Day: August 4, 2021

Classic tales and Chinese poetry to be translated in Scots

Ten new books awarded Scots Publication Grant

Ten new books in Scots have been awarded funding by the Scots Language Publication Grant.

Now in its third year, the Scots Language Publication Grant was created by the Scots Language Resource Network to support Scots publishers and to encourage Scots writers. It is funded by the Scottish Government and administered by Scottish Book Trust, the national charity changing lives through reading and writing.

This year’s successful awardees include translations of well-loved stories such as Aesop’s Fables by Matthew Fitt and James Robertson, and Lemony Snicket by Thomas Clark. Brian Holton will also reimagine poetry of Li Bai and Du Fu (two of the most renowned poets of Ancient China) to new audiences.

Applications were assessed by a panel with expertise in Scots and publishing, including a representative of the Scots Language Centre, Scottish Book Trust and Waterstones.

Three publishers based in Edinburgh were awarded Scots Publication Grants: Itchy Coo (an imprint of Black & White Publishing), Leamington Books and Taproot Press.

The successful titles are:

  • A Series o Scunnersome Events, Book the First: The Boggin Beginnin (Itchy Coo) by Thomas Clark and illustrated by Brett Helquist
  • A Working Class State of Mind (Leamington Books) by Colin Burnett
  • Berries Fae Banes (Tippermuir) by Jim Macintosh
  • Hard Roads an Cauld Hairst Winds: Li Bai an Du Fu in Scots (Taproot Press) by Brian Holton
  • Laird Graham an the Kelpie (Giglets Education) by Jax McGhee
  • Norlan Lichts (Rymour Books) by Sheena Blackhall, Sheila Templeton and Lesley Benzie
  • Phantom the Ginger Mog (Wee Stoorie Press) by Kirsty Johnson and illustrated by Mandy Sinclair
  • The Day It Never Got Dark In Dundee (Rymour Books) by Ian Spring
  • The Itchy Coo Book o Aesop’s Fables in Scots (Itchy Coo) by Matthew Fitt and James Robertson, illustrated by Emma Chichester Clark
  • Wheesht (Foggie Toddle Books) by Susi Briggs and illustrated by William Gorman. 

The Scots Language Publication Grant provides assistance for publishing new work (including translated texts), reprinting existing historical or culturally significant work, and also effective marketing and promotion of existing and new work.

Education Secretary, Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “The Scottish Government is pleased to continue to support the Scots Publication Grant for a third year.

“We have seen how this funding can develop talent while widening accessibility of a variety of genres, with titles both new and old, to the Scots speaking community. My congratulations to those who have been successful this year.”

Rhona Alcorn, CEO of Dictionaries of the Scots Language and Chair of The Scots Language Resource Network, said: “The Scots Language Publication Grant plays a hugely important role in supporting Scots as a contemporary literary medium.

“This year’s winning titles illustrate the breadth of creative work in Scots today and truly include something for everyone.”

Marc Lambert, CEO of Scottish Book Trust, said: “Scottish Book Trust is pleased to offer Scots Publication Grants to these ten new titles.

“The diversity in genre and subject matter of the successful awardees is fascinating: from children’s stories to poetry; from classic tales we grew up with, to ancient Chinese poetry. Our thanks to the Scottish Government and the Scots Language Resource Network for making this grant possible.”

Vaccinations on offer for 16 and 17 year olds in Scotland

All young people 16 to 17 years of age will now be offered the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination in Scotland.

In line with the latest advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), they will be offered a first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.

From Friday (6 August), people who are 16 or 17 in mainland Scotland will be invited to register their interest through the online portal at NHS Inform, and will then be sent an appointment via SMS or email.

Eligible young people in Shetland, Orkney and Western Isles will be contacted by their health board and invited to attend clinics.

Alternatively, drop-in clinics will be available for 16 to 17-years-olds. The start date for clinics opening for this age group will be confirmed shortly.

Anyone who doesn’t register an interest or attend a drop-in clinic, once open, will be sent an appointment invitation through the post. It is expected that everyone in this age group will have been offered a vaccination appointment by the end of September.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Gregor Smith said: “In line with the latest JCVI advice we will now be offering a first dose of the COVID-19 vaccination to young people aged between 16 and 17.

“The programme has always carefully assessed all the benefits and potential risks and offered vaccine to groups where this benefit is clear. The research and evidence shows that is the case for this age group and they should now be called forward for an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccine.

“We will continue to follow the expert JCVI advice and will await the outcome of analysis of data on second doses for this age group and any additional future advice on vaccination for those in the 12-15 age group.”

Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “Getting vaccinated has never been easier and from Friday, 16 and 17-year-olds in mainland Scotland will be able to book an appointment through the online portal. We know drop-in clinics are a convenient way for young people to get vaccinated and will announce shortly when these clinics will be open for this age group.

“Vaccination continues to be the best way to protect yourself and those around you and I urge anyone who is eligible to take up the offer of the vaccine.

“The national vaccination programme has been a huge success and without doubt, represents our best way out of the pandemic.”

Background

  • In addition to 16 to 17-year-olds, we have started offering COVID-19 vaccinations to children and young people who are from key groups; and are between 12 to 17 years. Vaccinations will be offered to:
  • 12 to 15-year-olds with severe neuro-disabilities
  • 12 to 15-year-olds with Down’s syndrome
  • 12 to 15-year-olds with underlying conditions resulting in immunosuppression
  • 12 to 15-year-olds with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD)
  • 12 to 15-year-olds with severe learning disabilities
  • 12 to 17-year-olds who have a diagnosed learning/intellectual disability (mild or moderate)
  • 16-year-olds who have any of these above conditions or  underlying conditions that place them at higher risk of serious COVID-19 (that were not 16 at the time of the previous invite for all 16 and 17-year-olds in March 2021)
  • young people aged 12 years and above who live in the same household of persons (adults or children) who are immunosuppressed (we previously invited over 16s who are household contacts of those on the shielding list)

England, Wales and Northern Ireland will also be taking the JCVI advice.

JCVI statement on COVID-19 vaccination of children and young people 

Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said: Today’s advice from the independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) means more young people aged 16 and over can benefit from COVID-19 vaccines. I have accepted their expert recommendations and I have asked the NHS to prepare to vaccinate those eligible as soon as possible.

“The JCVI have not recommended vaccinating under-16s without underlying health conditions but will keep its position under review based on the latest data.

“Those aged 12 to 15 with severe neuro-disabilities, Down’s Syndrome, immunosuppression and multiple or severe learning disabilities, as well as people in this age group who are household contacts of individuals who are immunosuppressed, are already eligible for vaccination.

“JCVI will continue to review data and provide updates on at risk groups aged 12 to 15 and whether any additional groups will be added.

“COVID-19 vaccines have saved more than 60,000 lives and prevented 22 million infections in England alone. They are building a wall of defence against the virus and are the best way to protect people from serious illness. I encourage everyone who is eligible to come forward for both their jabs as quickly as possible.”

Granton Goes Greener looks forward to Climate Festival

Granton Goes Greener are very excited to be part of @EdClimateFest on 14th August at Leith Links …

We are very excited to have our stall with FREE clothes, shoes and some books at the festival.

Plus we are preparing a basic weaving workshop, where we will be teaching how to do weaving with upcycled materials like T-shirt yarn or plastic fruit nets.

And we will have some weaving kits to give away, so you could take them home and practise!

Remember, the Climate Festival is taking place in Leith Links Park this year on Saturday 14 August between 12 noon and 7pm.

If you have any plastic fruit nets ( from your lemons, onions etc), we would happilly accept them at Share’n’Wear on Friday between 11:30 am and 1 pm or you can bring them to the festival.

Morrisons launches Back to School Packs to support families in need

– Back To School Pick Up Packs containing essential stationery items to be distributed to local schools and community groups –

– New scheme follows the success of food packs in store that has so far seen over £1 million of food donated to those in need in 2021 –

Morrisons is giving customers the opportunity to support children and their families who may struggle with the cost of going back to school by creating stationery Pick Up Packs in store which can be bought and donated in time for the new school year.

Pre-packed bags will be available to purchase each day and will contain popular items needed to get children ready for returning to school such as pens, pencils, rubbers, rulers and maths sets.

Customers can pick up a pack on their way into the store, pay for the items at the till and then place the bag in a dedicated donation station. Store Community Champions will then collect and distribute the packs to local schools and community groups.

The packs will cost up to £5 and will vary on price depending on the products inside each pack.

Back to School Pick Up Packs is the latest scheme introduced by Morrisons to help make it easier for its customers to help those in their local community and follows the success of Pick Up Packs for food which has seen over £1 million donated to local food banks this year.

Rebecca Singleton, Customer & Community Director at Morrisons, said: “Going back to school can be both a nervous and exciting time for families. We hope these packs go some way to helping local children and their families who may struggle with the costs of going back to school – and take one thing off the to do list.”

Morrisons has committed £15million across 2020 and 2021 to support stocking food banks in local communities as well as introducing initiatives such as ‘Ask for Sandy’ which helps to fight back against period poverty by offering customers in need a discreet package of sanitary protection products.

Eden Project’s back on the road!

After a year and a half of virtual events, we’re heading back out on the road!

We’ll be holding a number of small events around Scotland, bringing people together outdoors for a natter about all things community, a cuppa, and maybe even some cake!

These gatherings will be small, safe, community focused events that help us get together again to simply chat, catch up, share stories and hear from others.

Whether you’ve been part of our network for ages, attended a Community Camp (at the Eden Project or online) or are just interested in meeting other people and groups that share an interest in making positive change in their local neighbourhood, you’re most welcome to join us.

All events are free, but spaces are limited so registration is essential.

Follow the Eventbrite link for more detailed information on each location and to book your place:

Edinburgh – Sun 15 August 2-4pm https://roadshowedinburgh.eventbrite.co.uk

Falkirk – Sat 21 August 11am-1pmhttps://roadshowfalkirk.eventbrite.co.uk

Glasgow – Sun 29 August 1.30-3.30pmhttps://roadshowglasgow.eventbrite.co.uk

Aberdeen – Sat 11 August 2-4pmhttps://roadshowaberdeen.eventbrite.co.uk

Inverness – Sat 25 August 11am-1.30pmhttps://roadshowinverness.eventbrite.co.uk

Dundee – Sat 23 October 12-4pmhttps://roadshowdundee.eventbrite.co.uk

Funding to support equality and human rights

Additional £1 million annually for third sector organisations

Organisations across Scotland will share £21 million funding over three years to advance human rights, promote equality and tackle discrimination.

A total of 48 organisations – including five specialist human rights organisations – will benefit from the new Equality and Human Rights Fund.

Overall, this new three-year programme will provide an additional £1 million per year for organisations dedicated to tackling inequality and discrimination, furthering equality and advancing the realisation of human rights in Scotland.

One of the charities set to receive funding for the first time is Civil Rights First, which provides specialist legal advice and representation to people with protected characteristics such as ethnicity, age or disability.

Five human rights organisations receiving additional funding for the first time are: Civic Rights First, Environmental Rights Centre for Scotland (ERCS), Glasgow Council for the Voluntary Sector, JustRight Scotland SCIO and The Poverty Alliance.

Other organisations include Intercultural Youth Scotland, Generations Working Together and Neighbourhood Networks in Scotland.

Equalities Minister Christina McKelvie said: “We want to build a fairer, more equal Scotland which is free from discrimination and where the human rights of everyone are respected, protected and fulfilled.

“Equality and human rights are at the heart of all we do. As we ease out of the pandemic, we are providing an annual increase of £1 million to support the vital efforts of these expert organisations to strengthen communities, further equality, and advance human rights of people across the country.”

Dionne McCabe, Trustee of Civil Rights First, said: “This funding award, made in recognition of our specialist service delivery, is a significant step for our small charity in delivering to the most vulnerable with access to justice and a step change in growth across Scotland.

“We look forward to making a real difference with positive outcomes for vulnerable people.”

A spokesperson for the Poverty Alliance said: “We are delighted to be one of the organisations awarded funding by the Equality and Human Rights Fund.

“Rights in Action, our funded project, will support organisations and individuals to better understand and use their economic, social and cultural rights to address poverty.

Celia Tennant, Chief Executive of Inspiring Scotland, which manages the fund on behalf of the Scottish Government, said:  “Everyone in Scotland deserves, and has a right, to live their life to their maximum ability, to contribute to society in the widest terms, and to have full self-determination.

“The large number of strong applicants to the fund demonstrates the depth of commitment from the third sector. We look forward to working with the diverse range of funded groups to share challenges, develop solutions and amplify learning.”

The Equality and Human Rights Fund is a new programme that supports organisations that deliver work focussed on tackling inequality and discrimination, furthering equality, and advancing the realisation of human rights in Scotland.

Blair Drummond Safari Park cleared of animal welfare allegation

Blair Drummond Safari Park, one of Scotland’s most popular visitor attractions, has been cleared of animal welfare allegations following a robust investigation by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA). 

The assertions, made to BIAZA in March 2021 by a whistle blower, sparked a four-month inspection by the governing body which included park inspections, staff interviews and process reviews. 

The findings, which include some recommendations for upgrading of processes, ends what has been a ‘deeply upsetting’ time for the keepers and the wider team at Blair Drummond Safari Park. 

Speaking on the conclusions, Blair Drummond Safari Park owner Hector Muir, said: “BIAZA’s investigation has confirmed that Blair Drummond provides a safe and caring environment for our animals, and this is what we work tirelessly to achieve each and every day. 

“The team participated fully with the investigation, and we were confident throughout that the outcome would be positive. This has been the case. We are always looking to improve the Park’s process and procedures and we embrace the opportunity to work with an experienced sector professional to support us in achieving this.” 

Dr Jo Judge, CEO of BIAZA said: “BIAZA is satisfied that there are no ongoing serious animal welfare concerns. Many of the complaints were historical and we were pleased to find improvements have already been made to address them.

“The management team at Blair Drummond Safari Park are very keen to ensure that their animal welfare is of the highest standard and welcome the opportunity to learn from a BIAZA mentor”. 

Volunteer and rock out at Let’s Rock Scotland for FREE

Adam Ant, Lulu, Tony Hadley, ABC, Howard Jones, Heather Small and many more …

LOVE LIVE music? Love the 80s? Then why not volunteer at Let’s Rock Scotland this summer?

By signing up to do a four-hour shift with festival charity partner Child Bereavement UK, ticket scanning and selling wristbands and raffle tickets on the day, you’ll not only be helping a great cause, you’ll also be able to enjoy the festival free of charge.

Let’s Rock Scotland takes place at Dalkeith Country Park on Saturday 28 August 2021  and will include performances from Adam Ant, Lulu, Tony Hadley, ABC, Howard Jones, Heather Small and many more.

Child Bereavement UK helps children and young people (up to the age of 25), parents, and families, to rebuild their lives when a child grieves or when a child dies. The charity also provides training to professionals, equipping them to provide the best possible care to bereaved families.

To volunteer please visit www.childbereavementuk.org/lets-rock-the-80s-and-pennfest. Volunteers will be fully briefed at the start of their shift and will be supported by Child Bereavement UK staff throughout.  They will also have access to free water and snacks whilst volunteering and will be provided with any PPE required, in line with regulations.

To find out more about the charity and for support please visit: 

www.childbereavementuk.org or call 0800 02 888 40

40,000 students to study across the globe as part of Turing Scheme

UK Government announces 40,000 students and pupils are set to study and work abroad under new student exchange programme, spanning 150 countries

40,000 students will be able to study and work abroad thanks to the government’s new Turing Scheme, with universities and schools due to be told this week that their bids for funding have been successful.

Over 120 universities, as well as schools and further education colleges across the UK, will be awarded grants from the £110m Turing Scheme – which will see 48% of places go to those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

As part of the new global scheme, Canada, Japan and the United States are amongst over 150 international destinations where UK students will be funded to take up work and study placements – alongside popular European countries like Germany and France.

At the heart of the Government’s post-Brexit vision is an ambition to create a truly Global Britain where we learn, work and trade with countries well beyond Europe’s frontiers. The Turing Scheme, which has replaced the UK’s participation in Erasmus+, gives young people the opportunity to benefit from working and studying abroad, while boosting our ties with international partners in the process.

The scheme also aims to improve social mobility across the UK by targeting areas which had seen lower uptake up of the Erasmus+ programme, including across the Midlands and North of England – with education providers in the West Midlands set to receive the most funding.

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “The chance to work and learn in a country far from home is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity – which broadens minds, sharpens skills and improves outcomes.

“But until now it has been an opportunity disproportionately enjoyed by those from the most privileged backgrounds. The Turing Scheme has welcomed a breadth of successful applications from schools and colleges across the country, reflecting our determination that the benefits of Global Britain are shared by all.

“By strengthening our partnerships with the finest institutions across the globe, the Turing Scheme delivers on the Government’s post-Brexit vision, and helps a new generation grasp opportunities beyond Europe’s borders.”

Ministers have set out a range of measures to improve access to international opportunities through the programme, including funding for travel and expenses such as passports and visas, as well as a grant for living costs, to tackle the barriers some students face to studying overseas.

Extra support has also been guaranteed for preparatory visits to make sure placements meet the needs of participants with disabilities and special educational needs.

Universities Minister Michelle Donelan said: “Our schools, colleges and universities have worked tirelessly to make this programme a success, and I am grateful to them and their global partners who have truly embraced this opportunity for international collaboration.

“I look forward to seeing the innovation and expertise our students, pupils and vocational learners bring back to this country from their journeys to every corner of the globe – from Canada to Japan, and Australia to the United States.”

The total number of individual placements supported this year through the £110m scheme stands at over 40,000 – exceeding the Department for Education’s own estimates. This includes 28,000 placements for university students – compared with only 18,300 under Erasmus+ in the academic year 2018/9.

The Turing Scheme, announced by Education Secretary Gavin Williamson last year, is named after pioneering UK war hero and father of modern computing Alan Turing, who studied abroad at Princeton University before going on crack the Enigma code in World War Two.

Vivienne Stern, Director, Universities UK International, said: “The Turing Scheme will create opportunities for thousands of students from all over the country to gain experience working and studying abroad.

“We know from the evidence we have collected that students who have such experience tend to do better academically and in employment outcomes – and that this is especially true for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

“We want more students from a wider range of backgrounds to get these sorts of opportunities and believe, that if they do, the UK economy will benefit in the long run.”

David Hughes, Chief Executive, Association of Colleges, said: “The opportunity to work, study or compete abroad is so important for the life chances of all young people.

“It’s encouraging to see colleges taking up all that Turing can offer – including colleges that are newer to international partnerships – exploring exchanges across a broad range of countries.”

Student mobility will be crucial post-pandemic as the world reopens and learners from all backgrounds access their chance to develop technical and personal skills, build their confidence and experience other cultures.

Hamilton & Inches showcase their greatest designs to celebrate 155yr anniversary

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Hamilton & Inches are set to celebrate handcrafted works from their 155-year history in their exciting new Celebrating our Craft exhibition in August.

Located at their recently renovated showroom in Edinburgh, the exhibition highlights the exceptional work of generations of artisans, the earliest piece dating back to 1887.

Amongst the collection of handcrafted items is a jewelled cover of JK Rowling’s handwritten The Tales of Beedle the Bard. Trophies celebrating The Scottish Open, the Royal Highland Show and Scottish Women’s Football will also be on display, alongside a further 70 items generously donated by businesses and customers alike.

The Tales of Beedle the Bard was originally handwritten and illustrated by J.K. Rowling as a limited edition of only seven copies, one of which was sold at auction in 2007 to raise money for charity.  It was then published in 2008 and continues to be sold in aid of J.K. Rowling’s children’s charity Lumos. 

Last year, the Edinburgh-based jewellers – which has held a Royal Warrant for over 120 years – launched a search for bespoke items created by its talented craftspeople to create an extensivedisplay featuring some of its greatest designs.

Home to an expert team of silversmiths and jewellers, Hamilton & Inches has created items for a wide array of clients including Archerfield, Diageo and more.

The intricate and luxurious creations will feature within this incredible display from the 26 August until 5 September at their beautifully reimagined showroom in central Edinburgh.

Victoria Houghton, Hamilton & Inches CEO, said: “One hundred and fifty-five years in business is a wonderful milestone to reach and we want to make sure we mark the occasion properly. Showcasing the pieces created by our extremely talented team and celebrating their craft is the perfect way to do so.

“We look forward to welcoming visitors and sharing the history behind the items featured within the Celebrating our Craft showcase.”

Bespoke commissions continue to be created in the workshops with experts utilising ancient skills and crafts to create beautiful, iconic items that will be remembered and celebrated forever.

Hamilton & Inches is committed to ensuring craftmanship is relevant to contemporary life, especially at a time when sustainability is of such importance. The Celebrating our Craft showcase will shine a light on the impact and reach of Hamilton & Inches and how important it is for the craft to continue throughout Scotland.