Published February 16th, 2008
Flouridation
In a letter to the Birmingham Post recently I wrote about the question of flouridation: It appears that the Health Secretary wants to see flouride added to all drinking water in the UK. The Government is also talking about consultation. I hope that this is a sincere intention because fundamental issues are raised.
There is evidence (although it can be exaggerated) that flouridation has some impact on dental health, especially amongst those who don’t look after their teeth. Those who do may benefit less, and decay rates have been improving across countries whether they add flouride or not. There is a downside in terms of flourosis (mottled teeth) and some research suggests possible links to hip fractures and bladder cancer.
In Birmingham flouride has been added since the 1960s. I do not recall having a choice in the matter. Certainly there is none now since filters do not remove flouride - a fact not often stated on the box.
The flouride issue is one example of population dosing, others being under consideration. I am concerned about this not simply on grounds of individual freedom (think also of the loss of same in our surveillance society) but also because, while health experts are usually right at least when they agree, when they are wrong the price can be very high indeed.
If there is a genuine debate (rather than the closely managed and selective ‘consultation’ we saw with hospital closures) then I for one would welcome this. But will those of us already flouridated be given a choice? I somehow doubt it. As, I assume, we are not likely to have a referendum then at least there should be a professional and independent opinion poll that would carry a measure of public trust.
Published February 11th, 2008
Domestic violence - the way out
Hall Green Ward Councillor Jackie Hawthorn writes in our latest issue of Focus:
If you are the victim of domestic violence, the festive season may have been a time of fear and despair but it doesn’t have to be this way. Have you been made to feel that the violence is all your fault? After a beating do you get a promise that it will never happen again? Are you afraid to leave because of what might happen if you do? Have you a safe place to escape to? The facts are that violence is unjustifiable and it is NOT your fault. If you have been beaten once, the chances are that you will be beaten again and again. “At one time, the police would not get involved in what was classed as ‘a domestic’ but times have changed” says Cllr Jackie Hawthorn. “It’s now possible for abusers to be prosecuted in the Courts even when the victim is, as so often happens, too afraid to give evidence. You can make a new beginning. Ask yourself do you really still love this person? Would you be happier with them or without them?” Help and understanding is available. ‘Women with Essence’ have a drop-in meeting at St Michael’s Church, Redstone Farm Road on Tuesdays and Fridays 10am - 12 (phone 778-4958) or phone 07918714257 or 07918720968 Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm.
Published December 9th, 2007
Winter Fuel and Warmth
The Government once again has failed to increase pensioners’ winter fuel payment this year. According to research by the Liberal Democrats, the payment now only covers 36% of the average winter fuel bill compared with almost 66% in 2003. Now the £200 will only cover 33 days of an average 91-day winter.
Councillor Michael Wilkes comments: “We strongly support the Age Concern campaign to increase the winter fuel payment for pensioners by at least £100. Pensioners should not have to turn off the heat because of worry about fuel costs and paying the bill”.
If you are getting on in years, it is all the more important to keep warm and save a bit on fuel bills. If you would like a copy of our specially produced ‘Warm in Winter’ leaflet, then please write to Councillor Michael Wilkes at 38 Paradise Lane, Hall Green, Birmingham B28 0DU.
Published December 9th, 2007
Coping with the Consequences of Crime
Following a reorganisation, Hall Green is now covered by South West Victim Support on their new phone number 0121-778-5864. Practical and emotional support is offered to victims of crime. The help might include follow up calls to the police, organising a support letter to a housing association, contacting a school about bullying or sending out a personal alarm.
Contact is initially by phone, although some calls may result in a home visit being arranged or an invitation to come in to the VS office for an appointment. Victim Support also help with criminal injury compensation. There are also support groups for women who have suffered violent crime. VS work in schools covers personal safety and bullying.
All this and much more. If you’ve been a victim of crime and would like some help in coping or need some further information, just give Jill Dourass at Victim Support a ring.
