State of Care report reveals a social care catastrophe, with thousands of older people being put at risk of abuse and neglect
Hourglass, the only UK-wide charity dedicated to calling time on the abuse, harm and exploitation of older people, is raising concerns of a social care catastrophe following the release of the CQC’s State of Care report.
The report reveals a shocking level of discontent among care staff in the UK due to inadequate training, high staff turnover and vacancy rates. The report reveals that by the end of 2023/24 over a quarter of staff in care homes have left their roles, with vacancy rates three times higher than the wider economy.
A GMB Union survey shows that 70% of social care workers say understaffing is negatively affecting their mental health in addition to increasing rates of care workers neglecting themselves.
The charity warns that this level of dissatisfaction among care staff is a huge risk factor for the abuse and neglect of older people and raises deep concerns over the future of the care sector.
Hourglass also warns of troubling reports from the CQC regarding a lack of understanding of older people with dementia. Ineffective support, poor training and a lack of specialist care results in increased risk of abuse.
The report notes from an anonymous source that:
“The people treating him didn’t know how to communicate and shouted at him about causing distress. I intervened on several occasions. We were left for long periods of time with no explanations.”
With an extra nine million older people, a population the size of London, set to populate the UK by 2050, Hourglass is calling on the UK government to prioritise reform of the social care sector to protect this ageing population from abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The charity is encouraging everyone to support their Older Age, Tomorrow’s Hope campaign, which calls on the general public, third sector leaders, care professionals and businesses to sign up and support a Safer Ageing Society by 2050.
The charity is urging those keen to support the charity to donate by visiting www.wearehourglass.org.uk/donate or Text SAFER to 70460 to donate £10.
Texts cost £10 plus one standard rate message and you’ll be opting in to hear more about our work and fundraising via telephone and SMS.
If you’d like to give £10 but do not wish to receive marketing communications, text SAFERNOINFO to 70460.
A new safety campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of buying faulty and unsafe e-bikes, e-scooters and components such as batteries has been launched
New campaign urges public to buy safe e-bikes and e-scooters and avoid rogue online sellers
E-bike and e-scooter causing fires every two days according to London Fire Brigade
New Product Regulation Bill beginning work to tackle dangerous goods sold online
A new safety campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of buying faulty and unsafe e-bikes, e-scooters and components such as batteries has been launched today (Thursday 24 October).
The Department for Business & Trade’s new “Buy Safe, Be Safe” campaign has been designed to urge the public to buy safe e-bikes and e-scooters and avoid rogue online sellers.
E-bikes can be a cheap, healthy and modern method of travel throughout our towns and cities. However, unsafe e-bikes have resulted in hundreds of deadly fires and injured dozens of people across the UK. In 2023, the London Fire Brigade a fire every two days as a result of e-bike and e-scooter-related fires.
Many of these fires are caused by parts incompatible with e-bikes and scooters, as well as the purchase of defective or poorly manufactured parts sold by rogue online sellers.
The campaign focuses on three key areas encouraging consumers to only buy safe products from reputable sellers, only replace items with products recommended by the manufacturer and finally to seek professional help when converting or repairing e-bikes and e-scooters.
The Department is partnering with retailers, manufacturers as well as online marketplaces, trade associations, consumer groups and businesses to promote the campaign. Find out more about the campaign here.
Product Safety Minister Justin Madders said: E-bikes can be a great way to travel around the city, but we’ve all seen the tragic stories of unsafe e-bikes and e-scooters causing dangerous fires and taking lives.
“That’s why we’re urging everyone to check what you’re buying, check where you’re buying it from and ensure it’s safe to use.”
Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood said: “E-bikes have transformed our urban areas by giving people an accessible and healthy way to travel, but this is being ruined by a handful of untrustworthy online retailers.
“These rogue sellers not only risk bringing defective and dangerous batteries into people’s homes, but undermine confidence in active travel as a whole.
“That’s why I’m delighted that we are launching this campaign to make sure that people have peace of mind buying e-bikes and e-scooters from reliable sources.”
Under current laws, e-scooters are banned on public land from use except in Government rental trial areas, while e-bikes are legal to use across the country but must not exceed an output of 250 watts or travel faster than 15.5 mph.
The public can expect to see an ongoing social media campaign including how-to video guides, as well as information materials being made available for retailers to use in stores and online to support consumers.
The campaign comes off the back of wider efforts to tackle dangerous goods being sold in online marketplaces. In September, the Government unveiled the new Product Regulation and Metrology Bill aimed at allowing the UK to take charge of its product regulations, boosting consumer safety and helping to further grow the economy.
The Bill will also address the sharp rise in safety concerns around e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries and how they are sold via online marketplaces. The Bill will enable Government to better protect consumers who have for too long been at the mercy of unscrupulous suppliers, holding sellers and the online marketplaces to account if they fail to meet their responsibilities.
And it will ensure products sold online or placed on the UK market are safe, while enabling market enforcement officials to clamp down on the sale of the product or the sellers where they are not.
London Fire Brigade’s Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection, Craig Carter, said: “E-bikes and e-scooters are a green and sustainable way to travel around our city. However, e-bikes and e-scooters can pose a significant fire risk and particularly the batteries used to power them have become one of London’s fastest-growing fire risks. They have destroyed homes and families have sadly lost loved ones in these fires.
“From our investigations, we know many of the fires we’ve attended have involved second-hand vehicles or the bike has been modified using parts bought online.
“At this time, there is not the same level of regulation of products for e-bikes and e-scooters sold via online marketplaces or auction sites when compared to high street shops, so we cannot be confident that products meet the correct safety standard.
“We understand that people are trying to save money, but if you spot a deal that looks too be good to be true, it probably is.”
Halfords Head of Quality, Chris Hall, said: “E-bikes offer numerous benefits for a healthier, greener commute. When e-bikes are purchased from reputable retailers, they’re properly certified and safe to use.
“Our priority is to ensure that everyone can enjoy the benefits of e-bikes without compromising on safety. The fire safety issues we’ve seen are linked to poorly manufactured, uncertified products typically bought online, as well as the use of incompatible components.”
Lesley Rudd, chief executive of consumer safety charity, Electrical Safety First said: “E-bikes, e-scooters and their batteries are generally safe when purchased from reputable manufacturers and used correctly.
“However, poor-quality products – often sold via online marketplaces – improper charging, or misuse can cause ferocious fires and pose a serious risk to the buyer. Safety starts with where you shop. Sticking to reputable sellers will provide confidence that your e-bike is safe and manufactured to a high standard.
“It’s equally as important to ensure you use a charger that is designed to be compatible with your battery to avoid the risk of overcharging which may destabilise the battery and lead to a fire.
“We also urge consumers considering converting their push bike into e-bike to source a high-quality kit and that it is installed by a competent professional.”
Inga Becker-Hansen, Product Safety Advisor at the BRC, said: “The popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters has greatly increased the number on our streets and in our homes. These products provide a convenient method of transport for many of us.
“However, consumers should ensure they purchase from reputable and responsible retailers, who will ensure that appropriate batteries are used and all necessary safety standards are met.
“We urge the public to follow government guidance and take appropriate storage and maintenance measures to ensure the safety and longevity of their purchases.”
For our information on buying safely, how to store your product safely and best practice for charging, you can also find more information from the London Fire Brigade’s #ChargeSafe campaign.
UK announces £2.26bn loan to Ukraine backed by profits from sanctioned Russian sovereign assets
Forms Britain’s contribution to the $50bn loan announced at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in June
New money for Ukraine will bolster equipment on the frontline
Ukraine will receive further funding to purchase essential military equipment to defend itself against Russia’s illegal invasion, as the Chancellor today announces that the Government will loan a further £2.26bn in new money to Ukraine.
The new £2.26bn is the UK’s contribution to the G7 Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration (ERA) Loans to Ukraine scheme, in which $50bn from G7 countries will be delivered to Ukraine for its military, budget and reconstruction needs. The loan will be repaid using the extraordinary profits on immobilised Russian sovereign assets.
The Chancellor Rachel Reeves made the announcement alongside Defence Secretary John Healey while visiting Ukrainian personnel who are being trained in the UK. More than 45,000 personnel have been trained in the UK under Operation INTERFLEX and the scheme has been extended to at least the end of 2025.
The UK’s £2.26bn loan is earmarked as budgetary support for Ukraine’s military spending, enabling the Ukrainians to invest in key equipment to support their efforts against Russia, such as air defence, artillery and wider equipment support. It comes on top of the UK’s existing £3bn a year military aid for Ukraine, which the Prime Minister re-committed to within his first week in office.
The UK has sent around 400 different capabilities to Ukraine, with Defence Secretary John Healey MP recently announcing that the UK will supply 650 Lightweight Multirole Missile systems to Ukraine to boost the country’s air defences.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves:“Our support for Ukraine and her men and women in their fight for freedom from Putin’s aggression is unwavering and will remain so for as long as it takes.
“This new money is in Britain’s national interest because the frontline of our defence – the defence of our democracy and shared values – is in the Ukrainian trenches. A safe and secure Ukraine is a safe and secure United Kingdom.”
The $50bn G7 ERA scheme was first announced at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Apulia, Italy, in June this year. Russia’s obligation under international law to pay for the damage it has caused to Ukraine is clear and this G7 agreement is an important step to ensuring this happens.
Today the UK has announced its contribution to the scheme and will introduce domestic legislation in the coming weeks to enable the transfer of the new funds to Ukraine as quickly as possible.
The loan is on top of the £12.8bn already committed in military, economic and humanitarian support to Ukraine.
The funding comes alongside the UK and international partners introducing the largest and most severe package of sanctions ever imposed on a major economy. Without this, Russia would have over $400 billion more for its war machine – enough to fund its illegal invasion for a further four years.
The war is having an economic and human cost for Russia; it is soaking up 40% of Russia’s annual budget and last month the country suffered its highest rate of daily casualties since the war began.
The loan announcement comes ahead of the Chancellor’s attendance of the International Monetary Fund Annual Meetings in Washington D.C. later this week, at which she will underline on the international stage that the UK and its partners stand united and will not let aggressors like Putin succeed.
Earlier this month Prime Minister Keir Starmer hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Downing Street to discuss his victory plan for Ukraine.
Defence Secretary John Healey, said:“By using the money generated from these sanctioned Russian assets, we can help turn the tables on Putin’s war machine. This urgent funding will directly support Ukraine’s defence using the proceeds from assets that had helped fuel Putin’s aggression.
“The UK is stepping up our support to Ukraine, speeding up supplies of vital equipment and boosting our defence industries. We will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.”
The UK government has appointed Ruth Davis OBE as the first Special Representative for Nature. This landmark announcement is being is made as the UN Convention on Biological Diversity COP16 meeting in Colombia marks its first formal day.
Ruth Davis is one of the country’s leading environmental policy experts, with over twenty-five years’ experience working on issues of nature recovery and climate change.
Ms Davis previously advised the government when it hosted COP26, including helping secure an international pledge to end deforestation, which was signed by 145 countries.
She played a leading role supporting negotiators and ministers and has previously worked with some of the UK’s leading nature organisations including RSPB and Plantlife. She holds an MSc from Reading University in Plant Sciences and a diploma in Botanical Horticulture from Kew.
Her appointment comes as environment ministers gather in Colombia to discuss conservation and sustainable use of the world’s biological diversity.
The Global Biodiversity Framework was agreed at COP15 in Montreal, where over 150 countries signed up to and committed themselves to halting and reversing the international decline of nature.
Miss Davis will begin her role as Special Representative for Nature at the end of this month and will attend COP16 in her current role as an advocate for nature, working alongside the UK delegation led by Environment Secretary, Steve Reed.
This is a joint role between the FCDO and Defra and Ms Davis will report to both the Environment Secretary and the Foreign Secretary.
Environment Secretary Steve Reed said: “We cannot address the nature and climate crises without coordinated global action. That is why we have appointed Ruth as our special representative for nature – a landmark first – who will champion our ambition to put climate and nature at the heart of our foreign policy.
“We depend on nature in every aspect of our lives – it underpins our economy, health and society – and yet progress to restore our wildlife and habitats has been too slow. Ruth’s extensive knowledge and expertise will be vital to help us deliver on our commitments to put nature on the road to recovery.”
Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: “One million species are facing extinction, including one third of both marine mammals and coral reefs. And wildlife populations fallen by 73 per cent since 1970, mostly due to a staggering 83 per cent collapse in freshwater species.
“The climate and nature emergency is the most profound and universal source of global disorder. I am delighted Ruth Davis is joining to be our first ever UK Special Representative for Nature to help us achieve our goal of a liveable planet for all, now and in the future.”
Ruth Davis, the Special Representative for Nature said: “The government has recognised that the nature crisis is of equal gravity to the climate crisis; and that we cannot tackle one without addressing the other. Ecosystems and the species they support are essential to maintain food security, reduce health risks and manage the impacts of rising global temperatures.
“I am delighted to be working with colleagues across government, and with partners around the world, to take on this urgent challenge; in particular, ensuring that the rules and incentives that govern the global economy work to protect and restore nature; and that we invest in the commitment, knowledge and passion of local people, who are critical to safeguarding the places where they live.”
The announcement of the Special Representative for Nature follows confirmation that Rachel Kyte will take up the role of the UK’s Special Representative for Climate, announced last month.
The Special Representatives will support ministers to raise global ambition on nature recovery and climate change. They will drive engagement with international leaders and build influence on the global stage to meet the UK’s strategic objectives.
Health Secretary calls on entire nation (i.e. ENGLAND) to shape the government’s plans to overhaul the NHS
Public, clinicians and experts urged to submit ideas for its future as new online platform Change.NHS.uk goes live today – putting staff and patients in driving seat of reform
Responses will shape government’s 10 Year Health Plan to fix broken health service and deliver government mission to build an NHS fit for the future
The biggest national conversation about the future of the NHS since its birth is set to be launched today (Monday 21 October), as the entire country is called upon to share their experiences of our health service and help shape the government’s 10 Year Health Plan.
Members of the public, as well as NHS staff and experts will be invited to share their experiences views and ideas for fixing the NHS via the online platform, change.nhs.uk, which will be live until the start of next year, and available via the NHS App.
The public engagement exercise will help shape the Westminster government’s 10 Year Health Plan which will be published in spring 2025 and will be underlined by three big shifts in healthcare – hospital to community, analogue to digital, and sickness to prevention.
As part of the first shift “from hospital to community”, the UK government wants to deliver plans for new neighbourhood health centres, which will be closer to homes and communities. Patients will be able to see family doctors, district nurses, care workers, physiotherapists, health visitors, or mental health specialists, all under the same roof.
In transforming the NHS from analogue to digital, the government will create a more modern NHS by bringing together a single patient record, summarising patient health information, test results, and letters in one place, through the NHS App.
It will put patients in control of their own medical history, meaning they don’t have to repeat it at every appointment, and that staff have the full picture of patients’ health.
New laws are set to be introduced to make NHS patient health records available across all NHS trusts, GP surgeries and ambulance services in England – speeding up patient care, reducing repeat medical tests, and minimising medication errors.
Systems will be able to share data more easily, saving NHS staff an estimated 140,000 hours of NHS staffs’ time every year, because staff will have quicker access to patient data, saving time that can then be spent face-to-face with patients who need it most and potentially saving lives.
By moving from sickness to prevention, government wants to shorten the amount of time people spend in-ill health and prevent illnesses before they happen. As an example, the 10 Year Health Plan will explore the opportunities smart watches and other wearable tech may offer patients with diabetes or high blood pressure, so they can monitor their own health from the comfort of their own home.
The launch of the new online platform will take place at a health centre in East London, where the Secretary of State will meet with the Chief Executive of the London Ambulance Service before the first engagement event involving NHS staff from across the healthcare system as a start to the national conversation.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: My mum worked for the NHS, my sister worked for the NHS and my wife still works for the NHS – so I know first-hand how difficult it has been for staff, and for patients battling against a broken system for over a decade. But it’s time to roll up our sleeves and fix it.
“We have a clear plan to fix the health service, but it’s only right that we hear from the people who rely on the NHS every day to have their say and shape our plan as we deliver it. Together we can build a healthcare system that puts patients first and delivers the care that everyone deserves.
“We have a huge opportunity to put the NHS back on its feet. So, let’s be the generation that took the NHS from the worst crisis in its history and made it fit for the future.”
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: “When I was diagnosed with kidney cancer, the NHS saved my life, as it has for so many people across our country. We all owe the NHS a debt of gratitude for a moment in our lives when it was there for us, when we needed it. Now we have a chance to repay that debt.
“Today the NHS is going through the worst crisis in its history. But while the NHS is broken, it’s not beaten. Together, we can fix it.
“Whether you use the NHS or work in it, you see first-hand what’s great, but also what isn’t working. We need your ideas to help turn the NHS around.
“In order to save the things we love about the NHS, we need to change it. Our 10 Year Health Plan will transform the NHS to make it fit for the future, and it will have patients’ and staff’s fingerprints all over it.
“I urge everyone to go to Change.NHS.uk today and help us build a health service fit for the future.“
Investment alone won’t be enough to tackle the problems facing the NHS, why is why it must go hand in hand with fundamental reform.
The three big shifts will be our key principles for reform and will revolutionise the way people manage their health and access care. Our reforms will also shift the NHS away from late diagnosis and treatment to a model where more services are delivered in local communities and illnesses are prevented in the first place.
It is vital the government hears from patients, experts and the NHS workforce to make sure we get this right and preserve the things people value about the health service.
NHS England Chief Executive Amanda Pritchard said: “NHS staff are facing an unprecedented number of challenges – with record demand for care, alongside growing pressures from an ageing population, rising levels of multiple long-term illnesses and patients with more complex needs. And they are often hampered by working in crumbling buildings with outdated tech, meaning too many patients are waiting too long for care they need.
“So, it is vital the health service innovates and adapts – as it has always done throughout its 76-year history – to design and deliver an NHS fit for the future.
“The 10 Year Health Plan is a chance to make the best practice, normal practice across the country. So, we will be carrying out the largest ever staff engagement exercise in NHS history and leaving no stone unturned as we seek to harness frontline views, alongside those of patients and the public, to ensure this happens.
“It is your experiences – good, bad, and sometimes frustrating – that we need to help shape this once in a generation opportunity, so please get involved!”
Bold ambitions for the NHS can only be achieved by listening to the expertise and knowledge of its 1.54 million strong workforce. Their understanding of what’s holding them back from performing at their best will help us bring down waiting times and provide the world class care the public deserve.
The government has already taken immediate action to address challenges in the health service and deliver an NHS fit for the future. Whether that’s agreeing a deal with resident doctors within weeks, securing a funding increase for GP practices to manage rising pressures or hiring an extra 1,000 GPs into the NHS by the end of this year, there are both short- and long-term reforms working hand in hand.
Lord Ara Darzi said: “As my recent Investigation found, the NHS is in need of urgent and fundamental reform. The 10 Year Health Plan comes at a crucial moment—and by describing the ultimate destination for the health service, it will help improve decision-making in the here and now.”
The start of this national conversation on the future of the NHS follows on from Lord Darzi’s independent report into the health service that diagnosed its condition. Lord Darzi concluded the NHS is in a ‘critical condition’ with surging waiting lists and a deterioration in the nation’s underlying health, identifying serious and widespread problems for people accessing services.
The launch of the engagement exercise for the 10 Year Health Plan will build on these findings and is the next step to delivering the Government’s mission to fix the NHS and deliver a health service fit for the future.
Rachel Power, Chief Executive of The Patients Association, said: “We warmly welcome this ambitious initiative to engage with patients, staff, and the public on the future of our NHS.
“For far too long, many patients have felt their voices weren’t fully heard in shaping health services. This national conversation, initiated by the government, marks a significant step towards genuine patient partnership and puts patients at the heart of the NHS’s evolution.
“Through our work as an independent charity, we speak directly with thousands of patients living with various health conditions each year. This gives us valuable insights into diverse experiences across the health and care system, from widely shared patient needs to unique challenges faced by underrepresented groups.
“We’re eager to contribute these wide-ranging perspectives to help shape a health service that truly meets the needs of everyone it serves.”
Louise Ansari, Chief Executive of Healthwatch England said: “We know people appreciate the hard work of NHS staff, but they are all too aware that the NHS faces many challenges that need fixing. The 10-year plan provides the opportunity to do this.
“We urge everyone to have their say on how the NHS should deliver better care to people where and when it is needed, more support to help people stay well, and a culture of listening to and acting on the views of patients.
“All too often, people face unequal access to care, with disabled people and those on lower incomes being particularly at risk. The NHS belongs to us all, so you must speak up and help create a health service that is fit for the future – equal and inclusive for everyone.”
Cllr Louise Gittins, Chair of the Local Government Association said: “The NHS rightly holds a place in our nation’s heart, being there for us at moments of great joy, deep sadness, and everything in between. It is also one of local government’s most important partners. What each side does can impact the other.
“Every one of us is unique, complex and carries different ambitions. The NHS plays a key role in helping us to live the life we want to lead, but it cannot do it alone. Through social care and wider wellbeing activity, councils play an essential role in supporting people to do what matters most to them and live a meaningful life.
“This exercise is therefore crucial for the future of health, social care and wellbeing.”
Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director at Age UK said: “We are delighted to see this first, essential part of developing the 10-year plan getting going.
“With our rapidly ageing population it’s important that the plan takes fully into account the needs of tomorrow’s older people as well as today’s and helps all of us to age confidently and well. We encourage everyone to get involved and have their say – it’s almost certainly a once in a generation opportunity to do so.”
The Deputy Chief Executive of NHS Providers, Saffron Cordery said: “This will be a landmark moment for the NHS.
“Trust leaders are ready and willing to work with the government to tackle the many challenges the NHS currently faces to create a ‘next generation’ NHS fit for the future.”
Jacob Lant, Chief Executive of National Voices said: “We are encouraged by the ambitious approach the Government is taking to involve patients and organisations from across the sector in shaping the 10 Year Plan.
“We are excited to play our part in this, and will be working with our members to ensure that people from marginalised and minoritised communities are able to shape the discussions and big decisions ahead.
“Closing the gap in healthy life expectancy is a shared ambition of this Government and the National Voices coalition, and we will work tirelessly to ensure no groups are left behind.”
Matthew Taylor, Chief Executive of the NHS Confederation said: “Following more than a decade of underinvestment and in the face of some serious challenges we are reaching a turning point for the NHS.
“The 10-year plan will set the service on a path towards being put on sustainable footing so that it can best serve our population. No one working in the NHS will argue that it works perfectly – its staff have been crying out for change and we hope the ten-year plan will deliver for them and their communities, including by listening to the reality of their experiences and by incorporating the many examples of best practice and innovation that are taking place across the country.”
Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK said: “We are excited to see this first engagement phase of the NHS 10 Year Plan, a process which will include unpaid carers and ask for their views about the kind of health service they want to see in the future.
“We wholeheartedly agree with the recommendations from the Darzi review which suggested there should be a “fresh approach to supporting unpaid carers”. Unpaid carers are critical to the NHS and the NHS is a critical service for them, but it’s not always set up to help carers and can make their lives harder.
“England’s 4.7 million unpaid carers provide the bulk of support for older, ill and disabled relatives, helping millions to live in local communities where they want to be. Their support is valued at £152 billion, the equivalent of a second NHS, but they also face greater health inequalities and poorer health outcomes.
“With one in three NHS staff also juggling work and care, there’s a real opportunity to create a service which truly supports families who provide unpaid care. We see this as a win:win situation – helping families and building an NHS which is fit for the future; delivering better outcomes for everyone.”
Cancer Research UK’s chief executive, Michelle Mitchell, said: “We welcome the UK Government’s move to start a public conversation about the future of the NHS in England.
“Despite the best efforts of its hard-working staff, the NHS is under extreme pressure. This exercise is another important step in the process towards developing a 10-Year-Plan that should ensure all cancer patients across the UK get the care they deserve.”
NO mention of Scotland?Health is a devolved issue, but I’m sure our suggestions will be welcomed, too! – Ed.
Holyrood’s Acting Energy Secretary Gillian Martin and UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband today signed a collaborative agreement on partnership between GB Energy and Scottish public bodies.
This aims to ensure that GB Energy maximises investment in Scotland:
Collaborative agreement between the Scottish Government and UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero
Vision
The Scottish Government and DESNZ have a shared objective in ensuring that Great British Energy (GBE) is set up to deliver effectively and maximise the benefits of its activities in Scotland.
Our joint objective is to secure investment in domestic priority supply chains and infrastructure to increase the pace of delivery of clean energy technologies, and maximise the economic benefits arising from this, including through creating jobs. GBE’s mission is to drive clean energy deployment, to create jobs, boost energy independence, and ensure UK taxpayers, billpayers and communities reap the benefits of clean, secure, home-grown energy, as set out in its Founding Statement.
Developing partnerships with existing Scottish public bodies active within the clean energy sector – including Crown Estate Scotland, the Enterprise Agencies and the Scottish National Investment Bank – is a way in which GBE can deliver quickly and effectively, avoid duplication, and deliver maximum impact and value for money from Scottish projects. Scotland already has a strong pipeline of clean energy and supply chain opportunities, and is at the forefront of floating offshore wind development.
DESNZ and the Scottish Government will therefore explore opportunities for GBE to partner with these Scottish public bodies, as well as the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES). These partnerships will seek to deliver increased investment in the clean energy supply chain in Scotland and related areas of value, to support community and local energy, and to support parity between GBE’s activities in Scotland and those in the rest of the UK, recognising Scotland’s institutional landscape. The Scottish Government and DESNZ will continue to engage on areas of mutual interest as GBE’s activities and commercial models evolve to promote equivalent opportunities for Scottish public bodies, where organisations can work together to deliver joint objectives.
DESNZ and the Scottish Government will also explore how GBE’s activities support the delivery of priority supply chain and infrastructure development work already being undertaken in Scotland, and activity to support community and local energy in Scotland.
Our work will help ensure that GBE’s supply chain work aligns with and enhances these activities, thereby supporting accelerated deployment of the existing Scottish offshore wind pipeline and other clean energy projects.
This agreement makes no changes to the devolved or reserved competences of either party, and this agreement will operate consistently with the devolution settlement.
Potential activities in scope
The following are potential investment activities which could be supported through a partnership between GBE and the Scottish public bodies:
the clean energy supply chain, including ports infrastructure, manufacturing and construction activities
land to support these activities
services that support supply chain development, such as digital
community and local energy projects
The clean energy supply chain includes ports and harbours, wider clean energy infrastructure, manufacturing, fabrication and construction activities.
GBE will be operationally independent, with the ability to make decisions on its own activities, within the legal framework set out in the GBE Bill, and respecting the Scottish Ministers’ devolved competences.
Where there is any formal collaboration between the Scottish Government and DESNZ on supply chain and infrastructure investment activity, this will be developed and agreed on a case-by-case basis bringing in other delivery partners as required.
Nothing in this agreement should be construed as conflicting with the Scottish Ministers’ devolved powers and functions which take precedence over this statement. This agreement does not create legal obligations between the parties.
The Chancellor to convene first meeting of the British Infrastructure Taskforce to boost infrastructure investment.
Experts from some of the UK biggest finance institutions including HSBC, Lloyds and M&G will, alongside wider industry engagement, advise government on a long-term infrastructure investment strategy to benefit every corner of the UK.
Follows launch of a new body that brings infrastructure strategy and delivery together to address the systemic delivery challenges that have stunted growth for decades.
Private finance experts will meet the Chancellor at No11 Downing Street today to boost investment in infrastructure and drive growth nationwide.
Rachel Reeves will convene the inaugural meeting of the British Infrastructure Taskforce as part of a new approach that involves government working with business to design policy that will unlock private investment, including by building business confidence in UK infrastructure investments.
The Taskforce will explore different options to support the Government’s infrastructure goals to drive growth for the whole of the nation, and some of the UK’s biggest financial companies including LLoyds, HSBC, and M&G will be in attendance.
This Government has committed to turbocharge infrastructure investment across the width and breadth of the UK. Invitees have been selected to ensure a wide range of experience and expertise in UK infrastructure. This marks a significant shift in approach, with key businesses and stakeholders invited to work with the government to support the delivery of its infrastructure agenda.
It follows the announcement to launch a newly formed National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA) which will bring a much-needed oversight of strategy and delivery under one roof, revolutionising the UK’s approach to infrastructure projects.
The NISTA will support the development and implementation of the ten-year infrastructure strategy in conjunction with industry which was outlined for the first time last week by the Chief Secretary Darren Jones.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves MP said:“Increasing investment in infrastructure is a vital part of delivering on our number one mission to grow the economy and create jobs.
“Just days after our International Investment Summit, we are delivering on our promise to work with business to drive growth across the country, and the expertise of this Taskforce will be invaluable in the weeks and months ahead.”
Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones MP said: ““We are serious about ending the cycle of underinvestment that has plagued our infrastructure systems for over a decade. The best way to do that is to design the solution with business in the room. That’s what this taskforce is all about.”
The Taskforce will meet regularly, offering insights that deliver long-lasting solutions for job creation, growth, and environmental goals.
This builds on the success of the International Investment Summit, which saw hundreds of top international investors attend the event, £63bn of confirmed investment into Britain, along with the launch of the £27.8 billion turbocharged National Wealth Fund.
Tracy Blackwell, CEO, PIC said:“We have a huge amount to invest and we want to invest more in Britain. There is no shortage of capital that can support the British economy’s capacity to grow.
“The right combination of policies and ideas will unlock that capital and boost growth. From planning reform and better use of public sector pension funds to a streamlining of institutions and regulations, there is a lot that Government can do to crowd in more private investment and deliver social value.
“It’s great to be in an ongoing conversation with the Chancellor about taking that agenda forward.”
Andrea Rossi, CEO, M&G plc said:“M&G has been an active investor in the UK for 175 years. Of the £100 billion M&G invests in the UK, infrastructure remains a core part of delivering sustainable returns for our savers, clients and shareholders.
“The UK’s clear focus on infrastructure presents a significant opportunity to deliver economic and social progress and we are delighted to contribute our expertise.”
Deepa Bharadwaj, Head of Infrastructure Europe, IFM Investors said: ““IFM is a major global infrastructure investor, a major investor in the UK, and is owned by pension funds.
“We look forward to solutions-based discussions that can unlock new investment across UK infrastructure sectors and themes”.
Stephen Cohen, Chief Product Officer, Blackrock said:“There’s a rapidly growing pool of capital to invest in infrastructure, but deploying it requires pragmatism in policy.
“We’re pleased to be working with the government in identifying policies that will support private investment.”
Charlie Nunn, CEO, Lloyds Banking Group said:“At Lloyds Banking Group, we are committed to helping the UK deliver the infrastructure the country needs, supporting jobs and growth.
“We welcome the British Infrastructure Taskforce’s focus on increasing investment in UK infrastructure and addressing some of the fundamental barriers that have existed to date.
“As the UK’s leading bank for project finance, we will work closely with the government in the development of this taskforce, ensuring the work supports communities, businesses, and industries across the regions and nations of the UK.”
Anne Richards, Vice Chair, Fidelity International said:“We have a shared ambition to drive growth in the UK by unlocking investment in infrastructure for the benefit of savers.
“Our best opportunity to achieve that is through collaboration with government and the industry.”
Andy Briggs, CEO, Phoenix Group said: “Over the last three decades there has been an underinvestment in the UK economy compared to other developed nations. I am delighted there is a growing consensus that in order to grow we need to work together to invest.
“The British Infrastructure Taskforce provides the opportunity for business and government to work on shared priorities, help finance the social and economic infrastructure the country needs for the future, and give potential for better returns for pension savers.”
The following attendees of the first Taskforce meeting discussed investment opportunities, financial mechanisms, and strategies to maximise economic value:
Providers will have to ensure lending is affordable – stopping users from accumulating unmanageable debt
Rules deliver better protection for shoppers and clarity for innovative sector after years of uncertainty
Millions of shoppers are set to be protected by new rules for Buy-Now, Pay-Later products.
Buy-Now, Pay-Later products have become increasingly popular in recent years as they allow people to spread the cost of purchases over time, but users currently do not have access to a range of key protections provided by other consumer credit products.
The Government has today launched a consultation on proposals to fix this by bringing Buy-Now, Pay-Later companies under the supervision of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and applying the Consumer Credit Act, ensuring users receive clear information, avoid unaffordable borrowing, and have strong rights when issues arise.
Economic Secretary to the Treasury Tulip Siddiq said: “Millions of people use Buy-Now, Pay-Later to manage their finances, but the previous government’s dither and delay left them unprotected.
“We promised to take action before the election and now we are delivering. Our approach will give shoppers access to the key protections provided by other forms of credit while providing the sector with the certainty it needs to innovate and grow.”
The new rules will allow the FCA to apply rules on affordability – meaning that Buy-Now, Pay-Later companies will have to check that shoppers are able to afford repayments before offering a loan, which will help to prevent people building up unmanageable debt.
Companies will also need to provide clear, simple and accessible information about loan agreements in advance so that shoppers can make fully informed decisions and understand the risks associated with late repayments.
Consumer Credit Act information disclosure rules will be disapplied so that the FCA can consult on bespoke rules that ensure users are given this information in a way that is tailored to the online setting in which Buy-Now, Pay-Later products are generally used.
Buy-Now, Pay-Later users will be given stronger rights if issues arise with products they purchase, making it quicker and easier to get redress. This includes applying Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, which allows consumers to claim refunds from their lender, and access to the Financial Ombudsman Service to make complaints.
Rocio Concha, Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy, said: “Which? has been a leading voice calling for the regulation of Buy Now Pay Later for years so it’s positive that new rules are coming in that should provide much-needed protections for users of these products.
“Our research found that many BNPL customers do not realise they are taking on debt or consider the prospect of missing payments, which can result in uncapped fees, so clearer information about the risks involved as well as the use of affordability checks and options for redress would be a win for consumers.
“We are keen to see legislation quickly passed to ensure that BNPL users are protected as strongly as consumers using other credit products.”
Sebastian Siemiatkowski, Co founder and CEO of Klarna, said: “Congratulations to Tulip Siddiq and the government on moving quickly!
“They have been working with the industry and consumer groups long before coming into office. We’re looking forward to carrying on that work to put proportionate rules in place that protect consumers while fostering growth.”
Michael Saadat, International Head of Public Policy at Clearpay said: “We welcome today’s update from City and FinTech Minister, Tulip Siddiq, on BNPL regulation.
“It is encouraging that HM Treasury has listened to industry feedback and evolved the previous framework to ensure a more proportionate approach to regulation.
“We have always called for fit-for-purpose regulation that prioritises customer protection, delivers much-needed innovation in consumer credit and that sets high industry standards across the board.
“We will continue to support the Government and the FCA to deliver fit-for-purpose regulation that ensures consumers are protected in a way that supports the UK’s thriving FinTech sector.”
Chris Woolard, Author of the 2021 Woolard Review, which looked at change and innovation in the unsecured credit market, said: “Today marks a significant milestone for consumer-focused financial regulation.
“The proposed package of regulation would implement the recommendations of the Review and mean millions of people up and down the UK will benefit from stronger financial protection as they borrow using BNPL, especially the most vulnerable in society. The incoming regulation will also provide long-term certainty and standards for the market.”
The consultation will be conducted quickly – closing on 29 November – to reflect the urgent need for action to protect consumers.
Final legislation is expected to be laid in Parliament in early 2025. Once the legislation is laid, the FCA will finalise the rules so they can take effect in 2026 – bringing clarity to the sector after years of uncertainty about how it will be regulated.
This follows the Prime Minister saying he would remove regulation that needlessly holds back investment and growth. Today’s announcement brings in much needed regulation that stops people spiralling into debt.
Justin Basini, Co-Founder and CEO of The ClearScore Group said: “We welcome this consultation to bring Buy-Now, Pay-Later borrowers under the same protections and creditworthiness assessments as other mainstream financial products such as credit cards and loans.
“It is a sensible step in ensuring that this new, important form of credit continues to provide much-needed flexibility for consumers while also managing any risks.”
UK government accelerates “skills passport” and with Scottish Government strikes deal for Great British Energy to work with Scottish public bodies
Energy Secretary visits Aberdeen as UK and Scottish Governments partner to make billions available in funding across the UK including for Scotland’s clean energy industry
UK and Scottish Governments strike new deal for Great British Energy to work with Scottish public bodies to support clean energy supply chains
UK Government also confirms the speeding up of delivery of a ‘skills passport’ to support oil and gas workers to move into offshore wind
The UK Government will take decisive action to help make available billions of pounds in funding across the UK including for Scotland’s clean energy industry, the Energy Secretary has pledged ahead of a visit to Aberdeen.
The Energy Secretary will visit Aberdeen with Great British Energy Chair Juergen Maier for the first time since the city was announced as the headquarters for the UK’s new publicly-owned energy company.
Following the visit, the UK Government is set to sign a new agreement with the Scottish Government today (Thursday 17 October) to boost Great British Energy’s ambitions to support clean energy supply chains and infrastructure.
By developing partnerships with Scottish public bodies in the clean energy sector – including Crown Estate Scotland, the Enterprise Agencies and the Scottish National Investment Bank – Great British Energy can deliver quickly and effectively, avoid duplication, and deliver maximum impact and value for money from Scottish projects.
Scotland has a strong pipeline of opportunities and is at the forefront of floating offshore wind development, and Great British Energy is in prime position to help accelerate this work by harnessing expertise in project development, investment and work with local communities.
Great British Energy has £8.3 billion of funding over this Parliament, and work is underway with the energy industry in Scotland to use this for public investment to create new private sector jobs and drive projects in Scotland.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “Scottish energy workers will power the United Kingdom’s clean energy future- including in carbon capture and storage, in hydrogen, in wind, and with oil and gas for decades to come as part of a fair transition in the North Sea.
“Unlike in the past we’re also working closely with the Scottish Government with a new agreement to ensure our publicly owned company Great British Energy is primed to accelerate clean energy investment in Scotland.”
This follows the announcement in the summer of a partnership between Great British Energy and The Crown Estate, covering England, Wales and Northern Ireland, which could support the leveraging of up to £30-60 billion of private investment.
Ahead of the visit, the UK Government has also confirmed that oil and gas workers will be supported to move more easily into careers in the renewable sector, including offshore wind, as the UK government accelerates delivery of a ‘skills passport’.
The passport is an industry led initiative overseen by RenewableUK and Offshore Energies UK and supported by the UK and Scottish Governments which will align standards, recognise transferable skills and qualifications and map out career pathways for suitable roles. A digital tool for workers is set to be piloted by January 2025.
The UK Government’s Office for Clean Energy Jobs is working closely with Skills England to support other British workers on the energy transition, which by 2030 could create hundreds of thousands of new jobs across the UK.
Many of the skills required for the transition already exist, with research from Offshore Energies UK showing that 90% of oil and gas workers have transferable skills for offshore renewable jobs.
Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin said: “I welcome this collaborative agreement committing Great British Energy to work with our public bodies to maximise investment into Scotland.
“Scotland already has a strong pipeline of clean energy and supply chain opportunities, is at the forefront of floating offshore wind development, and has a depth of knowledge and experience on community & local energy. We look forward to working with Great British Energy to ensure it delivers real benefits for the people of Scotland and a just energy transition.
“To make sure that no offshore energy workers are left behind, the Scottish Government provided initial funding of £3.7 million between 2022 – 2024 for the development of the industry-led Skills Passport.”
Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray said: “The UK government will support our world class, world leading offshore workforce with the recognition they deserve and support the transition to renewable jobs in the future.
“This is an area the UK Government and Scottish Government can and should work in partnership to deliver for Scotland and harness the potential we have to truly lead the world in renewables jobs. That’s why we have set out to reset the relationship between Scotland’s two governments to deliver better outcomes for Scots.
“It should be easier to switch between oil and gas and renewables work offshore. The present situation, where training in one industry isn’t recognised in the other, cuts off opportunities for oil and gas workers. The fact some workers are paying out of their own pockets is scandalous.
“We need to cut that red tape and deliver a skills passport that allows offshore workers to move flexibly back and forth between both industries in the years and decades to come.”
Great British Energy Chair Juergen Maier said: “The clean energy transition is a huge opportunity for Scotland, which is already at the cutting edge of technology like floating offshore wind, and Great British Energy is well positioned to help accelerate the development of key supply chains and infrastructure.
“By working closely with the Scottish Government, alongside The Crown Estate in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, we can help to drive forward investment and create jobs across the country.”
RenewableUK’s Executive Director of Offshore Wind Jane Cooper said: “The upsurge in offshore wind jobs over the course of this decade and beyond creates excellent opportunities for highly-skilled oil and gas workers to bring their valuable experience to the clean energy sector.
“We’re working closely with our colleagues at Offshore Energies UK, and the UK and Scottish Governments, to make that transition as smooth as possible across all parts of the energy industry. The Energy Skills Passport is a great example of what we can achieve together and we’ll continue to look for other potential areas of work that can further support the transition of workers between sectors.”
David Whitehouse, Chief Executive Officer, Offshore Energies UK comments: “This package of announcements contains significant measures for firms, their workers and their supply chains across the UK.
“The skills passport is an important part of the toolkit industry is assembling in recognition of the integrated nature of the energy landscape. Those working in our domestic oil and gas sector have powered the country for the last fifty years and will play a critical role in our energy future.
“The sector is committed to working in partnership with government to leverage our industrial strengths to deliver a managed transition that creates opportunities for people and communities around the country.”
In Wales, the UK Government is already discussing how Great British Energy could work in partnership with their publicly-owned renewable energy developer, Trydan Gwyrdd Cymru, and other public bodies to deliver on shared priorities with the Welsh Government.
The UK Government is also working closely with the Northern Ireland Executive on opportunities for Northern Ireland, to help accelerate the clean energy transition across the United Kingdom.
Yesterday (Wednesday 16 October) the Energy Secretary also confirmed that Liz Ditchburn has been appointed as Chair of the North Sea Transition Authority, which regulates and influences the oil, gas, carbon storage and offshore hydrogen industries. Liz is a highly experienced public sector leader and will help to deliver the UK Government’s plans for a phased, responsible and prosperous energy transition in the North Sea.
A new strategy is being published to radically cut the number of single-use medical devices in the health service
Move to scrap single-use MedTech as Health and Social Care Secretary launches waste blitz
Tens of millions of disposable items are binned after just one use
MedTech companies incentivised to produce sustainable products – pumping millions back to NHS frontline and cash into economy
The government is launching a major crackdown on waste in the NHS to save millions of pounds a year, helping to divert more resources to frontline care.
A new strategy – the Design for Life Roadmap – is being published to radically cut the number of single-use medical devices in the health service and reduce our reliance on foreign imports.
Disposable medical devices substantially contribute to the 156,000 tonnes of clinical waste that the NHS produces every year in England alone. The roadmap paves the way to slashing this waste and maximising reuse, remanufacture and recycling in the NHS.
Doing so will create thousands more UK jobs and help transform the country into a life sciences superpower. As it stands, millions of devices like walking aids and surgical instruments are thrown away after just one use.
Harmonic shears – surgical devices which seal patients’ wounds using ultrasound waves – each cost more than £500 and around 90% of them are binned after a single use. Innovative companies are already purchasing these used devices and safely remanufacturing them at a lower price.
The government will encourage more of this kind of innovation to safely remanufacture a wider range of products and drive costs down, including by changing procurement rules to incentivise reusable products and rolling out examples where hospitals are already leading the way on cutting wasteful spending and practices.
Approximately £10 billion each year is spent on medical technology like this in the NHS, but too much of it is imported via vulnerable routes that risk disrupting patient care.
A Circular Economy Taskforce has already been created to foster more highly skilled green jobs and smarter use of our resources. An economy wide shift to a circular economy could add £75 billion to the economy and create 500,000 jobs by 2030.
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: “The NHS is broken. It is the mission of this government to get it back on its feet, and we can’t afford a single penny going to waste.
“Because the NHS deals in the billions, too often it doesn’t think about the millions. That has to change. This government inherited a £22 billion blackhole in the public finances, so we will have a laser-like focus on getting better value for taxpayers’ money.
“Every year, millions of expensive medical devices are chucked in the bin after being used just once. We are going to work closely with our medical technology industry, to eliminate waste and support homegrown medtech and equipment.”
The below case studies illustrate the potential savings:
Mid Yorkshire Trust uses 330,000 single use tourniquets in a year, but a single reusable tourniquet can be used 10,000 times. In a one-year trial, reusable alternatives saved £20,000 in procurement costs and 0.75 metric tonnes of plastic waste.
In Northampton Hospitals NHS Trust, a single Ophthalmology department saved 1,000 pairs of disposable scissors and £12,000 in a year by switching to reusable pairs. Single-use scissors are often used in surgical settings. NHS procurement data shows that several million pairs of single-use scissors were purchased by the NHS in a single year (2022-23). That is the equivalent of hundreds of pairs of scissors thrown away every hour.
Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust saved £76,610 in costs purchasing 604 remanufactured Electrophysiology (EP) Catheters, and generated a further £22,923 for selling used devices for collection. If the same approach were to be scaled up across the UK, the NHS could save millions of pounds per year on EP catheters alone, just a few product lines among hundreds of thousands.
Harmonic shears are complex devices for performing surgical procedures and cost more than £500 each, yet around 90% are binned after a single use. Leeds University Teaching Hospitals Trust has demonstrated that companies can safely remanufacture them, giving up to 50% cost savings.
The Design for Life programme will reduce this kind of waste and achieve an NHS-wide move to sustainable alternatives– also supporting the government’s net zero goals.
A new roadmap sets out 30 actions to achieve this shift – including how the government will work with companies to encourage the production of more sustainable products, along with training for NHS staff on how to use them.
Taking this approach will mean more money can be spent in the UK, driving growth, creating more engineering, life sciences and research jobs – all while securing savings for the NHS budget.
Many of these products include precious metals such as platinum and titanium which are in high demand but go to landfill when they could be recovered and sold. A reduction in the amount of disposed single-use devices will also reduce the country’s carbon footprint and plastic pollution.
The government will encourage industry figures to innovate by making sure benefits of reusable MedTech are part of how the NHS chooses the products it buys.
Baroness Merron visited University College London Hospital yesterday (Tuesday, 15 October). The hospital is a member of the Circular Economy Healthcare Alliance, which advocates for sustainable practices within the NHS.
Health Minister Baroness Gillian Merron said: “Design for Life doesn’t just deliver on the Health Mission, to build an NHS fit for the future, it also delivers on our Growth Mission to make the UK a life science superpower and our commitment to get the NHS to net zero by 2045.“
She toured a mock operating theatre and was shown various sustainable products its NHS staff use – from simple products like gowns and scissors to sophisticated, expensive products like harmonic shears.
Professor Sir Stephen Powis, National Medical Director of NHS England, said: “While the NHS is treating record numbers of patients, we know there is much more to do to ensure taxpayers get value for money.
“The NHS made a record £7.25bn worth of efficiency savings last year and is targeting a further £9bn of savings for 2024/25. But we are rightly still looking for ways to get our money’s worth for every penny we spend.”
