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WEST MIDLANDS JAMAICAN & CARIBBEAN COMMUNITIES
The Move Toward More Resilient Construction In Jamaica
WEST MIDLANDS JAMAICAN & CARIBBEAN COMMUNITIES
The Move Toward More Resilient Construction In Jamaica
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Stony Gut, the popular village of Paul Bogle in Spring Garden, St Thomas.A steep descent along a narrow, rocky road walled in by ...
Hurricane Melissa: How to Help
Project HOPEhttps://www.projecthope.org › News & Stories4 days ago — Project HOPE's Emergency Response Team is on the ground providing critical health and humanitarian relief to the most affected communities. Read ...
WILL JAMAICANS BE DRAWN INTO AMERICAS PROBLEM!
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Jamaica is not currently involved in any international war. The most recent major security incidents have been the 2010 Kingston unrest (an internal conflict with a powerful gang) and domestic political conflicts from past decades, often referred to as "tribal wars" due to their intensity. There is speculation within Jamaica about potential future involvement in a conflict due to regional tensions and its relationship with the United States. Current Geopolitical Context
- Neutrality and Alliances: Jamaica typically maintains a neutral stance in international conflicts, but the nation shares values with the U.S. and tends to align with its position on some matters.
- Regional Tensions: There are ongoing concerns among some citizens and regional commentators that Jamaica could be drawn into potential U.S. military action against Venezuela, especially given that U.S. military assets (including a carrier strike group) have recently been deployed to the Caribbean region.
- Humanitarian Aid: Following Hurricane Melissa in late 2025, U.S. military forces and a Royal Navy patrol ship deployed to Jamaica to provide immediate, life-saving humanitarian assistance, which is distinct from engaging in a war.
Historical ConflictsJamaica has a history of internal and external conflicts, primarily during its colonial era and post-independence political volatility:
- Colonial Wars: This includes the First and Second Maroon Wars between British colonial forces and communities of escaped slaves, as well as slave rebellions such as Tacky's War and the Morant Bay Rebellion.
- World Wars: As a British colony, over 10,000 Jamaicans served in the British West Indies Regiment during the First World War.
- Kingston Unrest (2010): An armed conflict occurred in 2010 when the Jamaican military and police launched an operation to extradite gang leader Christopher "Dudus" Coke to the U.S., resulting in significant violence and a declared state of emergency.
- "Tribal Wars": The 1970s and 1980s saw intense, often violent, political divisions and gang-related conflicts within Kingston and other areas, sometimes described as "tribal wars" in local media.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, the construction of "bricks and mortar" (concrete block and traditional masonry) buildings in Jamaica is at a pivotal point, with a strong focus on increasing climate resilience and incorporating disaster-resistant building methods. The storm caused immense damage to over 190,000 buildings, highlighting the vulnerability of traditional, less fortified structures. Challenges with Traditional "Bricks and Mortar"
- Vulnerability: Traditional Jamaican architectural methods, while culturally significant, have proven unable to withstand the intensity of Category 4 and 5 hurricanes like Melissa. Reports indicated that many existing mortar joints eroded, and residents were even resorting to strapping concrete blocks to their roofs in desperate attempts to add weight and stability before the storm hit.
- Scale of Destruction: Government figures suggested more than 120,000 buildings were damaged, with entire communities essentially wiped out, demonstrating that the sheer scale of rebuilding needed cannot be met solely by traditional, slow-moving construction methods.
- Historic Losses: The storm also devastated about 40 heritage structures, including historic brick buildings in areas like Black River, which now require preservation and restoration efforts.
The Move Toward More Resilient Construction The consensus among aid organizations, real estate professionals, and the Jamaican government is that new construction must prioritize resilience.
- Engineering for Resilience: Organizations like Ground Force Humanitarian Aid are working alongside government ministries to develop and test a "living prototype" home that blends cultural aesthetics with strengthened materials and faster building methods. The aim is to create a blueprint for thousands of new homes that can withstand future storms.
- Government Initiatives: The National Housing Trust (NHT) is involved in building new, stronger communities and housing solutions, emphasizing that their work goes "bigger than bricks and mortar" by focusing on robust, modern construction that meets current needs.
- Innovative Materials & Methods: The disaster is serving as an "uninvited catalyst" for adopting green materials, elevated foundations, and smarter planning in new developments. There is discussion around waiving permit fees and accelerating the use of durable alternatives like concrete or steel cabins to speed up the rebuilding process for those who lost their homes.
- Financial Support: Emergency funds from a catastrophe bond are expected to be released to help rebuild communities and infrastructure "brick by brick, hand by hand".
The focus for post-Melissa construction is not just on rebuilding what was lost, but on reinventing the process to ensure Jamaica is better prepared for future climate challenges, using new engineering and building codes to create durable structures.
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China is the latest country to make its contribution to the efforts, after making its contribution to the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa after sending medical staff to the country, to boost the level of medical personnel that’s much-needed.
The Chinese Government sent a medical ship to Jamaica with 104 medical professionals on board to support the effort, with Jamaica’s Health and Wellness Minister Dr Christopher Tufton saying: “It’s a massive boost of health care provision.” According to the Minister, the ship was set to relocate to the Falmouth Pier in Trelawny, which included 60 doctors, 32 nurses and pharmacists, and technicians.
For Chief Medical Officer, Dr Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie, she emphasized that work is ongoing to getting more health facilities and services back on track. She said that in the worst-affected parishes - which included Westmoreland, St Elizabeth, Hanover, St James, and Trelawny - 74 of the 101 health centres have since started to offer scheduled services.
Dr. Bisasor-McKenzie did stress that hospitals in affected areas are offering services with the support of health centres. For local community health aide workers - they are working, directly, in the affected areas, advising persons where they can visit for primary health care and also conducting health sensitisation and public education.
YouTube · yawdman International60+ views · 12 hours agoJamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness has broken his silence — and his warning is shaking the entire Caribbean.
NEWSAnthony Lewis | Observer Writer November 29, 2025
‘It’s going to be war’
PM vows to fight lies, misinformation about Melissa recovery efforts
LITTLE LONDON, Westmoreland — Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness has declared that his Administration will not sit idly by while misinformation and deliberate falsehoods are spread to confuse and divide the Jamaican people.
Holness declared his intention to wage battle against those who seek to distort the truth in the wake of criticism over the Government’s handling of the Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts.
Speaking during the official opening of the newly constructed Little London Police Station in this parish on Friday, the prime minister lamented what he described as a “growing culture of deliberate mischief” in public discourse whereby some individuals intentionally twist facts in order to mislead the public.
“If it is one thing that you can say about me, mi nuh fraid ah nuhbody. All who want to talk, mek meme, gwaan; mi will go wid yuh toe to toe. Every nonsense you talk, I will respond to it,” Holness declared, adding that he will not allow lies to take hold.
“And, as you would have seen with the Government, man come out with foolishness, mi respond [with], ‘Nothing nuh go suh.’ And as many memes as they can make, I can make it too, so it’s going to be war. Because we cannot allow the people who peddle nonsense, the people who tell lies, we cannot allow them to win — so we will have it out,” added Holness.
“As I have said, it is not just managing the disaster, it is managing the false information, and we have to go to war with that too. Much false information distracts people when we need to have a positive mindset for recovery. So, I urge everyone here today: Let us have a positive mindset for recovery. All the people who are vested in creating lies and rumours, I urge you to think as well about your country and what you’re doing,” he urged.
The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) and other Jamaicans have criticised the Government’s handling of the recovery in western Jamaica. They have claimed that the process of helping those impacted by the storm is being motivated and handled in a partisan manner. Detractors also claim that the process is slow and inadequate. Meanwhile, the PNP has suggested the process should be handled by elected representatives instead of government ministers.
Holness said the Government will be transitioning from handing out packages to the distribution of vouchers.
“It is disgusting that persons would want to make political issues over the distribution of aid. …Some people can’t help themselves. They can’t resist it. And so, we are going to shift from the distribution of food packages to giving persons coupons or cards so that they can go and buy the stuff that they need,” revealed Holness.
The prime minister also dismissed naysayers who he said may be questioning why he was opening the Little London Police Station when the money could assist with Hurricane Melissa recovery.
“For those who will want to criticise the opening of a police station in the midst of a disaster recovery process, this police station was conceptualised in 2017 in a partnership programme between the NHT (National Housing Trust) and the Government of Jamaica [in] that where the NHT is involved in building communities, housing schemes and housing developments, [a police station should be available],” explained Holness who noted that there are two such housing solutions in the Little London area.
Venezuela denounces Trump’s airspace remarks as ‘colonialist threat’
Venezuelan Foreign Ministry slams US president’s ‘colonialist threat’ amid weeks of escalating rhetoric from Washington.
By Al Jazeera Staff and News Agencies
Published On 29 Nov 202529 Nov 2025Click here to share on social media
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Caracas has denounced United States President Donald Trump’s announcement that the airspace above and surrounding Venezuela is to be considered closed “in its entirety”, as tensions between the countries escalate.
In a statement on Saturday afternoon, the Venezuelan Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Trump’s statement earlier in the day amounts to a “colonialist threat”.
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“Venezuela denounces and condemns the colonialist threat that seeks to affect the sovereignty of its airspace, constituting yet another extravagant, illegal and unjustified aggression against the Venezuelan people,” the ministry said.
Trump had written on his Truth Social platform on Saturday morning: “To all Airlines, Pilots, Drug Dealers, and Human Traffickers, please consider THE AIRSPACE ABOVE AND SURROUNDING VENEZUELA TO BE CLOSED IN ITS ENTIRETY”.
The post came amid weeks of escalating rhetoric by senior US officials against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his government.
While the Trump administration has said it is targeting Venezuela as part of a push to combat drug trafficking, experts and human rights observers have warned that Washington appears to be laying the groundwork for an attempt to unlawfully remove Maduro from power.
The US has deployed an aircraft carrier to the Caribbean and carried out a series of deadly bombings on vessels it accused of being involved in drug trafficking, killing dozens of people in what United Nations experts have described as extrajudicial killings.
Earlier this week, Trump also warned that he would start targeting Venezuelan drug trafficking “by land” soon.
Jamaican PM speaks exclusively to NBC6 after Rubio meeting
Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness spoke about the Trump Administration cracking down on illegal immigration
Published April 4, 2025 • Updated on April 4, 2025 at 4:47 pm
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0:00Pause0:56 / 2:39UnmuteSubtitlesShareToggle FullscreenNBC Universal, Inc.Jamaican Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness speaks with NBC6 during a visit to South Florida.
Jamaica’s Prime Minister visited South Florida one week after a high-profile meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness was set to host a town hall in Miramar Friday, speaking directly to the Jamaican diaspora living in South Florida about the progress of the island following a difficult hurricane season, lowering crime and economic progress.
Ahead of that meeting, he spoke exclusively to NBC6 about the meeting with Rubio, which led the Secretary of State to vow to revisit a travel warning against the island.
“It’s significant,” said Prime Minister Holness. “The travel advisory has had an adverse impact on tourism arrivals and negative impact on the image of the country. It’s important to state that tourists and American tourists in particular are extremely safe in Jamaica.”
Holness also responded to concerns about an increase in deportations as the Trump Administration continues cracking down on illegal immigration.
“We take our responsibility to the diaspora seriously,” he said. “So every Jamaican should be confident that they have a home to come back to, but I’m also very clear that when you come back to Jamaica you will follow the rules. We respect the sovereignty, authority and will of the United States in ensuring that there rules are followed for persons [people] that migrate here.”
Holness said the island has had strides, lowering crime and working to bounce back from COVID-19.
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“A major touch point was bringing down our national debt, from as high as 140% to now we are at 68% of GDP,” said Holness. “But one of the things in particularly proud of is bringing down the unemployment rate.”
The public has a chance to ask questions during a Friday town hall called “An Evening with the Prime Minister.” Doors were set to open at 5 p.m. at Christway Baptist Church in Miramar.
Jamaican officials say more casualties expected after Hurricane Melissa causes 'total devastation'
30 October 2025
Summary
- Hurricane Melissa has torn a path of total devastation across parts of the Caribbean
- Dozens have been killed, including at least five people in Jamaica and a further 20 in Haiti, and there has been "considerable damage" in Cuba - here's a closer look at the hurricane's impact
- In Jamaica, officials say more casualties are expected, as the country grapples with power outages
- A team of BBC reporters is travelling across Jamaica - follow along as they bring us on-the-ground updates
- Bermuda's government say conditions are expected to "deteriorate rapidly" as the hurricane approaches
- Meanwhile, the UK government has chartered flights to help British nationals leave Jamaica
- Have you or someone you know been impacted by Hurricane Melissa? Get in touch via email, external or WhatsApp +44 7756 165803, external
Hurricane Melissa: what you can do to help
Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica on 28 October 2025. Here is how you can help.
From:Foreign, Commonwealth & Development OfficePublished29 October 2025
If you want to donate money to support those affected by Hurricane Melissa, there are a number of trusted charities and organisations providing humanitarian relief on the ground in Jamaica.
Donate to the Government of Jamaica’s emergency appeal
The UK Government immediately committed up to £2.5 million to support the humanitarian response.
Donating essential supplies
One of the most effective ways to help is by donating cash through trusted charities and aid organisations, rather than sending goods. Cash can be transferred quickly to areas where it is needed, and used to purchase what is most urgently required.
Unsolicited donations of goods, although well-intentioned, can obstruct supply chains and delay life-saving assistance. If you wish to donate goods, check with charities and community groups first. They will have lists of items they need.
Making your donation safely
Charities with experience in disaster response are best placed to reach people affected by Hurricane Melissa.
There are some simple steps you can take to ensure your money is safe and being used effectively:
- check the charity’s name and registration number using the relevant charity register tool in your country. In the UK you can use the charity register tool
- most charities with an income of £5,000 or more must be registered, which means they are regulated by the Charity Commission (UK) or equivalent bodies elsewhere
- make sure the charity is genuine before giving any financial information
- If in doubt, ask the charity or organization for more information
Media enquiries
Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk
Telephone 020 7008 3100
Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.
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Three people have already died in Jamaica as it braces for the world's strongest storm this year - and possibly the strongest on record for the island - with US meteorologists warning of "catastrophic and life-threatening" conditions.
With wind speeds of up to 175mph (282km/h), Hurricane Melissa is a category five storm - the maximum strength. It is intensifying and expected to make landfall on the Caribbean island early on Tuesday.
It has been blamed for four deaths in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, in addition to the lives lost in Jamaica.
Experts warn that Melissa's slow pace may mean prolonged torrential rain in some areas, increasing the risk of deadly flooding and landslides. Follow live updatesThe latest data from the US-based National Hurricane Center (NHC) shows that in terms of maximum wind and low central pressure, Melissa is the world's strongest storm so far this year.
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How can swimming improve your mental health?
Just keep swimming...
Let's dive in!
Taking part in any physical activity, like swimming, can work wonders for your mental wellbeing, as well as your physical health. It’s also a great way to step out of your usual routine, whether that’s the gym or home, and enjoy a refreshing change in environment. Why not dive in and discover how great it can make you feel?
Jump to:
- What are the mental health benefits of swimming?
- What about cold water swimming?
- Top tips to keep in mind
- Swim with us!
What are the mental health benefits of swimming?
Anxiety reduction
Like many types of exercise, swimming can reduce levels of cortisol (a stress hormone), which heightens when you’re feeling anxious.
The sound of water can be particularly calming as well, while the motion of the water can have a meditative effect too. It’s no wonder that 1.4 million adults in Britain have said that swimming has helped to reduce symptoms of anxiety or depression! (Swim England)
A digital detox
Taking part in a digital detox has been linked to lower anxiety and improved productivity, making swimming a great option for taking a break from the outside world.
You physically can't check Instagram, send that email you just remembered, or doomscroll while you're in the pool, meaning you can become more self-aware and present in the moment while you're swimming!
Improved sleep
Any aerobic exercise that gets your heart pumping, like swimming, has been linked to reducing the time it takes to fall asleep (sleep onset) and increasing your sleep quality as a result!
Sleep deprivation can directly affect your emotional state, making you feel irritable and fatigued. If this isn’t improved, it can contribute to anxiety and depression.
What about cold water swimming?
A study by University College London, which examined women who regularly swim in cold water, found that half of that group said cold water swimming significantly reduced their anxiety.
It’s important to note that these women were all going through menopause at the time too, with more than six in 10 (63%) saying they swam specifically to address menopausal symptoms, making cold water swimming a double whammy when it comes to the benefits it can provide!
You can read more about how swimming can help menopause here.
Top tips to keep in mind
Mental health can affect anyone, and everyone's experience is unique. It’s often influenced by a mix of factors, making it a complex but important part of our overall wellbeing. That’s why we’ve put together some helpful tips below to support you along the way.
- Start off small – even a short swimming session can give you a great boost!
- The water may be cooler than you expect, so feel free to test it out first by dipping your toe or hand in, then gradually climb into the pool
- Think about what kinds of environments suit you best, for example if you prefer to avoid crowds, don’t hesitate to check what the quieter times are at your local pool
- Medication can impact the type and level of swimming you do - check with your GP or psychiatrist to see what level of swimming is safe for you
- Dehydration can also be caused by certain medication, so remember to bring a bottle of water when you swim to help keep you hydrated
Swim with us!
We believe everyone should have the chance to discover the types of exercise that work best for them—including swimming. That’s why our pools offer a variety of sessions and swimming lessons, giving you the freedom to find what feels right. Testing the waters (quite literally!) and building your confidence at your own pace can make all the difference, especially if you’re new to physical activity. Want to take a look at swimming lessons available near you? You can find them below!
Welcome toWolverhampton Swimming and Fitness Centre
We’re passionate about helping you stay physically active and emotionally engaged in fitness, sport and wellbeing. Our mission is to put our heart and soul into ‘creating active places and healthy people’ - it’s about creating a place for everyone.
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Not sure which membership is right for you? Get in touch to find out more.
Our courses
Swimming lessonsGo Back to Pool this new school year and beyond. Learning to swim doesn’t just give you a life-saving skill – it’s the key to a lifetime of staying active and having fun. At Places Leisure, we thrive on teaching our Communities to be safe and have fun in the water. We follow Swim England’s Learn to Swim Framework to deliver swimming lessons that build confidence and capability. Check availability and book swimming lessons at your nearest centre below! Find out moreAvailable at this centre
BasketballWith over 450 million players and fans globally, basketball is a sport loved and enjoyed across the world. A game of mental and physical skill – basketball improves cardiovascular health, promotes muscle development and endurance, and enhances coordination as well as balance. As a team sport, basketball encourages positive interactions and teamwork. Come learn to dribble, slam-dunk and alley-oop! You’ll love it!Unavailable at this centreYour nearest centres for this course:Find out moreView centre
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St. Thomas Parish Council To Get New Building
By: DOUGLAS MCINTOSH, November 23, 2014
THE KEY POINT:
A new building is to be constructed to house the St. Thomas Parish Council at a cost of approximately $250 million.ListenFeaturedShareFacebookTwitterWhatsAppEmail
Local Government and Community Development Minister, Hon. Noel Arscott (2nd left); and Health Minister, Hon. Dr. Fenton Ferguson (3rd left), lead the symbolic breaking of ground for the new St. Thomas Parish Council municipal building, to be constructed in Morant Bay at a cost of approximately $200 million. The exercise took place on November 21. Also participating (from left), are: Custos Rotulorum of St. Thomas, Hon. Marcia Bennett; Morant Bay Mayor and St. Thomas Parish Council Chairman, Councillor Ludlow Mathison; Member of Parliament for Western St. Thomas, where the building will be erected, James Robertson; and Chairman of the Council’s Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Constantine Bogle.
THE FACTS
- The proposed two-storey structure, to be built on three acres of land adjoining the St. Thomas Infirmary in Morant Bay, will replace the office complex currently being used, which is situated in the town’s commercial distric
- The facility, which has reportedly fallen into disrepair, accommodates the 10 sitting councillors, inclusive of Mayor, Ludlow Mathison, and Deputy Mayor, Edwin Marr, and approximately 126 staff members.
THE FULL STORY
A new building is to be constructed to house the St. Thomas Parish Council at a cost of approximately $250 million.
Local Government and Community Development Minister, Hon. Noel Arscott, broke ground for the project on Friday (November 2), on which work is scheduled to start soon.
The proposed two-storey structure, to be built on three acres of land adjoining the St. Thomas Infirmary in Morant Bay, will replace the office complex currently being used, which is situated in the town’s commercial district.
The facility, which has reportedly fallen into disrepair, accommodates the 10 sitting councillors, inclusive of Mayor, Ludlow Mathison, and Deputy Mayor, Edwin Marr, and approximately 126 staff members.
Speaking at the groundbreaking, Mr. Arscott commended the councilors and staff for persevering and continuing to work under less than ideal conditions “to deliver the service that you have for the people.”
He said the proposed construction seeks to provide a comfortable and modern working environment. “The…new building will be approximately just over 2,000 sq. metres of new office space, and we will have you on two levels…the ground floor, 1150 sq. metres, and the upper floor, just under 1000 sq. metres,” he outlined.
The St. Thomas Parish Council is one of three municipal authorities shortlisted by the Ministry to benefit from newly built offices over the short to medium term.
The others are the Westmoreland Parish Council at an estimated cost of $250 million; and the Portmore Municipal Council in St. Catherine.
Speaking with JIS News, Mr. Arscott said the Ministry is moving to “fast-track” the St. Thomas Parish Council project, given “the urgent need of the building.”
He informed that the tender process for the Westmoreland Parish Council building, to be constructed in the parish capital of Savanna-la-Mar, is underway. He noted that the parties and stakeholders involved are “working out the final (details)”, while assuring that “we expect to break ground very soon.”
The Minister informed that the Portmore building project was still in the “early stages of planning”.
Meanwhile, Health Minister, and Eastern St. Thomas Member of Parliament, Hon. Dr. Fenton Ferguson, welcomed plans for the new municipal building.
“The St. Thomas Parish Council, for some time now, has been (seeking) a permanent home. The breaking of grounds today, is not only symbolic, but represents…a decision to find scarce resources (to execute this project). Therefore, I want to applaud the Minister…(and)…the Mayor, and his team of councilors for making this possible,” Dr. Ferguson said.
Member of Parliament for Western St. Thomas, where the building will be located, James Robertson, also welcomed the development.
REGARDLESS OF WHERE YOU LIVE ,YOU MAY WANT TO CONSIDER A EMERGENCY FOOD & ESSENTIALS RESERV.
The UK does not have a formal national emergency food reserve, unlike some countries, but the government advises households to create their own emergency food supplies with at least three days' worth of non-perishable items. These kits should include tinned goods, bottled water, and other ready-to-eat foods like cereal bars and high-energy biscuits, as well as essential items like a first-aid kit, medication, and a torch. What to include in your emergency food kit
- Tinned goods: Look for items like tinned meat, fish, vegetables, and soup.
- Ready-to-eat foods: Include non-perishable options such as crackers, cereal bars, and biscuits.
- Dried foods: Consider things like powdered milk or instant noodles that require water.
- Drinks: Store at least three litres of bottled water per person per day for drinking and sanitation, but 10 litres is recommended for a more comfortable supply for cooking and hygiene.
- Infant and special dietary foods: Pack food for babies or anyone with special dietary needs.
- Vitamins: Include a supply of vitamins to ensure nutritional needs are met.
Other emergency kit essentials
- First aid kit: Make sure you have a well-stocked first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, etc..
- Essential medications: Keep any necessary prescription medications on hand.
- Torch and radio: Store a battery-powered or hand-crank torch and radio for communication and information.
- Sanitation supplies: Pack basic hygiene items like soap, hand sanitizer, and tissues.
- Important documents: Keep copies of important documents like your ID and birth certificates in a waterproof bag.
How to store your emergency food
- Store your kit in a cool, dry, and accessible place.
- Check the expiry dates on your food and water regularly and replace items as needed.
- Store water separately from food to prevent contamination.
- Consider the space you have available and aim for a week's supply if possible.
The government's recommendations are a starting point, and depending on your location and potential risks, you may want to tailor your kit to your specific needs. For example, if you live in an area prone to flooding, you might want to add a portable water filter to your kit.
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HOSTELS IN ALL PARISHES IS THE KEY
Shani . It is 2025 when your country fails to have the basic things such has your describing means one thing. Your on your own and it is the grace of god only that you can depend on.
Jamaicans are not suppose to be in this position.
I identified this problem over two decades ago whilst trying to meet community based needs in st. Thomas
when I discovered, The common people have nothing.
The real issues are not addressed along side the 300 years of neglect.
The living conditions for many people in Jamaica is no different from 1865 when the right Honourable paul bogle died for the betterment of all Jamaican.
We can not be blaming colonialism any longer.
Hostel accommodation with guidance to all parishes
Is the requirement to resolve 60% of the homeless issue. I can make this happen if you want join in.
Contact +44 7552414 744.
Smart cities solutions that will amaze you,
this is a concept the Rt honourable prime minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness has suggested for Jamaica.
Well only time will tell, but for the mean time let’s take one step at a time.
Infrastructure is the necessary component
in making smart cities work, on the back of hurricane melissa a smart city maybe some way yet. Either way good look jamaica
City of the future - mobility solutions
Being a former car manufacturer, now a mobility company, Toyota really pushed the boundaries with mobility solutions that are to be implemented in Woven. They proposed an innovative way to separate different types of urban commute and reinforced it with autonomous vehicles to then transfer a great deal of transportation underground.
The concept of smart cities has been circling around for years. Although initially dubbed as futuristic embroidery and oftentimes portrayed in dystopian novels, it is no longer a pipe dream but a bold vision coming to life. As much as flying cars and robots replacing humans in daily activities are not likely to be seen in the foreseeable future, the implementation of smart cities idea is a real-life occurrence. Technology world is on a continuous hunt for better, faster, smarter, more efficient and more advanced solutions. Big-tech companies are racing to introduce ground-breaking measures in order to fit into the leading edge. And… it’s no surprise that they do.
Humankind is bound to witness the highest level of technological advancement. From rechargeable electric vehicles, energy created from wind or water and spaceships exploring cosmic space to big data, fintech, IoT and artificial intelligence, the world is inundated with solutions that were once beyond the boldest dreams. This is where the idea of smart cities emerges and sets off on an ambitious venture to bring the innovations together in order to create interconnected operation networks that would eventually run the cities.
Real-life smart cities best examples
Authorities and entrepreneurs have been searching for solutions to leverage technology so that it satisfies the increasing requirements. Across the globe we can already observe some highly advanced metropolitan areas. Amongst the most technology-oriented cities, we can differentiate:
Singapore
According to IMD Smart City Index 2020, Singapore ranks first. It leads the way in terms of healthcare and livability, mobility and safety. Although, known for its extraordinary architecture, Singapore has a lot to offer when it comes to smart mobility solutions, with great emphasis on facilitations for its eldelry citizens. An autonomous fleet has been created to help senior citizens stay mobile. They also use a contactless payment/ticketing system in public transport. With the use of “open data”, the authorities introduced a trial to facilitate transport planning, that way 5 000 vehicles are being analyzed in real-time circumstances. The trial resulted in the rate of over-crowded buses being reduced by whooping 92%.
Another milestone on the path to the impressive number one position in smart cities ranking is how greatly developed the healthcare system is. TeleHealth video consultations offer appointments over the internet. TeleRehab allows patients to undergo exercises in their own home through wearable IoT devices which monitor patients’ state. There is also an AI-based Smart Elderly Alert System that alerts caregivers when an emergency action is required due to the patient's physical symptoms.
the above have managed to implement innovatory solutions as new standards in the everyday life of citizens and authorities. However, these are naturally not the only cities in the world that undertook actions towards being more smart and technology-oriented. Amongst other solutions implemented across the world we can find:
- Sensors that can monitor crowd density and the movement of registered cars.
- Systems that can tell when people are littering from high rise buildings
- Apps allowing citizens to find an ATM, pay a ticket, report violations
- Smart street lights that adapt to the activity on the street.
- Smart metering systems feeding the energy data automatically to energy supplier, connected with solar panels and their share of energy production to the grid
- Waste management with sensors automatically reporting to the services when containers are full
- Advanced charging networks for electric vehicles, enabling seamless commute for EV users
- Broad adoption of solar panels in public assets, such as traffic lights,
The list impressively goes on.
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Budget 2025 fact sheet: Cutting the Cost of Living
This Budget takes the fair choices needed to deliver on the country’s key priorities and takes decisive action to cut the cost of living, bring down inflation and deliver economic stability.
From:HM TreasuryPublished26 November 2025
Putting more money in people’s pockets
- This Budget takes levies off energy bills to save families £150 on average next year, and up to £300 for some poorer households.
- The historic decision to remove the two-child limit in full from April 2026 will lift 450,000 children out of poverty -rising to around 550,000 alongside other measures announced this year, such as the expansion of free school meals - the biggest reduction at any Budget this century. This comes after this government has already rolled out free breakfast clubs to half a million more children.
- We are raising the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage meaning full-time workers on the National Living Wage see a rise of £900 a year, while full-time workers on the 18-20 National Minimum Wage rate will see a £1,500 rise.
- Thanks to our commitment to the pension Triple Lock for this parliament, pensioners on the full new State Pension across the UK are set to receive an extra £575 a year, which they’ll start seeing from April 2026.
- Over three quarters of pensioners in England and Wales will benefit from a Winter Fuel Payment this winter.
- Thanks to the biggest government intervention in over 30 years, we are freezing regulated rail fares in England this year – saving commuters hundreds of pounds off season tickets and easing pressure on household budgets.
- We have extended the freeze on prescription fees for another year, keeping the cost under £10.
- The Universal Credit Standard Allowance for a single person aged 25 or over will increase by around £295 a year, over £110 more than if up-rated by inflation alone. For couples, where one partner is aged 25 or over, it will increase by around £465 a year, approximately £180 more than if up-rated by inflation alone.
Delivering economic stability and driving down inflation
- Inflation is past its peak, and measures announced in this Budget such as bringing down energy bills and freezing rail fares will bring down inflation.
- The OBR has forecast that the Budget will reduce CPI inflation by 0.4 percentage points next year.
- Under our financial stewardship of the economy, the Bank of England has cut interest rates 5 times, and our action to tackle inflation increases the likelihood of further cuts.
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Published 26 November 2025
British Royal Family Changes Its Name to Windsor
During World War I, King George V of England issued a proclamation which changed the name of Great Britain's royal family from Hanover to Windsor, and this decree was effective on July 17, 1917. The British royal family had German roots, dating back to 1714 when George I of Hanover took the throne. George I could barely speak English, and much of his reign was devoted to fighting wars back in his native Germany. The House of Hanover became the House of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha in 1840, after Queen Victoria married Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, who was also a German. However, the royal household's name became something of an embarrassment after the outbreak of World War I, when Great Britain's most formidable enemy was the nation of Germany. The strong anti-German sentiment among the population prompted King George V to change the family's name. The name Windsor was taken from Windsor Castle, one of the royal family's principal residences. George V's successors were Edward VIII, George VI, and then Elizabeth II, who remains Britain's monarch as of the writing of this book. With some modifications, they have retained the name of Windsor ever since.
https://youtu.be/0omO2LaZhiU?si=yyL2Yh7MBvH4DnvP
THIS IS CONCERNING
WHY WOULD ONE OF JAMAICANS BIGGEST
ICONS LIE ABOUT LOSING RELIEF ITEMS.
Dont think this is the end of this story !
Hit the link see for yourself
https://youtu.be/ZLlZjJkZ1X8?si=SwcbCeZ4nUfx91S
On November 19, International Men’s Day celebrates worldwide the positive value men bring to the world, their families and communities. We highlight positive role models and raise awareness of men’s well-being. Our theme for 2025 is “Celebrating Men and Boys”.
We invite you to join us for an historic International Mens Day Webcast hear from many notable leaders in the men’s movement. They will be sharing their wisdom, real stories, challenges, and solutions for supporting men and boys from all around the globe!
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LIVE !GET INVOLVED!
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We provide suggestions on how you can celebrate International Men’s Day, and how to get your local community and council involved to create a community event and or a special award ceremony.
The month of November is important for the masculine soul because it gathers several events that are important to men. Movember is the month we focus on raising money for men’s health. Men’s Equality Month is a full month that we focus on achieving equal treatment and care for men and boys. On November 20, we celebrate International Children’s Day, which then forms 48 hours of celebration for men and children, and the special relationship they share.
So we have plenty of reasons to celebrate International Men’s Day. We invite you to check out our fact sheet on how to run a community event for International Men’s Day. Feel free to use the International Men’s Day Logo or adapt the IMD logo into your own language, as the French have done.
You might like to thank some men who are positive male role models in your community and use our IMD Appreciation Award certificates. You can download our posters and other resources here.
International Men’s Day encourages men to teach the boys in their lives the values, character and responsibilities of being a man. Mahatma Gandhi said, “We must become the change we seek.” It is only when we all, both men and women, lead by example that we will create a fair and safe society that allows everyone the opportunity to prosper.
International Men’s Day is an opportunity for people everywhere of goodwill to appreciate and celebrate the men in their lives and the contribution they make to society for the greater good of all.
The International Men’s Day website is sponsored by the
Dads4Kids Fatherhood Foundation.
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LATEST NEWSNovember 13, 2025
‘Nothing was missing’: Vaz refutes Buju Banton’s claim of stolen hurricane relief items
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport Daryl Vaz has refuted allegations made by reggae superstar Buju Banton that hurricane relief supplies sent to Jamaica were stolen at the port.
In a statement shared on X on Thursday, Vaz said an immediate investigation was launched following the claims and that the findings showed no evidence of missing or tampered goods.
LATEST NEWS, NEWSBuju Banton alleges relief items stolen at portNovember 12, 2025
“Yesterday a video went viral claiming that goods went missing from a relief package that was sent. An investigation was immediately launched and, in the interest of transparency, I must share the details of the findings,” Vaz wrote.
According to the minister, the shipment in question arrived on Tuesday and was cleared immediately by the customs broker. He emphasised that the items were never stored or moved offsite, but went directly from the aircraft on the tarmac to the receiving truck.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS, LATEST NEWSTrump claims ‘obligation’ to sue BBC over speech editNovember 12, 2025
“It went straight from the plane on the tarmac to the receiving truck sent for the items,” he said. “The customs officer who cleared the items confirmed that the pallets were sealed. The items were also cross-checked against the list provided by the sender. Nothing was missing or disturbed.”
Vaz also clarified that no stoves or Starlink devices were included in the shipment, countering specific claims made in the viral post.
NEWSCampari Group donates $250 million to relief effortsNovember 12, 2025
Acknowledging long-standing concerns about customs operations, Vaz said while “processes have been far from perfect for many years,” each report of irregularity must be investigated on its own merit.
by TaboolaPromoted LinksYou May LikeAfter Months Waiting for the NHS, I Tried This £12/Week* Alternative – I’ll Never Go BackMany people have seen the writing on the wall and are choosing private health insurance!Protection PlansLearn More
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Reeves pledges 'fair and necessary' choices in Budget as tax rises expected
Watch live
Summary
- Chancellor Rachel Reeves says she will make "fair and necessary" choices when she delivers her Budget at 12:30 GMT
- Manifesto pledge: Before the 2024 election, Labour promised not to increase income tax, National Insurance or VAT for "working people"
- Fiscal drag: Headline rates aren't expected to change - but a freeze on income tax thresholds could be extended until 2030, meaning more people pay higher rates as their pay increases
- What else? Other changes could include higher taxes on houses worth more than £2m, as well as on electric vehicles and pension contributions
- Two-child benefit cap: Reeves could also scrap this policy, meaning larger families can claim more means-tested benefits
- Already announced: On Tuesday, increases to the minimum wage were confirmed - as well as changes to the sugar tax, meaning milkshakes will be affected from 2028
Scroll to previous itemScroll to next item, 3 of 8
- 1:18Three things to look out for. 00:01:18, play videoThree things to look out for
- 0:58What is in the iconic red box? 00:00:58, play videoWhat is in the iconic red box?
Live Reporting
Edited by Emily Atkinson and Marita Moloney, with Henry Zeffman reporting from Downing Street
- How the Budget statement will play outpublished at 09:4109:41Chancellor Rachel Reeves will deliver the Budget speech in the House of Commons in Parliament.
It starts at around 12:30, just after Prime Minister’s Questions, and lasts about an hour.
Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the opposition, will stand up to deliver her response as soon as Reeves sits down.
MPs will then debate the Budget. This can go for several days, before the government introduces a Finance Bill to turn the proposals into law.Share - 'We make £100,000 but worry about retiring'published at 09:3709:37
As part of BBC Your Voice, we've been speaking to people on a range of incomes about what they expect from the Budget. Scroll back through our posts from 09:25 to read the full series.
Neal Stead and his wife Tara both work in administration – Neal in a contact centre, and Tara at a hospital.
With a combined income of about £100,000 and having paid off the mortgage on their Bradford home, Neal says they don't have major financial pressures. But at 58, he is concerned about retiring.
"My worry now, as I'm approaching later life, is when can I actually afford to retire? Because the goalpost seems to move," he says.
He does not want the chancellor to "touch pensions" by changing the tax-free lump sum allowance for withdrawing pension savings.
Latest hurricane news in Jamaica
Posted26 Nov 2025 Originally published25 Nov 2025
Attachments
• Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica in late October as an historically powerful Category 5 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of 185 mph.
• At least 45 people were killed in Jamaica.
• Critical health infrastructure, including hospitals, was damaged or destroyed, overburdening those facilities that remain functional.
• The storm came some 15 months after Hurricane Beryl devastated Clarendon and St. Elizabeth parishes in the west of the island.
On October 27, Hurricane Melissa made landfall on Jamaica as the most powerful ever to directly impact the island. The slow-moving Category 5 storm caused at least 45 deaths there and more than $130 million in infrastructure damage. It also displaced 90,000 people, with 1,300 still in 97 active shelters. Entire communities across the western parishes of Hanover, Saint Ann, Saint Elizabeth, Saint James, Trelawny and Westmoreland experienced unprecedented devastation, prompting the prime minister to declare a national disaster.
Weeks later, critical services remain disrupted—about one-third of the island is still without electricity, as power outages persist across multiple parishes and telecommunications continue to be unreliable. This has been a concern, as many shelters close and the displaced return home.
Jamaica’s health system is under severe strain. Black River Hospital in St.
Elizabeth was completely destroyed and will require full reconstruction.
Savanna-la-Mar and Falmouth Hospitals have sustained significant damage, drastically reducing their capacity to provide care. Though temporary field hospitals have been deployed to manage acute cases, patients needing long-term treatment are turning to facilities in other regions. As a result, hospitals in Clarendon, Kingston and Manchester parishes are now operating at up to 150% capacity due to hospital transfers and self-referrals, as well as a large influx of displaced people.
This surge, which is overwhelming existing resources, is expected to continue for months as recovery and rebuilding efforts progress in the hardest-hit communities. Given widespread damage to hospitals and health centers in affected parishes, long-term care patients are being redirected to neighboring regions—further burdening facilities already stretched beyond capacity.
The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) is coordinating with local and international partners to restore essential health services. Efforts include establishing temporary health posts and deploying field hospitals; however, significant health care gaps continue. Communities remain highly vulnerable as heavy rainfall continues, groundwater flooding persists and agricultural losses drive up food costs. The casualties caused by the storm, compounded by the sudden loss of homes and livelihoods, have created a significant surge in the need for mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS). In addition, stagnant water and damaged sanitation systems have led to a confirmed outbreak of leptospirosis, while ongoing cleanup and reconstruction efforts have created an increased need for tetanus vaccination to protect people exposed to debris, sharp objects and contaminated floodwater.
JAMAICAN HURRICANE UPDATES &THE HISTORY OF JAMAICAN HERITAGE
PAUL BOGLES CONTRIBUTIONS TO JAMAICAN INDEPENDENCE 🇯🇲
Bogle had become a friend of a wealthy landowner and fellow Baptist George William Gordon, a bi-racial man who served in the Assembly as one of two representatives from St. Thomas-in-the-East parish. Gordon was instrumental in Bogle being appointed deacon of Stony Gut Baptist Church in 1864. Conditions were hard for black peasants, due to social discrimination, flooding and crop failure, and epidemics. The required payment of poll taxesprevented most of them from voting. In August 1865, Gordon criticised the governor of Jamaica, Edward John Eyre, for sanctioning "everything done by the higher class to the oppression of the negroes".[4]
"Artistic Impression of Paul Bogle" in Morant Bay, Jamaica[1]
Born1822Died24 October 1865 (aged 42–43)Cause of deathHangedNationalityJamaicanKnown forLeader of the protesters in the Morant Bay rebellionWebsitehttps://paulboglefoundation.org/
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Why is most European countries blamed for their colonial and imperial past when pretty much every country was in the race for power
So history buffs help me out here, so you see how most European countries are reproached for their colonial and imperial past by most African and Asian countries even when their own countries have it those pasts too basically it's like playing a game then blaming the top player. So why is it so?
•3y ago•Edited 3y ago
I think it's largely because of scale and effect on the present day. It's absolutely true that there were slave empires in Africa before the arrival of Europeans, Japan tried to create a Japanese-centric greater East Asian empire during World War II and killed millions of people, the Mongols basically killed off anyone who wouldn't submit to them as they moved across Asia and Eastern Europe etc, so there's plenty of examples of this kind of thing from non-European nations.
The difference is that European colonialism basically touched every single continent on the planet. Both of the Americas, all of Africa, and a huge swathe of Asia was either directly or indirectly controlled and/or colonized by European powers/European descendants at one point or another in the run up to the 20th century, and even Australia became Britain's de facto dumping ground for convict peoples. So just the immensity of it is something to consider. I mean Britain controlled an empire that at one point held what...like a quarter of the world's territory and a third of the world's population? And that's just Britain alone, not even including the other major players like France, the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, and even lesser one's like Germany, Italy, Belgium (Also the USA even though it's not "European" but still a Western power). I'm sure I'm forgetting some but you get the idea.
This brings me to my second point. Together with the scale of European colonialism, those empires only died out relatively recently in terms of world history (early-mid 20th century, still ongoing in a lot of ways though) and their immediate impact on other peoples has been more profound because of that. For sure the Mongols basically ruled over the greatest empire in terms of land mass and they tortured and killed millions, but that was roughly what, like 600-800 years ago? It doesn't have the same immediate ramifications. Today the West in general is much richer and more privileged today than other countries because of their (relatively) recent colonial exploitations. How many projects in Belgium were funded in some way by the 19th-20th century rubber and mineral exploits in the Congo? (I have no idea but it's just an example). Or how about the United States? The institution of chattel slavery was valued anywhere between 5-25 trillion dollars today in terms of assets that contributed to the American economy, we still feel the effects of that today. Or Britain? Queue your standard joke about how non-British your average British museum is TODAY. Stuff like that. So, much of the money/power that goes into what the West looks like and how it functions today came directly out of those recent colonial ventures, and many previously colonized nations are comparatively worse off still because of that.
It's not so much that people are saying that European/Westerners are the only ones to blame for imperialism (they're not as I've said, human beings of every description everywhere have the capacity to be shitty and exploitive) it's just that the scope of what Europeans did is much greater, much more recent, and has a larger historical footprint, therefore they deserve greater scrutiny. No one is "blaming" Mongolia for the Mongol hordes today because we don't live with the immediate consequences of that anymore (relatively speaking, obviously the Mongol invasions had a big impact on world history). Kind of a jumbled answer but still. Likewise no one "blames" Muslim countries for the 8th century attacks of the early Islamic empires into parts of Europe today, even though it happened and it was just as brutal as any other expansionist move, with killings, theft, forced conversions, whatever. But too much time has passed and too much has happened in the interim for it too hold the same significance in peoples' minds as more recent stuff.
I think also it depends on who you ask, every country is different. Like Japan still hasn't officially apologized to China for killing millions during World War II, but you never hear about it in the Western centric media landscape.
I'll also say that this is a very complex topic as well, I'm sure someone here will give a more concise answer.
Some women may believe they don't need men due to societal shifts, increased financial independence, and a desire for autonomy. This can stem from experiences of inequality, patriarchal structures, or simply a personal preference for a single life. Consequences can include a different path in relationships, career choices, and social dynamics. However, it's crucial to remember that this is a complex issue with diverse perspectives and individual experiences.
Please spread the word ...
The Jamaica government has a hurricane grant program to assist homeowners who have suffered damage to their properties. The government has allocated over $1 billion to provide grants and assistance for restoration, reconstruction, and relocation efforts.
Grant Amounts:
• Minor Damage: Up to $50,000 for homes with minor damage
• Severe Damage: Up to $150,000 for homes with severe damage
• Total Destruction: Up to $400,000 for homes that are completely destroyed
Eligibility Criteria:
• Homeowners must have suffered damage to their properties due to the hurricane
• The damage assessment will determine the level of grant assistance
• Applicants must provide necessary documentation, including proof of ownership and damage assessment reports
How to Apply:
• Contact the Ministry of Labour and Social Security or visit their website for more information
• Submit an application and supporting documents, including photographs of property damage and proof of reduced income or unemployment¹
Labour Division
• Address: 1F North Street, Kingston, Jamaica
• Telephone: (876) 676-5694, (876) 676-5695, (876) 676-5696, (876) 922-9500-17
• Social Security Division
• Address: 14 National Heroes Circle, Kingston 4, Jamaica
• Telephone: (876) 922-8000-13, (876) 676-5629, (876) 676-5630, (876) 676-5631, (876) 676-5557
• Toll-Free: (888) 991-7284 (P.A.D)
•
WhatsApp Contact: 876-850-9498
General Email: prunit@mlss.gov.jm
https://mlss.gov.jm/contact-us-3/
Additionally, the National Housing Trust (NHT) has introduced a special mortgage moratorium to assist contributors and mortgagors impacted by natural disasters. The NHT also offers a Home Improvement loan to assist with roof and home repairs, with up to JMD 1.5 million per collateral.²
To submit an NHT special mortgage moratorium application, you can do so either online or in person through the following steps:
Online Application
Visit the National Housing Trust’s official website at www.nht.gov.jm.
Locate the special mortgage moratorium application form—usually available under the “Disaster Relief Facilities” or “Customer Services” section.
Complete the online application form by providing all required details, including your personal information, mortgage account number, and documentation showing impact from the natural disaster (such as photos of damage or proof of financial hardship).
Upload required supporting documents, including:
• Valid government-issued ID,
• Tax Registration Number (TRN),
• Evidence of property damage or income loss.
Submit the application and retain confirmation details or reference number for follow-up.
Contact for Help
• For guidance or questions, call NHT customer service or use their WhatsApp contact: 876-850-9498.
• Visit NHT’s official social media pages or website for updates and possible deadline extens
Chinese community packs relief supplies for St Elizabeth hurricane victims
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Several Chinese nationals have stepped up to support relief efforts for communities affected by Hurricane Melissa in St Elizabeth.
Videos shared on Instagram by Neil Yap Sam show volunteers at the Chinese Benevolent Association centre packing care packages destined for the hurricane-hit areas.
LATEST NEWS, SPORTSDecision on schoolboy football resumption expected FridayNovember 7, 2025
The packages, which contain essential items such as food, water, and hygiene products, are part of a broader effort to provide immediate assistance to residents struggling in the aftermath of the hurricane.
Things to Do in Saint Thomas Parish
Enter datesAttractionsFiltersSortMapCategory typesAttractionsToursDay TripsOutdoor ActivitiesFood & DrinkTransportationTypes of AttractionsNature & ParksSights & LandmarksSpas & WellnessMuseumsTraveller rating
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4.07Beaches
By JADEYY00This beach is beautiful. if you, your friend or family member works at the university of the west indies you will get...
4.03Waterfalls
By Notating53Located on the roadside of the main road in St Thomas the gem of a free waterfalls is perfect for Spring water street...
4.022Bus Services • WaterfallsOpen nowReggae Falls or Reggae Falls Travel & Tours is a waterfalls and attraction site. We provide tour guide services onsite as well as transportation and airport transfer service through .
3.77Points of Interest & Landmarks • LighthousesBy Notating53The drive there is on very rough unpaved roads. The roads in and to the lighthouse are the worst! It is best to drive...
Lighthouses
History Museums
5.01Historical & Heritage Tours • Taxis & Shuttles♠Visit historic Judgement Cliff, MB Courthouse, 3Finger Jack, Old Rum estate, The Spring or Falls, etc. ♠Hike & Camp in Timesha's Park Valley&Mountain. ♠Enjoy Riverside experience. ♠Chill at the beach…
Taxis & Shuttles • Walking ToursLocated minutes from Albion in St Thomas Jamaica. Enjoy this elegant, comfy, exclusive getaway and Oasis. We offer a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere for those in need of rest and relaxation. Wake…
Climbing Tours • Hiking & Camping ToursRest assured you'll be in good safe hands! Your guide is military trained in Jungle survival. Outdoors Vybz Survival Adventures offer a military escape and survival adventures in the hills, on the…
Cultural Tours • Historical & Heritage ToursOpen now
Short videosVideos about Lyssons Beach, Reggae Falls Travel & Tours and more0:27Explore St. Thomas Jamaica: Hidden Gems, Hot Spots & Nature Adventures46.8K+ views
mrs_quality_travelsTikTok · 10 months ago0:16Sheldon Levene | Have you been to these places in Saint Thomas, Jamaica 🇯🇲850+ likes
sheldonlevInstagram · 1 year ago0:15There are so many fun things to do in St. Thomas, you might need to plan a second trip (or five) to experience them all. 🏝️ From stunning beaches and... | By United States Virgin Islands2.9K+ reactions
United States Virgin IslandsFacebook · 2 months ago0:34St. Thomas, what’s up!! Still got a few more to add to the list, but f... | allen spring st thomas194.2K+ views
explorewithtash_TikTok · 5 months ago
0:35St. Thomas Travel Guide: Beaches, History & More!410+ views
Travel DayTrip IdeasYouTube · 1 month ago0:08Exploring Hidden Gems in St. Thomas, Jamaica16.2K+ views
halimahtravelsTikTok · 8 months ago1:25876 Let’s Travel St. Thomas | 📍Reggae Falls Hill side, St. Thomas 🎥Via: @simplylocal.life #StThomas #River #Beach #Falls #Food #Nature #BlueSky #ClearWater...50+ likes
876travelstthomasInstagram · 1 month ago0:0532 Best Things to Do in St. Thomas
viatravelersPinterest · 1 year ago
1:00Exploring Stony Gut and Morant Bay, St Thomas, #jamaica #explorejamaica640+ views
Onestop Cultural Tours JamaicaYouTube · 11 months ago0:40Exploring the Breathtaking Scenery of St. Thomas, Jamaica!29.5K+ views
shevmedzTikTok · 8 months ago
Tripadvisorhttps://www.tripadvisor.co.ukSaint Thomas Parish: All You Need to Know Before You Go (2025)Saint Thomas Parish Tourism: Tripadvisor has 338 reviews of Saint Thomas Parish Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best Saint Thomas Parish ...Discussions and forumsSt Thomas - Jamaica ForumTripadvisor · 8ySt. Thomas has nice sea excursions to the other U.S. Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands which are worth a day trip. I didn't find a ... MoreFull Day/Night ~ What to do? - St. Thomas Message BoardTripadvisor · 3moSt Thomas or Negril, Jamaica?Tripadvisor · 6y
naturessweetescapes.comhttps://www.naturessweetescapes.comExploring the Hidden Gems of St. Thomas, Jamaica - Nature's Sweet Escapes20 Nov 2023 — A breathtaking waterfall in Cloney District, White Hall. The journey to this undisclosed paradise involved a coaster bus to Morant Bay, followed by a taxi to ...
Notting Hill carnival came ‘very close’ to not taking place this year 2025
learn more at the link above
A CONVERSATION ABOUT PAUL BOGLE
It has been almost 160 years since this most terrifying event that took place on the original residents of stony gut in spring garden, St Thomas jamaica.
And there has not been any signs of compensation for the homes that were burned to the ground and over 500 dead.
when drawing comparisons to the current
wars around the world in particular the Ukraine, were funds have already been ear marked for the regeneration of the loss of the people of Ukraine. The leaders of the modern world has consistently closed there eyes tightly when it comes to compensating the original families of stony gut.
let us hear your views at the subscribe & messages link. Thanks for your time
IT IS Time that the british government should include compensation in respects of this horrific time in both Jamaican & British history at the following link along side the compensation for windrush generation
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/windrush-compensation-scheme-claim-forms-and-guidance/close-family-member-windrush-compensation-claim-guidance
Bogle concentrated on improving the conditions of the poor.[5] As awareness of social injustices and people's grievances grew, Bogle led a group of small farmers 45 miles to the capital, Spanish Town, hoping to meet with Governor Eyre to discuss their issues, but they were denied an audience.[6] The people of Stony Gut lost confidence and trust in the Government, and Bogle's supporters grew in number in the parish.
Why Can't You Afford a Home? (The Future of Capitalism) Hardcover – 12 Oct. 2018
by Josh Ryan-Collins (Author)4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars 65 ratingsPart of: The Future of Capitalism (11 books) See all formats and editions
Throughout the Western world, a whole generation is being priced out of the housing market. For millions of people, particularly millennials, the basic goal of acquiring decent, affordable accommodation is a distant dream.
Leading economist Josh Ryan-Collins argues that to understand this crisis, we must examine a crucial paradox at the heart of modern capitalism. The interaction of private home ownership and a lightly regulated commercial banking system leads to a feedback cycle. Unlimited credit and money flows into an inherently finite supply of property, which causes rising house prices, declining home ownership, rising inequality and debt, stagnant growth and financial instability. Radical reforms are needed to break the cycle.
African Caribbean Community Initiativehttps://acci.org.ukThe African Caribbean Community Initiative (ACCI) is a holistic and comprehensive support service for the African Caribbeans affected by mental ill health. Our ...
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Please be aware
The following web page discusses the legacy of colonialism at Trengwainton and historic slavery and includes references to histories that some people may find upsetting.
The Price family and Jamaica
The Price family owned large sugar plantations on Jamaica. They descended from Francis Price (1635-1689) who was believed to be a junior officer at the island’s conquest of 1655. Francis acquired his first Jamaican plantation in 1663, and subsequently bought further estates. In 1670, after England gained formal possession of Jamaica, he acquired 840 acres which he named Worthy Park.
Worthy Park passed through the hands of various members of the Price family, including John Price of Penzance the Younger (1838-97), Rose Price’s father. John Price was mostly absent from Worthy Park, running his plantations from England through local agents. His son Rose Price was educated at Penzance Grammar School, Harrow and then Oxford University, before embarking on a Grand Tour.
In 1791 the family estates in Jamaica, including Worthy Park, were in trouble owing to unscrupulous local agents. Rose Price travelled to Jamaica to assume direct management, where it is claimed he doubled their value.
The enslaved people at Worthy Park
Rose Price made detailed records which survive in his great plantation book, covering the years 1792-96, now held by the Library of Congress. In this we learn he expanded sugar-cane cultivation by 25% within three years. In order to achieve this, Price had expanded the number of enslaved people at Worthy Park from 355 to over 500. He also introduced adapted Cornish mining technology for mills and brought Cornishmen to assist in the plantation management.
The enslaved people working at Worthy Park came predominately from Africa. They, and their descendants, were deployed in the harvesting of sugar cane, but also worked in the production of sugar and rum. Others worked as carpenters and blacksmiths, a midwife and nurses, and in the 'great house' worked a 50-year-old cook named 'Penzance'. In his great plantation book, Price records the birth of two children with Lizette, a 13-year-old enslaved child, during the three years he spent at Worthy Park. Once older, he sent them to England to be educated.
Rose Price and Trengwainton
Rose Price returned from Jamaica in 1795 and that year married Elizabeth Lambert, niece of Lord Sherborne in Gloucestershire. His income from Jamaican estates was then around £6,000 a year, and he continued to invest in further plantations.
Price remained committed to slavery and became a staunch anti-abolitionist. In 1832, whilst living at Trengwainton, he wrote a defence entitled Pledges on Colonial Slavery, to Candidates for Seats in Parliament, Rightly Considered. This included his response to a pro-abolition article published in the West Briton on 7 December 1832. In his response, Price claimed, by giving various examples, that the treatment of enslaved people on plantations in Jamaica was better than of most labourers in England, and 'milder' than in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. His defence of colonial slavery is followed by printed letters in support of his view.
Rose Price died soon after British Parliament passed the Abolition Act in 1833. His executors later received over £10,000 compensation awarded to owners of formerly enslaved people. Despite this large sum, Price’s finances were not sound: he had encumbered both his Jamaican and Cornish estates with substantial debts, and Trengwainton was sold by its mortgage holders in 1835.
We know that there is still work to do in interpreting and exploring this part of history attached to Trengwainton garden and are working with partners through the Inclusive Global History project. Please contact Claire North (claire.north@nationaltrust.org.uk) for further information.
Read our report addressing our histories of colonialism and historic slavery.
BIG SUPER VISITS PAUL BOGLE MONUMENT IN STONY GUT
Big super visits the paul bogle monument
in stony gut spring garden, StThomas's.
hope you enjoy I did !
Aftermath
By the end of 1865 the "Governor Eyre Case" had become the subject of widespread national debate. In January 1866, a Royal Commission was sent to investigate the events. Governor Eyre was suspended and recalled to England and eventually dismissed. The national government changed that of Jamaica. The House of Assembly resigned its charter, and Jamaica was made a Crown Colony, governed directly by Britain.[9]
The "Eyre Controversy" turned into a long and increasingly public issue, dividing well-known figures of the day. It may have contributed to the fall of the government.
Immigration to the United States, 1851-1900
In the late 1800s, people in many parts of the world decided to leave their homes and immigrate to the United States. Fleeing crop failure, land and job shortages, rising taxes, and famine, many came to the U. S. because it was perceived as the land of economic opportunity. Others came seeking personal freedom or relief from political and religious persecution, and nearly 12 million immigrants arrived in the United States between 1870 and 1900. During the 1870s and 1880s, the vast majority of these people were from Germany, Ireland, and England - the principal sources of immigration before the Civil War. Even so, a relatively large group of Chinese immigrated to the United States between the start of the California gold rush in 1849 and 1882, when federal law stopped their immigration.
With the onset of hard economic times in the 1870s, European immigrants and Americans began to compete for the jobs traditionally reserved for the Chinese. With economic competition came dislike and even racial suspicion and hatred. Such feelings were accompanied by anti-Chinese riots and pressure, especially in California, for the exclusion of Chinese immigrants from the United States. The result of this pressure was the Chinese Exclusion Act, passed by Congress in 1882. This Act virtually ended Chinese immigration for nearly a century.
Immigrants entered the United States through several ports. Those from Europe generally came through East Coast facilities, while those from Asia generally entered through West Coast centers. More than 70 percent of all immigrants, however, entered through New York City, which came to be known as the "Golden Door." Throughout the late 1800s, most immigrants arriving in New York entered at the Castle Garden depot near the tip of Manhattan. In 1892, the federal government opened a new immigration processing center on Ellis Island in New York harbor.
Although immigrants often settled near ports of entry, a large number did find their way inland. Many states, especially those with sparse populations, actively sought to attract immigrants by offering jobs or land for farming. Many immigrants wanted to move to communities established by previous settlers from their homelands.
Rose Hall
Great House
The Story: White Witch of Rose Hall
At the heart of the property is the historic Rose Hall Great House, a restored 18th-century architectural masterpiece. Home of the notorious White Witch of Rose Hall: Annee Palmer. Known famously to have killed three husbands and taken on numerous slave lovers, only to die by the hands of the one she loved the most. The Rose Hall Great House offers both Day and Night guided Tours in over 10 languages.
The beauty and views of the Rose Hall Great House is sure to capture your heart. Neighbouring luxury residential communities, featuring golf course frontage with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and home to two of the Caribbean’s most widely acclaimed golf courses, Rose Hall offers 36 holes of championship play designed by Rick Baril, Robert von Hagge.
DAY TOUR
Rose Hall Great House & Garden Tour
Monday-Saturday From 9:00am to 5:00pm
Closed on Sundays & Public Holidays
Immerse yourself in the heritage of the island as your expert guide shares the story of this colonial ruin restored to its former majesty in the 1960’s. Learn about the lifestyle of the European bourgeoisie in the isles of the Caribbean in the Eighteenth Century. The tale of the Annee Palmer, the famed White Witch of Rose Hall is sure to delight. Beautiful tropical gardens and personalities will colour your experience with fun along the way!
NIGHT TOUR
Rose Hall Great House Tours After Dark
Wednesday-Saturday From 6:00pm to 9:00pm
At night, Rose Hall is not for the faint of heart! Immerse yourself in the lifestyle of the 19th-century European bourgeoisie…but with a twist. You will come to know the true horrors of the “White Witch of Rose Hall”, Annee Palmer, and the many spirits that walk the halls of the Rose Hall Great House at night. Hear the spine-chilling historic tale of the notorious murders and feel the house come alive through an interactive tour set in the 19th century… Afterwards, steady your nerves with a ‘Witches Brew’ cocktail at the Dungeon Bar.
Visit us today… the White Witch awaits.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- The Legend of Rose Hall
- Jamaica’s ONLY Haunted Night Tour
- Guided tour of the Rose Hall Great House
- Tours are conducted in English. However, scripts are available in over ten (10) languages.
- Haunted Night Tour is directed by Douglas Prout
- Historical Museum
- 18th Century Graveyard
- Bird Watching (Day & Garden Tour)
- Nature Walk (Day & Garden Tour)
- Shop at the Annee’s Treasure for authentic Jamaican arts and crafts
- Witches Brew Cocktail at Dungeon Bar (not included in tour cost)
- Duration – 45 minutes to 1 hour
PRICE
- Day Tour: $30 USD / $12 USD for ages 4 – 11 years old
- Night Tour: $35 USD / $15 USD for ages 4 – 11 years old
WHAT TO BRING
- Comfortable Shoes
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
- Reservations are required for all Haunted Night Tours
- Reservations are required for groups over 15
- Transportation is not provided to tour location
- Tour duration is not inclusive of travel time to tour location
- All tours are weather permitting
- No photos or videos are allowed in the house
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Not recommended for the physically challenged
- Not recommended for people with back problems or who have had a recent back surgery
- Not handicapped accessible
ST THOMAS JAMAICA STANDING UP TO CHILD ABUSE
A group of young people has decided to take a stand and 'Be the Change' they want to see in Jamaica. Forming a foundation around their mission, the activists' main focus at this point is child abuse.
Originator of Be the Change Foundation, Monique Mitchell told Rural Xpress that she identified that there was a lapse in the system and many children were silently suffering from abuse. She knew she had to do something about it, so she began seeking volunteers who are passionate about making a change.
Under the theme: 'Break the Silence: Uncover the Abuse', their initial campaign hopes to educate the communities in St Thomas about the definition of child abuse, what constitutes child abuse, measures to take if they, or someone they know, is being abused and, ultimately, ways in which they can prevent the mistreatment.
"Though the foundation is island-focused, our first campaign will be done here in St Thomas and we hope that it will impact the rest of Jamaica," said Mitchell, who revealed that her interest in making a change stemmed from her own childhood.
I was abused at a young age and I realised that it had taken a toll on my life. The fact that no one else knew about it drove me crazy. I kept gravitating to the wrong things, but then I realised that overcoming my fear of the abuse would allow me to be a better person. It also led me to realise that a lot of people need to know that it wasn't their fault that they were abused or had a terrible childhood, so it makes no sense they beat up themselves about it for the rest of their lives," she said, adding that those abused need help and guidance.
And thus, the foundation was formed.
Though the official launch date for Let's Be The Change Foundation is set for December 12, Mitchell said a meeting was recently held in an attempt to recruit volunteers for the movement. The campaign, she said, is going well so far.
social media
"We have a few dedicated team members and volunteers. So far, we've been flooding social media with pictures we've been taking for the campaign. The pictures are of us covering our eyes and mouth to signal the abuse and break the silence, respectively," Mitchell said.
According to her: "Starting next week (this week), we'll be going into the schools and various communities to host presentations on child abuse. The public needs to hear us."
Rasheda Rodney-Samuels, the event manager of the foundation, told Rural Xpress that they are now in the process of seeking sponsorship to fund the various campaigns.
"We're not only asking for their money, but we also need their involvement. We don't want to just have community members involved to give people the idea that this will only last for a couple of months. When we have the various businesses and government entities on board, then it becomes more noticeable," she said, advising that this will cause the campaigns to cover a larger population, thus influencing more feedback and results. Volunteers are still being asked to reach out.
Sidemen Charity Match 2025: Confirmed line-ups for massive Wembley football game
The match will be played at a sold-out Wembley Stadium
Greg EvansFriday 07 March 2025 17:47 GMTComments
The YouTube sensations the Sidemen return on Saturday (March 8) with the latest edition of their football charity match, which is being held at Wembley Stadium.
The collective, who have more than 22 million subscribers on YouTube, is made up of online stars including KSI, Wroetoshaw, Miniminter, Behzinga, TBJZL, Vikkstar123 and Zerkaa.
The group formed in 2013 to initially record themselves playing games like Grand Theft Auto V together. Their popularity has flourished ever since, evolving into other ventures including a clothing brand, a fast food restaurant chain, a book and their own Netflix documentary.
They have held charity football matches since 2016, previously playing the games at Southampton’s St Mary’s Stadium, Charlton’s The Valley, and West Ham’s London Stadium.
Saturday’s game will be the biggest that they have ever hosted, having sold-out Wembley with more than 90,000 fans expected to attend. This year money is being raised for Bright Side and BBC Children in Need.
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The fifth match, held in 2023, raised more than £2m for charity. It also broke a Guinness world record for the most viewers for a sports event live stream on social media after 2,558,501 people tuned in.
Fans of popular YouTubers will be able to stream the event on the group’s official channel from 2.10pm GMT on 8 March.
The game itself is always contested between the Sidemen’s team and the YouTube AllStars with the Sidemen winning all but one of the matches so far.
Although the starting XI for both sides will be announced before Saturday’s 3 pm kick-off, the squads for both teams have already been announced with major YouTube stars, Logan Paul, iShowSpeed and MrBeast, all set to play.
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The YouTube sensations the Sidemen return on Saturday (March 8) with the latest edition of their football charity
Your health and social care champion
We are here to make sure that those running
Community development
How we help to develop our communities
We aim to improve the quality of life and health of everyone living or working within our borough.
We want to:
- support individuals, groups and organisations
- raise Walsall's profile and showcase our achievements
- build community spirit and sustainable communities
- remove barriers that might stop people from taking part in events and decision making
- provide council buildings to community groups
We do this through working with diverse communities and nurturing partnerships, like the Local Compact.
What is the Local Compact?
The Local Compact is a partnership that brings together people from across the borough and helps us to work towards common goals.
It's made up of people from:
- Walsall Council
- the local NHS
- the Voluntary and Community Sector
- local businesses
- Walsall's community
This partnership helps us to create and manage cultural opportunities, events and projects that improve all of our lives.
Setting up a community group
You can find your local co-ordinator and contact them for help to:
- access funding and training
- register as a charity
- get the right policies in place
Voluntary organisations
We also work with voluntary organisations within the borough:
- Walsall Community Network
- Walsall For All
- Making Connections Walsall
- Walsall Victim Support
- Relate Walsall
- YMCA Walsall
Report a building problem
If your community organisation has a problem in the council building it's based in, let us know. We can help with repairs and maintenance.
Empowering Jamaica & UK for a Safer Tomorrow
Through the Programme’s targeted capacity-building sessions, law enforcement officials at the nation’s maritime and seaports, airport authorities and customs agents now boast of improved detection capabilities. The Programme is also providing legal advice and legislative support in the development of a new Firearms Bill, a legislative framework governing small arms reduction.
Further, it has also facilitated meaningful research by launching the first Violence Audit conducted in Jamaica. The Audit is the first time a clear baseline has been established on the use of small arms and light weapons in volatile communities. Moreover, the inter-agency technical working group, an innovative component of the programme, has fostered increased collaboration and information sharing, ensuring a comprehensive and people-centered approach to tackling violence.
The Programme has also worked closely with educators and youth to foster firearm free and peaceful school communities. Engaging closely with the Ministry of Education and Youth, the Programme has led to the establishment of clear guidelines on reducing the presence of firearms in schools, opening channels of communications to various breaches and recording incidents of use. For vulnerable youth, the Programme has been instrumental in setting up “Youth For Peace Clubs” that are helping inculcate peaceful conflict mediation skills, manage their social and emotional behaviours and tackle gender stereotypes to bring about change.
One teacher, participating in the training, commented, "I really appreciated all that was shared about peace. My main take away is that peace is more than just a word but an active tool to effect positive change in all our lives and improve the quality of our lives. What I will do now is to promote peace in all my classes and guide my students to peaceful resolutions for their conflicts.”
Reflecting on how interpersonal conflicts would earlier escalate into fights and the change since the Programme’s intervention, two youth participants to the training said, “I learned the difference between conflict and violence. I want to use my learnings to change the school. I want to be a change maker. I want to create a Youth For Peace Club at my school.”
“It is time for the Government to take action and ban machetes, and zombie knives with immediate effect.”
To Guns! Yes To Life - International Awareness Campaign against Gun Violence
Friday, March 14, 2025
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- No To Guns! Yes To Life - International Awareness Campaign against Gun Violence
No To Guns! Yes To Life - International Awareness Campaign against Gun Violence
By Karl Pearson on Sunday, November 21, 2010 - 2 comments
Jamaican campaign group aims to bring people together to help tackle this burgeoning problem.
Gun and knives crime appears to be an increasing problem the world over with more than Three Million (3,000,000) lives taken by it each year and it is probably fair to say that Jamaica has more than its share. A campaign is now underway there to try and unify people into saying enough really is enough.
The “No To Guns! Yes To Life International Awareness Campaign Against Gun, Knife & Gang Violence” is being spear headed by Black Music Promotions from Portmore. They believe that fighting crime is not just the sole responsibility of the Police, but of all citizens as well, and only through collaborated, committed effort can this be achieved.
Joshua
"Joshua grieved, and wanted to do a song, that would be used as a learning tool, for others. This is how he got the inspiration, to write this song", told us Randolph Fisher, Chief Executive Officer of Black Music Promotion.
"GUN OR LIFE was recorded in 2006, as Joshua had a friend who was involved in illegal gun activities. Joshua on numerous occasions, ask him to quit and change from his way of living. At one point in time, Joshua ask him to come to the studio with him, to see if he could get the man involved in music recording, but he refused as usual. That same day Joshua invited him to the studio, he died the evening, he was killed by police after robing & shot some one."
"Joshua grieved, and wanted to do a song, that would be used as a learning tool, for others. This is how he got the inspiration, to write this song."
It hopes that by getting its citizens and police to work together and unite as one they will dim
Plan to cut thousands of civil service jobs in radical government shake-up
Exclusive: Proposals also include crackdown on quangos and restructuring NHS England
A radical blueprint for reforming the state is being drawn up by government officials, including a crackdown on quangos and thousands more civil service job cuts, the Guardian understands.
Proposals to restructure NHS England, with entire teams axed to save money and avoid duplication, could be replicated across a range of arm’s length bodies that spend about £353bn of public money.
Separately, No 10 and the Treasury are understood to be taking a close interest in proposals drawn up by Labour Together, a thinktank with close links to the government, to reshape the state under plans dubbed “project chainsaw”.
The project’s nickname is a reference to Elon Musk’s stunt wielding a chainsaw to symbolise controversial government cuts for Donald Trump’s administration.
Keir Starmer told his cabinet at their weekly meeting on Tuesday that they should stop “outsourcing” decisions to regulators and quangos and take more responsibility for their own departments.
The prime minister said they “must go further and faster to reform the state” and reverse what he described as a “trend” under previous government of decisions being made by other bodies.
In a speech on Thursday he will set out plans expected to result in the cutting of thousands more Whitehall jobs than expected, as well as a reorganisation of more than 300 quangos, including NHS England, which together employ almost 300,000 people.
How much water should you drink daily?
0:00 / 0:47How much water should you drinkdaily?
The initiative, from DHSC and the Department for Education, will be backed by £11 million. Schools are able to voluntarily sign up to the scheme.
Health minister Stephen Kinnock said: “It is shocking that a third of five-year-olds in the most deprived areas have experience of tooth decay, something we know can have a lifelong impact on their health.
“It’s why we’re delivering supervised toothbrushing to young children and families who are most in need of support as part of our wider plans to revive the oral health of the nation.
“This includes providing 23 million free toothbrushes and toothpastes through our partnership with Colgate-Palmolive to reach up to 600,000 children each year.”
Early education minister Stephen Morgan, added: “This Government is working hard to break the unfair link between background and opportunity, to ensure tens of thousands more children are school ready every year.”
Do you agree with the rollout of this campaign across England? (Image: DEAN HINDMARCH/Getty)Eddie Crouch, chairman of the British Dental Association commented: “It’s rare to find something to smile about in dentistry these days.
“But supervised tooth-brushing is tried and tested policy that will save children from pain and our NHS a fortune.”
Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders’ union NAHT, explained: “There is no doubt that there is a crisis in childhood dental health in this country and the Government are right to make it a priority.
“However, we cannot keep loading increasing expectations on schools.
Recommended reading:
- Pageant queen urges regular eye tests as she credits hers for saving her life
- Warning to parents due to take maternity or paternity leave
- How to appeal a school place if your child doesn't get their first choice
“Nor can we keep looking to schools to fix all of society’s ills. Most people would see tooth-brushing as a basic part of parenting, and we must be careful not to shift what is ultimately a parental responsibility on to the shoulders of schools.
“The new expectations around breakfast clubs are already placing increasing demands in schools, there is only so much we can expect teachers and school staff to do.
“We would urge the Government to think further about how parents can be supported to look after their children’s oral health and to focus on rebuilding NHS dentistry.”
HEALTHShare0 Comments
MARCUS PORTMAN IN ACTION
2:00Marcus portman vs Anton Henry.
Facebook · jonah's boxing blog7 reactions · 1 year agoOur very own Marcus Mpuk Portman last night at the hanger Fantastic performance brother · Marcus Mpuk Portman profile picture.
Marcus PORTMAN
Super-Welterweight
Male
Gt.Britain, West Bromwich, England
Born: 26 September 1980, West Bromwich, England
"southpaw"
Marcus Portman has a two-year plan
Express & Starhttps://www.expressandstar.com › sport › 2011/05/21
21 May 2011 — West Bromwich's Marcus Portman goes up against Jamie Cox having given himself another two years to make his mark in the boxing world.
Daniel Dubois says he won't be 'denied' in his rematch with Oleksandr Usyk and believes he is the champion to 'take over' the heavyweight division.
Usyk defends his WBC, WBO and WBA world heavyweight titles against IBF champion Dubois at Wembley Stadium on July 19.
Dubois is in red hot form, having beaten Anthony Joshua, Filip Hrgovic and Jarrell Miller since a stoppage loss to Usyk in their first fight in 2023, and the 27-year-old believes he will soon be crowned as the new world No 1.
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"Fireworks, it's going to be bombs away on the night," Dubois told Sky Sports.
"I'm going to be the one throwing the bombs, coming through whatever I've got to come through. I'm not going to be denied.
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Play Video - Dubois shoves Usyk at first face-off for their undisputed showdown!Daniel Dubois shoves Oleksandr Usyk ahead of their undisputed heavyweight rematch.
"I see him as a top guy, he's one of the best ranked in the world but now I think it's my time. You know I'm the young lion here, I've got to prove I'm a real force, a new force in the division and I'm going to take over.
"Prepare, prepare, fight, destruction, yeah."
Also See:
- Wilder before Fury? AJ in race for legacy fights
- Dubois challenger to be decided by Sanchez v Ajagba 2
Dubois is returning to the scene of his greatest triumph, a fifth round knockout of Joshua last September.
The Londoner is aiming to emulate Lennox Lewis by becoming a British undisputed world heavyweight king.
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Play Video - Usyk on Dubois’ low blow, the shove and a potential Fury rematchOleksandr Usyk discusses Daniel Dubois’ low blow from their previous fight, the signal he made after he was pushed in their face-off and the potential to fight Tyson Fury for a third time
"I'm in a good place," said Dubois. "I'm at a good level myself, both physically and mentally. I'm ready to go man.
"It's going to be a massive event. It's going to be global, world wide, everyone tuning into it - I can't wait, it means a lot to me.
"We'll find a way [to keep emotions in check]. My Dad manages it pretty well, it's a good team so I'm going to be so zoned in and focused. I'll do the job and not let anything get in the way.
"It means the world, it means conquering everything this sport has to offer at the top of the game. Being undisputed in boxing is everything.
Club World Cup 2025: How to watch every match on TV and online
Everything you need to know about watching the Club World Cup, including which TV channels and live streaming services will show matches
How to watch the Club World Cup
The 2025 Club World Cup is underway as the world’s top clubs meet in the USA to contest the first edition of the newly formatted competition.
European giants including Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Manchester Cityand Champions League winners PSG are set to battle for the new trophy, with Fifa also putting aside almost £100m in prize money for the winners.
- Watch every Fifa Club World Cup game free on DAZN. Sign up here now
And the continent’s best clubs will meet the best teams from across the rest of world football in the 32-team tournament, with South American giants Boca Juniors, River Plate and Fluminense also in action alongside Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami and Saudi side Al-Hilal.
The competition kicked off with Inter Miami drawing 0-0 with Al Ahly on 14 June as the first match of a 48-game group stage, with the competition concluding with the final on 13 July.
And with matches almost every day between now and then, we’ve provided a guide with information on how to watch the Club World Cup for free in the UK.
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How to watch the Club World Cup
DAZN will be broadcasting each match of the tournament live, from the opener up to and including the final, for free in the UK.
All users need to do is sign up for the company’s DAZN Freemiumservice, with the option to watch ad-free coverage for £14.99.
Users can watch DAZN from anywhere by using the DAZN App on TVs, smartphones and any device with a web browser.
The streaming service has hired several footballing legends as part of it’s coverage team, with Ronaldo Nazario, Claude Makelele, Sami Khedira, John Obi Mikel and Christian Vieri among the former players to feature on the punditry line-up, alongside Shay Given and Premier League striker Callum Wilson.
Ade Oladipo, Kelly Somers and Olivia Buzaglo will act as hosts for the coverage alongside former Football Italia presenter James Richardson.
And Conor McNamara will head the commentary team, with former Premier League players Andros Townsend, Michael Brown, Brad Friedel, Rob Green and Danny Higginbotham among the notable co-commentators.
If Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury are to fight on, they should box each other, says former world champion George Groves.
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Richardson Hitchins stopped George Kambosos in eight rounds to defend the IBF super-lightweight world title in New York.
Katie Taylor’s next fight should be against Chantelle Cameron, says co-founder of MVP promotions Nakisa Bidarian.
Ben Whittaker brought his rivalry with Liam Cameron to a conclusive finish in April and the Olympic silver medallist has an array of options for his next fight.
Dillian Whyte will face Moses Itauma in a big British heavyweight battle in Riyadh on August 16, it has been confirmed.
A rematch between Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn is edging closer with Eubank now actively seeking a second fight against his bitter rival.
Terence Crawford is leaping up two divisions to challenge Canelo Alvarez for undisputed super-middleweight world title.
- Scotney the 'best in the world under the age of 30'
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SMART CITY
.Smart cities solutions that will amaze you,
This is a concept the Rt honourable prime minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness has suggested for Jamaica.
Well only time will tell, but for the mean time let’s take one step at a time.
Infrastructure is the necessary component
in making smart cities work, on the back of hurricane melissa a smart city maybe some way yet. Either way good look jamaica
City of the future - mobility solutions
Being a former car manufacturer, now a mobility company, Toyota really pushed the boundaries with mobility solutions that are to be implemented in Woven. They proposed an innovative way to separate different types of urban commute and reinforced it with autonomous vehicles to then transfer a great deal of transportation underground.
📷
The concept of smart cities has been circling around for years. Although initially dubbed as futuristic embroidery and oftentimes portrayed in dystopian novels, it is no longer a pipe dream but a bold vision coming to life. As much as flying cars and robots replacing humans in daily activities are not likely to be seen in the foreseeable future, the implementation of smart cities idea is a real-life occurrence. Technology world is on a continuous hunt for better, faster, smarter, more efficient and more advanced solutions. Big-tech companies are racing to introduce ground-breaking measures in order to fit into the leading edge. And… it’s no surprise that they do.Humankind is bound to witness the highest level of technological advancement. From rechargeable electric vehicles, energy created from wind or water and spaceships exploring cosmic space to big data, fintech, IoT and artificial intelligence, the world is inundated with solutions that were once beyond the boldest dreams. This is where the idea of smart cities emerges and sets off on an ambitious venture to bring the innovations together in order to create interconnected operation networks that would eventually run the cities.
Real-life smart cities best examples
Authorities and entrepreneurs have been searching for solutions to leverage technology so that it satisfies the increasing requirements. Across the globe we can already observe some highly advanced metropolitan areas. Amongst the most technology-oriented cities, we can differentiate:
Singapore
According to IMD Smart City Index 2020, Singapore ranks first. It leads the way in terms of healthcare and livability, mobility and safety. Although, known for its extraordinary architecture, Singapore has a lot to offer when it comes to smart mobility solutions, with great emphasis on facilitations for its eldelry citizens. An autonomous fleet has been created to help senior citizens stay mobile. They also use a contactless payment/ticketing system in public transport. With the use of “open data”, the authorities introduced a trial to facilitate transport planning, that way 5 000 vehicles are being analyzed in real-time circumstances. The trial resulted in the rate of over-crowded buses being reduced by whooping 92%.Another milestone on the path to the impressive number one position in smart cities ranking is how greatly developed the healthcare system is. TeleHealth video consultations offer appointments over the internet. TeleRehab allows patients to undergo exercises in their own home through wearable IoT devices which monitor patients’ state. There is also an AI-based Smart Elderly Alert System that alerts caregivers when an emergency action is required due to the patient's physical symptoms.
the above have managed to implement innovatory solutions as new standards in the everyday life of citizens and authorities. However, these are naturally not the only cities in the world that undertook actions towards being more smart and technology-oriented. Amongst other solutions implemented across the world we can find:
- Sensors that can monitor crowd density and the movement of registered cars.
- Systems that can tell when people are littering from high rise buildings
- Apps allowing citizens to find an ATM, pay a ticket, report violations
- Smart street lights that adapt to the activity on the street.
- Smart metering systems feeding the energy data automatically to energy supplier, connected with solar panels and their share of energy production to the grid
- Waste management with sensors automatically reporting to the services when containers are full
- Advanced charging networks for electric vehicles, enabling seamless commute for EV users
- Broad adoption of solar panels in public assets, such as traffic lights,
The list impressively goes on.
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Everything is „E” but what's the deal with it?
When should I call 159?
Here are some scenarios in which you should call 159:
- If someone contacts you claiming to be from your bank, even if they don’t sound suspicious, hang up and call 159 to check if your bank really did need to contact you.
- If someone contacts you claiming to be an authority figure, for example the police, and asks you to transfer money, even if it seems genuine. Don’t transfer any money or provide any bank details – hang up and call 159.
- If you feel uneasy or suspicious about a call you’ve received from someone asking for financial details or pressuring you into making a payment, it’s not rude to hang up. It’s a reasonable and sensible thing to do. Call 159.
What happens when I call 159?
When you call 159, you will be directly connected to your bank. If you’re a Starling customer, this means you’ll be put in touch with a member of our team. They will be able to check whether the call you received really was from someone at Starling. If for any reason, 159 doesn’t work as it should, you can call Starling Customer Services directly using the number on the back of your card.
Remember that if Starling does call you (for example if you’ve requested a callback), we will never ask you to share your PIN, password or ask you to authorise a payment from your account to a new ‘safe account’. If someone asks you to do this, they are a fraudster.
What if I think I’ve already been scammed?
If you think you’ve already been the victim of fraud, you should get in touch with our 24/7 customer service team as soon as possible. You should also report your suspicion to the
What if I think I’ve already been scammed?
If you think you’ve already been the victim of fraud, you should get in touch with our 24/7 customer service team as soon as possible. You should also report your suspicion to the
Reggae: the sound that revolutionised Britain
This article is more than 13 years oldPunk may have got all the headlines, but reggae proved vital in ending the rift between black and white teenagers and introducing cross-pollination to the charts
It was punk's "summer of hate", 1977, and the required pose was a sneer, a leather jacket and something hacked about – a spiky haircut, a ripped T-shirt, a sawn-off school tie. And, of course, no flares, the despised flag of hippiedom. But at the cold, concrete roots of Britain a very different aesthetic was also in the ascendant, one calling for an oversized tam, dreadlocks and a display of "the red, gold and green", the colours of Rastafari. Flares? Fine!
The two looks represented the different worlds inhabited by young white and black Britain, worlds which a year previously had been remote from each other but which by the summer of 1977 were unexpectedly and often uncomfortably rubbing shoulders. At Hackney town hall, under portraits of whiskery Victorian aldermen, I watched the Cimarons chant down Babylon while Generation X snarled their way through "Wild Youth". In Brixton, I gaped as the Slits, the acme of unruliness, shared a stage with Birmingham's Steel Pulse, the most militant of Britain's proliferating reggae bands.
More than just the "Punky Reggae Party" Bob Marley had playfully celebrated on disc that summer, these were gigs that signalled the birth of a new Britain, one in which the neofascist National Front was consigned to the margins and musical cross-pollination became the norm. Rock-reggae bands such as the Police, ska revivalists such as the Specials and home-grown reggae acts such as Janet Kay would soon occupy the charts. Further down the line would come UB40, Culture Club, Soul II Soul and then the current era in which, to quote Soul II Soul singer Caron Wheeler: "You can't distinguish between colour any more – it's just people."
These days, punk is to be found in the cultural academy, in lecture halls, art galleries and fashion history books. By contrast, British reggae remains half-forgotten and little praised, represented mainly by the Specials' "Ghost Town" as the default tune for any retrospective on the bleak, Thatcherite early 80s.
By way of correcting the imbalance comes Reggae Britannia, a BBC4 documentary in the vein of the channel's Soul Britannia and Folk Britannia, which follows Britain's romance with Jamaican music from "My Boy Lollipop", Millie Small's 1964 hit, through to the late 80s. Its broadcast is preceded by a Barbican concert featuring a selection of Jamaican and UK acts – Big Youth, Ali Campbell, Carroll Thompson and Ken Boothe among others.
Those 1977 shows, organised by a nascent Rock Against Racism, meant it had taken 29 years since the arrival of the Empire Windrush for black and white Britain to share the same stage. Preposterous though it now seems, it hadn't happened too often before. Jazz had long provided a cross-racial haven (black bandleaders such as Ken "Snakehips" Johnson were active as far back as the 1930s), but most often the only place to find the two communities mixing was in a soul club or at an Al Green or Stevie Wonder concert. As late as 1978, Joe Strummer would sing of being the only "(White Man) in Hammersmith Palais" at a reggae extravaganza (Joe exaggerated; there were at least six).
reggae terms, it had taken the emergence of Bob Marley to effect the uneasy coalition of rock fans, black youth, lofty Rastas and proto-punks that confronted each other at his celebrated 1975 Lyceum shows. After Marley, reggae was taken seriously as music of substance and innovation, where previously it had been treated at best as a novelty or simply ridiculed.
The series of reggae hits that had made the UK's pop charts in the late 60s and early 70s seemed only to harden prejudice; Tony Blackburn, in his pomp as Radio 1's premier DJ
GRANDPA FALLS IN ST THOMAS JAMAICA
EXPLORING GRAMPA WATERFALL: A TALE OF SERENITY AND DISCOVERY
As an avid traveler and nature enthusiast, stumbling upon hidden gems is a rewarding experience. St. Thomas, Jamaica, is a place rich in hidden natural treasures waiting to be discovered.
WELCOME TO EMANCIPATION PARK
A TRIBUTE TO OUR FREEDOM
The morning breeze ushers in dawn's new light as joggers commence the day's ever-changing cycle. A rare jewel in the heart of Kingston city, Emancipation Park is a refuge for many who seek solitude and a soothing ambience away from the hustle and bustle of daily living. It's an oasis where one can rejuvenate among its lush seven-acre landscape that symbolizes the legendary beauty of the island of Jamaica. Nature lovers can bask in the Park's scenery lined with tropical flowers and trees such as the majestic Royal Palm, its branches stretching outwards beckoning to the skies. Art lovers can appreciate the beautifully crafted 11ft. bronze sculpture "Redemption Song" by celebrated Jamaican artist, Laura Facey that graces the ceremonial entrance of the Park. The opening of Emancipation Park in July 2002 is a significant milestone in the journey of our nation. The Park was created to be a symbol of our Freedom to Hope, to Excel and to Be.
http://www.emancipationpark.org.jm/about-us/journey-to-freedom.ph
Jamaican officials say more casualties expected after Hurricane Melissa causes 'total devastation'
30 October 2025
Summary
- Hurricane Melissa has torn a path of total devastation across parts of the Caribbean
- Dozens have been killed, including at least five people in Jamaica and a further 20 in Haiti, and there has been "considerable damage" in Cuba - here's a closer look at the hurricane's impact
- In Jamaica, officials say more casualties are expected, as the country grapples with power outages
- A team of BBC reporters is travelling across Jamaica - follow along as they bring us on-the-ground updates
- Bermuda's government say conditions are expected to "deteriorate rapidly" as the hurricane approaches
- Meanwhile, the UK government has chartered flights to help British nationals leave Jamaica
- Have you or someone you know been impacted by Hurricane Melissa? Get in touch via email, external or WhatsApp +44 7756 165803, external
He will be known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor and will also be evicted from Royal Lodge
Victoria WardDeputy Royal Editor
Related Topics
30 October 2025 9:36pm GMT7905Gift this article free
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British man charged with racially aggravated rape of Indian-origin woman in U.K.
Chief Superintendent Phil Dolby from the local Walsall Police said his team will continue their patrols and conversations in the neighbourhood, which has been shaken up by the attack
man arrested on suspicion of the racially aggravated sexual assault of an Indian-origin woman in Walsall has been charged with rape and appeared before Birmingham Magistrates Court on Wednesday (October 29, 2025).
Man charged with racially aggravated rape of woman in Walsall
- CENTRAL
- WALSALL
- WEST MIDLANDS POLICE
- Tuesday 28 October 2025 at 6:25pm
A man has been charged in connection with a racially-aggravated rape in Walsall.
John Ashby, 32, of no fixed abode has been charged with one count of rape and sexual assault in relation to the attack of the woman, who was not known to him.
He has also been charged with intentional strangulation, racially aggravated assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and robbery in relation to the same victim.
West Midlands Police were called to the Park Hall area of Walsall just after 7.15pm on Saturday night (25th October), after a woman was reported to be distressed in the street.
The force said the woman in her 20s had been raped and assaulted at a nearby property by a man she did not know.
A 32-year-old man was arrested just before 7am on the 27th October, in the Perry Barr area of Birmingham.
"In the public interest to pursue criminal proceedings"
Ben Samples, Head of the CPS West Midlands Rape and Serious Sexual Offences Unit, said:
“We have decided to prosecute John Ashby with rape, sexual assault, intentional strangulation, racially aggravated assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and robbery.
“This follows an investigation by West Midlands Police which looked at the rape and assault of a woman in her 20s at a property in Walsall.
“Our prosecutors have worked to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court and that it is in the public interest to pursue criminal proceedings.
“John Ashby will appear at a court to be confirmed on 29 October 2025 for his first hearing.
“We remind all concerned that criminal proceedings against the defendant are active and that he has the right to a fair trial.
“It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”
Trump says Israel and Hamas have agreed to first phase of Gaza peace deal, paving way for ceasefire
Watch live
Summary
- US President Donald Trump says Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of his Gaza peace deal
- In a post on social media, he writes "ALL of the Hostages will be released very soon" and "Israel will withdraw their Troops to an agreed upon line"
- Hamas has confirmed the deal - but it has not yet received the final list of prisoners that Israel plans to release in exchange, a Palestinian source tells the BBC
- Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu calls the agreement "a great day for Israel" and will convene his government on Thursday to approve it
- A ceasefire will go into effect immediately after approval by the Israeli government around 14:00 Jerusalem time (12:00 BST), a senior Palestinian official says
- Despite hopes this could lead to the end of the two-year war, crucial details still need to be discussed, writes our Middle East correspondent
- The breakthrough in Egypt comes two years and two days after Israel launched a military campaign in Gaza in response to the 7 October 2023 attack, in which Hamas-led gunmen killed about 1,200 people and took 251 others as hostages
- At least 67,183 have been killed by Israeli military operations in Gaza since then, including 20,179 children, the Hamas-run health ministry says
Scroll to previous itemScroll to next item, 3 of 6
- 0:44'There is a sense of happiness' in Gaza, says BBC correspondent. 00:00:44, play video'There is a sense of happiness' in Gaza, says BBC correspondent
- 0:30Palestinians in Gaza rejoice at deal announcement. 00:00:30, play videoPalestinians in Gaza rejoice at deal announcement
Hospitals to reintroduce face masks in Covid spike
, The face masks must be worn in parts of the hospitals, including cancer wards, children's wards and the emergency department
ByAndy GiddingsWest Midlands
- Published8 October 2025
Two hospitals are to reintroduce compulsory face masks in some areas in response to a growing number of Covid-19 cases.
The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital Trust said it would apply to parts of the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and Telford's Princess Royal Hospital from Wednesday.
Face masks will be provided to visitors at both sites and the trust has asked people not to visit if they are suffering from any infection, such as a cold, flu, sore throat, diarrhoea, vomiting or a chest infection.
The trust said it was taking the precautions after receiving advice from NHS England.
The areas where face masks must be worn at all times are:
- Emergency Department
- Same Day Emergency Care, Acute Medical Unit, Acute Medical Assessment area
- Surgical Assessment Unit
- Children's Assessment Unit and Ward 19
- Ward 24 and Ward 17 Respiratory
- Cancer wards, including: Ward 23 Oncology/Haematology, Chemo Day Centre, Lingen Davies, Haematology clinics and Paediatric Oncology/Haematology
- Ward 35 Nephrology
- Neonatal unit
The trust said people who feel they are exempt must discuss this with a member of staff.
It also said if people feel unwell, but have a hospital appointment, they should contact the relevant department for advice.
Get in touch
THE JOURNEY TO FREEDOM...
FROM SLAVERY TO EMANCIPATION
When the English captured Jamaica from the Spaniards in 1655, they saw the potential wealth that sugar cane known then as "yellow gold" could bring them. The English were however not physically capable of growing sugar canes themselves as this was a crop that required intensive manual labour.
By then, the Arawak Indians, the original natives of the island, had become extinct. Natural disasters such as hurricanes as well as the diseases they contracted from the Spanish who held them captive for many years, virtually wiped out this indigenous population.
The English then looked towards the continent of Africa, where it was said that the Africans could withstand the heat and their bodies were more resistant to diseases. The majority of the slaves, who were taken from West Africa, endured a dreadful journey to the West Indies referred to as "The Middle Passage". By the late 18th Century, it was noted that Jamaica had the largest number of slaves in the British West Indies and a most successful sugar industry.
As the manufacturing and export of sugar and its by products such as molasses and rum thrived, the slave trade flourished. There were however, a few members of the British Parliament who having seen the conditions in which the slaves were forced to live, were strongly opposed to slavery thus sparking an anti-slavery debate.
First came the abolition of the slave trade in 1808. In 1823, the Anti-Slavery Society was founded with the Quakers taking a prominent role along with a number of influential men like William Wilberforce, Granville Sharp and Thomas Clarkson.
Investigations and arguments by members of this society revealing the horrors of slavery, lead to the passing of the Emancipation Act on July 31, 1834 in the British West Indies at midnight. However, full freedom to all slaves was not granted until four years later by Queen Victoria of England on August 1, 1838.
Emancipation meant that Jamaica's over 300,000 slaves were now free to choose what they wanted to do with their lives. Some persons remained on the sugar estates and worked for wages, which they later used to buy land for themselves while others headed for the hillside eventually forming free villages the first of which is Sligoville, located in St. Catherine.
What is the plan for digital IDs and will they be mandatory?
ByRachel Hagan
- Published26 September 2025
Updated 29 September 2025
The government has announced plans to introduce a digital ID system across the UK, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer saying it will ensure the country's "borders are more secure".
The IDs will not have to be carried day-to-day, but they will be compulsory for anyone wanting to work.
The government says the scheme will be rolled-out "by the end of the Parliament" - meaning before the next general election, which by law must be held no later than August 2029.
Why is the government introducing digital IDs?
The digital IDs will be used to prove a person's right to live and work in the UK.
They will take the form of an app-based system, stored on smartphones in a similar way to the NHS App or digital bank cards.
Information on the holders' residency status, name, date of birth, nationality and a photo will be included.
Announcing the scheme, Sir Keir said: "You will not be able to work in the United Kingdom if you do not have digital ID. It's as simple as that."
The government says the scheme is designed to curb illegal immigration by making it harder for people without status to find jobs. Ministers argue this is one of the key pull factors for migrants entering the UK illegally.
Employers will no longer be able to rely on a National Insurance number - which is currently used as part of proof of right to work - or paper-based checks.
At the moment, it is quite easy to borrow, steal or use someone else's National Insurance number and that is part of the problem in the shadow economy - people sharing National Insurance numbers for example. The idea is that having a picture attached would make it - in theory - harder to abuse that system.
However, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said that while there are arguments "for and against" digital ID, making it mandatory "requires a proper national debate".
In a post on X she said: "Can we really trust [Labour] to implement an expensive national programme that will impact all of our lives and put additional burdens on law abiding people? I doubt it."
Liberal Democrats' Shadow Attorney General Ben Maguire told the BBC the party was "struggling" to see how the policy would have a meaningful impact on illegal migration.
Will digital ID be compulsory and what else could it be used for?
Digital ID will be available to all UK citizens and legal residents, and mandatory in order to work.
However, for students, pensioners or others not seeking work, having a digital ID will be optional.
Officials also stress it will not function like a traditional identity card: people will not be required to carry it in public.
Ministers have ruled out requiring the ID for access to healthcare or welfare payments.
However, the system is being designed to integrate with some government services, to make applications simpler and reduce fraud.
The government said that, in time, digital IDs would make it easier to apply for services such as driving licences, childcare and welfare. It said it would also simplify access to tax records.
The government said they could also be used to "streamline verification processes across private sectors", for example when opening a bank account.
Announcing the scheme, Sir Keir Starmer said: "You will not be able to work in the United Kingdom if you do not have digital ID. It's as simple as that."
Will people who don't have a smartphone need a digital ID card?
The government has promised the system will be "inclusive" and work for those without smartphones, passports or reliable internet access.
A public consultation expected to be launched later this year will include looking at alternatives - potentially including physical documents or face-to-face support - for groups such as older people or the homeless.
Which other countries already have ID cards?
The UK government has said it will "take the best aspects" of digital ID systems used elsewhere around the world, including Estonia, Australia, Denmark and India.
Each of these countries has its own unique system, but all use it as a way for people to prove who they are when accessing certain government or banking services.
- Estonia introduced its mandatory digital ID system in 2002, and people use it to access medical records, voting, banking and digital signatures. It's primarily stored on peoples' smartphones as a digital version of an ID card
- Australia and Denmark have digital ID apps that people can download and use to log into government and private services. Neither require citizens to have it
- India has a system through which people can obtain a unique 12-digit reference number to use as proof of residence and identity
Many other countries also use digital ID of one kind or another, including Singapore, Greece, France, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the United Arab Emirates, China, Costa Rica, South Korea and Afghanistan.
Has the UK tried to introduce ID cards before?
Yes. Tony Blair's Labour government legislated for voluntary ID cards in the early 2000s.
However, the scheme was scrapped in 2011 by the Conservative-led coalition, which argued it was too costly and intrusive.
The UK has only had compulsory ID cards during wartime. Although they stayed in place for several years after World War Two, Winston Churchill's government scrapped them in 1952 following criticism over costs and police use.
Why are some people against digital ID?
Civil liberties groups argue that even a limited digital ID could pave the way for a more intrusive system, raising concerns about privacy, data security and government overreach.
Big Brother Watch, alongside seven other organisations, has written to the prime minister urging him to abandon the plan, saying it will "push unauthorised migrants further into the shadows".
More than 2.4 million people have signed a petition against introducing digital ID cards, on the UK Parliament website. Petitions that get more than 100,000 signatures are considered for a debate in Parliament.
Other prominent critics include the former Conservative cabinet minister David Davis - who campaigned against Labour's ID card scheme in the 2000s.
He said "no system is immune to failure" and warned governments and tech companies have repeatedly failed to protect people's data.
WHY STEPHEN LAWRENCE DAY FOUNDATION?
TO HONOUR A LIFE LOST BY CREATING OPPORTUNITIES FOR THOSE YET TO COME.
Together, we can inspire dreams, remove barriers, and build a lasting legacy in Stephen’s name.
The 3 C's
The 3 Cs — Classroom, Community, Careers, guide our mission to educate, empower and create opportunities for lasting change.FIND OUT MORE
Classrooms
Inspiring children to dream freely and value education as the key.
Communities
Supporting and create new connections within the community.
Careers
Creating opportunities for marginalised young people
196Days13Hours55Minutes03Seconds
Stephen Lawrence Day takes place on April 22nd every year, on the anniversary of Stephen’s death. A national moment of reflection and a call to action. Each year, we honour Stephen’s life by inspiring individuals, schools, and communities to drive change. Stephen Lawrence Day is more than remembrance, it’s a day to celebrate progress, challenge injustice, and empower young people to imagine their futures. We provide schools, workplaces, and individuals with resources and inspiration to participate meaningfully.
Be Part of the Change
Whether you’re an educator, an ally, a young person or a supporter, there’s a way for you to make an impact.
Monthly Donations
Support lasting change with a monthly gift. Your regular donation funds core work and programmes.Donate today
Fundraise
Take action by organising a fundraiser. Every pound raised helps create opportunities and inspire change.Fundraise with Us
Become a Partner
Partner with us to build a lasting legacy. Together we can drive equality and social
Stephen’s story is both challenging and inspirational. He was a normal young person who made the most of everyday opportunities. Although his life was short, Stephen provides a positive role model of a life well lived.
Stephen Lawrence was born and grew up in south-east London, where he lived with his parents Neville and Doreen, his brother Stuart and sister Georgina.
Like most young people, he juggled an active social life, school work, family commitments, and part-time employment. But he also had ambitions to use his talent for maths, art, and design to become an architect, and wanted to have a positive impact on his community.
Tragically, his dream of becoming an architect was never realised. On 22 April 1993, at the age of just 18, Stephen was murdered in an unprovoked racist attack. He didn’t know his killers and his killers didn’t know him.
After the initial police investigation, five suspects were arrested but not convicted. A public inquiry into the handling of Stephen’s case was held in 1998, leading to the publication of the Macpherson Report, which has been called ‘one of the most important moments in the modern history of criminal justice in Britain’.
It led to profound cultural changes in attitudes to racism, to the law and to police practice. It also paved the way for a greater understanding of discrimination of all forms and new equalities legislation.
Justice for Stephen is about all of us, every one of us, in society having justice. There are still too many young people who do not have a sense of hope, who just don’t get the chance to live their dreams. I want all our children and young people to feel inspired, be confident and have hope in their own future. We are building hope but there is more to do.
- BARONESS LAWRENCE, SPEAKING AT 20TH ANNIVERSARY MEMORIAL IN 2013
Be Part of the Change
Whether you’re an educator, an ally, a young person or a supporter, there’s a way for you to make an impact.
YouTube · Gracesongs40.3K+ views · 1 week ago
9:05Damian Marley - Time Doesn't Lie Ft Rihanna ( Music video) Experience the powerful new reggae fusion “Time Doesn't Lie” by Damian Marley ...
skylineradio.org.ukhttps://www.skylineradio.org.uk › Charts1. Dinero - IN.DIGG.Nation/Six Course Music/RCA Records. Lila Ike ; 2. Saddest Day - Penthouse Records. Bugle & Dexta Daps ; 3. Mr Rastaman - Ghetto Youths ...
Billboardhttps://www.billboard.com › charts › reggae-albumsLegend: The Best Of Bob Marley And The Wailers. Bob Marley And The Wailers · 1 ; Best Of Shaggy: The Boombastic Collection. Shaggy · 2 ; The Trinity. Sean Paul · 3.
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www.radio-uk.co.ukhttps://www.radio-uk.co.uk › top-charts › reggae-musicTop Reggae Songs · 1. Turn Me On Kevin Lyttle. Download on Apple Music Play on Youtube · 2. Cheerleader Omi. Download on Apple Music Play on Youtube · 3. No ...
Commercial activities to cease at Blue Lagoon for reset
Hygiene, safety issues to be addressed
WhatsAppSharePublished:Friday | August 12, 2022 | 10:14 AMGareth Davis Sr/Gleaner Writer
All commercial activities are to be temporarily halted at Portland’s Blue Lagoon, which has been plagued by incidents of drug peddling, extortion, and illegal rafting, to allow for a more structured management system to be implemented.
The decision comes on the heels of an incident in which a member of an international movie company filming in Jamaica was almost run over by a boatman while swimming at the eastern parish’s premier attraction last week.
In announcing the closure, which will take effect on August 29, Jamaica National Heritage Trust Chairman Orville Hill on Wednesday said that last week’s incident was just the latest of many that have endangered the lives of tourists and locals using the facility, despite repeated attempts to sensitise players.
“There are too many players in the limited space as it is now,” Hill said, noting that the crisis is compounded by a lack of bathroom facilities at the location.
“ ... That in itself presents some amount of health hazard that we need to correct as we go forward. We have to make sure that all the products that we put out complies with all the legal requirements, and rafting on seawater is not permitted by Jamaican law. Rafting is really for river courses, and so that really is an area of challenge as well,” he added.
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Several agencies, including the Tourism Product Development Company, the Portland Municipal Corporation, the Alligator Head Foundation, the Ministry of Culture, Entertainment, Gender Affairs and Sport, the Blue Lagoon Alliance, along with the police, staged an emergency meeting on Wednesday to examine the current situation and hammer out a way forward.
The most recent concern is the reported sighting of crocodiles in the area last week.
“There is some confirmation that a crocodile – either one or two crocodiles – may be in the area and a NEPA (National Environment and Planning Agency) representative was also present. NEPA is taking control of that aspect of it in terms of trying to identify and to see how best they can relocate the reptile,” said Hill.
Locals’ livelihood hit hard by Blue Lagoon stalemate
WhatsAppSharePublished:Monday | March 6, 2023 | 1:20 AMLivern Barrett /Gleaner WriterPreviousNext
Map of the area declared as the Blue Lagoon National Monument, in Portland, including all those bodies of water up to the high-water mark during high and low tide known as Unity Bay, Lime Kiln Bay and the inlet called the Blue Lagoon, which together constitute the controlled areas.1 2 3 4
Private owners of the lands surrounding the national heritage site, the Blue Lagoon, have rebuffed a request to construct critical infrastructure at the world-renowned attraction, a stakeholder group has charged. The request was reportedly made by...
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Yes, Popcaan is from Saint Thomas Parish, Jamaica. He was born on July 19, 1988, in the parish and has often referred to St. Thomas as his hometown.
YouTube · Popcaan177K+ views · 1 week ago
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2:49Inviolable. Popcaan · 3.8M views ; Popcaan, Pinchers, Notnice, Nitty Kutchie, Cp Ink - Bad Anywhere (Live Performance). Popcaan · 194K
Key Details
- Born: July 19, 1988.
- Birthplace: Saint Thomas, Jamaica.
- Significance: Popcaan often highlights his St. Thomas roots, even releasing a song titled "St. Thomas Native" with Chronic Law. His annual concert, Unruly Fest, is held in the parish, showing his commitment to the community.
- Cultural Impact: St. Thomas is considered the birthplace of the dancehall icon, where his musical journey began before he rose to international fame.
Popcaan Pays Tribute His Hometown In 'St. Thomas Native' Video | News | Clash Magazine Music News, Reviews & Interviews19 Jul 2023Clash Magazine
POPCAAN - City SplashInternational star Popcaan, is a Jamaican dancehall icon whose journey began in St. Thomas, Jamaica. Discovered by Vybz Kartel in ...
City Splash
Biography – PopcaanABOUT POPCAAN. Andrae Hugh Sutherland, known the world over as Popcaan, started his life of musical excellence, years ago in St. T...
PopcaanAI responses may include mistakes. Learn more
officialpopcaan.comhttps://officialpopcaan.com › biography
Andrae Hugh Sutherland, known the world over as Popcaan, started his life of musical excellence, years ago in St. Thomas, Jamaica.
First 25 buses arrive for Gov’t rural school transport programme
WhatsAppSharePublished:Tuesday | June 24, 2025 | 6:55 PMPreviousNext
-Contributed photoThe 110 buses - fitted with modern safety features and designed to handle Jamaica’s terrain - will be distributed based on needs identified by the Ministry of Education. 1 2
Twenty-five of 110 new school buses designated for rural students arrived at Kingston Wharves today, marking what Transport Minister Daryl Vaz described as “one of the most transformative policy initiatives ever taken by any Government since Independence.”
The delivery, part of the Government of Jamaica’s new Rural School Bus Programme, is aimed at improving transportation access for students attending 258 rural schools across all 14 parishes.
Vaz was joined by Education Minister Dr Dana Morris Dixon and Finance Minister Fayval Williams to oversee the offloading and initial inspection of the buses, which form the first batch of a phased rollout scheduled to conclude in early July, a ministry statement said.
“
Stony Gut
Stony Gut, a small village located in the parish of St. Thomas, is the birth place of Jamaica’s National Hero, Paul Bogle. He was a deacon of the Baptist Church, located in the same village. It was in this village that, what was to be later called the Morant Bay Rebellion, began. Paul Bogle, his brother Moses Bogle, and the people of Stony Gut walked to Spanish Town to air their grievances against the injustices and oppression faced in the Parish to Governor Edward Eyre.
On their return a violent protest, initiated by Paul Bogle, broke out which led to the death of a few militia men and Paul Bogle’s followers. Many of were arrested and punished while Paul Bogle himself was hanged.
The rebellion in the end brought about changes in the poor social and economic conditions of the peasants not only in St. Thomas but throughout the island. The rebellion was also the backdrop to the constitutional change which abolished the old representative system in favour of Crown Colony Government.
Morant Point Lighthouse
The Morant Point Lighthouse built in 1841 is listed by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust as a National Monument. It is the oldest lighthouse in the island. Built of cast iron tube, cast in London it is 100 feet long with a diameter of 5 feet at the base, and 3 feet at the cap. It is located in the most easterly point of the Island. The labour used in erecting the Lighthouse was supplied by kru-men from Africa. They were among the free Africans who were brought to Jamaica.
St. Thomas Parish Church
The St. Thomas Parish Church in Morant Bay is of brick construction. It was built in 1865 when the original Church situated at Church Corner was abandoned because of dilapidation.
The St. Thomas Parish Church in Morant Bay is of brick construction. It was built in 1865 when the original Church situated at Church Corner was abandoned because of dilapidation. The east wall of the Church has a brick with the date 1865 baked into it.
Bath Mineral Spa
The mineral spa or spring at Bath in the parish of St. Thomas was discovered by a run-a-way slave in the 1690s. When he discovered that the water of the mineral spring had healed the wounds that had plagued him for years, he decided to brave the wrath of his master to tell him the good news.
The mineral spring at Bath flows from two (2) rocks, which produces both cold and hot water. The water is mixed before it enters the bathhouses, which are built for guests. The water in the spring is not mixed and so it is very hot. The spring is rich in sulphur and lime and is believed to be very good for the treatment of rheumatic ailments and skin diseases.
Morant Bay Fort
Situated behind the Morant Bay Court House overlooking the harbour is the Morant Bay Fort. The fort which was probably built in 1758 was designed for nine guns. The fort is built of brick and cut stone approximately four inches thick. The guns were mounted on elaborate cast iron carriages.
The three guns that remain are 24 pounders manufactured in the early 19th century. At one time there was a magazine and a barracks attached to the fort.
The fort as well as the courthouse was the scene of trouble during the 1865 Morant Bay riots.
Heritage Sites by Parish
- Clarendon
- Hanover
- Kingston
- Manchester
- Portland
- St. Andrew
- St. Ann
- St. Catherine
- St. Elizabeth
- St. James
- St. Mary
- Trelawny
- Westmoreland
Learn more about Jamaican Heritage Sites here.
Vital Powers
Artist & Content Creator (BBC / Ditto Music)
VITAL POWERS is a BBC Presenter, Music Artist, DITTO Music Video Content Creator & Mentor. Originally from Wolverhampton, moved to London for 2 years, now currently living in California, USA. VITAL has English and Jamaican heritage has been creating music, and videos and working in the creative industry for over 15 years with a strong belief in family & respect.
Where are you based?
Currently The Bay Area in California, America.
Where do you work? What do you do?
I work as a professional music artist and content creator, with companies like Ditto Music, BBC and other small organisations.
What are you listening to?
- Trill Troy – For A Trillion Summers (E.P)
- Chronixx – Same Prayer
- Kendrick Lamar – Rich Spirit & Silent Hill
- Burna Boy – 23
- Skilli Beng – Blessings
- Popcaan – Family
How do you discover new music?
I discover new music in passing, when I’m out and about, from friends, I never look for it, I just happen on it – it’s the best way to discover artists and naturally enjoy the music.
Rarely ever do I search or look online for new music. Usually, I’ll just be around people who have great playlists.
What formats do you usually listen to? LP, CD, Cassette, Digital, Streaming Services? Why?
I will still indulge and buy a CD or some vinyl from time to time but I consume music solely via streaming platforms / DSPs or at LIVE shows!
“I discover new music in passing, when I’m out and about, from friends, I never look for it, it’s the best way to discover and naturally enjoy it.”
Where do you do most of your music listening?
I take music in most whilst I’m driving, travelling or exploring. It’s something about the consistency of new visuals that really makes music speak to me; loudly, openly, and clearly. That’s how I also listen to my own music when curating, testing and perfecting draft versions.
Also, I enjoy a social gathering, vibing to music that has just been released by an artist like Skepta, Drake or some new artist I may have heard rumblings about.
How do you find and listen to pre-release music?
I never really do, I’m a fan of music, and I like to enjoy music when all the other fans hear it – a version of Drake’s album got leaked last year, I had it sent to me, and I never even opened the folder. It would just wreck my future experience.
What are your frustrations with listening to music digitally? Any benefits?
My only frustrations are that it’s difficult to really remember because music is processed like microwave food, quickly, here today, gone tomorrow, so I appreciated artists who really give the music an extra push and long out the campaigns and promotion around it.
Links in my emails I ignore, I don’t really download music at all if I’m being honest, and who uses SoundCloud?
“Links in my emails I ignore, I don’t really download music at all if I’m being honest”
How do you keep track of everything you are listening to?
I use Apple Music to stream, all the things I play are in my search history. So from time-to-time I can go back and listen there!
WOLVERHAMPTON’S ESSENTIAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE
Be a Zooperhero and join Dudley's Zoo sponsored walk
Raising funds for Painted Dog Conservation and DZC’s conservation projects.
Laughs aplenty as comedy night comes to Walsall Arena
Chuckl. will bring four top comedians to the venue for one night only this September.
Big Family Theatre Weekend heads to Cradley Heath
Taking place at Haden Hill House and Park on Saturday 16 – Sunday 17 August.
Submissions open for Wolverhampton Literature Festival 2026
Wolverhampton Literature Festival will return from Friday 6 to Sunday 8 February 2026.
Wightwick Manor to host free family yoga sessions
Sessions will take place in the gardens
Buy the best reggae on vinyl or CD now.
- HINDZ Celebrates Bob Marley’s ‘Uprising’ In New Video
- How Dancehall Took On The Charts – And Won
- The Most Surprising Musical Friendships
The Wailers – Get Up, Stand Up
As a teenager battling to build a career, Bob Marley quickly grasped the importance of the songwriter’s craft. As a result, his songbook is packed with material that resonates beyond reggae. “Get Up, Stand Up,” co-written by Bob’s fellow Wailer Peter Tosh in 1973, served as a wake-up call to the world about the talent of both artists, as well as the spirituality and militancy of Rastafarian reggae. It reveals Bob’s understanding of the Black struggle, and Peter’s righteous fury about it. Their God is not a cosmic figure, but a living God; that’s why they were calling for justice in this life, not the next.
Get Up Stand Up (Official Fan Video 'Legend 30th') - Bob Marley
Click to load video
Junior Byles – A Place Called Africa
The roots of Black people were a hot topic for reggae songs in 1971, but polemic was not enough for Junior Byles when he wrote “A Place Called Africa.” He focused on a personal story: his mama told him that was where he was from, and he demanded to know why he was suffering in Jamaica when his roots lay elsewhere. The result placed a complex subject in a context that could move any heart. One of several moments of genius in the career of a singer who has never been given the rewards he deserved.
Toots & The Maytals – Sweet And Dandy
If you want to know how ordinary country folk live, laugh, and love in The Isle Of Springs, hear this glorious song from 1969, in which The Maytals tell the story of a wedding. It’s all here: the price of the wedding cake, the disputes, the fun, and their drink of choice. A taste of the real Jamaica in one of the best reggae songs ever recorded.
UB40 – One In 10
Some fans regard the British band UB40 as a pop-reggae outfit, especially given the massive success of “Red, Red Wine.” But Jamaica takes them at face value: they are a proper reggae act that tackles both heavy topics and lighter ones. “One In 10,” a 1981 hit, examines how everyone suffers, and how much of that suffering is ignored. Highly political yet movingly humane, it is firmly in the reggae tradition.
One In Ten
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The Specials – Ghost Town
The original incarnation of 2Tone founders The Specials signed off with this dark and brooding tune from 1981, when the UK was going through a deep economic slump. “Ghost Town,” spookily resonant and weighty, hit No 1 in Britain. It was an influence on The Rolling Stones’ song of the same title, just as it was inspired by Prince Buster All Stars’ 1967 obscurity “7 Wonders Of The World.”
Althea & Donna – The West
Althea & Donna are widely known for “Uptown Top Ranking,” an amusing UK No.1 in 1977-78 which presented two seemingly trivial teens boasting about how fashionable and sexy they were. But note their hit record’s line “I strictly roots”: their Uptown Top Ranking album holds a number of serious reggae songs, including this gem, which insists the West will receive just punishment for the crime of slavery.
The West (Remastered 2001)
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Junior Murvin – Police And Thieves
Junior Murvin had been recording for the best part of a decade with little success when he showed up at Lee Perry’s Kingston studio in 1976 and auditioned “Police And Thieves.” It told an uncomplicated if pointed tale about crime in Jamaica, presenting both parties as two sides of the same coin. It caught the mood of that year’s long hot summer in London, appearing to soundtrack the rioting around that year’s Notting Hill Carnival in London. Punk band The Clash covered it, and the original charted in the UK two years later.
Police & Thieves
Click to load video
Burning Spear – Slavery Days
Burning Spear’s Marcus Garvey is packed with some of his best songs and it is difficult to pick one. But “Slavery Days” remains a potent reminder why Black African people found themselves in Jamaica and are still suffering hundreds of years later. Spear, a singer full of the light of life, makes a bleak subject a celebration of the unperishable Black soul.
Slavery Days
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Deborahe Glasgow – Champion Lover
Reggae songs can be overtly carnal. “Champion Lover,” delivered in Jamaica by British lovers rock singer Deborahe Glasgow, was full of female desire – Deborahe was threatening to “kill you with it”! It was a reggae smash in 1989, and Shabba Ranks climbed aboard the rhythm that year to create “Mr. Lover Man,” Deborahe’s vocal still prominent. When Shabba remade his version in 1992, Deborahe’s voice was replaced by Chevelle Franklin’s. While this makeover became a huge pop hit, the song’s sexual identity was flipped. “Champion Lover” offers the song’s original attitude: a strong, proud woman at her passionate pinnacle.
Delroy Wilson – Better Must Come
Delroy Wilson was one of reggae’s signature voices, relied upon to deliver the vocal goods for decades. He is known for tales of love, but had a knack for making a powerful point, as heard on 1972’s anthem of hope over dissatisfaction, “Better Must Come.”
Ken Boothe – I’m Not For Sale
Slavery is a recurring theme in Jamaican music, but Ken Boothe’s powerfully direct “I’m Not For Sale” examines it at another level, the singer rebuffing a woman who thinks he can be bought. It was inspired by the phenomenon where comparatively wealthy tourists sought sexual gratification with poor Jamaicans, not bothering to consider the grim implications. Aided by mournful horns that underline this unhappy situation, Boothe, one of reggae’s most lauded vocalists, shakes your ideas as well as your hips here.
Bunny Wailer – Blackheart Man
Children in Jamaica were told to avoid Rastas, counsel that treated these serious religious adherents like bogeymen. Bunny Wailer recalls this in a song that melds folklore, his own upbringing, and the Rastafarian beliefs he acquired when he understood the reality of the situation. Full of his customary stateliness and gentle, folky way with a melody, “Blackheart Man” was an instant classic when released in 1976.
Blackheart Man
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Bob Andy – Life
Bob Andy was reggae’s philosopher, singing his best songs in an utterly controlled, highly soulful voice. While he is best known for hit duets with Marcia Griffiths such as a cover of “Young, Gifted And Black,” his own material is just as strong and deep. “Life,” from 1972, urges the listener to take a path of creativity, effort, and peace. If you think that sounds rather bumptious, this gifted writer was not fooled into thinking he had his subject worked out: Bob sings “Heed my foolish words.”
The Abyssinians – Satta Massagana
Rastafarianism had been an alternative way of life in Jamaica for decades, its adherents scorned like a criminal underclass. Reggae gave this religion an outlet for its reasonings, and among the key figures who put it on record were the harmony trio The Abyssinians. “Satta Massagana,” meaning sit down and give thanks, is delivered with religious fervor; the group even sings in Amharic, showing true devotion. First recorded in 1969, it has resonated in reggae ever since.
Culture – Innocent Blood
Culture, a vocal group, came to prominence in 1977 with Two Sevens Clash,
BRIXTON COMMUNITY
The Electric Avenue referred to by the British musician Eddy Grant in his 1982 single by the same name is located in the South London borough of Lambeth, specifically the Brixton neighborhood. Notably, this road was the first market street in the world to be lit by electricity in the late 1800s—hence its name.
What is culture?
ReferencesBy Stephanie Pappas, Callum McKelvie published October 17, 2022
Culture encompasses religion, food, what we wear, how we wear it, our language, marriage, music and is different all over the world.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.
Thai people floating a lamp in Yee Peng festival in Chiang Mai,Thailand. (Image credit: Natnan Srisuwan via Getty Images)
Culture is the characteristics and knowledge of a particular group of people, encompassing language, religion, cuisine, social habits, music and arts.
The Center for Advanced Research on Language Acquisition goes a step further, defining culture as shared patterns of behaviors and interactions, cognitive constructs and understanding that are learned by socialization. Thus, culture can be seen as the growth of a group identity fostered by social patterns unique to the group.
"Culture encompasses religion, food, what we wear, how we wear it, our language, marriage, music, what we believe is right or wrong, how we sit at the table, how we greet visitors, how we behave with loved ones and a million other things," Cristina De Rossi, an anthropologist at Barnet and Southgate College in Suicide is the biggest killer of young people aged 35 and under in the UK. We believe that suicide is preventable. PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide was founded in 1997 by a group of bereaved parents, who had each lost a child to suicide.
Our founding parents shared core beliefs that suicide is preventable, and that those of us with lived experience of suicide have a valuable and unique contribution to make to the wider conversation around suicide.
Our stories, and those of our children and young people, create an important narrative which can help change society, protect life and prevent future suicides. In the last few years, the rate of young suicide in the UK has been increasing. We want to support, equip, influence and engage with communities across the UK, through training, awareness raising and policy change, to reduce the number of young suicides and to ENABLE LIFE.
We are 3 Dads Walking.
Raising Suicide Awareness Across the Country One Step at a Time
Raising awareness.
Suicide is the biggest killer of those under 35 in the UK. We only learned this terrifying fact because our daughters took their own lives. By raising awareness, we hope we can help prevent other families from being devastated by suicide.
CLIVE MYRIE - CARIBBEAN ADVENTURES
CLIVE MYRIE’S CARIBBEAN ADVENTURE LANDS ON BBC, MONDAY 27 MAY
Date Posted: May 23, 2024
Clive once again returns to screens with his new travel series, Clive Myrie’s Caribbean Adventure, a celebration of island life and Clive’s own ancestry.
In this AlleyCats TV production, Clive seeks to reconnect with family, explore his own heritage and experience the rich mix of cultures that makes island life so very special. The series was produced and funded by Northern Ireland Screen.
Following on from his much loved Italian Road Trip, this time Clive embarks on an epic journey to reconnect with family, explore his own heritage and experience the rich mix of cultures that makes island life so very special.
In this 15×30 series, Clive will take viewers across the four islands of Jamaica, Cuba, Barbados and the Dominican Republic, unearthing family roots and forging personal connections with each unique location.
Clive Myrie’s Caribbean Adventure airs from Monday 27 May on iPlayer BBC Two at 6.30pm. All episodes will be available to watch on BBC iPlayer from Monday 27 May.
We were all lied to and this is the proof
Aftermath
By the end of 1865 the "Governor Eyre Case" had become the subject of widespread national debate. In January 1866, a Royal Commission was sent to investigate the events. Governor Eyre was suspended and recalled to England and eventually dismissed. The national government changed that of Jamaica. The House of Assembly resigned its charter, and Jamaica was made a Crown Colony, governed directly by Britain.[9]
The "Eyre Controversy" turned into a long and increasingly public issue, dividing well-known figures of the day. It may have contributed to the fall of the government.
Just like how the National trust in the uk have a responsibility to maintain our historic buildings and land in Britain, what good will is available for the buildings and land in Jamaica.
Addressing our histories of colonialism and historic slavery
Jump to
- Introducing the report into colonialism and historic slavery
- The links between wealth and slavery at places in our care
- Records and depictions of people of African and Asian descent
- Our collections and slavery
- Connections with trade and the East India Company
BIG SUPER HELPING TO MAKE JAMACIA BETTER FOR ITS RESIDENTS
Why Jamaicans can't access their own beaches
This article is more than 3 months old
If Jamaica is synonymous with sun, sea and freedom to some, they might be surprised to hear that is not necessarily the case for Jamaicans as only 1% of the country’s beaches are open to the public. The rest are walled off by resorts, protected by private security and locked behind a colonial law that is somehow still in force. Neelam Tailor digs into how Jamaica’s paradise became private property – and speaks with the local movement fighting to take it back
Neelam Tailor, Alex Healey, Ali Assaf, Ryan BaxterFri 11 Jul 2025 16.32 BSTShareYou've read 10 articles in the last yearArticle counton
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£562 bonus confirmed for all state pensioners
Increases to payments for millions of Brits have been confirmed
Comments2NEWSRichard Guttridge Agenda Editor13:07, 27 Sep 2025Updated 14:36, 28 Sep 2025
Pension increases have been confirmed.
State pensioners across the UK will receive hundreds of pounds extra next year.
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It comes as the state pension rate for 2026/27 was confirmed under the terms of the triple lock.
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A 4.7% rise will push the annual rate up to £12,535 for those on the new state pension - an increase of £562.
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READ MORE: Keir Starmer confirms October cost of living payments for six million households
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The boost to payments will kick in from next April.
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Let’s get an update on the development of both the roads and infrastructure of st. Thomas by big super road vlog
Ozzy Osbourne's Family Planning a 'Small' Funeral for Late Rocker: He 'Would Never Want a Mope-Fest' (Exclusive Source)
A source tells PEOPLE that Osbourne's family wants the occasion to be a "celebration of life"
By Rachel DeSantis Published on July 29, 2025 08:00AM EDT6COMMENTS
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(749x0:751x2)/Ozzy-Osbourne-People-Magazine-Cover-072825-1-6dfac8a4457142bebd32b1cc99e91c8e.jpg/:/ "Ozzy Osbourne PEOPLE cover")
NEED TO KNOW
- Ozzy Osbourne's family is planning a "small, private funeral" for the star that will celebrate his life, a source close to the family tells PEOPLE
- Osbourne died on July 22 at age 76, two weeks after his final performance
- A source tells PEOPLE the late rocker "would never want a mope-fest"
Ozzy Osbourne may have been the Prince of Darkness, but his final days were full of light.
Osbourne, who died on July 22 at age 76, will be honored by his family with a funeral befitting the star’s infectious spirit, a source close to the family tells PEOPLE in this week’s cover story.
"They're very grateful for the special family time they had together before Ozzy passed,” the source says. “They're planning a small, private funeral that will be a celebration of his life. Ozzy would never want a mope-fest.”
The source adds that the rocker’s family, including wife Sharon, 72, and their kids Aimee, 41, Jack, 39, and Kelly, 40, is “touched by all the love and support pouring in from around the world.”
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999x0:1001x2)/Ozzy-Osbourne-072825-71dc99c203034439b400a47485715b58.jpg/:/ "Portrait of Ozzy Osbourne, London, 1991")
Take PEOPLE with you! Subscribe to PEOPLE magazine to get the latest details on celebrity news, exclusive royal updates,
Releasing the Potential of
Adults with Learning Disabilities
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We are a registered charity who operate a daytime group for young adults with learning disabilities based in South Staffordshire, running Monday - Friday. We are dedicated to being a user lead group and we aim to support our members to reach their full potential.
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We do regular fundraising events to help us continue to provide the best service we can for our amazing members! You can get involved by coming along to our events or even fundraising for us! You can also donate directly to us or commit to regular giving and become part of our story while helping to make a difference in member's lives!
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We get up to lots of fun things when we come to High Flyers! Our weeks are packed full of fun and exciting experiences!
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C4PC Information
Churches 4 Positive Change, supported by Love Black Country and the Connect churches in Wolverhampton have produced the attached poster with information and contact details for community support services across Wolverhampton.
Printed A3 copies for churches, community centres, medical facilities, businesses,
Alternatively contact directly:
Call us (7am-7pm) on 01902 296451 or Freephone 0800 107 6753
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Exploring Stony Gut: The Historic Birthplace of National Hero Paul Bogle
Stony Gut, a quaint and historically rich village nestled in the lush hills of St. Thomas Parish, Jamaica, holds a revered place in the nation’s history. It is celebrated as the birthplace of Paul Bogle, a national hero whose leadership during the Morant Bay Rebellion of 1865 cemented his legacy as a champion for justice and equality. Visiting Stony Gut is a journey into the heart of Jamaica’s fight for freedom and an opportunity to experience a tranquil community steeped in culture and heritage.
A Glimpse Into the Legacy of Paul Bogle
Paul Bogle, born in the early 1820s in Stony Gut, rose to prominence as a Baptist deacon and community leader. His strong sense of justice and unwavering faith fueled his resolve to address the systemic injustices faced by formerly enslaved Jamaicans. At a time when poverty, disenfranchisement, and oppressive colonial systems plagued Jamaica, Bogle became a voice for the marginalized.
The Morant Bay Rebellion, led by Bogle, was sparked by economic hardship, racial inequality, and the denial of basic human rights. The uprising, though met with severe repression, marked a turning point in Jamaica’s colonial history. Paul Bogle’s martyrdom paved the way for reforms and greater advocacy for the rights of the Jamaican people, earning him recognition as one of the country’s national heroes.
Stony Gut: A Historic Landmark
Stony Gut retains its historical significance as the epicenter of the Morant Bay Rebellion. The site where Bogle once lived and rallied his community is now marked with a plaque honoring his contributions. Visitors can walk the grounds where pivotal moments in Jamaican history unfolded and imagine the courage of a man who stood tall against overwhelming odds.
Key Features of Stony Gut:
- Paul Bogle Memorial: A dedicated plaque or marker highlights the location’s historical importance, serving as a tribute to Bogle’s enduring legacy.
- Authentic Rural Setting: The village’s unspoiled natural beauty allows visitors to step back in time and experience the Jamaica of yesteryears.
- Community Connection: The residents of Stony Gut carry forward the spirit of resilience and community that Bogle embodied.
Exploring Nearby Attractions
While Stony Gut itself is a key historic site, the surrounding region of St. Thomas offers additional points of interest for travelers seeking cultural enrichment and natural beauty.
1. Morant Bay Courthouse Ruins
Located a short distance from Stony Gut, the ruins of the Morant Bay Courthouse stand as a haunting reminder of the 1865 rebellion. This is where Paul Bogle and his followers marched in protest, making it a complementary stop for history enthusiasts.
2. Bath Fountain and Mineral Spa
For those seeking relaxation, the Bath Fountain and Mineral Spa is a perfect choice. Known for its therapeutic hot springs, this natural attraction offers a rejuvenating escape amidst St. Thomas’ scenic landscapes.
3. Reach Falls
Located deeper into St. Thomas, Reach Falls is a breathtaking natural attraction offering cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, and lush tropical surroundings.
Lodging Options Near Stony Gut
Visitors to Stony Gut have a variety of accommodations to choose from, ranging from eco-friendly retreats to comfortable guesthouses. Some notable options include:
- Whispering Bamboo Cove Resort: Located in Morant Bay, this resort offers comfortable rooms, serene surroundings, and easy access to local attractions.
- Bath Fountain Hotel: Situated near the Bath Mineral Springs, this hotel provides a blend of relaxation and proximity to historic sites.
- Sea Cliff Resort: Located on the coastline of St. Thomas, this boutique resort offers a luxurious stay with stunning ocean views.
- Zion Country Eco Beach Cabins: For travelers seeking a more rustic and immersive experience, Zion Country provides eco-friendly accommodations surrounded by natural beauty.
Why Visit Stony Gut?
A visit to Stony Gut offers more than just a history lesson. It is an opportunity to connect with the roots of Jamaica’s struggle for justice and to experience the enduring legacy of Paul Bogle. Whether you’re a history buff, cultural enthusiast, or simply a traveler looking to explore the less-traveled paths of Jamaica, Stony Gut and its surrounding attractions provide an unforgettable experience.
Final Thoughts
Stony Gut is not just a place; it is a testament to the resilience and courage of the Jamaican people. By visiting this historic village, you honor the legacy of Paul Bogle and gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical fabric of Jamaica. Plan your trip to this iconic site and discover the stories that shaped a nation.
Groundbreaking’ sickle cell disease treatment approved for NHS use in England
Clinical trials find one-time gene therapy exa-cel offers ‘functional cure’ in 96.6% of patients
View image in fullscreenSickle cell disease changes the shape of blood cells into crescents, hindering blood flow.Photograph: Artur Plawgo/Science Photo Library/Getty Images/Science Photo Library RF
A “groundbreaking” £1.65m treatment offering a potential cure for people in England living with sickle cell disease has been approved for use on the NHS, the medicines watchdog has announced.
Campaigners welcomed news of the approval of the one-time gene therapy, known as exagamglogene autotemcel, or exa-cel, which edits the faulty gene in a patient’s own stem cells.
The NHS estimates that 50 patients, older children and adults with a severe form of the disease, who are suitable for a stem cell transplant but without a matched donor, will each year receive the cutting-edge treatment.
Clinical trials for exa-cel have indicated that the therapy can stop painful sickle cell crises, which occur when blood vessels become blocked, with researchers finding that there was a “functional cure” in 96.6% of participants who received the treatment.
2025 IN JAMAICA
Jamaica has several social services departments, including the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, the Social Development Commission, and the Child Protection and Family Services Agency. Ministry of Labour and Social Security
- Public Assistance Division (PAD): Manages non-contributory social assistance programs, such as the Rehabilitation Programme and PATH
- Family Services Unit: Provides services to families
- PATH: A program that helps with human capital development
Social Development Commission (SDC)
- The government's main agency for community mobilization and organization in urban and rural areas
Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA)
- Works to protect children in their homes, schools, and communities
- Intervenes when children are abused
How the UK social care system works ?
In the UK, social care is primarily provided and funded by local authorities, who assess individuals' needs and determine eligibility for publicly funded care based on a means test; meaning people with higher needs and lower financial assets are more likely to receive support, while those with significant assets may need to pay for their care entirely; most services are delivered by private companies commissioned by the local council, with individuals sometimes able to arrange their own care through "direct payments" from the council. Key points about the UK social care system:
- Responsibility lies with local councils:Each local authority is responsible for assessing social care needs within their area and deciding who is eligible for funded care.
- Needs assessment and means test:To access publicly funded social care, individuals must undergo a needs assessment to determine the level of support required, followed by a means test to assess their financial situation and determine contribution levels.
- Care delivery methods:Social care can be provided through various methods including home care services, residential care homes, day care centers, and direct payments allowing individuals to employ their own personal assistants.
- Funding structure:Depending on the individual's financial situation, they may need to contribute towards the cost of their care, with the local authority providing the remaining funds.
- Eligibility criteria:Individuals with the most significant needs and lowest financial assets are most likely to receive substantial publicly funded social care.
How to access social care:
- Contact your local council:Individuals can contact their local council to initiate the process of accessing social care.
- Needs assessment:A social care professional will conduct an assessment to evaluate the individual's needs and determine eligibility for support.
- Care plan development:If eligible, a care plan will be created detailing the specific services required and how they will be delivered.
Important considerations:
- Cost of care:Social care in the UK is not completely free, and individuals may need to contribute financially depending on their circumstances.
- Waiting lists:Depending on local demand and available funding, there may be waiting times for certain social care services.
- Integration with healthcare:While social care is primarily managed by local councils, there is increasing focus on integrating health and social care services to provide a more holistic approach.
The opportunity to join a group for many men doesn’t come often , has there is only a limited window of opportunity.
The cost alone for many people makes the cost of joint a club or group an unaffordable choice.
so groups like the one in this video can be a life saver you may wish to consider something like ACCI.
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ACCI WOLVERHAMPTON
Find help now
To learn more about our mental health support services please call us on 01902 571230 or support@acci.gov.
Working for and with the community
The African Caribbean Community Initiative (ACCI) is a holistic and comprehensive support service for the African Caribbeans affected by mental ill health. Our services include supported housing and advice, day opportunities facilities and specialist outreach. We also provide an extensive and holistic counselling and therapeutic service and facilitate a dedicated and proactive Carers’ Support Group.
Ikon Martial Arts & Fitness Centre
Gallery
Ikon Martial Arts and Fitness Centre
Bushbury Triangle - Resource & Information Centre4.7(15) · Community centre0.3 mi · 74 Stanley Rd
Wolverhampton Councilhttps://win.wolverhampton.gov.uk › directory › service14 Dec 2023 — We are a central hub for all the residents of Low Hill, The Scotland's, and Bushbury. We keep the local community up to date with local ...
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Fifth Avenue Community Centre is a newly established space run by BushburyHill Estate Management Board and the local community.
Facebook · Fifth Avenue Community Centre600+ followers
Fifth Avenue Community Centre, Wolverhampton. 344 likes · 43 talking about this · 6 were here. Part of the Bushbury Hill Family.5.0(1)
Yellhttps://www.yell.com › biz › bushbury-community-cent...Bushbury Community Centre, Call Northwood Park Rd, Bushbury, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV10 8ER, Get Directions.
Whitmore Reans Welfare Centrehttps://www.wrwc.org.uk20 Jan 2023 — Whitmore Reans Welfare Centre (WRWC) is a registered charity, situated in the heart of a multi-cultural, diverse, and underprivileged community.
Wolverhampton Councilhttps://win.wolverhampton.gov.uk › directory › serviceWe are a local community group based in the Whitmore Reans area of the City. We have secured the former Gatis Street Adventure Playground for our community base ...Places
Map data ©2024 TermsWhitmore Reans Welfare Centre4.8(9) · Social Welfare Centre1.3 mi · 138 Leicester StClosed ⋅ Opens 10 am Fri
"One of the best"
"Very friendly and helpful 🙂 very clean too!"
"Love the play and stays!"
Whitmore Reans Welfare Centrehttps://www.wrwc.org.uk › contact-us20 Jan 2023 — WE HAVE MOVED TO WHITMORE REANS LIBRARY! Whitmore Reans Welfare Centre has resumed a face-to-face advice service following the Covid lockdown.
Wolverhampton Councilhttps://win.wolverhampton.gov.uk › directory › service22 Mar 2023 — As well as other community centres located in the City. Who to contact. Telephone: 01902 552209; E-mail: community.centres@wolverhampton.gov.uk ...
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Woman reveals plans to charge her sister for Christmas visit after ‘disaster’ last year
Woman offers up a ‘house guest agreement,’ including a cleaning fee and $50 nightly payment, for her sister’s visit during the Christmas holiday
Olivia HebertLos AngelesFriday 06 December 2024 11:05 GMTComments
Related: Woman defends charging family £150 for Christmas Day dinner
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A woman has sparked discourse online after sharing why she decided to charge her family for staying over during Christmas.
In a post shared to the “Am I the A**hole” forum on Reddit, a woman revealed why she planned to charge her relatives after their previous visit left her home in chaos. She explained that she recently purchased her “dream home,” a four-bedroom house with a sprawling backyard and a pool, an upgrade she’s deeply proud of.
As someone who lives alone, she noted that she enjoys keeping her home in pristine condition. However, her sister, husband, and their three children recently asked if they could stay with her for Christmas. She was initially open to the idea, writing: “They live out of state and wanted to spend the holidays with our family without paying for a hotel.”
But memories of their last visit made her apprehensive.
“They stayed with me for a weekend last year, and it was a disaster,” she recalled. “The kids destroyed my sofa with markers and spilled juice on my rug, which I had to replace. My sister brushed it off, saying, ‘Kids are kids,’ and didn’t offer to pay for the damage.”
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The ordeal cost her more than $500 in replacements, as she added: “Her husband barely helped with cleaning or watching the kids. I felt like a maid in my own house.”
As a result, the woman decided to set boundaries to protect her space and sanity. While she agreed to let her sister’s family stay at her home, she introduced a “house guest agreement” outlining specific conditions. The agreement required her sister to pay a $100 cleaning fee upfront, immediately cover any damages, and contribute $50 per night for utilities, citing the increased heating and water costs during the winter.
Although she viewed the terms as reasonable, her sister did not.
“She called me greedy and said I was treating my family like ‘Airbnb guests,’” the woman wrote, adding that her sister accused her of ruining the holiday spirit. The disagreement escalated, with their parents siding against her and labeling her “cold-hearted.”
Her sister argued that she was prioritizing money over family, leaving the family divided. The woman wrote: “I think I’m being fair by setting boundaries, but maybe I’ve taken it too far? I don’t know, please help.”
In the comment section, commenters were quick to chime in, with one Reddit user recommending that she refuse their visit altogether.
“Better if you said no,” the commenter wrote. “Regardless of how much money you charge, the kids probably won’t be any better behaved. The husband won’t be any less lazy, and neither of them will be better parents. You’ll be on edge the whole time, and they’ll be resentful.”
“Just say no, dude,” another person agreed. “I mean, she’s gonna be pissy whether you say no or present her with a contract that — come on — you definitely knew was going to piss her off. Just choose the easier option of ‘no’ and move on.”
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Others supported her decision, suggesting her sister’s family stay with their parents who sided against her.
DARTH VADER _ VITAL POWERS
Vital Powers
Artist & Content Creator (BBC / Ditto Music)
VITAL POWERS is a BBC Presenter, Music Artist, DITTO Music Video Content Creator & Mentor. Originally from Wolverhampton, moved to London for 2 years, now currently living in California, USA. VITAL has English and Jamaican heritage has been creating music, and videos and working in the creative industry for over 15 years with a strong belief in family & respect.
Where are you based?
Currently The Bay Area in California, America.
Where do you work? What do you do?
I work as a professional music artist and content creator, with companies like Ditto Music, BBC and other small organisations.
What are you listening to?
- Trill Troy – For A Trillion Summers (E.P)
- Chronixx – Same Prayer
- Kendrick Lamar – Rich Spirit & Silent Hill
- Burna Boy – 23
- Skilli Beng – Blessings
- Popcaan – Family
How do you discover new music?
I discover new music in passing, when I’m out and about, from friends, I never look for it, I just happen on it – it’s the best way to discover artists and naturally enjoy the music.
Rarely ever do I search or look online for new music. Usually, I’ll just be around people who have great playlists.
What formats do you usually listen to? LP, CD, Cassette, Digital, Streaming Services? Why?
I will still indulge and buy a CD or some vinyl from time to time but I consume music solely via streaming platforms / DSPs or at LIVE shows!
“I discover new music in passing, when I’m out and about, from friends, I never look for it, it’s the best way to discover and naturally enjoy it.”
Where do you do most of your music listening?
I take music in most whilst I’m driving, travelling or exploring. It’s something about the consistency of new visuals that really makes music speak to me; loudly, openly, and clearly. That’s how I also listen to my own music when curating, testing and perfecting draft versions.
Also, I enjoy a social gathering, vibing to music that has just been released by an artist like Skepta, Drake or some new artist I may have heard rumblings about.
How do you find and listen to pre-release music?
I never really do, I’m a fan of music, and I like to enjoy music when all the other fans hear it – a version of Drake’s album got leaked last year, I had it sent to me, and I never even opened the folder. It would just wreck my future experience.
What are your frustrations with listening to music digitally? Any benefits?
My only frustrations are that it’s difficult to really remember because music is processed like microwave food, quickly, here today, gone tomorrow, so I appreciated artists who really give the music an extra push and long out the campaigns and promotion around it.
Links in my emails I ignore, I don’t really download music at all if I’m being honest, and who uses SoundCloud?
“Links in my emails I ignore, I don’t really download music at all if I’m being honest”
How do you keep track of everything you are listening to?
I use Apple Music to stream, all the things I play are in my search history. So from time-to-time I can go back and listen there!
This video illustrates how many people in the uk see the way in which our country is being run.
Do you have an opinion about the state of our support systems and how they can be improved on.
In the UK approximately 40 years ago we had youth clubs and community centres virtually country wide which dealt with issues in the community at the point of need and in real time.
The point at which these services were axed by governments,
the contact between the ruling parties and community people have declined.
Has many adult have a negative outlook about young people in general, I felt it was a good time to remind the adults that they were responsible for the removal of our community hubs
The people platform—Where interests become friendships
Whatever your interest, from hiking and reading to networking and skill sharing, there are thousands of people who share it on Meetup. Events are happening every day—sign up to join the fun.
Events near London, GB
Hosted by: London Classics Book Club
SAT, JAN 4 · 1:00 PM GMT4 goingFrom £5.00
Hosted by: The London Cultureseekers Group
SAT, DEC 21 · 2:00 PM GMT270 goingFree
t
Eastfield Community Association
As well as other community centres located in the City.
Facebook · Eastfield Community Association740+ followers
Eastfield Community Association. 664 likes · 57 talking about this. COMMUNITY BASE, ROOM HIRE, CAFE, SHOP.People also askWhat is the purpose of a community centre?What is the postcode for Eastfield Wolverhampton?Feedback
Yelphttps://m.yelp.com › ... › Community Service/Non-ProfitEastfield Community Centre · Map · Colliery Road. Wolverhampton WV1 2QY. United Kingdom. Directions · 01902 552295. Call Now · Known For ...
MapQuesthttps://www.mapquest.com › United Kingdom › EnglandEastfield Community Centre, Closed today, +44 1902 552295, Website, More, Directions, Advertisement, Colliery Road, Wolverhampton, England WV1 2QY.
Express & Starhttps://www.expressandstar.com › local-hubs › 2023/05/2928 May 2023 — Eastfield community shop is based at Colliery Road in Wolverhampton and is open from Tuesday to Thursday from 11am to 4pm.
The Family Hubs Networkhttps://familyhubsnetwork.com › hub › eastfield-family-...Address: Colliery Road, Eastfield, Wolverhampton, WV1 2QY. Email: eastfieldfh@wolverhampton.gov.uk. Website: https://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/health-and-social ...
Shropshire Starhttps://directory.shropshirestar.co.uk › companySee details for Eastfield Community Centre in Colliery Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV1 2QY on the Shropshire Star.
Skiddlehttps://www.skiddle.com › ... › Wolverhampton eventsFind upcoming events at Eastfield Community Centre in Wolverhampton. Full event details plus travel info, opening times + venue info.
Thebestofhttps://www.thebestof.co.uk › local › local-guides › viewColliery Road Wolverhampton WV1 2QY. More. Contact us. Colliery Road Wolverhampton WV1 2QY; 01902 552295. Eastfield Community Centre. Social Interaction.
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Eastfield Community Centre, Wolverhampton, UK. 74 likes · 256 were here. Local business.People also search forEastfield community centre wolverhampton telephone numberEastfield community centre wolverhampton shopsEastfield community centre wolverhampton phone numberEastfield community centre wolverhampton opening timesEastfield community centre wolverhampton addressEastfield community centre wolverhampton mapCommunity halls for hireWolverhamptonEastfield Wolverhampton12345678Next
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Wolverhampton Councilhttps://win.wolverhampton.gov.uk › directory › service22 Mar 2023 — Here you will find out more information on Pendeford Community Hub. As well as other community centres located in the City.
openobjects.comhttp://search3.openobjects.com › directory › service22 Mar 2023 — Here you will find out more information on Pendeford Community Hub. As well as other community centres located in the City.
YouTube · WolverhamptonToday870+ views · 10 years ago
2:56The new Pendeford Community Hub has opened its doors for the first time, offering a range of services from under one roof.
LibraryOnhttps://libraryon.org › library › Pendeford-LibraryPendeford Community hub, Whitburn Close, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV9 5NJ. Getting here. Open in Google Maps Open in Apple Maps. Nearby libraries.
Facebook · Wolverhampton Today30+ reactions · 10 years agoThe new Pendeford Community Hub is officially open for business! The hub welcomed its first customers yesterday (Monday) and is one of a number ...
Facebook · Wolverhampton Today9 reactions · 10 years agoThe new Pendeford Community Hub opened its doors for the first time, offering a range of services from under one roof.
Express & Starhttps://www.expressandstar.com › local-hubs › 2022/10/2626 Oct 2022 — A new initiative designed to provide a warm welcome and help residents beat the cold and soaring bills has officially launched across a city.
Crazy Ex-Girlfriend's Rachel Bloom: 'Ten years ago, no one talked about a cultural problem in comedy'
This article is more than 4 years oldSian Cain
The writer-star has had a baby, lost a close friend and published a memoir in lockdown. She talks about the trouble with male comedy writers – and why she wants to make a sketch show all about the clitoris
n the day in April that Rachel Bloom finally took her newborn daughter home from the hospital, one of her best friends died. Her daughter had arrived with fluid in her lungs, into a maternity ward that was rapidly filling with furniture as other wards were transformed into Covid wards. Bloom, tired and elated to be home, had a nap. Her husband woke her with the news: Adam Schlesinger – the well-loved musician and one of Bloom’s closest collaborators on the musical-dramedy Crazy Ex-Girlfriend – had died from Covid-19 in a New York hospital, aged 52.
For a wild and strange period, it was unclear how to grieve. Schlesinger, like so many of this year’s dead, had no funeral. Jack Dolgen, the third part of the songwriting trio behind the TV show, came to mourn with Bloom, standing 15ft from her fence. Aline Brosh McKenna, the showrunner, stood in the street. “We didn’t know anything, there was no testing, we didn’t know how this thing spread,” Bloom says. “Now we have a Crazy Ex Zoom, where we all talk. But there’s nothing natural about it.”
- Cast & crewView image in fullscreenCrazy Ex-Girlfriend. Photograph: The CW
Scrawny and proudly nerdy (“I sang show tunes under my breath and used words like ‘parlance’”), Bloom attracted bullies, then developed anxiety, which has stayed with her. She shed the bullies for a time in high school, when her talent for performing suddenly made her cool. At New York University, she majored in musical theatre, but was daunted by the competition of her cohort. So, at 19, she refocused on the college sketch comedy group.
There she found herself pursued by two older male members, her comedy mentors, and dated both. But when she decided the dynamic was getting too messy and told both men it was over, they helped to persuade other men in the group to have her thrown out.out!
News from around the world
WHATS ON IN MORANT BAY JAMAICA THIS MOTHERS DAY WEEKEND WITH BIG SUPER
Mother's Day in Jamaica
Mother's Day in Jamaica is a special occasion, celebrated on the second Sunday in May, aligning with the United States and many other countries. This day is dedicated to honoring and showing appreciation for mothers and mother figures.
History
While Mother's Day does not originate from Jamaica, it has been widely adopted into Jamaican culture. The modern iteration of Mother's Day began in the early 20th century in the United States and spread internationally over time.
TODAY’S ARMED CONFLICTS
Our Rule of Law in Armed Conflict Online Portal (RULAC) classifies all situations of armed violence that amount to an armed conflict under international humanitarian law.
Today, it monitors more than 110 armed conflicts and provides information about parties, the latest developments, and applicable international law. Some of these conflicts make the headlines, others do not. Some of them started recently, while others have lasted for more than 50 years.
MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA: MORE THAN 45 ARMED CONFLICTS
This is, in numbers, the most affected region: more than 45 armed conflicts are currently taking place throughout the Middle East and North Africa in the following territories: Cyprus,Egypt, Iraq, Israel, Libya, Morocco, Palestine, Syria, Turkey, Yemen and Western Sahara.
The majority are non-international (NIACs), involving a multitude of armed non-state actors and foreign interventions by Western powers, Russia, and neighbouring countries – except for the NIACs taking place in Egypt and Turkey.
‘Syria is the most affected country in the region. Several multiple and overlapping NIACs are taking place in the country – involving numerous armed groups who fight against the government and against each other –, along with two military occupations and three international armed conflicts’ explains Dr Chiara Redealli, Research Fellow at the Geneva Academy.
© Mahmoud Sulaiman, Unplash
AFRICA: MORE THAN 35 ARMED CONFLICTS
Africa comes second in the number of armed conflicts per region with more than 35 non-international armed conflicts (NIACs) taking place in Burkina Faso, Cameroon, the Central African Republic (CAR), the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Mali, Mozambique, Nigeria, Senegal, Somalia, South Sudan and Sudan. Several armed groups – fighting against government forces and/or against each other’s – are involved in these conflicts.
Western powers and/or neighbouring countries are intervening in the NIACs that take place in Burkina Faso, Mali, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Somalia.
‘CAR is on the top of the list with several NIACs involving multiple armed groups. The Government is involved in NIACs against a wide array of rebel groups, including the anti-Balaka and the ex-Séléka. There are also parallel non-international armed conflicts due to the infighting between various armed groups’ underlines Dr Redealli.
© UN Photo/Stuart Price
Burkina Faso, Cameroon, the Central African Republic (CAR), the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Mali, Mozambique, Nigeria, Senegal, Somalia, South Sudan and Sudan. Several armed groups – fighting against government forces and/or against each other’s – are involved in these conflicts.
Western powers and/or neighbouring countries are intervening in the NIACs that take place in Burkina Faso, Mali, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Somalia.
‘CAR is on the top of the list with several NIACs involving multiple armed groups. The Government is involved in NIACs against a wide array of rebel groups, including the anti-Balaka and the ex-Séléka. There are also parallel non-international armed conflicts due to the infighting between various armed groups’ underlines Dr Redealli.
">
ASIA: 21 ARMED CONFLICTS
Asia is the theatre of 19 non-international armed conflicts (NIACs) involving 19 armed groups. These are happening in Afghanistan, India, Myanmar, Pakistan and The Philippines.
Two international armed conflicts – between respectively India and Pakistan, and between India and China – are also taking place in the region.
‘Pakistan and the Philippines are on the top of the list with six NIACs for each country. In Pakistan, governmental forces are fighting various armed groups acting throughout the territory, particularly Taliban-affiliated groups in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas and independence fighters in Balochistan. In the Philippines, most NIACs are taking place in the Mindanao region where government forces are fighting against several armed groups, including the Moro National Liberation Front, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, the Maute Group and the Abu Sayyaf Group’ explains Dr Chiara Redealli.
© ICRC
EUROPE: SEVEN ARMED CONFLICTS
The following military occupations constitute the majority of armed conflicts that are taking place in Europe, four out of seven conflicts: Russia is currently occupying Crimea (Ukraine), Transdniestria (Moldova), as well as South Ossetia and Abkhazia (Georgia), while Armenia is occupying parts of Nagorno Karabakh (Azerbaijan). Europe is also the theatre of an international armed conflict (IAC) between Ukraine and Russia, and of two non-international armed conflicts (NIACs) in Ukraine opposing governmental forces with the self-proclaimed ‘People’s Republics’ of Donetsk and Luhansk in eastern Ukraine.
‘Russia’s invasion of Ukraine did not change our classification of the armed conflicts in the region. Indeed, according to IHL criteria, there have been an IAC between Russia and Ukraine and two NIACs in Ukraine since 2014. What has changed, since February 2022, is the intensity of the violence and its impact on the civilian population. This means, according to our analysis, that war crimes could already have taken place before March 2022’ explains Dr Chiara Redealli.
© UNDP Ukraine/Oleksandr Ratushniak
Russia is currently occupying Crimea (Ukraine), Transdniestria (Moldova), as well as South Ossetia and Abkhazia (Georgia), while Armenia is occupying parts of Nagorno Karabakh (Azerbaijan). Europe is also the theatre of an international armed conflict (IAC) between Ukraine and Russia, and of two non-international armed conflicts (NIACs) in Ukraine opposing governmental forces with the self-proclaimed ‘People’s Republics’ of Donetsk and Luhansk in eastern Ukraine.
‘Russia’s invasion of Ukraine did not change our classification of the armed conflicts in the region. Indeed, according to IHL criteria, there have been an IAC between Russia and Ukraine and two NIACs in Ukraine since 2014. What has changed, since February 2022, is the intensity of the violence and its impact on the civilian population. This means, according to our analysis, that war crimes could already have taken place before March 2022’ explains Dr Chiara Redealli.
">
LATIN AMERICA: SIX ARMED CONFLICTS
The six non-international armed conflicts that are taking place in the region are split evenly between Mexico and Colombia.
‘While Colombia has experienced one of the longest non-international armed conflicts (NIACs) in modern times and is still the theatre of three NIACs, Mexico is characterized by three NIACs involving gangs’ drug cartels. This is the first time we classify armed violence involving criminal organizations as NIACs and we did so given the level of organization of the cartels and intensity of violence’ says Dr Chiara Redealli
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12 essential car maintenance checks you should definitely be doing
Matt WoodbridgeRAC Patrol23rd Apr 2024
- Share
Jump to a section:1. Fuel2. Oil3. Rubber4. Coolant5. Electrics6. Screen wash7. Engine air filter8. Spark plug (petrol engines only)9. Brakes10. Air conditioning11. Interiors12. ExteriorsShould I take my car to a garage?There are a number of car maintenance checks you can perform both around the car and under the bonnet to help keep it in good running order and prevent a breakdown.
RAC research^ found that just a fifth of drivers (19%) say they always check their cars are ‘road-ready’ for making a trip, increasing the potential for breakdowns. Half of drivers (51%) said they sometimes check their cars over before setting out but an alarming 30% said they never do. The RAC is therefore reminding people of the importance of spending some time checking their vehicles’ oil, coolant and tyres to ensure as many trouble-free journeys as possible.
Spending five minutes carrying out these simple checks every few weeks – and certainly before a long journey or an MOT – can save you a lot of time and money in the long run, not to mention help keep you safe on the roads.
To keep things simple, here are 12 simple car checks you can carry out today to keep your car safely on the road and on the right side of the law. To kick things off, here's RAC patrol Matt Woodbridge demonstrating four simple under-the-bonnet checks:
Images: Powell Media
When it comes to preventing a breakdown, remember the acronym FORCES, which stands for Fuel, Oil, Rubber, Coolant, Electrics, Screen wash.
1. Fuel
Check you have plenty of fuel in your tank for your journey. It may sound obvious but you’d be surprised just how many people run out of fuel, particularly in harsh winter weather.
Worried about running out? Here's our guide to saving fuel.
When was the last time you changed your engine oil?
- Within the last 3 months
- 3 to 6 months ago
- 6 months to a year ago
- Over a year ago
- I have never changed it!
Vote now
2. Oil
Our patrols check the oil level of every vehicle they attend and find one in three are dangerously low. This can cause a breakdown and lead to catastrophic engine damage if left unresolved.
Check your oil level is between the minimum and maximum mark on your car's dipstick and top up if necessary.
If you don’t know which type of oil you need to use, refer to your owner’s handbook or speak to your local dealer.
You can trust the RAC with our local approved garages and NEW mobile mechanics.
3. Rubber
When it comes to rubber, check both your tyres and wiper blades on a regular basis.
Check your tyres for general wear and tear, splits or bulges, and crucially tread depth. Minimum tread level is 1.6mm, although in winter it’s advisable to have 3mm of tyre tread to help with traction and grip.
Also ensure you’ve got the correct pressure in your tyres, checking your owner’s handbook if you don’t know the correct inflation.
Examine your wiper blades as these won’t last forever and need replacing from time to time due to splits and cracks.
In winter, you can prevent your wiper blades freezing to the windscreen by placing a thin sheet of plastic or cloth, between the wiper blades and the windscreen. Or you can try using de-icer or warm water to free them up before starting your engine.
4. Coolant
Check your car’s coolant level. The last thing you need is a frozen engine or for your car to overheat.
Although it’s a sealed system and shouldn’t need to be topped up, you should always double check, especially before a long journey.
Check your coolant levels when the engine is cold and look in your handbook for the correct coolant and mix to use should you need to top it up
Usain Bolt’s Late Father’s This Habit Kept the Track and Field Legend Humble as He Rose to Fame
Jamaica sets target for 250,000 tourists from UK and Ireland
Jan 18, 202409:55 GMTby Phil Davies
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India-Pakistan Updates: India hits Pakistan, Pakistan-administered Kashmir
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By Abid Hussain, Joseph Stepansky, Lyndal Rowlands, John Power, Erin Hale, Federica Marsi, Stephen Quillen, Ali Harb and Farah NajjarPublished On 6 May 20256 May 2025
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Things to Do in Morant Bay
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4.07BeachesOpen nowBy JADEYY00This beach is beautiful. if you, your friend or family member works at the university of the west indies you will get...
4.03WaterfallsBy Notating53Located on the roadside of the main road in St Thomas the gem of a free waterfalls is perfect for Spring water street...
3.77Points of Interest & Landmarks • LighthousesBy Notating53The drive there is on very rough unpaved roads. The roads in and to the lighthouse are the worst! It is best to drive...
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Adrian DEdinburgh, UK800 contributions0Lovely BeachMy wife wanted to go to the beach as a birthday treat so we decided to visit Lyssons Beach after being told about it by a colleague. The beach is open to the public for a fee of 200 JMD per person for use of the facilities. There is an additional fee of 200 JMD if you have a car. When we visited we almost had the beach to ourselves and there was no seaweed of note. There are bathrooms, changing rooms, benches and gazebos. The water was fairly calm when we there there so it was great for paddling and would probably be good for swimming too although we didn't swim on this visit. Overall we really enjoyed our visit and will definitely be back at this lovely little beach.Read moreReview of: Lyssons BeachWritten 24 December 2018This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.- Lady CherylValley Stream, NY815 contributions0A gem of a FallsLocated on the roadside of the main road in St Thomas the gem of a free waterfalls is perfect for Spring water street side water bathing.
Adjacent the beach, the water falls runs right unto the street for everyone to pull over, park and get wet. The corner can be dangerous for young children but the falls offer fresh water fish and gushing fresh water.
A must do in St. THOMAS.Read moreReview of: Roselle FallsWritten 14 June 2021This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Lady CherylValley Stream, NY815 contributions1Morant Bay Lughthouse the furthest EAST point of JALocated at the furthest point east of Jamaica, the lighthouse is great to see. The drive there is on very rough unpaved roads. The roads in and to the lighthouse are the worst! It is best to drive in a vehicle not close to the ground.
Jamaica has set a target to attract 250,000 tourists from the UK and Ireland by 2025.
The figure was disclosed by tourism minister Edmund Bartlett as the country reported more than four million visitor arrivals in 2023 but a breakdown of UK and Ireland numbers was not available.
However, total earnings from inbound tourism rose by almost 18% year-on-year to $4.2 billion.
The surge highlights the island’s resilience amidst global challenges, solidifying its position as a premier travel destination and a top choice for UK holidaymakers in the Caribbean, according to the Jamaica Tourist Board.
The upturn came on the back of a global ‘Come Back’ tourism campaign.
The country now plans to add 8,500 new rooms by next year, a 33% increase in room capacity, and raise foreign exchange earnings by nearly 50%.
Tourism development investments totalling $5 billion will see 20,000 new rooms in the next 10 to 15 years, including 2,000 this year.
Upcoming openings include the first 1,000 rooms of the Princess Grand Jamaica, the 753-room Riu Palace Aquarelle, and the 450-room Unico Hotel in Montego Bay.
Modernisation plans for Montego Bay’s Sangster international airport include a $70 million runway expansion and infrastructure upgrade.
Bartlett said: “The unprecedented success in tourism hasn’t just elevated Jamaica’s global prominence, but has also acted as a driving force for the overall national economic progress.
“The pursuit for authentic, eco-conscious experiences and cultural immersion is at the core of what travellers seek, and Jamaica excels in delivering just that.”
Tourism director Donovan White added: “Our bullish tourism recovery plan has enabled us to set our targets high and implement our latest plans as we continue to unveil new horizons in tourism, with the exciting addition of Excellence Oyster Bay, Wyndham, and the vibrant arrival of Hard Rock Hotel and Casino”.
UK & Northern Europe regional director Elizabeth Fox said: “With our visionary tourism recovery strategy fuelling the ‘Come Back’ campaign, we navigate beyond recovery to growth, with unwavering determination towards our goals.”
Usain Bolt’s Late Father’s This Habit Kept the Track and Field Legend Humble as He Rose to Fame
Modified Apr 5, 2025 | 2:29 PM EDT
Debate
Picture this: Usain Bolt is rolling back into Trelawny, Jamaica, the fastest man alive, fresh off shattering world records and stacking Olympic gold like it’s nothing—eight of ‘em, to be exact, from Beijing 2008, London 2012, and Rio 2016. The guy’s a living legend, and the island knows it. Recently, though, the Bolt family faced a heavy loss with the passing of his father, Wellesley Bolt, in late 2024—a man whose influence still echoes in Usain’s every move. While Bolt hasn’t spoken publicly about it yet, his own words from years past paint a vivid picture of Wellesley’s impact
of the most famous people in Jamaica,” Bolt recalled in his autobiography Faster than Lightning, reflecting on a hero’s welcome after his early triumphs. Newspapers plastered his face on every page, barstool debates raged over his greatness, and radio DJs couldn’t stop the hype train. For any fan, it’s the kind of moment where egos could balloon—but not for Bolt. So, what kept this track god grounded when the world was ready to crown him king? A Father’s Lesson in Manners?
Here’s the secret sauce: Wellesley Bolt didn’t mess around when it came to respect. Growing up in Sherwood Content, a rural speck in Trelawny Parish, Usain wasn’t just raised to run—he was raised to remember where he came from. During that electric motorcade through Trelawny—after his 2008 Beijing haul of three golds (100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay)—Bolt could’ve coasted on his 9.69-second 100-meter fame and waved from a distance.
Picture this: Usain Bolt is rolling back into Trelawny, Jamaica, the fastest man alive, fresh off shattering world records and stacking Olympic gold like it’s nothing—eight of ‘em, to be exact, from Beijing 2008, London 2012, and Rio 2016. The guy’s a living legend, and the island knows it. Recently, though, the Bolt family faced a heavy loss with the passing of his father, Wellesley Bolt, in late 2024—a man whose influence still echoes in Usain’s every move. While Bolt hasn’t spoken publicly about it yet, his own words from years past paint a vivid picture of Wellesley’s impact.
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“On the morning of my return to Trelawny, it was clear to me that I had become one of the most famous people in Jamaica,” Bolt recalled in his autobiography Faster than Lightning, reflecting on a hero’s welcome after his early triumphs. Newspapers plastered his face on every page, barstool debates raged over his greatness, and radio DJs couldn’t stop the hype train. For any fan, it’s the kind of moment where egos could balloon—but not for Bolt. So, what kept this track god grounded when the world was ready to crown him king? A Father’s Lesson in Manners?
Here’s the secret sauce: Wellesley Bolt didn’t mess around when it came to respect. Growing up in Sherwood Content, a rural speck in Trelawny Parish, Usain wasn’t just raised to run—he was raised to remember where he came from. During that electric motorcade through Trelawny—after his 2008 Beijing haul of three golds (100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay)—Bolt could’ve coasted on his 9.69-second 100-meter fame and waved from a distance.
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Instead, he leaned into the crowd. “Mom and Pops had taught me so much about respect that during the motorcade I said ‘Hello’ to everybody, just like I had done when I was little, even though it would have been much easier just to wave,” Bolt recalled. Fans got pushy, hands reaching out, but he didn’t flinch. This wasn’t just a champ flexing charisma—it was a kid honoring his dad’s code. For fans, it’s a classic underdog vibe: no matter how big you get, you stay true. But how strict was Wellesley about this humility thing?
Poll of the day
Poll 1 of 5
Do you think Usain Bolt's humility and respect for fans are a result of his father's strict upbringing?
Absolutely, Wellesley's influence is clear
Partially, but Usain's personality also plays a role
Not really, it's just Usain's natural charisma
I think it's more about his public image management
Do you think Gable Steveson's constant switching between sports is damaging his legacy?
Yes, he's squandering his potential
No, it's his career to explore
Maybe, but he can still redeem himself
I don't care as long as he competes
Want to dive deeper?
Here are the articles that inspired recent polls.
Should Gable Steveson focus solely on wrestling to fulfill his Olympic potential?
Yes, he should commit to wrestling
No, he should explore other sports
He should balance both wrestling and other sports
It's too late for him to focus on wrestling
Do you think Michael Johnson's Grand Slam Track can revive interest in track and field?
Yes, it's a bold vision that needs time
No, the poor debut shows it's doomed
Maybe, but it needs better marketing
Only if it returns to traditional event names
How do you feel about the rebranding of track events like calling the 200m the "Long Sprint"?
It's innovative and needed for new fans
It's confusing and unnecessary
I don't care as long as the races are exciting
It disrespects the sport's traditions
Want to dive deeper?
Here are the articles that inspired recent polls.
Turns out, Wellesley Bolt ran a tight ship—and Usain knew the stakes. “As I said, Dad was so serious when it came to manners. If I’d acted big time in public that day, he probably would have cut me off for good,” Bolt admitted. That’s not just a throwaway line—it’s a window into the man who shaped a global icon. Wellesley, a former coffee farmer who’d worked hard to raise Usain alongside mom Jennifer, wasn’t about to let his son’s 19.30-second 200-meter world record (set in Beijing) turn him into a diva. And it worked.
Even with 11 world championship golds and a net worth pushing past $90 million, Bolt kept it real, saying “Hello” to every fan and shaking hands despite the chaos. Now, with Wellesley’s passing, that habit feels like a legacy etched in gold. For fans, it’s a reminder: the fastest man on Earth didn’t just sprint records—he carried his roots with every stride. How does that kind of upbringing stack up in today’s sports world?
Growing up in the small Jamaican parish of Trelawny, Usain Bolt wasn’t just a kid with lightning in his legs—he was a young dreamer, juggling schoolbooks and a knack for mischief. As he recalled in his autobiography, Faster than Lightning, his early academic career wasn’t exactly gold-medal worthy. “If my test scores were bad or I flunked an essay, they went easy on me,” Bolt wrote, painting a picture of a laid-back household where his parents, Wellesley and Jennifer Bolt, initially gave him some slack.
Well, that leniency, though, had an expiration date. Bolt’s father, Wellesley—known to him as “Pops”—was a no-nonsense figure who ran a local coffee shop and wasn’t about to let his son coast through life. The relaxed vibes evaporated fast when Bolt’s string of subpar grades piled up. “The relaxed attitude didn’t last long, though. There were only so many tests I could fail, and once Pops got to hear about my poor scores, he flipped,” Bolt admitted.
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