Day: June 19, 2020

Healthy Heart Tip: cut down on alcohol

Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Tip, written by Dr Helen Flaherty, Head of Health Promotion at Heart Research UK

Cut back on alcohol

There has been a 21% increase in the frequency of alcohol consumption in the UK since the COVID-19 lockdown. It has been suggested that stress and anxiety, as well as changes to our daily routine, are the reasons why some people are drinking more. Too much alcohol can be harmful to your heart as well as contributing to weight gain and mental health problems.

We have some tips to help keep your alcohol consumption within the recommended limits.

How much is too much?

It is recommended that men and women do not consume more than 14 units of alcohol each week, spread out over three or more days. The number of units of alcohol in a drink depends on the size of your drink and the alcohol strength. A pint of strong beer contains around three units of alcohol and a bottle of wine contains around 10 units. More information about alcohol units can be found here: https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/for-your-body/drink-less/know-your-alcohol-units/

Keep a record of how much you are drinking

Many people don’t really know how much they are drinking or whether their drinking is putting their health at risk. By keeping a record of your weekly alcohol consumption, you will be able to work out whether you need to cut down. You can complete the Drinkaware self-assessment to find out if you are drinking too much HERE.

Pour smaller measures

When you drink alcohol at home, you are in control of the amount you pour into the glass. Try to control the amount of alcohol in your drinks by measuring it out using a measuring jug. A small glass of wine is 125ml (1.6 units), a medium glass of wine is 175ml (2.3 units) and a large glass of wine is 250ml (3.3 units). A 25ml shot of a spirit is 1 unit.

Include more alcohol-free days

If you are drinking every day, or most days, you could include more alcohol-free days each week. Make a plan at the start of the week and decide which days will be alcohol-free. Try to find some low-sugar alcohol-free drinks to enjoy on the days when you do not drink alcohol.

Plan ahead

Before you pour your first drink of the day, set yourself a limit and make sure you stick to it. You could put a post-it note on the bottle to remind yourself when to stop. Try reducing the amount you drink by having a soft drink in between alcoholic drinks and/or dilute your alcoholic drinks with a mixer to slow down your alcohol consumption.

Get help

If you are worried about your own drinking, or if you are concerned about the amount someone else is drinking, you can get advice and support from the NHS – https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/alcohol-support/

You can find plenty more healthy tips and recipes at heartresearch.org.uk.

Pre-virus Walk to School rates plummet in Scotland

Living Streets Scotland, part of the UK charity for everyday walking, is calling for street improvements around schools ahead of them reopening to avoid gridlock and promote a green recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.   

It comes after new data reveals record lows in the number of children walking to school pre-lockdown.

The Hands Up survey – published today but conducted in September 2019 – shows that just 41 per cent of primary school aged children were walking to school before the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak – the LOWEST recorded level – whilst pupils being driven to school was at its HIGHEST recorded level since the survey began at 23.8 per cent.

Living Streets, the UK walking charity behind the biggest walk to school campaign, wants more local authorities to use available funding to implement measures to make walking to school more attractive, including 20mph limits, safer crossings and School Streets – which see cars banned from outside school gates at peak drop off and pick up times.

Stuart Hay, Director of Living Streets Scotland, said:  “These results are incredibly disappointing and shows that there is a lot of work to be done to make walking to school a viable option for families across Scotland. 

“We know from our work with schools across Scotland that families are put off walking to school by traffic, road danger and air pollution. By removing cars, we remove these barriers.

“When pupils start to return, it’s crucial that our roads aren’t gridlocked and our schools surrounded by dirty air. And by giving space to people – not cars – we can ensure families can physically distance at pick up and drop off.

“School Streets have been successfully implemented by many Scottish local authorities and we want to see others using the funding made available during the pandemic to follow their lead. We need to come out of this crisis stronger than before and we won’t do that by replacing it with crises around inactivity, air pollution and road danger.”

Living Streets Scotland runs WOW – the year-round walk to school challenge in 22 Scottish local authorities. On average, schools which take part in WOW see a 23 per cent increase in the number of children walking to school and a 30 per cent decrease in the number of cars driving up to the school gates.

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LOVE Gorgie Farm ready to reopen

LOVE Gorgie Farm, formerly Gorgie City Farm, is set to reopen its doors on Monday 29th June as Scotland moves into phase 2 of easing lockdown measures.

Social distancing strategies have been adopted to create a safe environment for visitors and staff. These are temporary and include a one-way system and an open picnic area and other measures to ensure groups of visitors don’t gather too closely. Staff will be using PPE and hand sanitizer will be supplied.

The café will also offer take-away services.

During lockdown the farm has been acting as a focal point for the community, operating as a food bank and delivering free breakfast for children amid school closures. It also provides free pet boarding to those who were unwell or had to be temporarily admitted into hospital.

The farm will be open from 9.30am to 4.30pm seven-days a week and visitors will have the opportunity to see pigs, cows, sheep and goats, as well as its fantastic alpacas.

While entry is free a donation is welcomed.

Visitors will also get to see the abundance of food growing and can find some quiets spaces to sit amid nature and learn more about the farm’s future plans.

Lynn Bell, CEO of LOVE Learning, the education and social care charity which operates LOVE Gorgie Farm said: “We look forward to welcoming back visitors to LOVE Gorgie Farm at the end of the month. The safety of our staff and visitors is paramount and we have introduced a range of measures to build trust and confidence.

“Lockdown has been a difficult time for everyone and while closed the farm has been a crucial local resource, acting as a food bank and providing free pet boarding. Travel restrictions remain in place and, for the immediate future, the farm will be restricted to welcoming local communities.

“The connection with the environment that we can provide is vital for the well-being of all. This is a first hugely important step in a return to normality and we ask for everyone’s patience and understanding as we resume operations in a way that works for everyone.

“While free, any donation that can be provided will be much appreciated.”

More services to move to New Sick Kids

NHS Lothian has announced that from July 20, a number of children’s outpatient services will move to the new Royal Hospital for Children and Young People (RHCYP) at the same time as remaining services from the Department of Clinical Neurosciences (DCN) complete their move.  

A phased move will see some Children’s outpatient services, including Neurology and Orthopaedics migrate, along with a number of administrative support staff.

The plan, which has been agreed with the full involvement of clinical teams, will not only help to free up space at the existing Royal Hospital for Sick Children site, but will enable NHS Lothian to continue to deliver paediatric clinics in a way which fully adheres to and supports social distancing.

Susan Goldsmith, Director of Finance and Executive Lead for the project, NHS Lothian, said: “Delays to the opening of the new Royal Hospital for Children and Young People have been well publicised, but today we celebrate this important milestone for children’s services in Lothian.

“We are delighted to make this announcement, and look forward to welcoming our first outpatients in July, who will be able to benefit from the fantastic facilities and surroundings on offer.  It goes without saying that this move would not be possible without the continued hard work and support from our project team, as well as the contractors on site.

“Whilst we celebrate this moment, I know many people will be wondering when the rest of our children’s services will open at the new site. It very much remains our aim to complete the full migration of children’s services to the RHCYP in the Autumn. We are mindful, however, of the ongoing COVID-19 situation, which may yet impact supply chains and the pace of work, as contractors on site observe safe social distancing, but at present the work is progressing on track.”

The final phase of the move of the Department of Clinical Neurosciences (DCN) will also take place in mid-July. This will see inpatient Neurosurgery and Neurology wards, along with Neurosurgery Theatres and Interventional Neuro-Radiology relocated to their new home from July 13. The very few remaining DCN outpatient services will also make the transition from the Western General Hospital to the Edinburgh Bio Quarter site at Little France.

Jacquie Campbell, Chief Officer, Acute Services, NHS Lothian, said: “This will mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the provision of these highly specialised services for our patients.

“It will also represent a huge moment for those DCN staff who have remained at the Western General Hospital to support our Covid-19 response. They are really looking forward to providing world class treatment and care in superb facilities at the new Department of Clinical Neurosciences.”

FAQs on Children’s Services Outpatients Move

How do I know where my child’s appointment will be?

Your appointment letter will tell you where your child’s appointment is being held. If it is to be held at the new Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, you will also receive a phone call to make sure you know where you are going. 

Is there parking available?

Parking is available on site. Parking stewards will direct you to the most appropriate car park. A small number of spaces are also bookable in advance, but these are reserved for patients with the greatest need based on clinical priority.

With COVID ongoing, is it safe to bring my child to hospital?

Yes. We have separate areas for patients who have tested positive for COVID-19 and for those who have not. There are also a range of enhanced infection control measures in place, such as staggered appointment times to limit the number of people in any one area of the building, physical distancing within waiting areas and enhanced cleaning in consulting rooms between each patient.

My child has an appointment in August, does this automatically mean it will be in the new building?

No. Although most outpatient services will be moving in July, some will remain at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children, until the new building is ready to be opened to all services, including inpatients. This is because some services need access to other clinical support, which will not be moving until the whole building is open. Departments that will not be moving in July include, but are not limited to: Pain, Respiratory (asthma, allergy, CF), Cardiology, Haematology Oncology, Plastics and Plastics dressings clinic.

Does the move mean that the reported problems in the building have been fixed?

Our project team, as well as the contractors on site, are continuing to work on the final stages of the remedial and enhancement work. Once this has been completed, and following final commissioning, the second phase of the move will take place. At this point, those Children’s services still situated at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children site will migrate to the new building.

Why has everything not moved across to the new building?

Remedial and enhancement work is still taking place at the new building, which means that some services cannot move at this time.

If my child has an emergency, where do I go?

Children’s Emergency Services remain at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children at Sciennes. If you need to access this service, you should continue to do so at the old site. There are no Emergency Services at the new building within the Little France site at this time.

Does this move set in motion a timeline for the full building to be open and can you tell us when that will be?

This is the first phase in the move of our Children’s Services to the Little France site. We have made significant progress on the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People and Department of Clinical Neurosciences (DCN). It is possible that changes may have to be made to the work programme and the delivery of the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People.

It has been reported that the RHCYP building will be opening in Autumn 2020, are things on track for then?

Possible changes may have to be made to the programme and the delivery of the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People.

Given the current climate, this may not come as a surprise, but because of the complexities involved and the impact of COVID-19, which could never have been predicted, the timeline for a full handover is under review.

A revised works programme is being established, which will be as close to the Autumn timeline as possible.

Lothian MSP, Miles Briggs, said: “The moving of services to the new Royal Hospital for Sick Children is long overdue, but I am glad that this could finally present the beginning of the end of what has been a national scandal surrounding the SNP Governments mismanagement of the new Sick Kids Hospital.  

“It is vital assurances are provided surrounding the remedial works and inspection regime at the hospital so that it adheres to the highest health and safety standards. I will be seeking assurances from SNP Ministers before patients and staff move to the hospital.

“Above all families across the East of Scotland will welcome the fact that we hopefully will soon see the full opening of a state of the art hospital to help our NHS professionals provide the care and treatment for our loved ones that we all want to see.

“I look forward to visiting the new Royal Hospital for Sick Children once lockdown measures have been eased and it is safe to do so.”

Generations must work together to tackle loneliness, says Esther Rantzen

  • Almost a third of Scots feel lonely at least once a week, with just under half never telling anyone about it, according to research commissioned by People’s Postcode Lottery
  • Nine out of ten Scots are unaware of services operating in their area that can provide support for those affected by loneliness
  • Charities Childline and The Silver Line share their tips, and encourage Scots to get in touch if they are suffering in silence

Campaigner and broadcaster Dame Esther Rantzen has urged Scots of every generation to work together to fight loneliness, as the nation slowly begins to emerge from lockdown.

She suffered from loneliness herself after the death of her husband, and says “It was very difficult for me to admit, because there is a real stigma which prevents people from talking about it. Since the pandemic loneliness has affected more and more people, so now we all need to reach out to each other to make sure everyone knows they are cared about and valued.”

As founder of Childline and The Silver Line, Dame Esther’s call comes as newly published research shows how loneliness affects different generations. It also reveals that many of those who regularly suffer from loneliness are reluctant to talk about it.

The data from People’s Postcode Lottery, which was compiled pre lockdown, found that loneliness is a cross-generational issue.

Almost a third of Scots (32%) feel lonely at least once a week and almost half (47%) at least once a month. Just under half (43%) of the those that experienced loneliness in the past year hadn’t told anyone about it because they didn’t want to burden others, while almost a quarter (24%) didn’t think it was a serious problem.

More than a quarter (28%) of Scots admit they have not met a new person in the last six to twelve months, with over two fifths (41%) saying this was down to lack of confidence or being too shy.

Worryingly, more than nine out of 10 Scots (91%) say they are not aware of support services in their area aimed at helping those who experience loneliness. This is slightly above the UK’s average of 87%.

The data also reveals a similar picture of loneliness across the UK. More than a third (39%) of 16-24-year-olds in the UK who had experienced loneliness have not told anyone about it because they didn’t want to burden others. A similar number (38%) said they were too embarrassed to speak about it.

When it comes to older generations in the UK, the research found that a fifth (20%) of 65-74-year-olds, and one in eight (15%) of over 75-year-olds, experience feelings of loneliness at least once a week.

Since lockdown began in mid-March more people are expected to be experiencing feelings of isolation, a result of the safety measures in place that limit contact with friends, family and work colleagues.

The charity The Silver Line, which operates a 24/7 helpline and telephone friendship services for lonely older people, has seen demand for its helpline increase by up to 31% since the pandemic began.

Similarly, The NSPCC’s Childline service has also counselled nearly 7,000 young people and children struggling during the pandemic, as many report how lonely they feel despite everyone being at home and households feeling chaotic.

Dame Esther Rantzen, founder of The Silver Line and Childline, said: “Loneliness doesn’t discriminate and can happen to anyone, at any age. We want to end social isolation and provide the emotional support and social opportunities that can help lift the spirits during what is a hugely challenging time for many.

“For older people loneliness can be a downside of living for a long time, as you might outlive many of the people who have mattered most to you, and it is almost impossible to replace such special relationships.

“Illness and disability might also make it harder to get out and about to see family and friends, meaning older people might feel they are on their own more than they used to be.

“Thanks to the support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, both The Silver Line and Childline can continue to support those that need advice or support when they’re feeling lonely, whether it’s during this crisis or in their daily lives.

“From one-on-one phone calls, to tips on how to stay active during lockdown, we want to help people of all ages feel better. We’re also encouraging young people looking after their elders, and vice versa. The Silver Line and Childline will provide the tools needed to identify the signs of loneliness as we work within our communities to provide cross-generational support and beat loneliness together.”

The players of People’s Postcode Lottery have raised £5.5million over the past year for 32 charities working to tackle loneliness – including the national galleries of Scotland, national museums Scotland, V&A Dundee (above), Sistema Scotland, Children 1st and Edinburgh International Book Festival – and is working with The Silver Line and Childline to support everyone experiencing isolating feelings during this challenging time.

Clara Govier, managing director and chair of People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “Feelings of loneliness can impact anyone, no matter your age. The surge in demand reported by charities over the past three months highlights how vital it is that we address this cross-generational problem.  

“Thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery, we are able to provide the essential funding required to support charities as we all continue working together to eradicate loneliness.”

If you are experiencing loneliness, or are concerned for someone else, please contact The Silver Line’s helpline on 0800 470 80 90 to access support. Young people can contact Childline on 0800 11 11 or visit childline.org.uk.

For more information on People’s Postcode Lottery, please visit www.postcodelottery.co.uk or Facebook and Twitter.

Tips to help people with loneliness

Childline: Ways to help a child or a young person who’s struggling include:

  1. Letting them know you’re there for them and are on their side by talking to them over text or on the phone if they don’t feel able to talk in person
  2. Being patient and staying calm and approachable, even if their behaviour upsets you. Do this by recognising that their feelings are valid and letting them know it’s okay for them to be honest about what it’s like for them to feel this way
  3. Thinking of healthy ways to cope you could do together, like yoga, breathing exercises or mindfulness
  4. Encouraging them to talk to their GP, someone at their school or Childline, especially if they’re finding it hard to talk at home
  5. Take care of yourself and get support if you need to. Try not to blame yourself for what’s happening and stay hopeful about your child’s recovery

The Silver Line – Ways to help an older people who’s struggling include:

  1. Keep in touch: phone your older relatives and friends to ask how they are – set up a rota with family and friends to make sure someone is regularly checking on them. Talking to others is a great way to relive old memories and remind everyone of the positive things in life.
  1. Show you care: by writing letters, sending postcards, or checking if someone needs any shopping or errands run. Simply being there for someone can be a great comfort and reassurance.
  1. Help family and friends get online: if older friends and family aren’t connected to the internet you may want to speak to them about getting an internet-enabled device so you can chat more easily and they might enjoy online classes or groups. It’s important to think about what your friend or relative might want to use their device for and how confident they feel with technology. Be aware of the signs of loneliness: the lockdown has brought changes to everyone’s normal activities and routines but there are some clues that could indicate a person is feeling lonely, such as someone neglecting their appearance or personal hygiene, not eating properly or putting themselves down.
  1. Share The Silver Line Helpline number: For a cheerful chat, day or night, older people can call The Silver Line: 0800 470 80 90. The Charity also offers telephone friendship with weekly chats with a friendly and supportive volunteer.

Botanics to reopen on 1st July

A warm and safe welcome back is imminent for visitors to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh when it reopens to the public on Wednesday 1st July.

As the country emerges from lockdown, teams across the organisation are gearing-up for opening the public gates on Wednesday, 1st July.

In line with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon’s Phase 2 announcement yesterday, well-considered strategies have been adopted to create a safe environment for visitors and staff at Inverleith, in Edinburgh; Benmore, in Argyll; Logan, in Galloway and Dawyck, in the Scottish Borders.

New, temporary, measures include a one-way system on a number of Garden paths and some restrictions to access of other confined areas such as shops and toilets. Staff will be using PPE.

Regius Keeper Simon Milne MBE explained: “We look forward to welcoming back visitors to all four Gardens. This connection with the environment is vital for the well-being of all.

“With the safety of our staff and visitors remaining our prime concern, we have amended operations on all sites to introduce measures that should build trust and confidence. Lockdown has been a difficult time for everyone, caution is widespread and life will remain away from what we regard as normal for some time.

“Travel restrictions remain in place and, for the immediate future, all four Gardens will be restricted to welcoming their local communities. However, this is a first hugely important step in our return to extended outreach.”

A new and important measure for the reopening of the Edinburgh flagship Garden is the introduction of time slots tickets, to be booked in advance by visitors. Time slots can be booked on-line from Wednesday, June 24. 

While admission to the Garden remains free of charge, this temporary method of entry will enable staff to limit the number of visitors accessing the Garden at any one time, gradually building capacity when all are comfortable the operational guidelines work.

The Glasshouses will remain closed, initially. The Garden will initially be open from 10am-5pm and capacity will be limited to 2,000 visitors a day.

To ensure personal distancing, entry will be through the Emergency Vehicle Access (EVA) Gate at Arboretum Place, to the south of the John Hope Gateway visitor centre, and the East Gate on Inverleith Row. Any queues will be managed to ensure a smooth flow into the Garden.

Simon Milne concluded: “It is heartening visitors enjoyed following us online while the gates were closed and we hope they will continue to do so. However, the benefits of real time interaction with the natural environment are unsurpassable. We ask for everyone’s patience, understanding and support as we resume operations steadily and in a way that works for everyone.”

Visitors returning to the four Gardens will be invited to make a donation or support the organisation by becoming a member and providing crucial support for this world-leading charity in plant science and conservation horticulture.

Looking forward, its research and conservation initiatives at home and around the world have never been more important. By supporting the organisation, supporters can make real change in tackling the challenges of the climate emergency and habitat crisis.

Face coverings mandatory on public transport from Monday

Face coverings will become mandatory on public transport from Monday (22 June) as part of operators’ preparations for progress towards recovery and to reduce the risk of transmission.

The move was set out by the First Minister in tandem with the announcement that Scotland will move through phase 2 of the routemap in stages over the next three weeks.

It will apply to all passengers and staff in public areas, although there will be exemptions especially for those who are not able to wear a face covering for specific medical reasons. Children under five will also be exempt.

Transport Secretary Michael Matheson stressed the importance of the new rules and that by wearing a face covering everyone is engaged in a collective responsibility to reduce the risk of transmission. He said: “Our message remains clear that public transport should be for key workers and those who need it most and can’t walk or cycle to work.

“Capacity is reduced to enable physical distancing and operators are not yet running full services. However, as we work towards recovery and more people return to work and further local leisure opportunities begin to open up it is vital that measures are put in place to protect everyone’s health.

“Transport operators continue to play a key role in supporting essential travel and in ensuring passenger confidence in public transport while maintaining physical distancing. The use of face coverings forms a fundamental part of gaining that public trust.

“We are asking people to take personal responsibility to do the right thing. Wearing a face covering while on public transport means you are playing your part in the collective effort to prevent the spread of coronavirus and reducing the risk to your fellow citizens.  These measures complement physical distancing and good hand hygiene, they do not replace them. ”

Roz Foyer, STUC General Secretary said: “Our overriding concern is the safety of transport workers and the general public, so we fully support mandatory face coverings for which transport unions have unanimously argued. 

“In conjunction with other key safety measures, this is a vital component in giving people the confidence and security to return safely to their work as a careful and sustainable relaxation of lock-down is enacted.”

Paul White, Director CPT Scotland said: “This is another boost to operators’ existing safety measures which are keeping buses safe for passengers and staff.

“Passengers have worked with bus operators and with each other to maintain social distancing guidelines; we will be looking to them to work with us to ensure the policy is a success”

Robert Nisbet, Director of Nations and Regions at the Rail Delivery Group, said: “Everyone taking the train wants to be able to travel safely and the vast majority want to help others do the same.

“By wearing face coverings on trains and at stations, passengers are helping to slow the spread of the virus and making them mandatory provides even greater clarity for passengers on how they can do the right thing when travelling.”

Anthony Smith, chief executive of the independent watchdog Transport Focus, said: “People thinking of returning to public transport have told us they want face coverings to be used by all passengers. Today’s decision will provide welcome clarity and will boost pressure on others to cover up.

“Transport operators must ensure that passengers who need to travel have clear advice to understand what is expected of them, who is exempt and how they can play their part to help keep one another safe.”

Advice on face coverings, including how to make one and instructions for using one, will be available on the Transport Scotland website.  This advice is being updated to include full details of the applicable exemptions.

Beer gardens staying closed “a bitter blow”

The announcement by the First Minister that outdoor areas in Scotland’s pubs and bars are to remain closed was met with shock and dismay by the Scottish Licensed Trade Association.

SLTA Managing Director, Colin Wilkinson said: “The First Minister’s announcement today is a bitter blow for Scotland’s Hospitality Sector, which expected to be able to now kick-start the rebuilding of the industry.

“With the decision now delayed until the 2nd of July, operators face another anxious period for the survival of their businesses. This may also have a knock-on effect for the re-opening of indoor areas, originally planned, all being well, for the 15th of July.

“This delay, hypothetically only 2 weeks before full reopening may be possible, with social distancing measures in place, again brings into question whether these first steps, for those who have an outdoor area or the potential to have one, will actually help businesses to start recovering from this pandemic.

“With Government guidelines due to be published soon, hospitality businesses will have very little lead-in time to prepare for complying with guidance for outdoor areas, and that alone causes problems, especially on social distancing parameters, which look like remaining at 2m, and toilet provision for customers seated outdoors.

“Research shows that unless the 2m social distancing parameters are reduced, the potential reductions in capacity could be as high as 87%.

”Without question, health and safety must come before profit, but the First Minister’s comment that ‘there is emerging evidence that places such as pubs, restaurants and gyms can be hotspots for transmission” will do nothing to alleviate customer confidence in returning to our pubs and bars.

“Already a recent survey to gauge how people feel about life post-lock down, revealed that 62% of people were unlikely to return to bars and restaurants for some time yet. The challenge of rebuilding our industry just got harder.

“The need for ongoing support for the industry is now even greater with the announcement that outdoor areas will remain closed for at least another two weeks.

“Ongoing and increased support for the months ahead is essential and when the industry does start to rebuild, Governments, both north and south of the border, must not see this as a marker to further reduce support for the industry.”

A survey of 22,000 pub goers and beer drinkers across the UK polled by the consumer organisation CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, has found that two thirds of people are confident to get back down the pub when their local re-open. 

The survey found that 65% had confidence in going back to pubs, with only 4% saying they were ‘extremely unconfident’ about returning to their local.

The news comes as the UK Government confirmed that pubs are likely to start re-opening from 4th July and the Scottish Government stating that pubs north of the border can begin to re-open from 15th July.

CAMRA National Chairman Nik Antona said: “We know that during lockdown people have really missed going to their local to enjoy a pint with family and friends.

“It’s really encouraging hat our survey shows most people are confident that they can safely return to pubs, whether that’s outside in beer gardens or inside following social distancing measures.

“As pubs re-open in the next few weeks in England and then in Scotland it is essential, they get support from local communities – especially as many will face reduced trade as a result of social distancing. 

“For people who can’t get to their local, because they’re shielding, and for those pubs that can’t re-open, because they are smaller or because their space isn’t suitable, CAMRA will continue to support those pubs offering take-away and delivery services while things get back to normal.

“Over the next few weeks, I’d like to encourage everyone to play their part in helping pubs get back on their feet either by supporting them in person or from your own home. Now, more than ever, we need to use our pubs or else risk losing them forever.”

CAMRA’s beer ordering app ‘Brew2You’ to allows people to order take-aways and deliveries from pubs in their area, whilst the ‘Pulling Together’ campaign page at www.camra.org.uk/pullingtogether lists services from pubs, breweries and cider producers across the country.

Changes to Lothian bus services from Sunday

Lothian Buses will introduce an update to its critical services network from Sunday 21 June to help keep key workers across Edinburgh and the Lothians moving during this time.

Tram construction works in Leith will also start on 20th June, meaning that our services will be unable to serve Leith Walk northbound. Services 7, 14, 16, 22, 25, 49 will be diverted via London Road and Easter Road, heading north only and Service 11 will be diverted via Annandale Street, Bellevue Road, Mcdonald Road and Broughton Road on journeys to Ocean Terminal.

Since the introduction of the Critical Services Network on Sunday 29 March, teams across Lothian have continued to analyse customer travel patterns and customer feedback to ensure the business is meeting the needs of as many key workers and essential travellers as possible.

Customers can view updated timetables and plan journeys on Lothian’s website or through the Lothian app which offers journey planning tools and real-time service updates, all integrated with Google Maps.

It can be downloaded from tfeapp.com.

Network changes include:

Services with minor timetable changes: 1, 34, 106, 124, X27

Services with revised timetables: 3, 4, 5, 8, 11, 14, 16, 19, 21, 22, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 33, 35, 37, 38, 47, 48, 49, Airlink 100, 113, 43, X18

Services with revised route and timetables: 2, 7, 41, 49, 140, X28, 400

Service 2

Route extended to operate between Hermiston Gait and The Jewel.

Service 7

Route extended to Western Harbour on Monday to Saturday daytime, evening and Sunday journeys will continue to terminate at Newhaven.

Journeys towards Western Harbour will divert via Easter Road due to Tram construction works.

Service 41

Revised timetable with the route extended to operate between Cramond and Kings’ Buildings.

Service 49

Route extended to Fort Kinnaird.  On journeys to and from The Fort, buses will no longer access the car park at Asda The Jewel and will continue along Milton Link instead.

Journeys towards Fort Kinnaird will divert via Easter Road due to Tram construction works.

EastCoastbuses 140

Route extended to operate between Musselburgh and Penicuik Town Centre on Monday to Saturdays.

Lothiancountry X28

Monday-Saturday daytime frequency increased to every 30 minutes between Bathgate and Livingston.  Short-working buses will terminate at Livingston Morrisons.

East Calder, Mid Calder and Edinburgh will continue to be served hourly.

Skylink 400

Route extended to operate from Fort Kinnaird to Gyle Centre.

The following services are not altered: 20, 44, 63, 139

The following services do not operate: 6, 10, 12, 23, 36, 42, 45, 61, 67, 200, 300, X12, X15, X25, X26, X29, X31, X33, X37, X44, X47, N3, N7, N11, N16, N22, N25, N26, N30, N31, N34, N37, N44, 104, 125, 126, 127, X5, X7, N106, N113, N124, X17, X38, X43, EX2, 275, 280, 287, N28, N43

Timetables can be downloaded below:

Lothian Buses Network – 21 June 2020

East Coast Buses Network – 21 June 2020

Lothian Country Network – 21 June 2020

Phase 2: ‘We must still exercise care and caution’

Further changes to lockdown restrictions in Scotland have been announced by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. The easing of some lockdown measures are the latest steps on the road to the ‘new normal’ – but the First Minister warned that Scots continue to exercise ‘care and caution’.

Those shielding are now able to go outdoors for exercise, and from today (Friday, 19 June) those shielding can take part in non-contact outdoor activities and can meet one other household, in groups of no more than eight outdoors. Physical distancing and strict hygiene measures must still be followed, even if you live with those people.

Also from today, anyone living alone or only with children under 18 can form an ‘extended household group’ with one other household. This does not apply to households with people who are shielding.

Extended household groups can meet indoors with overnight stays permitted and without physical distancing, but any other household meetings must remain strictly outdoors and at a two metre distance. Members of an extended household group should not form a similar arrangement with any other household.

From Monday, 29 June some indoor workplaces can re-open, including factories, labs and warehouses, subject to strict physical distancing, hygiene and health and safety guidance, but non-essential offices and call centres should remain closed.

All retail premises with outdoor entrances and exits can also re-open from 29 June. Ahead of that date local authorities and retailers are urged to plan for the responsible use of public space, such as removing unnecessary street furniture, designing systems to manage queuing and pedestrian thoroughfares, and implementing adequate measures to support physical distancing.

It remains government advice to wear a face covering in enclosed areas where physical distancing is difficult, such as shops, and from Monday, 22 June, it will become mandatory to wear a face covering on all public transport.

There was disappointment for those who were looking forward to a long-awaited drink in a beer garden this weekend. Drinkers learned they must wait a wee while longer.

A date for the re-opening of outdoor hospitality cannot be safely set at this stage. A further update will be provided on 2 July. Further advice from the Scientific Advisory Group has been commissioned based on emerging evidence suggesting communal spaces such as hospitality can present a higher risk of transmission.

Physical distancing guidance remains to stay two metres apart from people outside your household. Advice has also been commissioned on circumstances and settings, including schools and transport, where with additional mitigation it may be possible to balance the risk of a shorter distance.

Announcing the measures, the First Minister said: “Thank you for the personal sacrifices you’re making to tackle this pandemic. You’ve demonstrated remarkable dedication to our national wellbeing – that effort should never be underestimated, and my thanks can never be overstated.

“Because of your actions, we can now – gradually and carefully – change some restrictions.

“In deciding when to implement each measure in our staged approach, we have to think about how a decision in one area affects life in other areas. Our test and protect system is important to our gradual return to living more freely while suppressing the virus, and early indications suggest it’s already working well.

“I know for those shielding, the requirement to stay indoors at all times, without meeting up with anyone, has been incredibly tough. I hope that this change to our advice can provide a real improvement to your quality of life, without significantly increasing the risks you face.

“Our extended household groups will allow a grandparent who lives on their own to form a group with another household in their family, a single parent and their children to join with another household for support, and it will allow a non-cohabiting couple, where at least one of them lives alone, to be reunited. It will, I hope, help to ease some of the isolation which is one of the cruellest consequences of tackling this virus.

“I appreciate today’s announcement will be hard for the hospitality industry but I want to give an assurance that we will continue to support preparations for re-opening.

“Ultimately, this is a social bargain. The prize for going a bit more carefully now is a recovery that is much more sustainable and will, I hope, allow more normality to be restored to our everyday lives while suppressing the virus.”

Route map Phase 2 changes

From Friday 19 June:
• Those advised to shield will be able to take part in non-contact activities such as golf, angling, kayaking, and meet members of another household outdoors, up to a suggested maximum of eight in the group. Most importantly in both instances, strict physical distancing of two meters must be followed at all times, and they should wash their hands for at least 20 seconds when they return home
• A household not shielding can meet two other households, outside, up to a suggested maximum of eight people in the group
• Those visiting another household in a private garden will be permitted to use the household toilet, with increased hygiene measures urged. This does not include a household of someone who is shielding
• Single person households, including single parents households with children under the age of 18, will be able to form an extended household with another
• People should continue to stay in their local area as much as possible and should not travel more than around five miles for leisure or recreation

From Monday 22 June
• Construction sector to implement remaining stages of their own phased return
• Dental practices open to see patients with urgent care needs
• Resumption of professional sport, following public health advice
• Places of worship open for individual prayer and contemplation
• Limited College and University staff return for essential preparations for re-opening in Phase 3
• Mandatory face coverings on public transport (please see Transport Scotland for more detail)
• Accommodation can be provided for workers whose workplaces are open in the relevant phase and who need to stay away from home for work

From Monday 29 June
• Indoor non-office workplaces (including factories, warehouses and labs) can resume once relevant guidance is implemented. This does not include non-essential office, call-centre, culture, leisure and hospitality premises
• Restrictions of house moves relaxed
• Public gardens and zoos can open but should remain limited to local access only in this phase
• Outdoor sports courts reopen
• Playgrounds can reopen
• Registration offices can open for priority tasks
• Marriages and civil partnerships allowed with minimal attendees outside
• Street-access retail can re-open once guidance is implemented. Interiors of shopping malls/centres remain closed for non-essential shops until Phase 3
• Reintroduction of some chronic disease management
• Phased resumption of some screening services
• Phased safe resumption of essential optometry and ophthalmology services
• Outdoor markets can reopen once guidance is implemented

Scaling up throughout Phase 2
• Public transport will increase services. Capacity will remain constrained due to physical distancing requirements – and active travel remains the preferred mode of travel.
• Increase in health care provisions for pent up demand, urgent referrals and triage of routine services
• Planning with COSLA and partners to support and, if needed, review social care and care home services
• Priority referrals to secondary care
• Public services will continue to resume and scale up, including services such as visiting support to Housing First Tenants and the resumption of area-based energy efficiency schemes

Phase 2 route map

Phase 2 guidance

Further guidance will be published before the current shielding period is due to end on 31 July.