Northumberland journalist Kate Pasola says there is a need to break down socioeconomic barriers.
Some learners in the North East and Cumbria face cancellations hours before their tests are due.
The Alnwick and Prudhoe hubs offer services lost when their last remaining banks closed in 2025.
The council proposes reducing hours in some libraries but says there will be no closures.
Booked tours are set to resume at the Northumberland castle while a long-term plan is formulated.
The use of face down restraint on the wards was high, a CQC report finds.
Teamwork was key to getting plans for a school merger plan dropped in November, a parent says.
Parents say they are relieved as the Cheviot Learning Trust confirms the plans will not go ahead.
Michelle Gallon says she faces no longer being able to pick up or drop her child at school.
