In today’s edition, we’re looking at the financial lifelines being offered to those looking to escape abusive relationships, Spain’s trailblazing Down Syndrome representative in parliament, and the UK’s solar energy milestone with rooftop installations reaching a 12-year peak in 2023.
“Flee funds” offer financial lifeline to domestic abuse victims in UK
Hundreds of domestic abuse survivors are set to receive £2,500 each from the UK government through a new “flee funds” programme. Launching this month with a £2 million budget, the scheme aims to be a crucial lifeline for those trapped in abusive relationships, providing financial support to escape and rebuild.
Installation of rooftop solar panels in UK hits 12-year high in 2023
Figures show that almost 190,000 rooftop solar installations were carried out last year. Meanwhile, the number of heat pumps installed across the UK rose to a record high of almost 40,000, up 25% on the previous year, according to the data.
Same-sex marriage legalisation gains unprecedented support in Greece
The Greek government’s move to legalise same-sex civil marriage and adoption is poised for approval in Parliament. Surprisingly, this move is also garnering essential support from the opposition, transcending traditional political divides.
Potent psychedelic shows promising results in treating PTSD in small study
A small trial focusing on military veterans has highlighted the efficacy of a lesser-known psychedelic, ibogaine, in psychiatric therapy. A month post-treatment, veterans reported a reduction of over 80% in TBI-related symptoms, including PTSD and depression.
Australia’s success in tackling stillbirths: a model for US progress
While the U.S. grapples with a concerning stillbirth crisis, Australia has positioned itself as a global leader in reducing the number of stillborn infants. With an effective approach, Australia provides a model that could benefit the United States, currently lagging behind other affluent nations in addressing the issue.
The impactful journey of the ethnicity pay gap campaign
With a growing acknowledgment of mistreatment and discrimination, both employees and executives are advocating for transparency in company culture, values, and, importantly, pay.
Transitioning Kenya’s boda-boda motorbike taxis to electric power
These two-wheelers, prevalent across many African nations, are not only cost-effective but also offer a nimble and greener solution for navigating the infamous traffic jams in the capital city, Nairobi.
Free bus passes are giving women financial independence in India
By facilitating easier access to transportation, this initiative is enabling women to join the workforce and fostering newfound financial freedom and independence.
Hope for rare singing gibbons as pair are released into the wild
In 2023, the Aspinall Foundation completed work on a rehabilitation centre in Punti Kayu, South Sumatra – the first of its kind to rehabilitate Siamang gibbons and return them to the wild. On 23rd December, the first pair, Jon and Cimung, were released.
