news--2020-03-27--Sarah-Jane Mee shares her fears and concerns as an expectant mother in the time of coronavirus

`` See you in a couple of weeks ! ''
Those were the last words I said to my team as I left the Sky News studios one evening a few weeks ago , ready to embark on my annual leave .
Little did I know , that not only would I not see them again for months , but that my life would change for the foreseeable future in just a matter of days .
Like millions of others up and down the UK , I was glued to the government 's daily press conference from Downing Street when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ women had been added to the list of those `` at risk '' of severe complications from coronavirus and , therefore , should avoid non-essential contact for the next 12 weeks .
I suddenly found myself , at six months pregnant , in the same category as over-70s and those with underlying health conditions .
My initial reaction was one of shock : no travel ; no returning to work ; no seeing family including my 70-year-old mum and my six-year-old step-son Teddy ; and no leaving the house .
It was then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I 'll admit it , tears - started .
Should I go to the hospital for appointments ?
Will I get the birth I want ?
Will midwives still visit me at home ?
In short , what on earth happens now ?
I 'm not alone .
I have been overwhelmed by Sky News users - mums-to-be , new mums and partners - getting in touch with their fears and concerns .
Being pregnant , especially for the first time like I am , is overwhelming and you feel vulnerable in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
This new complication of coronavirus has created more worry and there are still too many unanswered questions and a lot of conflicting advice .
So I 've asked Dr Zoe Williams and midwife Sharon Gamon for the most up-to-date advice and information to help me and other women going through the same experience .
Their answers are based on current evidence and guidance which may of course change in the coming weeks .
My @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Dr Zoe Williams : Based on current evidence pregnant women are no more likely to contract COVID-19 and no more likely to have the serious consequences of the infection than the general population .
However with pregnancy , especially the third trimester , we know that pregnancy can affect the way that women 's immune systems function and this can make them more vulnerable to viruses in general so extra caution is needed .
Do I have to stay at home for 12 weeks ?
Dr Williams : The prime minister in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at-risk groups may have to self-isolate for 12 weeks in the near future but this never materialised .
Current advice is that pregnant women should practice strict social distancing and work from home where possible .
At present the 12-week self-isolation advice is for pregnant women with heart problems .
If you have symptoms you must self isolate for seven days .
If you are in a household with someone who has symptoms , you must self-isolate for two weeks .
Should I still attend my hospital and midwife appointments ?
Dr Williams @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospital or midwife team .
If you are low risk and healthy , appointments can be done over the phone .
If it 's vital to check blood pressure or blood and urine , test arrangements will be made for you .
NHS teams will be weighing up the risk and benefit of you coming in .
If I have a hospital delivery will it be fully staffed ?
Midwife Sharon Gamon : Contingency plans are being put into place .
The NHS is calling on retired staff and final-year students to cover @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure private and independent midwives are still allowed to attend births to ease the burden .
Could I still have a home birth ?
Ms Gamon : The NHS is struggling to facilitate home births and many trusts are shutting down their home birth units as midwives are needed in hospital .
It 's a mixed picture up and down the country and hospitals need to be clearer about what they can provide during labour - contact your NHS trust .
The situation will be changing from week to week .
Dr Williams @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no symptoms of COVID-19 you should continue with your original birth plan .
If you are in labour with symptoms then the current advice is to have the baby in hospital and they will be continuously monitored throughout labour .
Will birth partners be allowed into the birthing unit ?
Ms Gamon : There are restrictions in most hospitals right now - you ca n't have your partner and your mum for example .
Only one will be allowed .
Some trusts are not allowing private midwives or doulas access .
You should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We are hoping NHS trusts recognise that private and independent midwives can relieve the strain on birthing units .
These midwives have looked after their mums-to-be all the way through their pregnancies .
We hope they will accept the hand of friendship being offered .
How vulnerable are newborns to COVID-19 ?
Dr Williams : There is no current evidence to show that newborns are more vulnerable to coronavirus .
You should take sensible precautions though , for example do n't allow visitors right now and if you are out for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pram or touch the baby .

"See you in a couple of weeks!"
Those were the last words I said to my team as I left the Sky News studios one evening a few weeks ago, ready to embark on my annual leave.
Little did I know, that not only would I not see them again for months, but that my life would change for the foreseeable future in just a matter of days.
Like millions of others up and down the UK, I was glued to the government's daily press conference from Downing Street when Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that pregnant women had been added to the list of those "at risk" of severe complications from coronavirus and, therefore, should avoid non-essential contact for the next 12 weeks.
I suddenly found myself, at six months pregnant, in the same category as over-70s and those with underlying health conditions.
My initial reaction was one of shock: no travel; no returning to work; no seeing family including my 70-year-old mum and my six-year-old step-son Teddy; and no leaving the house.
It was then that the tidal wave of questions - and I'll admit it, tears - started.
Should I go to the hospital for appointments? Will I get the birth I want? Will midwives still visit me at home? In short, what on earth happens now?
I'm not alone. I have been overwhelmed by Sky News users - mums-to-be, new mums and partners - getting in touch with their fears and concerns.
Advertisement
Being pregnant, especially for the first time like I am, is overwhelming and you feel vulnerable in all sorts of new and unexpected ways.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
This new complication of coronavirus has created more worry and there are still too many unanswered questions and a lot of conflicting advice.
So I've asked Dr Zoe Williams and midwife Sharon Gamon for the most up-to-date advice and information to help me and other women going through the same experience.
Their answers are based on current evidence and guidance which may of course change in the coming weeks.
My first thought… how at risk am I?
Dr Zoe Williams: Based on current evidence pregnant women are no more likely to contract COVID-19 and no more likely to have the serious consequences of the infection than the general population. However with pregnancy, especially the third trimester, we know that pregnancy can affect the way that women's immune systems function and this can make them more vulnerable to viruses in general so extra caution is needed.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:32 Gove: 'Virus does not discriminate'
Do I have to stay at home for 12 weeks?
Dr Williams: The prime minister in his first regular press conference said all at-risk groups may have to self-isolate for 12 weeks in the near future but this never materialised. Current advice is that pregnant women should practice strict social distancing and work from home where possible. At present the 12-week self-isolation advice is for pregnant women with heart problems. If you have symptoms you must self isolate for seven days. If you are in a household with someone who has symptoms, you must self-isolate for two weeks.
Should I still attend my hospital and midwife appointments?
Dr Williams: Ring ahead to speak to the hospital or midwife team. If you are low risk and healthy, appointments can be done over the phone. If it's vital to check blood pressure or blood and urine, test arrangements will be made for you. NHS teams will be weighing up the risk and benefit of you coming in.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:59 Nation applauds coronavirus health workers
If I have a hospital delivery will it be fully staffed?
Midwife Sharon Gamon: Contingency plans are being put into place. The NHS is calling on retired staff and final-year students to cover any gaps. The NHS needs to ensure private and independent midwives are still allowed to attend births to ease the burden.
Could I still have a home birth?
Ms Gamon: The NHS is struggling to facilitate home births and many trusts are shutting down their home birth units as midwives are needed in hospital. It's a mixed picture up and down the country and hospitals need to be clearer about what they can provide during labour - contact your NHS trust. The situation will be changing from week to week.
Dr Williams: If you are well and have no symptoms of COVID-19 you should continue with your original birth plan. If you are in labour with symptoms then the current advice is to have the baby in hospital and they will be continuously monitored throughout labour.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:32 People get creative during lockdown
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:40 UK lockdown '10 days too late'
Will birth partners be allowed into the birthing unit?
Ms Gamon: There are restrictions in most hospitals right now - you can't have your partner and your mum for example. Only one will be allowed. Some trusts are not allowing private midwives or doulas access. You should call your hospital to check their policy. We are hoping NHS trusts recognise that private and independent midwives can relieve the strain on birthing units. These midwives have looked after their mums-to-be all the way through their pregnancies. We hope they will accept the hand of friendship being offered.
How vulnerable are newborns to COVID-19?
Dr Williams: There is no current evidence to show that newborns are more vulnerable to coronavirus. You should take sensible precautions though, for example don't allow visitors right now and if you are out for a walk don't let people look into the pram or touch the baby.


news--2020-03-27--Coronavirus: Hundreds of British passengers stranded on cruise ship where four people have died

Hundreds of Britons are stranded on a cruise ship where four people have died after fellow passengers tested positive for coronavirus .
Cheryl Deeks , from the village of Mendelsham in Suffolk , told Sky News she is `` on edge all the time '' after being confined to her cabin since Sunday when the ship went on lockdown to stop COVID-19 spreading .
Mrs Deeks , 66 , said she and her husband , David , are among more than 220 passengers from the UK on board the MS Zaandam , which set off from Buenos Aires on 7 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Holland America Line , is anchored off the coast of Panama with dozens of guests suffering from influenza-like symptoms and two testing positive for COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus .
Holland America Line said on Friday that four `` older guests '' had died on the MS Zaandam .
The age and nationalities of those who died is unclear .
The cruise ship has been at sea since 14 March after Chile , where the cruise was meant to end in San Antonio on 21 March , refused permission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government also denied the MS Zaandam permission to dock on Wednesday .
On Friday night , coronavirus testing kits were brought onto the ship from the MS Rotterdam , another vessel operated by Holland America The company is owned by Carnival Corp , whose Princess Cruises recently suspended voyages for two months after two of its quarantined ships became hotbeds for coronavirus infections .
Mrs Deeks , who is also on the trip with her 73-year-old sister Wendy , said only passengers showing symptoms have been tested .
She added there are not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ passengers and 586 crew members on board .
The holidaymaker , who celebrated her birthday on the ship on 13 March , said : `` We 've been confined to our cabin since Sunday .
`` It 's wearing us down , we 're just going stir crazy now really .
`` We 're totally stuck in the cabin , from the door to the bed and back is 24 steps .
`` So I 'm trying to do my 10,000 steps a day , and I 'm walking backward and forwards doing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that crew members leave their meals outside their cabin before knocking on the door and walking away as a precaution .
Holland America Line said the MS Zaandam was scheduled to head to Fort Lauderdale , Florida , after passing through the Panama Canal , and could arrive there on 30 March .
But Panamanian authorities said a transit of the canal would depend on a health inspection of passengers .
Mrs Deeks is now unsure of when her trip will come to an end .
She said : `` I think that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on edge all the time .
`` We 're physically well , but mentally we 're quite stressed not knowing if we had a plan , if we knew for definite what was going to happen .
`` I know they ca n't tell us , but it 's just the not knowing that makes you feel uncomfortable . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mrs Deeks said passengers over 70 are being moved on to the MS Rotterdam , meaning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MS Zaandam along with two friends .
Passengers without symptoms will also be transferred to the Rotterdam , it is understood .
Mrs Deeks said she is not sure how many people are ill on the vessel or what symptoms they are showing because they have been confined to their cabins .
She added that it appears the outbreak has not caused other passengers to panic .
Photographer Neil Bedford 's parents Kim , 62 , and Chris , 65 , are among the British passengers on board .
They have been contacting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feel worried now they are confined to their cabin , he says .
`` My mum was saying that until recently they were fine , '' said Mr Bedford , 38 , from Bradford .
`` Now I definitely think , without her actually saying it , there 's some panic setting in .
She said yesterday she was feeling very sombre and they 're not sleeping well .
`` They 're lucky because they have a room with a balcony , so at least they have that .
Other people do n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and my mum has sent pictures - I guess that 's some light relief for them .
She also said to say how well the captain and his crew have looked after them .
She says he 's been professional , honest and fantastic .
He obviously must want to get home too .
`` They 've been there for a while but now it 's starting to feel more serious and I just feel scared .
I do n't want to think the worst but you start to .
Even when they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their journey home be like ?
Will they be in quarantine or even be able to get a flight home ?
The world is changing so quickly , it 's hard to know .
`` I do n't want to use the word anxious but there are so many things going round your head .
I 'm just trying to focus on thinking they 'll be okay . ''
Newlyweds Yadira Garza and Joel Gonzalez , from Mexico , who are on their honeymoon on the ship , said the situation changed quickly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deck one day and being quarantined in their small cabin the next .
`` Last week I did 56,000 steps and this week I did 10,000 .
We have practically no movement , '' Ms Garza said .
She said the couple are wiping down water bottles and toiletries delivered by the crew to their door but have already run out of soap so are using shampoo .
On hearing they will be transferred to the Rotterdam , she said : `` Today I got dressed , I 'm not in pyjamas .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ we could leave tomorrow , and I said , I 'm going to get dressed to be ready . ''
Ian Rae , a London-based Scotsman on the ship with his wife , said most passengers were coping `` pretty well '' despite being in self-isolation since last Sunday .
`` It 's probably not an awful lot worse than the people back in the UK or anywhere else in the world at the moment , '' Mr Rae , a 73-year-old grandfather of four , told Reuters .
Mr Rae said he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Other guests included Americans , Canadians and Australians as well as Germans , Italians , French , Spanish and New Zealanders .
A Foreign Office spokesman said : `` We are doing all we can to help British people on board the Zaandam cruise ship .
`` Our staff are in close contact with the cruise operator and the authorities in the region to ensure British people can get home safely . ''

Hundreds of Britons are stranded on a cruise ship where four people have died after fellow passengers tested positive for coronavirus.
Cheryl Deeks, from the village of Mendelsham in Suffolk, told Sky News she is "on edge all the time" after being confined to her cabin since Sunday when the ship went on lockdown to stop COVID-19 spreading.
Mrs Deeks, 66, said she and her husband, David, are among more than 220 passengers from the UK on board the MS Zaandam, which set off from Buenos Aires on 7 March.
Image: Four passengers have died on the MS Zaandam
The cruise ship, operated by Holland America Line, is anchored off the coast of Panama with dozens of guests suffering from influenza-like symptoms and two testing positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.
Holland America Line said on Friday that four "older guests" had died on the MS Zaandam.
The age and nationalities of those who died is unclear.
The cruise ship has been at sea since 14 March after Chile, where the cruise was meant to end in San Antonio on 21 March, refused permission for it to dock.
Panama's government also denied the MS Zaandam permission to dock on Wednesday.
On Friday night, coronavirus testing kits were brought onto the ship from the MS Rotterdam, another vessel operated by Holland America
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The company is owned by Carnival Corp, whose Princess Cruises recently suspended voyages for two months after two of its quarantined ships became hotbeds for coronavirus infections.
Image: Canadian passengers Chris and Anna Joiner have also pleaded for help
Image: Canadian passenger Anna Joiner in her cabin
Mrs Deeks, who is also on the trip with her 73-year-old sister Wendy, said only passengers showing symptoms have been tested.
She added there are not enough kits for all of the 1,243 passengers and 586 crew members on board.
The holidaymaker, who celebrated her birthday on the ship on 13 March, said: "We've been confined to our cabin since Sunday.
"It's wearing us down, we're just going stir crazy now really.
"We're totally stuck in the cabin, from the door to the bed and back is 24 steps.
"So I'm trying to do my 10,000 steps a day, and I'm walking backward and forwards doing 24 steps."
Mrs Deeks added that crew members leave their meals outside their cabin before knocking on the door and walking away as a precaution.
Image: Passengers on the Zaandam have been confined to their cabins since Sunday
Holland America Line said the MS Zaandam was scheduled to head to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, after passing through the Panama Canal, and could arrive there on 30 March.
But Panamanian authorities said a transit of the canal would depend on a health inspection of passengers.
Mrs Deeks is now unsure of when her trip will come to an end.
She said: "I think that's the biggest problem because we're on edge all the time.
"We're physically well, but mentally we're quite stressed not knowing if we had a plan, if we knew for definite what was going to happen.
"I know they can't tell us, but it's just the not knowing that makes you feel uncomfortable."
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:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Mrs Deeks said passengers over 70 are being moved on to the MS Rotterdam, meaning her sister Wendy will be leaving the MS Zaandam along with two friends.
Passengers without symptoms will also be transferred to the Rotterdam, it is understood.
Mrs Deeks said she is not sure how many people are ill on the vessel or what symptoms they are showing because they have been confined to their cabins.
She added that it appears the outbreak has not caused other passengers to panic.
Image: Kim Bedford and her husband Chris, from Bradford, are trying to stay positive on board
Photographer Neil Bedford's parents Kim, 62, and Chris, 65, are among the British passengers on board.
They have been contacting him through WhatsApp and are starting to feel worried now they are confined to their cabin, he says.
"My mum was saying that until recently they were fine," said Mr Bedford, 38, from Bradford. "Now I definitely think, without her actually saying it, there's some panic setting in. She said yesterday she was feeling very sombre and they're not sleeping well.
"They're lucky because they have a room with a balcony, so at least they have that. Other people don't. They've seen dolphins and whales and my mum has sent pictures - I guess that's some light relief for them. She also said to say how well the captain and his crew have looked after them. She says he's been professional, honest and fantastic. He obviously must want to get home too.
"They've been there for a while but now it's starting to feel more serious and I just feel scared. I don't want to think the worst but you start to. Even when they get off the ship, what will their journey home be like? Will they be in quarantine or even be able to get a flight home? The world is changing so quickly, it's hard to know.
"I don't want to use the word anxious but there are so many things going round your head. I'm just trying to focus on thinking they'll be okay."
Image: Yadira Garza and Joel Gonzalez are on their honeymoon on the Zaandam
Newlyweds Yadira Garza and Joel Gonzalez, from Mexico, who are on their honeymoon on the ship, said the situation changed quickly, with them drinking wine on the deck one day and being quarantined in their small cabin the next.
"Last week I did 56,000 steps and this week I did 10,000. We have practically no movement," Ms Garza said.
She said the couple are wiping down water bottles and toiletries delivered by the crew to their door but have already run out of soap so are using shampoo.
On hearing they will be transferred to the Rotterdam, she said: "Today I got dressed, I'm not in pyjamas.
"They gave us the news that we could leave tomorrow, and I said, I'm going to get dressed to be ready."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:40 PM: 'I can continue' with COVID-19
Ian Rae, a London-based Scotsman on the ship with his wife, said most passengers were coping "pretty well" despite being in self-isolation since last Sunday.
"It's probably not an awful lot worse than the people back in the UK or anywhere else in the world at the moment," Mr Rae, a 73-year-old grandfather of four, told Reuters.
Mr Rae said he understood 229 British passengers were on board. Other guests included Americans, Canadians and Australians as well as Germans, Italians, French, Spanish and New Zealanders.
A Foreign Office spokesman said: "We are doing all we can to help British people on board the Zaandam cruise ship.
"Our staff are in close contact with the cruise operator and the authorities in the region to ensure British people can get home safely."


news--2020-03-28--Coronavirus: Boris Johnson raises prospect of stricter lockdown in letter to 30 million homes

Boris Johnson has raised the prospect of stricter lockdown measures in a letter that will be sent to every household in the UK .
The prime minister , who tested positive for coronavirus this week , says in the letter it is a `` moment of national emergency '' .
His plea for people to `` follow the rules '' will land on the doorsteps of 30 million households across all four UK nations from next week .
On the lockdown restrictions , he has this warning for Britons : `` We will not hesitate to go further if that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tells us we must do . ''
People are already under tight restrictions after being told to only leave their homes for essential necessities , to exercise once a day , for a medical need or to help a vulnerable person , or to go to work if it is not possible to work from home .
Mr Johnson is continuing to lead the government while self-isolating in the flat above Number 11 Downing Street .
New figures released on Saturday showed another 259 people have died in the UK after testing positive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of them having no underlying health problems .
A total of 1,028 people have died in the UK after contracting the virus .
In his letter , Mr Johnson says the right preparations are being made and the more closely people follow the restrictions , `` the fewer lives will be lost and the sooner life can return to normal '' .
Residents will also get a leaflet outlining the government 's advice - looking at symptoms , hand washing , rules on leaving the house , self-isolating with symptoms and shielding vulnerable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We know things will get worse before they get better .
`` But we are making the right preparations , and the more we all follow the rules , the fewer lives will be lost and the sooner life can return to normal . ''
Mr Johnson continues : `` I want to thank everyone who is working flat out to beat the virus , in particular the staff in our fantastic NHS and care sector across England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland .
`` It has been truly inspirational @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other carers rise magnificently to the needs of the hour .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' Thousands of retired doctors and nurses are returning to the NHS - and hundreds of thousands of citizens are volunteering to help the most vulnerable .
`` That is why , at this moment of national emergency , I urge you , please , to stay at home , protect the NHS and save lives . ''
The leaflet also has advice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland .

Boris Johnson has raised the prospect of stricter lockdown measures in a letter that will be sent to every household in the UK.
The prime minister, who tested positive for coronavirus this week, says in the letter it is a "moment of national emergency".
His plea for people to "follow the rules" will land on the doorsteps of 30 million households across all four UK nations from next week.
On the lockdown restrictions, he has this warning for Britons: "We will not hesitate to go further if that is what the scientific and medical advice tells us we must do."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:40 PM: 'I can continue' with COVID-19
People are already under tight restrictions after being told to only leave their homes for essential necessities, to exercise once a day, for a medical need or to help a vulnerable person, or to go to work if it is not possible to work from home.
Mr Johnson is continuing to lead the government while self-isolating in the flat above Number 11 Downing Street.
New figures released on Saturday showed another 259 people have died in the UK after testing positive for COVID-19 - with at least 13 of them having no underlying health problems.
A total of 1,028 people have died in the UK after contracting the virus.
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In his letter, Mr Johnson says the right preparations are being made and the more closely people follow the restrictions, "the fewer lives will be lost and the sooner life can return to normal".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:56 Theme park becomes drive-thru testing centre
Residents will also get a leaflet outlining the government's advice - looking at symptoms, hand washing, rules on leaving the house, self-isolating with symptoms and shielding vulnerable people.
The prime minister writes: "We know things will get worse before they get better.
"But we are making the right preparations, and the more we all follow the rules, the fewer lives will be lost and the sooner life can return to normal."
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Mr Johnson continues: "I want to thank everyone who is working flat out to beat the virus, in particular the staff in our fantastic NHS and care sector across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
"It has been truly inspirational to see our doctors, nurses and other carers rise magnificently to the needs of the hour.
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:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"Thousands of retired doctors and nurses are returning to the NHS - and hundreds of thousands of citizens are volunteering to help the most vulnerable.
"That is why, at this moment of national emergency, I urge you, please, to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives."
The leaflet also has advice on how to access online guidance specific to England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.


news--2020-05-19--Coronavirus: The brave 12-year-old who lost her mum to COVID-19

A 12-year-old girl who lost her mum to COVID-19 has told Sky News how she has always wanted to emulate her `` because she was just phenomenal . ''
Rutendo Mukotsanjera , 45 , died last month leaving behind her daughter Chiedza , who is also known as Chichi .
With most of her extended family in Zimbabwe the young girl has been taken in by a member of her church in Staffordshire , with the support of her church pastor .
Speaking to Sky News Chiedza explained how it was usually just the two of them : `` She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and kindness , she always taught me to be kind and use my manners and that sort of thing , I guess I looked up to her a lot and always wanted to be like her because she was just phenomenal . ''
Rutendo moved to the UK from Harare 18 years ago and had worked in social care but most recently as an administrator within the NHS in Staffordshire .
She was an active member of the Renew Church in Uttoxeter , often volunteering her time to help others doing outreach work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The restrictions on hospital visiting meant that Chiedza could n't properly see her mum as her condition deteriorated in early April at Queen 's hospital in Burton-on-Trent .
`` We would go to the hospital but I just did n't really want to do it anymore , '' she explained .
`` You would just see her from the window , and as much as you want to just go in and hug her you just ca n't - so you just wave from the window and make cards for her and stuff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because everyone has done the best that they can , I could never be angry because there is no one to blame , things just happened you know . ''
Only 10 invited guests could attend Rutendo 's funeral in Uttoxeter which was also live-streamed to friends and family in Zimbabwe .
Her daughter recited a poem she had written paying tribute to her mum .
One line read : `` Like birds of a feather , we were always together . ''
Pastor Matthew Murray , who is helping to support Chiedza @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that I remember most about Rutendo is her smile and I now see that smile in Chiedza , which is so exciting to see because it was n't like that in the first few days .
`` She is now starting to smile , she is starting to be positive , she is back in school and her faith is really the thing that is carrying her through . ''
Chiedza wants to continue her studies at secondary school and wants to become an actress but has n't ruled out a career in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are all grieving in different ways but having a positive attitude towards it and focusing on what you can do can really help and could save more lives . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Conversations are continuing between her support network in Uttoxeter , social services and her extended family in Zimbabwe to ensure she can grow up happily in a secure environment .
A JustGiving page set up to help support Chiedza has already raised almost £40,000 .

A 12-year-old girl who lost her mum to COVID-19 has told Sky News how she has always wanted to emulate her "because she was just phenomenal."
Rutendo Mukotsanjera, 45, died last month leaving behind her daughter Chiedza, who is also known as Chichi.
With most of her extended family in Zimbabwe the young girl has been taken in by a member of her church in Staffordshire, with the support of her church pastor.
Speaking to Sky News Chiedza explained how it was usually just the two of them: "She just brought me up in that love and kindness, she always taught me to be kind and use my manners and that sort of thing, I guess I looked up to her a lot and always wanted to be like her because she was just phenomenal."
Rutendo moved to the UK from Harare 18 years ago and had worked in social care but most recently as an administrator within the NHS in Staffordshire.
Image: Rutendo moved to the UK 18 years ago
She was an active member of the Renew Church in Uttoxeter, often volunteering her time to help others doing outreach work with elderly members of the community.
The restrictions on hospital visiting meant that Chiedza couldn't properly see her mum as her condition deteriorated in early April at Queen's hospital in Burton-on-Trent.
"We would go to the hospital but I just didn't really want to do it anymore," she explained.
"You would just see her from the window, and as much as you want to just go in and hug her you just can't - so you just wave from the window and make cards for her and stuff.
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"I could never be angry because everyone has done the best that they can, I could never be angry because there is no one to blame, things just happened you know."
Image: Chiedza wrote a poem for her mum that was read at her funeral
Only 10 invited guests could attend Rutendo's funeral in Uttoxeter which was also live-streamed to friends and family in Zimbabwe.
Her daughter recited a poem she had written paying tribute to her mum. One line read: "Like birds of a feather, we were always together."
Pastor Matthew Murray, who is helping to support Chiedza told Sky News: "The thing that I remember most about Rutendo is her smile and I now see that smile in Chiedza, which is so exciting to see because it wasn't like that in the first few days.
"She is now starting to smile, she is starting to be positive, she is back in school and her faith is really the thing that is carrying her through."
Image: Only 10 invited guests were allowed at Rutendo's funeral
Chiedza wants to continue her studies at secondary school and wants to become an actress but hasn't ruled out a career in law.
She said: "We are all grieving in different ways but having a positive attitude towards it and focusing on what you can do can really help and could save more lives."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
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Conversations are continuing between her support network in Uttoxeter, social services and her extended family in Zimbabwe to ensure she can grow up happily in a secure environment.
A JustGiving page set up to help support Chiedza has already raised almost £40,000.


news--2020-05-19--Which items could be cheaper under government's new trade regime?

A range of household appliances and foods will be cheaper and consumers offered more choice , ministers say , under a new trade regime set to begin in January .
Britain will scrap all levies on £62bn of imports when formally leaving EU rules at the end of the year , it has been announced .
Products such as fridge-freezers , dishwashers and other household goods which are currently marked up by up to 3 % will have no tariffs at all .
However , the British Retail Consortium ( BRC ) warned that without a trade deal with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a rise in food costs overall - as agricultural goods imported from Europe will face new levies .
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss says the new regime , which has been under intense consideration , will simplify trade and lower administrative burdens for businesses .
But tariffs will remain on UK-produced cars - at 10 % - and on agricultural products including lamb , beef and butter at their current levels , following concerns that these industries could be decimated by Brexit .
These new tariffs will be applied to trade with any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negotiated a trade deal by the time the transition period ends on 31 December .
The government aims to negotiate a trade deal with the EU this year , but talks have yet to yield a breakthrough .
Ms Truss said today : `` For the first time in 50 years we are able to set our own tariff regime that is tailored to the UK economy .
`` Our new Global Tariff will benefit UK consumers and households by cutting red tape and reducing the cost of thousands of everyday products .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ are backing UK industry and helping businesses overcome the unprecedented economic challenges posed by coronavirus . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Under the new rules , 60 % of UK trade - worth £425bn - would be tariff-free on World Trade Organisation terms or through trade deals - and this would increase as more trade deals are struck .
This compares with 47 % of trade which is tax-free for the UK currently , under EU rules .
This means @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tariff-free altogether , around half of which is finished goods and £30bn is for products used in manufacturing supply chains .
This announcement is being made now , it is understood , in order to give businesses notice about what they can expect post-Brexit .
Prices for consumers depend on businesses passing on any saving .
It had been expected last year that the UK would scrap tariffs on up to 90 % of goods , but the plans appear to have been watered down .
Ceramics and glass - UK industries which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of tariffs leading to intense competition - will also retain theirs .
Zero tariffs will apply on : • Sanitary products and tampons ( down from 6.3 % ) • Paints ( down from 6.5 % ) and screwdrivers ( down from 2.7 % ) • Scissors and garden shears ( down from 4.7 % ) • Cooking products such as baking powder ( down from 6.1 % ) , yeast ( down from 12 % ) , bay leaves ( down from 7 % ) , ground thyme ( down from 8.5 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from 8 % ) There is also a temporary zero rates on medical products to fight COVID-19 including PPE , and disinfectant .
BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson welcomed the `` positive movement on tariffs '' for items such as household appliances .
But she added : `` Without a trade deal with the EU , families across the country are likely to face higher food costs .
`` It remains essential that the UK agrees a comprehensive deal that reduces friction - such as checks and delays at the border - and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU .
`` UK consumers have become accustomed to a huge variety of affordable food thanks , in part , to tariff-free imports from the EU .
`` Unless a similar agreement is reached in the next seven months , imported agricultural products will be subject to new tariffs , raising costs for consumers . ''
The tariff schedule is not the only factor that will affect the affordability of goods after the end of the transition period .
If a no-deal scenario prompts a sharp fall in the pound , that is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ imports .
Many experts also think the resultant economic uncertainty would be damaging for the economy - if that hurts jobs and wages , it could also make purchases less affordable for many .

A range of household appliances and foods will be cheaper and consumers offered more choice, ministers say, under a new trade regime set to begin in January.
Britain will scrap all levies on £62bn of imports when formally leaving EU rules at the end of the year, it has been announced.
Products such as fridge-freezers, dishwashers and other household goods which are currently marked up by up to 3% will have no tariffs at all.
However, the British Retail Consortium (BRC) warned that without a trade deal with the EU, families were likely to face a rise in food costs overall - as agricultural goods imported from Europe will face new levies.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 6:29 The UK and EU's Brexit negotiators have made statements on the lack of progress in the third round of talks.
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss says the new regime, which has been under intense consideration, will simplify trade and lower administrative burdens for businesses.
But tariffs will remain on UK-produced cars - at 10% - and on agricultural products including lamb, beef and butter at their current levels, following concerns that these industries could be decimated by Brexit.
These new tariffs will be applied to trade with any country with which the UK has not negotiated a trade deal by the time the transition period ends on 31 December.
The government aims to negotiate a trade deal with the EU this year, but talks have yet to yield a breakthrough.
Ms Truss said today: "For the first time in 50 years we are able to set our own tariff regime that is tailored to the UK economy.
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"Our new Global Tariff will benefit UK consumers and households by cutting red tape and reducing the cost of thousands of everyday products.
"With this straightforward approach, we are backing UK industry and helping businesses overcome the unprecedented economic challenges posed by coronavirus."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Under the new rules, 60% of UK trade - worth £425bn - would be tariff-free on World Trade Organisation terms or through trade deals - and this would increase as more trade deals are struck.
This compares with 47% of trade which is tax-free for the UK currently, under EU rules.
This means an extra £62bn of trade would be tariff-free altogether, around half of which is finished goods and £30bn is for products used in manufacturing supply chains.
This announcement is being made now, it is understood, in order to give businesses notice about what they can expect post-Brexit.
Prices for consumers depend on businesses passing on any saving.
It had been expected last year that the UK would scrap tariffs on up to 90% of goods, but the plans appear to have been watered down.
Ceramics and glass - UK industries which were also deeply concerned about the end of tariffs leading to intense competition - will also retain theirs.
Zero tariffs will apply on:
Dishwashers (down from 2.7%)
Freezers (down from 2.5%)
Sanitary products and tampons (down from 6.3%)
Paints (down from 6.5%) and screwdrivers (down from 2.7%)
Mirrors (down from 4%)
Scissors and garden shears (down from 4.7%)
Padlocks (down from 2.7%)
Cooking products such as baking powder (down from 6.1%), yeast (down from 12%), bay leaves (down from 7%), ground thyme (down from 8.5%) and cocoa powder (down from 8%)
Christmas trees (down from 2.5%)
There is also a temporary zero rates on medical products to fight COVID-19 including PPE, and disinfectant.
BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson welcomed the "positive movement on tariffs" for items such as household appliances.
But she added: "Without a trade deal with the EU, families across the country are likely to face higher food costs.
"It remains essential that the UK agrees a comprehensive deal that reduces friction - such as checks and delays at the border - and allows tariff-free trade to continue with the EU.
"UK consumers have become accustomed to a huge variety of affordable food thanks, in part, to tariff-free imports from the EU.
"Unless a similar agreement is reached in the next seven months, imported agricultural products will be subject to new tariffs, raising costs for consumers."
The tariff schedule is not the only factor that will affect the affordability of goods after the end of the transition period.
If a no-deal scenario prompts a sharp fall in the pound, that is likely to drive up the cost of imports.
Many experts also think the resultant economic uncertainty would be damaging for the economy - if that hurts jobs and wages, it could also make purchases less affordable for many.


news--2020-05-19--Will lessons learned over the COVID-19 care homes crisis fuel change?

On this edition of the Sky News Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan , we examine the government 's response to @ @ @ @ @ 's social care sector .
We are joined by Sky 's Lisa Holland and Professor @ @ @ @ @ of Care England - plus our Middle East correspondent Mark Stone discusses the devastating impact @ @ @ @ @ .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , @ @ @

On this edition of the Sky News Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan, we examine the government's response to the virus pandemic in England's social care sector.
We are joined by Sky's Lisa Holland and Professor Martin Green, chief executive of Care England - plus our Middle East correspondent Mark Stone discusses the devastating impact of COVID-19 in war-torn Yemen.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker


news--2020-05-19--Coronavirus: Nike delegates at centre of outbreak 'performed haka in hotel before Edinburgh tour'

Nike delegates at the centre of a coronavirus outbreak performed a `` Nike haka '' in their Edinburgh hotel before a tour of the city , a guide has told Sky News .
He has spoken of his alarm at learning that some of the delegates he took through the city 's 'Old Town ' were carrying coronavirus .
Neither he , nor two colleagues , were contact-traced by Scotland 's health authorities and only learned of their potential exposure when news of the outbreak broke in the media .
The Scottish government has faced accusations of a cover-up over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sturgeon has strongly denied .
Of 70 international Nike delegates at the conference in Edinburgh 's Hilton Carlton Hotel on the 26 and 27 February , 25 have tested positive - eight of them in Scotland .
The tour guide , who conducts walking tours of Edinburgh , told Sky News : `` On 27 February , myself and two other guides walked into the hotel and they ( Nike delegates ) did a haka - a sort of Nike haka - to energise themselves .
`` We split them into groups of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ huge amount of close contact and I kept a distance , I did n't shake hands with my group although I ordinarily would have done .
`` We only found out when the story broke in the media - none of us have had any contact from public health officials . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' None of us have had any symptoms .
As far as I 'm aware , they 've had no ill-effects . ''
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ My question is 'did Nike provide details of who contact was made with ? '
I do n't see the Scottish government as culpable .
`` I 've learned that life being preserved in a situation like this comes down to effective contact tracing .
While we are reliant on people to produce lists of contacts , I 'm concerned there are people who might not be making full declarations . ''
News of the tour guides ' association with the Nike delegates emerged after Sky News revealed 20 employees of Lloyds Banking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the Nike delegation .
Nike has been contacted for comment .

Nike delegates at the centre of a coronavirus outbreak performed a "Nike haka" in their Edinburgh hotel before a tour of the city, a guide has told Sky News.
He has spoken of his alarm at learning that some of the delegates he took through the city's 'Old Town' were carrying coronavirus.
Neither he, nor two colleagues, were contact-traced by Scotland's health authorities and only learned of their potential exposure when news of the outbreak broke in the media.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:13 Ministers say tracing plan on schedule
The Scottish government has faced accusations of a cover-up over the affair, which First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has strongly denied.
Of 70 international Nike delegates at the conference in Edinburgh's Hilton Carlton Hotel on the 26 and 27 February, 25 have tested positive - eight of them in Scotland.
The tour guide, who conducts walking tours of Edinburgh, told Sky News: "On 27 February, myself and two other guides walked into the hotel and they (Nike delegates) did a haka - a sort of Nike haka - to energise themselves.
"We split them into groups of 20 each. There wasn't a huge amount of close contact and I kept a distance, I didn't shake hands with my group although I ordinarily would have done.
"We only found out when the story broke in the media - none of us have had any contact from public health officials."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
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"None of us have had any symptoms. As far as I'm aware, they've had no ill-effects."
He added: "It's alarming. My question is 'did Nike provide details of who contact was made with?' I don't see the Scottish government as culpable.
"I've learned that life being preserved in a situation like this comes down to effective contact tracing. While we are reliant on people to produce lists of contacts, I'm concerned there are people who might not be making full declarations."
News of the tour guides' association with the Nike delegates emerged after Sky News revealed 20 employees of Lloyds Banking Group shared facilities at the Edinburgh hotel with the Nike delegation.
Nike has been contacted for comment.


news--2020-05-19--Brexit deal possible but EU has to drop 'ideological approach' - Michael Gove

A deal on the UK 's future relationship with the EU is possible if Brussels drops its `` ideological approach '' , Michael Gove has said .
Updating MPs on the state of play in the Brexit negotiations , the Cabinet Office minister said there remained areas where the two sides had `` significant differences '' .
This includes fisheries , governance arrangements and the so-called level playing field .
`` The EU , essentially , wants us to obey the rules of their club , even though we 're no longer members , '' Mr Gove told the Commons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to our fishing grounds as they currently enjoy while restricting our access to their markets .
`` It remains difficult to reach a mutually beneficial agreement while the EU maintains such an ideological approach .
`` But we believe an agreement is possible if flexibility is shown . ''
Britain left the EU at the end of January after 47 years of membership and is currently in an 11-month transition period which ends in December .
This time frame is being used to negotiate a free-trade agreement and sort out the terms of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between the UK and the EU .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has insisted he will not extend the Brexit transition period beyond the end of this year , despite warnings that disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic has made striking a deal impossible .
The third round of talks on the future relationship between the two sides ended last week , with the next round due to begin next month .
Mr Gove , a campaigner for Brexit during the 2016 referendum campaign , said the government had made public the UK 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ facilitate discussions in the fourth round and beyond , the government has today published the full draft legal text that we 've already shared with the Commission and which together with the EU 's draft agreement have formed the basis of all discussions , '' he said .
`` The UK texts are fully in line with the government 's document entitled The Approach to the Future Negotiations which was published on 27 February . ''
Mr Gove added : `` The government remains committed to a deal with a free-trade agreement at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fourth round of negotiations beginning on 1 June , but success depends on the EU recognising that the UK is a sovereign . ''
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss , meanwhile , has published the tariff schedule the UK will operate at the end of the transition period for those countries with whom the UK does not have a trade deal .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Labour 's shadow Cabinet Office minister , Rachel Reeves , urged the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get a deal that is good for jobs , workers ' rights and also for scientific cooperation '' .
Turning to the potential effect on Northern Ireland , she told MPs : `` Peace in Northern Ireland was hard-won , we must not jeopardise it .
`` In January , the prime minister guaranteed unfettered access for goods moving between Britain and Northern Ireland .
`` Last week it was revealed that the government would implement checks on some products crossing the Irish Sea and that there would be new infrastructure at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ireland .
`` So can [ Mr Gove ] confirm whether these additional checks are being planned for when the road map for implementing the protocol will be published ? ''
Mr Gove said ministers would be publishing a framework document setting out its plans to ensure unfettered access for goods from Northern Ireland into the UK `` shortly '' .

A deal on the UK's future relationship with the EU is possible if Brussels drops its "ideological approach", Michael Gove has said.
Updating MPs on the state of play in the Brexit negotiations, the Cabinet Office minister said there remained areas where the two sides had "significant differences".
This includes fisheries, governance arrangements and the so-called level playing field.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:46 February: UK prepared to ditch EU trade talks in June
"The EU, essentially, wants us to obey the rules of their club, even though we're no longer members," Mr Gove told the Commons.
"They want the same access to our fishing grounds as they currently enjoy while restricting our access to their markets.
"It remains difficult to reach a mutually beneficial agreement while the EU maintains such an ideological approach.
"But we believe an agreement is possible if flexibility is shown."
Britain left the EU at the end of January after 47 years of membership and is currently in an 11-month transition period which ends in December.
This time frame is being used to negotiate a free-trade agreement and sort out the terms of the future relationship that will govern ties between the UK and the EU.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:43 Now the UK is out of the EU, what next?
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has insisted he will not extend the Brexit transition period beyond the end of this year, despite warnings that disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic has made striking a deal impossible.
The third round of talks on the future relationship between the two sides ended last week, with the next round due to begin next month.
Mr Gove, a campaigner for Brexit during the 2016 referendum campaign, said the government had made public the UK's draft legal texts.
"To help facilitate discussions in the fourth round and beyond, the government has today published the full draft legal text that we've already shared with the Commission and which together with the EU's draft agreement have formed the basis of all discussions," he said.
"The UK texts are fully in line with the government's document entitled The Approach to the Future Negotiations which was published on 27 February."
Mr Gove added: "The government remains committed to a deal with a free-trade agreement at its core and we look forward to the fourth round of negotiations beginning on 1 June, but success depends on the EU recognising that the UK is a sovereign."
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss, meanwhile, has published the tariff schedule the UK will operate at the end of the transition period for those countries with whom the UK does not have a trade deal.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
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Labour's shadow Cabinet Office minister, Rachel Reeves, urged the government to "act in the national interest to get a deal that is good for jobs, workers' rights and also for scientific cooperation".
Turning to the potential effect on Northern Ireland, she told MPs: "Peace in Northern Ireland was hard-won, we must not jeopardise it.
"In January, the prime minister guaranteed unfettered access for goods moving between Britain and Northern Ireland.
"Last week it was revealed that the government would implement checks on some products crossing the Irish Sea and that there would be new infrastructure at ports coming from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland.
"So can [Mr Gove] confirm whether these additional checks are being planned for when the road map for implementing the protocol will be published?"
Mr Gove said ministers would be publishing a framework document setting out its plans to ensure unfettered access for goods from Northern Ireland into the UK "shortly".


news--2020-05-18--Revealed: How habits of British teens compare with the EU and Canada

A study across 45 countries has found England , Wales and Scotland have a high proportion of children who have been drunk at least twice by the time they are 15 years old .
Wales came second in the rankings released by the World Health Organisation , with 35 % of girls and 31 % of boys revealing they had consumed alcohol excessively in the past .
Scotland was fifth in the table and England was 12th , with dozens of other countries reporting lower levels of underage drinking among teenagers .
The WHO 's cross-national study , performed before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pertaining to the health and wellbeing of children in the Europe and Canada .
Although British adolescents are more likely to brush their teeth at least once a day than many of their European counterparts , the report warned there are `` a number of areas of concern '' when it comes to their daily lives .
According to the report , 75 % of 15-year-old girls in the UK say they are struggling with high levels of pressure from their work at school - with England having the third-highest percentage .
: @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Young people in the UK are more likely to believe they are too fat , especially older adolescents and children from poorer backgrounds .
British children also spend much more time on social media than their peers across Europe , with researchers warning that excessive use `` is associated with lower life satisfaction , poorer sleep and lower attainment at school '' .
And of the 45 countries polled , England , Wales and Scotland were in the bottom third of the leaderboard when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who eat a meal with their families daily .
Martin Weber , the programme manager for child and adolescent health at the WHO regional office for Europe , told Sky News : `` The fact that teenagers in England , Scotland and Wales more prone to drunkenness than other European countries can most likely be explained by different drinking cultures where in some countries , they drink to get drunk in contrast to cultures where there is social drinking during meals . ''
More than 227,000 children took part in the WHO 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agency says its figures show that adolescent mental wellbeing in many countries declined between 2014 and 2018 .
Across all nations , fewer than one in five adolescents meet the World Health Organisation 's recommendations for physical activity - a considerable drop from the last study in 2014 .
Experts have also warned that two in three adolescents are not eating enough nutrient-rich foods , with levels of obesity on the rise .
In England , less than half of children aged 11 and 13 said they ate fruit and vegetables at least @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also revealed that children from less affluent families are much less likely to eat breakfast before heading to school .
When asked whether the low levels of children meeting the WHO 's recommendations for exercise and healthy eating mean that the targets are unrealistic , Dr Weber told Sky News : `` WHO 's targets for physical activity and eating nutrient-rich foods are not unachievable but ambitious .
`` Some countries have made better progress in achieving them , especially through health promoting schools and active transport to schools , but it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work towards them .
`` It is striking that girls are especially left behind , and although boys generally do better , they are also behind the targets . ''
Dr Jo Inchley , the study 's lead author , said : `` It is worrying to see that adolescents are telling us that all is not well with their mental wellbeing , and we must take this message seriously , as good mental health is an essential part of healthy adolescence .
`` Although many young people in Scotland , Wales @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lives and are less likely to be drinking and smoking or consuming sugary snacks compared with previous survey years , this study highlights a number of areas of concern .
`` Sleep difficulties are on the rise , and we 're also seeing an increase in social and emotional difficulties such as feeling low and feeling nervous . ''

A study across 45 countries has found England, Wales and Scotland have a high proportion of children who have been drunk at least twice by the time they are 15 years old.
Wales came second in the rankings released by the World Health Organisation, with 35% of girls and 31% of boys revealing they had consumed alcohol excessively in the past.
Scotland was fifth in the table and England was 12th, with dozens of other countries reporting lower levels of underage drinking among teenagers.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:16 January: Fitness influencers could have negative impact
The WHO's cross-national study, performed before the coronavirus pandemic, explored several factors pertaining to the health and wellbeing of children in the Europe and Canada.
Although British adolescents are more likely to brush their teeth at least once a day than many of their European counterparts, the report warned there are "a number of areas of concern" when it comes to their daily lives.
According to the report, 75% of 15-year-old girls in the UK say they are struggling with high levels of pressure from their work at school - with England having the third-highest percentage.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Young people in the UK are more likely to believe they are too fat, especially older adolescents and children from poorer backgrounds.
British children also spend much more time on social media than their peers across Europe, with researchers warning that excessive use "is associated with lower life satisfaction, poorer sleep and lower attainment at school".
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And of the 45 countries polled, England, Wales and Scotland were in the bottom third of the leaderboard when it came to the number of 15-year-olds who eat a meal with their families daily.
Image: Social media use is higher in the UK than in many other European countries
Martin Weber, the programme manager for child and adolescent health at the WHO regional office for Europe, told Sky News: "The fact that teenagers in England, Scotland and Wales more prone to drunkenness than other European countries can most likely be explained by different drinking cultures where in some countries, they drink to get drunk in contrast to cultures where there is social drinking during meals."
More than 227,000 children took part in the WHO's extensive study, and the UN health agency says its figures show that adolescent mental wellbeing in many countries declined between 2014 and 2018.
Across all nations, fewer than one in five adolescents meet the World Health Organisation's recommendations for physical activity - a considerable drop from the last study in 2014.
Experts have also warned that two in three adolescents are not eating enough nutrient-rich foods, with levels of obesity on the rise.
In England, less than half of children aged 11 and 13 said they ate fruit and vegetables at least once a day - and the report also revealed that children from less affluent families are much less likely to eat breakfast before heading to school.
When asked whether the low levels of children meeting the WHO's recommendations for exercise and healthy eating mean that the targets are unrealistic, Dr Weber told Sky News: "WHO's targets for physical activity and eating nutrient-rich foods are not unachievable but ambitious.
"Some countries have made better progress in achieving them, especially through health promoting schools and active transport to schools, but it is clear that the whole school environment needs to work towards them.
"It is striking that girls are especially left behind, and although boys generally do better, they are also behind the targets."
Image: After the study, the main group's alcohol consumption dropped
Dr Jo Inchley, the study's lead author, said: "It is worrying to see that adolescents are telling us that all is not well with their mental wellbeing, and we must take this message seriously, as good mental health is an essential part of healthy adolescence.
"Although many young people in Scotland, Wales and England are generally satisfied with their lives and are less likely to be drinking and smoking or consuming sugary snacks compared with previous survey years, this study highlights a number of areas of concern.
"Sleep difficulties are on the rise, and we're also seeing an increase in social and emotional difficulties such as feeling low and feeling nervous."


news--2020-05-18--Coronavirus: Donald Trump calls Nancy Pelosi 'sick woman' over comments on unapproved drug

Donald Trump has branded Nancy Pelosi a `` sick woman '' with `` a lot of mental problems '' after she said he was `` morbidly obese '' and should not be taking an unapproved drug as a preventative measure for coronavirus .
The US president revealed overnight he had been taking hydroxychloroquine for the last week and a half in pill form and had had `` zero symptoms '' .
In an interview with CNN 's Anderson Cooper 360 programme , house speaker Mrs Pelosi said : `` As far as the president is concerned , he 's our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not be taking something that has not been approved by the scientists , especially in his age group , and his , shall we say , weight group , morbidly obese , they say .
`` So I think it 's not a good idea . ''
The president , who is 73 , passed the official threshold for being considered obese , with a body mass index of 30.4 , in February last year .
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , a BMI of 40 or above is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continued to double down on his decision to take the drug and has insisted it has a `` great reputation '' and gives `` an additional level of safety '' .
The US Food and Drug Administration has warned against the use of hydroxychloroquine in COVID-19 patients outside of a hospital setting or clinical trial due to the risk of serious heart rhythm problems .
Anthony Fauci , director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases ( NIAID ) , earlier said there was no evidence the drug could prevent coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ evidence to show it can treat patients who are infected with the virus .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Studies published in the medical journal BMJ have disputed this , saying patients given the drug did not improve significantly over those who did not .
Asked about some studies of hydroxycholoriquine which have warned of potentially fatal side effects , Mr Trump said there was only one `` bad survey '' .
`` They were giving [ the drug ] to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .
`` They were very old .
Almost dead .
The president said he requested the drug from the White House physician and it had not been recommended by his doctor .
Asked whether he could provide any evidence hydroxychloroquine has a preventative effect , Mr Trump told reporters : `` I get a lot of positive calls about it . ''
In a letter to the White House press secretary , the president 's physician , Commander Sean Conley , said he and Mr Trump had discussed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and `` we concluded the potential benefit from treatment outweighed the relative risks '' .
But British medical experts have criticised Dr Conley 's advice to the president .
Bharat Pankhania , senior clinical lecturer at the University of Exeter , told Sky News he was `` extremely disappointed '' to see Mr Trump 's own clinical physician say there was `` no harm '' in taking the drug .
`` We have noticed cardiotoxicity , which means it has harmful effects on the heart muscle , and we 've had reports of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hydroxychloroquine , '' he said .
`` In this case it 's the president of the United States , so he may get other people to start taking it , which they should n't .
They may stop taking precautions against getting infections , they may take an overdose and die .
This is serious . ''
The UK government also stressed that taking the anti-malarial drug was `` not something we recommend doing '' .
Hydroxychloroquine is still being studied by the US and other countries as a potential COVID-19 treatment .

Donald Trump has branded Nancy Pelosi a "sick woman" with "a lot of mental problems" after she said he was "morbidly obese" and should not be taking an unapproved drug as a preventative measure for coronavirus.
The US president revealed overnight he had been taking hydroxychloroquine for the last week and a half in pill form and had had "zero symptoms".
In an interview with CNN's Anderson Cooper 360 programme, house speaker Mrs Pelosi said: "As far as the president is concerned, he's our president and I would rather he would not be taking something that has not been approved by the scientists, especially in his age group, and his, shall we say, weight group, morbidly obese, they say.
Image: Hydroxychloroquine is used to treat malaria
"So I think it's not a good idea."
The president, who is 73, passed the official threshold for being considered obese, with a body mass index of 30.4, in February last year.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a BMI of 40 or above is considered morbidly obese.
Mr Trump has continued to double down on his decision to take the drug and has insisted it has a "great reputation" and gives "an additional level of safety".
The US Food and Drug Administration has warned against the use of hydroxychloroquine in COVID-19 patients outside of a hospital setting or clinical trial due to the risk of serious heart rhythm problems.
Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), earlier said there was no evidence the drug could prevent coronavirus, but added there was some anecdotal evidence to show it can treat patients who are infected with the virus.
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:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Studies published in the medical journal BMJ have disputed this, saying patients given the drug did not improve significantly over those who did not.
Asked about some studies of hydroxycholoriquine which have warned of potentially fatal side effects, Mr Trump said there was only one "bad survey".
"They were giving [the drug] to people that were in very bad shape," he said. "They were very old. Almost dead.
"It was a Trump enemy statement."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:12 'It is so wrong on so many parameters'
The president said he requested the drug from the White House physician and it had not been recommended by his doctor.
Asked whether he could provide any evidence hydroxychloroquine has a preventative effect, Mr Trump told reporters: "I get a lot of positive calls about it."
In a letter to the White House press secretary, the president's physician, Commander Sean Conley, said he and Mr Trump had discussed the merits of the drug on several occasions and "we concluded the potential benefit from treatment outweighed the relative risks".
But British medical experts have criticised Dr Conley's advice to the president.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:36 'Yeah I'm taking it, and I'm still here'
Bharat Pankhania, senior clinical lecturer at the University of Exeter, told Sky News he was "extremely disappointed" to see Mr Trump's own clinical physician say there was "no harm" in taking the drug.
"We have noticed cardiotoxicity, which means it has harmful effects on the heart muscle, and we've had reports of deaths due to taking an overdose of hydroxychloroquine," he said.
"In this case it's the president of the United States, so he may get other people to start taking it, which they shouldn't. They may stop taking precautions against getting infections, they may take an overdose and die. This is serious."
The UK government also stressed that taking the anti-malarial drug was "not something we recommend doing".
Hydroxychloroquine is still being studied by the US and other countries as a potential COVID-19 treatment.


news--2020-05-19--Coronavirus: Stranded bird watchers back in UK after mammoth trip with RAF help

A team of conservationists stranded in one of the world 's most remote places have made it back to the UK after sailing nearly 2,000 miles and boarding a military flight .
The group of 12 from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds ( RSPB ) had been working on Gough Island , an isolated South Atlantic island which is part of the British overseas territory Tristan da Cunha .
They arrived on the island in February as part of a project to help save endangered seabirds from giant invasive mice .
But when the coronavirus pandemic escalated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get back home - and their options were limited .
The island is about 1,700 miles west of Cape Town and the closest countries ' borders were closing rapidly .
In the end , the team 's best option was a 12-day voyage on their yacht - the ESV Evohe - to Ascension Island , some 1,969 nautical miles away on rough seas .
Kate Lawrence , who was among the RSPB group and lives in New Zealand , said : `` Sailing in that boat for 12 days , looking at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made the world feel quite big , in contrast to the previous ease of air travel and the rapid spread of COVID-19 , which makes the world seem so small . ''
When the group arrived on Ascension Island , they were put on to the next Royal Air Force ( RAF ) flight to the UK 's Brize Norton air base .
The flight had been visiting the island to deliver essential supplies .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ involved in repatriating the team .
Tristan da Cunha administrator Fiona Kilpatrick said it was a `` complex operation '' and had involved staff from three UK overseas territories , as well as teams in South Africa , Vienna and London .
The RSPB hopes to return to the island next year , if conditions allow , to help save rare seabirds such as the critically endangered Tristan albatross .
The birds have come under threat after people inadvertently introduced giant mice to the island .
The mice eat chicks , killing more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Heritage Site each year .

A team of conservationists stranded in one of the world's most remote places have made it back to the UK after sailing nearly 2,000 miles and boarding a military flight.
The group of 12 from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) had been working on Gough Island, an isolated South Atlantic island which is part of the British overseas territory Tristan da Cunha.
They arrived on the island in February as part of a project to help save endangered seabirds from giant invasive mice.
Image: The group of 12 were from the RSPB
But when the coronavirus pandemic escalated, the team quickly realised they had to get back home - and their options were limited.
The island is about 1,700 miles west of Cape Town and the closest countries' borders were closing rapidly.
In the end, the team's best option was a 12-day voyage on their yacht - the ESV Evohe - to Ascension Island, some 1,969 nautical miles away on rough seas.
Image: Ascension Island, where the group sailed to. File pic
Kate Lawrence, who was among the RSPB group and lives in New Zealand, said: "Sailing in that boat for 12 days, looking at the endless blue ocean around me, made the world feel quite big, in contrast to the previous ease of air travel and the rapid spread of COVID-19, which makes the world seem so small."
When the group arrived on Ascension Island, they were put on to the next Royal Air Force (RAF) flight to the UK's Brize Norton air base.
The flight had been visiting the island to deliver essential supplies.
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:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Both the Foreign Office and the RAF were involved in repatriating the team.
Tristan da Cunha administrator Fiona Kilpatrick said it was a "complex operation" and had involved staff from three UK overseas territories, as well as teams in South Africa, Vienna and London.
The RSPB hopes to return to the island next year, if conditions allow, to help save rare seabirds such as the critically endangered Tristan albatross.
The birds have come under threat after people inadvertently introduced giant mice to the island.
The mice eat chicks, killing more than two million birds at the World Heritage Site each year.


news--2020-05-19--EasyJet: Nine million customers' details 'accessed' by hackers

Easyjet has revealed that the personal details of nine million customers have been accessed by `` highly sophisticated '' hackers .
The discount airline - currently mired by the grounding of flights because of the coronavirus crisis and a leadership tussle led by its founder - said it discovered the data breach in late January and was in the process of notifying those affected .
It stressed there was no evidence that data had been misused by criminals .
The Information Commissioner 's Office ( ICO ) , Britain 's data watchdog , said it was investigating the incident .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ addresses and travel details of nine million people were exposed along with the credit card details of more than 2,200 customers .
The airline said passport and credit card details were otherwise secure .
According to Reuters the attack is thought to have been conducted by a suspected Chinese hacking group which has targeted multiple airlines in recent months .
Easyjet began to inform those whose card details were accessed in April and `` following discussions '' was now notifying other customers .
The reason that it had taken from January until April @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time taken `` to understand the scope of the breach '' , which was `` highly sophisticated '' , a spokesman said .
Easyjet 's statement said : `` There is no evidence that any personal information of any nature has been misused , however ... we are communicating with the approximately nine million customers whose travel details were accessed to advise them of protective steps to minimise any risk of potential phishing . ''
It added : `` We 're sorry that this has happened , and we would like to reassure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ security of their information very seriously .
`` Easyjet is in the process of contacting the relevant customers directly and affected customers will be notified no later than 26 May . ''
The company said it had been working with the Information Commissioner 's Office ( ICO ) and National Cyber Security Centre since discovering the hacking .
An ICO spokesperson said : `` We have a live investigation into the cyber attack involving easyJet .
`` People have the right to expect that organisations will handle their personal information securely and responsibly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we will investigate and take robust action where necessary . ''
British Airways , in the process of cutting 12,000 jobs to reshape itself for the future beyond the COVID-19 pandemic , is currently on notice from the ICO for a £183m fine over a similar breach in 2018 that coincided with tougher new powers for the regulator to punish sloppy protections .
The details of 500,000 customers were compromised in that incident .
Easyjet 's disclosure comes at a critical time for its leadership as it battles a series of challenges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the coronavirus pandemic eases .
The airline 's founder and biggest shareholder Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou 's family is also seeking to remove chief executive Johan Lundgren and three other members of the board in a shareholder vote due this Friday .
The row centres on a £4.5bn order for new planes from Airbus which Sir Stelios argues should be scrapped .
Sky News has previously revealed a bizarre twist over his offer of a £5m reward for information that leads to the deal being cancelled .
The tycoon wants the cash to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emerge stronger from the pandemic crisis .
Easyjet has furloughed thousands of staff and borrowed £600m under a government-backed financing scheme .

Easyjet has revealed that the personal details of nine million customers have been accessed by "highly sophisticated" hackers.
The discount airline - currently mired by the grounding of flights because of the coronavirus crisis and a leadership tussle led by its founder - said it discovered the data breach in late January and was in the process of notifying those affected.
It stressed there was no evidence that data had been misused by criminals.
The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), Britain's data watchdog, said it was investigating the incident.
Image: Chief executive Johan Lundgren has apologised to customers
Easyjet said it believed that the email addresses and travel details of nine million people were exposed along with the credit card details of more than 2,200 customers.
The airline said passport and credit card details were otherwise secure.
According to Reuters the attack is thought to have been conducted by a suspected Chinese hacking group which has targeted multiple airlines in recent months.
Easyjet began to inform those whose card details were accessed in April and "following discussions" was now notifying other customers.
The reason that it had taken from January until April to contact people was because of the time taken "to understand the scope of the breach", which was "highly sophisticated", a spokesman said.
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Easyjet's statement said: "There is no evidence that any personal information of any nature has been misused, however... we are communicating with the approximately nine million customers whose travel details were accessed to advise them of protective steps to minimise any risk of potential phishing."
It added: "We're sorry that this has happened, and we would like to reassure customers that we take the safety and security of their information very seriously.
"Easyjet is in the process of contacting the relevant customers directly and affected customers will be notified no later than 26 May."
The company said it had been working with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) and National Cyber Security Centre since discovering the hacking.
An ICO spokesperson said: "We have a live investigation into the cyber attack involving easyJet.
"People have the right to expect that organisations will handle their personal information securely and responsibly.
"When that doesn't happen, we will investigate and take robust action where necessary."
British Airways, in the process of cutting 12,000 jobs to reshape itself for the future beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, is currently on notice from the ICO for a £183m fine over a similar breach in 2018 that coincided with tougher new powers for the regulator to punish sloppy protections.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:40 14-day quarantine a 'body blow'
The details of 500,000 customers were compromised in that incident.
Easyjet's disclosure comes at a critical time for its leadership as it battles a series of challenges including a meaningful return to the skies as the coronavirus pandemic eases.
The airline's founder and biggest shareholder Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou's family is also seeking to remove chief executive Johan Lundgren and three other members of the board in a shareholder vote due this Friday.
The row centres on a £4.5bn order for new planes from Airbus which Sir Stelios argues should be scrapped.
Sky News has previously revealed a bizarre twist over his offer of a £5m reward for information that leads to the deal being cancelled.
The tycoon wants the cash to be used instead to help the company emerge stronger from the pandemic crisis.
Easyjet has furloughed thousands of staff and borrowed £600m under a government-backed financing scheme.