Dear Editor, This Volunteers' Week (1–7 June), I want to pay tribute to the people in Sheffield who are quietly changing children's lives. Across Sheffield, 27,542 children are eligible for free school meals, a stark reminder that for many families here, getting by is a daily struggle.

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and UK and Ireland law firm Browne Jacobson have published a landmark joint report calling for a fundamental reform of the legal and commercial framework governing public-private partnerships (PPPs) in the UK.

Over recent years, people have become far more proactive and informed when it comes to their health, with growing numbers seeking earlier answers and a better understanding of their wellbeing before concerns have the chance to escalate further.

The imaginative restoration of a historic hall, two contemporary additions to York Minster supporting heritage craft and technology, and a bold contemporary rural home are among the five winners of the 2026 RIBA Yorkshire Awards. This year’s cohort is particularly significant as the awards mark their 60th anniversary.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Charity has launched a new public safety campaign after a dangerous incident in South Yorkshire saw objects thrown towards one of its helicopters during a safety-critical take-off following an emergency callout.

74% of carers in employment say being able to work supports their wellbeing, offering a break from caring, boosting confidence and social contact Despite this, nearly half (47%) of carers who are employees are considering cutting their working hours or giving up work altogether. Giving up work to care can also have a significant financial impact New research from Carers UK examines the ‘tipping point’ at which unpaid carers feel that they have no choice but to give up work to care

Northern passengers are being reminded that some train times will change next week and new Sunday services will be introduced between Whitby and Newcastle. It will happen on Sunday, 17 May, when railway timetables across the country will be updated.

Nurofen’s Gender Pain Gap Index Report finds more than half (53%) of women felt their pain was ignored or dismissed, rising to nearly three quarters (73%) among women aged 18-24.

Leeds Wellbeing Week will return from Monday 1 June to Sunday 7 June 2026, marking its seventh year and the first time the week has been run by HelloHope. The city-wide celebration of wellbeing will feature dozens of events across Leeds, bringing together businesses, residents, students and communities for a diverse programme of activities, workshops and talks.

Dear Editor,  As a deaf person in the UK, navigating everyday life in a hearing world can be a struggle. Common activities like shopping, visiting a hospital or socialising are often full of challenges.  When people aren’t deaf-aware, it can make life a lot more difficult. It can be so isolating and really knocks your confidence.