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Travellers often under-insured for medical care, new data reveals

A Romford-based travel insurance specialist in East London has warned that thousands of people with pre-existing medical conditions are planning to travel overseas this year with inadequate or no insurance cover, despite rising medical costs abroad.

New research from AllClear Travel Insurance suggests that attitudes to travel insurance for medical conditions remain misaligned with the risks involved. A poll of 2,000 adults found that only 28 percent of people with medical conditions say they would purchase top quality travel insurance before going abroad in 2026. A further 38 percent said they would opt for policies they consider to have good features, while 18 percent would choose the cheapest option available and 17 percent would travel without any cover at all.

The findings closely mirror attitudes across the wider UK population, something AllClear says is unexpected. The company had anticipated that people with medical conditions would be significantly more likely to prioritise comprehensive travel insurance for medical conditions over price.

This data emerges as overseas travel planning accelerates for the year ahead. According to the research, 85 percent of people with medical conditions expect to take an international holiday at some point during 2026. AllClear is urging travellers to reassess their approach to travel insurance for medical conditions before finalising bookings.

Medical costs overseas continue to escalate, yet understanding of those costs appears limited. Only 55 percent of respondents with medical conditions recognised that they would be unable to personally cover medical bills abroad without insurance. Around 45 percent named at least one country where they believed they could self-fund treatment if required, including destinations such as Spain, Italy, Germany and the USA. Of particular concern to AllClear is that the USA did not stand out clearly to respondents as a country where medical bills can be extreme, despite claims sometimes reaching £1 million.

Garry Nelson, Head of Corporate Affairs at AllClear Travel Insurance, said: “At AllClear, we’re committed to supporting our customers abroad, ensuring they get quick access to the emergency medical care they need if they face an emergency abroad.”

He added that disclosure remains a persistent issue. “Over the last few years, we’ve campaigned on the impact of medical non-disclosure and it’s of great concern that around 25% of UK holidaymakers admitted during 2025 that they didn’t declare all their medical conditions when buying travel insurance.”

According to AllClear, the consequences of non-disclosure or under-declaration can be severe. Policies may be invalidated entirely, or travellers may be left personally responsible for part of a medical bill. Nelson said: “Not all Travel Insurance is the same. If people with medical conditions are shopping around for cheap policies for 2026, they find their policy doesn’t meet their needs if they have a medical emergency and need looking after abroad. Non-declaration and under-declaration of medical conditions when buying travel cover is a huge issue that needs to be tackled urgently – and it starts with customers shopping for travel policies on quality of cover not the cheapest price.”

The Romford agency says that improving understanding of travel insurance for medical conditions is essential as more people resume regular overseas travel. Nelson concluded: “Failure to declare all relevant medical information when buying travel cover can invalidate a policy completely and – more commonly – under-declaration can leave people with a portion of the medical bill to pay themselves. We pay out on claims, but we need customers to help by fully declaring their medical conditions when buying a travel policy – and make sure you have comprehensive cover.

“Together, we must all change the industry agenda away from the allure of the headline rate for travel insurance and to make the case for quality and safety first.”

National Express Renews Wembley Partnership to Deliver Stress-free Travel for Fans Nationwide

Fans heading to Wembley Stadium can look forward to smoother journeys and fewer travel headaches after National Express renewed its long-running partnership as the stadium’s Official Coach Supplier.

The renewed three-year agreement means sports fans and music lovers will once again be able to travel direct to Wembley from more than 50 locations across the UK, using dedicated coach services designed around the biggest fixtures and headline concerts.

Wembley Stadium, connected by EE and welcoming more than three million visitors a year, hosts some of the world’s most high-profile sporting and entertainment events. The partnership aims to take the stress out of getting there – and home again – by offering a practical alternative to traffic congestion, parking pressures and last-train dashes.

National Express’ popular ‘Wembley Express’ services run from across the Midlands, the South Coast, the North and the West of England, delivering passengers straight into the official coach park just minutes from the stadium entrance. Crucially for fans, coaches won’t depart until the final whistle or encore – including extra time, penalties or extended sets.

The services will cover major events throughout 2026, including the FA Cup Final, Carabao Cup Final and other landmark sporting occasions, alongside blockbuster concerts from Bon Jovi, Bruno Mars, Luke Combs, My Chemical Romance and The Weeknd, with more acts yet to be announced.

John Boughton, Commercial Director for National Express, said the renewed partnership keeps the focus firmly on the fan experience.

“As the UK’s leading coach operator with the largest scheduled coach network, we have an excellent track record of providing reliable, comfortable and convenient coach travel direct to festivals and events across the country and this renewed partnership puts fans first.

“Wembley Stadium hosts some of the biggest events in the country and fans should be able to enjoy every last minute of the match or gig, instead of stressing about traffic and the long drive back, or even missing the last train home.

“Since joining forces with Wembley in 2007 we’ve taken hundreds of thousands of excited football fans and gig-goers directly to the stadium door and got them home safely, so we’re really excited to provide even more fans with stress-free and sustainable travel options for those momentous occasions.”

Wembley Stadium Director Mark Lynch said the partnership plays an important role in improving access while supporting greener travel choices.

“National Express has long been a trusted and valued partner, playing a vital role in supporting sustainable and accessible travel for the millions of fans who visit Wembley each year.

“This renewal reflects our shared commitment to delivering a world-class experience for visitors, while promoting greener transport options to and from the UK’s national stadium. We look forward to continuing our successful collaboration and building on the strong foundations of our partnership in the years ahead.”

Direct coach travel options for upcoming Wembley Stadium events are available here

Patricio Revé appointed Principal Dancer at The Royal Ballet

The Royal Ballet has announced the appointment of internationally acclaimed dancer Patricio Revé as a Principal dancer, marking a major addition to the Company from the start of the 2026/27 season.

Currently a Guest Artist with The Royal Ballet, Revé has already made a striking impression on the Covent Garden stage. His debut in May 2025 saw him take on the title role in Kenneth MacMillan’s Romeo and Juliet, performing opposite Principal dancer Natalia Osipova to widespread critical praise. Further appearances followed later that year, including Alexei Ratmansky’s Middle Duet and Akram Khan’s Mud of Sorrow as part of Osipova/Linbury.

His formal appointment recognises not only that impact, but a rapidly unfolding relationship with the Company.

Director of The Royal Ballet Kevin O’Hare said:

“I’m delighted to welcome Patricio into the Company as a Principal dancer. His flair and artistry have already made such a strong impression during his guest appearances.”

He added that Revé’s qualities extend beyond technical brilliance:

“These qualities, combined with a natural stage presence, align so well with The Royal Ballet. He will make a great addition to our wonderful roster of Principal dancers. We look forward to seeing him bring his exceptional talent to our stage in the seasons ahead.”

Revé’s upcoming performances this season further underline his versatility. In January, he will debut as Richard in Wayne McGregor’s Woolf Works, followed by Brighella in Glen Tetley’s Pierrot Lunaire at the Linbury Theatre in February. In March, he will dance Albrecht in Peter Wright’s Giselle, partnering Osipova on three performances.

Reacting to the news, Revé described the appointment as a personal milestone:

“I was so excited to receive the invitation from Kevin to join The Royal Ballet as a Principal dancer – it is a dream come true.”

He continued:

“Performing alongside such incredible artists and being part of this historic company is an honour. I am grateful to all the dancers and staff who have made me so welcome. I look forward to connecting with the very special audiences at the Royal Opera House and beyond.”

Born in Havana, Cuba, Revé trained at the Fernando Alonso National Ballet School before joining the Cuban National Ballet in 2015, where he rose to Principal within two years. In 2018, he moved to Queensland Ballet under the directorship of Li Cunxin, earning promotion to Principal Artist in 2022.

His arrival as a permanent Principal at The Royal Ballet signals not only the culmination of a distinguished international journey, but the beginning of a new chapter on one of the world’s most prestigious stages.

Final Planning Permission Granted for Major Regina Road Redevelopment in Croydon

Croydon Council has confirmed that final planning permission has been granted for the redevelopment of up to 340 new homes on the Regina Road estate in South Norwood, marking a significant step forward for one of the borough’s largest housing projects in decades.

The plans received unanimous approval from Croydon’s planning committee in October and successfully passed a two-stage review by the Greater London Authority (GLA) in December. The project has also been awarded £54 million in grant funding, underscoring the scale and ambition of the scheme.

Lovell has been confirmed as the preferred contractor for the redevelopment, with construction set to begin later this year following the demolition of 1–87 Regina Road, which is nearing completion. The new homes will replace the existing blocks and include at least 215 council homes, complemented by a range of community-focused amenities such as green open spaces, a multi-use games area, enhanced lighting and security, a new preschool, a community hub, and improved walking and cycling routes.

The redevelopment aims to create a safer, greener, and more welcoming environment that meets the needs of local residents while addressing years of underinvestment on the estate.

Residents have played a central role throughout the planning process. Following serious concerns over living conditions in 2021, a Regina Road resident working group was established to contribute to the programme’s development. Since his election in 2022, Executive Mayor Jason Perry has prioritised resident engagement, ensuring that tenants and leaseholders remain at the heart of Croydon’s housing services. The working group has continued to shape the redevelopment plans through meetings, workshops, and consultations, including participating in the selection of Lovell as the main contractor.

Daniel Blundell, a resident of Regina Road since 2011, said: “It is amazing news that planning permission has finally been given the go‑ahead. I am really excited to watch these new homes being built.”

Cllr Lynne Hale, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Homes, praised the contribution of residents: “We could not have done this without the Regina Road residents who have got behind the regeneration from the start, helping us to shape change that is right for the local area. Your input has helped us to put forward plans to create a wonderful neighbourhood that people are proud to call home.”

Executive Mayor Jason Perry added: “I am committed to creating new, high-quality homes for residents in Regina Road. Reaching this milestone demonstrates how Croydon can overcome the legacy issues it faces. The significant grant and GLA approval show confidence in our plans. Most importantly, we have put residents at the heart of these plans, working with our tenants and leaseholders differently, treating them with respect, and making sure their voices are always part of their housing services.”

The Regina Road redevelopment represents a major investment in Croydon’s housing infrastructure, with the potential to transform the estate into a modern, vibrant community for decades to come.

George Stubbs’ Scrub: A rare life-size Horse Portrait Takes Centre Stage at The National Gallery

This spring, the National Gallery brings a rarely seen masterpiece into the public eye: Scrub (c.1762), a monumental life-size portrait of a rearing bay horse by George Stubbs. Shown publicly only once before, the painting will headline a focused exhibition devoted to the artist who revolutionised how Britain looked at horses.

Scrub is the only life-size horse portrait by Stubbs still held in a private collection. Painted for Charles Watson-Wentworth, 2nd Marquess of Rockingham, it will be displayed alongside paintings and works on paper that show Stubbs’ extraordinary understanding of equine form and character.

Just a short walk away, visitors can encounter its celebrated counterpart: Whistlejacket (c.1762), Stubbs’ most famous work and one of the National Gallery’s great icons. Painted in the same year for the same patron, the two former racehorses mark a turning point in British art – the first large-scale portraits of horses depicted without riders, and with no narrative distraction.

Together, they reveal how Stubbs transformed equine painting in the second half of the 18th century through rigorous observation and anatomical precision, combined with a striking sense of individuality.

Rockingham, a passionate horse breeder, racing enthusiast and twice Prime Minister, likely encountered Stubbs through Sir Joshua Reynolds. Whistlejacket was originally intended as the basis for a royal equestrian portrait of George III. Yet once completed, its sheer visual power persuaded patron and artist to leave the horse unmounted, its energy unleashed against a bare canvas. Scrub followed soon after, intended for the same royal purpose – but Rockingham ultimately declined the painting, perhaps abandoning the commission altogether.

Stubbs retained Scrub, later selling it to the dealer William Wynne Ryland. Damaged during a failed attempt to ship it to India, the painting returned to Stubbs and was eventually sold from his studio after his death – disappearing from public view for centuries.

The exhibition places Scrub within the broader arc of Stubbs’ career, beginning with his astonishing anatomical studies. Between 1756 and 1758, the artist secluded himself in a Lincolnshire barn, dissecting horses with forensic care. The resulting drawings formed the basis of The Anatomy of the Horse (1766), the most comprehensive study of its kind for almost a century. The exhibition includes the published treatise alongside six rare working drawings and finished studies, lent by the Royal Academy.

Later works reveal Stubbs’ deep association with the racing world. In the 1790s, he embarked on an ambitious – and ultimately unfinished – project to document Britain’s most famous racehorses, including Eclipse and Gimcrack. Two paintings from this Turf Project will feature in the exhibition, capturing the artist at the height of his mature style.

Stubbs’ legacy lies not just in anatomical accuracy, but in his ability to convey presence, temperament and power – portraits that feel as alive as they are exacting.

As Dr Mary McMahon, Associate Curator (NG200 Collections), explains:
“Stubbs fundamentally changed the approach to depicting the horse in late 18th-century British art, combining his hard-earned knowledge and understanding of their anatomy with a desire to capture a distinct individual character.”

Details:

12 March – 31 May 2026
The H J Hyams Room (Room 1), National Gallery
Admission free

London-based ISP Rebel Internet calls for stronger child protection after Grok AI concerns

Rebel Internet, a London-based internet service provider, has warned that current approaches to online regulation are failing to deliver meaningful online safety for children, following fresh concerns about artificial intelligence tools being misused to generate sexualised images of minors.

The comments come after reports that Grok AI can be exploited to create such material, prompting Ofcom to make what it described as urgent contact with Elon Musk’s company xAI over lapses in safeguards. Six months after the Online Safety Act came into force, Rebel Internet argues that online safety for children remains fragile and increasingly dependent on where responsibility is placed.

While regulatory attention has focused on platforms and content creators, the company says the broader infrastructure of internet access has been overlooked. Rebel Internet believes that online safety for children cannot be addressed effectively if Internet Service Providers are excluded from the solution, particularly as risks continue to evolve faster than enforcement.

Recent research highlights the scale of the challenge. The Children’s Commissioner has found that children are encountering pornography accidentally at younger ages, in some cases as young as six. A study by the University of Cambridge identified a direct link between adolescent mental health diagnoses and social media use. Separate reporting has shown that increased screen time among under fives is contributing to declining speech and language development. Against this backdrop, Ipsos research indicates that three quarters of parents are concerned about their children’s online experiences, reinforcing calls for stronger online safety for children.

Rebel Internet contends that relying on Ofcom’s Protection of Children Codes alone is insufficient. These codes place obligations on websites, apps and search engines, but do not require ISPs to take action. The company describes this as a structural weakness, arguing that enforcement becomes a reactive exercise while access to harmful material remains largely unrestricted at the network level.

Tucker George, CEO and co-founder of Rebel Internet, said: “Broadband providers have a unique ability to allow customers to take control of their internet access at a network level, but none of the legacy providers bother. Ofcom ought to step in and force them to shoulder some responsibility, just as they had to step in and force providers to be more transparent about their misleading annual price rises.”

According to George, Rebel Internet was established to offer an alternative to established providers by prioritising practical tools that support online safety for children and families. All customers receive access to a Home Wi-Fi app that includes parental controls such as adjustable content filtering and adblocking for individual users. Additional features include Focus, which limits access to specific apps or devices during designated periods, and Timeout, which blocks internet access entirely to help manage screen time.

The company says these measures are intended to support, rather than replace, parental involvement. Research from the Children’s Commissioner suggests that many children want clearer boundaries around online access, a finding Rebel Internet cites in support of its approach to online safety for children.

As both a parent and a broadband executive, George said responsibility should be shared more evenly across the sector. “Safety online is too important to ignore, and it’s time for providers to face up to their responsibilities. We can’t rid the internet of its evils, but we can help you control it. While Big Broadband companies think only about extracting profit from their loyal customers, Rebel thinks about the role we play in society and how we can better help the people we serve. It really is time for a rebellion.”

Slough Council Set to Decide Future of Former Bus Station Site

Only days remain before Slough Borough Council’s Cabinet Committee meets to decide the future of the former bus station site. The meeting, scheduled for Thursday 15 January, will consider proposals for redeveloping the derelict town centre location.

The aluminium-structured bus station has been out of use since a fire in October 2022 left the building severely damaged. Negotiations with insurers have since concluded, allowing the council to explore new options for the site.

Cabinet Committee, which oversees matters relating to council assets, is being asked to declare the site surplus. This would pave the way for a redevelopment that complements the ongoing regeneration of the former TVU site, the shopping centres, and the High Street. Plans include creating a new bus interchange designed to address the shortcomings of the former station, improve the experience for passengers and operators, and enhance the surrounding public realm.

Councillor Wal Chahal, deputy leader of the council and lead member for assets, said: “The former bus station, though visually striking, did not provide the best experience for passengers or operators of the buses. Now the insurance issues have been dealt with, we are able to look at the site afresh and fully explore the options for providing the best possible transport interchange. We are committed to providing an effective, safe and sustainable bus interchange for residents in this, the heart of the town, and I am looking forward to our discussions on how we can make our vision a reality.”

Rebuilding the station to its previous form is estimated to cost more than £14 million, a figure far higher than the insurance payout received. Meanwhile, the vacant site is costing the council over £200,000 a year due to business rates, capital costs, and security requirements.

Councillor Dexter Smith, leader of the council, added: “We are not only trying to keep our options open as we decide what is best for the town in the 21st century, but we are also giving Cabinet some additional options to get this right for Slough’s future needs.”

The upcoming Cabinet Committee meeting will provide clarity on whether the site will be redeveloped and how a new bus interchange might integrate with the wider plans for Slough town centre.

Croydon Council Convicts Seven for Blue Badge Misuse in Zero-Tolerance Crackdown

Croydon Council has secured convictions against seven individuals for the misuse of Blue Badges, reinforcing its strict approach to safeguarding accessible parking for disabled residents.

The offences, prosecuted at Croydon Magistrates’ Court, have resulted in fines, court costs, and victim surcharges totalling nearly £6,000. Each offender now has a criminal record, which may affect future employment in certain sectors.

Cases include Shantana Hines of Loampit Vale, who used a badge without the holder present and was fined £732, and Ngabo Bugimbi of Sutton, who used another person’s badge while collecting items from work, resulting in a £1,040 penalty. Hamid Ghani of Briar Avenue was ordered to pay £1,180 for using a stolen badge, while Lavonica Latifat Steele Egbonwon of Cairo New Road received a £440 fine for similar misuse.

Paige Sheldon Gordon of Whitehorse Lane was convicted for using a counterfeit badge and ordered to pay £1,120. Aiaz Khan of Wallington pleaded guilty to using someone else’s badge and was fined £540, while Wellington Wilson of Warbank Crescent faced a £760 penalty for employing a stolen badge.

Executive Mayor Jason Perry highlighted the importance of these convictions in protecting genuine Blue Badge holders. He said, “These convictions show we are actively enforcing against those who abuse Blue Badges in Croydon. This behaviour takes advantage of residents with mobility issues, and it will not be tolerated. Anyone caught abusing the rules can expect firm action, significant financial penalties and a criminal conviction.”

The Council’s ongoing crackdown includes penalties for using counterfeit, cancelled, or deceased persons’ badges, as well as lost or stolen ones. Since May, over 90 people have been challenged, 32 vehicles seized, misused badges confiscated, and Penalty Charge Notices issued. Of the seized vehicles, 29 were returned to their owners, while three unclaimed vehicles have been destroyed. Release of a seized vehicle carries a cost of £360, plus daily storage fees of £55.

Blue Badge misuse often involves attempts to avoid small parking charges, yet offenders face far higher financial and legal consequences. Mayor Perry emphasised that 20 further prosecutions are scheduled before March 2026.

The Council advises that Blue Badges should only be displayed when the badge holder is present, or when collecting or dropping them off. Running errands without the holder in the vehicle constitutes misuse. Residents are encouraged to report suspected abuse via the Love Clean Streets app, rather than confronting individuals directly, recognising that not all disabilities are visible.

Epsom and Ewell Hosts First Festival of Friendship with Ukraine

Epsom and Ewell is set to welcome its inaugural Festival of Friendship – Ukraine, running from 27 January to 1 February. Organised by Epsom and Ewell Borough Council in partnership with the Epsom and Ewell Refugee Network, Epsom Library, and Epsom Picturehouse, the week-long event aims to celebrate Ukrainian culture and the bonds formed between local residents and Ukrainian nationals living in the borough.

The festival will feature a diverse programme including craft workshops, live performances, exhibitions, and film screenings. Visitors can explore Ukrainian traditions through hands-on activities, music, and art, all designed to foster community connections.

At Epsom Library, free workshops will allow attendees to try Ukrainian block printing, paper cutting, beading, and wool crafts. All materials will be provided, but spaces are limited and early arrival is recommended. Epsom Picturehouse will host film screenings alongside live Ukrainian music performances, with tickets available through their website. Children can enjoy activities including face painting, a treasure hunt, and a special visit from Paddington Bear.

Councillor Clive Woodbridge, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Committee, said, “The Festival of Friendship – Ukraine is a heartwarming celebration of culture and community spirit, it brings together Ukrainian nationals and local residents through shared traditions, crafts, music and friendship. Events like this remind us that kindness and mutual understanding are at the heart of a thriving borough—thank you to everyone helping to make this festival possible.”

The festival supports the council’s Arts, Culture and Heritage Strategy by nurturing local creative talent, increasing public access to cultural activities, and promoting economic growth through the creative industries. It also aligns with the council’s Health and Wellbeing Strategy, which aims to improve residents’ mental and emotional wellbeing.

Jo Sherring of Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network added, “Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network are delighted to partner with Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, Epsom Library and Epsom Picturehouse to create this celebration of our friendship with Ukrainian nationals who live in our community. Since the start of the war in Ukraine in 2022, we have been working with Ukrainian nationals who fled to the UK, helping them access work, housing, schools and community.

“Their courage, resilience and determination have been an example to us. As we have helped them to navigate life in the UK, we have enjoyed building friendships and learning about their culture and traditions. The Festival of Friendship is a chance for our Ukrainian friends to share their traditions and culture with the local community with activities happening during the week.

“We hope you will find time to join us during the week to be part of this celebration.”

Highlights of the week include the opening celebration at Epsom Library on Tuesday 27 January, with craft workshops and exhibitions. On Thursday 29 January, the Renaissance Choir will perform, and the film Rocky Road to Berlin will be shown at Epsom Picturehouse. The festival concludes on Sunday 1 February with a performance by Ukrainian bandura player Yuliia Komyshan, followed by screenings of Sanatorium and Home for Ukraine at the Picturehouse.

Attendees are encouraged to check the festival website for the latest information as the timetable may be subject to change.