News Now UK - Carl Blackshaw

Safeguarding experts shares top tips for keeping children safe on TikTok

Carl Blackshaw — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 12:04:42 +0100

Here, the team from safeguarding training experts High Speed Training share guidance on the essential things all parents need to know to ensure their children are using TikTok safely

What is TikTok?

First launched in 2016, TikTok is a short-form video sharing platform where people can share, create and watch videos. Users can browse different content on a personalised feed known as the ‘For You Page’ (FYP). The videos shown to users differ from person to person and are personalised using different algorithms.

TikTok is predominantly used by Gen Z and Gen Alpha. In March 2024 it was found that in the UK alone, 76% of online users aged between 15 – 24 years old regularly engaged with the app, spending approximately 30 hours per month on it. An Ofcom report found that TikTok was the third most used platform amongst children, with half of children aged 3 – 17 years using the platform in 2021.

Dr Richard Anderson, Director of Learning at safeguarding training experts High Speed Training, said: “Both Gen Z and Gen Alpha are viewed as ‘digital natives’ as, unlike previous generations, they have never known a world without the internet. As such, the internet and by extension social media, has greatly influenced their upbringing and their reliance on technology and mobile devices.

“The vast reach of the app, its popularity and the wide variety of content that it provides, can make it difficult for parents and guardians to monitor the online activities of their children. This leads to understandable concerns about online safety and appropriateness of the platform.”

TikTok is a powerful creative outlet for many, has the potential to show users new and exciting things that they have never come across before, with exposure to different music, culture and ways of life. TikTok has also become a popular source of news for users, with popular news outlets such as BBC, Al Jazeera and The Guardian sharing news about world events.

However, there are potential risks associated with using the app:

Exposure to explicit content – Whilst TikTok doesn’t allow users to search for content with certain hashtags, explicit content is prevalent on the app and not necessarily difficult to find.

Screen addiction – Social media is designed to capture and hold attention, and each view, like and share triggers a dopamine release which keeps you in a cycle of viewing, liking and sharing.

Self-esteem – Social media often presents a picture perfect, unrealistic version of people’s lives, and users can often find themselves comparing against an unrealistic and unattainable ideal. This can lead to a negative self-image and low self-esteem.

Unwanted communications– Whilst TikTok profiles for children are automatically set to private, should a young person create a secret account, they can set whatever age they wish and make their account public. This means that anyone can see their videos, access their location information or send them direct messages. This leaves young people vulnerable as strangers can follow and interact with them under the guise of being someone else or having innocent intentions.

Cyberbullying – As with all social media platforms there is the risk of your child being subjected to cyberbullying. Cyberbullying is online bullying or harassment that utilises technology often because it affords the bully a level of anonymity. Bullying of any kind can have a catastrophic effect on a child’s mental health and there have been a number of unfortunate incidents in recent years that have highlighted the damaging effect of bullying.

Dangerous challenges – A notable part of TikTok’s popularity has been different online challenges. Whilst many of these challenges are fun and light-hearted, others can be harmful and incredibly dangerous and there have been reported incidents of children and young people losing their lives as a result of attempting different online challenges.

Does TikTok Have Parental Controls?

In order to help keep children and young people safe on the platform, TikTok provides various parental controls, such as default private accounts for under 18’s, screen time limits, and limited messaging for under 16’s.

Family pairing enables parents and guardians to link their own TikTok accounts to their child’s account and manage certain settings, such as screen time limits, content filters and limiting message recipients.

You can read more about TikTok’s guardian specific safety features here.

5 TikTok safety tips

TikTok, like any other social media platform, can come with certain risks. However, there are many ways to reduce the risks and ensure the safe and fun use of TikTok for your child. Below you will find five top tips to help keep your child safe on TikTok.

1. Set up family pairing – As mentioned above, family pairing allows you to have more control over what your child does or doesn’t see and who they engage with

2. Speak to your child – If your child is unaware of the potential dangers of TikTok they are less likely to follow any rules that you put in place regarding it. The goal here isn’t to scare your child into obedience, but to have an honest and open conversation about the potential risks.

3. Check in occasionally – Don’t be afraid to check your child’s profile every now and again. This could be to see what content they are posting so as to show your support or to double check that what they are seeing or posting is appropriate

4. Take an interest – Different generations have very different views on TikTok and it is easy for parents to dismiss it as a trivial waste of time. However, if your child is eager to show you the content they have created or the creators that they are engaging with, it’s important to show an interest.

5. Encourage a variety of hobbies – Actively encouraging a variety of hobbies ensures that your child doesn’t spend the majority of their free time on the app. Allowing them to explore new things and find hobbies outside of TikTok, even if they discovered the hobby on TikTok, will help to ensure they don’t spend too much time on the app.

Dr Anderson continues: “TikTok has taken the world by storm and has proven to be a social media global phenomenon. Its prevalence and popularity amongst children and young people present unique difficulties, however, careful consideration and open communication can help to greatly reduce any risks.

“At its core, TikTok is a creative platform that allows people to come together and share fun, imaginative and unique content. Encouraging your child to remain diligent and cautious enables them to enjoy the app safely. It’s important to have an awareness of social media so that you can make better informed decisions to protect your child, whilst respecting their freedom of expression and autonomy.”

For more information, and hundreds of other free resources, visit the High Speed Training Hub.

Councils face new rules for spending pothole funding, or risk losing their cash

Carl Blackshaw — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:48:12 +0100

Councils will now face tougher rules to prove they are fixing potholes or risk losing up to a third of next year’s funding
The government is ensuring taxpayers’ money is working harder to get smoother roads and is not redirected elsewhere.
Red-rated councils will receive funding to improve performance and deliver visibly smoother, safer roads.

Councils will face new rules on how they spend funding to fix potholes and maintain local roads, as the Government today (14 April) sets out new requirements to ensure taxpayers see real improvements.

Under the new measures, local highway authorities which fail to demonstrate they are maintaining roads effectively could lose around a third of their £1.6bn funding for the next year.

Pothole damage already costs the average driver around £500 in avoidable repairs at a time when every pound in people's pockets matters, and the Government is determined to ease that financial burden by ensuring councils fix roads properly.

The changes will ensure that record investment in local roads is used as intended, with a total of £525m held back from councils across England unless they are transparent and prove they are performing. Councils must publish reports proving they are spending all of their highways cash purely on road maintenance, showing long-term plans for looking after roads and better training for their highways teams.

These new measures mean taxpayers know exactly where their money is going and will start to see smoother roads and an end to the pothole plague.

Roads and Buses Minister, Simon Lightwood, said:

“Drivers deserve smooth, safe journeys, and we’re making sure every pound goes straight into fixing roads and tackling potholes, not being spent elsewhere.

“Potholes aren't just an inconvenience - they cost drivers hundreds, if not more every time they cause damage to a vehicle. Fixing our roads is one of the most impactful things we can do to reduce the cost of owning and driving a car, and we're making sure every pound goes straight into doing exactly that.

“We've made it crystal clear, that councils which fail to maintain their roads will now risk losing up to a third of their funding.

“And for the first time, we’re giving councils multi-year funding so they can plan properly and reverse a decade of decline in our roads.”

RAC head of policy Simon Williams said: "These measures should go a long way to addressing the poor condition of local roads, which we know from research for the RAC Report on Motoring is drivers' number-one concern.

“Ensuring money that is given to councils to improve their roads is actually spent on roads is critical, so the Government's focus on this will be welcomed by drivers. And, while fixing dangerous potholes is vital, it's also very positive to see councils being encouraged to carry out preventative maintenance work, which will stop potholes forming in the future.

“Having the certainty of funding over the next five years for councils to plan proper maintenance programmes should result in better quality roads for all."

Edmund King, AA president, said, "Fixing potholes remains the number one motoring issue for drivers, so it is right that councils are being scrutinised over their repair plans.

"We urge local authorities to use their funding to resurface roads rather than simply patch up their streets. Proper investment in the road network helps create safer, smoother journeys for everyone."

This follows the Government’s first-of-a-kind red, amber or green ratings to grade 154 local highway authorities (LHA) based on current road condition and how effectively they are spending the Government’s record £7.3bn funding. This includes a map showing the public how well councils are doing in delivering the improvements they want to see in their local area. Councils now have record multi-year funding to get on with the job of delivering safer, smoother journeys.

The Government is also commencing its new support for the thirteen red-rated local highway authorities. Each will be supported with a total of £300,000 worth of expert planning for over two years, designed to help councils raise standards, fix more roads and deliver better results for road users.

We are also backing local highways authorities with a record multi-year investment to improve the condition of their roads, after years of them calling for long-term certainty.

Breaking: Parents Forced to Walk Children to School, Nation in Mild Shock

Carl Blackshaw — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 13:28:06 +0100

“I saw Mrs Henderson pushing a stroller like some kind of pedestrian warrior,” said Timmy, age 8. “She was sweating… and smiling? That doesn’t make sense.”

Teachers are adjusting as well. “We were not prepared for this level of parental presence,” said Mr Clark, a fifth-grade teacher. “Parents keep arriving five minutes early, asking questions like ‘So… what exactly do they learn in math?’ and ‘Have we tried meditation for homework stress?’ I didn’t sign up for this.”

Pets are reportedly torn. “My dog looks happy that we’re walking,” admitted Sarah, mother of two. “But he’s also judging my pace, like, ‘Really, Mom? That’s your fastest?’ It’s demoralising.”

Neighbours have formed impromptu committees to observe the phenomenon. “We thought it would be a one-day protest,” said Mr Jenkins, an elderly bystander. “But they’ve been walking every day for a week. I’m starting a betting pool on how long before someone tries a skateboard stroller hybrid.”

Children are… confused. “I thought my mom was just going to drive,” said one seven-year-old, clutching a granola bar like a life raft. “Now she’s asking me about my feelings. Five minutes felt like a year. I think my legs are growing… wrong.”

Local businesses are scrambling. Gas stations report plummeting sales, while coffee shops have implemented “emergency hydration stations” for exhausted parents. “We had one mom literally collapsing into a latte,” said barista Jamal. “She smiled, though, which is terrifying.”

Even city officials are weighing in. “We are currently evaluating whether sidewalks are equipped for this,” said a spokesperson. “We may need crosswalks with motivational signs, or emergency snack stations.”

Experts warn of long-term consequences. “Children may become accustomed to exercise, social interaction, and fresh air,” said Dr. Harriet Pedalus, an authority on parental endurance. “Parents may regain leg strength, confidence, and the horrifying realisation that they can leave the car at home. Society may never be the same.”

For now, the streets are filled with walking parents, children in varying states of bewilderment, and dogs judging everyone silently. Some have called it a renaissance. Others call it a logistical nightmare. One thing is certain: five minutes on foot has never felt so revolutionary.

Millions of drivers in the North East and Yorkshire set to benefit from over £2 billion investment to renew ageing roads

Carl Blackshaw — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 18:33:45 +0000

Major £27 billion boost for England's motorways and major A-roads over the next five years - one of the largest ever road investment plans.

After years of decline, plans will fix the country's ageing roads and fund major schemes including dualling of the A66, and potential longer-term upgrades to the A19 Moor Farm Junction near Newcastle.

Government also gives green light to Phase 4 of the Sunderland Strategic Corridor scheme and replacement of the Shalesmoor roundabout in Sheffield, helping create thousands of new jobs and homes across the region.

Millions of drivers in the North East and Yorkshire are set for smoother, safer journeys as the Government committed over £2 billion to upgrade and future-proof roads in the region.

Spread across five years, the plan puts more money into maintaining the network to help deliver smoother, more reliable journeys for drivers, businesses and freight operators by resurfacing roads, fixing potholes, and replacing worn-out stretches of motorway.

The huge investment, known as the Road Investment Strategy (RIS3), will fund major schemes that unlock growth and improve connectivity across the country, and allow National Highways to resurface over 9,000 kilometres worth of motorway and major A-road lanes – almost a quarter of the network.

This includes work on the dualling of the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine route in the North East and North Yorkshire, and potential longer-term upgrades to the A19 Moor Farm Junction, which will support thousands of new homes near Newcastle.

The Government is also choosing to fix the foundations, investing a record £8.4 billion to repair and renew England's motorways and major A-roads before problems arise, so drivers can have faith in a world-class road network once again.

That's on top of the £7.3bn already pledged by the Government at the Spending Review for local authorities to fix potholes and invest in long-term measures to maintain local roads.

To help restore people's pride in their communities, the Government is today also giving the green light to a further 16 road schemes on the major road network and local roads, supporting thousands of new jobs and homes in communities across England.

The schemes, including improving roundabouts and signalling as part of Phase 4 of the Sunderland Strategic Transport Corridor and remodelling of links and junctions for the Shalesmoor gateway in Sheffield, as well as increasing capacity on the A650 Tong Street in Bradford – all of which could not be delivered by local authorities alone - have been chosen on their value for money and long-term deliverability, ensuring taxpayers' money goes where it will make the greatest difference. 

To help show the scale of the investment, the Government has created an interactive map showing all the schemes that will be progressed during RIS3.

Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: "For too long this country has failed to tackle and fix our crumbling infrastructure, but this £2 billion investment will secure the future of our road network in the North East and Yorkshire for years to come.

"Not only are we investing in renewing our roads, meaning smoother and faster journeys for drivers, we are getting on with investing into brand new projects which will deliver benefits across the region, from Tyneside all the way to South Yorkshire.

Roads and Buses Minister, Simon Lightwood, said: "This Government is firmly putting its money where its mouth is, and this new funding will be transformational for the millions of drivers and thousands of businesses that rely on our motorways and A roads every day.

"By investing in existing infrastructure and new schemes, such as the long-awaited dualling of the A66, we are giving everyone the confidence they can get from A to B faster and smoother than ever before."  

National Highways Executive Director Elliot Shaw said: "This major investment will help boost economic growth by improving and maintaining motorways and major A roads which keep the country moving.

"When roads are well maintained, businesses and communities feel the benefit, so this funding enables us to tackle an ageing network head-on and keep drivers safe.

"Our focus on renewing vital infrastructure will keep people connected to their loved ones, support the delivery of new homes and jobs, and give industry the confidence to plan and invest in the UK."

RIS3 supports the Government's central mission of kickstarting economic growth, giving businesses and regions the long-term certainty they need to invest and create jobs. Improved road reliability will also help keep supply chains moving and support the freight networks that keep goods and prices stable for consumers. 

It also sets stretching targets for National Highways on safety, journey reliability, network condition, and environmental performance, allowing the Government to hold them to account on delivery over the five-year period.

While today the Government has committed to tackling potholes on motorways and major A-road surfaces, it has also recently committed to investing over £560 million over the next four years to help councils in the North East and Yorkshire tackle their potholes.

We have also introduced a new rating system so people can see for themselves whether their local council is using their funding to deliver for their communities.

List of schemes in the North East and Yorkshire to be funded during RIS3

A66 Northern Trans-Pennine	North East, North West, and Yorkshire	Dualling of the remaining single-carriageway sections of the A66 between the M6 Junction 40 and A1(M) Junction 53, and improvements to the junctions at Penrith and Scotch Corner
M180 Jct. 2-3 Eastbound & Westbound	Yorkshire	An ageing concrete road that requires full reconstruction.
A180 Brocklesby Interchange to Barnetby Interchange	Lincolnshire	Ageing concrete road that requires full reconstruction. The road is a key route serving Immingham Docks and the Port of Grimsby.
M62 Goole, Howden & Airmyn	Yorkshire	Refurbishment of two bridges. This project will repair the structures, renew key components, and install measures to protect them from future damage.

Schemes to be explored for RIS4 or future pipeline

A19 Moor Farm Junction

North East

Delivering junction improvements to support significant planned

housing and commercial growth in the North East.

On the road to better health: ambulance teams help patients stub out smoking

Carl Blackshaw — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 12:31:39 +0000

Between August 2023 and October 2024, NEAS paramedics proactively asked patients who smoke if they wanted to enter a trial to receive support to quit as part of the service’s efforts to improve health and reduce health inequalities across the region.

Following the trial, the service is now looking to introduce patient referrals to all local authority-commissioned Stop Smoking Services across the region.

Smoking is the number one preventable cause of death, disability and ill health in the UK. It causes around 74,000 deaths in England every year, causes 1-in-4 of all cancer deaths and kills up to two-thirds of its long-term users. Smoking also drives huge pressures on emergency hospital admissions through diseases such as COPD, heart disease and stroke.

The North East has seen the largest fall in smoking in the country through efforts by local authorities and the NHS, from 29% of people in 2005 to 10.2% in 2024.

However, the region still highest hospital admission rate for conditions directly related to smoking and the lowest life expectancy of all English regions.

More than 125,000 people have died in the North East from smoking-related diseases since 2000.

Smoking also costs the North East around £1.99billion a year in healthcare, social care and lost earnings.

The NEAS trial sought to understand whether additional support from ambulance clinicians could improve take-up rates of smoking cessation services.

Between August 2023 and October 2024, patients who received a face-to-face ambulance contact in North or South Tees were asked about smoking and given a short explanation about the early benefits of quitting. Where a patient then asked for further support, the clinician made a referral to their local stop smoking service, where they were provided with nicotine replacement therapy or stop smoking medication.

Regardless of whether the patient was admitted to hospital or treated at home, they then received follow up support, either by their in-hospital tobacco dependency treatment team or local authority community stop smoking team.

Of the 140 patients who agreed to be part of the trial, 31 (22%) had quit when they were followed up 28-days later.

Of the remaining patients who had not yet quit when followed up, six were still being supported to stop, and 27 had no or intermittent access to telephone or internet connectivity, so were unable to be contacted by the stop smoking teams.

Of the remaining 76 who had dropped out of the programme, there were a mixture of reasons – some changed their minds about quitting, some were too unwell with other illnesses to take up the offer, and some worried quitting would make them unwell.

Research paramedic Karl Charlton, who led on the study, said: “We know the people in our region – especially those living in areas of deprivation – are more likely to smoke, which obviously then impacts their health. Smoking harms almost every part of the body and can cause serious illnesses like lung cancer, heart disease, and breathing problems.

“As ambulance clinicians, we carry a position of trust, and so it’s important to us that we do all we can to improve the health of the population we serve. Ultimately, by helping them to stay well, we hope we can prevent them from needing to use our services.

“Our trial has shown that our patients are generally willing to be approached about making a quit attempt and are open to receiving help to do so when we talk to them about it. We’ve also shown that, by offering that extra help, we can support a significant proportion of patients to quit or at least try to quit.

“The trial also provided some additional information about the challenges people faced when attempting to quit, which we hope will be useful for improving smoking cessation offers going forward.”

Andrew Hodge, director of paramedicine, said: “Our ambulance crews are uniquely placed to reach patients who may not otherwise access health services. Whether they are taken to the hospital or treated in their own home by our clinicians, just a simple conversation can make all the difference, and this trial is a great example of our role in a simple public health intervention.

“It’s exciting to see how this research can now be translated into clinical practice going forward and how we can play our part to help the people we serve to lead healthier lives.”

Ailsa Rutter OBE, Director of Fresh and Balance, said: “The region has made great strides in reducing smoking through the combined efforts of local authorities and our NHS in encouraging and supporting smokers to stop.

“However, tobacco is still our single biggest killer, driving disease and both acute and long stay hospital admissions. Many people who smoke would like to be able to quit – so providing options to quit at a time when a patient may be reflecting on health could be life-changing.”

SUMMER SOUNDS Set to Bring Music, Food and Family Fun to Teesside

Carl Blackshaw — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:23:39 +0000

SUMMER SOUNDS Set to Bring Music, Food and Family Fun to Teesside

The popular festival will take place on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 July 2026 at Guisborough Rugby Club, where thousands of visitors are expected to attend across the two-day event. Over the years, Summer Sounds has become a major event in the local calendar, attracting large crowds who come to enjoy a festival atmosphere filled with music, food and entertainment.

Big tribute line-up

Saturday’s programme, titled “Rock & Pop Legends,” will feature tribute performances celebrating some of the world’s most famous artists. Festival-goers can expect shows inspired by stars such as Coldplay, Robbie Williams, Sam Fender, Lewis Capaldi, Bon Jovi, Elton John and Tina Turner. A new 1970s and 1980s disco tent will also be part of the event, giving visitors even more music to enjoy throughout the evening.

Sunday will focus on a Family Fun Day, offering a more relaxed programme with entertainment aimed at younger audiences. The line-up will include pop-themed tribute acts inspired by performers such as Taylor Swift and Eminem, alongside other chart-inspired performances.

More than just music

The festival promises far more than live music. Visitors will be able to explore street food stalls, cocktail bars, festival markets and a funfair, creating a lively festival atmosphere throughout the weekend.

There will also be plenty for families, including children’s entertainment, inflatables, character appearances and donkey rides, making the event suitable for all ages.

A fireworks finale and roaming entertainers are expected to add to the atmosphere as crowds gather to celebrate the summer weekend.

Possible live coverage

For those unable to attend in person, organisers have said the event may be livestreamed by News Now UK, allowing people to watch performances and highlights online.

With its mix of live music, family entertainment and festival-style food and drink, Summer Sounds is set to deliver another exciting weekend for the Tees Valley community. Organisers are encouraging people to book early as demand for tickets continues to grow each year. 🎶☀️

For A Good Cause.

Carl Blackshaw — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:59:20 +0000

CLICK LINK FOR FOR MORE DETAILS

Why Advance UK Deserves Your Vote: A Vision for Progress and Unity

Carl Blackshaw — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 07:53:03 +0100

Why Advance UK Deserves Your Vote: A Vision for Progress and Unity

As the political landscape grows increasingly fragmented, voters across the United Kingdom are searching for a party that offers bold, pragmatic solutions to the nation’s most pressing challenges. Advance UK has emerged as a compelling alternative to traditional political options, combining innovation with a commitment to national renewal. Here’s why Advance UK stands out in the crowded field of political contenders.

A Fresh Approach to Economic Prosperity

Advance UK prioritises economic revitalisation through policies designed to empower businesses, workers, and communities. Unlike parties tethered to outdated ideologies, Advance UK advocates for a dynamic mixed economy that harnesses technological innovation while safeguarding social equity. Their plan includes tax incentives for green energy startups, skills retraining programs for the AI-driven job market, and targeted support for SMEs—a stark contrast to the stagnation offered by rivals.

Tackling the Climate Crisis Without Compromise

While other parties pay lip service to environmental sustainability, Advance UK has laid out a detailed roadmap to achieve net-zero emissions by 2035. Their strategy integrates nuclear energy expansion, rewilding initiatives, and a carbon tax rebate system that rewards households for reducing their footprint. This pragmatic yet ambitious agenda positions the UK as a global leader in climate action—without burdening low-income families.

Restoring Trust in Public Services

The NHS and education systems are in crisis, plagued by underfunding and bureaucratic inertia. Advance UK proposes a radical overhaul: doubling medical school placements, digitising patient records to cut wait times, and introducing merit-based funding for schools. Crucially, they reject the privatisation models pushed by some parties, instead focusing on efficient, publicly accountable reforms.

A United Kingdom, Strengthened and Secure

In an era of geopolitical uncertainty, Advance UK champions a foreign policy rooted in diplomacy and strength. Their manifesto commits to modernising the armed forces, renegotiating trade deals to favour British industries, and addressing regional inequalities through a “Levelling-Up 2.0” fund. Meanwhile, their stance on immigration balances border security with streamlined visa systems to attract skilled workers—a nuanced approach absent from the extremes of left and right.

Rejecting Division, Embracing Pragmatism

Unlike parties that thrive on polarisation, Advance UK seeks to bridge divides. Their candidates come from diverse professional backgrounds—scientists, entrepreneurs, healthcare workers—united by a shared goal: governance driven by evidence, not dogma. This ethos resonates with voters tired of partisan gridlock and empty promises.

The Choice Ahead

The 2024 election is not merely about choosing a party—it’s about choosing a future. Advance UK represents a break from the status quo, offering a vision that is both progressive and achievable. For voters seeking competence, clarity, and courage, the answer is clear.

Your vote for Advance UK is a vote for a forward-thinking, united, and resilient Britain.

—
This article is part of a series profiling political parties ahead of the 2024 general election. For more information, visit Advance UK.

Proposed Landlord Tax Hike Sparks Fears of Higher Rents, Housing Shortages, and Financial Strain

Carl Blackshaw — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 13:34:51 +0100

Life: Tenants Face Rising Rents and Financial Hardship

The most immediate fallout of the tax increase could hit renters, who make up 20% of UK households. Landlords, grappling with an 8% NI surcharge on rental profits, are likely to pass costs onto tenants through higher rents. With the average UK rent already at £1,223 per month (HomeLet, 2024), even modest increases could strain budgets, particularly for low-to-middle-income families.

“This policy could deepen the affordability crisis,” said a spokesperson for Generation Rent, a tenant advocacy group. “Families may be forced to cut back on essentials, relocate further from work, or face arrears and eviction.” The Resolution Foundation estimates that a 5% rent hike would cost the average tenant an extra £700 annually, worsening financial insecurity amid stagnant wage growth.

Housing: Reduced Supply and Declining Quality

The rental market, already strained by a chronic shortage of homes, could see supply shrink further. Analysts warn that smaller landlords—who own 45% of rental properties—may exit the market entirely if profits erode. “Margins are already razor-thin due to rising mortgage rates and maintenance costs,” said Chris Norris of the National Residential Landlords Association. “Adding NI could push many to sell up.”

While increased property sales might temporarily boost homeownership opportunities, experts caution that demand far outstrips supply. A sudden exodus of landlords could leave renters competing for fewer homes, driving rents even higher. Additionally, landlords may defer property maintenance to offset costs, leading to poorer living conditions.

Finance: Landlords Squeezed, Investment Deterred

The proposed NI expansion would apply to all rental income, not just profits. For landlords with mortgages or high operating costs, this could render their businesses unviable. The Institute for Fiscal Studies notes that the tax would disproportionately affect “accidental landlords”—those renting inherited properties or former homes—who lack the scale to absorb new costs.

The policy also risks deterring future investment in rental housing. Developers and institutional investors, already wary of regulatory uncertainty, may pivot to commercial real estate or overseas markets. “This sends a message that rental income is a target for taxation,” said property analyst Henry Pryor. “That discourages the very investment needed to solve the housing crisis.”

Broader Economic Ripple Effects

The tax hike could inadvertently strain public services and local economies. Higher rents may force tenants to rely on housing benefits, increasing government expenditure. Meanwhile, displaced landlords selling properties could flood the market, potentially lowering house prices and destabilising household wealth tied to property values.

Economists also warn of unintended consequences for pensioners and savers. While the Treasury insists the policy targets “unearned income,” critics argue it sets a precedent for taxing pensions or savings—categories currently exempt from NI. “Once you start redefining ‘unearned income,’ where does it stop?” questioned Paul Johnson of the Institute for Fiscal Studies.

Government Stance and Uncertainty

The government has defended the proposal as a fair way to generate revenue without raising income tax, VAT, or NI for workers. Education Minister Stephen Morgan recently stated the focus remains on “growing the economy” and “restoring public services,” but refused to rule out the tax.

However, the lack of clarity has drawn criticism. “Landlords and tenants alike need stability,” said David Smith of the Residential Landlords Association. “This uncertainty freezes decision-making and harms confidence in the housing market.”

Conclusion: A High-Stakes Balancing Act

While the Treasury seeks to plug a £2 billion fiscal gap, the proposed NI levy risks creating a domino effect of higher rents, reduced housing quality, and financial instability for landlords and tenants. With the Autumn Budget looming, the government faces mounting pressure to balance fiscal responsibility with the urgent need to protect housing access and affordability. For now, renters and landlords brace for a policy that could reshape the UK’s housing landscape—for better or worse.

Advance UK - The Smart Choice!

Carl Blackshaw — Sun, 17 Aug 2025 18:23:07 +0100

We stand for nation, freedom, democracy and equality under the law.

Nation

Our Nation is the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, in all its parts and with all its people.
The Party asserts every part of the Acts of Union which created the Nation. The Party stands against any arrangement which is not compliant with those Acts.
The Party promotes and celebrates the Nation’s Christian constitution, roots, traditions, culture, and values.
The sovereignty of the Nation stands as a bulwark against the undemocratic influence of supra-national institutions and international law.

Freedom

A cornerstone of democracy is the freedom of speech.
All people should be free to think, speak and act according to their conscience and beliefs if they do not incite violence.
Children should be protected from ideological and political indoctrination.
There should be minimal Government intervention in people’s lives.

Democracy

The Government should serve the British people and be accountable to them.
There can be no dilution of the Government’s ability to discharge this obligation, and the people’s ability to hold them to account, by membership of international bodies, the entering into of international treaties, international law and domestic quangos.

Equality under the UK law

All people living in the UK should be equal before and subject only to UK law.
All people should be able to live free from the threat of terror or violent crime and without prejudice.
There should be no discrimination based on ethnicity, sex or sexual orientation.
The British legal system must be the only legal system in the Nation and its application must be impartial and free of political influence or control.
Security of life and property are fundamental in creating a peaceful and prosperous society.

SEE WHAT WE STAND FOR

The Story of Three Old Men

Carl Blackshaw — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 16:04:02 +0100

Three old men are sitting on the porch of a retirement home.

The first says: “Fellas, I got real problems. I’m seventy years old. Every morning at seven o’clock, I get up and try to urinate. All day long, I try to urinate. They give me all kinds of medicine, but nothing helps.”

The second old man says, “You think you have problems. I’m eighty years old. Every morning at 8:00, I get up and try to move my bowels. I try all day long. They give me all kinds of stuff, but nothing helps.”

Finally, the third old man speaks up: “Fellas: I’m ninety years old... Every morning at 7:00, I pee like a racehorse. At 8:00, I poop like a champion.”

The other two look at him, confused.

“So what’s the problem?” they ask.

He replies,

“I don’t wake up until 9:00.” 😳😅

Never getting a Vindaloo from that Indian's again.

Carl Blackshaw — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 19:18:45 +0100

Mayhem at Tyne Tunnel

Carl Blackshaw — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 22:28:42 +0100

Terrible news coming from Tyneside this evening.

The Tyne Tunnel has been closed and the speed limit will be reduced for the foreseeable future to 15mph.

The Highways Agency found over 280 dead crows on the tunnel approach recently, and there was concern that they may have died from Avian Flu.

A Pathologist examined the remains of all the crows, and, has confirmed in their report the problem was NOT Avian Flu but rather the cause of death appeared to be from vehicular impacts.

However, during analysis it was noted that varying colours of paints appeared on the ...bird's beaks and claws. By analysing these paint residues it was found that 98% of the crows had been killed by impact with lorrys, while only 2% were killed by cars.

The Agency then hired an Ornithological Behaviourist to determine if there was a cause for the disproportionate percentages of truck kills versus car kills.

The Ornithological Behaviourist quickly concluded that when crows eat road kill, they always have a look-out crow to warn of danger.

They discovered that while all the lookout crows could shout "Cah", not a single one could shout "Lorry"

🎉 MinersFest 25: A Day of Music, Merriment & Memories in North Skelton 🎉

Carl Blackshaw — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 23:42:15 +0100

⏰ Event Details

📅 Date: Saturday, 9th August 2025
🕛 Opening Time: 12:00 PM
🕚 Closing Time: 11:00 PM
📍 Venue: North Skelton Football Field, 1 St. Peters Mews, Dorman Way, Skelton-in-Cleveland, TS12 2DA
🎟️ Tickets:
- Adults (18+): £27.75 (including £2.75 booking fee)
- Juniors (under 18): £22.25 (including £2.25 booking fee)
- Under 10s: Free with a paying adult
- Available at Skiddle and the Co-Op on Skelton High Street.

🎤 Lineup & Performance Times

Prepare for a diverse lineup that spans genres from trance to rock, featuring both local talent and national headliners.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Alan Benn
1:15 PM – 2:15 PM: Callum Hunter
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Gerry Cinnaconman
3:45 PM – 4:45 PM: Becky Cooke
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: The Fallen
6:15 PM – 7:15 PM: Lillie Healy
7:30 PM – 8:30 PM: Ethan Mackintosh
8:45 PM – 9:45 PM: Phil Mackintosh
10:00 PM – 11:00 PM: Andy Whitby feat. MC Jonak

Note: Performance times are subject to change. Please refer to the official event schedule for the most up-to-date information.

🎡 Festival Highlights

Funfair Rides & Slides: Thrills for all ages.
Food & Drink Stalls: Featuring local vendors and classic festival fare.
Bars: Serving a variety of beverages (alcohol available on-site; please note that you may be searched upon entry).
Festival Stalls: Unique crafts and merchandise to explore.

🎟️ How to Get Tickets

Secure your spot at MinersFest 25 by purchasing tickets through Skiddle. Don't miss out on what promises to be a memorable day in North Skelton

🧭 Getting There

The festival is held at North Skelton Football Field, easily accessible from Saltburn-by-the-Sea and Middlesbrough. Public transport options are available, but it's advisable to check local schedules in advance. Limited parking may be available nearby; consider carpooling or using public transport where possible.

📸 Share the Moment

Capture your festival memories and share them with the community using the hashtag #MinersFest25. Follow the official event page on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more.

Don't miss out on the biggest event of the summer in East Cleveland! Secure your tickets now and get ready for a day of music, fun, and community spirit at MinersFest 25.

The Importance of Breastfeeding: Benefits for Mothers and Babies

Carl Blackshaw — Fri, 30 May 2025 18:50:25 +0100

The Importance of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is not just a method of feeding; it is a critical component of infant health and development. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond. This recommendation is based on extensive research that highlights the numerous advantages of breastfeeding.

Nutritional Superiority

Breast milk is uniquely tailored to meet the nutritional needs of infants. It contains the perfect balance of proteins, fats, vitamins, and carbohydrates, which are essential for a baby’s growth and development. Additionally, breast milk is easily digestible, making it ideal for newborns whose digestive systems are still maturing.

Immune System Support

Breast milk is rich in antibodies and other immunological factors that help protect infants from infections and diseases. This natural immunity is particularly crucial in the early months of life when babies are most vulnerable. Breastfeeding has been linked to lower rates of respiratory infections, gastrointestinal diseases, and other illnesses.

Emotional Bonding

Breastfeeding fosters a strong emotional connection between mother and child. The physical closeness, skin-to-skin contact, and eye contact during breastfeeding promote bonding and attachment, which are essential for the baby’s emotional and psychological development.

Economic Benefits

Breastfeeding can also have significant economic advantages. It reduces healthcare costs associated with infant illnesses and can save families money on formula and feeding supplies. Additionally, breastfeeding can lead to fewer missed workdays for parents due to child illness.

Benefits of Breastfeeding

Here are some of the key benefits of breastfeeding, along with brief explanations for each:

Optimal Nutrition:
- Breast milk provides all the essential nutrients that a newborn needs for healthy growth and development, including proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Enhanced Immune Function:
- The antibodies and immune-boosting components in breast milk help protect infants from infections and diseases, reducing the risk of illnesses such as diarrhea and pneumonia.
Reduced Risk of Chronic Conditions:
- Studies have shown that breastfeeding is associated with a lower risk of chronic conditions later in life, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Improved Cognitive Development:
- Research indicates that breastfeeding may enhance cognitive development and lead to higher IQ scores in children, likely due to the presence of essential fatty acids and other nutrients in breast milk.
Convenience and Cost-Effectiveness:
- Breastfeeding is convenient as it requires no preparation or equipment, and it is cost-effective since it eliminates the need for formula and feeding supplies.
Maternal Health Benefits:
- Breastfeeding has been linked to a lower risk of breast and ovarian cancers, as well as a reduced risk of postpartum depression. It also helps mothers return to their pre-pregnancy weight more quickly.
Natural Birth Control:
- Exclusive breastfeeding can delay the return of menstruation and ovulation, providing a natural form of birth control known as lactational amenorrhea.
Environmental Benefits:
- Breastfeeding is environmentally friendly as it reduces waste associated with formula packaging and production, contributing to a more sustainable planet.
Support for Maternal Bonding:
- The act of breastfeeding promotes skin-to-skin contact, which enhances emotional bonding and attachment between mother and baby.
Long-Term Health Benefits for Mothers:
- Women who breastfeed have a lower risk of developing certain health issues, including hypertension and heart disease, later in life.

Conclusion

Breastfeeding is a fundamental aspect of infant care that offers a multitude of benefits for both mothers and babies. From providing optimal nutrition and immune support to fostering emotional bonds and promoting maternal health, the advantages of breastfeeding are clear. As public health organizations continue to advocate for breastfeeding, it is essential for mothers to receive the support and resources they need to successfully navigate this important journey. By prioritizing breastfeeding, we can contribute to healthier families and communities for generations to come.

Should the UK adopt this type of Public Health Safety Campaign?

Carl Blackshaw — Sat, 03 May 2025 14:25:41 +0100

Funny clip with surprisingly dramatic ending.

News Now UK Seeks Passionate Columnists to Join Our Team!

Carl Blackshaw — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 21:52:47 +0100

At News Now UK, we pride ourselves on being the go-to source for news, events, and stories that matter to our readers. Our mission is to highlight the unique culture, events, and personalities that make our area special. We believe that local voices are essential in creating a rich tapestry of content that resonates with our community.

What We’re Looking For:

We are seeking columnists who can cover a variety of topics, including but not limited to:

Fashion: Share your insights on the latest trends, local boutiques, and style tips that reflect the unique fashion sense of our region.
Beauty: From skincare routines to makeup tutorials, we want your expertise to help our readers look and feel their best.
Lifestyle: Write about health, wellness, home decor, and everything in between that enhances the quality of life in our community.
Events and Activities: Keep our readers informed about local events, festivals, and activities happening in and around Redcar and East Cleveland. Your firsthand experiences and recommendations can help others discover the best our area has to offer.

Why Write for News Now UK?

Community Impact: Your words will help shape the narrative of our local area, bringing attention to important issues and celebrating the achievements of our community.
Creative Freedom: We encourage our columnists to express their unique voice and perspective. Whether you prefer a light-hearted approach or a more serious tone, we welcome your individuality.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with other local writers, businesses, and community leaders as you contribute to our growing platform.
Flexible Writing Schedule: We understand that life can be busy. Our columnists have the flexibility to write at their own pace, allowing you to balance your passion for writing with your other commitments.

How to Apply:

If you’re ready to share your passion and insights with the community, we want to hear from you! Please send us a brief introduction about yourself, your writing experience, and a sample column (or pitch) on a topic you’d like to cover. Applications can be sent to editor@news-now.uk with the subject line “Columnist Application.”

Join us in making News Now UK a vibrant hub for local news and stories. Together, we can celebrate the spirit of Redcar, East Cleveland, and the North East!

Stay connected with us on social media for updates and opportunities!

News Now UK is an equal opportunity platform that values diversity and inclusion. We encourage writers from all backgrounds to apply.

Minersfest 25: A Celebration of Music and Community in North Skelton

Carl Blackshaw — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 13:55:12 +0100

The much-anticipated Minersfest 25 is set to return on Saturday, August 9, 2025, promising a day of exceptional live music and community spirit at the North Skelton Football Field in Saltburn-by-the-Sea. Celebrated as Cleveland's longest-running outdoor event, Minersfest continues to honor the region's rich mining heritage while providing top-tier entertainment

Event Details:

Date & Time: Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Location: North Skelton Football Field, 1 St. Peters Mews, Dorman Way, Skelton-in-Cleveland, TS12 2DA
Ticket Prices:
- Adults (18+): £25
- Under 18s: £20
- Under 10s: Free with a paying adult

Performances:

Minersfest 25 boasts an impressive lineup of artists, ensuring a diverse musical experience for attendees. The current lineup includes:

Andy Whitby feat. MC JonakQFX
Phil Mackintosh
Alan Benn
Lillie Healy
Ethan Mackintosh
Callum Hunter
Gerry Cinnaconman
UK's No.1 Liam Gallagher Tribute
The Fallen
Becky Cooke
Host: Andy Williams

In addition to the musical acts, attendees can look forward to a variety of funfair rides, food stalls, bars, and festival stalls, making it a perfect day out for families and music enthusiasts alike. Please note that all alcohol must be purchased on-site, and attendees may be subject to searches upon entry.

Ticket Information:

Tickets are available through Skiddle, with prices starting at £22.25 for juniors (including booking fees). It's advisable to purchase tickets in advance, as Minersfest is known for selling out quickly.

Looking Back: Minersfest 24

The previous year's festival, Minersfest 24, held on August 10, 2024, featured a stellar lineup, including Andy Whitby, ULTRABEAT Ian Redman with MC Cover, Phil Mackintosh, and Hannah Taylor, among others. The event also offered funfair rides, slides, stalls, and a variety of food and beverage options.

Join the Celebration

Minersfest 25 is more than just a festival; it's a celebration of community, heritage, and the vibrant spirit of Saltburn-by-the-Sea. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the festival offers an unforgettable experience that brings people together through the power of music and shared history

For the latest updates and ticket information, visit the official Skiddle event page.