Former soldier Dan Vaughan, who struggled after leaving the army, is rebuilding his life thanks to a veteran-specific HMO scheme in Solihull. Discover how the project offers housing and support.
Vulnerable Blackpool residents can apply for up to £300 in energy bill support. The scheme, funded by the DWP, runs until 31 March 2026. Find out if you qualify and how to apply.
Joanne Lewis, 57, gives up her Christmas to answer calls on Marie Curie's free support line, offering vital emotional support to those facing death and bereavement during the festive season.
A rare Smew duck delights visitors at Southport Marine Lake, while unseasonal blooms on the Sefton Coast highlight climate concerns. Discover winter wildlife wonders this festive season.
A fox with mange was rescued from Pure Gym in Worcester after a three-day operation. Vale Wildlife Hospital staff finally caught the animal on the gym floor. Read the full story.
The Wildlife Trusts' free 12 Days Wild challenge runs from 25 Dec to 5 Jan, offering daily nature activities to boost wellbeing. Sign up for inspiration and connect with winter wildlife.
Bereavement counsellor Sharon Jenkins from Marie Curie offers practical guidance for managing grief during the festive season, including creating a 'Plan B' and establishing new traditions.
Mansfield Wildlife Rescue receives a £1,000 donation from The Wilkins Group to cover winter costs. The gift concludes the firm's year-long '12 Months of Giving' charity initiative.
Dobbies Garden Centre in Southport hosts a free Little Seedlings workshop on January 4, teaching children creative ways to recycle Christmas trees and build wildlife habitats. Book now!
Lancashire Wildlife Trust's free 12 Days Wild challenge runs from Dec 25 to Jan 5. Sign up for daily ideas to connect with nature this winter and boost wellbeing.
England introduces a major animal welfare law, banning the shooting of brown hares for most of the year to protect them during breeding season. Read the full details.
A Birmingham father attempted to smuggle 80 alligator heads into the UK for his eBay side hustle. Discover how Border Force stopped him and his suspended sentence.
UK households are asked to leave cranberries off their Christmas plates to help garden birds survive the frosty winter. Experts reveal festive foods to share and avoid.
Two motorised paragliders had a dramatic near-miss at Peak Wildlife Park, Staffordshire, almost landing in an enclosure with two polar bears. Read the full story of their lucky escape.
RAF veteran Barrie Griffiths urges Hertfordshire residents to post messages of support for veterans this Christmas via Help for Heroes. Small gestures can combat loneliness.
Redrow South Midlands' Community Fund has awarded £2,600 to three Cambridgeshire organisations, supporting youth sports and adult disability services. Discover how the donations are making a difference.
Struggling families in Leicestershire can claim up to £170 in free supermarket vouchers via the DWP's Household Support Fund. Find out if you're eligible and how to apply.
From otter sightings to rare orchid discoveries, explore Yorkshire Wildlife Trust's year of triumphs and challenges in protecting the region's precious wildlife and wild spaces.
Sumatran tiger and red panda cubs at West Midlands Safari Park have enjoyed festive enrichment. Keepers provided species-specific treats to encourage natural behaviours. The park is open on selected winter dates.
Chester Zoo welcomes a mother-and-son jaguar pair to a new retirement habitat. Discover their remarkable story and how they highlight global conservation efforts for this Near Threatened species.
Local naturalist Dave Steele reimagines the festive song with birds spotted on Lancashire's Chat Moss. Discover the surprising swaps from turtle doves to willow tits.
The DWP's Household Support Fund will pause on 19th December, with payments not restarting until 5th January 2026. Leicestershire residents are urged to check eligibility for food and fuel vouchers.
A new project in Leeds will create eight wildlife havens for pollinators and people, backed by local funding and community action. Find out how to get involved.
Polar bear Brodie has moved to Yorkshire Wildlife Park's Project Polar, where he may be reunited with his brother Hamish after five years apart. Experts are monitoring his introduction to the other bears.
A Birmingham man has been sentenced for trying to smuggle 80 alligator heads from America to sell on eBay. Read the full story of the unusual wildlife crime.
Barchester Healthcare launches a national campaign with 12 practical tips to support vulnerable people this festive season, highlighting the vital work of carers.
Ramsdale Park Golf Centre celebrates a year of community fundraising, donating £32,000 to Emmanuel House and Cystic Fibrosis support. Discover how members made a difference.
West Midlands Safari Park expands with eight new lodges for 2026 due to high demand. Stay near giraffes and rhinos with exclusive park access. Book now for a unique wildlife experience.
West Midlands Safari Park is building eight new lodges due to high demand. Four Giraffe Lodges and four Rhino Lodges will open in 2026, offering unique overnight wildlife experiences. Bookings are now open.
Struggling UK households begin receiving £100 payments via the Household Support Fund. Find out if you're eligible and how to apply for this vital help with energy and food bills.