Latest news with #Not
Scottish Sun
a day ago
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Disabled mum who ‘took own life' when her benefits were cut ‘left note saying she was unable to pay bills or buy food'
Letter was sent to mum's home but she was receiving hospital treatment TRAGIC END Disabled mum who 'took own life' when her benefits were cut 'left note saying she was unable to pay bills or buy food' Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A DISABLED mum took her own life when her benefits were slashed after she was unable to buy food or pay her bills, an inquest heard. Jodey Whiting, 42, was discovered dead in her flat in Stockton-on-Tees in February 2017 by her family members. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 Jodey Whiting took her own life when her benefits were slashed, an inquest heard Credit: PA An initial inquest recorded a verdict of suicide but did not consider the impact of the Department for Work and Pensions' (DWP) cutting her benefits. Jodey had been asked to attend a work capability assessment before her death but was unable to attend after falling ill with pneumonia. As a result, the mum-of-nine's payments were stopped and she later received a letter saying she was fit to work. In notes Jodey had written, which were found after her death, she spoke about not being able to pay her bills and having no food. Bridget Dolan KC, coroner's counsel, also said the mum revealed she "had enough". He added: "In some she wrote about feeling breathless and having back pain and trying to pay her bills and being in debt." An Independent Case Examiner (ICE) report into the decision found that a number of mistakes had been made and her payments should not have been withdrawn. A second inquest into her death is now being held after Jodey's mum Joy Dove fought for a further hearing. The court was told Jodey suffered from chronic pain, was dependent on opiates and had long-standing mental issues. In the final years of her life, she had become increasingly housebound. In December 2016, Jodey stayed in hospital after contracting pneumonia, which meant she missed letters about her benefits that said she needed to be medically assessed. Joy told the court she reassured her daughter they would write to the DWP and explain how she had been in unwell. But in January 2017, Jodey was told she had missed the medical assessment and was fit to work. Joy claimed by this point, Jodey could not breathe or walk out of her flat. She then received another letter from the DWP telling her that her benefits were being stopped, including her housing benefit and council tax. Joy said when she saw her daughter, two days before her death, she was "shaking and crying" and had threatened to kill herself. You're Not Alone EVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicide It doesn't discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers. It's the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes. And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women. Yet it's rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now. That is why The Sun launched the You're Not Alone campaign. The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives. Let's all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You're Not Alone. If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support: CALM, 0800 585 858 Heads Together, HUMEN Mind, 0300 123 3393 Papyrus, 0800 068 41 41 Samaritans, 116 123 The mum told the inquest the stress of losing her benefits was the trigger for her to decide to take her own life. She added: "I know my daughter and I know it was (that). "It was the fact she couldn't find a job, the worry of paying bills and being pushed out after being so vulnerable all those years and years." Questioned by Jesse Nicholls, for the family, Joy added: "I know for a fact it was the DWP that caused it. "She was quite happy for me to go through and look after her. "There's no way it was anything other than that." The inquest continues. If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the Samaritans for free on 116123.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
Feeling like every day is on repeat? 5 mindful habits to regain control
We often say we don't have enough time– but more often, it's not about the hours in a day. It's about how we're spending them. Many of us start our mornings with packed to-do lists, only to end the day wondering where all the time went. The problem isn't that we're not doing enough. If anything, we're always doing something– replying to messages, switching between tasks, clearing clutter, or juggling responsibilities. But often, we're stuck in a cycle of reacting instead of intentionally choosing what deserves our attention. There's a constant pressure to stay busy, which makes it easy to confuse activity with real progress. The result? A lot of motion, but not much meaning. The good news is, you don't have to micromanage every minute to make your time count. Sometimes, small and simple changes are enough to create the space you need to think clearly and move with purpose. The five habits below won't turn your life around overnight– but they can help you use your time in a calmer, more intentional way, built on clarity, consistency, and ease. Let go of one thing each day Clutter– whether it's on your desk or your phone– takes up more mental space than we realise. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Instead of waiting for a big clean-up day, try removing just one unnecessary thing each day. It could be as simple as deleting an unused app, tossing an old receipt, or clearing out something that's been sitting untouched for months. These small daily actions add up, helping you create a cleaner, calmer space– and that often leads to better focus and a clearer mind. Keep your daily task list short and clear Trying to do too much in a day often leads to doing very little, effectively. A more practical habit is to focus on 3 to 5 important tasks each day. Not everything is urgent, and not everything needs to be done at once. When you give your attention to fewer things, you're more likely to complete them well and feel less drained by the end of the day. Use your phone on your own terms Phones have become essential– but they're also one of the biggest reasons we lose time without realising it. A few small changes can make a noticeable difference. Turn off non-essential notifications, move distracting apps off your home screen, and make use of features like 'Do Not Disturb' when you need to concentrate. These are simple adjustments, but they help bring back a sense of control. Automate routine financial tasks There's no need to spend time each month remembering which bills to pay or when to transfer money. Most financial platforms now offer tools to automate payments, savings, and even investments. Once set up, this reduces stress and saves time, while also ensuring that important financial tasks aren't missed or delayed. Act on small tasks immediately If something takes less than two minutes to complete, do it right away. It might be replying to a quick email, putting something back where it belongs, or crossing out a small task. These small actions, when delayed, tend to pile up and create unnecessary clutter, both on your list and in your mind. In a nutshell, using your time well doesn't mean packing every minute with activity. In fact, some of the most effective habits are the simplest ones. Letting go of what you don't need, focusing on what truly matters, and cutting out small distractions can make your day feel less overwhelming and more meaningful. These habits won't change everything overnight, but they can give you the space to think more clearly, work more calmly, and move through the day with a little more ease. 3 silent ways your body is shouting for help One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
‘Scammer's line is dead': Robocaller behind millions of Ohio scam calls banned, AG says
COLUMBUS (WJW) – A man who investigators said is responsible for billions of robocalls made across the country, including in Ohio, has been banned from the telecommunications industry, according to Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost. This week, Yost and attorneys general in seven other states won their ongoing court battle against John Spiller, who was found in contempt of court by a federal judge in Texas. According to court records, Spiller owned several companies, including Rising Eagle Capital Group, JSquared Telecom and Rising Eagle Capital Group-Cayman. More salads, cucumber products sold at Ohio Kroger stores recalled Investigators said the companies facilitated a massive number of robocalls, including 69 million sent to phone numbers with Ohio area codes. Court records show that more than 32 million of those numbers were on the 'Do Not Call List.' The businesses were ordered to be shut down in 2023, but according to Yost, Spiller violated his court order by starting new companies — Every1 Telecom and ATX Telco — and continuing the robocall scams. According to the attorney general's office, a federal judge this week imposed a permanent ban on Spiller, 'prohibiting him from launching future telecommunications companies or otherwise operating in the telecom industry.' 'This scammer's line is dead — and it's not coming back,' Yost said. Raccoon breaks into box truck for Pop-Tarts: Photos He also must pay more than $600,000 in attorney's fees and litigation costs for violating the court order, the attorney general's office said. 'The judge's latest ruling sends a strong message that bad actors cannot evade court orders by simply operating under different business names,' Yost's office said in a press release. Other attorneys general were involved in the legal fight, including in Arkansas, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, North Dakota and Texas. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Daily Maverick
5 days ago
- Business
- Daily Maverick
‘Not Today' — Taiwan strives to give Xi Jinping second thoughts about attacking its island neighbour
There is a widespread belief in Taiwan that Chinese President Xi Jinping wants to invade Taiwan by 2027, the centenary of the creation of the Chinese army, and the year that Xi's current term will end. China's President Xi Jinping wakes up every day, looks at himself in the mirror as he shaves and says, 'Okay, I want to be the greatest emperor of China. I want to conquer Taiwan. Okay, it is my job. It is my will. It is the reason [for] my existence. 'I want to conquer Taiwan. But today is not a good day. I cannot do that.' That, at least, is the scene in Xi's bathroom that Taiwan's Deputy Foreign Minister François Chihchung Wu imagines. The vision animates Taiwan's Not Today Policy, which he says is to keep ensuring Xi has second thoughts every day about the wisdom of invading China's tiny island neighbour, which it regards as a mere 'renegade province of the People's Republic of China (PRC). The Not Today policy largely rests on military deterrence and strong military alliances, especially with the United States, and persuading the world that Taiwan is indispensable. Walking the streets of Taipei, it is hard to imagine why any deterrent is needed. One senses no fear of imminent attack. And why would anyone want to destroy this country of 23 million friendly, vibrant, industrious people and its flourishing, sophisticated economy, the 22nd largest in the world, with a nominal GDP of $814.44-billion, according to the International Monetary Fund? A recent survey by Taiwan's Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR) found that while 60% of Taiwanese believe China is the most important threat facing Taiwan (versus energy shortage, the plummeting birth rate, and so on), only one quarter expected an invasion during the next five years. Liang Wen-chieh, Deputy Minister of the Mainland Affairs Council, says the Taiwanese people have been living under military threat since the country was founded in 1949, and so have grown used to it. This, though, is a double-edged sword, he says. On the good side, it allows people to 'dedicate themselves to the economy'. It also avoids causing public alarm, says INDSR research fellow Ming-shih Shen. But Liang also suggests it has made the Taiwanese complacent, though the military authorities take the threat very seriously and remain on full alert. The Mainland Affairs Council has a mandate to negotiate with the mainland. But Beijing has terminated talks. Ordinary Taiwanese tell you that the extent of war preparedness is basically that if the government sounds an alarm, they must stay indoors until further notice. The government did, however, conduct a whole-of-society exercise in March in Tainan city, rehearsing medical and other responses to an invasion. Xi's perceived deadline But if ordinary people seem a bit blasé, one gathers from officials, journalists and analysts a widespread belief that Xi would like to invade Taiwan by 2027. Wu says that is because 2027 will be the centenary of the creation of the Chinese army, and Xi wants to use the occasion to demonstrate that it has become the best army in the world, by conquering Taiwan. Liang, on the other hand, believes 2027 is the key date because that is when Xi's current term as president will end. 'So in order to stay in power, Xi will have to possibly use force against Taiwan.' Certainly, China has been amping up the military pressure lately. Last year, it conducted two major military exercises around Taiwan. In April this year, a third called 'Strait Thunder' was conducted with 38 naval ships, including an aircraft carrier strike group. China's military tactics included live-fire drills into the East China Sea. A Chinese military spokesperson said the drills involved 'precision strikes on simulated targets of key ports and energy facilities'. China also launched scores of sorties by its warplanes into Taiwan's airspace. Taiwanese officials say these sorties have increased from 380 in 2020 to 3,080 last year, with a likely increase this year. The intensified military exercises are one reason why some believe the long-feared Chinese attack against Taiwan could be 'closer than you think', as The Economist predicted in its cover story earlier this month. It also posited that greater uncertainty about whether the isolationist and unpredictable Donald Trump would rush to Taiwan's defence and Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te's failure to decisively raise defence spending (because of opposition from the China-appeasing KMT party which has more votes in parliament than Lai's Democratic Progress Party) could very well persuade Xi, if not to invade, then at least to strangle the island into submission by a blockade or economic sanctions and quarantines. Washington 'ambiguity' The US has long pursued a policy of 'strategic ambiguity' towards Taiwan. This means not explicitly declaring that it would come to Taiwan's defence. The idea is to discourage Taiwan from declaring formal independence from China, which would almost certainly provoke an immediate attack. But ex-President Joe Biden nonetheless made it clear that the US would defend Taiwan. Trump has been far more ambiguous. Da-nien Liu, deputy director at the Chung-Hua Institution for Economic Research in Taipei, told visiting international journalists last week that he was 'shocked' when Trump declared recently, after the US and China ended their trade war, that this truce would be good for 'peace and unification'. Liu said that made Taiwanese suspect that Trump would not defend them. Liang observes that Taiwan is still trying very hard to understand the real attitude of the Trump administration towards Taiwan and China. Taipei is concerned that Trump 'is actually turning the past allies into foes', referring to his threats to annex Canada, for example On the other hand, Taipei notes that top US officials such as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are 'more aligned with the Biden administration' (ie ready to defend Taiwan). Taiwan's pillars of deterrence Deputy Foreign Minister Wu, however, says that despite all the indications that Xi wishes to invade by 2027, this will not happen because of Taiwan's 'Not Today Policy'. He says it rests on three pillars of deterrence. The first is that Taiwan is increasing its defence spending significantly. It now constitutes more than 16% of the national budget – greater, proportionately, than that of the US, whose defence spending constitutes 12% of its budget. Wu says Lai has already announced that defence spending will increase from 2.45% to 3% of GDP – or 20% of the national budget. The second pillar is the deterrence provided by Taiwan's military allies, notably the US. He says that the US, Germany, France, Canada, Italy, Japan, Turkiye, Australia, New Zealand and the Netherlands have all sent warships to Taiwan in recent years. For Japan, that was the first time since World War 2. That in part is because about half of global trade passes through the narrow Taiwan Strait between Taiwan and China, and these countries don't want that thoroughfare to be interrupted by war. The third pillar, Wu says, is that Taiwan is trying hard to show the world that it is vital to the international community and so should be allowed to join international organisations. Wu notes that Taiwan alerted the World Health Organisation (WHO) as early as December 2019 to the Covid-19 pandemic brewing in China. The WHO ignored the warning because Taiwan was not a member, allowing the pandemic to take off before it was eventually officially acknowledged. To these deterrents, the 'silicon shield' should be added: Taiwan's global superiority in manufacturing semiconductors, or advanced computer chips, which are vital to almost every industry, including motor vehicles and weapons. Wu says about 60% of all semiconductors and 95% of advanced chips are made in Taiwan, while 100% of the even more sophisticated chips are manufactured in his country. He says most of the most advanced chips in America's frontline fighter jet, the F-35, are made in Taiwan. Last week, many Western nations attended the Global Semiconductor Supply Chain Forum in Taipei, underscoring the importance of the country to their hi-tech manufacturing industries. For Wu and Liang, though, the dominant factor determining whether China will invade Taiwan 'is a clear calculation on whether they can secure victory rapidly, before interference from the US', as Liang says. 'So now we know that the reason why Putin decided to invade Ukraine was because he thought that he could take Ukraine and end the war within seven to 10 days. 'And if China thinks this way, then there is a high possibility that there would be a war. 'So what we are trying to do is to prevent China from thinking this way.' China justified its recent military drills off Taiwan as 'a stern warning to and powerful deterrent against separatist forces agitating for Taiwan independence.' Some still believe that the ruling Democratic Progress Party is more likely to provoke a Chinese attack than a government led by the opposition KMT, which is less vocal about independence. Liang disagrees. He notes that while Xi's predecessors were content to leave Taiwan alone as long as it did not declare independence, Xi is very different, because he is striving to achieve the unification of the two Chinas, regardless. Asymmetrical warfare Ming-shih Shen, research fellow at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research, says that Taiwan is no match for China militarily, even though Taipei is trying to upgrade rapidly by acquiring more modern fighter jets and other weapons. But he says Taiwan is pursuing a strategy of asymmetrical warfare, concentrating on defensive weaponry such as anti-aircraft, anti-ship and other missiles, drones and submarines. He notes that China is also still too short of vital equipment such as landing craft, and its marine corps is too weak to conduct a full-scale invasion now. Like most analysts, he believes that Taiwan's reliance on outside energy sources is its Achilles heel. That would probably enable it to withstand an invasion or blockade for no more than two weeks. However, he notes that Taiwan has signed a supply contract with a US company to supply liquid natural gas to Taiwan. 'If the United States can send its coast guard or navy ships to protect this liquid gas ship, no problem.' Otherwise, he also says plans are under way to build a gas pipeline from Alaska via Japan to Taiwan. There are a lot of ifs in all of that, but Wu nonetheless concludes that 'with this Not Today Policy, 2027 will not be the year that China will be able to conquer Taiwan, even if they want to'. DM
Scottish Sun
5 days ago
- General
- Scottish Sun
My husband took his own life after I left him for first love – the guilt is unbearable
My childhood sweetheart has tried to be supportive but lately things between us have been strained DEAR DEIDRE My husband took his own life after I left him for first love – the guilt is unbearable Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) DEAR DEIDRE: I LEFT my husband for my childhood sweetheart – but now I'm living with a guilt that's tearing my new relationship apart. I'm 47, my husband was 52 and we were together for more than 20 years. We once had an amazing relationship but over time we grew apart and, while I cared for him deeply, the love faded. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up Around that time, I reconnected with my first boyfriend via Facebook. I've known him since primary school and it started as a friendly exchange — then old feelings resurfaced. We began seeing each other in secret but, eventually, I told my husband the truth and left him. He was devastated but I truly thought it would be the best thing for us both in the long run. A few months later, he took his own life. It shocked me to my core and the guilt has been unbearable. I blame myself every single day, and it's weighing me down. My childhood sweetheart has tried to be supportive but lately things between us have been strained. I cry often, snap at him and find it hard to be emotionally present in our relationship. As a result, he's started to distance himself from me. I feel torn between guilt, shame and deep sadness. I'm not sure I deserve happiness after what has happened. I want to fix my new relationship but I don't know how to move forward or even live with myself. Relationships, jealousy and envy DEIDRE SAYS: Losing your husband in such a tragic way is a deeply traumatic experience but it's important to remember it isn't your fault. Allow yourself to grieve for your husband and the relationship you had with him, as you move forward. Guilt forms a substantial part of grief no matter what the circumstances of the death, but particularly when suicide is involved. However, it doesn't make you responsible for what happened to your husband. You're Not Alone EVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicide It doesn't discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers. It's the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes. And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women. Yet it's rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now. That is why The Sun launched the You're Not Alone campaign. The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives. Let's all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You're Not Alone. If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support: CALM, 0800 585 858 Heads Together, HUMEN Mind, 0300 123 3393 Papyrus, 0800 068 41 41 Samaritans, 116 123 Your partner may not fully understand the complexity of your emotions but it's essential to be open with him. Communicate the emotional turmoil you're facing and let him know that while you are struggling, you want to work through it together. It might be helpful to seek counselling to help you process the grief. Cruse Bereavement Care (0808 808 1677, provides specialised counselling. My support pack, Coping With Bereavement, will also help. Get in touch with Deidre Every problem gets a personal reply, usually within 24 hours weekdays. Send an email to deardeidre@ You can also send a private message on the DearDeidreOfficial Facebook page. THERE IS NO TRUST AS HE LIES ABOUT EVERYTHING DEAR DEIDRE: I'M at my wits' end with my lying boyfriend. I don't know what to do any more. I'm 34, he's 36 and we've been together for two years. He's recently been diagnosed with ADHD and while I try to be understanding, he's constantly telling fibs about everything. It's starting to feel like I'm being taken for a fool. He claims he can't afford to pay bills, even though he earns a decent salary. He tells me he's going to sleep but I catch him hours later still scrolling through his phone. He's also told me he's 'too busy' to do simple chores or help around the house, yet I find him wasting time playing video games. He's even lied about meeting friends, telling me he was going to one place only for me to later find out he was somewhere else. I love him but the constant dishonesty is making me question everything. DEIDRE SAYS: Living with ADHD can make timekeeping, organisation and even honesty difficult, but that doesn't mean you have to tolerate constant lies. ADHD isn't an excuse for disrespect. Choose a calm and quiet moment to talk and set clear boundaries and let him know how his behaviour is affecting your trust. Focus on how you feel rather than what he's done wrong. Encourage him to seek support managing his ADHD. My support pack Neurodiversity Questions will help you. HOW CAN I HELP HIM OUT OF SQUALOR? DEAR DEIDRE: MY grandson and his family live in squalor. It breaks my heart knowing I can't do anything to help. I'm his 75-year-old grandfather. He's 27 and has been living with his girlfriend and their three children – all under six – in awful conditions for months. Their flat is cold, damp and overcrowded. They're barely getting by. He's trying to find better work but is stuck in low-paid jobs, and they're falling further behind on bills every month. I'm a pensioner and don't have the money to help them out. It's heartbreaking to see the kids living like this, with no space to play and no stability. My grandson seems defeated and I'm scared he's giving up hope. I don't know what to do or where to turn but I can't just stand by and watch them live like this. Please help. DEIDRE SAYS: It's heartbreaking to see loved ones struggle, especially when you feel powerless. Your concern shows how deeply you care and while you may not be able to offer financial support, your emotional presence and support are just as valuable. Encourage your grandson to seek help at (0808 800 4444) or (0808 802 2000) who can offer advice on housing, finances and accessing emergency support. My support packs Solving Debt Problems and Help For Job Seekers, will provide useful resources and practical advice. I FEEL USED AND UNAPPRECIATED DEAR DEIDRE: I HAVE been with my partner five years, but I feel more like a bank account than a boyfriend. The emotional connection we once had has completely disappeared, and I'm starting to feel like she only keeps me around to pay the bills. I'm 39, she's 36, and we have a three-year-old son together. She also has a daughter from a previous relationship, who I've always treated like my own. These days it's hard not to feel taken for granted. I pay for nearly everything – rent, bills, food – and get nothing in return emotionally or physically. Our sex life was never amazing, but at least before we were intimate occasionally. Since our son was born, she's refused to touch me at all. I've tried to talk to her about it, but she shuts me down or says she's too tired. I'm beginning to wonder if she's just with me for security. I love her but I feel unwanted and used. I'm becoming resentful, and I don't know how much longer I can go on like this. I miss affection, connection and just feeling close to her. Is there any way to fix this or have I just become a pay cheque in her eyes? DEIDRE SAYS: It's understandable that you're feeling used and unappreciated, especially when you're carrying the financial load and not receiving emotional or physical connection. Relationships require balance, and it's clear that you're not getting the support you need. You've already expressed your feelings, but if your partner continues to shut you down, you need to have a more serious conversation about your needs. Tell her calmly and clearly how you're feeling, avoid blaming her and instead focus on how the situation is affecting you and your relationship. My support pack Relationship MOT will help guide you on how to move forward together.
