Midwives are increasingly leaving the NHS in England before age 35 due to burnout, exacerbating staffing shortages in maternity units. Over 1,600 midwives under 35 quit in 2025-26, a 59% rise from 2014-15, threatening care quality and safety for mothers and babies.
Analysis shows the NLRB dismissed 34.7% of union charges and 67.4% of worker charges in early 2026, a significant increase from 2024. Issues cited include understaffing, budget cuts, and procedural changes making dismissals easier.
The IRS has received special permission to quickly hire 8,000 employees by September due to significant staff reductions. A memo revealed the agency sought expedited hiring authority, indicating a critical need despite public assurances of maintained services.
The US Department of Health and Human Services faces a crisis under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., with thousands of employee losses, unaddressed health emergencies like Ebola and measles, and lacking leadership in key roles, amidst reports of Kennedy's absenteeism and focus on niche issues.
German villages are reviving "Tante Emma" shops with hybrid, autonomous 24/7 access models. This innovation combats staffing shortages and rising costs, aiming to preserve community hubs and counter rural disaffection that fuels political extremism.
Disability benefit claimants in the UK will face more in-person assessments as the Department for Work and Pensions aims for 30% face-to-face reviews. This shift, intended to improve accuracy, is hampered by a shortage of medical staff. Advocacy groups express concern over the burden on individuals with health issues, stressing the need for flexibility beyond physical presence.
