The latest round of the coveted Commonwealth Education Good Practice awards is now open to organisations that are delivering innovative education projects around the Commonwealth. Civil society groups, ministries of education and other private and public organisations can be nominated or nominate themselves for the accolade. Organisations vying for the award must demonstrate excellence in one of five key areas of education delivery.

The RSPCA was called to Gate Street in Tipton, in the West Midlands, on Sunday (16 October) after the reptile was found and safely retrieved from the dog. RSPCA inspector Dawn Burrell went along to collect the spur thigh tortoise, believed to be aged around one, and took him to a nearby specialist exotic vet. “Dogs and cats often bring in rather random things for their owners but I think this gentleman had a bit of a shock when his pet brought in a tiny tortoise!” inspector Burrell said.

A drive to make sure people recognise hate crime and know how to report it is under way in Sandwell. A best practice forum held as part of National Hate Crime Awareness Week highlighted concerns about under-reporting of incidents. Organisations including Sandwell Council, West Midlands Police, Rights and Equality Sandwell and Victim Support agreed to raise greater awareness, especially around how to report incidents.

A couple whose lives have been transformed by Telecare in their home which is keeping them safe are urging other people in Wolverhampton to sign up for the “valuable” service. Telecare is offered by the City of Wolverhampton Council and supports people to live independently in their own homes by giving them a range of assistive technology, from emergency alarms and fall detectors to smoke and flood sensors.

With bonfire night only a few weeks away and Christmas and New Year on the horizon, many pets will feel anxious with the looming firework displays. Lots of animals are afraid of the loud sounds and flashing lights that accompany fireworks, but there are lots of ways to make sure your pet feels as comfortable and safe as possible on the night.