themanchestereveningnews--2020-05-15--Police warn about ‘zoombombing’ after more cases of child abuse being shared

Police have warned people to remain vigilant and be wary of ‘ zoombombing ’ after child abuse videos were shared on the video conferencing app Zoom .
Disturbing child abuse imagery has been used by hackers who have hijacked calls on the service across the UK .
Zoom has ramped up security on the site in a bid to cut incidents of Zoombombing - a practice in which uninvited guests break into a video conference and disrupt it with offensive language or imagery .
But police in Wiltshire have issued a warning about using the video-calling app after three incidents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by video footage of child abuse .
It comes after wine enthusiasts were left shocked and in tears when an online tasting event hosted by Zoom was hacked earlier this month .
Internet vandals posted a sickening child porn video during a call hosted by Prestwich-based wine merchant Grain To Grape during an online wine and cheese tasting event .
And in April , a support group video meeting for people giving up alcohol was hacked with child sex abuse footage .
Members of the Sober Experiment meeting were shocked when hackers logged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Zoom , and played two abuse clips using the split screen option .
Gemma Vinton , Detective Inspector for the digital investigations and intelligence unit at Wiltshire Police , said : `` Incidents of this nature have been reported globally as well as in the UK recently , however , we have now , unfortunately , had three reports within Wiltshire in the last week .
`` These zoom-bombings have involved extremely unpleasant indecent child-abuse video footage being shown via screen sharing by a meeting participant who was not known to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The meetings were publicised on social media with limited security settings so we 're urging individuals and businesses alike to remain vigilant and ensure settings are fixed correctly to prevent future occurrences . ''
Read more of today 's top stories here Zoomboming originated through a security flaw in the platform which allowed anyone to access a meeting if they obtained its ID number or a link to it .
Many instances of Zoombombing have occurred after meeting details were shared publicly on social media - which Wiltshire Police confirmed was the case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks , Zoom has announced a string of security updates , including stronger password settings and meeting waiting rooms being turned on by default - tools designed to cut incidents of Zoombombing .
The platform has grown exponentially since lockdown restrictions were put in place as millions started to work and study from home .
The firm acknowledged it was unable to initially handle the increased demand and scrutiny but insisted its safety settings were far more robust following a number of updates .
Security concerns raised around Zoom have seen some organisations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ something the firm 's chief information officer , Harry Moseley , described as `` normal speed bumps '' in the rise of any new service .
He reiterated that Zoom was committed to continued updates to improve the app 's security settings .
`` Security has always been very core to Zoom , we value our clients , '' he said .
`` We 're all about their success , their security , their privacy . ''
However , Andy Burrows , head of child safety online policy at the NSPCC , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that greater regulation of the technology sector was needed .
`` It 's frankly dismissive and cavalier of a Zoom executive to say their failings are 'normal speed bumps ' when it includes adults and children being bombarded with child abuse images on the platform , '' he said .
`` These are not commonplace concerns they can lightly brush off , they are abhorrent crimes with devastating and long-lasting impacts on victims .
`` This goes to show the urgent need for the duty of care legislation and for platforms to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mind to avoid being forced to play catch-up . ''
A Government 's Online Harms white paper has proposed a statutory duty of care be introduced for tech giants which could levy large fines and personal liability against executives of firms found to be in breach .
In a statement , Zoom said : `` These incidents are truly devastating and appalling , and our user policies explicitly prohibit any obscene , indecent , illegal or violent activity or content on the platform .
`` Zoom strongly condemns such behaviour and appreciates efforts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prevent these kinds of attacks .
`` Zoom has been similarly educating users on best practices , including recommending that users never share private meeting links publicly , and we recently updated several features to help users more easily protect their meetings . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Police have warned people to remain vigilant and be wary of ‘zoombombing’ after child abuse videos were shared on the video conferencing app Zoom.
Disturbing child abuse imagery has been used by hackers who have hijacked calls on the service across the UK.
Zoom has ramped up security on the site in a bid to cut incidents of Zoombombing - a practice in which uninvited guests break into a video conference and disrupt it with offensive language or imagery.
But police in Wiltshire have issued a warning about using the video-calling app after three incidents in the county where meetings were interrupted by video footage of child abuse.
(Image: scu)
It comes after wine enthusiasts were left shocked and in tears when an online tasting event hosted by Zoom was hacked earlier this month.
Internet vandals posted a sickening child porn video during a call hosted by Prestwich-based wine merchant Grain To Grape during an online wine and cheese tasting event.
And in April, a support group video meeting for people giving up alcohol was hacked with child sex abuse footage.
Members of the Sober Experiment meeting were shocked when hackers logged into the video meeting, being held on Zoom, and played two abuse clips using the split screen option.
Follow reporter Beth Abbit on social media To follow Beth on Twitter, click here Or to like her Facebook page and keep up to with the latest news, click here Here's the link to the M.E.N's main Facebook page where we share our latest stories.
Gemma Vinton, Detective Inspector for the digital investigations and intelligence unit at Wiltshire Police, said: "Incidents of this nature have been reported globally as well as in the UK recently, however, we have now, unfortunately, had three reports within Wiltshire in the last week.
"These zoom-bombings have involved extremely unpleasant indecent child-abuse video footage being shown via screen sharing by a meeting participant who was not known to the organisers of the video conferences.
"The meetings were publicised on social media with limited security settings so we're urging individuals and businesses alike to remain vigilant and ensure settings are fixed correctly to prevent future occurrences."
Zoomboming originated through a security flaw in the platform which allowed anyone to access a meeting if they obtained its ID number or a link to it.
Many instances of Zoombombing have occurred after meeting details were shared publicly on social media - which Wiltshire Police confirmed was the case in these latest incidents.
In recent weeks, Zoom has announced a string of security updates, including stronger password settings and meeting waiting rooms being turned on by default - tools designed to cut incidents of Zoombombing.
The platform has grown exponentially since lockdown restrictions were put in place as millions started to work and study from home.
The firm acknowledged it was unable to initially handle the increased demand and scrutiny but insisted its safety settings were far more robust following a number of updates.
Security concerns raised around Zoom have seen some organisations opt not to use the service, something the firm's chief information officer, Harry Moseley, described as "normal speed bumps" in the rise of any new service.
He reiterated that Zoom was committed to continued updates to improve the app's security settings.
"Security has always been very core to Zoom, we value our clients," he said.
"We're all about their success, their security, their privacy."
(Image: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire)
However, Andy Burrows, head of child safety online policy at the NSPCC, said Zoom's ongoing issues were further proof that greater regulation of the technology sector was needed.
"It's frankly dismissive and cavalier of a Zoom executive to say their failings are 'normal speed bumps' when it includes adults and children being bombarded with child abuse images on the platform," he said.
"These are not commonplace concerns they can lightly brush off, they are abhorrent crimes with devastating and long-lasting impacts on victims.
"This goes to show the urgent need for the duty of care legislation and for platforms to be built with the safety of children in mind to avoid being forced to play catch-up."
A Government's Online Harms white paper has proposed a statutory duty of care be introduced for tech giants which could levy large fines and personal liability against executives of firms found to be in breach.
In a statement, Zoom said: "These incidents are truly devastating and appalling, and our user policies explicitly prohibit any obscene, indecent, illegal or violent activity or content on the platform.
"Zoom strongly condemns such behaviour and appreciates efforts to raise awareness around how best to prevent these kinds of attacks.
"Zoom has been similarly educating users on best practices, including recommending that users never share private meeting links publicly, and we recently updated several features to help users more easily protect their meetings."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-05-15--Ex Man United star urges club to move for Spurs striker Harry Kane

Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Ince says the club would be `` absolutely daft '' not to make a move for Tottenham striker Harry Kane - but he does not envisage a transfer taking place .
Kane has been linked with a Spurs exit with a number of clubs interested in him , including United among others .
And the England captain only added fuel to the fire when admitting that the club need to match his ambitions if he is to stay in North London .
And while Ince says the 26-year-old would be a dream signing , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moving to Old Trafford .
The MEN also understands a move is highly unlikely .
`` I can not see Harry Kane to Manchester United happening , '' Ince told Paddy Power .
`` I can see him going , yes , and wanting to leave Tottenham , but not to join United .
`` People keep saying that what they keep forgetting is they ’ ve got Marcus Rashford up front .
He ’ s always wanted to play up front , but what you need to remember is he can also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we ’ ve seen from plenty of his goals this season .
`` Plus , between him and Anthony Martial , Kane coming in would also bring some competition to the side .
There ’ s always been a sense of competition at United , and it would be nice to see that back again , players fighting for their places .
`` So if you ’ re looking at Rashford left , Kane centre and Jadon Sancho on the right , it sounds pretty nice doesn ’ t it ?
But it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reason , it is a dream .
`` Don ’ t get me wrong , if , and it ’ s a big if , United can get Kane , and he fancies the move , surely you ’ re going to go for him .
You ’ d be absolutely daft not to .
If you can get him , then you have to go and get him , but I can ’ t see it being the case .
`` Spurs fans won ’ t like to hear me say this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you simply need a new challenge .
Whether that ’ s at Old Trafford , or in my opinion , more likely abroad , who knows ?
`` However if he ’ s on the market then if you ’ ve got to at least have a go at getting him , if you ’ re United .
You ’ re taking a completely complete , proven player .
He ’ s only going to get better and better .
He 's a guarantee . ''

Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Ince says the club would be "absolutely daft" not to make a move for Tottenham striker Harry Kane - but he does not envisage a transfer taking place.
Kane has been linked with a Spurs exit with a number of clubs interested in him, including United among others.
And the England captain only added fuel to the fire when admitting that the club need to match his ambitions if he is to stay in North London.
And while Ince says the 26-year-old would be a dream signing, he does not think the striker will be moving to Old Trafford. The MEN also understands a move is highly unlikely.
"I cannot see Harry Kane to Manchester United happening," Ince told Paddy Power. "I can see him going, yes, and wanting to leave Tottenham, but not to join United.
"People keep saying that what they keep forgetting is they’ve got Marcus Rashford up front. He’s always wanted to play up front, but what you need to remember is he can also play off the left-hand side, as we’ve seen from plenty of his goals this season.
"Plus, between him and Anthony Martial, Kane coming in would also bring some competition to the side. There’s always been a sense of competition at United, and it would be nice to see that back again, players fighting for their places.
"So if you’re looking at Rashford left, Kane centre and Jadon Sancho on the right, it sounds pretty nice doesn’t it? But it probably sounds like a dream for a reason, it is a dream.
"Don’t get me wrong, if, and it’s a big if, United can get Kane, and he fancies the move, surely you’re going to go for him. You’d be absolutely daft not to. If you can get him, then you have to go and get him, but I can’t see it being the case.
"Spurs fans won’t like to hear me say this either, but sometimes as a player you simply need a new challenge. Whether that’s at Old Trafford, or in my opinion, more likely abroad, who knows?
"However if he’s on the market then if you’ve got to at least have a go at getting him, if you’re United. You’re taking a completely complete, proven player. He’s only going to get better and better. He's a guarantee."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-05-15--Manchester United news and transfers RECAP

Carlos Tevez ’ agent Kia Joorabchian joined Gary Neville on The Football Show this morning to address the comments from earlier in the week .
“ I ’ m here because I feel that Gary said something a couple of days ago and I feel that he was absolutely wrong .
I often let things go but I think that when you go after somebody and you ’ ve made a lot of wrong and incorrect statements , then by letting it go will not do the benefit to the public listening to fake information .
“ Gary mentioned about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he also mentioned that there were problems in his second year about people talking in his ear .
So generally I have three comments and three questions for Gary .
“ In terms of the people who he claims were talking into his ear , I ’ d like to know who he thinks were talking into his ear and what he thinks they were saying in his ear because unless he was hacking them or taping him then it was impossible for him to know what they were apparently saying in his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like to know who those people are .
Furthermore , I must apologise as I gave an incorrect stat in my previous interview , I said Gary played four times in that year , he actually played one time in Carlos ’ first year because unfortunately Gary was injured .
“ And he played ten minutes against Roma .
When Gary made a comparison between year one and year two , Gary could not have known too much about year one because he played ten minutes that year , not four times as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mostly on the treatment table and that ’ s the actual year he said good things about Carlos .
And finally I think that Sir Alex Ferguson was one of the greatest managers of my time and irrespective of what side of the hairdryer you were on , you had nothing but respect for the man .
“ The one thing that I think I learnt in my time about Sir Alex was that he had his finger to the pulse all the time and he was a strong coach , he knew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ training round , off the training ground , at home , on a week day .
“ And by Gary making those comments about the second year he ’ s somewhat questioning whether Sir Alex had his finger to the pulse because Sir Alex picked Carlos 51 times during that season of 2008/09 , 51 times .
He picked Rooney 49 times , Berbatov 44 times and Gary himself only played 29 in that season .
“ In those moments Carlos played 51 games , picked by Sir Alex , 15 goals , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 11 assists and Rooney 20 goals and 13 assists .
“ Sir Alex would not have picked someone 51 times a season if they were down tooling or being unprofessional unless Gary thinks Sir Alex took his eye off the ball .
”

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Dominic Booth, Richard Fay, Marcus Banks)

Carlos Tevez’ agent Kia Joorabchian joined Gary Neville on The Football Show this morning to address the comments from earlier in the week.
“I’m here because I feel that Gary said something a couple of days ago and I feel that he was absolutely wrong. I often let things go but I think that when you go after somebody and you’ve made a lot of wrong and incorrect statements, then by letting it go will not do the benefit to the public listening to fake information.
“Gary mentioned about Carlos down tooling and his professionalism and he also mentioned that there were problems in his second year about people talking in his ear. So generally I have three comments and three questions for Gary.
“In terms of the people who he claims were talking into his ear, I’d like to know who he thinks were talking into his ear and what he thinks they were saying in his ear because unless he was hacking them or taping him then it was impossible for him to know what they were apparently saying in his ear.
“And I’d like to know who those people are. Furthermore, I must apologise as I gave an incorrect stat in my previous interview, I said Gary played four times in that year, he actually played one time in Carlos’ first year because unfortunately Gary was injured.
“And he played ten minutes against Roma. When Gary made a comparison between year one and year two, Gary could not have known too much about year one because he played ten minutes that year, not four times as I incorrectly said.
“He was mostly on the treatment table and that’s the actual year he said good things about Carlos. And finally I think that Sir Alex Ferguson was one of the greatest managers of my time and irrespective of what side of the hairdryer you were on, you had nothing but respect for the man.
“The one thing that I think I learnt in my time about Sir Alex was that he had his finger to the pulse all the time and he was a strong coach, he knew what his players were doing in the training round, off the training ground, at home, on a week day.
“And by Gary making those comments about the second year he’s somewhat questioning whether Sir Alex had his finger to the pulse because Sir Alex picked Carlos 51 times during that season of 2008/09, 51 times. He picked Rooney 49 times, Berbatov 44 times and Gary himself only played 29 in that season.
“In those moments Carlos played 51 games, picked by Sir Alex, 15 goals, seven assists. Berbatov 14 goals, 11 assists and Rooney 20 goals and 13 assists.
“Sir Alex would not have picked someone 51 times a season if they were down tooling or being unprofessional unless Gary thinks Sir Alex took his eye off the ball.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-05-15--Moment granddad with lung problems leaves hospital after beating coronavirus

This is the amazing moment an 84-year-old granddad with existing heart and lung problems was wheeled out of hospital after beating coronavirus .
Frank Beaden , who used to work as a printer for the Manchester Evening News , was admitted to hospital on Easter Monday with breathing difficulties .
He was diagnosed with fluid on the heart and lungs two years ago , and takes regular medication for a range of health problems .
Frank initially tested negative for COVID-19 and spent two weeks in hospital , where his condition was starting to improve .
But on , April @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call to say that Frank had tested positive for the virus , and had developed pneumonia .
Despite all odds , Frank made a miraculous recovery and by May 12 , he was discharged to a local rehabilitation hospital , having overcome the worst of the virus .
Footage filmed by staff at Macclesfield Hospital documents the incredible moment Frank was discharged from the COVID-ward .
`` For someone like my granddad , the news that he had coronavirus was like a death sentence , '' Frank 's granddaughter , Alice Beaden said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his breathing for about two years and takes all kinds of medication .
`` Every day you hear on the news about people like my granddad and how they do n't recover from it .
We were just devastated . ''
Alice said Frank 's beloved wife Gail , along with their three children and eight grandchildren , were determined to stay positive for him .
`` We knew his mind would have to be in a good place for him to get better , so we tried to keep things as positive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We told him he was going to get better and never once gave him the impression that he was n't going to come home .
`` The staff at Macclesfield Hospital are heroes .
They got my granddad an iPad so we could Facetime him and there was a website where you could submit letters and pictures for them to look at .
`` We sent him stuff every day to make sure his mind was keeping active . ''
Frank was placed on to oxygen and at one point his family received @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pneumonia , and that the outlook was n't good .
But by some miracle , his condition began to improve and five days later , Frank had a blood test which confirmed he had pulled through the worst of the virus .
He has now been moved to a rehabilitation hospital where nurses are helping him learn to walk again , after spending nearly a month bed-bound .
`` My grandparents have been married for 60 years and this is the longest they have ever been apart from each other , '' Alice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very independent so we were worried she would be really scared without him but she 's been an absolute trooper .
`` She got told off because she was ringing the hospital ward too many times . ''
Alice says she credits the doctors and nurses at Macclesfield for the amazing recovery made by her granddad .
`` I know everyone says this but they were just incredible - without them my granddad would n't be here now , '' she added .
“ When I got the video of him being released @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kind of tears .
`` The whole family thinks he is an absolute hero .
When lockdown is finally over we will throw him a massive coming home party . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
This is the amazing moment an 84-year-old granddad with existing heart and lung problems was wheeled out of hospital after beating coronavirus.
Frank Beaden, who used to work as a printer for the Manchester Evening News , was admitted to hospital on Easter Monday with breathing difficulties.
He was diagnosed with fluid on the heart and lungs two years ago, and takes regular medication for a range of health problems.
Frank initially tested negative for COVID-19 and spent two weeks in hospital, where his condition was starting to improve.
But on, April 27, his family received the devastating call to say that Frank had tested positive for the virus , and had developed pneumonia.
Despite all odds, Frank made a miraculous recovery and by May 12, he was discharged to a local rehabilitation hospital, having overcome the worst of the virus.
(Image: Alice Beaden)
Footage filmed by staff at Macclesfield Hospital documents the incredible moment Frank was discharged from the COVID-ward.
"For someone like my granddad, the news that he had coronavirus was like a death sentence," Frank's granddaughter, Alice Beaden said.
"He had been struggling with his breathing for about two years and takes all kinds of medication.
"Every day you hear on the news about people like my granddad and how they don't recover from it. We were just devastated."
Alice said Frank's beloved wife Gail, along with their three children and eight grandchildren, were determined to stay positive for him.
"We knew his mind would have to be in a good place for him to get better, so we tried to keep things as positive as possible, Alice said.
"We told him he was going to get better and never once gave him the impression that he wasn't going to come home.
"The staff at Macclesfield Hospital are heroes. They got my granddad an iPad so we could Facetime him and there was a website where you could submit letters and pictures for them to look at.
(Image: Alice Beaden)
"We sent him stuff every day to make sure his mind was keeping active."
Frank was placed on to oxygen and at one point his family received an update to say he had developed pneumonia, and that the outlook wasn't good.
But by some miracle, his condition began to improve and five days later, Frank had a blood test which confirmed he had pulled through the worst of the virus.
He has now been moved to a rehabilitation hospital where nurses are helping him learn to walk again, after spending nearly a month bed-bound.
"My grandparents have been married for 60 years and this is the longest they have ever been apart from each other," Alice said.
"My grandma isn't very independent so we were worried she would be really scared without him but she's been an absolute trooper.
"She got told off because she was ringing the hospital ward too many times."
Alice says she credits the doctors and nurses at Macclesfield for the amazing recovery made by her granddad.
"I know everyone says this but they were just incredible - without them my granddad wouldn't be here now," she added.
“When I got the video of him being released from hospital I was crying completely different kind of tears.
"The whole family thinks he is an absolute hero. When lockdown is finally over we will throw him a massive coming home party."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-05-15--BBC presenter Chelsea Norris reveals dramatic labour during COVID-19 pandemic

BBC Radio Manchester presenter Chelsea Norris has spoken out about her dramatic caesarean birth .
Chelsea , who had a natural childbirth with her daughter Minnie at 38 weeks , had passed the 40 week stage with her son Barney when she realised something might be wrong .
She decided to get checked out when she was asked by a neighbour during VE Day celebrations if she was feeling a lot of movement from her baby and she realised she was n't .
She had an emergency caesarean after her baby 's heart rate dropped and it was then discovered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a rare condition where the placenta comes away from the wall of the womb affecting up to one in 100 pregnancies .
Placental abruption can deprive the baby of oxygen and nutrients and cause heavy bleeding in the mother .
Chelsea , who was induced after explaining that she had felt little movement from her baby in the late stages of pregnancy , lost one and a half litres of blood and narrowly missed needing a blood transfusion .
She told us : `` Barney 's heart rate could have dropped so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emergency and that does n't bear thinking about . ''
In speaking out , Chelsea is hoping to raise awareness among other expectant mums that babies do not move less towards the end of pregnancy and they should contact their midwife or maternity unit if they think their baby ’ s movements have slowed down , stopped or changed .
`` Barney had always been quiet in the morning and then picked up in the afternoon , '' she said .
`` You should be feeling some amount of movement up until the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I would urge you to get checked . ''
Recalling the moments after Barney 's birth on Monday May 11 , seven years to the day since she and her husband Ben Postma-Tong first met , Chelsea said : `` Because I 'd had an epidural I could n't feel my arms , so Barney was with Ben for the first hours and it looked like he had held him forever . ''
Chelsea , 39 , went to hospital to be checked on Saturday May 9 and returned the following day to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic Ben , 33 , was n't allowed to be with his wife outside of visiting hours until labour was established .
So he left the hospital at 8pm and returned at 2.30am .
`` I remember lying alone in the dark and I downloaded an app to press whenever I had a contraction , '' recalled Chelsea .
`` It was quite emotional being on my own .
You start to think 'will I be alright ? '
`` I wanted him back .
It was a lonely feeling . ''
After @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was determined to return home so Minnie , four , could meet her little brother and she was allowed home the following day .
She said : `` Minnie could n't see me in hospital and the thing you want to see is when your first born meets their little brother or sister for the first time .
`` She 's like a little mother hen with him . ''
Asked about adjusting to life with a newborn in lockdown she said : `` I have n't been able to have visitors but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and leaving things on the step while I wave with the baby at the window .
Read more of today 's top stories here '' The midwife has been coming to the house in PPE .
`` Some people have said ' I do n't want to you to come ' but I 've had major surgery . ''
Breakfast show presenter Chelsea , from Stockport , made the decision in March to bring her maternity leave forward because of the coronavirus pandemic .
The NHS says call your midwife or maternity unit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ less than usual , you can not feel your baby moving any more or there is a change to your baby 's usual pattern of movements .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Love a bit of cheeky celeb goss? Share your email to get showbiz news, gossip and rumours from the MEN
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Love a bit of cheeky celeb goss? Share your email to get showbiz news, gossip and rumours from the MEN
BBC Radio Manchester presenter Chelsea Norris has spoken out about her dramatic caesarean birth.
Chelsea, who had a natural childbirth with her daughter Minnie at 38 weeks, had passed the 40 week stage with her son Barney when she realised something might be wrong.
She decided to get checked out when she was asked by a neighbour during VE Day celebrations if she was feeling a lot of movement from her baby and she realised she wasn't.
(Image: Chelsea Norris)
She had an emergency caesarean after her baby's heart rate dropped and it was then discovered that she had suffered a placental abruption, a rare condition where the placenta comes away from the wall of the womb affecting up to one in 100 pregnancies.
Placental abruption can deprive the baby of oxygen and nutrients and cause heavy bleeding in the mother.
Chelsea, who was induced after explaining that she had felt little movement from her baby in the late stages of pregnancy, lost one and a half litres of blood and narrowly missed needing a blood transfusion.
(Image: Ben Postma-Tonge)
She told us: "Barney's heart rate could have dropped so much that it would have been an emergency and that doesn't bear thinking about."
In speaking out, Chelsea is hoping to raise awareness among other expectant mums that babies do not move less towards the end of pregnancy and they should contact their midwife or maternity unit if they think their baby’s movements have slowed down, stopped or changed.
"Barney had always been quiet in the morning and then picked up in the afternoon," she said.
"You should be feeling some amount of movement up until the end.
(Image: Chelsea Norris)
"If you don't I would urge you to get checked."
Recalling the moments after Barney's birth on Monday May 11, seven years to the day since she and her husband Ben Postma-Tong first met, Chelsea said: "Because I'd had an epidural I couldn't feel my arms, so Barney was with Ben for the first hours and it looked like he had held him forever."
Chelsea, 39, went to hospital to be checked on Saturday May 9 and returned the following day to be induced.
Because of the coronavirus pandemic Ben, 33, wasn't allowed to be with his wife outside of visiting hours until labour was established. So he left the hospital at 8pm and returned at 2.30am.
(Image: Chelsea Norris)
"I remember lying alone in the dark and I downloaded an app to press whenever I had a contraction," recalled Chelsea.
"It was quite emotional being on my own. You start to think 'will I be alright?'
"I wanted him back. It was a lonely feeling."
After welcoming baby Barney at 11.27am, Chelsea was determined to return home so Minnie, four, could meet her little brother and she was allowed home the following day.
(Image: Chelsea Norris)
She said: "Minnie couldn't see me in hospital and the thing you want to see is when your first born meets their little brother or sister for the first time.
"She's like a little mother hen with him."
Asked about adjusting to life with a newborn in lockdown she said: "I haven't been able to have visitors but people have been coming to the door and leaving things on the step while I wave with the baby at the window.
"The midwife has been coming to the house in PPE.
"Some people have said 'I don't want to you to come' but I've had major surgery."
Breakfast show presenter Chelsea, from Stockport, made the decision in March to bring her maternity leave forward because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The NHS says call your midwife or maternity unit straight away if your baby is moving less than usual, you cannot feel your baby moving any more or there is a change to your baby's usual pattern of movements.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-05-15--EuroMillions results and draw LIVE: Winning numbers for Friday May 15

It 's Friday night and you could be in with another chance of winning big in the National Lottery Euromillions @ @ @ @ @ be all yours if you pick the right numbers .
To play the game , @ @ @ @ @ up a lottery ticket before 7.30pm tonight .
You then need to choose five main @ @ @ @ @ .
You can also play online .
Plus , one lucky player will also win @ @ @ @ @ Maker raffle , which you get automatic entry into .
The draw will be made @ @ @ @ @ 'll be revealing the results for the Euromillions draw , the Thunderball draw , and @ @ @ @ @ soon as they 're in .
Follow our live blog below for the all of @ @ @ @ @ 're drawn .

It's Friday night and you could be in with another chance of winning big in the National Lottery Euromillions draw.
Tonight's Euromillions jackpot stands at a impressive £63 million.
And it could be all yours if you pick the right numbers.
To play the game, you'll need to pick up a lottery ticket before 7.30pm tonight.
You then need to choose five main numbers and two lucky stars.
You can also play online.
Plus, one lucky player will also win £1 million in the Millionaire Maker raffle, which you get automatic entry into.
The draw will be made shortly after 8.30pm.
We'll be revealing the results for the Euromillions draw, the Thunderball draw, and the Millionaire Maker code as soon as they're in.
Follow our live blog below for the all of the winning numbers as they're drawn.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-05-15--Bury Council estimates total cost of coronavirus crisis will be more than £30m

The total cost of the coronavirus crisis to the council ’ s budget will be more than £30m , the local authority has estimated .
Bury Council already faced a multi-million pound funding gap in its budget which was approved in February , totalling more than £22m over four years .
But the coronavirus crisis is now expected to cost the council an extra £30m .
He said : “ This is quite clearly the biggest financial uncertainty we ’ ve faced in a very long time – to put it mildly .
Yes , we ’ ve dealt with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and that ’ s been difficult enough .
“ But the biggest challenge we have here is not simply the scale of the financial cost , it ’ s the fact that it ’ s so uncertain and so likely to be dependent on factors we simply can not control – how quickly our economy recovers , how quickly we can lift the lockdown safely , the impact on people ’ s livelihoods , budgets , ability to pay basics like council tax and rents.
” So far the government has given Bury @ @ @ @ @ @ @ O ’ Brien added : “ We obviously welcome any support that we get and , initially , we welcomed the very clear words and commitment from the government that they would do all that they could and whatever it took to support local authorities and the financial impact .
“ I still believe that that was the right thing to say at the time and I think the government should stick by that .
“ So far , it ’ s not clear that they are going to , but I think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being serious about this , we just need to make it clear that that commitment is absolutely necessary and ought to be kept .
And I keep an open mind as to whether they will.
” Coun O ’ Brien , who is currently the cabinet member for housing and finance , confirmed that the council is not expecting to issue a Section 114 Notice , a statutory intervention which effectively declares the council is bankrupt .
But he warned councillors of “ incredibly difficult decisions ” ahead .
Chief finance officer Mike @ @ @ @ @ @ @ known a period of such uncertainty in more than 30 years of working in the public sector .
He said : “ The figures we ’ ve got in the report are our latest best estimates but they will inevitably changed because none of us know how long this is going to go on for , whether there ’ ll be a second wave , whether vaccines or treatments will be developed and if so when , what ’ s going to happen with testing , how will government policy change to react @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think inevitably some of the answer will have to come down what we do locally , it ’ s not just going to be fixed by central government .
But we need to lobby as strongly as possible.
” But speaking after the meeting , Conservative councillor Nick Jones blamed the ruling Labour group for `` mismanaging '' the council ’ s finances for years .
He said : “ Yes , the council has been hit financially in recent weeks due to loss of income .
But the state of the finances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the previous years , notably during his tenure as finance cabinet member .
“ The budget deficit is in large due to previous years of the council continuing to miss their own savings targets and has no relation to Covid-19 .
”

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Joseph Timan, Paige Oldfield)

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the free MyBury newsletter to get the best stories direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the free MyBury newsletter to get the best stories direct to your inbox
The total cost of the coronavirus crisis to the council’s budget will be more than £30m, the local authority has estimated.
Bury Council already faced a multi-million pound funding gap in its budget which was approved in February, totalling more than £22m over four years.
But the coronavirus crisis is now expected to cost the council an extra £30m.
Incoming council leader Eamonn O’Brien revealed the figures at a cabinet meeting.
He said: “This is quite clearly the biggest financial uncertainty we’ve faced in a very long time – to put it mildly. Yes, we’ve dealt with austerity and cuts for 10 years, and that’s been difficult enough.
“But the biggest challenge we have here is not simply the scale of the financial cost, it’s the fact that it’s so uncertain and so likely to be dependent on factors we simply cannot control – how quickly our economy recovers, how quickly we can lift the lockdown safely, the impact on people’s livelihoods, budgets, ability to pay basics like council tax and rents.”
So far the government has given Bury Council £10.6m in Covid-19 grants.
Coun O’Brien added: “We obviously welcome any support that we get and, initially, we welcomed the very clear words and commitment from the government that they would do all that they could and whatever it took to support local authorities and the financial impact.
“I still believe that that was the right thing to say at the time and I think the government should stick by that.
“So far, it’s not clear that they are going to, but I think in the interest of being constructive and being serious about this, we just need to make it clear that that commitment is absolutely necessary and ought to be kept. And I keep an open mind as to whether they will.”
Coun O’Brien, who is currently the cabinet member for housing and finance, confirmed that the council is not expecting to issue a Section 114 Notice, a statutory intervention which effectively declares the council is bankrupt.
But he warned councillors of “incredibly difficult decisions” ahead.
Chief finance officer Mike Woodhead told the cabinet he has never known a period of such uncertainty in more than 30 years of working in the public sector.
He said: “The figures we’ve got in the report are our latest best estimates but they will inevitably changed because none of us know how long this is going to go on for, whether there’ll be a second wave, whether vaccines or treatments will be developed and if so when, what’s going to happen with testing, how will government policy change to react to all of this.
“I think inevitably some of the answer will have to come down what we do locally, it’s not just going to be fixed by central government. But we need to lobby as strongly as possible.”
But speaking after the meeting, Conservative councillor Nick Jones blamed the ruling Labour group for "mismanaging" the council’s finances for years.
He said: “Yes, the council has been hit financially in recent weeks due to loss of income. But the state of the finances should have been managed much better in the previous years, notably during his tenure as finance cabinet member.
“The budget deficit is in large due to previous years of the council continuing to miss their own savings targets and has no relation to Covid-19.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-05-15--Mum's horror as man ambushes and attacks her in terrifying daylight robbery

A mum has described the horrifying moment she was pushed against a wall and robbed while waking her puppy .
Jodie Price set off for a walk with 18-week-old Busby , near to the old railway line , on Cranbourne Road , in Ashton-under-Lyne .
When she walked underneath Cranbourne Bridge a man suddenly grabbed her from behind .
Jodie was pushed up against a wall with her back to him .
The man pinned her arms before rifling through her pockets and took her mobile phone .
However , Busby kept jumping up at the man and he fled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The man dropped Jodie 's phone as he ran away and thankfully she was able to retrieve it .
Jodie contacted Greater Manchester Police and an investigation is underway .
There have been no arrests .
The incident took place in broad daylight at around 5.30pm on Tuesday , May 12 .
Jodie , 29 , said she has struggled to sleep since the robbery and has lost her confidence to go outside on her own .
She is warning others in the area to remain vigilant .
Jodie told the M.E.N : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I bent down to put Busby back on his lead and a man grabbed me from behind .
He grabbed hold of my right arm .
I was put against the wall .
`` My face is to the left .
The dog was jumping up at him .
My head is against the wall .
He rifled through my pockets .
He has taken my phone out .
The dog is still jumping up at this bloke .
He let go and ran off . ''
Jodie added : `` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has only been a few days .
I have called the doctors to get something to help me sleep .
`` I have a seven-year-old boy , thankfully he was at his dad 's .
It happened in broad daylight .
If it was n't for the dog , I dread to think what could have happened .
You do n't think anything like this will happen to you .
`` It was like I was not in my own body .
I did n't fight back .
I do not take my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ makes it difficult .
`` I live on my own .
My friend 's have been taking my dog out , while staying 2m apart .
I am always looking over my shoulder .
It has affected me more than I thought it would .
`` I would n't want it to happen to anyone else .
Because I was looking own I suffered facial injuries from moving my head against the wall . ''
Jodie only caught a quick glimpse of the robber because he grabbed her from behind but said she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , black tracksuit bottoms and a black hooded top with the hood up .
He mumbled something in an Eastern Europen accent while he searched through her pockets .
She said his skin also appeared to look a yellow colour underneath his eyes .
PC Rick Beswick , from GMP ’ s Volume Crime Team on the Tameside division , said in a statement earlier this week : “ This was a violent unprovoked incident which took place in a secluded area and has left a woman feeling understandably frightened and distressed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ public that we are treating this incident seriously and are following every line of enquiry available to us .
“ This robbery happened in broad daylight and I am hopeful that there may be some witnesses who were in the area around this time .
If you saw anything suspicious or have any information that could help with our investigation , please contact police as soon as possible.
” Anyone who has any information about the robbery should call police on 0161 856 9350 quoting incident number 2371 of 12/05/20 .
Details can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MyTameside newsletter here to keep abreast of what's happening in your neighbourhood
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MyTameside newsletter here to keep abreast of what's happening in your neighbourhood
A mum has described the horrifying moment she was pushed against a wall and robbed while waking her puppy.
Jodie Price set off for a walk with 18-week-old Busby, near to the old railway line, on Cranbourne Road, in Ashton-under-Lyne.
When she walked underneath Cranbourne Bridge a man suddenly grabbed her from behind. Jodie was pushed up against a wall with her back to him.
The man pinned her arms before rifling through her pockets and took her mobile phone. However, Busby kept jumping up at the man and he fled in the direction of Wilshaw Lane.
The man dropped Jodie's phone as he ran away and thankfully she was able to retrieve it. Jodie contacted Greater Manchester Police and an investigation is underway.
There have been no arrests. The incident took place in broad daylight at around 5.30pm on Tuesday, May 12.
Jodie, 29, said she has struggled to sleep since the robbery and has lost her confidence to go outside on her own. She is warning others in the area to remain vigilant.
Jodie told the M.E.N: "We were walking down Cranbourne Bridge. I bent down to put Busby back on his lead and a man grabbed me from behind. He grabbed hold of my right arm. I was put against the wall.
"My face is to the left. The dog was jumping up at him. My head is against the wall. He rifled through my pockets. He has taken my phone out. The dog is still jumping up at this bloke. He let go and ran off."
Jodie added: "I can't sleep. I know it has only been a few days. I have called the doctors to get something to help me sleep.
"I have a seven-year-old boy, thankfully he was at his dad's. It happened in broad daylight. If it wasn't for the dog, I dread to think what could have happened. You don't think anything like this will happen to you.
"It was like I was not in my own body. I didn't fight back. I do not take my dog out. Because of Covid-19 it makes it difficult.
Sign up to the free MEN email newsletter Get the latest updates from across Greater Manchester direct to your inbox with the free MEN newsletter You can sign up very simply by following the instructions here
"I live on my own. My friend's have been taking my dog out, while staying 2m apart. I am always looking over my shoulder. It has affected me more than I thought it would.
"I wouldn't want it to happen to anyone else. Because I was looking own I suffered facial injuries from moving my head against the wall."
Jodie only caught a quick glimpse of the robber because he grabbed her from behind but said she noticed he was wearing scruffy black trainers, black tracksuit bottoms and a black hooded top with the hood up.
He mumbled something in an Eastern Europen accent while he searched through her pockets. She said his skin also appeared to look a yellow colour underneath his eyes.
PC Rick Beswick, from GMP’s Volume Crime Team on the Tameside division, said in a statement earlier this week: “This was a violent unprovoked incident which took place in a secluded area and has left a woman feeling understandably frightened and distressed.
“I would like to reassure the public that we are treating this incident seriously and are following every line of enquiry available to us.
“This robbery happened in broad daylight and I am hopeful that there may be some witnesses who were in the area around this time. If you saw anything suspicious or have any information that could help with our investigation, please contact police as soon as possible.”
Anyone who has any information about the robbery should call police on 0161 856 9350 quoting incident number 2371 of 12/05/20. Details can also be passed on anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-05-15--What Giggs has said about Matondo amid Man United interest

Manchester United could look to sign another Welsh winger this summer amid interest in Rabbi Matondo .
MEN Sport reported this week United are monitoring the FC Schalke winger and acknowledge he could be a bargain buy at the end of the season .
United have a rich history of Welsh wingers at the club from Billy Meredith to Ryan Giggs , with Daniel James hoping to etch his name in club history following his move last summer .
However , he might be joined by international teammate Matondo at Old Trafford , and the young duo have already been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Former Manchester City winger Matondo made his international debut playing under Giggs for Wales and he has made quite the impression on the United legend .
Speaking last year Giggs admitted he was surprised by Matondo 's move to Germany but likened his 'electrifying pace ' to that of James ' .
`` I was slightly surprised when he went [ to Schalke ] , but he is a talent , '' Giggs said .
`` If he is half as successful as Sancho has been so far I ’ ll be happy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us in Albania [ Wales ’ s last game in November ] .
I thought he did really well when he came on .
`` Just like Dan James he has electrifying pace .
And that always keeps you interested .
`` Obviously after that you have to develop .
If a full-back works you out you have to have that Plan B .
But both are talented players who could hurt teams . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Manchester United could look to sign another Welsh winger this summer amid interest in Rabbi Matondo.
MEN Sport reported this week United are monitoring the FC Schalke winger and acknowledge he could be a bargain buy at the end of the season.
United have a rich history of Welsh wingers at the club from Billy Meredith to Ryan Giggs, with Daniel James hoping to etch his name in club history following his move last summer.
However, he might be joined by international teammate Matondo at Old Trafford, and the young duo have already been compared to one another by Giggs.
Former Manchester City winger Matondo made his international debut playing under Giggs for Wales and he has made quite the impression on the United legend.
Speaking last year Giggs admitted he was surprised by Matondo's move to Germany but likened his 'electrifying pace' to that of James'.
"I was slightly surprised when he went [to Schalke], but he is a talent," Giggs said. "If he is half as successful as Sancho has been so far I’ll be happy.
"He was really good with us in Albania [Wales’s last game in November]. I thought he did really well when he came on.
"Just like Dan James he has electrifying pace. And that always keeps you interested.
"Obviously after that you have to develop. If a full-back works you out you have to have that Plan B. But both are talented players who could hurt teams."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-05-15--Man City ready to sell Sane amid Bayern interest and more rumours

Manchester City are reportedly prepared to sell Leroy Sane in the upcoming transfer window amid interest from Bayern Munich .
The German champions are long-term admirers of the winger and made their interest known last summer before a serious knee injury against Liverpool in the Community Shield scuppered the deal .
Bayern have publicly discussed their interest in Sane during his rehabilitation and are expected to revive their interest in Germany international when the window reopens .
Sane will have just one year left on his City deal in June and the Evening Standard report the Blues are willing to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ losing him for nothing .
Reports have claimed Bayern will test City 's resolve with a £35million bid but City are not willing to lose the forward on the cheap and will only discuss a transfer if he states his desire to leave .
The report adds City would rather see Sane leave on a free transfer than accept Bayern 's low offer .
Elsewhere , reports in Italy claim City have held discussions with Brescia over a move for midfielder Sandro Tonali .
The 19-year-old is considered one of the country 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ role for the Serie A side this season , breaking into the senior Italian national team .
Gazzetta dello Sport believe Brescia owner Massimo Cellino has held talks with City regarding their interest in the youngster but the Blues were informed Tonali has no intention of moving to England .
Paris Saint-Germain were also believed to be interested in the youngster but were told he plans to stay in Italy

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Manchester City are reportedly prepared to sell Leroy Sane in the upcoming transfer window amid interest from Bayern Munich.
The German champions are long-term admirers of the winger and made their interest known last summer before a serious knee injury against Liverpool in the Community Shield scuppered the deal.
Bayern have publicly discussed their interest in Sane during his rehabilitation and are expected to revive their interest in Germany international when the window reopens.
Sane will have just one year left on his City deal in June and the Evening Standard report the Blues are willing to negotiate his exit in order to avoid losing him for nothing.
Reports have claimed Bayern will test City's resolve with a £35million bid but City are not willing to lose the forward on the cheap and will only discuss a transfer if he states his desire to leave.
The report adds City would rather see Sane leave on a free transfer than accept Bayern's low offer.
Elsewhere, reports in Italy claim City have held discussions with Brescia over a move for midfielder Sandro Tonali.
Sign up to our free MCFC email newsletter Man City are Premier League champions! Get all the reaction plus daily news and analysis direct to your inbox with our free MCFC newsletter Sign up here - it only takes a few seconds.
The 19-year-old is considered one of the country's brightest prospects and has played a starring role for the Serie A side this season, breaking into the senior Italian national team.
Gazzetta dello Sport believe Brescia owner Massimo Cellino has held talks with City regarding their interest in the youngster but the Blues were informed Tonali has no intention of moving to England.
Paris Saint-Germain were also believed to be interested in the youngster but were told he plans to stay in Italy


themanchestereveningnews--2020-05-15--Government fines plumber while his accountant dad fights for his life

A plumber has accused the government of being 'heartless ' after he was fined by Companies House while his accountant dad was in hospital with coronavirus .
Chris Nixon , 42 , owns a small plumbing business in Oldham and has to submit his accounts to the government every year by law .
His 70-year-old dad , Trevor , is employed as his accountant and usually deals with his son 's finances .
But Trevor was taken to hospital seven weeks ago after contracting coronavirus , and has been in intensive care battling the disease since .
His devastated family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and go '' for a number of weeks .
Chris sent off his accounts to Companies House in February , and received a penalty after they arrived late .
But he now faces a much bigger fine after an inaccuracy was identified in his accounts - something only his dad is able to correct .
`` Just as lockdown happened my dad went into the hospital with coronavirus , '' Chris said .
`` He is still in hospital now and we have had some really dark days - we think now that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recovery .
He is doing a lot better but still in intensive care . ''
Chris works on his own as a plumber and employed his dad to do his accounts over the last few years .
`` My dad had sent the accounts off to Companies House that you have to do every year but there was some kind of clerical error so they sent it back , '' Chris said .
`` My dad corrected the error and sent it back and we did n't hear anything else .
`` Then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the government saying that I was facing a fine . ''
Chris claims he wrote back to Companies House explaining the difficult situation with his dad being in hospital , and unable to help with the accounts .
He says he was told he would need to make the correction or face a penalty which increases daily .
`` They said they were really sorry about my dad but told me that I should have had some contingency in place , '' Chris said .
`` I am a one man band @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have two people on my books just in case a global pandemic hits and my dad is unable to do my accounts .
`` With everything going on I just think it 's really unfair .
Read more of today 's top stories here '' With everything that 's happening with my dad at the moment the last thing I need to worry about is having to pay a hefty fine .
`` I just think they are being so heartless given what is going on .
`` They are treating the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is normal about what is happening at the moment . ''
A spokesperson for Companies House said : `` We understand this is a very difficult and challenging time for businesses across the UK and it our intention to provide support and assistance to enable them to meet their filing requirements .
`` Companies affected by COVID-19 that are ineligible to apply for a filing extension should bring their record up to date as quickly as they are able .
`` However , if accounts are filed outside of a filing period , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Companies do have the option to appeal .
`` Each appeal is treated on a case-by-case basis and we already have policies in place to deal with appeals based upon unforeseen poor health .
Appeals based upon COVID-19 will be considered under these policies . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Don't miss a thing by signing up to the MyOldham newsletter here
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Don't miss a thing by signing up to the MyOldham newsletter here
A plumber has accused the government of being 'heartless' after he was fined by Companies House while his accountant dad was in hospital with coronavirus.
Chris Nixon, 42, owns a small plumbing business in Oldham and has to submit his accounts to the government every year by law.
His 70-year-old dad, Trevor, is employed as his accountant and usually deals with his son's finances. But Trevor was taken to hospital seven weeks ago after contracting coronavirus, and has been in intensive care battling the disease since.
His devastated family say his condition has been "touch and go" for a number of weeks.
Chris sent off his accounts to Companies House in February, and received a penalty after they arrived late. But he now faces a much bigger fine after an inaccuracy was identified in his accounts - something only his dad is able to correct.
(Image: Chris Nixon)
"Just as lockdown happened my dad went into the hospital with coronavirus," Chris said.
"He is still in hospital now and we have had some really dark days - we think now that hopefully he is going to make a recovery. He is doing a lot better but still in intensive care."
Chris works on his own as a plumber and employed his dad to do his accounts over the last few years.
"My dad had sent the accounts off to Companies House that you have to do every year but there was some kind of clerical error so they sent it back," Chris said.
"My dad corrected the error and sent it back and we didn't hear anything else.
"Then two weeks ago I got a letter from the government saying that I was facing a fine."
Chris claims he wrote back to Companies House explaining the difficult situation with his dad being in hospital, and unable to help with the accounts.
He says he was told he would need to make the correction or face a penalty which increases daily.
"They said they were really sorry about my dad but told me that I should have had some contingency in place," Chris said.
(Image: Chris Nixon)
"I am a one man band and I don't have the money to have two people on my books just in case a global pandemic hits and my dad is unable to do my accounts.
"With everything going on I just think it's really unfair.
"With everything that's happening with my dad at the moment the last thing I need to worry about is having to pay a hefty fine.
"I just think they are being so heartless given what is going on.
"They are treating the situation like everything is normal but what is normal about what is happening at the moment."
A spokesperson for Companies House said: "We understand this is a very difficult and challenging time for businesses across the UK and it our intention to provide support and assistance to enable them to meet their filing requirements.
"Companies affected by COVID-19 that are ineligible to apply for a filing extension should bring their record up to date as quickly as they are able.
"However, if accounts are filed outside of a filing period, an automatic penalty will be imposed. Companies do have the option to appeal.
"Each appeal is treated on a case-by-case basis and we already have policies in place to deal with appeals based upon unforeseen poor health. Appeals based upon COVID-19 will be considered under these policies."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-05-15--Government pledge to test every care home resident and staff for coronavirus

The government has pledged to test every care home resident and member of staff in England for coronavirus by early June .
Speaking at the daily Downing Street briefing , Health Secretary Matt Hancock said all care home residents and workers will be tested regardless of symptoms .
Mr Hancock said the latest package is the `` most intense support and scrutiny that care homes have ever received . ''
The health secretary also announced that an NHS clinical lead will be appointed at every care home in England , and that local authorities must conduct a daily review on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in four deaths of care home residents in England and Wales between March 2 and May 1 involved coronavirus , according to new analysis by the Office for National Statistics .
There were 45,899 deaths of care home residents during this period , of which 12,526 ( 27 per cent ) were deaths where COVID-19 was mentioned on the death certificate , whether as the underlying cause or not .
Among these 12,526 deaths , 9,039 ( 72 per cent ) occurred within a care home .
A further 3,444 ( 27 per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Addressing the daily press conference , Mr Hancock said : `` Now we have capacity for over 100,000 tests a day , we are extending testing coverage further .
`` All care home residents and staff in England both those with symptoms and those without , are now being tested .
`` An in fact we will now test every resident and every member of staff in our elderly care homes in England between now and early June . ''
Mr Hancock said an extra £600m has been made available for infection control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he stated that 64 per cent of care homes have had no coronavirus cases at all .
`` We are putting in place a named clinical lead for every care home in England , '' the health secretary added .
`` These leads will check in regularly to assess residents and support care homes with clinical advice .
This is the most intense support and scrutiny that care homes have ever received . ''
Mr Hancock also announced the government would now be requiring local council 's to conduct daily reviews of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homes .
A total of 33,998 people have now died in the UK after testing positive for coronavirus , according to the Department of Health .
The death toll is up by 384 from 33,614 at the same point on Thursday .
The total number of confirmed cases of coronavirus is now up to 236,711 - a rise of 3,560 from 233,151 at the same point yesterday .
In Greater Manchester , the number of people who have died from coronavirus is at least 1,641 , although the true number of deaths is @ @ @ @ @ @

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
The government has pledged to test every care home resident and member of staff in England for coronavirus by early June.
Speaking at the daily Downing Street briefing, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said all care home residents and workers will be tested regardless of symptoms.
Mr Hancock said the latest package is the "most intense support and scrutiny that care homes have ever received."
The health secretary also announced that an NHS clinical lead will be appointed at every care home in England, and that local authorities must conduct a daily review on the situation.
It comes as one in four deaths of care home residents in England and Wales between March 2 and May 1 involved coronavirus, according to new analysis by the Office for National Statistics.
There were 45,899 deaths of care home residents during this period, of which 12,526 (27 per cent) were deaths where COVID-19 was mentioned on the death certificate, whether as the underlying cause or not.
Among these 12,526 deaths, 9,039 (72 per cent) occurred within a care home. A further 3,444 (27 per cent) occurred within a hospital.
(Image: PA)
Addressing the daily press conference, Mr Hancock said: "Now we have capacity for over 100,000 tests a day, we are extending testing coverage further.
"All care home residents and staff in England both those with symptoms and those without, are now being tested.
"An in fact we will now test every resident and every member of staff in our elderly care homes in England between now and early June."
Mr Hancock said an extra £600m has been made available for infection control at care homes in England, as he stated that 64 per cent of care homes have had no coronavirus cases at all.
"We are putting in place a named clinical lead for every care home in England," the health secretary added.
"These leads will check in regularly to assess residents and support care homes with clinical advice. This is the most intense support and scrutiny that care homes have ever received."
Mr Hancock also announced the government would now be requiring local council's to conduct daily reviews of the situation on the ground in local care homes.
A total of 33,998 people have now died in the UK after testing positive for coronavirus, according to the Department of Health.
The death toll is up by 384 from 33,614 at the same point on Thursday.
The total number of confirmed cases of coronavirus is now up to 236,711 - a rise of 3,560 from 233,151 at the same point yesterday.
In Greater Manchester, the number of people who have died from coronavirus is at least 1,641, although the true number of deaths is thought to be much higher.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-05-15--Council and Jewish leaders in 'regular contact' after lockdown breaches reports

Salford Council say they are in regular contact with the leaders of the city 's Orthdox Jewish community after reports of families ignoring lockdown rules .
Pictures have circulated on social media of Jewish families in Higher Broughton allegedly ignoring restrictions and failing to social distance .
Councillor David Lancaster , lead member for environment and community safety , said it was only a `` small minority '' of the Jewish community who were failing to adhere to social distance measures .
He said the council are in weekly communication with the community leaders to keep residents informed of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beginning of an easing of lockdown restrictions , with new rules including two people from different households being able to meet outdoors at places like parks , as long as they are 2m apart .
However , a resident claimed members of the Jewish community in Salford have not been following the guidelines .
They said a night this week saw `` lots of parties going down with marquees up in alleyways '' and claimed there were gatherings in the street with bonfires also taking place .
Tuesday , May 12 was the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Jewish holiday celebrating a break in a plague that is said to have occurred during the days of an important Rabbi .
In modern times the holiday has become a symbol for resilience of the Jewish spirit .
As part of Lag B'omer , the community light bonfires , have parties and some even plan weddings for that day .
Greater Manchester Police were called to a gathering on the night in Higher Broughton , although no arrests were made .
And Kersal ward councillor Ari Leitner stressed that while there were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bend the rules '' , families at gatherings were social distancing and celebrating the festival as safely as they could .
Councillor Leitner said : `` We have this sort of semi festival which is to celebrate the passing of one of the great stages , part of it is we light a bonfire , usually this is done in a synagogue courtyard with live music and people dancing , but this year all of this was cancelled .
`` This year , what a lot of people are doing is making a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and neighbours could look out the window and participate , its the same idea as having a garden party , but spread across the street and everybody will stand in their own front or back gardens participating and having a beer .
`` Unfortunately you 're always going to have a few who will try to bend the rules a little bit , the majority have been in their own gardens and enjoying themselves . ''
Read more of today 's top stories here Coun Lancaster said : “ We welcome the efforts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the Jewish community is obeying the rules .
`` Councillor John Merry has been in weekly communication with Jewish organisations to ensure that we get the message across about the reasons for and importance of social distancing to protect lives and the NHS .
This includes putting signs on lampposts and taking adverts in Jewish newspapers .
`` I would like to thank everyone in the community who has made such an effort to persuade colleagues to obey the rules .
What we need to do ensure we reduce the spread of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s welfare is comply with Public Health England ’ s advice and guidance at this time .
”

Sign up to the MySalford newsletter to keep up with what's happening in and around the city
Sign up to the MySalford newsletter to keep up with what's happening in and around the city
Salford Council say they are in regular contact with the leaders of the city's Orthdox Jewish community after reports of families ignoring lockdown rules.
Pictures have circulated on social media of Jewish families in Higher Broughton allegedly ignoring restrictions and failing to social distance.
Councillor David Lancaster, lead member for environment and community safety, said it was only a "small minority" of the Jewish community who were failing to adhere to social distance measures.
He said the council are in weekly communication with the community leaders to keep residents informed of the latest restrictions. This week marked the beginning of an easing of lockdown restrictions, with new rules including two people from different households being able to meet outdoors at places like parks, as long as they are 2m apart.
However, a resident claimed members of the Jewish community in Salford have not been following the guidelines. They said a night this week saw "lots of parties going down with marquees up in alleyways" and claimed there were gatherings in the street with bonfires also taking place.
Tuesday, May 12 was the Lag B'omer - the final day of a Jewish holiday celebrating a break in a plague that is said to have occurred during the days of an important Rabbi. In modern times the holiday has become a symbol for resilience of the Jewish spirit.
As part of Lag B'omer, the community light bonfires, have parties and some even plan weddings for that day. Greater Manchester Police were called to a gathering on the night in Higher Broughton, although no arrests were made.
And Kersal ward councillor Ari Leitner stressed that while there were a minority who "will try to bend the rules", families at gatherings were social distancing and celebrating the festival as safely as they could.
Councillor Leitner said: "We have this sort of semi festival which is to celebrate the passing of one of the great stages, part of it is we light a bonfire, usually this is done in a synagogue courtyard with live music and people dancing, but this year all of this was cancelled.
"This year, what a lot of people are doing is making a bonfire in their garden and playing music and neighbours could look out the window and participate, its the same idea as having a garden party, but spread across the street and everybody will stand in their own front or back gardens participating and having a beer.
"Unfortunately you're always going to have a few who will try to bend the rules a little bit, the majority have been in their own gardens and enjoying themselves."
Coun Lancaster said:“We welcome the efforts of rabbis and Jewish organisations to ensure that the Jewish community is obeying the rules.
"Councillor John Merry has been in weekly communication with Jewish organisations to ensure that we get the message across about the reasons for and importance of social distancing to protect lives and the NHS. This includes putting signs on lampposts and taking adverts in Jewish newspapers.
"I would like to thank everyone in the community who has made such an effort to persuade colleagues to obey the rules. What we need to do ensure we reduce the spread of the virus and to protect everyone’s welfare is comply with Public Health England’s advice and guidance at this time.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-05-15--Government addresses concerns coronavirus infection rate is rising

Government officials have addressed concerns about the ' R ' infection rate creeping back up to almost 1 .
The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( SAGE ) said the UK reproduction number for the coronavirus is now estimated between 0.7 and 1 across the UK .
If the rate goes above 1 it means the virus is growing rather than receding .
The rate stood at between 0.5 and 0.9 last week , before lockdown measures were eased .
Deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries said the Covid-19 reproduction rate - the R value - will be lower @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as care homes and hospitals .
Dr Harries explained the reason for a range in the ' R ' number during the Government ’ s daily briefing .
`` There 's quite a range there - 0.7 to one - in the estimate of ' R ' and this is for a number of reasons , ” she said .
`` Partly because a number of different models are used to model this data and it 's important that they challenge each other and that we get the consistency of that .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data .
Obviously we ca n't predict precisely so we 're estimating it on different sources of information so things like hospital admissions that have happened historically .
`` And then I think thirdly , importantly , we know that we have slightly different ' R ' values relating to some areas of risks .
`` So obviously in recent weeks , care homes have been heightened interest , hospitals also and we keep an eye on those .
So this is very much a national average . ''
Get breaking news first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - download it here for your Apple or Android device .
You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here .
And you can follow us on Facebook here .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Government officials have addressed concerns about the 'R' infection rate creeping back up to almost 1.
The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) said the UK reproduction number for the coronavirus is now estimated between 0.7 and 1 across the UK.
If the rate goes above 1 it means the virus is growing rather than receding.
The rate stood at between 0.5 and 0.9 last week, before lockdown measures were eased.
(Image: PA)
Deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries said the Covid-19 reproduction rate - the R value - will be lower in the community than in places such as care homes and hospitals.
Dr Harries explained the reason for a range in the 'R' number during the Government’s daily briefing.
"There's quite a range there - 0.7 to one - in the estimate of 'R' and this is for a number of reasons,” she said.
"Partly because a number of different models are used to model this data and it's important that they challenge each other and that we get the consistency of that.
"Partly, the data comes from historic data. Obviously we can't predict precisely so we're estimating it on different sources of information so things like hospital admissions that have happened historically.
"And then I think thirdly, importantly, we know that we have slightly different 'R' values relating to some areas of risks.
"So obviously in recent weeks, care homes have been heightened interest, hospitals also and we keep an eye on those. So this is very much a national average."
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device. You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here . And you can follow us on Facebook here .


themanchestereveningnews--2020-05-15--Pervert abused girl and used weapons for 'punishment beatings' on her and boy

A 'wicked and sinister bully ' who sexually abused a young girl , as well as handing out punishment beatings to her and a young boy has been jailed .
Shola Ogundare , 49 , has been jailed for 15 years , while Oluwafunmilayo Emmanuel , 34 , has been jailed for four years for physically assaulting both children .
A judge said that neither defendant had shown a 'shred of remorse ' for the victims .
Minshull Street Crown Court heard that the children had suffered 'significant physical and psychological harm ' .
Greater Manchester Police launched an investigation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ physically and sexually abused by Ogundare , and had also been physically abused by Emmanuel .
The investigation also established that a young boy had been physically abused by the pair .
The court heard that Ogundare used weapons including a belt or a charging cable to inflict the beatings .
Judge John Potter described his behaviour as 'repeated , callous acts designed by you to demean and control ' them .
He also forced the boy into a 'stress position ' , kneeling down with his hands in the air for several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beaten if he failed to comply .
Emmanuel would use a wooden serving spoon to hit them over their hands .
The court heard Emmanuel would encourage Ogundare 's physical attacks and once said 'if I were you I would hit her harder ' .
Prosecutors also detailed the sexual abuse Ogundare inflicted on the girl .
Judge Potter said Ogundare used her as 'nothing more than an object with which you could gratify your shocking and perverted sexual desires ' .
Both defendants denied any wrongdoing , and the victims gave evidence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tribute to their 'great bravery ' .
Judge Potter said Ogundare and Emmanuel , both of Curzon Close , Rochdale , had lied to the jury .
Ogundare was found guilty after a trial of four counts of assault occasioning ABH , causing a child to watch a sexual act , sexually assaulting a child under 13 , assaulting a child under 13 by penetration , attempted rape and cruelty to a child .
Emmanuel was found guilty after a trial of four counts of child cruelty .
Sentencing , Judge Potter described @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' .
He was ordered to sign the sex offender 's register for life .
His barrister Craig Macgregor said that Ogundare continues to deny any wrongdoing .
Bob Elias , for Emmanuel , said that she now faces the prospect of being deported after serving her sentence .
After the hearing , Detective Constable Russell Clarke , of GMP ’ s Rochdale district , said : `` First and foremost I would like to commend the victims for their strength in seeking help and disclosing what had happened to them .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our investigation and this trial , especially considering their age .
`` Abuse of this kind often has a long-lasting impact on victims but I sincerely hope that they can move forward with their lives – free from the fear of being abused .
`` Ogundare subjected these children to a prolonged campaign of abuse .
`` Under the pretence of punishment , he sexually abused one of the victims to satisfy his most repulsive desires .
`` Throughout this investigation , he has shown no remorse and the things he has said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beyond comprehension .
`` Emmanuel also subjected the children to physical abuse and has also shown no remorse .
She has repeatedly defended Ogundare and tried to discredit the victims .
`` I hope today ’ s result sends a clear message to members of the public and offenders alike that police officers will do everything in their power to see justice done . ''

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
To keep up with Rochdale news sign up to the MyRochdale newsletter here
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
To keep up with Rochdale news sign up to the MyRochdale newsletter here
A 'wicked and sinister bully' who sexually abused a young girl, as well as handing out punishment beatings to her and a young boy has been jailed.
Shola Ogundare, 49, has been jailed for 15 years, while Oluwafunmilayo Emmanuel, 34, has been jailed for four years for physically assaulting both children.
A judge said that neither defendant had shown a 'shred of remorse' for the victims. Minshull Street Crown Court heard that the children had suffered 'significant physical and psychological harm'.
(Image: GMP)
Greater Manchester Police launched an investigation after officers learned the girl had been physically and sexually abused by Ogundare, and had also been physically abused by Emmanuel.
The investigation also established that a young boy had been physically abused by the pair.
The court heard that Ogundare used weapons including a belt or a charging cable to inflict the beatings. Judge John Potter described his behaviour as 'repeated, callous acts designed by you to demean and control' them.
He also forced the boy into a 'stress position', kneeling down with his hands in the air for several minutes, and the child would be beaten if he failed to comply.
Emmanuel would use a wooden serving spoon to hit them over their hands.
The court heard Emmanuel would encourage Ogundare's physical attacks and once said 'if I were you I would hit her harder'.
Prosecutors also detailed the sexual abuse Ogundare inflicted on the girl.
Judge Potter said Ogundare used her as 'nothing more than an object with which you could gratify your shocking and perverted sexual desires'.
(Image: GMP)
Both defendants denied any wrongdoing, and the victims gave evidence during a trial with the judge paying tribute to their 'great bravery'.
Judge Potter said Ogundare and Emmanuel, both of Curzon Close, Rochdale, had lied to the jury.
Ogundare was found guilty after a trial of four counts of assault occasioning ABH, causing a child to watch a sexual act, sexually assaulting a child under 13, assaulting a child under 13 by penetration, attempted rape and cruelty to a child.
Emmanuel was found guilty after a trial of four counts of child cruelty.
Sentencing, Judge Potter described Ogundare as a 'wicked and sinister bully'. He was ordered to sign the sex offender's register for life.
Greater Manchester court cases We have a dedicated Facebook group covering court cases across Greater Manchester. For all the latest trial coverage and sentencing join the group here. To download our app to get all the latest news visit here.
His barrister Craig Macgregor said that Ogundare continues to deny any wrongdoing.
Bob Elias, for Emmanuel, said that she now faces the prospect of being deported after serving her sentence.
After the hearing, Detective Constable Russell Clarke, of GMP’s Rochdale district, said: "First and foremost I would like to commend the victims for their strength in seeking help and disclosing what had happened to them.
"Both children have demonstrated incredible courage throughout our investigation and this trial, especially considering their age.
"Abuse of this kind often has a long-lasting impact on victims but I sincerely hope that they can move forward with their lives – free from the fear of being abused.
"Ogundare subjected these children to a prolonged campaign of abuse.
"Under the pretence of punishment, he sexually abused one of the victims to satisfy his most repulsive desires.
"Throughout this investigation, he has shown no remorse and the things he has said to try to evade justice have been beyond comprehension.
"Emmanuel also subjected the children to physical abuse and has also shown no remorse. She has repeatedly defended Ogundare and tried to discredit the victims.
"I hope today’s result sends a clear message to members of the public and offenders alike that police officers will do everything in their power to see justice done."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-05-15--Black and Asian frontline NHS staff may be moved due to higher Covid-19 risk

Black , Asian and other ethnic minority workers on the NHS front line may have to change the way they work as emerging evidence suggests they face a higher risk of death if they contract coronavirus .
Black and Minority Ethnic ( BME ) staff could be moved away from face-to-face consultations and some may need to wear more personal protective equipment ( PPE ) to minimise their exposure to the virus .
A review by Public Health England into the impact of COVID-19 on front line workers from ethnic minority backgrounds is currently underway .
This comes as data @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus among BME health and social care workers .
But the Bolton NHS clinical commissioning group ( CCG ) board was told the health care system must act now to protect its BME members of staff .
Dr Wirin Bhatiani , chair of Bolton CCG , has been asked to produce guidance for GP practices across Greater Manchester relating to BME employees .
He said : “ There ’ s strong evidence emerging that there ’ s a disproportionate impact on our BME workforce and there ’ s a national inquiry in place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we can ’ t wait for the national inquiry .
I think we need to take action now .
“ Talking to the various leaders in the system , I think everybody agrees that this is a BME issue .
We need to take steps to protect our communities now .
“ The guidance will help organisations to have conversations with their staff .
“ It may be that some adjustments need to be made to the workplace .
“ Risk assessments will have to be made .
They may have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need more PPE.
” Dr Bhatiani will present his report with guidance for GP practices to the Greater Manchester Joint Commissioning Board on Tuesday .
He explained that ethnicity is one of five main factors affecting the risk of coronavirus , alongside age , underlying conditions , pregnancy , gender .
Bolton Council ’ s director of public health , Helen Lowey , said that other health conditions and deprivation could also be factors contributing to BME deaths .
But she said something else could be happening that is linked to ethnicity .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ still emerging and we don ’ t have a full comprehensive picture .
What we ’ re looking at though , in relation to the BME population , is from a national perspective .
“ It ’ s multi-factorial and it effects different groups differently but there is still a disproportionate impact on BME .
“ We ’ re really looking into the science and evidence into this .
It ’ s emerging information and we keep looking at the data .
“ There ’ s increased risk of particular health conditions and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well.
” Clinical director of commissioning , Dr Helen Wall , added : “ We do need to risk assess everyone , not just our BME communities .
I think as NHS and social care workers we are very good at putting patients first and we are not always good at recognising that we do have some level of risk ourselves .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for the free MyBolton newsletter to get the top stories direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for the free MyBolton newsletter to get the top stories direct to your inbox
Black, Asian and other ethnic minority workers on the NHS front line may have to change the way they work as emerging evidence suggests they face a higher risk of death if they contract coronavirus.
Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) staff could be moved away from face-to-face consultations and some may need to wear more personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimise their exposure to the virus.
A review by Public Health England into the impact of COVID-19 on front line workers from ethnic minority backgrounds is currently underway.
This comes as data shows a disproportionate number of deaths from coronavirus among BME health and social care workers.
But the Bolton NHS clinical commissioning group (CCG) board was told the health care system must act now to protect its BME members of staff.
Dr Wirin Bhatiani, chair of Bolton CCG, has been asked to produce guidance for GP practices across Greater Manchester relating to BME employees.
He said: “There’s strong evidence emerging that there’s a disproportionate impact on our BME workforce and there’s a national inquiry in place.
“But the evidence is such that we can’t wait for the national inquiry. I think we need to take action now.
(Image: Copyright Unknown)
“Talking to the various leaders in the system, I think everybody agrees that this is a BME issue. We need to take steps to protect our communities now.
“The guidance will help organisations to have conversations with their staff.
“It may be that some adjustments need to be made to the workplace.
“Risk assessments will have to be made. They may have to move away from face-to-face consultation and they need more PPE.”
Dr Bhatiani will present his report with guidance for GP practices to the Greater Manchester Joint Commissioning Board on Tuesday.
He explained that ethnicity is one of five main factors affecting the risk of coronavirus, alongside age, underlying conditions, pregnancy, gender.
Bolton Council’s director of public health, Helen Lowey, said that other health conditions and deprivation could also be factors contributing to BME deaths.
But she said something else could be happening that is linked to ethnicity.
She said: “It’s still emerging and we don’t have a full comprehensive picture. What we’re looking at though, in relation to the BME population, is from a national perspective.
“It’s multi-factorial and it effects different groups differently but there is still a disproportionate impact on BME.
“We’re really looking into the science and evidence into this. It’s emerging information and we keep looking at the data.
“There’s increased risk of particular health conditions and there could be something else happening as well.”
Clinical director of commissioning, Dr Helen Wall, added: “We do need to risk assess everyone, not just our BME communities. I think as NHS and social care workers we are very good at putting patients first and we are not always good at recognising that we do have some level of risk ourselves.”