Ukraine and Russia swap prisoners amid standoff over missile restrictions – POLITICO

Ministers are investing £1.3bn into army recruitment to address staff retention issues in the UK’s armed forces, creating the Armed Forces Recruitment Service (AFRS) to streamline hiring processes. The contract was awarded to Serco and will run until 2034, aiming to combat inefficiencies and delays in recruitment. This initiative follows a recent increase in defence spending and plans to provide peacekeeping troops in Ukraine to end the war with Russia. Full Article

Recently bereaved pensioner Maureen Brum, 79, faces eviction from her Feltham home of 30 years by Notting Hill Genesis, despite community support and evidence of her attachment to the property. Her daughter Lisa has launched a petition with 48,000 signatures, urging the housing association to grant Ms Brum a discretionary tenancy that allows her to stay in her beloved home. NHG has offered a discretionary tenancy on the condition that she downsizes and moves to...

The London Underground's book exchanges, which were removed by TfL due to fire safety concerns, have been saved after Sadiq Khan intervened. The mini-libraries, which allowed commuters to take or leave books for free, had been a fixture in stations for around 20 years. The Mayor of London worked with the London Fire Brigade to reinstate the shelves, ensuring they met safety regulations. Full Article

In 2024, measles cases in Europe doubled to a 25-year high, reaching 127,350 cases and 38 deaths, with Romania and Kazakhstan being the most affected countries. The World Health Organization emphasized the importance of vaccinations as half of the cases required hospitalization, 40 percent involved children under five, and 500,000 children in the region did not receive their first dose in 2023, leading to the resurgence of the disease after a decline in the past....

Erin Brockovich's inspiring story showcases her unwavering determination in the legal battle against corporate greed and contaminated water in Hinkley, CA. As she fights for justice and accountability, Brockovich's efforts highlight the importance of protecting community health and the environment. Her grassroots movement not only brings together affected residents but also demonstrates how one person can spark significant change and demand responsibility from those in power. Full Article

Sir Keir Starmer has announced the abolition of NHS England to prioritize frontline services and shift resources to patient care, aiming to reduce bureaucracy and increase funding for nurses. The move, which includes bringing NHS management under democratic control, follows a recent leadership shakeup at NHS England due to perceived duplication of roles and wasted resources, with a focus on streamlining operations and cutting waiting times for patients. Full Article