We’re wrapping up the week at Squirrel News talking about 22 healthcare and research institutes across Europe trialling prescribing social activities to improve health, Thailand’s new law banning the corporal punishment of minors, and the clandestine movement helping girls continue their education in Afghanistan despite Taliban restrictions.
“Social prescribing” research launched across eight European countries
Unlike traditional medical prescriptions, social prescribing is an approach to healthcare that connects patients with trained professionals known as link workers. These workers, in turn, help them access community activities and services such as art and gym classes, financial advice workshops, and befriending sessions.
Solutions journalist Julia Hotz has spoken about social prescribing on our podcast before. In our new episode she returns to talk with us about the book she has written on the subject in the meantime: “The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and Belonging.”
Thailand has officially banned smacking as a form of punishment for minors, falling in with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child which has been in effect since 1990.
Promising new class of antibiotics could fight drug-resistant bacteria
A research team at McMaster University has discovered a new molecule that could be used to tackle some of the world’s most drug-resistant bacteria. Lariocidin targets bacterial protein synthesis in a completely novel way, effectively inhibiting bacterial growth and survival.
The “homelessness dashboard” helping those in need
While large-scale reforms like expanding temporary housing and adopting Housing First models are helping tackle homeslessness, a new online platform is offering a practical way for locals to get involved. Key To Home is a “one-stop shop” where users can find volunteer opportunities like serving dinner at a shelter, or “Warehouse Wednesday” shifts to help sort donated furniture for an area nonprofit.
In the UK, “Safe Spaces” in banks and pharmacies are giving domestic abuse victims the chance (and, for a few hours, the space) to rebuild their lives. Launched by the charity Hestia, the scheme hopes to address the growing problem of domestic abuse, which affects around 20% of people over 16 in the UK.
Lawyer who worked for Trump’s in-laws now helps renters win against landlords
Andrew Rabinowitz used to represent companies owned by the Kushners, usually housing firms known for shoddy maintenance and aggressive legal tactics. These days, he’s still fighting in court, but this time, he’s on the side of the tenants.
The local library where you can rent a brand new outfit
A shared wardrobe scheme in Oswestry, Shropshire was founded in 2023, initially to let local residents swap clothes with friends and family. Interest grew along with donations, and the project soon spawned sewing workshops, talks about sustainability and a repair service.
Baltimore women create community fridge network, tackle food insecurity
The Bmore Community Fridge Network helps local residents get connected to the free food being offered to them, with a map of neighbourhood pantries making it as accessible as possible.
After the Taliban shut down girls’ schools, a mother of five transformed her living room into a classroom for her 14-year-old daughter. Word spread, and before long, 25 girls were meeting there to learn.
