Month: January 2024

Fans heading to Euro 2024 in Germany warned of new travel rules

As Euro 2024 approaches, excitement is building among UK football fans planning to visit Germany for the tournament. However, post-Brexit travel rules and potential additional costs are crucial considerations for UK travellers.

Travel experts from Football Ticket Pad, delve into the key aspects UK fans need to be aware of to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

Passport Validity and Visas

Since Brexit, UK passports must meet specific criteria for travel within the Schengen Area, including Germany:

Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of return.

Issue Date: Passports older than 10 years, even with validity remaining, might not be accepted.

For stays up to 90 days in a 180-day period, UK citizens do not require visas for tourism, including attending sports events. However, keep an eye on any changes in visa policy as the event draws closer.

ETIAS Requirement (Expected from 2024)

The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is expected to be operational by 2024. UK citizens may need to apply for this pre-travel authorization, similar to the US ESTA system. The process involves a small fee and is completed online.

Health and Travel Insurance

With the UK no longer part of the EU, European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) issued in the UK are not valid. It’s vital to have comprehensive travel insurance that includes health coverage. Failure to have appropriate insurance might result in significant costs if medical care is needed.

Roaming Charges and Connectivity

Since Brexit, the guarantee of free roaming within the EU no longer applies to UK mobile users. Check with your provider for specific roaming policies and consider purchasing a local SIM card in Germany for cost-effective data and calls.

Driving in Germany

If you plan to drive:

International Driving Permit (IDP): Depending on the type of UK licence you have, you may need an IDP.

Vehicle Insurance: Ensure your vehicle insurance covers travel in Germany.

Emission Stickers: Some German cities require an emissions sticker to drive in certain areas.

Cultural Etiquette and Local Laws

Understanding local customs and laws can help avoid unintentional disrespect or fines:

Recycling Laws: Germany has strict recycling laws. Improper disposal of waste can result in fines.

Public Behaviour: Disorderly behaviour, especially in public spaces, is frowned upon and can attract penalties.

Managing Costs and Budgeting

Currency Exchange: Remember, Germany uses the Euro. Keep an eye on exchange rates and consider using travel cards to manage currency exchange fees.

Accommodation and Travel: Book NOW, to secure better rates. Consider alternative accommodations like hostels or Airbnb.

Final Tips for a Hassle-Free Experience

Emergency Numbers: Familiarise yourself with local emergency contacts. In Germany, 112 is the emergency number.

Language: While many Germans speak English, learning basic German phrases can enhance your experience.

Event Tickets and Local Transport: Ensure your event tickets are booked in advance and research local transport options.

James O’Leary, from Football Ticket Pad says: “While the post-Brexit era has brought changes to travelling from the UK to EU countries like Germany, with adequate preparation and awareness of the new rules and potential costs, UK fans can look forward to an exciting and memorable experience at Euro 2024.

“Remember, the key to a smooth trip lies in planning ahead and staying informed!”

Police: Have you seen Khasha?

POLICE are appealing for help from the public to trace a 35-year-old woman from Edinburgh.

Khasha Smith was reported missing on Friday, 5 January, 2024, from the Calder area of the city after concerns were raised by her family, who have not heard from her since Saturday, 4 November, 2023.

She is described as around 5ft tall, of a slim build, with long, blonde hair and blue eyes. She also has some tattoos, one of which is visible on her right wrist and says ‘forever’.

Inspector Paul Thomson said: “We are growing concerned for Khasha’s welfare due to the lack of contact with family and are appealing for help to find her.

“We are not sure at this time what Khasha is wearing, but know she likes to frequent the Gorgie area of the city and may be staying with friends there.

“We are asking anyone who may have seen her, or has information on where she might be, to please get in touch. If Khasha herself sees this appeal, I would ask her to please make contact so we know she is safe and well.”

Anyone with any information can contact officers via 101, quoting reference 3915 of 5 January, 2024.

MSP presses for action over ‘staggering’ NHS overtime hours

Scottish Labour MSP Foysol Choudhury has raised concerns about the need to increase support to overworked maternity and midwifery nurses in NHS Lothian. 

Statistics obtained by Scottish Labour have shown that in 2022/23, a staggering 3,366 hours of overtime were worked by staff in maternity and midwifery units in NHS Lothian, which has soared by 117% since before the COVID-19 pandemic.  

Mr Choudhury said: “NHS staff are working tirelessly to provide the care that people need but they should not have to work so much overtime to plug the gaps in staffing. 

“This pressure on staff can lead to burn out- we should not be working our NHS heroes into the ground like this.” 

Mr Choudhury says he had previously received concerns from his constituents about safe and sustainable staffing in maternity settings, which he raised with the Minister at the time, and that discovering these figures about local midwifery and maternity unit workers’ overtime hours now has reignited his concerns.

Mr Choudhury added: “Enough is enough – it’s time for the SNP government to wake up and act before this crisis gets worse. 

“I’ll be making it a priority in 2024 to press for action, for the sake of both NHS staff and patients.” 

Heart of Newhaven: New Year News

Welcome to 2024 and to your January Newsletter.

Happy New Year to you all. We hope you celebrated in style.

Hear About…

We’re kicking off this year with a series of talks at the Heart.

“Hear About…” all sorts of things, will begin on Friday 26th January and run into the spring at 3pm on Friday afternoons. Come along, have a cup of tea or coffee, chat with old friends and make some new ones. The talks will be free but donations would be welcome for the tea/coffee.

They may take place in different areas of the Heart depending on how many people are interested and what the topic is.  Some for example, might take place in the hall, others in the Anchor Building and others upstairs in the Heritage Suite.

All we ask is that you register your interest in attending in advance with admin@heartofnewhaven.co.uk to give us an idea of numbers, and check with reception when you arrive to find out exactly where the talk will be.

Here are the first five talks, each starting at 3pm:

Friday 26th January –  our very own Chair, Judy Crabb will explain the ups and downs of how the Heart has come about and what we hope for from the future.

Friday 2nd February – John Lawson, Museums & Galleries Edinburgh’s archaeologist will talk about what came to light while the Newhaven tram extension was being built.

Friday 9th February – Heart volunteer, researcher and writer Jane Evans will tell us about the, perhaps not so famous, Newhaven witches.

Friday 16th February – From the Heart to hearts, Gillian Gray, Heart volunteer and recently retired Emeritus Professor of Cardiovascular Pharmacology at the University of Edinburgh, will talk about what the heart does, what commonly goes wrong and how current drugs are used to prevent and treat disease.

23rd February – Archaeologist Rob Engl of AOCArchaeology will tell us all about the excavation that took place in the school playground before the Anchor Building was built. Although the schoolchildren of the time like to refer to the skeleton found as a pirate, the reality may be a little more prosaic, but exciting nevertheless.

See you there, and watch out for more talks to be announced soon. If you would like to give a talk or have a topic to suggest for which we could find a speaker, then contact gillian.bannantyne@heartofnewhaven.co.uk

Keep the dates free

Watchout for our two forthcoming Coorie-in for Winter events, coming up on  the evening of Tuesday, January 16th from 7- 8.30 and again on the afternoon of Monday 5th February from 2- 3.30. More details nearer the time.

The Evening event will include some Ukrainian food tasting and a chance to meet and speak to some of our building creatives.

The afternoon will allow visitors into the different spaces and find out more about what is on at the Heart for you.  

Keeping green and beautiful

Hot on the heels of our Lottery funding for greening the Heart, announced in our December newsletter, we are proud to present our new certificate from Keep Scotland Beautiful.

Really great news!

We’re also thrilled to announce that we have secured a major new National Lottery Heritage Fund grant.

The £200,000 will be divided between further renovation and conservation work on the old Victoria building and an intergenerational community heritage project: Our schooldays – memories and legacies, Heritage tales from Newhaven, Trinity and Leith Harbour.

The project will involve some of our Heart Partners as well as the schools in our area of benefit and will leave a lasting legacy for the future. The news of the award arrived immediately before Christmas – what a great Christmas present!

Watch this space for more details in the coming months.

Dementia Meeting Centre

We have also secured 12 months funding for the further development of our Dementia Meeting Centre from Age Scotland.

From February, this will take place every Wednesday from 1.30 – 3.30 in the kitchen/lounge.

email: meetingcentre@heartofnewhaven.co.uk

Restoration Forth

has had an incredible year! You can watch a few special moments along the way, in their new Youtube video. Together with other participating hubs, we at The Heart are excited to share the highlights of 2023.

Thanks to everyone who has been involved so far in this truly important project. If you’d like to play a part in restoring marine habitats and coastal environments in the Firth of Forth, find out more and sign up to the Restoration Forth newsletter HERE.

Reminiscence

Remember when? Our reminiscence volunteers will be ready to welcome all-comers at their first session of the new year, on Thursday 18th January,10.30 – 11.30. Themes change at each meeting so what will it be this time? Come along and find out.

New logo

The eagle-eyed amongst you may have noticed that a new logo has appeared on our website. This is to signify that we are registered members of the recently formed Edinburgh Local Heritage Network.  

This is an umbrella organisation for all local heritage groups who can use it to exchange ideas, advice, information and even exhibitions and events.

There’s so much coming up this year. Why don’t you get involved? It’s your community, your Heart.

Remember to watch our website and social media for news of events and classes.
WHAT’S ON AT THE HEART

Calls for Scots to step up their 2024 New Year’s resolutions

Report finds that nearly one in five people are not walking enough

The 2023 National Survey of Attitudes to Walking and Wheeling in Scotland – commissioned by Paths For All – found that 85% of adults walk several times per week or daily, with more than half (59%) walking for leisure or exercise.

While 84% said they enjoy walking because it is good for their health, a significant increase from 78% in 2019, only just under a quarter (24%) had heard or seen messages on the health benefits of walking.

Dr Fiona Bull, Head of Physical Activity at the World Health Organisation (WHO), presented compelling evidence at Paths For All’s 2023 Expert Lecture, hosted in Stirling in November, on how walking can save lives, and how Scotland is leading the charge.

Dr Bull said: “Walking more regularly can contribute to saving lives and brings so many health benefits; but too often, walking is not being promoted enough. 

“The work Paths for All has been doing to get more people active is incredible, bringing communities together and ensuring all have access to walking groups, as well as upgrading infrastructure, and educating the public. 

“According to data released from Scotland, the country is bucking the trend, with collective action there has been a 7% increase in physical activity, and to see that nearly all Scots are walking for health benefits is commendable.” 

Having led the development of the WHO Global Action Plan on Physical Activity 2018-2030, the new Global guidelines on physical activity and sedentary behaviours 2020 and the recent 1st Global Status Report on Physical Activity 2022, Dr Bull shared significant insight in making the health, social and economic case for all countries to do more to promote walking.

In particular, Dr Bull shared the alarming health impact of physical inactivity accounting for between 3.2 – 5.1 million deaths a year and this is a conservative estimate. She also highlighted new data providing a global “price tag” for not acting to promote more people being more active – estimated at US$27 billion per year – totalling US$300 billion by 2030.

Dr Bull reinforced to the audience that walking is the best way to get more people of all ages doing more physical activity both in Scotland and globally. Examples of how cities are making communities more walkable were shared including the example of Vienna which created a Year of Walking – Dr Bull suggested Scotland would be well placed to borrow this idea.

According to the National Survey of Attitudes to Walking and Wheeling in Scotland, people with a long term physical condition or mental health problem were also significantly more likely to have encountered cars parked on the pavement, roads that were difficult to cross or poor maintained pavements (53%, 34% and 54% respectively).

Of those walking for short journeys, we found a desire to get fit, relax and unwind, and enjoyment to be the main motivations for people to get out and about.

Louise Bursle, Paths For All’s Communications and Marketing Manager, said more Scots clearly recognise walking’s physical and mental benefits: “The fact that so many people walk for exercise and relaxation highlights this. We’re keen to eliminate barriers to make frequent walking possible for everyone in Scotland to reap wellbeing rewards. 

“As we enter a new year, many people will be setting resolutions to be more active, but you don’t need to make big commitments to see the benefits. Just adding a short walk to your daily routine will have an impact.”

To boost regular walking, over 7-in-10 Scottish adults also voiced support for 20-minute neighbourhoods, ensuring services are nearby. Delivering these communities could help more than 30% of Scots who currently do not walk to places like shops and public transport stops because distances are too far.

Louise said the findings reveal clear priorities for Scotland’s health: “By making streets more welcoming through improved lighting, seating, better surfaces, and amenities within reach, we can help fulfil people’s desire to integrate walking into their days – ultimately getting Scots moving together.“

We support the Scottish Health Walk Network, which facilitates over 850 regular Health Walks across Scotland, with more than 14,000 dedicated volunteers leading and assisting the groups.

As we kick off 2024, we’re continuing the valuable work in partnership with 30 national organisations with a shared vision of a healthier, happier, greener Scotland, where everyone can be active every day.

Watch Dr Fiona Bulls full expert lecture here. 

Volkswagen tops UK sales for third year running

  • 162,087 new Volkswagen cars registered in the UK in 2023
  • 8.52-per-cent market share makes Volkswagen the UK’s best-selling new-car brand
  • Brand preparing to enter additional market segments with new models in 2024

Volkswagen is the UK’s best-selling new-car brand for the third year running, as confirmed by figures released today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

A total of 162,087 new Volkswagen passenger vehicles were registered in the UK in 2023 – over 30,000 more than in 2022. This equated to a leading market share of 8.52 per cent – an increase of 0.35 per cent compared with the previous year.

Volkswagen was again one of the most popular electric brands in the UK, with two of its ID. models among the top-10 best-selling EVs in 2023: the ID.3 with 10,295 registrations (sixth place) and the ID.4 with 8,495 registrations (ninth place).

Model highlights from 2023 that contributed to these impressive results included the revised all-electric ID.3, ID.4 and ID.5 models, as well as the refreshed flagship Touareg. Special- and limited-edition models were also introduced, including the Polo GTI Edition 25 and Golf Black Edition, while the expanded Volkswagen Live Tour continued to take the showroom experience to people’s living rooms, offering real-time online vehicle presentations with product experts.

The brand will bolster its EV offering in 2024 with the introduction of the ID.7 and ID.7 Tourer, while other highlights on the horizon include celebrations to mark the iconic Golf’s 50th anniversary, and the introduction of the new Tiguan and Passat.

Rod McLeod, Director of Volkswagen UK, said: “I am once again pleased that Volkswagen has secured top spot in the UK for new-car sales. This tremendous result speaks volumes for the quality and attractiveness of our cars, and for the fantastic work of our network partners, who continue to give customers outstanding service before, during and after delivering their new cars.

“This year we will continue to expand our award-winning ID. range of electric cars, and of course we have the 50th anniversary of the Golf as well as many more exciting new products to look forward to.”

Veganuary with Chopstix

ONE of the UK’s most popular Chinese takeaways has offered up a sweet new selection to celebrate Veganuary.

Chopstix Noodle Bar is bringing the ‘All Leaf, No Beef’ Teriyaki to its stores across the nation, hitting menus from Tuesday 9th January.

Mixing plant based ‘beef’ strips with peppers, onions and Chopstix’ secret recipe sweet Teriyaki sauce, the special topping gives Pan-Asian fanatics a way to stick to their vegan goals while still chowing down on authentic Chinese food.

Chopstix’s latest vegan offering follows a number of menu items that have been added over the years since the brand’s first vegan dish, the Green Thai Tofu Curry that was launched in 2019.

Rob Burns, Marketing Director for Chopstix said: “We wanted to bring something totally fresh for those that are trying out the vegan lifestyle this January, giving Pan-Asian food lovers a tasty & healthy option that is totally meat free.

“Whether you’re just starting on your vegan journey or you’ve been plant-based for years, the ‘All Leaf No Beef’ Teriyaki will definitely hit the spot.”

As with the rest of Chopstix vegan range, the dish’s plant-based protein, which is sourced from Europe by Miami Foods, is GMO, antibiotics, palm oil and cholesterol free, as well as being a high source of protein and fibre & low in saturated fats.

And hungry customers will be able to grab a plate from one of over 100 stores when the nationwide roll-out of the dish starts next week.

Loui Blake, CEO of Miami Foods, said: “We’re incredibly happy to partner with Chopstix this Veganuary. Their commitment to developing innovative & sustainable plant-based dishes means diners now have even more meat-free options.”

The noodle bar, first launched 20 years ago in the famous Camden Market before migrating to Oxford Street London, now has stores across almost every major town and city in the country.

Along with being available in stores across the UK, The noodle bar’s popular dishes are also available to order from most of the country’s top delivery platforms including UberEats, Deliveroo and Just Eat.

For more information please visit: www.chopstixnoodles.co.uk

Social Security Scotland improves the move from Child to Adult Disability Payment

SOCIAL Security Scotland has improved the way people who get Child Disability Payment move over to Adult Disability Payment.

When disability assistance was first introduced, if someone was eligible for Adult Disability Payment, it would be paid from the date their application was approved.

This meant the day they received Adult Disability Payment could be different from the day they’d previously received Child Disability Payment.

Clients told Social Security Scotland this could cause difficulty managing their finances. SSS have listened and Adult Disability Payment will now be paid on the same day as their Child Disability Payment previously was.

No matter when they’re approved for Adult Disability Payment, the client’s last Child Disability Payment will be the same amount that they’ve always received, at the time they expect to receive it. This will be followed four weeks later by their first, full Adult Disability Payment on their usual payment day. This means clients will know how much they are going to get and when they will get it.

The exception to this is if a decision is made on someone’s Adult Disability Payment application after their 19th birthday.

Applying for Adult Disability Payment

People don’t automatically move from Child Disability Payment to Adult Disability Payment. This is because someone who is eligible for one may not be eligible for the other, or they may not be eligible for the same amount of money even if they are eligible for both benefits.

People who get Child Disability Payment can apply for Adult Disability Payment from the age of 16. When a child or young person reaches age 16, they are legally responsible for their own benefits and can manage them themselves. If they are unable to do this, we can appoint someone to do it for them.

Child Disability Payment normally stops when the person reaches 18, so it’s important clients apply for Adult Disability Payment well before this time. If they don’t, their Child Disability Payment will stop.

If they apply for Adult Disability Payment before reaching age 18 and a decision has not been made before their birthday, then their Child Disability Payment can continue (until age 19).

We aim to contact people who get Child Disability Payment three times to encourage them to apply for the adult benefit.

The first time is five months before the person’s 16th birthday. We contact them twice more once they are 17. But clients don’t need to wait for a letter from us to make their Adult Disability Payment application.

There are special rules for clients who have a terminal illness. They receive the maximum Child Disability Payment award and can choose to stay on this benefit indefinitely. If they choose to move to Adult Disability Payment, we transfer them with no need for an application form and they will also get the maximum award.

A feast of employment opportunities at Edinburgh’s new Rio Brazilian Steakhouse

Rio Brazilian Steakhouse will soon be taking residence in Edinburgh’s iconic Assembly Rooms building, providing 60 employment opportunities in the capital. As the restaurant prepares to open its first Scottish venue, it is seeking enthusiastic candidates for all positions including roles for assistant manager, front of house, bartenders and a head chef.

An employment open house day will be held on 9th January, where hopeful applicants can visit the new location to speak with Rio Steakhouse co- founder Rodrigo Grassi and Fawira Lira, operations manager, in an informal interview setting. The team will be available for applicants to stop by throughout the day to answer questions about employment at Rio and share more information about the restaurant and opportunities available. 

Location: Rio Brazilian Steakhouse: The Assembly Rooms, 54 George St, EH2 2LR
Times: Tuesday 9th January, 9:30am – 6:30pm

More information on employment opportunities with Rio can be found at:

 https://harri.com/rio

Find out more at www.rio-steakhouse.co.uk