Day: October 21, 2022

Bed Head launches ‘Stay Headstrong’ campaign that encourages individuals to let their creativity rule

A projection by street artist Pegasus appeared across Scottish Cities this week.

Pegasus, who was close friends with Amy Winehouse, is renowned for his distinctive artwork that can be found across the capital.

Speaking on the project he said, “This campaign struck a chord with me as you need to be headstrong as an artist. It’s important to have integrity and honour your true self – by being bold with your personal style or expressing your creativity in other mediums – and not to fear what anyone else says.”

The projections of three headstrong icons – Harry Styles, Mylie Cyrus, and Munroe Bergdorf – could be seen across the city of Edinburgh with the message ‘Let Your Creativity Rule’ which encourages people to be unapologetically themselves in response to research that shows one in five Brits are told they’re not good enough.

Bed Head launches ‘Stay Headstrong’ campaign that encourages individuals to let their creativity rule

  • Two fifths of Brits wish they could have been braver with their hair growing up and believe their hair is the most important part of personal appearance
  • One in 10 look up to Miley Cyrus, Harry Styles and Vivienne Westwood as headstrong role models
  • Over half of Brits think their hair is an extension of their personality
  • The campaign has just launched a new web series fronted by FFSYTHO, Lily Phillips and Lucia Blayke to coincide with its first nationwide consumer retail launch at Boots
  • This year, Bed Head is supporting STONEWALL to drive awareness and help create safe and equal opportunities for the LGBTQ+ community
A wall with posters on it Description automatically generated with low confidence

Posters have appeared across the UK in all major cities 

Original rebel hair brand, Bed Head, has launched ‘Stay Headstrong’, a campaign celebrating fearless self-expression and encouraging experimentation.

The ‘Stay Headstrong’ campaign is a response to new research that shows that one in five (19%) Brits admit they’ve been told they’re not good enough, with one third (30%) being made to feel inadequate at some point in their lives with regards to how they look. Of those surveyed, more than half (60%) rely on their hair to give them confidence, with two fifths (40%) claiming their hair-do is the most important part of their appearance. 

As part of Bed Head’s campaign, the brand has launched ‘Chats from the Chair’, a web content series on its native platform, that features interviews from headstrong queer Grime artist FFSYTHO, cutthroat comedian Lily Phillips, and trans pride activist and creator Lucia Blayke. The interviews shed light on why the ‘stay headstrong’ attitude is so important to each of the stars and illustrates the integral role products play as tools for self-expression, enabling people to be true unapologetic versions of themselves.

When it comes to role models, the consumer research revealed people admire creative challengers Miley Cyrus,Harry Styles and Vivienne Westwood for their bold fearless nature (42%), integrity (47%) and courage to stand up for what they believe in (44%).

The results also showed that half (51%) of Brits think their hair is an extension of their personality, changing their style on average every two or three years (32%).

Of those surveyed, adopting a headstrong attitude has helped people with:

  • Improved confidence – 29%
  • To take more risks in their personal lives – 21%
  • To persevere after rejection – 20%

Katie Westerby, Senior Marketing Manager at Bed Head, said: “At Bed Head, our purpose has always been to champion creativity by equipping artists with elevated professional hair care products and encouraging all consumers to push the boundaries of what they can do.

“Being headstrong is not only something we embody as a brand, but a belief we want to instil in everyone who buys our products. We hope that this campaign will spark conversation and motivate new and existing Bed Head devotees, and we can’t wait to see it.” 

This year, Bed Head is supporting and donating to STONEWALL a charity that stands for lesbian, gay, bi, trans, queer, questioning and ace (LGBTQ+) people everywhere. In the UK, more than a third of employees don’t believe it’s appropriate for their LGBTQ+ colleagues to be out in the workplace.

In response to this, Bed Head and STONEWALL want to help create more equal opportunities in society so LGBTQ+ people feel safer in our modern society.

For more information about Bed Head’s ‘Stay Headstrong’ campaign, please visit bedhead.com

Cost of car insurance in Scotland increases by 18% in the last 12 months

Drivers currently paying £463 on average following a recent spike

  • Drivers in central Scotland have seen the biggest increase to their car insurance premium over the past 12 months. The current cost stands at £505, on average, following a £73 (17%) rise.
  • Drivers in the Scottish borders are currently paying the cheapest rates for their car insurance. Premiums are £391, on average, despite a 20% price increase in the past 12 months.
  • Although FCA changes to regulation have made pricing fairer to customers at renewal, further research highlights that this does not necessarily protect customers from price increases. More than 2 in 5 (41%) UK drivers who received a renewal quote in the past 3 months said that they saw an increase of £38, on average(1).
  • However, those who shopped around using a price comparison website were able to save £50 on their car insurance, on average.
  • With the current cost-of-living crisis affecting millions across the UK, Confused.com recently launched its money saving hub to support consumers and give advice on how to manage recent price hikes.
  • In light of the recent price increases, Louise O’Shea, CEO at Confused.com emphasises the importance of shopping around for the best deals and why drivers shouldn’t settle for auto-renewal.

That means motorists are seeing a £69 increase compared to this time last year. That’s according to the latest car insurance price index (Q3 2022) from Confused.com, powered by WTW. Based on 6 million quotes a quarter, it’s the most comprehensive car insurance price index in the UK. 

However, some drivers in Scotland could be paying more than the national average, depending on the region in which they live. The latest data shows that drivers in central Scotland are currently paying the most for car insurance.

Their current premium is £505, following a £73 (17%) year-on-year increase. Despite facing an annual increase of £64 (20%), drivers living in the Scottish Borders pay the cheapest rates for their car insurance, with an average premium of £391. 

Meanwhile, drivers in East and North East Scotland are paying £431, on average, for their car insurance. That’s as drivers faced a £69 (19%) increase in the past 12 months. And as for drivers in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, the current car insurance premium is £420, on average, following an increase of £61 (17%).

RegionAverage PremiumYOY £YOY %
Scottish Borders£391£6420%
Central Scotland£505£7317%
East & North East Scotland£431£6919%
Scottish Highlands & Islands£420£6117%

It’s a similar picture across the rest of the UK, where prices continue to rise. In fact, premiums have risen by £72 (14%) in the past 12 months alone.

The current UK premium stands at £586, on average, and is the highest annual increase in the past 5 years. 

Q3 2022 - PI graph for publishers

With the latest data revealing that premiums are on the rise, some drivers might think that they’re better off sticking with the same insurer when it comes to renewal. But further research conducted by Confused.com finds that some insurers don’t seem to be doing enough to protect their existing customers.

In a survey of 2,000 UK drivers, data reveals that more than 2 in 5 (41%) drivers who considered sticking with their current insurer received renewal quotes £38 more expensive than the previous year, on average(1). That’s despite the fact that more than a quarter (28%) of drivers who have renewed so far this year thought that their insurance quote would be cheaper this time around. 

However, some motorists are taking action after receiving a more expensive renewal and are really seeing the benefits of switching. More than a quarter (27%) of drivers who chose to shop around using a price comparison site were able to save £50, on average. In fact, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is actively advising consumers to shop around when it comes to buying insurance for this very reason. 

Earlier this year, the FCA made important changes to stop ‘price walking’ and ensure all customers were treated fairly, but it seems some motorists remain complacent as a result. One in 5 (20%) drivers told Confused.com that they were less inclined to shop around because of these changes.

However, these new regulations don’t mean that better deals still can’t be found elsewhere and, as research shows, consumers are saving money by switching.

While the cost of car insurance premiums is on the up, there’s no ignoring the fact that the general cost of living is increasing, too. That’s why it’s more important than ever to shop around for the best deals. And as we head into the colder months, it’s clear that money will be tight for many.

With difficult months ahead, Confused.com has launched a money saving hub to help people understand where they can save money on bills to balance out price hikes. The hub focuses on a variety of insurance options, but also includes advice on how to be more fuel efficient and keep car costs down.

Its aim is to provide useful and digestible information that will help customers save money, without necessarily having to compromise and give up essentials. 

Louise O’Shea, CEO at Confused.com, comments: “With costs currently rising all around us, I’m sure it comes as no surprise that the cost of car insurance is increasing, too.

“However, the pace at which it’s rising will be a real worry for many. The latest figures reveal a true example of how volatile the market currently is, which is why I need to stress just how important it is to shop around when it comes to renewing any insurance policy. 

“As we head into winter, money is going to be tight. With concerns over the rising costs of energy, fuel and even food, millions of us will be looking for new ways to number-crunch and save money where we can. In recent months, the FCA have really amplified the importance of shopping around to help find some of the best deals out there during this time. 

“Research shows that customer loyalty doesn’t always pay off, which is why it’s always encouraged to shop around and see what else is out there. If you switch insurers using Confused.com, there’s some fantastic rewards available that could help during a difficult time.

“A £20 voucher could pay towards a food shop in Lidl or even go towards an MOT or service in Halfords. And we even guarantee to beat your renewal(5). If we can’t, we’ll give you £20, plus the difference. Either way, you’re better off just by using a price comparison service. 

“I cannot emphasise enough just how important it is to take time, do your research and compare insurance prices. You might be missing out on fantastic deals and it will really help in the long run.”

Paws in the Park at Inverleith

RNIB Scotland’s Paws In The Park group is a social group for visually impaired people and their guide dogs.

They meet fortnightly at Inverleith Park to let the dogs have some off-duty fun!

The group is open to other guide dog owners who wish to join.

The group meets fortnightly on Wednesdays, promptly at 11am until 1pm at the corner of Raeburn Place and Portgower Place (opposite the Raeburn Hotel) to walk to Inverleith Park. The meeting will be 2nd November.

Anyone wishing to join should contact RNIB’s Dan Meikle to arrange this:

Email daniel.meikle@rnib.org.uk.

Nationwide survey shows drop in confidence across business leaders as economic turbulence bites

A major new survey of small and medium-sized businesses across the UK has shown a dramatic dip in confidence amidst rising inflation and wider economic turbulence.

The Be the Business Productive Business Index (PBI), now in its fifth edition, shows business owners and directors forecasting a negative shift in their prospects over the next three months due to the difficult economic environment.

The Productive Business Index, unique amongst UK business surveys, tracks changes in five key areas of business activity shown to impact on productivity. Management capability; Technology adoption; Training, Development and HR; Operating efficiency; and Innovation.

Key findings include:

  • The first-ever negative change in headline figure since the Index launched;
  • Two in five businesses are seeking efficiencies as a direct result of inflation;
  • Business leaders feel less confident that they have the management skills to handle the current economic situation, but are fighting back with plans to improve

Anthony Impey MBE, CEO of Be the Business, said: “These findings tell a stark story – following two years of unprecedented challenge, many businesses are struggling to cope with the latest turbulence in the UK economy.

“For the first time ever, our Productive Business Index shows a decrease in the optimism and outlooks of business leaders. Having been through the challenges of the pandemic and the ongoing supply chain and workforce issues, it highlights how heavily the economic situation is weighing on them.

“The headline figures are concerning, but it’s encouraging to see more leaders digging deep and looking for ways to improve themselves and their business to help navigate the next year. Business owners are tired, but they’re being forced to pedal harder in response to the difficult conditions they’re facing. It’s vitally important that they’re given all the support they need so that improving their business and boosting productivity is as easy as possible.”

The Be the Business’ Productive Business Index’s headline score, running from 0 to 200, decreased for the first time this quarter, from 121.1 to 115.6, indicating a fall in the productivity of firms.

In response to inflation, two-fifths (38%) of business leaders are planning to respond by finding efficiencies, one quarter (26%) will prioritise growth opportunities, and about one in six (15%) are considering reducing headcount to help their business survive.

Despite fighting through the previous two years of ups and downs, business outlook has fallen for the first time since Q4 2020, with half (50%) of leaders not confident in their business’ ability to respond to sustained inflation.

However, leaders are increasingly looking to improve their businesses and performance as they look to survive these new challenges.

Beneath the figures: Bruised UK firms are still looking to improve in the face of decreasing confidence

The consistent pressure on business leaders over the last several years – from the pandemic through to supply chain issues and now the escalating cost of living crisis – appears to have had a negative impact on them.

Business leaders feel less confident in their management skills as they look to navigate an increasingly challenging autumn and winter.

While belief in capabilities is down, business leaders continue to respond positively, by looking to bolster their skills as managers and invest time and money in their business over the next year:

  • Over half (56%) of UK business leaders believe their management teams have the right blend of skills, an 8% decrease from Q1 2022.
    • However, determination and the drive to improve shine through, with 45% expecting to spend more time on management and leadership activities – a 9% increase in only 6 months.
  • Just 54% of business leaders believe they have the skills and talent needed to succeed, a 10% decrease from Q1 2022
    • But 4 in 10 (40%) have plans to reassess pay, rewards and incentives to improve employee motivation, an increase of 8% on the last PBI.
  • There has been a significant drop (9%) in the number of business leaders that feel their company fosters innovation and new ideas from employees.
    • Yet, 41% of business leaders plan to develop new ideas, an increase of 7% compared to the beginning of the year.

The contrast between lower confidence and intent to improve is striking in the data on capabilities, and demonstrates the determination from business leaders to succeed in spite of the volatile economic context.

Letters: Cat-Kind neutering campaign

A group of animal charities led by Cats Protection is advocating cats be neutered from the age of four months old to prevent unwanted pregnancies. 

The Cat-Kind umbrella group recommends neutering at four months of age as that is when puberty hits. Neutering cats at four months (rather than the traditional six months of age), is an effective way to reduce the number of accidental litters, as well as having many recognised benefits to cat health and behaviour including marking of territory by spraying, fighting, wailing and roaming/getting lost.

Research has shown that neutering at four months has no increased risk and so there is no reason why neutering should be delayed until six months, by which time cats can already get pregnant. 

Cats Protection estimates there are 1.3m unneutered pet cats in the UK and over 150,000 cats already enter shelters each year. This year has seen a 46 per cent increase in cats on the waiting list to enter the charity’s adoption centres, as owners seek to relinquish their pets due to the cost-of-living crisis.

A reduction in surprise pregnancies will stop the stress and risks to young cats who get pregnant, while reducing the number of unwanted kittens that may require rehoming in the future. 

Further information on the benefits of neutering, as well as our Kitten Neutering Database listing vets undertaking the procedure at four months, can be found at www.cats.org.uk/what-we-do/neutering/kitten-neutering

 Cats Protection provides discounted neutering for owners on low incomes.

To find out more call our dedicated neutering helpline on 03000 1212112 Mon – Fri 9.30 – 1pm or go to www.cats.org.uk/what-we-do/neutering/financial-assistance 

Yours faithfully,  

JANE CLEMENTS

Head of Neutering

Dogs Trust issues advice for owners ahead of the firework season

Firework season will soon whizz-pop into our lives and for this Halloween, Diwali and Bonfire Night, Dogs Trust West Calder is issuing advice to dog owners to help our canine companions, who might be scared by the unexpected bangs and bursts of fireworks. 

Susan Tonner, Dogs Trust West Calder Manager said: “Dogs have approximately four times more sensitive hearing than humans, so the loud cracks and bangs of fireworks can often be a terrifying and confusing experience for them.

“Fireworks tend to be sudden, unpredictable and bright. This combination can be distressing and have a lasting impact on dogs. 

“There are lots of things dog owners can do to help make fireworks less stressful including having a clear plan, ahead of time, to help their dog cope. Dogs will respond to fireworks in different ways, some will want to find a cosy hiding place, whilst others will want reassurance. It is important to recognise the individual needs of your dog, whilst also letting your dog do what makes them feel most comfortable.” 

The charity urges owners to visit its website for full guidance on how to help dogs stay safe and settled during fireworks. The top tips include: 

·       Adapt your routine – To avoid taking your dog out when fireworks have started, gradually change their routine in the weeks leading up to events. For example, it may be a good idea to start walking them earlier in the day alongside gradually changing their feeding time to allow them time to exercise, eat and toilet before dark.   

·       Plan ahead – Ensure you are aware of any local firework displays and make arrangements so your dog is not left alone. Prepare their environment in advance, close curtains, turn on the lights, and turn on the television or some music to help block the outside noise. 

·       Keep your dog safe – Make sure your house and garden are secure.  

·       Recognise the needs of your dog – Fireworks can spark varied reactions from dogs, some will appear relaxed and unbothered by the loud bangs; others will show signs of anxiety or fear. They may show subtle signs, such as panting or licking their lips, finding somewhere to hide or seeking attention from their human family. Or they may show more obvious signs, such as pacing, barking or even toileting in the house. Whilst these signs can be directly related to fear of noise, they can also indicate underlying health problems so please contact your vet as early as possible. 

·       Enable their preferred response by letting your dog do what they feel most comfortable with. Some dogs will benefit from having a safe place to retreat to should they feel worried by fireworks. Introduce this safe place well in advance and encourage them there by building up positive associations with their new ‘den’. Other dogs will cope best by seeking reassurance, so give them attention and comfort if they seek this out. Some dogs may not seem worried, and it’s best to keep them occupied with their favourite toys or activities to reduce the likelihood of them becoming anxious – experiment before the firework season begins, and slowly introduce them, to find out what they enjoy the most. It is important to remember, fear of fireworks can appear at any time and any age, so it is essential to support your dog throughout their life.   

·       Seek guidance from your vet – they can help with advice, refer you to a clinical behaviourist, and may also prescribe medication if deemed necessary to help your dog cope. Medication can be extremely useful where dogs are fearful as it can not only help them cope during the fireworks event, but also stop their fear escalating after each event. Give any prescribed medication well in advance of events starting. 

Susan adds: “We recommend noting down how your dog reacted during the fireworks and what worked well to help them cope in preparation for the next firework event.

“The following day, after an evening of fireworks, we would also advise returning to a normal routine to help dogs settle down. If they were worried during fireworks, it is a good idea to seek professional help before the next firework season starts.” 

If you are planning a firework display at home, please consider: 

·       Letting your neighbours know well in advance, so they can prepare their dogs. 

·       Limiting your display to 30 minutes or less. 

·       Opting for quieter, lower decibel fireworks.  

For those who have welcomed a puppy into their life recently, check out the free sound therapy programmes, that can help to gradually expose puppies to different noises in a positive way, so they can perceive them as normal.   

For detailed advice on preparing your dog for fireworks season visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/fireworks 

Dogs Trust recommends dog owners to seek veterinary advice for any concerns. They can check if there are any contributing medical problems, and if necessary, refer you to a clinical behaviourist. Read our advice on finding a qualified behaviourist 

Tackling the energy cost crisis

The First Minister has convened a second summit with energy companies and advice organisations.

Further actions to support consumers and businesses through the winter have been agreed at yesterday’s virtual summit between energy companies and advice organisations and Ministers.

The energy cost crisis summit discussed this week’s reversals to UK Government measures set out since the previous summit, and agreed longer-term certainty is urgently needed ahead of the anticipated energy price cap increase, currently due in April.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “The curtailing of the Energy Price Guarantee by the Chancellor of the Exchequer earlier this week has eradicated what meagre certainty people and businesses had over their bills and finances in the short to medium-term.

“Even the current cap of £2,500 until April – while better than a rise to £3,500 – is still a very significant increase for households who are already struggling to pay their bills and heat their homes. Without further mitigation the increase to £2,500 under the Energy Price Guarantee will see an additional 150,000 households in extreme fuel poverty.

“The deficiencies in the UK Government’s package mean we are still in an emergency situation. The economic outlook has been made far worse by other aspects of the mini-budget – most of which have now had to be reversed entirely.

“The Scottish Government is working hard within its limited powers and finite budget to support people, business, public services and the economy. Part of that work will involve ongoing engagement with energy companies and advice organisations throughout the winter to see how, individually and collectively, we can alleviate the huge challenges people are facing as well as signposting existing schemes and support that is available.

“It is clear however that more substantial reform of the energy market is needed to address the issue in the long term, and the power to do so lies with the UK Government.”

And therein lies the problem – Ed.

Scottish Energy Retail Summit: update on collaborative action – gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

Over one million families claiming tax credits to receive second Cost of Living Payment from 23 November

More than one million claimant families receiving tax credits, and no other means-tested benefits, will get their second Cost of Living Payment from Wednesday 23 November 2022, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has confirmed.

This £324 UK Government payment will be paid automatically into most eligible tax credit-only customers’ bank accounts between 23 and 30 November 2022 across the United Kingdom.

Angela MacDonald, HMRC’s Deputy Chief Executive and Second Permanent Secretary, said:

“This second Cost of Living Payment will provide further financial support to eligible tax credit-only claimants across the UK.

“The £324 will be paid automatically into bank accounts, so people don’t need to do anything to receive this extra help.”

The second payment will see more than 8 million households across the UK receive their £324 cost of living cash boost by 30 November and follows the first cost of living payments of £326, which eligible families received from Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) from July and HMRC from September.

The UK Government recently announced that households receiving DWP benefits will get their second Cost of Living Payment from 8 November continuing through to 23 November. This includes tax credit claimants who also receive other income-related benefits from DWP.

HMRC is making payments shortly after DWP in order to avoid duplicate payments.

This latest payment comes on top of wider UK Government support with the cost of living this autumn and winter, including:

·         the £150 Disability Cost of Living Payment, already paid to around 6 million disabled people

  • more than 8 million pensioner households who will receive an extra one-off £300 Winter Fuel Payment this year 

This is in addition to an extension to the Household Support Fund, which is providing an extra £421 million for use between October 2022 and March 2023 to help vulnerable people with the essentials. A £150 Council Tax rebate was sent earlier this year to those in Council Tax bands A to D in England, creating at least £1,200 in direct support for millions of households.

A £400 reduction on energy bills is also being given to all domestic electricity customers over the coming months, and the Energy Price Guarantee is protecting households from significant rises in their energy bills this winter.

The UK Government is offering help for households. Customers should check GOV.UK to find out what cost of living support they could be eligible for. 

Additional Information:

  • Cost of living payments were announced in May 2022. Details of the first DWP and HMRC payments were publicised in June, July and August 2022. In October 2022 the DWP announced details of their second payment.
  • The latest payment schedule information, which will be updated on 20 October to show that the second HMRC payments will be made between 23 and 30 November, is available here.
  • Tax credit-only customers, who will receive the second payment between 23 and 30 November 2022, must have received a payment or an annual award of at least £26 of tax credits for any day in the period 26 August 2022 to 25 September 2022, or later found to be entitled to tax credits for this period.
  • For joint claimants, where one claimant receives Working Tax Credit and the other claimant receives Child Tax Credit, payments will be made into the same bank account as the Child Tax Credit. 
  • To be eligible for the second DWP payment, families must have been entitled to a payment (or later found to be entitled to a payment) of either:
    • Universal Credit for an assessment period that ended in the period 26 August 2022 to 25 September 2022
    • income-based JSA, income-related ESA, Income Support or Pension Credit for any day in the period 26 August 2022 to 25 September 2022
  • Customers do not need to apply for this payment. If customers are eligible through receiving tax credits only, HMRC will make the Cost of Living Payment automatically into the bank account where claimants already receive their tax credits. Customers might find that their payment is delayed if they have recently closed the bank account their tax credits are usually paid into.
  • If customers have not let HMRC know that their bank account has changed, HMRC will pay the money into their old bank account, meaning the payment will be rejected. If this happens, HMRC will follow this up by letter to the customer, letting them know that we need updated bank details.
  • If tax credit customers believe they are eligible but have not received a payment between the published payment dates, they should wait until 7 December at the earliest to contact HMRC. This is to allow time for their bank, building society or credit union to process the payment. We won’t be able to provide customers with any further information before this date.
  • More than 8 million families on means-tested benefits will receive up to £650 this year, made in two payments. This includes all families entitled to a payment of the following benefits: Universal Credit, Income-based Jobseekers Allowance, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit and Pension Credit.
  • This payment is tax-free, will not count towards the benefit cap, and will not have any impact on existing benefit awards.
  • These payments are being delivered in two slightly different amounts of £326 and £324. The distinct value relates to a specific qualifying period, so it is simpler to determine if a payee received the correct payments, reducing the fraud risk of people who claim not to have had one of the specific two payments, as HMRC and DWP will be able to clearly track those who have.
  • Beware of scams targeting cost of living payments. If someone contacts you about cost of living payments saying they are from HMRC, it might be a scam.
  • You don’t need to apply for this payment. HMRC will never ask for your bank details by SMS or email. Don’t let yourself be rushed. Check advice on spotting scams by visiting GOV.UK and searching ‘phishing and scams’. You can find phone numbers, and other ways to contact us, on GOV.UK – search ‘Contact HMRC’ and choose ‘tax credits’.

Class of 2022: Young people with learning disabilities are Breaking Barriers in education

Edinburgh Napier University hosted a unique graduation ceremony this week for a group of students who successfully completed ENABLE’s Breaking Barriers programme.

The ground-breaking initiative, established by ENABLE in 2018, empowers young people who have a learning disability to access university life whilst being fully supported to thrive. Students can undertake work experience opportunities with a leading global employer and gain a university qualification from a world-class academic institution.

Over the course of several months, a group of students have completed a learning programme at Edinburgh Napier University and a work placement with the course’s corporate partner, multinational professional services provider – EY.

The course aims to tackle the widespread lack of opportunities for young people with learning disabilities to enter the workforce. Recent data shows that while 45% of all Scotland’s school leavers go to university, only 8.6% of school leavers who have a learning disability go on to higher education.

The Breaking Barriers business class of 2022 came together this week for joyful celebrations with friends and family in the River Suite at Edinburgh Napier University. All of the students were successful in achieving their Accreditation in Applied Business Skills.

One of the students Gemma told us what the Breaking Barriers experience has meant to her: “I’m so happy to have successfully completed the Breaking Barriers programme, it was such a valuable experience that has benefited me a lot and I now feel ready to take my next step into further education or employment.

“I used to find school and college quite overwhelming but thanks to the support Breaking Barriers offers, I’ve really enjoyed the university environment and the chance to meet lots of new people. It was lovely to all come together on Wednesday to celebrate our achievement with our family and friends.”

ENABLE CEO and co-founder of the Breaking Barriers programme, Theresa Shearer, said: “Since 2018, the Breaking Barriers programme has made it possible for students who have a learning disability to access the life-shaping experience of university that is a rite of passage for so many, yet it is currently available to so few disabled young people.

“Breaking Barriers demonstrates how the public, private and third sectors can work collaboratively to improve diversity, equity and inclusion in education and the workplace. Thanks to our partners at Edinburgh Napier University and EY, I am delighted to see those opportunities extended to even more young people across Scotland, and I congratulate what I am sure will be the first group of many from the programme at Napier.”

Philip Milne, EY Sponsor Partner in Scotland for Breaking Barriers, said: “It was our pleasure to welcome the Breaking Barriers students to our team for six weeks. As part of their work placement, the students rotated across all of our core service lines, showed curiosity by asking pertinent questions, and importantly grew in confidence every week.

“At the graduation event we heard the success stories of students who had been encouraged by their experience, to explore further education and employment – a true example of how breaking barriers down can make a difference.”

ENABLE runs the Breaking Barriers programme through its ENABLE Works division that sets out to break down barriers to employment for people living with a learning disability. 

Currently the specialist employability service is embedded within 28 local authorities across Scotland and supports 5,500 people each year. The development programmes are all about getting people of all ages ready for work – and supporting their individual needs every step of the way.

Professor Nazira Karodia, Vice Principal of Learning and Teaching at Edinburgh Napier University said: “We have been delighted to welcome our ENABLE students to our Craiglockhart campus, where our vision is to be the Business School for empowerment, enterprise, and employability for all.

“Our ethos as a university is to be the home for difference makers. Not everyone has an opportunity to change the world, but everyone can make a positive difference to the world around them: working with fantastic partners like ENABLE and EY is truly helping to break down barriers faced by young people with learning difficulties.”

The Breaking Barriers programme, which originated in the West of Scotland, has entered its fifth year and works with corporate partners including STV, Scottish Power and EY, with courses at both Edinburgh Napier University and the University of Strathclyde.

The University of Strathclyde recently expanded the programme offering to include a science cohort, giving young people with learning disabilities the chance to focus on STEM subjects both in a classroom and work placement setting for the first time. This launched in September 2022 and will run for twelve weeks.

For more information on the programme and how to apply please visit:

www.enable.org.uk/breaking-barriers or contact Madeline King at

madeline.king@enable.org.uk