Latest news with #Shropshire-based
Daily Mail
5 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
People horrified after disabled woman claims NHS sent her to be weighed at a pet shop
A disabled woman has claimed she was left in a state of disbelief when NHS staff told het to go to a pet shop to be weighed. Shropshire-based Sarah Rennie, who documents her life as a 'proud' disabled person on TikTok, told viewers she had been directed to a Pets at Home store to be weighed by The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital in Oswestry. Fellow TikTokers were outraged by the NHS's blithe advice, with one branding Sarah's experience 'horrific'. The accessibility and inclusion specialist and trainer, who goes by 'sarahvbarriers' on the platform, explained she's often asked for her 'accurate weight' by medical staff. Wheelchair user Sarah is required to report her weight so doctors and nurses can make sure that she is on the correct medication at the right dose and that her lifting equipment is able to properly support her. In the clip, which has been viewed more than 200,000 times, Sarah said: 'I can't believe this just happened. 'The NHS has just referred me to a pet shop. 'As a disabled person [on] medication [and with] lots of lifting equipment, I'm often asked my accurate weight. 'I need to get weighed because I can't stand or walk.' Sarah explained that because she is unable to stand or walk, finding out her weight is slightly more complicated. She added: 'This means that I either need to have a hoist that's got weighing scales or I need to be able to roll onto a scales in my wheelchair and subtract the weight of the wheelchair.' In the minute-long video, Sarah, a member of the West Midlands Tourism and Hospitality Advisory Board, tells viewers she's been unable to find any NHS facilities in her area that are equipped to weigh her. 'The wheelchair service no longer offers a weighing facility,' she said. Sarah was shocked when 'a very nice lady' associated with her surgery suggested she go on local radio to see if any local factory owners might have the kind of equipment that would allow her to be weighed - but worse was still to come. Explaining that she was advised to go to The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital in Oswestry, which is a 40-minute drive from her home, Sarah thought it was worth checking that the hospital would be able to help her before setting off. But, in a typed response which Sarah added to the TikTok video, she was told to 'access community-based weighing options, including facilities such as "Pets at Home".' Sarah, who was clearly in a state of disbelief, added: 'I've just had this response: "We advise patients to go to Pets at Home". Do I look like a chipmunk?!' The clip amassed 580 comments in a matter of three days, with the majority of fellow TikTok users sharing Sarah's shock and disappointment. One person wrote: 'That is horrific.' The TikToker advised: 'Although if you are stuck, Shropshire Council have a list of public weighbridges which are very accurate.' Another outraged user said: 'I work in a nursing home, does the NHS hospital not have a SINGLE hoist sling in the entire hospital?' A third person added: 'What? That's awful! I go to my local gym, they have a big platform weighing scales which I transfer onto'. While a fourth said: 'That is incredibly dehumanising! Being referred to Pets at Home or a factory like you're an animal or some kind of good to be sold?! Also, how can a wheelchair service work without being able to weigh people?' A fifth person commented: 'Outrageous! Shropshire-based myself, this is just... I'm lost for words. Reposted to raise awareness!' Fellow TikTokers were quick to comment on Sarah's experience, with the vast majority sharing her dismay at the NHS's directive Yet not everyone agreed that Sarah was right to be dismayed by the NHS hospital's suggestion that she go to a Pets at Home store to be weighed. One person said: 'At least they've found you somewhere'. Yet another user disagreed, writing beneath the comment: 'They haven't though. Pets at Home do not have roll on scales and she's not a dog'. Someone else added: 'Honestly don't get the issue here, it's a convenient and cost--effective alternative. 'You presumably live in a rural area where they don't have the facilities, or money for the facilities, locally, so either travel hours out your way to a major care centre or improvise'. When approached for comment, a spokesperson from NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, on behalf of the local health and care system, said: 'We would like to apologise to Ms Rennie for any upset or offence caused. 'Although we are unable to comment on individual cases, we are continuing to look into her experience to fully understand the wider issues and identify what can be done for her, and others, in similar situations.'
Time of India
31-05-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Can science revive dead rhinos? The answer may shock you
Source: Wikipedia Scientists in the UK have revived living cells from a southern white rhino that died in 2021, offering new hope for conservation efforts. This breakthrough, reported by the BBC, was achieved by Nature's SAFE, a Shropshire-based charity. They successfully cultured millions of cells from a preserved skin sample taken before the rhino's death. This pioneering work could allow scientists to create new egg or sperm cells, helping to restore endangered populations. The technique, already proven in mice, marks a major step forward in protecting species like the southern white rhino and others at risk of extinction. A new discovery of rhino revival from dead to new life According to a BBC report, a skin sample taken from a rhino that died in 2021 is now offering fresh hope for conservation which has only become possible because of the pioneering efforts by a UK wildlife charity. The southern white rhino which lived at Whipsnade Zoo passed away at the age of 40. In the wake of its death, the veterinary staff collaborated with three specialist organizations to preserve tissue samples. Now, Nature's SAFE which is a conservation charity based in Whitchurch, Shropshire, has successfully cultivated millions of living cells from that sample. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like "I Had A Dad Bod - Until I Did This' Apex Labs Undo Rhino's revival discovery: a significant step to development This development represents a significant step toward a groundbreaking technique that may one day allow scientists to create viable egg or sperm cells from preserved rhino tissue, offering a new path for reviving endangered populations. Although the rhino died in 2021, new technology could allow her genetic material to support the southern white rhino population for generations to come. Before her death, conservation charity Nature's SAFE collected a skin sample from her ear while she was still alive. The cells were carefully frozen at –196°C, with the goal of preserving them long-term. Scientists hope that once melted, the cells can be revived and multiplied to produce new cell lines. A representative from the charity explained that while the process may seem like something out of science fiction, similar techniques have already been successful in mice ,showing promising potential for helping other species reproduce. Expert's efforts for Rhino revival from dead to new life In April, the team carefully took the rhino's frozen cells out of storage and brought them back to room temperature. Even though the rhino died nearly four years ago, they were able to grow new cells from the sample. Lab technician Lucy Morgan, who helped make it happen, said that the cells still carry the rhino's living DNA and can now be used to help protect the species, even though the animal is no longer alive. Nature's SAFE, which is also known as the "bio bank" has collected and preserved biological material from 300 different animal species — including 37 that are critically endangered and four that no longer exist in the wild. Goal of Nature's SAFE for Rhino's new life from dead The organization's goal is to help prevent animal extinction by protecting genetic diversity. It supports advanced reproductive technologies like artificial insemination and IVF to help maintain and rebuild strong, healthy wildlife populations. Debbie Rolmanis, the chief operations officer, explained: 'By collecting and growing skin cells from endangered animals, we're creating a living library of genetic material. This resource could one day help boost the genetic health of struggling species and stop them from disappearing.' She added that skin cells are especially useful because they're easy to collect and can be reproduced endlessly. Unlike other resources, they aren't limited, making them a powerful and reliable way to preserve an animal's DNA in working condition. Tullis Matson, founder and chair of the charity, shared his excitement about successfully reviving the rhino's cells, calling it a potential breakthrough for conservation. 'This is a major step forward,' he said. 'We've now shown that the rhino's cells are still alive and usable nearly four years after her death.' He explained that this achievement could be vital for saving other critically endangered animals — such as the mountain chicken frog and the Lake Pátzcuaro salamander — that might otherwise face extinction. Thanks to advances in bio-banking, their survival is now more possible than ever. Also read: Black Holes explained: Unraveling the facts of space's cosmic mystery
Metro
16-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Metro
This brand has all the essentials for creating a bright, blooming, lovely garden
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more We've mowed the lawn, jet-washed the patio, and dusted down the outdoor furniture — so it's safe to say that we're well-set for a summer spent primarily in our gardens. So, what's next on the to-do list? Well , if you'd love to see an abundance of beautiful summer blooms, butterflies, buzzing bees, and happily chirping birds over the next few months, you'll need to put the work in now to make sure your garden is a truly welcoming space to nature and wildlife. From picking out pollinator-friendly plants and making sure climbers are properly supported, to creating a safe space for precious blue tits and robins to nest, there's heaps to do. And helpfully, the Shropshire-based garden brand, Fallen Fruits, has just released their latest collection of functional yet decorative products on Dunelm. So, now feels like the perfect time to add a beautiful birdbath or raised bed to our baskets. Crafted from classic terracotta, this pretty pedestal birdbath is guaranteed to make an elegant addition to any outdoor space. But best of all, it's the perfect shallow space for birds to drink and bathe. BUY NOW FOR £24 Not everyone has the outdoor space for a border or garden bed — but this compact raised one makes a great alternative option for patios and balconies. Opt for an edible display of pollinator-friendly herbs, or stick to classic summer bedding plants like petunias, marigolds, and zinnias if you prefer bright and colourful blooms. BUY NOW FOR £59 Daily watering is essential for an abundant summer garden, but using that much tap water is pretty wasteful. Instead, attach this rustic copper rain chain to your gutter, and place a barrel directly underneath to collect rainwater — which you can then use to fill up your watering can, or refresh the birdbath. BUY NOW FOR £24 Just like us, birds need somewhere safe and cosy to nest — and this little house just happens to be the perfect fit for any kind of tit species. It's got a charming garden shed design, built-in ventilation holes, and a base that's really easy to clean. BUY NOW FOR £28 As well as being considerably cheaper than your typical terracotta plant pot, zinc buckets look really charming when used as a container to grow herbs and compact plants. We recommend lavender — as it's got a compact root system, and also happens to be a pollinator magnet. BUY NOW FROM £9 A real statement garden feature, there's something really stunning about a climbing plant woven around a metal arch. Go for a classic look with a romantic rambling rose or elegant clematis — or make more of an understated display with pollinator-friendly plants like honeysuckle and jasmine. BUY NOW FOR £59 Shaped like a mushroom, this hangable iron feeder is guaranteed to bring a touch of whimsical charm to your outdoor space. Simply hang it from a branch, fill it with peanuts, and enjoy watching the birds feed. BUY NOW FOR £9 MORE: Dine outdoors with Dunelm's gorgeous picnic sets and garden furniture MORE: These are the stylish scalloped furniture and decor picks from Dunelm we're loving this spring MORE: 'Like sleeping on a cloud' hail shoppers as £12 mattress protector scores glowing reviews
Yahoo
08-04-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Agency could intervene to cull estate's red deer
The Scottish government has used a legal power for the first time to force the owners of a Highland estate to cull red deer on their land. The compulsory deer management control scheme could see Scotland's nature agency, NatureScot, step in to reduce numbers of the animals on Loch Choire Estate in Sutherland. There are concerns grazing by deer is damaging mossy peatland called blanket bog at four sites of special scientific interest (SSSI). NatureScot said the action was approved by Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie and taken after a voluntary agreement on a cull could not be reached. The estate's Shropshire-based owners have 28 days to lodge an appeal against the control scheme. Gamekeepers 'spared torment' of pregnant deer cull Why are large numbers of red deer being killed? NatureScot had 160 deer culled on the estate in 2023 because it said the owners failed to manage their numbers. The deer were processed for venison. NatureScot said further action was needed and the estate could now be targeted with the first compulsory deer management control scheme under the Deer (Scotland) Act 1996. The Scottish government wants the deer density on Loch Choire Estate reduced from 14 deer per square km to 7.5 within five years. Failure to do so could see NatureScot carry out a cull and recover the costs from the estate. The estate's owners could also be guilty of an offence under the rules of the scheme. Robbie Kernahan, NatureScot's director of green economy, said high numbers of deer could have negative impacts on woodlands, peatlands and other habitats. "We will always favour a voluntary and collaborative approach to deer management, working in cooperation with partners towards this shared goal," he said. "However, we will use our intervention powers as a last resort in cases such as this, where despite significant efforts we have been unable to secure the required commitment and action through voluntary means." More stories from the Highlands and Islands News from the Highlands and Islands on BBC Sounds NatureScot said habitats on four SSSIs on or around Loch Choire Estate were at risk. One of the sites, Ben Kilbreck, near Altnaharra, has rocks that originated as muddy and sandy sediments in an ancient sea about one billion years ago. Mallart SSSI is dominated by blanket bog, which provides habitat to otters and birds including golden eagles and black-throated divers. Truderscaig is listed as a nationally important site for birds called greenshank, while Skinsdale Peatlands SSSI has extensive "carpets" of bog moss. Deer culls credited with green loch wood recovery Culling deer 'protects' mountain habitats
BBC News
08-04-2025
- General
- BBC News
NatureScot could intervene to cull Highland estate's red deer
The Scottish government has used a legal power for the first time to force the owners of a Highland estate to cull red deer on their compulsory deer management control scheme could see Scotland's nature agency, NatureScot, step in to reduce numbers of the animals on Loch Choire Estate in are concerns grazing by deer is damaging mossy peatland called blanket bog at four sites of special scientific interest (SSSI).NatureScot said the action was approved by Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie and taken after a voluntary agreement on a cull could not be reached. The estate's Shropshire-based owners have 28 days to lodge an appeal against the control scheme. NatureScot had 160 deer culled on the estate in 2023 because it said the owners failed to manage their deer were processed for said further action was needed and the estate could now be targeted with the first compulsory deer management control scheme under the Deer (Scotland) Act Scottish government wants the deer density on Loch Choire Estate reduced from 14 deer per square km to 7.5 within five to do so could see NatureScot carry out a cull and recover the costs from the estate's owners could also be guilty of an offence under the rules of the scheme. Robbie Kernahan, NatureScot's director of green economy, said high numbers of deer could have negative impacts on woodlands, peatlands and other habitats."We will always favour a voluntary and collaborative approach to deer management, working in cooperation with partners towards this shared goal," he said."However, we will use our intervention powers as a last resort in cases such as this, where despite significant efforts we have been unable to secure the required commitment and action through voluntary means." NatureScot said habitats on four SSSIs on or around Loch Choire Estate were at of the sites, Ben Kilbreck, near Altnaharra, has rocks that originated as muddy and sandy sediments in an ancient sea about one billion years SSSI is dominated by blanket bog, which provides habitat to otters and birds including golden eagles and black-throated is listed as a nationally important site for birds called greenshank, while Skinsdale Peatlands SSSI has extensive "carpets" of bog moss.
