7 Steps to Improve Your Credit Score in 2026
Your credit score is key to financial freedom. Discover seven expert-backed strategies to improve your rating, from fixing errors to reporting rent. Start building a brighter financial future today.
Your credit score is key to financial freedom. Discover seven expert-backed strategies to improve your rating, from fixing errors to reporting rent. Start building a brighter financial future today.
A Solihull special school is making strides under new leadership after a critical Ofsted inspection and bullying claims. Read the latest on its improvement journey.
Birmingham MP Ayoub Khan condemns the departure of West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford, who retired after a controversial ban on away fans for an Aston Villa match. Read the full story.
West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford retires immediately following controversy over AI use in a match report and a damning inspectorate finding. Read the full story.
The UK housing stock hits an 8-year high, with London leading a 16% surge. Experts predict 2026 will be the property market's strongest 'normal' year since 2008. Read the full analysis.
The DWP gains new powers to monitor bank accounts for benefit fraud, targeting 100,000 people. Critics call it 'draconian' while government promises £940m savings.
The DWP's new powers for bank account checks could be extended to six major benefits after an initial trial. Find out which payments are at risk and how the system works.
Ofsted's new inspection system replaces one-word grades with detailed report cards. See the first ratings for West Midlands schools and what the changes mean for parents.
West Midlands Police apologises after a 'devastating' report criticises its handling of the Maccabi Tel Aviv fan ban. The Home Secretary has declared 'no confidence' in the chief constable.
A stark new report reveals a wealth gap in the UK's switch to electric vehicles, with lower-income households without driveways facing a £40,000 barrier. Discover the risks of a 'two-tier' system and the urgent calls for government action.
Ofsted has abolished its controversial one-word school ratings, introducing a detailed 'report card' system from January 2026. Discover how this change aims to provide a fairer picture for parents and schools.
WASPI women share a poignant story as they fight for £2,950 DWP compensation after Ombudsman's 'justice denied' ruling. The campaign continues for 3.6 million affected women.
A new report reveals the best UK commuter towns for 2026, featuring three West Midlands hotspots. Discover where affordability meets quality of life.
New UK data shows electric vehicle batteries degrade slower than believed, averaging just 1.8% annually for common models. Learn the facts about EV durability and breakdown risks.
A new report warns millions of diesel cars could vanish from UK roads as fuel stations stop sales. Discover the impact on drivers and the shift to electric vehicles.
Dudley Council receives a red rating for road maintenance best practice in a new government report, lagging behind neighbouring authorities. Find out why and what it means for local drivers.
Solihull Council's children's services achieve a historic 'good' Ofsted rating, a major turnaround from 2022. Inspectors highlight seven specific areas requiring further improvement for sustained progress.
A Make UK survey reveals UK manufacturing competitiveness is under severe threat, with rising costs near a 'tipping point'. Read the full report and the urgent call for government action.
A new report forecasts the 'Death of Diesel' as London filling stations plan to stop selling the fuel this decade. Discover the impact on nine million drivers and the shift to electric vehicles.
Thousands on seven key DWP benefits will receive a £150 Warm Home Discount credit in February. Find out if you qualify and what to do if you don't see the payment.
The government has announced sweeping changes to Universal Credit and DWP benefits for 2026, including the end of legacy benefits and key payment adjustments. Discover how the new rules will affect you.
Over 3 million older people living alone in England and Wales could be eligible for Pension Credit, providing an average of £4,300 in extra financial support. Check your eligibility now.
The DWP has clarified how claimants of Universal Credit, PIP, and Pension Credit can receive lump sum back payments following a successful mandatory reconsideration of a benefit decision.
Ofgem reveals £3.09bn in unclaimed energy credit. Use Martin Lewis's two-month rule to see if you're owed a refund. Contact your supplier today.
Tesco's annual Clubcard report reveals a shake-up: Red Bull is now the nation's favourite meal deal drink, dethroning Coca-Cola. Discover the UK's top lunchtime picks.
Labour government launches consultation to cut taxi licensing bodies and stop out-of-area work, aiming to boost passenger safety following the Casey Report. Read the full details.
Aldi has been named the UK's cheapest supermarket for the fifth consecutive year, saving shoppers hundreds. Find out which rivals came close and how to cut your grocery bill.
Ministers have until the end of February to decide on payouts for 3.6 million WASPI women. UNISON urges public to write to MPs demanding justice and fair compensation.
The DWP is issuing multiple £25 Cold Weather Payments to eligible households on six key benefits as freezing temperatures grip the UK. Find out if you're eligible and how it works.
American Express has launched new limited-time offers on Platinum and Gold Cards, allowing customers to earn up to £600 in points and travel credit. Find out if you're eligible before the January 2026 deadline.