Day: October 19, 2023

£2 million funding commitment for The Yard

First Minister announces support for disabled children’s charity

A charity that provides support to disabled children and young people, and their families, is set to receive up to £2 million of future funding. 

First Minister Humza Yousaf made the commitment during a visit to The Yard’s head office in Edinburgh where he met children and their families who benefit from the charity and saw the adventure play facilities offered by the centre.

Subject to the outcome of the Scottish Budget process, the Scottish Government will look to provide extra funding to The Yard over the next three financial years.

The First Minister said: “I am absolutely committed to improving outcomes for disabled children and their families across Scotland. Visiting The Yard has given me a chance to see their outstanding work first-hand, and hear more about the support being provided by the charity.

“I was extremely impressed with the flexible and creative ways in which The Yard are offering services and support to disabled young people and their families, many of whom I know are facing additional and significant challenges.

“I sincerely hope that this vital funding will enable The Yard to grow their services and offer support to more families of young disabled children across Scotland – and I look forward to continuing to engage with The Yard in all of their family support centres in Edinburgh, Fife and Dundee.”

Chief Executive of The Yard Celine Sinclair said: “We are absolutely thrilled that First Minister has committed to working with us to grow our services in Scotland.

“This announcement is transformational for disabled children and their families, and we look forward to working with our partners to ensure that our children get the support they need to get the best start in life and thrive.”

Inverleith councillor Vicky Nicholson has welcomed the announcement. She said: “I am hugely proud @theyardscotland is in Inverleith Ward.

“In my professional career, I knew The Yard well and visited recently with @DeidreBrock (above).

“Just thrilled this exceptional organisation’s future is secure thanks to @scotgov and at a time when families need support more than ever.”

Lothian Conservative MSP Miles Briggs has welcomed the announcement: “I am delighted that the Yard is set to receive £2 million of funding over the next three years, which will make a huge difference to the lives of disabled children,  young people and their families across the East of Scotland.

“This funding will allow the specialist team at the Yard to reach even more children and young people, changing their lives for the better.

“The Campaign for Fairer Funding has been a successful in raising awareness of the exceptional work the Yard does and securing funding to expand their services.

“I am pleased that the cross party campaign has succeeded in getting the Scottish Government to deliver this funding for disabled Children and Young People in the East of Scotland.”

The Yard | charity | disabled children and young people | adventure play | family support | Scotland (theyardscotland.org.uk)

Fungi & Folklore weekend exhibition at Granton:hub

OCTOBER 28th & 29th from 11am – 4pm

Save the date! Acorn Print Studio is very excited to be taking part in the wonderful Fungi & Folklore exhibition by @myceliart.collective at @grantonhub on the 28th and 29th of October from 11am-4pm 🍄

As well as the exhibition and meeting some of the artists there will be workshops and a chance to learn about fungi folklore.

For more information check out the eventbrite link below:

https://www.eventbrite.com/…/fungi-folklore-exhibition…

#mushroom

#mushrooms

#mycelium

#fungi

#environmental

#environmentalexhibition

#folkart

#darkart

#folk

#sustainability

#sustainableliving

#edinburgh

#edinburghart

#edinburghartist

#exhibition

#art

#supportlocal

#workshops

#creativeworkshopsedinburgh

#folktales

#witch

#plant

#plantlore

#dayout

#creative

#creativeeducation

#inspiredbynature

#nature

#naturelovers

#naturelover

Delivering a New Deal for Business

A long-term commitment to partnership

Priority actions to deepen and strengthen co-operation between the Scottish Government and business have been unveiled.

A new implementation plan details how recommendations from the New Deal for Business Group will be taken forward over the next 18 months to improve policy preparation and delivery and build a wellbeing economy.

Actions include a forum to oversee the impact of regulations on industry and a full review of how government policy is developed to ensure businesses are consulted at all stages – particularly when new regulation is a potential outcome. Work will also start immediately on helping more parents and carers to get back into work.

Other measures include:

  • keeping Non-Domestic Rates reforms under review to ensure they support businesses and communities
  • developing new ways to assess the impact of regulations on business
  • ensuring the right business voices are involved in policy development
  • seeking views on health and work, flexible working and just transition plans from across the business sector
  • outlining and measuring how business contributes to a wellbeing economy
  • assessing the type of support businesses are seeking to help government better understand their needs

Wellbeing Economy Secretary Neil Gray said: “The New Deal for Business presents a new and exciting long-term commitment to partnership, to create the conditions where business feels empowered to invest, to innovate and to provide good jobs.

“By ensuring an open and honest dialogue between business and government we can provide certainty and consistency for business across Scotland, from small high street firms to the largest multinational companies.

“I am grateful for the commitment shown by business to the New Deal and to group members for developing the recommendations which are now agreed actions. Only by working together can we turn the dial on business-government relations and deliver a wellbeing economy, creating the best possible place for business, people and planet.”

Dr Poonam Malik, Head of Investments at the University of Strathclyde, who co-chairs the group with Mr Gray, said: “Listening actively to business and working in meaningful partnership on common goals will reap rewards and grow our economy ambitiously for the benefit of all of Scotland.

“Having government and business in sync with each other, to deliver growth for our nation with a culture of collaboration – being open and inclusive, with innovative and creative thinking – will overcome the main challenges and break down barriers to high productivity, bringing investment and creating high-quality jobs.

“I thank Group members for all their hard work and commitment to get to this point, and for their continued support to keep up the momentum and remain motivated to see this Plan deliver with action.”

The New Deal for Business Implementation Plan.

PEP: Become a Volunteer Trustee

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY

PEP is overseen by a Board of Trustees who have overall responsibility and accountability for the Project. They set and maintain PEP’s vision, mission and values; support strategic development of services, establish and monitor policies, monitor employment procedures alongside the Manager, support the Manager and ensure good governance.

About Pilton Equalities Project:

Aims to enhance the quality of life for older people in North Edinburgh by continuing to develop services that measurably reduce isolation and which enable people and other vulnerable and isolated adults to actively participate in community life.

Experience Required:

Good independent judgement, ability to think creatively, willingness to speak your mind, an understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship, an ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to take decisions for the good of the charity.

Training Details:

PEP, 3 West Pilton Park, Edinburgh, EH4 4EL . Training will be given on commencement of volunteering as a Trustee.

Location/Travel Details:

Board meet once a month for 2 hours, normally meetings are held in the PEP Office.

Accessibility Details:

Named Contact for Volunteer. Wheelchair Access/Disabled Access Toilet

Contact Details:

Diane.palmer@pepscot.org
Hello@pepscot.org
0131 315 4466
3 West Pilton Park
Edinburgh
EH4 4EL

Edinburgh care home awarded top marks by Care Inspectorate

A FAMILY-owned care home can lay claim to being one of the best in Edinburgh, after becoming one of the only care homes in the city to score a rarely awarded six out of six, following an annual inspection by the sector watchdog.  

Cluny Lodge Care Home, owned by Elder Homes Ltd, received top marks for supporting the wellbeing of its residents and staff in its most recent Care Inspectorate report. 

Scored as ‘excellent’, the highest mark awarded, the report commended the home’s excellent health and wellbeing outcomes, co-production and the relationships between staff, residents, and relatives.  

The care home has a holistic approach contributing to the high health and wellbeing outcomes of the residents. In addition to the usual roles it takes to make a care home work well, the team also includes in-house physiotherapists, social & leisure team and nutritional support workers.  

Marcela Patriche, Care Homes Manager at Elder homes, said: “We really believe that elderly living should come with a purpose, as moving into a care home should be a new chapter in your life. 

“This outstanding inspection result reflects our team’s commitment to providing truly person-centred care.  

“I continue to be amazed by the outstanding feedback from our staff, residents and families. We’re all so proud of the work we do creating an at home environment whilst providing high quality care. 

“We work with our residents and staff to innovate new ways of enhancing wellbeing and quality of life, and it’s so rewarding to have this reflected in such a glowing report.” 

With over 180 members of staff, many of whom have worked for the care home for over 20 years, the care home is able to consistently provide one on one care meeting the residents’ varying needs. The home has a dedicated training team, ensuring each team memberfrom senior leadership to support staff, receive dementia awareness and role specific training.  

The report also scored Cluny Lodge’s leadership as ‘very good’, highlighting that staff were provided with regular support and supervision, whilst praising the care homes inclusion of family representatives in quality and improvement-based discussions.   

Residents at Cluny Lodge, and sister care home, Chamberlain, have access to a wide range of activities, outings, concerts, and events aimed at providing social, mental, and physical stimulation. The home also provides one-on-one interactions that help residents maintain connections to their local community. 

In addition to social events, the care home utilises innovative technologies including electronic medication dispensaries and Artificial Intelligence to assess pain levels to assist in managing the use of pain medication.   

The Morningside care home is currently home to 65 residents, who come from a wide range of backgrounds, all of whom receive 24-hour care who according to the Inspectorate are receiving the best care possible. 

Driven by a personal need for exceptional later in life care, Loren and Julie Hufstetler established the family-run Elder Homes in 1984. For almost 40 years, Elder Homes has provided individualised support and compassionate service to seniors requiring assistance with daily living. 

The full inspection took place in August, and the full report can be found here: https://www.carehomeedinburgh.co.uk/docs/cluny-inspection-report.pdf  

To find out more about Elder Homes, please visit: 

https://www.carehomeedinburgh.co.uk/  

Race To Rescue: Five Sisters Zoo launches 5K Fun Run to rescue bear from war in Ukraine

Five Sisters Zoo – a beloved animal conservation in West Lothian – is excited to announce a special event that will bring hope and support to a bear in need.

Coinciding with the school holidays, the zoo will host a 5km fun run this Saturday (21st October) within its scenic grounds. All money raised on the day through sales and sponsorships will help fund the imminent rescue of Yampil – a bear being saved from war-torn Ukraine.

Currently, the fundraising progress stands at approximately £30,000 of the targeted £200,000 needed for Yampil’s new home, enclosure, care, and upkeep. The zoo has been actively engaged in various fundraising initiatives to bridge the gap and facilitate the bear’s safe transition.

Gary Curran, Assistant Manager and Head of Carnivores at Five Sisters Zoo, said: “This is not just a run, it’s a race against time to give Yampil a new lease on life. When we were made aware of the awful treatment and conditions Yampil was subjected to, our hearts broke; we were just so amazed he was still alive and well.

“We knew instantly that we had to help and committed to giving Yampil a new start in life – despite knowing how much of an investment it would cost the zoo – because that’s what he deserves. 

“We invite everyone to join us for a memorable morning of camaraderie, where you can choose to walk or run at your own pace. Or should anyone be in a position to help, we would really welcome their support and generous donations. 

“Together, we can make a meaningful impact and offer a brighter future for this courageous creature.”

The event is open to participants of all ages and will commence at 8:30 am. Attendees are kindly requested to arrive around 8 am. For the safety of young participants, children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

In addition to supporting this cause, all participants will receive complimentary entry to the zoo for the remainder of the day, providing a unique opportunity to connect with a diverse array of wildlife.

To register for the run and obtain a sponsor form or for further information, please contact education@fivesisterszoo.co.uk. A minimum sponsorship of £20 per participant is encouraged, with all proceeds directly contributing to Yampil’s rescue and new enclosure at Five Sisters Zoo.

Yampil is set to arrive in Scotland in late 2023 or early 2024. 

To join Five Sisters Zoo in this extraordinary endeavour to bring Yampil the bear home to Scotland, please sign up here: 

https://fivesisterszoo.co.uk/events/5k-run-for-yampil-the-bear/,

or to make a donation to the wider fundraising appeal, please visit: 

https://fivesisterszoo.co.uk/yampil-the-bear-rescue-fund.

Castle of Light: Scotland’s mythical past set to light up city skyline

The creative team behind Castle of Light has revealed a first look at this year’s ‘Magic and Mystery’ themed interactive light trail at Edinburgh Castle, as the countdown to the winter spectacular begins.

Edinburgh’s most iconic landmark will once again welcome locals and visitors alike to experience an immersive after-dark walking trail – with this year’s brand new show focused on tales of magic, mystery and spectacular sorcery from Scotland’s past.

With opening weekend just five weeks away, local children, Lucas and Isla Brown, were invited to the Castle to experience an exclusive glimpse at the enchanting light and sound displays.

Andy McGregor, creative director of Castle of Light: Magic and Mystery, working alongside NL Productions, War Productions Ltd and Double Take Projections, in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland (HES), explains: “This year, we’ll be transporting visitors in time through a mix of large-scale projections and lighting installations to explore Scotland as a place of legend, storytelling and unrivalled mystery.

“Like the experimental alchemists of the 16th century, we use magical tools from our digital era to transport the audience, transform the castle and bring stone to life. Let immersive installations guide you through Scotland’s colourful past as a tapestry of all-new projections animate the castle walls.

“An enchanting experience for all ages, this year’s show brings together a mix of fantastic interactive elements including a digital wall of mirrors, a stunning wall of wands and the opportunity to meet Castle of Light’s much-loved lion mascot, Rex, all whilst savouring what has to be the finest view in town from the castle ramparts.”

On-site catering will be available throughout the event run conjuring up a delectable range of treats, with exclusive Castle of Light cocktails, including the Smoking One O’clock Gun, Edinburgh Gincantation and a Blood Moon Mocktail also available.

Stephen Duncan, Director of Marketing and Engagement at Historic Environment Scotland (HES), which cares for Edinburgh Castle, said: “Crowned for having the best Christmas markets in Europe, Edinburgh already enjoys an exemplary reputation as the ultimate festive city break destination; and Castle of Light truly is a jewel in the city’s skyline.

“Now in its fourth year, Castle of Light has continued to bring even bigger and brighter state-of-the-art projections to the fore and 2023 is no different – we’re bringing the magic of Scotland’s past to life! And we can’t wait to welcome both new and returning visitors to the Castle.”

Castle of Light: Magic and Mystery will run for six weeks throughout the festive season, on select dates from Friday 24 November 2023 to Wednesday 3 January 2024. Tickets are available to purchase now (adult tickets: £22), with concession rates, family tickets and Historic Scotland members’ discounts available.

A special ‘access night’ will also take place on Sunday 3 December designed to cater for people with additional support needs, including autism and dementia. The evening will feature a range of specific support including British Sign Language interpretation, as well as a designated quiet space and ear defenders to help manage noise, in partnership with Scottish Autism.

Stephen continued: “We believe that everyone should be given the opportunity to experience the excitement of Scotland’s heritage, and so we’ve teamed up with experts to make Castle of Light as accessible and enjoyable for all.

“Castle of Light is a great opportunity to get together with family and friends and experience a magical night at the castle and we hope that by addressing specific access needs, we can welcome even more guests into Edinburgh Castle as it is illuminated with secrets of Scotland’s past.”

Family fun and exclusive screenings provide Half-Term escapes at Vue

From musical magic to family friendly favourites, there’s something heading to the big screen at Vue for audiences of all ages this October half term.

One band of animated heroes returning to the big screen just in time for half term is the Paw Patrol, who face their most superpowered adventure yet in Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie. The paw-some heroes of Adventure City gain magical superpowers from a mysterious meteor, turning the Paw Patrol into the Mighty Pups. Facing against a mad scientist, this powerful pooches need to team up to once again save the day! 

From the 20 October, Hey Duggee’s Cinema Outing will screen exclusively at Vue.  The hugely popular CBeebies’ star and his pals invite fans to join them for energetic singalongs of hits such as the Feelings Song and the Being Kind song alongside new episodes, ideal for younger audiences.

The big screen is also set to welcome some family-friendly blockbusters later in the week, including the animated adventure Trolls Band Together, getting the mythical musicians back together once again to reunite a legendary boy band from the 90’s BroZone.

Packed with colourful characters, both old favourites and new heroes, Trolls once again brings its charming tales of friendship, fun and fabulous tunes back to Vue on 20 October.

For those looking for something with a musical twist, singalong to classic hits based on the hugely popular DreamWorks Animation classic, The Prince of Egypt: The Musical will also bring the on stage production of the iconic family favourite to the big screen just in time for the school holidays.

Vue will also be screening a range of popular releases as part of its Vue Mini Mornings series, which showcases the very best family films from £2.49 per ticket. This half term the screenings will take place daily at 10am, with the lineup including Spider-Man: Across The Spiderverse, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem and The Canterville Ghost.

Robert Smith, General Manager at Vue Edinburgh Omni said ‘We’ve got a great selection of new films and big screen entertainment on show this half term offering an ideal way to enjoy quality family time together this half term.

‘With super saver tickets from just £4.99 online at select venues, the big screen experience at Vue is the perfect treat during half term.

‘Our Vue Mini Mornings at 10am all through the week this half term, will continue to show kids’ favourite films at just £2.49 a ticket if purchased online and £3.49 in person.

‘We also have themed retail on offer with fun exclusive merchandise for Trolls and Paw Patrol, which is set to fly off the shelves across half term with our Kids Combos providing a fantastic viewer treat for youngsters.

‘Parents and children can come along, switch off and immerse themselves in great stories.’

Tickets are available now at www.myvue.com.   

Half-Term Escape for Everyone Line-up at Vue

Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie – from now
Prince Of Egypt: The Musical – 19 October & 22 October
Hey Duggee’s Cinema Outing (Exclusive to Vue) – w/c 20 October
Trolls: Band Together – w/c 20 October

Mini Mornings w/c 20 October

Spider-Man: Across The Spider-verse
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
The Canterbury Ghost

More than 100 families attend first event of new campaign in Edinburgh to help keep children safe from abuse

More than 100 families attended the public launch of the NSPCC’s Talk PANTS campaign in Edinburgh this week.

Children got to meet Pantosaurus, the campaign’s mascot, as well as play games and get their faces painted at the McDonald Road Library on Tuesday (October 17th).

It was the first in-person event for the Talk PANTS campaign in Edinburgh, which will help protect young children from sexual abuse.

The year-long campaign was launched earlier this month (October 5) with an online event for professionals who work with children and families. It is being delivered by NSPCC Scotland, the Edinburgh Child Protection Committee and a wide range of partners across the city to spread the NSPCC’s Talk PANTS message.

Talk PANTS gives parents, carers and professionals advice on how to have simple, age-appropriate conversations with children to help keep them safe from sexual abuse.

With the help of a colourful animated dinosaur, called Pantosaurus, it helps children understand that their body belongs to them, that they have a right to say no and they should tell a safe adult they trust if anything makes them feel upset or worried. 

At the family event there were refreshments, a Bookbug session, colouring in, games and Talk PANTS materials for parents and carers to take away.

Carla Malseed, Local Campaigns Manager at the NSPCC, said: “We were amazed at the turnout in McDonald Road Library. It was great to see how thrilled the children were to meet Pantosaurus.

“This campaign doesn’t use scary words or talk about sex, instead we focus on the PANTS rules that help children understand important messages, like their body belongs to them and they should tell an adult if they’re upset or worried about something.

“We hope this campaign will provide parents with the knowledge and skills to be able to talk about this difficult topic with their child from a young age, to help prevent abuse.”

Over the coming year, local PANTS champions will be trained to deliver the campaign messages and resources to other professionals and families through webinars and workshops, and awareness raising events will be held across Edinburgh for parents, carers and children.

The campaign materials and resources for parents, include a British Sign Language PANTS video, a Talk PANTS with Makaton guide, which is designed to be used to deliver the PANTS message to children with Additional Support Needs, and a Pantosaurus film. There are also resources for teachers to use in primary schools.

Find out more about Edinburgh Talk PANTS here.

Parents and professionals can also find out how to Talk PANTS here. The adult guides include ones for foster carers and parents with learning disabilities.

Anyone with concerns about the welfare of a child can call the NSPCC’s free and confidential helpline on 0808 800 5000 for advice.