Looking for news surrounding healthcare and social care? Or perhaps education, or recovery and criminal justice? Whatever you’re after, you’ll find it in the Friday Five.
Here, we collate five of the most noteworthy stories from recent days and package them into one, easy-to-digest news parcel. Sound good? Then let’s get into it.
1. New Cancer Drug Offers a Kinder Alternative to Chemo
In a pioneering approach at Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, 11-year-old Arthur is among the first children to receive a new, less toxic cancer treatment than chemotherapy. Using blinatumomab (blina), a portable immunotherapy drug, Arthur could receive treatment in a backpack while leading a more normal life at home.
This targeted therapy, sparing healthy cells unlike chemotherapy, is being used off-label in the UK for B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in children. Arthur’s treatment successfully eradicated his cancer, offering a less burdensome and more effective alternative to traditional chemotherapy.
2. Sister Doesn’t Blame Social Services for Death of 2-Year-Old Sibling
In Skegness, the tragic death of two-year-old Bronson Battersby, who is believed to have starved after his father’s fatal heart attack, is under investigation. Melanie Battersby, Bronson’s sister, does not blame social services, acknowledging their efforts within their limitations.
Lincolnshire County Council and the Independent Office for Police Conduct are conducting reviews to understand any missed opportunities in safeguarding Bronson, whose father had been in poor health. The case highlights the challenges faced by social services and police in responding to welfare concerns.
3. Ofsted Inspection Pauses Announced
The UK government has updated its policy on pausing state-funded school inspections. This measure, outlined by Ofsted, is designed to ensure that inspections are conducted with consideration for the well-being of school staff and the operational capacity of the school.
The policy allows for inspections to be paused under exceptional circumstances and aims to minimize undue stress and anxiety during the process. A pause can last up to five working days, depending on the school’s situation and inspector availability, ensuring the integrity of the inspection process while being sensitive to the needs of the school community.
4. Man Arrested on Suspicion of Aiding Prisoner Escape
In London, a 24-year-old was arrested for his alleged role in Daniel Khalife’s escape from HMP Wandsworth. Khalife, who fled by hiding under a delivery vehicle, was apprehended after four days.
He faces trial for various charges, including escape and terrorism-related offenses. The arrest, made by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, is part of an ongoing investigation. Officials urge restraint in public discussion to avoid influencing Khalife’s upcoming trial.
5. Police Appeal for Information in Drug Drone Crash Near Prison
A drone, believed to be carrying drugs, has crashed near HMP Edinburgh. Reported to Police Scotland around 1:05 am on Wednesday, the incident is under investigation in collaboration with the Scottish Prison Service.
The drone’s operator is suspected to be located in Longstone Road. Sergeant Mark Coull urged the public, especially those with CCTV or dashcam footage, to assist in identifying those responsible. This incident underscores ongoing concerns about the use of drones for illegal activities in prison vicinities.
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