In 2025, significant changes have marked the year, with initiatives such as the expansion of free school meals and the introduction of the Hillsborough Law. The Mirror has been actively advocating for these causes to enhance the quality of life for all and address various injustices. Let’s delve into the impact of our reporting on these developments:
The Mirror’s persistent campaign to eradicate hunger in schools achieved a milestone when Keir Starmer committed to extending free school meals to all households under Universal Credit. This decision will make over half a million children eligible for nutritious meals starting in September 2026, benefiting families and lifting 100,000 children out of poverty while potentially saving parents up to £500 annually.
Acknowledging our efforts, the Prime Minister assured Mirror readers of the government’s unwavering commitment to providing every child with the best possible start in life. The successful search for missing teenager Deante James, a case highlighted in the Mirror’s Missed campaign, brought relief as he was found safe after being reported missing for six weeks.
Our coverage on the detrimental effects of proposed disability benefit cuts stirred opposition within the government. Subsequently, a significant backlash from Labour MPs led to a reversal of the reforms just 90 minutes before a critical vote. Plans to tighten eligibility for Personal Independence Payments have been postponed pending a review by Disabilities Minister Stephen Timms.
Moreover, struggling pubs received a lifeline as communities gained the authority to rescue beloved local establishments, aligning with the Mirror’s campaign to preserve British pubs. Patients facing challenges in accessing dental care received a boost with the promise of hundreds of thousands of extra appointments, signaling a positive trajectory for the sector.
The Mirror’s advocacy against unsafe cosmetic procedures prompted Health Secretary Wes Streeting to announce new regulations to prevent risky practices like botched surgeries. Additionally, the ban on selling highly caffeinated energy drinks to under-16s, following our campaign, aims to safeguard children’s health and behavior in schools.
Furthermore, the introduction of the Hillsborough Law signifies a step towards preventing state cover-ups, honoring the memory of the 97 victims of the tragic stadium disaster. The establishment of a national day of remembrance for victims and survivors of terrorism, advocated through the Mirror’s A Place to Remember initiative, serves as a poignant tribute to those affected by senseless attacks.
The government’s decision to outlaw cruel puppy farming in the Animal Welfare Strategy, influenced by the Mirror’s ongoing efforts to address animal welfare issues, reflects a commitment to ending the inhumane practices prevalent in the dog breeding trade. The evolution of policies such as Lucy’s Law demonstrates a proactive approach to ensuring the welfare of animals in society.
Overall, these developments underscore the power of advocacy and journalism in driving positive change and shaping a more equitable and compassionate society.