Month: December 2022

More support to make homes warmer and greener

New offer to make climate-friendly energy improvements simpler

As of today it will be simpler and more affordable for people to install climate-friendly heat and energy efficiency measures in their homes.

Homeowners can now apply for a standalone grant of £7,500 from the Home Energy Scotland Scheme to install heat pumps. Previously, applicants were required to sign up for a loan before they qualified for this funding, but can now access the money directly.

The new approach is designed to offer greater flexibility for those looking to make their homes more climate-friendly.

The enhanced measures will also include an extra £1,500 to homeowners in rural areas, in line with a commitment made as part of the Bute House Agreement. A standalone grant of £7,500 for energy efficiency improvements to homes will also be made available.

Minister for Zero Carbon Buildings, Patrick Harvie announced the changes whilst on a visit to a Home Energy Scotland advice centre in Edinburgh to learn more about the ways their advisors have been helping people to access energy efficiency funding.

He said: “Reducing emissions from our homes and buildings is one of the most important things we can do to help end Scotland’s contribution to climate change.

“Our Heat in Buildings Strategy sets out ambitious targets to transform how we heat and insulate buildings and we have committed £1.8 billion over this parliament to support its delivery. This includes doubling our funding for the Home Energy Scotland scheme this year.

“The improvements to the Home Energy Scotland Scheme – including, importantly, targeted support for those in rural areas – will make it easier for people to access funding to ensure their homes are more energy efficient and use climate friendly-heating.

“I would encourage anyone that is interested to visit the Home Energy Scotland website. Advisors are also available to guide applicants through the process.”

Harry Mayers, Head of Home Energy Scotland, said: “Having a warm home and reducing energy bills are big priorities for households in Scotland. The Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan will help thousands of households make much-needed improvements to their homes to keep out the cold and drive down bills.

“The changes being made mean that homeowners can now apply for grant funding without a loan; this will be a huge help towards covering the cost of making energy efficiency improvements or installing renewable systems such as heat pumps.

“The updated scheme comes at just the right time as we’re going into winter with energy prices at record highs. The rural uplift, which will provide extra financial support for those who live in rural and island communities who often face increased costs for home improvements, is especially welcome.”

Business Secretary launches review to prevent small firms from being ripped off by larger companies

Comprehensive review into tackling late payments for small businesses announced by Business Secretary

  • Business Secretary Grant Shapps announces in-depth review into payment practices to prevent small firms from being ripped off by larger companies
  • aimed at ensuring small businesses across the UK receive the payments they deserve, with £23.4 billion currently owed in outstanding invoices
  • comes as the Small Business Saturday Campaign marks its 10th anniversary

Business Secretary Grant Shapps has today – Small Business Saturday – announced a comprehensive review into tackling late payments for small businesses, while urging large companies to pay their smaller suppliers promptly.

Small businesses routinely spend significant time and resources chasing late payments from businesses they supply which can lead to cash flow problems, putting their firms at risk and preventing them from growing. The majority of small businesses do not have large balance sheets and cannot accommodate long payment terms or delays to receiving payment within their cash flow cycle.

The Payment and Cash Flow review will scrutinise existing payment practices and the measures in place to make sure small firms are not ripped off by their larger clients – with over £23.4 billion currently owed in outstanding invoices to UK businesses.

The review will consider the progress made in specific sectors of the economy in combatting late payment and will also include an in-depth examination of current payment reporting regulations and the Prompt Payment Code.

In addition, the statutory review of the Small Business Commissioner will help to ensure that the UK has the right arrangements in place to best support small businesses.

Business Secretary Grant Shapps said: “The UK’s 5.5 million small businesses are an integral part not just of our economy, but of our communities too, and this government is firmly on their side.

“That many small firms are routinely paid late is intolerable and presents a real barrier to productivity, the creation of high-skilled jobs and ultimately economic growth.

“This review will allow us to build on the success we have had so far in curbing late payment, unshackling small businesses from this exploitative practice and creating a system that is fit for the future.

“While we crack on with this work, I also want to remind big businesses of their duty to ensure their smaller suppliers are paid promptly.”

The government is already demonstrating its own commitment to prompt payment through the Procurement Bill, which is currently being debated in Parliament. The legislation sets out the requirement for 30 day payment terms to apply in public sector supply chains which will help level the playing field for SMEs and encourage more businesses with smaller budgets to bid for public sector contracts

The announcement comes alongside the government’s support for Small Business Saturday – which celebrates small business successes and encourages consumers to support smaller firms in their area – with the Business Secretary out on a visit to his local high street in his Welwyn Hatfield constituency.

Also within the scope of the review is the role of technology-enabled accountancy platforms in tackling late payments and promoting a better understanding of prompt payment measures within the small business community.

The role of finance, particularly how major banks and innovative lenders can help small businesses manage their cashflow and identifying barriers to accessing finance will also be part of the review’s remit. The review will include a consultation on the payment reporting regulations, setting out specific proposals on renewal and improvement of these duties. 

The review of the Small Business Commissioner will consider both its role and effectiveness, drawing on the consultation on the Commissioner’s powers that was conducted in 2020.

The government is committed to supporting small businesses across the United Kingdom through a series of measures including the recently expanded Start Up Loans scheme which saw an additional 33,000 new loans made available to SMEs.

Small businesses have also benefited from the Energy Bill Relief Scheme which provides non-domestic customers with a discount on their gas and electricity bills in light of the rise in global energy prices.

As part of the Autumn Statement, the Chancellor announced a £13.6 billion package of support for business rate payers, including the £500 million Supporting Small Business scheme.

United Kingdom Health Security Agency issues Scarlet Fever update

The latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows that scarlet fever cases continue to remain higher than we would typically see at this time of year. There were 851 cases reported in week 46, compared to an average of 186 for the preceding years.

Health officials have recorded more than 430 cases of Strep A in Scotland in two weeks.

Scarlet fever is usually a mild illness, but it is highly infectious. Therefore, look out for symptoms in your child, which include a sore throat, headache, and fever, along with a fine, pinkish or red body rash with a sandpapery feel. On darker skin, the rash can be more difficult to detect visually but will have a sandpapery feel. Contact NHS 111 or your GP if you suspect your child has scarlet fever, because early treatment of scarlet fever with antibiotics is important to reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia or a bloodstream infection. If your child has scarlet fever, keep them at home until at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment to avoid spreading the infection to others.

Scarlet fever is caused by bacteria called group A streptococci. These bacteria also cause other respiratory and skin infections such as strep throat and impetigo.

In very rare occasions, the bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause an illness called invasive Group A strep (iGAS). While still uncommon, there has been an increase in invasive Group A strep cases this year, particularly in children under 10.

There were 2.3 cases per 100,000 children aged 1 to 4 compared to an average of 0.5 in the pre-pandemic seasons (2017 to 2019) and 1.1 cases per 100,000 children aged 5 to 9 compared to the pre-pandemic average of 0.3 (2017 to 2019) at the same time of the year.

So far this season there have been 5 recorded deaths within 7 days of an iGAS diagnosis in children under 10 in England. During the last high season for Group A Strep infection (2017 to 2018) there were 4 deaths in children under 10 in the equivalent period.

Investigations are also underway following reports of an increase in lower respiratory tract Group A strep infections in children over the past few weeks, which have caused severe illness.

Currently, there is no evidence that a new strain is circulating. The increase is most likely related to high amounts of circulating bacteria and social mixing.

There are lots of viruses that cause sore throats, colds and coughs circulating. These should resolve without medical intervention. However, children can on occasion develop a bacterial infection on top of a virus and that can make them more unwell.

As a parent, if you feel that your child seems seriously unwell, you should trust your own judgement. Contact NHS 111 or your GP if:

  • your child is getting worse
  • your child is feeding or eating much less than normal
  • your child has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more or shows other signs of dehydration
  • your baby is under 3 months and has a temperature of 38°C, or is older than 3 months and has a temperature of 39°C or higher
  • your baby feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest, or feels sweaty
  • your child is very tired or irritable

Call 999 or go to A&E if:

  • your child is having difficulty breathing – you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs
  • there are pauses when your child breathes
  • your child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue
  • your child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake

Good hand and respiratory hygiene are important for stopping the spread of many bugs. By teaching your child how to wash their hands properly with soap for 20 seconds, using a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, and keeping away from others when feeling unwell, they will be able to reduce the risk of picking up or spreading infections.

Dr Colin Brown, Deputy Director, UKHSA, said: “We are seeing a higher number of cases of Group A strep this year than usual.

“The bacteria usually causes a mild infection producing sore throats or scarlet fever that can be easily treated with antibiotics.

“In very rare circumstances, this bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause serious illness – called invasive Group A strep (iGAS). This is still uncommon; however, it is important that parents are on the lookout for symptoms and see a doctor as quickly as possible so that their child can be treated and we can stop the infection becoming serious.

“Make sure you talk to a health professional if your child is showing signs of deteriorating after a bout of scarlet fever, a sore throat, or a respiratory infection.”

Dobbies’ Edinburgh store gears up for Bring Your Christmas Tree Home Day

Dobbies Garden Centre in Edinburgh is gearing up for one of the key dates in the festive calendar, officially known as ‘Bring Your Christmas Tree Home Day.’

The first Saturday of December (Saturday 3 December) is the most popular day for buying real Christmas trees and this year is set to be no exception as demand for real trees continues to grow, with trees available both in store and online. 

Dobbies is committed to protecting the environment and is shining a light on its sustainably grown Christmas trees. Not only that, but starting on Saturday 3 and running to Friday 9 December, the garden centre is offering all electric and hybrid vehicle owners 10% off their real tree when purchased in store, with Club Plus Members able to secure a further 5% discount, on top of their normal 10% discount.

To take advantage of the offer all customers in Edinburgh need to do is head to https://www.dobbies.com/bring-your-christmas-tree-home.

The Nordmann Fir is the most popular Christmas tree in the UK because it loses very few needles, meaning your tree will remain green and full, with the right care. However, Dobbies’ Edinburgh store offers a full range of freshly cut and pot grown trees, starting from £19.99, to suit every home size and budget, as the garden centre promotes great value this festive season.

Marcus Eyles, Dobbies’ Horticultural Director and resident Christmas tree expert, provides his top tips for the best real Christmas tree experience. For selecting your tree, Marcus says: “To ensure your Christmas tree is the right size, come equipped with the height, depth and width measurements of the area where you picture your tree at home.

“Make sure the area has a plug nearby, for your Christmas lights – corners are ideal – as it will keep your tree safe from knocks and bumps.

“Bringing a tape measure to the store and double checking the dimensions is a good idea to avoid any disappointment and save you a return trip to the store if you find that your tree is too big or small once you get it home. Dobbies’ team members will also be on hand to help you decide what tree is best suited to your space. Fear not, if your tree is a little too big, you can always trim it to fit the space.”

Marcus continues: “All of our trees are netted once selected, so they are as compact as possible. For most cars, the tree will be too long to fit in the boot. I’d recommend attaching it to your roof rack if you have one and, if not, recline the front passanger seat. Insert the tip of the tree into the car first and rest the stump in the footwell. Use the safety belt to secure it in position so you can drive home safely.

“Once you have your cut tree home, keep it outside in a sheltered area, cut 1” off the base of the trunk and stand in a bucket of water until you are ready to bring it indoors, this will help reduce needle drop.

“Place your tree in its water holding stand and ensure the water reservoir is replenished on a regular basis. Your potted tree will be ready to slot straight away into your designated spot!”

All Dobbies’ trees are sustainably grown from specially selected seeds, taken from hand-picked cones which have been left to dry and nurtured into seedlings. Specialist pruning techniques are used to create a bushy, uniform shape with emphasis on each individual tree’s features.

This work is done by hand which keeps any impact on surrounding wildlife to a minimum. Dobbies’ customers in Edinburgh can be assured they were not cut down from wild forests but instead come from environmentally managed plantations across Scotland. 

For more information on caring for your Christmas tree and choosing the right one for your home visit https://www.dobbies.com/bring-your-christmas-tree-home.

£60m for disabled children in first year of new Scottish benefit

Minister urges those eligible to apply

Almost £60 million has been distributed to thousands of families with disabled children in the first year of a new Scottish benefit.

The latest official figures from Social Security Scotland show the families of nearly 44,000 children and young people were receiving Child Disability Payment in September this year.

The benefit replaces the DWP’s Disability Living Allowance for Children and helps cover the extra costs of caring for a child who is disabled, has a health condition or is terminally ill.

Minister for Social Security Ben Macpherson said: “Caring for a child who is disabled or has a long-term ill-health condition can result in extra costs for families, from buying specialist equipment to paying for taxis to get to appointments. It can also be more expensive for children with disabilities to take part in the activities and opportunities with their peers.

“Child Disability Payment helps parents to support their children and assists young people to live their lives to the fullest. It is welcome news that around 44,000 families are now receiving Child Disability Payment, a year after we rolled it out across Scotland.

“With the increasing financial pressures on families, it is important people are receiving all the benefits they are entitled to. I urge anyone who thinks they or their child may be eligible to get in touch with Social Security Scotland, as well as checking if they may be entitled to extra financial support by visiting costofliving.campaign.gov.scot/”

One parent who knows the difference Child Disability Payment can make, is mum Heather, whose son has autism and ADHD.

Heather said: “Before applying for Child Disability Payment, my son was struggling. He found school very hard and didn’t think he was good at anything. He couldn’t focus, didn’t have friends and was worried he’d never be able to get a job. His self-esteem was so low.

“Child Disability Payment allowed me to buy him a computer and pay for outdoor school sessions. That might not sound like much but it’s changed his life.

“The outdoor school lets him learn in much smaller groups and in an active way that suits his brain. The computer and the games have let him learn new skills including maths, something he found impossible before.

“He’s also discovered he’s exceptionally good at games. That’s given him something to feel proud of for the first time and something to talk to other children about.

“He’s now talking about becoming a game developer or working for a big tech company.

“It if wasn’t for Child Disability Payment there’s no way I could have afforded any of that and he’d still be the same boy who cried every night not wanting to go to school.

“I’d urge any parent or carer who thinks they might be eligible to look into applying for Child Disability Payment.

“The process is much simpler than you might think and the money could change your child’s life.”

The latest figures show 34,000 people who had been receiving Disability Living Allowance for Children before Child Disability Payment was rolled out, have had their award transferred to Social Security Scotland.

The majority of those still receiving Disability Living Allowance for children in Scotland are expected to have their awards transferred by Spring next year, with no need for the recipient to take any action and no break in payments.

Almost a third of people in Scotland have dunked in someone else’s cuppa

Great British Bake Off stars Giuseppe Dell’Anno and Lizzie Acker are supporting a new cookie campaign from charity Mary’s Meals 

A survey by school feeding charity Mary’s Meals has revealed that around one in three people in Scotland have dunked a biscuit in someone else’s cuppa. 

Giuseppe Dell’Anno and Lizzie Acker, stars of Great British Bake Off, have spoken out on the controversial poll – with 2021 winner Giuseppe saying: “I would never dunk my biscuit in someone else’s cuppa – and I won’t be held responsible for my actions if anyone dares dunk their biscuit in mine!”  

The survey of 2,000 people across the UK, held to launch the charity’s Raise Some Dough campaign, also revealed that in Scotland: 

  • Almost a third of people in Scotland have dunked their biscuit in someone else’s cuppa (31%) 
  • 30% of respondents said they don’t eat biscuits, with 13% saying they don’t dunk biscuits 
  • The digestive is the nation’s favourite biscuit to dunk (14%), while a party ring, fig roll and Oreo came out as the least popular biscuits for dunking (1%) 
  • Almost a tenth of people (9%) eat biscuits in bed  
  • And 6% of people eat biscuits in the bath 

Giuseppe says: “The traditional Italian breakfast is caffè latte and biscuits, rigorously dunked.

“So, I love to dunk! But, while I love to share the experience of eating together, I don’t like sharing food – so I would NEVER dunk my biscuit in someone else’s cuppa!”  

Lizzie – who reached the quarter finals of Great British Bake Off in 2021 – takes a different view: “I’m not a dunker, I love the crunch of a freshly baked biscuit. A soggy biscuit is as bad as a soggy bottom, in my opinion!” 

This winter, Mary’s Meals is asking people across Scotland to take part in its new baking fundraiser, Raise Some Dough. 

The charity serves nutritious school meals in 20 of the world’s poorest countries, many of which are impacted by conflict and natural disasters. The promise of food attracts hungry children into the classroom where they can gain an education and hope for the future. 

It costs just £15.90 to feed a child with Mary’s Meals every school day for a year. 

Dan McNally, head of grassroots engagement at Mary’s Meals, says: “Whether you dunk in your own cuppa, dunk in someone else’s, or don’t dunk at all, everyone can enjoy a biscuit while ‘raising some dough’ to raise vital funds for Mary’s Meals. 

“We’re so grateful to Giuseppe and Lizzie for their support – and we hope they inspire people across the UK to get baking!” 

Giuseppe adds: “Mary’s Meals is a wonderful charity that serves nutritious school meals in some of the world’s poorest, and often most difficult, locations. 

“Whether you’re a brilliant baker or a budding baker, please do what you can to support its important work. Your kindness will transform lives!” 

Giuseppe and Lizzie are just two of the famous faces supporting Mary’s Meals. Strictly Come Dancing star Ellie Taylor, and actors Joanna Lumley and Tamzin Outhwaite have all shared their favourite biscuit recipes in the charity’s free fundraising pack – which includes a mug-shaped cookie cutter.

It is available online from marysmeals.org.uk/raise 

Donations made to Mary’s Meals until 31 January 2023 will be doubled by a generous group of supporters, up to £1.5 million, with the charity’s Double The Love campaign. 

Edinburgh Leisure’s annual gymnastics display returns to Meadowbank

After a five-year hiatus, Edinburgh Leisure will once again be holding their annual gymnastics display at the new £47m state-of-the-art Meadowbank Sports Centre, which reopened in July 2022 after a major refurbishment.

Now in its 16th year, over 300 gymnasts, and cheerleaders from six Edinburgh Leisure venues, will be coming together to delight audiences with their annual display at the sports venue on Sunday, 11 December 2022.

Gymnastics Development Officer Dorothy McQueen said: “Gymnastics is a great way to provide a healthy and active lifestyle. They have many benefits and help children to gain strength, stamina, balance, coordination, flexibility as well as self-confidence.

“This non-competitive gymnastics’ event gives the children with Edinburgh Leisure’s coaching programme the opportunity to showcase what they have been working so hard on throughout the year. In addition, it allows them to see performances of all levels and inspires them to reach for the stars, or maybe even that gold, silver or bronze medal in the future.”

As well as featuring over 23 performances from Edinburgh Leisure gymnastics, there will also be special guest appearances from clubs across the region, including City of Edinburgh, Ibex and Cheer Evolution.

Tickets cost £5 each and all spectators, 5 years and over, require a ticket for entry. Participating gymnasts do not require a ticket.

Under 5s tickets are free but they will not be allocated a seat.

Tickets are available for either the morning or afternoon session and can be bought from Ticket Source – https://bit.ly/3V5KEdS

Gymnastics coaching teaches the basics of floor, vault, beam, and bar skills from Primary 1 upwards before progressing to a higher class.  

It is just one of the 12 sports coached across 17 venues in Edinburgh. Edinburgh Leisure’s coaching programme helps children to develop new skills, improve their agility and grow confidence. And for pre-schoolers, Edinburgh Leisure offers Gym Nippers, from those toddlers who are walking.

For more information on gymnastics’ classes and other coaching opportunities at Edinburgh Leisure, get inspired by visiting:

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/coaching

Early bird tickets launched for Royal Highland Show 2023 

New farming flexi ticket and increased ticket numbers on offer 

Royal Highland Show, Santa Ticket

Tickets for the 2023 Royal Highland Show are now on sale at discounted early-bird prices – just in time for the festive giving season!  

The Ingliston showground will come to life from 22 – 25 June 2023 with a celebration of Scotland’s best in food, farming and rural life. 

Show organisers, the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland promise an unforgettable event. Over four jam-packed show days, visitors will be captivated by world-class livestock displays, shearing spectacles, equestrian competitions, impressive agri machinery, technical innovations and energetic rural demonstrations, while enjoying live music and taking advantage of plentiful shopping opportunities, not to mention sampling the country’s finest food and drink! 

The Show will also be hosting the Golden Shears World Sheep Shearing & Woolhandling Championship, which will welcome competitors from over 30 countries around the globe. 

Showgoers must buy advance tickets for specific days (Thursday – Sunday) with event organisers encouraging visitors to act fast as tickets are likely to sell out quickly. 

Following sell-out days last year, Show organisers have reviewed health & safety protocols and increased the capacity of each day from 50,000 to 53,000, allowing up to an extra 12,000 people to attend and enjoy the Show. 

The Show also has a new ticketing partner for 2023, See Tickets, which will offer an enhanced customer experience and no additional booking fees. 

Limited discounted early bird tickets are available from 12pm Friday 2nd December from the Royal Highland Show website. 

New for 2023 is the ‘Farming Flexi’ ticket, which allows entry on either Thursday or Friday, and is designed to suit the unpredictable calendar of those working in the rural and agricultural sectors. The Farming Flexi tickets will be of limited quantity, and are likely to sell out fast as rural communities take advantage of this flexible option. 

As always, children aged 15 and under will go free with a paying adult.*   

Information on booking RHASS member tickets will be communicated in early 2023. 

Royal Highland Show, Santa Ticket

Jim Warnock, RHASS Chairman, said: “Fresh from a glorious 2022, the Royal Highland Show 2023 is shaping up to be a stellar showcase of Scotland’s best in food, farming and rural life. With the added excitement of hosting the World Sheep Shearing & Wool Handling Championships, there is so much more to entertain showgoers! 

“Even if you’ve never stepped foot in a farm, it’s an incredible day out – where else can you get up close to farmyard animals, taste the best of Scottish food and drink, see world-class equestrians, experience the thrill of the Main Ring parade, or climb aboard a giant tractor?  

“With last year’s show selling out faster than any year in our 200 year history, we’re advising visitors to snap up tickets now so as not to miss out!” 

Early Bird Ticket information:  

Adult day single admit: £30  

Adult day single Flexi Farming ticket: £33 

Accessible ticket: £30 plus one accompanying carer goes free 

Children aged 15 and under will go free with a paying adult (*max 3 children per paying adult)  

Standard/Accessible Parking: £15 per day, two-day parking £20, four-day parking £25.  

Tickets must be bought in advance from the Royal Highland Show website. Once Early Bird tickets have sold out, ticket price increases will apply. 

Royal Highland Show opens applications for returning exhibitors

The Royal Highland Show is inviting returning trade exhibitors to confirm their stands for 2023 in what is anticipated to be one of the biggest Shows ever, with visitors flocking from across the globe. 

Around 200,000 showgoers will be welcomed through the gates of the Ingliston showground from 22nd to 25th June 2023 to celebrate Scotland’s best showcase of food, farming and rural life.  

And in an exciting development, the Golden Shears World Sheep Shearing and Woolhandling Championship will also take place during 2023 Royal Highland Show, attracting exhibitors from over 30 countries and providing even greater retail opportunities for exhibitors. 

A recent economic impact report highlighted that the Royal Highland Show contributes £39.5 million to Edinburgh’s economy, more than Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations – with visitors spending on average £147 across all areas of the Show, including agricultural equipment and food and drink. 

2022 RHS exhibitors will receive a proposal from Show organisers with the choice to accept, query or decline their place at the 2023 Show. However, they will need to respond quickly as the deadline for applications is 23rd January when exhibitors on the waitlist and new exhibitor applications will be reviewed.  

Jim Warnock, RHASS Chairman, commented: “The Royal Highland Show is one of the best shop windows Scotland and the rural sector at large has to offer. It’s an excellent opportunity for traders to reach thousands of people and tap into this unique sales platform. 

“The retail opportunities of the Show are further bolstered by this recent economic report, which outlined the significant impact of the Show on Edinburgh’s economy. In addition to this, next year’s exhibitors have the added benefit of the Golden Shears attracting an even larger international audience to the Show.”