News | Asian Leader https://asianleader.co.uk The essential source of news, features, and information for the Asian community in the Northwest of England Wed, 08 Jul 2026 20:24:52 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.4 England and Wales’ water blind spot: Public underestimate their daily water use by more than 100 litres https://asianleader.co.uk/england-and-wales-water-blind-spot-public-underestimate-their-daily-water-use-by-more-than-100-litres/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 20:23:15 +0000 https://asianleader.co.uk/?p=5218 Only one in 10 (11%) adults in England and Wales understand how much water they use, new research reveals, as a major new initiative launches to transform how society thinks

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  • Leading scientists and experts join forces to back the launch of a four-year campaign to challenge how society thinks about and uses water
  • England faces a projected daily water shortfall of five billion litres by 2055, as climate change and rising demand put supplies under increasing pressure
  • Just one in 10 (11%) adults in England and Wales understand how much water they use, while more than half (53%) believe water shortages are only short term
  • Only one in 10 (11%) adults in England and Wales understand how much water they use, new research reveals, as a major new initiative launches to transform how society thinks about and uses water.

    The Let’s Save Water campaign comes as scientists, environmental experts and industry leaders warn of increasing pressures on water resources driven by climate change, population growth and rising demand. It aims to build awareness of the precious and finite nature of water while encouraging simple behaviour changes – from taking shorter showers to fixing dripping taps – to reduce water use today and help protect supplies for future generations.

    Despite the UK’s reputation for rain, water availability is becoming less predictable. In England, there is a projected potential daily water shortfall of five billion litres by 2055, equivalent to 25 million people running the tap for 20 minutes. In Wales, changing weather patterns are also expected to affect how much water is available across the year, especially during hot weather and at peak times.

    The new data, from a YouGov survey of 3,121 adults across England and Wales, highlights a gap between perception and reality when it comes to individual water use. On average, people believe they use around 30 litres a day, compared to actual usage of around 140 litres. In other words, people use almost five times as much water as they think.

    Awareness of the potential water shortfall is also limited. More than half (53%) believe shortages are only short-term, such as during hot weather, and around a third (34%) feel their individual water use makes little difference at a national level.

    Experts are stressing that this is a shared, system-wide challenge, rather than an individual one, and that clearer understanding can help people play a part alongside wider action already underway.

    Water Minister Emma Hardy said:

    “Water is one of our most precious resources and in many parts of England we are using it faster than it can naturally be replenished.

    “Droughts are becoming longer and more common due to climate change, exacerbating water shortages that can have a devastating impact on our environment.

    “Meeting this challenge will require action from all of us. The Government is taking decisive measures to secure supplies, including supporting the construction of nine new reservoirs, but other simple behaviour changes can make a real difference.”
    Mary Lewis, Head of Natural Resource Management Policy from Natural Resources Wales, explains the specific challenge for Wales:

    “While Wales may be known for its rainfall, climate change and shifting weather patterns means water may not always be reliable all year-round in the future.

    “We’ve seen in recent years the strain this has placed on our natural environment with pressure on wildlife, habitats and waterways, as well as communities.

    “Every drop we waste at home or work, is less water to keep our rivers and wildlife healthy. By using water wisely, we can all play a part in protecting these vital resources for the future.”

    Professor Lizzie Kendon, Strategic Head of Climate Processes and Projections at the Met Office, explained:

    “More rainfall doesn’t automatically mean more usable water. Climate change is driving increasingly extreme weather patterns, with wetter winters, drier summers, and more intense bursts of rainfall. When rain falls on dry, hardened ground, much of it cannot soak into the soil where it is most valuable, instead it runs off and is being lost. This growing imbalance is placing mounting pressure on our water resources, and there is an urgent need for action. By acting now and embracing small, everyday changes, we can help safeguard this precious resource for future generations.”

    Water companies are investing billions to upgrade infrastructure, including fixing leaks and developing new sources such as reservoirs. However, these measures alone will not fully close the gap between the projected supply and demand, and experts agree that action across society will also be needed.

    Chris Walters, Chief Executive at Ofwat, said:

    “Investment in new infrastructure and reducing leaks is essential, but lasting resilience also depends on changing our relationship with water and becoming stewards of our natural environment. This campaign is about helping people understand that water is a finite resource and that valuing it more highly today will help secure reliable supplies and protect the environment for the long term.”

    A short film, Water: A Shared Challenge with Jeff Brazier, accompanies the launch of what will be a four-year campaign across England and Wales. Travelling across the two countries, Jeff visits leading experts to explore the growing threat of water scarcity and what the projected daily shortfall means for people and nature. In Cardiff, he speaks with Professor Ian Walker, Head of Psychology at Swansea University, about public attitudes and behaviours around water use; in Exeter, Professor Lizzie Kendon from the Met Office explains how climate change is shaping England’s water future; and in Yorkshire, Clare Cashon, Project Officer at the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, highlights the impact of water shortages on habitats and wildlife.

    Reflecting on his experience, presenter Jeff Brazier said:

    “Making this film changed the way I think about water. Like many people, I’ve always assumed it would be there when I needed it, but after speaking to the experts, it’s clear we can’t afford to take it for granted. What struck me most is that water scarcity isn’t just about having less water coming out of our taps. It’s about the impact on rivers, wildlife, communities, and the future resilience of our country. The challenge is bigger and more immediate than I realised, but the good news is that the choices we make every day can make a real difference. If we all start paying a bit more attention to how we use water, together we can help to make sure there’s enough water for future generations.”

    To find out more, search Let’s Save Water or visit letssavewater.com

    provided an estimate, 65% underestimated usage by more than 100L. While a large proportion of respondents selected “don’t know,” meaning a strict majority claim cannot be made for the full sample, the overall pattern indicates that the public tends to significantly underestimate their daily water use.

    About Let’s Save Water

    In England and Wales today, climate change and growing demand are affecting how much water is reliably available for homes, businesses and the environment. We need to save water now, and for future generations. Let’s Save Water is a four-year campaign backed by regulators and water companies to help everyone across England and Wales use less water through small, everyday changes. 

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    Join Nina Wadia and take a step towards better health with the NHS Healthy Choices Quiz https://asianleader.co.uk/join-nina-wadia-and-take-a-step-towards-better-health-with-the-nhs-healthy-choices-quiz/ https://asianleader.co.uk/join-nina-wadia-and-take-a-step-towards-better-health-with-the-nhs-healthy-choices-quiz/#comments Thu, 27 Nov 2025 11:33:45 +0000 https://asianleader.co.uk/?p=5159 We all know how important it is to keep healthy – both in body and mind – but with so much going on in our daily lives it can feel

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    We all know how important it is to keep healthy – both in body and mind – but with so much going on in our daily lives it can feel like a challenge we just don’t have time for. It doesn’t need to feel like a mountain to climb, though. The NHS has launched a new online ‘Healthy Choices Quiz’ to help with that first little step on your way to feeling healthier and happier. The Quiz is free, it’s easy and it’s quick to do.

    Nina Wadia is well-known for her TV comedy and soap roles, and features in a new short film about the Healthy Choices Quiz. In the film we see Nina in the spotlight, answering questions from the Quiz and getting her results. Nina says:

    “I really enjoyed taking the Quiz; it was fun and interesting to do, and it gave me the chance to reflect on my health and lifestyle more than I normally do. I was pleased that my score told me I’m mostly making sensible choices, but there were also some really helpful tips on improvements that I can make so I’m intending to follow those.”

    Health Minister Ashley Dalton said:

    “Taking this quick and easy quiz could be the first step for people to live healthier and happier lives.

    “We’re doing our part to cut smoking, obesity and provide better mental health support – this quiz gives people the chance to help themselves by taking advantage of expert NHS advice at the touch of a screen.

    “This simple, free and easily available quiz will bring expert NHS advice to your fingertips as part of our 10 Year Health Plan to move from treating sickness to preventing it.”

    Based on your answers, the Healthy Choices Quiz gives you a score out of 10 and advice about each area of your lifestyle, together with tools to help you. The suggestions include online information and free NHS resources that you can use to take the next step in the areas where you feel you could use some support. This could be apps like Drink Free Days and Couch to 5k, or the mental health ‘Mind Plan’ quiz and email programme. The Healthy Choices Quiz can help you take the important first step to get you started, so you feel more in control of your health.

    GP Dr Abdul Hafeez MBE recommends that everyone give the Quiz a try:

    “The Healthy Choices Quiz is quick and simple to do – it takes just 5 minutes of your time and it’s personalised, so the results are based on your answers to questions about things like food choices, exercise, sleep, drinking, smoking and vaping. At the end you’ll get a score with suggestions and tips for any areas you might want to improve on; all based on trusted NHS tools, like apps and websites. It’s about feeling confident to take the first small step, without it feeling too difficult. For example, aiming to get better quality sleep, which can have a big impact on your mental health.”

    You can find the quiz online by searching ‘Healthy Choices Quiz’. If you’re not sure about doing it on your own you could always grab a friend and a cup of tea and do it together.

    Nina tells us:

    “I thoroughly recommend taking the Healthy Choices quiz. I do try to prioritise my health but life gets busy and there are always things we can improve on.  Just having the opportunity to think about my  lifestyle choices and what I could do differently was really refreshing. For me, sleep is an important one to focus on so I’ll be taking the tips on board, and I want to get more active so I’m going to try out the Couch to 5k App as well. Give it a go yourself and see what your results are. Take that first step, you won’t regret it!”

    Search ‘Healthy Choices Quiz’ to get your score and a plan that‘s right for you.

    Or click here to access the quiz now:

    https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/healthy-choices-quiz/?WT.mc_ID=HCQ_PR&wt.tsrc=PR

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    Millions of tenants safe from black mould through Awaab’s Law  https://asianleader.co.uk/millions-of-tenants-safe-from-black-mould-through-awaabs-law/ https://asianleader.co.uk/millions-of-tenants-safe-from-black-mould-through-awaabs-law/#comments Thu, 30 Oct 2025 08:41:39 +0000 https://asianleader.co.uk/?p=5151 Millions of tenants across the country will benefit from safer homes thanks to new rules coming into force on Monday 27 October.  The first phase of Awaab’s Law will force

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  • New rules will protect tenants and force social landlords to urgently fix dangerous homes. 
  • Emergency hazards to be addressed within 24 hours under landmark changes.
  • Reforms are a legacy to two-year-old Awaab Ishak who tragically died from prolonged exposure to mould. 
  • Millions of tenants across the country will benefit from safer homes thanks to new rules coming into force on Monday 27 October. 

    The first phase of Awaab’s Law will force social landlords to take urgent action to fix dangerous homes or face the full force of the law, improving lives for tenants and families living in all four million of England’s social rented homes. 

    The new legal duties will finally put tenants’ safety first with landlords forced to fix emergency health and safety hazards within 24 hours of reporting. They must also investigate significant damp and mould within 10 working days of being notified and then make properties safe in five working days. For both types of hazards, they must also write the findings to tenants within three working days of inspection.   

    As part of the reforms, landlords now must also consider the circumstances of tenants which could put them at risk – including young children and those with disabilities or health conditions. Alternative accommodation must also be offered if homes cannot be made safe within the required timeframes. 

    These vital reforms will not only keep tenants safer in their homes,but hold landlords to account. Those who fail to comply with the rules face being taken to court, where they could be issued enforcement orders, forced to pay compensation and legal costs – as well as loss of rent if homes were uninhabitable.

    Awaab’s Law is a lasting legacy to two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who tragically died after being exposed to mould at his Rochdale home in December 2020. In the wake of this tragedy, Awaab’s family has fought to secure justice, not only for their son but for all those who live in social housing. 

    Housing Secretary Steve Reed said: 

    “Everyone deserves a safe and decent home to live in and Awaab Ishak is a powerful reminder of how this can sadly be a matter of life or death. 

    “Awaab’s family has fought hard for change and their work to protect millions of tenants’ lives will live on as a legacy to their son.  

    “Our changes will give tenants a stronger voice and force landlords to act urgently when lives are at risk, ensuring such tragedies are never repeated.” 

    Sumita Singha OBE, Founding Director Ecologic Architects:

    “Awaab’s Law is a landmark moment for housing safety and accountability. As a built environment professional, I believe every home should uphold the dignity and wellbeing of its residents. The tragic loss of Awaab Ishak must never be repeated. These reforms place tenant health at the heart of housing standards and send a clear message – unsafe homes are unacceptable, and action must be swift. We all have a role to play in ensuring that design, maintenance, and management of homes protect the most vulnerable.”  

    More of Awaab’s Law will be phased in next year and in 2027 to make homes safer from more hazards, alongside work to build 1.5 million new homes, including the biggest boost of social and affordable housing in a generation. 

    To bring further transformative and lasting change in the safety and quality of social housing and give tenants a stronger voice, a new £1 million fund has been launched by the government today to create new ways of helping tenants engage with their landlords and have more influence over decisions that affect them. 

    Up to £100,000 will be granted to successful bidders who propose strong ideas for improving communication between landlords and tenants and help tenants have more of a say in how their homes are managed.

    Examples of innovative ideas could include online platforms, marketing campaigns or recruiting specialist personnel who can support tenants to improve their experiences in social housing. 

    This will help replace the outdated, inefficient ways of communicating that leave tenants feeling unheard and waiting too long to get issues resolved by their landlord. 

    To find out more visit www.gov.uk/socialhousing-law

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    Indian teen who left home with $10 wins $100,000 CHEGG.ORG Global Sudent Prize  https://asianleader.co.uk/indian-teen-who-left-home-with-10-wins-100000-chegg-org-global-sudent-prize/ Wed, 08 Oct 2025 23:35:51 +0000 https://asianleader.co.uk/?p=5137 Adarsh Kumar, an 18-year-old innovator from Bihar, India, who grew up in poverty and left home at 14 to pursue a better education, has been named the winner of the

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    Adarsh Kumar, an 18-year-old innovator from Bihar, India, who grew up in poverty and left home at 14 to pursue a better education, has been named the winner of the Chegg.org Global Student Prize 2025, a $100,000 award given to one exceptional student that has made a real impact on learning, the lives of their peers and on society beyond. It was announced on 1st Oct. He was selected from almost 11,000 nominations and applications from 148 countries around the world. Adarsh, a student at Jayshree Periwal International School, accepted the award in London. 
    Born in Champaran, Bihar, with no stable electricity and limited internet access, Adarsh Kumar was raised by a single mother who cleaned homes to fund his education. When she spent her life savings on a laptop, it became his gateway to possibility. Through YouTube and Google, he taught himself coding, start-up skills, and entrepreneurship.  
    At just 13, he launched the non-profit Mission Badlao with his sister-in-law, mobilising his community and achieving real change, including securing land for a new government school, facilitating 2,000+ COVID vaccinations, distributing menstrual health products, and planting 3,000 trees.  
    Determined to break barriers, he left home on his own at 14 with only 1,000 Rupees ($10) and headed to Kota, hundreds of miles away, in pursuit of coaching for the Indian Institute of Technology Joint Entrance Examination.   
    Unable to afford the coaching, he camped out in libraries, using free Wi-Fi to cold-email mentors, land internships, and shadow start-up founders. These experiences became the foundation of Skillzo, a transformative platform launched in 2023, equipping underserved high school students with mentorship, entrepreneurship training, and real-world opportunities. By designing tailored courses and sourcing industry experts aligned with students’ ambitions, he built more than just a programme – he built a launchpad for futures. In just over two years, Skillzo has already empowered over 20,000 students, many of whom have gone on to earn scholarships, launch ventures, and win national awards. At its core, Skillzo is about giving young people the tools, confidence, and connections they need to shape their own destinies.
    Adarsh independently sat for his Grade 10 board exams which allowed him to win a full scholarship to Jayshree Periwal International School in Rajasthan, one of India’s best IB schools, worth 30 lakh Rupees. Here, he helped three other students secure the same life-changing support. As CMO of Bihar Chhatra Sansad, the state’s largest student-led policy forum, he has engaged 1,500+ youth in governance and raised $36,000 for student initiatives.
    Internationally, he was named the youngest Google Youth Advisor, joining 52 global leaders shaping technology policy.
    With the $100,000 prize money, Adarsh plans to launch SkillzoX, an AI-powered mentorship platform for rural learners, and the Ignite Fellowship, a global accelerator for student changemakers.

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    Benefit Mankind and Blackburn Rovers Mark Five Years ofCompassionate Partnership https://asianleader.co.uk/benefit-mankind-and-blackburn-rovers-mark-five-years-ofcompassionate-partnership/ Wed, 08 Oct 2025 23:14:04 +0000 https://asianleader.co.uk/?p=5134 Benefit Mankind is honoured to announce the renewal of its heartfelt partnership with Blackburn Rovers Football Club as they proudly enter their fifth year of working hand in hand. This

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    Benefit Mankind is honoured to announce the renewal of its heartfelt partnership with Blackburn Rovers Football Club as they proudly enter their fifth year of working hand in hand. This enduring collaboration stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when communities unite with a shared spirit of compassion, kindness, and hope for a better world.
    Over the past four seasons, Benefit Mankind and Blackburn Rovers have joined forces to bring meaningful change to countless lives both locally and across the globe. Together, they have demonstrated the profound impact that unity and solidarity can have on lifting people out of hardship and bringing light to those facing dark times.
    At the heart of this partnership lies a steadfast commitment to supporting the most vulnerable in our society. Their joint efforts to aid the homeless and local families have provided not just immediate relief, but also a pathway to dignity and renewed hope. By offering shelter, nourishing meals, and essential services, they have stood shoulder to shoulder with people in their time of greatest need, proving that no one should feel forgotten or alone.
    This partnership has also extended its compassionate reach to those battling cancer. By working closely with cancer organisations, Benefit Mankind and Blackburn Rovers have helped advance vital research, deliver care to patients, and provide strength and comfort to families affected by this challenging journey. Through tireless fundraising and generous donations, they have sent a clear message: in times of struggle, we stand together.
    Last season, their spirit of solidarity reached the Deaf and Blind community in the UK, raising over £5,000 to help ease daily challenges and improve lives. This remarkable achievement shows how small acts of kindness can ripple outward, touching hearts and transforming futures.
    The bond between the charity and the club has also crossed borders, reaching out to children around the world. By providing sports kits and clothing to orphans, they have given young people not only the tools to learn and play but also the gift of joy and the hope of a brighter tomorrow.
    Closer to home, their united response to the cost-of-living crisis has brought vital relief to struggling families. Together, they have offered financial support, delivered food hampers, and provided essential supplies, ensuring that families facing hardship know they are not alone in these difficult times.
    This season, Benefit Mankind will continue to open its doors to Blackburn Rovers players, inviting them to roll up their sleeves and actively participate in the charity’s hands-on community work. Players will visit the Benefit Mankind office to help pack vital aid and supplies, learning first-hand about the local projects that bring comfort and hope to those in need across Blackburn and Darwen. By stepping beyond the pitch and into the heart of the community, these players are not only lending their time and effort but also showing that true teamwork extends far beyond football, it lives in the acts of kindness that uplift neighbours and strengthen the bonds that hold our communities together.
    As the new football season dawns, Benefit Mankind and Blackburn Rovers reaffirm their unwavering commitment to uplifting communities and spreading compassion far and wide. Plans are already underway to continue supporting local families and international relief efforts, keeping unity and humanity at the core of everything they do.
    Dr. Mulla, CEO of Benefit Mankind, shared his heartfelt thoughts on this renewed partnership: “It fills us with hope and gratitude to see what can be achieved when we come together with open hearts and a shared vision of serving humanity. Over the past four seasons, we have witnessed the true power of unity and compassion. We are excited to build on this foundation of kindness as we step into another year of making a difference, both on and off the pitch.
    This season, we are thrilled to welcome our new ambassador, Augustus Kargbo, whose passion for creating positive change is truly inspiring. With Augustus’s support and the continued dedication, we look forward to focusing our efforts on uplifting struggling local communities and beyond. Together, we will stand by their side, working to ease challenges and build a more inclusive world.”
    This continued collaboration between Benefit Mankind and Blackburn Rovers is a shining testament to what we can achieve when we choose unity over division and compassion over indifference. As they celebrate five years of standing together, both organisations remain deeply committed to serving humanity, uplifting communities, and nurturing hope wherever it is needed.

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    VVUK Hosts Historic BookLaunch and Youth/CommunityRecognition Event in Bolton https://asianleader.co.uk/vvuk-hosts-historic-booklaunch-and-youth-communityrecognition-event-in-bolton/ Wed, 08 Oct 2025 23:10:44 +0000 https://asianleader.co.uk/?p=5131 Vahora Voice UK (VVUK) and its associates proudly hosted a landmark Book Launch and Youth & Community Recognition Event at the 3D Centre, Bolton.The evening witnessed the unveiling of two

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    Vahora Voice UK (VVUK) and its associates proudly hosted a landmark Book Launch and Youth & Community Recognition Event at the 3D Centre, Bolton.
    The evening witnessed the unveiling of two significant books: British Gujarati Muslim Communities – Early Settlers: History and Heritage by Imtiaz Patel Varediawala (Alias Tankarvi), and The Family/Social System of Islam by Moulana Muhammed Iqbalsaheb Tankarvi.
    Described by participants as both “historic and memorable,” the gathering brought together the Mayor and Mayoress of Bolton, alongside scholars, writers, educators, entrepreneurs, community leaders, councillors, and young creatives.
    It was an occasion that celebrated heritage, faith, and the multifaceted achievements of the British Indian Gujarati Muslim community.
    Moulana Muhammad Iqbal Sahib Tankarvi, an author and Islamic scholar, emphasised the enduring relevance of faith-based family and social systems.
    “The Islamic social and family system is not merely a theoretical framework but a living practice that promotes harmony, dignity, and responsibility. In a rapidly changing world, these values remain timeless and universally relevant.”
    Moulana Muhammedsaheb Rokad, fellow Islamic scholar, “echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of grounding contemporary life in enduring spiritual and moral principles.”
    Samantha Vickers, educationist and advocate for intercultural learning, underscored the academic importance of documenting migration histories: “Documenting such histories is crucial not only for younger generations to recognise their roots but also for wider society to appreciate the contributions of diverse communities to Britain’s cultural fabric.”
    Adamsaheb Tankarvi, writer and cultural commentator, “praised the works as part of a wider intellectual and educational legacy that strengthens cultural identity, heritage preservation, and intergenerational understanding.”
    Entrepreneur Yousufbhai Bhilok reflected on the event’s inspirational impact on younger generations, “As someone engaged in business and innovation, I see parallels between entrepreneurship and community-building. Both require vision, perseverance, and pride in one’s roots.This event demonstrates that our heritage is not a limitation but a foundation for growth, creativity, and leadership.”
    Young creative artist and poet, Imtiaz Fansiwala, “brought a literary and artistic voice to the gathering. “Art, literature, and history are deeply connected. As a young creative, I find inspiration in the struggles and resilience of earlier generations.”
    Saeedbhai Manubari, Chair of BV UK, “encapsulated the spirit of the evening. “This is the best way to pay tribute to our early settlers. Early settlers do matter, and their struggles and sacrifices must always be remembered.”
    Following the book launches, the Youth and Community Recognition Awards were presented to honour individuals and groups who have made outstanding contributions in the fields of education, business, social welfare, and the creative industries.
    The awards segment created an atmosphere of pride, unity, and intergenerational dialogue, where the sacrifices of the early settlers were celebrated alongside the aspirations and achievements of the younger generation.
    VVUK and its associates extended their sincere gratitude to all contributors, sponsors, including 3D Centre, Hotprint, Regent Hall, A&S Event Management, ILM UK, Mobile Zone, 5 Stars Waitering, MediAid Foundation, Bolton Furniture, The Platinum Hall, Earful, the best of north west business consultancy, Jolly Travels, Champion Food, Steps Forward, WBCRC and participants, reaffirming their commitment to fostering scholarship, cultural preservation, and youth empowerment. Special thanks were offered to Hotprint Sign and Design and B Buzz Media UK for their creative design and social media support.
    The programme was conducted in an eloquent and inspiring manner by Maheksaheb Tankarvi, whose eloquence set a reflective tone, and Shahid Umerji Premi, a rising young leader.
    “This landmark event embodies VVUK’s core values of unity and empowerment, fostering the growth of the Bharuch Vahora community while nurturing and preparing the next generation of young leaders.” Dilavarbhai Dasanwala and Ozybhai 3D Kesvanwala, VVUK.

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    Muslim-Led Youth Initiatives Save UK £30M Annually, New Report Reveals https://asianleader.co.uk/muslim-led-youth-initiatives-save-uk-30m-annually-new-report-reveals/ Wed, 08 Oct 2025 23:07:23 +0000 https://asianleader.co.uk/?p=5128 A new report from Equi Think Tank reveals that Muslim-led grassroots organisations are delivering life-saving interventions for young people, while saving the UK taxpayer an estimated £30 million annually. The

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    A new report from Equi Think Tank reveals that Muslim-led grassroots organisations are delivering life-saving interventions for young people, while saving the UK taxpayer an estimated £30 million annually. The findings come amid a 141% rise in knife-related teenage deaths and growing concern over youth violence across the country.
    The report, Tackling Youth Violence: The Impact of Muslim-Led Organisations, is the first of its kind to quantify the social and economic impact of faith-led youth work. It examines seven Muslim-led initiatives operating across the UK, from London to Edinburgh, collectively reaching over 45,000 young people each year. These programmes deliver a 5.3:1 return on investment, with cost savings derived from reduced criminal justice involvement, improved mental health outcomes, increased educational attainment, and lower rates of reoffending.
    One case study features Yusuf, a young man excluded from school and caught in a cycle of violence. A focus on faith helped him overcome his violent past. Today, Yusuf is a youth mentor himself, helping others navigate similar challenges. The report highlights the unique strengths of Muslim-led organisations:
    • Holistic Support: Services include mentoring, counselling, parental engagement, employment pathways and spiritual guidance.
    • Cultural Competence: Programmes are rooted in Islamic values of compassion, accountability and service, delivered through trauma-informed and spiritually grounded practice.
    • Community Trust: Many operate from mosques, community centres and youth hubs – spaces where statutory services often struggle to engage.
    • Multi-Agency Collaboration: Initiatives work closely with schools, police, and social services, bridging gaps in statutory provision.
    “We’re not just keeping kids off the streets- we’re helping them heal, grow and lead,” said Yusuf. “But we can’t do it alone. We need policymakers to see us, fund us and work with us.”
    The report also identifies significant untapped potential:

    • Mosque Infrastructure: With over 1000 mosques across the UK, many with underutilised facilities, there is scope to expand youth provision at scale.
    • Faith-Based Giving: Muslim communities donate millions every year through voluntary giving, yet few mechanisms exist to channel this funding into strategic youth work.
    • Data Gaps: Muslim-led organisations are often excluded from national evaluations due to inconsistent data collection and lack of formal recognition. Equi is calling for action from government departments, local authorities and philanthropic funders. Key recommendations include:
    • Recognise faith-led organisations as strategic partners in public health and community safety • Include faith-based providers in national youth violence prevention strategies
    • Improve data collection and evaluation frameworks
    • Culturally competent commissioning and multi-agency collaboration • Long-term, unrestricted funding for faith-based youth programmes
      “This is not just a moral imperative, it’s a fiscal one,” said Javed Khan, Managing Director of Equi. “We have evidence that these programmes work. The question now is whether policymakers are willing to invest in what’s already saving lives and money.”

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    Family pay tribute to ‘amazing son and caring, loving brother’ Mohammed Isa who sadly passed away last month https://asianleader.co.uk/family-pay-tribute-to-amazing-son-and-caring-loving-brother-mohammed-isa-who-sadly-passed-away-last-month/ https://asianleader.co.uk/family-pay-tribute-to-amazing-son-and-caring-loving-brother-mohammed-isa-who-sadly-passed-away-last-month/#comments Wed, 10 Sep 2025 08:09:27 +0000 https://asianleader.co.uk/?p=5106 In a tribute, Mohammed Isa’s family said: “Mohammed Isa was the heartbeat and soul of our family. He was our precious, beautiful son who had a pure heart. “He was

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    In a tribute, Mohammed Isa’s family said: “Mohammed Isa was the heartbeat and soul of our family. He was our precious, beautiful son who had a pure heart.

    “He was a most genuine and loving soul with an infectious smile, laughter, charm and aura about him.

    “He was always respectful and had kind words to say for all, so many who met him wanted to be friends with him, he was respected by people of all ages and cultures. He always put others before himself.

    “Our heart is filled with grief and pain, the reality that we will no longer see him or hear his voice on the phone. We grieve and pray for the day we will all be reunited as a family together in Jannah.

    “The support from family and friends has been truly humbling, with everyone sharing the pain and loss of Mohammed Isa. He was so much to so many people in his short time in this temporary world.

    “Mohammed Isa has left his legacy of being a kind, likeable, respectful, and caring young man who was so loved. The amount of people who have reached out to support us has been overwhelming and yet so wonderful at the same time.

    “Our lives have changed forever, and we thank Greater Manchester Police for doing all they can to seek justice for our family. We thank endless stream of family, friends, local mosques and the community from the bottom of our hearts for their continuous love, prayers and support that they have given us during this extremely difficult time.

    “Mohammed Isa may no longer be with us but his love, his kindness, his strength and spirit will forever be with us and guide us.”

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    Tariq Halal to open their first store in Manchester https://asianleader.co.uk/tariq-halal-to-open-their-first-store-in-manchester/ https://asianleader.co.uk/tariq-halal-to-open-their-first-store-in-manchester/#comments Wed, 10 Sep 2025 08:06:59 +0000 https://asianleader.co.uk/?p=5103 Tariq Halal is continuing its national expansion with the launch its first store in Manchester on Wednesday the 17th of September. Located at 95 Hamilton Road, Longsight, the new store

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    Tariq Halal is continuing its national expansion with the launch its first store in Manchester on Wednesday the 17th of September.

    Located at 95 Hamilton Road, Longsight, the new store marks a key milestone for the brand as it looks to grow its presence across the UK. With over 30 outlets already established in London, Tariq Halal has already launched in Cardiff and is preparing to open in Glasgow later this year.

    To celebrate the launch Tariq Halal will be offering a free baby chicken to the first 200 customers on opening day exclusively. They will only be offering one chicken per customer.

    Several other opening day offers will be available in store.

    In addition to its own stores, Tariq Halal supplies halal meat to over 300 Sainsbury’s supermarkets nationwide, with plans to expand into more major retailers and new locations in the coming months.

    Tariq Halal, founded in 1965 by Tariq Sheikh alongside his father, supplies a wide range of meats to retailers, wholesalers, and directly to consumers, offering franchise opportunities to enhance its market presence.

    The brand’s mission focuses on maintaining the highest quality standards and expanding accessibility to halal meats globally, aiming to enhance customer culinary experiences. Their signature items include a range of fresh Halal meats, samosas, kebabs, and burgers.

    Kunal Patel, CEO of Tariq Halal said: “Opening in Manchester is a huge milestone for us. This city has always been on our radar, and we’re thrilled to finally bring Tariq Halal’s quality meats to the community here in Longsight.

    Our mission has always been to make premium halal products more accessible, and Manchester’s incredible diversity and energy make it the perfect place for our next chapter.

    We hope the local community comes out to take advantage of our special opening offer and allows us to be their one-stop shop for all their meats.”

    Tariq Sheikh Chairman & Founder said: “Opening Manchester is personal to me looking at current selection I want to bring my years of experience in the sector to this area by offering customers all types of meat from Wagyu, Dry Aged Beef to Gold Steak”

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    Imran Khan cancer appeal supporters conquer Ben Nevis to help save lives https://asianleader.co.uk/imran-khan-cancer-appeal-supporters-conquer-ben-nevis-to-help-save-lives/ https://asianleader.co.uk/imran-khan-cancer-appeal-supporters-conquer-ben-nevis-to-help-save-lives/#comments Wed, 10 Sep 2025 08:03:54 +0000 https://asianleader.co.uk/?p=5100 On Sunday 24th August 2025, a group of 30 dedicated supporters of the Imran Khan Cancer Appeal (IKCA) successfully trekked to the summit of Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the

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    On Sunday 24th August 2025, a group of 30 dedicated supporters of the Imran Khan Cancer Appeal (IKCA) successfully trekked to the summit of Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the United Kingdom, to raise vital funds for Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospitals in Pakistan.

    Participants from across the UK came together for this remarkable challenge, united by a shared commitment to saving lives and offering hope to those battling cancer who cannot afford treatment. Standing at 1,345 metres, Ben Nevis presented both a physical and mental test, but the group’s determination mirrored the courage of the patients whose care they were supporting.

    IKCA Events Coordinator Shafiq Rafiq  said:

    “This incredible achievement reflects the compassion and generosity of our supporters. By climbing Ben Nevis, our participants have shown that together we can overcome even the toughest of challenges, just as our patients must do every day in their fight against cancer. Every step taken on this mountain brings us closer to saving lives at Shaukat Khanum Cancer Hospitals.”

    Funds raised from the trek will go directly towards providing free treatment, chemotherapy, surgeries, and ongoing support to underprivileged cancer patients in Pakistan. The generosity of UK supporters continues to make a profound difference, ensuring that no one is denied the chance of survival simply because they cannot afford care.

    How to Support
    The public can still support the Ben Nevis climbers by donating through the official IKCA website: www.ikca.org.uk. Every contribution, large or small, will help provide life-saving treatment for cancer patients in need.

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