Year: 2026

Overview of Burrator Forest Burrator Forest, located on the outskirts of Dartmoor National Park in Devon, encompasses an impressive 353 hectares adjacent to the Burrator Reservoir. This diverse woodland habitat is home to various native and non-native species. The site is owned by South West Water and managed by South West Lakes Trust, forming part of a comprehensive network of over 50 managed locations throughout south-west England, many of which feature woodlands. Management and Funding Initiatives The establishment of Burrator Forest involves both planting and natural regeneration, resulting in a rich tapestry of lowland broadleaved and coniferous woodlands, as well as mixed plantations and riparian woodlands. Financial support has been provided through initiatives such as the Water Ind...

Upcoming Changes to Regulated Activity with Children As of 1 September 2026, significant amendments will be made to the legislation governing regulated activities involving children in England and Wales. The current provision concerning the supervision of paid staff and volunteers engaged in specific activities with children will be eliminated from the legal framework. Similar changes are anticipated in Northern Ireland, with further details available on the Department of Justice website. This legislative shift implies that various individuals will find themselves classified as being in regulated activity with children from 1 September 2026, a status they did not hold previously due to adequate supervision by another responsible adult. This classification will apply if the work is conducte...

New Initiative to Combat Illegal Number Plates A comprehensive nationwide initiative has been launched to tackle the issue of illegal number plates, as part of a significant funding boost from the Department for Transport (DfT). This move will enhance enforcement measures aimed at both drivers who evade fines and organised crime syndicates operating across England. The establishment of the National Roads Policing Coordination Centre (NRPCC) is central to this effort, which seeks to strengthen collaboration among police forces and improve the sharing of intelligence and data. The NRPCC will serve as a hub for various police departments throughout England, facilitating the exchange of information and resources to combat road-related criminal activity. This includes the introduction of innova...

Upcoming Changes in Regulated Activities with Children From 1st September 2026, the definition of regulated activity involving children will undergo significant changes. These alterations will affect various sectors and roles, prompting a need for organisations to understand the implications of this new legislation. While comprehensive details can be found on official government platforms, it is essential to clarify some common misunderstandings regarding these changes. Understanding the Scope of the Changes One prevalent misconception is that the removal of the supervision exemption applies solely to England. In reality, this change will affect not only England but also Wales and Northern Ireland. Therefore, all organisations operating in these regions should prepare for the implications ...