Ben Hurst
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Senior Duty Editor (Network Newsroom), ex Reach regionals head of vid, Bham Mail news editor, Birmingham Post head of news. Views my own........
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Articles by Ben Hurst
ITV expert issues verdict on leaving the heating on all day long
An ITV expert has put an end to the long-running debate about whether it's more economical to leave your heating on low throughout the day, or simply turn it up when you need warmth. Consumer specialist Grace Forell, who regularly appears on ITV's This Morning , addressed the question in a recent Instagram post. Many households believe that keeping a steady temperature is more cost-effective than cranking up the heating to warm a chilly home.
DWP confirms £575 state pension boost as Andy Burnham announces triple lock changes
The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed the substantial boost that state pensioners can expect next year, following the announcement of upcoming increases. Secretary of State Pat McFadden addressed the House of Commons this week, outlining the Government's plans and providing an update on the future of the triple lock.
Anyone using hot water bottle in bed given warning by ITV expert
A consumer expert appearing on ITV has given a chilling warning for anyone who uses a hot water bottle in bed. Grace Forrell, a regular contributor on ITV 's This Morning, took to Instagram to address the issue. She explained that some people as the weather gets colder may consider doubling up in bed - with an electric blanket. However she described it as a ‘massive hazard' and said people should under no circumstances do it.
DWP responds to Commons 'end PIP cash' for ADHD call
The Department for Work and Pensions has responded to calls that it’s ‘time to end’ all cash payments for people with conditions such as ADHD. In a debate in the House of Commons Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms was asked about the rise in claimants. He told the house that the Office for Budget Responsibility official forecast predicted that at the end of the current Parliament, in 2029-30, UK welfare spending will be about £390 billion.
BBC expert gives major statins update about impact on health condition
A BBC expert has given his verdict on a major research into statins and their impact on potentially serious health conditions. Statins are a class of prescription medications used to lower blood cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. New research published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology suggests that taking cholesterol-lowering statins is associated with a lower risk of developing open-angle glaucoma and a reduced need for intensive treatments or surgery.
State pension age change to 65 call update as DWP issues statement
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Tesco drivers told of £60 spend rule with deadline on Sunday
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Andy Burnham state pension review chief gives age change to 70 update
An expert heading a government examination into pension age rises has suggested '70 is not unusual in other countries' and stated that individuals must be 'rethinking about how late in life we're prepared to work'. Speaking on the BBC Radio 4 Moneybox programme, Dr Suzy Morrissey indicated 'anything is possible' when questioned whether people will need to wait until they're 70 in future.
State pension age change to 65 plan update as DWP issues statement
Backing has surged for a fresh campaign to overturn government policy and bring the State Pension age back down to 65. The State Pension age commenced its rise from 66 in April 2026 and is scheduled to hit 67 by April 2028. The UK Work and Pensions Committee has put forward serious concerns regarding the consequences for people unable to remain in employment, emphasising considerable regional disparities in quality of life around the UK.
State pension age change to 65 plan update as DWP issues statement
Backing has surged for a fresh campaign to overturn government policy and bring the State Pension age back down to 65. The State Pension age commenced its rise from 66 in April 2026 and is scheduled to hit 67 by April 2028. The UK Work and Pensions Committee has put forward serious concerns regarding the consequences for people unable to remain in employment, emphasising considerable regional disparities in quality of life around the UK.
DWP confirms £575 state pension boost after Andy Burnham change announced
The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed the expected large boost state pensioners will get next year when an increase is applied. In the Commons this week Secretary of State Pat McFadden spoke about the plans and gave an update on the triple lock changes. He told MPs that the triple lock would stay in place for this Parliament - but explained how it would change afterwards.
DWP 4 benefits confirmed getting £150 cost of living help after Andy Burnham bill change
The government has given an update on a key scheme which will see customers of 24 companies get a £150 boost for power bills this winter. In a Parliamentary debate, the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Miatta Fahnbulleh, said officials were aiming to give people assistance this winter as bills soar. In a debate on Household Energy Bills Support , Ms Fahnbulleh was asked what steps are being taken to support households with bills.
Martin Lewis warns Netflix, Spotify and Disney+ users of subscription changes in January
Money-saving expert Martin Lewis has warned of a significant change arriving in January that will affect anyone paying for online subscriptions to services such as Netflix, Spotify, Disney+, Amazon Prime, gym memberships and cloud storage. Speaking on his podcast, Mr Lewis told listeners that at present there is 'no protection' when subscriptions auto-renew, meaning there is no cooling-off period available.
State pension age change 65 plan key update as DWP issues new response
Support has soared for a renewed push to reverse government policy and reduce the State Pension age back to 65. The State Pension age began its increase from 66 in April 2026 and is set to reach 67 by April 2028. The UK Work and Pensions Committee has raised serious concerns about the impact on individuals who cannot continue working, highlighting significant geographical variations in quality of life.
Martin Lewis advice on how to avoid DWP £117.22 payment risk
Personal finance expert Martin Lewis has given important advice to parents claiming Child Benefit and at danger of approaching the threshold - and be forced to pay it back. On his BBC Radio 5 Live podcast , the money man was asked about the benefit - and how a listener was on the verge of being hit by tax after getting a pay rise above £60,000. Child Benefit is a UK government payment made to parents or anyone responsible for raising a child.
DWP 4 benefits confirmed getting £150 cost of living help after Andy Burnham bill change
The government has given an update on a key scheme which will see customers of 24 companies get a £150 boost for power bills this winter. In a Parliamentary debate, the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Miatta Fahnbulleh, said officials were aiming to give people assistance this winter as bills soar. At Energy Security and Net Zero, Ms Fahnbulleh was asked what steps are being taken to support households with bills.
Martin Lewis issues warning to 1.1m Brits missing out on £5,959
Money-saving expert Martin Lewis has reiterated his call for pensioners who may be eligible to check if they are missing out on thousands of pounds each year through an "underclaimed" state benefit. Attendance Allowance, intended for individuals aged 66 and over who have disabilities or serious health conditions requiring regular care, is managed by the Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ).
Key passport rule change for anyone entering UK starting from October
Anyone with a passport has been warned of a major change for all travellers - coming in early 2027. People who may hve been hit by delays getting back into the UK and tryin to use an eGate has been told of the rule change. From early 2027, passengers arriving in the UK will be able to pass through the gates without showing their passports, according to the Home Office.
DWP key disabled payments 'slashed by 85%' with ‘with no right of appeal'
A key government scheme to help the disabled has seen awards slashed by up to 85 per cent ‘with no right of appeal'. BBC Radio 4's Moneybox show looked at the key Access to Work initiative which provides funding and support to keep the disabled in jobs. Awards are made to help with equipment or support in person - but users have complained they have seen them drastically slashed.
NHS warns of ominous signs as key strain of flu detected in UK mutates
The NHS has issued a warning about 'ominous' signs as flu cases reach their highest levels in four years . At a press conference this afternoon (Thursday), officials revealed that flu trends have been climbing since August, with indications that the UK could be heading for an early flu season.
DWP £150 cost of living discounts for millions on 4 benefits confirmed with October letters
Energy consumers have been informed that 24 firms have enrolled in a programme that will deliver a £150 payment directly into the bank accounts of millions. And letters will be going out this month - and people may need to take direct action. Approximately six million homes across the country will receive the discount this winter, with roughly 250,000 in Scotland set to benefit automatically for the first time.
Martin Lewis '49-day' rule warning for Octopus EON OVO users
Personal finance expert has spoken out about the ‘49-day' rule for customers of companies including Octopus Energy, British Gas, E.ON Next:, OVO Energy, EDF Energy and Scottish Power. Households in the UK are facing a bills hammer blow because of massive rises which are incoming. Energy bills are predicted to surge by 25% in January, according to Bloomberg Economics. It would mean roughly an extra £427 added to the £1,723 energy price cap due in October, pushing it up to £2,150.
Key strain of flu detected in UK mutates as NHS warns of ominous signs
The NHS has given a warning about ‘ominous' signs as cases of flu are higher than they've been for the last 4 years. At a press conference this afternoon (Thursday), officials said flu trends have been rising since August and there are possible signs that we may see an early flu season.
Key strain of flu detected in UK 'mutates' as NHS warns of 'ominous' signs
Flu is at the ‘highest levels we’ve seen’ by this date as people urged to get vaccinated Do you know the difference between cold and flu? The NHS has given a warning about ‘ominous’ signs as cases of flu are higher than they’ve been for the last 4 years. At a press conference this afternoon (Thursday), officials said flu trends have been rising since August and there are possible signs that we may see an early flu season.
Nationwide explains how customers qualify for £370 payment
Nationwide has revealed details of a scheme offering up to £370 for account switchers - though the terms are somewhat intricate. While numerous banks are dangling cash incentives for account transfers, Nationwide's proposition stands amongst the most generous. The Nationwide promotion is accessible to new customers establishing a FlexDirect account who utilise the Current Account Switch Service for transferring within 28 days.
Virus outbreak with 'no treatment' hits 16 European countries - full list
A 'potentially lethal' infection outbreak has been recorded across 16 European countries, sparking warnings over the importance of taking preventative measures. New figures published by the Foreign Office-backed Travel Health Pro website show that six countries have witnessed significant case numbers over the past month – including a number of deaths.
Nationwide confirms how £370 payment qualification works
Nationwide has confirmed how a scheme which could see you get £370 for switching works - but it is complicated. Many banks are offering money to move accounts - but one of the biggest deals is from Nationwide. The Nationwide offer is available to new customers opening a FlexDirect account and using the Current Account Switch Service to switch within 28 days.
UK passengers new Wednesday 'smuggle food in luggage' £5,000 fine EU warning
A fresh warning has been issued to anyone bringing food into the UK from the EU - even if it was purchased at the airport. In an update issued today, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs put out an alert for anyone heading to popular European destinations such as Spain, France, Greece and Italy this half term.
Little-known leg symptoms may mean high cholesterol
High cholesterol, or hypercholesterolemia, involves having an excess amount of a fatty substance called cholesterol in the blood. Initially, it may seem harmless, but over time, it can heighten the risk of severe health complications such as heart attacks and strokes. Cholesterol build-up can lead to blocked arteries, which impede proper blood flow and significantly increase the danger of cardiovascular diseases.
All NHS workers 60 pension age change plan call over burnout fears
A new call has been made for the age at which NHS staff qualify for the pension scheme to be reduced to 60, Currently there are more than 1.5 million NHS workers and they will retire at the same time as the official pension age. The current UK State Pension age is 66, but it is gradually rising to 67 for both men and women between May 2026 and April 2028.
Update on tough new wood burning stove rules amid DEFRA plans
An update has been given on tough new rules which the government is considering for people with log burners in the UK. Earlier this year, a consultation was held on the plans which include stricter emissions limits, mandatory labelling on new appliances and fuels, and higher penalties. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said the aim was to tackle ‘one of the largest environmental risks to human health’.
State pension age change 65 plan hits key threshold as DWP statement due
A massive surge of support has piled pressure on the government over calls to reverse government policy and reduce the pension age to 65. A petition on the Parliament website has smashed through the 50,000 barrier in just days - meaning the Andy Burnham government must respond with an official statement.
BBC doctor warns thermostat mistake could cause heart attacks and strokes
A BBC expert has revealed that a desire to crank up the thermostat could be a warning sign of several serious health conditions that warrant medical attention. Appearing on BBC Morning Live, Dr Ranj Singh explained that some people feel compelled to have the heating turned up full blast, potentially sparking rows or disagreements at home or in the workplace.
Anyone with medication in cupboard urged to take action now
Key UK health officials have issued a new 'hand them in now' alert for anyone who has unused antibiotics in their medicine cupboard. Many people don't necessarily use up all the pills in the boxes when they start to feel well, despite generally advice from NHS being to ‘finish the course of antibiotics'.
HMRC warning to people earning over £30,000 of new tax rule coming
Officials have issued a warning regarding a significant change affecting certain individuals earning over £30,000 annually. HMRC today informed people that they needed to take action to prepare for the new regulations coming into force next April. Making Tax Digital for Income Tax will be extended to sole traders and landlords earning above £30,000 from April 6, 2027.
New Andy Burnham housing benefit rule change from Monday 'ignores earnings'
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DWP says 5 groups not eligible for Winter Fuel Payment 2026 even if right age
The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed that people will get letters from this month which will tell them exactly what they'll get in this year's Winter Fuel Payment. The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual, tax-free government grant in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland designed to help older people cover the costs of heating their homes during the colder winter months.
New Andy Burnham Housing Benefit rule change from Monday 'ignores earnings'
New rules now in force today make a major change to hundreds of thousands of people who claim Housing Benefit. The change is now being implemented from October and aims to benefit around 300,000 vulnerable claimants living in supported housing and temporary accommodation. New changes to the welfare system, which encourage work and ensure it always pays, are now in force - according to rules laid in Parliament earlier this summer.
BBC expert says anyone who had kids 1978-2010 could be owed thousands due to HMRC error
A BBC finance expert has explained how anyone who had children in a 32-year period should apply for a payment they potentially missed out on at the time because of an error from HM Revenue and Customs. Appearing on BBC Morning Live, Iona Bain said more than 200,000 people might be owed thousands in back payments due to Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP).
Monday key transport 'could be cut' warning as fuel crisis surges
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Monday key transport 'could be cut' warning as fuel crisis surges
Key transport in the UK could be cut due to massive rises in the cost of fuel one transport group said today. Coach operators have said record diesel prices could force cuts to services including school transport, as hauliers warn rising fuel costs are pushing hundreds of firms out of business.
Tesco starts £60 rule at all fuel garages as drivers have 'until October 18'
Anyone heading to Tesco has until October 18 to snap up a new deal aimed at motorists. The supermarket giant operates roughly 600 petrol stations nationwide - and has rolled out a scheme offering customers 8p off per litre. Costs have skyrocketed in recent months due to upheaval in global markets triggered by the US-Israeli conflict with Iran and Russia's continuing war in Ukraine .
BBC expert says HMRC error means parents who had kids between 1978 and 2010 could be owed thousands
A BBC finance expert has outlined how anyone who had children during a 32-year window should submit a claim for a payment they may have missed out on previously due to an HMRC mistake. Speaking on BBC Morning Live, Iona Bain revealed more than 200,000 individuals could be entitled to thousands in backdated payments through Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP).
Huge update for Brits taking popular cholesterol medicine over death risk
A major update has been issued to anyone taking Atorvastatin following the publication of fresh research. The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) was presented with findings showing that Atorvastatin cut major cardiovascular events by 30% in elderly people without existing cardiovascular disease, diabetes or dementia , though it failed to significantly boost disability-free survival.
HMRC confirms new rule date for some earning more than £30,000
Officials have issued a warning about a major change being made for some people earning more than £30,000 a year. HMRC today told people need to act not to be ready for the new rules next April. Making Tax Digital for Income Tax will extend to sole traders and landlords earning more than £30,000 from April 6 2027. Officials said people who sign up early have more time to choose compatible software and prepare in their own time.
BBC law expert says new three-year rule for unmarried couples living together
BBC listeners have been told of a huge change which is being planned for 3.5 million unmarried couples who are also not in a civil partnership. BBC Radio 4's Moneybox live program was told that the change would see a new ‘three-year' rule for people to qualify for more rights. In England and Wales, unmarried partners currently have no automatic legal right to inherit from a deceased partner, regardless of how long they lived together or if they have children.
BBC law expert on proposed 'three year rule' for unmarried couples in England and Wales
BBC listeners were told of a massive reform being proposed for 3.5 million unmarried couples who are not in civil partnerships. BBC Radio 4's Moneybox Live programme heard that the changes would introduce a new 'three-year' threshold for individuals to qualify for enhanced rights. Currently in England and Wales, unmarried partners have no automatic legal entitlement to inherit from a deceased partner, irrespective of the duration of their relationship or whether they share children.
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