After more than 30 years, the printing presses have finally halted for the left-wing magazine. KATE HUDSON pays tribute to the always thought-provoking publication and explains how the editorial team are inviting feedback and comment on their continued online operations
Wales leads the way in eliminating profit from social care
Following the historic ban on companies profiting from children’s care, Unison Cymru calls for transparency in implementing the changes and extending the reform to create a truly national, profit-free care service, says MARK TURNER

ON March 24 2025 the Health and Social Care Act was placed on the statute books and Wales became the first UK nation to stop companies delivering care for children from making a profit.
The move, which was part of the 2021 manifesto, could be one of the most radical actions of the Welsh Labour administration. The legislation means that from April next year, no new for-profit providers can be commissioned to provide children’s care in Wales. By April 2027, care must be provided by not-for-profit organisations, charities or councils.
The move met predictable opposition in some quarters — most notably the for-profit providers. But with profit margins of up to 22 per cent that selfish hostility was to be expected.
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