Are you fan of 80s and 90s music? Child Bereavement UK needs you! The charity is looking for music fans to give 4 hours of their time to volunteer atLet’s Rock Scotland at Dalkeith Country Park on 24 June 2023.
Volunteers sell wristbands and raffle tickets to raise funds to support the charity’s work and in return get to enjoy the rest of the event free of charge!
The line-up for the festival includes The Human League, Wet Wet Wet, Tony Hadley, Midge Ure, Roland Gift, The Farm, The Beat, Betty Boo, Stray Cats Slim Jim Phantoms Trio, Hue and Cry, and Doctor and the Medics.
Child Bereavement UK helps families to rebuild their lives when a child grieves or when a child dies. The charity supports children and young people (up to the age of 25) when someone important to them has died or is not expected to live, and parents and the wider family when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying.
Lorna Murchie, Fundraising Partnership and Engagement Manager for Child Bereavement UK said: ‘This year Child Bereavement UK is delighted to be the beneficiary charity of some of the UK’s most anticipated festivals and gigs.
“Our volunteers tell us they have a great time soaking up the festival atmosphere and seeing their favourite acts, in return for just a few hours of their time helping us raise much-needed funds. If you’re tempted to join in, please visit our website to find out how you can get involved .’
For more information on volunteering or to see our full list of events please visit:
Gary Maclean celebrates National Biscuit Day by asking people to support charity
This National Biscuit Day (Monday 29 May), celebrity chef Gary Maclean is calling on people to raise some dough by supporting the school feeding charity Mary’s Meals.
Mary’s Meals serves nutritious school meals to more than 2.4 million children in 18 of the world’s poorest countries – including Ethiopia, Syria and South Sudan. The promise of a daily meal attracts children into the classroom, where they can gain an education and hope for the future.
Gary, winner of 2016’s MasterChef: The Professionals, is supporting the charity’s Raise Some Dough campaign, which asks people to host a fundraising bake sale to help feed hungry children.
The National Chef of Scotland says: “Today may be National Biscuit Day but, like many people, I enjoy a biscuit all year round.
“That’s why baking is such a great way to raise money for Mary’s Meals – and to put a smile on the face of not only your friends, family and colleagues, but also the hungry children who rely on this wonderful charity.”
People across the UK can download a free Raise Some Dough fundraising pack from the charity’s website, which includes a book packed full of tasty biscuit recipes from some of the UK’s favourite celebrities – including Stephen Fry, Dame Joanna Lumley, Ellie Taylor, Rosemary Shrager and Judy Murray.
The charity will also send bakers a free mug-shaped cookie cutter, based on the mugs from which many children eat their daily serving of Mary’s Meals.
It costs just £19.15 to feed a child with Mary’s Meals for a whole school year, which means every penny raised through baking will help to transform young lives around the world.
Dan McNally, head of grassroots engagement at Mary’s Meals, says: “£19.15 can buy you 14 packets of chocolate digestives or 35 packs of my personal favourite, the ginger snap! It is also enough to feed a hungry child every day for a school year with Mary’s Meals.
“By taking part in Raise Some Dough, you can enjoy biscuits with your friends and family, while feeding children in some of the world’s poorest countries. So please get baking!”
Last November, Mary’s Meals ran a UK-wide survey which found that the digestive is the country’s favourite biscuit for dunking in a cuppa.
The survey also revealed that one in three people have dunked their biscuit in someone else’s cuppa (33%); just 12% of respondents said they never dunk biscuits, with a further 12% saying they don’t eat biscuits.
300g Plain flour 50g Fine oatmeal 175g Soft brown sugar 100g Unsalted butter 1 Egg 4 tbsp Golden syrup 1 tsp Bicarbonate of soda 2 tsp Ground ginger This recipe works just as well with gluten free flour and non-dairy butter.
Method:
Preheat the oven to 180˚C/350˚F.
Sieve the flour, ground ginger and bicarbonate of soda in mixing bowl.
Add the fine oatmeal, next dice the butter and rub into the flour mix until crumbly.
Next, add the soft brown sugar, golden syrup and egg, mix well until it forms a firm doughy mixture.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ½ cm 1/8 inch thick.
Cut to your required size and place onto a non-stick tray.
ELREC is pleased to announce our new small project, The Creative Kitchen, thanks to the cost of living part of The Lottery Community Fund. And in partnership with Cyrenians who give us fresh ingredients.
The project aims to deliver free weekly workshops on sustainable cooking, making simple yet nutritious and fresh meals from whatever you have left in the fridge.
The sessions will be delivered in different locations, with the first one held at Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre, by our staff member and chef, Shana.
You can find out more by following us on Instagram:
From delicious cakes to yummy biscuits, homemade goodies always go down a treat. With the cost of living continuing to put households across the UK under more and more pressure, baking your own treats from scratch is a great way to keep the costs down – but it is important not to forget about your four-legged family members!
The vets at the UK’s largest veterinary charity PDSA have revealed the paw-fect dog-friendly recipe for easy-to-make gingerbread biscuits so dig out your mixer, pop on your apron and get your bake on.
Recipe from PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing
You will need:
300g flour
60g smooth dog safe peanut butter. Be extra careful to make sure your peanut butter doesn’t contain Xylitol (also called Birch sugar), as this is toxic to dogs. Check the ingredients before you start – the higher percentage of peanuts, the better!
1 apple, peeled and grated (or very finely chopped if you don’t have a grater!)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tbsp blackstrap molasses (black treacle)
120ml water
5cm x 4cm gingerbread template or cookie cutters
Instructions
Preheat your oven to gas mark 4 or 180°C (160°C for a fan oven) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Add all the ingredients to a large bowl and mix thoroughly. We recommend sifting the flour for a smoother mixture, although this isn’t necessary!
Once your mixture has formed a dough, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
Cut out your biscuits and place them on your lined baking tray.
Cook biscuits in the oven for 20 minutes or until they are golden.
Let the biscuits cool and voila – your pooch’s treats are ready to enjoy!
PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing said: “We’re sure your dog will enjoy this special treat but remember not to give them too many.
“At 5cm x 4cm these biscuits are a decent size and include molasses, so a bit of a sweet treat! We suggest feeding just one biscuit per day for smaller dogs (below 10kg) and two per day for your bigger dogs (above 10kg). These biscuits can be stored in a treat tin and enjoyed for the days following, so no need for your dog to scoff them all at once!
“Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily food intake, and you’ll need to reduce their normal daily food to account for their gingerbread biscuits – you don’t want your pup to pile on the pounds.
“This recipe does make quite a few, so if you’re planning to make these just for your pooch, we’d recommend reducing the ingredients by half. Or freeze the leftover mixture so it doesn’t go to waste!”
Road policing officers in Edinburgh are holding a Road Safety event using an interactive simulator for drivers to test their reactions and observations behind the wheel.
The technology tests a driver’s reaction time against the times in the Highway Code. It can also highlight any potential vulnerabilities that could affect driving ability.
The equipment will be set up at the Gyle Shopping centre from 8.30am until 2pm on Friday (2 June, 2023).
Officers will be on hand to give general road safety advice including information on Drink/Drug Driving. There will also be representatives from other partner agencies, including ROSPA and Road Safety Scotland.
Road Policing Officer, Police Constable Stewart Sinclair, said: “We are committed to reducing road casualties through positively influencing the behaviour of road users. This fun, but accurate, test provides a safe environment for drivers to have a go on the equipment and test their skills
“It will help people think about how they would react to hazards and other scenarios that we all face on the roads on a regular basis and assess their fitness to do so.
“Anyone can come along and take part. We hope it will give peace of mind to those who may worry about their reaction times “.
“Unfortunately crashes can be caused by poor eyesight and slow reaction times. Having a go on the equipment can give people peace of mind and advice will be available at the event.”
Scottish Book Trust, the national charity changing lives with reading and writing, is launching an appeal during Dementia Awareness Week (29 May – 4 June) to support Reading is Caring – a programme which provides personalised training to help people support loved ones living with dementia through sensory, shared reading experiences.
A survey commissioned by Scottish Book Trust revealed that 80% of Scots worry about losing meaningful connections with loved ones through dementia, and 75% worry about how dementia might affect them.
Reading is Caring is designed to ease daily challenges by creating special moments of connection, sparking positive memories and relieving stress.
It is currently only available in the Scottish Borders, Edinburgh and the Lothians, and the charity is raising funds to reach more people in need of support.
A recent participant of the programme, caring for her mother who lives with dementia, said: ‘When we’re reading together, Mum is back in a world where she can read a book, remember, and enjoy. Like music, it’s a way of reconnecting her with who she is.’
Marc Lambert, CEO of Scottish Book Trust, added: ‘More and more people in Scotland are living with dementia or caring for someone with dementia. We have seen the huge difference Reading is Caring makes to the daily lives of those living with dementia and the person caring for them.
“We want to reach more people all over Scotland with our specialised support.’
Kevin Clifton hits the dance floor at top Edinburgh performance school
LUCKY musical theatre and dance students were treated to an unforgettable experience as performers from Strictly Ballroom the Musical took a break from touring to host a samba masterclass.
Students from The MGA Academy of Performing Arts welcomed Kevin Clifton, BBC Strictly Come Dancing star, along with the talented Poppy Blackledge and MGA graduate Kieran Cooper who all shared their expertise and insights during an exclusive and energetic session.
This special visit provided a fantastic opportunity for students to engage and learn from renowned professionals helping inspire the next generation of talents through sharing techniques, knowledge, and valuable insights into the audition process.
Kevin Clifton, who featured in seven series of the hit BBC show, finally winning in 2018 with his now long-term partner, Stacey Dooley, said: “I loved being at MGA because we weren’t just trying to teach a bit of dancing and the technique behind it but also show the students the audition process.
“For our show, it takes a lot of letting go in terms of everyone’s inhibitions and really going for it in the room. I feel everyone really committed to it which was really lovely to see.
“To be honest at that age I probably wouldn’t have committed to letting go like that, so it was really great to see and it’s been great to spend time with such a talented bunch.”
It’s an exciting time for the academy, as it is set to move its headquarters to Livingston in the coming months, to enable it to triple its student intake and broaden its educational offering to 11 BA degrees, two postgraduate Masters degrees and strengthen foundational courses that offer opportunities for aspiring performers.
Poppy Blackledge, a talented performer and integral part of the ‘Strictly Ballroom the Musical’ cast, also graced the MGA Academy with her presence. Students had the privilege of learning from her expertise and witnessing first hand the incredible skills that have earned her a place on the international stage.
The visit from MGA BA Hons Musical Theatre graduate Kieran Cooper created a sense of pride and inspiration within the student community.
Kieran’s journey from MGA Academy to performing in a prestigious production like ‘Strictly Ballroom the Musical‘ showcased the exceptional training and opportunities provided by MGA Academy.
Kieran said: “I started MGA in 2013 to study the Musical theatre course, graduating in 2016. I really enjoyed my time there, mainly because everyone is so friendly and welcoming.
“I had never sung or danced before but everyone was just so encouraging, looking back I can honestly say they were some of the best years of my life.
“It was great to bring Kevin and Poppy from Strictly Ballroom along and we did a little samba routine from the beginning of the show, and everyone was amazing.
“I knew the talent level at MGA is high, but we were shocked at just how good the students were today. Everyone was amazing and it’s been great fun.”
The students were able to witness the magic of ‘Strictly Ballroom the Musical’ as they enjoyed the unforgettable performance based on Baz Luhrmann’s acclaimed film. Directed by the famous Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood, this production brought the glitz and glamour of ballroom dancing to life, leaving an indelible impression on the aspiring performers.
Reece Hannah, a current musical theatre student at MGA Academy, shared her excitement about the visit, saying, “It was a truly incredible experience to have Kevin Clifton, Poppy Blackledge, and Kieran Cooper here at MGA Academy.
“Learning from industry professionals and seeing Kieran’s journey from MGA to performing in a West End production was truly inspiring. It has motivated me to pursue my dreams with even greater passion and determination.”
The visit from esteemed stars of ‘Strictly Ballroom the Musical’ further reinforces MGA Academy’s reputation as a leading institution for performing arts education that provides a platform for aspiring performers to remain in Scotland while studying at a level equivalent to prestigious London colleges.
Founded in 2015 in Balgreen, West Edinburgh it will move its headquarters to a dedicated 30,000 square foot campus in Livingston, allowing it to triple its student intake and expand its educational programme.
To find out more about MGA Academy of Performing Arts, visit:
On Monday 12th June at 6pm we have the pleasure of hosting the Amber Collective for the Scottish premiere of their dynamic tribute to the women of East Durham, who kept their communities afloat during the Mining Strike of the 1980s.
A powerful story of resilience, solidarity and survivorship – Amber Collective’s remarkable film (screened here along with the Scottish premiere of their latest short film) is a moving testament to enduring community.
The film willl be followed by a discussion with the filmmakers.
A double-screening event of the Amber Collective’s 2021 feature doc WHAT HAPPENED HERE, alongside their 2022 film STILL HERE.
Monday, June 12 · 6 – 8:30pm. Amber’s remarkable film (screened here along with the Scottish premiere of the Collective’s latest short film) is a moving testament to enduring community.
The film willl be followed by a discussion with the filmmakers.
Hot, dry weather could increase risk of fires this bank holiday
Leading rural insurer NFU Mutual urges visitors to the countryside not to use disposable barbecues or start campfires
One spark can start a massive fire which threatens people, wildlife and livestock
Homeowners also urged to beware of greater fire risks around the home and garden during hot weather
With the Met Office predicting warm, dry weather for the bank holiday weekend and the following week, leading rural insurer NFU Mutual is making a plea for homeowners and holidaymakers across the UK to practice good fire safety to avoid disaster.
Hot weather in Spring generally leads to a spike in reports of fires at home and in public spaces across the United Kingdom. These fires can spread quickly and are difficult to put out, causing devastating damage to vast areas of the British countryside and coastland, destroying natural habitats and endangering livestock and wildlife.
Many large grass or gorse fires last year were traced back to disposal barbecues or fire pits, including fires in the Peak District, Salisbury Plain and Northern Ireland’s Murlough National Nature Reserve. Blazes in Bristol, Dorset and Devon were also sparked by disposable barbecues in 2022.
With the risks clear, leading rural insurer NFU Mutual is making a plea to day-trippers and the rural community alike not to light barbecues or fire pits in the countryside, unless in a designated area.
Andrew Chalk, rural insurance specialist at NFU Mutual, said:“Every year we see large fires quickly spreading through grass and gorse land in the UK, wreaking havoc in our countryside, coastland and important habitats.
“These fires can also encroach onto farmland, putting farmers, livestock and crops at risk and disrupting them at a vital time of year.
“While we don’t yet have the tinderbox conditions of high summer, an out-of-control barbecue could still cause a devastating blaze. We’re imploring people to enjoy the countryside responsibly: Please don’t use disposable barbecues, light firepits or build open fires, as these can spit sparks and also smoulder for hours after you leave.
“Additionally, don’t drop matches or cigarettes, which could spark a fire, and don’t risk leaving bottles on the ground which can act as a focus for sunlight.”
Fire safety at home
Barbecues and fire pits can also lead to devastating fires at home, so it’s important homeowners practice good fire safety.
Andrew Chalk explains: “While it may not be advisable in extreme heat, homeowners should be fine to barbecue this week providing they take sensible precautions.
“Open flames and grease will always present a fire risk, so keep barbecues well away from dry grass, shrubbery and bushes and make sure they are clean before lighting to prevent dangerous sparks from spitting up. Make sure you have access to water and keep barbecues well away from the home – particularly if you have a thatched house.
“Also be careful with electronics. Even in these temperatures, devices kept in direct sunlight or which become too hot when charged could spark a fire.
“By taking sensible precautions, people can protect their homes and possessions by preventing the cause of fire. It is also worth talking to your insurer to make sure you are adequately insured should the worse happen. Gardens are often overlooked when it comes to insuring a home, but restoring a garden with established plants, shrubs and trees can be a costly affair.”
NFU Mutual countryside fire checklist:
Don’t drop used matches or cigarettes – they can smoulder and start a fire
Don’t start campfires or use disposable barbecues on grass, moorland or in forests
Call 999 if you spot a fire while out in the countryside
Avoid parking in narrow country lanes where access for emergency services vehicles could be blocked
Don’t drop litter – discarded bottles can focus sunlight and start a fire
Keep to footpaths when walking in the countryside
At home:
Don’t overload plug sockets – this can increase the chance of sparks
Keep an eye on charging electrical devices to ensure they do not get too hot
Avoid leaving electrical devices out in the sun
Dispose of matches and cigarettes in a fireproof container
Keep air conditioning units free of dust, which can build up and be a fire hazard
If barbecuing, ensure the barbecue is regularly cleaned and keep it away from dry grass, shrubbery or bushes. Do not barbecue in an enclosed area or too close to the house
