Test and trace less successful in poorer areas

England’s poorest communities are at greater risk of a second wave of coronavirus owing to imbalances in the test-and-trace system.

Government pursues smoking and non-smoking outdoor options

Ministers have announced that people using pubs, restaurants and cafes will soon have greater freedom to choose non-smoking outdoor areas.

Councils given new powers for local shutdowns

Councils have been given new powers to close shops and shut outdoor public spaces to manage local outbreaks of coronavirus.

Changing Places toilets to be compulsory in new public buildings

The government has made Changing Places toilets compulsory in new buildings, backed by £30 million in funding.

Councils call for smoke-free pavements

Councils have said that smoke-free pavements outside pubs, cafes and bars should be introduced to make them healthier spaces.

Leisure providers rescue package needed, say councils

Hundreds of leisure facilities face closing permanently or being unable to reopen without urgent government funding.

Decisive action needed to tackle childhood obesity

In light of new figures, the Labour Party is urging the government to bring forward urgent measures to tackle childhood obesity.

Public lacking clear government guidance on face coverings

The BMA has warned that government guidance on face covering rules in England are unclear and are causing widespread confusion.

Plan for the worst, hope for the best, says Johnson

Boris Johnson has used a press conference to confirm additional funding for the NHS and reveal further plans to ease lockdown in England.

In-person Covid testing continues to deliver results

Anyone getting a test at a regional test site or mobile testing unit can expect their result by the next day.

Call for joined up policy making across health and care

CIPFA and NHS Providers have called for joined up policy making across health and care.

London boroughs making proactive changes to roadspace

Many London boroughs have began introducing emergency measures to support people who need to walk or cycle for essential journeys.

Digital ‘more important than ever’, say London boroughs

Local government’s capacity to adopt technology will prove ‘more important than ever’ in the aftermath of coronavirus, says London Councils.

£62m to help discharge people with learning disabilities

DHSC is providing new funding to help to move people with learning disabilities and autistic people into more appropriate care.

Johnson promises future independent inquiry

At Prime Minister’s Questions, Boris Johnson committed to an ‘independent inquiry’ into the coronavirus pandemic.

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The Workplace Event 2024

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, shifting workplace cultures, and an increased focus on employee well-being, The Workplace Event (TWE) 2024 emerges as a beacon of insight, innovation, and inspiration. Taking place from April 30 - May 2 2024 at the NEC Birmingham, TWE  brings together over 5,000 workplace and facilities management professionals.