British citizens are set to be asked to open their homes to Ukrainians fleeing war in their home next week.
The Prime Minister revealed news of plans to create a new 'humanitarian route' today and promised that on Monday more information would be made available for those wanting to sign up.
The news follows mounting public pressure in recent days for the government to do more to make Ukrainian refugees welcome in Britain.
According to reports in The Daily Telegraph, Michael Gove will set out details for how individuals, businesses, charities, and community groups can offer up their homes to those in need.
The paper explains that this will be managed through a new hotline and webpage, with those using the ‘sponsored’ route invited to stay for 12 months initially after being matched with individuals and organisations offering free accommodation.
Image: Commons Wikimedia
During this time, all refugees will be entitled to claim benefits and use public services. They will also be able to work in the UK during this period.
All of those offering housing will be vetted before a place is offered to refugees, with reports in The Telegraph stating that hosts will be required to take guests for a minimum of six months.
As of Tuesday 15, people will no longer be required to give biometric information at a processing centre, and will instead be able to apply online for their visas.
Speaking to Sky News this morning, the Prime Minister said: “On Monday, you’ll get from the Levelling Up Secretary, you’ll get the programme that will allow people to come in, so (if) people want to welcome (refugees) into their own homes, they can do so.”
In an additional statement, a government spokesperson added: “The routes we have put in place follow extensive engagement with Ukrainian partners.
“This is a rapidly moving and complex picture and as the situation develops we will continue to keep our support under constant review.”
Classic FM will be back playing calming music for anxious pets during this year’s fireworks season.
Bonfire Night may be loved by us humans for the spectacular firework displays and all the festive-themed activities that come along with it… but sadly, the November holiday isn’t quite so fun for our four-legged friends.
Loud bangs, flashing lights, and unpleasant strong smell of spent explosives are just some of the reasons why fireworks are frightening to pets.
Not only that, but with multiple bangs occurring from numerous displays across this time of year, pets are rarely able to pinpoint when and where the booming explosions are coming from, therefore creating even more anxiety around this time of year.
Classic FM will play calming music for anxious pets during this year’s fireworks / Credit: DESIGNECOLOGIST (via Unsplash)
Which is why, for the ninth year running now, Classic FM is once again teaming up with the RSPCA for two Pet Classics programmes packed with ‘the most soothing and comforting classical music’.
The music has been handpicked to help calm and settle any anxious pets.
A survey by the RSPCA revealed that almost two-thirds (63%) of animal owners reported their pet was distressed during fireworks season, and that playing relaxing music was the most common way (36%) to help calm or prepare their animal.
Presenters Dan Walker, Aled Jones, and Dawn O’Porter will each host a night of the specially created programme to help keep the nation’s pets calm through the whizzes and bangs.
Dan will present the first programme on Bonfire Night itself (Thursday 5 November), and then as celebrations continue throughout the weekend, Aled will be on hand to bring some peace to Friday 6 November, and Dawn picks up the baton on Saturday 7 November.
All three Pet Classics programmes will be broadcast from 5pm to 10pm, and you can listen on Classic FM or Global Player available across the UK.
Leeds station to undergo £303m transformation in biggest upgrade for a generation
Clementine Hall
Leeds train station set for biggest transformation in a generation as Government backs growth.
If you thought the work was over for Leeds station, think again.
Because passengers are set to see major improvements as the Government injects a further £200 million into the development of the transport hub.
The additional funding was announced at the Budget today, with upgrades set to be delivered by 2030 and will include the construction of a new central overbridge, three new entrances, more space on the concourses and a longer Platform 14.
Image: Supplied
It means passengers will benefit from more direct routes, less crowding, and nearly 40% more ticket barriers.
Three new entrances will strengthen links between the station and town, improving access to the South Bank, the Dark Arches and Princes Square.
Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: "Leeds station is the gateway to West Yorkshire, and this extra £200 million investment will turn it into a station this city can be proud of: modern, welcoming and built for the people who rely on it every single day.
"The great cities of the north deserve better transport, and that’s exactly what we’re delivering. We're paving the way for Northern Powerhouse Rail, forging stronger connections across the region, and backing the infrastructure that creates jobs, builds homes and puts passengers first as we work to set up Great British Railways."
Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said: "Leeds Station is the beating heart of our region's transport network, connecting millions of people to jobs, education and opportunity every year – and it’s only going to get busier.
“This investment will benefit passengers and businesses, help to unlock the capacity we need for future growth and create a gateway to West Yorkshire that reflects our ambition.
“Together with our wider plans for West Yorkshire’s Weaver Network, we're building a better-connected region which works for all.”
Georgina Pellant -
11th March 2022 
