Junior doctors in England will stage a five-day strike from December 17th after BMA members overwhelmingly rejected a government offer. The walkout coincides with record flu cases, sparking a patient safety row.
The Prince of Wales in West Bromwich could be permanently shut down after door staff used 'excessive force' and a weapon in a violent incident. Read the full story and the upcoming council decision.
Over 600 people protest Walsall NHS Trust's plan to close Hollybank House stroke unit. Trust cites £500k upgrade costs, proposes moving services to Wolverhampton. Campaigners fear loss of local care.
The NHS warns of an unprecedented winter flu wave, with hospitalisations 56% higher than last year and no sign of a peak. Health leaders urge the public to get vaccinated and use services wisely.
The NHS faces an 'unprecedented flu wave' with hospitalisations 56% higher than last year. Health chiefs urge eligible people to get vaccinated now to protect themselves and ease pressure on hospitals.
Eight dedicated staff from Cygnet Elms in Birmingham are finalists in the Stars of Learning Disabilities and Autism Awards. Discover their inspiring stories.
The NHS faces an unprecedented winter flu wave with record hospitalisations. Health chiefs urge eligible people to get vaccinated now to protect themselves and the health service.
Shoppers are snapping up real Christmas trees for a bargain £10.99 at Home Bargains. Discover the best festive tree deals from Tesco and Morrisons too.
The iconic Coca-Cola Christmas Truck Tour 2025 has announced its next steps. Find out where to see the festive lorry, get a free drink, and capture perfect holiday photos.
The Independent's guide to the UK's best festive markets features Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market and Worcester Christmas Fayre. Discover dates, highlights, and what makes them special.
A senior NHS doctor has submitted plans to convert a historic mid-19th Century Walsall building into a 17-bed HMO for healthcare staff. Read the full details of the proposal here.
Solihull railway station was forced to close early on 1st December 2025 due to a lack of available staff. Get the latest updates on the disruption and reopening here.
McDonald's enforces a strict no-tipping policy across its UK restaurants. Discover the reason behind the rule and the charitable alternative for grateful customers.
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Trust reports a £31.2m deficit, £17.1m worse than planned, driven by rising staff pay costs. A financial recovery plan is underway.
Construction restarts on Berwick's £35m community hospital with a new interim contractor after Merit's administration. The NHS trust reassures the community on progress.
Discover how Nazila Husanovic-Gladwyn uses her lived experience to support families and improve mental health services at Essex NHS Trust. Learn about this vital role making a real difference.
Discover the top spots to buy a high-quality real Christmas tree across Birmingham and the West Midlands. Open daily from 9am to 8pm. Find your festive centrepiece today!
Thousands of DWP staff are set to walk out in January 2026, threatening chaos in Jobcentres and benefit offices. The PCS union says workers are struggling with debt and using foodbanks.
A shopper witnessed 'disgusting' scenes of panic and staff abuse at a busy B&M store. Discover the shocking details and why retail workers deserve more respect.
The PCS union announces a statutory ballot for DWP members in the new year, escalating a dispute over an 'unacceptable' pay deal and chronic low pay. Read more.
Discover everything you need to know about Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market 2025, from festive stalls and live music to opening times and travel tips. Plan your visit today!
Stockport NHS Foundation Trust celebrates over 150 years of volunteer service and 2,720 years of staff dedication in special awards ceremonies. Read more about the local heroes.
Homebase launches real Christmas trees in over 250 The Range stores, rivalling Tesco and Morrisons. Choose from three sustainably grown UK varieties starting at £19.99.
The GMC warns the NHS could face catastrophic staff shortages as foreign-trained doctors leave. A 26% exodus increase threatens healthcare delivery. Read the critical report.
Discover why Stratford-upon-Avon's traditional Victorian Christmas market is a cheaper, more atmospheric alternative to Birmingham's for 2025. Plan your festive visit now!
Discover 9 enchanting villages and towns near Birmingham perfect for a festive day trip this Christmas. Find cosy escapes, traditional markets, and winter walks.
A man was arrested after hurling hot liquid at staff and breaking a window on an East Midlands Railway service. Read the full report on this disturbing incident.
British Gas owner Centrica cancels Christmas parties for 21,000 staff while hosting lavish black-tie event for senior management. Union condemns 'breathtaking' decision.
Caroline Nice from Spire Little Aston Hospital's outpatient team receives the prestigious IRIS Award for her outstanding dedication to patient care and operational support. Discover her inspiring story.
Paediatric diabetes nurse Becky Taylor receives top NHS award for transforming the life of a young patient. Discover how specialist care empowers children with diabetes.