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A 47-year-old woman who has struggled with severe anorexia for decades has made the decision to die. Soon, she will be able to under Canadian law. Lisa Pauli from Toronto, Canada, recently opened up about her debilitating eating disorder in an interview with Reuters. Two years ago, Canada expanded its requirements for medically assisted death to allow incurable conditions of mental illness. The new mental health criteria for legalised assisted death goes into effect in March 2024. Speaking to Reuters, Pauli admitted that she’s had a “warped relationship” with her body since she was eight years old. She currently weighs 92 pounds, can sometimes go days without eating solid food, and is even too weak to carry groceries home without stopping to rest. The country first legalised medical assistance in dying (MAID) for people with terminal illnesses in 2016. In 2021, the law was expanded to include people with incurable conditions, such as mental illness. The legal changes will soon make Canada one of the only countries in the world to allow those who are not in the end stages of a terminal illness to opt to end their lives. The 47-year-old told Reuters that every day for her is “hell,” adding: “I’m so tired. I’m done. I’ve tried everything. I feel like I’ve lived my life.” She explained that she has tried various treatments and has been hospitalised twice for her anorexia, until her psychiatrist Justine Dembo first raised the idea of assisted death in April 2021. Dembo, who served on an expert panel on assisted death and assesses people for MAID, said she treats it as “a last resort” and tries to determine whether patients have received all available medical and social support available. However, Pauli maintained that she plans to apply for MAID once she is eligible next year. The topic of medical assistance in dying has sparked much criticism amongst disability rights and religious advocates, who say that the planned changes will bring additional risks of people opting for MAID because they are unable to access social services, according to Reuters. Just last month, a quadriplegic woman from Ontario claimed that it would be faster for her to pursue a medically assisted death than it would for her to wait for Canada to provide disability support services. The woman, Rose Finlay, said in a video shared on social media that she can access Canada’s MAID program after a 90-day eligibility assessment, but that accessing disability services could take up to eight months. Finlay applied for the Ontario Disability Support Program, but realised she would have to wait for at least half a year before she would even have her application approved. Even with ODSP support money, she said she would be living in a “forced poverty” as the most the program pays out is $1,228 a month for all living expenses. She then explored MAID, even though she does not want to die. “It’s not what I want,” Finlay told CBC. “But if I don’t receive the support that I need, the outcome is the same. If I get to a point where I am really sick and basically terminally ill anyways, I would like to have other options.” Meanwhile, proponents of assisted death argue that it is an issue of personal autonomy. In 2021, just over 10,000 people died through medically assisted death – about three per cent of deaths in Canada that year – while more than 30,000 people have died with medical assistance in Canada since 2016, per Reuters. There are other requirements to be considered eligible for MAID, such as a written application and assessments from two independent medical practitioners. It is also only available to people covered by a Canadian healthcare program. Medical assistance in dying is legal in several other countries, including New Zealand, Switzerland, Portugal, Spain, Australia, and the Netherlands. In the US, assisted death is legal in 10 states and Washington, DC for patients suffering terminal illness who have less than six months to live. Read More Disabled woman claims Canada is forcing her to die by assisted suicide: ‘It’s not what I want’ A TikTok model made viral videos of her grandmother’s choice to die. Here’s why Assisted dying law changes ‘matter for MPs but Government will not stand in way’ Coleen Nolan becomes fourth sister in her family to be diagnosed with cancer These are the phrases working mums want to stop hearing – survey Montana Brown opens up about struggle to conceive before son’s birth

Coleen Nolan has revealed that she has been diagnosed with skin cancer, making her the fourth sister in the family pop group The Nolans to have the disease. The Loose Women star, 58, spoke about her diagnosis on the talk show on Monday (17 July) and said she was “sick of cancer” in her family. Three of Nolan’s sisters have been diagnosed with the illness over the years. In 2013, Bernie died of breast cancer at the age of 52, while Linda announced this year that her cancer has spread to her brain. A third sister, Anne, has undergone successful treatment for cancer twice and is currently in remission. However, she has previously spoken out about her fears that it will return. Coleen told ITV viewers that the skin cancer was only caught by chance after she went to a dermatologist for a different problem. The doctor said that the patch was a common skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma, she recalled. “I went back in and he was very good and he said, ‘Look, it’s nothing to worry about. It is actually a cancer that doesn’t necessarily spread, but you do need to treat it’,” she recalled. She is now undergoing treatment using chemo cream, with the option of surgery if it does not work. Coleen said her “first instinct” after receiving the diagnosis was to “laugh hysterically”. “I just thought that’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard anybody say,” she continued. “I’m sick of cancer and also, my first instinct was, I’m not telling anybody in my family because this that I’ve got at the moment seems nothing compared to what my sisters have been through.” She also reflected on Linda’s current condition. In March, Linda shared the news that she was about to start chemotherapy again, and moved into her sister Denise’s home the following month to prepare for “the inevitable”. “What Linda is going through, where it has gone to her brain and she’s having chemo,” Coleen said. “It just seemed so pathetic for some reason to go back and go, ‘Oh yeah, I’ve got a carcinoma’.” After the show, Linda posted on Twitter that she was “very proud” of her younger sister. “She acted on her instincts, found something amiss and got it checked,” the 64-year-old singer wrote. “If you spot something out of the ordinary for you, PLEASE get it checked. Don’t be frightened.” Coleen has previously said she considered undergoing a double mastectomy after Linda and Anne’s diagnoses of breast cancer. She has also had a breast cancer scare in 2009, while competing on Dancing On Ice – however, the lump in her breast at the time turned out to be an infected gland. She told The Mirror: “I’ve been lying in bed at night, looking down at my breasts and thinking, ‘Am I just walking around with two timebombs here?’ If that’s a possibility, maybe I need to get rid of them.” The TV personality said she believes the cancer affecting her sisters “could be down to a rogue gene from my dad’s side of the family”. Some forms of cancer can run in families, with the risk of developing breast cancer, bowel cancer or ovarian cancer increasing if close relatives have previously developed the conditions. However, it does not mean that a person will definitely have cancer if their close relatives have it. According to the NHS, it is estimated that between three and 10 in every 100 cancers are associated with an inherited faulty gene. The Nolans comprised Coleen, Linda, Denise, Bernie and Maureen Nolan. They are one of the world’s biggest selling girl groups and their international hits include “I’m in the Mood for Dancing”, “Gotta Pull Myself Together”, and “Chemistry”. Read More Sorry lads, we just can’t afford any more reckless, middle-aged adventurers Cruise line apologises after passengers witness dozens of pilot whales being slaughtered Woman’s response to Tinder match asking her to go on an ice cream date sparks debate These are the phrases working mums want to stop hearing – survey Montana Brown opens up about struggle to conceive before son’s birth How to keep your pet safe and healthy during a heatwave

More than half (55%) of working mums want to change workplace lingo, as insensitive or ill-thought comments from colleagues can add to their challenges, new research has found. Remarks by co-workers made towards working mums ranged from ‘she’s only part-time’ and ‘I forgot you leave early’, to ‘I wish I could have Fridays off’ and ‘I bet it feels like a break coming into the office’ – according to the survey of 1,000 working mothers commissioned by Maltesers, which has just launched its #MotherLover campaign to help lighten the load and encourage support for working mums. The poll found 63% of working mums feel they need to work harder to prove themselves, and 46% say they need to convince co-workers that their change in hours doesn’t impact their output. Nearly two-thirds (63%) believe colleagues mean no harm when they make insensitive comments however, and 26% admit a co-worker has corrected themselves midway through saying something ill-informed to working parents. “It’s no surprise many of these comments are about part-time work. There is a pervasive stigma that working part-time means a lack of commitment and ambition in the workplace,” said Catherine Gregory, head of marketing and communications at the Working Families charity. “To change the often-negative narrative around women – especially mothers – working part-time and flexibly, we need a radical shift in workplace culture. Not only could this curb negative comments about mothers at work, but it could also support mothers’ career progression.” Maltesers has teamed up with women’s online community Peanut to create the Work & Motherhood content hub, providing advice about the challenges working mothers face. “Every day on Peanut, women talk about the harmful phrases that have become so normalised in reference to mothers and motherhood – making change in this area is long overdue,” said Peanut founder and CEO, Michelle Kennedy. “As a mother of two myself, I understand the impact these phrases can have. When I attend networking events I’m often asked, ‘Who’s taking care of the kids?’ or ‘How do you balance it all?’ and I’m pretty sure male founders aren’t asked the same questions.” Kennedy points out that working mums are constantly juggling. “Harmful phrases and assumptions can really feed into feelings of guilt and perpetuate this idea that women should take on the bulk of responsibilities,” she adds. “The reality is, words matter. Juggling parenting alongside work can be a struggle, and we need to shift the focus in attitudes, empathy and terminology.” These are the comments the survey found working mums want to stop hearing… ‘You look tired’Kennedy says it’s OK to acknowledge you’re tired at work, but points out: “Colleagues might be forgetting quite how much you’re juggling every day. Sharing some insight with your colleague or employer might help them understand.” ‘She’s only part-time’Part-time work is undertaken by 38% of women, compared to 11% of men, says Kennedy, who stresses women often work part-time so they can manage looking after their family. “Challenging assumptions about part-time work can break down the stigma that part-time work is a reflection of commitment, rather than a way to manage responsibilities,” she says. ‘I forgot you leave early’It can work well if mothers map out their availability in their calendar to help alleviate comments like this, Kennedy suggests. “It’s a good reminder for colleagues. Also, don’t be afraid to remind colleagues ahead of time when you’ll be leaving for commitments – even a quick reminder at the start of a meeting that you need to round up on time can be really effective.” ‘Wish I could have Friday off’ Kennedy says the Peanut community advises other mums to respond to these types of comments positively. “It’s likely your colleague means well, but remind them why you have Fridays off and what this allows you to do in terms of childcare,” she says. ‘I bet it feels like a break coming into the office’“Reply honestly – for many, having space away from home can be a much-needed distraction,” Kennedy points out. “Mothers who care for their children full-time are doing an unbelievable amount of work as well!” ‘I could never do that’Kennedy says it can sometimes seem impossible to avoid motherhood shame, but she stresses: “There are no winners in the debate of work-life balance and professional choices. Do what’s best for you and your family – never allow the negative narratives to deter you from doing what’s best for you.” ‘Enjoy the rest of the week off!’ The rest of your ‘week off’ is likely to involve changing nappies, juggling schedules, and trying to maintain some semblance of self-care – and Kennedy points out that research suggests motherhood is equivalent to 2.5 full-time jobs. “Motherhood is no joke!” she says. “While comments like this may mean well, many women on Peanut have used this opportunity to have frank conversations about the challenges motherhood can bring.” ‘Must be nice to get a lie-in’ If you’re part-time or on flexi hours, Kennedy suggests mums have an open conversation with your colleague or employer around comments like this – “to shine a light on the realities of being a working mum. For many mothers, lie-ins are a thing of the past,” she adds. ‘Can your partner do any of the childcare?’Again, Kennedy stresses it’s best to be open and honest about your circumstances. “For example, some mothers on Peanut have shared how their partner’s organisations don’t offer progressive policies for parents.” ‘It must be busy having the children home during the school holidays’If you’re working from home, school holidays can impact your response time or working hours, Kennedy points out. “It’s important to communicate that you will be busy and have a few more balls to juggle – between meets, sports clubs and lunches. Remember it’s ok to foster discussions about your needs.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Get up and glow with this energising morning workout Support with mental health issues and finances should be linked – Martin Lewis Why does my washing machine smell so bad?

Montana Brown has opened up about the struggle to get pregnant with her first child despite being in her twenties. The former Love Island star, 27, gave birth to her and fiancé Mark O’Connor’s son Jude last month – but said she was shocked that it was difficult to conceive in the first place. Speaking to Giovanna Fletcher on herHappy Mum Happy Baby podcast, Brown said she thought “something was wrong” with her when she first started trying to get pregnant but couldn’t. “I thought, ‘We’re young, this is going to be really easy’… for the first four months we’d used ovulation sticks, and then I’d do a pregnancy test and it’d be negative,” she recalled. “And I’d be like, ‘Oh my God, that is so hurtful’ and then you do that month after month. “Then I was kind of overthinking, is there something wrong with me, should I be getting checked?” Brown joked that she also sent O’Connor to the fertility clinic to check his sperm and recalled: “I said, ‘There’s something wrong with your sperm! You need to get it checked out, it’s not me!’” But in the end, both parties went to check their fertility and found that “everything was fine”. “So, Mark loves going in the sauna and also he’s an avid cycler, two things which are not good for sperm, which I did not know,” the reality star continued. “I also found out I had no oestrogen and no testosterone. It kind of left me a bit like, ‘Oh, I can be young, fit and healthy, and still really, really struggle to conceive’.” When she did eventually fall pregnant, Brown said it was a surprise and she thought her symptoms – which included tiredness, nausea and hot sweats – were because of food poisoning. “For some reason, like clockwork in the evenings, I was having hot sweats,” Brown said. “I had stabbing pains. And I was being sick every night. “I said to Mark, ‘I’ve got food poisoning’. And he was like, ‘I don’t think you do… you’re definitely pregnant’. “I said, ‘Mark, please, come on, we had sex that one time… this is not happening, there’s no way’. So I really avoided taking a pregnancy test. I genuinely was so convinced I was just ill.” However, O’Connor insisted that she take a pregnancy test and ordered her one via Deliveroo. Brown said she agreed to take the test “just to shut [him] up”. “I just remember weeing on the stick and just being like, ‘Yeah, it’s not loaded yet’. Just kind of a bit blasé. And then I just remember seeing it and I was like, ‘Oh my God’.” According to Brown, O’Connor, who was FaceTiming her as she took the test, was in disbelief even though he had been right. “He was like, ‘No, you’re joking’. I was like, ‘I’m not joking, it says pregnant!’” The couple welcomed their baby boy, named Jude Isaiah O’Connor, on 23 June and said they were “so smitten”. In the early days of her pregnancy, Brown said she experienced “excruciating pain”, which led her to think she had “a gall stone or appendicitis” rather than being pregnant. Montana and O’Connor announced their engagement in April, after he proposed to her on a beach in Bermuda. They met in 2020 and went “Instagram official” with their relationship the year after. She was a contestant in series three of the ITV reality dating show, where she was coupled up with Alex Beattie by the end of the series. However, the pair broke up shortly after leaving the villa. Read More Sorry lads, we just can’t afford any more reckless, middle-aged adventurers Cruise line apologises after passengers witness dozens of pilot whales being slaughtered Woman’s response to Tinder match asking her to go on an ice cream date sparks debate Margot Robbie has fangirl moment over Love Island stars Ekin-Su, Davide and Liberty Maya Jama reflects on ‘importance’ of her relationship with ex Stormzy Inside the famous Love Island villa near Majorca

Fitting in a workout when you have a busy life can be hugely challenging. But what if you set the alarm just ever so slightly earlier and nailed it first thing? “Morning exercise can improve productivity and focus, boost energy levels and help you maintain better posture,” says PT and fitness expert, Laura Williams. “And whether you spend the day at your desk or on your feet, working the muscles of the core is an important addition to any exercise routine,” she continues. “Weak core muscles can make it easier to pick up poor posture habits that might lead to aches and pains. A weak core can also leave you more vulnerable to injury. “A strong core, on the other hand, not only makes everyday movements easier, it improves stability and can improve sporting performance.” Add this short routine to your morning run or walk, or try as a standalone workout before heading into the day. Bird Dog Why: Helps strengthen the muscles of the back and core, and improves stability. How: From an all fours position, lift one leg and opposite arm in the air and briefly hold. Maintain a straight spine. Do 12 repetitions. Tip: Avoid lifting your arm and leg too high (this will help you maintain a flat back). Single-Leg Stretch Why: Works the abdominal muscles. How: From a lying position, lift your head and shoulders off the floor. Bend your leg and bring your knee towards your head, placing hands either side of your knee. Extend the other leg out in front of you a few inches off the floor. Switch sides. Do 10 repetitions. Tip: Place your head down if you feel this in your neck. Leg Pull-Down Why: Strengthens upper body, core, thigh and calf muscles. How: From a push-up position with weight on your hands and balls of feet, lift one leg into the air just below hip height. Change sides. Do 10 repetitions. Tip: Avoid lifting your leg too high. Keep your spine straight and your hips still. (Modifed) Roll-up Why: Helps strengthen core muscles, and the muscles at the front of the hips. How: Sit with legs bent, feet flat on the floor and arms outstretched at shoulder height. Drawing the stomach back towards the spine (but without holding your breath) roll slowly back a little way towards the floor, before returning to your starting position. Do 3-5 repetitions. Tip: Place hands behind knees for added support as you roll.

People receiving support for their mental health should be able to “walk down the corridor” and get money advice too, consumer champion Martin Lewis has urged. The MoneySavingExpert.com founder said swift action is needed to ensure people struggling with their mental health and finances receive the support they need. He made the call as the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute said there is an urgent need for more joined-up mental health and debt support. Mr Lewis, who is also founder and chair of the institute, said: “The cost-of-living crisis shows no sign of abating, and even if it does the fallout will last years. “Financial problems and mental health issues are locked together, it’s about time treatments were linked too. “We’d urge the Government and NHS to take swift action to ensure those struggling with their mental health and finances get the support they need – and cut costs for the state at the same time.” The institute argued that the reforms could save money for the public purse, by reducing demand on health services and helping more people with mental health problems to move into employment. It commissioned YouGov to survey more than 2,000 people across the UK in June about their experiences of money and mental health during the cost-of-living crisis. Nearly one in five (19%) people with mental health problems in the past two years are behind with one key bill, the survey indicated. This is around three times the 6% of people who have never experienced mental health problems who said they are behind with at least one major bill. Six in 10 (60%) people with recent mental health problems said they have felt unable to cope due to rising costs, yet only 9% have received money or debt advice since the start of the cost-of-living crisis, the survey found. The charity is calling for the Government and NHS England to provide money advice alongside NHS talking therapies – an initiative which can help people with common mental health problems. This isn't about big changes, it's a case of ensuring that when someone goes for support for their mental health, they can walk down the corridor and get money advice too Martin Lewis The charity said everyone receiving support from NHS talking therapies should be asked about their financial situation when they are initially assessed for the programme and money advice services should be located on the same site as talking therapies services. Co-locating both support services could make money advice much more accessible for people who are struggling with everyday tasks due to their mental health, it argued. Where co-location is not possible, or where people prefer telephone or online advice, professionals working in talking therapies services should actively book appointments on behalf of people, the institute said. Mr Lewis added: “For many years, therapists, mental health nurses and social workers have told us they often spend substantial, valuable clinical time helping people with their finances. It makes more sense to leave debt help professionals to do that and take some pressure off the NHS, letting clinicians focus on helping people get better. “This isn’t about big changes, it’s a case of ensuring that when someone goes for support for their mental health, they can walk down the corridor and get money advice too. Or if they’d prefer to get money advice online or via telephone, removing the stress of having to book appointments. That would make a huge difference in helping people to deal with mental health and debt issues, and to get on with their lives. “And when you throw in the potential economic gains of helping more people with mental health problems back into work, these reforms are a no-brainer.” A Government spokesperson said: “Our network of employment advisers provide money guidance to clients with depression and anxiety already receiving treatment from NHS talking therapies services. We’re working with the Money and Pensions Service to integrate further signposted sources of financial advice. “We’re investing £2.3 billion of extra funding a year by March 2024 to expand and transform mental health services in England, to treat an additional two million patients. We’ve also helped nearly two million people out of absolute poverty since 2010, and provided a £94 billion support package – worth around £3,300 per household – to help those most in need.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Why does my washing machine smell so bad? Self Esteem: The journey of self-belief is never over Holiday childcare costs up with fewer places available, survey finds

Dina Lohan has revealed that her daughter Lindsay Lohan welcomed her first child “two days earlier” than her due date. Lindsay and her husband Bader Shammas confirmed via a representative on Monday (17 July) that they are now the proud parents of a “beautiful, healthy son named Luai”. In a statement, the representative added: “The family is over the moon in love.” Dina, 60, told Us Weekly that she had plans to travel to Dubai, where Lindsay and Shammas live, to be with her daughter before the birth. However, her second grandchild “decided to come early to join us sooner”, she said, adding: “We are so blessed and overjoyed and filled with so much love.” Lindsay, 37, announced that she was expecting her first child in March, less than a year after marrying Shammas in June 2022. She recently shared an inside look at her son’s beach-themed nursery with her fans on Instagram. The Falling For Christmas star posted a photograph of herself cradling her bump in front of a wall with a beach mural and a nautical-themed crib. In April, Lindsay shared photos from her baby shower with family and friends and wrote in the caption: “Good times. So grateful for all the wonderful people in my life.” She opened up about impending motherhood in an interview with Allure last month and said she “can’t wait” for the next chapter of her life. “I can’t wait to see what the feeling is and what it’s like to just be a mom,” she said. “Happy tears. That’s just who I am. Though now, it’s probably baby emotion. It’s overwhelming in a good way.” Lindsay and Shammas tied the knot last year after announcing their engagement in November 2021. In an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, the Parent Trap star gushed about the Arabic financier and said he was her “person”. She described married life as “so special”, adding: “It’s great. I met my person, and you never know if you’re going to find that in life. “He’s an amazing man. I love him and we’re a great team.” Read More Sorry lads, we just can’t afford any more reckless, middle-aged adventurers Cruise line apologises after passengers witness dozens of pilot whales being slaughtered Woman’s response to Tinder match asking her to go on an ice cream date sparks debate Lindsay Lohan gives birth to her first child Support with mental health issues and finances should be linked – Martin Lewis Holiday childcare costs up with fewer places available, survey finds

Fewer than a quarter of local authorities in England have enough holiday childcare provision for parents working full-time and costs have risen across Great Britain since last year, new research has found. Six weeks of summer childcare for each school-age child could cost almost £1,000, according to the Coram Family and Childcare charity’s annual survey. It said families in Great Britain face costs of £943 per child for this holiday period, which is £538 more than they would pay for after-school childcare in six weeks of term time. The research, based on surveys from local authorities in England, Scotland and Wales between April and June, found that the cost of holiday childcare has risen 3% since 2022. A place at a holiday club now costs an average of £157 per week – 2.3 times higher than the cost of an after-school club during term time, the charity said. Wales has the highest weekly price at £168, followed by Scotland at £157 and England at £156. While costs have risen, availability has decreased, according to the charity, with just 24% of local authorities in England saying they have enough holiday childcare for parents working full-time, down 2% on last year. Provision for eight to 11 year-olds has dropped by 7% on last year, with 23% of local authorities saying they have enough for this age group. The high of cost of holiday childcare is going to put a further strain on families’ already stretched budgets Megan Jarvie, Coram Availability of holiday childcare for disabled children in England has also continued to fall, Coram said, with just 5% of local authorities reporting they have enough to meet local demand, down from 7% in 2022. In Scotland, there has also been a drop in the proportion of local authorities reporting sufficient childcare – down 15% for 12 to 14 year olds, down 14% for children living in rural areas, down 12% for parents working full time and down 11% for eight to 11 year olds. No local authorities in Scotland reported having enough holiday childcare in all areas for disabled children, working parents, parents working atypical hours or children in rural areas. While Wales also has low levels of sufficient childcare for disabled children (5%) and 12 to 14 year olds (5%), the proportion of local authorities reporting sufficient childcare in all areas across all categories of holiday childcare, except parents working atypical hours and children in rural areas, has risen. Local authorities in Wales report the highest level of sufficiency of holiday childcare in all areas for parents working full time (18%), followed by four to seven year-olds and eight to 11 year-olds at 14%. Costs and availability of holiday childcare varies depending on where families live, the charity said, stating that parents in inner London pay up to 25% more than those in the East of England – £177 per week compared to £142. In the East Midlands, some holiday childcare places cost 104% more than the national average, while others are 58% less, Coram said. The charity is calling on the Government to extend childcare funding announced in the Spring Statement to include support during school holidays. Megan Jarvie, from Coram, said: “The high of cost of holiday childcare is going to put a further strain on families’ already stretched budgets. Even if families are able to afford these costs, many will struggle to find a place as we have found shortages right across the country. “Starting school doesn’t mean that childcare needs end. Instead, many find that it becomes more challenging to find options that are right for their family, particularly during the long school holidays. “New Government funding to help improve childcare options during term time is welcome – but families need childcare right through the year.” Coram is also calling on those in charge in England, Scotland and Wales to increase support for family information services to provide good quality holiday childcare information and ensure access to local provision that meets families’ needs, expand provision of school holiday activity and food programmes, and improve the accessibility of holiday childcare for children with special educational needs and disability (Send). Rapid price increases in essentials like food, housing and energy bills have left a growing number of the families we work with stretched and barely keeping their finances afloat Jamie Masraff, OnSide chief executive The Local Government Association (LGA) said “concerted investment and recruitment of quality staff” is needed to ensure correct provision for disabled children, and said it was “disappointing” that the Government had not extended childcare support to include summer holidays. Councillor Louise Gittins, chair of the LGA’s children and young people board, said: “While councils recognise the importance of ensuring there is sufficient provision available for children with Send, it can be difficult to ensure the right provision is available, particularly given the challenging situation that many providers face at the moment.” A Department for Education spokesperson said: “Our Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme, backed by £200 million per year to 2025, provides healthy meals, enriching activities and free childcare places to children from low-income families over the holidays. “We are also investing £30 million to test new and innovative approaches to short respite breaks for families of children and young people with special educational needs or disabilities.” Youth organisation OnSide called for the HAF scheme to be expanded to working parents, saying it is “increasingly hearing from working families who don’t qualify but are struggling to afford holiday clubs”. Its chief executive, Jamie Masraff, said: “Rapid price increases in essentials like food, housing and energy bills have left a growing number of the families we work with stretched and barely keeping their finances afloat. For too many, there’s simply nothing left to pay for vital summer childcare.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live How to create a kitchen herb garden What is trail running and should we all be doing it? These are the women making waves in the cycling world

With so much of the gorgeous countryside on our doorsteps, or a train ride away unexplored, we all are looking for new ways to get out and about. Trail running could be the adventurous workout that helps us do just that, as it combines hillwalking, running and hiking, taking runners to remote corners of the planet, and travelling the world in their trainers. With sports brands like Nike, Salomon and Vivobarefoot placing an increasing emphasis on their trail options for runners, and a gradual increase in Google searches for ‘trail running’ over the past five years, what actually is it? “Technically speaking, trail running is a form of running that takes place on varied terrains, away from paved paths or tracks,” says Jodie Gauld, run leader for Love Trails Festival. “However, it’s so much more, it’s a special feeling and a welcoming community.” The benefits “I find trail running very calming, and my focus will be very present. You’re typically in nature, so rather than modern distractions like cars, bustling streets and flashing signs, you can instead be in the moment of your running and in awe of your surroundings, which can give life a new perspective on what really matters,” Gauld reflects. There is less focus on speed and more on experience. “Trail running can also be very playful. It’s typically less serious, because the nature of running over varying terrains and up and down different gradients, means pacing and timing are less controllable or comparable,” she says. “Then, even if you hit a path with a good rhythm, you still have to concentrate, because there could be obstacles. You can hit an ultimate high – your focus becomes super-zoned, while your pace is good and you feel like you’re flying.” It’s easy to find community in trail running, because it’s an equaliser. “Because trail running is less about pace, it’s really inclusive. Seriously, if you do a trail race, the first question won’t be about your time, it’ll be about your experience,” says Gauld. “These factors and so many more, mean that trail running attracts a wonderful, supportive community. I’ve run all my life and have been knowingly trail running for over a decade, and don’t think I’ve ever met another trail runner who hasn’t been encouraging and friendly.” The required kit “While road shoes will be fine on hard-packed trails, you’ll get even more fun with a pair of trail shoes. Trainers specifically designed for the trails will have grip for the varying terrains, and will save you slipping around,” Gauld continues. When looking for the right shoes, Ben Le Vesconte, head coach at Vivobarefoot says “Look for wide toe boxes which allow your toes to spread, to ensure you remain balanced and stable on the trail.” Next, he recommends looking for thin soles, so you can feel the trail underneath your feet. “It will help you feel the changing terrain, allowing you to react quickly and improve your stability. The more cushioning you add, the less you feel. “Think about the grip you choose, typically thicker and longer lugs [small points of raised rubber lining the outsole] are best for muddy terrain, with smaller lugs best for firmer terrain. If it’s wet weather or waterlogged terrain, you want a shoe that drains well and for the heat, it should be very breathable,” he explains. Your kit is more important than it is for road running, because you’re likely to be away from access to help, and there are more things that can potentially go wrong. “With this in mind, I typically take my running vest or a hydration pack, no matter how short the distance, in which I’ll pack my phone – for photos but also safety – water, snacks, a foil blanket, a basic first aid kit, a waterproof and possibly spare layers,” says Gauld. “I also have a GPX watch, mainly for the mapping tools, but this is expensive, and there are loads of accessible mapping apps on phones now.” The risks “In a lot of trail races, there will be a kit list – this will be for safety reasons and encourages respect in nature where the conditions can change very quickly. I started a race in nearly 30-degree heat, and within just a few hours, we were in hypothermic conditions and hail storms. I finished that race – while others more experienced than me dropped out – because I had all the kit,” Gauld reveals. “Of course, like any activity, there are things to be wary of. When you’re starting, take your time and get used to the uneven and varied terrain,” says Matt Buck, a trail running coach, owner of Running Adventures and guide runner for Love Trails Festival. “Make sure you take a friend, or at the least tell someone where you are going, and always have a phone on you in case you need to call for help. Take it slow, and you will be fine.”

Kate and Rio Ferdinand have welcomed their second child, a baby girl. The couple celebrated their daughter’s arrival on social media, writing on Instagram: “Shae Ferdinand. 10.7.23 Our strong little girl,” with a white heart emoji. They also shared a photo of the baby’s hands, with the hands of Shae’s siblings resting on top. The former England football player, 44 and The Only Way is Essex star, 32, have been married since 2019. They already share a two-year-old named Cree, born December 2020, and Kate is stepmother to three children from Rio’s last marriage. Rio is father to Lorenz, 16, Tate, 14, and Tia, 11, through his marriage to his late wife Rebecca Ellison, who died in 2015 after being diagnosed with breast cancer. Announcing Kate’s pregnancy back in January, the pair shared a video on Instagram, in which Kate unbuttons her coat to reveal her baby bump underneath her dress. ​​A smiling Kate cradles her hand over her belly, with Minnie Riperton’s “Lovin’ You” playing in the background of the clip. “We’ve been praying for you,” she captioned the post. Friends of the couple have been sharing their best wishes for the new arrival to the family and complimented the choice of Shae’s name. The Only Way Is Essex star Fearne McCcan, who recently welcomed a newborn daughter named Finty, wrote: “Congratulations, I love her name.” Another TOWIE star Billie Shepherd wrote: “Congratulations to you all.” The official Manchester United Instagram account wrote “Congratulations” and posted a red heart emoji. The couple previously lost a baby last year. In July 2022, Kate revealed that she had suffered a miscarriage, after finding out the baby “had no heartbeat” at her 12-week scan. “So much to say, but somehow I can’t find the words. Absolutely devastated & heartbroken,” Kate said at the time. “But couldn’t be more grateful for the hugs I got from my big(er) babies coming through the door when we arrived home.” Kate has been vocal about being a mother to stepchildren, and her journey in parenting in a “fully blended family”. In January, Kate launched her modern parenting handbook How To Build A Family. On Instagram, the author wrote that she wished she had been given a handbook when she became a stepmother. Read More American travellers spark backlash after claiming that Europeans ‘don’t believe in water’ while on trip abroad Cruise line apologises after passengers witness dozens of pilot whales being slaughtered Sofia Vergara and husband Joe Manganiello reportedly divorcing after seven years of marriage Lindsay Lohan gives birth to her first child What is trail running and should we all be doing it? Today show star Jill Martin diagnosed with breast cancer

Lindsay Lohan has given birth to her first child, a son named Luai, according to reports. On Monday 17 July, Page Six reported that a representative for Lohan, 37, had confirmed the Freaky Friday star and her husband Bader Shammas had welcomed their first child together. “The family is over the moon in love,” her representative said in a statement to the outlet. According to Page Six, Lohan and Shammas’ son was born in Dubai, where the couple lives. The exact date of the baby’s birth is unknown. As for the name the couple chose for their son, the baby’s name, which is a popular Arabic name for boys, means strong and steady, or shield or protector. The Independent has contacted a representative for Lohan for comment. The baby news comes after Lohan celebrated her son’s impending arrival with a recent look at the infant’s beach-themed nursery. In photos shared this week, the actress showed off the nursery, which included a wall painted with a beach mural and a nautical-themed crib. Lohan first announced that she was expecting her first child in March, when she shared a photo of a “coming soon” onesie. “We are blessed and excited,” she wrote in the caption. In April, Lohan shared photos from her baby shower, which was attended by friends and family. “Good times. So grateful for all of the wonderful people in my life,” she captioned the photos. Lohan opened up about becoming a mother during an interview with Allure in June, where she revealed that she couldn’t wait to become a parent. “I can’t wait to see what the feeling is and what it’s like to just be a mom,” Lohan said. “Happy tears. That’s just who I am. Though now, it’s probably baby emotion. It’s overwhelming in a good way.” Lohan announced her engagement to financier Shammas in November 2021. In June 2022, Lohan revealed that she and Shammas had exchanged vows when she referred to her partner as her “husband” on Instagram. Read More Pregnant Lindsay Lohan reveals she turned to Jamie Lee Curtis for parenting advice Jamie Lee Curtis shares sweet tribute to pregnant ‘film daughter’ Lindsay Lohan Today show star Jill Martin diagnosed with breast cancer Melanie Skyes reveals she has been diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome These are the women making waves in the cycling world

Today show star Jill Martin has been diagnosed with breast cancer. On 17 July, the 47-year-old lifestyle contributor revealed on Today that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer, just one week after she tested positive for the BRCA gene – inherited gene mutations that can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. In an essay shared to Today.com, the TV presenter explained that she learned of her diagnosis on 26 June. Her doctor had recently suggested she get genetic testing due to her family history with breast cancer, which revealed she had tested positive for the BRCA2 gene. Martin elected to undergo preventive bilateral mastectomy, because she had a 60 to 90 per cent chance of developing breast cancer. However, less than a week later, an MRI scan revealed that she had already developed breast cancer. “I am telling this story now because I couldn’t go through months of operations, and start to recover both physically and mentally, without shouting from the rooftops telling everyone to check with their doctors to see if genetic testing is appropriate,” Martin wrote in her essay. The BRCA genes – an abbreviation for “BReast CAncer gene” – are two different genes that have been found to impact a person’s chances of developing breast cancer. There are two BRCA genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2, which normally help repair DNA breaks that can lead to certain cancers. However, when there is a mutation in the BRCA gene, it can no longer be effective in preventing breast cancer. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, the carrier of the mutated gene can also pass a gene mutation down to their offspring. It’s been found that people with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation have a higher risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer. It’s estimated that 55 to 65 per cent of women with the BRCA1 mutation will develop breast cancer before age 70, while approximately 45 per cent of women with a BRCA2 mutation will develop breast cancer by age 70. Martin revealed that she will be having a double mastectomy, which will then determine her treatment plan moving forward. After her surgery, she also plans on having her ovaries and fallopian tubes as part of the preventative surgery process, because her chances of getting ovarian cancer are now 20 per cent higher, Martin said. “By the time I recover from my first surgery, I hope that many of you will know your results and can make proactive decisions with your doctors, families and loved ones,” she said. “That is the silver lining to this mess for me. It is what is keeping me going and giving me strength.” The Today show contributor explained that, although she had a clear mammogram test back in January, her mammogram still missed the presence of breast cancer that was later picked up by the MRI scan. “I am talking about this not to scare you, but to raise awareness so that maybe you can be tested and identify a BRCA or other genetic mutation earlier,” Martin wrote. “If I had known I was BRCA positive, I would have gotten screened more regularly, with an MRI alternating with my mammograms.” “What I didn’t know before this experience was that an MRI can pick up cancers that mammograms miss,” she continued. “So while my mammograms missed the presence of breast cancer, an MRI might have helped me catch it earlier.” Mammograms miss one in eight breast cancers, according to the American Cancer Society. For those who test positive for the BRCA gene, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommendeds screening for breast cancer with an MRI starting at age 25, and mammograms at age 30. Martin added that earlier testing might have allowed her “the opportunity to have preventative surgery,” she said, “which is something I had planned to do only days before I found out that I actually had cancer.” She wrote: “Different people cope in different ways; for me, I am not hiding under the covers crying. Instead, I want to do everything I can to beat this and protect my family.” Read More Sarah Ferguson says late Queen’s corgis were unimpressed by her post-breast cancer surgery recuperation Country star Morgan Wade reveals plans for double mastectomy after testing for breast cancer gene Former NBC anchor reveals she underwent mastectomy after testing positive for gene that increases cancer risk Sarah Ferguson says corgis were unimpressed by her post-surgery recuperation Sarah Ferguson sweetly honours Queen Elizabeth’s memory amid cancer diagnosis Sarah Ferguson says breast cancer diagnosis was ‘scary’ for Eugenie and Beatrice