I cannot forecast the final outcome of the incident near Parliament on 14 August, but it brings home once again the importance of security.
Years ago, between overseas postings, I was based in the Foreign Office in London and frequently visited Parliament on business. I carried an official pass, but was often greeted by name by the Police and other staff.
Now there are, quite rightly, major barriers and rigid checking on visitors and the latest incident has again shown how brave and efficient the Police and other Emergency Services are. Thank goodness that they protect us in London, Coventry and throughout the country.
Councillor David Skinner (Conservative)
Westwood Ward
Coventry City Council
Almost 3.7 million people have been diagnosed with diabetes in the UK. The condition doesn’t just affect people physically but has a big emotional impact that is equally harmful and is often overlooked.
Living with diabetes can be tough, and a lack of emotional and psychological support can make it even harder to manage the condition.
At Diabetes UK we want emotional, psychological and mental health support for people with diabetes to become a priority. We believe everyone should have the space and opportunity to talk about their emotional wellbeing, be empowered to seek support, and know where to go to get it.
Your experiences will help us make the case – so please take part in the survey and tell us how living with diabetes makes you feel, and whether the care you receive gives you enough support to cope with managing diabetes when your emotional wellbeing is low.
If you are living with diabetes, if you’re a parent of a child or a carer for someone with diabetes, complete our online survey by 30 September bit.ly/diabetesemotionalsupport
Peter Shorrick
Midlands and Eastern Regional Head, Diabetes UK
We’d like to invite your more adventurous readers to join us on our Lake District challenge next Spring and help save lives and rebuild futures shattered by meningitis.
They’ll conquer eight peaks, all above 3,000 feet, over two days. It will require energy, commitment and a positive attitude, but will reward those taking part with breath-taking views, wrapped up in a serious adventure and a weekend they’ll never forget – there’s a great team spirit amongst those taking part and many come away from the challenge having made lifelong friends.
Every step they take will also help us to fight meningitis and move us closer to our vision of a future where no one in the UK dies from this devastating disease and everyone affected gets the support they need. If they know someone who’s had meningitis then this is a perfect way for them to show their support.
Registration is just £49 with a fundraising pledge of £500. Accommodation, food, travel and the support of a qualified and experienced mountain leader and safety team are all included, and I’ll be there to support you throughout your fundraising journey. It takes place between Thursday 2 and Sunday 5 May next year.
Those interested in joining us can find out more at www.MeningitisNow.org or by emailing me at [email protected] .
Michaela Ifill, Meningitis Now
