The Rural Challenge is published by a newly formed Rural Coalition, and argues that without radically empowering local people to make decisions about their communities, rural villages could be under threat.
Wiltshire Council has reinforced its support for the armed forces with the launch of the county's first community covenant.
Cardiff Lib Dems will be out and proud at Cardiff Mardi Gras on Saturday 3rd September, running a stall at the event and collecting signatures for a petition on Equal Marriage. Come along to meet local party members and supporters, to find out about the Liberal Democrats' longest and proudest record of LGBT equality, or to join the party and LGBT Lib Dems.
Wheelchair users in Darlington are taking legal action against a bus company after claims they have been discriminated against. They say Arriva's bus drivers regularly drive past them or do not let them on board despite there being space. Complaints were raised t Darlington Association on Disability (Dad), and now three people are taking Arriva North East to court. Arriva says it is "satisfied" with its services.
Opticians should offer blood sugar checks alongside eye tests to help spot patients with undiagnosed diabetes, experts propose. A simple finger prick blood test in this setting could identify hundreds of thousands of people with type 2 diabetes, according to researchers. A pilot study in northern England found the targeted screening picked up one case for every 100 people tested. This would capture people who do not routinely visit their GP, experts say.
Ministers must learn the lessons of past welfare changes or risk a proposed shake-up of disability support leaving many in poverty, a charity claims. The Papworth Trust said 85% of claimants would have to cut back on basics if plans to replace Disability Living Allowance left them worse off. The poll of 2,000 people also found anxiety over the reassessment process.