bbcuk--2020-08-18--Black Met Police inspector 'racially harassed' by officers

A black police inspector is suing the Met Police for racial harassment after being stopped in his car by two white officers .
Insp Charles Ehikioya recorded the incident in which he said officers stopped him without justification as he drove home from work in south London .
He told the BBC it showed an `` abuse of power '' and he was speaking out in solidarity with the black community .
The Met said it found no evidence of misconduct .
The 55-year-old had been driving home after his shift on 23 May when he was followed for two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , according to his complaint .
As one officer approached , Insp Ehikioya said he noticed he had not switched on his body-worn camera and for that reason he refused to leave his car .
He said he then started to record the incident for protection , at which point the officer turned on his bodycam .
In the recording , shared with BBC News , the officer said Insp Ehikioya was being stopped for driving at speed and it `` looked like he had gone through a red light '' .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ehikioya 's driving licence and proof he was insured to drive the car , that the vehicle had not been stolen , and to check he was not drunk or had been using his phone .
He claimed Insp Ehikioya 's driving was `` unusual '' , which he strongly disputed , according to the recording .
Insp Ehikioya was then accused of being obstructive and the officer said his own behaviour had been perfectly reasonable , it can be heard .
`` These were alleged offences that could have ended my whole @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who has worked for the Met Police for more than 22 years .
In his formal complaint , Insp Ehikioya wrote : `` The officers did not believe or did not care that I was an officer , because I am black .
`` They are both clearly racist police officers pretending to be polite whilst falsely accusing me without any evidence whatsoever of having committed serious criminal and road traffic act offences . ''
After Insp Ehikioya informed them he was a serving police officer and later showed them his police badge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Met said Insp Ehikioya was not arrested , charged or cautioned for any offence in relation to the stop .
`` I believed I was racially profiled and received no apology , '' Insp Ehikioya added .
`` I have kids and a grandson , I would not want them treated like this . ''
Asked why he had chosen to take legal action against the Met , Insp Ehikioya said he was `` not prepared to sit quietly and be silenced '' .
`` In my view it 's not the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's only a few individuals that are causing this issue .
`` I have no choice but to react in the way I 'm reacting to bring it to the attention ...
Actions speak louder than words , '' he said .
The Met has come under increasing scrutiny since the wave of Black Lives Matter protests in the UK after the death of African-American George Floyd .
Last week , the Labour MP Dawn Butler called for a `` system change '' after she and a black male friend were stopped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two police cars .
In July , the British sprinter Bianca Williams received an apology from the Met Police after she and her partner were pulled over in their car for a stop-and-search in west London .
Lawrence Davies , of Equal Justice Solicitors who is representing Insp Ehikioya , said the incident showed the `` extent of the current racism in the Metropolitan Police '' .
`` The conduct of a few embarrasses the vast majority of officers who are not racist but who , as a consequence of that conduct , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ communities , '' he said .
The Met confirmed it had received an internal complaint from a driver who alleged they were stopped as a result of racial profiling and said an investigation was undertaken by the Professional Standards Unit .
In a statement , the Met said the vehicle was followed by officers through suspicion of excessive speed at a traffic signal and onward .
No action was taken against the man stopped and , after reviewing body-worn footage , no evidence of misconduct was found , it said .
The statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ external or internal , made concerning the conduct of our staff is taken extremely seriously .
`` Where the conduct of staff is proven to have fallen below the standards of behaviour expected , we will take robust action to ensure that staff are appropriately disciplined and that lessons are learnt from each case . ''

The officer said he needed to see Insp Ehikioya's driving licence and proof he was insured to drive the car, that the vehicle had not been stolen, and to check he was not drunk or had been using his phone.


bbcuk--2020-08-18--Coronavirus: Cases rise at Newark Bakkavor dessert factory

Coronavirus cases at a dessert factory testing its entire workforce have risen to more than 70 .
Some 1,600 staff at Bakkavor in Newark , Nottinghamshire , are undergoing testing .
So far 701 have been checked , with 72 confirmed cases , Nottinghamshire County Council said , while 33 people have been able to return to work .
The company , which makes desserts for Waitrose and Tesco , said it `` understood the importance of the testing '' .
• Latest news and stories from the East Midlands Richard Wiles , from Collingham , who works next to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outbreak did not come as a surprise .
`` The workers have been upset for quite a while that they do n't think enough has been done to protect them , '' he said .
`` People here are somewhere between baffled and very angry because when there have been outbreaks at food plants elsewhere , they have been closed instantly .
`` It seems there has been a slow , modern British response to this and cakes have come before Covid safety . ''
The council had previously said the entire workforce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive cases increased from 20 to 39 .
Staff from other areas of the business have been seconded to help upload the details into the NHS portal .
Throughout most of July new cases of coronavirus in Newark and Sherwood were low , but they have risen in recent weeks .
The district was added to the government 's hotspot watch list last week and a testing site for members of the public was set up at the district council building after a spike in cases .
In the week to Thursday 13 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to nearly 32 per 100,000 population .
Across England overall in the same week the rate was just under 12 per 100,000 .
Ten cases were people living in the Newark North area , which is also where the Bakkavor dessert factory is located , with a further 10 in Balderton .
However , some of the 72 cases so far confirmed at Bakkavor may not yet be reflected in the official data , which is updated daily as more test results come back .
Newark and Sherwood 's weekly infection rate per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 6 August to 31.9 up to 13 August .
Jonathan Gribbin , director of public health at Nottinghamshire County Council , said : `` We know that not all the cases in Newark are linked to Bakkavor so it is vital that people continue to follow the strict guidance to prevent the transmission of Covid-19 across the whole community .
`` People should follow social distancing guidance in full , including guidelines about car sharing , washing hands regularly , wearing face coverings , self-isolating and quickly getting a test if symptoms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bakkavor , said : `` The [ testing ] programme has been positively received , and colleagues have been supportive and reassured that every effort is being taken to ensure their safety . ''
At the Bakkavor bakery in Devizes , last week it was confirmed the number of positive tests had risen to 15 from seven the week before .
Wiltshire Council has confirmed the number of cases there has not changed .
• SOCIAL DISTANCING : What are the rules now ?
• FACE MASKS : When should you wear one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ force me to go to work ?
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"So [closing it] would be quite a radical thing to do, not something we would want to bring forward at this point and certainly not before we have followed through on every other possible avenue, including finishing off on this whole workplace testing."


bbcuk--2020-08-18--Boy thrown from Tate Modern balcony 'goes home'

A boy who suffered catastrophic injuries when he was thrown from the balcony of the Tate Modern has been able to visit home , his family said .
Last August the boy , aged six at the time and visiting London from France with his family , fell 100ft ( 30m ) and suffered life-changing injuries .
Now , the boy 's family says he is `` happy to see his toys again '' .
Jonty Bravery , 18 , who threw the boy from the balcony , was convicted of his attempted murder and jailed , in June .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ named for legal reasons , spent time at Royal London Hospital before moving to a hospital in France .
During Bravery 's sentencing , the court was told the boy would require round-the-clock care until at least 2022 .
His injuries included a bleed to the brain and fractures to his spine and he has been left needing the use of a wheelchair .
An update posted on a GoFundMe site , which has raised almost £250,000 for the boy 's medical care , said his parents were able to bring him home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We took him to the sea and he was able to build sandcastles with a friend on the beach , '' the statement said .
`` He stays seated in one place , and we bring him what he needs to build .
He could n't swim , of course , mainly because he still ca n't move around without his splints .
`` He also returned at home for the first time and he was super happy to see his house and his toys again , even though he could n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The parents thanked the public for their continued support and said their son 's reading , breathing and singing was improving `` little by little '' .
`` He still spends most of his day in a wheelchair and still can not walk on his own , '' the statement added .
`` But when we give him our hand , we do n't need to carry his weight anymore like before - it is mostly about helping him to find his balance .
`` He can walk a few metres like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ climb one or two steps , always with our help . ''
Bravery , of Northolt in west London , who was diagnosed with autism from a young age , was jailed at the Old Bailey for at least 15 years .
Hammersmith and Fulham Council has been carrying out a serious case review into Bravery 's care as the council was responsible for the handling of it .
• Teen threw boy from Tate Modern 'to be on TV' In a victim impact statement in February , the boy 's parents described @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were `` unspeakable '' .
`` Words can not express the horror and fear his actions have brought up on us , '' the couple said .
A spokesman for Tate Modern said : `` A full security review was undertaken , as would happen after any major incident , and we continue to follow best practice guidelines to keep the public safe . ''
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"He also returned at home for the first time and he was super happy to see his house and his toys again, even though he couldn't go upstairs to see his room."


bbcuk--2020-08-18--Salmond inquiry: Civil servant says investigating complaints 'right thing to do'

Scotland 's top civil servant has apologised for the Scottish government 's handling of harassment complaints against Alex Salmond .
But Leslie Evans insisted that investigating the allegations against the former first minister was the right thing to do .
Ms Evans is the first witness to appear before a Scottish Parliament inquiry .
The inquiry centres on the government 's investigation into two complaints from staff about Mr Salmond 's behaviour .
The allegations date back to when he was in office as first minister of Scotland .
Mr Salmond successfully took the government to court over its investigation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Ms Evans to quit after he was awarded £500,000 expenses by the Court of Session .
The court ruled that the investigation had been unlawful , `` procedurally unfair '' and `` tainted with apparent bias '' because the investigating officer assigned to the case had had prior contact with the complainers .
Ms Evans - the Scottish government 's permanent secretary - has been strongly backed by her boss , First Minister Nicola Sturgeon , who is expected to give evidence to the committee in the coming weeks .
The civil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complaints were raised it would have been unconscionable , and a failure in our duty of care , not to investigate those complaints .
`` It was accepted at judicial review that one part of our procedure should have been applied differently .
`` I apologise unreservedly to all concerned for this procedural failure . ''
She went on to say that lessons had been learned from the failure , but insisted that the Scottish Government `` is and remains ahead of many other institutions in designing and implementing a procedure to address @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of sexual misconduct '' .
Ms Evans told the committee `` the Scottish government has been on a journey of cultural change since 2015 to ensure the organisation is more open , capable and responsive .
`` As permanent secretary , I have led a focus on equality , inclusion and wellbeing , including addressing bullying and harassment . ''
The Scottish Parliament inquiry into the collapse of the government case was put on hold for over a year after criminal charges were brought against Mr Salmond - which culminated in him being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the High Court in Edinburgh in March .
The committee of MSPs , led by Deputy Presiding Officer Linda Fabiani , is examining the development of the government 's harassment complaints procedure , the application of that procedure to the case of Mr Salmond , and the judicial review case .
Ms Fabiani has repeatedly clashed with the permanent secretary over documentation and written evidence being supplied by the government .
She has spoken of her `` frustration and disappointment at the very limited amount of information the Scottish government has chosen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
• Alex Salmond trial : What is the political fallout ?
The committee has pledged not to re-investigate any complaints , but members will study the `` culture '' of government under both Mr Salmond and Ms Sturgeon - which has already led to civil service unions voicing concerns about `` bullying behaviour '' within both administrations .
Mr Salmond 's defence in the criminal trial claimed he was the victim of a political conspiracy - something Ms Sturgeon has dismissed as `` a heap of nonsense '' .
Ms Sturgeon has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ordered to be drawn up in the wake of the Me Too movement remained `` completely robust '' despite the `` deeply regrettable '' failure in the case of her predecessor .
She has ordered an internal review of `` the specific application of this one element of the procedure '' , and has also triggered an independent review to decide whether she broke the ministerial code in her dealings with Mr Salmond .

She went on to say that lessons had been learned from the failure, but insisted that the Scottish government "is and remains ahead of many other institutions in designing and implementing a procedure to address harassment and particularly to address historical allegations of sexual misconduct".


bbcuk--2020-08-18--Homophobic attack on Lampeter woman 'over T-shirt'

A woman recovering from cancer claims she was kicked and punched in a homophobic attack by two men who took exception to her T-shirt and tattoos .
Heulwen Pronath was approached on a footpath in her hometown of Lampeter , Ceredigion , while walking her dog .
She said the men pushed her to the ground , kicked and punched her , and made comments about her top , which said `` Yes , my girlfriend gave me this '' .
Dyfed-Powys Police said it was treating the matter as a hate crime .
The attack happened at about 15:35 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a footpath near the River Teifi .
Ms Pronath , who is recovering from surgery and chemotherapy for breast cancer , hurt her back and suffered scrapes on her face .
The 45-year-old said she was `` really shocked '' to be attacked in Lampeter , although it had happened to her elsewhere .
`` This is not the first time , '' she said .
`` I 've been assaulted a few times just because of how I look and what I wear .
Not in this area , but in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'How a homophobic attack drove me to join police' Ms Pronath added : `` There 's been a few other cases as well in Lampeter , but people do n't tend to come forward to report them and I thought it was about time someone took a stand . ''
She urged other LGBT people not to be afraid to speak out , saying `` be who you are '' .
Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed the force was investigating an alleged hate crime and is appealing for witnesses to come forward .

Ms Pronath added: "There's been a few other cases as well in Lampeter, but people don't tend to come forward to report them and I thought it was about time someone took a stand."


bbcuk--2020-08-18--Body found in Darlington river search for missing boy

A body has been found in the search for a 15-year-old boy who got into difficulty in the River Tees @ @ @ @ @ alarm was raised shortly after 17:00 BST on Monday after the boy entered the water @ @ @ @ @ .
The body was found shortly before midnight and although formal identification is yet to @ @ @ @ @ to be the missing boy .
The death is not being treated as suspicious , @ @ @ @ @ spokeswoman said the boy 's family `` have been informed and are being supported and @ @ @ @ @ at this tragic time '' .
Police were aided in the search by Darlington Fire @ @ @ @ @ North East Ambulance Service , Teesdale and Weardale Search and Mountain Rescue Team and underwater @ @ @ @ @ North East & Cumbria on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram .
Send your story ideas @ @ @ @ @

"This river is notorious for its undercurrents and it's quite an unsafe river, so as a council we are trying to educate people around the dangers," he said.


bbcuk--2020-08-18--Piers Morgan and Celia Walden burgled in France while they slept

Journalist Celia Walden has revealed she and her husband Piers Morgan were burgled while they slept in their rented French villa on the Cote d'Azur .
The incident happened early on Thursday morning , shortly before the couple were due to leave to return to the UK .
Writing in the Daily Telegraph , Walden said she went downstairs and found her handbag upside down on the sofa and her jewellery box empty beside it .
She said she felt a `` stomach-plummeting sense of violation '' .
The author and columnist described the thieves as `` depraved and despicable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the jewellery stolen was n't particularly valuable but it was `` irreplaceable '' - the thieves took an art deco ring which her husband had given her as an anniversary present , plus some vintage items she had bought herself .
`` I knew the second I walked into the sitting room that something was wrong , '' Walden wrote .
`` The previous night had been spent getting our rented house ready for checkout - but the place was a mess . ''
She said she `` felt sick '' when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the sitting room had originally been on a chair in our bedroom .
`` They must have crept in there and stood inches away from us while we slept . ''
Walden said police told her they believed the culprits only left the villa minutes before she came downstairs , after hearing her press the snooze button on her alarm .
When she asked why their laptops and phones had not been taken , the police replied that thieves in the area are generally more interested in cash as technology is now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added the police told her thieves `` do the season '' on the French south coast , and that they were most concerned with the drones many burglary victims had seen flying over their homes days before break-ins , including one her husband saw a week before they were targeted .
It 's not yet known if any arrests have been made .
Morgan and Walden , who married in 2010 , returned the UK before new quarantine measures were imposed people arriving from France at the weekend .
While the UK 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , particularly in Paris , there is no reference to holiday home burglaries .
The south of France hit the headlines a few years ago when some celebrities holidaying there said they had been victims of `` gassing '' .
They included former Formula 1 driver Jenson Button , former Arsenal footballer Patrick Viera and TV 's Trinny Woodall and Susannah Constantine .
The technique , which Walden referred to in her newspaper piece , allegedly involved criminals pumping anaesthetic gas into homes so they could steal more easily .
But the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such a technique would be `` nearly impossible '' .
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Walden added the police told her thieves "do the season" on the French south coast, and that they were most concerned with the drones many burglary victims had seen flying over their homes days before break-ins, including one her husband saw a week before they were targeted.


bbcuk--2020-08-18--Face coverings: No fines issued by PSNI

Face coverings: No fines issued by PSNI

Police have not fined anyone in Northern Ireland for failing to wear a face covering .
It became compulsory to wear a face covering in enclosed public spaces on Monday 10 August .
The Department of Health said breaches could lead to a fixed penalty notice of £60 , reduced to £30 if paid within 14 days .
Responsibility for enforcement has caused confusion , with police saying it would only be used as a last resort .
The Police Service of Northern Ireland ( PSNI ) previously said the primary responsibility for enforcing the wearing of face coverings would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who co-owns a shop in Belfast , said it was not reasonable to expect business owners to bear the brunt of the work enforcing the legislation .
`` I do think it is unfair that the responsibility is put on to the shop owners , '' she said .
`` I would have to employ another person at the front door to police this on a very local basis and I simply ca n't afford to do that .
`` We 're finding that the vast majority of customers are following the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only maybe one or two people a day that are n't wearing masks .
`` Whenever a customer has come in without a face covering , I have n't confronted them because I do n't feel comfortable enough to do so , in case there 's a medical reason behind that .
`` We are really dependent on the goodwill and trust that people will wear their masks and certainly customers have as much responsibility as owners to help us all get through this . ''
Ahead of the rules coming into effect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ necessary , officers will continue to engage , explain and encourage people to make the right choices and this includes the mandatory wearing of face coverings on public transport , in shops and other public enclosed spaces .
`` The primary responsibility for ensuring compliance lies with transport operators and businesses but where police become involved , we will do so on the basis of the four 'Es ' and only use enforcement as a last resort , when all other approaches have been unsuccessful . ''
Glyn Roberts , chief executive of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the legislation meant it would be difficult to enforce .
`` It 's not surprising there have n't been any fines in the first week , '' he said .
`` I think it 's going to be a very difficult situation to police and first and foremost , it is up to the individual shopper to obey the law .
`` The police ca n't be everywhere and indeed it 's very clear retailers and their staff are not required to enforce this , so it is very much up to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this .
`` I think the big challenge is complacency and everyone has to do their bit to ensure that we avoid a second wave or any further significant increases in transmissions . ''
Does everyone have to wear a face covering ?
The NI Direct webpage carries advice for people who are indoors in circumstances where it is not possible to wear a face covering , for example , where they are eating or drinking in a restaurant , pub or café , or are exercising in a gym .
In these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not to use a face covering , but you should replace it as soon as practicable afterwards and maintain social distancing of at least 2m if you are in an enclosed space undertaking physical exercise .
Other circumstances where it may be difficult for some people to wear face coverings , include : • Where it is distressing for someone to cover their face ; • Where someone is accompanying a person who relies on lip reading to communicate ; • The reasons for not wearing a face covering may not always be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get a letter from a doctor or government to show that you do not need to wear a face covering .
If you have a condition which means you can not wear a face covering you only need to say , if asked , that you can not wear a face covering because you are exempt .

There is no need to get a letter from a doctor or government to show that you do not need to wear a face covering. If you have a condition which means you cannot wear a face covering you only need to say, if asked, that you cannot wear a face covering because you are exempt.


bbcuk--2020-08-18--Eat Out to Help Out cuts cost of school dinners during August

Parents in almost half of Scotland 's council areas are paying less for school meals because of the `` Eat Out to Help Out '' scheme .
Fifteen out of 32 local authorities signed up to the Treasury scheme , which offers a 50 % discount on meals from Monday to Wednesday throughout August .
Many councils , however , did not apply , with one saying the time and resources required meant it was `` not viable '' .
A typical saving for each school meal is less than £1.50 .
Children eligible for free school meals are unaffected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ normally pay for their children 's canteen food .
The full list of councils that signed up to the `` eat out to help out '' scheme is : The scheme was introduced by the UK government to help the hospitality industry get back on its feet as the country emerged from the coronavirus lockdown .
It operates in schools as it does in other restaurants and bars , by offering a 50 % discount on food and non-alcoholic drinks , up to a maximum of £10 discount per diner .
The Treasury @ @ @ @ @ @ @ policy , which was used more than 10m times in its first week across the hospitality sector .
While it can be used by staff and pupils every Monday , Tuesday and Wednesday until Monday 31 August in participating council areas , the scheme has not benefited schools south of the border because the new term starts later .
Vivienne Cross , Moray Council 's head of education , said : `` Taking advantage of the 'eat out to help out ' scheme feels like a small gesture that will make a big @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lot of uncertainty . ''
She added : `` Anything we can do to help our families at this time is being considered and we 're sure this scheme will be a welcome boost as schools return . ''
Why did some councils decide not to apply ?
Schools began to open their doors to students last week , which means they could only have taken part in the scheme for a maximum of nine days .
In the north-east of Scotland , all school pupils can take advantage of the `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with Aberdeen City , Aberdeenshire and Moray all participating .
However , neighbouring authority Highland Council did not apply for the scheme , saying the cost , time and resources required to apply meant it was `` not viable '' .
A Highland Council spokesperson said : `` The council , and our providers , engaged in a dialogue and determined we do not have the capacity to make the significant changes to the system in the short period of time available before the scheme ends . ''
They added : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not to enrol in the scheme and instead focus our resources on ensuring the service was operating effectively and in accordance with health and safety standards for the return of our pupils . ''

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bbcuk--2020-08-18--Coronavirus: 'It's not how I thought maternity leave would be'

Many new parents are facing mounting debts , childcare issues and mental health problems due to coronavirus , according to campaigners .
More than 270,000 people have now signed petitions for parental leave to be extended by three months .
Three women speak of their experience of being on maternity leave during the pandemic .
Kirsty Pearce knew she would have to be careful with money while on maternity leave with her baby , but she did not expect to have to rely on family handouts and credit cards .
The learning support assistant , from Harlow in Essex , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a primary school in June .
Instead , she said she had been forced to take unpaid leave and stay at home with her baby , because she was not able to find him a nursery place .
`` It has been so stressful and we are getting into debt , '' she said .
Her maternity leave with son Jake , now 10 months old , has been a world away from what she experienced with her 12-year-old daughter .
Social distancing has put paid to hands-on support from family and friends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closed their doors .
`` It 's just not how I imagined my maternity leave would be .
Jake has n't seen a health visitor since he was eight weeks old .
`` Twelve years ago , I had a lot of support and this time I feel I have n't got a support network .
`` It has been really hard knowing you ca n't just ask your mum to come round and help you out , and I 've also had to home-school my daughter . ''
Her husband works in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his income alone was not enough to support the family .
Jake has now got a nursery place lined up for next month and Ms Pearce will be able to return to work , but they still have debts hanging over them and concerns about his wellbeing .
`` I just hope Jake can settle in because he has separation anxiety , which is understandable because he has only ever been with me .
He screams when I even leave the room , so I am really worried , '' she said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mother of twin boys , Charlotte Hamshere-Malyon said she knew it would be difficult having twins , but `` never expected it to be this hard '' .
She gave birth to Harry and Jack in November and had to return to theatre because she had retained some placenta .
It was `` very traumatic '' and the placenta was not entirely removed , meaning she needed a further operation .
She still suffers from flashbacks and health complications .
She said that experience , coupled with the lockdown , had a dramatic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I have felt so isolated .
Because of my health , I only managed to get out of the house with the twins once before the lockdown happened .
I have really needed support and it has just not been there , '' she said .
`` It has been so hard not being able to see my parents - the boys do not know them at all and that is heartbreaking . ''
She was diagnosed with post-natal depression , anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder , but has only been offered an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had not helped her recovery .
The NHS administrator , who lives in Bromley in south-east London , said her maternity leave had been so different to the one she experienced with her older son .
`` I took him to baby yoga , baby massage , play groups , but we have just been stuck in the house . ''
She is currently on unpaid leave , with the thought of returning to work in October making her `` extremely anxious '' .
She has not been able to secure nursery places @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leave was extended it would give us the opportunity to go and do all the things we have n't done .
We have missed out on so much . ''
'My baby has n't been held by anyone else for months' New mother Bethany Power set up a petition for parental leave to be extended after feeling abandoned during her maternity leave with her eight-month-old son Jayden .
She was due to return to work as a rehabilitation specialist next month , but has delayed it until November and will take unpaid leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ca n't get back to work eight hours a day and just plonk my baby somewhere .
My baby has n't been held by anyone else for months .
`` All the stuff we would be doing , like settling-in sessions at a nursery , just is n't happening .
`` I ca n't find childcare - the nurseries are closed , or they have reduced the number of babies they can take , or they are not taking any new babies until at least October . ''
Ms Power , of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the post-partum physiotherapy she was meant to have for two prolapses following her traumatic labour , due to non-urgent medical care being cancelled .
Jayden suffers with reflux and was due to receive cranial therapy , which was also put on hold .
Her key worker husband has been busy at work , leaving her feeling `` alone and anxious '' .
She said : `` No-one is able to help because of social distancing and there are vulnerable people in the family so we ca n't risk it .
`` A lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have n't had the support we would normally get and we 've been abandoned by the government . ''
At the moment , women are able to take a year 's maternity leave and receive statutory pay for 39 weeks , while parents using shared leave are entitled to 50 weeks with 37 weeks ' pay between them .
Ms Power 's petition calling for that leave to be extended has had about 35,000 signatures , while another petition calling for the same has been signed by more than 235,000 supporters .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had no plans to extend the leave , but a subsequent Petitions Committee report recommended that it should be extended for all new parents affected by the pandemic .
Catherine McKinnell , chairwoman of the committee and Labour MP for Newcastle North , said parents coming to the end of their leave were facing a `` dreadful dilemma '' and some have had to give up their jobs .
`` This is having a profound impact on the mental health and wellbeing of families , '' she said .
The committee estimates it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leave , with nearly half a million people affected .
A government spokesperson said : `` The UK has one of the most generous maternity leave offers in the world , but we understand this is a difficult period for new and expectant mothers . ''
It has until September to respond to the inquiry .
For many parents , the decision can not come soon enough .
`` We are facing the prospect of returning to work with limited childcare options and babies who have not socialised outside our homes .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help and we need it now , '' Ms Power added .
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Coronavirus: 'It's not how I thought maternity leave would be' Published 18 August 2020
Many new parents are facing mounting debts, childcare issues and mental health problems due to coronavirus, according to campaigners.
More than 270,000 people have now signed petitions for parental leave to be extended by three months.
Three women speak of their experience of being on maternity leave during the pandemic.
'I haven't got a support network'
Image source, Kirsty Pearce Image caption, Kirsty Pearce said she had been forced to take unpaid leave and stay at home with her baby
Kirsty Pearce knew she would have to be careful with money while on maternity leave with her baby, but she did not expect to have to rely on family handouts and credit cards.
The learning support assistant, from Harlow in Essex, was meant to return to work at a primary school in June.
Instead, she said she had been forced to take unpaid leave and stay at home with her baby, because she was not able to find him a nursery place.
"It has been so stressful and we are getting into debt," she said.
Her maternity leave with son Jake, now 10 months old, has been a world away from what she experienced with her 12-year-old daughter.
Social distancing has put paid to hands-on support from family and friends, while baby groups and clinics have closed their doors.
"It's just not how I imagined my maternity leave would be. Jake hasn't seen a health visitor since he was eight weeks old.
"Twelve years ago, I had a lot of support and this time I feel I haven't got a support network.
"It has been really hard knowing you can't just ask your mum to come round and help you out, and I've also had to home-school my daughter."
Image source, Kirsty Pearce Image caption, Kirsty Pearce is worried about her son going to nursery because he has developed separation anxiety
Her husband works in a warehouse, but Ms Pearce said his income alone was not enough to support the family.
Jake has now got a nursery place lined up for next month and Ms Pearce will be able to return to work, but they still have debts hanging over them and concerns about his wellbeing.
"I just hope Jake can settle in because he has separation anxiety, which is understandable because he has only ever been with me. He screams when I even leave the room, so I am really worried," she said.
'We have missed out on so much'
Image source, Charlotte Hamshere-Malyon Image caption, Charlotte Hamshere-Malyon has had a very different maternity leave with her baby twin boys than with her older son, George
Mother of twin boys, Charlotte Hamshere-Malyon said she knew it would be difficult having twins, but "never expected it to be this hard".
She gave birth to Harry and Jack in November and had to return to theatre because she had retained some placenta.
It was "very traumatic" and the placenta was not entirely removed, meaning she needed a further operation. She still suffers from flashbacks and health complications.
She said that experience, coupled with the lockdown, had a dramatic impact on her mental health.
"I have felt so isolated. Because of my health, I only managed to get out of the house with the twins once before the lockdown happened. I have really needed support and it has just not been there," she said.
"It has been so hard not being able to see my parents - the boys do not know them at all and that is heartbreaking."
She was diagnosed with post-natal depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder, but has only been offered an online therapy course, which she said had not helped her recovery.
Image source, Charlotte Hamshere-Malyon Image caption, Harry (left) and Jack (right) have not spent time with anyone outside their immediate family due to the pandemic
The NHS administrator, who lives in Bromley in south-east London, said her maternity leave had been so different to the one she experienced with her older son.
"I took him to baby yoga, baby massage, play groups, but we have just been stuck in the house."
She is currently on unpaid leave, with the thought of returning to work in October making her "extremely anxious". She has not been able to secure nursery places for the twins.
"If the leave was extended it would give us the opportunity to go and do all the things we haven't done. We have missed out on so much."
'My baby hasn't been held by anyone else for months'
Image source, Bethany Power Image caption, Bethany Power has been left feeling alone and anxious during her maternity leave
New mother Bethany Power set up a petition for parental leave to be extended after feeling abandoned during her maternity leave with her eight-month-old son Jayden.
She was due to return to work as a rehabilitation specialist next month, but has delayed it until November and will take unpaid leave.
"I'm not ready. I can't get back to work eight hours a day and just plonk my baby somewhere. My baby hasn't been held by anyone else for months.
"All the stuff we would be doing, like settling-in sessions at a nursery, just isn't happening.
"I can't find childcare - the nurseries are closed, or they have reduced the number of babies they can take, or they are not taking any new babies until at least October."
Ms Power, of Rochester, Kent, has not received the post-partum physiotherapy she was meant to have for two prolapses following her traumatic labour, due to non-urgent medical care being cancelled.
Image source, Ivitamay Photography Image caption, Bethany Power created a petition after feeling abandoned during her maternity leave
Jayden suffers with reflux and was due to receive cranial therapy, which was also put on hold. Her key worker husband has been busy at work, leaving her feeling "alone and anxious".
She said: "No-one is able to help because of social distancing and there are vulnerable people in the family so we can't risk it.
"A lot of parents have really struggled. We haven't had the support we would normally get and we've been abandoned by the government."
'Dreadful dilemma'
At the moment, women are able to take a year's maternity leave and receive statutory pay for 39 weeks, while parents using shared leave are entitled to 50 weeks with 37 weeks' pay between them.
Ms Power's petition calling for that leave to be extended has had about 35,000 signatures, while another petition calling for the same has been signed by more than 235,000 supporters.
The government provided a written response saying it had no plans to extend the leave, but a subsequent Petitions Committee report recommended that it should be extended for all new parents affected by the pandemic.
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, Coronavirus: Should maternity and paternity leave be extended?
Catherine McKinnell, chairwoman of the committee and Labour MP for Newcastle North, said parents coming to the end of their leave were facing a "dreadful dilemma" and some have had to give up their jobs.
"This is having a profound impact on the mental health and wellbeing of families," she said.
'National crisis'
The committee estimates it would cost approximately £966m to extend the leave, with nearly half a million people affected.
A government spokesperson said: "The UK has one of the most generous maternity leave offers in the world, but we understand this is a difficult period for new and expectant mothers."
It has until September to respond to the inquiry. For many parents, the decision cannot come soon enough.
"We are facing the prospect of returning to work with limited childcare options and babies who have not socialised outside our homes. This is a national crisis. We need help and we need it now," Ms Power added.


bbcuk--2020-08-18--Coronavirus: Pupils test positive in Perthshire and Paisley

Three pupils at separate schools have tested positive for Covid-19 .
Two of the cases were detected in pupils in Perth and Kinross and one in Renfrewshire .
One pupil from Newhill Primary in Blairgowrie and another from Oakbank Primary in Perth are now self-isolating at home .
The third attends Todholm primary in Paisley .
Parents have been contacted and made aware of the developments at the schools .
The issue of school outbreaks has prompted Scotland 's largest teaching union to warn about the dangers of large groups , including parents , meeting at school gates .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has written to the first minister urging her to `` do more on school safety '' .
NHS Tayside and Perth and Kinross Council said there was no current evidence of transmission of the virus within either school and both remained open .
It said it had identified 41 close contacts of the positive cases , which includes some school pupils and staff .
Dr Emily Stevenson , from NHS Tayside 's Health Protection team said : `` These two positive cases in Perth & Kinross schools are experiencing mild symptoms .
Their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ details can be released about individual cases .
`` NHS Tayside and Perth & Kinross Council worked very quickly together and we are confident that we have identified everyone who is required to self isolate.
`` There is no evidence of any link to the reported cluster in Coupar Angus which led to the closure of the 2 sisters factory and there is no evidence of wider community spread .
In Renfrewshire , parents and carers of children at Todholm primary were contacted in a letter from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There is currently no evidence to suggest that there is transmission occurring within the school itself '' .
Test and Protect are contacting any individuals who have been in close contact with the pupil and advising them to self-isolate at home .
The new cases come as contact tracing continues in various locations across the country amid a series of clusters .
On Monday , Covid-19 clusters in Glasgow and Lanarkshire were linked to house parties .
A joint statement from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and NHS Lanarkshire said the two boards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A total of 14 linked Covid cases have been identified in north-east Glasgow in addition to eight North Lanarkshire cases .
Many of those were secondary school pupils and both health boards said that evidence of social gatherings with no social distancing was a factor in their investigation .
In its letter to Nicola Sturgeon , the EIS said there were `` clear inconsistencies '' in Covid-19 safety policy within schools and outside .
General Secretary Larry Flanagan raised concerns about people meeting outside schools in large groups .
He said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and young people meeting friends without following the guidance on physical distancing .
`` People are running the risk of spreading the virus to each other , their families and their loved ones . ''
He added : `` May I ask why the Scottish government thinks that it is acceptable that inside schools these rules do n't apply , where up to 33 pupils may be in a closed confined area , i.e .
a classroom , with as many different households as there are people ? ''
• CASES : Where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Who is dying and where ?
• RULES : What can I now do - and what are the rules ?
• QUIZ : Test your knowledge of the coronavirus restrictions • FACE MASKS : When should you wear one ?

He said: "I wasn't thinking about social distancing because I knew if I thought about it I would just get myself worried over something I have no control over. So I was mostly just worried about the mental shift from being in my house for seven months to being in school every day and the work shift from barely doing any work to the fast pace of highers.


bbcuk--2020-08-18--GCSEs and A-levels grades U-turn: 'A triumph for Welsh students'

Students have spoken of their `` massive relief '' after they were given the A-level results they were fighting for .
The Welsh Government announced a U-turn on Monday and said those and GCSE results estimated by teachers would now be used , rather than those produced by an algorithm .
There had been outrage after 42 % of A-level grades in Wales were downgraded because of the system .
For some students , the change means future plans are no longer in tatters .
Universities said they were `` working hard to place applicants on the course of their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Llangorse , near Brecon , was devastated to learn her dreams of a career in medicine were in jeopardy after being awarded A* , B , C and D instead of her predicted A* , A , A , B .
She said the announcement over centre-assessed grades was `` an absolute triumph for all Welsh students '' .
• Teacher estimates to be used for Welsh exam grades • How will unis cope with extra students ?
And other questions • How did the A-level algorithm work ?
The Crickhowell High School @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Liverpool University , said : `` I burst out crying straight away .
I do n't think I 've ever been so happy in my life .
`` Not just for me , but for everyone .
These A-levels are for life , they are the most important things to get you on your next steps from school to university . ''
But she added she might have some difficult decisions to make , as the universities had filled so many places .
`` Fingers crossed it 's a place in Liverpool @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fit me in or next year if I have to defer , or a place this year at Southampton University , also for medicine , '' Ms Gould said .
`` As soon as I heard the news I was on the phone to Liverpool , speaking to them about the next steps .
`` It 's still going to be a struggle for all the universities to try to get all the places , fit all the students in . ''
But , for now , she can celebrate getting the results @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know if I 've ever been so stressed in my life .
Opening the results ... then finding out it was n't what I wanted .
`` It 's not something anyone wants to go through .
I am so , so relieved , '' she added .
Riley Mann , from Cardiff , had been predicted A* , A , A but got B , B , C. His dreams of studying physics at Bristol University seemed over , but things are now looking hopeful .
`` I 'm feeling much better @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can tell you that , '' he said .
`` It 's looking like everything 's heading in the right direction and I will be going to the uni that I want to go to and the uni I deserve to go to . ''
His sister , Laani Mann , was `` heartbroken '' for her brother when he received his first set of grades .
After that she became nervous for herself and her GCSE results which are due on Thursday .
She was worried if she did not get good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her out for a medicine degree .
When she heard about the U-turn she was relieved for Riley - and herself .
`` It was a huge relief when I knew they were still on the table , as long as they go through with the teacher 's predictive grades , '' Laani said .
`` Going into A-levels , as long as I keep my head down , those top universities will still be an option for me . ''
She said she has been predicted `` one A* , a few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cs '' .
`` It 's been such a surreal year , and I feel like the last few days have just been all over the place , '' she said .
What will happen with universities ?
Universities Wales , which represents institutions in Wales , advised students to discuss their options with universities .
`` Every effort will be made by universities to ensure that they are not disadvantaged by this year 's processes , '' it said in a statement .
`` Universities admissions teams have been working hard to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ choice , and they will look at the circumstances of each applicant who has had their results improved as a result of today 's announcement , to ensure that wherever possible they can start a course this term .
`` Our advice to students would be to contact their first-choice university who will be happy to discuss their options .
They also have the choice of applying to courses through clearing , which has been enhanced to provide more tailored options than ever before . ''
Courteney Sheppard , from the further education @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been `` an interesting '' period .
He said this time of year was `` always an emotional time for people taking the next step for their future . ''
Universities would be `` as flexible as possible '' , he said .
`` This is an unprecedented situation . ''
`` I think what we might find is there will be some courses which will be more constrained by particular physical elements , there could be particular lab space or spaces where students need to do any performances or things like that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they will likely feel they have got less spaces on them . ''
Mr Sheppard said universities would also need to contend with things like accommodation arrangements .
`` We need to navigate through a changing situation and understand what is in the best interest of all students , for those whose grades have changed , but also those who have secured their place , '' he said .
Cardiff University said it would honour places for students with revised grades , who selected the university as their firm or insurance choice , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ certain deadlines .
What happened with the initial results ?
Exams were cancelled across the UK after schools shut in March because of the coronavirus pandemic .
Last week 's results in Wales were produced by a system known as standardisation - designed to ensure grades were `` as fair as possible '' and consistent with previous years .
Teachers had estimated grades but they were then processed by an algorithm .
The system was criticised by students and politicians for producing unfair grades for individual students after 42 % of grades were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also affects AS-levels , skills challenge certificates and the Welsh Baccalaureate .
But students who received higher grades than those predicted by teachers will keep them .
GCSE results in Wales are due to be published on Thursday .
What has the first minister said ?
Despite the U-turn , on Monday Wales ' First Minister Mark Drakeford defended the original process .
In an interview with BBC Wales , Mr Drakeford said the original process , was `` fairer '' than that used elsewhere in the UK , and was `` more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the decision to award estimated grades instead was taken because `` we heard early in the day that things were moving elsewhere '' in the United Kingdom .
`` We were determined that we would have a level playing field where our young people were not disadvantaged , '' he said .
What about the rest of the UK ?
Students in England and Northern Ireland will also have their results based on teacher estimates , in decisions taken on Monday .
Pupils in Scotland had their exam results upgraded last week @ @ @ @

"Universities admissions teams have been working hard to place applicants on the course of their choice, and they will look at the circumstances of each applicant who has had their results improved as a result of today's announcement, to ensure that wherever possible they can start a course this term.


bbcuk--2020-08-18--Coronavirus: The County Tyrone hay bale superheroes

Meet the hay bale superheroes reminding people that `` together we are a super power '' in the fight against coronavirus .
After weeks of planning , the 12ft ( 3.65m ) high structures have been erected in a County Tyrone field .
Spiderman , Batman , Superwoman , Iron Man , Wonder Woman and Captain America are attracting lots of visitors .
`` There have been people queuing up to see it , '' one of the designers told BBC News NI .
In recent years the field , on the Newtownstewart bypass , has been home to hay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ giant teddy bear , Toy Story 4 and Wizard of Oz characters , and Goldilocks and the Three Bears .
The attraction raises money for charity and promotes a community festival .
But this year , there 's a very important message behind the theme .
`` We thought we 'd use the bales as a message for Covid-19 - that superheroes represent us , the people , who are key weapons in the battle against coronavirus , '' said Shauneen Kilpatrick .
`` The superheroes are supposed to be representative of each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 've been given to fight the battle is social distancing , washing your hands and wearing a mask .
`` We want to reinforce the message that we are all in this together , especially now when there 's a threat of a second wave and we are seeing spikes in the number of cases .
`` It 's another way of reminding people that we should all be complying and not to get complacent . ''
`` It starts with finding something that people like and then doing a few sketches to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ works with the bales , '' said Ms Kilpatrick .
`` You then have work out what materials to use , whether you want wooden structures or what works best .
`` We have a great team though .
You have to work out the positions of the bales and how to balance them which is no easy job .
`` To get them that high , you have to balance them properly and then they are structured with iron bars and posts to give them stability .
`` Everyone does their best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` You have to be public-minded too and make sure the public are safe when they come to visit .
`` You do n't realise how high they are until you see people beside them and then you realise just how big they are , but that 's what draws people to them .
`` The reaction has been amazing , it 's been so positive . ''

"We want to reinforce the message that we are all in this together, especially now when there's a threat of a second wave and we are seeing spikes in the number of cases.


bbcuk--2020-08-18--BTec Nationals: Who are the students who didn't just do A-levels?

As A-level students learn that grades will be awarded by teacher estimates rather than by an algorithm , many BTec students are still waiting for their marks .
So what is being done to make sure vocational students are treated fairly ?
Studied over one or two years , BTec Nationals are vocational qualifications which provide work-based skills across areas including business , healthcare and engineering .
They are assessed over the course of the qualification through exams , practical coursework and often placements .
They can be used to attend university ( similar to A-levels ) , although many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ skills for a specific occupation .
Currently , only A-level students have been directly affected by changes announced on Monday .
However , Pearson , the company which runs BTecs , has confirmed that it will be reviewing results on `` a case by case basis . ''
• How will exam results day be different this year ?
For BTec National students , grades were based on completed assessments and predicted results for those assessments that did n't happen .
These were then adapted , based on whether the predicted grades are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This is similar to how A-level students were marked .
However , Pearson points out that because BTec students do far more graded assessments throughout the year , their predicted grades were more similar to previous years .
Ofqual has said that where vocational qualifications are being used to progress to university , they should try and use this method of predicting grades , rather than insist on further assessments .
However , some courses which rely on practical assessments , such as lab work or childcare , have been adapted .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to allow assessments to be done while still complying with social distancing rules .
Why do some students not have results ?
Some BTec National students are still waiting for results , which were due on Thursday 13 August .
Pearson has apologised for the delay and is offering to speak to universities on behalf of affected students .
If your BTec National marks were calculated based on completed assessments and predicted grades , you can appeal to your education provider .
They can then take your case to Pearson .
It might @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the autumn , although you should check based on the type of course you 're on .
Who takes BTecs and why ?
It was estimated just under 250,000 students completed BTec Nationals in 2019 , compared with about 300,000 who sat A-levels in 2018 .
BTec Nationals can be sat by any age group - in fact , most are taken by those over the age of 22 , as they develop practical skills for their careers .
The most popular subjects in 2019 were business , sport and health and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ university students in England are accepted after studying only BTec Nationals .
Another 10 % are accepted into higher education with a combination of A-levels and BTecs .
BTec Nationals are particularly popular among white working-class students , according to research by the Social Market Foundation ( SMF ) think tank .
In 2016 , 31 % of this group who were accepted into higher education had studied just BTec Nationals .
Students from ethnic-minority backgrounds are also more likely to have these qualifications , including 37 % of black students .
What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than 2,000 different courses .
These provide practical experience of everything from aeronautical engineering to hairdressing and forensic investigation .
BTecs are awarded by a private organisation , the education and training company Pearson .
While England , Wales and Northern Ireland have BTecs , Scotland has its own Scottish Vocational Qualifications .
How do BTecs compare with other qualifications ?
However , other BTecs include those equivalent to a GCSE ( BTec Firsts ) and the first year of university ( BTec Higher Nationals ) .
What about other vocational qualifications @ @ @ @ @ @ @ currently more than 12,000 vocational qualifications at all levels , offered by more than 150 awarding organisations .
Beyond BTec , other organisations , such as City and Guilds and the OCR ( Oxford , Cambridge and RSA Examinations ) , also offer vocational qualifications .
And students can have a wide range of courses in a single subject from which to choose .
There are currently 34 qualifications alone for those aiming for a career in plumbing .
However , in July 2016 then Prime Minister Theresa May announced plans to slash @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said this would help avoid confusion for students and employers and to redress what it considered to be an imbalance between post-16 technical and academic qualifications .
So , the autumn of 2020 is still expected to see the introduction of a new qualification , the Technical or T-level .
These new two-year courses will follow on from GCSEs and be equivalent to three A-levels .
Do you have a question about your exam results ?
Use the form to send it to us .
In some cases your question will be published @ @ @ @ @ @ @ location as you provide it , unless you state otherwise .
Your contact details will never be published .
Please ensure you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy .

BTec results 2021: What are they and when are results out? Published 9 August 2021
Image source, Getty Images
Hundreds of thousands of students are due to receive their BTec results this week.
These exams are aimed at people interested in working in a particular industry, such as engineering, hospitality and childcare.
How will results be decided this year?
BTec students will receive teacher-assessed grades this year - no external assessments or algorithms will be used. This is the same as GCSE and A-level students.
The exception to this is BTec students taking qualifications that can only be required through practical assessment, such as an electrician. In these instances, external assessments will still be used to check skills. They were adapted to allow for social distancing.
Students will receive their results on the same days as A-level and GCSE students, which will be 10 and 12 August respectively.
What are BTec Nationals and BTec Firsts?
BTecs - which stand for the Business and Technology Education Council - are practical qualifications that are aimed at specific job or career sectors.
Construction, electrical engineering and art and design are just some of the many BTec qualifications that are available.
Courses are assessed through exams, practical coursework and often, placements.
Other vocational qualifications such as City and Guilds are also available.
BTec Nationals are studied over one or two years and are similar to A-levels. Many students take a combination of BTecs and A-levels. BTecs can be used to get into university, although many use them to have occupation-specific skills.
BTec Firsts are equivalent to one or more GCSEs, and are often taken alongside them. They can be helpful for people trying to get into further education colleges.
What do I do if I'm unhappy with my grades?
You can ask your school or college to appeal to the organisation running your BTec.
You can also appeal directly.
The awarding organisation will review the result and send you a final report.
If you're still not satisfied you can make a complaint to the regulator Ofqual.
It might also be possible to complete your assessments in the autumn, although you should check based on your course.
Image source, Getty Images
Who takes BTec Nationals and why?
It was estimated just under 250,000 students completed BTec Nationals in 2019, compared with about 245,000 who sat A-levels.
A further 200,000 are estimated to sit BTec Firsts and other BTec qualifications.
BTec Nationals can be sat by any age group - in fact, most are taken by those over the age of 22, as they develop practical career skills.
The most popular subjects in 2019 were business, sport and health and social care.
About 20% of university students in England are accepted after studying only BTec Nationals. Another 10% are accepted into higher education with a combination of A-levels and BTecs.
In 2016, 31% of this group who were accepted into higher education had studied only BTec Nationals.
Students from ethnic minority backgrounds are also more likely to have these qualifications, including 37% of black students.
What criticism has there been of vocational qualifications?
According to Ofqual, there are currently more than 12,000 vocational qualifications at all levels, offered by more than 150 awarding organisations.
Beyond BTec, other organisations, such as City and Guilds and the OCR (Oxford, Cambridge and RSA Examinations), also offer vocational qualifications. There are 34 different qualifications available for plumbing alone.
Image source, Getty Images
Ofqual has raised concern about inflation in BTec grades.
Between 2005 and 2015, the proportion of students receiving top grades for the "old style" BTecs increased from 21% to 61%. In 2016, a new-style BTec replaced the qualification which had seen the inflation take place.
Grade inflation can mean that employers and universities do not have like for like comparison between different years of students.
What are T-levels?
The government is now introducing a new T-level qualification, which it hopes will redress a potential imbalance between technical and academic qualifications for over-16s.
These new two-year courses will follow on from GCSEs and be equivalent to three A-levels. The first two-year T-level courses started in September 2020 but most of them will be introduced in 2023.


bbcuk--2020-08-18--Newsbeat has been investigating how social media is being used to sell drugs

Over the past six months Radio 1 Newsbeat has been investigating how social media is being used to sell drugs @ @ @ @ @ senior police officer when it comes to drugs says social media bosses would do more @ @ @ @ @ dying from drugs bought this way .
Research suggests one in four young people are @ @ @ @ @ their social media feeds .
Fiona Spargo-Mabbs , whose son Daniel died after taking MDMA @ @ @ @ @ campaign from a group of mums who have all lost a child to illegal drugs @ @ @ @ @ companies to do more to take down content from drug dealers .
You can watch @ @ @ @ @ full on Radio1 's iPlayer Channel .
Listen to Newsbeat live at 12:45 and 17:45 @ @ @ @ @ here .

Over the past six months Radio 1 Newsbeat has been investigating how social media is being used to sell drugs.
Britain’s most senior police officer when it comes to drugs says social media bosses would do more if it was their children dying from drugs bought this way.
Research suggests one in four young people are now seeing drugs advertised on their social media feeds.
Fiona Spargo-Mabbs, whose son Daniel died after taking MDMA, has been leading a campaign from a group of mums who have all lost a child to illegal drugs. They want social media companies to do more to take down content from drug dealers.
Video by Jim Connolly and Matt Wareham.
You can watch Dealers in Your DMs in full on Radio1's iPlayer Channel.
Follow Newsbeat on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
Listen to Newsbeat live at 12:45 and 17:45 weekdays - or listen back here.


bbcuk--2020-08-18--Williamson: My focus is on delivering grades

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has repeatedly refused to say if he intends to resign after a U-turn in how exams @ @ @ @ @ BBC Breakfast , Mr William said that his focus was on `` making sure that @ @ @ @ @ that they deserve '' .

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has repeatedly refused to say if he intends to resign after a U-turn in how exams are graded.
Speaking to BBC Breakfast, Mr William said that his focus was on "making sure that every student gets the grades that they deserve".


bbcuk--2020-08-18--Housing crisis: Fighting to survive the property boom

Richard Ravenscroft has been living homeless in Greater Manchester for three years after suddenly losing his brother and then his @ @ @ @ @ new high-rise homes appearing every month , Manchester has become one of the fastest developing @ @ @ @ @ some locals feel they are being priced out - and made homeless .
Richard says @ @ @ @ @ gap '' and was unable to find a home - but his life could be @ @ @ @ @ turn .
You can watch 'Manctopia : Billion Pound Property Boom ' on Tuesday 18 @ @ @ @ @ Two and afterwards on BBC iPlayer .

Richard Ravenscroft has been living homeless in Greater Manchester for three years after suddenly losing his brother and then his home.
With hundreds of new high-rise homes appearing every month, Manchester has become one of the fastest developing cities in Europe.
But some locals feel they are being priced out - and made homeless.
Richard says he "dropped through the gap" and was unable to find a home - but his life could be about to take a positive turn.
You can watch 'Manctopia: Billion Pound Property Boom' on Tuesday 18 August at 9pm on BBC Two and afterwards on BBC iPlayer.
Digital Producer: Ahmen Khawaja
Commissioning Editor: Kimberley Rowell


bbcuk--2020-08-18--A-levels: Queen's University seeks 'urgent clarity' over U-turn

Queen 's University Belfast is seeking `` clarity as a matter of urgency '' after changes to A-level grades .
The university warned it may need between 500 to 1,000 extra places to admit all affected students , at a cost of about £4,000 per student .
Ulster University said it still had places available .
On Monday , the education minister said pupils would be awarded the highest grade either through teacher prediction or awarded officially .
Similar decisions were taken in England and Wales .
Economy Minister Diane Dodds said the `` consequences of the latest decisions on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
`` I support the universities in their assessment of the extra burdens and requirement that this will place upon them , '' Mrs Dodds said .
`` Additional places and extra resources will be required and I will be working with executive colleagues to ensure this happens as soon possible . ''
GCSE results , due on Thursday , will also be awarded using grades calculated by teachers and schools .
In a statement following Education Minister Peter Weir 's announcement , Queen 's said that while it would `` alleviate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the university now urgently seeks clarity on a number of issues '' .
Queen 's said it did not yet have access to the revised grades being awarded to students .
• Face coverings to be mandatory at Queen 's campus '' Only once this is received will the university be able to confirm places for students who may now meet the conditions of their offer , '' it continued .
Analysis : Universities need to see revised grades The cap on students that Queen 's is allowed to take every year , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is between 3-3,500 new undergraduates from Northern Ireland every year .
That 's a financial calculation done by the Department for the Economy .
It has a positive impact financially because it keeps tuition fees here lower than in England and Wales but it also means that there is huge competition for places at the two universities , particularly in some courses such as medicine , law , computer science and psychology .
For Queen 's to say it may need between 500 and 1,000 extra places is quite a substantial rise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the Economy , of about 15-25 % .
It sounds that especially at Queen 's , places are under pressure and they want more .
But there is an administrative problem too .
A-level students who got their results last week have n't got their revised grades yet and that means neither have the universities .
They need to see those grades to see where the pressure points are .
They may have to ask students to defer a year and tell them that they will guarantee a place for 2021 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a position that anybody wants to be in .
The Northern Ireland Executive controls the number of undergraduate places available at Queen 's and Ulster University for students from Northern Ireland .
The Department for the Economy then sets a maximum aggregate student numbers ( MaSN ) cap at both universities based on financial calculations .
`` If substantial numbers of students are given improved grades then urgent consideration must be given to how their university places are funded as this is likely to significantly exceed the MaSN cap that is set by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Queen 's said .
`` The university has limited flexibility with quota-controlled courses such as medicine and dentistry where restrictions on numbers are externally applied , although as many as possible will be accommodated .
`` It is not yet clear if the quota for these courses will be adjusted .
`` Any applicants to quota-controlled courses who meet the conditions of their offer but can not be allocated a place for the forthcoming academic year will be provided an unconditional offer for the 2021/22 academic year . ''
• New university students @ @ @ @ @ @ @ results to be based on teacher predictions Queen 's also said it had `` genuine capacity restrictions in terms of teaching space , teaching staff and accommodation that have to be taken in to account .
`` These issues are particularly complex this year due to the need to preserve social distancing and keep our staff and students safe .
`` It is therefore imperative that the university receives clarity on the provision of revised results and , the support that will be provided by government as soon as possible .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so the university needs this clarity as a matter of urgency so that it can plan effectively for the start of semester . ''
Prof Stuart Elborn , the pro-vice chancellor at Queen 's School of Medicine , Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences , said that there could be an additional 500-1,000 places needed at the university , at a cost of about £4,000 per student .
`` In the areas of high demand , such as computer science , medicine and the healthcare professions , we are already stretched beyond our limits and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high demand areas we will need extra support and will work with the Department for the Economy and the Northern Ireland Executive to deliver this for this generation of students who have faced a very difficult time to get there , '' Prof Elborn told the BBC 's Good Morning Ulster programme .
In July , Queen 's and Ulster University offered guaranteed places to about 2,500 Northern Ireland students before they got their A-level results .
Speaking on Tuesday , Ulster University 's interim vice-chancellor said that the university had been awarded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bartholemew said : `` We do still have availability on a range of courses so potential students can ring us and we will likely be able to help them .
`` But there is no doubt that there are challenges within the sector .
There are caps that we have to work within but currently we 've been OK with our admission processes and we 've still got spaces available .
`` We 've had to take into account those changes from yesterday but we can still help people . ''

"In the areas of high demand, such as computer science, medicine and the healthcare professions, we are already stretched beyond our limits and to be able to deliver in those high demand areas we will need extra support and will work with the Department for the Economy and the Northern Ireland Executive to deliver this for this generation of students who have faced a very difficult time to get there," Prof Elborn told the BBC's Good Morning Ulster programme.


bbcuk--2020-08-18--WJEC chief 'disappointed' by A-level and GCSE U-turn

The chief of the Welsh exam board has said he is `` disappointed '' about a U-turn in how grades are awarded to A-level and GCSE students this year .
Results estimated by teachers will now be used rather than those produced by an algorithm .
There had been outrage after 42 % of A-level grades in Wales were downgraded because of the system .
Ian Morgan , chief executive of the WJEC exam board , said he accepted there had been `` anomalies '' .
But he said grade averages would have increased by the usual annual amount under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' estimated grades will see a `` significantly '' bigger increase .
Meanwhile a Labour MS said the first minister Mark Drakeford 's comments after the U-turn were `` pretty shocking '' .
Mr Morgan said the effects of that increase would linger into 2021 's results .
`` We feel for the individual students and their families , '' he told BBC Radio Wales .
`` I can clearly see some of the anomalies that have come out of the standardisation process and how that 's impacted individuals .
`` There was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ affect individuals the way they have been , it was about ensuring they were able to maintain some kind of standard of outcomes from previous years and into future years . ''
Mr Morgan said the standardisation process had not been about `` trusting or distrusting teachers '' , but using their assessments as part of a wider context .
`` To some extent I probably am [ disappointed ] , I think there 's a huge amount of rigour that 's gone into the standardisation process .
`` I 'm not here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have put in , these were a complex set of circumstances and teachers have worked diligently , I 'm sure , to provide that information to us .
`` I think that information is just part of a wider set of data that we 've used .
While it is a key element of what we 've done , it 's only part of the process that 's been undertaken . ''
• Teacher estimates to be used for Welsh exam grades • How will unis cope with extra students ?
And other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work ?
Mr Morgan said the way grades had been calculated was similar to the usual process of moderating teacher-assessed coursework and exam results .
`` The processes that we 've undertaken are not significantly different to what we 've done any other academic year , '' he said , adding the only difference was `` the teacher assessments rather than examination assessments in the mix . ''
Mr Morgan acknowledged there were `` imperfections '' with some students not receiving the correct grades - but said these would have been weeded out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who had been downgraded had reported missing out on university placements as a result , and that their final grades had not reflected their marks during the year or mock results .
`` These are very difficult times for everybody involved and what we 've tried to do ... is holistically come up with a model that provides solutions that are the fairest possible in the circumstances , '' Mr Morgan said .
`` I do n't think I 'm embarrassed at all .
What we 've done is worked within the parameters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our ability . ''
First Minister Mark Drakeford said the original process was `` fairer '' than that used elsewhere in the UK , and was `` more based on evidence '' .
But he said the decision to award estimated grades instead was taken because `` we heard early in the day that things were moving elsewhere '' in the United Kingdom .
`` We were determined that we would have a level playing field where our young people were not disadvantaged , '' he said .
But Blaenau Gwent Labour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comments after the U-turn as `` pretty shocking stuff '' .
He tweeted in reaction to a clip posted online saying the Welsh Government had been `` confident in our system '' .
He said he agreed with Welsh education commentator Philip Dixon , who said the first minister was `` snatching defeat from the jaws of victory on epic proportions '' .
Many students celebrated when they learned they would be awarded the grades they felt they deserved .
Maia Gould , from Llangorse , near Brecon , thought her dreams of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after being awarded A* , B , C and D instead of her predicted A* , A , A , B .
She said the announcement over centre-assessed grades was `` an absolute triumph for all Welsh students '' .
The Senedd 's education committee has been recalled on Tuesday afternoon to address the issues , with the WJEC , Qualifications Wales and Education Minister Kirsty Williams due to give evidence .
Students in England and Northern Ireland will also have their results based on teacher estimates , in decisions taken on Monday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ results upgraded last week after an outcry .

She added: "No one can predict if or when we may see another lockdown like this one, so we must learn from these experiences and avoid the confusing, confidence-sapping decisions we have seen over the last few weeks."


bbcuk--2020-08-18--A-level and GCSE results: Call for urgent review into grading 'fiasco'

The education secretary has been urged to launch a review into the handling of A-level and GCSE results after exams were cancelled due to coronavirus .
A union for education leaders , such as head teachers , says it will write to Gavin Williamson over the `` fiasco '' .
Mr Williamson apologised to students after reversing how A-levels and GCSEs are graded , following heavy criticism .
Meanwhile , pupils will get GCSE results on Thursday as planned , the Joint Council for Qualifications ( JCQ ) said .
The confirmation comes following confusion over how results day would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McCulloch , director of policy at the Association of School and College Leaders ( ASCL ) , said the JCQ 's confirmation would be a `` great relief '' to all concerned .
The government decision to give A-level and GCSE students grades estimated by their teachers , rather than via an algorithm , means that tens of thousands of A-level students may now have the grades to trade up to their first-choice university offers .
It has prompted concerns about the number of available places , with top universities warning that students @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be asked to defer if there is no space left on their chosen course .
• How will universities cope with extra students ?
And other questions • A-levels and GCSEs : How did the exam algorithm work ?
And uncertainty continues for students as the admissions service , Ucas , and individual universities have yet to be given access to the upgraded results .
Alistair Jarvis , chief executive of Universities UK , which represents vice-chancellors , said problems could arise around issues of `` capacity , staffing , placements and facilities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in place '' .
Universities minister Michelle Donelan said she wanted to ensure any students who had accepted a `` different course '' than planned , as a result of being downgraded last week , should be able to `` change their mind and to reverse that decision '' .
She said No 10 was working with universities to help `` boost the capacity available '' in order to `` minimise the amount of students that will be looking to defer . ''
Senior Tory MP Huw Merriman suggested students could be compensated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cohort coming up to university , I think it 's all about making it up to them and saying 'we understand that you have been messed around over last week ' , '' he told the BBC 's PM programme .
There is still doubt as to whether the education system will do right by the Class of Covid .
Will their chosen universities be able to accommodate them ?
Or have they given their degree place away already ?
Will they have to come back next year and fight it out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ school ?
And for the first time since this ageing education journalist can remember , exam boards are not holding their usual mind-boggling briefing on GCSE results .
So for some time at least , there will be no details of how the nation has done in their general school certificate examinations .
Roll on the start of term - although that 's uncertain , too .
Hundreds of thousands of children in the UK have had their education disrupted by the pandemic after schools , colleges and nurseries were ordered to shut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of all assessments and exams .
The ASCL - which is writing the letter to Mr Williamson - said a review was urgently needed into `` what went wrong '' with the grading system .
`` This degree of transparency is necessary at a time when public confidence has been badly shaken , '' said ASCL general secretary Geoff Barton .
Mr Barton also called on No 10 and Ofqual to put in place a `` robust contingency plan '' for students sitting GCSEs and A-levels next summer in the event of further @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , from Towcester , Northamptonshire , said she was pleased to be given her predicted grades of ABB - up from the BCD she received last Thursday .
But she said the U-turn `` does feel like it 's a bit too late '' and added : `` I kind of wish the government had done this on Thursday . ''
She is now waiting to hear if her first choice , the University of Liverpool , will accept her to study this year .
Zainab Ali , 18 , from London , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sooner .
`` I think it 's a shame .
After the damage is done , that 's when they will take action and I find it quite frustrating , '' she said .
The U-turn should now mean Zainab is able to attend Queen Mary University , London .
The University and College Union ( UCU ) and National Union of Students ( NUS ) have also written to the education secretary , urging No 10 to help students who have missed out on their first-choice courses and calling for financial support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ general secretary Jo Grady said staff were facing `` unbearable workloads '' due to the fallout over exam results .
She added that `` substantial financial support '' was needed `` so universities can protect all jobs , safely welcome students and continue to provide world class teaching and research '' .
And Ms Grady criticised Mr Williamson 's decision to suspend a cap on student numbers for universities - effectively allowing institutions to accept unlimited numbers this year - because she said it meant `` certain universities can hoover up students , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Despite the cap being suspended , some universities have said numbers will have to remain limited , particularly on vocational courses such as medicine and dentistry .
Ucas was unable to say how many students had not been able to take up places due to their results being downgraded .
Earlier , Mr Williamson said he was `` incredibly sorry for the distress '' caused to pupils .
Mr Williamson said it had been the common view of the government , exams regulator Ofqual , and the devolved administrations in Wales and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - that the system in place was more robust and `` significantly better '' than that in Scotland , after an earlier U-turn in Scotland .
But after the release of A-level results on Thursday he said it had become `` increasingly apparent that there were too many young people that quite simply had n't got the grade they truly deserved '' .
Mr Williamson 's critics had called for him to resign or be sacked , but there are several reasons why he has n't yet received a ministerial P45 , says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's algorithm came under fire after data showed its downgrading of about 40 % of A-level grades in England had affected state schools more than private institutions .
Ministers in England , Northern Ireland and Wales all decided on Monday - four days after A-level results were issued - to revert to teacher assessed grades rather than the algorithm .
• NI : Assembly recall over exam results to go ahead The U-turn means teachers ' assessments will also be used for all GCSE results - except for any students for whom the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ VACCINE : How close are we to finding one ?
• SYMPTOMS : What are they and how to guard against them ?
• TESTING : Who can get a test and how ?
• YOUR QUESTIONS : Our experts have answers • THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters Exam board Pearson , which awards BTecs , has said students ' results that were adjusted downwards through the awarding process - only about 0.5 % of the teachers ' grades - will be reviewed on a `` case-by-case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pearson spokeswoman added it was aware of delays in some students getting their results and was working with schools and colleges to provide any that were outstanding as soon as possible .
• 11 August : Gavin Williamson announced A-level students would be able to use their results in mock tests to appeal if they are unhappy with the grades they are given , calling it a `` safety net '' .
Earlier in the day Scotland 's government decided to switch to teachers ' predicted grades • 12 August : Nick Gibb @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government was `` concerned '' about what had happened in Scotland but insisted the system in England remained `` robust '' • Thursday 13 August ( results day ) : Mr Williamson ruled out following the Scottish government in reversing position , telling Sky News : `` You 've got to have a system that has checks and balances '' .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the results were a `` robust set of grades '' • Saturday : Mr Williamson told the Times there would be `` no U-turn '' on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ended up with `` a system where there are n't any controls '' and had `` rampant grade inflation '' • Sunday : Mr Williamson defended Ofqual 's grading method in the Sunday Express , saying the calculated grade `` makes certain that everyone can be confident that these qualifications carry the same weight as previous years '' • Monday : Mr Williamson announces a move to teacher-assessed grades for A-levels and GCSES saying `` we now believe it is better '' • LOCKDOWN LOVE AND TURBO RELATIONSHIPS : How are you coping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MENTAL HEALTH CRASHED ' : The impact of being turned away from therapy in lockdown Have your grades been raised ?
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bbcuk--2020-08-18--Manchester lockdown party house closed for three months

A house where about 200 people attended a lockdown party has been subjected to a three-month closure order with only the owner allowed access .
Greater Manchester Police ( GMP ) and Manchester City Council obtained a court order after a party at the house on Harlow Drive , Gorton , on Saturday .
Officers were hit with missiles as they tried to break up the gathering .
Insp Jim Adams of GMP said : `` This incident was completely unacceptable and incomprehensible . ''
He added : `` I am pleased that the court has accepted our application to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that there are no further illegal large gatherings at this property . ''
GMP has already issued a £100 fixed penalty notice to a 27-year-old woman who organised the party .
Closure orders are made under the Anti-social Behaviour , Crime and Policing Act 2014 when disorderly , offensive or criminal behaviour has taken place on a premises in order to stop it happening again .
Officers were called at about 22:10 BST on Saturday to a gathering of around 200 people , GMP said .
Nigel Murphy , deputy leader of Manchester @ @ @ @ @ @ @ action '' by the court and said : `` This was a particularly flagrant breach of Covid-19 restrictions , which are in place to protect everyone in our communities and must be respected .
`` Public health must be our first priority and selfish breaches of the rules will not be tolerated . ''
Lockdown restrictions on social gatherings remain in Greater Manchester and some parts of northern England , despite measures being relaxed elsewhere across the country .
Extra rules were enforced on 31 July following a local spike in cases .
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Nigel Murphy, deputy leader of Manchester City Council, welcomed the "tough action" by the court and said: "This was a particularly flagrant breach of Covid-19 restrictions, which are in place to protect everyone in our communities and must be respected.


bbcuk--2020-08-18--PC Andrew Harper: Widow Lissie Harper 'wants real justice'

The widow of PC Andrew Harper has said it was `` heartbreaking '' to be denied `` real justice '' over his death .
Lissie Harper , 29 , said people had been `` outraged '' after jurors cleared three men of murdering her husband following a trial at the Old Bailey in July .
She has launched a campaign for killers of emergency workers to face mandatory life sentences .
PC Harper 's killers had been accused of murder but were convicted of the lesser charge of manslaughter .
PC Harper , 28 , suffered catastrophic injuries when he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Henry Long in Berkshire last August .
Long , 19 , was jailed for 16 years while his passengers Albert Bowers and Jessie Cole , both 18 , were sentenced to 13 years each .
Mrs Harper told the BBC she had received `` many messages from people who are outraged '' since the verdicts and sentences were handed down .
She said her experience at the Old Bailey , which included reading a victim impact statement , and the `` disappointing '' trial result , had inspired her campaign .
Speaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the hardest things '' , she added .
`` I had the defendants on my left not really caring what I was saying but I felt it important to speak directly to the judge and tell him what they 'd taken from us , '' she said .
`` We had the sense that , although it was going to be an awful and long journey , at the end of it we might at least get some justice for Andrew .
`` So at the end of it , to not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The trial heard how PC Harper had responded to reports of a quad bike theft with a colleague hours after their shift had ended .
As he attempted to apprehend one suspect , his feet became entangled in a rope trailing behind a getaway car which led to him being dragged to his death .
Mrs Harper said it `` was n't until I was looking at them [ the defendants ] in the eye , that I felt the disgrace and just how unfair it is '' .
`` They knew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effect that it 's had on so many people , '' she said .
`` They could hear my words so if , even on the outside , they may not show any sort of remorse I hope that in some way they feel the guilt inside they should feel . ''
The sentences of PC Harper 's killers prompted Mrs Harper and PC Harper 's mother Deborah Adlam to launch campaigns calling for tougher sentences for killers of emergency service workers .
Mrs Harper 's campaign , which has been renamed Harper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ criminals convicted of killing a police officer , firefighter , nurse , doctor , prison officer or paramedic to be jailed for life .
No ifs .
No buts '' .
She said the campaign , backed by the Police Federation of England and Wales , would `` help fix '' a `` broken '' justice system .
Mrs Harper , who like her husband is from Wallingford in Oxfordshire , said Harper 's Law was `` about the protection [ emergency workers ] need and potentially a deterrent for criminals '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson and Home Secretary Priti Patel to discuss her campaign after they both sent letters to her offering their support during the court case .
Mr Justice Edis , the sentencing judge , said each of the jail terms for PC Harper 's killers had to reflect `` the seriousness of this case '' .
The maximum sentence a judge can impose for manslaughter is life imprisonment but they must specify a minimum term to be served .
The Attorney General 's Office said it had been asked to review the sentences and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Court of Appeal should review them .
Mrs Harper said her husband `` just wanted to protect people .
He knew what was right and what was wrong and would have worked all the hours if he could '' .
`` Andrew made the ultimate sacrifice and it was n't just his life - it was his future and my future and the lives of everyone who loved him , '' she added .
`` I constantly felt that he had my back and that 's why Harper 's Law is so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do it for him . ''

"I had the defendants on my left not really caring what I was saying but I felt it important to speak directly to the judge and tell him what they'd taken from us," she said.


bbcuk--2020-08-18--West Yorkshire Police probe 'I'll choke you out' video

A police officer is being investigated after footage emerged that appears to show him restraining a man and saying `` chill out or I 'll choke you out '' .
The video shows an officer wrestling a man to the ground before holding him with an arm around the neck .
The footage from Halifax has been widely shared on social media .
West Yorkshire Police said the officer had been suspended and the incident had been referred to the force watchdog .
Assistant Chief Constable Osman Khan said : `` We immediately reviewed the footage and looked into it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the full circumstances .
`` We have reviewed the actions of the officers involved and a referral has been made to the force 's professional standards directorate .
`` Our investigation remains ongoing and we have made a voluntarily referral to the Independent Office of Police Conduct ( IOPC ) .
`` The officer involved has been removed from front-line operational duties . ''
During the footage , a voice can be heard saying `` chill out or I 'll choke you out , chill out or you 're going to sleep '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the floor and saying `` I give up '' before he is told to `` turn over now '' with another officer helping to detain him .
Police confirmed that the footage was taken at Spring Hall Gardens in the town .
The man was arrested on Sunday and has been released under investigation .
• More stories from across Yorkshire • The last 30 minutes of George Floyd 's life An IOPC spokesman said : `` We have received a referral from West Yorkshire Police and will make a decision on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Earlier this month , a separate video emerged which appeared to show a police officer from the same force kneeling on a teenager 's neck during an arrest outside Leeds United stadium .
At the time , the IOPC said the officer would be interviewed on suspicion of common assault and gross misconduct .
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The man is seen tapping on the floor and saying "I give up" before he is told to "turn over now" with another officer helping to detain him.