Five Major Universal Credit Changes Confirmed for 2026
Major Universal Credit reforms for 2026 will leave many families hundreds of pounds better off, but bring tougher rules for others. Get the full details here.
Major Universal Credit reforms for 2026 will leave many families hundreds of pounds better off, but bring tougher rules for others. Get the full details here.
A new DWP scheme to train 5,000 SME managers to support sick employees has been branded 'spin politics' by business leaders, who say it fails to address the scale of 2.8 million long-term sick. Read the full analysis.
A new government scheme offering free occupational health training to 5,000 line managers has been criticised as inadequate to tackle the UK's 2.8 million long-term sick. Read the full analysis.
The DWP is rolling out free occupational health training for 5,000 line managers to help small businesses support staff and reduce long-term sickness absences. Read the full story.
Louisa Williams, a peer worker at EPUT, uses her own mental health journey to support patients. Discover how lived experience is reshaping care in Essex.
Get a free 24-page Brain Games for Adults magazine inside the Sunday Mercury. Packed with puzzles to boost memory and sharpen thinking, it's the perfect New Year brain workout. Pick up your copy!
Teenagers will be offered paid gap years with the UK armed forces from 2026, as part of a new 'whole of society' defence strategy. Discover how the scheme works and who can apply.
Manchester's Agy Górzyńska, a three-time world champion arm wrestler, reveals her unusual secret to success: a chicken liver breakfast. Discover her journey from construction site contests to global glory.
A three-year freeze on the student loan repayment threshold could leave new graduates struggling with bills. The NUS warns it risks pushing repayments 'dangerously close' to minimum wage earnings.
Birmingham City FC has appointed global architects Populous to design their new training centre at the Sports Quarter, a key step in the major east Birmingham regeneration project. Discover the plans.
Birmingham City's owners Knighthead have selected global architects Populous to design the club's new unified training centre at the Sports Quarter, a key step in the major redevelopment project.
Year 3 pupils from Gossey Lane Academy visited St Giles Care Home to sing carols and share festive activities with residents. Discover how the school's 11 B4 11 programme fosters kindness and community spirit.
As the King's Trust nears its 50th anniversary, new polling reveals deep public concern over youth joblessness in Wales. Director Sarah Jones calls for urgent collaboration to unlock potential.
Fast-growing Newport tech consultancy de Novo Solutions announces plans to create 50 new roles by 2030, expanding its graduate apprenticeship scheme and boosting the Welsh economy.
Former Strictly pro James Jordan claims 2025 winner Karen Carney had prior dance training, challenging the show's 'non-dancer' narrative. Read his explosive GMB interview.
Plans for an Eton Star Academy sixth form in Dudley have been approved, promising 240 places. Local politicians clash over whether it's the right investment for the town's youth.
Taylor Swift's personal trainer reveals the intense six-day-a-week regimen behind her Eras Tour stamina. Discover the routine so tough it could make you sick.
Five future guide dogs experienced the sights and sounds of Bristol Airport in a special training visit. Learn how this prepares them for life-changing work and how the airport supports assistance dogs.
Uber is thanking NHS and HSC staff with discounted rides and Uber Eats vouchers this Christmas. Find out how frontline healthcare workers can claim the festive offer.
Five distinguished Edge Hill University law graduates returned to campus for an inspiring alumni panel, sharing career journeys and advice with current students. Discover the paths from degree to practice.
Two young athletes from Climbing Hut Ellesmere Port, aged just 10 and 11, have earned spots on GB Climbing's Foundation Programme. Read their inspiring story and what it means for the local community.
A University of Birmingham graduate, who feared the pandemic ended her acting career, is now starring in Fiddler On The Roof at The Alexandra theatre. Her story is one of resilience and triumph.
Thousands of children in Middlesbrough will benefit from free festive fun, sports, and healthy meals this Christmas. The Bring It On Boro scheme is back, funded by a £250k grant. Find out how to book.
Over 500 participants lit up Endcliffe Park for Sheffield Children's Hospital Charity's annual Glow in the Park fun run, raising more than £28,000. The funds will support the Art+ programme.
A major independent review, led by Alan Milburn, will investigate the surge in young people not in work or education. The probe aims to tackle 'uncomfortable truths' and find solutions.
PayPal launches a free debit card with 1% cashback, challenging rivals like Amex. Nearly 30 million UK customers can join the new PayPal+ loyalty programme. Sign up now!
An NHS-funded diabetes support scheme in West Birmingham is transforming lives, with over half of participants reducing blood sugar levels. Residents call for expansion.
Two Midlands mothers share their journey from isolation to optimism after completing a work academy with East Midlands Railway. Discover how sector-based programmes are creating pathways to jobs.
A Birmingham NHS-funded diabetes programme is transforming lives, reducing blood sugar levels for 52% of participants and significantly improving mental health. Residents call for expansion.
The Duchess of Sussex launches a festive chocolate trio priced at £8.99, following the critical mauling of her Netflix holiday special. Discover the flavours and the reaction.