Category: North Edinburgh News

Upgraded oncology services at Western General’s Edinburgh Cancer Centre now delivering care

Two units which provide vital care and treatment to some of the most unwell patients in Scotland have been transformed by NHS Lothian as part of a multi-million pound investment.

A new Cancer Assessment Unit (CAU) and an oncology ward for systemic anti-cancer treatment (SACT) are now open and delivering care to patients at the Edinburgh Cancer Centre (ECC).

The ECC, based in the Western General Hospital, supports an average of 7,000 inpatient admissions, 25,000 day-cases and 100,000 outpatient attendances each year from across the Lothians, Scottish Borders, Fife and Dumfries and Galloway.

The demand for treatment and services has significantly outgrown facilities and available space in recent times, but the new refurbishments have enabled significant modernisation to improve the care and overall experience for patients.

Chris Stirling, Site Director for the Western General Hospital, NHS Lothian, said: “This is a great step forward to upgrade our existing infrastructure.

“We know how important and reassuring a welcoming environment is at a worrying time, and we’re delighted that our current patients have access to better facilities.

“This is an important step in our ambition toward a new centre for the future of the southeast of Scotland to enable us to meet the rising demand of a growing population.”

The new CAU

The upgrades are part of a £24 million package of enabling works within oncology services, funded by the Scottish Government, which are due to be completed in 2024.

This is in advance of a longer-term plan for the full reprovision of the Edinburgh Cancer Centre which has been proposed by NHS Lothian in response to the population growth in the region and constraints of the existing ECC.

The refurbished SACT ward, which is where treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy are administered to patients, has seen an extensive programme of work – including new flooring, ceilings, paintwork, lighting, bed head services, fire safety upgrades and a new reception area.

There is now a dedicated space for patients to be assessed and prepped for their therapy, and comfortable chairs for patients to begin their treatment while awaiting a bed.

Four-bedded bays have been reconfigured into two-bedded bays, giving patients greater privacy. Where eight patients previously shared a bathroom, there is now an ensuite facility for every two beds.

The new CAU provides a fresh, purpose-built environment for patients to attend for assessment or diagnostic tests prior to potential admission to an inpatient hospital bed.

The CAU also has a dedicated family room with a double sofa bed and its own ensuite facility for relatives who may need to stay close to their loved one overnight.

Mrs McLean, 61 from Edinburgh, said: “Following a sudden and unexpected reaction to my treatment, I was taken to the new Cancer Assessment Unit. I was so grateful to be welcomed immediately by the medical team there.

“At such a worrying time for me, the nurses and doctor were not only reassuring, friendly and kind, but their professional clinical care was exceptional. Their thoughtfulness extended to my family sitting in the waiting area close to my treatment bay who were soon invited to join me.

“I really appreciated being in such a modern, comfortable facility and my experience of the CAU could not have been better or more positive. I can’t thank the medical staff enough for their excellent care of me in the new unit.”

Aldi Scotland employees support Teenage Cancer Trust by running the London Marathon 

Aldi is set to boost its donation to Teenage Cancer Trust thanks to two Scottish employees running the London Marathon in aid of the charity today.  

Kathy Hill, a Store Assistant from Aldi’s Dunfermline store, and Kevin Regan, a Store Manager in Livingston, are gearing up to pound the pavements in support of the worthy cause on 21st April.  

With almost four years of service at Aldi Scotland, Kathy, 58, is dedicated to making a difference in her local community, which extends to her decision to participate. She began her rigorous training regimen in January, supported by her colleagues, family, and local running club, after applying on a whim with her children.   

Kevin, 57, has been working at Aldi for more than 24 years. Despite the challenges posed by the Scottish weather, the keen runner has been enjoying the preparations and has already raised £2,200 individually for Teenage Cancer Trust.   

Aldi’s commitment to Teenage Cancer Trust has been steadfast since 2017. Only last week, the supermarket announced it was extending its fundraising target to £15 million by 2027, after surpassing the initial target of £10 million three years ahead of schedule.  

The funds raised by Aldi have contributed to providing essential resources for young cancer patients, including specialist nurses, support coordinators, and multidisciplinary team coordinators. 

Kathy said: “I am incredibly grateful for the support I’ve received from colleagues and customers at Aldi, especially as my training has been quite intensive.

“Their encouragement has been a driving force behind my marathon journey, and I’m honoured to have had the opportunity to give back to such a worthy cause. “

Reflecting on his preparations, Kevin shared: “Teenage Cancer Trust is a fantastic charity and the fact that Aldi has just reached the £10 million fundraising mark for Teenage Cancer Trust is amazing.

“I feel honoured to play a part in that. The community, the store, and the staff have all really supported me. A day doesn’t go by without someone wishing me well.” 

Graham Nicolson, Managing Director, Aldi Scotland, said: “We are immensely proud of our longstanding partnership with Teenage Cancer Trust and the impactful work we’ve accomplished together.

“Surpassing our initial fundraising target of £10 million three years ahead of schedule is a testament to the dedication and generosity of our colleagues and customers. Kathy and Kevin’s commitment to fundraising for Teenage Cancer Trust through running the London Marathon represents Aldi’s commitment to supporting important charities.  

“Their efforts, along with the ongoing support from our Scottish communities, reinforce our shared values of community engagement and corporate responsibility. We are confident that their participation will not only raise vital funds but also inspire others to join us in our mission to provide essential resources and support to young cancer patients across the UK, including Aberdeen, Glasgow, and Edinburgh.” 

Kathy and Kevin’s fundraising links can be found below: 

Kevin Regan, Store Manager, Livingston: https://2024tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/80dc4/2024TCSLondonMarathon#!/ 

Kathy Hill, Store Assistant, Dunfermline:  
https://www.justgiving.com/page/kathy-hill-1708868353852?utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=page%2Fkathy-hill-1708868353852&utm_source=email&utm_campaign=pfp-email 

SAMARITANS: We believe in tomorrow

We’re so honoured that Samaritans has been chosen as Charity of the Year for the 2024 TCS London Marathon today.

To mark this iconic occasion, our incredible community of runners, volunteers and supporters are coming together to tackle the stigma surrounding suicide by spreading messages of hope.  

We all struggle to cope sometimes, and one in five of us have had suicidal thoughts at some point in our lives. But suicide can be prevented and we can all play a part.

Join us in our latest campaign, as we encourage the nation to believe in tomorrow and support others to do the same.

To mark this iconic occasion, our incredible community of runners, volunteers and supporters are coming together to tackle the stigma surrounding suicide by spreading messages of hope.  

We all struggle to cope sometimes, and one in five of us have had suicidal thoughts at some point in our lives.

But suicide can be prevented and we can all play a part.

Join us in our latest campaign, as we encourage the nation to believe in tomorrow and support others to do the same.

Once Upon A Time afternoon tea at The Caledonian

Peacock Alley, located at the heart of The Caledonian in Edinburgh, is now serving Once Upon a Time afternoon tea, available until 2nd June.

Embark on a magical journey with Once Upon a Time afternoon tea at Peacock Alley.

A selection of sandwiches created by head chef Ryan MacFarlane feature selections such as Chilli Arran Cheddar and Scottish Smoked Salmon with Dill Crème Fraiche, followed by an enchanting array of pastries created by head pastry chef Tamara Curcic.

Selections such as the Happily Ever After (Cracked Pepper, Salted Caramel, and Burnt White Chocolate Cream Puff) and Frog Prince (Flourless Chocolate Sponge, Mint and Chocolate Chip Pepitè) are straight out of a fairy tale.

Standing proudly at the West End of Princes Street, this former Victorian railway building hotel nestles in the shadow of the enchanting Edinburgh Castle. Formerly the station concourse and ticket office, Peacock Alley represents the historic heart of the Caley.

It is imbued with the peerless style and sophistication of this famous former railway hotel, offering the perfect backdrop for your fairy tale afternoon tea.

Once Upon a Time is available in Peacock Alley, The Caledonian daily from 12:30 – 4pm, until 2nd June. Gluten free, vegan, and children’s menus are also available. Priced at £60 per adult and £30 per child. The menu can be viewed here.

Bookings can be made by emailing caledonian.dining@waldorfastoria.com or calling the reservations team directly at 0131 222 8832.

Letter to MSPs advocates the benefits of therapeutic horticulture

Gardening and horticulture cross-party group advocates for health and wellbeing benefits of therapeutic horticulture

Members of the Scottish Gardening and Horticulture Cross-Party Group (CPG) have written a joint letter to three Ministers advocating for the health benefits of horticulture and gardening in healthcare settings.

The letter emphasises the role of environmental horticulture in enhancing health outcomes and urges policymakers to provide sustained funding for therapeutic horticulture initiatives. 

The letter was sent following a set of visits and a meeting facilitated by the charity Trellis and the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), where MSPs and their staff saw firsthand how therapeutic horticulture fosters health and well-being among communities.  

The Ministers contacted were Minister Neil Gray MSP, Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care, Minister Maree Todd MSP, Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport and Minister Jim Fairlie MSP, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity. 

The Gardening and Horticulture CPG highlights the potential of horticulture and gardening as a policy solution to bolster patient recovery and mental health while enhancing healthcare professionals’ welfare. The group also emphasises the economic benefits of Social and Therapeutic Horticulture (STH) projects, including reduced healthcare service utilisation and medication dependency. 

To address the critical need for standardised training and professionalisation within the field, Trellis Scotland is collaborating with educational institutions to develop the first accredited course in Social and Therapeutic Horticulture in Scotland.

Additionally, Trellis is spearheading the establishment of the UK Association for Social and Therapeutic Horticulture to uphold quality standards and provide essential support for practitioners in the field. 

The letter’s signatories also invite policymakers to participate in World Therapeutic Horticulture Day on 18 May 2024, which will precede a week of activities dedicated to highlighting STH’s benefits.

The letter expresses gratitude for the Scottish Government’s past support but emphasises the need for sustained funding to safeguard the continuity and expansion of essential initiatives in therapeutic horticulture. 

Stan Green, who represents the HTA in Scotland, commented: “We are delighted by the reaction and engagement The HTA continues to have at Holyrood.

“This reflects the substantial progress regarding the profile of Environmental Horticulture, and a recognition of the role it has benefiting all in the health sector, whether general wellbeing or treating people with severe illness or in need of social support.” 

The full letter is attached: 

CPG-letter-health-and-horticulture-April-24-finalDownload

Meadows to George Street project moves forward

“Edinburgh is a city with big ambitions” – Cllr Scott Arthur

A ‘major milestone’ in the Meadows to George Street project was reached yesterday (April 19) as the statutory orders needed to progress to the construction stage are advertised.

This follows extensive consultation throughout the project and in 2019, engagement showed 78% overall support for the project.

Meadows to George Street is a key project within Edinburgh’s City Centre Transformation, and the Our Future Streets approach of the City Mobility Plan, which was approved by members in February 2024.

The scheme will improve cycling, walking, accessibility, and public spaces in some of Edinburgh’s busiest and most recognisable streets: from Teviot Place along Forrest Road before crossing George IV Bridge, The Mound, Hanover Street and finishing at George Street.

It will create a welcoming outdoor space with new high-quality cycling and walking facilities. These will include segregated cycleways, wider pavements, and pedestrian priority areas, which will make it easier for people to safely walk, wheel, and cycle as part of their everyday journeys.

The project is central to Edinburgh’s City Centre Transformation plan and will integrate with the George Street and First New Town project at Hanover Street, and from there connect to the west of the city via the City Centre West to East Link (CCWEL), which officially opened last month and to the north via Leith Walk. These also run alongside our Roseburn to Union Canal active travel project.  

Full details of the Meadows to George Street project, including designs and previous public engagement are available on the project website.

The council will also be engaging with local residents, businesses and community representatives through a programme of door-to-door distribution, email, workshops, drop-in events, and information packs. 

Financial contributions to this project by the Council are match funded by the Scottish Government, Transport Scotland funds Places for Everyone through Sustrans Scotland.  

Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Scott Arthur said: “I’m delighted that we’ve reached this significant stage in the Meadows to George Street project. This is a really important part of our wider plans to transform our city centre into one which enables our residents to enjoy a safe, connected, and sustainable place to live, work and spend time in. 

“We’re keen to get on and deliver the changes proposed so it’s important that we take the time to re-engage with those along the route and take them along with us on this exciting journey. We understand the impact these projects can have on the local community, in particular businesses, and we will be working closely with them throughout to support them and ensure the benefits are maximised.

“Edinburgh is a city with big ambitions. Through schemes such as this we’re sending a clear signal as to the sort of Capital we’re aspiring to be.

“From reaching net zero by 2030, to enhancing our already excellent public transport networks and making sure our residents are at the heart of everything we do, I’m really excited to see what the future holds.”

Karen McGregor, Scotland Director for Sustrans said: “This is a hugely exciting time to be in Edinburgh, and a massive achievement within the context of active travel.

“The all-new walking, wheeling and cycling links Meadows to George Street is set to deliver will absolutely transform everyday journeys for thousands of people living and working in the city, not to mention those visiting every year.

“We’d like to thank the whole community for their continuing involvement and support, and for the clear ambition they have shown in pushing this project forward.”

Scrap Student Flats: Living Rents to hold public meeting in Leith

10th MAY at 6.30pm in DUNCAN PLACE COMMUNITY HUB

Got concerns about purpose-built student accommodation and luxury developments in your local community?

Join Living Rent for a public forum on the redevelopment of Dalton Scrapyard, where you can bring your questions and concerns directly to your local representatives.

Hold councillors accountable and bring local planning back to the people!

Funding to support refugee integration

Ensuring access to information and advice

Refugees and people seeking asylum who live in Scotland will be supported to settle into local communities through new funding for Scottish Refugee Council.  

Scottish Government funding of £3.6 million will support Scottish Refugee Council’s Refugee Support Service, which helps people access health, housing, welfare and employment support. It also provides information and resources, as well as encouraging social connections.

The funding will ensure this support can continue, after EU funding the service had previously received came to an end in 2023.

Migration and Refugees Minister Emma Roddick said: “Scotland welcomes refugees and people seeking asylum. Supporting them to settle into communities from day one of arrival, and ensuring they can access information and advice, is key to helping people integrate successfully.

“This Scottish Government funding will ensure that Scottish Refugee Council can continue their vital work to help people begin to rebuild their lives here, particularly as EU funding is no longer available to the service after Brexit.

“Respect and compassion underpin our approach to supporting people displaced by conflict or other circumstances beyond their control. While the UK Government pursues harmful policies on asylum and immigration, we will continue to do everything we can to mitigate their impact.”

Chief Executive Officer of Scottish Refugee Council, Sabir Zazai said: “We welcome this timely investment in a Scotland-wide Refugee Support Service to ensure people seeking protection across Scotland feel welcomed and supported and can start rebuilding their lives in their new communities. 

“This integrated service will be available and accessible to everyone who needs it, wherever in the country they are based.  

“With a focus on collaboration and partnership, we will work with local authorities, grassroots organisations and communities to build a better future for refugees and people seeking asylum. This approach builds on our extensive expertise of delivering vital integration services over the years.  

“Scotland is known around the world for being a warm and welcoming country. We look forward to building on this proud reputation in the coming years as we aim to make Scotland the best place for refugees to thrive, challenge injustice, achieve their ambitions and empower their communities, no matter where they have come from or how they arrived.” 

The Refugee Support Service supports refugees, people seeking asylum and other groups of displaced people.

More information, including on how to access advice and support, can be found on Scottish Refugee Council’s website.

Musselburgh Racecourse opens the £1.3m Sky Bet Sunday Series

Musselburgh Racecourse kicks off the £1.3 million Sky Bet Sunday Series tomorrow (21 April) with a seven race card worth more than £225,000.

The £75,000 Sky Bet Acca Freeze Handicap over five-furlongs (6.45pm) sees Equality conceding weight all round. Trained by Charlie Hills and ridden by Saffie Osborne, he has been competing in Grade 2 and Grade 3 events in Dubai during the winter.

Silkie Wilkie is well-known to regulars at the East Lothian track as he scorched home by a wide margin in last season’s Scottish Sprint Cup over course and distance, while Zarzyni is another course and distance winner, in his case in the 2022 Holyrood Handicap, and is a father and daughter training combination from David and Nicola Barron.

Ice Max has already won easily at Bath this term and he represents Clifford Lee and Karl Burke in the £30,000 Sky Bet Extra Places Every Day Handicap (5.45pm).

The card gets underway at 3.45pm tomorrow with the Sky Bet For The Fans Handicap, which sees Hawick-born Roman Scott ride Newcastle November winner Paddy’s Day for Malton trainer Nigel Tinkler. 

Musselburgh Racecourse director, Bill Farnsworth, said: “With a Class 2 sprint handicap over five furlongs worth £75,000 and more than £225,000 in prize money we can expect a highly competitive day on Sunday and conditions-wise the ground is drying out nicely. We are also delighted all races will be screened live by ITV.”

Other racecourses taking part in the Sky Bet Sunday Series, which runs through the summer until 18 August, are Newmarket, Hamilton, Thirsk, Haydock Park and Pontefract.

Sky Bet, along with charity partner Cure Leukaemia, are offering £60,000 in prize money across the six fixtures in the Jockey Cup competition, with the jockey who amasses the most points at each fixture scooping £10,000.

A £100,000 bonus is also up for grabs for connections of the first horse to win three races across the Series.

The Series, in its third year, is an industry-wide collaboration between ITV, Racecourse Media Group, Sky Betting and Gaming and the participating racecourses, which will showcase the sport in a Sunday twilight slot on terrestrial television during the summer.

Gates open at Musselburgh on Sunday at 2pm. For more information and to book tickets visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Cockapoo Fidra joins staff of Fettes College!

Fidra is set to help Edinburgh pupils reduce anxiety levels and will be on hand to help around the upcoming exam period

Therapy dogs in schools are working wonders across Scotland – not least at Fettes College.

The Edinburgh school recently introduced its first four-legged member of staff, who took up a new role at the beginning of the summer term to help improve student wellbeing and reduce anxiety levels.

Two-year-old Fidra is no stranger to Fettes College, having grown up with over 50 girls in the school’s College West Boarding House. She recently qualified as a therapy dog after being assessed by Therapet®, which is run by Canine Concern Scotland Trust.

Therapet® is a voluntary service that allows assessed and registered dogs and owners to provide pet therapy to places including hospitals, care homes, hospices, and schools. Studies have shown that therapy dogs help humans to release endorphins – the happy hormone – and so can reduce stress and anxiety levels.

As well as providing emotional support, therapy dogs also help schoolchildren build confidence with activities like reading and speaking in front of their classmates.

Mel Hughes, Chief Executive Officer, Canine Concern Scotland: “Our Therapets® have been supporting people around Scotland for 36 years, so the benefits of human and animal interaction are not new and can be positively lifechanging.

“Central to the visits is the wellbeing of each Therapet® and we have strict policies in place to ensure that our Therapets® do not become over-tired or stressed, particularly in busy school environments.

“Fidra has a unique knowledge and love of the school, and we’re looking forward to hearing how her visits progress and the benefit that the school community receives from these visits.”

Sue Bruce, Head of Wellbeing at Fettes College, said: “Research has shown the endless benefits of therapy animals in educational settings. Dogs are excellent listeners, which is a huge help when it comes to building up confidence in young people.”

Fidra will support students in both Fettes’ Prep and Senior school. As well as helping teach students about caring for animals, Fidra will be available for walks in Fettes’ grounds, and will also be on hand in the medical centre and in the classroom to provide support.

Fettes College student, Isla H, said: “Fidra is an enthusiastic and loveable dog, so I’m never scared to go up and play with her.

“She always looks like she has a little smile on her face, and she is so welcoming.”

Sue continued: “With her calming presence and affectionate nature, we’re sure Fidra will serve as a valuable resource in promoting emotional wellness among students and staff, provided her favourite treat – sausages – are in abundance.”