Day: July 21, 2022

Riley, Becki Rutherford and Megan Black pop up for surprise set on Castle Street as part of Glasgow Life’s Music Nonstop busking tour

Rising female artists, Riley, Becki Rutherford, and Megan Black surprised passers-by on Castle Street today with a busking set and free tickets to their upcoming Glasgow gigs as part of Glasgow Life’s Glasgow Music Nonstop busking tour.

The busking tour, which makes its second stop in Edinburgh, is bringing together musicians from across Scotland to get people excited about Glasgow’s jam-packed programme of music events this summer.

The three Glasgow artists kicked off the second day of the tour and gave away tickets to their upcoming gigs in Glasgow (all three artists are performing at King Tut’s Summer Nights Festival), in support of the city’s summer of music.

The tour is now gathering pace and makes its final stop in Dundee tomorrow (Friday 22 July).

Riley said: “Glasgow is one of my favourite cities to play in, so I was thrilled when I was asked us to join the Glasgow Music Nonstop busk tour in Edinburgh.

“I’m delighted to be headlining King Tut’s this Sunday and love that Glasgow Music Nonstop is supporting all the fantastic artists that are playing Glasgow this summer.”

Edinburgh resident, Michelle Finlayson was one of the lucky passers-by who managed to snap up a ticket to Becki’s gig. She said: “Being given these tickets totally cheered me up and Becki’s beautiful voice had us dancing along and joining in.

“I absolutely love the live music scene in Glasgow, there’s always a great atmosphere at gigs, so I’m really looking forward to seeing Becki perform there.”

Glasgow Life Chair, Bailie Annette Christie said: “Glasgow enjoys a global reputation as a live music hotspot, with our venues regularly playing host to some of the world’s biggest artists. As the UK’s first, and Scotland’s only, UNESCO City of Music, Glasgow’s music scene has something for all fans, which is a major reason visitors choose to come here.

“The Glasgow Music Nonstop busking tour is our way of bringing a flavour of Glasgow’s summer of music to our fellow Scottish cities and celebrating the artists that make Glasgow’s music scene so vibrant. We’re delighted to support homegrown talent and hopefully get people excited about Glasgow’s upcoming events with some free tickets to enjoy our city’s summer of music.”

Developed by Glasgow Life’s Destination Marketing team, and with the support of VisitScotland’s Destination and Sector Marketing Fund, the ‘Glasgow: Music Nonstop’ busking tour is bringing a line-up that includes Riley, Megan Black, Becki Rutherford, Pages, BOOTlace and Silvi to Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Dundee to promote Glasgow’s lively music scene and give music fans across the country the chance to scoop free tickets to upcoming gigs.

Glasgow Life is a charity which delivers culture and sport across Glasgow.

Glasgow’s summer of music kicked off with a bang in June as some of the industry’s biggest names descended on the city’s venues. From Green Day at Bellahouston Park, to Liam Gallagher at Hampden, to the city’s 5th year of TRNSMT festival and King Tut’s Summer Nights, Glasgow is living up to its title of Scotland’s UNESCO City of Music.

With plenty of music events lined up this summer, Glasgow is playing host to Summer Nights at Kelvingrove Bandstand (27 July – 13 August), Merchant City Festival (28-31 July), Piping Live! (6-14 August), the World Pipe Band Championships (12-13 August), and a whole host of other live gigs that span a wide range of genres.

With an impressive range of accommodation, Glasgow is an ideal place to enjoy a music-themed short break and make the most of the city’s lively nightlife. Perfect for music lovers, the Ibis Styles Glasgow Central features showstopping music memorabilia and themed murals in contemporary surroundings.

Fans can follow in the footsteps of music icons Frank Sinatra, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones by booking a stay at Voco Grand Central Hotel.

For those attending gigs in the city centre, Radisson Blu is a top choice with its music-themed illustrations and photography, and for music fans visiting big names at the OVO Hydro, Radisson Red offers unparalleled views from across the street and plays host to DJs in its rooftop bar.

Find out more about the campaign at www.peoplemakeglasgow.com/see-do/glasgow-for-music-lovers/glasgow-music-nonstop.

Pictures: Mile Wilkinson

CCTV appeal following serious assault on High Street

Police have released CCTV images of a man they believe may be able to assist with enquiries into a serious assault in Edinburgh.

The incident happened on High Street near the junction with South Bridge at around 3.45am on Thursday, 19 May, 2022. As a result of the incident, a 22-year-old man was taken to hospital for treatment of serious injuries.

The man shown in the CCTV images is described as being white, of slim build, around 5ft 10in in height, aged 18 – 25 with shaved short brown hair.

At the time of the incident he was wearing a dark grey jacket, a grey Adidas hoody, grey jogging bottoms and black trainers.

Detective Constable Paul Henderson, of Edinburgh CID, said: “I would urge the man depicted in the images, or anyone who has information relating to him or to the incident, to contact police as soon as possible.

“Members of the public can contact Police Scotland via the 101 quoting reference number 0551 of Thursday, 19 May, 2022, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Landmark study finds Covid-19 measures leading to severe mental health crisis in prisons

A new report ‘Coping with Covid in Prisons’ launched today (21 July) has found Covid-response measures led to periods of prolonged solitary confinement across the prison population, resulting in dramatically increased levels of anxiety and depression.

The study, funded by the Economic and Social Research Council, was a partnership between the ex-offender led charity User Voice and social scientists at Queen’s University Belfast.

One of the most comprehensive studies of life in prison during the pandemic, and completed internationally, the project drew on an innovative peer-led methodology, developed by User Voice.

Nearly 100 serving prisoners were trained in research methods to survey their peers. Over the 18-month project, these volunteers completed over 1,400 surveys with fellow prisoners across 11 prisons.

The peer-led study found that prolonged isolation and the simultaneous reduction in support services resulted in widespread deterioration of mental health and the erosion of the rehabilitative function of imprisonment.

Key findings:

· 85% of prisoners surveyed were confined to cells for 23 hours for the majority of the lockdown period.

· 59% of prisoners surveyed had not had a single visit with family during the Covid lockdown.

· Standard screening tools suggest depression and anxiety scores are almost five times higher than the standard for the general population.

· More than one out of three prisoners were scoring at the level of “severe anxiety disorder” indicating high levels of post-traumatic stress.

· Two thirds of survey respondents said that access to mental health support had worsened, instead of improving, during the lockdown.

· One out of five respondents thought that violence had reduced in the prisons because of the lockdown.

User Voice’s Founder and CEO Mark Johnson MBE said: “When almost no one was able to get into prisons, we were able to conduct one of the largest studies of prisoner experiences.

“This research has been led by prisoners, using our innovative approach developed over the past 15 years and now validated by academics.

“The report reveals one of the darkest and most hidden results of the pandemic, the true effects of extreme lockdown and confinement on prisoners and ultimately, on the public. It shows that we need to talk about criminal justice. Are prisons just for punishment or are they failing prisoners and the public if they don’t offer the support which leads to rehabilitation?”

Professor Shadd Maruna, Professor of Criminology at Queen’s University Belfast, explains: “Prisons were in crisis before the pandemic, and remarkably some voices have claimed that life in prison has actually improved because of the Covid lockdown.

“Our research definitively demonstrates that the social climate in prison has become dramatically worse after the lockdown, and a great deal of work is going to be needed to restore a sense of trust and legitimacy among the incarcerated.

“Peer-led models, like the kind that drove this research project, have the potential to do just that if implemented correctly.”

User-Voice-QUB-Coping-with-CovidDownload

Adi and Mo take Neurosurgery to YouTube audience

Two neurosurgeons from Glasgow are swapping their scrubs for the small screen to tell you all about neuroscience.
 
Aditaya ‘Adi’ Kumar and Mohammed ‘Mo’ Draz host The Neurosurgeons on YouTube, the only place where you will find two neurosurgeons exploring everything about the brain and spine.
 
Adi and Mo, who are Trainees within the Department of Neurosurgery, at the Institute of Neurological Sciences (INS) at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, let viewers take a fascinating look into a surgical specialty that most have heard of, but few know much about.

They share insights into the workings of our bodies, tell stories of the work they do and the people they care for, and give advice on how you can take care of yourself.
 
While you may associate neurosurgeons with brain surgery, they do much more. Neurosurgeons diagnose and treat conditions that affect your nervous system, including your skull, blood vessels, and soft tissues.
 
The Neurosurgeons began when Adi and Mo discovered there was a lack of information available online for members of the public about neurosurgery. Mo, who is originally from Egypt, said: “We found that patients prefer using social media to navigating websites. We started with a video about the common causes of back pain.
 
“YouTube is competitive, and you need to create up to 100 videos to make an impression. So far, we have had excellent feedback.
 
“I recently explained a procedure to a nurse at work. They told me it sounded far simpler on The Neurosurgeons!”
 
Both men conquered any “stage fright” and enjoy being in front of a camera. Adi, originally from Yorkshire, said: “At first, it is hard to talk to a camera without being able to see yourself, let alone doing it with someone you work with, in an unfamiliar setting.
 
“As time goes by, videos which are less “scripted” convey our personalities, and quirks, best.”
 
Adi and Mo discovered content ideas came from their experiences in surgery theatres and in talking to families and patients. Families are anxious about their loved ones, whose recovery from surgery can take time.
 
So far, The Neurosurgeons have brought their camera into the surgical theatre and examined the instruments every neurosurgeon uses during brain and spine surgery. Those include the Mayfield clamp, which pins a patient’s head in place, and the Watson Cheyne Dissector, which dissects around the tissue.
 
The duo explored how an MRI works, the impact of COVID-19 on your brain, and the causes of, and best medications to treat, back pain.
 
One of the videos, a critique of hit medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, has been particularly popular for highlighting what would happen in real life, versus a medical drama.
 
While Adi and Mo are keeping much of their future content under wraps, they will soon show you inside more of their hospital. The Neurosurgeons celebrate the entire neurosurgery team, which includes nurses, porters, and physiotherapists.
 
The last two years have been hard for everyone working in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, and Adi, a husband and dad, recently beat COVID-19. He and Mo recognise the challenges currently facing the NHS.
 
Adi said: “Day to day life can be difficult and the NHS is very busy. The Neurosurgeons has helped us focus our energy, and any frustrations, into creation.
 
“Your health is the most important thing you have. The Neurosurgeon explore the most common health challenges you may face.”
 
The duo’s top tips for tip top neurological health are:  

  • Keep fit and exercise regularly.
  • Eat healthy food, provide your brain and spine with the supply it needs.
  • Sleep well, give your brain a chance to relax.
  • Connect, keep yourself surrounded with people you love.
  • Watch your back, your spine is your central support.

Craig Broadfoot, General Manager for Neurosciences and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS), said: “The Neurosurgeons is a valuable educational tool for everyone interested in neuroscience and put a human face on what can be a complicated subject.
 
“We want you subscribe to The Neurosurgeons. Adi and Mo explore common health challenges you may face in an entertaining way, exploring neuroscience with knowledge and humour.”
 
To subscribe to the Neurosurgeons, go to The Neurosurgeons on YouTube.

Edinburgh University Students’ Association to open four Fringe spaces 

This summer, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe returns bigger than ever, in this its 75th year, and Edinburgh University Students’ Association is set to re-open iconic venues across the city, in conjunction with its Festival partners, as well as a brand-new spot for 2022: Potterrow Plaza.

New for 2022, Edinburgh University Students’ Association in collaboration with Pleasance London will create a space in front of the Pleasance Dome with food, drink and immersive show experiences. As well as this brand-new spot, classic Fringe venues the Pleasance Courtyard, and Gilded Balloon at are set to return with a number of local favourite food and drink suppliers.

At the Potterrow Plaza, guests will get the chance to experience a séance or a take flight, in two new interactive simulation performances installed by the Pleasance Theatre Trust. Mint Falafel will be in residence with a delicious selection of flatbread wraps suitable for everyone from meat-eaters to vegans. The area will have plenty of seating and a bar and will be a great spot to take in the atmosphere right at the heart of the fringe.

The Pleasance Courtyard will be back at its best for 2022, with city favourites such as the Beach House, Pizza Geeks and Babu Kitchen (rebranded as Total Meltdown with delicious cheese toasties) to name a few.

Barnacles & Bones will be coming with a delicious pasta menu, CEC Catering, the team behind The Garden Bistro in Saughton, will be taking over the indoor cafe and Luxford Burgers, which is run by an Edinburgh University student, will also be at the venue, making sure visitors will never go hungry pre or post show!

The delicious food offering at The Pleasance will sit under the iconic canopy of umbrellas and stretch tents in the series of cobbled courtyards, which makes it the perfect spot to enjoy the festival atmosphere come rain or shine. 

Pizza Geeks, much-loved amongst Edinburgh locals, will have an outlet inside the Pleasance Dome. Their pizzas – inspired by beloved sci-fi and video game characters – can be enjoyed day and night in the Dome; ideal in the event there is August rain! The Pleasance Dome houses several fringe venues and has a dfun, unique atmosphere day and night. The spacious area also gives visitors a good chance of finding a seat to enjoy drinks for a quick break between shows.

The Gilded Balloon at Teviot venueis the perfect spot, day and night. From coffee to start the day, to a pre-show drink, to a DJ backed late-night in the Garden, the venue is in the heart of the fringe, from morning until the wee small hours throughout the month of August.

Linton&Co speciality coffee will be on site for festival caffeination, and food will be available from the team behind the ever-popular Down the Hatch. Drinks will be served from three bars in the Garden. The entire garden is sheltered, and guests can even cosy up in one of the colourful beach huts (which seat 6) if the weather takes a turn.

Inside Teviot, there will be several Grab & Go bars for show-goers to the many Gilded Balloon venues inside. The iconic Library Bar will be serving a wide selection of drinks and a diverse menu day and night.

Along Charles Street, outside the Gilded Balloon at Teviot venue, there will also be a row of food trucks that will take seat for the month, with Bross Bagels and Mac Love serving the best bagels and macaroni cheese in Edinburgh. Screaming Peacock will please meat lovers and veggies with a mouth-watering selection of burgers, and Crema Caravan will satisfy any sweet tooth with delightful artisan desserts.

Drinks will be flowing across all three venues, with Molson Coors products featuring across all locations. Coors, Prahva, Carling, Staropramen, Guinness, Rekorderlig ciders, Johnnie Walker, Gordon’s Gin, Fever Tree softs and much more will all be on offer, so there really is something for everyone.

Cocktails on draught will also be available in all sites so guests don’t have to wait long to be served, and can even grab a cocktail in a can whilst queuing for performances!

Niamh Roberts, Students’ Association President, said: “After lockdowns, the Fringe is back, and it is set to be one of the biggest ever. We want to make sure our guests have the best time,  enjoying an amazing food and drinks offering across our sites.

“We hope everyone gets to experience as much as possible of what makes the Fringe so special.”

All three main venues are open ‘til late so visitors can enjoy the very best food and drink Edinburgh has to offer – whether they’re catching a show or catching up with friends.

To get the latest news from each venues, follow:

https://www.instagram.com/thegardenatteviot/
https://www.instagram.com/courtyardanddome/

Carol Tambor Incentive Award announces 2022 winners

The New-York based fund was designed to encourage new writing and live performance at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society is delighted to announce the winners of the Carol Tambor Incentive Award, chosen by the Carol Tambor Theatrical Foundation, based in New York.

The £10,000 ($13,000 US) fund was divided between a number of shows selected by the Foundation, which were registered in the theatre category for live, in-person performance at the Fringe in 2022. To be eligible for the annual fund, the work needed to be new, not previously performed at the Fringe or in New York, and featured a cast of at least two performers. Children’s work and monologues were not eligible.

The winners are as follows:

Burn – Ottawa Little Theatre

“Three longtime friends have had little contact since the death of the fourth member of their close-knit group, a best-selling horror writer. Now his estranged daughter has brought them all together again – but why?”

Ghosts of the Near Future – emma + pj

“In Vegas, a magician performs a final disappearing act. The end of the world is a magic trick – are you watching closely? Ghosts of the Near Future is a cowboy-noir fever dream about extinction.”

Hotel Elsinore – PLANT[UNLTD] / Susanna Hamnett

“Denmark. 2am. A hotel room. Three weary travellers, an unexpected will and a production of Hamlet to rehearse before morning. Tragedy and humour blend in this new play about the challenges of family, forgiveness and Shakespeare.”

LIGHTHOUSE – Early Doors Productions

“Off the coast of Angus in the North Sea is Caillte Lighthouse. Set just after WWI, the story follows two keepers and their training of a third before strange things start to occur that question their loyalty, honour, friendship and ultimately – their existence.”

Sandcastles – Brite Theater

“Sandcastles by Steve McMahon moves back and forth in time and memory to depict the tumultuous lifelong friendship of millennials Hannah and Beth. Beth is moving to New York. Hannah should be happy for her. When Beth goes missing Hannah can’t reconcile how she reacted with the fact that Beth might be gone.”

Swell – Tom Foreman Productions

“In 2014, residents of Fairbourne were watching their local news when they found out they were to be Britain’s first climate refugees, with their town set to be decommissioned and depopulated by 2054. Housing prices dropped over night, insurance disappeared and life savings were lost in the chaos.”

The Man Who Thought He Knew Too Much – Voloz Collective

“Wes Anderson meets Hitchcock meets spaghetti western in this multi award-winning, intercontinental, inter-genre, cinematic caper of accusations, accidents and accents.”

The Mistake – Michael Mears’ Essential Theatre

“1942. On an abandoned squash court, a dazzling scientific experiment takes place that three years later will destroy a city and change the world forever… Told through the lives of a brilliant Hungarian scientist, a daring American pilot and a devoted Japanese daughter.”

The Poetical Life of Philomena McGuinness – Moon Rabbit

“It’s 1939 and Philomena McGuinness, a reluctant nurse, is on her way from Dublin to London. Newly recruited for the British war effort, she finds herself facing the challenge of a lifetime.”

Ultimatum – Treehouse

“Two strangers have one hour to split £1m. Sounds easy, but what happens when one of them refuses to play fair? What is fair? Who deserves money? Why?”

Carol Tambor said: “I had greatly anticipated coming back to Fringe 2022 after two impossibly long years away. As ever, I wanted to see well-developed work, suitable for transfer to New York and elsewhere. Because the two-year hiatus was so dispiriting, I wanted to provide an extra incentive for companies to present their plays, postponed and postponed again. All these works promise to be the excellent, polished pieces I’d want to see. I hope the Incentive Awards provided the extra funds to make them even better. Break a leg!”

Shona McCarthy, Chief Executive, Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society,said: “I am delighted to announce the winners of the 2022 Carol Tambor Incentive Award, which champions live performance and supports new theatre at the Fringe. After the ups and downs of the last two years, generous funds such as this are vital in supporting artists both financially and creatively. We are massively grateful for the generosity of The Carol Tambor Theatrical Foundation in recognising these artists and supporting them in taking new work to Edinburgh’s stages this August.”

Arson attacks cause millions of pounds worth of damage to churches

Churches are being urged to take steps to prevent arson after a church in Sheffield was seriously damaged in an attack.

Claims data from specialist insurer Ecclesiastical shows over 150 churches across the UK have suffered arson attacks over the past five years, causing millions of pounds worth of damage to historic buildings.

In the latest incident, Pitsmoor Christ Church was the victim of a fire on 4 July, which South Yorkshire Police are investigating as arson.

While the number of attacks dropped during the pandemic, Ecclesiastical is warning churches to take urgent action over the summer months when arson attacks more frequently occur.

Nationwide threat

The data revealed that almost every county in the country has seen churches targeted by arsonists, with London, Lancashire, Yorkshire, Essex and Kent the worst affected.

Unlike theft of metal where organised gangs tend to carry out raids over a large geographical area, arson is often as a result of the actions of an individual and with no clear trends. This makes proactive action to protect church buildings even more important

Communities devastated

Specialist insurer Ecclesiastical was formed over 135 years ago to protect Anglican churches and church buildings against the risk of fire. The Gloucester-based company’s risk management experts produce fire prevention advice, including arson prevention guidance, specifically designed to help protect churches.

While thankfully a rare occurrence, the impact of arson on churches and the wider community can be substantial as recent significant fires have shown.

In 2017 the Grade II listed Church of the Ascension in Lower Broughton, Greater Manchester was devastated by an arson attack leaving the community distraught.. The restoration project, led by Ecclesiastical, is due for completion later this year.

More recently, All Saints Church in Mackworth, Derbyshire was gutted by fire in December 2020. A teenager has since pleaded guilty to setting fire to the church and schools in the area and is awaiting sentencing. A lengthy restoration project is underway to restore the Grade I listed building and return it to the local community.

Churches urged to take steps

Following the latest fire, Ecclesiastical’s risk management team has urged churches to take additional steps to protect themselves.

Jo Whyman, risk management director at Ecclesiastical Insurance, said: “Our data shows that arson seems to be on the increase again and the impact of these attacks can be truly devastating.

 “It’s horrible to see churches damaged as a result of a fire – particularly at the hands of criminals. These buildings are part of the fabric of our society, at the heart of our communities, and have been for centuries. Senseless acts by individuals not only destroy bricks and mortar, but often priceless artefacts that have historical significance to our nation.”

Extinguishing the risks

To help manage the risk of an arson attack and help to protect the country’s cherished historic churches, Ecclesiastical’s risk experts have issued advice to churches.

These include:

  • Keep your church secure: At night lock your church doors, windows, and any external gates. Installing security lights and keeping the exterior well lit will deter intruders. Also, consider installing fire alarms, intruder alarms and CCTV that provides continual monitoring to an alarm-receiving centre.
  • Report suspicious activity and make your church look busy: Use the building as much as possible for church and community activities.
  • Practice good housekeeping: Keep internal doors shut and locked when not in use, this can slow the spread of fire through a building and prevents access to obscure areas. Safely store items that could start fires inside the church, for example portable heaters and matches, and move bins away from the outside of the building. Take particular care when building or maintenance projects are being undertaken, ensuring building materials and waste are stored safely, securely and well away from the building.
  • Carry out regular external inspections of your church buildings and grounds: Make regular checks to the building and report damage to the police and your insurers as soon as possible. Cut back vegetation on a regular basis.
  • Repair damage to the church immediately: A damaged building is at risk of further attacks, including arson. Ensure any damage is repaired and graffiti removed quickly.
  • Check your fire extinguishers: Check you have enough fire extinguishers including some that are water (hydro-spray) or carbon dioxide types.
  • Be prepared for fire: Keep up-to-date fire risk assessments for your premises. Consider ways in which deliberate fires could be started and how you can prevent or reduce the risk.

Mr Whyman continued: “Churches are legally required to carry out a fire risk assessment and in doing so they’ll be able to understand the risk of fire – including the risk of an arson attack.

“It is really important that steps are taken to prevent fires and by following our guidance you can help to reduce the risk of arson at your property. The good news is, many of the recommended safeguards don’t require capital investment but simple precautionary steps which could make all the difference.

“Our Risk Management team are on hand to assist our customers and bespoke guidance and support is available through our Risk Advice Line as well as general guidance available on our website.”

A full list of Ecclesiastical’s arson prevention advice can be found at the company’s website, www.ecclesiastical.com.

Scottish drivers face growing car insurance premiums

The average cost in Scotland is now £435, following a £31 (8%) increase year-on-year, according to the Confused.com car insurance price index

  • According to the data, Central Scotland is the most expensive region, with motorists paying £477 for their car insurance, on average. This is an increase of £34 (8%) year-on-year.
  • Drivers in the Scottish Borders pay the cheapest price for car insurance, despite a £29 (9%) year-on-year increase. Drivers in this region can expect to pay £366, on average.
  • Further research shows that almost half (45%) of drivers who received a renewal quote last quarter saw a price increase of £41, on average. However, drivers who shopped around on a price comparison site saved £54, on average (1) .
  • Louise O’Shea, CEO at Confused.com urges drivers to shop around ahead of time and to consider opting for annual payments, which could save drivers as much as 10% on their car insurance(3)
  • How to save money on your car insurance: Confused. money on your car insurance: Confused.com expert tips aim to help drivers save more on their insurance as the cost of living rapidly increases.

Car insurance costs across the Scottish regions are at the highest in almost two years following the steepest increase in prices since before the COVID-19 pandemic (Q4 2020), new data reveals.

The average cost of car insurance in Scotland now stands at £435, on average, with drivers seeing an increase of £31 (8%) compared to this time last year. That’s according to the latest car insurance price index (Q2 2022) from Confused.com, powered by WTW. Based on six million quotes a quarter, it’s the most comprehensive car insurance price index in the UK.

However, some drivers could expect to pay more than the national average, depending on the region in which they live. The data shows that drivers in Central Scotland pay the highest prices for car insurance, with the cost now £477, following a £34 (8%) increase compared to this time last year. Despite an annual increase of £29 (9%), drivers living in the Scottish Borders pay the cheapest costs for their car insurance, with an average premium of £366.

Meanwhile, drivers in East and North East Scotland are now paying £399 for their car insurance, following a £27 (7%) increase year-on-year. And drivers in the Scottish Highland and Islands are paying a premium of £394, on average, following an increase of £30 (8%).

Region Average Premium YOY £ YOY %

Scottish Borders £ 366 £29 9%

Central Scotland £ 477 £34 8%

East & North East Scotland £ 399 £27 7%

Scottish Highlands & Islands £ 394 £30 8%

It’s a similar picture across the rest of the UK, where prices increased by £32 (6%) over the past 12 months to £554. This is the highest prices have been across the UK in almost 2 years.

The reports of steeper car insurance costs might come as bad news for Scottish motorists, which is why it’s never been so important to shop around for the best deals when it’s time to renew.

However, while prices are increasing for most drivers across the UK, further research by Confused.com shows that many loyal customers are still taking a bigger blow, having seen their renewal increase more than the price of a new policy, on average.

A survey of 2,000 UK drivers(1) found that almost half (45%) of those who received their renewal last quarter saw their price increase by £41, on average. This is despite 1 in 10 (10%) drivers who have renewed their car insurance since January 2022 believing that prices wouldn’t increase after Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)(2) changes earlier this year. However, while prices are increasing for new policies too, the data shows that drivers could still save money by shopping around and taking out a new policy.

In fact, those who shopped around after receiving a more expensive renewal price saved £54, on average, after using a price comparison website and switching insurers.

Louise O’Shea, CEO at Confused.com reminds drivers that the recent FCA changes do not always mean a cheaper or like-for-like renewal price, as any increase to the average UK car insurance costs will be reflected in renewal premiums. And it’s likely that prices will continue to increase as motorists spend more time on the road, meaning that likelihood of claims will increase too.

It’s evident from the latest data that increases have been seen across other regions too, with the UK average premium now £554 – that’s £32 (6%) more expensive than 12 months ago.

However, despite annual increases across all regions, some areas in Scotland have in fact benefitted from a decrease in costs over the last quarter. For instance, although there has been an annual increase of £59 (16%) in Shetland, the average cost for car insurance in the area has actually decreased by £19 (4%) since the last quarter. Drivers in Aberdeen have also seen the average premium cost decrease by £2, making their annual cost £397, on average.

But despite small wins for some, other areas continue to see increased car insurance costs. For drivers in Glasgow, the average cost for car insurance is £523. This is a £39 (8%) increase compared to this time last year and also currently makes Glasgow the most expensive area in the whole of Scotland.

While prices are on the increase, data shows that female drivers are still paying cheaper prices compared to males(4). For males aged 17-20 in Central Scotland, car insurance prices are the most expensive in comparison to all other Scottish regions.

These costs have increased by an eye-watering £110 (8%) in the last 12 months, on average. Female drivers in Central Scotland also saw a 6% increase year-on-year, but this equates to £59 in comparison. In the past 12 months, the total cost for drivers aged 17-20 in this region has increased to £1,479 for males and £1,140 for females.

With the cost of living crisis worsening and further household bill hikes expected later in the year, drivers need to be savvier than ever. And when it comes to their car insurance, drivers should be shopping around, as it’s one expense that could guarantee a saving.

An option for drivers to save money on their insurance is by choosing for annual payments. While monthly direct debits may be the most convenient option, paying upfront for an annual cost could save drivers an extra 10% when taking out a new policy(3).

With so much to consider when it comes to car insurance, it can be confusing for drivers to know which factors will produce the best savings. To help motorists understand where savings could be made, Confused.com has created 16 tips to get cheaper car insurance costs. And it could be as simple as making sure all of your details are correct when taking out insurance.

Louise O’Shea, CEO at Confused.com comments: “With millions stung by the current cost of living, it can be disheartening to see that car insurance prices are also on the rise. As the latest data shows, we’re seeing some of the highest spikes in prices since before the pandemic.

“With us all still adjusting to life after lockdown, it’s likely that this is due to the number of insurance claims being made increasing as we get back into some sort of routine. Unfortunately, this means that you might notice a price increase when renewing or shopping for your car insurance.

“While prices are increasing, we know that car insurance is one area where you can still save money, which will help to balance out price hikes in other areas. It’s clear from research that renewal prices are often more expensive, and it can be easy to accept a higher price if it doesn’t look too bad given the expectation that everything is increasing at the moment. But please don’t do this. You can pay less!

“The car insurance market is very competitive right now, which is the perfect time to be savvy and shop around for a better deal. Taking some time to research the best available options can really pay off. We know there’s an insurer out there who can offer you a better price, which is why we guarantee to beat your renewal(5). And if we can’t, we’ll give you the difference, plus £20. So, if anything, you will make money!”

Phone scams reported to HMRC fall in Scotland

Phone scam reports have fallen by 84 pent cent in Scotland over the last year, new regional data from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has revealed. 

In the Scotland, 384 phone scams were reported to HMRC in June this year compared to 2432 in June 2021.  

People aged between 25 and 34 appear to be most affected by scams in the region, with 94 reporting phone scams in Scotland in June. 

HMRC has made significant efforts to tackle the problem and protect the public. Scam call reports from across all regions peaked in March 2021 with almost 76,000 reports. This was slashed to just over 5,000 in March this year.  

To fight phone scams, HMRC has worked with the telecoms industry and Ofcom to stop HMRC’s helpline numbers from being spoofed by fraudsters, who can no longer appear to be calling from an HMRC number. HMRC also has a dedicated customer protection team working on cyber and phone phishing scams around the clock. 

The drop in reported phone scams is a testament to the work of teams across HMRC in tackling fraud. HMRC’s phishing referral tools and innovative technology all play a part in the department’s efforts to combat fraud, which has resulted in fewer people falling victim to and reporting tax scams.  

Kelly Paterson, HMRC’s Chief Information and Security Officer, said: 

“We work tirelessly to tackle scams and protect hard-working taxpayers from becoming victims of fraud. 

“Never let yourself be rushed. If someone contacts you saying that they are from HMRC, wanting you to urgently transfer money or give personal information, be on your guard. HMRC will never ring out of the blue threatening arrest. 

“To help us fight these crimes, forward suspicious texts claiming to be from HMRC to 60599 and emails to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk. Report tax scam phone calls to us on GOV.UK.” 

HMRC received over 212,500 reports in total of all kinds of scams, by email, text message and phone, over the past year, nationally. 

Phone scammers often call people threatening immediate arrest for fictitious tax owed.  Sometimes they claim that the victim’s National Insurance number has been used in a fraud or offer a fake tax rebate as a way of stealing personal and banking information.   

In addition to warning the public about phishing scams, HMRC urges people never to share their HMRC login details. Criminals using the logins could steal from the customer or make a fraudulent claim in their name. 

HMRC’s phishing scam advice is:

Stop:

  • take a moment to think before parting with your money or information
  • if a phone call, text or email is unexpected, don’t give out private information or reply, and don’t download attachments or click on links before checking on GOV.UK that the contact is genuine
  • do not trust caller ID on phones. Numbers can be spoofed

Challenge:

Protect:

  • forward suspicious texts claiming to be from HMRC to 60599 and emails to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk. Report tax scam phone calls on GOV.UK
  • contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen victim to a scam, and report it to Action Fraud (in Scotland, contact the police on 101).

The numbers in this release refer only to phone scam reports to HMRC using a GOV.UK form introduced in 2020 and do not reflect all of the phone phishing reports that the department has received through email and other channels.

Landlords plan to expand portfolios in response to growing demand

Handelsbanken research shows half plan to buy over the year ahead as confidence in residential and commercial property demand grows

SME landlords[1] are planning to expand their portfolios in the year ahead as optimism about residential and commercial property builds despite fears of an economic downturn and the cost of living crisis, new research* from property business experts Handelsbanken shows.

Its nationwide study shows half (49%) of professional landlords – those owning at least four properties – intend to buy more, of which 8% plan to invest in improving the quality of their portfolio, underlining their enduring confidence in bricks and mortar as long-term investment.

Just 7% of landlords expect to sell some or all their portfolio, and a third (35%) are committed to retaining their current properties for the next 12 months.

The first Handelsbanken SME Landlord Survey found 86% of landlords expect a rise in demand for residential property, with nearly two-thirds (63%) confident that commercial property demand will also increase in the next 12 months.

Landlords’ optimism is not being driven by expectations of substantial increases in yields – Handelsbanken’s research shows average yields are only expected to rise by 0.44% over the period, although 89% of landlords questioned do expect an increase.

Instead, their plans to buy more properties are motivated by a desire to diversify their assets across different sectors and regions.

Nearly three-quarters (73%) said their plans to buy are focused on expanding into different parts of the property market – the most attractive are houses (66%), followed by flats (38%), houses of multiple occupation (HMO) (34%) and commercial retail (32%).

Among landlords expanding their portfolios to different parts of the UK, London is seen as the most attractive region (selected by 53%), followed by the East of England (chosen by 40%) and the East Midlands (22%).

More than half (51%) of landlords on the acquisition trail said their reason for buying was simply feeling bullish about the market.

James Sproule, UK Chief Economist, at Handelsbanken said: “Recent house price growth shows how property has shown its resilience against economic doom and gloom and the cost-of-living squeeze. 

“Landlords are anticipating that a shortage of rental properties will help keep prices buoyant, particularly as working patterns continue to adjust to the post pandemic world and people seek to move back to big cities, particularly in popular areas such as London, which is also seen to be better placed to ride out the next series of economic challenges and opportunities.

“Landlords went through a tough period following the COVID-19 pandemic, with residential property transactions falling by more than half and business investment contracting. But the sector has survived and is now looking forward.

“The 2022-23 financial year is forecast to see a further softening in residential property transactions as vendors wait for the right buyer rather than accept any perception of loss in value.”

The table below shows how professional landlords rate the attractiveness of regions across the country:

REGIONHOW MANY LANDLORDS THINK IT WILL BE THE MOST ATTRACTIVE OVER THE NEXT 12 MONTHS
London53%
East of England40%
East Midlands22%
Scotland19%
Northern Ireland18%
North West14%
South East12%
Wales12%
South West10%
West Midlands8%
North East6%
Yorkshire & The Humber6%

[1] Professional landlords with a minimum of four properties in their portfolios. This applies to all references to “landlords” within this release.

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