Communities

In Redditch, the decision to use waste heat from the crematorium to heat the adjacent swimming pool has sparked something of a controversy. Some described it as taking Big Society a step too far. Few seemed to savour the thought of relaxing in a jacuzzi unwittingly warmed by local citizens making a final contribution to society. I have to say I find it a very sensible idea. But you’ll tell me I’m in a minority.

Powers to tackle public health issues are being handed down to the local level. But will it bring about the fundamental shift needed to finally tackle inequality? Clare Goff reports

Since 2006 every baby born in Bradford has been invited to be part of a study aimed at unpicking the city’s poor health record. Currently 13,000 babies are signed up to Born in Bradford, half of whom have Pakistani heritage and half of whom are white, mirroring the city’s ethnic mix.