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Norfolk And Suffolk Charities Invited To Apply For Share Of £6,000 Community Fund

  • New community fund initiative launched by holidaycottages.co.uk and The Suffolk and Norfolk LVEP to directly benefit those living in the region
  • Local groups invited to apply for a share of £6,000, with each community fund worth £1,000

Charities and community organisations based across Norfolk and Suffolk are this week being invited to apply for a share of £6,000 worth of funding, thanks to the launch of a new initiative from holidaycottages.co.uk and The Suffolk and Norfolk Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP).

The Norfolk and Suffolk Community Fund will see six grants of £1,000 each awarded to local charities and community groups – three in Norfolk and three in Suffolk. The fund is designed to support projects that make a meaningful and lasting difference within local communities.

Applications for the fund will open this Monday, 13 April 2026 and close on Monday, 25 May 2026. To be considered for funding, groups are encouraged to complete the application form via The Suffolk and Norfolk LVEP’s website before the deadline.

This important initiative highlights the shared commitment of holidaycottages.co.uk and The Suffolk and Norfolk LVEP to support the communities that make these regions such special destinations to visit. Whether through environmental projects, cultural preservation, or supporting local charities and businesses, the fund aims to create a positive impact at a grassroots level.

Serena Clarke, Social Impact Manager at holidaycottages.co.uk, commented:
“We are thrilled to launch the Norfolk and Suffolk Community Fund in partnership with The Suffolk and Norfolk LVEP. We are passionate about supporting the communities that make our holiday destinations so unique. By investing in local projects, we hope to create lasting, positive impacts that help towns and villages thrive, ensuring they remain cherished places for both visitors and residents alike.”

Pete Waters, Executive Director for Suffolk & Norfolk LVEP, said: “We are delighted to partner with holidaycottages.co.uk on this exciting initiative. Supporting local charities and community organisations is at the heart of what we do, and this fund is a fantastic opportunity to give back to the communities of Norfolk and Suffolk. By working together, we can help drive positive change and support the incredible work being done at a local level.”

Serena added: “This will be the third community fund initiative that holidaycottages.co.uk has launched with tourism partners across the UK. Previously we’ve also successfully launched the Visit Pembrokeshire Community Fund and the North Wales Community Fund delivered in partnership with Go North Wales, and we’re therefore excited to continue building on the positive impact these programmes have already generated.”

To apply for the Norfolk and Suffolk Community Fund, and to find out further information about the scheme and full terms and conditions, go to The Suffolk and Norfolk LVEP’s website between 13 April 2026 and 25 May 2026.

Supporting The Health, Wellbeing And Sustainability Of The Music Workforce: Britten Pears Arts Announces New Partnership With The Royal Society Of Musicians And British Association Of Performing Arts Medicine

Britten Pears Arts and The Royal Society of Musicians, together and with specialist input from health professionals at British Association of Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM) has created the Creative Practice Renewal Programme, an artist‑centred, residential retreat designed and delivered by the three organisations.

The Programme will provide musicians with space for rest and renewal alongside tailored practical and wellbeing support. This partnership brings together Britten Pears Arts’ expertise in creative environments and reflective practice with The Royal Society of Musicians’ centuries‑long experience supporting musicians in times of challenge, ensuring a more effective response to the needs of those facing pressure, burnout, or crisis. This programme offers a rare opportunity to step away from pressure, reconnect with creative identity, and develop a supported, sustainable pathway for the future. It aims to create a stronger, more connected support system for musicians at all stages of their careers, helping them to recover, reflect, and re‑imagine their future in music.

The programme is aimed at music professionals whose lives have been impacted by physical or mental ill health which is affecting their ability to work. Whether working as a performer, administrator, technician or teacher or anything in between, this programme is aimed at those who are:

  • unable to work or are struggling to sustain current practice
  • feeling at risk of leaving the music profession
  • well enough and motivated to take part in a five‑day residential programme
  • working across the music profession or professionally active within the world of music and earn the majority of your income from the music profession for a period of not less than three years preceding the application
  • of British nationality or have been resident in the United Kingdom for not less than this three-year period

This retreat is a carefully designed personal development and coaching programme, shaped by the lived experience of music professionals and delivered by people who understand the realities of creative work.

Over a five‑day residential retreat at Snape Maltings, participants will take part in a balanced mix of:

  • creative sessions to deepen reflection
  • coaching support informed by specialist performing arts practitioners
  • peer support reducing isolation and building trust with fellow musicians
  • restorative practices including guided rest, gentle movement, and time in nature to explore the beauty of Snape Maltings situated on the banks of the River Alde and surrounded by reed beds and walks
  • perspective building to reflect on the participants career, re-inspire artistic instincts and address any technical, physical or psychological challenges they may be facing, with input from BAPAM specialist practitioners including assessments and personalised action planning, where appropriate
  • Community building where all participants live and cook together is an important element of the programme

The initial programme will take place at Snape Maltings from 1 – 6 October. The programme continues with two follow‑up coaching sessions online, an online group session and a two‑day reconnection gathering later in the year to help participants embed what you’ve learned and stay connected to the peer group. Applications open on 13 April and close on 31 May. Places are fully funded and limited to a small cohort to ensure a high level of care and individual attention. Applicants will be informed if they have been shortlisted by the end of June. Online interviews will be held during July and August. More information and application details here.

Angie Lee-Foster, Programme Manager, Britten Pears Arts commented, “The health, wellbeing and sustainability of our music workforce is a primary concern of ours. Through this partnership with The Royal Society of Musicians, we’ll build on our programme of musician retreats and evolve and expand our model to better support those at risk of leaving the profession due to physical or mental ill health, supported by our colleagues at BAPAM.”

Charlotte Penton-Smith, CEO, The Royal Society of Musicians commented, “We’re delighted to be expanding our longstanding commitment to the health and wellbeing of music professionals through our new partnership with Britten Pears Arts and BAPAM. Their combined expertise will enable musicians to benefit hugely from retreats in the tranquil surroundings of Snape Maltings in beautiful rural Suffolk.”

Claire Cordeaux, CEO, BAPAM (British Association for Performing Arts Medicine) commented, “We at BAPAM are extremely pleased to be working in partnership with Britten Pears Arts on this valuable project, one which is close to our hearts. We are also grateful that one of our clinical partners, The Royal Society of Musicians, is generously supporting it. In our performing arts medicine clinics across the UK, we see many musicians and performers who struggle with health conditions that impact their career, spanning from musculoskeletal issues to mental health. Our mission at BAPAM is to work with them to help them to return to their creative work through free healthy practice training or advice or a free clinic with one of our specialist performing arts medicine clinicians. Managing a creative career alongside long term conditions can be challenging and with the Creative Practice Renewal Programme, Britten Pears Arts and The Royal Society of Musicians are offering a wonderful and unique opportunity to support people to reflect on changes they are making which also value and celebrate their creativity. We are delighted to be a small part of this important project.”

Young Britons Are Leaving the UK Earlier Than Ever as UK Prospects Fall.

New research reveals a generational confidence crisis as under-35s look overseas for opportunity and stability

London, 13 April   2026  – The Great Gen Z Exodus report by The TEFL Academy reveals that Britons are no longer waiting until their 30s to leave, they’re doing it in their 20s, in record numbers, as economic pressure and shifting career priorities reshape life decisions. In June 2025, departures among those aged 20–29 reached 130,000–140,000, significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels of around 92,000–95,000 in 2018, while emigration among those in their early 30s has fallen from around 78,000–81,000 in 2018  to 55,000–65,000 in 2025 over the same period (ONS). Together, this points to a clear shift towards earlier, opportunity-driven migration, with young professionals choosing to build their futures abroad sooner rather than later. This marks a fundamental shift in when Britons choose to leave the UK, with migration decisions happening earlier in life than ever before.

The findings draw on a new survey of 4,000 Gen Z and young Millennials, alongside national migration statistics, labour market data and international mobility research. Together, the evidence points to a structural shift in how young Britons define success, stability and opportunity, with international mobility increasingly seen as a necessary pathway to achieving them.

The findings form part of The Great Gen Z Exodus and Young Millennials report, conducted by The TEFL Academy in March 2026, which combines official UK migration statistics with a survey of 422 Gen Z and young Millennial adults aged 18–34 exploring international work opportunities. The research provides insight into why Britain’s young workforce is increasingly looking abroad for employment, revealing a growing confidence gap in long-term prospects at home. For many respondents, international mobility is viewed as a strategic way to build stable careers and improve quality of life, with teaching English abroad emerging as one of the most accessible pathways for graduates and young professionals seeking global work experience.           

Record Youth Exodus from the UK
Official migration data shows that the rise in young Britons leaving the UK is not a sudden spike, but a clear post-pandemic acceleration driven by shifting economic realities and changing career priorities. Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) Long-Term International Migration series highlights how youth emigration has evolved over time.

Before the pandemic, emigration among young adults was relatively stable. In 2019, around 176,000 Britons aged 20–39 left the UK, reflecting a steady flow of young professionals seeking opportunities abroad (ONS LTIM 2019). During the pandemic, however, global movement temporarily stalled. In 2020, the number of young people leaving dropped sharply to around 115,000, as border closures and uncertainty forced many to delay or abandon plans to move overseas (ONS LTIM 2020).

The post-pandemic rebound has been both rapid and sustained. By 2022, pent-up demand was released, with approximately 200,000 young adults emigrating in a single year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and signalling a structural shift rather than a temporary fluctuation (ONS LTIM 2022).

Since then, the trend has continued upward, but with a notable generational shift. By the year to June 2025, Gen Z emigration reached its highest level on record, with an estimated 130,000-140,000 leaving the UK, while young Millennial departures declined to around 55,000-65,000. This marks a clear transition, with Gen Z now driving the majority of youth emigration (ONS YE June 2025).

Overall, around 195,000 Britons under the age of 35 left the UK in the past year, meaning 76% of all British emigrants are now young adults, according to analysis from the Migration Observatory at the University of Oxford. This equates to hundreds of young professionals leaving the country each day during their most economically productive years.

Taken together, the data points to a post-pandemic inflection point, where delayed mobility has evolved into a longer-term behavioural shift, with Gen Z leading a new wave of global, opportunity-driven migration.

A Generation Under Economic Pressure

Survey responses from The TEFL Academy’s research reveal the economic pressures shaping these decisions. Among respondents aged 18–34, more than 86% agreed that UK wages do not reflect the cost of living, while around 79% said they feel constant financial pressure living in the UK. Many also reported that it has become increasingly difficult to “get ahead”, with respondents rating the impact of cost-of-living pressures on their ability to progress at 4.29 out of 5 on average.

Despite strong personal ambition, confidence in the UK’s long-term economic outlook appears weak. Respondents rated their optimism about their long-term future in the country at an average of 2.44 out of 5, suggesting widespread uncertainty about the prospects available to young professionals.

These perceptions mirror wider national research. According to the British Council72% of UK adults aged 18–30 say they would consider living and working abroad, while 63% believe their standard of living is worse than that of their parents’ generation. Housing insecurity compounds the problem: polling from the Adam Smith Institute shows that 65% of young people expect housing affordability to worsen, while around half say most people their age struggle to make ends meet.

Separate research from Currencies Direct suggests the trend may accelerate further, with 38% of people aged 25–34 and 36% of those aged 18–24 already considering leaving the UK to live or work abroad.

High Interest in International Mobility Among Prospective TEFL Teachers

Survey responses from individuals exploring TEFL qualifications highlight how strongly international mobility features in the career planning of people already interested in working abroad.

Among respondents aged 18–34:

  • 33% said they have already moved abroad
  • 26% said they are actively planning to move
  • 30% said they are seriously considering relocating
  • 11% said they are not currently planning to leave the UK

While the survey reflects individuals already interested in international work opportunities, the findings illustrate how teaching English abroad is increasingly viewed as a practical pathway for young professionals seeking global experience and career mobility.

What Young People Are Seeking Abroad

For many respondents, leaving the UK is less about escape and more about strategic life planning. Among those who had already moved abroad, the most commonly cited motivation was improving overall quality of life, which received an average rating of 4.45 out of 5. Expectations of better work-life balance also ranked highly, with an average rating of 4.03 out of 5.

Many participants also viewed international mobility as a long-term career strategy rather than a short-term decision. Respondents rated the idea that moving abroad is a strategic choice rather than an emotional one at 3.47 out of 5, while 54% agreed that staying in the UK could hold back their long-term potential.

The research also points to a broader generational shift in career mindset. Respondents rated the importance of developing global skills at 3.93 out of 5, while attitudes toward traditional career stability appear to be changing, with many indicating that the idea of a lifelong job in the UK holds less relevance for their generation.

Where Young Britons Are Going

Destination trends suggest young professionals are targeting regions that offer clearer economic and lifestyle advantages.

Among respondents actively considering relocating abroad:

  • 47% identified Asia as their preferred destination, attracted by lower living costs and strong demand for English teachers in countries such as Thailand, Vietnam and South Korea.
  • 26% were considering Europe, particularly destinations such as Spain and Portugal that combine cultural proximity with lifestyle appeal.
  • 17% cited Australia or New Zealand, often drawn by higher wages and working holiday opportunities.
  • Smaller shares pointed to the Middle East (6%), where tax-free salaries and rapid career progression are appealing, and Africa (4%), often driven by heritage connections or lifestyle motivation.   

For many graduates, teaching English abroad represents one of the most accessible international career pathways. TEFL qualifications can be completed online and provide access to teaching opportunities across Asia, Europe and Latin America, allowing young professionals to gain international experience while earning an income.

Top Destinations for Young Professionals

Respondents exploring relocation indicated preferred regions:

  • Asia (47%) – Lower living costs, strong demand for English teachers in countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, and South Korea.
  • Europe (26%) – Countries like Spain and Portugal offer cultural familiarity and lifestyle appeal.
  • Australia/New Zealand (17%) – Higher wages and working holiday opportunities.
  • Middle East (6%) – Tax-free salaries and rapid career progression.
  • Africa (4%) – Driven by heritage connections and lifestyle motivations.

The Career Impact of Going Global

Broader labour market research suggests that international mobility can have long-term career benefits. Studies across global labour markets show that professionals who gain international work experience often experience faster career progression, stronger cross-cultural skills and higher long-term earning potential. As a result, for many young professionals, the decision to move abroad is increasingly viewed as an investment in their future career trajectory rather than a temporary lifestyle choice.

“Young Britons aren’t running away from the UK, they’re running toward opportunity,” said Rhyan O’Sullivan, Managing Director at The TEFL Academy“For many graduates, teaching English abroad offers a practical way to gain international experience, improve quality of life and build global careers.”

A Generational Turning Point

With an estimated 5.5 million British citizens already living abroad, The TEFL Academy’s research suggests that younger generations are redefining success as the ability to build a stable, fulfilling life wherever opportunity exists, rather than being tied to one country.

Taken together, the evidence suggests that international mobility is becoming an increasingly common part of career planning for younger generations. While individual motivations vary, from cost-of-living pressures to career acceleration, the broader pattern signals a generational recalibration of where young people believe their futures can realistically be built.

For the full report, visit The Great Gen Z Exodus

University Of Suffolk To Host Ipswich’s First Ever TEDx Event This October

The University of Suffolk has been awarded a licence to host Ipswich’s first-ever TEDx event on Thursday 1 October.
Part of the global TEDx programme, the event will give researchers with a Suffolk connection a high-profile opportunity to inspire a public audience by explaining how their work can change lives.
Each talk is limited to 15 minutes, so speakers must be able to present their ideas and evidence concisely. The University of Suffolk event will showcase the innovative work of six different speakers across wide-ranging subject areas.
The licence has been awarded under the broad theme ‘Building a better Suffolk’ and any research with the potential to deliver positive change to individuals or communities will be considered.
Speakers will be chosen from the University of Suffolk, university alumni, former staff and external researchers.
Any researcher who would like to be considered to speak at the event is invited to submit a 300 word abstract and a one-minute video outlining the content and introduction to their talk by Friday 1 May, using this form: TEDxUniversity of Suffolk – Thursday 1st October at 5.30 – 8.30pm- Speaker Application Form – Fill in form.
Please submit the video introducing your talk to Andreea Tocca, Head of Research Culture and Knowledge Exchange, A.tocca@uos.ac.uk  and Jason Eghan, Events Manager, at j.eghan@uos.ac.uk .
A panel chaired by Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Knowledge Exchange, Professor Emma Bond, will select the speakers, who will be informed by the end of May.
Professor Emma Bond said: “Hosting a prestigious TEDx event is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the fantastic research taking place in Suffolk and for our speakers to share their ground-breaking work to show how it is making a real difference to people’s lives and the world we live in.”
The event on 1 October starting at 5.30pm (doors open 5pm) is open to the public and is limited by TEDx to 100 tickets. It will be recorded and posted to the TEDx YouTube channel. Tickets will be released in August and cost £10 each.
For more information, please visit www.uos.ac.uk.

Kinetic 7 Unveils Clean Hydrogen On Demand Technology To Tackle Global Energy And Health Crisis

HUMANITARIAN TECH TO ADDRESS 3.5 MILLION ANNUAL PREMATURE DEATHS CLIMATE CHANGE AND DEFORESTATION IN DEVELOPING NATIONS

COMMERCIALISATION STARTS ON PORTABLE COOKING STOVES  

FOR HUMANITARIAN PURPOSES

KINETIC7, a deep tech company – founded by Australian entrepreneur and philanthropist Rick Parish – has today announced it has made a global breakthrough in developing a clean, carbon free energy solution by creating hydrogen gas on demand.

The Kinetic7 technology was conceptualised in response to the immediate needs of 2.3 billion people globally  who rely on firewood, charcoal, biomass and other polluting fuels for cooking and heating. To put that into context, nearly one third of the world’s population use wood, charcoal or agricultural waste for basic energy needs. 

Each year this leads to 3.5 million premature deaths from household air pollution (HAP) caused by inhaling toxic fumes, which in turn exacerbate or lead to chronic respiratory diseases and cancers

Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, UAE with entities in the UK, Australia, Italy and the US – Kinetic7 has pioneered a unique multi-patented, clean-energy technology. Through extensive research and development, Kinetic7 has found a way to safely produce and consume hydrogen on demand (HOD).

The company has confirmed that the first two delivery platforms using the Kinetic7 technology will be two miniaturised portable cooking stoves for humanitarian purposes. Both the Nomad™️ and Tribe™️ produce hydrogen on demand gas for cooking and heating. The Nomad™️portable cook stove was first revealed at the 2024 Paris Summit on Clean Cooking which was organised by the International Energy Agency (IEA).  

The Nomad™️ and Tribe™️ portable stoves use cutting edge, Kinetic7 technology to create clean, carbon-free, hydrogen on demand. Unlike conventional hydrogen generation and use, Kinetic7 enables the user to pour in any freshwater source they have on hand as the stove’s primary fuel source. The hydrogen is instantly generated via electrolysis with an inbuilt battery. Batteries can be recharged via solar panels or plugged directly into conventional power sources such as micro-grids if available. At no point do the stoves store any hydrogen gas, along with many built in safety features making it a truly exceptional innovation. Both the Nomad and Tribe stoves can be deployed for humanitarian and disaster relief, with wider scope for military and emergency services use.  

Commenting on the breakthrough Kinetic 7 founder and Chairman Rick Parish said.

“After six years of research and development we are delighted to announce that our Nomad™️ and Tribe™️ portable cook stoves using Kinetic 7 technology are now in the commercialisation phase with initial production due to start in Q3-Q4 of this year. They will play a pivotal humanitarian role in helping to reduce and eradicate wood burning stoves and inefficient cook stoves across developing nations. 

Our aim is to work in partnership with the humanitarian agencies, governments, the United Nations, NGO’s and philanthropists to ensure that every family home in developing nations can have access to a Tribe™️ stove to provide clean energy to cook and provide heat. This will also help to reduce the 3.5 million premature deaths each year caused by household air pollution and toxic fumes.”

Over 780 million people in India, approximately 60% of the population rely on traditional wood fires, charcoal and agricultural waste to burn as fuel for cooking and heating, while 85% of households have access to liquified petroleum gas (LPG/PNG). In Saharan Africa, some 900 million people across the region don’t have access to clean and efficient stoves for cooking.

While the world debates how to reach net zero goals and simultaneously grow national economies amongst competing energy interests – Kinetic7 is now demonstrating what is possible with their proprietary inventions. Simply put, Kinetic7 technology produces hydrogen (HHO) on demand as and when needed with zero emissions. Units such as the Nomad™️ and Tribe™️ portable stoves will deliver a safe, healthy and affordable energy option; one that is accessible even in the remotest locations or adverse conditions.

The technology which meets 13 of the 17 United Nations sustainable development goals (SDG) has also been subjected to independent academic assessment, expert analysis and opinion by Professor Paul Fennell and Dr Andrius Patapas from the Department of Chemical Engineering at the Imperial College London via Imperial Consultants.  

Recently the Kinetic 7 Nomad™️ stove was also demonstrated to peers and members of the House of Lords in London at the invitation of The Baroness Uddin, a sitting member of the House of Lords.  

The innovation has also been widely acknowledged and praised by leading academics and figures including Rhodes Scholar and retired Zambian politician Mr Elias Chipimo. Mr Chipimo graduated from the University of Oxford with a Bachelor of Civil Law. He is dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship and economic diversity in Africa.

“The implications for Kinetic7 are enormous, whether one considers humanitarian, industrial or commercial applications. This is one of the most inspiring innovations of our time and of particular importance to me as a Zambian living in a country that loses nearly 300,000 hectares of forest a year to charcoal production. Where peri-urban communities experience health challenges linked to carbon monoxide poisoning from indoor cooking using the charcoal prepared from our felled forests. What an exciting time to be alive and part of something that will leave a lasting positive impact on humanity.”

Professor Ram Dhillon, is one of the UK’s most eminent and highly regarded consultant ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists with over 47 years’ experience. Professor Dhillon is widely recognised for his leadership in the diagnosis and management of complex upper airway and nasal conditions. 

“Having seen the pure clean flame produced by the Kinetic7 process I can see the potential of eliminating household air pollution cheaply and efficiently with the huge benefit to public health and additionally in reducing the carbon footprint to combat climate change. I have seen, during my medical training and position as a consultant ENT clinician, the diseases associated with household air pollution. The Kinetic7 heat production process, being pollutant free, can replace fossil fuel in cooking. This will result in massive improvements in public health, both premature death and serious debilitating illnesses.”

The Kinetic 7 senior executive board is led by founder and philanthropist Rick Parish who has spent decades working in high risk, safety critical environments from the Australian SASR to global safety training operations for the oil and gas industries

Rick Parish added.

“It is also the profound unseen consequences and threats to women from cooking with wood burning stoves which are caused by a simple daily routine of collecting firewood. Women are at risk every day from sexual assault when they leave the safety of their camps to walk up to 10km a day to look for and collect firewood and accompanied on many of those occasions with their children. 

By providing environmentally friendly Kinetic7 cook stoves – that negate the daily routine of collecting firewood and charcoal for wood burning fires – this can significantly reduce the risk of assault, as women no longer need to search for firewood each day.  

This has been widely acknowledged by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in their 2016 report. From an environmental perspective not only will Kinetic7 produce clean energy and in turn reduce carbon emissions, but it will also start to help reverse the impact of deforestation and climate change.”

Priyanka Chopra Jonas revealed as brand ambassador for Bentley in new campaign

Bentley Motors today reveals Priyanka Chopra Jonas as a global brand ambassador, marking a new collaboration with the internationally recognised actor and producer. The announcement is accompanied by a new campaign, launching this weekend, with a complementary film due to be premiered in the coming weeks, in which Priyanka speaks candidly to camera about her life, career and creative outlook, alongside a suite of photography.

Priyanka joins Bentley’s growing roster of global ambassadors, including Co-Creative Directors Greg Williams and Mai Ikuzawa, who were appointed by the brand in September last year.

Priyanka’s diverse body of work has captivated global audiences for nearly 25 years. Priyanka is an acclaimed member of the global film industry, a producer, New York Times best-selling author, entrepreneur and investor. As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, she is known for her advocacy on education and children’s welfare, using her platform as a global icon for tangible change.

Shot in an authentic, documentary style, the new film captures an intimate, conversational exchange between Priyanka and Greg, offering a more personal insight into her life and creative outlook. Filmed at Sony Studios, Los Angeles, Priyanka voices her love for being on set and the creative magic that can occur during a day’s work as a performer and producer, with a Bentley Continental GT subtly integrated throughout.

Priyanka says, “I’ve always been drawn to Bentley’s commitment to craftsmanship and storytelling, because there’s an intentionality behind every detail that feels rare. As someone who lives for the creative energy of being on set, this collaboration felt instinctive. It’s about shared values, but also about a shared appreciation for the process behind what we create.”

Ben Whattam, Marketing Director for Bentley Motors, reflects, “Priyanka brings a fresh energy and authentic perspective that aligns with Bentley. The film’s relaxed style allows her voice and personality to come through naturally, creating something more authentic than traditional advertising.”

Kinetic 7 Unveils Clean Hydrogen On Demand Technology To Tackle Global Energy And Health Crisis

HUMANITARIAN TECH TO ADDRESS 3.5 MILLION ANNUAL PREMATURE DEATHS CLIMATE CHANGE AND DEFORESTATION IN DEVELOPING NATIONS

COMMERCIALISATION STARTS ON PORTABLE COOKING STOVES  

FOR HUMANITARIAN PURPOSES

KINETIC7, a deep tech company – founded by Australian entrepreneur and philanthropist Rick Parish – has today announced it has made a global breakthrough in developing a clean, carbon free energy solution by creating hydrogen gas on demand.

The Kinetic7 technology was conceptualised in response to the immediate needs of 2.3 billion people globally  who rely on firewood, charcoal, biomass and other polluting fuels for cooking and heating. To put that into context, nearly one third of the world’s population use wood, charcoal or agricultural waste for basic energy needs. 

Each year this leads to 3.5 million premature deaths from household air pollution (HAP) caused by inhaling toxic fumes, which in turn exacerbate or lead to chronic respiratory diseases and cancers

Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, UAE with entities in the UK, Australia, Italy and the US – Kinetic7 has pioneered a unique multi-patented, clean-energy technology. Through extensive research and development, Kinetic7 has found a way to safely produce and consume hydrogen on demand (HOD).

The company has confirmed that the first two delivery platforms using the Kinetic7 technology will be two miniaturised portable cooking stoves for humanitarian purposes. Both the Nomad™️ and Tribe™️ produce hydrogen on demand gas for cooking and heating. The Nomad™️portable cook stove was first revealed at the 2024 Paris Summit on Clean Cooking which was organised by the International Energy Agency (IEA).  

The Nomad™️ and Tribe™️ portable stoves use cutting edge, Kinetic7 technology to create clean, carbon-free, hydrogen on demand. Unlike conventional hydrogen generation and use, Kinetic7 enables the user to pour in any freshwater source they have on hand as the stove’s primary fuel source. The hydrogen is instantly generated via electrolysis with an inbuilt battery. Batteries can be recharged via solar panels or plugged directly into conventional power sources such as micro-grids if available. At no point do the stoves store any hydrogen gas, along with many built in safety features making it a truly exceptional innovation. Both the Nomad and Tribe stoves can be deployed for humanitarian and disaster relief, with wider scope for military and emergency services use.  

Commenting on the breakthrough Kinetic 7 founder and Chairman Rick Parish said.

“After six years of research and development we are delighted to announce that our Nomad™️ and Tribe™️ portable cook stoves using Kinetic 7 technology are now in the commercialisation phase with initial production due to start in Q3-Q4 of this year. They will play a pivotal humanitarian role in helping to reduce and eradicate wood burning stoves and inefficient cook stoves across developing nations. 

Our aim is to work in partnership with the humanitarian agencies, governments, the United Nations, NGO’s and philanthropists to ensure that every family home in developing nations can have access to a Tribe™️ stove to provide clean energy to cook and provide heat. This will also help to reduce the 3.5 million premature deaths each year caused by household air pollution and toxic fumes.”

Over 780 million people in India, approximately 60% of the population rely on traditional wood fires, charcoal and agricultural waste to burn as fuel for cooking and heating, while 85% of households have access to liquified petroleum gas (LPG/PNG). In Saharan Africa, some 900 million people across the region don’t have access to clean and efficient stoves for cooking.

While the world debates how to reach net zero goals and simultaneously grow national economies amongst competing energy interests – Kinetic7 is now demonstrating what is possible with their proprietary inventions. Simply put, Kinetic7 technology produces hydrogen (HHO) on demand as and when needed with zero emissions. Units such as the Nomad™️ and Tribe™️ portable stoves will deliver a safe, healthy and affordable energy option; one that is accessible even in the remotest locations or adverse conditions.

The technology which meets 13 of the 17 United Nations sustainable development goals (SDG) has also been subjected to independent academic assessment, expert analysis and opinion by Professor Paul Fennell and Dr Andrius Patapas from the Department of Chemical Engineering at the Imperial College London via Imperial Consultants.  

Recently the Kinetic 7 Nomad™️ stove was also demonstrated to peers and members of the House of Lords in London at the invitation of The Baroness Uddin, a sitting member of the House of Lords.  

The innovation has also been widely acknowledged and praised by leading academics and figures including Rhodes Scholar and retired Zambian politician Mr Elias Chipimo. Mr Chipimo graduated from the University of Oxford with a Bachelor of Civil Law. He is dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship and economic diversity in Africa.

“The implications for Kinetic7 are enormous, whether one considers humanitarian, industrial or commercial applications. This is one of the most inspiring innovations of our time and of particular importance to me as a Zambian living in a country that loses nearly 300,000 hectares of forest a year to charcoal production. Where peri-urban communities experience health challenges linked to carbon monoxide poisoning from indoor cooking using the charcoal prepared from our felled forests. What an exciting time to be alive and part of something that will leave a lasting positive impact on humanity.”

Professor Ram Dhillon, is one of the UK’s most eminent and highly regarded consultant ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists with over 47 years’ experience. Professor Dhillon is widely recognised for his leadership in the diagnosis and management of complex upper airway and nasal conditions. 

“Having seen the pure clean flame produced by the Kinetic7 process I can see the potential of eliminating household air pollution cheaply and efficiently with the huge benefit to public health and additionally in reducing the carbon footprint to combat climate change. I have seen, during my medical training and position as a consultant ENT clinician, the diseases associated with household air pollution. The Kinetic7 heat production process, being pollutant free, can replace fossil fuel in cooking. This will result in massive improvements in public health, both premature death and serious debilitating illnesses.”

The Kinetic 7 senior executive board is led by founder and philanthropist Rick Parish who has spent decades working in high risk, safety critical environments from the Australian SASR to global safety training operations for the oil and gas industries

Rick Parish added.

“It is also the profound unseen consequences and threats to women from cooking with wood burning stoves which are caused by a simple daily routine of collecting firewood. Women are at risk every day from sexual assault when they leave the safety of their camps to walk up to 10km a day to look for and collect firewood and accompanied on many of those occasions with their children. 

By providing environmentally friendly Kinetic7 cook stoves – that negate the daily routine of collecting firewood and charcoal for wood burning fires – this can significantly reduce the risk of assault, as women no longer need to search for firewood each day.  

This has been widely acknowledged by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in their 2016 report. From an environmental perspective not only will Kinetic7 produce clean energy and in turn reduce carbon emissions, but it will also start to help reverse the impact of deforestation and climate change.”

European MedTech Innovation With Japanese Technology Targets Military And First Responders

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC – The valuation growth of VR LIFE, strong clinical traction, and upcoming US market entry are accelerating the strategy of H2 Global Group. Their platform combining Japanese molecular hydrogen technology with virtual reality is attracting growing interest from the military and first responders.

H2 Global Group is accelerating its global expansion through portfolio company VR LIFE, which recently closed a $650,000 seed round, more than doubling the implied value of H2 Investment’s 18.26% stake to approximately $1.38 million. This strengthens the Group’s position in the global medical device market, of which the US comprises 46%.

“We are building a vertically integrated MedTech ecosystem combining breakthrough Japanese technology and science, European clinical validation, and global capital to address the most pressing healthcare challenges,” stated David Marsalek, CEO and Founder of H2 Global Group.

Japanese Science, Technology and Global Patents
The platform is built on over 19 years of research led by co-founder Professor Shigeo Ohta. The Group holds a number of international patents and utility models, where one of the key patents covers the prevention and therapy of Alzheimer’s dementia, currently being expanded also to the US. H2 Global Group’s subsidiary H2 Medical Technologies entered the registration phase of the world’s first medical device utilizing molecular hydrogen.

The therapeutic potential of molecular hydrogen is supported by over 3,000 scientific publications and more than 150 human studies. The company’s initial focus is on supporting the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer’s dementia, with potential expansion to type 2 diabetes, inflammatory diseases of the eye and ear, skin diseases, and wound healing support.

VR Vitalis: Certified Medical Device
The platform’s second component is VR Vitalis, a certified medical device (MDR) by VR LIFE, deployed in over 40 European hospitals, including a veteran hospital in Kremenchuk, Ukraine. This advanced SaaS system covers seven key rehabilitation areas: upper and lower limbs, back and neck, breathing exercises, cognitive training, fine motor skills, and relaxation. Clinical results show 24–50% pain reduction, 60% higher motivation, and a 3:1 patient-to-therapist ratio, significantly reducing staffing costs.
Growing Military Interest
H2 Global Group has registered preliminary interest from European military procurement channels for physical regeneration and PTSD support. With 14.3% of frontline workers suffering PTSD symptoms and 76% of paramedics reporting chronic stress, the platform addresses both cellular damage through a special combination of molecular hydrogen and psychological relief through VR Vitalis.

Strategic Exit Potential
With a pre-money valuation of approximately $80 million, H2 Global Group targets a transaction value of $500 million to $1.5 billion within three years, supported by proprietary IP and ongoing FDA preparations in the US, and has opened an investment window prior to upcoming clinical milestones.

About H2 Global Group
H2 Global Group is a Czech Republic-based European technology group specializing in the medical use of molecular hydrogen and connecting smart capital with innovation across MedTech, HealthTech, longevity, and long-term care.

The £434 Billion Procurement Surge: What Health Sector Contract Redistribution Means for Providers

UK public sector procurement spending reached £434 billion in 2024/25, a rise of £19 billion on the previous year. The largest increase was in the health sector, with HM Treasury budgets indicating a further 13 per cent rise in 2025/26.

For health and social care providers, from domiciliary care and supported living organisations to patient transport and SEND assessment services, the figures suggest that a sustained period of contract activity is on the horizon.

However, a surge in procurement spending doesn’t automatically translate into accessible opportunities for all providers.

Executive Compass, a bid and tender writing specialist, examines what the redistribution of health sector spend means in practice, and how providers can position themselves with a clear, effective bidding strategy.

More Spending Does Not Mean Easier Access

Since The Procurement Act 2023 was introduced, the tendering environment has become more transparent and competitive, with clearer award criteria, greater scrutiny of supplier performance and stronger consequences for those who fail to deliver.

“The growth in health sector procurement is a real opportunity for providers, but the process remains rigorous,” said Matthew Walker, Managing Director at Executive Compass.

“Contracts in this space carry complex quality requirements, tightly defined KPIs and increasing social value weighting. Providers who underestimate the evaluation process are unlikely to be successful, regardless of the strength of their delivery model.”

When it comes to winning health sector tenders, it’s less about offering the lowest price. Focusing on the quality element of a submission carries more weight in the final scores. This includes areas such as previous experience, how a contract will be managed day to day and how performance will be measured and reported.

Understanding How Contracts Are Being Distributed

Under the Procurement Act 2023, contracting authorities are increasingly reserving certain contracts for local or regional providers, particularly in health and social care. This is intended to boost local economies, improve supply chain resilience and enhance responsiveness in contracts where service continuity and prompt delivery are important.

“Localisation is becoming a more prominent feature of health sector procurement,” says Walker. “Providers should check eligibility criteria carefully before committing to a submission, and those with a genuine local presence should be making that central to their bid narrative.”

Monitoring upcoming opportunities through government portals such as Find a Tender or Contracts Finder while engaging in pre-market engagement activity where available, will help providers understand demand and position themselves early.

Making the Most of the Opportunity

Many providers have strong delivery capability but fail to translate this into high-scoring submissions.

“Providers are often unsuccessful not because they lack expertise, but because their submissions do not clearly evidence it against the evaluation criteria,” says Walker.

“Structured, well-articulated responses aligned to scoring criteria can significantly improve outcomes, particularly where quality weighting is high and requirements are detailed.”

With health sector procurement forecast to continue growing, providers that approach tendering as a strategic, structured process rather than an administrative exercise will be best placed to secure opportunities.

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