Asian World August 2021

August 2021

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Issue 158

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DHL workers at jlr plants prepare for strike D ballot

HL workers at Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) plants in the West Midlands and Merseyside are preparing to be balloted for strike action over wage arrears and an ‘insulting’ pay offer, Unite, the UK’s leading union... ...continued on page 3

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August 2021

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Asian World’s – Hot Picks LOCAL

GLOBAL

BUSINESS

GLAM

SPORTS

Birmingham Clean Air Zone fined 44,000 in the first month

4 million Deaths in India due to Covid19

DWP WORK COACHES ARE HELPING JOBSEEKERS FIND WORK

Rahat interviews sizzling Shweta Patil

India’s Wins and Losses in Tokyo Olympics 2021

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ailure to pay the city’s Clean Air Zone (CAZ) has resulted in more than 44,000 fines in the area of Birmingham city...

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ore than 4 million people died due to corona virus in India as revealed by a recent study. Compared with previous years...

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nited Airlines announced plans to purchase 15 new supersonic passenger planes in 2029 and “return supersonic speeds to the aviation sector....

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LOCAL 2-12

GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

FOOD 25-26

TECH 27

Editor’s Note Hello readers and welcome back to the 154th edition of Asian World Newspaper! We hope that you and your loved ones are healthy and safe from the claws of the deadly pandemic, Covid-19. Ramadan 2021 is approaching soon and we understand that some of you may not be able to spend this holy month with your loved ones!

To cheer you up, we thought we should share some exciting news stories and something totally different to the usual covid-19 updates.

This month we focus on the protests that are happening in India and Bangladesh, turn to our global section to read the latest updates. We are also focusing on keeping a healthy lifestyle, especially as the lockdown has made some of us lazy! Turn to our health section to find out how you can keep a healthy lifestyle during lockdown. If you are somebody that loves watching movies on Amazon prime, then visit our glam section to see some of the new upcoming film releases. Also, don’t forget to look at our wrap edition by the wonderful Al Khair Foundation Charity, where you can see some of

the excellent work done by the charity itself. As you know the travel industry has faced many distributions due to the pandemic, why not read all about this in our travel section. Of course, this month we have provided some information on what to eat during Ramadan to ensure that we are looking after our health while we fast.

Whichever section you turn to, there is a story that is suitable for everyone, whether you are into sports, business, or you just like to read the news. So, pick up a copy of the West Midlands’s No.1 South Asian paper and make sure you leave no page unturned. Take a look at the rest of this issue NOW! And remember to stay safe and stay alert. For the latest and most exclusive advertisement offers for 2021, please don’t hesitate to Contact us on 0121 771 4545 or email: sales@asianworldnews. co.uk Have a great read!

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DHL workers at JLR plants prepare for strike ballot over wage arrears and ‘insulting’ pay offer Unite national officer Matt Draper said:

“

If our members had performed their duties in the same manner as DHL has handled the issue of flexible furlough pay, they would have been sacked.

DHL are the biggest logistics company in the world, yet they cannot get people’s pay right. It is pitiful that a company this size has a pay roll department that is currently not fit for purpose.

The whole thing is a debacle and the workforce is rapidly losing patience that the pay issues have still not been sorted out.

It is outrageous that some staff are owed nearly £1,000 in back pay.

Adding insult to injury, DHL has come back with a completely insulting pay offer for its hard working and loyal Solihull staff.

This is despite the company reporting record breaking profits of €1.3 billion for the first half of this year.

If it wants to avoid serious industrial unrest, DHL needs to pay the wages it owes, as well as putting forward a pay offer that isn’t a slap in the face for an already disgruntled workforce.

“

Front pagr story cont’d...

Hundreds of DHL drivers and warehouse operatives have been plagued by incorrect pay slips for months due to the company’s use of flexible furlough, with some staff owed up to £800 in arrears.

Anger at the arrears ‘debacle’ has been further stoked by DHL’s refusal to offer a reasonable rise during recent pay negotiations with Unite.

The union will now begin the process of balloting its more than 2,000 DHL members for strike action at JLR’s plants in Halewood, Castle Bromwich, Solihull, Tyrefort, Midpoint and Hams Hall.

August 2021

Birmingham Clean Air Zone fined 44,000 in the first month

Failure to pay the city’s Clean Air Zone (CAZ) has resulted in more than 44,000 fines. The Birmingham area was officially opened last month to reduce air pollution in the city.

The collection officially began on June 14 and since then 44,106 PCN notices had been given, as stated by the Birmingham City Council.

It states that adapting to the system is expected to lower the number of people receiving penalties.

The regular fee for non-compliant vehicles - cars, taxis and trucks is £ 8 while it is £ 50 for Heavy Vehicles carrying goods and buses unless they are exempted due to valid reasons. An amount of £ 120 will be imposed as fine on those who fails to pay within six days of entering the zone.

As shown by the data, in the month of June, nearly 3 million cars were recorded. A total £ 1.5 million will be generated through the collection of daily fees and fines, according to the reporting service of a local Democratic Party.

In early August, the data was released that shows that one fourth of drivers -10,464 – have not paid their fines yet.

A “soft enforcement” program is initially launched by commission till the end of July. The drivers will be allowed to pay only CAZ fees and no fine will be charged.

The proportion of heavily polluted Vehicles entering the zone had dropped from 18% to 12%, and Wasim Zafar, a member of the Cabinet for Transport and the Environment, said it was “good to see”.

AW Facts Did you know?

90% of the UK is within 4 hours of Birmingham

Not so fast, says GEM, as weeklong speed operation begins ROAD SAFETY and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist is encouraging drivers to choose safe, legal speeds for all their road journeys. Driving above the speed limit, or at speeds that are inappropriate for the conditions, brings extra risk, not just to the driver, but to anyone else who may be sharing the same road space at the time. By ensuring you use legal speeds, you will avoid the increased risk – and cost – of being caught and fined, says GEM. The advice comes as police forces begin a national week-long operation targeting speeding drivers and riders.

GEM chief executive Neil Worth commented:

“

If you’re sometimes tempted to drive above the speed limit, this is a good week (starting Monday 2 August 2021) to make safer choices, as police across the country are running a week of enhanced checks and enforcement.

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GEM chief executive Neil Worth said “The speeds we use are entirely our own choice. No one else controls the speed of the vehicles we drive. We can all therefore make the decision to drive at legal

speeds, at the same time reaping the benefits: for our safety, for our frame of mind and for the environment, as well.

“Even modest reductions bring lower fuel costs and reduced emissions. Slowing down gives you more time to anticipate and plan when you’re driving, as well as more time to react to hazards and to stop safely if necessary.

“Reducing the speeds you use will lower the stress on journeys. By leaving a bit earlier, you will be less tempted into the sort of high-risk manoeuvres seen by some drivers as vital for clawing back precious seconds when they’re late on journeys.

“We don’t have any control over the traffic around us; we ARE the traffic. So

there really is nothing to be gained from trying to go faster – and trying to make others go faster or forcing them out of the way.”

Higher penalties A ‘speeding ticket’ will result in three points on your driving licence and a fine of £100. However, fines changed in April 2017, when a three-band system was introduced. Serious ‘speeders’ (with Band C offences) now face fines of up to 150 per cent of their weekly salary, with six penalty points and/or disqualifications of between seven and 56 days.

Safer speeds – top tips: Here are GEM’s tips for using speeds that are both legal and safe on your journeys:

Make sure you always know the speed limit for the stretch of road you’re on.If there are lamp posts, you should assume the limit is 30mph.In residential areas, the best advice is to take it easy. Even if the limit is 30, you’ll be reducing risk considerably by choosing 20, especially when there are likely to be children playing.Ensure you check your speedometer frequently.Give yourself plenty of time on journeys. Leaving early helps reduce stress.Think ahead, scan ahead.

Look for clues that a speed limit might be about to change.Be particularly observant when leaving motorways or other fast roads, even if dropping down into a 40mph or 30mph may well feel very slow.

The Secret UK Highway - M96 – a few are aware of

There is an M96. It’s close to the M5 and M50, but no one has heard of it. Few people are allowed to drive.

It is a short distance from the very busy M5 on the outskirts of Wales, but only a few people know it. Although there are four lanes, people couldn’t drive there. It is a very different highway, although located just at a distance of 20 miles from M5, M96 and M50. This is because, despite being four lanes, it is only 400 meters long and there is really no way to go.

Despite its small size, the M96 has experienced more accidents and major road accidents than its larger neighbors, and every 999 service is aware of this.

Since the M96 is actually a mini “simulated highway” of the Moreton-in-Marsh Fire Academy in Gloucestershire, it is used to provide training to blue-light

ambulance personnel to cope with major road accidents.

Mini Highways are used for training by some organizations like West Midlands Ambulance Service, West Mercia Police, the West Midlands Police, the Hereford and Worcester Rescue Department and the West Midlands Rescue office.

The assembly of many vehicles, including trucks, cars and bus-

es, can be simulated. Volunteers actively take part by plating the role of drivers and pedestrians who met accidents there, helping the blue-lighted ambulance crew train in a real and safe environment. The Fire Academy describes the M96, albeit a shorter one, as a realistic fourlane highway.

It said: “The M96 is often used to train helicopter ambulances

and new qualified medical personnel, as well as fire and rescue service personnel in numerous organizational trainings. The highway has the ability to handle multiple incidents simultaneously. We hope that all organizations that provide education in a safe and realistic way can use it”.

The M96 is often considered the shortest highway in the UK in tests. But A308 (M) is the actual smallest highway. It is 0.6 miles long and deviates from the M4 in Berkshire. If we compare M5 and M50, they are 160 and 22 miles respectively. The longest highway is the M6, with a total length of 236 miles.

Ten years ago, a traffic enthusiast from his YouTube channel JenOnTheMove visited this highway. You can see more information about it on Twitter at @JenOnTheMoveUK

LOCAL 2-12

GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

FOOD 25-26

TECH 27

TRAVEL 28

MOTORING 29-30

SPORTS 31

August 2021

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BUTCHER’S FINED £46,800 AND DIRECTOR GETS SUSPENDED SENTENCE FOR MEAT SAW INCIDENT

A Birmingham butcher’s firm and its sole director were ordered to pay £54,653 for health and safety offences after an employee nearly lost a finger while using a band saw.

“

on 21 August 2019, due to the saw’s adjustable guard being defective. The employee was taken by ambulance to hospital for treatment.

Shortly after the incident a health and safety inspector from the Council’s Environmental Health team visited the stall

ROOTS AND CHANGES GUJARATI INFLUENCES

What have the actor Bhasker Patel, comedian Parle Patel, the politician Krupesh Hirani, the curator Dr. Sushma Jansari, the choreographer Urja Desai Thakore, the musician Sarathy Korwar and the head of Neasden Temple, Yogvivek Swami got in common?

They all have Gujarati roots which have considerably shaped and influenced the cultural landscape of London. These stories are presented in a multi-dimensional exhibition which highlights the influences of the Gujarati diaspora in the UK focussing on the London Borough of Brent.

The underlying feature of this show is to tell the ‘Gujarati story’ of a successful migration, which has influenced, enriched and shaped the UK. It considers work and leisure patterns. Work includes cultural traits such as traditional crafts, trade, ar-

chitecture, local politics, commerce, employment, entrepreneurship and pleasure comprises cultural expressions such as music, dance, family and spiritual life.

The exhibition inspired by Subrang Arts has been made possible thanks to National Lottery players via a grant by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Curated by Lata Desai and Rolf Killius in partnership with Brent Museum and Archives, Subrang Arts worked with the Gujarati community in Brent to create the exhibition.

This project also links with collections and activities at the British Museum, drawing together national collections with community knowledge. The two museums spearhead cross-cultural exchange and engagement with culture and heritage of the Gujarati community.

and saw an employee using another band saw without the adjustable guard in place and the push guard tied up – this unsafe practice was stopped immediately by the officer and a Prohibition Notice issued.

During today’s hearing, the court heard that Younis & Sons Limited had

previously been served with machinery guarding Prohibition Notices in 2017.

The company was also warned in 2018 about machinery safety after band saws had been used without the guards.

Failing to maintain machinery guarding or using it correctly is a well-known cause of employee injuries, which can result in limbs being amputated.

Officers will continue to take action where minimum standards of health and safety are not met or flouted

“

Younis & Sons Limited, 50 Edgbaston Street, 102 Indoor Market, Birmingham, and its sole director Nadeem Hussain (46) both pleaded guilty to one offence each under Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, at Birmingham Magistrates Court on 2nd August 2021.

The company was fined £46,800 and ordered to pay to court costs of £3,775 plus a £181 victim surcharge. Hussain received a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months and ordered to pay £3,775 in costs plus a £122 victim surcharge.

Birmingham City Council brought the prosecution after a worker on the business’s stall at Birmingham Indoor Market partially amputated his left middle finger while using a band saw

Cllr Philip Davis, Chair of the city council’s Licensing and Public Protection Committee, said:

AWARD-WINNING HIGHWAYS SCHEME COMPLETES IN STECHFORD

The circa £13 million Iron Lane junction improvements scheme has enhanced links to employment sites and local retail, reduced congestion and provided improved facilities for cycling and walking.

The works commenced in March 2019 and saw the former gyratory and traffic signals replaced with free-flowing roundabouts. Station Road was also widened, and a new bridge was constructed over the River Cole to provide two lanes in both directions.

The scheme also included five new pedestrian crossings, improved bus stops, and the introduction of a segregated footway/ cycleway. It completed in April 2021 and was recently recognised by the Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation

at their West Midlands Awards, winning ‘Best Large Project’.

Representatives from Birmingham City Council, construction contractor McPhillips and the greater Birmingham and Solihull Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP) attended an opening ceremony at the site on 4th August.

Birmingham’s Cabinet Member for Transport and the Environment, Councillor Waseem Zaffar said: “These improvements, which have greatly enhanced the visual appearance of the area, will benefit pedestrian and cycle safety, significantly reduce congestion and delays, reduce traffic noise, improve air quality and will help to unlock economic growth through improved connectivity.

“It’s been a real team effort, overseen

by Birmingham City Council with construction carried out by McPhillips and design elements undertaken in house as well as from consultants Aecom, Atkins and Jacobs.

“I’m also grateful for the support from the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership, who part-funded this project with a £5m allocation from its Local Growth Fund programme.”

Paul Handley, Contracts Manager at McPhillips said: “As a West Midlands based contractor its satisfying to see the original ambition for the project delivered and already making improvements to the local area and passing traffic.

“Exceptional teamwork between McPhillips, Birmingham City Council and the consultants was acknowledged in the recent award win and has been key to the scheme’s success.”

Ed Watson, Interim CEO at Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP) said: “This award-winning transport scheme is one of many projects that has benefitted from our Local Growth Fund.

“Through investing in our regional infrastructure, we are creating better places for everyone to work in and to live. Our unique triple helix partnership structure of working with authorities, the private sector and our colleges and universities is critical to driving inclusive growth and improving the lives of our communities.

“We are delighted to see Birmingham City Council’s project come to life and look forward to the opportunities it will create for economic growth in the area.”

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August 2021

The best places to work in the UK if you want a pay rise

Whilst there is more to life than money, no one is ever disappointed if they’re offered a pay rise. Now, the best areas to Iive if you want more money have been revealed.

Search Consultancy, a multi-discipline recruitment agency with offices across the UK has revealed the top regions to work in if you want more frequent pay rises.

Kent takes the top spot in Search’s latest Salary and Benefits guide with pay rises offered on average every eight months. The south features heavily in the top 10 spots with Milton Keyes, Surrey and Brighton also placing .

The midlands comes in second with Coventry, Nottingham and Derby all making the top 10.

Dominic Starkey, Marketing Director at Search Consultancy, said: “There has traditionally been a discrepancy regarding salaries in the South, compared to other regions in the UK due to the increased cost of living. That’s why analysing take home pay can often be a redundant exercise. By utilising pay increases as a base line as opposed to salaries, we can get a much fairer analysis of the market.

benchmark their salary in relation to the industry they work in and the level of experience they have. This equips people with the tools required to navigate new job offers and negotiate pay increases.

To establish the areas most likely to offer pay rises, Search Consultancy surveyed almost 5,000 people and asked how many months it had been since they were presented with a pay increase and also asked which area in the UK they worked.

For more information on Search Consultancy, and to access its 2021 Salary and Benefits Guide, visit: www.search.co.uk/recruitment-insights/salary-guide

“As working from home becoming much more commonplace, and many jobs advertised as entirely remote, people outside of London and the surrounding area are suddenly open to

much larger salaries and benefits packages that would have previous been geographically out of reach. This has the potential to revolutionise the job market and it will be interesting to see

how this develops throughout 2021 and beyond.”

Search Consultancy released its latest 2021 Salary and Benefits Guide which is designed to help job seekers

Helping older people live happy and healthy lives within their communities A city council scheme that provides grants and funding for voluntary organisations and charities has been given permission to be extended and recommissioned.

The 10 Neighbourhood Networks Schemes – one for each constituency – provide older people with a range of community-based support within their neighbourhoods. As well as helping citizens’ independence and creating strong community links and making our neighbourhoods better places to grow old in, it reduces demand for more traditional and expensive care packages by focusing on prevention.

The Neighbourhood Networks’ role is to strengthen local communities so that older people can lead healthy, happy, independent lives within their own homes and communities. They do this by promoting and developing partnership work between the voluntary and community sector, and parts of the public sector, especially local social work teams and social prescribing link workers.

Grants previously provided through the NNS have gone to organisations that provide a huge range of activities and services, such as food and befriending support during the Covid-19 pandemic to coffee chats, seated yoga, walking football, art, allotments and many more.

Cllr Paulette Hamilton, cabinet member for health and social care, said: “This is about investing in targeted prevention activity. The earlier we do this, the better for the individual, and it avoids costly statutory intervention. So we need to continue to invest in our communities and ensure third sector grants go to groups that can use it to do some great prevention work.

“The Selly Oak NNS funded the 18 at Heart project, which created 700 hand-stitched hearts to decorate railing and trees along the 18 bus route in the city.

Older residents from communities on the bus route were invited to unleash their inner artistic rebel and stitch for the ‘yarn bomb’ while also sharing their own memories of being aged 18. While it started just before the first lockdown, it provided vital community connections for older people feeling lonely or shielding.

“This is just one example of the great work going on in communities across the city, which we can support with the Neighbourhood Network Schemes.”

The report was approved by the city council’s cabinet on 27 July.

Other examples of NNS work include: Redeemer Church, Northfield: Supporting the Local Community - This church has adapted its offer to meet a wide variety of local needs. This has included food shops, food parcels, connecting people to the local food bank, pharmacy runs, gas and electric vouchers, referral, and one off events such as an

alternative Halloween party for children with activity and snack packs and supporting the Northfield VE Day on your Porch initiative.

They have made regular welfare calls and stayed in touch with their usual participants to check what they may be needing, even doing some of these at a distance in the front garden. They have made a point of celebrating events such as delivering a birthday cake or holding a mini birthday party.

They have used available funding to buy a few participants’ tablets and have worked with them to get wifi access and to be able to join activities. Their approach has also not just been delivering services, but creating connected communities. One example is of two men who had previously met at a Redeemer Church event. They connected them up; co-ordinated one to do the other’s shopping, and covered volunteer expenses.

Through lockdown, they ran a virtual coffee morning each week, which some people attended every week. Since then they have managed to restart their Place of Welcome, working within the social distancing restrictions. They are work-

ing on a community craft project: embroidered bunting for the centre they use to remember this year. They have also organised some get togethers of over 50s picnic lunches (5 guests and one from the church team) in their garden.

The Cannon Street Memorial Baptist Church supported a man with mobility limitations. Accelerated early onset dementia meant his wife who was his carer could not care for him, so the church helped arrange home delivery of medication, sourced trusted carers and arranged meal deliveries to the home every day. A quick call each morning was reassurance and support for him. 12 months later, the right assessments and a good care plan has been put in place for them. He has said that “Me and the Mrs would not have made it without your help, I can’t thank you enough you have given us a better quality of life.”

Recently he has befriended a gentleman who in a similar situation and has been really supportive to him.

When physical ailments took their toll on older women, the worry of not being able to cook meals had a negative impact on her confidence and self-esteem.

She was becoming depressed knowing she was not managing her diabetes so she turned to CSMBC for help. Weekly wellbeing phone calls meant she could order the foods they were no longer able to cook. She said “Every Friday I look forward to my meals knowing that once again we can eat the food we love, and my blood sugars are good.” Her Husband has always grown produce at an allotment and have said they will now donate produce to the church so we can distribute it to families who need it.

The full list of 50 regions, shows on average how long it has been since people received a pay rise: 1.

Kent – 8 months 2.

Coventry - 9 months 3.

Doncaster - 9 months 4.

Nottingham - 9 months 5.

Derby - 10 months 6.

Inverness - 10 months 7.

Milton Keyes - 10 months 8.

Surrey - 11 months 9.

Brighton - 12 months 10. Bristol - 12 months 11. Cambridge - 12 months 12. Warrington - 12 months 13. Yorkshire - 12 months 14. Cheshire - 13 months 15. Halifax - 13 months 16. Liverpool - 13 months 17. Perth - 13 months 18. Reading - 13 months 19. Bradford - 14 months 20. Aberdeen - 14 months 21. Dundee - 14 months 22. Glasgow - 14 months 23. Harrogate - 14 months 24. Lancashire - 14 months 25. Newcastle - 14 months 26. Crawley - 15 months 27. Falkirk - 15 months 28. Fife - 15 months 29. Manchester - 15 months 30. Wakefield - 15 months 31. Wirral - 15 months 32. Birmingham - 16 months 33. Edinburgh - 16 months 34. London - 16 months 35. Leeds - 17 months 36. Leicester - 17 months 37. Birkenhead - 18 months 38. Blackpool - 18 months 39. Dunfermline - 18 months 40. Huddersfield - 18 months 41. Hull - 18 months 42. Sheffield - 18 months 43. Southampton - 18 months 44. Wigan - 18 months 45. Stoke - 18 months 46. Bolton - 19 months 47. Chester - 19 months 48. Durham - 20 months 49. Sussex - 21 months 50. Hampshire - 26 months

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GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

FOOD 25-26

TECH 27

TRAVEL 28

MOTORING 29-30

SPORTS 31

August 2021

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7

August 2021

COUNCIL SIGNS PLEDGE TO REDUCE RISKS OF MODERN SLAVERY IN BIRMINGHAM suppliers will be monitored, relevant authorities will be alerted to any concerns of modern slavery, and we will ensure that we are signposting to appropriate organisations for guidance and support.

We will also challenge any

abnormally low-cost tenders; require tendered contractors to adopt a whistle-blowing policy on modern slavery; refer any concerns identified to the National Crime Agency for investigation; and report annually on this policy’s implemen-

Cllr John Cotton, Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion, Community Safety and Equalities said:

“

Modern slavery is a really serious issue that leads to the exploitation of people, who are made to work long hours often in unsafe conditions and not for fair pay.

That’s why I’ve signed the Co-operative Party’s charter on the city council’s behalf, to ensure we’re vetting our suppliers and supply chain to ensure there are no incidents of modern slavery within businesses that work with us.

We will ensure all our contractors are aware of their requirements under the Modern Slavery Act and we will make it easy for council staff to report any issues to us through our whistleblowing policy

“

Birmingham City Council signed a charter on 26 July 2021, as a commitment to proactively work to ensure there are no instances of modern slavery taking place within its supply chain.

Modern slavery can affect anyone, anywhere: and we know that many thousands of people in the UK could experience exploitation or are survivors of modern slavery.

As Europe’s largest local authority, Birmingham is the largest council to sign the Co-operative Party’s Charter Against Modern Slavery. The supply chain for council services is vast, including anything from waste disposal to construction.

The city council has provided enhanced training for its procurement staff; reviewed its internal modern slavery training; offered enhanced training to Modern Slavery Champions across the council, and actively encourages all employees to report serious wrongdoing through a whistleblowing hotline 0121 303 7601 or email whistleblowing@birmingham. gov.uk Under this 10-point pledge

tation.

Alongside this Charter, the council will also be signing its annual Modern Slavery Transparency Statement next month, which will make some ambitious commitments, including a pledge to only use ethical imagery and language around modern slavery, and involving survivors of exploitation in the development of its work in this area.

Joe Fortune, General Secretary of the Co-operative Party, said

“

The Co-operative Party is delighted that Birmingham City Council has signed our Charter Against Modern Slavery.Modern Slavery is a scourge on society, and it is landmark achievement that one of Britain’s largest councils is taking this important step to clamp down on those who would profit out of human misery.

“

8

VUE CINEMA CHAIN FINED £750,000 FOLLOWING FOOT-REST FATALITY

A major cinema chain was fined £750,000 for breaching health and safety legislation at its Star City theatre in Nechells which led to a cinemagoer’s death, at Birmingham Crown Court on 20 July.

Birmingham City Council prosecuted Vue Entertainment (Vue Entertainment Limited) – based in Chiswick High Road, London – after an incident on 9 March 2018, when a 24-year-old cinemagoer suffered fatal injuries when he became trapped under a powered reclining seat.

The company had pleaded guilty on 6 April 2021 to one offence under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and one offence under the Management and Safety of Work Regulations 1999. It was also ordered to pay court costs of £130,000 and £170 victim surcharge at today’s sentencing.

A Birmingham City Council Health and Safety Inspector opened an investigation into the incident, with support from HSE Mechanical and Electrical Engineers.

In 2013 another Vue cinema at the Lowry, in Manchester, was being refurbished and the powered reclining seats were sent to Star City, where they were placed into an unused screen. The council’s investigation revealed that a number of those seats had the wrong type of foot-rest actuators fitted (push-pull

Cllr Philip Davis, chair of the city council’s Licensing and Public Protection Committee, said: “As a result of these failings by Vue, a young man who had gone to the cinema with his wife suffered fatal injuries.

This tragic incident should never have happened, and my thoughts remain with his wife and family.

“Safety checks failed to identify that the footrests on these powered seats from the Lowry cinema could not be raised manually and if they had been, those seats with double acting actuators should not have been installed in the Star City’s Gold Screen cinemas.

“People go to the cinema to enjoy films with friends and family, no-one should have to consider whether their safety is at risk while watching a film.” type). As the actuator was physically attached to the footrest it “pulled” the footrest down and this resulted in an entrapment risk being present.

Following the incident,15 of the 141 powered reclining seats across the three Gold Class screens at Vue Star City were found to have the wrong type of actuators fitted at the footrests.

Vue Entertainment Limited accepted that it should have

carried out a risk assessment when the powered seats were moved from the Lowry to Star City, or before they were used at Star City and that this would have identified that the incorrect foot-rest actuator had been fitted.

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WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

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MERRY HILL - KIDS WELCOME TO JOIN COMPLIMENTARY CRAFT EVENT IN MERRY HILL METRO BANK From Monday 16th – Sunday 22nd August, the UK’s community bank, Metro Bank, will host a complimentary back to school craft activity to help parents and guardians keep their kids entertained during the long summer holidays.

The Merry Hill Metro Bank store will host a craft event throughout the week – kids can just drop in store or pick up a take away craft bag. Kids will not only be able to decorate and keep a straw cup, but also have the chance to meet and take a selfie with Metro Man – the Bank’s striking mascot.

Metro Bank is known for its familyfriendly approach to banking and prides itself on supporting its local communities. In store kids can see our Magic Money Machines and we are proud to have delivered our financial education programme Money Zone to over 50,000 schoolchildren.

“As a community bank, nurturing and building strong relationships with local residents is of upmost importance to us,” explains Louise

Kemp, Merry Hill Metro Bank’s store manager. “We are active members of this community and it’s always a pleasure meeting and greet-

ing new faces. We regularly host events in store and this craft event is a fun activity and we look forward to welcoming everyone who wants

LANDLORD AND TYRE COMPANY FINED £43K FOR DANGEROUS PLATFORM LIFT

A Birmingham tyre firm and its landlord have been fined a total of £43,333 after pleading guilty to breaching health and safety legislation at Birmingham Magistrates Court on 6 August 2021.

Blues Tyres Birmingham Limited – based at Unit 13, 201 Coventry Road, Small Heath – was fined £26,677 fine and ordered to pay £3,751.35p costs and £170 victim surcharge. The firm’s landlord 365 Services Limited, based at 18-22 Stoney Lane, Yardley – was fined £16,666 and ordered to pay £4,000 costs and £170 victim surcharge.

Birmingham City Council brought the prosecution following a routine inspection on 14 February 2019, where a large platform lift at Blue Tyres Birmingham Limited was found to be dangerous with a safety gate missing and a safety interlock and mains control panel bypassed, resulting in a Prohibition Notice.

Whilst inspecting another business on 4 June 2019, a council Health and Safety inspector found the mains power to the lift had been switched back on; it had been used without the defects rectified.

365 Services Limited was prosecuted under the Section 4 (2) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, while Blues Tyres Birmingham Limited was prosecuted under Section 2 (1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.

Cllr Philip Davis, Chair of the city council’s Licensing and Public Protection Committee, said:

“

In this case, the lift was still being used months after it was identified as being dangerous to use by a health and safety inspector. Both companies are very fortunate no harm came to any persons using the lift after the Prohibition Notice was served.

Falling from height is a well-known cause of serious or fatal injuries, our officers will continue to take action where minimum standards of health and safety are not met or flouted

to come along and join in.”

Metro Bank’s Merry Hill store is located at 50 Two Woods Ln, Brierley Hill DY5 1TA. The store is currently

open Monday – Saturday 08:30am 6pm. Sunday: 11am - 5pm.

VOLUNTEERS PRAISED FOR THEIR EFFORTS TO ACHIEVE CLEANER, GREENER STREETS

Residents and community groups have been praised by Birmingham City Council for their long-term dedication to keeping their neighbourhoods looking as good as possible.

For many years the council has supported people with a passion for their local areas by supplying litter picking equipment and arranging for collected waste to be taken away.

Since the start of the current financial year in April alone, more than 5,000 pieces of equipment and 20,000 bags have been issued to those taking part in clean-ups – with anyone who is interested in joining the effort invited to contact the council to gain similar support.

Cllr John O’Shea, Cabinet Member for Street Scene and Parks, said: “The people of Birmingham have made it very clear that one of their top priorities is cleaner, greener streets.

“Achieving that goal is very much a team effort. As a council we need to provide reliable and effective services – everyone involved from street cleansers and refuse collectors through to managers are pulling in the same direction to improve what we do day-in, day-out.

“But our residents, businesses and visitors to Birmingham have just an important a role to play. This is our shared environment. That’s why for many years we have been immensely grateful to the thousands of individuals and hundreds of organisations who go out in all conditions to take care of their areas.

“We’ve been there in the past, we are here now and we will be there in the future to work with anyone with the common aim to keep our city clean. This isn’t a short-term thing. We are in this for the long haul.”

Any new groups or individuals in Birmingham with an interest in taking advantage of the council’s offer of support should visit www.birmingham.gov.uk/ litterpick for more details and to request equipment which is ready for distribution.

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August 2021

Own A ‘Dream Horse’ For Midlands Air Ambulance Charity at Crowd Racing, said: “The lifesaving service provided by Midlands Air Ambulance Charity is incredible, and as a helicopter emergency medical operation, many of us in the equestrian world appreciate the importance of an air ambulance and the skills of the aircrew on board. We, at Crowd Racing, are delighted to support the charity through the MAAC Crowd, as it celebrates its 30th anniversary.”

Abbie Hawkins, partnerships executive at Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, added: “Our charity airlifts a professional or novice horse rider on average once every four days. As a lifesaving pre-hospital medical service, which

relies solely on the generosity of the public and local businesses to keep our daily service operational, our charity is extremely grateful for the support of Crowd Racing. This is a fantastic initiative for any horse racing fans to get involved.”

To register for the Crowd Racing membership in support of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, visit www.goldandgreen.co.uk/product/maac-crowd.

To find out more about Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s lifesaving service, visit midlandsairambulance.com and follow the organisation on social media.

Expert comment: MPs call for national register of home-educated children Greg Smith, Head of Operations at Oxford Home Schooling said:

“

There are pros and cons to a register of home educated children.

“It is important to remember that the vast majority of home educators are dedicated parents providing the upbringing they feel will most benefit their child. As a result, I can fully understand why many in the homeschooling community are strongly against a register. Some

will feel that the education system, which has already let their child down, is now trying to interfere in their family life once again. Others will feel that their religious freedoms are being impinged, although in my experience as a home educating father, very few parents choose to homeschool for purely religious reasons.

“As always, it is how well implemented the system is which will make the difference. Will there be funding and training for local

councils to be able to maintain a professionally run support structure for home educating families?

Sadly, in the current environment of local authorities cutting back on services, I doubt it.

“However, if well implemented, the promise of being able to access funding to pay for course and exam fees should go some way towards the homeschooling community embracing the register.”

“

Crowd Racing has teamed up with Midlands Air Ambulance Charity to offer supporters the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity Crowd (MAAC Crowd), a discounted yearly membership offering a taste of racehorse ownership in aid of the lifesaving service.

In a similar style to the newly released film, ‘Dream Horse’, where locals from a Welsh village put money together to buy and train a racehorse, members can sign up to collectively own a racehorse under the discounted rate of just £80 for a 12-month MAAC Crowd membership, which would usually cost £100. £30 of this membership fee will go towards Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, as will a share of any prize money earned by the horses. Members will get a whole range of benefits, including the chance to go racing as an owner, invites to stable visits and access to an exclusive member-only website and app, packed full of behind the scenes updates and videos on the horses, their well-being and running plans. Membership will also include access to Crowd Racing’s Gold and Green Crowd, an established racing club with more than 10 horses actively running.

This is an introductory offer from Larbert-based company, Crowd Racing, who have started a partnership with Midlands Air Ambulance Charity to recognise the service’s thirty years in operation.

Craig McKenna, managing partner

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BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

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August 2021

ASTON VILLA FOUNDATION SUPPORTS ISLAMIC RELIEF UK TO DELIVER FOOD TO THOSE IN NEED IN BIRMINGHAM AS EID FESTIVITIES COME TO AN END

The Aston Villa Foundation supported Islamic Relief UK to distribute 500 food packs to vulnerable people including the homeless, asylum seekers, refugees and women who have suffered domestic abuse in Birmingham last Thursday (22nd) and Friday (23rd July).

The distribution at Aston Hall in Birmingham took place just days after Muslims celebrated the second of two Islamic festivals in the year, Eid-alAdha (Festival of Sacrifice).

The packs included dry items such as sugar, tea, pasta, naan bread, soup, juice, salt and were distributed to communities most in need, which were identified by Birmingham-based food banks, shelters and refuges working alongside Islamic Relief UK and the Aston Villa Foundation.

Islamic Relief UK and Aston Villa Foundation are hopeful that the essentials will provide vulnerable community groups in Birmingham a more comfortable summer, especially following anxieties around rising COVID cases in the UK. The deliveries went to both Muslims and non-Muslims.

Ross Alexander, Foundation and Community Manager at Aston Villa Foundation said:

“Being a football club in the heart of Birmingham it’s important we do our bit to support the community. Food poverty is a real issue in the city and it’s imperative that we, alongside Islamic Relief UK, do our bit to provide food and make a difference to those who need it most.

“On a wider level, it’s about creating partnerships with organisations like Islamic Relief UK so that we are able to provide long term, sustainable avenues of support city-wide.”

Tufail Hussain, Director of Islamic Relief UK said: “Aston Villa Foundation has played a huge role in our re-

gional distributions this Eid, helping us identify vulnerable communities in the heart of Birmingham who we are able to help by supplying essential food. This year’s Eid al-Adha distributions are the most ambitious we have ever done in the UK. “Alongside partners, like Aston Villa,

we are delivering food essentials to those who need it most during this difficult time. This wouldn’t be possible without incredible support from our donors who choose to help people in both the UK and abroad.”

LOCAL 2-12

GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

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GLOBAL

INDIAN GIRL KILLED OVER WEARING JEANS

Brutal killings of teenage girls and women in India has been doing rounds in internet from the past few weeks. These cases also highlight the insecurities of girls and women at home.

17-year-old Neha Paswan was beaten to death by his uncle and grandfather in northern Uttar Pradesh last week because they did not like to wear jeans.

She was severely beaten by

his grandfather and uncle after an argument between them over clothes, as said by the victim’s mother – Shakuntala Devi Paswan.

The incident took place in India’s one of the least developed areas – Savreji Kharg Village located in Deoria.

She claimed that the allegations soared and caused violence.

“

She goes on religious fasts every day. At night, she puts on her jeans and tops to perform her rituals. When her grandparents criticized her clothes, Neha said that the jeans were already on and she would wear them her mother Say.

“

She furthermore said that Neha’s grandmother called an auto rickshaw to take her to hospital when she was lying unconscious.

“They wouldn’t let me be with them, so I informed my relatives to go and look for her in the hospital.

They reached hospital, but couldn’t find her.

She said that the very next morning, they heard the news of a girl’s body hanging on the Gandak River Bridge in the area. When they went to probe, they find out she was Neha.

The police have launched murder and vandalism cases against ten people, including Neha’s grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins​​ and a driver. The defendant has not yet issued a public statement. Murder and vandalism case has been launched against Neha’s grandparents and other relatives including uncle, aunt, driver and cousins.

Shakuntala told that her daughter’s aim was to become a police officer, but “her dream will never come true now.”

She also claimed that Neha’s grandmother was trying to take her out of school. Her grandparents and uncle disliked her wearing jeans and she was often punished for wearing that. Neha liked wearing jeans and modern clothes and in a viral picture of her she is wearing a long skirt, jeans and jacket.

Activists claim that domestic violence against females is deeply rooted in the patriarchal society and is often punished by parents.

Indian women face serious dangers—from killing children before birth to petting their sons—to discrimination and neglect. Domestic violence is commonplace, and an average of 20 women die every day due to lack of dowries.

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GIFT City and India Insurtech Association Sign MoU to promote Fintech in insurance sector

The two organizations will work together to develop Insurtech thought leadership and to support awareness about the GIFT City project among Indian and foreign insurance companies the integrated platform of GIFT City, the endeavour is to highlight India’s massive international financial services potential by offering international firms a world-class infrastructure and facilities to conduct their busiworked diligently to assist Indi- individuals. As the leading notness in India. an insurance sectors’ technology for-profit entity in the Insurtech India Insurtech Association Speaking about the collabora- revolution. Through this collabo- sector in India, IIA constantly (IIA), a not-for-profit organiza- tion with IIA, Mr. Tapan Ray, ration, our goal is to assist world- strives to back Insurtech starttion working towards growing MD and Group CEO, GIFT wide financial organizations in ups and work with regulators, a technology-driven insurance City, said, “Insurance serves developing top-notch financial established insurance compaecosystem in India, has signed a as one of the key pillars of in- services. IIA will provide com- nies and other stakeholders to Memorandum of Understanding ternational financial services plete support towards bringing bring about a transformation in (MoU) with GIFT City, India’s ecosystem. We have presence various Indian and global insur- the Indian insurance industry. first operational Greenfield smart of some of the major insur- ance, re-insurance and Insurtech Under the terms of the MoU, city and international financial ance players in GIFT City and participants to benefit from the the IIA has promised to work services centre (IFSC), to collab- now, with this collaboration regulatory sandbox initiatives at closely with the GIFT SEZ in orate on building thought leader- with IIA, we can aspire to be GIFT City.” various areas, including bringship in the field of insurance and a vibrant hub for world-class To raise awareness about GIFT ing global insurance businesses, creating awareness about GIFT insurance products & services IFSC, the collaboration will or- Indian Insurtech companies, and City among Indian and foreign and encourage innovation in ganise events, information se- insurance players to the GIFT insurance companies. the segment. I am confident ries, seminars, and conferences. City. The association will proIndia has emerged as a signifi- this effort will be a crucial The two institutions will also mote new digital business modcant global information technol- milestone in days to come.” research regulatory sandbox pro- els, build collaboration between ogy power in the digital era and jects for the GIFT IFSC, which start-ups and all the other particithe country has already achieved Elaborating on the collaboration, will benefit insurtech startups, pants of the insurance industry. tremendous success in various Mr Prerak Sethi, Director and reinsurance businesses, politiverticals of the sector. Through Co-founder of IIA, said, “IIA has cians, service providers, and

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AW Facts Did you know?

India has the largest postal network in the world with over 55,015 post offices

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August 2021

4 million Deaths have been recorded in India due to Corona

More than 4 million people died due to corona virus in India as revealed by a recent study. Compared with previous years, the excessive number of deaths is an indicator that measures the number of deaths more than expected.

The total number of deaths caused by Covid-19 is difficult to predict, however it shows the overall implications caused by it. More than 414, 000 deaths have been recorded in India till date. India is among the few major economies that didn’t record too many deaths during the pandemic.

Three different data sources have been used by researchers at the US-based Global Development Center to calculate and predict the all-cause deaths. Death Registrations from seven Indian states that make half of the Indian population were inferred by them. Mortality surveys are conducted every year in India but it has started making figures public as of 2019.

Secondly, the researchers used sero-surveys to predict the mortality rate. They used international estimates of age-specific Infection morality to measure the deaths from virus through the antibody tests data.

Thirdly, the deaths caused by pandemic were measured by analyzing the consumer surveys of 868,000 people in 177,000

households. They analyzed that if anyone died in their families during the past 4 months.

Nearly 3.4 to 4.7 million deaths were estimated by this research which is approximately 10 times higher than the official mortality figures caused by corona in India.

This is also much higher than other estimates by epidemiologists, who thinks that the actual number might be higher by five to seven times. These results have even surpassed the predictions of epidemiologists who estimated the deaths in India to be higher than the official figures by five to seven times.

One of the authors of the study and former Chief economic adviser to India Arvind Subramanian – said that it is very difficult to predict the actual number of deaths caused by pandemic. Moreover, he added that not all these deaths, estimated by study are caused by pandemic.

Since the available data on mortal-

ity caused by pandemic is incomplete, a rough estimate of deaths has been obtained by the data on infection rates based on serological surveys International Research estimates of the death probability are applied on the obtained data of number of infections in India in this way, they estimated the number of deaths caused by pandemic.

They did this for each different age group, applying international estimates of the death rate from Covid-19 infection for a given age to the number of infected Indians in that age group.

4 million people lost their lives in India due to corona, according to Dr. Subramanian. Researchers said that regardless of the source and estimate, the number deaths may be far greater than reported during the pandemic. “The real death toll may be millions instead of hundreds of thousands. This is arguably India’s worst human tragedy since its division and independence”.

ED SHEERAN, ANNIE L 100 GLOBAL CELEBRIT FOR INDIA’, TO RAISE Over 100 major stars and icons from the world of film, music, comedy, and sports, will join a unique three-hour virtual fundraiser, We For India: Saving Lives, Protecting Livelihoods, to broadcast on Facebook on India’s Independence Day, Sunday 15th August 2021 at 7:30 PM IST / 3:00pm BST / 10:00am EDT. The digital event bids to unlock philanthropic donations upwards of USD 3.5 Million from worldwide donors to be allocated to post Covid-19 pandemic missions and provide vital preventative measures against future waves.

The celebrity guests (full list below) will unite to express solidarity and support for saving lives and livelihoods in India after the devastation caused by the second wave of the pandemic. All proceeds from the mega event will be utilised by GiveIndia, India’s largest and most trusted giving platform, to provide both humanitarian aid and to strengthen the medical infrastructure. The event acts as a unique opportunity to use the power of entertainment to inspire, empower, and mobilise global public support to donate funds in real-time and address the significant social-economic impact of the pandemic.

We For India will feature engaging content, including video messages of support from A-List stars, stand-up

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LENNOX, & A-LIST BOLLYWOOD STARS AMONGST OVER TIES UNITING TO SUPPORT VIRTUAL FUNDRAISER ‘WE VITAL FUNDS FOR POST-COVID RELIEF WORK IN INDIA comedy and musical performances, interactions with frontline heroes, immersive fitness challenges, hilarious games, and more, streamed to homes as the world joins hands in solidarity and unity with the people of India. Some of the prominent international names confirmed to support the broadcast include: • Music sensations such as worldwide superstar Ed Sheeran, iconic singer, songwriter, and activist Annie Lennox alongside her daughter and fellow musician Lola Lennox who will give an exclusive, original performance, lead singer and founding member of Rolling Stones Mick Jagger, twice Academy Award winner A.R.Rahman, superstar and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Nancy Ajram, multiple GRAMMYwinning composer, producer, arranger, guitarist and Co-founder of CHIC, Nile Rodgers, sensational music group and family affair - Sister Sledge ft. Sledgendary who will perform a medley of super hit songs and a preview of their upcoming track amongst others • Indian film stars including megastar Ajay Devgn, renowned actor and Sacred Games lead star Saif Ali Khan, UN Women Goodwill Ambassador Farhan Akhtar, star of Oscar and BAFTA nominated film The White

Tiger Rajkummar Rao who hosts the event, UNEP Goodwill Ambassador & UN Secretary-General’s Advocate for SDG Dia Mirza, Indian filmmaker Karan Johar and more • other entertainers such as bestselling author, purpose-podcast producer, and award-winning storyteller Jay Shetty, leading Africa origin actress Ini Dima-Okojie, and television personality Dina Shihabi, and several others Proceeds from the event will be utilized to provide critical facilities such as oxygen concentrators, cylinders, ventilators, and essential medicines

as well as ICU units. Funds will also go towards supporting the staffing of vaccination centers. Funds will also be mobilized to support long-term public recovery and rebuild livelihoods such as those thrust into poverty due to a decline in earnings and complete loss of income. Humanitarian efforts in the form of meal and ration kits will be provided to the rural and urban families hit financially by the pandemic. Cash relief will be provided to families who have lost an immediate member.

With its focus on not only saving lives but protecting livelihoods, We For

India is an initiative conceptualised by global social impact enterprise The World We Want. It is produced in partnership with leading media and entertainment company Reliance Entertainment. Funds will be generated and further allocated across post Covid-19 relevant causes

by GiveIndia, India’s most trusted online donation platform.

Industry–wide support for producing the fundraiser was provided by Amar Ujala, Bling Entertainment, CAA Foundation, Collective Artists Network, D’Artist Talent Ventures, Dharma Cornerstone Agency, Eros

International, Exceed, Jio Saavan, Matrix, Merchant Records, Mukta Arts and Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, Saregama, Shemaroo Entertainment, Sony Music, Tips International, T-Series, Universal Music Group, UTV Music, UTV Software Communication, Warner Music, YRF Talent, Zee Music Company. The global videothon will be live on Facebook (www.facebook. com/Facebookindiapp) on Sunday, August 15 at 7:30 PM IST / 3:00pm BST / 10:00am EDT and provides an opportunity for viewers to also donate in real time to this worthy cause.

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Students going YOUNG WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP SUMMIT AIMS TO through INSPIRE NEW GENERATION OF FEMALE LEADERS Clearing urged to apply now for student finance Students going through Clearing should not wait for their exam results before applying for student finance. That’s the message from the Student Loans Company (SLC) ahead of A-Level results day on 10 August.

SLC, which expects to process a record number of applications this year, says that any student who thinks they might be going to university or college and who has not applied for funding should do so now to ensure they receive their funding as close to term start as possible. Even if they are not certain what course they will be doing, it is best to apply now and update their online application later if they need to.

To help students who are applying for student finance during Clearing, SLC has produced a new guide containing useful resources including steps they can take to ensure their application can be processed quickly.

Those students who have already applied for funding do not need to take any action unless they are asked to provide evidence, in which case they should supply it promptly, or unless their university, college or course details change, in which case they should update their details on their online accounts.

Student finance applications can take 6 to 8 weeks to process and

eligible students who apply now may not receive their full funding entitlement at term start. However, they should still be awarded the minimum maintenance loan amount first; followed by a topup payment if they are eligible for more funding. Students can keep track of their applications and view their application status via their online accounts.

Chris Larmer, SLC Executive Director of Operations, said: “SLC exists to enable people to invest in their futures through further and higher education.

This year we anticipate supporting more students than ever before and we are urging any prospective student, who has not applied for student finance, to do so now to ensure they have some funding in place at the start of term.

“We appreciate that now more than ever, attending university for the first time can be daunting, and we hope students will take advantage of the new guide we have made available online to help them as they go through Clearing.”

Students can stay up to date with all the latest student finance information, including information about Clearing 2021 by following Student Finance England on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Birmingham will host an intensive leadership programme next week, featuring talks and lectures by a variety of internationally renowned women with a view to inspire a new generation of female leaders.

More than 80 girls from Birmingham and its sister cities around the world were chosen to join the Young Women into Leadership (You WIL) summit (26 July to 2 August 2021), organised by Birmingham City Council in partnership with Aston University and supported by the US Embassy in London.

Championed by Lord Mayor of Birmingham’s Deputy, Cllr Yvonne Mosquito and inspired by a similar initiative in Chicago, You WIL is providing an opportunity for girls aged 14 to 16 for leadership development, crosscultural awareness and civic exchange.

Female representation in government, at both local and national level, is just over a third – and it could take 10 election (50 years) to potentially achieve gender equality. While in business only six of the FTSE 100 companies have a female chief executive.

Of the 83 talented teenagers selected to take part, over half (47) were chosen from schools in Bartley Green, Bordesley Green, Castle Vale, Frankley, Garretts Green, Handsworth, Kings Heath, Sparkbrook and Sutton Coldfield.

Each day all participants will join online sessions led by inspirational women leaders in the field of politics, business, sport, STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths), media and culture.

Speakers will include professional ice dancer Jayne Torvill; Shadow Minister for Domestic Violence and Safeguarding and MP for Birmingham Yardley Jess Phillips; concert pianist Di Xiao; winner of the BBC2 series Astronauts: Do You Have What It Takes? Dr Suzy Imber, Associate Professor in Space Physics at University of Leicester; and Professor Sa-

rah Hainsworth, forensic science expert and executive dean of the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences at Aston University.

Deputy Leader Cllr Brigid Jones and Cllr Mosquito will also share their own experiences as women entering politics and talk about their careers.

Participants will be supported by mentors from Aston University to develop presentations which will be made to US Embassy staff and senior political representatives from Birmingham during a live online session at the end of the week.

The Lord Mayor of Birmingham’s Deputy, Cllr Yvonne Mosquito, of

Birmingham City Council, said: “The city is proud to provide a platform for You WIL. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect Birmingham’s partner cities and generate a community of like-minded young women with aspirations to become future global leaders.

“Our ambition is that the programme will create a legacy by supporting the creation of networks with like-minded young leaders in Birmingham and other cities around the globe, including an alumnae association.

“As the city looks forward to hosting the Commonwealth Games next year, this is another excellent example of how Birmingham is

investing in future generations of female leadership.”

Saskia Hansen, Deputy ViceChancellor (Engagement) at Aston University, said: “Aston University is delighted to be involved in the You WIL programme to promote the ethos of female student mobility and provide an opportunity to connect Birmingham and international students from the city’s nine partner cities.

“This is the first in what we hope will be a sustainable programme supported by Birmingham’s academic, civic and business community.”

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BUSINESS 16-17

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WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

FOOD 25-26

TECH 27

TRAVEL 28

MOTORING 29-30

SPORTS 31

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NEW CAMPAIGN SHOWCASES HOW DWP WORK COACHES ARE HELPING JOBSEEKERS FIND WORK

Companies are invited to Business Day at Robert Llewellyn’s Fully Charged OUTSIDE, the biggest and most dynamic electric vehicle and clean energy event of the year.

Business Day, a free event sponsored

by EV leasing specialist DriveElectric, will feature seminars showcasing the benefits that businesses have experienced by switching their fleets to electric – and how they overcame any challenges.

Sessions include case studies on switching to an EV fleet, vehicle charging, and energy consumption, management and tariffs, as well as a look ahead to 2030 and the banning of new internal combustion vehicle sales in the UK. There will also be keynote talks from Michael Liebreich, Chairman and CEO of Liebreich Associates, and Giuseppe Napo Montano, Arrival.

Hosted by radio presenter and EV advocate Mark Goodier, Business Day will take place on the first day of Fully Charged OUTSIDE, Friday 3 September, from 8am to 4pm, at Farnborough

AW Facts Did you know?

Starbucks’ round tables were created specifically so customers would feel less alone

Fully Charged’s three-day show is back with a bang in 2021, in a safe outdoor environment, with more visitor attractions and more exhibits than ever before including: »» Over 50 live sessions across two theatres, jam packed with electrifying content »» Over 100 Electrified Vehicles of all shapes & sizes including every EV currently available in the UK on display »» Over 150 Exhibitors of Clean Energy & Electric Vehicle related technologies »» Selection of Classics, Conversions and Concepts »» Hundreds of test drives each day »» Kids zone, refreshments »» .. and more!

International Exhibition & Conference Centre.

If you’re a fleet manager, if you’re tasked with reducing your organisation’s power consumption/emissions, or if you’re a business owner that’s curious about the benefits of electric vehicles and clean tech, then this is the day for you. Even if you’ve already started your net zero journey, find out about what your next steps could be.

There will also be plenty of networking opportunities and a chance to have one-on-one sessions with a range of clean tech organisations.

The Fully Charged Business Day is FREE to attend, but you must meet the criteria of being involved in fleets/energy/clean tech for your organisation.

Even though Business Day has an action-packed agenda, there will be enough time to enjoy everything else that Fully Charged OUTSIDE offers, so attendance also includes complimentary Friday access to the Fully Charged OUTSIDE exhibition.

Robert Llewellyn’s Fully Charged is

the world’s number 1 clean energy & electric vehicle channel, with more than 2.5 million regular viewers on YouTube from around the world.

Mike Potter, Managing Director, DriveElectric, says “The Fully Charged OUTSIDE Business Day is the year’s most entertaining way to find out how UK businesses are embracing the challenge of net zero emissions, and how your organisation can do the same.

“Sessions will cover electric cars and vans, charging and smart energy, and there will be the chance to network and discuss issues with experts. Friday 3 September is a key date for the diary of anyone who wants to enjoy the benefits of an electric fleet.”

DriveElectric is an electric vehicle leasing company that has been helping organisations and individuals to adopt EVs to save money, lower emissions and transition to low carbon energy since 2008. DriveElectric aims to make the switch to electric cars and vans simple for business fleets.

“

As restrictions ease, organisations across the country will increasingly be looking for new people to join them. If you’re applying for work, the JobHelp website can help you find these vacancies and support you with every stage of your application, says Mims Davies MP, Minister for Employment.

We know this has been a challenging time, but we are serious about supporting Britain’s workforce as we build back better.

“

FULLY CHARGED OUTSIDE BUSINESS DAY TO SHOWCASE HOW BUSINESS FLEETS ARE BENEFITING FROM SWITCHING TO ELECTRIC

A new campaign showcasing how Work Coaches are helping jobseekers back into work through a government website has been recently relaunched by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

The campaign aims to increase usage of the JobHelp website, as well as raising awareness and increasing uptake of the Work Coach support, government skills, employment and support programmes and training courses available to those eligible.

DWP’s ‘jobs army’ of Work Coaches, including 13,500 additional recruits taken on since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, are using online resource JobHelp to tackle unemployment in the UK. The JobHelp website opens up the expertise of DWP Work Coaches to jobseekers who are unable to claim Universal Credit (UC), while offering UC customers an online resource to refer back to throughout their job search.

Over 58% of Black Asian Minority Ethnic workers have had their employment affected since the start of the pandemic, compared to 47% of white workers.

Bangladeshi’s are most affected with 80% reporting a change in their employment circumstances, compared to 58% of Pakistani’s; and 55% of the UK’s Indian population.

Furthermore, women across all ethnicities have been disproportionately affected compared to men. Overall, 52% of women have seen their employment affected as a result of the pandemic compared to 45% of men. This includes 70% of Asian women, who have reported a loss in income or change to their employment situation.

Among those impacted was 21-year-old Tamanna Begum from Birmingham, who lost her job in March 2020. After being unemployed for almost a year, Tamanna had begun to feel disheartened. “It can be the worst feeling in the world,” shares Tamanna. “You spend so much time on your application, and think it’s going well - but then you don’t hear anything back.”

But things started to change when Tamanna met Raj, a DWP Youth Employability Coach,

who was tasked with helping Tamanna find work. With over 30 years of experience, Raj is an experienced Work Coach and knew exactly what to do. “My job is extremely rewarding,” says Raj. “I love being able to make a positive change by helping people move forward in their lives.”

Raj helped Tamanna by first identifying the strengths and weaknesses of her CV. She used the JobHelp website to find the latest tips and guidance and worked with Tamanna to make necessary improvements.

Packed with tips on everything from how to craft a perfect CV to perfecting video interviewing skills, the JobHelp website is a good place for jobseekers to start their job search, particularly as the economy starts to pick up.

Vaani s ’ r o o p a K g Stirring Son ” n a w a a Marj

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MOTORING 29-30

AKSHAY KUMAR AND VAANI KAPOOR CREATE MAGIC IN A SOUL STIRRING SONG ‘MARJAAWAN’ FROM BELLBOTTOM! While the trailer of Pooja Entertainment’s Bellbottom made the right noise ever since it’s release, the makers launched the very first song ‘Marjaawaan’ from the film.

This love number captures Akshay and Vaani’s heartwarming romance. Shot in the beautiful locales of Scotland, ‘Marjaawaan’ truely highlights the essence of pure love.

Donning stylish retro looks, the duo perfectly portray all the ethos of eternal romance.

The song is written and composed by Gurnazar Singh, and the music is by Gaurav Dev and Kartik Dev. This beautiful rendition is sung by Asees Kaur and Gurnazar Singh. The song is out now on Saregama.

Directed by Ranjit M Tewari, Bellbottom also stars Lara Dutta and Huma Qureshi in pivotal roles.

Pooja Entertainment presents in association with Emmay Entertainment ‘Bellbottom’ Produced

by Vashu Bhagnani, Jackky Bhagnani, Deepshikha Deshmukh, Monisha Advani, Madhu Bhojwani and Nikkhil Advani.

‘Bellbottom’ This Pooja Entertainment production is all set to release on 19th August, 2021. ONLY IN CINEMAS.

SPORTS 31

After releasing the motion poster which created a lot of buzz and excitement, ZEE5 Global has now released the trailer of its much-anticipated original film, Dial 100. Starring Manoj Bajpayee, Neena Gupta and Sakshi Tanwar in pivotal roles, Dial 100 is produced by Sony Pictures Films India, Siddharth Malhotra and Sapna Malhotra’sAlchemy Films and directed by Rensil D’Silva. The film is set to premiere on ZEE5 on 6th August.

The trailer opens in the Police Emergency Call Centre where Manoj Bajpayee’s character Nikhil Sood receives a call from a woman who is grieving the loss of a son and is now on a mission to seek jus-

August 2021

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ZEE5 GLOBAL RELEASES TRAILER OF NEXT SUSPENSE THRILLER FILM, ‘DIAL 100’, PRODUCED BY SONY PICTURES FILMS INDIA & ALCHEMY FILMS tice. This woman in question is Neena Gupta’s character Seema Palwa in a never seen before grey avatar. The movie also sees Sakshi Tanwar in a crucial role as Nikhil Sood’s (Manoj Bajpayee) wife who too gets pulled into the mess.

The trailer builds intrigue and leaves many questions unanswered - what is Seema Palwa (Neena Gupta’s character) planning to do with a gun, why is she threat-

ening Nikhil Sood to help her seek revenge and how does Nikhil Sood get himself out of the situation?

Speaking about the trailer, Manoj Bajpayee shares, “It’s a unique film with lots of twists and turns which will engage the audience till the end. I am feeling quite kicked about the fact that the announcement itself has generated so much interest and excitement. I can’t wait for everyone to watch the film on ZEE5!! Dial 100 was an experience for me and I am sure that the audience will have the same feeling after watching it”.

Neena Gupta shares, “This character is something I have never played before, and I am grateful to Rensil for giving me this opportunity. Even though the movie unfolds in only one night, it is full of plot twists, drama, revenge, and murder, making for an engrossing thriller”.

Sakshi Tanwar says, “I jumped at the opportunity of working with Rensil Sir, Manoj Sir and Neena Ji as this is a dream team. I had a great time shooting for this film and I am sure the trailer will leave the audiences asking for more. So, get ready to witness this nail-biting suspense thriller on 6th August on ZEE5”.

“When we make a film on a story which revolves around just one night, we have to ensure that there’s never a dull moment. That’s what Dial 100 promises from start to end – an entertaining thriller with stellar performances, an engaging narrative and some jaw dropping moments. I am happy that I was able to bring it all together in the form of Dial 100 and I am looking forward to the premiere on 6th August on ZEE5”, shares director Rensil D’Silva.

The story unfolds in one night and warns the audience about how one phone call can change everything and turn everyone’s life upside down. While Manoj Bajpayee will be seen in a race against time to save his family, Neena Gupta will be seen in a dark role where her character is willing to go to any extent to avenge her son’s death.

Dial 100 premieres on 6th August on ZEE5 across the globe.

Users can download the ZEE5 app from Google Play Store / iOS App Store, on Roku devices, Samsung Smart TVs, Apple TVs, Android TVs, and Amazon Fire Stick. ZEE5 is also available on www.ZEE5.com.

AW Facts Did you know?

Raj Kapoor’s ‘Mera Naam Joker’ was the first Hindi movie to have not one but two intervals

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August 2021

Launch of Shershaah on Kargil Vijay Diwas

Sidharth Malhotra was inspired to take on Captain Vikram Batra’s role by his twin brother, Vishal and his family Sidharth Malhotra, the star of the upcoming Amazon Prime Video Original Shershaah, has revealed that the inspiration for taking on the role as the heroic Captain Vikram Batra came from a meeting with Vikram’s real life twin brother, Vishal Batra, five years ago.

Shershaah, an original war drama on the true-life events of the Kargil War between India and Pakistan in 1999, tells the story of Captain Vikram Batra, a celebrated Indian army hero who selflessly lost his life whilst saving a fellow soldier during a war which would etch itself into Indian history. At just 24, Vikram became a symbol of` the patriotism and heroism associated with India’s triumph against the odds against the Pakistani army who took up a far more advantageous position at higher ground and were able to fire down at vulnerable Indian forces. Despite this, the Indian army were triumphant in claiming victory and Captain Vikram soon became the embodiment of the courage and valour shown by himself and his army.

Lead actor Sidharth Malhotra was aged just 14 when the Kargil War took place, yet the story of Captain Vikram’s sacrifice would go on to inspire him to spearhead efforts to launch a film on his efforts over twenty years on. A meeting with Captain Vikram’s twin brother, Vishal Batra, was instrumental

in the stars rigorous attempts to have a film on the Kargil War told across the world. Sidharth met with Vishal and was told of Captain Vikram’s incredible personality, courage, patriotism and of course about the selflessness which would eventually see him lose his life for his country – something he says inspired him greatly “I first met with Vishal Batra around five years ago, at the time with a completely different team. He and his family had approached me to discuss the potential of telling Vikram’s story and I must say I was immediately gripped emotionally by the way Vishal described Vikram’s life and his character – his charm, his courage and his all-

round personality”, said Sidharth.

“We couldn’t make it work at the time, but it was a story I believed needed to be told. I approached Dharma Productions and they were immediately on board and 5 years on we are so pleased with the end product”, he added.

Maintaining a sense of authenticity and justice to Vikram’s story was important for Sidharth, who admits there is always a sense of pressure when it comes to portraying the character of a national hero in a sensitive way: “Vikram and I are both Punjabi and culturally of course we have several similarities, perhaps right though to our appearance. I believe this is why his family sought me to play his char-

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acter. But it is one thing possessing the physical and background traits and another to accurately portray his personality. I feel meeting with Vishal helped with this greatly – the descriptions he used about his twin were incredible, it really helped me to take on some of his courage and strength.” vHaving formed a relationship with Vikram’s family, and his brother in particular, Sidharth was pleased to hear that they felt the film was the perfect representation for his legacy: “Doing his family proud was the priority for me, not commercial success. We’ve been on this five year journey together and It was vital we got this right. Vishal told me that he had never visualised his

brother on the battlefield before, but now when he sees me in Shershaah he can”, concluded Sidharth.

Directed by Vishnu Varadhan, Shershaah is inspired by the life of Captain Vikram Batra (PVC) and stars Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani in the lead along with Shiv Panditt, Raj Arjun, Pranay Pachauri, Himanshu Ashok Malhotra, Nikitin Dheer, Anil Charanjeett, Sahil Vaid, Shataf Figar, and Pawan Chopra in pivotal roles. Jointly produced by Dharma Productions and Kaash Entertainment, Shershaah will premiere across 240 countries and territories on 12th August 2021 exclusively on Amazon Prime Video.

LOCAL 2-12

GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

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* Q-Did you like acting since childhood? * A- Yes * Q-When did you decided that you want to become an actress? * A- When I was 16. * Q-Tell me a little about yourself. * A- I’m from India city called Pune . Currently residing at London I have worked with IT companies * Q-What do you like about acting the most? * A- I enjoy figuring out how I want to present my character. Taking that script and digging into it, and building a blueprint of the character through the lines in my mind and I have to learn and become the character. Figuring out who that person is, and how I can represent it. That takes digging into my imagination and life experiences.

When I figure it out and it is on point, I take great pleasure in knowing I’ve done my job as an artist. That gives me mental satisfaction as an artist that I am able to justify the character on screen.

Makeup Artist Latta Pathak

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August 2021

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Interview by Rahat

@rahatart_photography

SPORTS 31

* Q-Can you introduce yourself to our audience? * A- Born and raised in India currently residing at London love music, long drives, played hockey at state level Represented India at London fashion show for a brand . Done Hindi and punjabi song soon to shoot a short film India . Recently shot Hindi a song at London . Done brand shoots across India and UK Also an brand ambassador of AET foundation Punjab . * Q-Did you take up any training in acting? * A- I have done my acting course under well renowned actor Rajpal Yadav. * Q-When did you start acting? * A- I started acting 2018 * Q- What is your future plans, where you wanted to see your self? * A- My future plan is to win an Oscar !!! I want to see myself in Hollywood movies

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August 2021

LOCAL 2-12

GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

FOOD 25-26

HEALTH

TECH 27

TRAVEL 28

MOTORING 29-30

SPORTS 31

August 2021

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NHS ENGLAND ANNOUNCES NEW INNOVATIVE MEDICINES FUND TO FAST-TRACK PROMISING NEW DRUGS NHS patients are set to benefit from early access to potentially life-saving new medicines, including cutting-edge gene therapies, thanks to a new Innovative Medicines Fund and £680 million of ringfenced funding, the NHS chief executive has announced early August.

The Innovative Medicines Fund (IMF) will build upon the success of the reformed Cancer Drugs Fund (CDF), by supporting patients with any condition, including those with rare and genetic diseases, to get early access to the most clinically promising treatments where further data is needed to support NICE in making final recommendations around

their routine use in the NHS. An estimated one in 17 people will be affected by a rare disease in their lifetime, and this fund will now support the NHS to fasttrack patient access to treatments which can demonstrate substantial clinical promise but still have significant uncertainty around their clinical and cost effectiveness and hence long term value for taxpayers.

Along with the existing £340m Cancer Drugs Fund which will be guaranteed its current funding levels, this new £340m initiative means a total of £680m of ringfenced NHS England funding will be available to deploy on fast-tracked drugs.

Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said “We want NHS patients to continue to be the first in the world to benefit from cutting-edge treatments as we bust the backlog.

“The Innovative Medicines Fund is another example of the government delivering on its manifesto

HEALTHY HEART TIPS

Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Tips, written by Dr Helen Flaherty, Head of Health Promotion at Heart Research UK

Getting Fit Whilst Getting to Work Many more of us who have been working from home will be set to return to offices either parttime or full-time over the coming weeks and months.

There has never been a better time to start integrating exercise into your commute, as we begin to establish new routines both at work and home. With this in mind, here are some tips for doing just that: Park further from work Not everyone lives within cycling distance of their workplace, and you may rely on a car to get from A to B. If this is the case, try parking further from work and cycling the last part of your commute.

Track your distance It can be really motivating to see

how far you have cycled over a week or month and you may be surprised about just how far you can go with an extra few miles each day! Apps like Strava are great for tracking how far you have cycled over a long period of time.

Adapt your routine If getting on your bike is simply a matter of starting out a little earlier, consider what might have to change within your routine to accommodate for this. This may be getting to bed earlier, preparing your meals the night before, or having a lighter breakfast before you set off.

Invest in a new bike Buying some new equipment can be a great first step towards committing to a new habit. If you find your rusty old bike is putting you off commuting, you may look to see if your employer is signed up to the Cycle-to-Work scheme where you can get a brand new bike at a lower, monthly cost than you may otherwise pay. You may also be able to donate your old bike to a local bike renovation scheme.

commitments, and it will significantly reduce the time it takes for the most promising new medicines to reach patients, including children and those with rare diseases, saving lives and giving many people hope for a healthier future.

“This vital new initiative extends the successful Cancer Drugs Fund model to other patients, bringing equal access to the best treatments for all, regardless of the condition.”

This proposed new fund – which will be consulted on – is an extension of the CDF, which has already helped tens of thousands of patients access promising cancer treatments whilst further data is collected to ensure their pricing and long term use represents good value for the NHS overall.

The Innovative Medicines Fund will operate in the same way

NHS Chief Executive Simon Stevens said: “Tens of thousands of patients have already benefitted from the reformed Cancer Drugs Fund and the new Innovative Medicines Fund will mean all patients – not just those with cancer – will benefit from early access to the most promising and innovative treatments, backed by £680m of ringfenced funds.

The NHS Long Term Plan is leading to fast track access for innovative, cutting-edge therapies, at the same time as the NHS has also been treating more than 400,000 Covid hospitalised patients, and delivering the fastest and largest vaccination campaign in our history. In the last year NHS England has successfully negotiated deals for a range of new treatments, including drugs which may allow toddlers with spinal muscular atrophy the chance to walk thanks to the ‘world’s most expensive drug’, as well as giving cystic fibrosis patients the latest medicines against their debilitating disease. This new fund will build on these successes, offering hope to even more patients.”

as the Cancer Drugs Fund with NICE having an option other than an immediate decision about routine availability on the NHS. It will provide treatments like cutting-edge gene therapies that could offer life-saving benefits and particularly help those with less common diseases where data collection on medicines effectiveness take longer to obtain due to the smaller patient cohort.

In the past five years the Cancer Drugs Fund provided more than 64,000 people access to life-extending or potentially life-saving drugs which might otherwise not have been available for years.

Accessing treatments earlier can improve outcomes for patients and, as part of the NHS Long Term Plan, NHS England’s Commercial Medicines Directorate has used its commercial capabilities to secure access to several innovative medicines for NHS patients, including many ‘worldfirst’ or ‘first in Europe’ drug deals.

The finalised fund will be subject to a formal public consultation in the next few weeks which will involve patient groups, pharmaceutical companies and other stakeholders.

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August 2021

Cooking with coal or wood associated with increased risk of major eye diseases

A study involving nearly half a million people in China reveals a clear link between cooking with wood or coal, and an increased risk of major eye diseases that can lead to blindness, according to a report published today in PLOS Medicine.

About half the world’s population - 3.8 billion individuals - are exposed to household air pollution from cooking using ‘dirty’ solid fuels, such as coal and wood.1 While previous studies have reported a possible link between cooking with solid fuels and an increased risk of cataracts in women, it is unclear whether similar associations also exist with other major eye diseases, such as conjunctivitis, keratitis and glaucoma.

HEALTH INEQUALITY CHARITY LAUNCH EMOTIVE CAMPAIGN TO TAKE ACTION ON HEALTH INEQUALITIES AMONG BRITISH BANGLADESHI AND PAKISTANI COMMUNITIES

People of Bangladeshi and Pakistani origin have some of the highest rates of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and poor health in the UK. Social Action for Health (SAfH), a health inequality and community development charity, wants people to act to change this. With the tagline #OurGenesOurHealth, SAfH are working with Queen Mary University of London to promote Genes & Health – the biggest study in the world researching genetics in people of Bangladeshi and Pakistani heritage.

The charity is hoping to get the attention of British Pakistanis and Bangladeshis by sharing an edgy video they have produced with the help of members of their local Pakistani, Bangladeshi communities and Centre of the Cell Youth Membership Forum. By volunteering this Eid and beyond, British Pakistani and Bangladeshi people can join almost 50,000 people already signed up to give the gift (#GiveAGiftForEid) of a saliva sample to improve their community’s representation in health research.

The video features children filmed in their own homes cheerfully highlighting the diseases they are more at risk of developing and making a plea to their community to give five minutes of their time to provide a once in a lifetime saliva sample and fill in a short form to help change their future. This will contribute to breaking the cycle of health inequality, improving medications and treatment and increasing representation of these groups in medical research improving health and life chances for future

generations.

Research made possible by participants in the study is already making a difference and data from Genes & Health has helped show that one of the reasons some British Bangladeshi and British Pakistani people have very severe COVID-19 is because an inherited genetic risk factor is four times more common in the South Asian community.

Ceri Durham, CEO at SAFH, said: “Social Action for Health’s mission is to work alongside diverse communities and inspire them to take action to live healthier lives.

We believe that by people engaging with this research, not only will health inequalities be addressed, but it will inspire more medical studies to engage with a more diverse and representative group of beneficiaries.

“The parents of these children wanted to be involved in making this video because they want a better, healthier future for themselves and their communities.

They have something important to say and we should all be listening. We’ve had very positive feedback from parents, who are

committed to tackling health inequalities as much as we are.

“Each saliva sample that is donated will bring us one step closer to improving the health within our Pakistani and Bangladeshi communities in the UK. This is why we are now running our #GiveAGiftForEid campaign.”

Farah, a parent of two children who took part in the video, said: “It’s heart-breaking to see that from one generation to the next we are carrying conditions like diabetes with us. This needs to stop. This impactful video shows how our innocent children may in the future suffer from these medical conditions when they can be prevented.

“We hope that the shock tactic our video has will wake up the South Asian community into taking positive action and this is why my children agreed to take part and why I wanted them to be in this campaign. This isn’t all about us, it’s about the future of our children and grandchildren.”

Kamal, also a parent, added: “I’m so proud of the kids and the video. My children thought they had become heroes! This is all

about health awareness and if at least one person becomes more aware and comes forward, then it’s been a success”.

While nearly 50,000 people have already volunteered so far, a further 50,000 are needed. SAFH is asking people 16 and over, who live in the UK and are of Bangladeshi, British-Bangladeshi, Pakistani or British-Pakistani heritage, to donate a saliva sample.

Dr Sarah Finer, Deputy lead of Genes & Health at Queen Mary University of London, said: “As a doctor and researcher, I see the huge impact of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and depression have on British Bangladeshis and Pakistanis.

There is an urgent need to better understand the causes and consequences of ill health in these communities who are disproportionately affected by health conditions and under-represented in many research studies.

“Genes & Health research will have a big impact on health and disease in the long-term, and will help redress inequalities that exist currently. Genes & Health thanks the almost 50,000 volunteers who have helped make it a success so far and looks forward to many new volunteers joining us this Eid”.

The study is funded by the Wellcome Trust and Barts Charity, sponsored by Queen Mary University of London, and reviewed and approved by London South East National Research Ethics Service Committee.

The researchers from the University of Oxford’s Nuffield Department of Population Health (NDPH) and the Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking University, Beijing, analysed data from almost half a million Chinese adults in the China Kadoorie Biobank. All the study participants were asked about their cooking habits by questionnaire, then tracked for hospital admissions of major eye diseases through linkage to health insurance records. Over the ten-year follow-up period, there were 4,877 cases of conjunctiva disorders, 13,408 cataracts, 1,583 disorders of the sclera, cornea, iris and ciliary body (DSCIC), and 1,534 cases of glaucoma among study participants.

Compared with those who cooked using clean fuels (electricity or gas), solid fuel users tended to be older, female, rural residents, less educated, agricultural workers and regularsmokers. After accounting for these factors properly, the results showed: Long-term use of solid fuels for cooking was associated with 32%, 17%, and 35% higher risks of conjunctiva, cataracts, and DSCIC, respectively, compared with those who cooked using clean fuels; There was little difference in risk between the different types of solid fuel used (for instance, coal versus wood); There was no association between long-term use of solid fuels and an increased risk of glaucoma; Individuals who switched from using solid to clean fuels for cooking had smaller elevated risks (over those who had always used clean fuels) compared to those who did not switch. People who switched had 21%, 5% and 21% higher risk for conjunctiva, cataracts, and DSCIC, respectively.

Dr Peter Ka Hung Chan, research fellow in the Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, and lead author of the study, explained these findings: ‘The increased risks may be caused by exposure to high levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and carbon monoxide, which

can damage the eye surface and cause inflammation.’

Burning wood also increases the risk of eye injury from sparks or wood dust. The investigators propose that the reason there was no association between solid fuel use and risk of glaucoma was because this disorder affects internal eye structures, which are less exposed to pollutants in the air.

Among individuals who used solid fuels for cooking, the study did not find significant difference in excess risk between those with and those without cookstove ventilation (such as a chimney).

In China, despite recent success from government-led clean stove initiatives, around 400 million people still used solid fuels for domestic purposes in 2018. Worldwide, the percentage of the global population relying on solid fuels for cooking has only decreased modestly since 2010, by 11%. Most of these people live in low-income countries, particularly in Africa and Asia. This can make it difficult for those affected by eye disorders to access effective and affordable treatment.

Professor Zhengming Chen, Professor of Epidemiology and Director of China Programmes at the Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, and a senior author for the study, said: ‘Among Chinese adults, long-term solid fuel use for cooking was associated with higher risks of not only conjunctiva disorders but also cataracts and other more severe eye diseases. Switching to clean fuels appeared to mitigate the risks, underscoring the global health importance of promoting universal access to clean fuels.’

Professor Liming Li from Peking University and a senior author for the study, said: ‘Our study adds yet another piece of evidence to support governmental efforts to facilitate fuel transition, and the general public should be informed about the potential risks of eye diseases, some of which are highly disabling, related to solid fuel use.’

Commenting on the research, Imran Khan, Director of Programme Strategy & Development at international development organisation Sightsavers, commented: ‘Sightsavers’s vision is of a world where no one is blind from avoidable causes and the study highlights that eye problems result from a number of factors, not just the traditional causes we commonly think of.

‘Environmental factors and societal traditions, such as cooking with solid fuel, can have a big effect on eye health and show the need to work across all levels of health systems to improve outcomes. From government to communities, it’s important to raise awareness of eye conditions, reduce these avoidable causes, and provide accessible health services.’

LOCAL 2-12

GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

FOOD

FOOD 25-26

TECH 27

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MOTORING 29-30

SPORTS 31

August 2021

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Asian World’s Kitchen

Chicken Stir Fry Recipe Method:

Ingredients

»»

Chicken Stir Fry Ingredients: »» 1 lb chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces »» 1/2 zucchini sliced or cubed »» 1 Tbsp butter

»» 1 small carrot julienned or cubed »» 8 oz mushrooms sliced »» 1/2 red pepper cubed »» 4 garlic cloves minced »» 1 tsp fresh ginger minced

»» Add the remaining oil and the butter to skillet with the broccoli, zucchini, mushrooms, red peppers, onion, and carrots. Cook until vegetables are crisp tender, mixing frequently.

»» 1/2 onion cubed »» ½ cup cashews

Best Stir Fry Sauce Ingredients: »» 1/2 cup chicken broth

»» Add chicken back to the pan. Add the garlic and ginger and cook 1 minute, stirring frequently.

»» 1/4 cup water »» 1/4 cup soy sauce »» 2 Tbsp honey »» 1 Tbsp cornstarch

Apples give you more energy than coffee

Combine all of the ingredients for the sauce in a bowl. »» In a large pan (or wok), on med/high heat, heat 1 Tbsp oil. Once oil is hot, add chicken in a single layer. Cook chicken until browned, mixing as needed. Once cooked, remove chicken from pan and set aside.

»» 1 cup broccoli cut into florets

Did you know?

Trim chicken thighs of excess fat and cut into bite-sized pieces. Cut the vegetables into even-sized pieces (about the same size as the chicken pieces). »»

»» 2 Tbsp oil divided

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25

Preparation time less than 15 mins

Cooking time 20 mins

Serves 3-4 people

»» Add the cashews then pour the sauce into the pan and bring to a boil. Turn down heat and let stir fry simmer until the sauce thickens and is well incorporated with the remaining ingredients. Garnish with green onion and sesame seed before serving if desired.

recipe taken from: natashaskitchen.com

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August 2021

Paneer Pizza Ingredients »» Ready- made Pizza Crust – 1, medium size »» Pizza Sauce – 4 tblsp »» Paneer – 100g cubed »» Green Capsicum – 1, cubed »» Spinach – 1, small bunch, finely chopped »» Cheese – 100g, grated »» Butter – 1 tsp Method: »» Spread butter and pizza sauce on the readymade crust. »» Add a layer of spinach leaves, paneer and capsicum. »» Sprinkle cheese on top and bake in a preheated oven at 160C/300F till the cheese melts and the top becomes a little crisp. »» Remove and serve hot.

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MAP REVEALS THE WORST REGIONS FOR DATA WASTAGE – SEE HOW YOURS RANKS

Brits are being left out of pocket every year with their mobile phone plans, with almost three quarters (71%) using less data than they actually purchase each month. With the average Brit spending £20 a month for 5GB data, by swapping to a cheaper phone deal they could save between £180 and £60 a year.

New research by mobile sim provider Lebara has revealed that only 10% using all their data each month, Brits are wasting their hard earned cash each month on data they aren’t using.

Almost two fifths (37%) of Brits revealed that the most important thing for buying a new phone is sticking to a budget, but are being stung by expensive data plans that are wasting their money in the long run. With 32% stuck in a 2 year contract, Brits are losing out on up to £360 for the duration of their phone contract due to wasted mobile data.

Lebara has also revealed the worst regions for data wastage throughout Britain, with Northern Ireland topping the list with over four fifths (84%) not using all their

Rajesh Dongre, Lebara UK Mobile Commercial Director said:

“

The British public are wasting up to £180 a year on their data plans, but once they are out of their contracts, they can start to shop around and find a plan that works for them. At Lebara we pride ourselves on the fact that our SIM Only deals can be changed every month, giving the flexibility customers deserve when it comes to their mobile plans.

data, closed followed by Wales (80%) and the South West (73%).

The North East is the best at using all their data, with 62% wasting their data, followed by Scotland (65%) and London (70%).

With over almost three fifths (59%) of respondents on either Sim-Only or Pay As You Go Contracts, many Brits are shopping around for cheap SIM only deals with 28% main priority for choos-

27

ing a phone plan is stick within a certain budget each month.

Once their current phone plan runs out, 27% of Brits will get a new contract in order to get the latest handset. However a quarter of those surveyed will keep their current handset and look for the best SIM only deals on the market, allowing them to cut their data costs and make savings with a new data plan that fits for them.

It seems that we’re a nation that’s glued to their screens, with 48% using their phone the most whilst watching television. 43% use their phone the most when in bed and 17% while on the toilet. Brits are being left out of pocket every year with their mobile phone plans, with almost three quarters (71%) using less data than they actually purchase each month. With the average Brit spending £20 a month for 5GB data, by swapping to a cheaper phone deal they could save between £180 and £60 a year.

New research by mobile sim provider Lebara has revealed that only 10% using all their data each month, Brits are wasting their hard earned cash each month on

data they aren’t using.

Almost two fifths (37%) of Brits revealed that the most important thing for buying a new phone is sticking to a budget, but are being stung by expensive data plans that are wasting their money in the long run. With 32% stuck in a 2 year contract, Brits are losing out on up to £360 for the duration of their phone contract due to wasted mobile data.

Lebara has also revealed the worst regions for data wastage throughout Britain, with Northern Ireland topping the list with over four fifths (84%) not using all their data, closed followed by Wales (80%) and the South West (73%). The North East is the best at using all their data, with 62% wasting their data, followed

by Scotland (65%) and London (70%).

With over almost three fifths (59%) of respondents on either Sim-Only or Pay As You Go Contracts, many Brits are shopping around for cheap SIM only

»»Data Wastage Map of Britain revealed with Northern Ireland and Wales topping the list »»Brits could save £180 a year if they switch to a cheaper phone deal »»71% are using less data than they pay for each month deals with 28% main priority for choosing a phone plan is stick within a certain budget each month.

Once their current phone plan runs out, 27% of Brits will get a new contract in order to get the latest handset. However a quarter of those surveyed will keep their current handset and look for the best SIM only deals on the market, allowing them to cut their data costs and make savings with a new data plan that fits for them.

Rajesh Dongre, Lebara UK Mobile Commercial Director said: “The British public are wasting up to £180 a year on their data

plans, but once they are out of their contracts, they can start to shop around and find a plan that works for them. At Lebara we pride ourselves on the fact that our SIM Only deals can be changed every month, giving the flexibility customers deserve when it comes to their mobile plans.”

It seems that we’re a nation that’s glued to their screens, with 48% using their phone the most whilst watching television. 43% use their phone the most when in bed and 17% while on the toilet.

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More people in the World have access to a mobile phone than a toilet

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August 2021

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THE SUPERJUMBO AIRBUS A380

By: Rida Khan ( Aviation Author ) Airbus has stopped producing A380 a double decker four engine based aircraft which had flown over 190 million passengers which includes more than 300 commercial flights per day.

This is the big decision which was hard to take by the Airbus Company . A380 has its own class , passengers love to cruise on this plane by enjoying unbelievable amenities in first and business class like onboard lounges and bars, bathrooms with showers etc.

The first A380 flight took place in 2005 and was first delivered to Singapore Airlines and came into service in October 2007, then the other carriers which were added around the world includes Air France, ANA, British Airways, Emirates , Korean Air, Lufthansa , Qantas, Qatar Airways etc. Today Emirates share the major sky area with A380 . In July 2008 Emirates received their first A380 , A6- EDA which is now 13.5 years old.

But now the Question is why this largest passenger plane A380 is getting out of service ?

In year 2019 Airbus CEO Tom Enders said, “ It’s a painful decision , we have invested a

lot of effort , resources , sweat into this aircraft .” To build A380 is not an easy task with 1500 companies manufacturing individual parts from rivots to engines around 4 million individual parts flown from 30 different countries. A380 development cost was around $25 billion with capacity of 853 passengers. This is the largest produced aircraft in history which involves a lot of costs and efforts. Airbus struggled to sell this most expensive commercial passenger plane , because many airlines shifted their interest to lighter, more fuel efficient aircrafts and ultimately the pandemic then became the most important reason to stop the use of A380.

Airbus ceased A380 deliveries and decided to concentrate more on aircrafts like A350, A330neo etc. March 19, 2021 was marked as the end of A380 project . The last A380 was built in Toulouse France with serial number MSN 272 for Emirates. This was the special aircraft not because its A380 but it was the last A380 to leave the Toulouse factory.

Emirates is known for luxurious aircraft and is the biggest

operator of A380 . Chairman and CEO Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum said, “ A380 will remain a pillar of our fleet well into 2030’s . But in a reducing order and opted for smaller Airbus aircraft.” Due to Covid-19 pandemic several other airlines also opted the decision to retire soon A380 like Air France, Thai Airways, British Airways, Qatar Airways, Etihad, Portugese charter airline Hi Fly, All Nippon Airways, Lufthansa , KLM etc Many airlines are thinking to use A380 as a “ Combi Configuration” which means cargo and people coexist on the divided deck, main deck would be restructured for cargo and upper cabin would remain for passengers . This “ Combi Configuration” is an offer which will help customers who prefer A380 aircraft. This factor might work in the favor of A380.

Though there is an end of A380 production but we can still expect A380 to be flying for many years to come. In future this superjumbo will always be remembered by the people as a memory much like a Concorde.

Heading to Wales this summer?

Take home the knowledge a new law is coming to end the physical punishment of children in Wales.

21 March 2022 is a historic moment for children’s rights in Wales. From this day on, all types of physical punishment will be illegal thanks to new Welsh Government legislation.

The Children (Abolition of Defence of Reasonable Punishment) (Wales) Act 2020 will remove an archaic legal defence by outlawing the physical punishment of children when it comes into force in Wales on 21 March 2022.

To kickstart the nationwide public awareness campaign, an Ending Physical Punishment advertising van will visit key tourism destinations across Wales. Visiting over 40 locations over the school summer holidays, the van is designed to raise awareness of the forthcoming change in the law as the new Welsh legislation will apply equally to residents of Wales and those visiting from outside the country.

The van tour of Wales’ holiday hot-spots is the first phase of outdoor advertising in advance of the nationwide campaign launch which takes place in September with the roll out of television and radio advertising.

Julie Morgan, MS, Deputy Minister for Social Services, said, “Wales will soon join over 60 nations across the world who have outlawed the use of physical punishment towards children. The nationwide awareness campaign in support of this important legislation will tour key summer tour-

ism destinations across Wales, along with other advertising that people may see when they are out and about. We want to help ensure anybody who lives in, or visits Wales, is made aware of the law before it comes into force on 21 March 2022.

“The passing of the legislation ensures Wales meets its obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child by prohibiting the physical punishment of children in Wales.

Children in Wales will now have the same legal protection from common assault as an adult for the first time. In tandem with the legislation we are also providing additional support through our Parenting. Give it time resources for parents and carers looking for alternatives to physical punishment when it comes to disciplining children in their care.”

Sally Holland, The Children’s Commissioner for Wales, added, “This is landmark legislation for children’s rights in Wales. I wholeheartedly support the introduction of this legislation as there is no room for physical punishment in Wales or the longterm trauma caused to children as a result of it.

“I’m pleased to see Welsh Government investing in raising awareness of this new law and promoting positive parenting techniques, to ensure people living in and visiting Wales know that physical punishment simply

does not work as a means of disciplining children.”

Jonathan Griffiths, President of the Association of Directors of Social Services (ADSS) Cymru, said, “This may be a difficult subject for many to broach, but having the van visiting a number of holiday locations across Wales is a great way to get people, whether living here or just visiting, to start thinking about the issue of physical punishment of children, and to seek out support, if they need it, before the law change.

“Parenting is not easy, but there are effective means of disciplining children out there which do not need to involve the use of physical punishment. We want to work alongside Welsh Government and local safeguarding partners in each region in Wales to ensure all parents and carers are made aware of the law before it comes into force next year.”

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Jet lag feels worse if you travel from west to east

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The British Motor Show reveals action-packed, adrenaline-fuelled Live Arena as countdown continues

The organiser of The British Motor Show – Automotion Events – has announced an action-packed Live Arena at the show with less than three weeks until it opens its doors.

The show will open with a very special display from the British Army Lightning Bolts display team who will be jumping out of a plane over the venue and creating an amazing aerial display over Farnborough, before landing in the Live Arena.

Hosted by TV’s star car pundit Mike Brewer, the Live Arena will be one of the show’s main focal points. Over four days, the arena will see a mixture of thrills and spills, as well as parades and comparisons of some of the star cars at the show.

Twice daily, Paul Swift’s stunt team will wow the crowds with a stunt extravaganza, featuring sideways and two-wheel driving, while another key highlight will be the daily supercar parade, in which an amazing selection of the world’s most exotic cars will rumble into the arena and make some noise.

Other Arena features are the classic

car parade, twice daily, and a twice daily show of some of the most important motorsport exhibitors at the show, along with Mike Brewer’s own group tests of some of the most important new cars at the show, from EVs to SUVs. Each day, the event will close with a round of car football – The British Motor Show’s very own rendition of the Euro 2020 football championships.

And this time, England hopefully won’t lose on penalties….

The British Motor Show CEO, Andy Entwistle, said: “The excitement is really starting to build as we get ready to welcome visitors to the show in just under three weeks’ time, so it’s the perfect moment to announce just some of the action-packed and adrenalinefuelled action that makes The British Motor Show truly stand out from some of the other car events on te calendar.”

The British Motor Show promises to be the brightest, most engaging and most interactive automotive event of 2021, and offers terrific value at just £18.50 a ticket, or £37 for a family of four.

www.capitalbusinesshub.co.uk

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Bentley posts record half-year performance as caution remains Bentley Motors has posted the company’s 2021 half-year performance, with sales and profit levels unmatched in Bentley’s 102-year history. This includes an operating profit of €178 million, greater than any profit figure posted for a full-year period by the company.

Moreover, retail sales increased by 50 per cent from a pre-COVID 2019 figure of 4,785 to 7,199 in 2021.

These sales were well-balanced between the luxury marque’s three model lines, Bentayga (2,767), Continental GT (2,318) and Flying Spur (2,063).

The Bentayga maintained the number one model position as full market availability was reached for the first time.

Hybrid and S models have also been announced. With the introduction of the Speed in the second half of the year, it is anticipated that Continental GT sales could reach record numbers three years after introduction. The market launch of Flying Spur in China, now Bentley’s biggest sales region, contributed to the model line’s share of 29 per cent of global sales further helped by the addition of the V8 engine.

But these positive results are against a backdrop of continued uncertainty which could negatively impact the second half of the year. The increasing COVID-19 numbers in many parts of the world could threaten future production in the worst-case, or see further retail restrictions posing both a sales and financial risk to forecasts.

Building on this, Adrian Hallmark, Bentley’s Chairman and CEO, said: “We have worked relentlessly to transform our entire organisation through productivity improvements and cost efficiencies, and the double-digit return on sales is validation that we are on the right path to enable a sustainable business model.

“While we celebrate these results, we are not taking the full year outlook for granted as we know there are still sizable risks to the year-end, notably the increasing number of colleagues having COVID enforced self-isolation periods.

“That notwithstanding, our financial strength is a positive sign and as we

continue on our biggest transformation and investment programme in history, Beyond100, fully electrifying our entire model range within a decade, we continue on track with our aim to become the world’s benchmark luxury car business, financially resilient and recession-proof.”

On the financial side, Bentley’s revenue for the first six months of 2021 was €1.32 billion, up from a pre-COVID figure of €834.8 million in 2019. The operating result was €178 million and a subsequent return on sales of 13 per cent, a record high return.

To put these figures in context, Bentley’s previous record half-year performance was in 2014, with a revenue of €887 million and an operating result of €95.2 million. That year closed as Bentley’s most successful year with a profit of €170 million, already exceeded at the half-year point 2021.

Looking at sales, Bentley’s global footprint became more evenly balanced across its four market regions. China (2,155) was Bentley’s biggest selling market for the first time in nearly a decade. The Americas (2,049) followed closely behind with Europe also performing strongly, delivering 1,142 cars.

Both markets are eagerly anticipating the arrival of GT Speed and Bentayga S in the coming months. Asia Pacific retailed 778 cars, with Bentley’s home market, the UK contributing 554, marginally ahead of the Middle East, Africa and India on 521. Bentley’s network also increased, now covered by 240 retailers in 67 countries.

This year will also mark Bentley’s biggest year of new model introductions, with nine product debuts, two of which introduce hybrid power in the form of the Bentayga Hybrid and Flying Spur Hybrid, supporting Bentley’s Beyond100 path to full electrification.

Adrian Hallmark, Bentley’s Chairman and CEO, said:

“

These results are an important milestone on our mission Beyond100, namely to become the leading sustainable luxury mobility company by 2030. They are the outcome of favourable market conditions, combined with three years of hard work within Bentley, where we have reinvented our products, restructured our operations, managed three crises, and defined our 2030 strategy.

“

LOCAL 2-12

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August 2021

Citroën has become the first automotive manufacturer in the UK to offer customers visiting its retail sites and aftersales departments the opportunity to communicate with the brand using British Sign Language (BSL).

With more than 11 million deaf and hard of hearing people in the UK, Citroën has partnered with SignLive to offer its intuitive video relay service across its 190-strong sales and aftersales network. SignLive allows deaf and hard of hearing users to communicate using British Sign Language through a video feed linked to a live, fully qualified interpreter.

Citroën has also pledged to enhance accessibility for the deaf community, including BSL representation across its UK advertising, as part of the brand’s ‘The French Car that Speaks your Language’ initiative.

Eurig Druce, Managing Director of Citroën UK, said: “At Citroën we are inspired by our customers, and this philosophy is at the root of our ‘The French Car that Speaks your Language’ campaign. We understand the needs of our customers and work to exceed those expectations through our products and services. By partnering with SignLive, we once again demonstrate how our customers inspire our thoughts and actions as we improve the way we serve deaf and hard of hearing people. The nationwide adoption of SignLive across Citroën UK’s retailers will transform the car buying process for thousands of motorists, ensuring that it’s not only our products that deliver comfort and serenity for all – the customer experience does as well.

“British Sign Language is used by 150,000 people in the UK, and as a brand, we recognised the need to do more for our customers. We are very proud at Citroën, to be the first manufacturer to offer this new level of customer service and hope the rest of the industry follows in our footsteps. Each one of our retailers now uses SignLive, making our network premises more accessible and inclusive than ever before.”

SignLive is an online interpreting service that allows deaf and hard of hearing people to connect with others through a phone or tablet for support via a live interpreter. The service can be accessed easily through a web browser or a dedicated app service.

There are two main functions of SignLive: Video Relay Service (VRS) or

Citroën becomes first car manufacturer to introduce British Sign Language across its retail operations Video Remote Interpreting (VRI).

Through VRS, users can press the ‘call’ button on the SignLive app to connect with an interpreter who appears on screen to help relay conversations between the customer and Citroën. VRI works by using tablets inside retailer premises, which staff can use to call an interpreter who can then communicate with the customer, or leave them a BSL

voicemail. With users typically waiting just 5-20 seconds to be connected to an interpreter, SignLive allows deaf customers to communicate with a Citroën representative swiftly and efficiently – helping them to book servicing or find out more about the latest models and consumer offers.

To optimise access across Citroën UK’s retailer network, all employees

►► Citroën UK partners with SignLive to offer customers the ability to communicate with its retailer and aftermarket teams using British Sign Language (BSL). ►► Sites in Citroën’s circa 190 sales and aftersales network will feature SignLive’s video relay service, allowing deaf and hard of hearing customers to connect to a live interpreter in seconds. ►► There are 11 million deaf and hard of hearing people in the UK, and over 150,000 British Sign Language users – Citroën is aware that English is not the first language for many of its customers. ►► Citroën UK pledges to enhance accessibility for the deaf community across its business as part of its ‘The French Car that Speaks your Language’ initiative, including across advertising. ►► To find out more about this important new initiative, please visit: citroen.co.uk/signlive

have received training to ensure they can operate SignLive’s services with ease.

Joel Kellhofer, CEO of SignLive, said: “The process of purchasing a car has, up until now, been inaccessible for the deaf community, with retail experiences on the whole a regular challenge for deaf and hard of hearing people.

It is great to see a leading retailer like Citroën make a positive change to provide British Sign Language users with access to interpreters for support on their car-buying journey, totally free of charge. We’re delighted to support Citroën and all of its dealerships throughout the UK in making this massive change.”

Amanda Casson-Webb, Joint CEO of the Royal Association for Deaf people (RAD) said: “The Royal Association for Deaf people welcomes the news that Citroën UK has partnered with SignLive to provide BSL access across its retail and aftersales networks. This is great news and a positive step in en-

suring that the deaf community will have the same opportunity and carbuying experience as hearing people.

We know from first-hand experience that the process of buying a new car can be challenging for many deaf people, and hope that other car manufacturers follow Citroën’s lead.

“Congratulations to Citroën for being the first manufacturer to consider and adopt better accessibility for deaf people!”

The ‘French Car that Speaks your Language’ is Citroën UK’s latest innovative campaign, highlighting that while it may be a French brand, it understands the wants and needs of customers in the UK. Citroën is keen to cut out the jargon and make the purchase experience as simple as possible for all customers. The Citroën brand has launched a number of new initiatives in the UK in recent months, including a Fair Pricing policy, a new online Citroën Store and a Virtual Showroom.

Thank you NHS! – Free tickets for NHS and care workers at The British Motor Show

The British Motor Show teams up with Blue Light Tickets5,000 free family tickets on offer to frontline and care staffBlue Light Card holders simply apply for their tickets and show them with their card at show entranceShow takes place August 19-22, 2021Tickets cost just £18.50, or £37 for a family As a huge thank you to the tireless work of NHS staff and emergency services workers during the Covid-19 pandemic, the organisers of The British Motor Show – Automotion Events – have teamed up with Blue Light Tickets (www.bluelightickets.co.uk) to provide 5,000 family tickets to the best family show of 2021 completely free of charge.

In order to get their show tickets, applicants must be holders of a Blue Light Card, entitling them to multiple benefits via providers across the UK. Blue Light Tickets provides the blue

light community with the chance to get free tickets from venues, sports teams, attractions, festivals, and concerts to say thank you for their tireless dedication during the Covid-19 pandemic.

It’s a completely free service for NHS employees and those working within the emergency services; allowing them to easily enter into ballots for tickets to events across the UK.

In order to get their British Motor Show tickets, Blue Light Card holders need to go to: bluelighttickets.co.uk/event/262.

The British Motor Show CEO, Andy Entwistle, said: “Without the incredible work of the NHS over the past 18 months, there’s no way we’d be able to put The British Motor Show on at all, and we want to show some much deserved recognition to the Blue Light workers who have worked so tirelessly and selflessly throughout the pandemic in order to put us back on the road to normality. We know the pandemic isn’t over, but were it not for the efforts of these amazing people there’d be no show at all.”

The British Motor Show promises to be the brightest, most engaging and most interactive automotive event of 2021, and the organisers are looking forward

to welcoming many Blue Light card holders to take up the offer and join us for a day of family fun at Farnborough.

The show has already announced a lineup of live action, driving experiences, supercars and family content that has never been seen at a motor show before.

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It would take less than a month to get to the moon by car

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India’s Wins and Losses in Tokyo Olympics India’s Wins and Losses in Tokyo Olympics

India’s shuttle ace PV Sindhu made Olympic history. She won the bronze medal after defeating Chinese player He Bing Jiao, becoming the first Indian woman to win two Olympic individual medals. She won her first Olympic medal-a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

The Olympics have now run for 11 days, and India has won two medalsanother from the weightlifting champion Mirabai Chanu women’s 49 kg

class. She won a silver medal and ended the disappointment of the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she was eliminated due to injuries.

Both the women’s hockey team and the men’s hockey team are in good shape, and their medal hopes still exist.

The following are India’s major mistakes and the remaining medal hopes for Tokyo.

Women’s hockey team On Monday, the women’s hockey team beat Australia 1-0, making history, and celebrations broke out in India. In the 22nd minute, after the team led by Rani Rampal took the lead and defended vigorously, the team entered the Olympic semifinals for the first time in its history.

Men’s hockey team

On Monday, India defeated Britain 3-1 in the men’s Olympic hockey game to enter the semifinals.

They will face Belgium in the last four scenes. The Indian team is historically the most successful team in the history of Olympic hockey, but the last of their eight gold medals was won in 1980.

Women’s boxing Lovlina Borgohain assured India of another medal-she won a bronze medal after defeating Chen Jien-chin of Chinese Taipei to enter the semifinals.

Javelin throw The Indian Javelin Task Force is led

by Neeraj Chopra, who is expected to win a medal. He is the current national record holder, holding this record with a score of 88.07 million at the Indian Grand Prix in March this year.

Wrestling The Indian wrestling team will start the Olympic campaign led by Bajrang

Punia and Vinesh Phogat.

With his three world championships, Punia became the best contender in the men’s 65kg category in India in his first Olympic Games.

Discus Throw On Saturday, Kamalpreet Kaur won the women’s discus throw final with his outstanding performance. The video of her third attempt at “Monster Throwing” 64 meters went viral on social media.

Bhaker was determined to have certain medal prospects even before the Olympics, but she did not make it to the finals in the three events she participated in. She had a pistol failure in the 10 million women’s air pistol project, which caused her to endure more pressure when she lost time.

In the men’s 10m air pistol event, Saurabh Chaudhary, second in the world and Youth Olympic champion, advanced to the final but failed to enter the top three.

Since 1900, India has won 28 medals, including 11 for hockey, 5 for wrestling, 4 for shooting, 2 for bad-

minton, boxing and track and field, and 1 for tennis and weightlifting.

Boxing Despite losing her second Olympic medal, Mary Kom is still the winner of many Indians After losing to Colombia’s Ingrit Victoria Valencia in her flyweight (51 kg) competition, she withdrew from the Olympics heartbreakingly.

She initially thought she had won, but later learned from social media that she had indeed lost the game, which shocked her.

AW Facts Did you know?

Sports Have Been Played on the Moon