Latest news with #Pendle
Daily Mail
22-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Women aged over 24 banned from using gym during peak hours to make younger members 'more comfortable'
A gym in Lancashire has banned women over 24 from using it during peak hours in an 'ageist' policy aimed at making its younger female members 'more comfortable'. The ban will be in effect from 4pm to 7pm on weekdays - hours that are already part of the gym's female-only timings of 9am till 7pm - meaning older working women will have to workout alongside male members post 8pm. This was the dilemma of one gym member who highlighted the policy change on Mumsnet before the facility was identified as Bodies in Motion in Pendle by Writing on the parenting platform, the 36-year-old asked fellow community members what they thought about the new rule, adding: 'This is ridiculous, right?' She posted a screenshot of a text message from the gym that explained the facility will be 'reserved exclusively for women aged 12 to 24' from Monday to Friday between 4pm and 7pm. 'This update has been made in response to feedback and to better cater to our younger female members who require a dedicated, comfortable space during peak after-school and early evening hours,' the text read. The post sparked a flurry of comments as Mumsnet users questioned the gym's 'weird' decision to bar 'women of a certain age' from using the facility during hours that are already reserved for females. Since the gym was identified online, angry customers have accused Bodies in Motion of 'discrimination' - but the Lancashire facility has not responded to the backlash at the time of writing. MailOnline has contacted the gym for comment. One employee at Bodies in Motion told that the age-restriction only applies to 'really old women above 50' without elaborating futher. Others confirmed that while the new policy had been announced, female gymgoers over the age of 24 could contunue to workout during their chosen hours if their access pass worked. According to its website, the gym is billed as an inclusive space where 'everyone - regardless of their background or circumstance deserves the opportunity to thrive'. However, the new rules were branded exclusionary in comments under the Mumsnet user's post, as one person wrote it 'makes very little sense and seems ageist'. 'I don't see why a 12-year-old would be okay to workout with a 24-year-old but would it find intimidating to see another woman of say 30, or 45?!' their comment read. 'Just imagine if you had a 12-year-old daughter and you wanted to introduce her to it but couldn't because you're too old.' Weighing in on the debate, another shared that while it might make sense to reserve the gym for younger women occasionally, 'blocking off the time that any working women would want to use the gym every week day is bonkers'. A third added: 'I wonder if they're trying to attract the influencer-type crowd for some free marketing.' This was the dilemma of one gym member who highlighted the policy change on Mumsnet before her post received a flurry of comments criticising the new rules Another flabbergasted user added: 'Surely they can't specify age in this way? Either way, I'd be cancelling my membership and making very clear why.' Several women similarly advised the Mumsnet user to 'vote with your wallet' and suspend her membership until the dispute is resolved. The discussion spilled over on to Reddit where the policy was also heavily criticised. 'Girls and women under 24 need a safe space over 24?' one person's message read. 'Am I missing something?' A small group of people also sided with the gym, with one person suggesting there's a 'purpose in providing a space' just for teenage girls who might be awkward or conscious in front of older members. Their comment read: 'Not ridiculous at all - teenage girls collectively are a group highly at risk of stopping exercising. 'There's a purpose in providing a space just for them, just as there is a purpose in women only gym sessions in the first place. If the gym managers think there's a workable business case for making it work good luck to them. 'If it doesn't then they'll go bust.' Another said: 'If the gym can identify a legitimate aim - and they have done, "to better cater to our younger female members who require a dedicated, comfortable space during peak after-school and early evening hours" - then they are free to do it, and other users are free to cancel their memberships.'
Business Insider
17-07-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
Falcon Finance Tops $600M in USDf Supply as DeFi Demand Surges
Dubai, UAE, July 17th, 2025, Chainwire Synthetic dollar protocol Falcon Finance has announced that the total supply of its USDf synthetic dollar has surpassed $600M. The latest milestone, achieved just five weeks after crossing $500M, highlights the protocol's rapid growth and the increasing demand for its yield-generating asset that is being widely integrated into DeFi protocols. The total supply of the dollar-pegged USDf has been rising steadily for months and now stands at $648M, with a TVL of $685M, which represents the total value of crypto assets that have been deposited by its users. These assets are backed by a 115% overcollateralization rate that is fully verifiable through daily reserve attestations. Demand for USDf has been fueled by strong uptake of the Falcon Miles points program, complemented by enhanced transparency measures, such as daily proof-of-reserve attestations and the establishment of quarterly ISAE 3000 assurance reviews by Harris & Trotter LLP. The recent launch of the first onchain mint using tokenized U.S. Treasuries via Superstate's USTB has bridged real-world assets with DeFi liquidity, while a partnership with BitGo provides secure institutional custody and paves the way for fiat ramps and staking integrations. In addition, Falcon has expanded its cross-chain presence to XRPL EVM via Axelar and BNB Chain, boosting capital efficiency across the multi-chain landscape. Opportunities to utilize USDf have grown with integrations across DeFi protocols, including a USDf spot market on WOO X and Pendle tokens like PT-sUSDf on Morpho's lending and borrowing platform, allowing users to supply sUSDf as collateral while earning yield. After depositing stablecoins or crypto assets, including BTC and ETH, Falcon users can mint USDf, which serves as an overcollateralized stablecoin. Users who then elect to stake their USDf can mint a corresponding amount of sUSDf, the yield-generating version of Falcon's dual-token stablecoin. The yield available on sUSDf is variable but currently stands at an APY of 10.8%. It's designed to remain competitive through diversified sources, including funding rate arbitrage, cross-exchange strategies, and now tokenized real-world assets. Unlike other synthetic dollar protocols that rely solely on positive funding rate arbitrage, the yield distributed to USDf stakers is derived from multiple sources. This ensures a consistent yield regardless of market conditions. As part of its long-term user growth strategy, Falcon has expanded its Falcon Miles ecosystem-wide points program and is now rewarding activity across minting, staking, LPing, and referrals with up to 60x multipliers. The program includes retroactive drops and has extended to additional onchain integrations with the likes of Pendle, Euler, Morpho, Napier, and Spectra as the Falcon ecosystem evolves. With more chain integrations, additional vaults, and further expansions to Falcon Miles underway, Falcon Finance is rapidly advancing its goal of making USDf a cornerstone of the DeFi landscape. Contact Managing Partner
Yahoo
13-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Teenager finds clear direction in life after help from YES Hub
A young Pendle man has found a clear direction for his life thanks to Pendle YES Hub. The Hub, managed by Active Lancashire and Positive Action in the Community on behalf of Pendle Borough Council, offers free support and training to 16–24-year-olds to help them gain confidence and employment. Abdul-Raheem Araf was referred to the YES Hub in August 2024 by his work coach as he navigated uncertainty about his future. Approaching his final year of college, the 17-year-old struggled with low confidence and anxiety over his next steps. His initial goal was to find part-time work, but he was also eager to gain a clearer sense of direction for life after education. Upon joining the Hub, staff quickly recognised the pressure Abdul was under and supported him in accessing NHS mental health drop-in sessions. This was a crucial first step in helping him improve his well-being and explore new opportunities. Abdul-Raheem Araf (Image: Abdul-Raheem Araf) As he began to engage more with the support on offer, he took part in a series of confidence-building activities, including outdoor adventure sessions, indoor climbing sessions and songwriting workshops. Abdul found that the physical activity sessions and wellbeing support in collaboration with local partner organisations helped him to reduce stress and gain a clearer sense of direction for his future, whilst connecting with other young people facing similar challenges. Abdul said: 'I've been supported in many ways, and it's really helped build my confidence. The YES Hub's outdoor activities have given me some mental stability and provided a helpful distraction from anxiety. I also attended their counselling sessions, which were great when I needed someone to listen and offer advice.' READ MORE: Act of betrayal as man stabs friend 20 times over unpaid £20 debt READ MORE: Education boss to monitor pupil attendance after school bus shake-up Throughout his time at the Hub, Abdul also received ongoing guidance from a dedicated work coach to explore the barriers he had faced in securing employment. With a CV and interview skills, Abdul secured part-time employment at Banny's in Colne. He has also been able to realise his dream of becoming a Paramedic – something he had felt was beyond reach before he accessed the YES Hub's support. As Abdul prepares to begin studying paramedic sciences, he continues to work part-time and attend the YES Hub to destress and socialise with others. Councillor Asjad Mahmood, deputy leader of Pendle Borough Council and Nelson Town Deal board member, said: 'The support Abdul has been offered has made a significant difference and helped him achieve something he never imagined. 'He is proof that initiatives like Pendle YES Hub really do help young people to overcome barriers when offered the right support. We wish him all the best for the future.'
Yahoo
05-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Public health pledge aims to tackle obesity rates in Pendle
A public health pledge aims to tackle rising obesity rates. Pendle's Health and Wellbeing Partnership has signed the Healthy Weight Declaration, a formal commitment to promote healthier lifestyles across the borough. The move comes as data shows that 68 per cent of adults in Pendle are overweight or obese, above the national average. Councillor David Whipp, leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: "The Pendle Health and Wellbeing Partnership is the first in England to adopt a district declaration. "Pendle Borough Council is pleased to support this partnership commitment to support healthy weight across local communities." Healthy Weight Declaration, developed by the charity Food Active, was first launched in 2015 and has since been adopted by numerous local authorities across the UK. Pendle's partnership includes Pendle Borough Council, Pendle Leisure Trust, Lancashire County Council, primary care networks, and community organisations. Dr Irfan Chaudry, clinical director of Pendle West Primary Care Network, said: "Signing the declaration as a Health and Wellbeing Partnership is the right approach in Pendle. "By working collectively to review our services and policies to shape healthier environments, we can alleviate pressure on the NHS and social care, whilst supporting our local communities to live well."
Daily Mail
21-06-2025
- Politics
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE Proof UK cares more about asylum seekers than its own citizens? Shock figures show councils are housing up to 10 times more asylum seekers than homeless people
Seventeen councils are accommodating up to 10 times more asylum seekers than homeless people, analysis suggests. The biggest disparity was seemingly in Pendle, a borough inside Reform's newly-gained Lancashire authority. Latest Government data shows 453 asylum seekers are being housed in Pendle. In contrast, only nine homeless households are in temporary accommodation. Critics of Britain's immigration policy have seized upon the figures as proof we are ran by people who 'care more about illegal migrants than its own citizens'. However, officials criticised MailOnline's 'misleading' analysis and argued that they could not control where homeless people choose to live. The full results of our investigation can be viewed in our interactive map, which lays bare the true situation in every council. Home Office data shows 89,000 asylum seekers – the equivalent of a town the size of Stevenage, Hastings or Southport – were being housed across England as of the end of March. By comparison, 128,000 homeless 'households' were in temporary accommodation heading into 2025. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, which keeps track of the number of homeless 'households', says their overall estimate equates to around 295,000 people. Because it does not list specific figures for each council, the only way of comparing the two is by posting homeless households against the number of asylum seekers. Ten councils did not publish figures on homeless households, meaning they were excluded from our analysis. In total, more than a third of England's councils currently house asylum seekers at double the rate of homeless households. Behind Pendle came Stockton-on-Tees (797 asylum seekers vs 26 homeless households) and Wyre (375 asylum seekers vs 14 homeless households). Robert Bates, of the Centre for Migration Control thinktank, said: 'Those who were born here and have contributed to the economy have been abandoned, and left on the streets, in favour of undocumented young men towards whom we should have no moral or legal obligation. 'Thousands of British veterans and families are facing real hardship but are denied even a fraction of the generosity extended to asylum seekers. 'Scattering these people across the country places further strain on communities suffering with a dysfunctional housing market, increasing rents and making it harder for young people to own a home. What is an asylum seeker? Asylum is protection given by a country to someone fleeing from persecution in their own country. An asylum seeker is someone who has applied for asylum and is awaiting a decision on whether they will be granted refugee status. An asylum applicant who does not qualify for refugee status may still be granted leave to remain in the UK for humanitarian or other reasons. An asylum seeker whose application is refused at initial decision may appeal the decision through an appeal process and, if successful, may be granted leave to remain. 'Anyone entering the country illegally should be detained and swiftly deported - it is only then that we can hope this madness will end.' While an asylum seeker is waiting to hear the outcome of their claim, the Home Office is legally obligated to provide them housing if they need it. If they are successful they become recognised as refugees – entitled to work and receive full state benefits. From that point on, councils have statutory responsibility to look after housing, if the refugees are unable to. But councils do not provide accommodation to everyone and instead use a priority system, which takes into account children and other vulnerability factors, to decide who gets a home. It means that some refugees may also fall under the homeless category in official statistics. Fuelled by an explosion in small boat crossings, the cost of accommodating asylum seekers has tripled to £4.2million a day. Around 30,000 are currently kept in hotels, where they are usually provided meals along with £8.86 per week. The Chancellor Rachel Reeves promised last week to end the housing of asylum seekers in hotels over the next four years. The handout amount rises to £49.18 per week if no meals are provided. Extra money is also provided to pregnant mothers and young children. As well as getting free accommodation, asylum seekers are also entitled to taxpayer-funded NHS healthcare, prescriptions, dental care and children under 18 are required to go to school, where they may be able to get free meals. Homeless people in temporary accommodation are offered full state benefits such as Universal Credit, and some hostels provide food that is paid through a service charge. Those living in temporary accommodation make up the vast majority of homeless people, with only around 3,900 sleeping rough on any given night, according to the charity Shelter. Critics claim that many homeless people have paid council tax and contributed for years to British tax and society, unlike asylum seekers. Around four in five of those assessed as needing homeless relief of some kind were British nationals, according to the latest data. Some of those left out in the cold are even veterans and ex-service personnel who have fought for the country in Iraq and Afghanistan. Concerns have been raised that they may have to make do with a concrete pillow in a shop doorway, while they look up to see asylum seekers getting a cosy hotel bed on the same street. Life on the streets is often dangerous, with rates of drinking and drug abuse high, leading to high rates of poor mental health and death compared to those who have a bed. Alp Mehmet, of Migration Watch UK, said: 'Over 100,000 people applied for asylum in 2024, including main applicants and their dependants. There will be just as many seeking asylum this year. 'If they're not in hotels, they will have to be housed elsewhere. 'Then there's the 430,000 net migration added to the population last year. 'Well over half a half a million people needing a roof over their heads, roofs that won't be available to British citizens. 'When will the Government see sense and end this madness? Get a grip, Sir Keir!' The public has been expressing their discontentment with the apparent unfairness of the situation for some time. A recent survey by IPSOS found 68 per cent of the public deem the numbers coming to the UK to seek refugee status or asylum too high. And in March when MailOnline visited Coventry, the local authority with the fifth-highest number of supported asylum seekers in Britain, locals expressed their frustration with the process. Louse and Dee said they were living in temporary accommodation and claimed the increasing numbers of asylum seekers in the area was making the housing shortage worse. Louise, 37, said: 'I'm currently homeless. The houses go to the asylum seekers rather than the actual homeless. 'I'm in a shared accommodation and I am technically homeless. 'I think the Government should be looking after their own before helping other people. 'I don't think the city can handle the amount of people coming in.' Dee, 38, said she had to live separately from her husband just to find a bed to sleep in and blasted the Government. 'I think it's ridiculous that asylum seekers can come over here and get housed but my husband, who has paid taxes his whole life, is on the street. 'I'm homeless too, we've had to separate so that one of us can get somewhere to sleep. 'I don't think we can handle the numbers, we can't house the people who are from this city. 'If they come over here and work and pay into the system, fair play to them. I know diverse people who I call my family. But the fact is, we need to help our own.' In Manchester in November 2024, protesters against asylum seekers being housed locally held up signs which said 'House Our Homeless First'. There have been some recent cases of local authorities block-booking entire hotels for homeless people, in the same way the Home Office does for asylum seekers. Last year Milton Keynes council signed a deal to use all 140 rooms of Harben House Hotel for five years, which it will use to house homeless people. A report in August revealed that the council was spending around £20m a year on temporary accommodation mainly in the private rented sector and it needed to find lower cost spaces. In the battle for scarce accommodation, councils have lost out on renting hotels due to Home Office contractors seeking space for asylum seekers outbidding them. Furthermore, many asylum seekers become homeless once they are granted refugee status and have to find their own accommodation. They are given 56 days to move on from asylum accommodation following the issue of their decision, which was extended from 28 days in December, but some campaigners complain it is still not enough time. The No Accommodation Network (Naccom), an umbrella organisation for 140 frontline groups working with asylum seekers, refugees and other migrants across the UK, said homelessness among refugees has doubled in the last year. In data shared with the Guardian in November, it said 1,941 refugees had now found themselves without accommodation – the highest number they had ever dealt with. A Government spokesperson said: 'This analysis is incorrect and misleading as it compares the number of individual asylum seekers with homeless households, which can contain more than one person. 'We've taken immediate action to fix the broken asylum system this Government inherited, by increasing asylum decision making by 52 per cent and removing 30,000 people with no right to be here. We have already made asylum savings of half a billion. 'We are also taking urgent and decisive action to end homelessness, fix the foundations of local Government and drive forward our Plan for Change by providing £1bn for crucial homelessness services this year so councils can support families faster.'
