State pension age changes: What you need to know
The UK state pension age is set to increase from 66 to 67 between 2026-2028. Learn how this affects retirement plans and why further rises are being considered.
The UK state pension age is set to increase from 66 to 67 between 2026-2028. Learn how this affects retirement plans and why further rises are being considered.
The DWP confirms earlier State Pension payments over the festive period. Some pensioners could receive £705 next Wednesday. Check if you're affected.
From Ebor Studio's youth project for 16-21 year olds to The Curtain Theatre's latest play, discover the vibrant arts and culture events happening in Rochdale. Find out dates and how to get involved.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announces a 4.8% rise in state pensions. Those on the new state pension will receive an extra £575 annually. Find out if you're affected.
Discover seven magical Christmas ice rinks in Birmingham and nearby castles. Find dates, prices, and tips for the best festive skating experience in the West Midlands.
Thousands of UK state pensioners will receive an early £921 payment next week due to the Christmas holidays. Find out if you are affected and what the new weekly rate will be.
Birmingham's Edgbaston Cricket Ground will host Vegfest Free, the UK's largest free vegan festival, on 25 April 2026. Featuring 170 stalls, live music, and talks, it's a major event for the plant-based community.
The full new state pension will rise to £241.30 a week in April 2026, a yearly increase of £574.60. Find out if you qualify and how much you'll receive.
Pensioners aged 80+ receiving a low basic State Pension may qualify for a monthly top-up of up to £422.80 from the DWP. Check your eligibility now.
Pensioners on the old basic state pension will see a £440 annual rise from April 2026, while those on the new system get £575. Find out if you're eligible and how the triple lock works.
Pensioners born before 1951 will see a £440 annual increase from April 2026 under the triple lock. Discover how the two-tier system affects payments and the future of the policy.
Major changes to the UK state pension age will start in 2026, affecting millions. Find out if you'll have to work longer and how to plan your finances.
Eligible pensioners aged 80+ can claim an extra £422.80 per month to top up low state pension payments. Learn about the DWP's Over 80 Pension, eligibility, and how to claim.
The biannual Heath Bookshop Literature and Music Festival returns to Kings Heath, Birmingham, 15-19 April 2026. Featuring Max Porter, Mike Joyce, and new commissions. Book tickets now!
The Independent ranks Leicester's festive market 12th in the UK. Discover its dates, stalls, and the West Midlands favourites also on the list.
Discover Ombersley, a Worcestershire village crowned one of the UK's prettiest. With over 150 listed buildings and a tranquil winter charm, it's a perfect festive escape near Birmingham.
The Independent's guide to the UK's best festive markets features Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market and Worcester Christmas Fayre. Discover dates, highlights, and what makes them special.
Birmingham-born actor Adrian Lester visited New Street Station to launch Social Bite's Festival of Kindness, aiming for 300,000 donations for vulnerable people this winter.
The DWP confirms early state pension payments of at least £704 before Christmas due to bank holidays. Find out the new payment dates and how your NI number affects it.
A VIP day at Birmingham's Good Food Show Winter became truly special thanks to a touching moment from TV chef James Martin. Discover what made the event unforgettable.
Bournville's charming Christmas Festival returns on November 29 with Santa, crafts & lights. Discover the unique alcohol-free tradition in Birmingham's historic village.
Millions of UK pensioners born before 1951 will see a £440 state pension increase from April 2026. Discover how the triple lock impacts your payments.
Millions of UK state pensioners will receive a £575 annual increase from April 2026. Discover how the triple lock policy impacts your pension payments and what it means for you.
The real reason behind MAFS UK couple Bailey and Rebecca's shocking split has been revealed by a co-star. Discover the truth about the breakup and what happened next.
Tayah McAllister, a six-year-old from Warrington with a serious lung disease, has won an award at the prestigious Pauline Quirke Academy Film Festival for her short film 'The Show Must Go On'.
Join the University of East London's Winter Festival & Community Health Day on November 26. Enjoy creative workshops, live performances, and free health checks at the Stratford Campus.
Loughborough's popular Community Christmas Tree Festival is back, featuring 80 dazzling trees at All Saints Church. Free entry from Nov 29-Dec 20. Donations support church roof repairs.
Birmingham Light Festival is back in February 2026, expanding to new areas like Bullring. Discover the free illuminated art trail and how to get involved.
Kings of Leon, Neil Young and The Coral lead the line-up for the brand new State Fayre music festival in Chelmsford. Get your tickets from 28th November.
Bearded Theory's 2026 festival announces second wave including Garbage, CMAT and Kate Nash. Tickets available now with payment plans for Derbyshire event.