Month: April 2023

Over £26,000 awarded to research projects exploring Scotland’s past 

The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland announced today that it has awarded funding to 15 archaeological and historical projects committed to researching stories from Scottish history. 

The Edinburgh-based membership charity supports high-quality research and publication relating to Scotland’s past by making several grants and awards each year. A total of £26,251.00 will be distributed by the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland to investigate Scottish rock art across the country, a devastated late-medieval Borders community, the lives of 18th-century Scots intellectuals in Rome, and more. 

The ‘Colouring the Neolithic: Searching for Pigments in Scotland’s Prehistoric Rock Art’ project will seek to “revolutionise our understanding” of prehistoric Scotland by searching for evidence that Neolithic rock art was not always plain stone.

The project leaders were inspired by evidence of colour on structures and artefacts from Orkney. Along with evidence of paintings over carvings on the continent, these examples suggest we may also find this combination of techniques in Scotland. 

Dr Joana Valdez-Tullett FSAScot, Prehistorian, Rock Art Specialist and Technical Specialist at Wessex Archaeology, and Dr Louisa Campbell FSAScot, Lord Kelvin Adam Smith Leadership Fellow in Archaeology at the University of Glasgow, will use rock art examples curated in Scottish museums to develop a pioneering approach to search for tantalising traces of these 5,000-year-old pigments. 

‘The Community of the Twelve Towers of Rule’ project co-ordinated by Professor Jane Bower FSAScot, Chair of the Campaign for a Scottish Borders National Park, aims to piece together the story of a late-medieval Borders community devastated by English forces almost 500 years ago.

In 1545, King Henry VIII dispatched an army to lay waste to the valley of Rule Water and the people who lived there. Thanks to a grant from the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, together with funding from Scottish Borders Council and the Campaign for a Scottish Borders National Park, the project will bring together dispersed and limited archival records to create a fuller understanding of the economy, society and culture of the valley of the Rule right up to the time it was destroyed. 

Dr Marion Amblard FSAScot, Senior Lecturer in Scottish and British studies at Grenoble Alpes University, will also investigate the Scottish community who lived in Rome between 1719 and 1798.

This community was made up of political exiles, artists, antiquarians, art dealers, travellers and young men attending the Scots College. The project entitled ‘Scots in 18th-century Rome: Key Actors in the Cultural, Artistic and Diplomatic Life of the Eternal City’ will shed light on the influence these Scots had on life in the Italian capital and back home in Scotland.

It will also show that the Scottish experience of Rome was different from that of the English and contributed to helping the Scots forge a multifaceted identity, being Scottish, British and European. 

Additional Society of Antiquaries of Scotland grants have been awarded to projects investigating the traces of the earliest human populations on the Isle of Skye, horse name elements in the landscape and language of Galloway, to students in the Scottish Archaeological Forum coordinating a new conference which will highlight efforts to address the under-representation of marginalised groups within archaeology, and more. 

Dr Suzanne Lyle FSAScot, Vice President of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland and Convenor of the Grants and Awards Committee, said: “Thanks to support from our Fellows, each year we are delighted to offer funding to a number of researchers at different stages in their careers. 

“The projects selected in 2023 demonstrate the high calibre and varied nature of research into Scottish history currently taking place across the globe, all of which will contribute to our understanding of Scotland’s past.”

The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland grants are open to everyone and the next deadline for applications is 30 November. Visit their website for more information about grant funding and becoming a Fellow. 

Empowering the future of medical research

MEDICAL RESEARCH SCOTLAND INSPIRES OVER 1,400 YOUNG PEOPLE WITH LIVE-STREAMED EVENTS

Medical Research Scotland, Scotland’s largest independent medical research charity, has helped over 1,400 young people across Scotland connect with the country’s leading scientists and academics to learn about further education and careers in medical science.  

The Medical Research Scotland virtual academy has had a significant impact on the education and career prospects of pupils across Scotland. With participation from over 1,400 students from 36 schools spanning from Aberdeen to the Scottish Borders, the academy has successfully engaged students with an interest in STEM subjects. The primary goal for the academy is to address the shortage of STEM skills in Scotland by providing students with interactive experience and exposure to medical research. 

S4, S5 & S6 pupils from schools across Scotland joined each Friday morning for a month of live streamed weekly interactive lessons, which were broadcasted straight to their science classrooms, allowing pupils to watch from the comfort of their own learning environments. Throughout the course, students were treated to a range of inspiring and insightful presentations from scientists, lecturers, and PhD students whose studies were funded by Medical Research Scotland.  

The academy is a free tool that was delivered virtually and is also available to be streamed on demand making it a versatile resource that can be utilised throughout teaching schedules.

One school that benefitted from the Medical Research Scotland Academy virtual webinar series was James Gillespie’s High School in Edinburgh.

Pupils here gained the opportunity to learn about medical research into viruses, pharmaceuticals, how medical research was an integral part of combatting the global pandemic and much more from previous and present PhD students from the University of St Andrews, University of Aberdeen, Heriot-Watt University and the University of Dundee.  

Iain Coltart, Head of Science at James Gillespie’s High School, said: “I am thrilled to see the incredible impact of the Medical Research Scotland Academy on our pupils.

“Through this programme, our students have gained invaluable insights into cutting-edge medical research, engaging with leading experts in the field and deepening their understanding of scientific concepts.  

“The learning experience and exposure to real-world medical research has ignited their passion for science. We are grateful for this unique opportunity that has empowered our students and inspired them to pursue careers in the field of medical research.” 

Professor Heather Wallace, Chair of Medical Research Scotland, said: “As Chair of Medical Research Scotland, I take pride in Scotland’s rich heritage of producing world-class research scientists who have made ground-breaking discoveries and contributed to global health advancements.  

“The goal of the Medical Research Scotland Academy is to inspire and foster connections between the next generation of aspiring medical professionals and valued academics in Scotland. We have witnessed the immense enthusiasm for medical science among school leavers from various schools across the country, and it is truly gratifying to see.” 

Medical Research Scotland is dedicated to advancing health in Scotland and beyond through the support of cutting-edge research aimed at enhancing the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases.  

To join us in our mission, please visit our website at: 

medicalresearchscotland.org.uk 

and explore ways to contribute. 

If you would like to view this year’s Medical Research Scotland academy webinars, please visit: medicalresearchscotland.org.uk.  

National Lottery boost for Scottish communities to celebrate The King’s Coronation

With just under two weeks to go until His Majesty The King’s Coronation, over £480k of National Lottery funding has been awarded to 121 projects across Scotland so local communities can come together in celebration.

The funding, which ranges from grants of £300 up to £10,000, is supporting a range of activities across the weekend of 6th – 8th May, with an emphasis on events and activities that bring people together and have a positive and lasting impact on community engagement.  

Thanks to an award of £875, Oxgangs Neighbourhood Centre SCIO in Edinburgh will provide a celebratory afternoon event for people living in Oxgangs, Firrhill and Colinton Mains.

Oxgangs is one of seven Edinburgh projects to receive funding.

Dominic Heslop. Manager, Oxgangs Neighbourhood Centre, said: “This will be a great occasion for the community with a traditional street party, but with the added advantage of it being held in the garden and grounds of the Centre.

“Free food and drinks, live music, Highland dancing and of course the infamous bouncy castle!

“I know Oxgangs Neighbourhood Centre will provide a great event for local people and in return local people will be supporting our valued Centre. I am sure the King will be proud.”

In Glasgow, Barmulloch Community Development Company Ltd (BCDC) receives an award of £10,000 to host a large Coronation event on Saturday 6 May.

Martin McElroy, Chief Executive of BCDC explained:” On the day of the Coronation there will be a funfair, afternoon tea, a Royal Pageant, live performances and much more. We want families to enjoy the event and create memories together without worrying about how much it would cost.

“We are also planning on organising the world’s first ever autistic friendly Coronation Party. Sometimes large public events can cause anxiety to families and children with autism, so our volunteers and local parents have created a dedicated space to make sure children with autism can participate in a safe and supported environment.

“All of our plans for the big day focus on bringing the whole community together, having fun, and celebrating an historic event. Forget about the formalities at Westminster Abbey, Barmulloch is where the real excitement is happening!”

In Aberdeenshire people will have the chance to attend a Coronation Community Picnic thanks to an award of £3,300 to Alvah and Forglen Community Council.

Barbara Foad, Secretary, Alvah and Forglen Community Council said: “The funding means we can host at the Jubilee Wood totally free of charge. 

“A posh picnic in a box, wine to toast the King and live music are included. There will be seating undercover in our community pop up marquees in case of inclement weather. This is a fantastic opportunity to bring the residents of our area together to make new friendships and help build a stronger community.”

In Dumfries & Galloway, A Heart For Duns will host a King’s Coronation Street Party in the town’s market square on Sunday 7 May after an award of £3,470.

Lucy Searcy, Trustee, A Heart For Duns, said: We are delighted to bring the community of Duns and District together for a big Community Lunch where friends, families and neighbours can come together to enjoy local food, celebrate together, and share experiences.  

“There will be food, entertainment, space for dancing and a picnic area and it all starts from 10am through till mid-afternoon. We’re grateful for the National Lottery funding for making this event possible. “

Commenting on the range of funding awarded, Kate Still, Scotland Chair, The National Lottery Community Fund said: “Thanks to National Lottery players, these events and activities will help to promote community cohesion and engage people from different generations and cultures to get to know one another and share experiences.

“ By helping communities celebrate such a historic occasion, we hope to inspire a legacy of positive change that allows people to thrive together.”

Lottery-Community-Fund-coronation-awardsDownload

National Lottery players raise over £30 million each week for good causes across the UK. In the last 12 months we have given out nearly £600 million to 12,500 organisations reaching every local authority and constituency in the UK. 

Over 8 million families to receive £301 Cost of Living Payment from today

This is first of three new Cost of Living payments adding up to £900 in 2023/24 – though some people will receive up to £1,350

  • Over 8 million households to receive £301 from the Government with payments hitting bank accounts from today
  • Those eligible will be paid between Tuesday 25 April and Wednesday 17 May, with HMRC making payments to tax credit-only customers between Tuesday 2 and Tuesday 9 May

Over eight million households across the UK will receive a £301 Cost of Living Payment from the Government, with payments rolled out from today, demonstrating the Government’s relentless focus on our five priorities – including halving inflation, growing the economy and reducing debt.

As the cost of living continues to affect families across the UK, these payments are designed to target support towards the most vulnerable in society and provide them with a financial boost.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will send payments automatically and directly to recipients’ bank accounts, with a reference of their National Insurance number followed by ‘DWP COL’.

This is the first of up to three payments for those eligible on means-tested benefits, including Universal Credit, Pension Credit and tax credits, totalling £900 through 2023/24. These will be accompanied by a £150 payment for people on eligible disability benefits this summer, and a £300 payment on top of Winter Fuel Payments for pensioners at the end of 2023.

This builds on the significant cost of living support already provided to eligible households throughout 2022 – now worth an average of £3,300 per household over this year and last.

Those entitled do not need to do apply for the payment or do anything to receive it. Payments made during this window will be staggered over the next couple of weeks meaning not everyone entitled to receive a payment will receive it today.

Mel Stride, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, said: “This latest additional payment will be welcomed by millions of families – as will further payments due over the next year.

“We have continually supported those most vulnerable to rising costs, including through record benefits and national living wage increases as well as these exceptional Cost of Living Payments responding to the global pressures we are facing.

“We will also continue to deliver on our five priorities, including halving inflation, as this will ease pressure on households currently struggling with household bills and rising prices.”

Jeremy Hunt, Chancellor of the Exchequer, added: “The best thing we can do to help people’s money go further is deliver on our priorities to halve inflation and grow the economy.

“But we’re also here to help people through these tough times, which is why we’re holding down energy bills, freezing fuel duty, increasing Universal Credit, and giving £900 payments to low income and vulnerable families – all in part funded through windfall taxes on energy profits.”

People will be eligible for the Cost of Living Payment if they have been entitled to a payment for one of seven benefits between 26 January and 25 February 2023. The eligible benefits are:

  • Universal Credit;
  • Pension Credit;
  • Income-based Jobseekers Allowance;
  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance;
  • Income Support;
  • Working Tax Credit;
  • Child Tax Credit.

Once the majority of those who are entitled to a payment by DWP have been paid, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) will make payments of £301 between Tuesday 2 and Tuesday 9 May to one million eligible families receiving tax credits only, with the banking reference ‘HMRC COLS’.

The latest payment follows on from the £650 Cost of Living Payment delivered by the Government in 2022, along with another £150 disability payment and a £300 pensioner payment.

While payments are made automatically, people must be receiving one of the eligible qualifying benefits during the specified period to qualify. Those who wish to check their entitlement to benefits should use a benefits calculator on Gov.uk to get a better idea of what they could receive.

Low-income pensioners particularly should check their eligibility for Pension Credit, as they may still be able to receive the £301 Cost of Living Payment, and subsequent payments, if they make a successful backdated application by 19 May 2023.

Those in need are also encouraged to contact their local council to see if any additional support is available in their local area, such as through the DWP’s Household Support Fund in England, worth over £2 billion across its lifetime.

Further Information

  • These payments will all be tax-free, will not count towards the benefit cap, and will not have any impact on existing benefit awards.
  • The three means-tested Cost of Living Payments, worth up to £900 in total, will be delivered in three slightly different amounts, each relating to a specific qualifying period before the payment is made. This allows DWP and HMRC to ensure support is targeted at those who need it and are eligible; to determine if a payee received the correct payments and identify the payment value; and to reduce the risk of fraud.
  • To get the £301 payment someone must (subject to a very limited exception explained below) have been entitled to a payment of a qualifying benefit as follows:
  • For Universal Credit, payment in respect of an assessment period ending between the 26 January 2023 to the 25 February 2023
  • For all other DWP means-tested benefits, payment in respect of any day between 26 January and 25 February 2023.
  • For tax credit-only customers to be eligible they must have received a payment of tax credits in respect of any day in the period 26 January 2023 to 25 February 2023, or later be found to have been entitled to a payment for this period.
  • Those on DWP benefits other than Universal Credit who are entitled to less than 10 pence and meet all other qualifying criteria but who do not receive a benefit payment, will still receive a Cost of Living Payment.
  • More than 6 million people on qualifying disability benefits will receive a Disability Cost of Living Payment of £150 during Summer 2023. This includes those in receipt of one of the following benefits:
  • Disability Living Allowance;
  • Personal Independence Payment;
  • Attendance Allowance;
  • Scottish Disability Benefits;
  • Armed Forces Independence Payment;
  • Constant Attendance Allowance;
  • War Pension Mobility Supplement.
  • The £300 Pensioner Cost of Living Payment will be paid to all households in receipt of Winter Fuel Payments, in the same way as 2022/23 payments were made.
  • Payment windows and eligibility dates for the remaining Cost of Living Payments will be announced in due course.
  • For more information on these payments, please visit www.gov.uk/guidance/cost-of-living-payments-2023-to-2024
  • For constituency and local authority level breakdowns on payments, please visit www.gov.uk/government/news/first-2023-24-cost-of-living-payment-dates-announced

Table 1: Estimated number of households eligible for the means-tested benefit Cost of Living Payment by region

RegionHouseholds (Thousands)Proportion of all payments
London1,18715%
South West5677%
South East83010%
Eastern6158%
West Midlands78310%
East Midlands5457%
North West1,03313%
North East3955%
Yorkshire and The Humber7139%
Wales4225%
Scotland6868%
Northern Ireland3214%
Total8,097100%

Table 2: Estimated number of individuals eligible for the disability Cost of Living Payment by region

RegionHouseholds (Thousands)Proportion of all payments
London65310%
South West5248%
South East73311%
Eastern5358%
West Midlands6069%
East Midlands4847%
North West87813%
North East3495%
Yorkshire and The Humber5749%
Wales4336%
Scotland6399%
Northern Ireland3405%
Total6,748100%

Floors Castle announces return of Roxburghe Rocks music festival

Scottish Borders stately home Floors Castle reprises its fabulous Roxburghe Rocks event this summer, where the audience will soak up the sounds of some of the music world’s greatest performers.

Visitors of all ages can enjoy the open-air festival vibe with the music of Queen, Fleetwood Mac, Arctic Monkeys and Oasis.

Enjoy the tunes that have thrilled generations with the stunning castle as the backdrop to a day of entertainment, food, drink and fun with friends and family.

The event on Saturday, August 5, which starts at 1 pm and runs to approximately 9 pm, promises a show like no other. Presented by Floors Castle in association with 21st Century Events at Chapterhouse Theatre Company, it features an exhilarating array of tribute bands live in the grounds of one of the UK’s most beautiful country estates.

21st Century Queen will perform many of Queen’s best-known blockbusters including We Will Rock You, Radio Ga Ga and Bohemian Rhapsody.  Mardy Bums, the UK’s finest Arctic Monkeys tribute act, will rock the grounds with hits including Do I Wanna Know? 505, I Wanna Be Yours and I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor. 

Definitely Oasis embody 90s Britpop with Liam and Noel Gallagher’s music from Don’t Look Back In Anger to Champagne Supernova and Wonderwall. And UK Fleetwood Mac will bring to life Fleetwood Mac’s greatest hits including Dreams, Everywhere, The Chain and Go Your Own Way.

Jaap Röell, MD for the Roxburghe Estates said: “We are thrilled to be able to bring this fantastic open-air festival back to Floors. Last year was an enormous success when we all rocked to the music of Abba, Queen and Elton John. This year, Queen’s music is back once more but with another galaxy of stellar tribute bands. The whole event is just getting bigger and better and we can’t wait to celebrate summer again.”

The open-air event will run whatever the weather and visitors, who are advised to dress appropriately, are welcome to bring a chair or blanket. There will be car parking available and dedicated accessible car parking.

A range of delicious catering for all dietary requirements will be available onsite with vendors and additional entertainment to be confirmed soon. There will also be a professional security team present.

Early Bird tickets, priced £25 for children and £35 for adults, are available now via the ticket link or onsite from the Castle’s Apple Shed Gift Shop. Accessible tickets and free carer admission are also available.

A large crowd of people in front of a castle Description automatically generated with medium confidence

For more information go to https://www.floorscastle.com/events/roxburghe-rocks-2023/

BT secures contract worth up to £350 million to enhance and futureproof Scotland’s public sector connectivity

BT has secured a multi-million pound contract worth up to £350 million over the next six years to become the sole provider to deliver public sector connectivity across Scotland.

The Scottish Wide Area Network (SWAN) contract, which has been awarded by NHS National Services Scotland (NSS) on behalf of the Scottish Government, will accelerate the digital transformation of Scotland’s public sector including to some of the most rural areas across the country.

The contract will allow for better communication, data sharing and collaboration across more than 6,000 sites, including 94 public sector organisations. Schools, hospitals, GP surgeries, pharmacies, every NHS Board and local government offices will benefit from significantly faster and improved fibre broadband and mobile connections and resilience.

BT’s investment in future-proofing its infrastructure will accelerate fibre and mobile connectivity to some of the most remote parts of Scotland, helping to deliver on the digital ambitions of the Scottish Government.

As well as bridging the gap between urban and rural areas, benefits for the public are likely to include time saving with patients, for example, being able to be seen remotely by clinicians rather than having to travel long distances across islands.

With 22 NHS Scotland boards, 278 general and community hospitals and more than 900 GP practices set to be connected to the network, BT’s investment in SWAN will support essential public health services, reducing costs and increasing the efficiency of connected organisations.

Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care, Michael Matheson said: “This major investment from the Scottish Government, and our public sector partners, will make sure that staff across our public services have access to rapid and reliable connections with a greater capacity and bandwidth.

“The SWAN programme will drive benefits for communities across Scotland, making sure that no one is left behind and can access the benefits of technology.”

BT Group employs around 7,000 colleagues in Scotland who live and work in nearly every community in the country. Relying on the use of public services themselves ensures these colleagues are committed to making these services the best that they can be for their own communities.

Alan Lees, Director for Business, BT in Scotland, said: “BT is committed to playing its part in helping to shape and to deliver transformational public sector services for people across Scotland now and into the future.

“BT is proud to become the sole provider of next generation connectivity services to the Scottish public sector via the SWAN Framework. We strongly believe in the difference that highly resilient and secure connectivity can make to the delivery of public services in Scotland and with our expertise and investment we can accelerate the digital transformation of services to the public.

“This contract will see us deliver a cost effective and innovative communications framework, which will benefit public sector employees, citizens and services in ways that we have not seen before.

“We have access to the largest next generation networks. Our mobile network EE was the first to launch 5G in Scotland and EE now has by far the highest levels of 4G coverage across Scotland’s landmass at 75%, which is 8% higher than our nearest competitor.

“We’re able to help the public sector to do things that they never imagined possible before, supporting our shared ambition of ‘Connecting Scotland for Good.’”

Mary Morgan, Chief Executive of NHS National Services Scotland (NSS), said: “This is a significant milestone for NSS, and for the many partner organisations across the public sector who depend upon SWAN, including NHS Scotland.

“Swift and secure connectivity is at the heart of modern future-facing public services. Robust digital infrastructure is key to successful innovation and service improvements that will benefit citizens, families and communities.

“We are pleased to have secured this long-term partnership with BT in Scotland. NSS will continue to manage the SWAN Network effectively on behalf of its members so that together we can deliver for all citizens and stakeholders.”

Foysol Choudhury MSP: “Too many Scots live in dangerous housing”

Speaking after his Members’ Business Debate on Damp Housing in Scotland at the Scottish Parliament last week (20/04/23), Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “The tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who died after exposure to extensive mould in his home in England, was a stark warning of the dangers that mould can cause when not dealt with properly.  

“That’s why it was so important for me to bring this Members’ Business Debate to the Scottish Parliament, to highlight that we must act now to stop preventable deaths like Awaab’s from occurring in Scotland. 

“Unfortunately, too many Scottish residents today live in dangerous housing.  

“The Scottish Government’s recent House Condition Survey supposedly found that 40,000 homes in our nation fall below tolerable standards, with a third of these being due to rising or penetrating damp.  

“Given there are on average two people per household, that’s 80,000 Scottish residents living in homes that their own Government considers to be intolerable, with 27,000 of these due to damp.  

“One of my constituents lives with their partner and four children in a council house in Edinburgh.  

“Two of the children have asthma, which has gotten worse, and another has developed a constant hacking cough as a result of damp and mould.  

“My constituent has told me they fear for their children because of their prolonged exposure to mould and has even had to call an ambulance at one point due to their child having severe chest pains. 

“The ambulance report actually cited mould as an environmental factor at their property.  

“Another of my constituents has been living in a mould infested house for 16 months with their 21-month-old son, leading to a disastrous effect on their mental health.  

“Many constituents are left feeling helpless and like nothing is being done to ensure they have permanent, safe accommodation.

“Negligent behaviour of private landlords must be tackled, especially as almost half of private-sector-rented homes in Scotland supposedly failed the Scottish Housing Quality Standards. 

“The experience of my constituents, who have had to move out of their privately rented accommodation because of fears the effects of damp and mould would have on their very young child, speaks for itself.  

“Letting agents and private landlords must ensure tenants are aware of the ways in which mould and damp occurs and how to prevent it.

“In addition, landlords should not be renting out houses or flats that need structural repairs to avoid mould forming.  

“Ultimately, housing providers should be held responsible for ensuring that the accommodation they provide is clean and safe for every resident or tenant that moves in there.  

“The Scottish Government need to do more to help them and hold them accountable when crucial repair work is not being done properly.  

“How many trips to the hospital, long-term illnesses, or deaths caused by damp housing is it going to take for the Scottish Government to take this seriously?  

“I am asking for the Scottish Government to consider setting up a grant scheme to tackle dampness problems in council, housing association and private sector properties. We need to address both the long and short-term problems with damp housing and consider extra investment for a whole house retrofitting programme, across Scotland.

“Too many of our citizens are living in dangerous accommodation and landlords are getting away with doing nothing about it.  

“We, as the Scottish Parliament, have to do more. “

Expert reveals how you can protect your mobile device from malware 

During the first few months of 2022, mobile malware attacks increased by 500%, with one of the main reasons being because many people aren’t protecting their smartphones. 

Experts at IT support specialists CloudTech24 have revealed the best ways you can go about protecting your mobile device from malware effectively. 

  1. Use mobile anti-malware 

Your mobile phone needs anti-virus and anti-malware software too! Malware can infect smartphones and tablets easily so it’s important to have a reliable anti-malware app installed to your device. 

  1. Don’t download apps from unknown sources 

Only download mobile apps from trusted sources. Do not download outside a main app store. Trusted app stores include places like: 

  • Apple App Store 
  • Google Play 
  • The Microsoft Store 
  • Amazon Appstore 

You also should research the app developer online. Make sure they have a good reputation. Once you download a dangerous app to your phone, it can infect it with malware. That malware can remain behind even if you delete the app later. 

  1. Be wary of SMS phishing, AKA “smishing” 

Spam texts are extremely common nowadays, with the text equivalent of phishing being known as “smishing”. 

Through malicious links in text messages, hackers may ask you to message back to capture personal information, and/or try to gain access to your device. 

Beware of text messages from unknown sources and be on the lookout for texts that don’t make sense. A common text spam is getting a shipping notification when you haven’t ordered anything. 

  1. Remove old apps you don’t use 

Apps these days are often abandoned by the developer, and there are around 2.6 million apps that haven’t received an update in a year or more. Having these old apps on your phone can leave security vulnerabilities which can be exploited by hackers, so it’s important to address them. 

Look through your device for any older apps you aren’t using, and if there’s no reason to keep them around, they can leave your device at risk.  

Also, look at the time of the last update, and if it’s over a year, consider replacing it with an app that’s more current and updated more frequently.

  1. Keep your device updated 

In addition to keeping your apps updated, it’s important to keep your device updated too. Not updating to the latest version of your device’s operating system can also leave your phone with security vulnerabilities, allowing hackers to breach your data. Turn on automatic updates if possible!

Water of Leith litter pick this Saturday

GRANTON Goes Greemer are very excited to be involved in another rubbish picking event organised by Edinburgh and Lothians Regional Equality Council (ELREC)💚💚💚

This time, we will be working around Water of Leith and the meeting point is off Coburg Street, opposite Ostara Caf, this Saturday (29/04) between 11 am and 1:30 PM.

We should have enough rubbish pickers for everyone, but you are welcome to bring your own!

. Any questions-email: anna@grantongoesgreener.org.uk

New mid market rent homes come to Crewe Toll

Harbour Homes and Cullross Ltd have brought eleven new affordable homes to Telford Drive. The homes, close to a popular walking and cycle route, will be managed by Harbour Lettings who look forward to welcoming new tenants this spring.

The contemporary development consists of one and two-bedroom flats overlooking Edinburgh’s skyline with the castle and Arthur’s Seat in view, and further afield to the Pentland Hills.

The modern homes have ample storage, ground floor private and communal gardens, bicycle storage and a rainwater harvesting system. These new homes, located on an already established residential street, are conveniently placed near public transport links, green spaces and shops at a nearby retail park.

Heather Kiteley, Harbour Chief Executive, said: “These homes offer a modern, affordable living option for the local community, including those working at the nearby Western General Hospital.

“It is fantastic to bring our new mid market rent homes to an established community, and I expect these will be sought after as a highly convenient spot for the local workforce.

“This project has been a real success, working alongside Cullross Ltd to deliver such high-quality homes ahead of schedule.”

Mark Beaton, Director of Cullross Ltd., said: “We are delighted to be handing over the eleven 1-bed and 2-bed flats at Telford Drive, well ahead of schedule. 

We have worked closely with Harbour Homes, both through the planning process and latterly the construction phase, providing them with these high-quality new flats.

“Although the nature of the project was at times complex, we are pleased with the outcome resulting in these excellent new homes. We look forward to seeing the new tenants moving in shortly.”

The main contractor was Cullross Ltd who appointed the architect and structural engineer. The employer’s agent was Pottie Wilson, and the Clerk of Works was Harbour Homes.