Redcar and Cleveland Council has warned of the potential problems by the benefits changes — Read on http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/dwp-universal-credit-roll-out-15324742 Continue reading DWP: Universal Credit roll-out ‘could see hundreds of Tees families go without cash at Christmas’ – Teesside Live

I’ve been the Borough Councillor responsible for Children’s Services and Education here 2015-19 and feel it has been a great privilege. Sadly, though, I have had the role during years when life is becoming more difficult for an increasing number of our 27,000 children and young people.      Children’s social care does not have the public profile it deserves, except when there is a tragedy or a crisis. I would like to pay tribute here to our hardworking and courageous staff, and in particular to their goodwill and spirit, without which we could not function at all.  Few people … Continue reading A Lead Member’s Statement

Pressure on chancellor to announce increase in benefit funds in budget — Read on http://www.theguardian.com/society/2018/oct/14/universal-credit-hits-vulnerable-hardest Continue reading Millions to lose £52 a week with universal credit, report shows | Society | The Guardian

OPPORTUNITIES and job prospects for young people in the North-East are to be boosted by a new £24 million programme, the Education Secretary has… — Read on http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/16966467.24m-fund-launched-to-improve-opportunities-for-young-people-in-north- Finally, the Tory Government recognises that our schools are in financial crisis! New money is always welcome, even if very late. There is so much ground to make up, it won’t have the impact it would have done 4 years ago. It’s also a great shame for the cohorts allowed to go through school without this help. Two more considerations: if it comes through the existing channels in the academy system it … Continue reading £24m fund launched to improve opportunities for young people in North-East | The Northern Echo