The result places Manchester at the top of a global field of 1,603 universities from 114 countries and territories. It is also the eighth consecutive year that the University has ranked in the global top ten, making it the only institution to achieve that distinction since the rankings were launched in 2019. 

The THE Sustainability Impact Ratings assess how universities are helping to address major global challenges through their research, teaching, operations and partnerships, measured against the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. 

Manchester is one of the few elite global universities (40^th in the QS World University Rankings 2027) to also consistently rank in the top ten in both the THE Sustainability Impact Ratings (formally known as the THE Impact Rankings) and QS World Sustainability Rankings. This demonstrates not only the high standard of teaching and research at Manchester, but its positive impact on the world’s most pressing issues. 

This year, the University ranked first for Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9), which has been a key focus through initiatives like  and the , which propel spinouts and patented work. And our research platforms, , ,  and , bring together people, ideas and infrastructure to boost civic engagement and societal impact.  

The University also ranked first individually for Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), Life Below Water (SDG 14) and Life on Land (SDG 15), in recognition of the many projects across the University focused on these areas. 

As of September 2025, the University has supported the development of a major new solar farm, meaning 65% of its electricity demand will be matched from this renewable source - halving the University’s electricity carbon footprint. The University’s target is to reach zero direct carbon emissions by 2038. 

The interdisciplinary work of the  on projects such as    and the  are based on international research partnerships addressing some of the world’s greatest development challenges.  

And its commitment to social responsibility, public and civic engagement is evidenced through four world-leading cultural institutions, commitment to co-creation through  and patient panels and engagement programmes such as the  and . 

The University of Manchester has recently announced its new strategy for the next decade, From Manchester for the world, where our world-leading commitment to social responsibility sits as one of our five foundations. At home in Manchester, but with a global outlook, the University is striving to connect students to skills, community to ideas, and research to solutions that drive inclusive growth locally and scale globally over the next decade. 

Fuelling the University’s bold ambitions for the next decade is a global fundraising and volunteering campaign, Challenge Accepted, which will help the University to continue to deliver real world change on issues such as climate, inequity and health. To find out more, and about ways you can contribute, visit the website. 

Published today, sets out what that contribution looks like in practice, and how the Civic University Agreement is working to make universities’ civic activity more visible and consistently felt across the city region.

A Year of Progress

This year marked the first update to the agreement's shared priorities since 2021. Developed alongside the GMCA and shaped by what residents across all ten boroughs told the Greater Manchester Citizens' Panel matters most, the four refreshed priorities – Opportunity & Prosperity, Health & Wellbeing, Culture and Environment – reflect where GM's universities can make the greatest collective difference. For The University of Manchester, this work is closely aligned with Manchester 2035 and our ambition to be a great civic university for the 21st century: values-led, socially responsible and committed to co-creating solutions with partners and communities, particularly with people and places higher education has not always reached. They also connect directly to the refreshed Greater Manchester Strategy, launched last summer, which recognises universities as a central part of the city region's ambitious ten-year vision.

Speaking at the time, then Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said:

“Greater Manchester’s universities make a massive contribution to our city region, one that goes far beyond educating students. These refreshed civic priorities reflect the breadth of our universities’ impact across our society and economy, from creating jobs and supporting business innovation to enriching our culture. We recently set out our vision for Greater Manchester’s next decade of growth and we know our universities have a vital role to play in our continued success.”

Behind the Figures

Between 2022 and 2027, GM's universities will train an estimated 9,500 nurses, 3,500 doctors and 8,500 teachers, the professionals our public services and communities depend on. But their contribution doesn't stop at graduation. Across all disciplines, 40% of graduates remain in Greater Manchester, building careers and putting their skills to work in the city region they studied in. To put faces to those figures, our universities worked with the to share the stories of five of them, whose careers show what the civic mission looks like in practice.

A safeguarding nurse supporting vulnerable teenagers, a GP who came to university through a widening participation programme and pledged his digital health technology to Manchester for free, a community physiotherapist helping people stay at home rather than going into hospital . All five studied here, and all five are now putting their skills to work for the city region which helped shape their careers.

Looking Ahead

The Greater Manchester Post-16 Skills Pathways project, developed in partnership with further education colleges, the GMCA and employers, will provide new insight into how learners move through the city region's education and skills system and where barriers to progression remain. Building on this, the Board will develop a five-year implementation plan over the coming year to turn its refreshed priorities into practical action.

As the agreement enters its next phase, the focus is not just on what Greater Manchester's universities achieve together, but how they communicate it. By working more visibly and with a collective voice, the universities can better champion the region’s strengths on a national stage, while ensuring their day-to-day impact remains firmly rooted in local priorities and genuinely felt across Greater Manchester. This matches The University of Manchester’s ambition to be the partner of choice for those who share commitment to excellence and to turning knowledge into impact for the public good: open, values-led and focused on making a difference in the North and beyond.

See

Nearly one in five primary school children are now experiencing a probable mental health disorder - more than double the rate in 2011 – according to analysis published today by Health Equity North on behalf of the Child of the North All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG).

Children and young people growing up in disadvantaged communities, particularly across parts of the North of England, are more likely to experience cumulative adversity, poorer wellbeing, and reduced access to support.

The report, ‘Building a Preventative Mental Health System for Children and Young People’, shows that demand for support is rapidly outpacing capacity, leaving hundreds of thousands of children without help.

The report shows:

• Around one-third of adolescent mental health problems could potentially be prevented through action on child poverty.

• A record 850,000 children accessed NHS mental health support in 2025

• Around 385,000 children are still waiting for mental health support.

• Children with mental health difficulties are three times more likely to miss significant amounts of school, highlighting the impact on educational outcomes and long-term life chances.

• One in four children referred for specialist mental health support are turned away.

The report authors, led by academics from The University of Manchester, stress that these patterns reflect wider inequalities in poverty, housing, and access to community support and that the NHS “cannot treat its way out” of the crisis. Report recommendations call for a shift towards prevention, tackling the root causes of poor mental health.

The research also highlights how the consequences of adverse childhood mental health can lead to poor health and opportunities as an adult.

Without early and holistic intervention, it warns that rising mental health problems among children will continue to translate into higher levels of youth disengagement and long-term economic inactivity.

Professor Pamela Qualter, Director of Research (SEED) at The University of Manchester, and lead report author, said: “Research shows that mental health inequalities begin very early in life, often before a child is even born. We see higher rates of perinatal mental health difficulties among parents in parts of the North, and these challenges can have lasting impacts on children’s emotional development and wellbeing.

“Children’s mental health is shaped by the environments and services that support them - including family circumstances, poverty, housing, and access to support. These factors accumulate over time, increasing the likelihood that some children face multiple and reinforcing disadvantages.

“If we want to reduce mental health inequalities, we need to think much earlier and much more holistically. Supporting parents, families and communities is one of the most powerful

ways we can improve outcomes for children and prevent problems from escalating later in life.”

Emma Lewell MP, Co-Chair of the Child of the North APPG, said: “Today’s mental health crisis among children and young people cannot be seen in isolation. It is closely linked to wider social and economic challenges, including rising school absence, exclusion, and increasing numbers of young people disengaging from education and employment.

“The impact of children missing school is particularly concerning as school disengagement is a key pathway into becoming NEET (not in education, employment or training). There is also a pressing need to ensure that NEETs have access to sustainable employment opportunities, alongside sufficient placement opportunities to support participation in education, skills development and vocational training. Poor mental health, absence and exclusion reinforce each other over time - leading to higher risks of unemployment, poorer health outcomes and reduced life chances in early adulthood.

“If we are serious about tackling youth unemployment and reducing the number of young people who are NEET, we must start by addressing children’s mental health and the inequalities that drive it.

“Improvement is not a pipe dream - there are already many examples of positive action across the North, with charities, community groups and education services providing support for young people. These models can be replicated across the country to support health and school services in tackling these urgent issues.

“With targeted investment to support interventions to help those in need now, and a more prevention focused mindset for future generations, there is a chance to turn the tide. We are calling for stronger coordination across healthcare, education, local government and the voluntary sector to deliver a more joined-up, preventative system that supports children earlier and reduces long-term inequalities.”

Hannah Davies, Executive Director of Health Equity North, said: “Children’s mental health is not just a health issue – it is a social and economic issue that requires coordinated action across society.

“Improving outcomes will require sustained investment in tackling child poverty, strengthening family support, improving inclusion and belonging in schools, and rebuilding youth and community services. These are not ‘nice to have’ interventions – they are critical to preventing problems before they escalate.

“This report makes clear that without early, coordinated action, we risk experiencing a lost generation, with a cycle of disadvantage that will affect not just individuals, but our economy, education system and communities for years to come. The evidence is also clear that with the right investment in prevention, we can change the trajectory and give more children the chance to thrive.”

Read more about the report findings and its recommendations here: https://www.healthequitynorth.co.uk/childrens-mental-health-crisis-risks-fuelling-lost-generation The full report can be accessed at https://www.healthequitynorth.co.uk/app/uploads/Building-a-Preventative-Mental-Health-System-for-Children-and-Young-People-Report-June-2026.pdf

Led by researchers at The University of Manchester and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT), the study investigated the efficacy of a urine test which detects the presence or absence of blood pressure lowering medications — known as chemical adherence testing, or CAT.

They tested the hypothesis that the test would help in regular administration of blood pressure lowering medications and bring their blood pressure under control after its results were discussed with patients.

Known as the study, it was the largest randomised trial of its kind bringing together 12 recruitment centres in the UK.

The study was funded by the British Heart Foundation and is published in on 16/06/26

CAT uses a special technique called liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to detect specific drugs or their metabolites in blood or urine samples.

It is mainly used in hospital hypertension and renal/cardiology clinics when doctors want to verify medication adherence in patients with resistant hypertension - the medical name for high blood pressure.

The researchers recruited 130 adults with hypertension who were taking at least two blood pressure medicines but were found to be non‑adherent after their urine was tested using CAT.

Participants were randomly assigned either to receive their CAT results alongside a personalised discussion about why they were missing doses, or to continue with usual care.

After a median follow‑up of nearly three months, average systolic blood pressure - – the pressure in your arteries when the heart contracts and pumps blood out - was not significantly different between the two groups.

While the adjusted systolic blood pressure in those who received the CAT intervention was approximately 5 mmHg lower than in the standard of care group, this difference did not reach the level of statistical significance.

Those who received the intervention, however, became more adherent to the prescribed blood pressure lowering medications 3 months after the intervention.

This showed a promising sign that it may improve medication adherence.

The findings highlight the challenges of tackling hidden non‑adherence, a problem that affects up to one in three people with high blood pressure and costs the NHS millions of pounds in unnecessary tests and treatments.

The authors argue that larger trials are urgently needed to understand whether CAT‑based interventions could play a role in improving long‑term outcomes for people with hypertension.

They also add that the technology may yet prove valuable as part of a personalised approach to managing chronic conditions where missing medications is common.

The Chief Investigator of OUTREACH is , Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine at The University of Manchester and Honorary Consultant Physician at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust.

He is also Integrative Cardiovascular Medicine Co-Theme Lead at the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Manchester Biomedical Research Centre (BRC), which partly supported the research.

He said: “Sharing the results of the CAT with the patients and the discussion for the reasons behind missing their blood pressure lowering medications appears to help in improving adherence.

While there was a trend for this improved adherence to favour lower blood pressure, we could not detect a statistically significant signal in blood pressure.

Hidden non‑adherence remains a major and costly problem in hypertension care, and our findings underline the need for larger, longer‑term trials to understand where CAT‑based approaches might still add value.”

Professor Bryan Williams, Chief Scientific and Medical Officer at the British Heart Foundation and senior author on the study, said: “High blood pressure is the leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease in the UK, where it is associated with 50 per cent of heart attacks and strokes. This means it is crucial that people take medications to treat it as advised by their doctor.

“We hope that this personalised approach to monitoring adherence can help address the many reasons why people may not be taking their medication properly, and support them to do so in future. This study showed signs that this strategy may help improve adherence, but to properly judge its effectiveness, a larger study is needed.”

• The paper: Chemical adherence testing-guided intervention versus standard of care in patients with hypertension who are non-adherent to antihypertensive treatment in the UK (OUTREACH): a multicentre, randomised controlled trial is available . DOI

• Ancient Egyptian funerary texts were not fully standardised during this period, and varied between tombs
• Tomb decoration involved the choices and priorities of the tomb owner or commissioner
• Religious practices and funerary fashions could change within a single generation
• Local traditions shaped how beliefs were expressed in places such as Saqqara
• Egyptian religion was flexible and evolving rather than completely fixed over time

Why this matters

Ancient Egypt is often portrayed as a civilisation governed by rigid traditions and unchanging religious beliefs lasting thousands of years.

However this research challenges that perception, revealing a society in which religious ideas and funerary practices adapted over time, even across the span of a single lifetime.

Rather than being rigid, Egyptian religious culture responded to changing tastes, priorities and local traditions.

A human story told through tombs

At the heart of the book is the idea that tombs were highly personal spaces.

The decoration, inscriptions and arrangement of funerary texts within tombs at Saqqara reflected the involvement of those commissioning them. While these tombs drew on established religious traditions, they also reveal changing fashions and evolving approaches to the afterlife.

Two tombs built only a generation apart could already show noticeable differences in style, emphasis and religious presentation.

What the research found

Drawing on archaeological evidence from Saqqara, the study shows that:

• Funerary texts and images differed between tombs during this period
• Tomb decoration reflected individual commissions rather than a single rigid template
• Religious styles and practices evolved noticeably over relatively short periods of time

The findings challenge the long-standing image of Egyptian religion as static and entirely controlled from the top down by priests and kings.

Why Saqqara matters

Saqqara, the necropolis of ancient Memphis, provides an unusually rich record of religious and artistic change.

The book demonstrates how local traditions shaped tomb decoration and funerary expression, revealing how broader religious beliefs could be adapted differently within particular communities.

A different view of ancient religion

The research presents ancient Egyptian religion as:

• Evolving rather than fixed
• Influenced by local communities and changing fashions
• Shaped through personal commissions and lived experience

In short, the study suggests that ancient Egyptians were not simply preserving ancient traditions unchanged - they were continually adapting them for new generations.

Publication details

The Transmission of the Book of the Dead in New Kingdom Tombs at Saqqara will be published in paperback by on June 25^th, but is also currently available to read online via .

"The study highlights a wider challenge facing governments around the world – whether in the EU, the UK or elsewhere, efforts to tackle imported deforestation need to work with producer countries rather than simply impose new requirements on them,” said co-author Professor Khalid Nadvi, Professor of International Development at The University of Manchester’s Global Development Institute and Head of the School of Environment, Education and Development.

"Effective environmental governance depends on cooperation, capacity-building and shared responsibility across global supply chains."

Publication details

The paper was published in journal Global Policy.

DOI:

The awards were presented at a ceremony in Whitworth Hall on Thursday, 18 June, bringing together students, staff and civic leaders to celebrate achievement, leadership and the enduring partnership between the University and the wider city-region. 

Honorary degrees are the university’s highest awards, recognising individuals who have made exceptional contributions that reflect the university’s values and create meaningful impact locally, nationally and globally. 

Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, welcomed the guest and honorees at the event and gave opening remarks, he said: “Today, we come together to celebrate and honour four exceptional individuals whose contributions have shaped our University, our city and society more broadly. 

“Our honorary graduands are united by their commitment to Manchester and by the lasting impact they have had on the communities they have served. Through leadership in public service, culture, and higher education, each has helped to strengthen the city's reputation as a place of innovation and opportunity.” 

As a global-civic university, Manchester is committed to working in partnership with its city and communities to advance social responsibility, inclusive growth and innovation. This year’s honorary graduates exemplify that mission, each playing a significant role in shaping Manchester’s reputation as a place of ideas, opportunity and positive change.

Honorary graduates 2026 
 

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell 

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell served as President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester from 2010 to 2024, becoming the first woman to lead the institution. Her leadership strengthened the University’s role as a leading global-civic university, deepening its engagement with the city, region and international partners. 

An internationally recognised neuroscientist, her research has advanced understanding of brain injury and contributed to improved treatment outcomes. Alongside her academic work, she has played a key role in shaping the UK’s research and innovation landscape, while championing the role of universities in addressing global challenges and delivering local impact. 

Sir Richard Leese 

Sir Richard Leese served as Leader of Manchester City Council for more than 25 years, playing a pivotal role in the city’s regeneration and global rise. His leadership spanned defining moments in Manchester’s recent history, including the recovery following the 1996 terrorist bomb and the delivery of the 2002 Commonwealth Games. 

Under his tenure, Manchester saw significant economic growth and the revival and repopulation of its city centre, helping to position the city as a leading example of inclusive urban renewal. He now chairs the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board, continuing his contribution to improving outcomes for communities across the region. 

Dr Maria Balshaw CBE 

Dr Maria Balshaw is a leading figure in the cultural life of both Manchester and the UK. As Director of Tate Galleries from 2017 to 2026, she led a programme focused on artistic boldness, inclusivity and engagement with new audiences. 

Her connection to Manchester is longstanding. She previously served as Director of The Whitworth at The University of Manchester, as well as Director of Manchester City Galleries and Director of Culture for Manchester City Council. Her leadership has helped position Manchester as a globally recognised cultural destination, where creativity and access to the arts play a central role in civic identity and social impact. 

Sir Howard Bernstein (1953–2024) 

Widely regarded as one of the architects of modern Manchester, the late Sir Howard Bernstein devoted his career to public service in the city he called home. As Chief Executive of Manchester City Council for 20 years, he played a central role in shaping Manchester’s recovery, growth and long-term vision. 

He led the reconstruction of the city centre following the 1996 terrorist bomb and was instrumental in delivering the 2002 Commonwealth Games and the regeneration of East Manchester. His work extended across major developments in transport, culture and infrastructure, as well as securing Greater Manchester’s landmark devolution deal. 

Sir Howard’s legacy reflects a lifelong commitment to civic leadership and place-making, helping transform Manchester into a confident, globally connected city rooted in strong communities. 

Together, this year’s honorary graduates highlight the vital role of collaboration, leadership and creativity in addressing the challenges of our time and delivering lasting social impact. 

Through Manchester 2035, the University is strengthening its commitment to being a global-civic institution, working in partnership to improve lives, advance knowledge and support the continued success of Manchester as a leading global city. 

The survey will explore issues including:

• Experiences of travelling as a driver, passenger, pedestrian, cyclist or public transport user

• Feelings of safety and confidence while travelling

• Worries about road safety and personal security

• Barriers that influence travel choices

• Ideas for improving safety and accessibility

• Evidence to support future changes

The survey is the first part of a wider research project being delivered by The University of Manchester on behalf of the Safer Roads Greater Manchester Partnership Board.

Alongside the survey, participants will have the opportunity to take part in follow-up focus groups to provide more detailed insights into their experiences.

The findings will be presented to the Greater Manchester Safer Roads Partnership Board later this year.

The researchers hope the project will help ensure women's perspectives are better reflected in future road safety policies, interventions and transport planning.

By capturing the insights of women from a wide range of backgrounds, ages and travel habits, the study aims to create a stronger evidence base to support safer, more inclusive streets across Greater Manchester.

“It is vital that everyone feels safe travelling on foot, by bike or in a vehicle, and we need to understand specifically how women experience Greater Manchester's roads so we can continue to address barriers they may face,” said Dame Sarah Storey, Active Travel Commissioner for Greater Manchester. 

"Women use roads and transport networks every day, but their experiences are not always fully reflected in the evidence that informs road safety policy and planning,” said Dr Miles. “We know that concerns about safety can influence how, when and whether people travel, yet there has been relatively little research exploring these issues from women's perspectives.

“By listening to their experiences, we can build a clearer understanding of the challenges women face and identify where improvements could make the greatest difference.

"Road safety is about more than preventing collisions - it's also about ensuring people feel confident and secure when moving around their communities,” said Professor Broad. “The insights gathered through this research will help us understand what helps women feel safe, what creates barriers or concerns, and what practical changes could improve their experiences. 

“We want the findings to support evidence-based action that makes Greater Manchester's roads and transport systems safer and more inclusive for everyone.”

Women interested in taking part can complete the survey by .

The team, , received the Stephanie L Kwolek Prize for developing a scalable solid-state lithium metal battery architecture that integrates nanocarbon-enhanced cathodes with solid electrolytes.

The award recognises a collaboration between researchers at PETRONAS, The University of Manchester, and Deakin University in Melbourne. Their work focuses on overcoming key barriers to the commercialisation of solid-state lithium metal batteries, including improving energy density, safety and manufacturability. 

Solid-state batteries replace the liquid electrolyte found in conventional lithium-ion batteries with a solid alternative, offering potential advantages in stability and performance. However, challenges remain in ensuring reliable operation at scale. The team’s approach combines nanocarbon-enhanced cathodes with solid electrolytes to deliver a design that can be manufactured using processes compatible with industry. 

The RSC Horizon Prizes, introduced in 2020, recognise teams working on innovative projects at the frontiers of the chemical sciences. The prizes highlight collaborative research that addresses global challenges and demonstrates significant progress towards practical applications.

Dr Helen Pain, Chief Executive of the Royal Society of Chemistry, said: “The purpose of the Horizon Prizes is to recognise those who are pioneering new techniques, technologies and discoveries. Our winners demonstrate how expertise from across chemistry and related disciplines can be brought together to tackle some of the most pressing global challenges.” 

The Manchester researchers contributed expertise in nanomaterials and their integration into functional devices, building on the University’s strengths in advanced materials and energy research. Their involvement in the project reflects ongoing collaborations with international partners and industry to accelerate the development of next-generation technologies. 

The prize is one of a number of Horizon Prizes awarded this year by the RSC, which form part of a wider programme recognising excellence in research, innovation and education across the chemical sciences. 

The rankings assess more than 1,500 institutions worldwide across a range of measures, including research and discovery, employability and outcomes, international engagement and sustainability.   

Manchester achieved an overall score of 84.6 and performed particularly strongly in international research collaboration, ranking 7th globally. The University also ranked 10th for sustainability, 28th for employer reputation and 32nd for academic reputation.   

The results reinforce Manchester's position as one of the world's leading universities, recognised for the quality of its research, global partnerships, teaching excellence and real-world impact.  

Manchester is also one of a small number of global universities that consistently performs strongly in both the global university rankings and the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, which measure progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Since these rankings were introduced in 2019, the University has been placed in the global top ten every year. 

The University was ranked 35th in the . This year's rankings saw particularly strong competition from institutions in China and across Asia, reflecting the intensely competitive global higher education landscape.  

QS is one of the world's leading university ranking systems. The University of Manchester was ranked 56th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026 and 46th in the Academic Ranking of World Universities 2025.  

Find further information about where the University is ranked on our World Rankings page.

The University of Manchester, working with partners across the Greater Manchester region and beyond, has played a leading role in securing £50m investment from UK Research and Innovation’s Local Innovation Partnerships Fund (LIPF) that drives innovation-led growth across Greater Manchester.  

The University is lead delivery partner on two projects and will be a delivery partner on the remaining three across the wider funding programme, .  

Together the whole portfolio is worth £50m and covers nationally significant sectors including advanced materials & manufacturing, digital, cyber & AI, health innovation & life sciences, and low carbon technologies. These projects will attract private investment, create skilled jobs, support business growth and strengthen Greater Manchester’s position as a globally competitive innovation region.  

The Local Innovation Partnerships Fund (LIPF) is a flagship UK government programme - delivered through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) - investing up to £500 million to strengthen regional innovation economies across the country. 

Forming a central pillar of the government's modern Industrial Strategy and Plan for Change, the Fund brings together local leaders, businesses and research organisations to build on regional strengths to create new jobs, drive innovation-led productivity and attract further public and private investment into communities across the UK. 

Atom Valley Innovation District 

The University is lead delivery partner in the £16.4m invested in the Atom Valley Innovation District, (AVID) a nationally significant advanced materials and manufacturing cluster. 

The investment will help to activate the innovation ecosystem needed to support the growth of materials-focused companies at Kingsway Business Park in Rochdale.  

Through the Centre of Expertise in Advanced Materials and Sustainability (CEAMS) within the new Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Centre (SMMC), the programme will provide technical support, business services and access to specialist expertise to help companies scale up and adopt sustainable materials and advanced manufacturing technologies. 

By connecting businesses with national research centres, universities and industry, the programme will accelerate collaboration, unlock new supply chain opportunities and strengthen the region’s ability to attract and grow innovative businesses.  

The project is delivered in partnership with the Rochdale Development Agency, and the delivery consortium provides comprehensive access to the national advanced materials innovation ecosystem through the Henry Royce Institute, the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), : NCC and CPI. The University of Greater Manchester will support the delivery of industry-ready skills packages.   

Together, these activities will drive private sector investment in the Atom Valley Innovation District, generating skilled jobs, and build long-term economic resilience for the region. 

GROW AI 

The University will also play a key role in GROW AI (£12.8m). The project will be jointly led by the Centre for Enterprise at Manchester Metropolitan University and the Turing Innovation Catalyst at the University of Manchester.  

GROW AI will rapidly scale the responsible and secure adoption of AI across Greater Manchester, unlocking faster commercialisation of research and delivering inclusive, high-value economic growth. Involving collaboration with the University of Salford, Lancaster University and numerous private sector partners, the initiative will fuse startup and research commercialisation with AI adoption by SMEs across priority sectors, bringing together the public, private and academic sectors to focus on key challenges at pace.  

Utilising the networks, delivery expertise and academic excellence of the partner organisations, it builds on the region’s existing assets and is designed for rapid deployment. GROW AI develops the regional cluster at scale, supporting both new AI firms and existing businesses, so the wider economy can benefit from the AI opportunity. The project will also support the continued growth of the tech community at Sister, a new innovation district which is a joint venture between The University of Manchester and Bruntwood SciTech. 

The University's innovation arm,  – a function designed to unleash the institution's full innovation potential – has supported the development of these two projects.   

Delivery partner on three projects 

The University of Manchester is also the delivery partner for indoor air quality and sustainability assessments in the Retrofit Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Innovation Centre (£8.56m) led by the University of Salford, the GM Wearables and Remote Monitoring Innovation Cluster (£5.5m) led by Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, and the Greater Data Accelerator (£6.7m) led by Health Innovation Manchester. 

Professor Duncan Ivison, President & Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester said: “This shows what Greater Manchester can achieve through collaboration between universities, industry and the public sector. We’re very proud to play a central role in this, working alongside our partners to turn research into innovation that supports business growth, builds new ventures and strengthens the economy.  

"Our research, partnerships and innovation activity will increasingly create globally competitive clusters that attract investment, generate high-value jobs and position Greater Manchester as a leader in advanced materials, manufacturing, health innovation and AI. This is about connecting talent, ideas and industry - which ultimately means long-term, inclusive growth is felt across our communities.” 

Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council and Greater Manchester Portfolio Lead for Economy, Business and Inclusive Growth, said: “Through this significant investment in five pioneering projects we will translate world-class research and innovation into new jobs and opportunities that benefit Greater Manchester’s businesses and residents. 

“By focusing on advanced materials and manufacturing, health innovation and AI, we are building on the strengths that already set our city region apart and creating the conditions for more businesses to innovate, scale and succeed here. This is the kind of investment and collaboration that helps us deliver long-term, inclusive growth, strengthening our economy and ensuring the benefits of innovation are felt right across Greater Manchester.” 

Andrew Hodgson, Chair of the Innovation Greater Manchester Board, said: “I am delighted that Greater Manchester has secured such a significant investment and is the first region to have all its projects approved.  

“This is testament to the maturity in Greater Manchester and the strong partnership that exists across the region. I would like to thank the partners for their support in the process. At IGM we look forward to continuing to collaborate with UKRI, supporting deployment of world-class innovations that impact lives throughout the region and beyond.” 

The King's Birthday Honours recognise extraordinary contributions and service across the UK. 

This year's list highlights outstanding contributions across public service, healthcare, education, business, science and the voluntary sector, reflecting the breadth and impact of the University's wider community. 

Sarah Munby CB 
Sarah Munby, a member of the University's Board, has been appointed Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB) for public service. 

Her career spans both the private and public sectors. Recently, she served as Permanent Secretary of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), where she oversaw the establishment of the new department and held overall responsibility for government policy and delivery on science and technology. Her portfolio covered the national approach to artificial intelligence, the UK's science and research system, digital transformation across government, and the government's relationship with technology-driven sectors of the economy, including life sciences, AI and digital, quantum, telecoms and space. 

Previously, she was Permanent Secretary at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), with wide-ranging responsibilities across the economy. This included leading support for businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, managing the UK's energy crisis following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, establishing the UK's first national net zero strategy, and supporting business growth and innovation nationwide. During this time, she also established BEIS's second headquarters in Greater Manchester, later mirrored at DSIT. 

Before joining the civil service, she was a Partner at McKinsey and Company, where she led the firm's Strategy and Corporate Finance Practice in the UK and Ireland, working on strategic change and transformation with major businesses in the UK and globally. 

She has also previously served as a Board Member at UK Government Investments, the government's centre of expertise in corporate governance and corporate finance. 

Sir Jon Cunliffe GBE CB 
Sir Jon Cunliffe, who studied English Language and Literature at the University, is recognised with a GBE for public service. 

He has had a distinguished career in public service, including a decade as Deputy Governor of the Bank of England for Financial Stability from 2013 to 2023. In that role, he sat on the Bank's Court of Directors, the Financial Policy Committee and the Monetary Policy Committee, and also had responsibilities across the Bank's prudential regulation work. 

Earlier in his career, he served as the UK's Permanent Representative to the European Union. He is currently Chair of the Independent Water Commission. 

Abigail Shapiro MBE 
Abigail Shapiro, a member of the University's General Assembly, has been awarded an MBE for services to education. She is Co-Founder of The Tutor Trust.

Alongside Sarah Munby, Sir Jon Cunliffe and Abigail Shapiro, a further 19 members of the University of Manchester community have been recognised: 

Commanders of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) 
Tom Attwood (BSc Management Sciences 1973), Chair of Trustees, Attwood Academy Trust, for services to education. 

Paul McCreesh (MusB 1981), Conductor, for services to music and music education. 

Merope Mills (BA Psychology 1999), Patient Safety Campaigner, for services to patient safety. 

Dr Richard Vautrey (MBChB 1988), former President, Royal College of General Practitioners and GP Partner, Meanwood Group Practice, for services to general practice. 

Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) 
Robin Gisby (MBA 1984), former Chief Executive Officer, DFT Operator Limited, for services to the rail network. 

Rachel Hollis (BA History 1981), former Chair, Professional Nursing Committee, Royal College of Nursing and Honorary Nurse Advisor for Children's Cancer Care, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, for services to nursing. 

Professor Janet Lord (BA Psychology 1986; MSc Cognitive Science 1991; EdD Education 2016), Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Manchester Metropolitan University and Independent Chair, Priority Area, for services to education. 

Rohan Malik (MBA 1998), UK and Ireland Government and Public Sector Managing Partner, EY, for services to business and professional services. 

Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) 
Nafiza Anwar (BSc Anatomical Sciences 1993), Co-Founder and Director, Association of South Asian Midwives, for services to charity and healthcare. 

Esther Barratt (BSc Mechanical Engineering 1992), Group Director, Amentum, for services to nuclear power engineering. 

Sara Barr-Frost (MA Healthcare Ethics and Law 2019), Deputy Chief Nursing and Allied Health Professionals Officer, Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust and former Director of Nursing and Allied Health Professionals, Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust, for services to the NHS. 

Professor Stephen Leveson (MBChB 1970; MD 1978), Founder and Trustee, York Against Cancer, for services to cancer patients in North Yorkshire. 

Dr Colin Prosser (BSc Geology 1984), Principal Specialist Geoheritage and Geoconservation, Natural England, for services to geoconservation. 

Bill Reeves (BSc Electrical Engineering and Electronics 1977), Chief Executive, Portland Port, for services to the community in Portland. 

Paul Seddon (BA Town and Country Planning 1991; BPl 1992), Strategic Director of Planning and Transport, Nottingham City Council, for services to town planning. 

Rabbi Dr Norman Solomon (PhD 1966), for services to the Jewish community and to interfaith relations in Oxfordshire. 

Paul Trevatt (MSc Healthcare Management 2008), Nursing Leader, for services to nursing. 

Karen Whittaker (MSc Nursing 1997), Senior Education Lead, Institute of Health Visiting, for services to health visiting. 

British Empire Medal (BEM) 
Dr Katie Misselbrook (MBChB 2011), Consultant Anaesthetist, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, for services to children and young people. 

Joint workshops with academic and policy experts, and subsequent consultation within the GMCA and MCC, has led to the development of 13 ARIs which will support with the delivery of long-term strategic goals.

The ARIs have been modelled on elements of the  and the  and focus on two priorities: good growth and prevention.

The pilot aims to:

• Inform policymaking and test the ARI model at local government level;

• Build stronger partnerships between policymakers and academic experts;

• Support effective processes for identifying and prioritising research questions;

• Broaden the range of voices shaping GM policy, supporting the region’s commitment to equality and inclusion.

Launched in early June via the , the pilot will run for six months and academics are strongly encouraged to respond. It will help policymakers to access expertise and evidence, with ARIs operating successfully in various branches of government for almost a decade.

More information is available via the Policy@Manchester and the .

The charity’s annual investment into the will increase from £11m to more than £17m this year - putting the city at the heart of its mission to beat cancer.

The boost in funding will be used to recruit up to eight senior researchers who will build on the Institute’s expertise and advance cancer research in areas including immunology, data science and AI.

Once fully established, their labs will attract up to 100 world leading researchers and research staff to join Manchester's fast-growing research community.

The investment will also help to develop the next generation of clinician scientists - funding two new positions in partnership with The Christie. This will further help to combine world-class research with placing patient care at each stage of the research journey.

Bringing new knowledge into the Manchester research ecosystem will be matched with investment in cutting-edge research and computational technologies.

These will allow the Institute’s world leading facilities to study cancer under closer detail than ever before and build a platform to ensure the long-term emergence of new discoveries.

The Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute sits in the Paterson building in Withington and is part of The University of Manchester.  The building is directly connected to The Christie which allows cells and samples from patients to be taken to the research lab in a matter of minutes.

Recently appointed Director of the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, hugely welcomes the boost in funding.

She said: “Having recently left London to move to Manchester, I am delighted that Cancer Research UK recognises the level of expertise at the Institute and the power of our cancer research partnerships in Manchester.

“The extra investment will make a huge difference moving forwards and will help us continue to attract the brightest minds to the city.

“While we are living in an exciting time for research, nearly 1 in 2 people.* are set to be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, so there’s still much more to do. Patients will be at the very heart of everything we do and the Institute will be a real engine room for discovery."

Sharon Quennell, from Chadderton in Oldham, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000 at the age of 36 after noticing a lump on her left breast. She underwent surgery followed by 12 weeks of chemotherapy treatment.

Now 62, she celebrated a quarter of a century free of cancer last year. Sharon works at North Manchester General Hospital and is a single mum to Ryan, aged 31, who has autism and learning disabilities.

She has visited the laboratories in the Institute many times.

Sharon said: “The extra investment is amazing news for Manchester.

“As a former cancer patient, I am always humbled to hear about the exciting research work happening on my doorstep.”

Professor Ashley Blom, Vice President and Dean of Biology, Medicine and Health at The University of Manchester said: “The CRUK Manchester Institute sits at the heart of the city’s cancer research strength, uniting world‑class scientists under one mission. Its teams push the boundaries of discovery, from understanding the biology of cancer to developing treatments that change clinical practice. So this increase in funding is great news for the University and the city, which holds a pre‑eminent place in global cancer research, driving discoveries that shape the future of treatment. This welcome news will create more opportunities for scientists to turn bold ideas into breakthroughs that can change what’s possible for patients.”

Professor Fiona Blackhall, Director of Research and Innovation and Consultant Medical Oncologist at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, comments:  “What makes Manchester such an important hub for cancer research is that our research facilities are located on the site of one of Europe’s leading cancer hospitals, The Christie. This means we can carry out research at every stage – from basic science to trials involving patients – all on one site.

“This increase in investment reflects the level of expertise we have here in Manchester and the difference that we’re making for our patients.

“Cancer research is a collaborative effort and we at The Christie are proud to work with our partners in the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute and The University of Manchester to find new and better ways to detect, diagnose and treat cancer.”

Every year, around 45,800 people are diagnosed with cancer in the North West. **

Thanks to the generosity of its supporters, Cancer Research UK has helped double cancer survival in the UK over the past 50 years and is the world’s largest charitable funder of cancer research.

* See CRUK website
** Based on the average annual number of new cases of cancer excluding non-melanoma skin cancer (ICD10 C00-C96 excluding C44) diagnosed in the North West in 2021-2023. 

Using different types of health data - from body measurements to genetics - the authors have built on evidence that there is a potential future where simple, high street eye scans could be used as a measure of how the rest of the body is functioning. 

Using “UK Biobank” data, a  UK volunteer-based study, the researchers developed an AI tool called “Ret-AAE” to explore the links between the eye and disease risk, blood test results, and the appearance and function of different organs, across over 68,000 people.

The study showed that the associations between the eye and body are incredibly broad, identifying that the appearance of the eye is linked to risk of heart failure, high blood pressure, heart attack, Parkinsons disease, dementia and more.

Two types of scan were used in the study - 3D scans of the inner lining of the eye called “optical coherence tomography” (OCT), and simple photographs of the back of the eye called “colour fundus photographs”.

Both scan types are widely available at optometrists across the UK, with several million scans already captured every year by high street providers – making them a highly accessible health marker.

The team showed the two scan types might reveal complementary signals about our future health, with OCT more strongly linked to neurological traits and CFP having broader associations with cardiovascular traits.

Further analysis showed that the eye contains several signals that are captured by AI systems and reveal information about health – including the appearance of blood vessels and the nerves which connect the eye to the brain.

Some of the patterns the system picked up were caused by cataracts or natural differences in eye colour, showing that researchers might need to account for age and ethnicity when analysing the images.

One of the key contributions of the study is the work around the biological pathways that might link the eye to disease in the brain, blood vessels and heart.

Genetic analyses showed that eye features are linked to genes involved in neurodegenerative disease pathways, including those related to Parkinson’s disease, dementia, and broader neurodegeneration.

Physiological analyses linked eye features to blood pressure, blood vessel stiffness, and the function of the heart.

‘Radiomic analyses’ -  which turn medical images into measurable data - showed associations between eye features and the size of the brain, as well as tiny changes in the brain’s tissue structure detected using MRI scans.

By studying the tiny molecules in the blood, the researchers also found several connections between features in the eye and fat‑related molecules in the body, which may link the eye to general health.

Lead author Medical Research Council Clinical Research Training Fellow, is an eye doctor and researcher at the University of Manchester and Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, part of Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust.

He said: “Our findings show that the eye can reveal a remarkably broad picture of whole‑body health, offering a way to identify those at risk of heart and brain disease before they occur.

“Our study advances the use of deep‑learning‑derived eye traits in large‑scale biomedical research.”

Dr , Wellcome Clinician Scientist, Senior Lecturer and Honorary Consultant,  from The University of Manchester, who oversaw this interdisciplinary work alongside FREng, also from the University, said: “While more work is needed before these tests could arrive on the high street - we hope and believe that routine eye tests will one day be used as part of health screening for disease prevention.”

Professor Frangi is also a RAEng Chair and Digital Infrastructure Programme Co-Lead at the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Manchester Biomedical Research Centre’.

He said: “Using scans available on every high street, an eye test may become much more than a way to check your glasses prescription.”

“This work shows the interdisciplinary work ongoing in Manchester thanks to generous support by various translational structures, including the NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, and the BHF Manchester Centre of Research Excellence, among other funders”.

• Multi-omic analysis of deep learning-derived phenotypes links ophthalmic imaging to cardiovascular and neurological traits is published in on  Tuesday 16  June at 4pm UK time. DOI
• Funders included: the Medical Research Council; the Wellcome Trust; the British Heart Foundation; the Royal Academy of Engineering; and the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Manchester Biomedical Research Centre.

The milestone marks the largest level of participation in the campaign's history, having launched in 2016. This demonstrates the growing global appetite for teachers to upskill in how to engage 5–14-year-olds in practical science learning in schools.

Teachers and their pupils have been involved in thinking about scientific questions that interest them. Time has been dedicated to encouraging them to plan and undertake investigations, gathering evidence and drawing conclusions on topics ranging from nature, weather, motion and materials.

Under the annual theme 'Globally Curious', the pupils’ questions have demonstrated creativity, curiosity and wonder.

• Which is the smallest animal that makes the biggest difference in our environment?
• What do ants like to eat the most?
• How does friction affect the distance a car travels?
• How do different exercises affect your heart rate?
• How do my clothes shed microfibres and does it matter?

Teachers and educators across the globe get involved in many ways. As an inclusive campaign, sharing events take place in schools, gardens, zoos, hospital schools and community spaces.  This year saw the campaign expand its reach into Slovenia and Spain, with bespoke training for teachers and translated materials that increasingly support engagement globally.

Brompton-Westbook Primary in Kent was the school that took registrations beyond the million mark. Claire Hofer, the school’s Science Lead, said Great Science Share for Schools has enabled their pupils and teachers to do more enquiry-based science, which they share with other pupils at a showcase event at the Discovery Park in Sandwich.

Similarly, The University of Manchester welcomed 31 schools from across Greater Manchester to its Nancy Rothwell Building for a large in-person event, where pupils showcased their investigations and discoveries with the Lord Mayor encouraging them on.

The Great Science Share for Schools campaign was founded by Professor Lynne Bianchi, Vice Dean for Social Responsibility at The University of Manchester, to elevate the prominence of science in the classroom through learner-led enquiry, inclusive participation and collaboration.

Professor Bianchi said: “2026 is a truly great year for GSSfS by reaching this huge milestone. This makes a huge difference to teachers and young people, as well as showing that there is keen interest to raise the profile of science education for all. As the University’s From Manchester for the world 2035 strategy really takes pace, GSSfS models our values towards social responsibility and widening participation.”

Grace Marson, Campaign Manager for Great Science Share for Schools, added: “We are really proud that the campaign continues to grow as this means it is continuing to support teachers to upskill their own knowledge and develop pupils’ confidence in science enquiry.”

As participation surpasses one million pupils for the first time, the achievement comes amid a new Royal Society report, calling for stronger support for public engagement with science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects, highlighting the growing importance of initiatives such as Great Science Share for Schools.

• Temporary accommodation has existed in different forms for nearly two centuries

• Many of the problems seen today have deep historical roots

• Poor conditions, lengthy stays and placements away from communities have been repeated over time

• Fragmented responsibility has consistently made accountability difficult

• People living in temporary accommodation have often had limited opportunities to challenge poor conditions or unfair decisions

• Temporary accommodation has frequently operated outside the standards expected of other forms of housing

• A new enforceable framework is needed to ensure temporary accommodation is short, safe and healthy

A crisis with deep historical roots

The report identifies a long-running pattern in which certain groups have faced greater barriers to support than others, rooted in ideas about who is considered ‘deserving’ of assistance.

It argues that while major reforms have changed the legal framework around homelessness, longstanding patterns of exclusion, unequal treatment and poor-quality accommodation have repeatedly reappeared in different forms.

The research also highlights how fragmented responsibilities across government departments, local authorities and providers have often made it difficult to identify poor practice, enforce standards or learn from successful approaches.

Lessons from nearly 200 years of history

The report calls for three major reforms:

• Make unequal harms visible - better monitoring is needed to understand who is being placed where, in what conditions and for how long, enabling policymakers to identify and address unequal outcomes.

• End fragmentation - temporary accommodation requires clearer statutory coordination, stronger oversight and greater accountability across the system.

• Create an enforceable framework - temporary accommodation should be subject to baseline national standards, backed by meaningful enforcement.

Better temporary accommodation is possible

The report also identifies examples showing that better temporary accommodation can be delivered when there is political will and investment.

One example is the 1944 Temporary Housing Programme, which funded more than 150,000 prefabricated bungalows following the Second World War. Designed with comfort, privacy and family life in mind, the programme demonstrated that temporary accommodation could provide safe and dignified housing rather than merely emergency shelter.

What the researchers say

"Many of the problems experienced by people living in temporary accommodation today have appeared again and again for nearly two centuries,” said Dr Jessica Field. “What emerges from this research is a story of recurring patterns rather than isolated failures - poor conditions, long stays, family disruption and displacement from communities have persisted across very different political and policy contexts. Understanding how these problems developed helps us see why piecemeal reforms have often struggled to deliver lasting change.”

"Temporary accommodation may seem like a current crisis, but it has been part of our lives for nearly 200 years - yet the experience for many people living in temporary accommodation today remains painfully similar to what it was in the nineteenth century,” said Simon Gale, Chief Executive of Justlife.

"Poor conditions, long stays, people being moved away from their communities, and families left in uncertainty are not new problems. Lifelines shows they are part of a much longer pattern. That matters because we cannot keep responding to temporary accommodation as if each problem is new, isolated or unavoidable.”

"If we are serious about ending the harm caused by temporary accommodation, we need a clear national framework, proper standards, stronger accountability and a housing policy that stops temporary solutions becoming long-term realities."

Publication

was authored by Dr Jessica Field and published by Justlife.

The list celebrates individuals who have had an immeasurable impact on the lives of people across the country, such as by creating innovative solutions or driving real change in public life.

We are also celebrating the members of our wider community who have been honoured. Read more here.

Professor David Knowles

FREng, CEO of the Henry Royce Institute, has been awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to industry and academia.

His work has focused primarily on the application of advanced materials and engineering research to address major industrial and national challenges across transport, energy, petrochemical and infrastructure sectors.

Responding to the award, Professor Knowles said: “I feel incredibly privileged and proud to have received this honour. It is a recognition not just of my own work, but of everything that the outstanding teams and institutes I’ve been fortunate to be part of have achieved together over many years.

“I would like to acknowledge the contribution of the many colleagues and collaborators I’ve worked alongside across academia, industry and government. Their talent, dedication and shared commitment to innovation have been central to everything we have accomplished.

“Naturally, I owe a great debt of gratitude to my family, past and present, whose encouragement and support have sustained me along the way.”

Professor Luke Georghiou

, formerly Deputy President and Deputy Vice-Chancellor at The University of Manchester, has been awarded an OBE for services to science and innovation. His current role is that of Professor of Science and Technology Policy and Management in the Manchester Institute of Innovation Research in the Alliance Manchester Business School. 

A longstanding figure in UK research and innovation policy, Professor Georghiou has played a leading role in shaping national and international approaches to science funding, collaboration and impact. Among his many contributions, he led Manchester’s successful bid to host the Euroscience Forum and secure its designation as European City of Science, and played a key role in the foundation of Northern Gritstone, a £380m venture capital company supporting university spinouts across the North.

Speaking on his award, Professor Georghiou said: "It has been a privilege to support and guide so many hugely talented people and to help develop Manchester’s outstanding innovation ecosystem.”

Professor Gareth Evans

, Emeritus Professor of Medical Genetics at The University of Manchester and Consultant in Medical Genetics at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, has been awarded an MBE for services to cancer genetics. His work has made a significant contribution to advancing understanding, diagnosis and care in inherited cancer, benefiting patients and families in the UK and beyond.

Professor Evans said: "I'm very honoured to be mentioned in the King's birthday honours. It's the culmination of thirty six years of work on inherited cancers and I'm extremely pleased. In particular to have my work on breast and ovarian cancer and the BRCA1/2 genes recognised and my setting of a national highly specialised service for patients with NF2 related schwannomatosis."

The birthday honours are awarded by the King following recommendations by the prime minister, senior government ministers, or members of the public.

The awards recognise active community champions, innovative social entrepreneurs, pioneering scientists, passionate health workers and dedicated volunteers who have made significant achievements in public life or committed themselves to serving and helping Britain.

 commissioned from , the CBI’s economic consultancy division, has revealed the enormous opportunities for UK growth, regional development and productivity that can come from aligning business needs, universities and government policy.

The report, which is based on survey and interview data from 610 businesses and university stakeholders, reveals a system that is working well in some areas with eight out of ten businesses surveyed recognise the positive contribution of working with universities. However it is also failing to make the most of talent and the ability to innovate.

Ultimately this is stunting growth, preventing new work being carried out, or forcing businesses to shift operations overseas.

The report shows that this is particularly acute in the UK’s priority ‘frontier sectors’, crucial for delivery of the government’s Industrial Strategy, including advanced manufacturing, digital technologies and life sciences. Compared with firms outside of these sectors, surveyed frontier sector firms are around seven times more likely to report relocating activity outside of the UK if universities were less able to supply skilled graduates or collaborate with business.

The findings also present a significant opportunity – the UK has world-leading universities, strong research capability and businesses operating at the technological frontier. The UK can build on these by strengthening talent pipelines, improving collaboration and aligning policy with business needs.

Talent and skills

Businesses reported that the constraint on talent and skills is largely one of availability, not quality.

Survey responses indicate that around one in five businesses (19%) are currently experiencing a graduate skills shortage or gap, with shortages more pronounced among firms operating in frontier sectors.

The findings show that international talent is filling targeted skills gaps rather than displacing domestic workers.

Addressing this talent gap this will require strengthening the scale and alignment of the domestic skills pipeline, while maintaining access to international talent, where gaps persist.

University-business collaboration

The other significant way in which universities and businesses collaborate is in research and innovation. This, the report finds, delivers benefits including commercial product development and productivity gains, access to specialist facilities and research expertise, that businesses would not be able to invest in themselves.

However, businesses also highlight that it is difficult to find the right contacts, and there are differing timescales and multiple funding streams which complicate engagement.

One SME described how establishing initial engagement with a university could take several months, from securing the right contact through to progressing discussions. This contrasted sharply with their experience in other countries, where similar partnerships could be initiated within days.

Recent University of Manchester initiatives point to the types of practical steps universities can take. This includes plans to offer all undergraduates meaningful real-world experience, such as placements, internships, live employer projects or work with public and community organisations, and the launch of the five-year, £5m, Future of Work Alliance with BNY, focused on responsible human-led AI.

The report calls for clearer incentives and simpler funding routes from government, with universities doing more to speed up and simplify access for businesses.

Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said: “Economic growth depends on our ability to turn talent and ideas into new products, services, and industries. The countries that do this best will lead the global economy.

“We need to be more ambitious, more responsive and more outward-looking in how we work with employers and entrepreneurs. The issue is not whether the UK produces highly skilled people. It is whether those skills can be connected quickly and effectively to the places, sectors, communities, and businesses that need them most.

“As this report makes clear, by strengthening skills pipelines, removing barriers to collaboration and backing innovation wherever it emerges, we can unlock far more of what universities and businesses can achieve together. This is what the country needs and what we are committed to delivering.”

Adriana Curca, CBI Economics Director, said: “Our research shows that universities are a critical part of the infrastructure that supports business growth, providing access to talent, research capability and innovation expertise. This is particularly important in the UK’s frontier sectors where firms rely on advanced skills, research capability and innovation to grow and compete.”

“While many examples of collaboration are already delivering tangible benefits, there is a significant opportunity to do more. Better connecting business needs with talent, research and innovation capability could help unlock growth in the sectors that will shape the UK's future economy.”

• Just 4% of patients in the dataset were offered social prescribing between 2019 and 2024

• Patients living in the least deprived areas were significantly more likely to be offered social prescribing than those in the most deprived communities

• Women were substantially more likely than men to be offered social prescribing

• Older patients and people with multiple long-term conditions were more likely to receive offers

• More than three quarters (77.7%) of those offered social prescribing received a referral

• Ethnic minority patients were generally as likely - or more likely - to accept referrals

What else did the study find?

The researchers analysed anonymised NHS primary care records from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD), one of the largest healthcare datasets in England.

The study explored which groups of patients were offered social prescribing and which went on to receive referrals after offers were made.

Social prescribing schemes aim to support people whose health may be affected by wider social issues such as loneliness, poor housing, financial stress or isolation by linking them with non-medical community services through dedicated NHS link workers.

Clear inequalities

Patients in more affluent areas consistently had higher odds of being offered social prescribing than those in deprived areas, despite evidence that poorer communities often experience worse health outcomes and greater levels of long-term illness.

Women were also more likely to be offered referrals than men across almost every age group examined.

The study found strong links between long-term illness and social prescribing access, with patients suffering multiple health conditions far more likely to receive offers and referrals.

Why it matters

Researchers say the findings are significant because social prescribing has become a major part of NHS plans to reduce pressure on healthcare services and improve public health.

Since 2019, thousands of social prescribing link workers have been recruited across England through the NHS Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme.

The researchers warn that unequal access to these services could risk widening existing health inequalities if patients in deprived communities are less likely to benefit. However, the study also found encouraging signs once offers had been made.

Patients from ethnic minority backgrounds were often more likely than white patients to accept referrals, while deprivation itself did not appear to reduce uptake after an offer was made.

Researchers say this suggests the key inequality may lie in access to offers rather than willingness to engage.

Men and older patients less likely to engage

The study also found important differences between being offered social prescribing and accepting referrals.

While older patients were more likely to be offered support, they were less likely to go on to receive referrals once offered. Male patients were consistently less likely than women to both receive offers and proceed to referral.

Researchers say more work is needed to understand why some groups may be underrepresented or less likely to engage with social prescribing services.

What the researchers say

“It is concerning that the patients most likely to benefit from social prescribing support appear to be among the least likely to be offered it,” said Research Fellow Anna Wilding. “People living in deprived communities are more likely to experience long-term illness, financial hardship, isolation and poor mental health - the very issues social prescribing is designed to help address.”

“Our findings suggest the biggest challenge is not whether people will engage with social prescribing once offered support, but ensuring disadvantaged communities are not left behind in the first place.”

Publication details

The study was published in journal PLOS One.

DOI:

The National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR) has committed £50 million over five years to drive forward the vital research led by clinicians, researchers, and communities across the consortium marking the most significant step forward in maternal health research in a generation.

The launch comes at a pivotal moment for maternity care in the UK, with national attention increasingly focused on improving safety, equity and women's experiences of care.

The Manchester-led part of the research will involve improving and reducing inequalities in maternity care pathways. The focus will be on major contributors to maternal morbidity and mortality, particularly cardiometabolic complications (obesity, hypertension, gestational diabetes (GDM), perinatal mental health, and complications in early maternal recovery after birth.

Dr Debbie Smith, Co-Lead of the Perinatal mental health and wellbeing work, said: “I am really excited that Manchester are co-leading the perinatal mental health and wellbeing work as part of this consortium and look forward to co-producing equitable behavioural interventions with key stakeholders over the next few years”.

The Government's renewed Women's Health Strategy highlights the need to improve care before and between pregnancies for marginalised communities, against this backdrop, the consortium will generate the evidence, interventions and research capacity needed to help translate national ambition into practical, equitable improvements for women, babies and families.

“This funding represents a critical opportunity to make the step change we need to improve outcomes for women and their babies. Alongside the research, the Consortium will be investing in tomorrow's research leaders today to ensure we have the capacity to deliver on improving pregnancy outcomes, access to, and experience of, care”, says Professor Judith Rankin OBE, Consortium Co-lead for Research and Capacity Development, Newcastle University.

“National attention on maternity safety and equity has never been greater, but ambition must now be matched by evidence and implementation. Through this consortium, we will work across the UK to understand what works, for whom and in what contexts, and to ensure that research leads to practical changes in care for the women, babies and families who need them most,” says Professor Joht Singh Chandan, Consortium Co-lead for Research, University of Birmingham.

• Elite football increasingly relies on investment from fossil fuel-rich states and companies, including sponsorships and ownership models linked to Gulf nations and energy firms.
• FIFA’s partnership with Saudi oil giant Aramco is singled out by the authors, who claim football has become central to a wider strategy of sportswashing by fossil fuel interests.
• The expanded 48-team format for the 2026 Men’s World Cup will significantly increase emissions due to the greater number of matches and the vast travel distances across North America.
• The tournament will feature 104 matches across 16 host cities spanning the entire continent. The last Men’s World Cup in 2022, Qatar, saw 64 matches played across the 32-team tournament.
• FIFA’s environmental policies are scrutinised, with the research team accusing the organisation of promoting sustainability rhetoric while simultaneously expanding competitions and strengthening ties with fossil fuel sponsors.

The study highlights concerns over future tournaments, noting that Saudi Arabia is set to host the 2034 World Cup while the United States withdrew from the Paris climate agreement under President Donald Trump.

Why this matters

The researchers say the expanded 48-team format for the 2026 Men’s World Cup will significantly increase emissions due to the greater number of matches and the vast travel distances across North America.

The tournament will feature 104 matches across 16 host cities spanning the entire continent. The last Men’s World Cup in 2022, Qatar, saw 64 matches played across the 32-team tournament.

FIFA’s environmental policies are also scrutinised, with the research team accusing the organisation of promoting sustainability rhetoric while simultaneously expanding competitions and strengthening ties with fossil fuel sponsors.

The study also highlights concerns over future tournaments, noting that Saudi Arabia is set to host the 2034 World Cup while the United States withdrew from the Paris climate agreement under President Donald Trump.

What the researchers say

Lead researcher, Dr Mark Doidge, Reader in Sociology of Sport at Loughborough University, said: “Football is the world’s most popular sport, and probably the most popular activity. It is for this reason that football authorities, like FIFA, continue to exploit it for commercial profit."

“Football is also a cultural powerhouse with millions of fans, volunteers, and players trying to make the sport better. Football can, and should, use its influence to mitigate against climate change.”

Dr James Jackson, Lecturer at The University of Manchester, said: “Despite the last World Cup offering a preview of what football would be like in a significantly warmer world, FIFA has remained indifferent to better regulation. Rather than being proactive and ensuring football helps mitigate against the worst impacts of climate change, they are - at best - pursuing meagre adaptation measures for things which affect fans and players."

Dr Oscar Berglund, Senior Lecturer in International Public and Social Policy at the University of Bristol, said: “FIFA has made elite men’s football the primary target of Petrostate sportswashing. This World Cup, with the ridiculous Trump Peace Prize and having Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest polluter, as its main sponsor, reaches new levels.

“It has been a key strategy of Petrostates to use football’s unrivalled cultural influence globally. They don’t need to convince us that fossil fuels are good, just that they are inevitable. So, as we watch and love our beautiful game, we come to accept the necessary evil of fossil capital.”

Club sustainability and commercial pressure

As part of the study, researchers interviewed sustainability managers working in football clubs across Europe, many of whom described tensions between environmental targets and the commercial demands of the modern game.

According to the report, sustainability initiatives are often only approved if they do not disrupt football’s core product, including the scheduling and broadcasting of matches.

Some interviewees said clubs remained more focused on increasing revenues than reducing environmental costs, despite the growing financial risks posed by flooding, heatwaves and fixture disruption.

Recommendations

The investigation proposes a series of recommendations aimed at reducing football’s environmental impact.

• FIFA should stop awarding tournaments to Petrostates.
• Restrictions should be placed on fossil fuel ownership of clubs.
• Fossil fuel advertising and sponsorship should be banned in football.
• Football authorities should halt the expansion of competitions.
• Sustainability managers should be embedded into all levels of club decision-making rather than operating in isolated compliance roles.

FIFA response

FIFA has previously defended its sustainability strategies and said major tournaments can drive investment, infrastructure and development in host nations. The organisation has also said that expanding competitions increases global participation and opportunities for smaller footballing nations.

Publication details

To read the full report, . The findings will form part of Football and Climate Change: The Unsustainability of the Beautiful Game, due to be published in 2027.

, a new model for low‑light image enhancement (LLIE), was created by Computer Science undergraduate Alexandru Brateanu during his third-year project, working with academic supervisors.

The model outperforms comparable compact systems, recovering detail and clarity from images that would previously have been considered unusable.

The advancement has significant implications for photography, security, and a wide range of computational imaging tasks.

Low‑light image enhancement seeks to restore natural visibility, colour fidelity, and structural detail in scenes captured under poor illumination. While recent LLIE models have achieved impressive results, many rely on heavy architectures with large parameter counts, resulting in high computational cost and limited real‑time applicability. Efficiency has therefore become a central research challenge: how to enhance images more effectively while dramatically reducing model size.

In the work presented at the IEEE/CVF Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition 2026, the team proposes a structured solution grounded in classical colour vision theory and implemented using modern neural components within the Retinex framework. Retinex, a foundational approach in image enhancement, decomposes an image into illumination (light) and reflectance (colour) components to better handle low‑light scenes.

The design motivation behind Multinex is to extract as much useful information as possible from low‑light images using a highly compact architecture. By prioritising enhancement over reconstruction and leveraging lightweight neural operations, Multinex achieves strong illumination correction, detail recovery, and colour fidelity while using only a fraction of the parameters required by existing approaches.

The model is released in both a lightweight version (45K parameters) and an extremely compact nano version (0.7K parameters), each offering substantial reductions in computational load. Comparison to corresponding lightweight models such as PairLIE (330K parameters) and ZeroDCE (80K parameters) Multinex shows a significant performance improvement.

Like other LLIE techniques, Multinex still faces challenges in scenes with severe spectral distortions, lens flares, or mixed artificial and natural lighting. The team aims to extend the framework to these complex cases, exploring alternative formulations such as tone‑mapping or multiplicative residuals, and applying Multinex principles to related domains including intrinsic image decomposition, colour constancy, underwater enhancement, and haze removal.

The researchers demonstrate that Multinex delivers state‑of‑the‑art performance at real‑time cost, highlighting the power of combining analytic priors with modern lightweight design.

The study led by the Indian Childhood Collaborative Leukaemia (ICiCle) group, which includes University of Manchester researchers, treated over 3000 children with acute B‑cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) at six major centres across India.

ALL is a fast‑growing blood cancer that starts from very early B‑cells in the bone marrow. It is the most common form of ALL, especially in children.

Publishing in the Lancet Regional Health – Southeast Asia, the researchers compared the standard four‑week continuous steroid course with a pulsed schedule given in weeks one, two and four.

Children on the pulsed schedule had far fewer early deaths, with rates falling from 3.5% to 1.3%.

Most leukaemia related early  deaths are currently caused by severe infections linked to continuous steroid use - a major challenge in low‑ and middle‑income countries.

Crucially, the shorter steroid exposure did not affect how well treatment worked, with remission rates of around 98% in both groups.

Survival outcomes were also similar, showing that the safer approach does not compromise cure.

The trial also found that using a powerful and highly effective class of chemotherapy drugs called anthracyclines early in treatment increased the risk of treatment‑related deaths.

The findings come from the ICiCle‑ALL‑14 trial, the first multicentre randomised paediatric oncology trial conducted in India.

Childhood leukaemia now has survival rates above 90% in many wealthy countries.

But children in low‑ and middle‑income countries still face far higher risks of dying during treatment, often because infections strike early on.

Since 2013, the ICiCle group team has been working to bring a consistent, modern treatment approach to children with leukaemia across India, rolled out to centres across India.

Professor Vaskar Saha from The University of Manchester and Tata Medical Center, is lead author and founder of the ICiCle group.

He said: “We show for the first time that a simple change in how we give steroids can save lives. By reducing continuous exposure, we appear to lessen the risk of severe infections without compromising the effectiveness of treatment. This is a practical, low‑cost intervention that could be adopted widely, particularly in settings where treatment‑related mortality remains high.”

Professor Venkatraman Radhakrishnan of the Cancer Institute (WIA) said: “The study provides robust randomised evidence that steroid scheduling itself is a modifiable determinant of induction mortality. The lack of any detriment in MRD response or survival makes this a particularly compelling practice change.”

The study was funded by the National Cancer Grid, Indian Council of Medical Research, DBT-Wellcome India Alliance and Tata Consultancy Services.

The participating centres were:

• BR Ambedkar Rotary Cancer Hospital — All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi
• Department of Pediatrics, PGIMER Chandigarh — Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research
• Department of Pediatrics, AIIMS New Delhi — All India Institute of Medical Sciences
• Department of Pediatric Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital Mumbai — National cancer centre
• Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Tata Medical Center Kolkata — Tertiary paediatric cancer service
• Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Institute (WIA) Chennai — One of India’s oldest cancer institutes

Professor Michael Garrett, the Sir Bernard Lovell Chair of Astrophysics, chaired a global effort to update the long-standing “post-detection protocols” used by researchers involved in the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI). The updated guidelines have now been formally ratified by the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA).

The revised Declaration of Principles marks the first major update to the protocols in more than 15 years and reflects a media landscape transformed by social media, artificial intelligence and the 24-hour news cycle.

Acknowledging that any credible detection of extraterrestrial technology would be a transformative event for humanity, the new Declaration establishes a rigorous framework for verification, transparency and global risk communication.

"The information environment we operate in today is vastly more complex than it was in 2010," said Professor Michael Garrett, Chair of the IAA SETI Committee. . "In an era of deepfakes, automated misinformation, and instant global connectivity, a single unverified claim could trigger confusion or panic. These new protocols ensure that scientists maintain the highest standards of evidence before making announcements to the world."

Adapting to a new era of SETI research

SETI and Technosignature research have expanded significantly since the previous protocols were adopted in 2010. Scientists now investigate the entire electromagnetic spectrum, including excess infrared heat signatures from megastructures, optical laser emission, and even multi-messenger signals. The updated Declaration explicitly recognises this broader approach.

It also addresses other modern challenges, including protections for researchers, acknowledging that scientists involved in potential detection could face harassment, doxxing, or intense media scrutiny.

It also acknowledges the risk of viral rumours, ensuring verified data is distinguished from hoaxes or terrestrial interference.

Verification before announcement

At the heart of the new rules is a reaffirmation of a core scientific principle: “extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence”.

Under the revised protocols, no public announcement should be made until a signal or artifact has been rigorously authenticated by independent organisations using different instrumentation.

"We do not shout “alien” the moment we see a strange blip," Professor Garrett added. "The scientific method demands we check, check again, and then ask others to check. Only when we have reached a consensus that a signal is credible do we bring it to the world."

The 'No Reply' Consensus

While the protocols outline how to share news of a discovery, they remain firm on one critical restriction: No reply should be sent.

The Declaration reaffirms the enduring principle that transmitting a response to an extraterrestrial intelligence is a decision that belongs to all of humanity and should only take place following international consultations, specifically through the United Nations.

What happens next

With the updated Declaration ratified by the IAA Board, the aim is to see the document lodged with other stakeholders, including the United Nations. A formal technical presentation of the protocols to the wider community, including the scientific press, will take place at the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) later this year in Türkiye.

The IAA SETI Committee will also establish a permanent Post-Detection Sub-Committee, bringing together experts in social science, law, and ethics, to advise on the longer-term societal implications of a confirmed discovery.

The full document is available here: 

Professor Woodward is a geomorphologist and geoarchaeologist whose research spans river systems, microplastics in river catchments, Mediterranean geomorphology, Ice Age environments and long-term environmental change. His work explores how landscapes and river systems respond to environmental pressures over timescales ranging from the deep past to the present day.

The group, backed by House of Lords peer Baroness Natalie Bennett, say the UK urgently needs a new national strategy to tackle fungal antimicrobial resistance — a growing and often overlooked threat to human health, food production and the environment.

In a new paper published in Nature NPJ Antimicrobials and Resistance, they reveal how widespread use of fungicides in agriculture could be undermining life‑saving medicines used to treat patients.

Calling for sweeping changes, including a powerful cross-government body to coordinate action, they argue for a nationwide system to monitor resistance in both the environment and clinics, and stricter regulation of fungicides linked to resistance.

Dr Michael Bottery, co-author of the study from The University of Manchester, said: “Fungal resistance is a silent and underestimated threat. The same substances helping to protect crops are also reducing the effectiveness of essential medicines. If we fail to act, we risk losing critical treatments and putting lives at risk.”

The concern centres on so‑called “dual-use” fungicides — chemicals used in both medicine and farming. In the UK, these are applied to around 94 per cent of arable crops, exposing fungi in the environment to the same compounds relied upon in hospitals.

Over time, this exposure allows fungi to evolve and develop resistance, making infections harder to treat when they infect humans. Some resistant strains have already been detected in clinical settings, raising fears that treatments could become increasingly ineffective.

Fungal infections already pose a major global threat, killing an estimated 2.5 million people each year. They disproportionately affect vulnerable patients, including those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplants, or intensive care treatment.

Despite this, researchers warn that the UK’s current response is fragmented, with responsibility split between agriculture, healthcare and environmental regulators, and limited coordination between them.

They argue that without better surveillance, dangerous resistance trends may go unnoticed until it is too late. More coordinated data-sharing, they say, could allow earlier intervention and more effective policymaking.

Speaking in parliament Baroness Bennett added that tackling the issue requires recognising the close links between human health, farming and ecosystems.

Dr Bottery added: “Without urgent action, the UK risks sleepwalking into a crisis that could threaten not only public health, but also food security, as resistance undermines crop protection and agricultural productivity.”

The full paper, “Addressing the Dual-Use of Antifungals and Fungal Antimicrobial Resistance (fAMR) through a One Health Approach”, is open-access and .

• The image was created with AI

• Psychological therapy is often assessed using research models originally developed for medicines

• Unlike drugs, therapy is typically personalised, open-ended and shaped by the therapist–client relationship

• Heavy reliance on RCT evidence may narrow treatment options in public healthcare and insurance systems

• Short-term symptom measures may miss broader outcomes such as improved relationships, stability and self-understanding

• A broader evidence base is needed, including real-world outcomes and patient experience

Why this matters

RCTs are commonly used to decide which treatments receive funding, policy backing and public provision.

The editorial argues that this has had significant consequences in mental healthcare, where therapies with strong trial evidence - particularly CBT - have become dominant in many systems.

In England’s NHS Talking Therapies programme, only a small minority of high-intensity practitioners offer non-CBT approaches, according to evidence discussed in the article.

Why therapy is different from drugs

The article highlights key differences between medicines and psychological therapies.

While drugs can typically be standardised and tested under controlled conditions, therapy is more fluid. Sessions evolve in response to the individual, progress can be non-linear, and meaningful change may include outcomes that are harder to quantify.

What current evidence may miss

The editorial argues that many therapy studies are relatively short, often capturing early symptom improvement but missing longer-term change, setbacks or deeper psychological development.

It also suggests that recovery is often more complex than a single score or endpoint, and may involve ongoing change over time.

To illustrate this, the author uses a fictional case study showing how different therapy models can lead to very different long-term outcomes, even where short-term symptom improvement appears similar.

Towards a broader understanding of evidence

Rather than rejecting trials altogether, the editorial calls for a more pluralistic approach to evidence, including:

• Real-world service data from routine NHS and community settings

• Research into how therapy works, including the role of relationships and context

• Greater emphasis on patient perspectives and lived experience

What the researcher said

“We have become so used to treating Randomised Controlled Trials as the gold standard that we rarely stop to ask whether they are the right tool for every intervention,” said Dr Sahanika Ratnayake, philosopher of psychiatry at The University of Manchester.

“This editorial is not based on a new experiment, but on analysing the strengths and limits of the existing evidence base. Therapy is not a pill - it is a human relationship shaped by trust, timing, context and individual need.

Why it matters now

Demand for mental health support is rising, while services face pressure over waiting times, staffing and budgets.

The article argues that policymakers need evidence systems that better reflect how therapy is actually practised, and what patients themselves value from care.

Publication details

The editorial was published in BJPsych.

DOI:

The research found that large-scale tree planting, restoration schemes and expanding plantations have likely transformed woodland cover across parts of the country over the past decade.

But the study also warns that headline gains can hide a more complicated picture, with native woodlands still being lost in some areas even as overall tree cover increases.

Key findings

• India gained around 2.1 million hectares of tropical dry woodland between 2014 and 2024

• Government forest lands saw major gains linked to restoration and afforestation programmes

• Many woodland increases outside government lands appear likely to be linked to timber and tree-crop plantations

• Researchers also recorded continued woodland loss in some important native forest areas

• Scientists say national tree-cover figures can mask important differences between natural forests and plantations

What did the study find?

The study mapped changes in India’s tropical dry woodlands - which cover vast areas of the country, but have received far less scientific and conservation attention than tropical rainforests - over a ten-year period using high-resolution satellite imagery.

The researchers found a large overall increase in woodland cover across the country, driven partly by major government-backed restoration efforts including the Green India Mission, the Compensatory Afforestation Fund and the National Afforestation Programme.

The findings suggest these schemes are having a visible impact on the landscape.

Where are the new woodlands appearing?

The study found contrasting patterns inside and outside government-managed forest land.

Within state-administered forest areas, researchers say gains are likely linked to restoration and conservation programmes aimed at increasing forest cover and meeting climate goals.

Outside government lands, however, many gains appear to come from commercial timber plantations and tree crops in agricultural landscapes.

Why this matters

India’s tropical dry woodlands are among the country’s most important but overlooked ecosystems.

They support wildlife, store carbon and provide livelihoods for millions of people, especially in poorer rural regions.

Researchers say understanding exactly what kind of woodland is increasing - and where - matters for biodiversity, climate policy and local communities.

Tree cover is not always the same as forest recovery

The researchers warn that national statistics showing rising tree cover do not always mean natural forests are recovering.

Some native dry woodlands inside protected or government-managed areas continued to experience losses during the study period.

Scientists say plantations can provide economic and climate benefits, but they may not fully replace the biodiversity and ecological value of long-established natural woodlands.

How researchers tracked the changes

The team used satellite imagery to reconstruct changes in woodland cover across India between 2014 and 2024 at very high detail.

This allowed them to identify where woodland was expanding, where it was being lost, and how those patterns differed across landscapes and land ownership types.

What the researchers said

“Our study shows that India has seen substantial gains in dry woodland cover over the past decade,” said lead author Dhanapal Govindarajulu. “A lot of this appears linked to major restoration and afforestation programmes, which demonstrates the scale of change that government policy can achieve - but we also found that not all woodland gains are the same.”

Why it matters now

Countries around the world are pledging large-scale tree planting and forest restoration as part of climate and biodiversity targets.

Researchers say the study highlights the importance of looking beyond headline numbers to understand whether restoration efforts are protecting natural ecosystems, supporting wildlife and benefiting local communities.

Publication details

The research was published in the journal Environmental Research Letters.

DOI:

Professor Zühlke is also honorary professor at The University of Manchester and Vice President of the South African Medical Research Council.

The award was given in  recognition for her work with children with heart conditions especially rheumatic heart disease (RHD) that disproportionately affects children living in poverty.

Zuhlke’s research repositioned RHD as a socio-political issue tied to health system deficiencies and inequities.

In a press release, UNESCO said her dedication to scientific excellence, leadership in global health, and capacity building activities have improved the lives of vulnerable children with cardiovascular disease.

The five researchers will be recognized for their pioneering contributions to life and environmental sciences ON  11 June at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.

This year's selection highlights their major roles in tackling global health and environmental challenges, from revolutionary tissue engineering and genomic research to agricultural innovation and the impact of nutrition on mental health.

The programme, now in its 28^th year, reflects the growing excellence of women in science worldwide.

The Laureates were selected from a record 504 nominations representing 89 countries, and now join the more than 5,000 women who have been recognized by the programme.

That includes 142 International Award Laureates, among whom seven have received a Nobel Prize in science.

This selection was conducted by an independent international jury chaired by Professor Brigitte L. Kieffer, Research Director Emeritus at the National Institute for Health and Medical Research (INSERM) France, Member of the French Academy of Sciences and former Laureate of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science International Awards.

Professor Zühlke  said: “ I am deeply humbled by this immense honour. Childhood-onset heart disease remains not only globally neglected but also serves as a stark barometer of inequality and inequity, with profound differences in survival, outcomes, and quality of life. My sincere thanks go to all those working tirelessly in this field, as well as to the exceptional support from my academic institutions, including the University of Manchester, and to my collaborator of over a decade, Professor Bernard Keavney. This equitable partnership has really extended our work and improved our science, but also served as a source of capacity development for all in the team”.

BHF Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine , a longterm collaborator with Prof Zühlke at The University of Manchester, said: “This well-deserved award reflects Liesl’s huge contributions to the cardiovascular health of children and young people in poor countries. Liesl is a truly remarkable and inspiring woman.”

As part of the University’s ongoing civic commitment, festivalgoers can experience the best of research, teaching, and culture at the event on Saturday, June 13, 2026.

Discover, create and connect

From atoms to art, calligraphy to computing, and music to medicine there’s plenty to discover and do. With over 90 hands-on stalls, visitors will be encouraged to explore what makes for a greener, healthier and fairer world.

Find out how diverse cultures, creativity and wellbeing come together, discover fascinating stories of space, technology and engineering, or take a journey through the body and learn what makes us human.

Get moving with outdoor sporting challenges, featuring a range of fun activities designed to get everybody active and involved. Enjoy a quiet moment at the University Community Allotment, hosted in partnership with Ardwick Climate Action, a space to connect with nature.

Find out more about Manchester as a UNESCO City of Lifelong Learning and hear how the University is a key partner in helping to create a healthier and more inclusive city.

See the Flash Bang Show - a dazzling display of colour changes, flashes and the occasional bang.

Meet up with a heritage specialist to tour the campus on foot and hear how the University’s work has shaped innovation and society.

Vibrant cultural institutions

Visitors can take part in a lively mix of creative drop-in workshops hosted by the University’s cultural institutions in partnership with local community organisations. The Jodrell Bank engagement team are joining the University on campus to help answer some of the biggest questions about the universe. At the Whitworth, festivalgoers can immerse themselves in playful and artful spaces – get ready to build, explore and reimagine. Pop along to Manchester Museum to follow a language trail around the enchanting collections and stop off for a selfie with Stan the dinosaur.

Bee Curious

Our Bee Curious programme features thought-provoking talks and performances for all ages. Audiences will have the chance to meet with leading academics and explore curious questions ranging from What are asteroids made of? To How can we save the world’s frogs? And can you master the psychology to win The Traitors? Visitors can also join Afrocats musician Godfrey Pambalipe, in an entertaining and rhythmic drumming session. No experience needed – just bring your enthusiasm and have a go!

Find out more

Find out more about the free Universally Manchester Festival at The University of Manchester’s Oxford Road Campus on Saturday, June 13, from 11am to 4:30pm.

Take a look at the full programme here:

The NHS programme called “Healthy Living for people with type 2 diabetes” is a website containing written articles, videos, self-assessment quizzes and tools.

It supports people to live well with T2D by providing information and advice about eating well, becoming more active, living with diabetes, and emotional wellbeing.

Published today in PLOS One, the study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).

The research team analysed data from people with T2D who activated a Healthy Living account and found they experienced better health outcomes at one year than those who did not take part.

They examined who was most likely to use the programme (uptake) and how engagement related to changes in HbA1c – a blood test used to measure average blood sugar levels - blood pressure, body mass index, insulin use, and completion of essential diabetes care processes.

The findings show, uptake of the programme was highest among women, people from least deprived areas (vs. most deprived areas), and people of White ethnicity, and current smokers (vs. never smokers).

To assess clinical outcomes, the study compared 4,940 Healthy Living users with 24,685 similar individuals who did not register for the programme. After a year, Healthy Living users saw an average HbA1c drop of 1.3 mmol/mol, alongside small but steady dips in BMI and blood pressure, all pointing to better day‑to‑day control of their diabetes.

They were also 1.6 times more likely to complete the routine yearly MOT that helps spot problems early, keeping on top of the vital checks that protect the eyes, feet, heart and kidneys in the long run.

However, the study highlights that even small average improvements can translate into meaningful reductions in T2D‑related complications when applied across large populations.

It also underscores the need to address inequalities in uptake, with notably lower participation among Asian and Black communities despite higher T2D prevalence.

Lead author Dr said: “What this study shows, in the plainest possible terms, is that a free, nationally available NHS educational programme can help people with T2D make measurable improvements to their health, even when used in the complex reality of everyday life.

“It’s not a silver bullet, but it is a practical tool that works – and the challenge now is ensuring that everyone who could benefit has the opportunity to do so.”

“We feel Healthy Living offers a scalable, accessible option for supporting type 2 diabetes self‑management, particularly for people who face barriers to attending in‑person diabetes education programmes.

“Improving uptake among underserved groups will be essential to ensuring the programme reduces existing health inequalities.”

Co-author , Principal Investigator and an Honorary Reader at The University of Manchester said: “People’s outcomes were better for those who attended more of the Healthy Living programme, so it would be worthwhile for the NHS to find ways to encourage people to attend for longer, such as improved signposting and motivational messages”

• The paper Examining the uptake, retention, and effectiveness of a national online type 2 2 diabetes self-management intervention in England (Healthy Living): a retrospective 3 cohort study is available DOI

“More young people are reporting good wellbeing, loneliness is falling and emotional difficulties are reducing – which are encouraging findings – but the picture is not the same for everyone. Significant inequalities remain, particularly for LGBTQ+ young people and those with special educational needs, and that remains a major challenge.”

Report details

The latest #BeeWell findings report can be found .

Measuring around a metre in length and armed with pincers over 16 centimetres long, Praearcturus gigas would have been a formidable predator stalking floodplains around 415 million years ago. Remarkably, the fossils used to identify Praearcturus have been held in the Museum’s collection for more than 150 years.

The study, published in the journal, used modern analytical techniques and comparisons with newly described fossil species to suggest that Praearcturus is a scorpion, and a distinct species.

Dr Richard J. Howard, Curator of Fossil Arthropods at the Natural History Museum, London, and lead author of the study, said: “When we think of giant arthropods, people often picture Carboniferous rainforests with giant millipedes or dragonfly-like insects from later in Earth’s history. But Praearcturus lived at least 50 million years earlier, well before the evolution of trees, when life on land was only just getting started.

“Confirming that this animal is a scorpion fundamentally changes our understanding of how and when these creatures evolved to such extraordinary sizes.”

, Palaeontologist at The University of Manchester, added: “Praearcturus has puzzled us palaeontologists for more than a century. By bringing together material from several collections and using cutting edge imaging techniques , we've been able to build a clearer picture of the animal than was previously possible, which is really exciting.

“What makes Praearcturus so interesting is that it became enormous at a time when life on land was otherwise very small. But it was a world  that could somehow support a giant predator. To try and better understand this ancient world we compared the size of fossil scorpions with other animals alive at the time. To reach such extraordinary sizes, and conclude that perhaps it lived in water, where life was bigger.”

Praearcturus gigas lived during the Early Devonian. Small plants and fungi had only recently begun to spread across the landscape, and complex terrestrial ecosystems like forests had yet to evolve. This means that, unlike later giant arthropods, Praearcturus did not benefit from the high atmospheric oxygen levels associated with the rise of forests. Instead, its enormous size may reflect a world with relatively little competition from other large predators. This suggests that Praearcturus might have grown so big simply because there weren’t many other large animals around meaning it could dominate its environment in a way that wouldn’t be possible later on.

The fossils also hint that this giant scorpion may have led a partly aquatic lifestyle. Some specimens show flap-like structures on the abdomen similar to those found in modern crustaceans such as lobsters, suggesting it may have been capable of moving between water and land. Quantification of the wider arachnid fossil record, led by Dr Garwood and the team, shows that scorpions are unusually abundant in rocks of this age compared with other arachnids, supporting the idea that some early forms may have lived in freshwater environments where they are more likely to survive as fossils. This places Praearcturus at a pivotal moment in Earth’s history when animals were first experimenting with life outside the oceans.

 This places Praearcturus at a pivotal moment in Earth’s history when animals were first experimenting with life outside the oceans.

Dr Greg Edgecombe, Merit Researcher at the Natural History Musuem, London, and co-author of the study said: “The boundary between land and sea was much less defined at this time. Praearcturus gives us a fascinating glimpse into how early animals adapted to these changing environments.

“It may even represent a lineage that returned to the water after earlier ancestors had already begun living on land.”

First described in 1871, Praearcturus gigas was originally thought to be a giant crustacean, similar to a woodlouse. The known fossils fragmentary nature lacked key features such as a tail making it difficult to classify with confidence for more than a century.

The breakthrough came through comparison with better preserved fossils discovered in recent years, which revealed key anatomical features unique to scorpions. The discovery highlights the continuing scientific importance of museum collections.

Dr Howard added: “Specimens collected over a century ago can still hold entirely new insights. By revisiting them with modern techniques, we can uncover discoveries that reshape our understanding of life on Earth.”

The discovery of such a large scorpion so early in the history of life on land challenges assumptions about why prehistoric arthropods reached gigantic sizes. Rather than being driven solely by environmental factors such as oxygen levels, the findings suggest that ecological opportunity such as a lack of competition may have played a crucial role.

The findings show that virtual wards can provide a safe alternative to hospital care for some patients, allowing people to recover at home while still receiving clinical oversight. However, patients and carers often take on more practical and emotional responsibility than may be recognised as they assume duties that would normally be carried out by clinicians in hospital settings. This includes monitoring symptoms, managing equipment and responding to signs of deterioration, especially overnight or outside normal working hours.

The study, published in the journal and led by researchers at The University of Manchester, is funded by the NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration (GM PSRC) and the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Greater Manchester (ARC-GM).

Using qualitative methods, including observation work and interviews with patients and carers, the researchers evaluated virtual wards services across four sites in North-West England. Their findings show that safety in virtual wards does not rely on technology alone, but is strongly shaped by the relational and emotional support provided to patients, carers and clinicians.

Dr Kelly Howells, Research Fellow at The University of Manchester and the NIHR GM PSRC, said: “Virtual wards can help people receive acute care safely at home, but our study shows safe care depends on more than technology.

“Patients, carers and clinicians all play a role in managing risk, with patients and carers often taking on important practical and emotional responsibilities, particularly outside normal working hours. Health services need to recognise and better support this work.”

The researchers suggest that hospital at home services that combine technology with in‑person home visits could help make care safer, more flexible, and accessible for a wider range of patients. Recognising and supporting the work undertaken by patients and carers is essential to ensure virtual wards are safely delivered.

As virtual wards expand as a key component of NHS policy to shift acute care from hospital to community settings, practice must ensure there is space for relational and training support for clinicians, patients, and carers so that remote acute care can be safely implemented across health systems.

The paper Shifting boundaries of risk-work in virtual wards in North-West England: a multisite qualitative evaluation is available . DOI  

This study builds on earlier work by the NIHR GM PSRC and ARC-GM exploring virtual wards through the perspectives of patients, carers and staff, helping to deepen understanding of how virtual ward services operate in practice.

Read more in

• The image was created with AI 

Colgate-Palmolive, a caring, innovative growth company that is reimagining a healthier future for all people, their pets and our planet, will continue to fund the renowned Dental Health Unit (DHU) at the University.

Selling its health and hygiene products in more than 200 countries and territories, Colgate-Palmolive is the global leader in toothpaste and manual toothbrushes.

The global leader in oral health has been working with The University of Manchester since 1968, amounting to the University’s longest ever business partnership. The DHU has been a leading centre for oral health research for almost 60 years.

Initially carrying out clinical trials to evaluate the efficacy of Colgate products in collaboration with Colgate’s Research & Development team, the DHU has quickly evolved into a public health-focused program working collaboratively to mentor PhD candidates and to develop leaders in dentistry throughout the UK and beyond.

The extension of the funding will support high-quality clinical and behavioural research to generate real-world evidence for policy and practice. It will also allow the DHU to run a Fellowship Program – training the next generation of oral health researchers. The first awards to train future leaders have been announced with funding available for early career researchers in Europe and North America.

Anne-Marie Glenny, Professor of Health Sciences and Associate Dean for Research and Innovation at the School of Medical Sciences, said: “For over 50 years, the Dental Health Unit and our proud, historic association with Colgate Palmolive has reaped real health impacts, carrying out world -leading oral health research and supporting the development of research and policy leaders.

“The next chapter for the Dental Health Unit aims to enhance our impact in areas such as dental public health, behavioural science and clinical study management by building a robust network of collaborations with leading academic institutions.

"We will strategically expand our PhD program across renowned universities throughout the UK, Europe and North America.

"By fostering alliances with leading researchers, we are committed to advancing innovation and shaping thought leadership in oral health and behavioural insights.”

Professor Jan Clarkson, Academic Director at the DHU said: “This collaboration between the University and Colgate-Palmolive aims to establish the DHU as a strategic hub for advancing oral health behaviour change, leveraging behavioural insights, and innovative oral health research to deliver impactful, scalable outcomes that improve public health policies and oral health globally.

“This long standing private-public collaboration endeavours to advance global oral health research and education, leveraging industry and academic expertise to drive international excellence in scientific innovation, improve patient outcomes, and shape public health policies.”

Maria Ryan, DDS, PhD, Executive Vice President Chief Clinical Officer, Colgate Palmolive, said: “Colgate-Palmolive’s purpose is to reimagine a healthier future for all. We are proud of the accomplishments of our longstanding partnership with the University of Manchester through this Dental Health Unit. The pioneer DHU at the University of Manchester has advanced oral health through innovative, multidisciplinary research streams for more than half a century, breaking down silos between academia, clinicians, industry, policy makers and the communities that we all serve. And our collaboration has served as a model for others globally, with our more recent DHUs based in Latin America and India.”

The study was carried out by University of Manchester and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust  researchers.

The discovery was made when researchers looked at early data from volunteers in the ongoing community-based EARLY-HF study in Greater Manchester. When heart scans were offered to the 550 volunteers aged over 50 with cardiometabolic issues, researchers discovered that nearly one in 10 people (nine per cent) had already suffered a heart attack without realising it.

Almost a quarter (23 per cent) had undetected or poorly managed heart or circulatory problems which required medical attention.

To take part in the study, people had to have at least two health issues from a list of seven which affect millions of people in the UK. These included high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, the lung condition chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the heart rhythm problem atrial fibrillation, obesity and chronic kidney disease.

The most common issues for study participants were pre-existing high blood pressure, which had already been diagnosed in 88 per cent of the study group, and obesity, which affected 70 per cent. Meanwhile 42 per cent of the volunteers had diabetes.

Led by Consultant Cardiologist at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust and Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine at The University of Manchester, researchers wanted to understand the rate of hidden illness which had been unrecognised and untreated in this group.

They discovered almost two-thirds (60 per cent) had high blood pressure which was not under proper control or being effectively managed, raising their potential risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Among the study volunteers, 34 per cent were classified as living in an area that is among the top 20 per cent most deprived in England,¹ while 28 per cent lived in an area among the 20 per cent least deprived. There were more men than women in the study, with males making up 59 per cent of volunteers.

The researchers suggest the rates of undetected health problems found in Greater Manchester are likely to be reflected in communities across the UK.

British Heart Foundation Research Fellow at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust and The University of Manchester, helped to run the study and presented the findings at the BCS conference in Manchester. He said:

“My colleagues and I were shocked by just how much unrecognised disease we found. While our study involves people who would be considered at higher risk of cardiovascular disease, finding so many people who had experienced a heart attack and didn’t know it was not something we ever anticipated going into this study.”

The Detecting EARLY Heart Failure in Greater Manchester (EARLY-HF) study aims to detect people at risk of developing heart failure earlier, within socioeconomically and ethnically diverse communities who may have reduced access to healthcare.

Heart attacks and other heart and circulatory issues, like those discovered in the study so far, can lead to heart failure – a condition which affects more than a million people in the UK and means the heart cannot pump blood properly, which can cause severe breathlessness and fatigue.

Most study participants (81 per cent) were recruited via their GP surgery, with another 12 per cent signing up after seeing a social media advert, and others recruited through community events or signposted to the project by family and friends.

Everyone involved in the study had blood tests, an ECG and a cardiac MRI scan, and answered questions about their health and medical history. These tests revealed that 125 people out of 550 (23 per cent) had a heart or circulatory issue that required medical attention.

On cardiac MRI scans, signs of scarring suggested that 46 people (nine per cent) had previously had a suspected heart attack. These diagnoses were confirmed by a consultant cardiologist, who looked over every scan. Letters were sent to people’s GPs, and they were then referred on for further tests and treatment.

Researchers found that 331 people in the study (60 per cent) had a blood pressure reading of 140/90mmHg or higher – the usual threshold for a diagnosis of high blood pressure (hypertension).

While 27 of these were undetected cases of high blood pressure, 304 people (92 per cent of them) were known to have it when they joined the study, with 224 already taking blood pressure-lowering medication. The researchers say this suggests their treatment plan was inadequate, as it had not brought their blood pressure down to a normal level.

Blood tests revealed 162 people (30 per cent) had elevated levels of the protein NT pro-BNP - a sign that their heart was under strain.

The study continues to recruit people in Greater Manchester with at least two cardiometabolic conditions – related to the heart, blood vessels or metabolism.

Professor Bryan Williams, Chief Scientific and Medical Officer at the British Heart Foundation, said:

"These shocking findings should ring alarm bells for our healthcare leaders. They show that our current approach to prevention isn’t fit for purpose, and too many people are slipping through the gaps as a result.

“All too often we see patients too late, when years of living with treatable risk factors like high blood pressure or high cholesterol have built up leading to heart attacks or heart failure. We have made huge strides in our ability to treat cardiovascular disease over the past 65 years, but right now we’re missing opportunities to prevent it in the first place. The picture this study paints won’t improve without a radical shift in how we identify and treat people at risk of cardiovascular disease.”

Professor Chris Miller, Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine and Consultant Cardiologist at The University of Manchester and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, who leads the EARLY-HF study said: “These findings underscore the need to address disparities in cardiovascular disease detection, healthcare access, and outcomes, including by engaging people through non-traditional channels such as text messaging and social media.”  

• Theis supported by Innovate UK Greater Manchester Innovation Accelerator, AstraZeneca, and British Heart Foundation. The sponsor of the study is Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust.

Lead researchers and will trial the new course which has been shown to improve the way carers and people with dementia communicate with each other across England.

Difficulties communicating can result in a person with dementia losing confidence, withdrawing during interactions, or feeling disconnected from and devalued by the other person.

However, University of Manchester led research has shown that interventions focusing on communication can improve the person with dementia’s communication and behavioural symptoms.

Carers reported positive experiences of using the method called , a detailed study of the experience of 15 carers published in the journal showed.

And a second NIHR-funded study, published in found it was possible to measure participants psychological health, quality of life and service use when trialling the course.

Now the research team are able to progress to a multi-centre trial of the method across three proposed sites in England, thanks to the NIHR funding. The course will be offered across Greater Manchester with Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust as the lead site.

The course, pioneered by Manchester’s Dr Lydia Morris and Professor Warren Mansell brings a glimmer of hope to the 700,000 people supporting a family member, partner, or friend with dementia.

Empowered Conversations uses evidence based psychological and communication theories to support carers to improve relationships and reduce stress.

For example, it uses Mentalisation Theory, which is about understanding our own thoughts and feelings while recognising that others have their own minds with different perspectives.

Professor Berry from The University of Manchester is also Mental Health Co-Theme Lead at the NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre and Co-Director of the Complex Trauma and Resilience Research Unit at Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust.

She said: “In dementia care, relationships often change dramatically, for example, a child may become the carer of a parent, or a spouse may shift from partner to caregiver.  Carers often face a painful conflict between remembering the person as they used to be and coping with who they have become.

“Seeing someone who looks the same physically but has changed in memory, personality, and communication can feel confusing, distressing and bring a sense of loss and grief.

“Stress associated with these changes in close relationships can make it harder to understand and interpret another person’s thoughts and feelings.  While some carers adapt by adjusting their expectations and priorities, this kind of coping does not happen easily or automatically. This is where learning skills in mentalisation can help.”

Among the positives, carers said the course resulted in changes to themselves, their relationships, and their communication skills.

Participants also described letting go of their expectations of what the person should be able to do and replacing that with more realistic goals.

Dr Morris, who is a Senior Clinical Lecturer and Clinical Psychologist at the University, added: “In a landscape where provision of post-diagnostic dementia support is variable or limited, it appears that Empowered Conversations can offer carers an intervention that is appreciated and accessible.

“Communication difficulties are associated with increased carer stress and burden and can contribute to the breakdown of the interpersonal relationship between the carer and person with dementia.

“Training does exist, but it focuses on practical communication skills without addressing the emotional and relational contexts of care and communication.

“However, the carers we worked with reported positive experiences of participating in Empowered Conversations and valued meeting people who, despite sometimes different circumstances, shared their understanding of supporting someone with dementia.

“The course supported participants to rethink communication and have a greater appreciation of the other person’s perspective during everyday interactions.”

• Image is AI generated

Bangladesh has just approved one of the largest river engineering projects its history: the Padma Barrage, a vast river-control project intended to restore water in the country’s drought-prone southwest.

It comes at a dangerous moment for South Asia’s rivers. China is building the upstream on the Brahmaputra, India is accelerating its own , and the treaty governing Ganges water-sharing between India and Bangladesh expires in December 2026.

Rather than easing regional water insecurity, the Padma Barrage risks adding to a cycle of unilateral river engineering across the subcontinent. South Asia is entering a regional dam-building race – without the institutions needed to share its rivers.

Bangladesh’s water crisis

Supporters say the barrage is a pragmatic response to chronic water insecurity in Bangladesh. The country sits at the end of the vast Ganges-Brahmaputra river system, where rivers that originate in the Himalayas spread into thousands of channels before they reach the sea. Despite all this water, the main river channels are and some smaller rivers are disappearing rapidly.

The Farakka Barrage in India, and the proposed Padma Barrage downstream. 

Bangladesh did not create this problem alone. Since the 1970s, the Farakka Barrage, built across the Ganges upstream in India, has diverted water towards the huge city of Kolkata to flush sediment away from its port.

The consequences for Bangladesh are well documented. Its rivers have dried up and become less navigable. They have also become saltier, groundwater levels have declined, and severe riverbank erosion has occurred.

Farming has become more difficult and fish stocks have declined. These environmental pressures have forced many people to migrate out of the country.

Most critically, the reduced flow of freshwater has harmed — the world’s largest mangrove forest, shared between Bangladesh and India. There, elevated salinity has caused widespread among mangrove trees and significant biodiversity loss.

The promise – and risks – of Padma Barrage

When complete, the centrepiece of the Padma Barrage will be a huge dam more than two kilometres long. It is designed to store water during the monsoon season and release it in the drier months, helping reduce salinity intrusion by maintaining freshwater flows and pushing saline water further downstream during the dry season.

In theory, the barrage will revive a host of smaller rivers in western Bangladesh. The it will support irrigation across much of the country, while increasing rice and fish production.

The proposed Padma Barrage will span the Ganges river system’s largest channel in Bangladesh.

Yet the project raises a series of that deserve serious scrutiny.

The most immediate relates to silt, because the Ganges is an exceptionally sediment-heavy river. A dam or barrage causes the river water to lose speed and the energy required to carry sediment, which is dumped upstream.

This is already a severe problem . More than a million people have been displaced from over the past three decades, as banks have been eroded and floods have become more intense.

Constructing a second major barrier downstream – the Padma Barrage – risks compounding these effects, potentially trapping additional sediment loads between the two structures and intensifying flooding pressure.

The consequences downstream could be equally serious. The diversion of water into southwestern river channels — the stated objective of the project — implies reduced flows in the main river systems. If these flows aren’t strong enough to push back salty tidal waters, then parts of coastal Bangladesh, rather than benefiting from improved water security, could face accelerating salinisation.

There is a deeper irony here. Bangladesh is responding to the damage caused by India’s Farakka Barrage with a major barrage of its own.

Farakka was built to solve an economic problem upstream, but imposed major environmental costs downstream in Bangladesh. Those economic problems are still unsolved – Kolkata port still suffers from silt and needs constant dredging.

Critics fear the Padma Barrage could reproduce the same pattern: large environmental disruption without the promised benefits. In other words, the same engineering approach that damaged Bangladesh may soon be reproduced within that country.

A regional struggle over rivers

The project also depends on sufficient water continuing to flow into Bangladesh. But China – alongside planned hydropower projects across India, including plans to – could significantly reduce the volume of water entering Bangladesh in future. If that happens, the Padma Barrage may not have enough water to work as intended.

The timing also matters. The between India and Bangladesh expires in December 2026, and governs the same flows the Padma Barrage is designed to manage. Rather than strengthening Bangladesh’s position ahead of treaty talks, the project could weaken its case for demanding more water from India by signalling that it can cope with reduced flows.

Several rivers that the barrage aims to revive flow through both India and Bangladesh, meaning restoration will require cooperation between the two countries, rather than infrastructure alone.

That makes Bangladesh’s 2025 accession to the particularly significant. As the first South Asian country to join the treaty, Bangladesh now has a stronger legal basis to push for more equitable water-sharing, particularly as the Ganges treaty negotiations approach.

Dams cannot replace diplomacy

The Padma Barrage is not an inherently misconceived project. Bangladesh’s water crisis is real, and the political pressure to respond is genuine.

But without renewed water-sharing agreements and stronger cooperation with neighbouring countries, this new barrage risks repeating the pattern of unilateral river engineering that has already destabilised South Asia’s waterways.

Infrastructure that outpaces diplomacy is a familiar reason for failure in the region. The challenge for Bangladesh is to ensure the barrage becomes part of a strong legal and diplomatic framework for river cooperation – not another step in an escalating cycle of hydropolitical competition.

, Leverhulme Early Career Fellow, Geography, and , Associate Professor in Risk and Disaster Science,

This article is republished from under a Creative Commons license. Read the .

A highly experienced consultant and chartered psychologist, Dame Robina Shah DBE has spent over 30 years working across healthcare, medical education, patient safety, public service, social justice, and inclusion.

She is currently Professor of Psychosocial Medicine and Medical Education at the University of Manchester Medical School and Director of the Doubleday Centre for Patient Experience.

Dame Robina’s contribution to patient care was recognised through her appointment as Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, following her earlier MBE for services to academic research in learning disabilities.

Through her roles in a wide range of sports organisations, including the FA Council, FA Women’s Football Board, Manchester County FA, and Oldham Athletic Football Club, Dame Robina has also made a significant contribution to football governance, player welfare, disability football, women’s football, and widening opportunity through sport.

Dame Robina has been nominated for the Freedom by the City of London Corporation’s Deputy Policy Chair, James Thomson, and City Corporation Lead Member for Sport, Edward Lord.

Speaking after her Freedom ceremony, Dame Robina Shah said: “I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive the Freedom of the City of London. This unexpected recognition has touched me greatly.

“I thank my nominators, James Thomson and Edward Lord, and accept the Freedom with humility and appreciation, mindful of the many people who have guided, supported, and encouraged me throughout my life.

“The City of London has long held a special significance for me. Although Manchester is my home and the place where I was born, I have had the privilege, through my civic and public roles, of attending many events in the City and seeing first-hand its unique history, traditions and contribution to public life.

“This recognition of my contribution to the NHS, sport, particularly football, and governance is especially meaningful, because these areas have shaped much of my life’s work and public service. I wish to thank the many colleagues, patients, volunteers, community partners and organisations that I have had the privilege of working alongside over the years. Much of what I have been able to contribute has only been possible through collective effort, shared purpose and the generosity, trust and support of others.

“At this time, I also think warmly of my parents, whose values, kindness and humanity shaped the lens through which I have tried to serve others. They taught me to notice people, especially those who may otherwise go unseen, and nurtured in me a curiosity about people’s stories, lives and experiences, grounded in compassion, dignity and respect.

“I also want to acknowledge my family, Tariq, Zainab, Raabiyah and Sulaymaan, whose love, support and patience have been central to all my achievements.”

City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, said: “Dame Robina Shah’s Freedom of the City of London recognises her distinguished career and expertise in a wide range of fields, including healthcare, medical education, patient care, inclusion, and football governance.

“A very deserving recipient of the Freedom, I hope that Dame Robina and her guests will have very fond memories of her ceremony at Guildhall for many years to come.”

Deputy City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, James Thomson, said: "I am honoured to have nominated Dame Robina for the Freedom of the City of London.

“Robina's public service has been extraordinary, especially, in giving young people opportunity through education and skills, tackling inequality and hate crime, and supporting the most vulnerable in society and giving them a voice.

“Robina is an inspirational role model to so many and has a personal warmth that is infectious."

City of London Corporation Lead Member for Sport, Edward Lord OBE, said: "Dame Robina has made a demonstrable contribution to public life in Greater Manchester, and to the nation.

“In particular, her involvement in providing independent governance expertise to the Football Association and now, on the board of Oldham Athletic Football Club, marks her out as someone worthy of recognition.

“As a fellow Lancastrian, it was a genuine pleasure to support her nomination for the City Freedom."

The City Corporation’s  aims to make the Square Mile a global sports destination, by offering attractive and valued sport facilities, venues, activations, and events for residents, workers, and visitors.

One of the City of London’s ancient traditions, the Freedom is believed to have begun in 1237 and enabled recipients to carry out their trade.

As well as being nominated for, or applying for, the Freedom, it is also offered by the City of London Corporation to individuals as a way of paying tribute to their outstanding contribution to London or public life, or to celebrate a very significant achievement.  

Recent notable recipients include broadcaster and breast cancer charity ambassador, Gloria Hunniford; two-time Academy Award-winning actor and humanitarian, Cate Blanchett; novelist, Ken Follett; actor, Ray Winstone; and City of London Police Special Constable and TV presenter, Penny Lancaster.

Professor Chris Parkes, an experimental particle physicist at the University, and Professor Jeff Forshaw, a theoretical particle physicist, join over 90 other pioneers and leaders across a range of scientific fields, from astronomy and cancer research to mathematics and biotechnology.

In their election, they join the ranks of Stephen Hawking, Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Albert Einstein, Lise Meitner, Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar and Dorothy Hodgkin.

Professor Parkes is Head of the Physics & Astronomy Department at The University of Manchester and is internationally recognised for his leadership in particle physics. He previously led the LHCb experiment at CERN - one of the world’s largest scientific collaborations. His research focuses on the search for new physics through studies of matter–antimatter asymmetries and the development of radiation-hard silicon detectors.

Professor Parkes has played a central role in the development of the next generation of LHCb experiments, serving as Principal Investigator and Project Manager for the UK’s contribution to the LHCb Upgrade, installed in 2023, and leading the design of the future LHCb Upgrade II programme. Last year, the LHCb collaboration was honoured by sharing the 2025 Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics. Parkes was also awarded the Institute of Physics High Energy Physics Group Prize in 2010.

Professor Forshaw is a theoretical particle physicist best known for his work on quantum chromodynamics (QCD), the theory of the strong force. His work has uncovered unexpected features of perturbative QCD and has contributed to the theoretical frameworks used to interpret high-energy particle collisions, with important applications at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and other major international experiments. 

Jeff is also a prominent communicator of science. Together with Brian Cox he has written a series of bestselling popular science books that have introduced a wide readership to the mathematical ideas underpinning modern physics. Through his books, lectures and broader public engagement he has brought the substance, and the joy, of fundamental physics to a wide audience. 

Jeff's research has been recognised by the Maxwell Medal of the Institute of Physics for outstanding contributions to theoretical physics, and his public engagement work by the Institute's Kelvin Medal for outstanding and sustained contributions to the public understanding of physics. 

Sir Paul Nurse, President of the Royal Society, said: “I am delighted to welcome this newest group of exceptional scientists to the Fellowship of the Royal Society. 

“Their contributions reflect the highest standards of scientific endeavour. Whether advancing our understanding of vaccines or exploring the transformative potential of mathematics and computation, their work exemplifies the enduring value of curiosity, creativity and rigorous inquiry. 

“Our Fellowship is strengthened not only by individual distinction, but by the diversity of perspectives and experiences its members bring. This incoming cohort highlights the truly international character of contemporary science and underscores the vital role that plays in achieving breakthroughs that benefit us all.”

The full list of newly elected Fellows can be found on the

The study, published in , used a combination of high-resolution imaging, flow measurements, and mathematical modelling to examine fluid flows around corals that are driven by cilia – densely packed tiny hairs on the coral’s surface. The collective beating of the cilia contributes to the movement of fluid around the surface of the coral, regulating the animal’s immediate environment through the transport of particles such as oxygen.

The researchers found that heterogeneity in ciliary orientation—small variations in the direction individual cilia beat—can significantly boost transport efficiency. For substances that diffuse slowly through the fluid, this natural variability increased particle transport by more than 50% compared to perfectly aligned cilia. This contrasts with other biological systems, highlighting how coral cilia are uniquely adapted to their environment.

However, the study also found that strong external flows, such as ocean currents, can reduce the coral’s ability to exchange materials efficiently near the surface.

Researchers believe that the mathematical modelling used in understanding the behaviour and effectiveness of these coral-based cilia structures could be applied to ciliated tissues in humans, such as those found in the respiratory system and fallopian tubes.

Dr Draga Pihler-Puzovic, Reader at the Department of Physics and Astronomy at The University of Manchester, said of the study, “This work provides a powerful framework for understanding how coral surfaces operate across a wide range of environmental conditions. It also opens the possibility of applying the same mathematical models to human biology, offering new ways to investigate how cilia function in the body and how their dysfunction may contribute to disease.”

This paper was published in the journal:

DOI: 10.1103/fhfw-f1nv

The research, published in Biological Conservation, found that more than 493,000 square kilometres of land - an area larger than Spain - has been damaged by deforestation and fires in the vital transition zone between the Amazon rainforest and the Cerrado savanna in Brazil.

The team - led by Dr Chuanze Li from The University of Manchester - say the findings reveal a major conservation crisis in a region that helps protect the wider Amazon, stores huge amounts of carbon and supports exceptional biodiversity but has very little formal protection.

Key findings

• Researchers mapped more than 35 years of environmental damage using AI and satellite imagery

• At least 493,000 km² of land has been affected by deforestation or fire

• Large areas damaged by fire still had not recovered even after a decade

• Only around 2% of the study region currently has formal protection

• Repeated human-caused fires may be permanently changing ecosystems

What did the study find?

The research focused on the Cerrado-Amazon transition (CAT) zone in Brazil, a vast area where rainforest and savanna meet.

Using decades of Landsat satellite images combined with artificial intelligence, researchers tracked how forests and vegetation changed between 1986 and 2020.

They found widespread damage caused by both large-scale forest clearing and repeated fires linked to farming expansion and cattle ranching.

Why this region matters

This area is one of the world’s most important ecological frontiers, and acts as a buffer protecting the Amazon while supporting unique wildlife and storing carbon that would otherwise contribute to climate change if released.

But despite its importance, the region has received far less attention and protection than the Amazon rainforest itself.

Fires leave long-lasting scars

One of the study’s most striking findings was how slowly vegetation recovered after fire. Researchers found that even ten years later, many affected areas had still not returned to their previous condition.

The damage was particularly severe in parts of the Cerrado, where repeated human-driven burning appears to be weakening the ecosystem’s natural ability to recover.

A hidden protection gap

The study also exposed a major lack of protected areas across the region. While around 28% of the Amazon biome overall is protected, only around 2% of the Cerrado–Amazon transition area studied falls within protected zones.

Researchers warn that large areas facing repeated destruction currently have little or no legal safeguard.

How AI helped uncover the damage

The team combined satellite imagery with advanced artificial intelligence tools capable of detecting different types of environmental disturbance over time.

This allowed researchers to distinguish between forest clearing and fire damage across an enormous area spanning more than one million square kilometres.

What the Manchester researchers said

“The tools we used enabled us to produce the first wall-to-wall, multi-decade picture of what has actually happened to vegetation across this entire area,” said lead author Dr Chuanze Li.

“We were particularly struck by the recovery data,” said Dr Angela Harris. “The conventional view is that Cerrado vegetation bounces back after fire. What this study shows - at a regional scale and across 35 years - is that it often does not, at least not within a decade.”

"Repeated fires are eroding the very resilience these ecosystems evolved to have - this is a warning that we cannot ignore."

"This study gives policymakers something they have not had before: a precise, long-term map of where the CAT has been damaged, how badly, and how well, or how poorly, it is recovering,” added Dr Polyanna da Conceição Bispo. “This is the empirical foundation that conservation planning in this region has been missing. The protection gap we document is not acceptable, and the tools now exist to close it."

Why it matters

Researchers say the maps created by the study could help governments and conservation groups identify areas most urgently in need of protection, fire prevention and restoration.

They also warn that continued destruction in the transition zone could have consequences far beyond Brazil, affecting biodiversity, climate stability and the future health of the Amazon rainforest itself.

Publication details

The study was conducted by researchers at The University of Manchester (UK),  Professor Beatriz Marimon and Professor Ben Hur Marimon at UNEMAT – Universidade do Estado de Mato Grosso (Brazil), and Dr. Ricardo da Silva at CTREES (USA). Field data from the Plant Ecology Laboratory at UNEMAT, a reference network spanning the CAT since 1994, underpinned the classification and validation of satellite-derived disturbance maps.

The paper was published in the Biological Conservation journal.

DOI:

The three‑year project, REMOVE‑UM: REcovering MOlecular ValuE from Unrecycled Multi‑materials, funded by EPSRC and Defra will develop new technologies to tackle some of the most challenging waste products. 

Recycling has the potential to recover significant value from materials at the end of their life, playing a crucial role in building a more sustainable future. However, while current systems are effective for simple, single materials that can be easily sorted and cleaned, they struggle to deal with complex, multi-material products. 

Michael Shaver, Project Lead and Professor of Polymer Science at The University of Manchester, explains: “Recycling to recover value from materials at end-of-life is a tantalising component of a sustainable future. However, multi-material products – vapes, cars, batteries, furniture – comingle a host of plastics, metals, glass, ceramics and other materials designed to meet ever-increasing consumer demand for low-cost, high-performance, lightweight, aesthetically pleasing consumer goods. These staggeringly complex multi-materials are reaching their end-of-life with no strategy to facilitate the (re)integration of their components, materials or molecules into a circular economy.  

“Developing an economically viable and environmentally advantageous end of-life for multi-materials is vital. However, to achieve this in a just manner, it is essential we understand economic, societal, and environmental outcomes, coupling systemic approaches to ambitious fundamental research.” 

The REMOVE‑UM project will take a fundamentally new approach, developing methods to break down these materials at a molecular level and recover valuable components that can be reused. 

The work will combine expertise from across The University of Manchester, bringing together specialists in chemical recycling, catalysis, sustainability assessment and materials science.  

The project will focus on four key areas: 

• Analysing waste streams to understand their composition and potential value 

• Developing chemical processes to selectively break down complex materials into valuable products 

• Separating recovered molecules efficiently while minimising environmental impact 

• Working closely with industry partners to translate discoveries into real‑world applications and accelerate their commercial application. 

By targeting materials that current infrastructure cannot process, the team aims to complement existing recycling systems, rather than replace them.  

A core aim of the project is to ensure new recycling approaches are technically feasible, economically viable and environmentally sustainable. Life cycle assessment and economic analysis will be integrated throughout to guide decisions and deliver real benefits for society. The project also aims to cut reliance on fossil fuels by recovering reusable chemicals, while generating insights into how waste systems operate to reduce investment risk and support future recycling infrastructure. 

Dr Kedar Pandya, Executive Director for Strategy at EPSRC said: “This investment reflects our commitment to building a cleaner, more sustainable UK economy. By funding ambitious, collaborative and impactful research into recycling technologies, we are helping to tackle some of the most complex challenges in our waste system from collection through to currently hard-to-recycle material recovery. The research being undertaken, which is jointly funded by EPSRC and Defra, will support the long-term transition to a circular economy and creates the conditions for genuine economic and environmental benefit for the UK.” 

The project will be co-led by Dr Ciaran Lahive, Royal Academy of Engineering Research Fellow in the Department of Materials; Dr , Senior Lecturer in the Department of Chemical Engineering;  , Chair in Engineering Biology; , Professor of Chemical Engineering; and Dr , Dame Kathleen Ollerenshaw Fellow.  

It builds on sustained work in this area by these researchers, including:  

• Chemical Recycling of Polycarbonate Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Blends via Organocatalyzed Acetolysis, ChemSusChem, 
• Recyclable Epoxy Composites Built with a Biobased Hardener, ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering, 
• Environmental Sustainability Assessment of Supercritical CO₂ in Gel-spun UHMWPE Fibre Production, ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering, 
• Defining quality by quantifying degradation in the mechanical recycling of polyethylene, Nature Communications, 
• Untangling the chemical complexity of plastics to improve life cycle outcomes, Nature Materials Reviews,   

The breakthrough could help explain why millions of people develop sight‑threatening conditions such as age‑related macular degeneration (AMD), as well as rarer inherited eye diseases.

The research is published in today.

Epidemiological research predicts that AMD, a leading cause of visual impairment in adults , will affect 288 million people worldwide by 2040.

And rarer inherited  eye disorders  which  interfere with cells in the retina that sense light and send visual signals to the brain include  Stargardt disease, retinitis pigmentosa, and cone‑rod dystrophy.

The researchers analysed whole‑genome sequencing data alongside RNA profiles from 201 donated human eyes.

That allowed them to study two key tissues involved in vision: the neurosensory retina, which captures light, and the retinal pigment epithelium, which supports and nourishes it.

By comparing DNA differences with gene activity in these tissues, the researchers found over 1.4 million genetic signals that influence how genes are turned on or off, known as expression quantitative trait loci, or eQTLs.

The signals influence how nearly 10,000 genes behave in the retina and almost 4,000 genes in the retinal pigment epithelium.

Many of the genetic effects were found in regions of the genome that act as regulatory switches, helping to turn genes on or off.

The study also identified hundreds of individuals whose retinal gene activity was unusually high or low compared with typical patterns.

Among these “expression outliers,” the researchers pinpointed nearly 300 rare genetic variants that could plausibly explain the unusual gene activity.

These variants included rare changes in parts of DNA that don’t code for proteins, as well as bigger structural shifts and differences in how many copies of certain DNA segments a person has.

Together, they accounted for around 28% of the outliers, offering new leads for understanding how rare mutations contribute to eye disease.

The findings provide an unprecedented resource for scientists studying the genetic roots of vision disorders, and are available to other researchers for

They also offer a roadmap for future research into personalised treatments and earlier diagnosis.

Author , from The University of Manchester,  said: “Our study marks a major step toward decoding the complex genetic architecture of the human eye.

“And it opens the door to new strategies for protecting and restoring vision in the future.

“It reveals how both common and rare genetic differences shape the way they are expressed in the human retina.

“By understanding these patterns, we move closer to uncovering the biological mechanisms that drive heritable vision loss and to developing more targeted therapies.”

PhD Student at The University of Manchester, Jacob Sampson, who performed the extensive computational analysis reported in the study, added: “We hope this dataset will accelerate discoveries across ophthalmology, genetics, and precision medicine.

“And we hope it will support efforts to identify individuals at risk of sight‑threatening disease before symptoms appear.

Prof Simon J. Clark from the  University of Tübingen in Germany, said: “These sorts of fundamental discoveries are only possible by using very well characterised human donor material.

“We are incredibly lucky to have access to one of Europe’s largest human eye donor repositories, founded originally in Manchester back in 2015.

“We remain forever grateful for the generosity of all those donors and their families who contributed over the years.”

The team included scientists from The University of Manchester, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, University of Tübingen, University of Southampton, Universitas Riau, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, and the European Bioinformatics Institute.

• The research was supported by the Macular Society, Fight For Sight, the Medical Research Council and the NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre.
• The paper Paired DNA and RNA sequencing uncovers common 1 and rare genomic variants regulating gene 2 expression in the human retina is published in nature Communications and available . DOI https://www.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-72979-4 

The report, was partly based on research evidence submitted by  the University of Manchester’s  .

Cited in the report, Professor of Primary Care and Community Health  at the University of Manchester told the Committee: “Evidence-based exercise programmes, particularly resistance training, could both prevent frailty from developing and reverse it. Exercise programmes to prevent frailty could decrease the risk factors linked to developing conditions associated with ageing, including dementia.”

Boosting resilience to illness, frailty and falls through physical activity will be key to keeping the country’s ageing population healthy and living independently for longer., the MPs said.

This change will be fundamental to the Government’s objective of switching the NHS’s focus from treating illness to preventing it 

The report follows the cross-party Committee’s and recommends:

• Advice and social prescribing of physical activity should become a core, routine offering to older people from their GPs and other clinicians.
• Stronger links between local NHS services with leisure providers and community groups to make exercise more accessible.
• The Care Quality Commission should be charged with checking that exercise programmes are being provided to residents in care homes. 

The Committee also called for a national conversation and a cultural shift in the way that ageing is perceived and talked about in society. Negative stereotypes can leave older people feeling resigned to becoming inactive, at the point in their lives when a sedentary lifestyle can have serious consequences, including increasing risk of falls.

Health and Social Care Committee Chair, Layla Moran MP, said: “Healthcare experts and the Government are all agreed that staying physically active can help older people to live not just longer, but healthier, happier, more sociable lives.

“Promoting active lifestyles among older people would also tackle two policy objectives at once – shifting the NHS’s focus to prevention, and bringing services closer to home, not the nearest hospital. Experts told us that exercise can be more effective than medication, and these changes would also cut the NHS’s vast expenditure on drugs. It’s a win-win, and this report sets out how the Government can make it happen.

Key facts

• Being physically active cuts the risk of dementia, cardiovascular disease, stroke, type-2 diabetes, musculoskeletal conditions, and some cancers.
• By 2035, 68% of people aged over 65 are expected to have two more serious health conditions, up from 54% in 2015. This causes lower quality of life, increases the chance of hospital admission and creates more complex care needs.
• In 2022, there were around 12.7 million people in the UK aged 65 or over, approximately 19% of the population. This is expected to rise to 22.1 million people (27% of the population) by 2072.
• The ONS and Health Foundation have shown that the average healthy life expectancy of children born in the most deprived areas of England is around 18 years lower than those born in the most affluent.
• In the UK, physical inactivity is associated with one in six deaths and is estimated to cost £7.4 billion annually.