Best Bench Report PUK Podcasts (2025)

1
Fixing the UK's Broken SEND System: Parliament's Debate on Education Reform 14:37

Play Pause

25d ago14:37

14:37

UK Parliament recently debated on the crisis in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) support, sparked by a petition with over 122,000 signatures. In this extended episode, Members of Parliament describe an adversarial system that is failing families with long delays, funding gaps, and emotional distress. Key themes include the urgent n…

1
UK's National Trails at a Crossroads: Funding Cuts, Legal Battles & The Path Forward 5:45

26d ago5:45

5:45

Today we explore the critical condition of the UK's 16 National Trails, including the famous Thames Path and Ridgeway. We uncover the immense value these paths provide, contributing £1.8 billion to the economy and £300 million in health savings annually. However, these treasured assets face severe threats from a decade of real-terms funding cuts, a…

1
London Fashion Week: More Than Just Clothes | UK's Cultural Powerhouse 5:27

27d ago5:27

5:27

This episode explores the huge cultural and economic impact of London Fashion Week. LFW is more than just a runway show. It’s a launchpad for new designers, a driver of billions for the economy, and a platform for social change. We'll cover how LFW champions sustainability, inclusivity through adaptive fashion, and inspires young creative talent ac…

1
Fixing Britain's Railways: The Plan for Simpler, Fairer Fares 6:16

28d ago6:16

6:16

Ever felt confused or ripped off buying a train ticket? You're not alone. This episode explores why the UK's rail fare system, with 50 million different fares, is so complex and untrustworthy. We'll look at the government's plan to fix it, including new pay-as-you-go systems and flexible ticket trials on lines like LNER. We also cover the major cha…

1
Remote UK Coastal Communities: Hidden Challenges & Vital Solutions 6:40

1M ago6:40

6:40

Remote UK coastal communities face unique, often hidden, challenges. Despite scenic beauty, these areas suffer from economic neglect, public service withdrawal, and high income deprivation. Key issues include geographical isolation, strain from seasonal tourism, a housing crisis from second homes, limited youth opportunities, and an aging populatio…

1
The Future of Freeview: Protecting UK Terrestrial TV in a Digital Age 6:15

1M ago6:15

6:15

This episode explores the hidden threat to digital terrestrial television (Freeview), a vital, free, and universal service for 98.5% of the UK. With licences expiring in 2034, there's a significant debate about switching off Freeview and transitioning to internet-only streaming. We discuss why this could severely impact vulnerable communities, incl…

1
Beyond the Breach: Understanding the JLR Cyber-Attack & UK's Cyber-Security Battle 6:10

1M ago6:10

6:10

The recent cyber-attack on Jaguar Land Rover severely disrupted production, impacting 34,000 UK employees and its extensive global supply chain. The UK Government, via the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), is actively supporting JLR and engaging daily with the company. This incident highlights a growing national challenge, with 40% of UK compa…

1
Cricket's Future: Free-to-Air, The Hundred, & Participation Debate 4:27

1M ago4:27

4:27

This episode explores the impact of free-to-air broadcasting on cricket participation. The Hundred attracts new, younger audiences and funding, but faces criticism for alienating traditional fans and crowding the calendar. While free-to-air events like the 2005 Ashes and 2019 World Cup significantly boost participation, especially for women and gir…

1
UK Steel in Crisis: Liberty Speciality Steels Liquidation & Government's Path Forward 5:50

1M ago5:50

5:50

This episode details the High Court's compulsory winding-up order against Liberty Speciality Steels, leading to its liquidation. The UK government affirms its support for affected workers and communities, with the Official Receiver now managing operations to stabilise the business. We explore why the government didn't intervene sooner, contrasting …

1
Pavement Parking Ban UK: Enhancing Pedestrian Safety & Accessibility for All 5:38

1M ago5:38

5:38

Pavement parking in England is a critical issue, where vehicles obstruct footways, endangering vulnerable pedestrians like disabled people, parents, and those with sight loss. While London and Scotland have clear bans, England faces inconsistent rules. There's a strong call for a default national prohibition with local exceptions to clarify laws an…

1
Diabetes in Sport: Tackling Stigma, Building Inclusion & Unlocking Athlete Potential 6:23

1M ago6:23

6:23

Physical activity is a powerful tool for managing diabetes and preventing serious health complications. However, there are significant barriers faced by people with diabetes, especially young athletes, including stigma, misunderstanding, and a lack of support from coaches, schools, and sporting bodies. The discussion emphasizes the urgent need for …

1
Baby Allergy Guidance Review: Preventing Allergies in Infants 6:41

1M ago6:41

6:41

A proposed Bill seeks to review allergy guidance for feeding and weaning babies in the UK. Spearheaded by Becky Gittins, an allergy sufferer herself, the Bill addresses the increasing rates of allergic diseases in the UK. It highlights that current NHS guidance on introducing allergy-triggering foods, such as peanuts and eggs, may be outdated compa…

1
Unpacking Short Money: How UK Opposition Parties Get Funded 9:46

2M ago9:46

9:46

Short Money is public funding enabling opposition parties in the House of Commons to conduct parliamentary business. Since 1975, it covers operations, travel, and the Leader of the Opposition's office. Learn its allocation by seats and votes, rules for small parties, and transparency requirements. We also cover Cranborne Money for the House of Lord…

1
NHS Winter Pressures Explained: Challenges, Solutions, & 2025/26 Plans 7:44

2M ago7:44

7:44

The NHS in England faces critical challenges during winter, including increased pressures on accident and emergency (A&E) departments and ambulance services. We’ll discuss the acute pressures experienced in winter 2024/25, including record A&E waits and ambulance delays. The episode highlights strategies to address these issues, such as prevention,…

1
UK Voting Systems Unpacked: A Guide to How We Vote 6:47

2M ago6:47

6:47

Explore the diverse voting systems used across the UK, moving beyond First-Past-The-Post (FPTP). Since 1997, various systems like Additional Member System (AMS), Single Transferable Vote (STV), and Alternative Vote (AV) have been introduced for devolved and local elections. Learn where each system is currently applied, such as FPTP for UK Parliamen…

1
Votes at 16: The UK's Electoral Age Debate 6:04

2M ago6:04

6:04

Today, we examine the UK's voting age debate. Currently, it's 18 for UK-wide elections, but 16 for devolved elections in Scotland and Wales. The UK Government plans to reduce the age for reserved elections to 16 by the next general election. We discuss arguments for, such as boosting youth engagement and aligning with other rights, and arguments ag…

1
Social Media Misinformation: UK Parliament Demands Tech Accountability 6:13

2M ago6:13

6:13

New! Watch this episode as a video presentation on YouTube! The UK Science, Innovation and Technology Committee highlights the severe real-world dangers of online misinformation, citing the 2024 Southport riots as a stark example. The existing Online Safety Act 2023 is deemed outdated, failing to address new threats like generative AI and regulatin…

1
Unpacking Solutions to Plastic Pollution & Building a Circular Economy 8:28

2M ago8:28

8:28

There is an urgent need for a Global Plastics Treaty to tackle pervasive plastic pollution, projected to triple by 2060. A legally binding international agreement is crucial, addressing plastic throughout its lifecycle. Key themes include prioritizing reducing virgin plastic production over relying on inefficient recycling. We discuss the invisible…

1
Understanding Your NHS Health Data: Access, Sharing, and AI 8:09

2M ago8:09

8:09

This episode discusses NHS patient health records, focusing on your rights to access and privacy and how data is shared for care, research, and legal needs. We explore the NHS's shift towards electronic and "single patient records" via the NHS App. Learn about public perceptions, cybersecurity, and AI's role in managing health data. Understand how …

1
UK Timeshares: Unpacking Common Problems & Consumer Protections 8:03

2M ago8:03

8:03

The often-complex world of timeshares for UK owners. We explore common challenges like excessive annual fees, difficulties with resale, and obstacles when trying to exit contracts, especially those with in-perpetuity clauses. The discussion also covers concerns around the mis-selling of fractional ownership products. You'll learn about the UK regul…

1
The Future of UK Public Libraries: Community Lifelines, Funding & Strategy 7:33

2M ago7:33

7:33

Public libraries are vital community hubs, evolving beyond books to offer digital learning, enterprise support, and wellbeing services. Despite their immense value, they face significant funding cuts and closures across the UK. There's a strong call for a national strategy for public libraries, supported by robust data, to ensure their long-term su…

1
UK Music Streaming Shake-Up: New Principles to Boost Artist Earnings 12:53

2M ago12:53

12:53

Today in this extedned episode, we discuss recent advancements in the UK music industry aimed at improving artist remuneration from music streaming. The Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism announced new label-led principles agreed upon by major UK record labels and industry bodies. These measures are designed to boost earnings for le…

1
Alcohol Late Night Levy Explained: Reforms and Your Business 5:39

3M ago5:39

5:39

The Late Night Levy is a charge on premises licensed to sell alcohol between midnight and 6 am in England and Wales. Implemented by local authorities, its primary purpose is to help fund policing costs for the late-night economy. At least 70% of the net revenue goes to the police, with the rest supporting local authority services that manage the ni…

1
Cracking Down on UK Ticket Touting: What You Need to Know About Secondary Ticketing Laws 6:36

3M ago6:36

6:36

The complex world of secondary ticketing in the UK, where tickets for live events are resold, often at inflated prices. We explore the current legal landscape, including consumer protection laws and specific legislation designed to combat unfair practices like ticket harvesting by 'bots' and misleading pricing. Learn about the efforts of regulatory…

1
School Allergies: Navigating UK Safeguarding & Support 6:26

3M ago6:26

6:26

This episode covers how UK schools safeguard children with allergies. We explore legal duties, like Section 100 of the Children and Families Act 2014 requiring support for pupils with medical conditions. Discover nation-specific guidance from England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland on food standards and allergy management. Learn about allerg…

1
Wild Camping: Rights, Responsibilities, and UK National Parks 5:37

3M ago5:37

5:37

This episode delves into wild camping in the UK, highlighting the Supreme Court's decision to uphold public wild camping rights on Dartmoor. The government supports outdoor access but has no current plans to extend guaranteed wild camping rights to other National Parks, allowing each to decide locally. A key distinction is made between responsible …

1
UK Casino Regulations: Balancing Economic Growth & Gambling Harm 5:41

3M ago5:41

5:41

New UK regulations for land-based casinos aim to modernize rules and boost the economy. Changes include increased gaming machine allowances for 'converted casinos' and allowing them to offer betting. While supporting sector growth, the measures also introduce protections. However, parliamentary debate highlights concerns about potential increases i…

1
Gibraltar Deal Unpacked: Sovereignty, Borders & The Future of The Rock 5:07

3M ago5:07

5:07

The UK and EU have reached a political agreement on Gibraltar, aiming to resolve post-Brexit border issues. This deal prevents a potentially chaotic hard border that would have impacted 15,000 daily commuters and Gibraltar's economy. Crucially, it protects British sovereignty over the Rock. The solution includes allowing fluid border crossings with…

1
UK Asbestos Crisis: Why It's Still a Deadly Threat in Public Buildings 5:55

3M ago5:55

5:55

Despite being banned in 1999, asbestos remains the leading cause of over 5,000 UK work-related deaths annually, primarily from mesothelioma. It’s still widely present in non-domestic buildings like schools, hospitals, and commercial sites. While the policy has been to leave it undisturbed if in good condition, it naturally degrades, releasing deadl…

1
Boosting Rural Economies: Challenges, Opportunities & Government Support 6:02

3M ago6:02

6:02

The critical debate surrounding Government support for businesses in rural areas, which are vital to the UK economy. Speakers highlight key challenges including poor public transport, inadequate digital connectivity, high energy costs, and workforce recruitment difficulties. Opportunities in agriscience and tourism are also discussed. Calls are mad…

1
UK Disability Benefits: Poverty, PIP & Welfare Reform Debate 6:24

3M ago6:24

6:24

This episode explores the alarming poverty among UK disabled people, with 700,000 families already struggling. It highlights proposed government cuts to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Universal Credit's health element, forecast to push hundreds of thousands into deeper hardship and cost them thousands annually. Critics argue these are poli…

1
Unpacking the Prostate Cancer "Postcode Lottery": Abiraterone Access in the UK 6:40

3M ago6:40

6:40

Today we explore the critical issue of prostate cancer treatment, focusing on the drug abiraterone. A UK-developed breakthrough, it has transformed advanced prostate cancer care globally. However, its availability for men with non-metastatic prostate cancer varies widely across the UK. While routinely available in Scotland and Wales, men in England…

1
Windrush Day 2025: Legacies, Injustice, and the Quest for Fair Compensation - extended episode. 14:27

4M ago14:27

14:27

This extended episode covers Windrush Day 2025, highlighting the Windrush generation's vital role in rebuilding post-WWII Britain, especially the NHS and public transport, despite facing pervasive racism. We explore the devastating Windrush scandal, where British citizens were wrongfully denied rights and faced deportations, and examine the slow, c…

1
Rebuilding Britain: A New Industrial Strategy for Post-Industrial Towns 5:40

4M ago5:40

5:40

Urgent challenges are facing the UK's post-industrial towns, particularly in "red wall areas," which have experienced significant job losses, youth migration, and a feeling of being overlooked. We examine the proposed national industrial strategy, aiming to revitalise these communities by focusing on targeted investment in new sectors like fusion e…

1
HS2 Reset: UK High-Speed Rail Project Overhaul & Mismanagement 5:48

4M ago5:48

5:48

HS2, meant to link major UK cities, has been a "litany of failure". Over 15 years, costs soared by £37 billion, public trust was lost, and sections were cancelled. This episode explores the government's "reset", with new leadership (Mark Wild, Mike Brown) and acceptance of all James Stewart review recommendations for oversight, cost control, and ca…

1
UK Steel Crisis: British Steel's Future, Government Intervention & Nationalisation 5:33

4M ago5:33

5:33

Today we analyse the critical situation of British Steel, facing significant losses and plans to close its Scunthorpe blast furnaces, threatening 2,700 jobs. In response, Parliament passed the Steel Industry (Special Measures) Act 2025, empowering the government to intervene and potentially take control to ensure continued operations. While nationa…

1
Government Compliance and the Ministerial Code Debate 6:01

4M ago6:01

6:01

A UK parliamentary debate recently focused on the rule that requires important government policy announcements to be made in Parliament first when it is sitting. Members of Parliament raised concerns that the government is repeatedly making announcements outside the House, pointing to specific examples like NHS changes and trade deals. The governme…

1
Understanding the Sub Judice Rule: Why UK Lawmakers Can't Discuss Active Court Cases 5:31

4M ago5:31

5:31

Learn about the sub judice rule in the UK Parliament. This rule prevents Members of Parliament (MPs) from discussing matters currently being decided in court. Its purpose is to stop parliamentary discussion from influencing court outcomes and to uphold the independence of the judiciary. Learn about the rule's history, including its 2001 revision th…

1
UK Parliament Recall: Why and How MPs Return from Recess 6:28

4M ago6:28

6:28

This episode examines the concept of recalling the UK Parliament and its devolved legislatures when they are on a break or recess. We'll learn why recalls happen, often for urgent matters like national crises, legislation, or tributes. The procedure for triggering a recall differs between the House of Commons, House of Lords, and the Scottish, Wels…

1
UK Parliament Dissolution 2024: How it Happened & Why it Matters 6:39

4M ago6:39

6:39

This episode explores how the UK Parliament ends before a general election, a process called dissolution. We'll focus on the May 2024 dissolution, which was the first under the royal prerogative since 2010. Historically, the Monarch dissolved Parliament on the Prime Minister's request. This changed between 2011 and 2022 with the Fixed-term Parliame…

1
Why Maths Matters: Exploring its Contribution to the UK 5:30

4M ago5:30

5:30

This episode looks the vital contribution of mathematics to the UK, focusing on a debate happening in Westminster Hall. We explore how maths education is structured in England, from primary schools to universities, highlighting attainment levels and disparities for disadvantaged pupils. We'll look at popular qualifications like A Levels and program…

1
Boosting Free School Meals: What the Major Expansion Means 6:02

4M ago6:02

6:02

The UK Government announced a significant expansion of free school meal eligibility for children in England, stating it's the biggest in a generation. The new policy extends entitlement to all children whose families receive Universal Credit. This aims to tackle child poverty, expected to lift 100,000 children out of poverty and save eligible famil…

1
Boosting Breast Cancer Screening: Lessons from Bassetlaw and beyond 5:57

4M ago5:57

5:57

This episode discusses the critical importance of breast cancer screening for saving lives through early detection. While breast cancer mortality rates have fallen since the 1970s, around 11,400 women and 85 men still die annually in the UK. The NHS offers free screening for women aged 50-70. However, attendance has dropped significantly, particula…

1
UK ADHD Crisis: Long Waits for Diagnosis & Treatment Explored 6:14

4M ago6:14

6:14

This episode looks at the critical state of support for people with ADHD in the UK, drawing on a recent parliamentary debate. We highlight the significant challenges within the NHS, including exceptionally long waiting lists for diagnosis, which can stretch for years. The discussion covers difficulties in accessing treatment, such as problems with …

1
UK Farm Animal Welfare: Cages, Imports, and the Path Forward 13:19

4M ago13:19

13:19

Today we discuss a UK parliamentary debate on animal welfare in farming. Key themes include ending the use of cages and crates for farmed animals, like enriched cages for hens and farrowing crates for sows. Speakers highlight concerns about low-welfare imports undermining UK farmers and standards, calling for mandatory animal welfare labelling to i…

1
UK Grocery Fairness: Can the Adjudicator Fix the Food Chain? 11:22

4M ago11:22

11:22

Today we explore the role and limitations of the Groceries Code Adjudicator (GCA), which oversees fair trading between large UK supermarkets and their direct suppliers. Despite being intended to protect producers and consumers, many argue its remit is too narrow, covering only the largest retailers and often missing primary producers further down t…

1
Saving Your Local Pub: Community Power & Funding Explained 8:30

4M ago8:30

8:30

Discover why local pubs are vital community hubs, providing jobs, supporting local businesses, and boosting social connection. Learn about the financial challenges pubs face, like rising costs and taxes, leading to many closures. This episode explores how communities are stepping up to save beloved pubs, often aiming for community ownership. We dis…

1
Stopping Banking Fraud: Understanding Scams and the Fight Against Them in the UK 8:58

4M ago8:58

8:58

This episode explores the significant issue of banking fraud in the UK. We'll cover the two main types: unauthorised fraud, where criminals make payments without permission, and authorised push payment (APP) fraud, where victims are tricked into sending money themselves. Learn about the scale of losses – £1.2 billion stolen in 2023. We'll discuss h…

1
The Future of UK Public Libraries: Challenges & Strategies 7:37

5M ago7:37

7:37

UK MPs recently debated the future of public libraries, highlighting their vital role as community hubs providing books, digital access, study spaces, and support. Despite facing real-terms cuts since 2010, leading to closures and reduced hours, libraries continue to deliver immense educational, economic, and social value. Speakers stressed the nee…

1
Local Government: Accountability and Oversight 7:14

5M ago7:14

7:14

Our fourth and final episode on local government discovers how local government in England is held accountable. Councils answer to both their local voters and the central government. They are financially independent with their own assets and ability to borrow. Central oversight comes through the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities …