Serena Smith
Why we need to recognise influencers as workers
Olivia Yallop examines both the pitfalls and the transformative potential of online culture in her new book 'Break the Internet.'
Written by: Serena Smith
How bogus self-employment is harming workers
‘I can’t afford to quit‘ — The pandemic has exposed the extent of the UK’s bogus self-employment problem, an unscrupulous practice which epitomises the tyranny of work under capitalism.
Written by: Serena Smith
The Facebook group for terrible art in charity shops
So bad it‘s good — An online destination for the most cursed second-hand shop finds is opening up art criticism to the masses – as well as raising questions as to why we are so drawn to ‘bad’ artworks.
Written by: Serena Smith
Why more young people are ditching their smartphones
Return of the brick — As Covid-19 causes people to become increasingly glued to their devices, growing numbers of Gen Zers are shunning their phones and embracing a way of life that they say is improving their mental health. But how easy is it really to kick the habit?
Written by: Serena Smith
Uni ‘confession‘ pages: a space to discuss sexual assault?
Speaking up — Liberated by anonymity, students across the country are sharing stories of sexual assault online – but just how effective are these spaces in helping survivors overcome their trauma and addressing systemic misogyny?
Written by: Serena Smith
Is lockdown fuelling a student gambling crisis?
Rolling the dice — Looking for ways to fill the hours, the pandemic has caused a perfect storm for student gamblers. But some fear their habit to alleviate boredom could be spiralling into addiction.
Written by: Serena Smith
TikTokers are using secret hashtags to discuss self-harm
Under the radar — The hashtag #selfharm is censored on TikTok, but that hasn’t stopped users from speaking out about their experiences. While the platform needs to do more to keep young people safe from triggering content, experts stress that the problem runs much deeper than social media.
Written by: Serena Smith
