Jailed teacher faces permanent ban from classrooms
Rebecca Joynes, jailed for six-and-a-half years for sexual activity with pupils, could be banned from teaching for life after a conduct panel ruled her actions caused 'enormous damage'.
Rebecca Joynes, jailed for six-and-a-half years for sexual activity with pupils, could be banned from teaching for life after a conduct panel ruled her actions caused 'enormous damage'.
The government has announced a £246m funding package for bus services across the West of England. Local authorities will decide how to spend the money on new vehicles, infrastructure, and keeping fares low.
A £264.1 million government funding package will transform bus services in Birmingham and the West Midlands, aiming for lower fares and more reliable journeys. Discover how this investment will impact your commute.
The DWP unveils a major crackdown on benefit fraud with new data powers to prevent overpayments and recover billions. Discover the new 'no hiding place' measures.
The Bank of England plans to ease capital requirements for the UK's seven largest banks, the first such move since 2008, aiming to boost lending and economic growth. Read the full details.
From a controversial 24/7 casino approval to a rejected 'battery farm' HMO and a UK-first robotic pharmacy. Get the full update on Sandwell Council's major decisions this week.
The Financial Conduct Authority is investigating WHSmith after a £50m accounting error wiped £600m from its market value. Read the latest on the executive fallout.
An independent taskforce urges a nuclear regulatory overhaul to cut consumer bills and save billions. Reforms could speed up new power plants like Sizewell C and Wylfa.
A West Midlands programme has helped 2,000 SMEs secure £4.2m. Businesses urge its continuation as funding ends in March 2026. Read more and see how to attend the final summit.
Chloe Brinn, 28, receives £250k compensation after childhood sexual abuse led to psychosis and inability to work. Read her powerful story of survival and justice.
Worcestershire County Council paid PwC £325,000 to devise 'One Worcestershire' unitary authority plans. The controversial cost was revealed during a scrutiny panel meeting.
Solihull councillor demands investigation into why people avoid buses despite regular services. West Midlands Mayor agrees to research boosting public transport patronage.
West Midlands Mayor launches Youth Plan to create 20,000 training opportunities, tackling youth unemployment rates double the national average in some areas.
UK bank deposit protection soars to £120,000 from December 1st. Discover how this 41% increase safeguards your savings and boosts financial confidence.
West Midlands Metro tram fares are set to increase in the new year. The hike, approved by transport bosses, aims to ensure the network's long-term financial sustainability.
HMRC begins deducting up to £300 from state pensioners' accounts from Monday. Learn if you're affected and how the new Winter Fuel Payment system works.
Vodafone and Three confirm steeper mid-contract price rises for new customers from April 2026. Discover the new rates and how to find fixed-price deals.
Which? reveals Lloyds, esure, and Rentokil have the worst home insurance claim acceptance rates in Britain. Discover the data and what it means for your policy.
Councillor calls for reinstatement of 'short hop' bus fares in West Midlands to tackle cost of living crisis and boost passenger numbers. A new fares strategy is due in 2027.
The Bank of England sets out 2025 stablecoin regime to ensure financial stability and foster innovation in UK payments. Public consultation open until February 2026.
The FCA warns millions are wasting up to £25 monthly on credit-building products. Discover free, effective alternatives to improve your credit score today.
Thousands of Birmingham residents are facing surprise council tax bills following a major change to council tax support. Discover who's affected and what you need to do.
Exclusive investigation reveals thousands of West Midlands households in council tax arrears, with mounting debt crisis hitting vulnerable families hardest. Discover the human impact and support available.
Sandwell Council faces mounting criticism as new data reveals a critical shortage of housing developments in the borough, with local leaders blaming planning delays and bureaucratic hurdles for the growing crisis.
Millions of UK households are confronting dramatic council tax increases as new rates take effect, with some areas seeing rises of over £500 annually amid the ongoing cost of living crisis.
The FCA launches major investigation into motor finance commission arrangements, potentially opening door to billions in compensation for UK drivers who were overcharged.
Exclusive investigation reveals how April's payment schedule creates perfect financial storm for families already struggling with cost of living crisis.
Telecoms regulator Ofcom has issued a stern warning to O2 after the provider breached vital rules protecting vulnerable broadband and landline customers during service migrations.
Regulator Ofwat faces mounting criticism as water companies prepare to increase customer bills while continuing to discharge sewage into UK waterways. Discover how this controversial decision impacts households and the environment.
Shadow Justice Secretary returns £10,000 donation from Jhoots Pharmacy following concerns about the company's regulatory compliance and business practices.