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Higher Education during Lockdown
How can we make sure that our learners have their needs met and that we make sure that the higher education institutions are a sanctuary for the next generation? Not one which causes an increased in financial pressures and stress on the next generation.
From the start of the UK lockdowns, we have seen the impact that the changes to our everyday lives have on our younger generation. Now we have a light at the end of the tunnel with our vaccination program, giving us a sense of light at the end of the tunnel. Before we get to this point, we need to recognise the impacts this unprecedented time has had. Like other sectors, universities have tried to adapt to this different world, but, in the process, have had a terrible impact on a generation. Now, whilst calls for partial refunds of tuition fees have been made mainly because of the change to the delivery of taught content, most of these are tied in with the experience.
During the pandemic, a university cannot replicate the feel and broader experience of physical campus life. However, whilst I empathise with learners on this point and when I think back to my own experiences at university and how different this would be in a virtual sense. I agree that reducing the fees to that of the Open University would be a suitable adjustment. Some universities are likely to argue that their name is expected to carry more weight than online universities' comparable course. Yet whilst for physical universities and online universities share different ranks in the league table. The only university that could argue for higher fees is the likes of UCL ranking in the top 10 nationally and online. This is also why universities' long-term ranking needs to be reflected in their costs, needs to be differentiated not remaining as they currently are. This is not likely to change in time to correct this problem though
Now I am calling for changes to be made as there is undoubtedly a justification. However, if the learners are being provided with the same standard of lesson delivery or as close as reasonably practical, the tuition fees may not be the place to target. Now, why do I say this?
The tuition fees are linked to the course content, course delivery and assessments. On the other hand, the maintenance loan pays for accommodation, which is related more to the learners' experience. If the learner was told whether they would be facing the possibility of online learning, they might have chosen the course. Still, they would of likely preferred different accommodation or facilities, choosing private rent or staying at home.
Now using the Office for Students guidelines: the universities are expected to provide access to resources and facilities for the learners, which is why university accommodation has the exception of having accommodation open and continuing to charge learners. As with my suggestion above for a tuition fee discount as the government has stated, unless the university has informed you about "that you should return for in-person teaching", you should stay at home. Therefore, the cost of this should be on the university as it would be unreasonable to expect students that should stay at home to pay for the use of multiple dwellings. Equally, additional restrictions within "flats" should not be further impeded. Although the government has issued further guidance, it does not state that households should also be limited, which is what the flat student bubble should be classified as.
In my view, to summarise the current situation suitably justifies a reduction in tuition fees to that of the Open University's likes at £6000. This money should go to the student as a rebate or grant. If it is refunded to student finance directly, it will both cause an increased cost due to adjusting the student finance system and have no practical benefit to the learner. It should be treated more similarly to the hardship funds which most universities have set up to help those in financial difficulties. In terms of their accommodation, it is my view for the lockdown duration, and their accommodation cost should be frozen. Until the "experience" can be returned to a sense of normalcy, a discount could also be offered not for a full reduction but to recognise the learners' change in circumstances.
https://www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk/league-tables/rankings
https://www.distancelearningportal.com/articles/294/10-top-uk-universities-ideal-for-distance-learning.html
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/education/education-news/coronavirus-university-tuition-fees-refund-b1724308.html
https://officeforstudents.org.uk/for-students/student-guide-to-coronavirus/returning-to-university-in-2021/
https://www.universityworldnews.com/post.php?story=2020081313184272
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/coronavirus/student-mental-health-during-coronavirus/
Lockdown Rents for Students
The three lockdowns that the UK has faced have arguably had one of the more long-term impacts on today's youth. Many of them are going to not only be the ones who are facing challenges now but based on the average research timeline following a significant national challenge like the Financial crisis or the present Covid crisis. We will not likely see the real impact for approximately five to ten years.
While my previous articles have focused on farmers' mental health this week, I intend to look at how to support learners. Now yesterday, I was listening to a podcast, MoneyBox looking at significantly how students have been affected by lockdown rents. The investigation found that students are still largely paying excessive rent charges as they cannot live in their rental properties due to government guidance, which aims to reduce the spread of Covid. However, the government advises restricting none essential travel, particularly where individuals can still access their educational material from home. Whilst many argue closing universities was the correct course of action, it should not be at the learner's expense. Now universities and landlords have costs that need covering, and aspects of the maintenance grant would traditionally cover these costs. However, taking particular universities such as those in Cambridgeshire and London, the maintenance loan will not cover the accommodation expense without the injection of funds from part-time work. Now part-time jobs are few and far between due to a decrease in traditional work being available for students and young people. This impasse between the universities costs and the students being unable to use the service leads to increased stress. However, this should not be solely the burden of our youth. Yes, the cost needs to be covered, which is what business relief and support have been designed specifically for. Many initially display a lack of sympathy for students as the maintenance loan is generally seen as being for their accommodation, so some would argue why their accommodation providers should be subsided when that is what the loan is for? My view of this is that as with the MoneyBox guests who suggested using a common form of contract law to frustrate the contract, this is not possible in this case. The reason is although the government have strongly advised against travel to educational sites, they have not outright made it unlawful for students to use their accommodation. This makes the frustration of a contract challenging to argue. However, it still leaves the student paying the bill. Although the present student loan system is not a debt in the traditional sense, additional costs for the accommodation may come from the learner, which must not happen.
A possible solution would be to refund the student the cost of their accommodation which could either be designed to be returned to the student loan company or the student directly. Although some learners will still need support with their education, this solution may not be financially viable from a government perspective. If the money is refunded to the students, they would not be baring the accommodation cost they cannot reasonably use. One area that certainly can be followed is shoring up universities, and landlords should follow the same framework a particular discount plan or refund supported by the Office for Students in a way that covers essential costs for the university and reimburses the students. This week I will be looking at further impacts on learners during the lockdown and, like with this article focusing on particular points, which I will summarise in a Vlog on Thursday.
Covid-19 Vaccination
Yesterday the UK beat its target of providing the first dose of the Covid vaccine to the first four vulnerable groups. Now, this article will look at what the UK has done to achieve this feat, how the companies were able to achieve this innovation and what this could mean for the future.
The Vaccine roll out:
Now the UK has had the most successful vaccine roll out in Europe we also rank the highest in the top three countries globally. With only Israel and the UAE ranking above us globally. Now both of these countries have taken advantage of their extensive logistical networks. These networks have enabled smooth delivery of vaccines sourcing and funding of these crucial items of medicine and streamlined delivery. Now the UK’s efforts have had several notable key players or factors which has contributed to its success. The part which our NHS has played in battling the virus as well as the vast amount of volunteers who have signed up to support the vaccine rollout allowing us to administer the vaccines. Now as with many articles which have given credit to the works that the government had done with the procurement of vaccines. The country took a risk by not joining the EU scheme and took steps to set up its own procurement scheme both funding and signing unto multiple companies programs. This could have been highly problematic we could have spent a lot of taxpayer money on failed schemes which may have yielded nothing. However, by doing this the government was able to ensure access to the vaccines by giving the companies a commitment to their product. Other schemes which did not provide the same guarantee fell into an issue with this.
The Vaccine:
Now the vaccines themselves are an innovation in both their design and speed of development. Now truly this innovative process has the potential to be used in other areas of medicine but the fact that the sector has now created a new system which expands on traditional processes. Whereas vaccines traditionally used dead or weak viruses. Now, this innovation introduces a cultured antigen into a delivery system often yeast or bacteria. This takes advantage of the growth characteristics of these types of molecule. Once cultured they then go through a purifying process making them safe. With any scientific achievement, there are always steps to continue to innovate with the mRNA that is the processing time between different virus proteins. AI drug development could be one particular area which could possibly see us be able to innovate this process identifying discrepancies faster than what conventional science can.
Travel and Passports:
With the good news, this will undoubtedly bring too many some will now start thinking about travel. Now one thing that has been discussed regularly is the feasibility or indeed likelihood of a vaccine passport as many people are thinking about how or even if countries have protocols in place for vaccination against diseases. Yellow Fever is one particular disease which is regularly vaccinated against as is hepatitis. Now whilst holidays will likely return there is a possibility that this will only be possible with covid passports of some description. We are already seeing that a mandatory isolation period is being brought into protecting citizens from 33 high-risk countries with variants of the covid virus. However, at this point whilst we are likely to see some form of testing for covid and a return of travel corridors until it is known if vaccines will prevent the spread of the virus. The reason testing may be the likely first step is to allow travel for those under 50 who have not been able to be vaccinated to travel and will likely be the result of lobbying by travel companies. For anyone who wants written proof of the vaccine, they can obtain this from GPs for a small fee. Although companies have not outright suggested a further restriction on those travelling it is too early to tell what this could look like but for those with existing bookings, I would ensure you have suitable travel insurance and re-read your holiday providers policies. The articles at the bottom of this article provide a reference for vaccines needed in each country as well as possible restrictions for travel.
https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/08/future-of-cities-covid-19/
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/jul/10/uk-poised-to-shun-eu-coronavirus-vaccine-scheme
https://www.england.nhs.uk/statistics/statistical-work-areas/covid-19-vaccinations/
https://www.which.co.uk/news/2021/02/will-i-need-a-coronavirus-vaccine-to-fly-or-travel-in-2021/
Mind Your Head
With the importance of Agriculture to both the economy and our ways of life, we need to ensure that we look after its workers. This article focuses on the Mind your Head Campaign bringing awareness to mental health in farming and links to resources to help.
Further to my earlier article about mental health today marks the start of the Mind Your Head campaign.
The Yellow Wellies group rightly has highlighted some key points about farmers mental health. Now some issues which they have isolated would be challenging to control or resolve. Now whilst there are specific agricultural loans to help with the business or equipment needs this, unfortunately, is often at a great interest rate as well as which when coupled with other stressors. Some of these stressors can be highly varied from the direct impacts such as the financial impacts on the business to the secondary elements such as one which livestock farmers face. Livestock farmers often face increased opposition to both the changing diets of the masses that has caused abuse and heated debates on both sides. However, whilst both sides of the debate have valid points and passionate views only one directly impacts their livelihoods. Now whilst this debate will likely be on going for a number of years as it one about ideology. Some positives have been drawn from it alternatives to different movements such as Reganuary which puts a focus on a more sustainable form of agriculture. Now rather then discuss this movement in this article the reason for highlighting it, is that this is a way for the industry to champion better practice by highlighting innovations as well as supporting the local businesses. This can also be seen with concerns between farmers and others who use the countryside or visit farmers lands. With an increased amount of walkers in the countryside farmers can be drawn into conflict when dogs are off lead distressing stock. If the stock animals are distressed or attacked by the dog the farmer has the right to shoot the dog but this can be deeply distressing either by seeing the damage a dog can do to the stock or through shooting the dog. Neither is an option that the farmer wants to pursue however it is something which does often happen with a lack of understanding of the environment.
Now when looking at stress in farmers it is important that all actions are taken to reduce stress. Finding people to talk with whether that be online or those in local support group by engaging in conversation and offloading some of the stress recognising they are not alone. Making sure that those that work on farms especially for those whose lives and work focus on the land need somewhere else to focus such as going off site, exploring a hobby or a trip. Making sure you also take the chance to regularly exercise and follow a suitable routine.
Now campaigns such as Fit to Farm also highlight characteristics about the various roles which are often not explored. The working hours which farmers often do can be up to 65 hours per week this is comparable to the 56 hours per week doctors do. Now not all farmers have this type of working environment but for those who do it should be rightly recognised the pressures they face. Especially at busy periods like harvest where they are flat out for days and hours at end. Now because of working and living on site taking leave from your family farm can be a far flung fantasy for some it is not as simple as leaving your home for holiday for those who business needs require careful monitoring but are tied to a fixed location. Many entrepreneurs or professionals can take their work with them and therefore find some release this is arguably the same for large companies but a challenge for the small family farms. Now respondents to the survey by the Fit to Farm campaign have outlined areas they need help in would it not be the best time for the communities to rely around them and support their efforts.
We also need to remember what great resources we have available to support us and those within our community. YANA specifically targets mental health in farming whilst the Yellow Wellies looks at farm safety follow the links below to find out more about their work and how to support them. Together we Can.
http://yellowwellies.org/StressManagementBooklet_0319/StressManagementBooklet_0319/?page=23
Mental Health in Farming
With Mental Health Week coming a close it comes as the Mind Your Head campaign starts specifically looking at how farmers safety and Mental Health needs a specific focus.
With my articles over the last week, I have played close attention to Mental Health and specifically the impacts on isolation. Now, something which I want to focus on is isolated sectors in rural Suffolk. The isolated primary industry is that of farming. Agriculture is both an industry which has given me a great deal of opportunity and experiences.
Still, I would be remised if I said that you did not notice the effects of being disconnected from many outside of your farm. Now my experience was only brief, often seeing and visiting many farms which Faccenda Foods had ownership of or were contracting out their growing of broiler chickens. Now, although many of my experiences was visiting a variety of farms from large industrial sites with bungalows or living areas for the manager as well as maybe an assistant on-site, this was not often the case for smaller farms where the need for a second staff member on-site was not as justified fiscally. Now the farmers often had family members on the site where their kids and spouse often worked or studied offsite. The farmer primarily stayed on-site for the crop's duration, taking the odd day off throughout the six to seven-week cycle. When off relief staff would work on-site by travelling from other areas to cover the staff member temporarily, and when the site was being prepared for the next crop they would often take the opportunity to holiday away from the site. This chance to leave the area is usually not possible on the traditional farming business. When the land is not working or being prepared for work, it still needs management or other maintenance. Therefore this leaves the farmers working tirelessly for our communities year-round which is both a service and calling which many would not trade.
Now farming is quoted as having one of the worst safety records, which is exaggerated by the number of time farmers spend working in isolation. The larger farms will often see collaboration between owner and employee or generally between generations. Smaller sites are may be unable to justify offering work outside the family and if there is no one within the household to assist then the work can be more isolating. The long hours in the fields tied with the many hats they have to wear; mechanic, accountant, weatherman, and engineer. Now when your livelihood and to an extent your history is deeply rooted in your land, the looming financial uncertainty is a deep concern. With the risks around changes to income and direct payments changes looming post-Brexit, the stress can be too much for those with no one to talk again. This is why the work that charities such as YANA do is so valuable and the results of educators like myself to highlight these groups to the next generation is critical. The Mind Your Head campaign, which I will discuss later this week, needs to be shared and continually championed. After all, although we see shifts in our habits or dietary preferences and sometimes are attitudes, we need to remember the differences in our communities highlight them and ensure that we all continue to move forward together.
Mental Health Week
This week marks the wider discussion on Mental Health addressing areas in which we all collectively can be affected. Today’s article looks at the wider effects mental health has had on young people as well as what to look out for with the possible solutions.
Part and parcel of my role as a teacher are making sure that students mental health is front and centre of what colleagues and I strive to achieve. The step to finding a solution has to be normalising the problem. In my previous blog piece, I looked at some ways that I believe we can use to solve the problem.
In terms of highlighting the problem, I was pleased with the announcement that a public figure like Love Islands Dr Alex has been announced as a youth mental health ambassador. Now whilst he has tragically lost his brother to mental health he is focusing what would often make people shy away from the world and sharing his brother's memory and his own experience of dealing with this tragedy. Now whilst present circumstances has put some of our best steps to prevent adverse impacts on mental health. Being in good physical health whilst difficult without gyms and sports can still be done with communities or activities shared online. We need to promote positive images and content meal preparation, cooking, and fitness plans. Body positivity needs to be encouraged, as does physical fitness. Setting a regular routine for our young people can be removing stressors from the environment like that of some smartphones taking time away from social media. Family makes up many of the structure we all need and those increasingly isolated from this core social group or our self-made groups, friends, peers, and colleagues. Not having access to their workplace or schools can limit their routine and engagement in the broader social setting, so a goal rightly being sought is getting students back into school. As I spoke about earlier this week, volunteering opportunities are few and far between at present, but that does have to be the case opening our doors to new types of activity.
Many parents and young people feel that they miss the most enjoyable parts of the school and university, particularly the social elements. The learners can develop academically the opportunities to discover who they are and the experiences and skills available. Societies and events, even in its best format, struggle to transition electronically. This is why the events economy is still, in my view, the future for the high street but delayed by Covid. Now the anxiety that young people are likely to present because of this lack of experience can lead to mental health problems. The question should be why is there a stigma. Firstly many individuals associate mental health with violence, often because of a link poor mental health support has had with violent offences. This link can be taken from how this is stigmatised in the media and used in ways that often skew a story's narrative. There is also evidence that this same impact can compound a families' wealth and ability to succeed. This can be further affecting social mobility so again, what can we do to build back together. Once we tackle these initial stigmas, we can begin to focus on the harsh reality of the endemic problems in mental health.
We need to end these negative stereotypes to reduce our association of mental health with a sense of weakness and criminality. Because, although criminality links to mental health are concerning by instilling fear in the public, it is also necessary to avoid links to other sides of the debate such as pity and shame. However, to link mental health to different conditions to associate solutions to individual struggles such as suicide, imposter syndrome and body dysmorphia. We can start by avoiding simple phrases like "they must be bipolar" or "nut job" similar to what we do for race. This should help people define their symptoms, fears, anxieties, and goals over their garnered label to recognise they are more than the condition. This can be significantly supported by the positive experience of peers. Finally, we should be mindful that our differences have also strengthened us. Personally, I have a learning difficulty which has had a minor impact on my life. Dyspraxia has impacted my hand-eye coordination elements, which affected my speech, which was primarily rectified by therapies that I am thankful for in my childhood. Now I look at the strengths I have because of how I look at a problem to think outside the box. Transfering this skill to my learners empathising with their challenges or difficulties solutions, I developed my memory, processing and vocabulary. I would not be the same person I am without Dyspraxia regardless of the initial anxieties and stresses this caused me in my early years. I am stronger because of the support I received and have the opportunity to share my experience.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-mental-health-and-wellbeing-surveillance-report/7-children-and-young-people
https://ideas.ted.com/how-should-we-talk-about-mental-health/
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/a-to-z/c/children-and-young-people
https://mhfaengland.org/mhfa-centre/research-and-evaluation/mental-health-statistics/
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/dr-alex-george-from-love-island-to-mental-health-campaigner-nd8xfl2n9
Lockdowns Effect on our Community
How can we all stay connected with our communities during the ongoing lockdown. With the continued pressure that lockdown has on mental health particularly in young people what can, we do to help out those in our communities. This is also something that can benefit our businesses and each other.
Whilst listening to the Front Row yesterday, the discussion looked at how the next generation of learners is affected by the pandemic. Now part of the impact that the pandemic has had on them is exploring different opportunities available. Understanding how we can best promote knowledge sharing the skills we can encourage, techniques they can be taught, industries which they can see. Lockdown affords us the chance to use communities to support businesses and refine how our communities develop and grow this is an area that I believe we should investigate. Alongside the provisions that we can provide the next generation with we can use the same community to benefit businesses. We all intend to share products, craftsmanship, knowledge and talents.
This article addresses the concerns that affect businesses and our students with thoughts on building back better. With the researcher's main point being highlighted, the individuals at a disadvantage in the labour market. The general focus is lack of opportunities immediately available to young people in the present circumstances. With many people being furloughed or out of work, it is not just the lack of job prospect post-college or school. Still, it also allows us to learn or experience whilst again to grow academically with all but a small number of work experiences being offered by businesses able to field these rare opportunities. Learners need to work with various companies to understand how they work within the sector and establish their likes and dislikes. Employers also need to recognise the next generation's strengths and weaknesses, working with educators and tutors to fill these skill gaps (Johnston and Maddox, 2021).
This brings me to the point about lockdown sectors the first jobs for many the opportunities to develop soft skills. Those who go onto university can recover academically from this disruption, but those emerging into the job market are disadvantaged here (Dias et al., 2020). With other impacts being the effect on people's mental health, the implications of many in the community isolated coming together in new ways to share our experiences should be encouraged. Many have concerns about health, education, careers, and livelihoods having a sense of community where people can share their thoughts before returning to normalcy (Peter Madeley, 2021).
However, how this is delivered is equally as important as the messages discussed. Providing a sense of routine whether that be a discussion by business groups, talks about soft skills, mental health days or sharing a craft all need to be provided in a way that encourages positive habits to form (Mental Health, 2020).
This is where a community is needed rather than letting lockdown impact our lives. We have the chance to promote and showcase what communities can do. Allow people to find out about hidden talents within groups, allowing us to restore our link attachments. A pandemic which has forced us to be disconnected could bring us a greater sense of togetherness.
What we can do to build this sense of togetherness and community. Enabling businesses to share what they do and what they produce it gives individuals a sense of involvement in the process. By following the steps you take, we can learn from your experiences, collectively feel involved with your business and its place within our community. This can let people know what your offering, gives someone insight into your profession and build that link with your brand. Teachers, individuals and professionals can also share their content and experiences to best provide tips for working through lockdown, helping someone discover a new hobby or just helping someone get through the day. If there is something we can provide to wider communities in either core or fringe subjects that gives them a similar advantage to their peers, we should encourage them. There is no equivalent exchange for part-time jobs or being with our peers in terms of soft skills, yet what we can do is share our experiences and knowledge openly talking about mental health, finance, work-life balances (Nick Morrison, 2021).
Your County Council Candidate
I am delighted to introduce myself as your County Council candidate this page and website will give you an introduction to me within this article are my initial pledges to you.
Working for Communities and the Environment
Jordon Millward has been selected to stand as the Conservative candidate for the Cosford Division in next May’s County Council elections.
Jordon’s passion for animals and the environment led him to study for his undergraduate degree at Harper Adams University. He now teaches in colleges in Suffolk to pass on this knowledge and passion to the next generation.
His experience has helped him understand what it means to live and work in the countryside and the needs of rural communities. His time studying and working has informed his understanding of the balance between nature and the needs of the agricultural and rural communities.
Jordon is committed to ensuring that the next generation has a strong community connection to the land and the opportunity to thrive. As your County councillor, he will advocate on your behalf for strong educational provision, for an environment which is there for current and future generations, and for an economy which can support them.
Farming for the Future
Together we need to ensure that our rural landscape is fit for tomorrow and today. As your councillor, Jordon will work with farmers, landowners and countryside groups to ensure that our countryside continues to prosper and provide a biodiverse haven for wildlife for future generations. With his experience in the sector, Jordon will champion the work of the farmers, and support young people entering the industry including through promoting opportunities in our valuable County Council farms and estates.
A Voice for the Next Generation
It is crucial that we continue to develop educational provision in our communities. As your councillor, Jordon will be the voice for the next generation ensuring that young people of all abilities have the facilities and opportunities to thrive that they need. Jordon already works with schools and colleges on how to meet the needs of students with SEND.
SUFFOLK CONSERVATIVES HAVE DELIVERED
Suffolk County Council’s Conservative Administration has led the county’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic, protecting our most vulnerable residents during lockdown.
We have balanced sound financial management with caring for our most vulnerable residents – an approach that is needed more than ever in these unprecedented times.
Working with partners, we ran the successful Home But Not Alone phoneline and sourced and distributed PPE when it was in short supply.
We set up the Suffolk Advice and Support Line helping families facing hardship with debt advice, as well as with food and fuel vouchers, paying utility bills, buying school uniform, covering rent arrears and more. Call: 0800 068 3131 (weekdays 9am – 5pm)
Suffolk Conservatives lead the campaign on Climate Change with our promise to make the Council’s carbon neutral by 2030. We will plant over 100,000 trees, including healing woods in memory of those who died from Covid19, and will fund and promote town and village projects supporting local wildlife and biodiversity.
Between 2017 and 2021 we will have spent over £1billion caring for our most vulnerable children and adults. We are spending £45m building 800 school places for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, with 200 places opened this year and three new SEND schools opening in the next two years.
We will set up a network of Family Hubs for children and young people aged 0-19 and their families.
Biodiversity is the World Now Waking Up
With the UNs new report on biodiversity, I offer my summary of the need for biodiversity action to ensure that the world takes a step forward for the environment.
With the recent Biodiversity summit addressing the needs of wildlife are we finally waking up to Natures needs? Alternatively, is this another global initiative where we sign up to different arbitrary targets which the countries of the world will not meet?
We are aware of our fundamental need to understand nature from an academic point of view preparing the next generation of scholars to conserve our natural world, helping us address how to live with it. When linking this to other academic disciplines such as agriculture and food production, we have to understand how we both produce the resources we need sustainably. However, what do we need from nature other than what we produce, such as; the living and non-living environment.
A leading issue, however, is although many of us are becoming increasingly aware of our impact on nature, we need to do more seventy-five percent of the Earth's surface has been directly affected by human needs and endeavours leaving nature only small pockets of unaffected areas left. Many scientists argue to this degree that we are in the next mass extinction of our planet. Once an exceedingly large number of the world's animals and plants have gone extinct in short succession, this has led to the classification of a Mass Extinction. The planet has already gone through five, and we are arguably in the sixth due to human impacts. The question then that the UN biodiversity report aims to prevent is the rapid extinction of many of these species within the next decade.
Now, why is this fundamentally we do not live sustainably within the environment you only have to look at recent events such as starting to move toward a low plastic world but then once face-masks became the norm an equally damaging incarnation replaced the old litter. Often the lack of care taken for our planet will vary well have far-reaching impacts if we do not have the care to act soon, and this varies from the individual citizen to the large corporations. Now alongside a duty of stewardship for our planet, we have to reflect on both trends which are impacting the Earth the loss of forests as well as valuable topsoil due to desertification and deforestation. This accompanied with 2020s most talked about crisis the coronavirus has highlighted how interconnected we are to the fragile ecosystems of the world, and we ignore the signs at our peril. By often trading in exotic animals and low standards of biosecurity and welfare, we increase the risk of zoonoses and disease emergence.
Now in the case of some animals, if they can adapt, they may well survive the impacts we have had on their populations such as the African Elephant which has displayed changes in the tusk length due to natural selection now favouring short tusked individuals due to increases in poaching of the long tusked individuals. Now whilst plants and animals that we use are abundant in terms of their number, we use relatively small varieties focusing on select families of plants and animals for given functions. This is because they fit our demands for them. However, we also do not know what other discoveries await us, and we must ensure that we leave ourselves the opportunity to do this as a move toward a more sustainable direction. To delve into more detail of how we can do this, we must address both sustainable measures, locally, nationally and internationally.
Fleece hold: where one's castle becomes their burden
Now an Englishmen’s home is their castle but for me, on new build estates, these castles can turn into a burden. Now how does a fresh new property become a cumbersome burden “Fleecehold”.
An English men's home is their castle but with the recent increase in the amount of Freehold homes which are found to be better befitting the name Fleecehold. Why is this? It is often because of covenants or agreements which have been placed on the property by the developer. The owner is contractually obligated to pay a fee to a management company often owned by the same company or with shared board members as the developer. The management company often then contracts out the maintenance to local firms to maintain the land and green spaces. Now whereas the current problem facing new build freehold properties are not new, they can often be compared to leasehold properties. These homes saw a great deal of scrutiny and improvements because of action taken by people directly affected by the leasehold scandal as well as by groups such as HorNet. This intervention by groups like HorNet has seen a lot of pressure on management companies to offer compromises to the existing problem of rising fees and to provide buying guidance for first-time buyers many of which are unaware of the issue before contractually agreeing to buy the property.
This document delves into some of the critical problems that householders face in Fleecehold homes and discusses why this is a scandal waiting to unfold. The document will also provide an outline of some solutions that local councils can do to address this problem without direct intervention by government legislation. Now part of the initial issue is that the very definition of Free Hold is up for debate with Fleece Hold properties. It goes against the very definition of freehold where the owner owns the "title absolute" as they often do not have complete ownership of the land as other parties can claim against the property. With the other parties being able to stake a claim on the property having this form of overarching power over the householder, they can interfere with several processes that homeowners would reasonably expect to do. These include examples such as; apply to alter their property, be free from regular charge for adjacent land, obstruct the sale of the property.
This moves onto the next step of the home buyers issues with the Fleecehold property, and the house may well have elements that, although not miss-sold, are not highlighted to the buyer. Now whilst the buyer of this build would rightly be made aware of these issues or concern when the recommended solicitor has not emphasised this to the buyer. They are often only made aware of the situation just before it becomes a problem which they are unable to resolve. The sales team of the various housing associations can then compound the problem by suggesting that the only way for an effective sale to take place is to follow the guidance of the developer. Using the recommended conveyancer, which is compounded when the individual is unaware of the procedure when buying a house. This is often as many are first-time buyers or the first in their family to buy a property.
Now, this becomes a problem for the owner when they notice the maintenance charge this charge is often downplayed as a small management fee and typically one which is minor for the upkeep of unadopted areas which the council does not operate. This lack of information contributes to the start of often deeply problematic situation for the buyer as the critical information is often shrouded from them which is a process that needs to be hastily removed so that the individuals are not trapped in a system they cannot get out of. Now the stream of problems increases once the buyer has exchanged the necessary paperwork and is often in the property once the developer's agent sends over the essential documentation outlining the charge once the estate has been finished. This can vary from an initial minuscule amount to a significant financial burden similar to council tax or mortgage rates they are already paying. These ECPs or external common parts are owned not by the council but by a management company these companies can have a variety of different levels of thoroughness some maintaining the spaces well and others often giving minimal service for the extensive charges. These charges can frequently accumulate and grow over the years, causing homeowners to be unable to afford to pay the amount Estate Rent Charge or ERC. This ERC under specific laws which treat the owner as a Tenant allows management companies to take income from the owner or repossess the home until such a time that the debt is cleared. If the owner then attempts to settle this dispute, they can often then be refused due to the property being under the management of a trustee to oversee the reclaimant of funds. This coupled with a lack of legal protection often available to leaseholders but not granted to freeholders compounds the issue. They are left in a situation with no recourse to live in their usually newly furnished and designed property which many homebuyers have slaved over the aesthetics of their home. Leaving the homeowner, the option to sell their home. However, they are often shackled to it as many lenders and surveyors who know about Fleecehold properties will advise clients against the purchasing of the property in question. This leaves the owner in the situation where they cannot continue owning the property but may be unable to sell it. This could culminate in a perfect storm of a scandal waiting to happen unless acted upon promptly.
Now whilst banning the sale of these properties outright is not a viable solution as the UK demand for homes increases. The removal of the management fees and the granting of legal protection to homeowners so they can dispute the charges is crucial. One way of removing the charge would not be possible within the existing structure, so therefore the often argued solution to the problem is for councils to adopt these communal spaces both in terms of its maintenance and overall management. This solution is not usually the one pursued many instead elect a board of residents to manage the ownership of the management company to maintain the resident's estates effectively.
Now in other blogs, we will look at other potential solutions as well as proposals to safeguard the future of homeowners and avert the potential scandal in the waiting.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-51413320
https://www.homeownersrights.net/welcome-to-hornet/
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/you-need-know-fleecehold-charges-17006131
Covid, the Countryside and Cities a Changing Landscape.
How has covid affected cities and what should we be looking for in terms of their recovery. In this article I look at the lessons that can be made and how we can apply a rural urban recovery that is fit for all.
With the start of the academic term with the impending return of learners to the classroom in a different environment to what they are familiar with. I am reminded of conversations I have had with friends and colleagues about the reluctance to return to the office. Now for many this likely started with the premise of being safer at home and then evolved into a growing realisation that working from home can offer its own benefits. For many it has saved time on the sufferable commute that many experience. It has provided its own flexibility around child care but this has been double edged for parents as well as care providers. In many areas the lack of travelling restored that sense of community and return of the neighbourhood as new tribes formed. Some people have also been far more productive at home the downside of which is those whose jobs rely on that fixed location have seen the backlash.
In these changing times when industries begin to reflect and change with many recognising the cost benefit, mental health benefits and environmental positives we also need to remember that this is not completely beneficial. Some areas will face graver consequences from a changing working system then others as some businesses rely on the office for their survival.
Some of the general benefits:
You are truly independent your work space is truly your own you can set it up to be at your most productive and could allow greater creativity. You can get more work done on the whole you spend less time commuting and engaging in the office drama. You’ll learn to excel in various forms of communication whether it be social media, zoom, or the forms of content delivery.
Some of the downsides:
Switching or rather lack their of it does your mental health no favours to not have an off switch it is better for your productivity and well being if you are able to effectively time manage you will ensure a greater success in your role. Sometimes you may feel you that you are not informed of the recent or ongoing developments. In some cases this could impact those seeking career growth maybe at a disadvantage if the talent market does not move with employee and work place demands. We also need to remember that our infrastructure is not ready for a profound shift utilities and other necessary provisions are not as robust in all areas of the country and this would have a consequence for productivity. Alongside the questions around productivity and the noticeable pros for the environment if we get used to this new environment we have to remember our own mental health. People need to switch off from their devices and the detachment of working elsewhere and taking a break when at home is more difficult when your office is your home. This is not mentioning how the housing market could be affected as city and commuter belt living see a decline will the rural countryside soar.
Now the environmental benefits:
When you work from home, you are closer to your own amenities you can cook at home rather then rely on shops or restaurants locally. This can cut down on your own expense as well as your waste throughout the day. You can save energy the less energy wasted the less pollution your impact has regulating your house is far cheaper and more cost effective then making the office temperature uniform for a variety of needs of the individuals in your office. The same for energy usage as you can choose what rooms are being utilised and which rooms are not working. On top of this the commute by saving money, fuel and time on the commute you effectively can use this time elsewhere as well as reduce your impact on the planet. Whilst we are moving towards greener forms of travel electric vehicles still have harmful supply chains and combustion fuels are being moved away from. These types of vehicles are also likely to become more expensive as the demand for electric vehicles increase whilst the incentives also increase. Cycling for many is still not likely to be a viable alternative many of our roads are not designed to accommodate cyclist outside of the outskirts of the city.
Now what would this mean for our urban areas how would they survive and what changes can we expect. Now cities are still going to remain a centre for knowledge and cultural sharing but as with the changes in the high street they would need to evolve. With people spending less time in the working day in town centres and cities they would likely need to either change their working hours or what they offer. Now one solution to this would be flexible working where shops and convenience areas are open later in the day at particular times which can attract not the commuter but specific shoppers. Now whilst historically people often flocked to cities following periods of change like Covid this could be a different opportunity to change our way of working due to the benefits of the digital age. The question is could cities be made better by this opportunity could we see investments in the arts, theatres and museums where these centre of the arts return to centre stage of our society. Cities certainly will benefit from transport networks which favour cycling, walking and restrictions on the car could enable better opportunities to move around our cities making use of the roads whereas outside of peak times these roads can be returned to cars and vans to restock shops, bars and restaurants. We can also add in areas for wildlife and greater green spaces which take onboard innovations in the urban landscape such as planting more trees on our paths, wildflower verges and better use of brownfield sites as well as green spaces. Yet for cities to not only survive but thrive we should but our residents first focusing on social and environmental cohesion. Cities should take on board urban planning that takes a more inventive approach looking at the example of the Dutch in terms of wildlife corridors to continue to allow nature a home in the city environment. Make our towns and cities stand on their own highlighting the factors that makes them unique and distribute the relevant sectors to the correct areas to share the wealth across the country making the most of the unique characters of these places. The pandemic has demonstrated the importance of cities' capacity to overcome challenges but they need to embed this into the health of their city ensuring that public services are structurally at the heart of their communities but equally ensuring they have the capacity to cope with a crisis. Countries need to recognise the importance of various sectors voluntary, public and private noting where they fit together and what skills can be learnt from them. To enable a green and robust urban and rural link the roads and other transport links need to reflect this ensuring that cars are focused to areas where they park and get to the areas of the city they need to via park and rides. Cycle routes which are safe and effective for the public to use ensuring their safety and security. Look at other systems that can be employed which cities such as Manchester, London and Blackpool have utilised such as metro links, trams and trains combined with effective routes for walking and cycling. Showcase what is the best practice in your local area and share this with your community.
https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/pros-cons-of-working-from-home
https://www.capital-ges.com/the-environmental-benefits-of-remote-working/
https://foreignpolicy.com/2020/05/01/future-of-cities-urban-life-after-coronavirus-pandemic/
Water Management Lessons Learnt from Day Zero
Water is the most abundance resource on our planet as well as the most precious but we have to learn some valuable lessons about its management in our planning systems.
Water Management is critical for effective management both in our locality, nationally as well as on a global water.
Firstly for those who have done their research you will have probably come across Day Zero which relates to a point in a cities management where it runs out of water which it can provide to its population.
Now water is this fantastic resource that everything relies on a depends on but to much or to little can cause problematic situations to arise. In the UK last week we had some of the heaviest downpours of the recent year in quick succession leading to flooding in areas which have faced drought conditions for a prolonged period. Now the water courses and drainage basins receiving a much needed resupply was crucial for the flora and fauna of these areas. The question is how do we best manage these water courses in our local areas.
Sarni, (2020) writes that Day Zero as a principle is flawed this concept is something that will be discussed further in the article. Initially the concept comes out of a situation in 2018 in Cape Town where after continual droughts for 3 years. The aim was to ration the water available to the community. Yet the warning of being wasteful with water was enough to change the consumers habits. Now whilst they did not have to restrict water, there was a lack of strategy with this action and more a lucky perfect storm of circumstances. Statistically as our climate changes and historic data is less reliable than it has been. This also highlights a problem that we need to address, is complacency until the challenge is staring us in the face we often do not adjust our habits until we have to a proactive approach is necessary to conserve the resource. Continued population growth is likely to increase demand not only abroad but in the UK as well as we see an increased demand for water both in agriculture and residential purposes. Other industries also need to reflect on water usage the fashion and textile sector is also seeing step changed to a more conservation focused to water management particularly some denim producers. Sarni (2020) particularly highlights that as demand for water increases the impact on those in our society will be more profound.
Edmond, (2020) points out that part of the problem is rapid urbanisation. Urban areas can both displace water and if not correctly planned prevent water being conserved. Planning urban areas with water conservation tools such as water less sanitation where possible. Better habits for conserving water and recycling of grey water. Vancouver increases the cost of water at different times of the year to reduce excessive consumption this is a measurable increase not overtly affecting core needs for water. Levying this against excessive uses such as key businesses or even residential. Australia uses water efficiency management strategies on high use buildings similar to other forms of gradings to improve efficiency and effective use. Both Dubai and Ireland have looked at education to embed water conservation at the heart of education.
By designing our urban and rural planning systems to collect and store water more effectively to both enable better drought reduction as well as safer by avoiding water build up on roads. By having roofs which collect excess water and slows the rate the water enters the water course as well as where feasible using water storage systems like boreholes or miniature reservoirs which store the excess water. This coupled with earlier points made about trees in earlier articles can better protect our urban areas and provide better access to the community to flood protection and water availability.
https://www.eco-business.com/opinion/the-myth-of-day-zero-what-we-got-wrong-with-water/
https://www.fromthegrapevine.com/innovation/rethinking-urban-planning-create-water-sensitive-cities
Reintroducing Apex Predators
Should we reintroduce apex predators is it justifiable, morally right or just wishful thinking. I introduce the topic of rewilding here.
With other projects and groups actively participating with the aim to reintroduce Apex predators of yesteryear to our countryside. One argument for reintroducing these species is that it offers a return to wildlife management of historic predator and prey relationships. The reason we are at this impasse is because the predators were often removed or hunted due to predation of livestock. Now whilst their os arguments for and against the reintroduction of these animals is that they could open this risk up again.
Whilst proposing arguments for predators like the bear, wolf and lynx all of various issues in themselves as each comes with different risks the argument for the ecological benefit has been well established. Apex predators will keep prey animal populations to a manageable number as the rate of which prey animals reproduce unhindered by predators can impose other issues on local landscapes. The herds of deer left unchecked and without management can prevent trees and hedgerows regrowing by consuming or trampling on saplings. Whilst a more sustainable population has less of impact as their footfall is reduced. This can also have a benefit on arable crops as it prevents deer grazing on these valuable crops saving farmers cost either from lost crops or management systems to deter the deer. The benefit of keystone species that have a direct and indirect impact on the environment changing its ecological profiles. The question should the historic predators return or do our environments learn to cope with planned management of wildlife by humans which can be costly.
Now looking at it from the opposite points of view these species are often a greater risk to pets and to livestock farms. In terms of pets some small dogs and cats are at a greater risk as they can pose an easier target for predation but these animals can be protected by responsible ownership in high risk areas. With livestock works undertaken with livestock guardian breeds of dog could prove the answer for protecting and deterring predators as most species of predator will not risk dogs encase of injury. The main issue for the UK however, is allowing the animals to establish a territory as when they are contained, both types of animals can be managed more readily when we look at larger geographic regions including towns and cities with various barriers this can cause a greater conflict with people. We need to also remember that they might not have the desired impact on deer number reduction as well as by proxy the restoration of the trees would not be a certainty.
The other added benefit of using livestock guardian breeds such as the kuvasz is that these breeds can also potentially protect stock from other dogs that enter the farmland. The benefit of the guardian breed is they can act as a strong deterrent for both the apex and would-be predators the breeds chase off and deter the animals whilst living with the stock viewing them as a pack. The dogs do this naturally and act as a stable addition to your stocks security.
In Suffolk we are looking more at how we can reintroduce a natural predator the lynx as well as other former species like the bison and pelicans. The argument should be can we live with the animals, does it offer us a better alternative and lifestyle and does it offer a safeguard for our planet. Projects WildEast may see a greener landscape across the county and if we move towards plans with nature at its heart learning from the likes of dutch to provide wildlife corridors over roads like the A14 to prevent isolated populations. In the future I will be looking at wildlife corridors as well as rewilding initiatives to look at their feasibility.
https://www.conservationjobs.co.uk/articles/wolf-reintroduction-in-scotland/
https://www.morningagclips.com/the-benefits-of-livestock-guardian-dogs/
Summer Scorchers and where are all the Trees?
How to beat the heat with a novel solution by allowing a natural shelter to offer a cooling affect for our urban and rural environments. How trees can protect both us and the animals that share our surroundings.
With the UK currently in the midst of a heatwave the normally water logged country is getting a true British Summer. However, the heat is not for everyone our four legged friends can suffer and some die in the heat the weather does not always suit the elderly or certain industries (agriculture, horticulture). Many of us are suffering from hot offices due to air conditioning units being turned off because of Covid.
What’s the solution? Trees!
They offer shade for us and shelter for wildlife and a forest can be a number of degrees cooler then a field as it collectively absorbs the heat and light. So first of all looking at shade.
Trees can block nearly ninety percent of light and heat from our environment by offering shade and acting like a parasol. On top of this it cools the ground by shielding it from the sunlight. By allowing the ground to be cooler it encourages heat loss from us and our surroundings. This can have a relative affect of us feeling around eight degrees cooler celsius. Which is why both us and animals shelter in urban oasis’s or flock to the cooler countryside. For those in largely glass offices the benefit of planting across the suns path and incorporating this into the design process of the building shields you and the workforce by stopping or reducing light penetrating the windows. Some studies have looked at the benefit of trees vs air conditioning costs but this is only in the early stages of research. This is an important fact for countries like the UK as many of our homes do not have air conditioning and for those looking for a zero carbon solution to cooling their houses natural shade could be an option.
Now heat in the urban environment vs the country can be more noticeable as the largely glass and concrete buildings can increase the suns intensity. Solutions such as the living walls could offer solutions for both nature in a urban environment and heat absorption. In the countryside we have the luxury of a cooler environment but as planning increases house building we need a green plan to establish flora as an essential part of our environment. Evapotranspiration occurs on all trees but in urban trees as water evaporates off of their leaves it cools them and us as a secondly affect as the process uses the light and heat energy to evaporate the moisture.
Not all trees are created equal when planning your projects you need to think about the climates of your area. What type of soils do they thrive in? What type of buildings are they near to as you do not want the trees to damage infrastructure and subsequently get removed. Are the trees you are planting tolerant of your climates extremes some will tolerate droughts but not floods and plants like any species should be native in the first instance. If they are of a different variety make sure they are sourced from a registered company and seller.
Now trees and other natural tools can offer us a valuable resource other suggestions to use them to enrich local areas by producing fruit which are for all in the community is another possible avenue to explore.
Is Higher Education Effective for All?
A critical discussion of the Higher Education establishment addressing some of my concerns for the sector ways which it can grow or develop and common pitfalls that students face.
In the UK we are nearing the 50% target for people attending University and Higher Education. Now whilst I myself am a product of the Higher Education system as well as an advocate for it I can also recognise it has its flaws.
For me it comes down to both the tangible benefits Higher Education has on the individual as well as society. Whether this be apprenticeships, degrees or job related training. Measured against the achievement and ideal of the institutions around the globe. Alongside this there is a conversation about the system as a whole what it looks like, its flaws and how we grow it.
In terms of the HE sector pre-covid in the UK we had a mixture of the principally academically focused institutions or those with a particular subject specialism often primarily in cities. These universities the Russell group often featured high on academic league tables for performance. Other common characteristics of Russell group universities is a broad research base whereas the more technical and at times specialised technical institutions like Loughborough for Sports and Harper Adams for Agriculture can still stand out. Both types of universities have their merits and neither type of university can guarantee a positive university experience.
Now the HE system of lecture and seminar based learning boasts its popularity from the cost of books in the pre-industrial and industrial error of publishing. It was cheaper to provide taught content then to provide text books now this is not the case in the modern day. However, this method of delivery is still the norm the question is post-covid as many universities aim to deliver their courses online is the content of their lessons at the forefront of development.
Now back to my earlier thoughts about the tangible vs the intangible. One has to firstly realise that the HE system is primarily about getting a sound and rounded academic experience this should include the skills required of the trade as well as the foundation in academic literature to give the student access to higher level thinking. However the other tangible benefits are the job prospects that the Degree and often the institution or professional contacts. Now secondly the intangible benefits of the HE experience are often a chance for students to grow up. Now what I mean by this is it gives the university student the chance to establish what it means to be themselves away from their parents and pressures at home to grow as an individual. now this can occur through a variety of ways sharing a flat with different people working with different people be able to cook and clean and their first taste of networking they get both with their peers as well as lecturer’s. At this point I also want to highlight the benefit of sandwich courses as the year in industry or the travelling which are ingrained into that degree is one of the most beneficial options for the individual as it gives wider experiences. Now outside and agrees with you got a very strong practical learning or machinery need the tangible side of universities can move towards online as this can offer a greater reception from the student sometimes. Now the issue for me is the intangible university experience cannot be easily replicated online as it is off-line the to grow experience and explore ones self is not something that can be easily replaced by online content or activities.
So in terms of what it looks like the question for me is doing move to a generally online delivery system for higher education where you can potentially share the benefits of individuals who are the best in the field with people at various locations around the UK for other countries as well. Or alternatively is this just a temporary development where universities will then go back to their standard form of delivery. Now there is merit in this as a greater access to experts in a field in some subjects this might be individuals who aren’t at universities giving them the opportunity for students to see you then in their general workplace. In some cases such as on-farm, during manufacturing or design this opportunity could be a more rewarding experience for the workplace and student. The post Covid world certainly give the opportunity for disruption in the market where institutions or platforms such as masterclass can provide taught content from experts and who are at the pinnacle of their careers. Yeah while the University system but also we need to see is still some way of having hub like institutions where the student can still get the intangible benefits of university.
This could be the prime opportunity to tackle some of the issues with higher education for example if you can’t or do not go to areas where they can get the best education could be allowed a greater chance to access it. This could also be the chance for universities to diversify their portfolio by working with industry or local businesses to offer a better service to the local community as well as their residents. main main floor that has developed over recent years it’s to an extent the ability of universities to be a centre for challenge and discussion universities also need to return the form out where they can debate ideas and new experiences thereby allowing the learner to grow and too think critically reflect on topics discussed to challenge the subject through debate.
If universities want to grow they need to think about what service they offer to their customers the student as well as the service to the residents. This is largely due to universities offering a similar package to other institutions whilst working towards a business model rather than a former academic models in most cases. So the solution for universities is to offer a diverse and competitive offering for the consumer whilst also working with other governing to maintain a standard of academic achievement which is fit for the modern day. It must be said that universities cannot solely go with what courses are profitable they simply need to offer diversity because the arts and or other less profitable areas are still highly valuable to society therefore universities need a diverse way of sustaining higher education delivery. The question is do we learn and grow seizing the opportunity or do nothing?
Dog Thefts
Now with my previous blog post looking at microchipping laws being championed by Tuks Law.
What also needs to go be highlighted especially as it has risen during lockdown is Pet Theft. Now one of the problems is how pet theft is recognised the animal is seen as an object both under your insurance and in the eyes of the law. It is difficult for the law and legislators to address how the animal is seen whether they be a dog, cat, or other companion animals. Some animals such as Pedigree dogs, cats, or horses and livestock carry greater value in insurance terms because of their monetary value. But due to how animals are seen in the law under the Theft Act 1968 they are seen as an object in the Animal Welfare act 2006 theft is not mentioned. This then leads to a lack of statistical record as individual police forces hold information and it is not recorded nationally making it more difficult to find out the information this in itself causes an issue. The media and insurance companies hold more of the data but this is still incomplete.
These statistics are what we need to lobby the government to highlight this as a problem.
In my local area in Suffolk, we had a boarding kennel broken into where the thieves stole 4 dogs and 13 puppies on the 9th of July. Now I hope the dogs are found and returned promptly to their families but this is not always the case. This is where we need to also link this to microchip laws as if the dogs are found in a county or part of the country which is a great distance from Suffolk, contacting the original owner may be an issue. If the dog is in a kill shelter or kennel the dog will only have seven days in some cases to be claimed. If the owner of said dog is not contactable or any of the information used to contact them has changed this could cause a lag in their being a contact. Having that secondary point of contact with the original breeder or rescue provides that added safety net for that animal and an additional contact for both the police as well as the shelter. It is also crucial that the dog is identified correctly as there have been cases where animals have been mistakenly operated on or euthanised due to a technical error as was the case with a family's dachshund. Whilst this is not commonplace it is something which could be prevented with vets scanning more rigorously. However, owners also must ensure they go above and beyond for their pet and aim for all companion animals to be chipped so that they are safer regardless of it is not the law for all animals.
Now Sampa is also working to address the problem of pet theft and have a robust campaign that has gained a lot of support for shifting sentencing of pet theft to either a more serious classification of sentencing or separate guidelines. This is essential for recognising the crime as more severe without redefining how the law looks at companion animals. This distinction is an important talking point as although we should recognise an animal's intelligence and individuality as many owners would agree it is difficult to define this value in a courtroom. So whilst the law can certainly be strengthened in years to come we need to see a solid base to work from. Should the UK follow Australia’s lead and impose further provisions for companion animals with heftier fines. For example, if the animal welfare laws provided further guidance for responsible pet ownership. A specific theft bill could be used in conjunction with a revised Animal Welfare act which would allow thieves to be charged both for the distress of the animal and theft of the animal. Whilst it is worth noting what other countries are doing to promote stronger welfare laws we have to address gaps in our own. Being disqualified from owning an animal is difficult to enforce when the sale of animals is not in itself more regulated or the offending party identifiable to breeders, businesses, or owners. I will cover this point and further address other companion animals in a subsequent blog.
The campaigns run by Tuks Law and SAMPA are both listed below we need both to have an impact on this awful crime and need to do more to protect our four-legged friends and treasured members of the family.
https://www.stolenandmissingpetsalliance.co.uk/about-sampa/
https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/bills/cbill/2017-2019/0245/cbill_2017-20190245_en_2.htm
Microchipping Law and Tuks Law
I was surprised to read a post on social media about individuals who had taken someones pet and had the animal put down without being challenged by vet.
Follow this link to a petition about Tuks Law after the case of the unfortunate dog put down due to lack of scanning by vets. However, it turned out it this is not a isolated case as with many petitions to parliament there are a number of campaigns all at similar points such as Harveys Law and Tuks Law. However, before I go into what these campaigns are trying to achieve we need to recognise whats being done so far. Now the Kennel Club summarises the existing laws well. The UK made microchipping compulsory largely to enable a traceability of a persistent issue we have which is puppy farming. The law ensures that a registered keeper in theory should be tracked as their details are maintained on a system it also allows those whose pets have been stolen to be returned to them. The law was not a silver bullet microchips can move and shift causing them to get lost, details still get left out of date. Some still do not take the dog to the vet to get microchipped which with regret still leaves the door open for puppy farmers but it has certainly moved us further forward. Now puppy farming is being opposed by Lucy’s Law which is not the focus of todays article.
Tuks Law campaign focus on furthering the scope of microchipping laws. This campaign we goes on to further campaigns such as Harvey’s Law and Lucy’s Law. The problem as I see it is whilst there is guidance from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons it is not clear when and where to challenge. Especially in cats or other animals where microchips are not compulsory. Now whilst these campaigns are trying to make the case for vets to compulsory scan microchips when the animal is brought into their practice. Now one issue here is if the vet scans the microchip with out any law that puts responsibility on the owner or individual present with the animal. Now not all cases of treatment warrant this such as routine flea, worming, tablet reviews etc. Cases which I feel do require it are when it profoundly affects the animals life invasive surgeries, euthanasia (excluding welfare grounds).
Now if you are intending to make vets scan the pet with other animals you would need to make microchipping compulsory for all companion animals. We also need to make it then the case that you as the owner or keeper take some form of identification with you to prove the ownership of the animal. Now Tuks law argues that dual registration should be practiced on microchips and if that is the case the rescue group or in pedigree dogs cases the breeder should also be part of this decision. Whilst well intended this should only go as far as to function as an identifier or in the case of a healthy pet being presented where the owner has decided to end the animals life the rescue has the option to reclaim the animal. This should not happen in cases outside of euthanasia it should also bring in the vets judgement if the dog or pet is at the end of its life it would not be appropriate to extend this invitation to the rescue or breeder.
Now whilst these campaigns are highlighting problem they also need refining to not generate further problems. What are your thoughts? as a rescue dog owner I know its importance but how should this be executed is my question.
Links to the petition below as well as other related articles:
https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/300025
https://www.dogmagazine.net/what-is-tuks-law/amp/
http://sighthoundezine.co.uk/news/harveys-law-passed-by-parliament/
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/gove-delivers-lucys-law-to-protect-puppies-and-kittens
Farmers Markets and the Local Economy
With yesterdays blog I looked at the growth of local businesses now investigating another staple of the local economy the market.
They have the added advantages of allowing producers to sell limited stock to the consumers and still sell bulk items to large contracts. Farms and other local suppliers can also offer their services which are specific to their business or unique products such as Hook & Sons raw milk products. Now markets can also present a risk they have some immediate start up costs and the products need to be marketed correctly to ensure that the farmer can sell their products. The important distinction that the suppliers need to remember is the markets function as a gateway for the business.
Now various steps could be used as mechanisms to improve consumer supplier relationships. Community Supported Agriculture or CSAs can be a system of both direct marketing and intelligent crop production. By working with their consumer base through surveys or questionnaires they can ask the consumer what products they want or are interested in and then can shift their crop production to reflect this. Farms can also share their news or any events which they are operating continuing to get individuals to buy into their brands or stories.
Farms can take this information collected from consumers and understand their market adapting tried and tested subscription models in some cases offering meal delivery or box models which are similar in cost to supermarkets. These are seen across different company models such as muscle food and hello fresh as ways to tailor food supply to the consumer whilst playing to a healthier side of consumerism.
Family-run food merchant shops currently represent around 10% of the vegetable market, while the market has seen an increase in market share from the 70s to the present day. Nearby shops are the social communities of networks – they watch out for the old and sick, they give notice sheets to commercials, they stay in contact with local individuals. They give assorted produce and link the consumers with customer.
Merchant led markets have the strategic aims of supporting nearby farming. These business sectors are membership driven by a well established foundations in their historic craft and promise of propelling the interests of farmers. Merchant led markets sheets additionally have a littler of associations in their network. This implies the market might be constrained in its capacity to seek extra income and further expand. Community led markets have goals that address network needs yet in addition organize merchant success. These business sectors profit by having markets made out of assorted individuals since this gives social capital that can assist markets with getting to extra assets.
Local governments have to remember that whilst the markets work as catalysts for merchants, social cohesion and civic good. They should be treated similar to large shopping centres and the various groups should be worked with to ensure they prosper. For example ensuring that traders or other small businesses which offer an anchor point at various ends of the market as this will encourage shoppers to shop for longer. Provide a layout for consumers to follow which maps the stalls so they know who is who and where they are. Encourage merchants who sell cooked food to group together to act as a central food court. Recognise their differences they do not have store rooms they have vans or other forms of storage they need nearby to facilitate their ability to trade. By treating markets as a thriving shopping centre it can play to the strengths of both the uniqueness of farmers market and their place within the local area.
https://www.sustainweb.org/pdf/afn_m1_p2.pdf
https://farmersmarketcoalition.org/the-cultural-significance-of-farmers-markets/
Changing Habits of Consumers.
Following on from my take on the changing high street I believe we should take stock of how the ongoing pandemic has changed our habits.
The Corona virus initially sparked panic buying from the large supermarkets attracting panic buying of essential items. When people could not find the items they needed they turned back to the local stores. The butchers, green grocers, and bakers. Now the first major change that would face the consumer is lack of choice as we have been privileged over the decades of global supply chains. Now this would lead to some products no longer been available as part of our daily routine but a return to a more sustainable consumerism. Unintentionally we will have brought items with a lower carbon footprint or a reduction in packaging.
This will have affected some more severely then others as those with allergies and intolerances will have faced a reduction in availability which is not a choice but a need. Yet many bakeries as an example have evolved with consumerism offering suitable alternatives and some local businesses offering ready meals which are locally sourced and vegan in areas. The next generation of consumer has found a fondness for old retail establishments finding they reflect the values of their generation. Many of these businesses have been further strengthened by opportunities to explore other ventures as consumer demand has warranted an increase in delivery services and online ordering. So whilst their is certainly areas that the independent sector can learn from the established high street stores. Their independence and the unique brands that they represent but if these businesses are to grow post covid they need people to buy into their ethos. Local produce brought from local businesses sold across the local village. Food or types of food using local recipes and knowledge to advertise heritage I’m from Stoke on Trent so Oatcakes are a nostalgic food which reminds me of home and the Newmarket sausage is a fast growing favourite.
Yet if they want to increase brand awareness using new tools such as social media to promote their place in the local community. Letting people know what they are doing, new ideas, innovations as well as any projects they are working local businesses standing out. Some have taken to promoting their crafts online showing their consumers a craft as well offering a service. Or you can take an existing craft and change or reinvent it such as Yorkshires Vege Butchers. We see much of this locally as well such as at Bury St Edmunds, Mildenhall, Newmarket and Cambridge. Now some of these businesses offer their services across the local markets or bespoke services at particular markets. Now the importance of both open air and internal markets both today and in the future is something I will address in a subsequent blog tomorrow. The innovations of the local businesses is something which is greatly admired as is their fortitude.
With many now noticing they can return to local businesses and the growing sustainable movement we are seeing a reinvigoration of these businesses. The question of whether they will continue on this trend is up to us.
Saving the High Street or Encouraging it’s Evolution
With a steady decline of the High Street arguably linked with the rise of internet shopping. The question for me is two pronged does the High Street reflect todays habits and interests? Secondly is the High Street declining in all places?
Where and when we talk about the High Street we often describe conserving the High Street store in the form that we all remember sometimes fondly sometimes unsatisfactorily. Now when we think about the High Street has it evolved with the times and does it reflect our modern habits. High Street stores that are thriving have often developed an online offering that is either equally or more so powerful then its brick and mortar store. Or in other cases where it has less of an online presence but is more prominent in our High Streets looking at B&M which has survived and thrived today. Their solution was a reduction in choice targeting more popular products. The alternative stores the innovators like Gymshark has explored alternative forms of marketing and supply. They have focused more so on modern consumerism using influencers which generate content and a “tribe” of sorts. Why does this work consumers have an added value from the product they see someone they admire therefore they want to develop that relationship with the brand as the person who they admire has. Now Gymshark facilitated and nurtured this with events and temporary stores where individuals can meet these influencers and access new and existing lines of products. So this then makes us think should we conserve the existing High Street or should we encourage it’s evolution. When the products can be sourced in a identical format online and offline it offers the consumers nothing. However, if the product or business allows us access to something different or unique which enriches our experiences with the market which should be encouraged in areas such as events, activities, consumption and uniqueness.
My second point was one of particular importance to me I thoroughly enjoy visiting different and diverse places yet often anecdotally tend to avoid areas which are identical. Such as the atypical High Street does nothing to attract me to it and I will often check the cost of a product against its online counterparts when I do go to the typical stores. However, this is not the same in all high streets many are still able to thrive because of unique offerings such as quiet towns like Bakewell in Staffordshire which has famous bakeries which pull in consumers. Or in the case of cities that have thriving tourism attractions which draw in the consumer London being the core example although areas of its high street have suffered due to high rents but specialist stores still thrive. Other towns have changed how they open up their high street Bury St Edmunds offers a dog friendly high street so shoppers are able to take their four legged friends out. It may not be a new product but it is a different experience for the shopper.
So how so do we resolve some of these points promote individuality and uniqueness in our high streets. Offer something which draws in the consumer to spend in stores, provide a unique experience or activity. Ensure that the shops meet local demands as well as other consumers such as butchers, green grocers and bakeries. Offer something different then your online business stand out and be unique within your own brand.