Workplace sickness scheme slammed as 'spin' by experts
A new government scheme offering free occupational health training to 5,000 line managers has been criticised as inadequate to tackle the UK's 2.8 million long-term sick. Read the full analysis.
A new government scheme offering free occupational health training to 5,000 line managers has been criticised as inadequate to tackle the UK's 2.8 million long-term sick. Read the full analysis.
The DWP is rolling out free occupational health training for 5,000 line managers to help small businesses support staff and reduce long-term sickness absences. Read the full story.
Get a free 24-page Brain Games for Adults magazine inside the Sunday Mercury. Packed with puzzles to boost memory and sharpen thinking, it's the perfect New Year brain workout. Pick up your copy!
A VAT rule change means Uber and private hire trips in England will cost 15-20% more from 2 Jan 2026. Find out why and who it hits hardest.
Harry Styles makes a surprise return with the 'Forever, Forever' music video, breaking his hiatus since 2023. Discover the meaning and details of his unexpected comeback here.
Teenagers will be offered paid gap years with the UK armed forces from 2026, as part of a new 'whole of society' defence strategy. Discover how the scheme works and who can apply.
Manchester's Agy Górzyńska, a three-time world champion arm wrestler, reveals her unusual secret to success: a chicken liver breakfast. Discover her journey from construction site contests to global glory.
Birmingham City FC has appointed global architects Populous to design their new training centre at the Sports Quarter, a key step in the major east Birmingham regeneration project. Discover the plans.
Birmingham City's owners Knighthead have selected global architects Populous to design the club's new unified training centre at the Sports Quarter, a key step in the major redevelopment project.
The Junior Tour of Wales is rebranded as The John Richards Junior Tour for 2026. The three-day cycling event will feature new stages in Mid Wales, acting as a key launchpad for future stars.
As the King's Trust nears its 50th anniversary, new polling reveals deep public concern over youth joblessness in Wales. Director Sarah Jones calls for urgent collaboration to unlock potential.
Coca-Cola confirms its iconic Christmas Truck Tour will not visit Birmingham this year, ending hopes for festive celebrations in the Bullring. Discover the details and what it means for Brummies.
Birmingham residents are disappointed as the 2025 Coca-Cola Christmas Truck Tour concludes without a city visit. The final stop was in Cardiff on December 22.
Former Strictly pro James Jordan claims 2025 winner Karen Carney had prior dance training, challenging the show's 'non-dancer' narrative. Read his explosive GMB interview.
Birmingham holds its breath as the 2025 Coca-Cola Christmas Truck Tour nears its end with one location still unannounced. Will the city get its festive wish?
With Christmas days away, Birmingham residents are still waiting for the iconic Coca-Cola truck's festive visit. Discover the tour details and why Brummies are eager for confirmation.
Plans for an Eton Star Academy sixth form in Dudley have been approved, promising 240 places. Local politicians clash over whether it's the right investment for the town's youth.
The iconic Coca-Cola Christmas Truck Tour heads to Cardiff next, but Birmingham's 2025 date remains unconfirmed. See photos from past Midlands visits and what to expect.
Miley Cyrus hints at special plans for Hannah Montana's 20th anniversary in 2026, but addresses viral rumours of a world tour and health challenges. Get the latest updates.
Madness brought their iconic ska party to Birmingham's Utilita Arena. Suggs and the band delivered hit after hit, with support from Squeeze, on a festive December night. Read our review.
Iconic 90s boyband Five are back together with all five original members for a 12-date UK arena tour this Autumn. Tickets go on sale 7 March 2025.
The iconic Coca-Cola Christmas Truck Tour's next stop is Cardiff, leaving Birmingham waiting. Will it visit the Bullring this year? Find out the latest details and festive plans.
Taylor Swift's personal trainer reveals the intense six-day-a-week regimen behind her Eras Tour stamina. Discover the routine so tough it could make you sick.
Five future guide dogs experienced the sights and sounds of Bristol Airport in a special training visit. Learn how this prepares them for life-changing work and how the airport supports assistance dogs.
Jeff Wayne's iconic musical adaptation of The War of The Worlds announces a major UK concert tour for October 2026. Discover dates, venues, and how to get tickets.
Madness fans have a final opportunity to secure tickets for their 2025 arena shows, including Birmingham's Utilita Arena, for around £74. Don't miss the last dates of the year.
A major independent review, led by Alan Milburn, will investigate the surge in young people not in work or education. The probe aims to tackle 'uncomfortable truths' and find solutions.
The complete celebrity and professional dancer cast for the Strictly Come Dancing Live UK Tour 2026 has been unveiled, with shows starting in Birmingham this January. Get your tickets now!
Ed Sheeran reveals plans for one last global tour before focusing on his daughters' school years and a potential Ipswich residency. Read the singer's family-first strategy.
The iconic Coca-Cola Christmas Truck Tour 2025 announces its next destination. Discover the Ipswich schedule, charity support, and how to get a festive drink and bauble.