We’re looking for donations of kid’s winter/warm clothes!
Any of the things listed above would be much appreciated 
Accepting in our charity shop or contact Alison on community@ccchub.online
Two thirds (66%) of Scottish shoppers prefer to buy products that have a more positive environmental impact, but are unsure how to identify them
According to a recent Amazon-commissioned study of 2,000 British shoppers, two in three (66%) Scottish shoppers prefer to buy products that have a more positive environmental and social impact, but are confused by sustainability statements on product labels.
In fact, Scottish shoppers surveyed find building flat-pack furniture (53%), completing a giant crossword puzzle (34%), and learning to use a new software package for their computer (32%), easier than figuring out which everyday products have a lower environmental impact when shopping online.
As a result, only 6% of Scottish shoppers say they always understand a product’s environmental impact when they shop. More than half (62%) want retailers to help them easily identify products which have a more positive environmental and social impact. This ranges from everyday items like socks and sugar, to personal care products like soap and sunscreen.
Amazon makes it easier for customers to discover and shop for products with improvements in at least one aspect of sustainability.
Its Climate Pledge Friendly badge helps shoppers to discover and filter products based on clear sustainability features – from products containing recycled materials and designed with less packaging, to items made from organic content and safer chemicals. These features are based on vetted and reputable third-party certifications, such as Rainforest Alliance, Fairtrade International and Forest Stewardship Council.
Certifications matter to Scottish shoppers, with 80% of respondents saying they are more likely to trust a product’s sustainability claims if it is supported by an official certification from a reputable organisation. 38% also claim to have abandoned a purchase when they did not trust or understand its sustainability claims.
One in three (33%) claim they are more likely to try a new brand or product if their social, ethical and environmental credentials are clear on the product itself, or at the point of sale online, giving them reassurance these brands align with their principles.
“Products with certified sustainability features are a top choice for UK shoppers, and it’s important that customers can easily understand exactly what those features are. At Amazon, we’re taking the guesswork out of the shopping experience, helping customers to shop for items that match their values,” said John Boumphrey, Amazon UK Country Manager.
Among the most sought-after sustainability features that Scottish shoppers look for are recyclable packaging (43%), kindness to animals (38%), reduced packaging (37%), made with responsible farming and forestry methods (33%) and made with consideration to protecting the rights/health of workers (32%), while 28% seek items made with recycled materials.
The top five product categories that respondents expect to find more sustainable options for include food and beverage items (50%), cleaning products (49%), apparel (37%), cosmetics and beauty (36%), and electronics/appliances (24%).
Nearly 37.6 million Amazon customers have switched to Climate Pledge Friendly badged products in 2023, leading to over 1.16 billion items sold, a 42% increase from 2022 – sending a strong signal to Amazon’s selling partners that customers want to shop for products with sustainability features.
As of today, Amazon’s Climate Pledge Friendly product selection has grown to more than 1.4 million items globally – a 157% increase from 2022.
“Amazon’s Climate Pledge Friendly certifications help us to communicate our brand commitment to more-sustainable processes and products,” said Tom Lloyd, Co-Founder and Commercial Director at Bloomsbury Mill, an award-winning children’s and baby brand in the UK, with several popular Climate Pledge Friendly products on the Amazon UK store.
“The qualification process is reassuringly thorough which means when customers see the Climate Pledge Friendly badge, they can be confident they are purchasing a product that goes some way to help preserve the natural world we live in,”
Amazon’s UK Climate Pledge Friendly programme features more than 50 independent sustainability certifications.
Products which have one or more of these certifications can be found by clicking on Climate Pledge Friendly on Amazon.co.uk.
Each Climate Pledge Friendly-badged product comes with clear and detailed descriptions of their sustainability features and underlying certifications, helping consumers make more informed choices when shopping online.
The Charity Commission, the regulator of charities in England and Wales, has published fresh research that shows public trust in charities at highest level since 2014.
The research reveals that information about how money is spent by a charity is the single most important factor for most people. This is followed closely by knowing that the charity achieves its purpose, that it makes a difference and that it operates to high ethical standards.
Overall, trust in charities is high and continues to recover. Charities now score 6.5 out of 10 for trust, up from 6.3 in 2023, from a low of 5.5 in 2018 following a series of scandals. 58% of people have “high” trust in charities (7 out of 10 or higher), placing it among the most trusted groups in society, second only after doctors.
In a challenging financial environment, the research illustrates a growing reliance on charities for support, alongside a declining percentage of people donating to charities. 47% of people say they donated money or goods, or raised funds for charity, compared with 62% in 2020.
By contrast, there has been an increase in people saying they have received charitable services, such as financial help, food or medical support from a charity – 9%, up from 3% in 2020.
Around half of people say they have heard of the Charity Commission, with 19% knowing it ‘well’. Awareness of the Charity Commission is associated with higher trust in charities, with those who have heard of the regulator being more likely to report high trust (63% vs. 52%). Around 4 in 10 people are aware of the online Register of charities.
Charity Commission Chief Executive, David Holdsworth, says: “These findings are encouraging, demonstrating that charities collectively are once again firmly trusted by the public, making a visible, essential difference locally, nationally and globally.
“But there is no room for complacency, for charities or for us as regulator. The new findings point to the challenging financial environment charities are operating in, with a decline in the number of people giving to charity, whilst the high cost of living appears to be driving more people to access charity services.
“In these financially challenging times, charities must continue to show people how they deliver on their purpose, including how every penny makes a positive difference.
“Anyone can look up this information on our public Register of charities, which gives details of each charity’s purpose and spending.”
Alongside the research into public trust, the regulator has published the findings of a survey into charity trustees’ attitudes towards their role.
The research finds that most trustees share the public’s high expectations of conduct in charities – 61% agree that because of its registered status, their charity’s standards of behaviours and conduct ought to be higher than that in other organisations.
Overall, trustees have high stated levels of confidence in their responsibilities, and generally understand what they should do when making decisions, with those who are aware of the Charity Commission demonstrating they are better informed.
But the research, also conducted by BMG, finds that trustees are less clear on things they should not be doing, including making decisions based on their personal views, or avoiding awkward questions. They are also less confident about dealing with conflicts of interest, and overseeing charity finances.
For the first time, the Commission asked charity trustees about their charity’s use of Artificial Intelligence. Only 3% of trustees said their charity has used AI, however this rose to 8% of larger charities (income £1m+).
Previously published data from the research confirms how widespread problems with banking services are for trustees – 2 out of 5 trustees said their charity has experienced a banking issue over the past year.
The Commission has previously spoken out on its concerns about the impact on charities of poor service from the banks.
Earlier this year, the Commission said it was “shocked, but not surprised” by “undeniable evidence of the extent and impact of the appalling service charities receive from some banks.”
The full research is available on GOV.UK
Four years after the UK went into lockdown due to the global COVID 19 pandemic, BBC ALBA explores the long-lasting impact of the virus experienced by people across Scotland in a brand new Trusadh documentary, Fo Sgàil Covid/Covid’s Long Shadow.
The Office of National Statistics estimated that there are around two million people in Scotland and England suffering with ‘long Covid’. For those who are still battling with the after-effects of the disease, it makes working and undertaking everyday tasks challenging.
Broadcaster Cathy Macdonald travels around Scotland to meet people living with the lasting effects of Covid to learn about the different ways in which the disease has affected them and how they have been managing their recovery whilst living in Covid’s long shadow.
David MacLennan from Gress on the Isle of Lewis is amongst those who Cathy talks to during the documentary, produced by MacTV. David has spent most of his working life in nature conservation and loves the outdoors.
The impact the disease has had on him has been incredibly challenging.
He said: “I became ill about a year into the pandemic. Like everyone else, I isolated for 10 days, but after the 10 days were up, I was not fine.”
David was admitted to Western Isles Hospital, before being airlifted to Raigmore Hospital in Inverness and admitted to the High Dependency Unit. David was eventually discharged but it took him nearly four months to begin to show signs of recovery.
He continues: “For a man who has never been in hospital in his life, for that to happen so quickly was an absolute shock to the system.
“I remember everything I experienced, from the headaches and the high temperatures to the fatigue; I couldn’t walk 10 yards and I couldn’t breathe. Thankfully, the treatment I received in the High Dependency Unit worked, and the staff in Raigmore were fantastic; I owe them my life.
“I struggled to walk around the house when I got home. It took me four months before I could even think about starting back at work. I remember coming to Tràigh Mhòr beach with a colleague who I hadn’t seen for some time to just get out of the house. It was such a pleasure to be able to walk along the sand, something that was so precious to me before and I thought was being taken away from me by Covid.”
When asked about his health now, David says: “I am about 90% of who I was before Covid. I am back climbing hills and catching salmon.
“I feel privileged to do these things. At my work I am able to go out into the countryside and meet people, which I couldn’t do when I was ill.
“There is still a bit to go, but I am working on it.”
Learn more about the real lives and stories of those affected by long Covid in Fo Sgail Covid / Covid’s Long Shadow, premiering on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer on Monday 19 August at 9pm (in Gaelic with English subtitles).
Watch live or on demand: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m00226wp
A trailblazing partnership between the national membership body for Scotland’s voluntary organisations and the Scottish Government has launched a milestone charter to improve digital inclusion.
Scotland’s Digital Inclusion Charter is a collaborative initiative between the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) and the Scottish Government, aiming to ensure that, if they choose to, every individual and community across Scotland can benefit from the digital world.
The Charter, hosted and managed by SCVO, states that digital inclusion is “everyone’s responsibility”, and demonstrates how people can get involved in supporting further digital equity in Scotland.
The initiative commits organisations to tackling digital exclusion in any way that they can. By providing a framework for action, organisations can use the Charter to structure and resource digital inclusion work regardless of who they work with.
Currently, around 700,0001 people don’t have access to the Internet in Scotland. This significantly impacts their ability to access health services, banking, online shopping, better deals and savings and communicating with loved ones.
Sally Dyson, Head of Digital and Development at SCVO, underscored the vital role of the voluntary sector in achieving digital inclusion. She said: “SCVO has been leading the charge for digital inclusion in Scotland for more than ten years now.
“We work collaboratively across our sector and beyond to make sure that we drive home the message that everyone is responsible for digital inclusion
“We know that the digital divide seems to be widening over time, and we think that every organisation in Scotland can get involved in supporting the people they work with.
“SCVO is proud to have developed and established Scotland’s Digital Inclusion Charter in partnership with Scottish Government, and we’re looking forward to supporting organisations of all sizes to sign up and show their support.”
Ivan McKee, MSP and Minister for Public Finance, represented the Scottish Government and highlighted the importance of this initiative for Scotland’s future. He said: “I pleased to see the relaunch of the Digital Participation Charter as Scotland’s Digital Inclusion Charter.
“The Charter has been a collaborative effort between Scottish Government and SCVO and includes five new pledges to support organisations take ownership of digital inclusion.
“Digital inclusivity is fundamental to the Scottish Government in achieving our key priorities, and through working with SCVO we are able to support organisations to make substantial impact on the lives of people vulnerable to digital exclusion.”
The launch event, held at Standard Life House and hosted by Standard Life, brought together key stakeholders in a united effort to bridge the digital divide.
Andy Young, representing Standard Life, part of Phoenix Group, said: “We are a digital-first organisation, but we recognise that digital can be a barrier for some people, so we’ve made it a priority to help those who need extra support through delivery of our digital inclusion strategy.
“We welcome and support the work that SCVO is doing in this space, and are pleased to commit to the principles outlined in the Digital Inclusion Charter, which will provide a vital framework for organisations across all sectors to help those who want to become more comfortable using technology in their everyday lives.”
Find out more about Scotland’s Digital Inclusion Charter at digitalinclusion.scot.
Proposals to introduce a strict licensing framework for canine fertility businesses have been announced.
The planned licensing scheme will clamp down on unethical breeding practices, regulate the services offered, ensure higher standards of care and protect animal welfare.
Businesses offering canine fertility services will be licensed annually, and subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with licensing conditions.
The proposals are a response to concerns raised by those in the veterinary profession and key animal welfare organisations regarding the unregulated nature of businesses offering canine fertility services.
Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie said: “It is clear to me that there are significant concerns about the activities of canine fertility businesses. It is unacceptable that these businesses can operate with little in the way of regulatory oversight or accountability.
“Our decision follows careful consideration of the views expressed following public consultation last year, as well as extensive discussions with those in the veterinary profession, animal welfare organisations and local authorities.
“Our intention to bring in these measures demonstrates that we remain firmly committed to upholding the highest standards of animal welfare in Scotland.”
Scottish SPCA Director of Innovation and Strategic Relations Gilly Mendes Ferreira says: “We have seen a surge in the establishment of canine fertility businesses in recent years, especially involving high value breeds like French Bulldogs who often struggle to give birth naturally.
“We welcome the Scottish Government’s responsiveness to our concerns and support the move to license these businesses. It will be imperative that licensing inspections are conducted by registered, experienced veterinary surgeons.
“We look forward to collaborating closely on the details of the new framework for licensing these establishments in Scotland.”
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has welcomed proposals announced today (16 August) by the Scottish Government to crack down on unregulated canine fertility clinics and unethical dog breeding practices in Scotland, following a sustained nationwide campaign by vets and animal welfare organisations.
Under the planned scheme, any businesses offering dog fertility services will need to get an annual licence and be subject to regular inspections.
The announcement follows recommendations published by BVA and BSAVA earlier this year, which included the licensing of establishments offering canine breeding services, a strengthening of enforcement of existing animal welfare regulation, and the closure of the legal loopholes that are allowing unregulated breeding practices to flourish.
Responding to the Scottish Government announcement, BVA President Dr. Anna Judson said: “The British Veterinary Association is pleased to see the Scottish Government act on the veterinary profession’s recommendations and take the lead in clamping down on unregulated canine fertility clinics.
“Vets across the UK have raised concerns over the growth in facilities offering dog breeding services without any qualifications or veterinary oversight over the last few years, fuelling a potential animal welfare disaster.
““Licensing is a hugely important first step in this crackdown. Any dog breeding facility must also have a named RCVS-registered vet in place, with requirements for active veterinary involvement and oversight at the facility at all times.
“Of course, licensing can only be successful if it is accompanied by mandatory inspections, sufficient funding for local authorities, and tough penalties for anyone found to be operating outside the law. We look forward to working with the Scottish Government in the development of a robust licensing framework.
“We are now calling on governments in England, Wales and Northern Ireland to follow suit and act swiftly to address this pressing issue of dog welfare and breeding.”
Recommendations from BVA and BSAVA’s joint policy position on canine breeding services, published in January this year, can be seen at:
https://www.bva.co.uk/take-action/our-policies/canine-breeding-services/
Bump Start will be running their pregnancy and baby cafe on a Tuesday 10:30-12 at Stepping Stones Office.
If you would like to come along please call 0131 551 1632 or speak with your Bump Start worker.
A 22-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with a serious assault in Edinburgh on Sunday, 7 July 2024.
The incident took place on Frederick Street, around 3.25am and a 32-year-old man was taken to hospital for treatment.
He is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on a later date.
A report has been sent to the Procurator Fiscal.
As we approach Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre’s 30th Birthday next year, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the vibrant history of our community.
We’re reaching out to you, our friends and neighbours, to help us celebrate this milestone by sharing your cherished memories of Drylaw & Telford over the years.
Whether it’s a story from the early days, a favourite event, or a simple moment that captures the spirit of our community, we’d love to hear it. Your memories, old or new, are an important part of what makes this place so special.
Please join us in preserving and celebrating our shared history by sharing your stories with us!
Get in touch if you’d like more information, or just pop along to one of the sessions!
Reminiscence Sessions are starting on Monday – 19th August!
Come along for a blether and help us build our memory book of Drylaw and Telford. This group is open to anyone with a connection to Drylaw and Telford, whether you have lived there your whole life, just arrived or have a different connection to the area.
No need to book, just pop in!
11am – 12:30pm
19th August
The Homeless World Cup co-founder and social entrepreneur, Mel Young MBE is to receive the prestigious Edinburgh Award.
Mel Young MBE has been selected to receive the accolade from a shortlist of nominations cast by the Edinburgh public. He will receive an engraved Loving Cup from the city’s Lord Provost at a ceremony within the City Chambers later this year.
Since 2007, the Edinburgh Award has empowered its citizens to recognise and celebrate individuals who have made a real and lasting impact to the city and brought the capital to national and international attention. Previous recipients include bestselling authors, ground-breaking scientists, human rights activists, and exemplary sportspeople.
Mel Young is President of the Homeless World Cup which he co-founded in 2003. Under his leadership, the Homeless World Cup has expanded all over the world and now has partners in 70 countries, touching the lives of over 100,000 homeless people every year – more than one million people in the last decade.
A movie called “The Beautiful Game” which is based on the Homeless World Cup was released this year and has been a global movie hit.
Mel also co-founded the Big Issue in Scotland in 1993 and was Chair of Sportscotland, the national agency for sport, between 2016 and 2024.
Mel will become the 18th recipient of the coveted Edinburgh Award. His handprints will be immortalised on a flagstone in the City Chambers quadrangle alongside those of previous recipients, all of whom have contributed in their own unique way to the Capital.
The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, and Chair of the Edinburgh Award Panel, Robert Aldridge said: “I’m delighted that Mel Young MBE has been chosen as the latest recipient of the Edinburgh Award. He deservedly follows in the footsteps of some of the finest individuals associated with our great city.
“From The Homeless World Cup, to The Big Issue in Scotland, his passion and dedication to changing lives and advocating for fairness is admirable and inspiring. Through his work he has represented the Capital with pride, dedication, and skill.
“I’d also highlight the fantastic work of The Homeless World Cup charity, based in the city, which now has partners in 70 countries, touching the lives of over 100,000 homeless people every year.
“I’d like to congratulate Mel on behalf of the city, and I’m sure he will continue to do great things, both here in Edinburgh and beyond.”
Homeless Word Cup founder and social entrepreneur, Mel Young MBE said: “I am humbled and honoured to receive this Award. Edinburgh is a beautiful city, and I am proud to be one its citizens.
“The Homeless World Cup has its international headquarters in Edinburgh and connects all over the globe. I’d like to share this Award with the team of fabulous people in our organisation and to salute the real heroes of our work, the homeless people themselves who change their own lives through their involvement in our operations across the world.
“Thank you so much for giving me this Award.”
