The city council has launched the second wave of a campaign to increase the number of carers from black and minority ethnic backgrounds in Edinburgh.
The launch follows a very succesful campaign that saw a doubling in the number of people enquiring about fostering last year, and the city council now hopes to further increase awareness during this recruitment drive.
Carers from all backgrounds are needed but there are very few black and ethnic minority carers in Edinburgh, and the aim is to try and increase numbers so that children from different cultural, religious and ethnic groups can live with foster carers who share similar backgrounds. Matching children with carers from the same background isn’t always essential but, in some cases, it can help a child to cope with their situation.
Children & Families Convener Cllr Paul Godzik said: “We are always looking for new carers to come and work with us to help give our children a safe environment to learn and grow in. We hope to build on the success of last year’s campaign and encourage even more people from black and minority ethnic backgrounds to consider becoming a foster carer. We can help provide the support and advice needed to make this decision, so please, if you are thinking of fostering get in touch or come along to one of the drop-in sessions to learn more about it.”
The drop-in sessions start this week at McDonald Road Library on Thursday (30 August) with another one next Thursday (6 September) – both sessions run from 10am to 1pm. Foster care recruitment staff and carers will also be on hand at the Edinburgh MELA this weekend (Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 September) at Leith Links.
The BME recruitment campaign is part of a wider ongoing campaign to promote foster care in Edinburgh called ‘Foster Me Foster Us’. Edinburgh has a shortage of foster carers and more are needed to provide children with safe and caring homes while they are unable to live with their own families.
More than 90 per cent of patients in Scotland are now being treated in 18 weeks or less. New figures published today by ISD show that over 92 per cent of patients whose entire journey could be measured were seen and treated within 18 weeks from initial GP referral to start of treatment.
NHS Lothian is the only Board not to have met the 90 per cent target for the three months measured, with NHS Forth Valley also missing the target for one month.
The figures also show that over 283,000 patients were treated within 18 weeks during the quarter ending 30 June.
Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said: “I am pleased to say that NHS Scotland is delivering on the target to ensure that patients are treated in 18 weeks or less. Quick access to treatment, delivered as locally as possible is what patients want. NHS Lothian have been working hard to reduce the numbers of patients breaching the waiting times targets following changes to their recording practices last December. We are already starting to see improvements in their numbers and we expect this to continue.”
She went on: “It is important to remember just how much progress has been made. In 2007 over 29,000 people were stuck on ‘hidden waiting lists’ not getting the treatment they needed. Our 18 weeks referral to treatment target demonstrates what the NHS can achieve by protecting the founding principles of the National Health Service. Scottish patients really are reaping the benefits.”
More than 90 per cent of patients in Scotland are now being treated in 18 weeks or less. New figures published today by ISD show that over 92 per cent of patients whose entire journey could be measured were seen and treated within 18 weeks from initial GP referral to start of treatment.
NHS Lothian is the only Board not to have met the 90 per cent target for the three months measured, with NHS Forth Valley also missing the target for one month.
The figures also show that over 283,000 patients were treated within 18 weeks during the quarter ending 30 June.
Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said: “I am pleased to say that NHS Scotland is delivering on the target to ensure that patients are treated in 18 weeks or less. Quick access to treatment, delivered as locally as possible is what patients want. NHS Lothian have been working hard to reduce the numbers of patients breaching the waiting times targets following changes to their recording practices last December. We are already starting to see improvements in their numbers and we expect this to continue.”
She went on: “It is important to remember just how much progress has been made. In 2007 over 29,000 people were stuck on ‘hidden waiting lists’ not getting the treatment they needed. Our 18 weeks referral to treatment target demonstrates what the NHS can achieve by protecting the founding principles of the National Health Service. Scottish patients really are reaping the benefits.”
A man who raped and killed a local pensioner who treated him like a grandson has been jailed for 12 years and eight months.
Jay Soso, 20, from the Tollcross area of the city, attacked 63-year-old Marie Reid in her sheltered home in Easter Drylaw Way in November 2010.
Mrs Reid lay dead for up to four days before her body was discovered.
Jay Soso raped and killed Mary Reid
Soso was initially charged with murder, but admitted a reduced charge of culpable homicide.
At the High Court in Edinburgh today, judge Lady Dorrian said Soso had been aware that his victim, who lived alone and suffered from poor health, was vulnerable.
She told the guilty man: “You knew her and there was an element of trust in the relationship you had with her.
“The rape was clearly forcible and violent, causing injuries to her and leading to her death.”
I write in response to the survey by Shelter Scotland showing that one in five young couples have delayed starting a family due to not being able to get on the property ladder. The charity says this highlights how the lack of safe, affordable social housing is impacting every level of society.
As the property market continues to struggle, many people who once would have thought about buying simply cannot and are being pushed into renting. A soar in the number of ‘reluctant renters’ has pushed rental prices, already renowned for being very high in Edinburgh, beyond reach of many of the city’s key workers.
With the average rent for a two bedroom property in Edinburgh currently at over £700 per month, and over £900 in the city centre, people on modest incomes working in roles such as nursing, teachers and youth and charity work, would find it very difficult to afford a safe and secure tenancy in a modern and well-equipped home.
This is why, in addition to providing more social housing, there now also needs to be a focus on supporting this group through the recently formed ‘mid-market rent’ model. At Port of Leith Housing Association, of the 500 properties we plan to build in the next three years around half of these will be available for this category.
The need for affordable housing is at its most pressing for a generation. The average wait for a social rented home is now counted in years rather than weeks or months and the problem is growing. To deal with the remaining backlog alone, it would take approximately 20 years. These figures may seem an insurmountable task but they only take into account those who are eligible for social housing. We estimate there are thousands in Edinburgh who would benefit from mid-market rent homes.
Pricing people into dilapidated properties will only, in the long run, likely price them out of cities. It also creates a real disparity and does not encourage vibrant, mixed communities that are essential for the ongoing success and wellbeing of communities.
Keith Anderson
Chief Executive, Port of Leith Housing Association
I write in response to the survey by Shelter Scotland showing that one in five young couples have delayed starting a family due to not being able to get on the property ladder. The charity says this highlights how the lack of safe, affordable social housing is impacting every level of society.
As the property market continues to struggle, many people who once would have thought about buying simply cannot and are being pushed into renting. A soar in the number of ‘reluctant renters’ has pushed rental prices, already renowned for being very high in Edinburgh, beyond reach of many of the city’s key workers.
With the average rent for a two bedroom property in Edinburgh currently at over £700 per month, and over £900 in the city centre, people on modest incomes working in roles such as nursing, teachers and youth and charity work, would find it very difficult to afford a safe and secure tenancy in a modern and well-equipped home.
This is why, in addition to providing more social housing, there now also needs to be a focus on supporting this group through the recently formed ‘mid-market rent’ model. At Port of Leith Housing Association, of the 500 properties we plan to build in the next three years around half of these will be available for this category.
The need for affordable housing is at its most pressing for a generation. The average wait for a social rented home is now counted in years rather than weeks or months and the problem is growing. To deal with the remaining backlog alone, it would take approximately 20 years. These figures may seem an insurmountable task but they only take into account those who are eligible for social housing. We estimate there are thousands in Edinburgh who would benefit from mid-market rent homes.
Pricing people into dilapidated properties will only, in the long run, likely price them out of cities. It also creates a real disparity and does not encourage vibrant, mixed communities that are essential for the ongoing success and wellbeing of communities.
Keith Anderson
Chief Executive, Port of Leith Housing Association
Pilton Equalities Project’s Neighbourhood Group took part in a sponsored walk from Wester Hailes to Ratho last month and raised a staggering £272.00. Group members are pictured with their certificates at Ratho’s Pilton Retreat.
Billy, second fom left, with North Edinburgh’s Social Action Research Group
Given the service took place across the other side of town, many local people made the journey to Mortonhall Crematorium last week to celebrate the life of Billy Anderson, who died on 6 August . Billy might have been secretly proud of all the attention, but he probably would have said: ‘this is a load of crap!’ or ‘what’s a’ the fuss aboot?’ That was Billy.
Billy was a hugely likeable character – grumpy and huffy, sure, and I’ll always remember with affection his regular comic fall outs with his pal John Davidson – but William Nelson Anderson was a man who above all enjoyed company and who loved to laugh.
It’s fair to say there was a time when Billy didn’t have a lot to laugh about. The youngest of five children (he had a twin who died), family life was shattered when Billy’s mother died when he was only twelve. Billy sometimes talked about the dark years that followed, and while he often made light of it life could not have been easy for Billy as a boy and young man. He talked of sleeping under London Bridge looking up at the stars – it’s a romantic image, but it masks the ever-present danger and misery of being alone, hungry and homeless in London. These must sometimes have been desperate days, and the fact that he survived the ordeal with his sanity – and even sense of humour – intact says a lot about Billy.
Billy was the guy who only planned to stop in Muirhouse for a wee while and ended up staying thirty years, and he certainly made his mark over that time. While he’d lost touch with his real-life family, Billy managed to create himself a new one as he became part of the Muirhouse community. He became involved in a number of community activities – he was a member of his tenants group and went on to become an Edinburgh Tenants Federation executive committee member alongside his friend, Birnie’s Court neighbour (and ‘Ayatollah’!) Betty Stevenson. Billy also took the opportunity to participate in training courses in North Edinburgh – he was an enthusiastic and forthright contributor at courses run by Pilton Partnership and Granton Information Centre. And if there was a community event Billy was there – particularly if it had a social afterwards!
In recent years Billy was perhaps best known for his involvement in Muirhouse Millennium Centre – he was part of the original steering group and he stuck with the Centre all the way through, the cafe was his kingdom. The Millennium Centre was like a second home for Billy; it was a huge part of his life and the centre staff, members and volunteers were Billy’s family. It just won’t be the same dropping into Muirhouse Millennium Centre now – Billy was always there, delighted to share the latest gossip, rumour and scandal with an evil cackle!
At last week’s funeral service, Lesley Hinds read a number of touching tributes from friends and colleagues:
Where do you start?
Billy wasn’t your everyday guy – when you said ‘good morning’ to him he would say ‘what’s good about it?’ and ‘it was morning when I came in!’. Billy would not have been the person we all loved if he didn’t wind you up!
His stories were amazing, and if he’d written them down they would have given him a best seller.
Billy’s café, as we all knew it, was his special place. Whether it was soup, bacon rolls, pasta or puddings (although you didn’t want to try his custard!) he loved cooking.
Billy volunteered in the Centre for eleven years but was very active in getting the Centre built.
Bus Pass Billy became his new name when hr turned sixty and thought it was great as he could go for the messages jumping on and off the buses as he pleased! Although he did get carried away when he was going up to Craigleith – he ended up at The Bridges only to come all the way back using three different buses!
Everyone has good memories of Billy as he was that kind of man – whether you are young or old he touched everyone’s heart in some way. The passing of Billy has had a massive impact on everyone as it was so unexpected. The Centre doesn’t feel the same at the moment, but as he used to say ‘everybody’s got to die’; that was Billy, living every day and enjoying it.
He once said ‘naebody will care when ah’m deid’ – well Billy, you were wrong; we all care and we will never forget you as you gave us so many memories to remember you by. Take care Billy and keep an eye on us all.
Your Family and Friends at the Millennium Centre
My Memories of You, Billy
When we first met, Billy, many years ago I knew you were a character – you had such a sense of humour, you were never afraid to speak your mind and you did not care who it was! We went to so many meetings together over the years, and still were until your sudden departure. You had a colourful life – you joined the Hari Krishnas for five years and you even slept under London Bridge for a time – you said you enjoyed it and it was an experience. I tried to get you to write a book about it – you did start it, Billy, but you did not take it any further.
When we went to Edinburgh Tenants Federation Executive meetings you used to say to me: ‘get it finished before 9pm as my programme is on the telly then!’ We brought in New Year together and watched the fireworks but last year you fell asleep, and for that you got an ear-bashing from Leanne! Leanne asked me the other day if yo would still see the fireworks – I said you will have a better view than anyone!
I remember when you took your first heart attack over ten years ago – we had been at a meeting in the church, and when we came out you looked terrible. I asked what was wrong: you said it was indigestion and blamed it on the vicar’s tea, saying it was stewed!
When you got the flat next door to me you were happy and said you felt safe, but you continued to have trouble with your heart, diabetes and high blood pressure – but you would not slow down, you said you’d be bored. You loved working with the young kids and their mothers at the Millennium Centre and even gave some of them cooking lessons.
Billy, you had a few nicknames for me; some I would not dare repeat but the latest one was Her Next Door Who Must Be Obeyed! You loved it when you got your bus pass – not having to pay fares, it was like you had won the Lottery!
I always said you were a free spirit, Billy, and you were – you lived your life the way you wanted to. I hope you are now free from pain and at peace. I for one will miss you. As well as a neighbour you were a friend and I will always remember you as that. Rest in peace, dear friend.
Betty Stevenson
Billy was an activist who worked hard for his area. He was always there in the background but when it mattered his voice would be heard, Billy came to Muirhouse as a visitor and ended up staying for 30 years. Billy has left his mark in Muirhouse, North Edinburgh and Edinburgh.
Councillor Lesley Hinds
I don’t remember the first time I met Billy but I was surprised to learn that he was only a member of the (Edinburgh Tenants Federation) Executive Committee for five years, as it feels like he has been a part of the Federation for ever!
Billy was always good fun and had a wicked sense of humour. He would come out with a comment at just the wrong moment and have me spluttering when I was trying to be serious! Billy was particularly good with helium, having lots of fun when helping to set up for our social events! I am going to miss him.
Mary Cockburn
I loved Billy’s wicked sense of humour. I enjoyed his company at EC meetings and in particular at the High Flats meetings where he would always arrange refreshments. The people of Muirhouse have lost a hardworking and dedicated volunteer. Rest in peace, Billy, you will be sorely missed.
Mark Henry
Billy was a lovely guy who knew how to work the (ETF) staff; he always praised the staff reports by calling for us to be rewarded with extra holidays and pay rises – really he knew that this would earn him extra drinks tickets at social events!
Justine Bradd
I think of Billy as a quiet man with a great sense of humour and deep compassion for humanity. Billy was quiet in the sense that he had a peace about him – he was thoughtful, content and at one with his place in the world.
Billy seemed to have a strong spiritual side – I remember him telling me stories about his life as a Hare Krishna monk, we had conversations about the Dalai Lama’s visit to Edinburgh and how his message of peace could fit into this fast-paced, individualistic world.
That spiritual side fitted well with Billy’s passion for social justice. He cared about people, and especially people who were vulnerable. Maybe that’s what made him such a committed community activist – he fought injustice by being involved in community groups – to make a difference.
Billy was a very intelligent man, with a lot of life experience and a willingness to share his wit and wisdom with others in his own quiet way. He was fun to be around as well – he had great stories to tell about his life in Edinburgh and in London, and he wasn’t one to mince his words, either. If he had a strong view about something, you’d hear it! ‘What a load of shite!’ he would often say if something wasn’t to his pleasing! And his views were often proved right!
I worked with Billy on the ETF’s 20th Anniversary planning group, where we organised a big plan of events to celebrate this milestone. Billy was really positive, coming up with lots of creative ideas and keeping us focused by chopping us down and telling is to ‘get real’ when our ideas got a bit too mad!
I’ll remember Billy as being a supportive Executive Committee member for ETF. He was really funny and brought a lot of knowledge to the table. Wherever he is now, I’m sure he’ll be swearing about Betty being the Ayatollah! Their ‘love/hate’ relationship was comedy gold to watch, especially because you knew they were great friends and neighbours behind the hilarious banter. Billy will be warmly remembered and sorely missed.
Clare MacGillivray
A collection following Billy’s memorial service at Mortonhall raised £371.06p for the British Heart Foundation. There is some speculation about who donated the 6p!
Drylaw Telford Community Council will discuss an extra business item when they meet tomorrow evening at Drylaw neighbourhood Centre – members will be asked to consider suitable locations sites for recycling sites.
A list of suggestions provided by the council (see below) includes one site on Ferry Road and a further five in Wester Drylaw Place and Drive.
DTCC chair Alex Dale said: “Councillor Lesley Hinds has asked if this could be discussed at next DTCC meeting. This is in response to questions raised at the last Inverleith Neighbourhood Partnership meeting on 13 August and by residents’ approaches to her following the council’s changes to waste uplifts. Although the sites pinpointed on the map are all in Wester Drylaw we need to try to identify areas in both Easter Drylaw & Telford too”.
COMEDIAN and Catchphrase presenter Roy Walker has teamed up with Macmillan Cancer Support to encourage Scots to help raise more than £10m by having a coffee. The charity hopes people across the country will take part in its 22nd World’s Biggest Coffee Morning next month by arranging their own coffee mornings. Macmillan hopes to raise £10.7m across the UK, around £1m of the target sum being collected in Scotland.
