British singer and songwriter, rising pop voice
Ministers are pushing a safety drive at major festivals and backing a nationwide effort to cut violence against women and girls. Leaders say halving VAWG is a government priority, while new policing and court measures aim to shield victims. The coverage contrasts with criticism of a home‑office booklet on migrants, which critics say distracts from urgent gender protections.
The IPPR study has found that 11- to 24-year-olds in England are increasingly lonely, with one in 20 reporting no close friends. Doomscrolling, housing costs, debt, and austerity contribute to a widening social break, while experts warn that weak social ties hinder development and well-being.
Glastonbury has confirmed tickets for 2027 will go on sale in October, with weekend passes priced at £408 including a £5 booking fee. Coach-tickets bundles go live on 1 October and general admission on 4 October. Registration remains mandatory to curb touts as fans anticipate headliners and the return after a fallow year.
Taylor Swift has received the inaugural Artist Director Honors at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, bringing her total to 31 VMAs and making her the most-awarded artist in VMA history. The two-hour show has been hosted by Snoop Dogg from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, with Madonna opening the ceremony and multiple new nominees highlighted.
The Mercury Prize has announced the 2026 ceremony in Newcastle’s Utilita Arena, with PJ Harvey as a two-time winner and Sam Fender highlighted as last year’s winner. The Scotsman outlines eligibility rules, past winners and current contenders, including Olivia Dean and Nia Archives among favourites.