Birkenhead nursery praised in Ofsted report

Partou Victoria Park Day Nursery and Pre-School in Birkenhead has been rated ‘Good’ in all areas after an Ofsted inspection.

In her official report, the inspector declared: “Children show that they are happy, safe and secure at this welcoming setting.”

The nursery is situated on the edge of Victoria Park, providing daycare to families in Rock Ferry, Prenton and Egerton Park.

With spacious playrooms, including a large soft play area and sensory room for stimulating activities, it offers separate pre-school rooms with a strong emphasis on developing 'big school' readiness in the children.

Partou Victoria Park also proudly boasts three outdoor play areas incorporating a forest garden with its own story hut.

The Ofsted report praises the nursery’s team members for their achievements across numerous areas of their work.

“Leaders have placed great importance on building the staff team and are committed to improving their practice through continuous professional development,” the inspector writes.

“Staff plan many opportunities for children to develop their physical skills.  For example, all children have daily access to the extensive soft-play area, where older children set up their own obstacle courses and team games. This helps them to develop their balance and spatial awareness.”

Staff and children at Partou Victoria Park Day Nursery and Pre-School in Birkenhead celebrate their Ofsted ‘Good’ rating

The Ofsted report describes the partnerships at the nursery between parents, carers and professionals as “strong.”

The inspector continues: “Parents are extremely complimentary about the help and support they have received from the setting. They talk about the positive impact this has had on the whole family.”

She adds: “Leaders and staff work closely with other professionals to ensure that gaps in children's learning, and any specific needs, are identified early and acted on quickly. This helps to ensure all children have the best possible start in life.”

Commenting on the report, Sophie Saxby, Partou Victoria Park Nursery Manager, said: “We are really pleased with the outcome including the positive recognition of the work we do.

“As the report highlights, every new team member receives a rigorous induction so they understand their roles and responsibilities to deliver the curriculum.

“The inspector also states that all staff say they feel well supported and morale is high.   

“Partou Victoria Park is dedicated to providing a happy environment for the children, parents and staff.   It is satisfying to know that Ofsted has judged we are succeeding in meeting this objective.”  

 Samantha Rhodes, Partou Managing Director, said: “In its short history, Partou Victoria Park has quickly won the admiration of the local community for the professionalism of its team members and the support they provide to the children and their families.

“Sophie and her team deserve huge credit for what they have accomplished.”  

University of Manchester researchers working to solve UK energy storage conundrum

Ensuring the UK has sufficient levels of renewable energy to meet its needs is only possible with suitable energy storage infrastructure – and University of Manchester experts are working to provide a “future-proof” solution.

In a new article published by Policy@Manchester, Professor Robert Dryfe highlights the importance of Long Duration Energy Storage (LDES) technologies - storage systems that can operate for periods exceeding 10 hours – in meeting this challenge.

He explains that the lithium-ion battery (LIB) is the market leader “in most grid-level or domestic energy storage solutions” including as “the driving force behind electric cars.”  

But he warns that “for energy storage on a larger scale, LIBs have certain limitations that need to be addressed to enable the transition to a fully renewable energy-based economy/society.”  These include high cost because of their reliance on scarce minerals, and a dangerous fire risk due to their use of a flammable electrolyte which is prohibited in settings such as ports and airports.  

University of Manchester experts are working to provide a “future-proof” energy storage solution - credit Young777 (iStock photo ID:2042546785)

Professor Dryfe believes that redox flow batteries (RFBs) “could be a less resource-intensive and cheaper solution to this problem, capable of storing energy for 10+ hours.”

He writes: “Our research at The University of Manchester offers a way to develop lower cost redox flow batteries.  We are developing systems that avoid the need for use of relatively rare materials, such as vanadium. Our work developing ‘post-vanadium’ technology also has the advantage of low flammability and being non-corrosive.”

Professor Dryfe makes clear that the UK’s commitment to decarbonising the electricity system by 2035 and reaching net-zero emissions by 2050 “will require significant changes in domestic and industrial power supplies as these sectors represent a large percentage of overall energy use.”

As such, “a transition to renewables must be accompanied by a transition of technology to large scale battery storage” coupled with “a similar transition to the storage needed to ‘stock’ this renewable energy.”

Further, he argues, “to accelerate the scale and decrease the cost of battery storage, the UK needs to encourage investment in technologies that are capable of longer-duration storage, which in the battery context means developing new types of RFBs that break the current reliance on critical materials such as vanadium.”

He adds: “The deployment of smaller scale RFBs should also be considered, capable of supplying both stored power and back-up power to industrial sites, and other important facilities such as hospitals.”

Professor Robert Dryfe

Concluding his piece, the University of Manchester academic advocates the compulsory adoption of Local Area Energy Plans (LAEPs) which detail exactly where clean energy generation and energy storage facilities can be installed to maximise decarbonisation of homes, businesses and industry.

“Currently around 100 local councils have LAEPs, with Greater Manchester Combined Authority trailblazing, having developed plans for all of its ten boroughs, and being the first at this scale,” Professor Dryfe writes.  

“By working with local authorities and integrating LDES technology into LAEPs, effective solutions to strategic decarbonisation challenges (e.g. decarbonising domestic/industrial heating) are made possible. Policymakers should therefore consider making LAEPs mandatory and work with stakeholders to develop a funded framework.”

Energy Consumption: Solving the Storage Problem by Professor Robert Dryfe is available to read on the Policy@Manchester website.  

Digital technology can confront modern slavery in garment making and ‘fast fashion’

How to harness the potential of digital technology to help tackle modern slavery and labour exploitation in UK garment manufacturing and ‘fast fashion’ should be a policy priority for the incoming government, according to a newly published article by University of Manchester academics.

Based on knowledge gained from their own interdisciplinary research project which included interviews with stakeholders, Dr Jon Davies, Professor Rose Broad and Dr Amy Benstead identify poor working conditions, underpayment, long hours without proper breaks and a lack of job security as key challenges in these sectors which lead to the improper treatment of employees.

“In severe cases, workers may face threats and coercion, making it difficult to identify and stop exploitation,” they write. “Additionally, complex supply chains and subcontracting obscure accountability, which can allow unethical practices to develop. Efforts to enforce legislation and ensure ethical standards are often insufficient or inadequately enforced, which contributes to the overall problem.”

New research from University of Manchester academics outlines how digital technology can help to tackle modern slavery and labour exploitation in ‘fast fashion’

(Credit: South_agency)

The authors reveal that many of the businesses they examined were found to have a limited awareness of how digital technology can be used to assist in preventing modern slavery and exploitation from developing in garment manufacturing supply networks.

“Commonly asserted benefits of tools such as Blockchain include a real-time ledger that all parties in a network/supply chain can access, which includes transaction details and contracts,” they explain.  “Importantly, stakeholders cannot retroactively change this information without the consent of all parties in the network, which in theory improves accountability and trust among stakeholders. Nevertheless, most participants in our research were not familiar with Blockchain in day-to-day business usage.”

In businesses which were aware of tools such as Blockchain, Davies, Rose and Benstead discovered that these “tended to be seen as a ‘gimmick’ that did not address underlying explanations for modern slavery such as extensive use of subcontracting and pressure to minimise labour and product costs.”  They continue: “Related to this, smaller businesses may lack the resources and/or expertise to implement Blockchain, whereas larger fashion brands were perceived as unwilling to implement it due to reputational concerns if cases of exploitation came to light as a result.”

From their findings, The University of Manchester academics make a series of policy recommendations to address the issues highlighted in their article.

These propose the launch of a government consultation or inquiry “that crosscuts policymakers, industry, regulators/enforcement and academia on the relative merits and drawbacks of implementing tools such as Blockchain in garment manufacturing and the fashion industry more widely.”

Further to this, they advocate placing a requirement on businesses “to avoid ‘tech-washing’ and associated human rights abuses by being clear about their actions and to what extent they use digital technology.”  They describe the Commercial Organisations and Public Authorities Duty (Human Rights and Environment) Bill, Private Members’ legislation proposed by Baroness Young of Hornsey in the last Parliament, as having the potential to provide “a positive framework for this recommendation to take shape” if adopted by the new UK government.   

The authors also advance the case for creating a “Single Enforcement Body (SEB) to merge key regulatory agencies such as the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority, Employment Standards Agency Inspectorate and HMRC National Minimum Wage Team.”  And they point out that “a renewed commitment to establish a SEB” was included in the 2024 Labour Party Manifesto.

Modern Slavery and Digital Technology in ‘Fast Fashion’: The Transparency Dividend by Dr Jon Davies, Professor Rose Broad and Dr Amy Benstead is available to read on the Policy@Manchester website.  

Barrier breaking Harrogate nursery wins national award for training and development

Harrogate nursery Partou Little Dragons has eclipsed competition from around the country to win the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) Award for Nursery Training and Development.

Bambi Wainwright, Nursery Manager at Partou Little Dragons, took to the stage with colleagues to receive the trophy at a ceremony at the Coventry Building Society Arena.

The NDNA awards the trophy to a nursery that “invests in the development and motivation of all staff” and offers “outside the box opportunities for development.”

Partou Little Dragons, located at East Parade, received high praise from the judges for its comprehensive approach to professional development, including personalised progression plans for team members.

The panel, comprising leading figures from the UK childcare sector, also highlighted the nursery’s success in breaking down barriers within the Early Years sector as a key factor in their decision.

Established in 1999, the NDNA is an award-winning national charity and membership association supporting nurseries, early years settings and their workforce to deliver the best possible early education and care to young children.

Bambi Wainwright, Nursery Manager at Partou Little Dragons in Harrogate, receives the Nursery Training and Development trophy alongside staff colleagues at the National Day Nurseries Association Awards 2024 (Credit: NDNA)  

Bambi Wainwright, Nursery Manager at Partou Little Dragons, expressed her delight at the acknowledgment of her team’s hard work.

She said: “I am so proud of what we have achieved.

“As a nursery driven by a commitment to create a safe space where everybody can flourish, receiving this national award means so much to us.

“We are a neurodiverse team who have often faced barriers to our own progression.  

“Breaking those down and fostering a culture of sustained shared thinking and inclusion is our passion.”

Samantha Rhodes is Managing Director of Partou which operates more than 100 nurseries in England, including Partou Little Dragons.

She said: “We are thrilled for Bambi and her team, who do such an outstanding job for children and families in Harrogate.

“The ethos at Partou Little Dragons centres around creating an environment of care and continuous learning and development. The team help each other to reach their full potential and take pride in their achievements so that every team member feels valued and respected.

“Individual wellbeing is prioritised through initiatives such as mindfulness rooms, counselling sessions and mental health support.

“The nursery also has an open-door policy that encourages transparent communication, allowing the team to voice concerns and seek assistance when needed.

“This national recognition is thoroughly deserved.” 

Partou expands UK nursery portfolio with first post-brand launch acquisition

Leading Dutch childcare provider Partou has added to its extensive portfolio of nurseries in England with the acquisition of Wonder Years Nursery in Coventry.

Wonder Years, which holds an Ofsted ‘Good’ rating, is the first British nursery to join the Partou family since the merger of Just Childcare and All About Children under the brand earlier this year. 

The Wonder Years Nursery in Coventry, Partou’s first acquisition since launching its brand in the UK

Established in 1984, Partou is the biggest childcare group in the Netherlands with more than 700 settings, over 70,000 children and 9,000 team members.

The acquisition of Wonder Years, its 106th nursery in England, bolsters Partou’s position as one of the largest nursery providers in the UK.   

Wonder Years opened in 2004 as a 69 place neighbourhood nursery with five classrooms. 

Over the past two decades, it has more than doubled its capacity and now provides 142 places with eight classrooms and a large nursery garden for outdoor play. 

Samantha Rhodes, Partou Managing Director, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Wonder Years to Partou.

Samantha Rhodes, Partou Managing Director

“The team at Wonder Years has a well-earned reputation for providing strong support to the children in a positive environment with first-class facilities, making it an excellent choice as the first acquisition since the official launch of our brand in the UK. 

“The Partou UK team look forward to working closely with them to team to deliver our child-led approach to care, learning and development.”

Tracy Simpson, Wonder Years Nursery Manager, said: “I feel privileged to lead the Wonder Years team as Nursery Manager. These are exciting times for everyone here.

“We’re proud of the role Wonder Years has played over the past 20 years in supporting so many local children on their learning journey.

“Joining the Partou family presents a wonderful opportunity for us to begin an exciting new chapter for the team and the nursery.”        

Development consortium gains momentum in quest to deliver affordable homes in Yorkshire and Humber

A recently established partnership tasked with supporting young and fledgling housing associations and community groups to build new affordable housing in Yorkshire and Humber is having a positive impact across the region.

The Unity Community Development Consortium (UCDC) was set up in May 2021 by Leeds-based BME housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise. 

The consortium has since expanded its membership to include Chartford Housing, Manningham Housing Association, Harrogate Housing, and Hull and East Yorkshire Mind.

Unity has also been supporting Pickering and Ferens Homes to deliver new properties in Hull.  To date they have completed eight new homes and are due to complete on a 24 unit bungalow development in September.

In the past year, Unity assisted Hull and East Yorkshire Mind to convert three large properties to produce 21 flats for people suffering from mental health and are also working on a development opportunity which will yield 26 new properties on behalf of Harrogate Housing.

UCDC has been granted Investment Partner status by the government’s housing and regeneration agency, Homes England, which allows it to apply for grant funding to deliver new properties through the Affordable Homes Programme 2021 to 2026 and the Rough Sleepers and Single Homelessness Programmes, providing much needed affordable accommodation for some of the most vulnerable people in the region.  

Wayne Noteman, Director of Regeneration at Unity Homes and Enterprise

Wayne Noteman, Director of Regeneration at Unity Homes and Enterprise, explained that the partnership arrangements have enabled consortium members to support each other’s development plans by sharing best practice, resources and expertise.

He said: “The vision behind the establishment of the consortium was to create a pathway for smaller providers to utilise their development capacity and increase the supply of affordable housing for the public good. 

“Not all housing associations possess in-house development expertise to build homes.  However, by drawing on the professional support of other members, construction programmes have gained momentum with numerous schemes now on site or at an advanced stage of preparation.

“Alongside new properties, assistance has also been given by Unity to acquire existing properties from the open market for affordable rent and facilitate the transfer of housing stock from other Registered Providers.”

Gudrun Haskins-Carlisle, CEO, Chartford Housing

Gudrun Haskins-Carlisle, CEO of Chartford Housing, said the knowledge transfer between the six housing associations which form UCDC has been “hugely beneficial.”

She continued: “We are a small organisation which manages more than 600 properties across West Yorkshire.

“Through our involvement as a founder member of the consortium, Chartford has developed four flats for homeless people and secured capital and revenue funding of over £2 million to deliver a further 22 new properties.  

“The assistance we have received is also supporting our efforts to identify and acquire suitable properties on the open market to add to our existing stock.”

Lee Bloomfield, CEO, Manningham Housing Association

Manningham Housing Association, which manages more than 1,400 homes for over 6,000 residents in Bradford and Keighley, has joined UCDC more recently.

Its CEO, Lee Bloomfield, said: “We were seeking to reboot our development plans and the support from UCDC and Wayne has been vital in progressing these.  

“The result has been the stock transfer of 18 houses and the acquisition of a further 14 properties through Home England’s Purchase and Repair programme.

“On top of these achievements, we have concluded a deal to purchase 20 new homes and remain in negotiations to secure a further 30 properties.”  

Inspirational Carolina is a Housing Hero

A Manningham Housing Association (MHA) employee who paved the way for the Bradford-based organisation to become the first housing association in the world to achieve the global Standard for Diversity and Inclusion for HR Management has been named Inspirational Colleague of the Year at the Housing Heroes Awards 2024.

Carolina Padovezi de Oliveira, who joined MHA as Administrative Assistant to the Executive Team in 2019 before rising to her current role as Corporate Project Manager, triumphed over nine other finalists to collect the trophy at a ceremony in Manchester.

The national awards - organised by Inside Housing magazine as part of Housing 2024, Europe’s leading housing festival - celebrate “the leaders, innovators and changemakers across the housing sector.” 

In their final adjudication, the Housing Heroes judges wrote: “Carolina has demonstrated a great ability to blend technology, AI and services to deliver improved customer satisfaction at Manningham Housing Association.

“She is also always willing to share her experiences and successes at Manningham with the rest of sector and demonstrates a high level of professional curiosity and continuous learning.

“Very impressive - the true spirit of the housing hero!"

MHA Corporate Project Manager Carolina Padovezi de Oliveira receiving her Inspirational Colleague of the Year trophy at the Housing Heroes Awards 2024 in Manchester

Speaking after receiving her award, Carolina said: "I am incredibly thrilled and humbled to have won the Inspirational Colleague of the Year award at the Housing Heroes Awards 2024.

“Manningham Housing Association has allowed me to thrive and learn, and I am so grateful for this recognition. I wouldn't be able to fly if they had not given me wings.

“This award reflects our team's collective efforts and dedication, and I am proud to represent MHA as we continue to drive positive change and innovation within our community."

Lee Bloomfield, MHA Chief Executive, said: “We are over the moon that Carolina has won this high profile award which she received in the presence of the great and the good in the UK housing sector .

“She is incredibly modest and never acknowledges the huge impact she makes.  Her remarkable efforts on behalf of MHA, our tenants, stakeholders and staff colleagues are always fully focused on delivering positive results for them and never about gaining recognition or praise for herself.

“Her limitless energy and refusal to accept second best inspires her colleagues at every level. 

“She truly is a housing hero and her recognition on the national stage is thoroughly deserved.”

Ulfat Hussain, MHA Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Operations, said: “It is difficult to describe how proud we are of Carolina and how excited we feel about her success. 

“She has instigated and improved processes, procedures and projects which have benefitted MHA and the communities we serve around digital inclusion, making services slicker, more efficient and more convenient for customers.

“Carolina demonstrates a genuine commitment to work and the ethos and values of the organisation, striving for excellence and always volunteering to assist colleagues who may feel overwhelmed or be facing challenges.

“Her commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion is also second to none, as exemplied by her efforts to ensure MHA is at the forefront of National Inclusion Week each year.

“We could not be more happy for her.”    

Affordable homes scheme underscores association’s strong commitment to Keighley

The chief executive of Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has spoken of his pride after the organisation handed over the keys to new tenants of 11 properties which make up the first phase of a new development of 20 affordable homes in Keighley.

The remaining nine properties are nearing completion and will be occupied later this year.

The £4.3 million scheme at Odette’s Point, Shann Lane - comprising 14 three-bed and six four-bed detached and semi-detached houses for social rent - has been delivered in partnership with Avant Homes with support from Homes England and Bradford Council.

Speaking after a site visit, Lee Bloomfield explained that the new homes had been tailored to meet the needs of MHA’s diverse breadth of tenants, with a special emphasis on South Asian families.

He said: “There is a particular requirement for larger family properties in Keighley and Bradford, which many housing associations are unable to address.

“Rising to this challenge is central to our ongoing development plans, together with an absolute commitment to sustainability through environmentally friendly design which reduces our carbon footprint.

“A number of the new properties benefit from integral solar panels, highlighting our environmental responsibility and foresight to create homes that are adaptable to future needs.”

MHA chief executive Lee Bloomfield (centre left) and regeneration manager Tracie Naylor (centre right) join colleagues on a visit to the association’s new affordable housing development at Odette’s Point, Shann Lane in Keighley

Mr Bloomfield stressed that the development also underscores MHA’s deep resolve to support local communities in Keighley.

He said: “MHA currently owns and manages 223 homes in the area.  The new scheme is in an established local community with a robust identity and reliable communal services, ensuring a high quality of life for its residents.

“The proximity to our existing housing stock and the high demand for housing in the area contribute to the long-term viability of the project for current and future generations.

“We are proud of what we are doing in Keighley and look forward to providing many more high-quality affordable homes in the town and surrounding areas in the years to come.”    

Mr Bloomfield was joined on the site visit by MHA board members and staff, including the association’s regeneration manager, Tracie Naylor.

She said: “We are dedicated to ensuring that every individual and family we serve feels valued and supported. 

“These new properties represent another major step forward in achieving that goal.

“The development not only expands our housing stock but reaffirms our dedication to being the landlord of choice, providing secure and comfortable homes for local communities at an affordable cost.”

Fun on the run in support of Guiseley School pitch appeal

Guiseley School Parent Teacher Association is hosting a run in the school playing fields on Saturday 6 July to kickstart its campaign to raise funds for the installation of a 3G sports pitch.

There will be an 5k elite race starting at 10am and a more relaxed option for recreational runners.

Participants and spectators will also be able to enjoy live music from the Bellatones, purchase a range of refreshments and try their luck at the tombola.  

Although the event is free to join, a suggested donation of £5 is encouraged with all proceeds going towards the 3G pitch.

We have received planning permission and are seeking funding from the Football Foundation. The remaining funding will come from Guiseley School, Guiseley Juniors and Guiseley School PTA.

Andrew Thomson, Chair of Guiseley Parent Teacher Association, said: “We are really excited about the run which is open to people of all ages and abilities.

“The entertainment will continue until 1.30pm so runners, friends, family and anyone else is welcome to stay around and enjoy the fun - hopefully in the summer sun.

“We are also seeking additional prizes for the tombola which can be dropped off at the school reception.

“It is a terrific opportunity for the local community to come together in support of a first- class cause.”

Paul Clayton, Guiseley School Headteacher, said: “Delivering a 3G for the school and wider community has been a long-term goal for the school and is now within touching distance.

“We will need to raise an additional £25,000 to ensure the school funding element and the support of the Parent Teacher Association is invaluable in enabling us to reach the target.

“I am confident we will have a huge turnout for the fun run and a memorable day.”     

You can register to take part in the Guiseley School Run or make a donation to the fundraising effort by logging on to events.guiseleyschool.org.uk/FunRun

Volunteers are also being invited to assist with the event and can get involved by emailing pta@guiseleyschool.org.uk. 

Flash Kitchen Roll hits the shelves as market leaders join forces

The Flash family has gained an exciting new member with the launch of Flash Kitchen Roll.

Manufactured and marketed by Lancashire-based Accrol Papers Ltd under licence from Procter & Gamble, the three-ply roll is available in two sizes – handy sheets for quicker jobs and XL sheets for bigger jobs.

Both products come embossed with the Flash name and famous lightning bolt logo.

Made from 100% FSC sources, Flash Kitchen Roll is thicker than established brands for greater strength and absorbency at a fiercely competitive price.

Founded in 1993 and employing more than 400 people at sites in Blackburn, Flint, Leicester and Leyland, Accrol supplies toilet tissues, kitchen rolls, facial tissues and wet wipes to many of the UK’s leading retailers.  

Flash Kitchen Roll is the first brand licence the company has brought to market.

Flash Kitchen Roll, manufactured and marketed by Lancashire-based Accrol Papers Ltd, is now available in stores around the country

Graham Cox, Chief Operating Officer of Accrol, said: “We are thrilled to be working with Procter & Gamble to launch Flash Kitchen Roll for UK consumers.

“The Flash brand has been the leader in its field since 1958 and we have developed a product worthy of the name.

“Using FSC sourced material, as is standard at Accrol, Flash Kitchen Roll is engineered to deliver superior absorbency and strength to help consumers achieve an impeccable hygienic clean with minimal effort.” 

Ashley Taylor, Sales and Marketing Director of Accrol, said: “This collaboration with Procter & Gamble represents a major step towards realising our ambitious licensing plans.

“Flash Kitchen Roll is now available in selected stores and, given the iconic status of the Flash brand, will be instantly recognisable to shoppers as it is rolled out across the country in the months ahead.

“We are incredibly proud of what has been accomplished.”   

Joint call for urgent regulation of human embryo research

Clear rules governing human embryo research must be established to enable regulators, researchers and funders to assess whether stem cell-generated models should be considered as human embryos, two leading experts from The University of Manchester have argued.

In a joint article published online by Policy@Manchester, Dr Jonathan Lewis and Professor Søren Holm explain that studies with “human embryo models” have the potential to improve understanding of some hereditary diseases, early miscarriages and IVF outcomes.

But they warn: “In most countries, including the UK, human embryo models are not formally defined in legislation, and are therefore not captured by regulations governing in vitro embryo research.  While creating opportunities to explore aspects of embryo development that would generally be impermissible were real human embryos to be used, this regulatory climate has also attracted concern from stakeholders involved in human embryo model research.”

Credit: Istock/Koto_Feja 

The authors reference the HYBRIDA project - a three-year initiative funded by the European Commission - which revealed that researchers were concerned about whether certain types of human embryo model research would be deemed to be creating human embryos and thereby excluded from EU funding programmes, as well as potentially running counter to local laws and guidelines.

However, Lewis and Holm stress that defining the human embryo for the purposes of human embryo model research “is no easy task.”

They continue: “There is a lack of consensus regarding what a human embryo is in terms of its defining properties and determining conditions.  An alternative approach involves focusing on the typical functional capabilities of a human embryo (e.g. the capacity to form a human being). This would entail testing a human embryo model to see whether it possessed the relevant functional capabilities. The problem is that such tests would undoubtedly be held to be unethical because they would require implantation in a uterus.”

The academics believe that “a regulatory definition of a human embryo” is therefore required.   They write: “This would not only ensure that sufficiently advanced human embryo models are, from a legal point of view, treated comparably to IVF embryos, cloned embryos, and other human embryos intended for research, but it would also allow researchers to develop and study human embryo models with a greater level of certainty as to what legislators and funders require of those models.”

As a result, and as outlined in their final report for the HYBRIDA project, Lewis and Holm advocate two new measures.

“Firstly, individual countries and the EU Commission should develop a regulatory definition of a human embryo to provide certainty to researchers concerning whether their models are captured by legislation or guidelines for embryo research,” they argue.  “This presents an excellent opportunity for the UK to be a global forerunner in developing such a regulatory definition for the purposes of human embryo model research and enshrining it in relevant legislation.”

And second, “the UK and the EU must develop agreed standard clauses for collaborative agreements, to ensure that a commitment not to generate human embryos is recognised as valid in all countries participating in the collaboration.”

The authors conclude: “Failing to respond urgently to these calls for regulatory reform could not only lead to potential legal challenges to the research being undertaken by those currently developing increasingly advanced and complex human embryo models, but also severely impede cross-border collaboration on which human embryo model research and its claimed downstream healthcare advances rely.”

‘Regulation of human embryo models is urgent’ by Dr Jonathan Lewis and Professor Søren Holm is available to read on the Policy@Manchester website.  

Unity brings success as Northern Housing Awards Team of the Year

Unity Homes and Enterprise has achieved a remarkable feat in winning the Team of the Year prize at the Northern Housing Awards 2024.

The BME housing association’s Employment Services and Enterprise team triumphed over eight other shortlisted finalists from across the north of England to scoop the highly coveted accolade at a ceremony in Manchester.  

Founded in 1987, Unity manages over 1,386 affordable properties for tenants from all communities and ethnic backgrounds in Leeds and Kirklees.

Working alongside housing officers, the Employment Services and Enterprise team helps people in hard-to-reach communities to access jobs and training.  They also assist those already in work to boost their career prospects by gaining new skills including how to set up and run their own business.

In the last financial year, the team helped 198 people to find jobs, 256 people to improve their skills and employability through training and 15 people to enter voluntary work. 

The team also operates three enterprise centres including Leeds Media Centre which recently underwent a £1.8 million upgrade in partnership with Leeds City Council and the European Regional Development Fund.  

Collectively the centres provide 142 affordable units for more than 80 diverse businesses employing over 900 people. 

Receiving the Northern Housing Team of the Year Award 2024 from Steve Gayter (centre), Executive Director from Novus who sponsored the category, are (from left to right) Sue Pennock, Kelly Jennings, Lorraine Charlton, Sean Kelly and Cedric Boston   

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “I am incredibly proud of the team’s achievement which is thoroughly merited.

“Being shortlisted for this prestigious award was a great success in itself. 

“To win it in the face of such stiff competition from housing associations many times bigger than ourselves is outstanding.

“I want to congratulate every member of the small but immensely talented team who work hard every single day to change people’s lives for the better.   

“They are a credit to themselves and to Unity.”  

Adrian Green, Unity Enterprise Manager, said: “It has been a rollercoaster year with the redevelopment of Leeds Media Centre including a brand new hi-tech business hub.

“That has placed us in a perfect position to devise a series of exciting enterprise focused initiatives with a number already being rolled out.

“Winning Team of the Year at the Northern Housing Awards is the best possible catalyst towards future success.” 

Parliamentarians and industry experts attend University of Manchester resilience report discussion in Westminster

The House of Lords was the venue for a special reception for MPs, peers, academics and senior industry representatives to discuss a collection of articles drawing on research from The University of Manchester which examine ways to strengthen national resilience.  

From left to right: Dr Eduardo Martinez-Cesena, Professor Paul Jarman, Dr Robin Preece, Lord Howell of Guildford, Dr Alan Whitehead MP, Professor Mike Bromley and Dr Wendy Thompson at the On Resilience reception in the House of Lords  

The gathering was addressed by Dr Alan Whitehead MP, Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Net Zero, and Lord Howell of Guildford, the former Secretary of State for Energy, who wrote the foreword for the 40-page report titled On Resilience.   

Guests also heard from four University of Manchester experts – Dr Robin Preece, Professor Maria Sharmina, Dr Wendy Thompson and Professor Mike Bromley – who contributed to the Policy@Manchester publication.    

Paul Jarman, Professor of Electrical Power Equipment and Networks at The University of Manchester, said: “The UK is not alone in its vulnerability to global events and reliance on international partners for essential resources, particularly energy.  However, there are policy options with the potential to significantly lessen this exposure.

“On Resilience explores how the tide can be turned through solutions that strengthen our national resilience.

“The diverse range of research-based articles in the report encompass topics critical to meeting this challenge. 

“These include the pressing need for domestic low-carbon renewable energy sources, how AI can mitigate risks to food production, measures to tackle water shortages, the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance, resilience in the national grid, and the task of meeting our critical mineral requirements.

“It was incredibly useful to exchange views and ideas with Parliamentarians, industry experts and fellow academics on how best to deliver robust policies in these areas.”    

Dr Wendy Thompson from The University of Manchester (second left) addressing the On Resilience roundtable meeting in the House of Lords

Lord Howell said: “To guide the British nation through the complex and challenging pathway of the energy transition we need realism, honesty about the true costs, resilience of both policy and implementation and above all public understanding and consent. 

“The University of Manchester is making a clear and very worthwhile contribution in all these respects, and it is a privilege to be associated with their excellent work.”

On Resilience is available to read on the Policy@Manchester website.  

New business hub offers hope and inspiration for next generation of Leeds entrepreneurs

VIP guests including the city’s Lord Mayor joined project partners and community members at Leeds Media Centre in Chapeltown to celebrate the opening of its new hi-tech business hub.   

Guests and project partners including the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Al Garthwaite (centre left), celebrate the opening of the Leeds Media Centre business hub

The building underwent a £1.8 million redevelopment last year to create extra business space and boost opportunities for aspiring local entrepreneurs.

The scheme was delivered by Unity Enterprise – a not-for-profit subsidiary of BME housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise – in partnership with Leeds City Council and the European Regional Development Fund.

Leeds City Council, which owns the building, also provided £80,000 from the Innovation@Leeds capital fund to equip the new business hub with furniture, video conferencing facilities and computer hardware.

Unity Enterprise Chair Sharon Jandu OBE addressing guests and project partners at the opening of the Leeds Media Centre business hub

Speaking at a special ceremony to mark the completion of the hub kit-out, Unity Enterprise Chair Sharon Jandu OBE paid warm tribute to Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive Cedric Boston, Unity Enterprise Manager Adrian Green and Leeds City Council Head of Business Support Phil Cole and their teams for successfully completing the building refurbishment and business hub. 

She said: “This is a real celebration because it has taken a lot of hard work to get here. 

“These projects are instrumental for our community.  

“To have an enterprise hub at the heart of the community with high level people bringing in their resources and social capital will provide a huge lift.”

The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Al Garthwaite, unveiled a wall plaque as a permanent reminder of the hub opening. 

Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive Cedric Boston makes a presentation to the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Al Garthwaite, at the opening of the Leeds Media Centre business hub

She said: “There is something about the structure of this building.  It encourages entrepreneurialism, it encourages success, it encourages looking upwards and feeling hope.

“A new generation of entrepreneurs will really do well here.  It is fantastic.

“It will do wonders, not just for the local community, but for others as well. 

“On behalf of the city of Leeds, I really welcome from the bottom of my heart initiatives like this.  They make so much difference to so many people.”

The gathering was also treated to a short address from Hanif Malik OBE, Director of the Parklane Foundation.

He told guests: “People living in inner-city localities should not have second class facilities.

“Being originally from Chapeltown, it is brilliant to see the quality of this building.  It is only through having this class of facilities that we can inspire the next generation. 

Hanif Malik OBE, Director of the Parklane Foundation, addressing guests and project partners at the opening of the Leeds Media Centre business hub

“When I visit centres like this, it is always important to get past the actual bricks and mortar. Yes, the façade looks brilliant and when you walk in it is brilliant, but centres do something more than give you access to what I would say are international class facilities. 

“What they do is inspire hope and enhance aspiration.  The most important thing we can give, particularly to our younger generation, is hope.

“Through having something as brilliant as this, if we can inspire that hope, if we can provide that inspiration and, most importantly, we can retain that rich cultural heritage then I think that it itself will be a fantastic achievement.

“Congratulations to everyone who has been involved in this development.

“I wish it all the best.  May it inspire the next generation of business and social entrepreneurs.” 

Leeds business hub set for take off with week-long celebration of enterprise

Leeds Media Centre (LMC) in Chapeltown will host a series of enterprise themed events next week to celebrate the opening of its new hi-tech business hub.

The packed schedule kicks off at noon on Monday (13 May) with the launch of Steps to Business, a start-up training programme for aspiring entrepreneurs aged 16-25 in need of a helping hand.  The scheme will provide participants with direct access to investors and business advisers as well as state of the art learning facilities and a podcast booth.

The new business hub at Leeds Media Centre

Wednesday is Enterprise Takeover Day, an informal event offering a one-stop shop for all business support needs from industry experts across West Yorkshire.  Delivered by AD:VENTURE, attendees will also have the opportunity to network with fellow entrepreneurs over lunch and take part in half-hour workshops on topics critical for business success including marketing on a budget and boosting your online presence.

The week will climax on Friday with the business hub’s official opening ceremony in the presence of the Lord Mayor of Leeds.

Leeds Media Centre - one of three business centres operated by Unity Enterprise, the not for profit subsidiary company of BME housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise - recently underwent a £1.8 million refurbishment in partnership with Leeds City Council and the European Regional Development Fund.

Leeds City Council, which owns the building, also provided £80,000 from the Innovation@Leeds capital fund to equip the new business hub with furniture, video conferencing facilities and computer hardware.

Adrian Green, Unity Enterprise Manager, said: “We are excited to be hosting such an impressive line-up of activities over the course of five days, each with entrepreneurship at its heart.

“Steps to Business will use non-conventional training methods to help those taking part realise their dreams.  The launch event on Monday is free to attend and we are expecting lots of foot fall from noon until 4pm when it concludes.

“We are also hugely grateful to AD:VENTURE for organising the Enterprise Day on Wednesday which, again, is free entry for all.”    

Phil Cole, AD:VENTURE Programme Director, said: “Alongside colleagues from AD:VENTURE and Unity Enterprise, business support experts and providers available for a chat on Enterprise Day will include Start Up West Yorkshire, West Yorkshire Combined Authority, People Plus, Digital Enterprise, the Business Enterprise Fund, Trust Leeds, The Prince’s Trust and the Yorkshire Asian Business Association.

Leeds Media Centre in Chapeltown

“The gathering presents a gilt-edged opportunity for local people in business or wishing to start up to be informed about all available business support options.  There will also be the chance to meet other entrepreneurs and gain new contacts.” 

“It promises to be a memorable day with the potential to change lives.”   

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “Leeds Media Centre is already a hive of entrepreneurial activity.  The new business hub will enable it to play an even greater role in empowering local people to succeed in business.

“Creating and improving life chances is at the heart of everything we do.  Starting and growing a sustainable business can be the key that unlocks doors to social and economic progression in vibrant neighbourhoods.

“As a BME housing association with our roots firmly in the local communities we serve, we know that the entrepreneurial talent is out there.  We will continue to do everything we can to find and nurture it.”      

Frmation on Steps to Business is available from Cris on Tel: 07737 604 542 or email: unityps@unityha.co.uk

Tickets for the Enterprise Day, which begins at 9.30am with registration and refreshments, are available free of charge on Eventbrite.

Unity Employment Services team shortlisted for Housing Heroes Award

A small team dedicated to supporting housing association tenants and their surrounding communities in Leeds and Kirklees to enter employment and training has been shortlisted for a high-profile national award.

Established in 2011, Unity Employment Services (UES) is a pivotal part of BME housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise.

Their mission is to support unemployed people to find jobs, set up a business, become self-employed, access training and education opportunities or work as a community volunteer Team of the Year in the Housing Heroes Awards 2024..

Their achievements in the last financial year have led to them being shortlisted for Team of the Year in the Housing Heroes Awards 2024.

Over that period, UES helped 198 people to find jobs, 256 people to improve their skills and employability through training and 15 people to enter voluntary work.  Of these, 137 were classified as facing secondary or tertiary barriers to career progression. 

 Kelly (left), Ben and Lorraine from Unity Employment Services who have been shortlisted Team of the Year in the Housing Heroes Awards 2024

Wayne Noteman, Unity Homes and Enterprise Regeneration Director, said: “Being shortlisted for a Housing Heroes Award is a remarkable achievement but absolutely deserved.

“Using a Social Value calculator with an annual investment of circa £60,000, the team generated £2,812,785 of value in the last financial year and approximately £17.4 million since UES was created.   This represents phenomenally good value for money in comparison with others, including most if not all housing associations many times our size. 

“The team’s achievements are even more impressive given the small geographical area in which they operate relative to larger associations.  

“I am delighted that their incredible efforts have caught the attention of the judges.”    

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “The team has particular expertise in helping people overcome often difficult barriers to become job and training ready. This includes providing one-to-one mentoring to build self-confidence, resilience and motivation.  

“They are also wonderfully effective at collaborating with partners including Job Centre Plus, Citizens Advice and Learning Partnerships to deliver regular training sessions in numerous areas including ESOL, digital inclusion, job clubs and employability.

“They have had outstanding success in transforming life chances for so many individuals and families.  We are immensely proud of them.”

The Housing Heroes Awards ceremony will be held in Manchester on Monday 24 June.

Relentless dedication earns Housing Hero status for Carolina

Carolina Padovezi de Oliveira, Corporate Project Manager at Manningham Housing Association (MHA) in Bradford, has been shortlisted in the Inspirational Colleague of the Year category for the Housing Heroes Awards 2024.

Organised by Inside Housing magazine, the awards celebrate “the leaders, innovators and changemakers across the housing sector.”  

Carolina Padovezi de Oliveira, MHA Corporate Project Manager, who has been shortlisted for the Housing Heroes Awards 2024

Originally from Brazil, Carolina joined MHA as an Administrative Assistant to the Executive team and was promoted to Corporate Project Manager within four years.

Her current role is unique in the organisation and covers all aspects of its work including recruitment, training, IT and communications.

Carolina has placed MHA at the forefront of digital innovation and become a national speaker on the subject, specialising in AI.  

She also leads on equality, diversity and inclusion with her work paving the way for MHA to become the first housing association in the world to achieve the global Standard for Diversity and Inclusion in HR Management.

Lee Bloomfield, MHA Chief Executive, said: “Carolina’s achievement in being shortlisted for this prestigious national award provides the wider MHA family with the opportunity to celebrate her contribution and showcase her achievements to an audience far beyond our locality, whilst inspiring others to follow her selfless approach to success. 

“She is incredibly modest and never acknowledges the enormous impact she makes. 

“Her dynamic work on behalf of the organisation, our tenants, stakeholders and fellow staff members is always fully focused on delivering positive results for them and never about gaining recognition or praise for herself.

“We wish her every success at the awards ceremony.”  

Ulfat Hussain, MHA Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Operations, said: “Carolina exemplifies the true spirit of a Housing Hero.

“Through her visionary leadership, our small housing association has made remarkable progress in implementing AI and digitisation, revolutionising our tenant services and operational efficiency.

“Carolina's relentless dedication and pioneering efforts have shattered barriers, breaking down resistance and fostering a culture of embracing technological innovation.

“Her unwavering commitment to everything she does has elevated our organisation, empowering us to deliver excellent services and create lasting impact in our community.”

Housing Heroes Awards nominee Carolina Padovezi de Oliveira (centre) with staff colleagues at Maningham Housing Association head office in Bradford

Carolina Padovezi de Oliveira said: “I am deeply honoured to be nominated as an Inspirational Colleague of the Year for the Housing Heroes Awards 2024.

“This nomination by Manningham Housing Association is not only a personal accolade but a testament to our collective efforts to drive positive change within the community.

“I share this recognition with my exceptional team, as it mirrors our shared commitment to excellence in service and innovation.

“Together, we are dedicated to fostering an environment where inspiration and collaboration lead the way."

The winners of the Housing Heroes Awards will be announced at a ceremony in Manchester on Monday 24 June.

Learning the lessons of mpox to prepare for future pandemics

Targeted support for marginalised communities, strong public messaging and a properly coordinated Government approach led by Ministers are amongst the recommendations contained in a new evidence-based article examining how the UK should respond to future pandemics.

A new article published by Policy@Manchester examines how the UK can learn the lessons of mpox to respond to future pandemics (Credit: iStock.com/whitemay)

Published by The University of Manchester’s policy engagement unit, Policy@Manchester, Dr Maurice Nagington, Dr Jeremy Williams and Dr Jaime Garcia-Iglesias set out key findings from their research on how the country tackled the 2022 outbreak of mpox, formerly known as monkeypox.

Their conclusions were informed by interviews and focus groups with stakeholders including affected communities and healthcare workers.     

The academics found “shortcomings in national leadership, stark local and regional inequalities in relation to vaccine access, and inadequate communication infrastructures.”

They offer advice to policymakers and public health officials in four key areas for addressing future infectious disease outbreaks, beginning with reflections on how mpox disproportionately affected marginalised communities.

“People from BAME backgrounds appeared to have lower levels of accessing the vaccine, while those from lower-income populations faced additional barriers to engaging with health and care services,” they observe.  “Some individuals also faced challenges in self-isolation such as financial or emotional difficulties.”

They advise: “Public health teams need to be empowered to give additional support (such as financial) where necessary so people can self-isolate.”

The team argue that the needs of marginalised individuals merit equally important consideration when developing effective communications strategies, a second area examined in their article.

“We note social media emerged as a powerful tool in the response to the mpox outbreak, facilitating rapid dissemination of information, promoting awareness, and helping collaboration of a wide range of actors involved in the mpox response,” Nagington, Williams and Garcia-Iglesias write.  “The reliance on social media also poses challenges, particularly in terms of equitable access to information.”

In their view, “additional forms of communication that can reach individuals who are marginalised should also be simultaneously developed during outbreaks.” They add: “Community organisations play an important role in developing and distributing information that is suitable and impactful.”

Addressing a third area where they believe action is needed, the academics call for Government agencies - primarily the Department for Health and Social Care – to produce guidance for local public health teams to follow, backed by additional financial support. 

They recommend: “Governments should provide Ministerial level co-ordination to ensure all relevant professionals, policymakers and community representatives work together to proactively address any emerging inequalities in the immediate outbreak and plan for future outbreaks.”

And, with knowledge gained from their research of the “pivotal role” played by sexual health services during the mpox outbreak, Nagington, Williams and Garcia-Iglesias call for policymakers and legislators to “secure adequate funding and support for sexual health services to enhance their capacity to address the demands of outbreaks.”

‘Did the UK fail in its management of mpox? Lessons for future pandemics’ by Dr Maurice Nagington, Dr Jeremy Williams and Dr Jaime Garcia-Iglesias can be read free of charge on the Policy@Manchester website.

Award recognition for ‘magnificent team’ which brings Unity to local communities in Leeds

Leeds-based housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise has been shortlisted in the Team of the Year category for the 2024 Northern Housing Awards.

The accolade recognises housing teams which are “truly making a difference to the lives of residents and the communities” where they operate.

Unity Business Centre in Chapeltown, Leeds

Working alongside housing officers, Unity’s Employment Services and Enterprise team supports people in marginalised communities in Leeds to access employment and training or become volunteers. 

They also help those in work - particularly female entrepreneurs - enhance their career prospects, boosting economic wellbeing and regenerating neighbourhoods.

In the last financial year, the team helped 198 people to find jobs, 256 people to improve their skills and employability through training and 15 people to enter voluntary work. 

Since being established in 2011, they have supported a total of 3,131 people into employment and training.

The team also operates three business centres providing 142 affordable units for more than 80 diverse businesses which collectively employ over 900 people. 

The number of business units increased from 130 following the recent completion of a £1.8 million Leeds Media Centre redevelopment scheme - in partnership with Leeds City Council and the European Regional Development Fund - which created 12 new units and a hi-tech business hub. 

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “I am thrilled that our small but magnificent team has received this well-deserved recognition.

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive

“They are focused on addressing inequalities and changing lives by providing a hand-up to personal development and a path to economic opportunity. 

“They also deliver pathways to business support by establishing trust-based relationships with black and minority ethnic communities in Leeds – fostering local networks through partnerships. 

“The team do not remain behind desks waiting for people to come to them.  Instead, they are pro-active on the ground and are constantly finding new ways to engage.”  

Adrian Green, Unity Enterprise Manager, said: “The newly refurbished Leeds Media Centre has been a gamechanger for us, especially as a catalyst for the team’s efforts to help local women and girls establish and grow their own sustainable business.

“It was recently the venue for the inaugural meeting of West Yorkshire Ethnic Minority Women in Tech, and it hosted the launch of Breaking Barriers, an innovative series of workshops for female entrepreneurs from black and minority ethnic communities.

“We are currently finalising preparations for a series of events themed on entrepreneurship to celebrate the completion of the centre’s new business hub.  

“Being shortlisted for this prestigious award has provided a welcome and timely boost to these endeavours.”

The winners of the 2024 Northern Housing Awards will be announced at ceremony in Manchester on Thursday 23 May.