Latest news with #PaulWhitehead
BBC News
4 days ago
- BBC News
Dog seized by police after two suffer bite injuries in Worksop
A dog has been seized after two people were bitten in a flat in Worksop, police have saidNottinghamshire Police were called to a property in Maple Leaf Gardens at about 17:45 BST on found an XL bully-type dog had bitten a man, causing injuries described as "significant but not life-threatening", and a woman to her sedated the dog in the back garden and took it to secure kennels, the force said. 'No wider threat' Police said the attack was an isolated incident, and confirmed the injured woman was the dog's and the injured man were also known to each other, a police spokesperson Paul Whitehead said: "A man was left with nasty injuries after he and a woman were bitten during this dog attack."It should be noted, however, that this was an isolated incident that took place inside a house, so didn't pose any wider threat to the public."The animal has since been moved to secure kennels, while an investigation is ongoing to establish exactly what happened."
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Cox calls for mental health care expansion on Utah State Hospital's 140th anniversary
Dr. Amanda Rapacz, assistant superintendent, and Dr. Paul Whitehead, medical director at Utah State Hospital during a tour of the the institution's Rampton building on July 23, 2025. (Alixel Cabrera/Utah News Dispatch) The Utah State Hospital has come a long way since it was conceived as the Utah Territorial Insane Asylum in 1885 at a Provo location meant to be as distant as possible from the city's center. As this month marks its 140th anniversary, neighbors now use the 312-acre campus as an outdoor recreation spot, while inside, a much smaller patient population can cope and heal. The hospital treats children, teens and adults with severe mental illness, as well as adults who need mental health treatment before they can face charges in court, a big change from how it worked during its inception, when the facility was the first stop for mental health disorders. The campus has been in the community longer than Utah has been a state and has evolved with the times. Its staff now treats about 300 patients, only a portion of the 1,250 people the hospital housed in the 1950s. Care is more personalized and thoughtful, treatment units are smaller, and overcrowding isn't as big of an issue. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Gov. Spencer Cox mentioned that fact at the Wednesday celebration, highlighting the team that makes the hospital run as 'outstanding,' but also acknowledging a need for expansion. 'When I share just those numbers, 1,250 patients who were here in the 1950s with only 1,000 beds, to recognize that we just have a fraction of those 1,000 beds,' Cox said. 'Now we're not a smaller state than we were when there were 700,000 people and 1,000 beds. There are, of course, now 3.5 million of us and many fewer beds, unfortunately.' While the hospital reduced its patient intake capacity, it has also undergone substantial changes in its mission. It's no longer the first stop for mental health patients, but the last resort. It's also joined by many institutions across the state that provide similar care. The state is grateful for that expansion, Cox said. But, he added, 'there's a desperate need for more of it.' Obsolete practices have been replaced by better treatment, and care has become more compassionate, Cox said. But more investment and work is needed. 'I would just also say there is nothing compassionate about allowing patients who should be here, who are not here, who are killing themselves slowly on our streets. There's nothing compassionate about that,' he said. 'And too many have believed that that's where we needed to be, that that's where we need to go. And I think we've made a grave mistake.' The state has also faced a lawsuit in recent years over extended wait times for people charged with crimes and ordered to receive competency restoration treatment at the Utah State Hospital, but who were instead spending months in jail waiting for a bed. In 2017 the state settled the case brought by the Disability Law Center and agreed to shorten wait times. During the Wednesday event, Brandtley Henderson, the hospital's music therapist sang happy birthday to the institution with an acoustic guitar as hundreds gathered on a big, green lawn near paths shaded by thick trees and a prime view of the Wasatch mountains. Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson commended the hospital for being 'a place of not just housing,' but 'a place of healing.' But it hasn't always been that way, she said. 'People, maybe like me, could have been sent to a place like this for being too opinionated, right?' she said. 'We know a lot more now about mental health and how to help and how to heal and how to provide hope, and that's what this institution is.' Henderson is right — 1885-1910 admission records from the hospital listed financial embarrassment, poverty, jealousy, worry, unreciprocated love, excessive reading, reading novels, girl trouble and other now unthinkable reasons as supposed causes of insanity. As late as 1963, a female patient's cause was recorded as 'frustrated housewife syndrome.' Henderson said she expects doctors to learn even more about mental health care in the coming years, but for now, the state is 'committed to maintaining this facility, to maintaining the function, the purpose, the why, and to making sure that more people have access and have the opportunity to not only experience healing here, but to experience the community that is here.' While the campus has remained a community landmark for over a century, during the last couple of years there have been talks about the potential sale of the prime Provo real estate. Rep. Tyler Clancy, R-Provo, proposed a bill in 2024 that, among many provisions, required the state to sell the property. However, that was scratched in an amendment and the Legislature only approved a study about issues relating to civil commitment, or a court-ordered intake of an individual with severe mental illness. Despite that change in the bill, the idea hasn't been extinguished. Earlier this year, Utah County commissioners voted in favor of a resolution to support a relocation proposal, according to KUTV. That may involve dispersing services throughout the state. Senate Majority Assistant Whip, Mike McKell, R-Spanish Fork, opened a bill file titled 'Utah State Hospital Amendments' during the 2025 legislative session, but ended up abandoning it. About the relocation bills, a Department of Health and Human Services public information officer said in a prepared statement that in the department's view, what matters most is that the state continues to ensure behavioral health care needs are met. 'The Utah State Hospital has a long and proud tradition of serving Utahns with significant mental illness. We expect that tradition to continue, as there are continually growing needs for mental health treatment in our state,' the department said. 'We are committed to continually improving the services we provide. We are also committed to working with our partners, including Utah legislators, the Utah Behavioral Health Commission, and local mental health authorities to maintain or improve the services we offer.' However, with those potential relocation plans still uncertain, business continues as usual in the Provo campus. In a tour of the Lucybeth Rampton building — named after the former Utah first lady — Dr. Amanda Rapacz, assistant superintendent, and Dr. Paul Whitehead, medical director at the hospital, showcased the many ways patients are treated and what life in the hospital looks like. Hallways filled with art and natural light from ceiling skylights lead to gyms for physical therapy, rooms for ceramics or music therapy, conference rooms for group sessions, a K-12 school run by the Provo School District, and even a cantine that accepts 'hospital money' that patients can earn by participating in treatment or keeping their rooms clean. Among the stars of the show are the courtyards, Rapacz and Whitehead said, where patients grow their own tomatoes to turn into salsa, and get to spend time outdoors, a rare feature among other state hospitals around the country that may be surrounded by city blocks and can't allow patients outside, or have fences that give the space a 'correctional' look. 'I've done individual therapy sessions out here, and the literature shows that green space and being outdoors is incredibly important for somebody's recovery, and I think it's one of the ways we're really blessed,' Rapacz said. Solve the daily Crossword
Scottish Sun
08-07-2025
- Scottish Sun
NC500 tractor driver caught ‘high on drugs' during police crackdown on road trip route
PULL OVER NC500 tractor driver caught 'high on drugs' during police crackdown on road trip route Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A TRACTOR driver was allegedly caught high on drugs during a police crackdown on the North Coast 500. Officers stopped the motorist on the Dornoch Bridge on the A9, where he was also alleged to have no licence or insurance. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Police carried out another crackdown on motorists on the NC500 road trip The tractor driver is alleged to have failed the roadside tests for drugs and alcohol. He was then arrested and his tractor was seized. It comes as police carried out another crackdown on motorists on the NC500 road trip. Officers detected 27 alleged offences – including 13 for speeding and five for careless driving – after stopping over 60 people. 'Road Policing Officers undertook a targeted road safety operation along the NC500 route over the course of the weekend. This was in response to complaints and concerns raised by local residents and serious road traffic collisions along the route,' said the force. 'During the operation over 60 road users were stopped and engaged with including cars, motorcycles, cyclists and campervans. 'Officers also stopped a male driving a tractor on the Dornoch Bridge. He was arrested and his tractor seized.' Constable Paul Whitehead of the Highlands and Islands Road Policing Unit said: 'Speeding, Carless Driving, Drink and Drug Driving, using a mobile phone and not wearing a seatbelt are the five most prevalent factors in serious and fatal road traffic collisions. "We support and encourage all road users to safely share and use our roads responsibly. Anyone falling below the safe standard should expect to be dealt with robustly in line with road safety laws.' More than 3800 people have pledged to be responsible tourists on Scotland's answer to America's Route 66 – which has been the subject of numerous complaints from locals over the years. Shocking moment speeding van driver distracted by phone slams into broken-down car leaving victim with lifelong injuries People on the NC500 are being encouraged to sign a pledge towards responsible tourism. North Coast 500 Ltd - the organisation behind the promotion of the 516 mile route - has had thousands of sign-ups for the pledge since October last year. So far, 93 per cent of people who signed the pledge took part in some sort of 'extra mile' task such as a beach clean or local charity donation. This includes: 13 per cent took part in beach cleans, 12 per cent donated to local foodbanks or local charity boxes, 91 per cent prioritised local businesses, and 83 per cent shared responsible travel tips either in person or on social media. The pledge, developed in consultation with residents and businesses along the route, invites visitors to commit to respectful and sustainable tourism during their visit, helping to address the challenges facing local communities as a result of tourism. 'Since its launch, the NC500 has become a beloved journey for travellers from across the globe, showcasing the beauty and culture of the Scottish Highlands. 2 Officers detected 27 alleged offences after stopping over 60 people "As more visitors have explored this iconic route, it became clear that mindful travel is key to lessening the impact on the environment and the lives of residents. "Preserving the natural landscapes and supporting the local communities that make the NC500 so special is vital to create a balance between tourism and sustainability,' says NC500 Ltd. 'In response, the NC500 Pledge was born—a initiative created to encourage visitors to experience the route responsibly and respectfully. The pledge represents a promise to protect the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and community spirit that define the NC500. 'Developed after consultation with residents, businesses, and visitors, the pledge reflects the core values of the Highlands: respect, stewardship, and sustainability. It's a simple but powerful promise to protect the landscape, celebrate the rich heritage, and support the people who live here. 'By taking the pledge, visitors become stewards of the NC500, helping to ensure that it remains a place where adventure and discovery can flourish, without compromising the land or the people who call it home. It's a small action with a big impact—allowing the NC500 to be enjoyed in its full beauty for years to come.' The initiative asks visitors to leave no trace by disposing of waste responsibly, parking only in dedicated parking areas during the day and overnight and to prioritise shopping in local businesses alongside a list of other positive commitments. SCOTLAND'S ROUTE 66 DESPITE its challenges, the NC500 is still one of the most popular road trips in the world. Earlier this year, the scenic route was voted the number one most searched for road trip in the UK and an astonishing fifth in the world-wide table. With its impressive 516-mile stretch of magnificent coastal views, it's not surprising it's such a popular route for travellers looking to explore. From castles to distilleries there is something for everyone to enjoy. It was also ranked as the most romantic drive in Britain after an influx of visitors took to the roads for 'staycations' in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic. An English couple told how they loved the NC500 so much that they got it tattooed on their bodies forever. While a couple who travelled the route in an Audi convertible told how it was "one of the best holidays" they've ever had. It also asks people to be mindful of wildlife, keep noise levels low and avoid lighting fires or BBQs outside of designated areas to reduce the risk of wildlfires. The pledge is supported by a dedicated digital platform to boost engagement, offering tourists educational resources to help them explore the Highlands while preserving its natural beauty. The NC500 has been subject to constant complaints over various motoring problems. One motorhome hire company previously advised its customers to avoid the NC500 after attacks on its vehicles. Two of its motorhomes had eggs and cartons of yoghurt thrown over them - and two also had tyres slashed. Residents have frequently complained about congestion and mess left behind by cars, campervans and motorhomes across the north. Tensions on the road trip escalated over the years. In 2018 police investigated a spate of incidents on the NC500 with attempts to puncture vehicles' tyres. Roofing tacks were found scattered on a road near Bettyhill. Police have regularly carried out operations on the NC500 each year, catching scores of offenders, including for speeding. The NC500 has been hailed by various top travel publications, National Geographic and American broadcaster CNN as one of the world's greatest drives and highlighted on TV shows such as Top Gear. It is estimated to be worth more than £22m a year to the local economy. However, the circular route, in and out of Inverness, has been described as both a highway to hell and a road paved with gold - boosting tourism but with complaints from residents not just of speeding motorists nut, conversely, also of slow moving convoys of motor homes and long tailbacks of bikers.
Yahoo
26-04-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Support for man cycling length of country and hiking up three mountains
A MAN who is cycling the length of the UK while also tackling the Three Peaks Challenge along the way has been overwhelmed with support. Paul Whitehead, 54, from Weymouth is cycling from Lands End to John O'Groats, which he hopes to complete in a gruelling 15 days to raise awareness for Motor Neurone Disease. The avid cyclist said he is roughly a third of the way into his landmark journey, which as well as cycling over 800 miles, includes hiking up the three tallest peaks in the UK - Snowdon in Wales, Scafell Pike in Cumbria and Ben Nevis in Scotland. While cycling through Lach Dennis near Northwich in Cheshire on day five of his ride yesterday, Paul said: 'It's been a challenge. When you have a destination to get to and you see the fundraising. It's been incredible.' As previously reported, Paul decided to undertake the great cross country challenge after his friend and fellow cyclist was diagnosed with MND last July. After a harrowing drive back from Oxfordshire after seeing his newly diagnosed friend, below, Paul was spurred into action. (Image: Paul Whitehead) Paul said of his friend: 'He's been supporting me all the way. It's been so positive, and I've been on the edge of tears from the generosity of people.' Paul hoped to reach at least £7,777, to commemorate national rugby player Rob Burrow who tragically died from MND in June last year. He played as number seven for Leeds Rhinos. (Image: Paul Whitehead) Paul hit his target after a random donation of £27 helped him to reach the goal, coincidentally on his birthday on April 23. He said: 'It was written in the stars. You really couldn't have made it up. What a great birthday surprise.' Since setting off on April 22, Paul has received well wishes from Ferne Cotton via Instagram and from Gloucester Rugby player Lewis Ludlow. Sherborne Antiques Market has also organised fundraisers and a window display supporting Paul along his journey. Many campsites he and his partner Gwen have stayed in along the way have also let him stay free of charge, with the money saved going right back into the fundraising pot. (Image: Paul Whitehead) Paul said: 'It's a constant battle to get yourself ready every day. Between me and Gwen it's been full on. It's been amazing. We're definitely a team.' While the dedicated friend and cyclist has nearly reached £10,000 on GoFundMe, he hopes to surpass the staggering amount as he completes his journey. He hopes to reach John O'Groats by May 7. Paul is currently 385 miles into his challenge, and there is still plenty of time to donate to the incredible cause. Donations can be made through Paul's GoFundMe page here and he will be posting regular updates on the journey through his Instagram page, also found on his GoFundMe.
The Independent
10-03-2025
- Business
- The Independent
Zoopla hires new boss who left Cazoo before its collapse
Zoopla has rehired Paul Whitehead as its new chief executive, a year after he stepped down as the boss of used car marketplace Cazoo. Mr Whitehead is returning to lead the online property portal after he left as chief strategy officer in 2018. He said he was 'delighted to return to Zoopla' having spent the past three months advising the company's shareholders. Mr Whitehead left Cazoo in April last year, shortly before it collapsed into administration. The online marketplace, through which people can buy and sell cars, had launched a drastic restructuring which saw it shed hundreds of jobs. Cazoo was founded in the UK in 2018 by Alex Chesterman – who is also the founder of Zoopla – and was once valued at around £5 billion. The brand was bought in June last year by secondhand car site Motors, which relaunched the website and app. Mr Whitehead wrote in a LinkedIn post on leaving Cazoo that it 'wasn't an easy decision' and admitted the team 'made mistakes along the way for sure but learnt a lot at the same time'. Zoopla, which is the second-largest property portal behind market leader Rightmove, said the new appointment comes at a time for growth for the business. This includes new contracts with estate agency groups, including Leaders Romans Group – a Berkshire-based property management firm – which it said had returned after a year with rival marketplace OnTheMarket. During the year so far Zoopla has gained 450 new estate agency branches which use the platform to advertise their listings and connect with home buyers and renters. 'My focus is on building upon the clear competitive advantage that Zoopla has in delivering high-quality buyers and vendors to our customers,' Mr Whitehead said.
