing energy bills in recent years have eaten into school budgets. This has been driven by the UK’s dependency on global fossil fuel markets over which government has no control. By enabling schools to generate their own electricity, it is estimated schools will save millions, far more than installation costs.

Energy Minister Michael Shanks said:  

Great British Energy is helping schools to save money on bills, meaning more money for textbooks and technology. 

Across the country, solar panels are going up on rooftops to power classrooms with clean, homegrown power.  

This is our clean energy superpower mission in action, protecting our public services with lower bills and energy security.

Great British Energy’s CEO, Dan McGrail said:  

Great British Energy’s ongoing solar rollout delivers tangible benefits to the people that need it most in our hospitals and schools.

This not only provides clean energy to communities, it also ensures that the public own and benefit from these projects through energy security, good jobs and above all, real tangible local outcomes such as more funds to support teaching and health.

Education Minister Josh MacAlister said:   

Solar panels are slashing schools’ energy bills by thousands of pounds year after year, with the money going straight back into the textbooks and resources pupils need to succeed. 

This is part of our wider work to drive national renewal, rebuilding more than 750 schools in every corner of the country.

The scheme will target schools and colleges with buildings that are able to accommodate solar panels in areas of England most in need. As part of this, the government has selected schools that will be primarily clustered in areas of deprivation in the North East, West Midlands and North West, as well as at least 10 schools in each region of England.

Each region includes a further education college which will work with the contractors appointed to promote careers in renewables to support growth in the construction and renewables workforce. This could be through work placements, skills bootcamps and workshops.

This follows the government’s commitment to curriculum reforms which will strengthen climate and sustainability education across geography, science, citizenship, and design and technology – from year one through to a new Natural History GCSE – helping to ensure pupils understand the planet, take action on climate change and develop the skills for a greener future.

This is alongside all nurseries, schools and colleges being called upon to put in place a climate action plan, while empowering young voices through Youth Sustainability Champions to help advise, evaluate and champion sustainability in education.

The rollout of these solar panels marks progress in Great British Energy and government’s Local Power Plan that will ensure the benefits of the government’s clean energy mission are felt at a local level, with energy security, good jobs and economic growth – while also helping to rebuild the nation’s public services.

Mark Greatrex, Chief Executive of the Bellevue Place Education Trust, London said:

We are delighted to have Kilburn Grange School and Halley House School enrolled in the Great British Energy’s solar programme in addition to other Bellevue Place Education Trust schools. Last year, all our schools collectively achieved a 9.4% reduction in energy consumption, saving £299K in energy bills, which we can invest back into the education provision for our pupils.

Nicola Malone, Head Teacher of Christ the King Roman Catholic Primary School, Salford said:

We are very proud that Christ the King is benefitting from the Great British Energy Solar Partnership programme. The solar installation will make a lasting difference for our school, whilst showing our children the value of sustainability and emphasising our shared responsibility for the world around us.

Notes to editors

We are announcing 255 schools, these are subject to site surveys and may change:

School name	Postcode	Local authority	Region	Complete?
Bishop Lonsdale Church of England Primary School and Nursery	DE22 3HH	Derby	East Midlands
Lees Brook Academy	DE21 4QX	Derby	East Midlands
Sharley Park Community Primary School	S45 9BN	Derbyshire	East Midlands
Clowne Junior School	S43 4BS	Derbyshire	East Midlands
Castle Mead Academy	LE3 5QT	Leicester	East Midlands
Melton Vale Sixth Form College	LE13 1DN	Leicestershire	East Midlands
The Joseph Whitaker School	NG21 0AG	Mansfield	East Midlands
St Gregory’s Catholic Primary School	NN3 2AX	Northampton	East Midlands
Firbeck Academy	NG8 2FB	Nottingham	East Midlands
Bluecoat Beechdale Academy	NG8 3GP	Nottingham	East Midlands
The Bulwell Academy	NG6 8AQ	Nottingham	East Midlands
The Suthers School	NG24 3NH	Nottinghamshire	East Midlands
Samworth Church Academy	NG18 2DY	Nottinghamshire	East Midlands
Carlton Academy	NG4 3SH	Nottinghamshire	East Midlands
Northampton Academy	NN3 8NH	West Northamptonshire	East Midlands
St Marys C of E Academy	SG5 4DL	Central Bedfordshire	East of England	Complete
Roydon Primary Academy	CM19 5HN	Essex	East of England	Complete
Avanti Meadows Primary School	CM23 1FQ	Hertfordshire	East of England
Manor Drive Primary Academy	PE4 7EP	Peterborough	East of England
Manor Drive Secondary Academy	PE4 7EP	Peterborough	East of England
Westfield Primary Academy	CB9 0BW	Suffolk	East of England	Complete
Kedington Primary Academy	CB9 7QZ	Suffolk	East of England
Laureate Community Academy	CB8 0AN	Suffolk	East of England
Place Farm Primary Academy	CB9 8HF	Suffolk	East of England
Harris Academy Chafford Hundred	RM16 6SA	Thurrock	East of England	Complete
Harris Garrard Academy	DA18 4DW	Bexley	London
Kilburn Grange School	NW6 7UJ	Brent	London	Complete
Harris Primary Shortlands	BR2 0HG	Bromley	London
Harris City Academy Crystal Palace	SE19 2JH	Croydon	London	Complete
Harris Primary Academy Benson	CR0 8RQ	Croydon	London
Halley House School	E8 2DJ	Hackney	London	Complete
St Mark’s Church of England Academy	CR4 1SF	Merton	London
St Helen’s Catholic Primary School	E13 8DW	Newham	London
Harris Academy Bermondsey	SE16 3TZ	Southwark	London
City of London Academy (Southwark)	SE1 5LA	Southwark	London
Culloden Primary	E14 0PT	Tower Hamlets	London
Mowlem Primary School	E2 9HE	Tower Hamlets	London
St John’s Catholic School & Sixth Form College	DL14 6JT	County Durham	North East
Bowburn Primary School	DH6 5FP	County Durham	North East
St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Blackhill	DH8 8JD	County Durham	North East
Prince Bishops Community Primary School	DL14 8DY	County Durham	North East
Howletch Lane Primary School	SR8 2NQ	County Durham	North East
Durham Gilesgate Primary School	DH1 1PH	County Durham	North East
Newker Primary School	DH2 3AA	County Durham	North East
Oakley Cross Primary School and Nursery	DL14 9UD	County Durham	North East
Ropery Walk Primary School	SR7 7JZ	County Durham	North East
Westlea Primary School	SR7 8JU	County Durham	North East
Ebchester CofE Primary School	DH8 0QB	County Durham	North East
St Cuthbert’s Catholic Primary School, Crook	DL15 9DN	County Durham	North East
St Bede’s Catholic School and Sixth Form College	DH7 0RD	County Durham	North East
West Cornforth Primary School	DL17 9HP	County Durham	North East
St John’s Church of England Aided Primary School	DL4 2EQ	County Durham	North East
Wyvern Academy	DL3 9SH	Darlington	North East
Cardinal Hume Catholic School, Gateshead	NE9 6RZ	Gateshead	North East
Brougham Primary School	TS24 8EY	Hartlepool	North East
West View Primary School	TS24 9BP	Hartlepool	North East
Lynnfield Primary School	TS26 8RL	Hartlepool	North East
St Hild’s Church of England School	TS24 9PB	Hartlepool	North East
Corpus Christi RC Primary School	TS3 8NL	Middlesbrough	North East
St Alphonsus’ Catholic Primary School	TS3 6PX	Middlesbrough	North East
Middlesborough College	TS2 1AD	Middlesbrough	North East
St Gerard’s RC Primary School	TS8 9HU	Middlesbrough	North East
Sunnyside Academy	TS8 0RJ	Middlesbrough	North East
Tyneview Primary	NE6 3QP	Newcastle upon Tyne	North East
Gosforth Academy	NE3 2JH	Newcastle upon Tyne	North East
Chillingham Rd Primary School	NE6 5XX	Newcastle upon Tyne	North East
Riverside Primary School	NE29 6DQ	North Tyneside	North East
Benton Dene Primary School	NE12 8FD	North Tyneside	North East
St Thomas More Roman Catholic High School	NE29 8LF	North Tyneside	North East
The Blyth Academy	NE24 4JP	Northumberland	North East
Bede Academy	NE24 2SY	Northumberland	North East
Jarrow Cross CofE Primary School	NE32 5UW	South Tyneside	North East
Hebburn Lakes Primary School	NE31 2SL	South Tyneside	North East
Westoe Crown Primary School	NE33 3NS	South Tyneside	North East
Mortimer Community College	NE33 4UG	South Tyneside	North East
Fairfield Primary School	TS19 7PW	Stockton-on-Tees	North East
Thornaby Academy	TS17 9DB	Stockton-on-Tees	North East
Christ’s College	SR4 8PG	Sunderland	North East
New Silksworth Academy Junior	SR3 1AS	Sunderland	North East
Venerable Bede Church of England Academy	SR2 0SX	Sunderland	North East
Unity Academy Blackpool	FY2 0TS	Blackpool	North West
Blackpool Gateway Academy	FY1 6JH	Blackpool	North West
St George’s School A Church of England Academy	FY4 4PH	Blackpool	North West
Marton Primary Academy and Nursery	FY4 5LY	Blackpool	North West
St James CofE Primary School, Farnworth	BL4 9QB	Bolton	North West
Acton C of E Primary Academy	CW5 8LG	Cheshire	North West	Complete
Broken Cross Primary Academy and Nursery	SK11 8UD	Cheshire East	North West
The Fallibroome Academy	SK10 4AF	Cheshire East	North West
Upton Priory School	SK10 3ED	Cheshire East	North West
The County High School, Leftwich	CW9 8EZ	Cheshire West and Chester	North West
Newtown Primary School	CA2 7LW	Cumberland	North West
Petteril Bank School	CA1 3BX	Cumberland	North West
The Whitehaven Academy	CA28 8TY	Cumberland	North West
Park Brow Community Primary School	L32 6QH	Knowsley	North West
Malvern Primary School	L14 6XA	Knowsley	North West
Brownedge St Mary’s Catholic High School	PR5 6PB	Lancashire	North West
Morecambe and Heysham Westgate Primary School	LA4 4XF	Lancashire	North West
St Francis of Assisi Catholic Primary School	WN8 9AZ	Lancashire	North West
Mount Carmel Roman Catholic High School, Hyndburn	BB5 0LU	Lancashire	North West
Charles Saer Community Primary School	FY7 8DD	Lancashire	North West
Four Oaks Community Primary School	L5 1XP	Liverpool	North West
Croxteth Community Primary School	L11 0BP	Liverpool	North West
Stockton Wood Community Primary School	L24 3TF	Liverpool	North West
North Liverpool Academy	L5 0SQ	Liverpool	North West
The Trinity Catholic Academy	L5 8UT	Liverpool	North West
Dixons Croxteth Academy	L11 4SG	Liverpool	North West
Benchill Primary School	M22 8EJ	Manchester	North West	Complete
Ladybarn Primary School	M20 4SR	Manchester	North West
Whalley Range 11-18 High School	M16 8GW	Manchester	North West
Christ The King RC Primary School Manchester	M40 1LU	Manchester	North West	Complete
Dixons Brooklands Academy	M23 9BP	Manchester	North West	Complete
The East Manchester Academy	M11 3DS	Manchester	North West
Co-op Academy Belle Vue	M12 4BA	Manchester	North West
Co-op Academy Medlock	M13 9UJ	Manchester	North West
Cravenwood Primary Academy	M8 5AE	Manchester	North West
Manchester Academy	M14 4PX	Manchester	North West
Oasis Academy Aspinal	M18 7NY	Manchester	North West
Horton Mill Community Primary School	OL4 1GL	Oldham	North West
Oasis Academy Leesbrook	OL4 5JE	Oldham	North West
Littlemoor Primary School	OL4 2RR	Oldham	North West
Lyndhurst Primary and Nursery School	OL8 4JD	Oldham	North West
Oasis Academy Clarksfield	OL4 1NG	Oldham	North West
Oasis Academy Oldham	OL8 4JZ	Oldham	North West
Cardinal Langley Roman Catholic High School	M24 2GL	Rochdale	North West
The Albion Academy	M6 6QT	Salford	North West
Dukesgate Academy	M38 9HF	Salford	North West
Co-op Academy Swinton	M27 6JU	Salford	North West
Litherland High School	L21 0DB	Sefton	North West
Litherland Moss Primary School	L21 0DB	Sefton	North West
Cowley International College	WA10 6PN	St. Helens	North West
The Sutton Academy	WA9 5AU	St. Helens	North West
Tameside College	OL6 6NX	Tameside	North West
The Heys Primary School	OL6 9NS	Tameside	North West
Greenfield Primary Academy	SK14 1QD	Tameside	North West
Laurus Ryecroft	M43 7LJ	Tameside	North West
Oasis Academy Broadoak	OL6 8QG	Tameside	North West
Lime Tree Primary Academy	M33 2RP	Trafford	North West	Complete
Broadoak School	M31 4BU	Trafford	North West
Lostock High School	M32 9PL	Trafford	North West
Padgate Academy	WA2 0LN	Warrington	North West
Beamont Collegiate Academy	WA2 8PX	Warrington	North West
Dallam Community Primary School	WA5 0JG	Warrington	North West
Meadowside Community Primary and Nursery School	WA2 9PH	Warrington	North West
Priestley College	WA4 6RD	Warrington	North West
Kirkby Stephen Grammar School	CA17 4HA	Westmorland and Furness	North West
St Gabriel’s Catholic Primary School	WN7 2XG	Wigan	North West
St Mary’s Catholic College	CH45 3LN	Wirral	North West
Woodchurch High School	CH49 7NG	Wirral	North West
Co-op Academy Hillside	CH43 9HG	Wirral	North West
Co-op Academy Portland	CH41 0AB	Wirral	North West
The Island Free School	PO38 1BG	Isle of Wight	South East
Goodwin Academy	CT14 9BD	Kent	South East
Burnt Oak Primary School	ME7 1LS	Medway	South East
Oasis Academy Skinner Street	ME7 1LG	Medway	South East
Charles Warren Academy	MK6 3AZ	Milton Keynes	South East	Complete
The Milton Keynes Academy	MK6 5LA	Milton Keynes	South East
Iqra Slough Islamic Primary School	SL2 5FF	Slough	South East
Rickley Park Primary School	MK3 6EW	South East	South East
Oasis Academy Sholing	SO19 8PH	Southampton	South East
Whiteknights Primary School	RG2 8EP	Wokingham	South East	Complete
Peasedown St Johns Primary School	BA2 8DH	Bath and North East Somerset	South West	Complete
St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School	BH12 4DZ	Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole	South West	Complete
St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Axminster	EX13 5BE	Devon	South West	Complete
St White’s Primary School	GL14 3GD	Gloucestershire	South West
All Saints’ Academy	GL51 0WH	Gloucestershire	South West
Notre Dame RC School	PL6 5HN	Plymouth	South West	Complete
St Boniface’s RC College	PL5 3AG	Plymouth	South West	Complete
Holy Cross Catholic Primary School	PL4 9BE	Plymouth	South West	Complete
Lipson Co-operative Academy	PL4 7PG	Plymouth	South West
Oliver Tomkins Church of England	SN5 8LW	Swindon	South West
Tame Valley Academy	B36 8QJ	Birmingham	West Midlands
Prince Albert High School	B42 2TU	Birmingham	West Midlands
Nelson Mandela School	B12 8EH	Birmingham	West Midlands
Ark St Alban’s Academy	B12 0YH	Birmingham	West Midlands
Bloomsbury	B7 5BX	Birmingham	West Midlands
Hallmoor (SEN school)	B33 0DL	Birmingham	West Midlands
Thornton Primary School	B8 2LQ	Birmingham	West Midlands
Richard Lee Primary School	CV2 5FU	Coventry	West Midlands
Finham Park 2	CV4 9WT	Coventry	West Midlands
Charter Academy	CV4 8DW	Coventry	West Midlands
Hill Farm Academy	CV6 3BL	Coventry	West Midlands
Moseley Primary School	CV6 1AB	Coventry	West Midlands
Potters Green Primary	CV2 2GF	Coventry	West Midlands
Dudley College	DY1 4AS	Dudley	West Midlands
Ellowes Hall Sports College	DY3 2JH	Dudley	West Midlands
Weobley High School	HR4 8ST	Herefordshire, County of	West Midlands
Weobley Primary School	HR4 8ST	Herefordshire, County of	West Midlands
Eaton Valley Primary School	B71 4BU	Sandwell	West Midlands
Bleakhouse Primary School	B68 9DS	Sandwell	West Midlands
Glebefields Primary School	DY4 0SX	Sandwell	West Midlands
Hanbury Primary School	B70 9NT	Sandwell	West Midlands
High Point (SEN school)	WS10 0JS	Sandwell	West Midlands
Oxon CofE Primary School	SY3 5BJ	Shropshire	West Midlands
Shrewsbury College	SY1 1RX	Shropshire	West Midlands
Greswold Primary School	B91 2AZ	Solihull	West Midlands
Bishop Wilson Church of England Primary School	B37 7TR	Solihull	West Midlands
Stafford Manor High School	ST17 9DJ	Staffordshire	West Midlands
Samuel Allsopp Primary and Nursery School	DE14 2LU	Staffordshire	West Midlands
Poppyfield Primary Academy	WS12 4RY	Staffordshire	West Midlands
Thistley Hough Academy	ST4 5JJ	Stoke-on-Trent	West Midlands
Ormiston Meridian Academy	ST3 7DF	Stoke-on-Trent	West Midlands
Woodloes Primary School	CV34 5DF	Warwickshire	West Midlands
All Saints Bedworth CofE Academy	CV12 9HP	Warwickshire	West Midlands
Tudor Grange Primary Academy Meon Vale	CV37 8QR	Warwickshire	West Midlands
George Eliot Academy	CV11 4QP	Warwickshire	West Midlands
Ash Green School	CV7 9AH	Warwickshire	West Midlands
Kingsbury School – Tamworth	B78 2LF	Warwickshire	West Midlands
St Michaels C of E Academy	CV12 9DA	Warwickshire	West Midlands
Ormiston SWB Academy	WV14 0LN	Wolverhampton	West Midlands
Rakegate Primary School	WV10 6US	Wolverhampton	West Midlands
Lanesfield Primary School	WV4 6BZ	Wolverhampton	West Midlands
Holy Trinity Catholic Primary School	WV14 7PD	Wolverhampton	West Midlands
Oak Meadow Primary School	WV11 2QQ	Wolverhampton	West Midlands
Ormiston NEW Academy	WV10 6SE	Wolverhampton	West Midlands
Moons Moat First School	B98 9HR	Worcestershire	West Midlands
Carnforth School	WR4 9HG	Worcestershire	West Midlands
Honeywell Primary School	WR2 5QH	Worcestershire	West Midlands
St George’s CofE School	DY10 2BX	Worcestershire	West Midlands
Hollymount School	WR4 9SG	Worcestershire	West Midlands
Wolverley CE Secondary School and Sixth Form	DY11 5XQ	Worcestershire	West Midlands
Feversham Primary Academy	BD3 9EG	Bradford	Yorkshire and the Humber	Complete
Upton Primary School	WF9 1JS	Wakefield	Yorkshire and Humber
Girlington Primary School	BD8 9NR	Bradford	Yorkshire and the Humber
Trinity Academy Akroydon	HX3 6PU	Calderdale	Yorkshire and the Humber
Trinity Academy St Peter’s	HX6 1HB	Calderdale	Yorkshire and the Humber
Trinity Academy	DN8 5BY	Doncaster	Yorkshire and the Humber
De Warenne Academy	DN12 3JY	Doncaster	Yorkshire and the Humber
Don Valley Academy	DN5 9DD	Doncaster	Yorkshire and the Humber
Marshlands Primary School	DN14 5UE	East Riding of Yorkshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
Withernsea High School	HU19 2EQ	East Riding of Yorkshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
Kingsway Primary School	DN14 5HQ	East Riding of Yorkshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
Northfield Infant School	YO25 5YN	East Riding of Yorkshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
Appleton Primary School	HU5 4PG	Kingston upon Hull, City of	Yorkshire and the Humber
Francis Askew Primary School	HU4 6LQ	Kingston upon Hull, City of	Yorkshire and the Humber
Sirius Academy North	HU6 9BP	Kingston upon Hull, City of	Yorkshire and the Humber
Aspire Academy	HU9 5DE	Kingston upon Hull, City of	Yorkshire and the Humber
Liberty Academy	HU9 5YB	Kingston upon Hull, City of	Yorkshire and the Humber
Estcourt Primary Academy	HU9 2RP	Kingston upon Hull, City of	Yorkshire and the Humber
Trinity Academy Leeds	LS9 7QL	Leeds	Yorkshire and the Humber
Cockburn School	LS11 5TT	Leeds	Yorkshire and the Humber
Oasis Academy Nunsthorpe	DN33 1AW	North East Lincolnshire	Yorkshire and the Humber	Complete
Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy	DN34 5AH	North East Lincolnshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
Ormiston Maritime Academy	DN34 5AH	North East Lincolnshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
The Vale Academy	DN20 8AR	North Lincolnshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
South Ferriby Primary	DN18 6HU	North Lincolnshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
Graham School	YO12 6QW	North Yorkshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
Redscope Primary School	S61 2PL	Rotherham	Yorkshire and the Humber
Thorpe Hesley Primary School	S61 2PL	Rotherham	Yorkshire and the Humber
Arbourthorne Community Primary School	S2 2GQ	Sheffield	Yorkshire and the Humber
Oasis Academy Don Valley	S9 3TY	Sheffield	Yorkshire and the Humber
Oasis Academy Fir Vale	S4 8GA	Sheffield	Yorkshire and the Humber
Oasis Academy Watermead	S5 8RJ	Sheffield	Yorkshire and the Humber
West End Academy	WF 94QJ	Wakefield	Yorkshire and the Humber	Complete
Burton Green Primary School	YO30 6JE	York	Yorkshire and the Humber
Carr Infants School	YO26 5QA	York

November 18, 2025

PRESS RELEASE : The use of starvation as a weapon of war is unacceptable – UK statement at the UN Security Council [November 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 17 November 2025.

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Chargé d’Affaires to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Conflict-related Food Insecurity.

Famine in the 21st century is not a natural disaster – it is a man-made tragedy. The evidence is clear: nearly 300 million people face acute food insecurity, most in countries affected by conflict. Across Sudan, Gaza, the Sahel, Yemen and Myanmar, conflict has devastated harvests, shattered supply chains, and uprooted families from the land they depend on.

I will make three points.

First, the Security Council has a responsibility to address conflict, to prevent escalation, and to support efforts towards inclusive and sustainable peace. We have the tools.

Resolutions 2417 and 2573 are unequivocal: starvation as a weapon of war and attacks on civilian infrastructure are unacceptable. We urge all Member States to strengthen monitoring, reporting, and accountability for violations, and to uphold their obligations under these resolutions.

Second, international humanitarian law must be upheld. The United Kingdom calls on all parties to conflict to comply fully with international humanitarian law and allow rapid, unimpeded humanitarian access. When aid is blocked or delayed, it is the most vulnerable who suffer first – families are cut off from food and children face acute malnutrition.

In April, the UK launched the Conflict, Hunger and International Humanitarian Law Handbook, offering practical guidance to minimise food insecurity during conflict.

Third, we must act to prevent hunger wherever it occurs. Conflict breeds hunger, but hunger can also fuel instability and further conflict. The UK’s Resilience and Adaptation Fund, alongside our humanitarian financing, is supporting longer term solutions in fragile and conflict-affected states – building local systems that protect people, markets, and livelihoods in the face of climatic and other shocks.

We are investing in climate resilient agriculture, supporting local food systems, and championing the participation of women and youth in building resilient communities.

The UK remains committed to supporting food security and tackling conflict-driven hunger. We are the largest bilateral donor to the Food and Agriculture Organization and, this year alone, contributed over $540 million to the World Food Programme for critical interventions including in Palestine and Sudan.

The UK will continue to press for sustained humanitarian access and invest in resilience – so that conflict does not condemn communities to hunger. We all must use the tools at our disposal to break this cycle.

November 18, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Crime-cutting jobs plan sees hundreds of firms join hiring drive [November 2025]
The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 16 November 2025.

Britain’s biggest businesses have joined the Government’s hiring drive to get prison leavers into work in effort to cut crime as part of the Plan for Change.
- Over 300 businesses join efforts to plug labour shortfalls and grow the economy
- New job matchmaking tool to be rolled out across prisons in England and Wales
- Employment to help ex-offenders turn backs on crime and reduce reoffending
Over 300 top British businesses have signed up to the Government’s recruitment initiative in the last 12 months, joining household names like Greggs, Iceland and Kier in helping fill some of the estimated one million vacancies in the UK job market.

The Prison Service has also unveiled bold new plans to deploy a digital job-matching tool that will connect prisoners with employment opportunities and support them through the application process, as part of a wider tech drive to link potential employers with untapped talent behind bars.

In the last 12 months, the proportion of prison leavers serving sentences of 12 months or more who were employed within six months of release has more than doubled, rising to an all-time high of 38 per cent, compared with 15 per cent in 2021.

This announcement was made by the Prisons and Probation Minister at the Ministry of Justice’s annual employment advisory conference (Thursday 13 November), where business leaders from across the country met to explore how they can support prison leavers into work.

Minister for Probation, Prisons and Reducing Reoffending, Lord James Timpson, said:

I know firsthand the value of employing ex-offenders. It slashes reoffending, prevents crime before it happens, and helps grow the economy by filling vital gaps in the UK job market.

That’s why we’re investing in rehabilitation and supporting prisoners into jobs to give them a real chance to turn their lives around, as part of our Plan for Change.

Data shows that prison leavers in full-time employment are roughly 10 percentage points less likely to re-offend when released from custody, which means less crime, and fewer future victims. More than 90 per cent of surveyed businesses who employ prison leavers report they are motivated, have good attendance and are trustworthy.

In a further move to cut crime, well known coffee shop firm Gourmet Coffee has become the latest high street name to hire ex-offenders and offer recruits tailored training to help them stay on the straight and narrow.

Liz Garnell, Co-owner of Gourmet Coffee:

For me, everyone deserves a second chance. It’s not just to rebuild their lives, but for them to contribute their skills, of which we have tapped into with great success at HMP Styal.

Earlier this year the Government launched Employment Councils which bring together probation, prisons, local employers and DWP under one umbrella for the first time. The new bodies will broaden employment support for offenders in the community.

This initiative supports the government’s broader mission to fix the foundations of the justice system by cutting crime, reducing reoffending and helping people rebuild their lives through the power of work.
November 18, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Review of public order and hate crime legislation [November 2025]

The press release issued by the Home Office on 15 November 2025.

Lord Macdonald of River Glaven KC has been appointed to lead an independent review of laws on public order and hate crime.

Following the terrorist attack in Manchester on 2 October, the Home Secretary announced an independent review of existing public order and hate crime legislation.

This resulted from concerns around community tensions and the impact of disruptive and intimidating protests and hate crime on the cohesion and safety of society.

The government will always protect the right to lawful protest and free speech, but we will not tolerate individuals or groups who intimidate others, incite hatred, or create disorder.

The review will therefore look at the powers police have to manage protests and the current hate crime laws, including offences for aggravated behaviour and “stirring up” hatred.

It will examine whether existing legislation is effective and proportionate, and whether it protects communities from hate and intimidation.

It will also consider if the law protects free speech and peaceful protest, while also preventing disorder and keeping people safe.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said:

The terrorist attack in Manchester on 2 October shocked the nation and showed how hatred and division can fuel violence. It happened at a time of growing concern about protests and hate crime in this country.

Our laws must protect the public, while upholding the right to protest and free speech. That is why we have asked Lord Macdonald to lead this review. His experience will ensure it is thorough and independent.

Lawful protest and free speech are fundamental rights, but we cannot allow them to be abused to spread hate or cause disorder. The law must be fit for purpose and consistently applied.

This review follows recent changes to the Crime and Policing Bill, which will require police to consider the overall impact of protests in one place before setting conditions on future demonstrations.

Lord Macdonald is the former Director of Public Prosecutions and brings extensive legal expertise and independence to this work.

He will be supported by Owen Weatherill, a senior policing expert who brings operational experience from his role as the National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Civil Contingencies and National Mobilisation.

The terms of reference for the review will be confirmed in the coming weeks with the review expected to commence imminently and conclude by February 2026.

November 18, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : UNISFA remains essential to protecting civilians in Abyei – UK Explanation of Vote at the UN Security Council [November 2025]

The press release issued by the 14 November 2025.

UK explanation of vote delivered by Jennifer MacNaughtan, UK Minister Counsellor, at the UN Security Council meeting on Abyei.

The United Kingdom voted in favour of renewing UNISFA’s mandate, and we thank the United States for their efforts on the text.

I will make two points.

First, UNISFA remains essential to maintaining stability and protecting civilians in Abyei.

We urge the Sudanese and the South Sudanese authorities to take steps in line with this resolution for the benefit of peace and security.

As this resolution makes clear, any decisions on UNISFA’s future must be informed by a thorough assessment of the implications for the protection of civilians.

Second, addressing the drivers of conflict in Abyei requires sustained attention to the impacts of climate change and related challenges, while ensuring that the specific needs of women and girls are met, including through an inclusive peace process.

In Abyei, these are not abstract concepts.

As such, we regret the removal of provisions in this regard.

The United Kingdom will continue to work with all Council members to support UNISFA in delivering effectively for the people of Abyei.

November 18, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : We all have a stake in upholding the Security Council’s mandate to maintain international peace and security – UK statement at the UN Security Council [November 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 14 November 2025.

Statement by Jennifer MacNaughtan, UK Minister Counsellor, at the Security Council meeting on working methods.

Thank you to our briefers: we all collectively benefit from your exceptional institutional knowledge and continued close following of the Council’s evolving working methods.

Let me also thank Denmark and Pakistan for your joint stewardship of the Informal Working Group on Documentation and Other Procedural Questions.

Underlining the United Kingdom’s approach to working methods is our desire for an action-oriented Security Council that is able to build consensus and reach compromises through constructive and informed debate.

The United Kingdom welcomes today’s open debate, as an opportunity to reiterate our commitment to the full implementation of Note 507, which underwent a significant update under Japan’s leadership of the Informal Working Group last year.

At that time, we were pleased to work with Council members to make amendments to enhance the Security Council’s transparency and accountability, whilst still preserving the important principle of confidentiality, including in areas such as access to historic documentation.

We are committed to responsible and effective penholding, taking into account views of countries concerned and of the region, including in both bilateral discussions and through their participation in relevant Council meetings under Rule 37, and we remain resolute in seeking to build consensus across this Council.

This includes – where appropriate and mutually agreeable – co-penning products as we have done for example, with the African members of the Council on Libya and Sudan.

We note the impact the delay in agreeing subsidiary body chairs this year has had on Committee work, and look forward to working with all current and incoming Council members to come to agreement on a package for 2026 to give incoming Chairs sufficient time to prepare.

As members of the Security Council, we all have a stake in preserving its integrity and upholding its mandate to maintain international peace and security. To that end, the United Kingdom remains committed to working with everyone around this table to continually review the Council’s working methods, in a collective effort to strengthen its effectiveness and efficiency.

November 18, 2025
NEWS STORY : Michelle Mone Denies Latest Allegations

STORY

Baroness Mone, the disgraced Peer who admitted lying to the media as to her links with PPE Medpro, has denied allegations made by the Daily Mail that she bullied builders who were working on her London house.

Mone said in a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter, that:

“It is deeply upsetting to read yet another false story, this time from a man who, seven years later, has chosen to sell a lie to make money from my name.”

Mone, who is resisting cross-party calls for her to quit the House of Lords following her lies to the media and also remains under investigation by the National Crime Agency, added:

“This is not journalism; it is persecution. But I will not be broken. I will continue to speak the truth.”

Kemi Badenoch, the Leader of the Opposition, said in October about Mone:

“I want to make sure is that people can see that the Conservative Party is a party of integrity. That’s why we removed Michelle Mone from our party. And it’s very, very important that people see that politicians, whether they’re in the Commons or in the Lords, are acting above board.”

November 18, 2025

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