The city council is issuing guidance so everyone is able to cast their vote in the General Election on 4 July.
If you applied for a postal vote by 7 June, then this has been posted out and should arrive soon if you haven’t already received it. If you applied for one between 8-19 June it will be sent out by this weekend. Further information can be found on our website.
Please fill your postal vote in as soon as possible once you receive it and post it back to us.
When filling out your postal vote if you’ve separated the statement from envelope A this isn’t an issue, please just send everything back. Don’t worry about using blue ink.
If you need a proxy vote, where someone votes on your behalf, the deadline for new applications is tomorrow (26 June) at 5pm. Guidance on proxy votes is available on our website.
If you are going to vote in person, this is the first UK General Election where voters must show a form of photo identification (ID) to cast their ballot.
Next month six-year-old Anthony Green will be travelling up and down Scotland to visit all 13 police divisions for charity.
Anthony has visited Divisional Headquarters in Fife on Detroit Road in Glenrothes every week since April 2022 to see police vehicles and personnel coming and going.
As a way to give something back to policing Anthony has decided to spend the month of July travelling to over 50 police stations, raising money for charity.
Officers across the country have got involved to help with the planning of these visits to ensure Anthony receives the warm welcome he’s used to from his hometown police.
Sergeant David McCabe said: “We are used to seeing Anthony accompanied by his parents in Glenrothes every week and it is fantastic to see the joy our vehicles and colleagues bring him by simply doing our job.
“His love of policing is evident in this challenge and we hope he enjoys seeing our colleagues across the country while on his travels.”
BBC ALBA is set to go off-grid in a brand-new series exploring the growing lifestyle trend of ‘hutting’. Bothag Phàdruig | Peter’s Hut reunites viewers with Peter MacQueen, his partner Coinneach ‘The Hebridean Baker’ MacLeod, and their loveable sidekick, Seòras the dog, as they spend time at the family’s secluded hideaway in Argyll and Bute.
Set on edge of Clachan Sound, overlooking the famous Slate Islands, the series will take viewers on a ‘through the keyhole’ experience of off-grid living, with no phones, Wi-Fi or mains electricity to connect Peter and his guests to the outside world.
The eight-parter, produced by Caledonia TV, follows Peter for a full year as he and his family and friends visit the hut to escape their busy day-to-day lives.
In the first episode, Peter is joined by his other half, Coinneach – the Hebridean Baker – for a family weekend at the hut.
After a quick tour around the garden, Peter helps Coinneach make Bakewell scones just in time for his dad and uncle Stuart arriving.
Viewers can also expect to see special moments of Seòras, the loyal and beloved family dog before he sadly passed away last year.
Peter MacQueen comments:“The hut has always been an incredibly special place to us. My father built our hut six years ago and we have never looked back – it’s a privilege to give BBC ALBA viewers this exclusive chance to see our rural hideaway. Hutting helps families to go back to basics, appreciate the simple things in life and strengthen social bonds.
“Viewers can expect true off-grid living with no electricity, or Wi-Fi to access social media. We have kept up this family tradition to switch off from our bustling daily lives and reconnect with nature in its simplest form.
“Throughout the series, we have different guests join us for a bit of respite and to enjoy a slow-paced way of living. The series also captures the last few months we had with Seòras before we sadly lost him last year.
“Although it has been emotional seeing him again on screen, we are grateful we had the chance to create lasting memories with him at the hut.”
‘Hutting’ is a growing lifestyle trend in Scotland, offering access to the outdoors for those living in busy cities and rural settings alike. Often remaining in the same family for generations, the concept was established in Scotland following the First World War whereby people would pay a small amount in ground rent to landowners to build a rustic bolthole for their families.
‘Hutting’ is a prominent part of Scandinavian cultures as a place to visit with family and friends on the weekends and holidays.
Bill Macleod, Commissioning Editor, BBC ALBA, said:“This series is the definition of heart-warming television. I defy anyone who watches it not to want to spend time with Peter and his family as they cook, build, forage, swim and simply enjoy each other’s company in what must be one of the most beautiful spots on the planet. Kick back and be transported for the ultimate get-away!”
With weekly episodes airing every Tuesday throughout June and July (and available on demand on BBC iPlayer), special guests on the programme will include broadcaster and journalist Lesley Riddoch who enjoys a leisurely break to the hut while embracing the natural surroundings.
The first episode of Bothag Phàdruig | Peter’s Hut will premiere on BBC ALBA TONIGHT (Tuesday 25 June) at 8.30pm and on demand on BBC iPlayer (in Gaelic with English subtitles): https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001v5wc.
Pet owners in Edinburgh and Midlothian who are struggling to afford to care for their pets are being given the opportunity to attend drop-in Pet Care sessions at four locations across the city.
Providing support, and guidance, the Pet Care Clinics are an in-person service which allows veterinary experts who volunteer for the Edinburgh Dog and Cat to support owners with basic behavioural queries, providing equipment to support training, advice on welfare, wellbeing checks and signposting to available services and support.
The monthly drop in sessions take place at Simon Community Scotland, Food Facts Friends (Penicuik), Craigmillar’s Edinburgh Food Project and the Salvation Army in Granton.
These venues are also supported by the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home’s food bank service, which works with 87 pet food bank providers across East and Central Scotland, providing meals to pet owners who would otherwise not be able to afford to feed their beloved pets.
The cost of living crisis has impacted the ways in which some pet owners care for their animals with some being forced to surrender their pets due to being unable to afford to care for them. From January to April 2024 the Home received 458 surrender requests from those struggling to keep their pet, they administered 104 vaccinations to animals in their care and provided 181 free pet essential items to owners in need.
Jamie Simpson, Director of People and Services at Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, said,“ We are seeing a worrying increase in the number of pet owners who are unable to afford vet treatment and don’t know where to go to get advice on training, behaviour, nutrition or general pet care.
“We want to take action to prevent minor issues, behavioural or veterinary, becoming much bigger issues and in doing so prevent a pet owner from potentially having to give up their pet.
“Our Pet Care clinics include a volunteer vet to support with basic pet care advice and are delivered in partnership with local organisations in a hub setting to allow owners to find support and advice under one roof.
“The aim is to support pet owners with advice as well as to signpost them to other support and in doing so, keep pets in loving homes.”
Volunteer vet, Victor Bates said, “For many of the people seen via Pet Care, the impression is that their pets are sometimes the one real emotional support and constant in their lives.
“I think that Pet Care helps to at least reduce some of the worries that people on low or no incomes have about feeding and ensuring the well being of their pets and companions.”
Volunteer vet, Susan Little said, “As a local vet with some spare time, I enjoy being able to help and advise people, whilst sharing in their stories of their pets, with all their adventures and mischief.
“Being part of a regular, small team of friendly faces allows trust to be built up, so that folk feel comfortable to confide in us about the issues they are facing. “We are able to give general support and advice, along with being able to make a bit of fuss of any dogs which they bring along.
“A bit of chat and humour with the people coming along to the sessions makes it an inclusive, welcoming time, which is rewarding for volunteers and owners.”
Hugh Hill from Simon Community Scotland said, “‘Across all our services we support people to stay connected with their dogs.
“We recognise the companionship and care each receives from each and in many cases it isn’t simply the most important relationship in their lives, it can be the only one. Our partnership with Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home has been hugely valuable in supporting owners and their dogs to stay together and have the support to maintain that powerfully healthy relationship.”
Please contact foodbanks@edch.org.uk if you would like to support the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home by running a pet food drive at your place of work or community group, or if any pet food store/business would like to help with donations.
POLICE Scotland have released images of two men they wish to speak to who might be able to assist enquiries into an assault which took place in Edinburgh city centre on Saturday, 16 March, 2024.
The incident took place inside a premises in Cowgate around 11pm.
Police urge the two men in the images or anyone who may know them to please contact Police Scotland.
The first man is described as white, average build, approximately 5ft 8ins in height with short brown hair. He was seen to be wearing a long sleeved brown top and jeans and spoke with a local Edinburgh accent.
The second man is described as white, average build, approximately 5ft 8ins in height with dark hair. He was seen to be wearing a long sleeved blue/grey top and spoke with a local Edinburgh accent.
Anyone who can assist is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 4107 of 17 March 2024. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.
Despite improved transparency, a Parliament committee has found that inconsistency, bureaucracy, and inflexibility are still creating challenges for small businesses and third sector organisations looking to participate in public procurement.
A decade on from the introduction of the Procurement Reform (Scotland) Act 2014 (the Act), Holyrood’s Economy and Fair Work Committee has explored how the Act is operating.
Intended to support economic growth with procurement systems which were transparent, fair and business friendly, the Act put in place regulation for public procurement contracts above certain financial thresholds.
During its inquiry, the Committee heard from businesses and the third sector, as well as local authorities and the Scottish Government.
The Committee found that while the Act’s improvements to transparency were welcomed, there were still challenges which made navigating public procurement difficult, with one witness giving the Act a “C+ for its performance.”
Challenges experienced by witnesses included inconsistency across contracting authorities and heavy bureaucratic load.
The Committee’s report makes a number of recommendations to improve the system including:
Ensuring that the Public Contracts Scotland website is updated to make it once again “best in class”.
The Scottish Government should work with contracting authorities to drive consistency and reduce administrative burden.
A uniform process for the provision of feedback should be developed.
Speaking as the report launched last week, Committee Convener Claire Baker MSP said:“Public procurement plays a vital role in the Scottish economy, involving small business, the third sector and public bodies.
“But with more than ten years now passed since the Act came into force, it is time to reflect on whether the ambitious aims are being met.
“There is no doubt that the Act has had a positive impact on increasing transparency of procurement processes which of course is to be welcomed. But for too many businesses, especially new or small businesses, there is still confusion and inconsistency. all of which is causing a barrier to those who may want to engage.
“Our report calls for a number of changes which would have a real impact to ensure that the bureaucracy and inflexibility can be addressed.”
During its inquiry, the Committee also found that the Act had contributed to an increase in Scottish procurement. However, the report makes clear that the Committee believes more can be done to increase local procurement.
The Committee noted the results from the community wealth building pilot areas and called for the principles and lessons learned to be fully embedded in procurement processes.
Local charity shortlisted for a Creative Lives Award
Edinburgh-based charity project, Vintage Vibes celebrates Wellbeing Week (24 – 30th June) as the multi-award-winning project’s over 60s singing group, Vocal Vibes is shortlisted for the Creative Lives People’s Choice Award.
The singing group was created as part of the charity project’s social groups to improve wellbeing and tackle loneliness among older people (known as VIPs) across the city. Vintage Vibes builds confidence and friendships, empowering older people feeling lonely and isolated to live life to the full.
Now over 20 strong, the singing group meet every fortnight to rehearse, catch up with friends and do what they all enjoy most – sing. From old tunes such as ‘Travel These Ways’ and classics like ‘We Will Rock You’, through to ABBA and The Beatles, the group love to sing and perform.
The Creative Lives Award celebrates the achievements of community-led creative projects and groups (singing, performing, dancing) and Vocal Vibes have been shortlisted for using creativity to bring people together.
VIP, George said:“I have been a member of Vocal Vibes since its formation in 2018 and have found it very therapeutic. It’s a most enjoyable part of my life and is an important part of my social life.”
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Georgia Artus, Development Manager at Vintage Vibes said: “This is so exciting for the Vocal Vibes group! They love to sing, and it brings so much joy.
“As we mark Wellbeing Week, we know how much loneliness can negatively impact a person’s wellbeing, as much as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and are thrilled that 91% of our members feel that Vintage Vibes groups and activities help improve their mental health and wellbeing.
“Many older people across Edinburgh face issues ranging from bereavement, lack of confidence, mobility, sudden/ongoing poverty, dementia, mental health challenges, and/or living with a disability, and supporting and celebrating groups such as Vocal Vibes is essential to enriching local lives.
“Vintage Vibes was created to help lonely and isolated over 60s in Edinburgh to take part in inclusive activities that they enjoy, offering friendship and fun to tackle loneliness, improve wellbeing and celebrate individuality.
“The singing group is part of our wider events, groups and activities across the city to empower older people feeling alone to join together with like-minded volunteers and enjoy life. We’re so happy to be shortlisted – but to win would be amazing! Please vote if you can!”
Recent feedback from the older people the charity supports has shown that 97% feel that being involved with Vintage Vibes made them feel less isolated, happier and have a better quality of life.
The group didn’t even let lockdown stop their love of getting together and singing, with Vintage Vibes uniting them on Zoom to continue the group during what was a lonely and difficult time for so many.
Judging panels from each nation will choose a winner for Scotland, England, Ireland & Northern Ireland, and Wales, while members of the public can vote for their favourite in the People’s Choice Awards!
Voting in the People’s Choice Award is open until 29 July 2024. To learn more about the shortlisted projects and to cast your vote, visit https://www.creative-lives.org/2024-shortlist.
34 creative groups shortlisted from across Scotland, England, Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Wales. Winners will be announced at the Creative Lives Awards ceremony in Cecil Sharp House, London on 26 September 2024, partnering with the Everyday Creativity Research Network conference. Winners will receive a bespoke award, framed certificate, cash prize and access to support and training.
In what has been an amazing month for Vintage Vibes, the project is also celebrating winning the Evaluating Impact Award at Generations Working Together’s Excellence Awards on 11th June 2024 for their work tackling isolation in older people across Edinburgh through intergenerational friendships, groups, events, and constant listening and learning.
A video demonstrating Vintage Vibes vital work in the community can be found at https://vimeo.com/960285360.
CAMPAIGNERS piled electrical waste outside the Scottish Parliament ahead of today’s final debate on a new Circular Economy law. They say MSPs need to do more to improve the way electrical waste is managed and are calling for changes in the final version of the law.
The circular economy bill is being debated and voted on in the Scottish Parliament this week (Tuesday 25 and Wednesday 26 June). This is the last chance for MSPs to improve the bill.
The new law should bring in policies to create a circular economy in Scotland where materials are used sustainably and fairly. However, it’s been criticised for its lack of ambition and focus on disposal rather than reduction and reuse of products, which can lead to greater social and environmental benefits.
Friends of the Earth Scotland are campaigning for the circular economy bill to include a plan for the materials required in the transition away from fossil fuels, many of which are used in consumer electronics too.
Every mobile phone and laptop is powered by precious materials such as lithium, cobalt and copper. Inadequate waste management systems means that these materials are often thrown away rather than being reused or recycled. Less than 1% of lithium is recycled, despite it being required for electric vehicles.
Many of these materials come from mines in the Global South, including Chile, the Philippines and the Democratic Republic of Congo, which exploit local communities, create pollution and increase carbon emissions.
The steel used in Scottish wind turbines is likely to include significant amounts of iron ore from Brazil, where there have been two major tailing dam disasters in the last decade. A 2019 disaster in Minas Gerais killed at least 244 people.
Scotland does not have a plan for how to manage these transition minerals. The Scottish Government’s draft Energy Strategy includes plans for electrifying vehicles but fails to consider where the lithium needed to do this will come from.
Kim Pratt, Circular Economy Campaigner at Friends of the Earth Scotland said: “The scale of electronic waste in this country is shocking. All of the waste that we’ve gathered today came from simply asking around – most of us have something sitting in a cupboard because we don’t know what to do with it.
“Electrical waste contains precious material which is lost when these items are thrown away. Scotland can’t afford to keep treating electrical products, and the precious materials they contain, as disposable.
“Reducing our consumption of the materials used to create these products, by increasing reuse and repair, is essential to reduce the harm being done to people and the environment. The new circular economy law also needs to include a plan for these minerals, which are required for our transition away from fossil fuels. If the law does this, it has the potential to have a big impact in creating a fairer and more sustainable future.”
Key facts about e-waste:
– In the UK, the average person generates 24kg of e-waste every year, that’s the second highest in the world, behind only Norway. The UK is on course to overtake Norway and become the world’s largest contributor to e-waste this year (2024). The global average is 7.3kg. – Globally, e-waste has increased 21% in 5 years to over 50 million tonnes. The total value of the raw material dumped annually is estimated to be £46 billion. By 2030, it’s predicted the world will throw away nearly 75 million tonnes of e-waste. – Only 17% of e-waste is recycled. – There are, on average, 2 mobile phones for every person on the planet. Only 9% are recycled. – A typical iPhone is estimated to house around 0.034g of gold, 0.34g of silver, and 0.015g of palladium. It also contains the less valuable but still significant aluminium (25g) and copper (around 15g). – One tonne of iPhones would deliver 300 times more gold than a tonne of gold ore and 6.5 times more silver than a tonne of silver ore.
Carers urged to apply now and get money they’re entitled to
Thousands of unpaid carers in Scotland can apply for a new benefit from today.Carer Support Payment, the replacement for Carer’s Allowance, is now available in Angus and North and South Lanarkshire.
Carers living in these areas are the first to be able to apply for Carer Support Payment since it was introduced in the pilot areas of Perth & Kinross, Dundee City and Na h-Eileanan Siar (Western Isles) in November 2023.
New rules that come into effect today also mean the benefit, paid by Social Security Scotland, is available to more student carers.
Since its introduction, the benefit has been available to carers aged 16-19 in full-time “advanced” education, carers over 20 in full-time education at any level, as well as carers in part-time education.
However, from today, some 16-19-year-old carers in full-time “non-advanced” education, such as school, are also eligible for Carer Support Payment.
In addition, some carers – mostly full-time students – can now have their benefit payments backdated to when Carer Support Payment was first introduced.
The benefit will be rolled out to more local authorities in the next few months and will be available in all of Scotland from 4 November.
Carers who live in areas where Carer Support Payment is not yet available are urged to apply for Carer’s Allowance to make sure they don’t miss out on support.
Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Shirley-Anne Somerville, said:“I’m delighted that more carers in Scotland can now get Carer Support Payment and I urge every carer who is eligible for the benefit to apply as soon as possible.
“I also encourage anyone who thinks they might be eligible to check if they can apply. This includes students studying full-time who are not eligible for Carer’s Allowance.
“The work unpaid carers do is invaluable and I want every carer to get the money they are entitled to.”
Keira Carruthers, 18, will be one of those applying for Carer Support Payment. The Blantyre woman, who has been looking after her dad since she was 13, is due to start an HNC in August.
She said: “People really underestimate how hard it is to be a young carer. Caring for my dad can be difficult if he’s down with an illness or having a bad day.
“Sometimes it’s full-blown medical issues but other days it’s keeping him company and keeping him occupied. Being a young carer while balancing my studies is a full-time job.
“It’s really important that young people, who look after someone, get support while they’re studying. I’ll definitely be applying for Carer Support Payment.”
Carer Support Payment opens for new applications today, 24 June, in Angus, North Lanarkshire and South Lanarkshire.
From 19 August, it will be available in Fife, Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Moray, and North, East and South Ayrshire.
It will be available in the rest of Scotland from 4 November.
