#benefits — Public Fediverse posts

https://www.disabilitynewsservice.com/work-advisors-attached-to-mental-health-services-are-pushing-disabled-people-off-benefits-research-suggests/. "A flagship #Government scheme that links #NHS #therapy to #employment #advice is pushing #disabled people who are in #mental #distress & not in #work off the #benefits that provide them with a vital #income #lifeline, new #official #research suggests." See: https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/healthandsocialcare/mentalhealth/bulletins/theimpactofemploymentadvisorsinnhstalkingtherapiesonbenefitsreceiptengland/latest.

@kibcol1049

Sounds great. But at the moment I can't even afford a What if the fridge breaks size fund.
And there are a lot of families who struggle to pay rent and buy food.

I have a small amount of disposable income, if you count new clothes or small disability kitchen aids as a luxury.
So I'm not struggling to pay essential bills and eat, but anything extra needs weighing up against other wants and needs.

Once the vet bills stop I'll have that money, but then I'll be budgeting for a house move as I can't do that myself now.

And yet I'm one of the lucky ones here. And I can pick up bits of paid work to help out.

I did not expect that I'd be working after I 'retired' but at least I have that option.

#Benefits #Poverty

@2legged It is absolutely no surprise to me at all that #Labour, under both Starmer & #Burnham, has no plans for #redistribution of #income & #wealth, #reduction in income & wealth #inequality or increased #taxation of the #rich, whereas they DO have plans, some of which they've already implemented, for #cuts in #social #spending & #socialsecurity #benefits, especially for the #disabled.

Do not cut benefits for disabled young people, dozens of UK charities urge ministers https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/aug/19/benefits-disabled-young-people-uk-charities-letter #UniversalCredit #Disability #YoungPeople #Benefits #Labour #Politics #Welfare #UkNews

Do not cut benefits for disabled young people, dozens of UK charities urge ministers
By Rowena Mason and Patrick Butler

More than 40 charities write to Pat McFadden and review head Alan Milburn over fears of stricter eligibility rules

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/aug/19/benefits-disabled-young-people-uk-charities-letter

#Universalcredit #Disability #Youngpeople #Benefits #Labour #Politics #Welfare #UKnews #TheGuardian #RowenaMason #PatrickButler

Poverty and weariness in Nigel Farage’s Clacton | Letters
By Guardian Staff

Vanessa Scanlan says the constituency is desperately in need of a decent MP who would offer genuine support for the problems it faces. Plus letters from Leila Roberts and Richard Ellis

https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/aug/18/poverty-and-weariness-in-nigel-farage-clacton

#NigelFarage #ReformUK #Politics #Immigrationandasylum #Poverty #Disability #Benefits #UKnews #TheGuardian #GuardianStaff

https://www.theguardian.com/politics/live/2026/aug/18/disabled-people-england-bus-travel-andy-burnham-labour-reform-nigel-farage-conservatives-kemi-badenoch-uk-politics-live-news. This is good #news for #disabled people - so why are they STILL being clobbered with #cuts to their #disability #benefits by this same #Labour #Government, Andy #Burnham?

Huge number of children would fall into poverty under Reform’s benefits plans, say campaigners
By Patrick Butler and Kiran Stacey

Party wants to cut £50bn from UK welfare bill but charity says proposals would cause ‘horrific levels of destitution’

https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/aug/17/children-poverty-reform-uk-benefits

#ReformUK #Benefits #Welfare #Politics #NigelFarage #UKnews #Society #Charities #Disability #Unemployment #Universalcredit #Localgovernment #TheGuardian #PatrickButler #KiranStacey

Huge number of children would fall into poverty under Reform’s benefits plans, say campaigners https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/aug/17/children-poverty-reform-uk-benefits #ReformUk #Benefits #Welfare #Politics #NigelFarage #UkNews #Society #Charities #Disability #Unemployment #UniversalCredit #LocalGovernment

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/aug/16/jenrick-cuts-benefits-disabled-people-foreign-nationals. Of course #ReformUK want to cut #benefits for the #disabled & "foreign nationals"! They are the Party of #hate, #Racism, #ableism, #homophobia & every other form of #bigotry! Their #politicians are as #corrupt as all Hell! Theirs is the #politics of the #sewer!

Disabled creatives like me are behind many of your favourite shows – so why has our work support been withdrawn? | Annalisa Dinnella
By Annalisa Dinnella

Cuts to the Access to Work scheme will mean no more contributions to shows like Sex Education, Call the Midwife or The Hack. It will be devastating to lose such talent

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/aug/17/disabled-creatives-careers-access-to-work-scheme

#Disability #Blindnessandvisualimpairment #ChrisMcCausland #Benefits #UKnews #Workcareers #TVcomedy #Comedy #Artsfunding #StrictlyComeDancing #TheGuardian #AnnalisaDinnella

Reform accused of targeting the most vulnerable with £50bn benefit cut https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/aug/16/jenrick-cuts-benefits-disabled-people-foreign-nationals #Benefits #ReformUk #Disability #RobertJenrick #Politics #NigelFarage #UkNews

Reform accused of targeting the most vulnerable with £50bn benefit cut
By Rowena Mason Whitehall editor

Robert Jenrick takes aim at disabled people and foreign nationals after saying UK guilty of ‘suicidal empathy’

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/aug/16/jenrick-cuts-benefits-disabled-people-foreign-nationals

#Benefits #ReformUK #Disability #RobertJenrick #Politics #NigelFarage #UKnews #TheGuardian #RowenaMasonWhitehalleditor

Remember when people said Reform and Farage are fascists and that they won't stop with immigrants. It's disabled folk next:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cz977nxww1jo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss

#Reform #ukpolitics #fascism #benefits

Turbocharge special needs internships to help tackle UK youth jobs crisis, says Milburn
By Patrick Butler and Claudia Efemini

Government review led by former minister to recommend huge expansion of onsite schemes for those who need support

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/aug/16/special-needs-internships-youth-jobs-crisis-milburn-review

#Youthunemployment #Specialeducationalneeds #Autism #Mentalhealth #Youngpeople #Careers #Unemployment #Benefits #Learningdisability #TheGuardian #PatrickButler #ClaudiaEfemini

Ah, another groundbreaking "discovery" that #caffeine affects our bodies. 🚀 Who would have guessed that the magical black elixir is tied to more than just jittery meetings and questionable life choices? ☕📈 Next, they'll link it to world peace and unicorn sightings. 🦄
https://www.oulu.fi/en/news/study-links-coffee-consumption-metabolic-health-and-sex-hormones #discovery #health #benefits #humor #coffee #culture #sarcasm #HackerNews #ngated

https://www.disabilitynewsservice.com/ministers-set-to-take-decision-on-roll-out-of-new-pip-assessment-system-before-seeing-detailed-evaluation/. "A new #assessment #regime for #disability #benefits that will reduce the #influence of #healthcare #professionals & hand greater #responsibility to #civilservants is set to be rolled out across the country before ministers have seen a detailed #evaluation of its #impact."

Why Music Theory Isn’t Boring

For many learners, the words “music theory” can sound intimidating. Some imagine pages filled with unfamiliar symbols, complicated rules, and endless memorization. As a result, they focus only on learning songs while avoiding the theory behind the music.

As a music instructor and mentor, I’ve discovered that this perception often changes once students understand what music theory really is.

Music theory isn’t about making music more complicated—it’s about making music easier to understand.

Think of it as learning the language of music. Just as reading and writing help us communicate effectively, music theory helps us understand how music works and why it sounds the way it does.

• Music Theory Helps You Learn Faster:

Instead of memorizing every song from scratch, music theory helps you recognize patterns, chord progressions, scales, and rhythms. The more you understand these building blocks, the easier it becomes to learn new music.

Knowledge reduces guesswork.

• It Builds Musical Confidence:

When you understand keys, chords, intervals, and rhythm, you rely less on trial and error. You become more confident during rehearsals, performances, and collaborations with other musicians.

Confidence grows with understanding.

• It Improves Creativity:

Music theory doesn’t limit creativity—it expands it.

Whether you’re composing, arranging, improvising, or producing music, theory gives you the tools to transform musical ideas into reality. It helps you understand why certain sounds create excitement, peace, tension, or resolution.

Creativity flourishes when it’s supported by knowledge.

• It Makes Communication Easier:

Imagine rehearsing with a band or choir where everyone understands musical terms such as key, tempo, time signature, modulation, or crescendo.

Music theory creates a common language that helps musicians communicate clearly and work together efficiently.

• It Strengthens Every Musical Skill:

Whether you’re a singer, pianist, guitarist, drummer, violinist, saxophonist, choir member, worship leader, or producer, music theory strengthens your overall musicianship.

It sharpens your ear, improves sight-reading, enhances improvisation, and deepens your understanding of music.

Final Thought

Music theory is not an obstacle to creativity—it is a bridge to greater musical freedom.

The more you understand the language of music, the more confidently you can perform, teach, compose, arrange, and collaborate with others.

Don’t study music theory simply to pass an examination. Study it because every concept you learn gives you another tool to express your musical ideas with clarity and confidence.

The best musicians don’t just know what to play—they understand why and how it works.

Reflection

Which area of music theory would make the biggest difference in your musical journey if you took time to understand it better?

“Music theory doesn’t take the joy out of music—it unlocks the understanding behind it. The more you understand the language of music, the more confidently you can speak it.” — Victor Adenola

Online vs. Physical Music Lessons: Which Is Right for You?

The way we learn music has changed dramatically over the years. Today, aspiring musicians can receive quality instruction either online or in a traditional classroom. This has led many parents and learners to ask, “Which is better—online or physical music lessons?”

As a music instructor and mentor, I’ve had the opportunity to teach students in both settings. I’ve discovered that neither option is universally better. The best choice depends on the learner’s goals, learning style, schedule, and level of commitment.

What matters most is not where you learn, but how you learn.

The Advantages of Online Music Lessons

Online learning has made music education more accessible than ever.

It offers:

• Flexibility to learn from home or any location.
• Access to experienced instructors, regardless of distance.
• Time savings by eliminating travel.
• Recorded lessons that can be reviewed for additional practice.
• Greater convenience for busy students and working professionals.

For motivated learners, online lessons can be highly effective and rewarding.

The Advantages of Physical Music Lessons

Face-to-face instruction provides an experience that many learners find invaluable.

It offers:

• Immediate hands-on guidance for posture, technique, and instrument handling.
• Better ensemble experiences, including choirs, bands, and group performances.
• Stronger personal interaction between instructor and student.
• Practical performance opportunities through recitals and live rehearsals.

Many beginners especially benefit from the direct observation and instant feedback that in-person lessons provide.

What Really Determines Success?

Whether lessons are online or physical, lasting progress depends on the same principles:

• Consistent practice
• A teachable attitude
• Clear learning goals
• Experienced Instructor
• Self-discipline and commitment.

Technology can deliver lessons, but only dedication produces growth.

Can You Combine Both?

Absolutely.

Many learners achieve excellent results through a hybrid approach—attending physical lessons when possible while using online sessions, recordings, and digital resources to reinforce learning between classes.

This combination provides both flexibility and personal interaction.

Choosing the Right Option

Ask yourself:

• Which format best fits my schedule?
• Which environment helps me stay focused?
• Do I need more hands-on guidance?
• Am I disciplined enough to practice consistently at home?
• What are my long-term musical goals?

The answers will help you make an informed decision.

Final Thought

Online and physical lessons are not competitors—they are complementary tools for learning.

The most important investment is not the format you choose, but the commitment you bring to your musical journey. A dedicated student will continue to grow whether learning in a classroom or through a screen.

Choose the option that best supports your goals, stay consistent, and never stop learning.

Reflection

If the only thing standing between 6+you and learning music was choosing a lesson format, which option would help you stay committed—and why?

“Music has no boundaries. Whether you learn online or in person, your greatest progress will always come from your commitment to practice, learn, and grow.” — Victor Adenola

How to cut the cost of the school summer holidays - from free days out to bargain meals

https://web.brid.gy/r/https://www.mirror.co.uk/money/school-summer-holidays-cheap-days-37540155

What the Dumbbells can benefit for Biceps and More! ☑️

Dumbbell-based workouts are highly effective because they combine strength, muscle-building potential, stability, and movement freedom in a simple training tool.

👉 Promote muscle growth

👉 Improve left-to-right balance

👉 Increase stabilizer muscle involvement

#dumbbells #biceps #benefits #weightlifting #onlinecoach

Why we should support welfare spending | Letters
By Guardian Staff

Labour peer Ruth Lister disagrees with the high number of party members looking to reduce spending on social security

https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/aug/09/why-we-should-support-welfare-spending

#Labour #Taxandspending #Politics #Benefits #Poverty #Society #Inequality #UKnews #TheGuardian #GuardianStaff

"Last year’s proposals to tweak the #PIP assessment criteria last year were criticised for making it effectively harder to claim, especially for people with mental health conditions. With over 100 #Labour MPs rebelling over the plans, it’s unlikely any change would take a similar approach. But the focus on #MentalHealth conditions in Sir Stephen’s report indicates that some change around mental health and #benefits can be expected."

#UKPol

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/andy-burnham-welfare-benefit-cuts-pip-uc-health-b3022294.html

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/aug/07/millions-in-england-face-longer-waits-for-mental-health-care-as-nhs-providers-plan-cuts. This is NOT what the #LabourParty promised at the #GeneralElection - the #NHS isn't any safer in their hands than it was in the hands of the #Tories or would be in the hands of #ReformUK! None of these people can be trusted to safeguard #mentalhealth #care, & they can ALL be trusted to #cut #socialsecurity #benefits for #Claimants with #mental #health #issues.

https://www.disabilitynewsservice.com/dwp-quietly-reveals-how-universal-credit-flaws-were-linked-to-multiple-claimant-deaths-and-serious-harm/. "The Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) has been forced to publish #details of multiple #flaws within its #universalcredit working-age #benefits #system that led to #deaths & serious #harm to #claimants."

Five Habits of Great Musicians

Behind every remarkable musician is a set of habits that shape their growth long before the audience hears the applause. While talent may open the door, it is daily discipline that keeps it open.

Here are five habits that consistently set great musicians apart:

1. They Practice with Purpose:

Great musicians don’t just spend time practicing—they practice with intention. They identify areas for improvement, set clear goals, and focus on making each session meaningful rather than simply putting in hours.

2. They Never Stop Learning:

Music is constantly evolving. Whether through books, mentors, masterclasses, or listening to others, great musicians remain lifelong students. They understand that every experience offers something new to learn.

3. They Welcome Feedback:

Constructive feedback is not a threat—it’s a tool for growth. Great musicians seek honest input, reflect on it, and use it to refine their skills and broaden their perspective.

4. They Value Character as Much as Skill:

Technical ability may earn opportunities, but integrity, humility, reliability, and respect build lasting relationships. Great musicians understand that who they are is just as important as what they can do.

5. They Stay Consistent:

Success is rarely the result of one outstanding performance. It is built through countless moments of preparation, perseverance, and commitment. Great musicians continue showing up, even when progress seems slow, because they trust the process.

Developing these habits won’t make you successful overnight, but they will steadily shape you into the kind of musician others trust, respect, and remember.

Reflection

Which of these five habits is your greatest strength, and which one do you need to develop further?

“Every accomplished musician is the product of small, intentional habits repeated consistently with discipline over time.” — Victor Adenola