New data shows PE hours continue to be squeezed in schools. And Why PE Matters More Than Ever for Today’s Children

A new report from the Youth Sport Trust is raising serious concerns about the future of children's health, warning that physical education is steadily being pushed down the school agenda at a time when young people need it most.

According to the charity's PE and School Sport Report 2026, children are becoming less active, spending more time on screens and facing growing barriers to taking part in sport and physical activity. 

Yet despite these challenges, the amount of curriculum time devoted to PE in secondary schools continues to decline.

Since the London 2012 Olympics, PE's share of teaching time has fallen from 8.6% to 7.3%. Over the same period, subjects such as Maths, English and Combined Science have all gained a larger proportion of curriculum time.

While academic achievement remains a priority, the Youth Sport Trust argues that reducing opportunities for movement is a false economy. Research consistently shows that physical activity supports brain function, learning, memory and concentration, helping young people perform better both inside and outside the classroom.

The report paints a concerning picture of children's activity levels across England. An estimated 2.1 million young people are doing less than 30 minutes of physical activity per day, while fewer than half achieve 30 active minutes during the school day. Only 57% of teachers say their school delivers the recommended minimum of two hours of PE each week.

PE is also reported to be the most frequently cancelled subject in schools.

At the same time, screen use continues to rise. One in three young people now spend at least three hours a day on screens outside of schoolwork, with forecasts suggesting that figure could rise to almost half of all young people by 2035. Parents and teachers alike are increasingly concerned about the impact this is having on activity levels, with many reporting that mobile phones are reducing the amount of exercise children get during breaks and lunchtimes.

The implications extend far beyond physical fitness. Regular movement plays an important role in supporting mental wellbeing, resilience, social development and a sense of belonging at school. Participation in PE and school sport can help improve attendance, behaviour and engagement with education, all factors linked to better long-term outcomes.

Ali Oliver MBE, Chief Executive of the Youth Sport Trust, says schools remain uniquely placed to ensure every child has access to physical activity, regardless of their background. However, she warns that without greater investment, support and protection for PE, another generation could face the lifelong consequences of growing up inactive.

The message from this year's report is clear: PE is not a luxury. It is an essential part of helping children lead healthier, happier and more successful lives.

Younger Britons Are Driving a New Private Healthcare Boom

The face of private healthcare in the UK is changing, with younger adults increasingly turning to private medical cover and treatment as concerns about NHS waiting times continue to grow.

For many years, private healthcare was often associated with older, wealthier patients seeking elective procedures. 

However, new research suggests a significant generational shift is underway, with younger adults now playing a major role in the growth of the private healthcare sector.

A recent survey by Benenden Health found that 51% of people aged between 18 and 34 consider private health cover appealing. Half of those surveyed said they would consider using private healthcare if NHS waiting times were too long, while 32% said they would actively prefer private healthcare for their medical needs.

By comparison, only 14% of people aged over 55 expressed the same preference.

The findings suggest that younger generations are increasingly motivated by access to care rather than major medical procedures. Fast appointments, quicker diagnoses and shorter treatment times are becoming key factors in healthcare decisions.

The trend is also reflected in industry figures. Data from the Association of British Insurers shows that 6.5 million people held private health insurance in 2024, representing a 4% increase on the previous year and marking the second consecutive record high in more than three decades of reporting.

Of those covered, 4.8 million received insurance through workplace schemes, highlighting the growing role employers are playing in supporting staff wellbeing and healthcare access.

At the same time, insurers processed a record £4 billion worth of private medical insurance claims during 2024, an increase of 13% year-on-year.

The private healthcare sector has continued to expand throughout 2025 and 2026. According to the Private Healthcare Information Network, there were 242,500 private hospital admissions during the first quarter of 2026, making it the second-busiest quarter ever recorded.

Interestingly, insured admissions increased while self-funded admissions declined, suggesting more patients are relying on health insurance rather than paying directly for treatment.

Healthcare marketing specialists at MediWorks Digital believe this trend has important implications for private clinics. Younger patients are more likely to research providers online, compare reviews and examine websites before making contact.

Meanwhile, NHS pressures remain significant. England's elective treatment waiting list stood at approximately 7.1 million in spring 2026, well above pre-pandemic levels.

As healthcare expectations evolve, younger generations appear increasingly willing to explore private options in pursuit of faster access to care, signalling a major shift in the UK's healthcare landscape.

https://mediworksdigital.co.uk

New Free Tool Launched During Carers Week to Help Working Carers Avoid the £3,500 Earnings Trap

CarersInfo.com has launched free access to its Carer's Allowance Threshold Checker during Carers Week 2026, a simple online tool that tells working carers in 60 seconds whether their earnings are safe, and by exactly how much.

As Carers Week 2026 (8–14 June) shone a national spotlight on the need for carer-friendly communities, CarersInfo.com is taking direct action. The site has opened up its Threshold Checker tool, helping working carers across the UK protect their Carer's Allowance before they accidentally lose it.

The cliff-edge trap nobody talks about

Over 143,000 people in the UK are currently repaying Carer's Allowance overpayment debts, with the average debt exceeding £3,500. In the vast majority of cases, the carer had no idea they had done anything wrong.

The cause is what carers are calling the "cliff edge trap." Carer's Allowance is an all-or-nothing benefit. If a carer's net weekly earnings exceed the threshold, currently £204 per week in 2026/27, hey lose their entire allowance for that week. 

There is no gradual taper, no warning letter, and no grace period. One extra shift, a small pay rise, or a single bonus payment can push a carer silently over the limit,  sometimes for months before the DWP sends a repayment demand.

143,000 Carers with overpayment debts

£3,500+ Average overpayment debt

5.8m Unpaid carers in the UK

"Working carers are not fraudsters, they're people doing their best to hold things together. They take on extra shifts to pay the bills, accept a small pay rise, and suddenly find themselves owing thousands back to the DWP. That is not right. Information is the one thing that can stop it," Vinnette Campbell, Founder, CarersInfo.com told That's Health.

A tool built for carers, not accountants

The Threshold Checker at CarersInfo.com is designed to be used by anyone, no financial knowledge is required. 

A carer enters their gross pay, their pay frequency, and any allowable deductions such as income tax, National Insurance, pension contributions, and care costs. 

The tool instantly calculates their true net weekly earnings, shows a clear green, amber, or red result, and gives an exact headroom figure down to the penny.

The tool also includes a What If? Simulator, allowing carers to enter a proposed extra shift or pay rise and see the impact before they commit to anything. A Weekly Log feature enables carers to build a record of their earnings over time, which can be exported as evidence if the DWP ever raises questions.

https://carersinfo.com

ELEVATE Returns to London to Showcase the Future of Wellness and Preventative Healthcare

ELEVATE by Mumble Forum returns to London, bringing together leading experts to explore longevity, AI healthcare, women's health, nutrition and the future of wellness.

The future of wellness, longevity and preventative healthcare will take centre stage in London this month as ELEVATE by Mumble Forum returns for its second edition.

Taking place on 20 June at Fulham Pier, the event has quickly established itself as one of the UK's most exciting gatherings for health and wellness professionals, entrepreneurs, clinicians and consumers interested in the rapidly evolving world of wellbeing.

Founded by award-winning entrepreneur Monique Hodgson, ELEVATE aims to bring together leading voices from across the wellness sector to discuss the trends, technologies and ideas shaping how we care for our physical and mental health in the years ahead.

As more people focus on maintaining their health rather than simply treating illness, topics such as longevity, personalised nutrition, hormone health, cognitive performance and preventative medicine are attracting growing attention. ELEVATE reflects this shift, offering a packed programme designed to help attendees understand emerging developments and practical approaches to improving overall wellbeing.

Among the headline discussions are sessions exploring biohacking techniques for managing stress and regulating the nervous system, the future of women's health, advances in nutrition and supplementation, and the role of artificial intelligence in healthcare.

Experts from a range of disciplines will share their insights, including doctors, nutrition specialists, wellness entrepreneurs, psychologists and healthcare innovators. Discussions will examine how technology and data are increasingly being used to personalise healthcare, while also addressing broader issues such as healthy ageing, recovery, resilience and mental wellbeing.

Beyond the speaker programme, visitors will have the opportunity to take part in wellness workshops, fitness sessions and immersive experiences designed to put theory into practice. A variety of wellness brands will also be showcasing products and services focused on longevity, functional nutrition, fitness and holistic health.

The event is being organised by Mumble Forum, a community dedicated to supporting women through entrepreneurship, education, innovation and collaboration. Since its launch, the organisation has developed a strong reputation for creating events that sit at the intersection of health, business and personal development.

As conversations around preventative healthcare continue to gain momentum, ELEVATE aims to provide a platform where education, innovation and community can come together.

For anyone interested in the future of wellness, health optimisation and healthy ageing, ELEVATE promises a fascinating day of learning, inspiration and practical insight into the next generation of healthcare and wellbeing.

EVENT DETAILS

ELEVATE by Mumble Forum

Saturday 20 June 2026

10:00am – 6:00pm

Fulham Pier

Stevenage Road

London SW6

Tickets

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/elevate-your-wellness-innovate-inspire-transform-tickets-1985715308943?aff=erelexpmlt

50% Discount Code: MUMBLE50

Website

www.mumbleforum.com

Giving Loneliness a Voice: Why Connection Matters More Than Ever

As Loneliness Awareness Week marks its 10th anniversary, Marmalade Trust is calling for renewed action to tackle loneliness and strengthen social connections across the UK.

As the UK marks the 10th anniversary of Loneliness Awareness Week (15–21 June), a leading charity is calling for renewed action to tackle what has become one of the nation's most significant public health challenges.

For many people, loneliness is something that remains hidden. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, career, or circumstances. While we often associate loneliness with older adults living alone, the reality is that it can touch every stage of life, from students starting university to professionals working remotely and retirees adjusting to major life changes.

New research published by Marmalade Trust reveals 82% of UK adults have experienced loneliness at some point in their lives. Yet despite how common it is, 61% have never told anyone they felt lonely. Over half say feelings of embarrassment, shame or fear of judgement stop people from speaking openly about their experiences.

These findings are particularly poignant during this year's Loneliness Awareness Week, which carries the theme "Giving Loneliness a Voice."

Over the past decade, awareness of loneliness has improved significantly. Society has become more willing to acknowledge that loneliness is a normal human emotion rather than a personal failing. However, Marmalade Trust believes much more needs to be done.

The charity, alongside members of the Loneliness Policy Action Group, is urging government leaders to create a new cross-departmental strategy focused on strengthening social connection. Recommendations include recognising social health as an essential part of overall health, designing communities that encourage interaction, supporting workplace wellbeing, and ensuring technology enhances rather than replaces genuine human relationships.

The role of technology is becoming increasingly important. Twenty-year-old Conor Warren (PICTURED) from Devon described using AI tools during his first months at university to help process feelings of loneliness. 

While he found it useful for organising his thoughts, he quickly realised it could never replace real conversations and meaningful human interaction.

His story will resonate with many young people who feel pressure to appear happy and socially successful, even when they are struggling. The expectation that university, work, or social life should always be enjoyable can make it difficult to admit when feelings of isolation begin to take hold.

Health experts increasingly recognise loneliness as more than an emotional issue. The World Health Organization now considers it a global public health concern, with evidence linking chronic loneliness to poorer physical and mental health outcomes.

This Loneliness Awareness Week, Marmalade Trust is encouraging people across the UK to take part in simple connection activities, from sharing a cup of tea with a neighbour to joining a community walk or checking in on a colleague.

Sometimes the smallest conversation can make the biggest difference. By talking openly about loneliness and reaching out to others, we can help create communities where nobody feels they have to face it alone.

Amy Perrin, (PICTURED) Founder and CEO of Marmalade Trust, said: "Over the last decade we’ve made enormous progress in changing how people think and talk about loneliness. Millions more people recognise it as a normal human experience, and there’s a greater understanding of the impact it can have on our health, wellbeing and communities.

"But awareness alone is not enough. Loneliness continues to affect people of all ages, and the way people experience it is changing. We are seeing growing concerns around digital life, social disconnection and the pressures facing younger generations."

https://www.marmaladetrust.org

That's Health would be honoured if readers could forward this blogpost to people they know who could benefit from the wonderful works undertaken by Amy Perrin and her Marmalade Trust.

Charity Golf Day Raises £12,000 for Neurological Support Services

The Chilterns Neuro Centre raised almost £12,000 at its annual Charity Golf Day, helping fund vital support and therapies for people living with MS, Parkinson's and stroke recovery needs.

A fantastic day of golf, community spirit and fundraising has helped the Chilterns Neuro Centre raise almost £12,000 to support people living with neurological conditions across the region.

The Centre's annual Charity Golf Day took place at the prestigious Stocks Golf Club, bringing together around 80 golfers, sponsors and supporters for a day of friendly competition on one of the area's most respected courses. 

More importantly, the event generated vital funds that will help the charity continue providing specialist therapies, wellbeing services and practical support for people affected by conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's and stroke recovery.

Golfers enjoyed a competitive day on the fairways, with the team from Better Mobility emerging as overall champions. The winning team, made up of Lee Warner, Andy Wynn, Ryan Hirst and Bradley Dyer, delivered an outstanding performance throughout the tournament.

Adding to the celebrations, Andy Wynn also secured the individual winner's title, helping to make it a memorable day for the Better Mobility team.

The event was generously sponsored by EIC Insurance, whose support played a key role in making the fundraiser such a success.

Charlie Hicks, Managing Director of EIC Insurance, praised the event and the work of the charity.

"We are delighted to support the Chilterns Neuro Centre and the incredible work it does for people affected by neurological conditions," he told That's Health.

"The Golf Day was a fantastic opportunity to bring the local business community together while raising funds for a truly worthwhile cause. Congratulations to all the winners and everyone who took part."

The day concluded with prize presentations and additional fundraising activities, with participants celebrating both the sporting achievements and the difference their support will make to local people and families.

Kirsty Robson, Community and Events Fundraiser at the Chilterns Neuro Centre, thanked everyone involved in helping make the day such a success.

"We are incredibly grateful to Stocks Golf Club, our sponsors, players and volunteers for making this year's Charity Golf Day such a success," she said. "Every pound raised helps us continue providing life-changing services and support for people living with neurological conditions."

The Chilterns Neuro Centre supports hundreds of people every year through services including physiotherapy, exercise programmes, wellbeing activities and practical support. Its work helps people manage the challenges of neurological conditions while maintaining independence and quality of life.

Fundraising events like the Charity Golf Day are a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when communities come together for a good cause. With nearly £12,000 raised, the event has provided a welcome boost to the Centre's ongoing mission to help people live well with neurological conditions.

For more information about the Chilterns Neuro Centre and its services, visit its website and learn how you can support its important work.

chilternsneurocentre.org

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day: Why Protecting Older People Matters

Mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day by learning how to recognise the signs of elder abuse, support vulnerable older people and help create safer communities.

Every year on 15 June, people around the world come together to mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), a day dedicated to highlighting a hidden issue that affects millions of older people globally.

While many of us think of later life as a time to enjoy retirement, family and community connections, the reality is that some older adults face abuse, neglect and exploitation behind closed doors. World Elder Abuse Awareness Day serves as an important reminder that everyone deserves to age with dignity, respect and safety.

What Is Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse refers to any act, or failure to act, that causes harm or distress to an older person. It can take many forms, including:

Physical abuse

Emotional or psychological abuse

Financial exploitation

Neglect

Sexual abuse

Discriminatory abuse

Financial abuse is one of the most commonly reported forms of elder abuse in the UK. This can involve theft, pressure to change a will, misuse of bank accounts or coercion to hand over money or property.

Sadly, abuse is often carried out by someone the older person knows and trusts, making it particularly difficult to identify and report.

A Growing Concern

As the UK's population continues to age, protecting older people is becoming increasingly important. Many older adults live independently and enjoy active, fulfilling lives, but factors such as social isolation, poor health, cognitive decline and dependence on others can increase vulnerability.

Loneliness can also play a significant role. Older people who have limited social contact may have fewer opportunities to seek help or share concerns about their situation.

The true scale of elder abuse is difficult to measure because many cases go unreported. Victims may feel ashamed, frightened, dependent on their abuser or worried about the consequences of speaking out.

How We Can Help

Preventing elder abuse is not solely the responsibility of healthcare professionals or social services. Communities, families, neighbours and friends all have a role to play.

Simple actions can make a difference:

Stay in regular contact with older relatives and neighbours.

Look out for sudden changes in behaviour, appearance or finances.

Encourage older people to remain socially connected.

Listen without judgement if concerns are raised.

Report suspected abuse through appropriate safeguarding channels.

Sometimes, simply checking in on someone can help them feel supported and less isolated.

Creating a Society That Values Older People

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is also an opportunity to challenge ageism and recognise the valuable contributions older people make to our communities every day.

Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and valued, regardless of age. By raising awareness, encouraging conversations and supporting those who may be vulnerable, we can help create a society where older people can live free from abuse and fear.

This 15 June, take a moment to reach out to an older friend, neighbour or family member. A simple conversation could make a bigger difference than you realise.