Month: September 2020

Bucking the beauty trend

Self-contained, separately ventilated salons offer a more controlled approach, ensuring an uplift in post-pandemic treatments

According to the National Health and Beauty Federation, the beauty industry has suffered approximately £1.75b in losses since the beginning of the pandemic*.

With government guidelines being relaxed and reintroduced daily, businesses are at a loss to know which services to offer and how to host clients safely.  However, the Salon Studios business model offers the perfect solution to post-pandemic pampering for COVID anxious and higher risk categories, as well as those who simply wish to have more control: by reducing their exposure to the masses whilst completely personalising the experience. 

A reinvention of the traditional salon ownership, Salon Studios offers self-contained, separately ventilated, move-in ready salons, for self-employed salon professionals who would like to provide a one-to-one service for clients.

This standard has allowed salonpreneurs to get back to work quicker and easier, without the massive overheads, and feel safe in their salon as they operate a one-salon-one-client model. Short leases and low weekly fees have meant an influx of interested parties contacting Salon Studios founder, Roz Colthart, so much so the first location in Corstorphine, Edinburgh, is filled and there is a significant waiting list.

Roz Colthart explained: “When the pandemic hit, we at Salon Studios, like everywhere else, were worried about how this would impact the industry.  However, the demand we have witnessed has been completely unprecedented.

“Not only have we had enquiries for new locations from over 20 cities across the country, but we have had so many more enquiries in Edinburgh  that we have started looking for another two venues within Edinburgh and Glasgow.

“As a businessperson – and someone who has worked incredibly hard to get this concept off the ground – it is hard for me to turn salonpreneurs away because we currently don’t have the space. But location is key and so until I find the right places to build our next Salon Studios location, those on the waitlist will be offered help via our Salonpreneur website and with tips and tricks from our active social media.”

Continuing to build on the success of not only the Salon Studio physical location, but also the growth of the ‘salonpreneur’ community, Roz Colthart is developing an app that will support people in the business. The app will be used in conjunction with the website which unites self-employed salon professionals, inviting them to share insight amongst each other whilst utilizing tools provided by Salon Studios.

Current salonpreneur and Salon Studios tenant, Tammy, comments on why this all works: “It is the most amazing concept I’ve ever come across and don’t know why anyone hasn’t thought of it before!

“It is so modern, bright and airy. The individually vented rooms are absolutely perfect for the safety guidelines that we have to adhere to during these strange times. I love every part of it, and what makes it even better is the amazing owner Roz! She has been so amazing from the get go! Anything I’ve needed help with, she has been there, and I appreciate every little piece of help I’ve received.”

2021 is set to be a big year with the ongoing growth of the salonpreneur community, as well as search for locations two and three. On top of this Ms Colthart is now set to offer franchising opportunities from her third-year trading, which is almost unheard of, let alone in the midst of a pandemic.

“The way our units are set up promotes luxury, wellbeing and most of all, safety; that is something we can no longer take for granted and has been the driving force in our exponential growth.”

Based in Corstorphine, each salon studio  includes  water and electricity costs, a PPL music licence, health and safety assessment, fire management program, rubbish collection, high-speed wifi, public area cleaning, CCTV security and 24-hour access as standard.

For more information visit www.salonstudios.co.uk

Ending Scotland’s throwaway culture

Experts advise on replacing single-use items

A new report sets out how we must focus on reducing our dependence on single-use items and highlights the impact the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has had on people’s behaviour, with new single-use items becoming part of everyday life.

It proposes five principles that can be used to consider how single-use items like cups, cutlery and sauce sachets can be reduced or replaced with alternatives to help combat waste and support Scotland’s journey to net zero.

It’s the second report to be published by a panel of experts tasked by the Scottish Government with advising how we can reduce our reliance on single-use items. Their first report, on disposable beverage cups, recommended a charge should be introduced.

The panel’s second suite of advice is intended to provide long-term support to decision making on reducing or removing single-use items from circulation, focusing attention on current problem items but also offering the framework of principles to help assess action when new single-use items become prevalent. 

Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham said: “We were making substantial progress against single-use plastics before the Coronavirus pandemic and await evidence about the extent to which it has changed public attitudes and consumption of plastics and other single-use items.

“What is clear is that we must learn from our experience of lockdown – how we work, how we travel, how we live – and apply this to our approach to becoming a net-zero society.

“As this report points out, a thriving circular economy will play a critical role in ending Scotland’s contribution to climate change, and we must all – government, businesses, industry and individuals – be a part of driving this.

“I welcome this report, which will support our continuing journey to net zero and am grateful to the panel for the considered and expert advice they have provided .”

Chair of the Expert Panel on Environmental Charges and Other Measures Dame Sue Bruce said: “I hope that the Five Principles for Tackling Single-use Items will be useful to policy makers and organisations who want to use this opportunity to develop greener ways of working as they prepare for the “new normal” by considering how they can reduce dependence on single-use items and to focus on being part of the green recovery.

“There has never been a better time to take steps to reduce environmental harm arising from our everyday habits. This must continue to be a priority for us all if we are to achieve the goal of being a net-zero society by 2045.”

The report Ending the Throwaway Culture: Five Principles for Tackling Single-use Items is available on the Scottish Government website.

The five principles recommended by the Expert Panel to help policy design on single-use items are:

  1. Essential Functions: Is the single-use item essential?
  2. Evidence: What is known about the problem?
  3. Equality: In solving the issue can we ensure equality?
  4. Engagement: Who can tell us more about the issue?
  5. Entire System: How is single-use reinforced by current practices, habits and infrastructure?

Six tips to deal with weeds

Taking time when it comes to watering, making a chemical-free weed killer and mulching are some of the ways experts have suggested to keep on top of pesky weeds.

Gardening experts from GardeningExpress.co.uk have revealed six tips on how to stop, and prevent, weeds growing in a garden. 

It’s important to ensure that the whole plant is removed when picking weeds, but pay particular attention to the roots as these hardy plants will soon grow back if only the top parts are removed.

Considering weed-suppressing materials may also be an idea if placing gravel, paving or decking onto a weed-prone area.

A spokesperson for GardeningExpress.co.uk said: “Weeding can be a real pain. It can often seem like as soon as you’ve picked a weed there are ten more starting to grow in its place. 

“They can make an outdoor space look unkempt so it’s important to keep on top of them where possible.

“By following these tips you should be able to train and remove the weeds from your garden, reducing the amount of labour needed.”

These are GardeningExpress.co.uk’s tips for weeding:

1. Watering

Just like flowers, weeds also need water to be able to grow. If you’re watering your plants make sure you try and avoid the areas where weeds are, as this will encourage them to grow. Do this by using a watering can with a smaller spout and by just watering the roots of the flowers, instead of the leaves.

2. Hand pulling

Picking out weeds by hand or with a hand fork will work for annual or ephemeral weeds that only last up to a year. Perennial weeds die over winter and re-grow each spring meaning they are very deep-rooted. Just removing the tops will not affect these weeds.

3. Roots

If you are struggling with perennial weeds, grab a spade and try to remove all of the weed, most importantly its roots. If not, the deep roots will ensure the weed keeps growing even after you’ve removed the top. Depending on the length of the roots it may disturb the soil and other flower roots around it. 

4. Materials

If you have a particularly bad weed problem, using a weed-suppressant fabric may be a good idea. These groundcover fabrics should be laid over soil which has recently been cleared of weeds to stop re-growth or new weeds establishing. Materials can include plastic sheeting, woven materials and spun materials, each coming with their own advantages and disadvantages.  

5. Mulching

Placing a thick mulch on flowerbeds will help make it more difficult for the weeds to grow through. The mulch needs to be deep for it to be effective – around 10-15cm should help starve the weeds of sunlight and water. 

6. Non-chemical weed killer

You can create your own weed killer which doesn’t use chemicals from mixing vinegar, water and soap. Spray it onto the weeds in the garden. For some weeds one spritzing should be enough to kill them, but others may need spraying a few more times until it works. 

Near Me: Support for video appointments

Digital consultations helping people get the right care in the right place

Patients and clinicians have welcomed the expansion of virtual medical and mental health appointments following the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, according to a survey.

The Near Me video system, originally designed to serve rural communities, was scaled up from March to ensure patient and staff safety during the pandemic.

Of 5,400 responses to the survey, 87 per cent of the public backed video consultations while 94 per cent of clinicians favoured a digital first approach.

It comes weeks after the 2020 Programme for Government included a commitment to make Near Me a default option for all healthcare consultations.

While face to face appointments will always be an option, video consultations will give patients greater choice, reduce the need for unnecessary travel and ensure the right care, in the right place.

Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said: “During this first phase of the pandemic people followed our guidance closely, using their local pharmacy, GP practice, local minor injuries unit or calling NHS 24 when they needed medical and mental health advice and help. While the NHS has remained open during the pandemic, we need people to continue to access the right care in the right place.

“I am pleased patients and clinicians recognise the benefits of the Near Me service which offers people more choice over how they access health and care services and more flexibility in their day to day lives. As we look ahead to winter we will better support people to ensure they have the information they need to get the right care, closer to home.”

The results of the Near Me public engagement can be accessed online.

Mental health charity offers practical advice on supporting others

Samaritans Scotland has partnered with the Scottish Government’s Clear Your Head campaign to offer advice on being there for others during these challenging times.

A new video created by volunteers of the charity encourages people to continue checking in on each other and shares practical tips on supporting friends and family who may be struggling with their mental health.

The tips include:

  • Ask how someone is doing and let them talk openly and honestly
  • When talking, put away your phone and other distractions to show that you’re focused on them
  • Ask open questions, rather than questions that can be answered with a yes or no
  • Repeat back what someone has told you to make sure you’ve understood what they’re saying
  • If you can’t be there in person, you can send a message or talk by phone or video chat
  • Supporting someone can be tough on you too – so make sure you look after yourself and ask for help if you need it

Recognising that these times remain challenging for everyone, Minister for Mental Health Clare Haughey is encouraging people to look after themselves and each other.

Ms Haughey commented: “These have been challenging times for all of us, however this year we have seen people talking more openly and honestly about their mental health than ever before, and I really hope that is a lasting legacy of the pandemic.

“Feelings of stress and worry are understandable as things continue to change, and it’s so important we continue to be kind to ourselves and look out for each other. Remember that help and support is available if you need to talk to someone about how you are feeling.”

The Clear Your Head campaign was launched by the Scottish Government to encourage people to take simple steps to take better care of their mental health and wellbeing during the pandemic.

As well as looking out for each other and keeping in touch with friends and family, this includes keeping to a routine, staying active, taking a break, making time to do something you enjoy, and asking for help if you need it.

The campaign website – clearyourhead.scot – also signposts sources of help and advice including NHS Inform, and helplines including Samaritans, NHS24, Breathing Space and SAMH.

Rachel Cackett, Executive Director of Samaritans Scotland, said: “Since the coronavirus pandemic began we’ve all become more aware of the importance of staying connected with family and friends.

“At Samaritans we know how powerful making time to listen and talk can be. For someone who is going through a difficult time, a simple conversation can remind them that they are not alone and encourage them to share what they’re feeling. 

“We know that people can sometimes feel unsure of how to check in on someone they care about, especially at this time when meeting in person if more difficult. But this video shows that – whether it’s face to face, over the phone, messenger or video – there are simple steps we can all take to be there for one another.”

For information and advice visit clearyourhead.scot.

You can view the video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KoeJu5zr7tc

Carrot and stick measures to be introduced to encourage self-isolation in England

New package announced to support and enforce self-isolation

People in England will be required by law to self-isolate from 28 September, supported by payment of £500 for those on lower incomes who cannot work from home and have lost income as a result.

New fines for those breaching self-isolation rules will start at £1,000 – bringing this in line with the penalty for breaking quarantine after international travel – but could increase to up to £10,000 for repeat offences and for the most egregious breaches, including for those preventing others from self-isolating.

For example, this could include business owners who threaten self-isolating staff with redundancy if they do not come to work, sending a clear message that this will not be tolerated.

A number of steps will be taken to make sure that people are complying with the rules, these include:

  • NHS Test and Trace call handlers making regular contact with those self-isolating, with the ability to escalate any suspicion of non-compliance to Local Authorities and local police;
  • Using police resources to check compliance in highest incidence areas and in high-risk groups, based on local intelligence;
  • Investigating and prosecuting high-profile and egregious cases of non-compliance; and
  • Acting on instances where third parties have identified others who have tested positive, but are not self-isolating.

Recognising that self-isolation is one of the most powerful tools for controlling the transmission of Covid-19, this new Test and Trace Support payment of £500 will ensure that those on low incomes are able to self-isolate without worry about their finances.

Just under 4 million people who are in receipt of benefits in England will be eligible for this payment, which will be available to those who are required to self-isolate from 28 September.

Local Authorities will be working quickly to set up these self-isolation support schemes and we expect them to be in place by 12 October. Those who start to self-isolate from 28 September will receive backdated payments once the scheme is set up in their Local Authority.

This financial support comes as the government places a legal requirement on people to self-isolate when instructed to by NHS Test and Trace and introduces tougher fines for breaking the rules.

Many people are following the rules around self-isolation, but these steps will make sure more do and help ensure the public do not unknowingly spread the virus.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “The best way we can fight this virus is by everyone following the rules and self-isolating if they’re at risk of passing on coronavirus. And so nobody underestimates just how important this is, new regulations will mean you are legally obliged to do so if you have the virus or have been asked to do so by NHS Test and Trace.

“People who choose to ignore the rules will face significant fines. We need to do all we can to control the spread of this virus, to prevent the most vulnerable people from becoming infected, and to protect the NHS and save lives.

“And while most people are doing their absolute level best to comply with the rules, I don’t want to see a situation where people don’t feel they are financially able to self-isolate.

“That’s why we’re also introducing a new £500 Test and Trace Support payment for those on low incomes who are required by NHS Test and Trace to remain at home to help stop the spread of the virus.”

Change to flu vaccination process at Crewe Medical Centre this winter

Crewe Medical Centre will not be carrying out flu vaccinations in the surgery this winter.

Instead there will a drive-thru and walk-thru hub instead which will commence mid October. Details of where this will take place and dates will be confirmed at the start of October.

Alternatively you can contact your local pharmacy.

Wardie Bay Beachwalk cleanup

Thanks again to my team! Just a bit sad that we couldn’t invite everyone this year. Here are some of the nasties we found washed up and added to our beachwatch survey #17 (writes KAREN BATES).

We found dozens of metal bands and wires from industrial packaging, a syringe, small fragments of disastrous polystyrene which resemble seafood for sea creatures and #nurdles!

I went back to do a #NurdleHunt as we saw dozens during our litter survey.

I counted 331 in under an hour. There was some huge litter such as a gas canister and a tyre, but we mostly recorded #plastic fragments under 2.5cm which are highly dodgy for #marinelife.

#plasticpollution

#GreatBritishBeachClean

ALL PICTURES: Karen Bates (Wardie Bay Beachwatch)

Tackling violence against women and girls

£4.25m extra funding for frontline services

Women and children experiencing or at risk of violence and domestic abuse will have increased access to support, with £4.25 million of additional funding for charities and projects across Scotland.

The additional investment will help respond to an increase in demand from victims of abuse for support services during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

More staff, increased hours for centres and helplines, improvements to IT and new digital resources and training will all allow services to be up-scaled so that more people can quickly and easily access help.

Updated guidance, developed in partnership with COSLA, is also already being used by local authorities to keep women and children safe.

Equalities Minister Christina McKelvie said: “The greater risks to women and children of domestic abuse with referrals to frontline services increasing during the pandemic is a major concern. It is atrocious that this is the case but we are focused on ensuring that frontline services can meet the increased demand for support.

“This extra funding will help to ensure these vital services are still able to provide support to people across the country, and the scale and innovation of these projects will provide a lifeline to many women and families.

“Any kind of violence is unacceptable and the safety and wellbeing needs of women and children need to be protected – that is even more important during a pandemic. Police Scotland continue to prioritise domestic abuse cases so I would also encourage anyone suffering violence and domestic abuse not to hesitate to get the support they need.”

Dr Marsha Scott, Chief Executive of Scottish Women’s Aid, said: “Our local Women’s Aid groups have shown extraordinary resilience and creativity in rapidly redesigning their services to continue supporting those experiencing domestic abuse throughout the pandemic. The challenges they’ve faced have been huge as COVID-19 has given abusers more tools to control and harm women and children. 

“This injection of financial support will provide some much-needed stability for groups against a back drop of precarious, patchwork local funding. As lockdown and other measures ease, our local groups are anticipating even more demand for their specialist services as survivors begin to have more opportunities to seek support.

“Additionally, if faced with a second wave of the virus, this funding will strengthen the responses of groups and allow them to build on the progress they have made in delivering services remotely. This support from the Scottish Government will help local Women’s Aid services prepare to meet those needs and will mean that women, children and young people experiencing domestic abuse can access the help and advice they want, when they want it.” 

Read the report Coronavirus (COVID-19): domestic abuse and other forms of violence against women and girls during Phases 1, 2 and 3 of Scotland’s route map (22 May to 11 August 2020)

Read more on Equally Safe, the Scottish Government’s strategy to prevent and eradicate violence against women and girls.

Funding is confirmed to March 2021 and will be indicative to September 2021, subject to budgets for the 2021-22 financial year. 

A list of the funded projects is below:

Organisation/ProjectAmount 2020/21Indicative Amount 2021/22
Aberdeen Cyrenians£32,739£32,239
Action for Children Western Isles£720£0
Bridge funding for local CEDAR programmes£67,158£67,158
Children 1st – Scottish Borders£18,000£18,000
Committed to Ending Abuse£16,000£16,000
Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault West Lothian£30,000£30,000
Dumfries and Stewartry Women’s Aid£27,500£27,500
Equally Safe at School (Rape Crisis Scotland/Zero Tolerance)£11,684£11,684
Kingdom Abuse Survivors Project£16,500£16,500
Moray Rape Crisis Centre£5,842£5,842
Moray Women’s Aid£12,517£12,517
Rape Crisis Scotland – additional capacity for support£676,584£676,584
Rape Crisis Scotland – Helpline£31,712£31,712
Rape Crisis Scotland – National Advocacy Project£242,907£242,907
Rape Crisis Scotland – refresh funding services model£15,000£0
Red Cross – supporting vulnerable women£4,963£4,963
Respect Men’s Advice Line£14,357£14,357
Respekt (City of Edinburgh Council)£24,380£24,380
SACRO Another Way£20,000£20,000
Saheliya£38,097£38,097
SAY Women£23,308£21,692
Scottish Women’s Aid – enhanced support for women, children and young people through affiliated groups£637,500£672,219
Scottish Women’s Aid – improving digital infrastructure and communications for affiliated groups£68,000£68,000
Scottish Women’s Aid – affiliated groups staff health and wellbeing£53,000£53,000
TDAS Barnardos£25,000£25,000
West Dunbartonshire Council Support Service£24,966£24,966

Latest update from Citizens’ Assembly

The report from Weekend 5 of the Assembly has now been published, and you can see all the outputs including the livestream recordings on our Weekend 5 page. 

Convener Kate Wimpress has also published a blog where she reflects on the last weekend. 



We look forward to meeting again online on 3 and 4 October, and hope you can join us by watching the livestream on our homepage. 

Best wishes,

Citizens’ Assembly Secretariat