Situated at Waverley Mall, Princes St, Edinburgh, EH1 1BQ, the revamped store, which is part of the brand’s continuing Scotland expansion, has seen a number of new features added, including a living wall, sparkling star lights and a timber clad counter, with the decor reflecting the quirky and fun nature of the Chopstix brand.
Wok Masters can be seen creating fresh Chopstix dishes, all served from an eye-catching wok station, ready to ‘wok and go’. Customers will once again be able to delight in a host of Pan-Asian flavours including Salt ‘N’ Pepper Chicken, as well as Chopstix favourites Chicken Katsu Curry and Caramel Drizzle Chicken.
Speaking on the Edinburgh revamp, Rob Burns, marketing director for Chopstix said: “We’re thrilled to reveal the new look for Chopstix Edinburgh Waverley.
“Scotland has always been a favourite for Chopstix and we have an amazing loyal customer base here so we’re excited to welcome back customers new and old to delight in our quick and tasty offering.
“We’d also love to extend the invitation to the First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon to come and click her sticks with us.”
The noodle bar’s popular dishes are also available to order from Deliveroo with Just Eat and Uber Eats. Orders are permitted from within the postcode area of the store.
Chopstix is focused on delivering a faster, fresher, tastier alternative to the high street. Wok Master chefs deliver nourishing noodles, wholesome chicken, beautiful beef and perfect prawns with fresh vegetables and superb sauces to make Chopstix the ‘go to guys’ for boxed fresh flavour. You can find us in over 60 locations throughout the UK.
While the vast majority of employers pay their employees at least the National Minimum Wage, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has today released some of the most absurd excuses used for not paying the legal minimum.
Last year (2020 to 2021) HMRC helped more than 155,000 workers across the UK recover more than £16 million in pay which was due to them, and also issued more than £14 million in penalties.
Some of the most ridiculous excuses for flouting the law included:
“She does not deserve the National Minimum Wage because she only makes the teas and sweeps the floors.”
“The employee was not a good worker, so I did not think they deserved to be paid the National Minimum Wage.”
“My accountant and I speak a different language – he does not understand me, and that is why he does not pay my workers the correct wages.”
“My employee is still learning so they are not entitled to the National Minimum Wage.”
“It is part of UK culture not to pay young workers for the first three months as they have to prove their ‘worth’ first.”
“The National Minimum Wage does not apply to my business.”
“I have got an agreement with my workers that I will not pay them the National Minimum Wage; they understand, and they even signed a contract to this effect.”
“I thought it was okay to pay young workers below the National Minimum Wage as they are not British and therefore do not have the right to be paid it.”
“My workers like to think of themselves as being self-employed and the National Minimum Wage does not apply to people who work for themselves.”
“My workers are often just on standby when there are no customers in the shop; I only pay them for when they are actually serving someone.”
Steve Timewell, Director Individuals and Small Business Compliance, HMRC, said: “The majority of UK employers pay their workers at least the National Minimum Wage, but this list shows some of the excuses provided to our enforcement officers by less scrupulous businesses. Being underpaid is no joke for workers, so we always apply the law and take action. Workers cannot be asked or told to sign-away their rights.
“We are making sure that workers are being paid what they are entitled to and, as the economy reopens, reminding employers of the rules and the help that is available to them.
“HMRC reviews every complaint made about the minimum wage, so if you think you are being short-changed, or are a business that is unsure of the rules or needs help to get things right, get in touch and we will help you. But any employer deliberately or unapologetically underpaying their staff will face hefty fines and other enforcement action.”
The National Minimum Wage hourly rates are currently:
· £8.91 – Age 23 or over (National Living Wage)
£8.36 – Age 21 to 22
£6.56 – Age 18 to 20
£4.62 – Age under 18
£4.30 – Apprentice.
HMRC is reminding workers to check the hourly rate of pay they are actually getting, and to also check any deductions or unpaid working time, as part of the Government’s commitment to build back fairer from the pandemic.
If they want to speak with someone, in confidence, they should phone the Acas Pay and Work Rights Helpline on 0300 123 1100, who can transfer the call to HMRC.
Ocean Terminal has submitted a pre-application notice with the City of Edinburgh Council for a transformational redevelopment that will see the 20-year-old centre open up to the waterfront. The vision is to create a destination that reflects the needs and aspirations of the people who live and work in Leith.
Having purchased the shopping centre in March 2020 because of its significant potential, Scottish owners, Ambassador Group, have used insights gained over the past eighteen months to advance plans to turn Ocean Terminal into a gateway to the waterfront for the local community, adding to the wider regeneration of Leith.
The new masterplan for the site includes a new mixed-use space that maximises the location and aspect on to the Firth of Forth, created at a new linked entrance to the centre. Reflecting the change in people’s priorities post-pandemic, the proposal promises a mix of indoor and outdoor space achieved by the demolition of the existing north multistorey car park and the former Debenhams store to allow the remaining building to be reconfigured with updated spaces for new commercial opportunities facing a dramatic streetscape to the waterfront.
There will be a consolidation of Ocean Terminal’s recent shift in strategy to attract and retain tenants that are aligned to local and national policy objectives supporting ‘20-minute neighbourhoods’.
Complementing the continuing regeneration of Leith which has seen new homes, schools and businesses emerge, the proposals support local jobs while also cementing Leith’s distinct appeal as a popular choice for visitors to the Capital.
The final stage of the masterplan is to introduce a mix of much-needed housing on the waterfront, integrating with the trams to Newhaven extension and new local amenities, to add to the vibrancy of the local community and the sustainability of the local economy.
Following the submission of the Proposal of Application Notice (PAN) today (18th August, 2021), Ocean Terminal will now conduct public consultation beginning with an online exhibition set to go live on 23rd September.
A full planning application is expected in early 2022, with a view to start works later that year.
The redevelopment represents an investment of more than £100 million.
Chris Richardson is the managing director for Ambassador Investments, which is responsible for developing a range of residential properties and commercial buildings across Scotland, all of which have industry leading environmental credentials.
He said: “We’re planning a transformational redevelopment that will finally realise Ocean Terminal’s potential as a leading waterfront destination, whilst placing the changing priorities of residents, businesses, visitors and shoppers centre stage.
“The retail industry and the local environment has evolved significantly in recent years and this redevelopment will create a sustainable destination that people will continue to enjoy for years to come.
“This is an exciting time for Ocean Terminal, and we look forward to sharing that vision as we move forward.”
Ambassador Group has a vision for Ocean Terminal which has been advanced and adapted over the course of the pandemic. Having seen how local people want to interact with the centre and the need for public space, it is clear that Ocean Terminal is an important part of Leith and the area’s regeneration story.
The firm’s vision is for a sustainable place for shopping, relaxing, working and living that will make the most of the centre’s unique waterfront location and fully embraces new environmental standards.
Throughout, there is a commitment to climate change mitigation and the promotion of sustainability, in line with Edinburgh City Council and Scottish Government net zero targets, through the use of energy efficient materials and low carbon energy generation.
Having already spoken with many of those with an interest in the success of Ocean Terminal, the early feedback has been very positive. The proposed redevelopment will happen carefully in distinct phases to ensure a smooth realisation of the vision. That includes a focus on continuity and consistency for existing tenants and other users of Ocean Terminal, while plans are put in place.
Ambassador Group has appointed the following advisers on the project: planning consultants, Turley, building surveyors, PMP, and architects, Keppie Design.
The Scottish Land Commission is continuing its calendar of online public meetings and the next will cover Edinburgh and the Lothians.
The informal public meeting online will give residents of Edinburgh and the Lothians the opportunity to find out more about land reform and the role of land in creating a successful Scotland.
The event is being held online on Wednesday 25 August 2021 at 7:00 pm.
Chair of the Scottish Land Commission, Andrew Thin, said: “Land is at the heart of Scotland’s identity, economy and communities, so it matters that it is owned and used in a fair and productive way. We are keen to meet with people across the country to discuss the work we are doing to deliver change so that the ownership and use of land realises Scotland’s potential.
“We are covering a variety of topics in our meetings – modernising land ownership, transforming vacant and derelict land, housing, putting into practice land rights and responsibilities, the work of the Tenant Farming Commissioner, and using the tax system to help achieve long term outcomes for land reform.
“Although we are unable to host events in person at present due to the ongoing Covid-19 situation, we are keen to continue speaking with as many people as possible and using online meetings to make that happen.
“This is one of a number of online meetings that we have scheduled for the coming year, covering areas across the country from the Highlands to the Borders, Aberdeen to Fife, and we hope to meet virtually with as many people as possible.
“I would encourage everyone, from the comfort of their own home, to make the most of the opportunity to meet with us and discuss how we can make more of Scotland’s land for Scotland’s people.”
The event is free and all Edinburgh and Lothians residents are welcome to attend.
Alcohol related deaths highest in 16 years in NHS Lothian
Lothian MSP, Miles Briggs, said: “My deepest condolences are with the families and friends across Edinburgh and the Lothian’s who have lost a loved one to alcohol.
“SNP Ministers have made it clear by their actions that supporting people with addictions is not a priority for them, which is why the Scottish Conservatives have called for a Right to Rehab across Scotland.
“Drug and alcohol professionals work very hard to support those with addictions, however services have not been properly funded by SNP Ministers.
“SNP cuts to drug and alcohol partnerships have impacted on alcohol recovery services across Scotland. We need a new approach.
“We urgently need to see the focus switch towards sustainable recovery and long term rehabilitation, to support those who are dealing with addiction.”
Edinburgh International Film Festival is delighted to announce that the 74th edition will host a unique and inclusive celebration of being yourself at Edinburgh’s Talking About Jamie.
The free, hour-long event in St Andrew Square at 6pm on Friday 20 Augustwill kick off with drag queen entertainment and cocktails.
Those dressed to impress will be in with a chance of prizes for the best outfits. It takes place immediately ahead of the eagerly awaited Special Preview of the film adaptation of the award-winning hit musical Everybody’s Talking About Jamie.
Compere Alice Rabbit – Edinburgh’s Most Wanted drag queen, Mother of the Hoose of Rabbit, reigning queen of Edinburgh’s legendary regular Tuesday night drag explosion, The Rabbit Hole and all-round drag powerhouse – has found time in her busy, “booked and blessed” schedule to, whilst running her sell-out Edinburgh Festival Fringe debut ‘Alice Rabbit’s AYE-Cons’, bring the beautiful crowd of Edinburgh’s Talking About Jamie an hour of local legends, live singing and legendary looks.
Joining Alice Rabbit is Jamie Campbell,and his mother Margaret who will make a special star appearance at St Andrew Square.
Also on the bill is Scotland’s lioness, Lady Rampant! This high-heeled activist uses her two law degrees to influence her performances and frequently works with third sector organisations, the Scottish press and politicians advocating for equality.
As such, she won Best Political Queen at the Glasgow Drag Awards 2020. Talent, humour and intelligence all wrapped into one, she has earned her spot as Scottish Drag Royalty.
Although pre-booked tickets for the event are sold out, we will allow free un-ticketed entry to all screenings by walk-up on a first come, first served basis, subject to availability of space. On arrival, please make your way to the ‘Event Entrance’ located on the south-west corner of St Andrew Square.
The film will have its Special Preview screening at the Festival Theatre – a ‘coming home’ of sorts – where the stage musical was the last show to play before the March 2020 lockdown. The screening is now sold out.
Inspired by true events, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is the film adaptation of the award-winning hit musical from London’s West End, about Jamie New (newcomer Max Harwood), a teenager in a blue-collar English town with a dream of life on stage.
While his classmates plan their livelihoods after graduation, Jamie contemplates revealing his secret career ambition as a fierce and proud drag queen.
His best friend Pritti (Lauren Patel) and his loving mum (Sarah Lancashire) shower him with endless support while local drag legend Miss Loco Chanelle (Richard E. Grant) mentors him toward his debut stage performance.
But it’s not all rainbows for Jamie as his unsupportive dad (Ralph Ineson), an uninspired career advisor (Sharon Horgan), and some ignorant school kids attempt to rain on his sensational aspirations. In rousing and colourful musical numbers, Jamie and his community inspire one another to be more accepting, and to see the value in facing adversity stepping out of the darkness into the spotlight.
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie will be released exclusively on Prime Video on 17th September 2021.
St Andrew Square is also the home of Film Fest in the City, delivered in partnership with Essential Edinburgh and supported by Johnnie Walker, EIFF’s Official Whisky Partner, Innis & Gunn, EIFF’s Official Beer Partner, and EventScotland, part of VisitScotland’s Events Directorate.
The 74th edition of EIFF runs from 18 – 25 August 2021.
Scottish Hockey has entered into a ground-breaking partnership with Cancer Research UK (CRUK) and the British Heart Foundation (BHF) to raise awareness and funds through the Club Pledge initiative.
It comes off the back of a year of exceptional fundraising and community work delivered by hockey clubs across Scotland through Club Pledge.
Club Pledge was launched at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic where hockey clubs were invited to “make the pledge” to promote togetherness and community while raising money for good causes.
Over 75% of hockey clubs in Scotland made the pledge and delivered tremendous activities that ranged from Zoom quizzes and virtual 10ks, to food drops and mystery trail adventures.
Now Scottish Hockey has partnered with two of the world’s leading charities to take Club Pledge to the next phase, and join the fight against cancer and heart diseases. Clubs can choose to support our charity partners in a range of different ways, and also take up learning opportunities on offer.
Both CRUK and the BHF will deliver learning workshops to Scottish Hockey clubs and members to teach more about fundraising; promote healthy living; offer mind-set and wellbeing sessions; CPR training and the opportunity to learn to train others.
The first of these sessions will take place on:
Tuesday 24 August – Let’s take cancer! An introduction to Cancer Research UK and a fundraising masterclass.
Wednesday 25 August – Meet the BHF and learn how you can be a lifesaver.
Monthly events and activities will offer clubs and members the chance to fundraise for the charities and promote togetherness and community within clubs. Clubs will be able to participate in campaigns and access materials to maximise their fundraising such as t-shirts; bracelets; banners and balloons etc.
Scottish Hockey staff and board members will also lead from the front by taking part in monthly fundraising activities for both charities, while raising awareness.
As with previous years, anyone buying cup final tickets can choose to donate part of the ticket value to the chosen charity of their choice.
Scottish Hockey Chair Martin Shepherdson,said:“We’re absolutely delighted to partner with two of the most important charities in the country and support the great work they do to raise awareness and research cures and treatments.
“Club Pledge was a phenomenal success and it’s testament to the clubs and members across Scotland who delivered such exceptional activities, that the initiative is seen as something that can really be a trailblazer in how sports can support good causes.
“We’ll work with clubs alongside the British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research UK to take Club Pledge to the next level, and really make a difference to people’s lives and health through hockey.”
The BHF is the biggest independent funder of research into heart and circulatory diseases in Scotland and the UK. This year marks the BHF’s 60th birthday and over the past six decades, the charity has been instrumental in numerous life-saving discoveries.
Its research has contributed to the first UK heart transplant, the development of pacemakers, the use of clot busting drugs to treat heart attacks, and the rollout of genetic testing for inherited heart conditions.
James Jopling, Head of BHF Scotland, said: “We are delighted to have the support of Scottish Hockey and its member clubs across the country. Since the BHF was established, our research and campaigning have contributed to the annual number of people dying from heart and circulatory diseases in this country falling by half.
“This is something we can be extremely proud of. But we want to do more. Despite progress, heart and circulatory diseases cause around 3 in ten deaths in Scotland. The support of organisations like Scottish Hockey and the public will help us continue to fund vital research to help save and improve lives.”
Cancer Research UK is the largest independent funder of cancer research in the world. Cancer Research UK has made enormous progress in the fight against cancer. However, is has only been able to do this thanks to the dedication and commitment of incredible volunteers and supporters without whom it would not be able to fund vital research.
This year 32,000 people will be diagnosed with cancer in Scotland and sadly, only half of them will survive the disease for ten years or more. Researchers, physicians and nurses are working tirelessly to prevent, control and cure all 200 types of cancer and bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.
Heather Duff from Cancer Research UK, said:“We are delighted to work with Scottish Hockey to tackle cancer. Cancer Research UK is dedicated to find new and improved ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.
“All funds raised by Scottish Hockey, and its clubs and members, will go towards life-saving research in Scotland. With the support of Scottish Hockey we are one step closer to giving cancer the red card. We look forward to working with hockey clubs across Scotland and wish them the best of luck with their fundraising.”
A new consultation is seeking the public’s views on legislative reform to support Scotland’s recovery from the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
The consultation sets out a range of proposals, including whether some beneficial temporary provisions made under Scottish and UK coronavirus legislation and due to expire in March 2022 should be maintained.
The public will have 12 weeks until the consultation period ends on 9 November to share their views on the proposals. These include:
maintaining provisions in the UK Coronavirus Act that enable Scottish Ministers to enact measures via public health regulations for any future public health threats, in line with powers that are already in statute in England and Wales
a change in the law that will allow a wider range of health professionals such as nurses, midwives and paramedics to give vaccinations and immunisations
maintaining pre-eviction protocols relating to rent arrears in the private rented sector, ensuring that tenants have all the information they need about their rights, and placing more responsibility on landlords to ensure correct procedures are followed
whether the extended statutory time-limits for criminal proceedings should temporarily remain in place to help the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service manage the backlog of cases arising from the COVID-19 pandemic and ensure cases can continue to be heard, through greater flexibility in the programming of court business
maintaining remote registration of deaths and still-births by phone or other methods, without the need to go to a registration office in person, in addition to a new proposal to extend this flexibility to live births
The consultation also asks people to suggest any additional measures or legislation not covered in the consultation that could support Scotland’s recovery.
Deputy First Minister and COVID Recovery Secretary John Swinney said: “This consultation focuses on reviewing the legislative powers that have supported our response to COVID-19. We want to ensure we remove measures no longer needed in order to respond to the pandemic whilst keeping those where there is demonstrable benefit to the people of Scotland.
“This is an opportunity to maintain changes that have been welcomed by people who now don’t want to lose transformations that have been innovative, beneficial, and increased access to services.
“While the pandemic has been incredibly disruptive, its urgency has forced the public services we rely on to adapt and continue and still deliver, driving the pace of digital adoption, and in some cases more efficient ways of working.
“As we enter the recovery phase, we now have a unique opportunity to reimagine how health and social care, learning and justice services can be designed and delivered around the lives and needs of the people who use them.
“I invite everyone to have their say on what this future should look like to support a fair, safe and secure recovery. Your views on these proposals will inform any future legislation to be brought forward on these topics for full scrutiny and debate in Parliament.
“We remain committed to expiring or suspending any existing provisions that are no longer necessary, and will continue to report to Parliament every two months on the use of any temporary powers.”
