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International Mountain Day is an annual observance that celebrates the invaluable role that mountains play in our lives and raises awareness about the importance of sustainable mountain development. Held on December 11 each year, this day encourages people worldwide to recognize the significance of mountains in our ecosystems, cultures, and well-being. From breath-taking landscapes to crucial resources, International Mountain Day highlights the reasons we should cherish and protect these natural wonders. Mountains cover around 22% of the Earth's land surface and host a wide array of ecosystems and species. They are the source of freshwater for billions of people, making them vital for agriculture, energy production, and numerous daily needs. Mountains also offer opportunities for recreation, tourism, and cultural heritage. They provide solace and inspiration to countless artists, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts. Some of the tallest mountains in the world serve as awe-inspiring symbols of nature's grandeur. The Himalayas, which include the mighty Mount Everest, the world's highest peak at 29,032 feet (8,849 meters), are a prime example. The Himalayas stretch across several countries, offering breath-taking vistas and a habitat for diverse wildlife. K2, the second-highest peak, resides in the Karakoram Range, part of the Himalayan mountain system, and is renowned for its challenging climbing conditions. Other towering giants include Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu, each of which stands above 8,000 meters and continues to captivate mountaineers and adventurers with their formidable beauty and the challenges they present. These towering mountains are not only geographic marvels but also cultural and spiritual symbols for the people who live in their shadow, underscoring the profound importance of mountains on International Mountain Day. Mountains are special for a multitude of reasons, making them unique and invaluable features of our planet: Beautiful Landscapes : Mountains offer some of the most awe-inspiring and picturesque landscapes on Earth, featuring towering peaks, deep valleys, pristine lakes, and lush forests. They provide a sense of natural wonder and beauty that captivates people worldwide. Biodiversity Hotspots : Mountainous regions host diverse ecosystems, including unique flora and fauna adapted to their high-altitude environments. They often serve as biodiversity hotspots, housing many species found nowhere else on the planet. Water Sources : Mountains are the source of freshwater for numerous rivers and streams, providing essential water resources for billions of people. These freshwater sources are critical for agriculture, energy production, and drinking water. Cultural Significance : Mountains have deep cultural and spiritual significance for many societies around the world. They often feature prominently in folklore, myths, and religious beliefs. Mountain communities have developed unique traditions and ways of life that are tied to their environments. Outdoor Recreation : Mountains offer a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, rock climbing, skiing, and mountaineering. These activities attract adventurers and nature enthusiasts, fostering a deeper connection with the natural world. Climate Regulation : Mountains play a crucial role in regulating regional and global climates. They influence temperature patterns, precipitation, and atmospheric circulation, which has far-reaching effects on weather and climate. Scientific Research : Mountains provide opportunities for scientific research in fields such as geology, ecology, and climate science. Studying mountain environments contributes to our understanding of Earth's processes and history. Natural Resources : Mountains are often rich in valuable natural resources, including minerals, timber, and hydropower potential. Sustainable resource management is vital to preserve these ecosystems. Challenges and Resilience : Mountains present unique challenges due to their harsh conditions, but they also demonstrate nature's resilience. The species that thrive in these environments have evolved to withstand extreme cold, low oxygen levels, and steep terrain. Conservation and Sustainability : Protecting mountains and their ecosystems is crucial for the well-being of both local communities and the global environment. Sustainable mountain development is essential to ensure that the benefits of mountains are preserved for future generations. In summary, mountains are special because they are not only visually stunning but also serve as the foundation for numerous ecological, cultural, and practical aspects of our lives. Recognising and preserving these unique landscapes is essential to maintain the delicate balance of our planet's ecosystems and to appreciate their intrinsic value. Despite their immense value, mountains are under increasing threat due to various factors, including climate change, deforestation, mining, and unsustainable tourism. Rising global temperatures have led to the rapid melting of glaciers in mountain regions, disrupting water supplies for both urban and rural communities. Soil erosion, landslides, and loss of biodiversity are additional concerns caused by these environmental shifts. International Mountain Day serves as a platform to address these challenges and promote sustainable practices. It aims to: Raise Awareness : Through education and outreach, this day informs people about the importance of mountains and the urgent need for their preservation. Advocate for Sustainable Mountain Development : Governments, organisations, and individuals come together to promote responsible mountain stewardship and development. Promote Biodiversity Conservation : Efforts are made to protect mountain ecosystems and the unique species that call these regions home. Celebrate Cultural Diversity : International Mountain Day acknowledges the cultural heritage and traditions of mountain communities, fostering respect for their way of life. Encourage Responsible Tourism : Sustainable tourism practices are promoted to ensure that visitors enjoy mountainous regions while preserving their natural beauty. Individuals, communities, and organisations worldwide can participate in International Mountain Day by organising events, workshops, and educational programmes. Activities like tree planting, clean-up campaigns, and advocating for policy changes that protect mountain environments are popular ways to get involved. International Mountain Day is a reminder of the crucial role that mountains play in our lives and the urgent need to protect them. "By celebrating these majestic landscapes and taking steps toward their sustainable development, we can ensure that future generations continue to benefit from the resources, beauty, and inspiration that mountains provide."

Sheffield Hallam University has been awarded two of the most prestigious prizes in the higher education world – collecting the honours at the Times Higher Education Awards 2023 . Widely recognised as the ‘Oscars of higher education’, the awards celebrate the talent, dedication and innovation of individuals and teams across all aspects of university life. Sheffield Hallam won awards for ‘International Collaboration of the Year’, and for Marketing & Communications Team of the Year’. International Collaboration of the Year The University won the International Collaboration of the Year category for its work with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) on a security platform that has been used to keep UN agency staff safe in some of the world’s most volatile environments, including the current conflict in Ukraine. The Security Communications and Analysis Network (SCAAN) is a world-leading security platform, used by more than 30,000 staff across six United Nations (UN) agencies working in over 175 countries to enhance staff security. Developed in partnership by Sheffield Hallam University’s Centre of Excellence in Terrorism, Resilience, Intelligence and Organised Crime (CENTRIC) and IOM, SCAAN uses innovative technology that provides real time alerts for staff on the ground and allows them to report back and signal for help if they are at personal risk. SCAAN has been used around the world in various critical environments, including: during the World Health Organization’s response to Ebola (2017-18); to support convoy movements in Ukraine (2022); and, more recently, supporting humanitarian interventions following the Turkey-Syria earthquake and staff evacuations during the Sudan crisis (2023). Professor Babak Akhgar OBE, director of CENTRIC, said: “It is a huge honour to be recognised by the sector for our work on SCAAN. CENTRIC is one of the most advanced research centres of its kind in the world. The fact that we are able to collaborate with global partners like IOM and apply our work to real-world conflicts is not only rewarding, but also hugely important in a time of escalating geopolitical uncertainty. Technologies like SCAAN play an indispensable role in keeping people safe.” Luc Vandamme, Director of the Office of Staff Security at IOM, said: "SCAAN exemplifies the impact that cross-sector collaboration can have in creating solutions that address real-world issues and provide tangible support to UN staff working in high-risk contexts." Sheffield Hallam University Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Chris Husbands said: “I’m delighted Sheffield Hallam has been recognised for our work on SCAAN, which is a hugely important international project. At a time when international security looks especially fragile, research projects like this one offer tangible solutions to complex problems." “To win two of the most prestigious awards in our sector is a testament to the talent and dedication of our staff and students. Sheffield Hallam’s vision is to be the world’s leading applied university, and this is an excellent example of applied research in action, having a positive impact on society. We are also a University of place, and the ‘Sheffield. Your University City’ campaign goes to show how our region is at the heart of everything we do.” Outstanding Marketing/Communications Team of the Year Sheffield Hallam University also collaborated with the University of Sheffield to win the Outstanding Marketing/Communications Team of the Year category for their joint campaign Sheffield. Your University City. The two universities worked alongside Marketing Sheffield, part of Sheffield City Council, to develop a sector-first campaign to celebrate Sheffield as a great student city, promoting it as a destination for prospective undergraduate students. The project exceeded targets and has paved the way for further collaboration around student marketing. Sheffield. Your University City not only highlights the academic opportunities which the Steel City offers, but also profiles how prospective students can expect to live and work in one of the UK’s most affordable and economically vibrant cities. Jacqui Robinson, Director of Communications and Marketing at Sheffield Hallam University, said: “Anyone who has spent time in Sheffield knows how welcoming it is, and how important our universities are to the region. Thanks to this campaign, we have been able to highlight how Sheffield is a great place to study, live and ultimately to start a career – it has been a great success for us, and for our city." “This project was built on trust, compromise, respect and openness, and that is why it was such a success for both universities. Not only have we shown people around the country – and indeed around the world – the fantastic student experience we offer, we’ve also demonstrated how we collaborate with our partners locally to deliver impactful results for the region.” Dan Barcroft, Director of Student Recruitment at the University of Sheffield, said: "We are incredibly proud that our innovative and collaborative campaign with our partners has been recognised by this award. Our marketing teams have shown that true partnership to raise the profile of the city amongst prospective students can be really effective." "Sheffield is such a special and unique city compared to many others in the UK, which is why so many of our students choose to make it their permanent home after graduating. Being able to share what Sheffield has to offer with a wide audience through our campaign has been fantastic."

Head coach Nathan Smith makes five changes to his Loughborough Lightning starting line-up this weekend, with an all-star trio of Helena Rowland, Bulou Mataitoga and Sadia Kabeya returning to action and a home debut in store for Kathryn Treder. Lightning face off against Bristol Bears on Saturday (kick-off: 2pm) in their first league clash on home soil at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens this term, following away fixtures at Saracens and Leicester Tigers which sandwiched a bye in Round 2. Smith’s side sit sixth in the Allianz Premiership Women’s Rugby standings after a 24-12 victory over East Midlands rivals Tigers last Sunday, and will look to leapfrog the Bears with a win this week – both sides sit level on points currently, with Bristol edging Loughborough into the bottom half of the table on points difference. Lightning have won seven of the 12 league meetings between the sides so far, with one clash draw, but it was the Bears who scooped a season’s double of victories last term and Smith is hoping his side can turn those results on their head on Saturday. Smith said: “We were really happy with the win last weekend, and to get the five points – but more so happy with the way that we did it, as we found a way to get ourselves back into the game after dropping off a little at the start of the second half." “Bristol had a great start to the season against Sale Sharks, and then two tough fixtures with Exeter away and Gloucester at home. They are two really good sides, and we know that this weekend Bristol are going to want a reaction, as they are probably not where they want to be after a couple of defeats." “We are just going to keep doing what we have been doing over the last few weeks. There is no secret formula, you have just got to keep working on your principles, and keep working on bits of your game that’s going to keep you moving forward.” There’s two changes to the Lightning back-line on Saturday, with England international Rowland back at outside centre after a rest last weekend. The 24-year-old joins Carmela Morrall in the hosts’ midfield, while USA international Mataitoga lines up on the wing for her first Loughborough appearance of the season, with vice-captain Georgina Tasker and fullback Chloe Rollie completing the back three. Helen Nelson and Megan Davey are selected together again in the half-back berths, and continue their partnership for the third straight match. Treder celebrates her first start and a home debut in Lightning colours, packing down at hooker with Katie Trevarthen and Christine Belisle either side of her in the front row. Kabeya returns from injury to start at openside flanker, with captain Rachel Malcolm shifting into the No.8 jersey and fellow Scotland international Emma Wassell remaining at blindside flanker. The only other change to Loughborough’s forward pack sees Abby Duguid replace the injured Catherine O’Donnell and join Lili Ives Campion in the engine room for the hosts, with the likes of Maja Meuller (scorer of two tries last weekend), Daisy Hibbert-Jones and Emma Hardy hoping to make an impact off the bench – plus there is a return to action for Hallie Taufoou, who makes her first appearance since May 2022 after re-signing for the Club. Smith added: “We’re really excited to get back to cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens in front of our own fans, but we also understand the responsibility that playing on that pitch represents." “We’re all really bought into making the Gardens our home moving forwards, and this weekend presents us with another opportunity to do that.” LOUGHBOROUGH LIGHTNING vs BRISTOL BEARS Allianz Premiership Women’s Rugby, Round 4 Saturday 9 December 2023 cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens Kick-off: 2pm 15 Chloe Rollie 14 Georgina Tasker (vc) 13 Helena Rowland 12 Carmela Morrall 11 Bulou Mataitoga 10 Helen Nelson 9 Megan Davey 1 Katie Trevarthen 2 Kathryn Treder 3 Christine Belisle 4 Lili Ives Campion 5 Abby Duguid 6 Emma Wassell 7 Sadia Kabeya 8 Rachel Malcolm (c) Replacements: 16 Maja Meuller 17 Isla Curphey 18 Grace Clifford 19 Daisy Hibbert-Jones 20 Hallie Taufoou 21 Jess Weaver 22 Emma Hardy 23 Carys Williams-Morris For the first time, all of Loughborough’s home league matches will be played at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens this season.

Scottish butchery business, We hae meat, has solidified its position as an industry leader picking up two awards at The Herald Scottish Family Business Awards 2023. Based in the heart of Ayrshire, We hae meat secured Green Family Business of the Year and Scottish Family Business of the Year (Small/Medium). Judges praised We hae meat’s commitment to sustainable practices and predicted a strong year ahead for the family run business. Through energy efficient measures including installing LEDs, a wastewater treatment system, transitioning to hybrid plug-in vans, implementing greener packaging and investing in a CHP plant and solar panels We hae meat successfully reduced their carbon emissions by 110%. This success follows We hae meat’s recent ascent to number 17 in the ranking of Scottish take-home food and drink brands. Earlier this year, the company was recognised as one of Scotland’s top-10 fastest-growing food brands by Kantar. Founded in 2007 by husband and wife Alex and Carlyn Paton, We hae meat produces high quality meat products made at its farm and factory located in Girvan. Carlyn Paton, Co-Founder We hae meat, said: “It is an honour to receive this recognition. These awards are a testament to the efforts of our dedicated team and serve as a fantastic acknowledgement of our commitment to excellence and sustainability initiatives, which are at the core of our business." “It especially means a lot to us to be recognised among the best of Scotland’s family run businesses. We are proud to work together to produce products families are proud to put on their table.” We hae meat’s product range is available in major grocery retailers across Scotland including Aldi, Morrisons, Tesco, Asda and Co-Op

Kevin Souster has been appointed as head of service at Hendy Group and joins the senior leadership team at the automotive group. Kevin joins Hendy after working at the Renault Group for the last 16 years having held various roles in both sales and aftersales, most recently as its head of network, aftersales. His whole career has been in motoring having started as an apprentice technician, spending time working as a technical training consultant for both the Volkswagen Group and Volvo prior to joining Renault. In his new role, Kevin will be working closely with Pete Walker, director service and body shop on implementing the group’s service strategy. “Kevin has an incredible breadth of experience working in aftersales and having known Kevin for a number of years in his time at Renault we knew that he was the right person to join us in this role,” said Pete. “Kevin will be working across the group, with the divisional performance manager and the senior leadership team as Hendy continues to expand.” As head of service Kevin will be focusing on the commercial results of the division together with the customer experience. “These are totally interlinked, and I’ll be working with the teams for the long-term benefit of both our customers and the business,” said Kevin. He said the group’s progressive thinking and ambitions for continued growth were a key attraction in making the move. “I’ve known the team at Hendy for some time and this was such a good opportunity for me to take on a new challenge and work with some incredible people,” added Kevin.

A new regional chairman has been elected by R3, the UK trade body for professionals involved in restructuring and insolvency work for organisations and individuals. Neil Stewart, Regional Associate Director at insolvency litigation financing company Manolete Partners, becomes chairman of R3’s Southern and Thames Valley region. He takes over the helm from Garry Lee, Associate Director in the recovery and restructuring services department at professional services group Evelyn Partners’ Southampton office. R3 is the trade association for the UK’s insolvency, restructuring, advisory, and turnaround professionals and its Southern & Thames Valley region includes Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Wiltshire and Berkshire. Garry, who held the position for three years, handed over the chains of office to Neil, who was previously vice-chairman, at the organisation’s regional annual general meeting held at Mountbatten House in Southampton. Simon Campbell, a managing director of business advisory firm Quantuma, was appointed the new vice-chair. Based near Salisbury, Neil is a regional associate director of Manolete Partners Plc, a London-headquartered specialist insolvency litigation financing company which funds and buys insolvency claims and works with insolvency practitioners and their lawyers to maximise returns to creditors. Neil, whose specialisms also include corporate and personal insolvency, qualified as a solicitor in 1998 after a varied career. He has higher rights of audience and is an accredited mediator. He has lectured widely on insolvency matters and has extensive experience of working on complex, frequently multi-party litigation. Neil said: “I am honoured to have been elected as R3 regional chairman and I intend to continue the excellent work carried out by my predecessor Garry in striving to help members and businesses across the region." “At this time of economic uncertainty, following a series of national and international crises, many businesses across the south are continuing to face extreme difficulty and the work of the restructuring, turnaround and insolvency profession in delivering advice and potential solutions is more vital than ever." “As a trade body, we are here to bring the profession together, offer examples of best practice, promote discussion, be an influential regional and national voice, and support our members to use their skills to rescue businesses and jobs." “On a personal level, I am able to bring to the role my varied management experience, as well as my understanding of the profession from two decades in legal practice, before joining Manolete nearly five years ago." “Something frequently mentioned by colleagues is my ability to organise events and manage teams effectively, which I put down to dogged determination, rather than any particular skills." “I very much look forward to working with my new STV regional committee of highly able individuals who together have a wealth of experience.” Caroline Sumner, R3 Chief Executive Officer, said: “Neil’s extensive knowledge of the Southern and Thames Valley region, coupled with his long-standing work on a number of our standing committees, and his sterling track record of organising events and conferences – including this year’s superb Southern Forum – will be a huge asset to us, to him, and to the region during his term of office." “I have no doubt he will be an excellent Chairman and look forward to working with him to support our members and ensure that businesses and individuals in the Southern and Thames Valley area understand the benefits of engaging with the profession as early as possible.”

Talented young defender Ben Nelson has signed a new deal with Leicester City Football Club to the summer of 2027. The 19-year-old centre-back became the latest member of the Club’s Academy to make a First Team debut when he came off the bench during a Carabao Cup victory at Tranmere Rovers in August. Since joining the Club at the age of nine, Nelson has progressed steadily through the Academy in recent seasons, having made 41 appearances for the Under-21s side in Premier League 2, scoring two goals. Last season also saw him gain Football League experience with impressive loan spells in League Two for Rochdale, where he played 12 times, and a further 15 appearances for Doncaster Rovers during the second half of the campaign. An England youth international, Nelson first joined the First Team squad at Leicester City during the 2020/21 term, when he was part of the matchday squad for a UEFA Europa League game away to Zorya Luhansk as a 16-year-old in December 2020 – a campaign that saw him named the Club’s Academy Player of the Season.

The Office of National Statistics has recently released a report indicating a significant shift in the way businesses are approaching the concept of work. According to the data, as of late November 2023, 18% of businesses are either currently implementing or planning to implement increased homeworking as a permanent business model. The Office of National Statistics highlighted a trend, revealing that 56% of businesses cited improved staff well-being as the primary motivation for embracing this shift. This revelation not only signals a shift in workplace dynamics but also emphasises a collective commitment to enhancing the work life balance and overall job satisfaction of employees. The IOEE is an advocate for progressive work practices, welcoming this exciting development and recognising the positive impact it could have on the well-being and satisfaction of the workforce. The company believes that the increased adoption of home working as a permanent business model represents a game-changer in the way businesses operate, fostering a healthier and more balanced work life for employees. The key advantages of the well-being shift include: Enhanced Work-Life Balance : With the flexibility that comes with remote work, employees can better manage their professional and personal responsibilities, leading to a more harmonious work-life balance. Improved Staff Well-Being : The statistics affirm what many have believed – that a work environment that prioritises employee well-being leads to a happier and more engaged workforce. Increased Job Satisfaction : Providing employees with the autonomy to choose where they work can contribute significantly to job satisfaction, which in turn positively impacts overall productivity, efficiency and creativity. Environmental Sustainability : A reduction in the need for daily commutes translates to fewer carbon emissions, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly business model. Embracing home working aligns with corporate social responsibility goals and positions companies as champions of eco-friendly practices. Cost Savings for Businesses and Employees : Home working can result in substantial cost savings for both businesses and employees. Reduced office space requirements, utility bills, and transportation expenses contribute to significant financial benefits, fostering a more cost-effective and sustainable business model. Global Talent Access : Embracing remote work allows companies to tap into a global talent pool, breaking down geographical barriers. This expansion of the talent search can lead to a more diverse and inclusive workforce, bringing fresh perspectives and ideas to the table. The IOEE understands the importance of adapting to the evolving needs of the workforce and is committed to developing their practices, as the world of employment adapts. “Having a balanced approach to office based and home-based work improves my work life balance greatly. Being able to complete my tasks from my own home means I don’t have to miss out on fulfilling my job role, but I also don’t have to miss out on those special family moments. I always ensure that my work is completed to the same high standard, in order to enjoy the benefit of a hybrid working pattern.," explains Jonathan Harper, Communications Executive at IOEE. The IOEE advocates this new work paradigm, moving towards a future where work is not just a place but an empowering experience promoting skill development, a better sense of well-being and an increase in job satisfaction.

A leading PR agency based in Harrogate, Cause UK, has achieved B Corps certification. B Corps is a prestigious certification awarded for ongoing commitment to meeting the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. The Harrogate-based agency was established in 2010 by sisters, Clair, and Ann Challenor-Chadwick, and specialise in supporting organisations that have positive impact. Its clients operate in the arts, charity, social enterprise, and public sector. The team also supports ethical businesses. Clair Challenor-Chadwick, MD of Cause UK, said: “We’ve always been more than a PR agency, and see ourselves as agents of change, supporting our clients to do meaningful work. Over the years, we’ve also helped create a social enterprise for veterans at risk of homelessness, raised over £1m for charities, and curated our own arts events, often aligned to a good cause.” In 2023, Cause UK’s international clients included Care Pakistan, whose mission is to enrol one million children living in poverty in school by 2025, and Free Tibet, a lobbying group highlighting continued human rights’ abuses. National projects included rewriting the website for the UK and Europe branch of Alcoholics Anonymous, to make it more accessible to all faiths, ages, and gender. It also launched the new Great Ouse Rivers Trust, with a major national media campaign across the BBC. In Yorkshire, key projects in 2023 included supporting the QED Foundation host their annual Asian Young Achiever Awards, delivering a major campaign for Inclusive Equal Rights UK to launch an Anti-Racism strategy for the city of York, and writing the annual Social Impact report for the north’s leading social investor, Key Fund. Clair has previous won an Institute of Directors’ award for her work in Social Value and Sustainability, and the agency won Best PR Agency at the Prolific North Awards in 2021 and Best Independent Business Award at the 2022 Harrogate Advertiser Excellence in Business Awards. The agency attracts five-star reviews on Google. Clair previously worked in marketing for fintech and private banking before moving to the third sector. Her sister Ann was a feature writer for regional newspapers in the Channel Islands and Lancashire before moving into PR. She still writes for publications across Yorkshire. Cause UK is also an Arts Council recognised infrastructure support agency, supporting many arts organisations, including Ilkley Literature Festival, CrimeFest Bristol, the Northern Aldborough Festival, and North Yorkshire Open Studios. The team also deliver its own cultural events. In recent years it has produced a stage play, curated a Dickens festival, and hosted a series of talks with celebrities including Chris Packham and Miriam Margolyes. This year, the team produced a new short film for Sky Arts, championing northern working-class classical musicians, commissioning new work from composer, Ben Crick. The team are advisors to the Yorkshire Symphony Orchestra, which it helped relaunch in 2022, and Paradox Orchestra. B Corporations are accredited by B Lab, a nonprofit network that’s transforming the global economy to benefit all people, communities, and the planet. Its international network of organisations supports a collective vision of an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy. It is awarded to businesses that strive to balance purpose and profit, using their operations as a force for good. Clair added: “B Corp is a rigorous process that demands Cause UK meets the highest standards of social responsibility and environmental stewardship. So, we’re incredibly proud to meet this milestone.” By obtaining B Corps certification, Cause UK joins a global community of like-minded organisations that are redefining success in business. She added: “In 2024, we aim to represent more businesses in order to afford us to support more good causes. We believe most businesses now take responsibility for people and planet, and we’re keen to work with those who share these values as part of our five-year growth strategy.”

One of Renfrewshire’s best loved bar and restaurants, The Coach House, has launched its annual Christmas toy collection for children and families in need. The venue which is operated by independent hospitality group Buzzworks Holdings, has once again joined forces with the Renfrewshire Toy Bank to ensure children in the local area don’t go without this festive season. The venue is calling for donations of both new and unopened toys suitable for young people of all ages, with a drop-off point situated at the venue’s main reception on 31 Main Street, Bridge of Weir. Francis Carr, general manager of The Coach House, said: “With the cost-of-living crisis continuing to put pressure on households across the country, we’re keen to help people in our community in any way we can this winter." “We’re once again proud to be supporting the Renfrewshire Toy Bank with our collection appeal, to ensure every child gets to experience the magic of Christmas - regardless of their situation. Our annual toy drive has enjoyed great success since it was launched in 2019, thanks entirely to the generosity shown by members of our local community." “This year we hope to encourage just as many people – if not more – to donate what they can and show their support to ensure every child in our area has a present under the tree this Christmas.” The toy collection is now open for donations seven days a week from 10am – 11pm, until Friday 8 December 2023.

A major grant of around £5 million has been awarded to Surrey County Council and the University of Surrey to tackle poor health and health inequalities in Surrey. The investment from the National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) is for a Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC) that will bring together experts from the council, university and other partners to ensure a research-led and evidence-based approach to meeting health priorities. HDRCs are designed to centre around local residents who will influence policymaking by setting research priorities. The grant will enable evidence to be compiled for what works, for who and when to improve and protect the health of the population. Aiming to build the evidence for how to meet the needs of local people, the grant will facilitate research to inform how lifestyle, social, economic, built and natural environment factors (also known as the wider determinants of health) affect health, for example: poor housing conditions, food poverty and air quality. Tim Oliver, Leader of Surrey County Council, said: “This ambitious project will facilitate a rigorous focus on health inequalities in Surrey. The substantial funding will ensure sustainability in our approach. We already work closely with the University of Surrey and this research programme will build on our existing relationship to provide people locally with better opportunities and outcomes.” Ruth Hutchinson, Surrey County Council’s Director of Public Health, said: “The NIHR grant is exciting as it will enable us to work more collaboratively with the University of Surrey, Districts and Boroughs and local communities to directly meet people’s health needs in Surrey, leading to better outcomes.” Professor Paul A. Townsend, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences at the University of Surrey, added: “I feel privileged to be leading the University’s part in developing the Surrey Health Determinants Research Collaboration." “Our nationally and globally recognised strengths in healthcare research and practice, especially in the School of Health Sciences which will drive this project, our commitment to the communities of Surrey and our partnership with Surrey County Council will help us ensure locally-driven research priorities are driving real and positive change in tackling health inequalities." “This excellent award follows our recent launch of the Surrey Academic Health and Care Science Partnership, a collaborative health and care focussed consortium between the University, Surrey County Council, Surrey Heartlands Integrated Care Board and Health Innovation Kent Sussex Surrey. Surrey County Council already uses research to inform decision making, but together we will use the Health Determinants Research Collaboration to build the role of evidence in accelerating improvements in people’s health.” The HDRCs will help to stimulate economic growth, particularly in some of the most deprived areas of the country and contribute to the Government’s plans to take action for the longer-term resilience of the health and wealth of the country. Ten HDRCs based in local authorities across the UK will commence formally on 1 January 2025. Six further teams (including Surrey) will be given funding to undertake additional developmental work to enable HDRC status by 1 January 2025. Find out more here

There is an increasing risk that popular ‘smart’ Christmas presents could leave people vulnerable to cyber-attack and allow criminals to invade their privacy. That is the message from leading cyber-security company C3IA Solutions , which has said that the market is being flooded with cheaper, less secure products. Anything that can be connected to the internet presents a potential risk and users – which include businesses - are often unaware of the potential dangers. There are estimated to be more than 15 billion smart devices in use across the world and many criminals are committed to hacking them. These devices include doorbells, smart plugs, home assistants, tracking devices, smart locks and doors, modern televisions and children’s toys. Hannah Baverstock from C3IA Solutions, which is headquartered in Poole, Dorset, has been researching the dangers. She said: “The Internet of Things is the term for all those devices that connect to the internet. And while they are incredible pieces of tech that often make our lives easier, there are risks. And these risks are increasing because of the growing number of them and the types of company around the world producing them." “They are designed to seamlessly fit into our lives, but they do require maintenance to keep them secure. Many will use cameras or microphones and so are potentially capable of invading your privacy. We have also seen a new wave of products that are cheaper and less secure and can become vulnerable very quickly." “But there are things people can do to reduce the risks. Buy reliable, well-known brands that have websites, helplines and support. Check the reviews and buy products that have long support periods and receive regular security updates. All default passwords should be changed because they are easy to guess and often are available to find on the internet. And choose strong passwords – three random words is a good method." “Disable features that are not required and also pay attention to any associated apps. Sometimes the apps ask for permission to access your camera which the device doesn’t need, so deny it permission." “Most devices will connect to a home’s Wi-Fi and the router acts as the gatekeeper so it needs to be secure. Its default password should be changed, and any firewall should be enabled. It is also wise to change the SSID (Service Set Identifier) because this makes it harder for any hacker to guess the make of the router." “Millions of devices will be given as presents this Christmas which provides hackers with another attack vector. Whether they want to spy on you in a voyeuristic way or gain access to your passwords they will attempt to do it through poorly secured devices." “One thing they do is hack into multiple devices and use them as a botnet. A botnet is an army of devices that can be used to bombard targets with traffic and hide the activity of the hackers. If people ensure their devices are as secure as possible the hackers will quickly move on to a new victim." “Businesses too are often unaware of the risks that internet-connected devices pose even if their computer systems have good security.”