Scope Articles

A Manifesto for Health

15 Oct 2021

Parties in Northern Ireland are already in campaigning mode as we build up to the Assembly Elections which will be held next May, possibly earlier if the DUP decides to collapse government before then.

Life expectancy, like poverty, is a growing concern for the UK

13 Oct 2021

A new study shows differences in life expectancy between different parts of the UK can be measured in decades. Within Northern Ireland, these gaps are smaller – but questions remain.

Protecting tomorrow today

8 Oct 2021

The great paradox of politics is that whilst most of the problems politicians seek to solve are long-term the system works against them - they are trapped in short termism.

“I love every thing about Belfast”

5 Oct 2021

An open letter of thanks from a young asylum seeker was read out to Belfast City Council this week. However, coming changes in the law will make it harder for children fleeing persecution to settle here in NI.

Funders make it easier to get their support

30 Sep 2021

Funders in Northern Ireland which collectively invest around £100 million a year in good causes have just made it easier for those seeking their support to get it.

Arts funding should be higher – and uncontroversial

Economy Minister Gordon Lyons (right) with Dungeons and Dragons producer Jeremy Latcham (left) and NI Screen CEO Richard Williams

28 Sep 2021

The arts are often treated as an economic sick man. This does not reflect reality. Two new reports from the Arts Council highlight the importance of investment.

How to close the digital divide

24 Sep 2021

Fast and reliable access to the internet is now widely regarded to be an essential utility, just like water and electricity.

The £20 Universal Credit should stay. History says the cut will go ahead.

Dr Therese Coffey remained in place as DWP Minister during the recent cabinet reshuffle. A change in direction seems unlikely.

22 Sep 2021

The reality of Universal Credit has always been at war with its stated aims. The £20 uplift should stay – or be increased – but reducing payments would be in keeping with standards set by this major welfare reform.

How to die well

17 Sep 2021

Everyone wants to live well. It is also important to die well.

The pandemic, women, and Building Back Better

16 Sep 2021

The Women’s Policy Group NI has relaunched its Covid-19 Feminist Recovery Plan. Scope looks at why this is important.

Olwen Lyner: doing the right things, for the right people, for the right reasons

10 Sep 2021

One of Northern Ireland’s most highly respected and influential Third Sector leaders announced her retirement this week.

Climate change is here and now

9 Sep 2021

The UK is already feeling the effects of climate change. A new report by the British Red Cross identifies the impact of heatwaves, how these will intensity, and what should be done in response.

Milkshakes, chicken bites and workers' rights

3 Sep 2021

This has not been a good week for lovers of milkshakes, Gregg’s chicken bites and Coors beers.

Back to school for children with SEN?

31 Aug 2021

This academic year will hopefully face far less disruption than the previous two. This is important for all children – especially those with special educational needs.

Gone Phishing: charities and cyber-crime

27 Aug 2021

A disturbing new report reveals the vulnerability of charities and small businesses in Northern Ireland to cyber-crime.

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