The news that matter in Europe
The news that matter in Europe
The intense and quiet work carried out in Spain by religious denominations such as Buddhists, Baha’is, Evangelicals, Mormons, members of Scientology, Jews, Sikhs and Jehovah’s Witnesses has remained for decades in the shadows, out of the media spotlight. However, a pioneering study…
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Thousands celebrate 4 years of IAS’s monumental global humanitarian work using L. Ron Hubbard’s vision.
BRUSSELS, BRUSSELS, BELGIUM, November 29, 2023 /EINPresswire.com/ — Thousands of Scientologists recently gathered at the historic Saint Hill estate in West Sussex, England to…
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The Scientology Volunteer Ministers (VMs) recently organized a cleanup operation in Rome and another of their teams provided flood relief in Florence.
ROME, ROME, ITALY, November 15, 2023 /EINPresswire.com/ — Scientologists in Italy often participate in helping their communities during…
Alistair, from Leeds, is hoping that months of training will be enough to get him across the finish line, as Alistair has never run a marathon before.
Francis House provides care and support to the families of children and young people with life-limiting conditions from its base in Didsbury, Manchester.
In preparation for the marathon event, Alistair has been pounding the streets of Leeds and running circuits over the Humber Bridge to his hometown of Hull.
The 33-year-old runner said: “I used to enjoy sprinting at school but have only taken up longer distances over the past five to six years, taking part in parkruns, and a variety of 10K’s and Half Marathon’s.
“Over lockdown, I managed to complete a 15 miler which was the first time I thought a marathon might be possible, and since getting a place to run the London Marathon, I have built up the mileage progressively.
“The longest I’ve run to-date is 22 miles so I’m hoping the crowd on the day will help to keep me going for the remaining miles.”
The mass participation event returns to the streets of London on Sunday, October 3, with more than 40,000 runners expected to take part.
Alistair said: “I have always wanted to attempt it – it’s an amazing event to watch as a spectator and certainly one that’s been on my bucket list for many years. To be able to soak in the support from the crowds around the entire course and pass all of its iconic landmarks will be something special.”
Alistair’s fiancée Emma Stanbury is expecting the couple’s first baby in December and will be in the crowd to cheer him on.
“Emma is the reason why I started running longer distances, she’s supported me throughout my training, and always believed that I could one day do a marathon so I’m hoping to make her proud with a good time.”
Running has also given Alistair an excuse to get outside after two years of working from home.
“Friends got me onto Strava which has been a great tool to keep track of my training and encouraging me to go out on those lazy days when I would love to put my feet up and watch TV instead.
“Running is so accessible – you can open the front door and just run. Doing long distances lets you see more of the city and the changes that are going on around it over time.”
In 2018, Alistair ran the Manchester Half Marathon for Francis House and when the invite came through to apply for one of the hospice’s marathon places, he jumped at the chance.
“It’s great to be supporting a local northern charity who are doing some fantastic work in helping support vulnerable children and families going through extremely difficult times.
“I’m hoping to come in sub 3hrs 30 minutes, but I think on the day I’ll be happy just to make it across the finish line.”
Julie Williams fundraising officer at Francis House said: “We wish Alistair good luck on Sunday and would like to thank him for choosing to support Francis House and hospice care. We rely heavily on the generosity of the public, it’s an uphill struggle to raise the £4.2 million in running costs that we need every year, and we are very grateful to everyone who has sponsored Alistair.”
To support Alistair and his fundraising for Francis House click here https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/19665_9013056_83885
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of Francis House Children’s Hospice, on Wednesday 29 September, 2021. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/
The event, which will take place on Monday 4th October between 5pm and 8pm at their North Weald Airbase, 10 minutes from junction 7 on the M11, is free to attend and open to anyone that may be looking to take the next step, in their career.
Caroline Beresford, Head of HR at EHAAT explained the reason behind the event. “EHAAT is a charity that provides a Helicopter Emergency Medical Service for the critically ill and injured of Essex, Hertfordshire and the surrounding areas. We operate out of our airbases at North Weald and Earls Colne. Our charity team consists of around 60 people, working across the three main functions: fundraising, clinical and operational.
“Due to new innovations, promotions and career development, we have several vacancies that have opened up, so we have decided to open our doors and we are asking people to come along – armed with their CV – to talk to us about joining us in our mission to save lives!”
Almost entirely funded by public donations, EHAAT attended 2,366 life-saving missions last year across Essex and Hertfordshire and it forms an important part of the emergency services supporting the NHS.
Those wishing to come along on the 4th October should visit www.ehaat.org/jobs for more details including directions, along with viewing the current list of vacancies available.
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of Essex & Herts Air Ambulance, on Wednesday 29 September, 2021. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/
“I am delighted to become an Ambassador for this brilliant charity,” said Mr. Richardson. “I first came across Room to Reward when I signed up to the scheme as GM of The Grand in Folkestone. It’s a wonderful way of thanking those who do so much for others and I look forward to being part of the team.”
Kellie Rixon took over as Chair of the Institute in September 2020. “Room to Reward is a wonderful way for hoteliers to use a couple of empty rooms to create memorable experiences for some truly deserving people,” she said. “I encourage all of our members to find out more and get involved.”
Founded in 2015, Room to Reward now works with over 500 hotels throughout the U.K, including the likes of Jurys Inn, Iconic Luxury Hotels, Bespoke Hotels, Splendid Hospitality Group and Harbour Hotels. After COVID-19 brought a halt to much of their operations, the charity relaunched in June with a special campaign to recognise volunteers who had stepped up during the pandemic.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Kellie and Robert as Ambassadors,” said Adam Terpening, Director of Room to Reward. “We have been fortunate to benefit from the wonderful support of the Institute for a number of years and their endorsement is a huge boost for us on our journey to recognise and say ‘thank you’ to more Hidden Heroes.”
To find out more about the hotels involved with Room to Reward and some of the 1000+ volunteers granted a break through the initiative, visit: www.roomtoreward.org.
To find out more about the Institute of Hospitality, visit: https://www.instituteofhospitality.org/
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of Room to Reward, on Wednesday 11 August, 2021. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/
With ONS reporting depression and anxiety disorders doubling during 2020 and there already being an increase in suicide rates pre Covid, 75% of all suicides are still that of males and we have seen the first increase of suicides amongst teenagers for decades. The cost of poor mental health and mental illnesses has also increased for; UK employers from £35billion to £45billion and the UK economy from £95billion to £105billion annually.
Whilst the government did invest £10million to the Voluntary, Charity and Social Enterprise VCSE organisations UK wide early on in the pandemic to assist with mental health, they then announced a £175million winter mental health plan in December 20, which was predominantly given to the NHS and spent on “Interventions”, opposed to “Preventative Measures”. This was part of an agreement made by the government three years ago and none of which was made available to the VCSE’s, the very organisations who have kept our communities going throughout Covid and there has been no specific action or investment to date, aimed towards the impact of Covid on peoples mental health over the past 16months OR the ongoing impact and fallout, to peoples mental health, post Covid.
With the true number of patients on waiting lists yet to be identified, we do know it is currently reported to be approximately 4million, though suggestions have been made it is more likely to be around the 14million mark, the likelihood and expectations of mental health professionals is that many people’s mental health will decline into crisis whilst waiting to be seen.
Nick Wilson has been involved in mental health for over 5years now, since 2016 when he attempted suicide following his experiencing burnout, being diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, gained during his 14yr military career including deployments to; Northern Ireland, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan, and went on to spend time in rehabilitation with Combat Stress.
His work has included successful mental health campaigns in 2018/19, reaching over 250,000 people and literally saving lives. Raising awareness of PTSD and mental illnesses through sharing his own experiences to reduce; Stigma, Prejudice, Preconceptions of mental health and Toxic Masculinity, whilst showing the way for other men to come forward. Most recently, during Covid, he formed a men’s mental health support group within Northamptonshire, using his War Pension to cover operational costs, due to little financial support being made available, and were the only mental health support services in Northants, offering continued safe face to face meetups throughout Covid.
On the face of it, this may seem no different to what many other selfless individuals were doing around the country, however, Nick has managed to achieve all of this whilst managing physical and mental disabilities such as; PTSD, Depression, Fibromyalgia and 7 pro lapse discs of the spine, resulting in his experiencing chronic levels of pain throughout his body, every minute of every day.
“How are we meant to be able to offer support, guidance and direction to all those who are struggling with their mental health, when waiting lists are so long and the government are demonstrating no leadership or empowering individuals to better manage their own mental wellbeing!? It just isn’t right, the time for talking about this is over and it is now time for action” – Nick Wilson.
Nick has invited the Prime Minister, and his colleagues, to attend one of his talks where he; openly shares his experiences living with mental illness and seeking to gain support from NHS mental health services and the importance of Self-Management, where people take ownership and accept responsibility of their own mental wellbeing, which Nick has offered to provide for free.
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of Racing Minds CIC, on Wednesday 11 August, 2021. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/
Taken from their latest album “Diggin’ The Roots Vol.1: Rockin’ Rhythm & Blues”, the song “Bad News” is an original track. Inspired by the constant doom and gloom in much of the sensationalist media and the impact this can have on one, the band’s song is a satire about negative news and about the conflict and controversy found on social media. Here’s the link to the video: https://youtu.be/uWRNIQeYW0c. The video is a full production put together by the band themselves.
Ian Clarkson lead singer of the band commented: “We had this concept and started filming for the music video, spent lot of time putting it together, then lockdown hit and we were faced with an unpredicted obstacle. So, we started all from scratch and did a brand new one. We had some new ideas and our trombone player taught himself how to do all these special effects, plus finding great old footage from some old movies in public domain and we came up with this video which we think puts across the message that our Bad News song intended. We have released the video right after our charity festival Summertime Swing and we immediately received hundreds of positive responses. We are looking forward to its success.”
Just a few days ago the Jive Aces have achieved the astonishing record of 500 consecutive days of free live streams which started on 17th March 2020 helping thousands of people getting through the depressing times of the lockdown days, reaching people in every corner of the globe. And to mark this landmark, the band released the afore mentioned music video.
The band, who throughout the years have accumulated award after award, including the prestigious Telly Award for Best Music Video for their hit song Bring Me Sunshine – over 3.5 million views on YouTube – also received an award from the Variety Club Society for their contribution to music and constant support to charitable causes.
The band is scheduling a full return to their tour of British theatres and even back to the USA in Spring next year, including finishing a new album. So it really is going to be good news from here on out!
For more information about the band: https://www.jiveaces.com/
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of The Jive Aces, on Monday 9 August, 2021. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/
More details to follow, including the performance line-up and when tickets will go on sale.
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of One-Drum Foundation, on Friday 6 August, 2021. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/
Lynette shared “I have suffered from tinnitus with associated hearing loss since April 2020. This has impacted greatly on my life and caused me great distress as I was coming to terms with the condition. I now manage it well and this is down to the support I have received from the BTA. I heard about BTA through a friend who advised me to contact the association. From thereon in I have not looked back. I have received excellent support, advice, and coping strategies. I cannot thank the BTA enough for the support offered to me. This is why I feel it is important to try and raise funds for such a vital cause.”
“I am walking the Yorkshire Three Peaks on 7 August 2021, a gruelling 26 miles of mountains and countryside hike. I have chosen to raise funds for the British Tinnitus Association because they have been a tower of strength and support to me during a very difficult period in my life. Because of the BTA support, I accepted my hearing loss and tinnitus; know I will live with this condition for the rest of my life; but be able to manage it well.”
The British Tinnitus Association’s vision is “A world where no one suffers from tinnitus” which Lynette fully supports. As well as raising vital funds for tinnitus research and support, Lynette will also be completing this as a personal challenge. “I have trained very hard in preparation for my challenge. I am looking forward to achieving a personal goal and hope to complete the challenge within a 12-hour window. This year alone I gave already hiked two of the three peaks, Snowdon and Scafell Pike, to name just a few mountains. I will be going live online throughout the day with regular updates on my progress.”
The BTA’s Fundraising Officer Jess Pollard commented “We’re thrilled that Lynette has chosen to support our charity by completing this gruelling challenge and so grateful for the time, dedication and effort she has already put in with training.”
Please help Lynette reach her fundraising goal by donating at facebook.com/donate/140645224738134, or email fundraising@tinnitus.org.uk take part in your own challenge.
– Ends –
For more information
Nic Wray, Communications Manager
0114 250 9933
Editors Notes
About the British Tinnitus Association
The British Tinnitus Association is an independent charity and the primary source of information for people with tinnitus. It helps to facilitate an improved quality of life for people with tinnitus through a range of support options including support groups, a helpline and its website, while also taking steps to bring forward the day when tinnitus is cured. The charity works to inform and educate medical professionals and the community on what tinnitus is and how to manage it. The British Tinnitus Association wants “a world where no one suffers from tinnitus”. It wants to find better ways to manage tinnitus and, ultimately, to help find a cure. In 2020, the publication of its Tinnitus Manifesto led to more than 120,000 people signing a petition for more funding for tinnitus research to find cures.
Website: www.tinnitus.org.uk
Twitter: @BritishTinnitus
Facebook and Instagram: @BritishTinnitusAssociation
LinkedIn: British Tinnitus Association
British Tinnitus Association, Unit 5 Acorn Business Park, Woodseats Close, Sheffield S8 0TB
The British Tinnitus Association is a registered charity. Registered charity number 1011145.
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of British Tinnitus Association, on Thursday 5 August, 2021. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/
Volunteers from the Church of Scientology Milano teamed up with Milan Transportation Association (ATM) to promote the value of an active, drug-free lifestyle.
ATM’s BikeMi, the city’s bike-sharing program, offered these Drug-Free World volunteers the use of bicycles free of charge to promote their Truth About Drugs initiative.
The day’s activities launched from the Church courtyard at Viale Fulvio Testi, 327. Councillor Giulio Gandolfi thanked the volunteers for bringing this important message to the community and signed their “Say No to Drugs” Honor Roll in support of the initiative.
Twenty volunteers took off from the Church by bicycle, wearing their signature teal Truth About Drugs T-shirts and caps. They rode through the city, handing out Truth About Drugs booklets in high-traffic areas in support of this year’s UN Office on Drugs and Crime theme for International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking: “Share Facts on Drugs: Save Lives.”
Foundation for a Drug-Free World is a nonprofit public benefit corporation that empowers youth and adults with factual information about drugs so they can make informed decisions and live drug-free. The Foundation’s Truth About Drugs campaign consists of drug education materials and activities that popularize drug-free living.
Scientology Churches provide drug education specialist training, sponsor chapters of Foundation for a Drug-Free World, and work with local educators, police, churches and nonprofits to reach youth on this vital subject.
To make these materials available to anyone wishing to tackle the drug crisis, the Church of Scientology International Dissemination and Distribution Center in Los Angeles, California, produces and ships out Truth About Drugs booklets, DVDs and education packages free of charge to parents, educators, law enforcement, community groups and nonprofits for their drug prevention activities.
The Church of Scientology Milano is an Ideal Scientology Church, dedicated in 2015 by Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion. In addition to providing ideal facilities to service Scientologists on their ascent to higher states of spiritual awareness and freedom, the Church sponsors humanitarian programs and serves as a home for the community and a meeting place of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations.
The Scientology religion was founded by author and philosopher L. Ron Hubbard. The first Church of Scientology was formed in Los Angeles in 1954 and the religion has expanded to more than 11,000 Churches, Missions and affiliated groups, with millions of members in 167 countries.
Andrew Ledwith has signed up to run the 26.2mile route wearing his 4kg firefighter uniform, complete with helmet and fire-protective tunic and trousers – the equivalent of carrying four large bags of sugar!
He’s taking on the challenge to raise money for Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity. Andrew’s role as Helipad officer at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust’s new Helipad at the roof of Grafton Street Car Park means he’s learned just how vital both the Helipad and specialist teams at the children’s hospital are in those critical moments when patients are brought in via helicopter.
“The children’s hospital looks after a staggering 280,000 paediatric patients every year and being a father myself it does bring home what an amazing job they do at the hospital,” explained Andrew, who recently turned 40. “I feel that if I can help those kids by raising money by running this marathon, then this will go a long way to support not only the young ones, but their families as well.
“My brother Daniel who had Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy was treated at the old hospital site in Pendlebury. Sadly, he passed away but the care he received there was excellent.
“I’m one of four helipad officers and two of us are on the Helipad at all times while it is operational. We do see the young patient transfers and if you’re coming in via the Helipad you’re usually in a critical condition. My job plays a small part in helping them quickly get the medical care they need, but I wanted to do something more.”
Andrew has been working at the Trust since September 2020 and the Helipad became fully operational to take patients in May 2021. The Helipad construction was made possible thanks to generous fundraisers who raised £3.9million for the Manchester Foundation Trust Charity’s Time Saves Lives Appeal.
Before working at the Trust, Wigan resident Andrew was formerly an aircraft handler in the Royal Navy. Fans of Channel 4’s A New Life in the Sun may also recognise Andrew and his wife Samantha, as they were featured on the programme when they previously moved to the south west of France.
Since returning to the UK, Andrew has completed a number of marathons for charity, but decided he needed to put a new spin on things this time around.
He said: “I’ve done a few marathons before so I think asking people for money when you’ve already done one can be quite hard. That’s why I decided to make this one more difficult by doing it in my uniform.
“I am cheating slightly – I decided not to run a whole marathon in the fire boots as they are really heavy and I think the 4kg fire suit will prove to be hard enough, so I will be wearing trainers. I’m not that crazy!”
Andrew, who is a father to two-year-old Tobias, has already started training and is using a weighted vest to get him used to the extra layers and kilos he’ll be wearing on the big day.
“Because everything is fireproof it’s incredibly hot,” said Andrew. “So it’ll not only be heavy, I’ll be sweating buckets too. But it’s for charity, so I can’t back out now!
“I’ve averaged between 3hr 30 and 4hr 20 marathons over the years but I think the main focus this time is to just get across the finish line. To do this I will have to take in lots of nutrition, salt tablets and plenty of water to compensate for all the sweating. I’d like to finish at 4hr 30 but that’s a big ask, so I think under 5hr would be more realistic. But let’s see what happens on the day.
“What I really want is a cool day but without any of the famous Manchester rain – the rain would add extra weight.”
Manchester Marathon, this year taking place on 10th October, is famously one of the flattest marathon routes in the country and is popular with runners trying to get a personal best. Although own places are now filled, those wishing to take part can still apply for charity places. Manchester Foundation Trust Charity is keen to hear from anyone wishing to have a charity place and raise money for their favourite Manchester hospital.
The marathon is one of many events on offer with Manchester Foundation Trust Charity this autumn under the Be A Good Sport initiative. The Charity’s Be A Good Sport campaign is encouraging fundraisers to get active and do something amazing for one of the NHS hospitals in the Charity’s family – including Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity which Andrew is supporting.
The Charity’s Senior Events Manager, Viv Williamson, said: “There might be people out there thinking they’re too late to sign up to Manchester Marathon, but there are still places available if you sign up with us and raise some money for a wonderful cause.
“This is a great opportunity – it’s flat, its in a cooler month and don’t worry, we won’t make you wear a fireman’s uniform! Normal running gear is very much encouraged.
“We want to say a big ‘thank you’ to Andrew for taking on the challenge for our Charity and being one of our fantastic Be A Good Sport fundraisers. Of course, if a marathon sounds too daunting, we’re also offering 10K events bother locally and further afield and the ever-popular Tour de Manc for our keen cyclist supporters. You can visit the Be A Good Sport section of our website to find out more and sign up today.”
Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity funds treatment, research and care projects. The Charity aims to make a real difference to the children and young people in their care by ensuring they continue to receive the highest quality treatment in the highest quality facilities.
For a guaranteed free place at the Manchester Marathon and to raise money for any of the 10 hospitals in the Charity’s family, www.mftcharity.org.uk/events
To sponsor Andrew visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/andrew-ledwith5
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity , on Wednesday 4 August, 2021. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/
The Marie and Jack Shapiro Prize is intended to encourage researchers, public communicators and others to develop an interest in tinnitus and to recognise their efforts. The prize is named after the late Jack Shapiro, the founder of the BTA, and his wife Marie, who both played an important role in the establishment of the charity and in raising awareness of tinnitus.
The prize is judged by the BTA’s Professional Adviser’s Committee – a panel of medical professionals and researchers with a special interest in tinnitus – with the winner due to be announced in October 2021.
The shortlist for 2021 is:
David Stockdale, Chief Executive of the British Tinnitus Association, said: “We are delighted to see that vital tinnitus research has continued in these unprecedented times and a very difficult situation for researchers and clinicians. Despite a lack of funding and resource, the quality and relevance of research continues to grow year-on-year and choosing the winner of this year’s Marie and Jack Shapiro Prize will be a very difficult decision.”
He added, “Whilst the Shapiro Prize recognises the fantastic work that is already being done in tinnitus research, much more is needed before we can realise our vision of a world where no one suffers from tinnitus. We are committed to funding, supporting and campaigning for tinnitus research now and in the future.”
-END-
For more information
Nic Wray, Communications Manager
0114 250 9933
Editors Notes
About the British Tinnitus Association
The British Tinnitus Association is an independent charity and the primary source of information for people with tinnitus. It helps to facilitate an improved quality of life for people with tinnitus through a range of support options including support groups, a helpline and its website, while also taking steps to bring forward the day when tinnitus is cured. The charity works to inform and educate medical professionals and the community on what tinnitus is and how to manage it. The British Tinnitus Association wants “a world where no one suffers from tinnitus”. It wants to find better ways to manage tinnitus and, ultimately, to help find a cure. In 2020, the publication of its Tinnitus Manifesto led to more than 120,000 people signing a petition for more funding for tinnitus research to find cures.
Website: www.tinnitus.org.uk
Twitter: @BritishTinnitus
Facebook and Instagram: @BritishTinnitusAssociation
LinkedIn: British Tinnitus Association
References
Aazh H, Swanepoel W, Moore BCJ. Telehealth tinnitus therapy during the COVID-19 outbreak in the UK: uptake and related factors. Int J Audiol. 2021 May;60(5):322-327. Epub 2020 Oct 1.
Beukes EW, Manchaiah V, Allen PM, Andersson G, Baguley DM. Exploring tinnitus heterogeneity. Prog Brain Res. 2021;260:79-99. Epub 2020 Jul 24.
Dawes P, Cruickshanks KJ, Marsden A, Moore DR, Munro KJ. Relationship Between Diet, Tinnitus, and Hearing Difficulties. Ear Hear. 2020 Mar/Apr ;41(2):289-299.
Dawes P, Newall J, Stockdale D, Baguley DM. Natural history of tinnitus in adults: a cross-sectional and longitudinal analysis. BMJ Open. 2020 Dec 10;10(12):e041290.
Greenwell K, Sereda M, Coulson NS, Geraghty AWA, Bradbury K, Hoare DJ. ‘That’s just how I am’: a qualitative interview study to identify factors influencing engagement with a digital intervention for tinnitus self-management. Br J Health Psychol. 2020 Oct 27. Online ahead of print.
Hockley A, Berger JI, Palmer AR, Wallace MN. Nitric oxide increases gain in the ventral cochlear nucleus of guinea pigs with tinnitus. Eur J Neurosci. 2020 Nov;52(9):4057-4080. Epub 2020 Aug 1.
Munir S, Pryce H. How can sound generating devices support coping with tinnitus? Int J Audiol. 2021 Apr;60(4):312-318. Epub 2020 Oct 1.
Sereda M, McFerran D, Axon E, Baguley DM, Hall DA, Potgieter I, Cima R, Cox S, Hoare DJ. A process for prioritising systematic reviews in tinnitus. Int J Audiol. 2020 Aug;59(8):640-646. Epub 2020 Mar 5.
Smith H, Fackrell K, Kennedy V, Barry JG, Broomhead E, Hoare DJ. An evaluation of paediatric tinnitus services in UK National Health Service audiology departments. BMC Health Serv Res. 2020 Mar 14;20(1):214.
Smith SS, Kitterick PT, Scutt P, Baguley DM, Pierzycki RH. An exploration of psychological symptom-based phenotyping of adult cochlear implant users with and without tinnitus using a machine learning approach. Prog Brain Res. 2021;260:283-300. Epub 2020 Nov 16.
Taylor JA, Thompson DM, Hall DA, Walker DM, McMurran M, Casey A, Featherstone D, MacDonald C, Stockdale D, Hoare DJ. The TinMan study: feasibility trial of a psychologically informed, audiologist-delivered, manualised intervention for tinnitus. Int J Audiol. 2020 Dec;59(12):905-914. Epub 2020 Jul 17.
British Tinnitus Association, Unit 5 Acorn Business Park, Woodseats Close, Sheffield S8 0TB
The British Tinnitus Association is a registered charity. Registered charity number 1011145.
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of British Tinnitus Association, on Wednesday 4 August, 2021. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/
The community project being run by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust is working with 100 farmers across Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorset to provide extra nesting sites and carefully monitor the owls to find out what they like to eat and how and where they like to hunt. It aims to inspire the farmers, their families, and wider communities to work for the barn owl.
So, this International Owl Awareness Day, why not let the Owl Box Initiative inspire you to find out more about barn owls. owlboxinitiative.com is full of information and resources for parents and teachers to help young owl fans learn more about these super-cool birds. See owls inside their nest box with our Owl Box Live nest cam videos, or find information on habitats favoured by barn owls, advice on siting and building a barn owl box, as well as fascinating facts on barn owl ecology and diet. And now youngsters can also try ecology first-hand with our free Small Mammal Ink Tracking activity.
Barn owls are at the top of the food chain. They catch and eat small mammals such as field voles, common shrews and wood mice and typically eat about 4 every night, that’s 1,460 per year! The Owl Box Initiative scientists have been monitoring how many small mammals are present in the areas where the barn owls live by using ‘small mammal ink tunnels’. Now owl enthusiasts can make their own small mammal ink tunnel, using just household objects and snacks, and see what creatures are visiting their garden or school grounds. Find instructions at owlboxinitiative.com/resources .
Owl Box Live – See owlets inside a barn owl nest box
Since early 2021, a nest cam, live streamed to the internet, has been giving the team, and the public, a remarkable insight into the domestic arrangements of a barn owl family. Now that the three owlets have fledged, you can watch highlights from the owl family’s time in residence, from when the pair began to bond, to the female laying her eggs, the male bringing her food and the female with her tiny owlets. The videos are available at owlboxinitiative.com/owl-box-live .
Follow the Owl Box Initiative on Twitter for regular updates @OwlBoxInit
Inspiring schools
Year 7 at the Stroud School in Romsey have been following Owl Box Live and wanted to learn more about barn owls. They decided to investigate barn owl pellets. Barn owls eat their small mammal prey whole and what they cannot digest is regurgitated in the form of a pellet, full of tiny bones and hair. The students sifted through some barn owl pellets, identifying small mammal prey by the size and shape of the skulls they found.
Did you know?
Find out more fascinating barn owl facts at owlboxinitiative.com/barn-owl-ecology
Become a Friend of the Owl Box Initiative
The Owl Box Initiative is a community project, relying heavily on local volunteer ornithologists to monitor owls on farms across three counties. The project team is keen to create a network of barn owl enthusiasts to help promote barn owl conservation throughout the UK. Become a Friend of the project, free of charge, receive regular project updates and advice, and share any habitat creation efforts or barn owl sightings with the team. Find out more about becoming a Friend of the project at owlboxinitiative.com/become-a-friend .
ENDS
Notes to editors
Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust gwct.org.uk – providing research-led conservation for a thriving countryside. The GWCT is an independent wildlife conservation charity which has carried out scientific research into Britain’s game and wildlife since the 1930s. We advise farmers and landowners on improving wildlife habitats. We employ 22 post-doctoral scientists and 50 other research staff with expertise in areas such as birds, insects, mammals, farming, fish and statistics. We undertake our own research as well as projects funded by contract and grant-aid from Government and private bodies. The Trust is also responsible for several Government Biodiversity Action Plan species and is lead partner for grey partridge and joint lead partner for brown hare and black grouse.
ISDN radio broadcast line – at our Fordingbridge HQ we have an ISDN radio broadcast line, allowing us to conduct interviews remotely.
More information on The Owl Box Initiative at owlboxinitiative.com
All handling of owls and checking of owl boxes during the project is being done under licence from Natural England.
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, on Tuesday 3 August, 2021. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/
Timed for the school holidays when entertaining activities are most needed, families will be asked to solve riddles and follow clues that will guide them around the picturesque park. To take part, each ‘explorer’ will need a map, which costs £1 per child from the Sundae Shack or Boathouse Café. The event will run from 10:30am to 3:30pm, although families are asked to arrive before 2:30pm to allow one hour to complete the hunt.
Tom Diviney, the charity’s Website and Marketing Coordinator, said: “Our animal scavenger hunt will be a lot of fun so make sure you bring the whole family! Pittville Park is a fantastic location – after the event, why not head over to the incredible play area or grab an ice-cream at the Sundae Shack? Intrepid explorers who successfully complete the hunt will receive a goody bag, which includes details on how to enter an art competition and possibly win a £50 voucher for Go Ape. Whatever the weather this weekend, that must be worth a visit!”
Caroline Ruane, CEO of Naturewatch Foundation, said: “It’s hard to believe that we’ve been working to improve the lives of animals since 1991 – the years have flown by! Naturewatch Foundation is a small charity with an extensive history of lobbying and campaigning for animals. Our scavenger hunt will be engaging and light-hearted, but we also want to let families know how they can help make a difference – children are the future for animals worldwide!”
Naturewatch Foundation was established in 1991 and has worked on a variety of campaigns over the years. Current projects include animal experiments, World Animal Day, wildlife crime and puppy farming (the latter two campaigns include successful reporting hotlines for the public to share their leads).
For more details on the animal scavenger hunt, visit the website: https://naturewatch.org/blog/article/Event-naturewatch-foundations-animal-scavenger-hunt-for-children
To find out more about World Animal Day, which takes place annually on October 4 and is coordinated by Naturewatch Foundation, visit https://www.worldanimalday.org.uk/
Any profits from the event will support the work of Naturewatch Foundation. The charity is registered with the Fundraising Regulator.
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of Naturewatch Foundation, on Tuesday 3 August, 2021. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA • A new “Golden Rule” to kindle compassion, improve relationships, and empower happiness, from a common-sense, universal moral code
The Church of Scientology International extends an invitation to people of goodwill to join Scientology Churches and Missions in support of International Day of Friendship, a United Nations initiative that promotes “friendship between peoples, countries, cultures and individuals” and seeks to “inspire peace efforts and build bridges between communities.”
In observing this UN Day, Scientologists share two precepts from The Way to Happiness, the common-sense moral code written by L. Ron Hubbard, that hold the key to lasting friendships:
“Among many peoples in many lands for many ages there have been versions of what is called ‘The Golden Rule,’” wrote Mr. Hubbard. “The philosophic question concerning wrongdoing, the argument of what is wrong is answered at once on a personal basis: Would you not like that to happen to you? No? Then it must be a harmful action and, from society’s viewpoint, a wrong action. It can awaken social consciousness. It can then let one work out what one should do and what one should not do.”
As to the second and positive version of the rule, “One can get into a lot of conflicting opinions and confusions about what ‘good behavior’ might be,” Mr. Hubbard wrote. “If one were to think over how he or she would like to be treated by others, one would evolve the human virtues. Just figure out how you would want people to treat you.”
The full text of these precepts, available on The Way to Happiness Foundation website, provides know-how for an individual wishing to implement the guidelines personally or take them up with others to help them salvage or enhance interpersonal relationships.
Putting these and the other 19 precepts of The Way to Happiness into action has everything to do with the purpose of International Friendship Day, because, as Mr. Hubbard points out:
“Aside from personal benefit, one can take a hand, no matter how small, in beginning a new era for human relations. The pebble, dropped in a pool, can make ripples to the furthest shore.”
Scientology Churches mark International Friendship Day with open house events and forums where they share successful application of The Way to Happiness in addressing issues of importance to the community. They also reach out with The Way to Happiness information stands and distribution events to share the booklet and its wealth of knowledge.
An interactive timeline on the Scientology website documents how the Church of Scientology Kansas City and Kansas City community activists partnered for Peace Rides, based on the effectiveness of Peace Rides in Los Angeles. The KC team distributed The Way to Happiness to promote a climate of unity and peace, counter violence and reverse the city’s climbing homicide rate. In honor of the event, Kansas City rapper and recording artist Kodde One wrote the anthem “Hold Yo’ Head High” to help spread the booklet’s message of brotherhood throughout the city.
Other examples of the impact of The Way to Happiness are featured on the Scientology Network in episodes of the original series Voices for Humanity, which spotlights the work of humanitarians using the booklet to address societal needs. These episodes include the work of:
Those using The Way to Happiness in their communities share rave reviews of its effectiveness:
“I firmly believe that The Way to Happiness can change the perspective of many people to life and difficult situations that arise in it,” writes the coordinator of social rehabilitation and rehabilitation center for young offenders.
“Extremely motivating and inspiring. Moreover, in this world of intolerance and violence, the messages of peace and sharing can bring about a change in the world,” wrote a teacher.
“Two precepts really took my daughter’s interest,” wrote a parent. “‘Be Industrious’ and ‘Flourish and Prosper.’ She never looked back after that and has since carried a seemingly unkillable momentum and spirit about life. I have no doubt what started her turnaround. It was The Way to Happiness.”
For more information on The Way to Happiness, contact your local Church of Scientology or visit The Way to Happiness Foundation website.
The Founder of the Scientology religion is L. Ron Hubbard and Mr. David Miscavige is the religion’s ecclesiastical leader.
On Sunday 12 September, Peter Conroy, from Marske, will be following in his wife’s footsteps as he takes on the 13.1 mile race to raise money for The Sick Children’s Trust. The charity, which runs ‘Homes from Home’ across the country, gave Peter and his wife Elle a place to stay twice in 2017 when their son, Zachary, was born critically ill, and has continued to receive treatment at Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) for a life-long condition.
Peter will be raising money for Crawford House which is just a few minutes’ walk from the children’s wards at RVI. This year, Crawford House is celebrating 25 years of keeping families, like Peter and Elle, together by their child’s hospital bedside. It costs the charity £30 to support a family for one night. Peter said:
“The Sick Children’s Trust helped us to be close to Zachary when he was ill and I want to help make sure other families get the support they need. I am running to continue to raise funds for the charity so that others have the security of knowing they can also be right there with their children when they are needed most.
“Since Elle ran the Great North Run in 2018, Zachary’s health has been very good with the only hospital visits being routine check-ups. Zachary continues to live a happy active life full of fun and adventure, he is now a big brother to his baby sister Zara and is looking forward to starting full time school in September.
“Zachary learnt to ride his bike in lockdown at the age of three and goes to tennis lessons. This is much more than we could have imagined when Zachary was so poorly at such a young age. Every healthy day is a bonus as we know how quickly Zachary’s health can change because of his condition.”
Peter will join 55 other runners taking part to raise money for The Sick Children’s Trust. Alexia Addis, Regional Fundraising Officer, said:
“Peter and his family and friends have been huge supporters of ours ever since we supported his family at Crawford House. Being close to your child when they are in hospital is the most important thing, and it is so wonderful that Peter wants to take on this challenge to help other families.
“We’re wishing Peter the very best of luck with the race!”
Peter and Elle’s family and friends have raised over £5,000 for The Sick Children’s Trust to date and they want to raise more.
You can help them by supporting Peter by visiting his fundraising page here.
For further information about The Sick Children’s Trust, please visit sickchildrenstrust.org
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of The Sick Children’s Trust, on Monday 2 August, 2021. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/
The idea behind the creative initiative, one of several organised by the charity, is to celebrate biodiversity while also raising awareness about the numerous threats facing the natural world, from climate change to pollution.
Explores Against Extinction Co-founder Sara White said: “Photography has the power to help us inspire and connect with a wide audience. Pictures are universal – a single image can make more impact and be more memorable than words. By sharing the story behind the images, we can raise vital awareness about threats to wildlife and wild spaces while also raising funds for frontline projects through the sale of photographic prints.”
Contributors were invited to submit an image featuring an endangered species, or at-risk wild space with the charity pledging to plant a tree on behalf of all participants.
This year, a record 685 entries were received. Photographers from all over the world took part including those from India, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and Europe.
Just 26 images from all those received have now been short-listed by an expert panel.
Tasked with whittling down nearly 700 images to just 26 were award-winning writers/photographers Nori Jemil and James Lowen who headed up this year’s selection panel. They were joined by fellow professional photographer Paul Goldstein and author/photographer/explorer Levison Wood, a patron of Explorers Against Extinction.
Wood said: “As a passionate globetrotter and an advocate of travel, I feel it my duty to ensure that we continue to explore the world in a sustainable way. I am delighted to support Explorers Against Extinction in their efforts to promote the conservation and protection of rare and endangered species and their environments.”
Images range from the forest to the ocean and include endangered species such as the Ground Pangolin, photographed by Sam Wallace to those of threatened spaces, for instance, Dan Shipp’s image, Hot Panic, taken in Fiji, highlights climate change and coral bleaching.
Shipp said: “This blue sea star is extremely sensitive to local changes in water temperature, oxygen levels and acidity, all of which are key indicators of the health of its wider marine habitat. Sadly, in recent years this stretch of Fijian coastline on the island of Vanua Levu has been heavily affected by rising sea temperatures, growing levels of chemical run off from agriculture and increasingly violent storm damage caused by El Nino. The effects are plain to see as more shallow coral environments succumb as this one has.”
All 26 images and descriptions can be found online at Explorers Against Extinction. The public have an opportunity to select their favourite image when the People’s Choice vote opens next month.
Just six of the 26 images, as chosen by the panel, will go forward to the Focus for Survival Photographer of the Year Award. The winner will be announced at the charity’s annual event at the Royal Geographical Society in London in November. All six images will also be exhibited at gallery@oxo on London’s South Bank and other venues as part of a wider art and photography exhibition.
The exhibition collection will be sold by online auction concluding 28 November. This year in response to the global pandemic the proceeds will go to support 21 diverse small projects representing all seven continents.
To find out more please visit explorersagainstextinction.co.uk
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of Explorers Against Extinction, on Monday 2 August, 2021. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/
Participants can test their shooting skills using some of the finest English shotguns in the world, provided by Sportarm. This prestigious collection features rare models from Britain’s best gunmakers, including Purdey, Holland & Holland and Boss & Co.
The 10-stand competition will start at midday and run until 18:30, followed by an awards ceremony with prizes donated by ELEY Hawk and an exclusive auction. Ticket holders will then enjoy a game barbecue provided by the British Game Alliance, accompanied by a selection of light summer drinks including Kings Ginger gin cocktails by Berry Bros & Rudd and Sloe Gasm Champagne by Gasm Drinks.
Tickets are £700 per team of 4 guns (all-inclusive) and available from Vanessa Steel at the GWCT on vsteel@gwct.org.uk or 07592 025476 by Friday 27 August.
Ends
Note to editors:
The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust gwct.org.uk – providing research-led conservation for a thriving countryside. The GWCT is an independent wildlife conservation charity which has carried out scientific research into Britain’s game and wildlife since the 1930s. We advise farmers and landowners on improving wildlife habitats. We employ 22 post-doctoral scientists and 50 other research staff with expertise in areas such as birds, insects, mammals, farming, fish and statistics. We undertake our own research as well as projects funded by contract and grant-aid from Government and private bodies. The Trust is also responsible for several Government Biodiversity Action Plan species and is lead partner for grey partridge and joint lead partner for brown hare and black grouse.
West London Shooting School shootingschool.co.uk
Sportarm sportarm.com
ELEY Hawk eleyhawkltd.com
The British Game Alliance britishgamealliance.co.uk
Kings Ginger thekingsginger.com, Berry Bros & Rudd bbr.com, Gasm Drinks gasmdrinks.co.uk
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, on Friday 30 July, 2021. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/
With the start of a new school year in Malawi, Rare Charity has successfully implemented its “Back to School Project”, an initiative undertaken to support girls to continue their education in the face of early marriage and economic pressures asserted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
London, UK— In the midst of an unprecedented global education emergency, Rare Charity nearly doubled the number of scholars which the charity supports. In line with their mission of awarding educational scholarships (to provide ambitious young people the agency to uplift themselves and improve their communities). Rare Charity recently welcomed nine young girls to a scholarship programme specifically for girls who are vulnerable to early marriage. All of the new Rare Charity scholars are from the agricultural tea region of Satemwa, the catchment area Rare Charity concentrates its Malawi-based scholarship activities.
“Satemwa is one of the communities where the majority of girls do not go further with education,” explains Wongani Jambo, a Rare Charity Scholar who successfully graduated from the University of Malawi’s Chancellor College in 2019. “Most of them resort to early marriages.”
Malawian girls face many deep-rooted challenges to complete their secondary education. Malawi is home to one of the highest rates of childhood marriage in the world – according to UNICEF, 46% of girls marry before the age of 18 and. Fees charged for attending secondary school often serve as an obstacle to a girl obtaining a secondary education because tuition costs compete with the prospect of a girl’s family receiving a ‘lobola’, or dowry, from a bridegroom. School closures and the economic repercussions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic continue to exacerbate the situation.
“Just over a year ago, we prioritised fundraising for this secondary school programme, to respond to an urgent and increasing need in the Satemwa community,” explains Henrietta Lovell, the founder and Chair of Trustees for Rare Charity. “We are very excited to have the opportunity to assist these 9 young girls through our secondary school scholars project.”
The estimated cost for sponsoring a secondary scholar over three years, at a secondary boarding school, is £1700. In December 2020, a £15,000 grant from The Fore Trust provided enough funding for the 9 scholarships. Going forward, Rare Charity is seeking sponsorship that would enable the charity to support 10 girls each year for (at least) three-consecutive years.
By providing educational scholarships and sponsorship, Rare Charity now supports 23 scholars from the Satemwa area; 14 are currently attending University or other institutions of higher learning, such as nursing school. Additionally, we are thrilled to announce that three Rare Charity Scholars, Osman Karimu, Enelys Black, and the aforementioned Ms. Jambo, have graduated.
For more information:
Back to School Project Background
In late 2019, Rare Charity launched their “Back to School Project” to support girls’ education in the Satemwa area of Malawi. Soon after, Rare Charity began to employ a grant application strategy to fund the project.
In December 2020, the Fore Trust awarded Rare Charity a £15,000 grant to fund scholarships for up to 10 young girls wishing to attend secondary school.
Prompting the closure of schools in March 2020, the pandemic meant girls faced even greater pressure to abandon their education. Rare Charity works with two secondary boarding schools to better mitigate the risk of a girl’s homelife interfering with her studies. Also, the schools provide regular meals. Food security can also be an issue for families who live in the Satemwa area.
Following three years of successfully supporting 17 tertiary scholars; in 2019, Rare Charity conducted a pilot programme for the secondary school project. Olivia Zuze, the first Rare Charity secondary school scholar, is now in Year 2 at the Thyolo Secondary School and joined by Catherine Stephano, Rebecca Mpita, Prisca Frank Sabuyani and Fagess Kearson. Mebo Chipwita, Naomi Tabwali, Agnes Samson, Tamandani Oweni and Ireen Lama are currently attending the Luchenza School.
All of the new scholars performed well on the nation’s Primary School Leaving Certificate of Education exams and received a placement (from the government) at either the Thyolo or Luchenza School. Unfortunately, support from the government ended there and for these young girls the school fees served as an obstacle to their continuing their education.
The people from the Satemwa area that advised Henrietta Lovell to dedicate the charity’s resources to providing educational opportunities understand first-hand that education provides a path out of poverty. For example, job prospects improve substantially for a young woman who completes secondary school. Additionally, the opportunity to pursue a university degree also becomes a prospect for these students.
Going forward, Rare Charity will seek continuous sponsorship to support the project at a cost of £18,000 per year. Continuous funding for a duration of 3 to 5 years would enable the charity to enrol 10 girls each year and optimise the positive impact these educational opportunities promise to have on the Satemwa Tea community.
About Rare Charity
Rare Charity offers talented young people, within tea producing communities, access to education. Its ambition is to equip individuals with the agency to implement long-term and sustainable social change. Rare Charity successfully funds university scholarships in the Satemwa Tea Estate community in Malawi, Southern Africa. Inherent to Rare Charity’s values is advocating gender equality by promoting female students. At least half its tertiary scholarships are set aside for female students.
Rare Charity is unlike many charities which operate in the UK to make changes abroad. This is a considered and deliberate decision. It disrupts established thinking about aid, charitable giving and sustainable development in three crucial ways:
People, Not Statistics
Rare Charity understands that its scholars are people, not statistics. It never imposes a foreign agenda upon them, nor does it export prescriptive ideals. Instead Rare Charity listens to its scholars’ individual ambitions, and then works on their terms to fulfil them.
Low Cost, High Impact
Fundamental to Rare Charity are the individual scholars. Its core costs are unusually low, which means that donations go more directly towards the education of those who deserve it most. And, Rare Charity stays in touch. It is in regular contact with all its students, hearing about their progress and successes.
Education Runs Two Ways
Rare Charity offers educational opportunities, not just to its scholars, but also to its donors. People in the UK drink an average of 6 cups of tea per day, but how much do we really know about the people who have produced that tea? Rare Charity seeks to educate the public about the communities to which tea has already connected them: it provides a platform on which producers, donors and consumers can enjoy the benefits of education – as part of a more informed, connected and egalitarian community. For more information on the important work of Rare Charity, please see www.rarecharity.com.
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of Rare Charity, on Monday 26 July, 2021. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of Rare Charity, on Friday 30 July, 2021. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/