Home Blog Page 134

Best moving tips from VanUmove for protecting your valuable belongings

Sponsored Content
-
1
Best moving tips from VanUmove for protecting your valuable belongings

Whether you move within the city or plan a country-crossing relocation, undoubtedly, one of your major concerns would be the safe transit of your belongings. Make sure that the things you own arrive at your new place in a good state. VanUmove, a platform assisting you in finding and assessing the most appropriate removal companies, delivers practical tips. All the information you need is included here, from getting the perfect packaging materials to the proper unloading procedure.

Prepare Your Packing Supplies

The proper materials are the foundation for a smooth transition. Acquiring high-end packaging materials to protect your special or fragile objects and putting money in your package is a necessary step. Major packaging materials are as follows:

  • Sturdy boxes that are of different sizes to choose from.
  • Use wrinkled newspaper or bubble wrap as the padding.
  • Sturdy adhesive tape is used to securely seal boxes.
  • Permanent labelling markers.
  • Mattress and furniture protectors like padded foams and bubble wraps.

Instead, prioritise a better quality list of materials, mainly when a long-distance relocation or you have to engage a full-service mover, who can help you get in contact with reliable movers, who normally add packaging supplies with the packages.

Protect Fragile Items with Correct Wrapping Techniques

Particular care must be taken with delicate objects like electronics, pottery, and glassware. Using the right wrapping methods may significantly improve the protection of these fragile possessions. Here are some pointers:

  • Make extensive use of bubble wrap by wrapping each delicate item separately and taping the wrap in place. Put some cushioning inside the box for further security.
  • Cover the box with padding in layers: Before putting anything inside, line the bottom of each box with foam peanuts or crumpled paper.
  • Keep things snug: Don’t leave spaces in the box between things. To stop shifting while in transit, cover any vacant spots with paper or other soft materials.
  • Clearly label the boxes: To show the proper orientation, mark boxes carrying fragile things with “FRAGILE” and an arrow.

Pack Items in Sturdy Boxes and Label Carefully

The secret to packing is organisation. Your goods will be well-protected if you choose robust boxes, and unpacking will be a lot simpler if you properly identify them. Adhere to these recommended practices:

  • Organise things logically: To speed up unpacking, group related goods together, such as books or kitchenware.
  • Avoid packing too many boxes: To make lifting easier and lower the chance of the box ripping, heavy objects, such as books, should be placed in smaller boxes.
  • Strengthen the bottom: For extra support, put more tape on the box’s bottom seams.
  • Label each box with information about its contents, room, and any specific handling guidelines. Long-distance removal companies will find this especially useful since it guarantees that boxes are placed in the proper locations when they arrive.

Handling and Loading Tips for Safe Transport

Freepik

The next stage is to load your items into the moving van after they have been packed. To prevent harm at this point, proper handling is crucial. Remember these pointers:

  • First, heavy items: To establish a stable basis, place furniture and heavy boxes at the bottom. Lighter objects won’t be crushed because of this.
  • Hold loose objects in place: To keep things from moving while travelling, fasten them in place with ropes or straps.
  • Evenly distribute the weight: To guarantee easy transportation and lower the chance of tipping, distribute the load evenly throughout the vehicle.
  • Employ protective padding: To avoid dents and scratches, wrap appliances and furniture in moving blankets or cushions.

Careful loading is essential whether you’re conducting the move yourself or with full-service movers. 

Unpacking and Checking for Damage

The last step after moving into your new house is to unload and check your possessions for damage. Observe these rules:

  • Unpack in a methodical manner, starting with necessities like beds and kitchenware before tackling less important belongings.
  • Check for damage right away: Make sure important or delicate things have arrived undamaged by carefully inspecting them. Report any problems to your moving company right away.
  • Recycle packing supplies: Either properly dispose of cardboard boxes and other packing supplies or save them for later use.

Long-distance moving companies often offer unpacking assistance, which can save time and effort. You can find a removal company with VanUmove that provides such convenient options.

In Conclusion

If you take the proper steps to secure your possessions, moving doesn’t have to be a traumatic experience. Every step is essential to make sure your relocation is successful, from purchasing high-quality packaging materials to carefully unloading. For individuals arranging long-distance relocation in particular, full-service removal firms may streamline the process. You may use VanUmove to evaluate services, locate a moving company that meets your needs, and feel secure knowing that your belongings are in capable hands.  Do you want to learn more about VanUmove’s services or read customer reviews? You can do it in a second by visiting the GMB profile and exploring numerous reviews from many customers. 

The proper planning and reliable experts make all the difference, whether you’re relocating across town or to a different city. Make your next move as easy and stress-free as possible by using moving services.

The importance of soft skills in education and beyond

Sponsored Content
-
0
The importance of soft skills in education and beyond

When we think about education, our minds often gravitate toward hard skills—those tangible, technical abilities like math, science, coding, or writing. While these are undeniably important, soft skills often take a back seat in the conversation. But here’s the kicker: soft skills are the unsung heroes of personal and professional success. They’re the glue that binds relationships, the secret sauce in teamwork, and the key to adapting to an ever-changing world.

In this article, we’ll explore why soft skills matter, not just in the classroom but in life as a whole. From boosting employability to fostering better human connections, these skills are invaluable. So, let’s dive in and uncover the power of soft skills, starting with what they are and why they hold the potential to change your life.

What Are Soft Skills, and Why Do They Matter?

Soft skills are essentially personal attributes and interpersonal abilities that enable you to interact effectively and harmoniously with others. Think of skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, empathy, and leadership. While hard skills help you land a job, soft skills help you keep it—and thrive in it.

Why do they matter? Imagine trying to work with someone who’s brilliant at crunching numbers but struggles to collaborate or manage time. Or consider a teacher who knows their subject inside out but lacks the empathy or communication skills to connect with students. In both cases, the absence of soft skills can be the downfall.

In today’s fast-paced world, soft skills are becoming even more critical. Jobs are evolving, workplaces are becoming more collaborative, and the ability to connect and communicate is more valued than ever. As automation and AI take over repetitive tasks, the “human touch” provided by soft skills is what sets individuals apart.

The Role of Soft Skills in Education

Building a Holistic Learning Environment

Education isn’t just about textbooks and tests; it’s about preparing students for life. Soft skills play a vital role in creating a well-rounded learning environment. Imagine a classroom where students are encouraged to work together on projects, express their thoughts openly, and learn to resolve conflicts constructively. That’s a space where soft skills shine.

Teachers who integrate soft skills into their lessons prepare students for real-world challenges. For example, group projects teach teamwork and conflict resolution, while presentations enhance communication and public speaking skills, or writing and sharing notes via the Edubirdie platform where students have to actively interact with each other. By focusing on these, educators cultivate critical thinkers who can collaborate and innovate.

You might think soft skills only matter after school, but they can significantly impact academic performance. Skills like time management and self-discipline are crucial for studying effectively and meeting deadlines. Emotional intelligence helps students manage stress and build resilience in the face of challenges, whether it’s a tough exam or a personal setback.

Moreover, classrooms that emphasize empathy and mutual respect create a supportive atmosphere where students feel safe to learn and grow. This fosters engagement and curiosity, which naturally translates to better academic outcomes.

Why Soft Skills Matter Beyond Education

Here’s a surprising fact: According to research by LinkedIn, 89% of recruiters say that when a hire doesn’t work out, it’s due to a lack of soft skills—not hard skills. Think about that for a second. No matter how great someone is on paper, their ability to thrive in a workplace depends largely on their interpersonal abilities.

Employers today are looking for more than just expertise. They want employees who can adapt, communicate, and collaborate. Whether it’s managing a team, networking with clients, or solving unexpected problems, soft skills are the X-factor that makes you indispensable.

Take adaptability as an example. The world of work is evolving at lightning speed, and the ability to pivot when circumstances change is invaluable. Likewise, communication and leadership skills can catapult you from being just another employee to becoming a key player in your organization.

Building Stronger Relationships

Soft skills aren’t just about professional success; they’re the foundation of meaningful personal relationships too. Who doesn’t appreciate someone who listens intently, communicates clearly, or empathizes deeply? Whether it’s with family, friends, or colleagues, soft skills improve the quality of our interactions and connections.

For instance, emotional intelligence—a key soft skill—helps you understand and manage not only your emotions but also those of others. This can be the difference between resolving conflicts peacefully or letting them escalate. Strong interpersonal skills make you not just a better professional, but a better human being.

How to Develop and Hone Soft Skills

Practice, Practice, Practice

Here’s the good news: soft skills can be learned and improved with effort. Start by practicing active listening in conversations—really focus on what the other person is saying instead of formulating your response while they’re still speaking. Practice empathy by putting yourself in someone else’s shoes, whether it’s a coworker, a friend, or a family member.

Want to know how good your soft skills really are? Ask for feedback. Your peers, mentors, and even family can offer valuable insights into areas where you excel and areas that need work. Accepting constructive criticism with grace is, in itself, a soft skill worth mastering!

Many organizations and institutions now offer courses aimed at developing soft skills. Whether it’s public speaking, leadership, or conflict resolution, these programs can be a game-changer. They not only teach you the theory behind these skills but also give you hands-on opportunities to practice them.

Soft skills have a ripple effect. When you improve your communication, empathy, and adaptability, you’re not just improving your own life—you’re positively impacting everyone around you. Think of a workplace where team members communicate openly, a classroom where students support each other, or a family where conflicts are resolved with understanding. That’s the power of soft skills in action.

Conclusion

Soft skills may not always get the spotlight, but they’re the silent drivers of success in education and beyond. They bridge the gap between knowledge and its practical application, turning good students into great leaders and capable professionals into outstanding ones.

As we navigate an increasingly interconnected world, the importance of soft skills can’t be overstated. They enable us to collaborate, innovate, and adapt to whatever life throws our way. Whether you’re a student preparing for the future, a professional climbing the career ladder, or simply someone aiming to improve relationships, soft skills are your secret weapon.

So, let’s give these skills the attention they deserve. After all, they don’t just shape your career—they shape your character. And isn’t that what success is truly about?

New neighbourhood policing inspector for Gedling borough sets out her priorities

Emily Sanchez
-
0
New neighbourhood policing inspector for Gedling borough sets out her priorities

Gedling borough has a new inspector in charge of Neighbourhood Policing.

Inspector Heather Harding has now taken over the role from Mark Stanley after previously working in Broxtowe borough.

She has been on Nottinghamshire neighbourhood policing teams for a number of years and said she was looking forward to getting to know the local community to understand the issues that are faced across Gedling borough.

The new inspector has now revealed her three quarterly local priorities for the borough, which are as follows:

Tackling anti-social behaviour in Arnold

Inspector Harding said: “Over the last couple of months there has been an increase in anti-social behaviour in the Arnold town centre area. The Gedling central team have been working to address this and have made some good progress with the young people involved.

“There are now youth outreach workers in the area, who are working with the children in diversionary activities. Over the last couple of weeks there has been a decrease in reported incidents, so this is a positive step towards a resolution for the issue.”

Anti-social behaviour in Calverton

The new inspector said: “After an increase in low level anti-social behaviour the Gedling north team have been focussing on the area, being visible, engaging with all the young people they see and ensuring that positive action is taken where offenders have been identified.

“There have been multiple stop searches completed, in which drugs have been found and offenders dealt with. In addition, the team have worked to develop relationships with the local youth centre and have ensured that they are visiting and speaking to the staff and kids using the facilities to send a clear message of acceptable behaviour in the area. This has led to a reduction in reported incidents and some meaningful engagement between the police, community and young people in the area.

Car cruising in Gedling south

“This is something that has been highlighted to police as an ongoing issue for a while,” said Inspector Harding.

Police stop a a motorist for anti-social driving (PHOTO: Notts Police)

“Recently the Gedling south team have been able to dedicate time to be in the area on patrol at the relevant times and have taken positive action when suspects have been identified. In addition, a force wide initiative for car cruising activity is now in place, which means patrol are being carried out in the area even more regularly.

The inspector also talked about the recent dispersal order put in place around Arnold town centre.

She said: “After a few busy days at the end of October, it was anticipated that there may be further problems in the Arnold town centre and so a dispersal order was put in place allowing police to break up groups if necessary. This was in place for 48 hours with multiple positive response, including more than 10 people being taken home, arrests for drugs and firework possession as well as lots of high visibility patrols.

“The feedback I have received is that residents and businesses were reassured by this action. Needless to say it’s something that will be used again as a robust approach if necessary.”

Sentimental jewellery stolen in Mapperley house burglary

David Bratton
-
0
Sentimental jewellery stolen in Mapperley house burglary

Police are appealing for information as they work to reunite a Mapperley couple with hugely sentimental jewellery stolen during a break-in at their home.

The items were stolen during a burglary on October 9, 2024.

The couple returned to their home to discover the break-in had taken place at some point between 11.15am and 1.15pm.

Officers have arrested a 30-year-old man on suspicion of burglary but the investigation is ongoing.

The images are not the actual items but very similar pieces of jewellery found online (PHOTO: Notts Police)
(PHOTO: Notts Police)
(PHOTO: Notts Police)

They are now also working to trace the collection of jewellery.

Police Constable Jessica Roffe, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “The victims were left extremely upset by the break-in and particularly the loss of this sentimental jewellery which was very important to them and their family.

“Officers have been working hard to trace the items by visiting jewellery shops and carrying out other inquiries.

“However, we’d also like to ask for the public’s help. If you’ve seen or been offered items like these for sale, either online or in person, or have any more information that could help us track them down, we’d ask that you please get in touch with us.”

The images are not the actual items but very similar pieces of jewellery found online.

Another stolen item is described as a solid ‘Gold Pigeon Medal’ which has ‘Saxton Brothers 1928 – Young Birds Champions’ inscribed with an enamel image of a blue pigeon on it.

Anyone with any information should call police on 101, quoting incident number 340 of 9 October 2024, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

LUCY LINTON: How TikTok is driving a book-buying renaissance

Lucy Linton
-
0
LUCY LINTON: How TikTok is driving a book-buying renaissance

Research from the Publisher’s Association has found that BookTok, the book-based trend within the social media platform TikTok, is key to getting people reading again.

For those aged 16-25, 59% said that BookTok or book influencers helped them discover a passion for reading.

The research also found that BookTok significantly influenced what types of books were read, with 55% saying they turned to the platform for recommendations and 38% prioritising TikTok recommendations over those from family and friends.

But what exactly is it about BookTok that makes it so great?

Unlike traditional reviews, BookTok is much more personal and, arguably, vulnerable. Creators don’t just review books – they cry over them, gush over their favourite characters, showcase art inspired by those characters, and share deeply emotional reactions that resonate with viewers on a wide scale.

This vulnerability creates an authentic connection that sets TikTok apart. For readers, it’s less about breaking down themes and more about the emotional journey of reading, both highs and lows.

Reading-stock

One book that ideally showcases this is Hanya Yanagihara’s A Little Life. This lengthy novel is a profoundly moving exploration of friendship, trauma, and resilience—it took me nearly half a year to finish.

BookTok creators don’t shy away from showing raw emotion. Many posts about A Little Life follow a familiar pattern: creators film themselves looking cheerful before reading, then post clips of themselves crying as they move through each chapter, and finally show visible distraught after finishing, clutching the novel against their chest. Comments often read, “I’m scared to start this,” or “This book destroyed me, but I’d recommend it to anyone”.

I was unaware of the book until it became a BookTok sensation despite being published in 2015. Seeing endless TikToks raving about it convinced me to order a copy immediately.

Booktok’s influence has revitalised interest in reading and boosted book sales. According to Neilsen’s Books and Consumers survey, BookTok accounted for 90 million book purchases in 2022.

One standout success is Adam Silvera’s They Both Die at the End, which sold over 650,000 copies in 2021 and another 100,000 the following year, years after its original publication in 2017.

A search for #BookTok on TikTok reveals over 40 million posts. At the same time, the trend has spread to Instagram, where the hashtag holds over 7 million posts.

However, Booktok’s influence extends beyond encouraging people to pick up books; it also reshaped the entertainment industry. Many trending books have been adapted into films or series, often advertised with the phrase “Based on the TikTok sensation.”

Take Normal People by Sally Rooney, which gained adoration on BookTok before its heartbreaking TV adaption. Similarly, Taylor Jenkins Reid’s Daisy Jones and the Six found new life as both a BookTok favourite and a successful Amazon Prime series.

While BookTok’s impact is undeniable, it does come with drawbacks. Of course, social media is algorithm-driven, which can lead to trending titles dominating the platform over fewer mainstream works.

Additionally, the focus on emotional reactions can favour genres. I see romance, young-adult fiction, and contemporary tragedy novels more than any other literary form, such as historical nonfiction or classic literature.

I often worry that the books dominating my feed are purely moments of buzz rather than something of long-term literary value. However, I’ve yet to find a book recommended through my social media that I have yet to have the utmost adoration for.

Even with these potential drawbacks, BookTok has undeniably expanded the reach of literature to audiences who might have yet to discover it.

Booktok reminds us of something important: books are not just stories; they are connections and conversations that unite us across screens, shelves, and generations.

While not every book will go viral—nor should it have to—the platform has revived countless people’s love for reading.

But it’s worth remembering that every story has the potential to spark joy, no matter where it goes viral – if it ever does at all.

The history and meaning behind Gedling borough’s pub names – Mapperley

Graham Finch
-
0
The history and meaning behind Gedling borough’s pub names – Mapperley

Some of Gedling borough’s pubs have some really interesting names so we decided to explore their origins.

This week we have uncovered the history of a number of watering holes in Mapperley, some still with us, others long gone, and found out how they came to get their titles.

PLAINSMAN – Woodthorpe Drive

The naming of this pub – which first opened its doors back in December 1969 – was an attempt to integrate the local area with American history.

Touches of the Wild West were visible inside back in the day with eye-catching murals on display that were the work of Ernest Bottomley – a former senior art lecturer at the Manchester Polytechnic.

His silver bison herd on a golden range was featured on a straight wood carving and for
preliminary research he studied these animals closely beforehand at a zoo. A hunter’s buffalo gun, a life-size Colt 45 and other reminders of tough frontier living are incorporated in a composition of wood and leather.

As for the original inn-sign itself, this was an impressive interpretation of the Western theme inspired by The Plainsman film starring the late, great Gary Cooper as Wild Bill Hickok and can still be seen outside the pub to this day.

The Plainsman sign today (PHOTO: Google)

The Woodthorpe Top – Woodthorpe Drive

The Woodthorpe Top was once Woodthorpe Grange Motors, the successor to Hopcroft Motors, for whom this single-storey building was erected after the Secondary World War.

Traveller’s Rest – Mapperley Plains

This inn, once known as the HalfWay House originates from I872 and was rebuilt in 1925.

Its first owner was a farrier, who attended to the re-shoeing of horses after they were watered at the pub.

For most people in the 19th and first quarter of the 20th century, the Carriers’ Cart was the only way of transporting themselves and their goods from Nottingham and Southwell.

In those days the carts made their twice-weekly trips to Southwell from the Black Boy, The Crown’ and The Maypole pubs on Long Row in Nottingham. This pub, with its strategic position, would certainly have occasion to be restful to these travellers.

Tree Tops – Plains Road

This pub – which opened on October 9, l963 was formerly a commercial and residential guest house.

Situated at one of the highest points in the district – a factor from which it
takes its name – it offered scenic views over the neighbouring countryside.

Cyberattack causes food shortages in Morrisons stores – including Netherfield

Gedling Eye
-
0
Cyberattack causes food shortages in Morrisons stores – including Netherfield

Morrisons’ customers in Gedling borough have been complaining on social media after being surprised with empty shelves in the store’s fruit, vegetable and meat sections this week following a hacker attack on warehouses.

The supermarket giant has a store on Victoria Retail Park in Netherfield and regular shoppers said there was very little on offer.

Ali Limb posted: “It’s like Covid all over again. Nothing in Morrisons. Off to Sainsbury’s I go then.”

Louise Simpkin wrote: “Not much in Morrisons Netherfield, folks. Very little or no bread, meat or veg. Might be worth going elesewhere.

According to reports, the shortages are a result of hackers hitting a software system the retailer uses to manage its supply chain. 

Morrisons confirmed the attack on the third-party company Blue Yonder, which impacted warehouse supply chains and caused shortages of fresh fruit, vegetables and meat in its stores.

A company spokesperson said: “Last week Blue Yonder suffered an outage, which has impacted our warehouse management systems for fresh and produce.  

“Ambient and frozen are unaffected. We are currently operating on our backup systems and we’re working very hard to deliver for our customers across the country.” 

Five arrested on suspicion of murdering taxi driver in Gedling 30 years ago

David Bratton
-
0
Five arrested on suspicion of murdering taxi driver in Gedling 30 years ago

Police officers have arrested five people on suspicion of the murder of a taxi driver who was found murdered in his cab in a Gedling car park back in 1994.

Ethsham Ul-Haq Ghafoor, aged 26, of Sherwood Rise, known to his friends and family as Shami, was shot dead in his taxi on Tuesday, November 22, 1994.

He was found by a milkman at 4.30am at Lambley Lane Playing Fields with his hands tied and bound to the steering wheel.

Ethsham Ul-Haq Ghafoor was found dead in his taxi at a car park in Lambley Lane Playing Fields back in 1994
Picture of Ethsham Ul-Haq Ghafoor, 26, was shot dead in his taxi
Ethsham Ul-Haq Ghafoor, 26, had been bound to his steering wheel and shot in what police called an ‘execution-style’ murder

He had been shot in what has been described by police as “an execution.”

To mark the 30th anniversary of his murder, detectives began reinvestigating the crime and hoped to provide his family with answers.

Crimestoppers, a charity which is independent of the police, has offered a reward of up to £50,000 for information that they exclusively receive that leads to a conviction.

A press conference was held last Friday (22), where the police, Shami’s family, and Crimestoppers appealed to the public for information.

Shami was described as “an outgoing, charming and kind man” who died five months before his baby daughter was born.

A press conference was held last Friday (22), where Shami’s family appealed to the public for information (PHOTO: Notts Police)

On the morning of Wednesday, November 27, five people have been arrested on suspicion of murder in the Sneinton and Bakersfield area.

They are four men, aged 64, 57, 52, 51 and one woman aged 47.

Police said they will have a large presence in the Sneinton and Bakersfield area while investigations continue.

Assistant Chief Constable Rob Griffin said: “Firstly, I would like to thank the community and the media for sharing our appeal for information.

“This was a dreadful crime that has left Shami’s family waiting 30 years for answers.

“Following our appeal, we have received numerous calls from the public.

“I would like to personally thank them for their support.

“Please continue to share our appeal and contact us with any information you may have.

“We know that the answer to Shami’s murder lies within the community, and we would encourage anyone with information, no matter how small, to please continue to get in touch with our officers or through Crimestoppers.

Neighbourhood Inspector Stephen Dalby, who covers the Sneinton and Bakersfield area, said: “I would like to reassure the community who are likely to see an increased police presence in Sneinton and Bakersfield today.

“This is part of our investigation into the murder of Ethsham Ul-Haq Ghafoor.

“Please do not be alarmed. Officers are in the area carrying out a thorough investigation and are likely to be in the area for most of the day.

“There will be reassurance patrols engaging with the community so anyone with any concerns please do talk to one of our officers. They are here to help.

“As always, we would like to thank the public for their patience.”

Detectives are still calling for anyone with information about this crime to please get in touch.

Anyone with information about this crime can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or call 101 quoting incident number 0300 of the 15th November 2024.

Families in Gedling borough to get 30 minutes of free childcare with school breakfast clubs trial

Emily Sanchez
-
0
Families in Gedling borough to get 30 minutes of free childcare with school breakfast clubs trial

Parents in Gedling borough could soon be able to access 30 minutes of free childcare at the start of the school day as the Government pushes ahead with its rollout of breakfast clubs in England.

Applications are now open for 750 state schools with primary aged-pupils to join the “early adopter scheme”, with the first breakfast clubs expected to be running from April.

The schools chosen for the trial will offer a free breakfast to all their pupils and at least 30 minutes of childcare before school, the Department for Education (DfE) said.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced the Government will triple its investment in breakfast clubs to more than £30 million in 2025/26 in her Budget last month.

The Government said breakfast clubs in every primary school will make a huge difference to children, families, and schools – removing barriers to opportunity by helping children learn, making sure no child starts school hungry, and helping families with the cost of childcare around the school day, to help keep money in people’s pockets.

More than 2 in 5 non-working mothers say that they would prefer to work if they could arrange good quality, convenient, reliable and affordable childcare, and over half of parents say they have problems finding formal childcare for their child that is flexible enough to fit their needs.  

Schools that become early adopters will have the opportunity to shape the future of the national breakfast club policy, contributing directly to its rollout.  

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “This is a landmark opportunity for schools to be in the vanguard of change, as we build back the foundations of an education system that breaks the link between children’sbackground, and the opportunities they have in life. 

“From helping with flexible working for families, to improving behaviour and attendance, the supportive start to the day that breakfast clubs provide will help drive high and rising standards for every child. This government is delivering change that will make a real difference to families up and down the country.” 

Sir David Holmes CBE, Chief Executive of Family Action said:  “We know from our long experience of delivering breakfast provision ourselves the difference that a nutritious breakfast offered in a supportive and enriching environment can make to children’s readiness to learn.   

“We will do all we can to share our experience with Early Adopter schools in this crucial test and learn phase so that they can maximise the impact of this significant new offer to children and families at the start of the school day and inform its rollout to many more schools in the future.” 

The wider paid-for wraparound childcare offer – for all primary children to be able to access childcare between 8am-6pm – continues to roll out across the country. 

Further details on the national roll out of the breakfast clubs programme will follow in due course.  

How technology is elevating safety in modern environments

Sponsored Content
-
0
How technology is elevating safety in modern environments

Imagine your house detecting a fire before you notice it burning, or your car anticipating a crash before you see it happen. It’s not science fiction, it’s the present. Technology is our silent safety net that does everything it can to keep us safe, even if we are unaware of it. Whether at home, in the car or in the public realm, tech is quietly changing safety and transforming our places into safer environments. 

When it comes to things we take for granted, wouldn’t you be happier knowing that innovation is always in your corner? From AI-powered crime detection to wearable safety devices to driverless cars, technology is not just making life easier, it’s changing how we enlist and protect others. The result?  A world in which you can live more comfortably, knowing that state of the art tools are reducing risk wherever you look. 

Innovative Solutions for Public Safety  

We are seeing public safety transformed through technologically enabled surveillance, response technologies, and AI-based tools to prevent crime. Collectively, these technologies make the world safer. 

Smart Surveillance Systems  

Smart surveillance systems are changing the way that monitoring takes place in public spaces. Video surveillance uses technology such as facial recognition cameras, motion detectors and heat sensors to maximise detection. 

As processors get more powerful, many of these can process video in real time, resulting in massively faster response times. For instance, if suspicious behaviour is detected, instant notifications can be passed to authorities so as to intervene at a moment’s notice. Further, leveraging AI video surveillance offers a huge advantage in recognizing a threat before it becomes an infestation. In this way, we keep communities safer and secure. 

Emergency Response Technologies  

Emergency response technologies have achieved great advances, radically changing the way disasters are addressed. New technologies such as thermal-imaging drones and GPS-equipped smartphones make it quicker for emergency managers to judge what’s going on. These tools can bring essential materials or offer visual clues in remote locations. 

As are mobile apps that facilitate communication in times of crisis. These apps allow citizens to share incidents and track actions on-the-go, creating a fast feedback system between the public and government. Wearables also allow for the continuous monitoring of vital signs and transferring data to medical staff, even before they arrive on the scene. 

1...133134135...1,015Page 134 of 1,015