Charities urge Home Secretary to resume Syrian asylum claim decision-making

Charities urge Home Secretary to resume Syrian asylum claim decision-making

Refugee charities have told the Home Secretary of their “deep concern and opposition” to the pause on asylum application decisions from Syrians following the collapse of the Assad regime. Urging Yvette Cooper to resume her department’s processing of those claims, the organisations said they “feel strongly that it is far from clear that Syria is … Read more

Pub saves Christmas in village after Storm Darragh wrecks celebration plans

Pub saves Christmas in village after Storm Darragh wrecks celebration plans

A local pub came to the rescue, ensuring a village’s Christmas celebrations went ahead despite challenging circumstances. For several years, the village of Rowen has held spring and summer car boot sales, with proceeds going towards community events, particularly those during the festive season. This tradition evolved into the Rowen Winter Festival, a community event … Read more

Disabled mum forced to climb 132 steps accuses Tower Hamlets council of discrimination over unsuitable housing

Disabled mum forced to climb 132 steps accuses Tower Hamlets council of discrimination over unsuitable housing

A disabled woman with limited mobility, who must climb 132 steps to reach her top-floor flat, says she feels Tower Hamlets Council doesn’t care about her as she fights to be moved to more suitable accommodation. Ms Dirir has accused the council of discrimination after being offered alternative properties outside the borough, which would move … Read more