Archive for October 2025

North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein signs HB 612, the Fostering Care in NC Act, into law

“Historically, there has been a social work ‘brain drain’ dynamic in these areas, where folks from a small town earn their degree and then move to bigger urban centers,” said Dr. Michael Berghoef (above), a Professor in the MSW program who steered the grant application process. “Too few graduates are returning to practice in the kinds of communities they were raised in.”

A recent meta-analysis found that while mental health apps can help improve clinical outcomes, there are some concerns around too much engagement leading to frustration and stress. These apps, sometimes marketed as “therapist in your pocket” and “a sort of 24-7 mobile therapist” are employing strategies closely resembling what social media platforms use to maximise psychological engagement. But when the product is mental wellbeing, what happens when the cure becomes part of the disease?

Developers of the new businesses claim they represent an improvement on web-cam businesses, where real women undress on camera and talk to men, because they remove the potential for the exploitation seen in parts of the industry. They also argue that AI performers do not get ill, do not need to have days off, do not get exhausted at the end of a shift, or feel humiliated by the demands made by clients.

The exposé of vile police discrimination at Charing Cross police station comes just three years after the last exposé at the same station (Met plunged into crisis amid fresh claims of misogyny and racism, 1 October). This experience confirms that unless there is full accountability for police discrimination, the behaviour will simply carry on. The failure to have accountability is part of the institutional discrimination highlighted in the Casey review.

ARACY warmly welcomes the appointment of Deb Tsorbaris as Australia’s new National Children’s Commissioner. “Deb brings deep knowledge, experience and passion for improving the lives of children, young people and families. Her leadership across child and family services, housing, social policy and advocacy will be invaluable in championing children’s rights and wellbeing nationally,” said ARACY CEO, Prue Warrilow.