750 schools with primary aged pupils funded for breakfast club pilot to run from April 2025
New Industrial Strategy to be published in spring
Decision to write off over £640 million in written off Covid PPE contracts reversed
HMRC to consult on e-invoicing for businesses and government departments
The Chancellor yesterday unveiled a package of measures to deliver on the agenda of the new government including a breakfast club pilot for 750 schools with primary aged pupils, new powers for the Covid Corruption Commissioner, e-invoicing to support business and the next steps on the Labour government’s industrial strategy.
School Breakfast Club Pilot
The Chancellor announced that up to 750 schools with primary aged pupils will be invited to take part in a £7 million breakfast club pilot. The funding will allow these schools to run free breakfast clubs for their pupils in the summer term (April-July 2025).
The Department for Education will work with the schools selected as part of the pilot to understand how breakfast clubs can be delivered to meet the needs of schools, parents and pupils when the programme is rolled out nationally.
This will help reduce the number of students at schools with primary aged pupils starting the school day hungry and ensure children come to school ready to learn. It will also support the government’s aim to tackle child poverty by addressing rising food insecurity among children.
Covid Corruption Commissioner
Reeves also announced a block on any Covid-era PPE contract being abandoned or waived until it has been assessed by the new Covid Corruption Commissioner, whom will be appointed in October.
The decision will affect £647 million of Covid PPE contracts where contract recovery was previously earmarked to be waived.
It follows action already in motion to cut government waste and curb unnecessary spending. In her statement to Parliament in July, the Chancellor pledged to halve government consultancy spend from 2025-26, with savings targets of £550 million this financial year and a further £680 million in the next already announced.
Excessive use of ministerial travel by aeroplane and helicopter is also being cutdown, with confirmation that a military contract for a helicopter also used for VIP trips, is not being renewed at the end of the year as previously announced.
Industrial Strategy
The Chancellor also today announced that the Industrial Strategy will be at the heart of the government’s mission to grow the economy, unlock investment and make every part of the country better off. It will focus on delivering long-term change to the economy by making Britain a clean energy superpower and accelerating to net zero, breaking down barriers to regional growth, and building a secure and resilient economy.
A green paper will be published around Budget in October outlining the long-term sectoral growth and priority industries of the government, ahead of the final strategy published in the spring of 2025 following a consultation with business.
HMRC package
Chancellor Reeves also outlined a package of reforms to improve the UK’s tax system to help fix the foundations of the UK economy.
As part of the package, HMRC will soon launch a consultation on electronic invoicing (e-invoicing) to promote its wider use across UK businesses and government departments.
The introduction of e-invoicing can significantly reduce administrative tasks, improve cash flow, boost productivity, introduce automation, and reduce errors in tax returns – all helping to close the tax gap. The consultation will gather input from businesses on how HMRC can support investment in and encourage e-invoicing uptake.
The Chancellor also announced that Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury James Murray, the minister responsible for the UK’s tax system, has become the Chair of the HMRC Board. This is to help oversee the implementation of his three strategic priorities for HMRC; closing the tax gap, modernising and reforming, and improving customer service.
It was also announced that a new Digital Transformation Roadmap, aimed to be published in Spring 2025, will set out HMRC’s vision to be a digital first organisation underpinned by customer insight. The Roadmap will include measures to ensure digital inclusion and support for customers who cannot yet interact digitally.
There was a further update that new staff are expected to join HMRC’s training programme in November as 200 additional offer letters have been issued as part of the 450 letters already sent. This is part of HMRC’s plans to recruit an additional 5,000 compliance staff to help close the tax gap.
New Scottish Government campaign encourages people to make their own organ and tissue donation decision and ‘Have the Chat’ with those close to them
Organ and Tissue Donation Week runs from 23rd-29th September, with 2024 marking 30 life-saving years of the NHS Organ Donor Register
Campaign reminds people of the choices they have under Scotland’s opt out system of organ and tissue donation
The Scottish Government has launched a new campaign to mark Organ and Tissue Donation Week (23rd-29th September 2024), encouraging more people to make a choice about their organ donor decision and, importantly, ‘Have the Chat’ with their loved ones about their choice.
The new ‘Have the Chat’ campaign comes as research[1] reveals that while more people in Scotland know if their family and friends prefer tomato or brown sauce – fewer know their organ and tissue donation decision.
When polled, members of the public were more likely to say they knew their loved ones’ coffee order or whether they’re a dog or a cat person, rather than if they’d want to donate their organs and tissue.
Findings also revealed that while more than three quarters (77%) of respondents know their loved ones religious or spiritual beliefs, only half (51%) are aware of their organ and tissue donation decision.
To launch the campaign, former Miss Scotland and radio presenter, Keryn Matthew took to the streets of the capital to encourage members of the public to ‘Have the Chat’ with their own family and friends.
This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the NHS Organ Donor Register and celebrates the thousands of lives that have been saved thanks to people agreeing to the gift of organ donation. With many still awaiting transplants, it remains vital for people to confirm their organ and tissue donation decision.
Under Scotland’s opt out system of organ and tissue donation, Organ and Tissue Donation Week serves as a reminder for people to make their choices known and not leave their loved ones in doubt.
Nobody understands the importance of the gift of donation more than 29-year-old Martin Dillet, who underwent four liver transplants before the age of 30.The father of two has shared his story to highlight the life-saving impact it had for him.
Martin said:“I was diagnosed with a rare liver disease as a baby and had my first transplant at just three years old. Things went back to normal after that – I had a great childhood and went on to meet my wife, Danielle in 2012 before welcoming our first daughter in 2021.
“I always thought of my donor over the years. It wasn’t a conscious thought process – more a constant sense of being grateful for a second chance a life. However, in 2023, my health started to deteriorate rapidly and doctors discovered that the liver that had kept me alive for 25 years was failing.
“Things moved pretty quickly after that and I ended up going into full liver failure and was placed back on the transplant list at the same time as we were preparing for the birth of our second child. What should have been one of our happiest times as a family became one of the most anxious as we waited to hear that a liver had become available.
“Thankfully, we received a phone call and I received my transplant in September 2023. Everything went well with the operation, but unfortunately by the next day it became clear that my new liver wasn’t working. It’s an extremely rare complication and the only option was for me to go back on the list.
“We got the news that a new liver was available and I went back into surgery. This time it became immediately clear that the new liver wasn’t working properly. Doctors made the difficult decision to remove my liver entirely and I was added to the transplant list for a fourth time.
“We were nearly out of hope, but after 36 hours with no liver, I received my third liver transplant all within the space of five days.
“This time, everything went well and after being in a coma for 18 days I finally woke up and was reunited with my family. Danielle and I are so sincerely thankful to all my donors and their families.
“It’s so unfortunate that two of my transplants didn’t take, but it doesn’t change what my donors did for me and there are no words to describe how much it means to us.
“They gave me a chance to be here for my girls, Georgia and Amber, to see them both grow up.”
People in Scotland can choose to be a donor, or to opt out. If people aged 16 and over choose to do nothing, it may be assumed that they agree to be a donor if they die in circumstances where donation is possible, unless they are in a group for whom the opt out system does not apply or it would be against their views.
Data shows that 90% of families would support organ and tissue donation if their loved one had confirmed their decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register[4]; however, over two in five (43%) are yet to register their choice[5].
James Powell, Associate Medical Director, Surgical Services, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh and Consultant Transplant Surgeon, NHS Lothian, said: “Martin’s story is incredibly inspiring and we wish him and his family all the very best.
“If you participate in any part of transplantation, you know that every transplant takes a full team including doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, donor services and family members, all working together.
“Most important though is the generosity of organ donors who have given the ultimate gift of life. With their gift, and the support of family members in achieving their loved one’s wishes, the Scottish Liver Transplant Unit has been able to help many patients.”
The NHS Organ Donor Register was set up to promote organ donation and allow people to record their decision to donate.
It was the result of a five-year campaign by John Cox and his daughter Christine after their son and brother, Peter, died in 1989. He had asked for his organs to be used to help others.
To find out more and register your decision, visit the NHS Organ Donor Register at www.organdonation.scot.
Protected zones of 200 meters around all abortion services in Scotland are now in place.
Within these zones, it is now a criminal offence to intentionally or recklessly behave in ways that could influence the decisions of women and staff to access services; impede their access; or otherwise cause alarm, harassment or distress.
Police Scotland are responsible for enforcing the legislation. People who break the law can be fined up to £10,000, or be given an unlimited fine, depending on the court procedure.
Determining whether an offence has been committed will be a matter for Police Scotland, the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service and the Courts.
Depending on the facts and circumstances of each case, some examples of criminal behaviour may include: approaching someone to try and persuade them not to access abortion services, surrounding people as they try to go in or out of the clinic or hospital, handing out leaflets, religious preaching and silent vigils.
Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health Jenni Minto said: “The introduction of Safe Access Zones is a crucial milestone in protecting women’s abortion rights – no one has the right to interfere in women’s personal medical decisions and the law now makes that abundantly clear.
“I thank Gillian Mackay (pictured below) and all those involved for their work to progress this legislation.
“I would like to especially recognise the women who showed incredible courage in speaking up and sharing their experiences during the Bill process.
“The new zones of 200 meters around all abortion services will help ensure women have safe access to healthcare – free from intimidation. This law is about protection for women at a time when many will feel incredibly vulnerable around taking a deeply personal and difficult decision.”
Full details of the penalties that apply for committing an offence.
We are protecting access to abortion services.
From Tuesday 24th September, The Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) (Scotland) Act 2024 comes into force. It will create protected zones of 200 metres around all premises providing abortion services.
ONE of Scotland’s most premier luxury care homes has revealed it has secured the appointment of a new Head of Sales and Marketing, who is set to bring a wealth of experience to the home.
Richard Annan, 58, has joined Edinburgh-based care home Cramond Residence to help further elevate the homes prestigious status as one of Scotland’s finest residences.
Richard said: “Joining Cramond Residence is an exciting new challenge for me. The home has an outstanding reputation for the best care in class.
“I’m eager to continue to build on the homes success by further improving our resident’s experience during their time with us and I want to ensure that every resident feels at home here, with activities and services tailored to their individual needs.
“It’s vital that residents truly enjoy their time here and we provide their families with peace of mind that they are receiving the best care possible.
“Whether it’s dementia care or general residential living, we want to cater to everyone’s needs and ensure they have a fulfilling experience.
“We have outstanding facilities that cater to all our resident’s needs, from round the clock care to luxurious and spacious rooms as well as a wide range of activities on offer for residents to enjoy. Those who stay with us can expect nothing but the very best.”
With a marketing career spanning 30 years, Richard has since spent the last five years working for some of the UK’s largest care providers working in a number of homes across the country building an impressive track record.
Now, Richard’s key focus is enhancing the activities programme at Cramond Residence, ensuring that all residents—especially those living with dementia—enjoy meaningful and stimulating experiences.
Ross Bijak, General Manager for Cramond Residence said: “Richard’s passion for the care sector, combined with his impressive track record, makes him a perfect fit for Cramond Residence.
“We’re confident that with his arrival the home will continue to grow and provide the highest standards of care for all our residents.”
Cramond Residence combines luxury accommodation with the highest quality of care, offering a unique small-group living experience within its purpose-built, five-star facility.
With a resident-to-staff ratio designed to ensure personalized attention, the residence provides a range of specialised services, including dementia care, to meet the diverse needs of its residents.
The home also uniquely offers post-operative care rehabilitation, recently helping Cramond Residence Charge Nurse, Eileen Crawford, with her recovery after a hip replacement procedure.
Opened in October 2018 at a cost of £8 million, Cramond Residence continues to deliver outstanding clinical standards in a setting designed for comfort and community.
For more information about Cramond Residence, visit:
New package of measures aimed at tackling scourge of late payments
New Fair Payment Code and fresh rules on company reporting and major consultation unveiled as part of package to tackle late payments
Scourge of late payments costs SMEs £22,000 a year with 56 million hours of lost productivity across the economy – acting as a major brake on growth
Comes as Business Secretary set to visit food and drink businesses in Manchester struggling with late payments
The government has unveiled new measures today to support small businesses and the self-employed by tackling the scourge of late payments, which according to the Smart Data Foundry is costing small businesses £22,000 a year on average and leads to 50,000 business closures a year according to Intuit QuickBooks,
The government will consult on tough new laws which will hold larger firms to account and get cash flowing back into businesses – helping deliver our mission to grow the economy.
In addition, new legislation being brought in the coming weeks will require all large businesses to include payment reporting in their annual reports – putting the onus on them to provide clarity in their annual reports about how they treat small firms. This will mean company boards and international investors will be able to see how firms are operating.
Enforcement will also be stepped up on the existing late payment performance reporting regulations which require large companies to report their payment performance twice yearly on GOV.UK.
Under current laws, responsible directors at non-compliant companies who don’t report their payment practices could face criminal prosecutions including potentially unlimited fines and criminal records.
The consultation which will be launched in the coming months, will also consider a range of further policy measures that could help address poor payment practices.
Every quarter, 52% of SMEs in the UK suffer from late payments according to FSB, meaning roughly 2.8 million small firms face this issue, with the Federation of Small Businesses describing it as one of the biggest problems facing SMEs.
Late payments are just one element of the problem, with some SMEs forced to wait months for contracts to be fulfilled and some are even forced to take out loans against their own homes to manage cash flow.
Cracking down on late payments will unlock growth for 5.5 million small firms by enabling them to invest their time hiring more employees, boosting wages, and exporting around the world, rather than chasing down late payments.
The Business Secretary will hold a joint call with the Federation of Small Businesses later today to outline to SME leaders the work the Department will undertake to put in place tough new laws to end bad payment culture.
New proposals, subject to consultation, will be bought forward on audit and audit committees, in order to help rebuild small businesses’ trust that they will be paid on time and to deliver on Labour’s manifesto commitment to tackle late payments.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “We’re determined to back small businesses by unlocking their barriers to growth, and stamping out late payments is at the heart of this.
“We know how important it is for business owners to have the peace of mind and certainty around their cashflow to keep their businesses alive. Late payments cost businesses tens of thousands of pounds and is one of the biggest reasons businesses collapse.
“After years of delay, we’re bringing forward measures that small businesses have long been calling for to tackle late payments once and for all.”
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “Late payments are simply unacceptable and this government is determined to level the playing field for small business. When the cashflow runs dry, small firms go under which is why we need to hold larger business to account with their payment practices and foster an environment that supports growth and jobs.
“Slashing trade barriers, reforming business rates, getting more SMEs exporting – this government is committed to small firms. We know there’s a lot more to be done, but today we are calling time on late payers once and for all.”
A new Fair Payment Code has also been announced today replacing the old Prompt Payment Code, and will be open to signatories this autumn. Businesses will need to prove they have met good payment standards before being awarded official code status.
This will be designed to push businesses to pay faster more often, to be awarded either gold, silver or bronze status. The Code will also shine a light on those responsible businesses doing the right thing by their suppliers and small firms.
It comes as part of our wider work to support SMEs to help go for growth with reform to business rates, getting more small firms exporting and our new industrial strategy. The Secretary of State and Small Business Minister Gareth Thomas will discuss the new measures with small businesses later today.
Small Business Minister Gareth Thomas said: “Small businesses deserve to be paid on time, it’s as simple as that. I’m optimistic that today’s first big step will help pave the way for real change that supports SMEs to thrive and help to grow our economy.“
New research published by the Department for Business and Trade has found payment problems multiply the further down the supply chain you go.
With delays to payments increasing with each business along a supply chain, this results in smaller businesses generally experiencing more issues with late invoices than larger firms.
These new findings underpin the need to move quickly to crack down on late payments. The research also found that there was a clear imbalance between big and small firms, and that administrative errors are a major factor in creating slow payments with 24% of firms saying that invoices being incorrectly handled added to delays.
The government will work closely with small and large businesses as well as groups such as FSB and Enterprise Nation to discuss what further measures can be considered to crack down on late payments while ensuring we strike the right balance and avoid excessive burdens on businesses.
Tina McKenzie, Policy Chair at the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), said: “This is what real change looks like. Listening to small firms and prioritising action to tear down each and every barrier to growth.
“The Business Secretary has clearly recognised the importance of eradicating bad payment culture, which so devastates the UK supplier base and holds back growth. This series of actions today – including the crucial steps being taken to deliver on Jonathan Reynolds’ commitment on audit committees – shows the Government is rightly focused on delivery and working in partnership with the business community.
“There will be so many decisions the Government needs to get right, early – an actively pro-small business budget, a good industrial strategy and tackling late payment. Announcing this programme of work today is a huge confidence boost for the small business community and a clear signal the new Government intends to stand up for small firms.”
The Small Business Commissioner, Liz Barclay, said: “I am delighted to announce a new Fair Payment Code will be launched this autumn. The new code will reward businesses that treat their suppliers fairly and pay them quickly. It will also include an ambitious new Gold Award which aims to make 30-day payments the new standard for which businesses can aim.
“We need sustainable, resilient businesses at all levels of the supply chains, to achieve the growth the economy needs. That means paying everyone from the largest supplier to the sole trader quicker, so they have the confidence to invest, improve productivity and grow. Fair payment terms and on time payments are the key.”
Steve Hare, CEO of Sage, said: “Late payments continue to challenge small and medium-sized businesses, affecting cash flow and growth. The UK Government’s new measures are all positive and show a strong commitment to addressing this issue.
“We must also focus on technological solutions. E-invoicing, for instance, already used in other countries, reduces late payments by 20% and processing times by 44%, saving small companies an average of £11,300 annually.”
Oliver Lloyd-Taylor, Founder of Black Milk, which has a Manchester-based café and sells award-winning pistachio & hazelnut spreads, said: “As a company we have experienced firsthand the sequential impact of late payments to our daily cash flow – which has, at times, lead us to be late with payments ourselves.
“We welcome the steps that the Government is making today to help protect small businesses, especially safeguarding them from larger businesses being able to utilise smaller businesses as an overdraft facility.”
Kenny Goodman, co-founder of drinks company Hip Pop said: “Late payments can significantly impact small businesses like ours, especially when it comes to maintaining strong relationships with our suppliers.
“When we’re paid on time, we can ensure we do the same for those we work with, which is vital to keeping everything running smoothly.”
Terry Corby, Founder & CEO of campaign group Good Business Pays said: “On the same day that Good Business Pays published our Autumn 2024 Watchlist of Late & Slow Paying companies, it’s encouraging to see these new late payment measures being announced.
“Only reputational pressure from organisations like Good Business Pays, supported with appropriate legislation and enforcement from government, will force a change in late payment behaviour. These new measures announced today will go some way to help drive that culture change.”
The winners of COSLA’s 2024 Excellence Awards were named on Thursday 19th September at a ceremony at the scenic Crieff Hydro Hotel in Perthshire.
The COSLA Excellence Awards are a key event in the local government calendar, and celebrate the incredible teams, projects, and services that Scottish Local Government delivers for our communities.
West Dunbartonshire Council, Aberdeen City Council, North Lanarkshire Council, Dumfries and Galloway Council, Inverclyde Council, Renfrewshire Council, Glasgow City Council with Glasgow Health and Social Care Partnership and Clackmannanshire Council have all been named winners at the COSLA 2024 Excellence Awards.
The COSLA Excellence Awards is an annual celebration of success and innovation in Scottish Local Government. The winners were celebrated at a special awards ceremony hosted by “Still Game” star Sanjeev Kohli on Thursday 19th September, in the beautiful surrounds of the Crieff Hydro Hotel, Perthshire.
The Awards recognise and celebrate teams and projects that exemplify best practice and innovative, sustainable service delivery over five categories – Service Innovation and Improvement; Achieving Better Outcomes for the Most Vulnerable in Partnership; Tackling Inequalities and Improving Health and Wellbeing; Strengthening Communities and Local Democracy, and Just Transition to a Net Zero Economy.
Scotland’s 32 councils and their key partners were invited to submit their applications over the summer. Applications were then shortlisted by an expert adjudication panel comprising experts across local and national government as well as the public and private sectors.
With more than 200 applications received this year, the judging panel were given the unenviable task of narrowing these down to just 15 finalists and 9 winners across the main categorises as well as 4 special awards – COSLA Chairperson’s Award, SOLACE Best Team Award, The Scottish Government – Delivering Excellence Award, and the Excellent People, Excellent Outcomes Award.
Councillor Shona Morrison, President of COSLA and Chair of the 2024 Excellence Awards, said: “Firstly, I’d like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to our winners!
“It has been an honour to chair the 2024 COSLA Excellence Awards. This is my second year of the Awards as COSLA President, and being part of the process, from judging entries to presenting the awards to the deserving winners remains a highlight of my year.
“The Excellence Awards serve as an important reminder that councils are here for our communities every day, supporting us in all aspects of our lives – from resolving day-to-day issues; to supporting people experiencing some of the most unprecedented and difficult circumstances imaginable.
“They provide education for our children and young people; help our family members and neighbours in need of care, housing and other forms of support; and ensure our communities are safe for all who live there.
“This year’s finalists really demonstrated the range of what councils deliver, and I hope that everyone in the room felt proud to be part of the Local Government family – I know I certainly did.
“It has been wonderful once again to celebrate at the beautiful Crieff Hydro Hotel, and to have this opportunity share and celebrate the inspirational stories of our finalists with our colleagues across the public, private and third sectors.
“This year’s entries and winners highlighted how important it is that we work collaboratively across these sectors to deliver for our communities, so I am very glad we were able to bring colleagues together to celebrate these wonderful joint achievements.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank our event sponsors and partners for making this year’s Awards possible; and of course, to every single team who put in an application – not only for your hard work in putting together your application, but for your commitment to making Scotland’s communities better, safer places to be every single day.
“Finally, a huge thanks and congratulations to this year’s finalists and winners for being there with us on the night – it has been a pleasure to celebrate your hard work and dedication.”
The 2024 COSLA Excellence Awards winners are –
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Category 1: Service Innovation and Improvement (sponsored by Scottish Water)
West Dunbartonshire Council
Developing and Implementation of a Chatbot to improve the missed bins “experience” for citizens
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Category 2: Achieving Better Outcomes For The Most Vulnerable in Partnership (sponsored by our Conference headline sponsor, CCLA)
Aberdeen City Council
My Way to Employment (MwtE) – Supporting People in the Justice System
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Category 3: Tackling Inequalities and Improving Health and Wellbeing (sponsored by Public Health Scotland)
North Lanarkshire Council
Breastfeeding Friendly North Lanarkshire – Leading the Way in Driving Cultural Change
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Category 4: Strengthening Communities and Local Democracy
Dumfries and Galloway Council
Top CATs!
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Category 5: Just Transition to a Net Zero Economy (sponsored by Amey)
Inverclyde Council
Improving Inverclyde’s Environment Through Peatland Restoration
A Warm Scottish Welcome – North Lanarkshire’s Ukrainian Resettlement Project
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Thank you to all who applied, and huge congratulations to all this year’s winners!
Thank you to this years’ awards sponsors: CCLA, Scottish Water, Public Health Scotland, Amey Ltd., the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives (Solace), and Scottish Government.
A special thank you to our headline sponsor for the COSLA Conference, Exhibition and Excellence Awards, CCLA.
With the summer over and autumn well and truly upon us, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is asking people to prepare for staying safe in the cold weather.
Cold weather and icy conditions can bring with them a range of risks, but by following a few simple steps people can protect themselves from slips, trips and cold-related health issues.
And to help with its seasonal campaign, NHSGGC has created a new character – someone who’s more used to the worst of the winter weather than most – to get the message across in a fun, easy-to-understand way.
Petey Penguin was the brainchild of Laura Halcrow, Falls Prevention Lead at NHSGGC, and was inspired by a particularly cold snap last winter. She said: “Last winter, on the coldest day of the year, our Falls Team shared advice on how to get about on icy pavements by Walking Like a Penguin.
“The stories we shared really caught the public imagination – in fact, our team even ended up appearing on the TV news – and people all over the west of Scotland were soon Walking Like a Penguin to help prevent slips and trips.
“With the cold weather about to return, we thought what better way to help the public this winter than to capitalise on our success – and just like that Petey was born.”
Throughout the winter, Petey Penguin will feature regularly in social media messages, giving people advice and information on a range of seasonal issues such as:
Appropriate footwear and clothing for the conditions.
Keeping fit, active and warm.
Preparing your home for winter.
Making sure walking aids and other mobility equipment are fit for the cold weather.
Medication advice.
And, of course …
Walking like a penguin!
Laura Halcrow said: “The safety and wellbeing of our communities is a top priority for us, and while slips, falls and other seasonal problems are a major issue as winter approaches, there is plenty we can do to help prevent the cold weather resulting in a visit to hospital.
“That’s why we have produced advice on simple actions that you can take to keep yourself or a loved one strong, steady and safe this winter and beyond.”
Dr Emilia Crighton, Director of Public Health at NHSGGC, also reminded people that, in the majority of cases involving slips and trips, going to A&E may not be appropriate.
She said: “A&E is there to help the sickest people and treat the most urgent emergencies, and we would always advise anyone who thinks their condition or injury is very urgent or life-threatening to call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
“However, most falls and trips do not require treatment at A&E – and in fact you might be asked to seek help elsewhere if you arrive at A&E inappropriately.
“If assessment is required, our Minor Injuries Units are often best placed to carry that out, so we would urge anyone who has suffered a fall to call NHS24 on 111. They will be able to give you the advice you need, including directing you to a Minor Injuries Unit if required.”
As winter approaches, NHSGGC is urging members of the public to familiarise themselves with the most appropriate places to access care – often from the comfort of your own home or right on your doorstep.
In fact, they are reminding people that accessing the right care is as easy as ABC:
Ask yourself: Do I need to go out? For information on keeping yourself well and treating minor illnesses and injuries from home, go to NHS Inform or download the NHS24 app. Be aware: There is help on your doorstep. Your local GP, pharmacy, dentist or opticianoffer a range of services. Pharmacies provide these services without the need for an appointment. Call 111: If it’s urgent, or you’re not sure, call NHS24 on 111. They’ll make sure you get the help you need.
Unless it’s an emergency,please think ABC before going to A&E.
For more about staying safe this winter, go to NHS inform
For more information on the best ways to access care, go to the NHSGGC website
EdTech entrepreneur responds to calls for Times Tables to be scrapped
An ancient counting tool first used as early as 2,400 BC should be brought back to classrooms if the new UK government decides to scrap times-tables tests, a Scottish business is arguing.
Glasgow-based British Youth International College (BYITC) specialises in teaching maths using the abacus and says the device, which involves sliding beads along a frame to count, can help children perform mathematical calculations faster than a calculator.
Students of the College include 10-year-old Tejas Mittal, who can solve 90 to 100 complex sums mentally in just 60 minutes.
“Instead of memorising numbers – like the multiplications of the times-tables – the abacus teaches children to actually visualise the calculations,”explained Dr Rashmi Mantri, who founded BYITC in 2015 after using an abacus to teach her son basic arithmetic.
“Students are then able to do big calculations mentally without the use of any calculator or paper. The abacus method doesn’t require your child to physically handle one of these ancient instruments. We teach children to visualise the abacus in their heads, then use their fingers to manipulate the imaginary beads.”
The annual Maths Week Scotland takes place from Monday 23rd September, a matter of weeks after news outlets reported thatthe government might make times-tables tests optional, to simplify the school curriculum.
If this were to become policy in either England or Scotland, abacus maths could be introduced in schools to make maths and arithmetic more fun – and improve learning outcomes, Dr Mantri said.
“Research has shown that abacus learners had 200% better memory than non-abacus learners,” she added.
“Because it’s a visual way of learning – using either a real or a virtual abacus – we find students enjoy it and engage with it more than they might do in a traditional maths lesson.
“From the thousands of students who learn maths with us, we also believe the abacus method is one of the best confidence-building tools in education. Children who do well at maths tend to have more confidence in other areas of study. And the better they do in school, the more that confidence carries over to areas outside of the classroom.”
Dr Mantri said school pupil Tejas Mittal, from Edinburgh, demonstrated “remarkable speed and accuracy” in mental arithmetic.
She said: “His father tells us that Tejas uses his abacus skills in everyday scenarios, like calculating grocery totals and measuring the carpet areas in square feet of a newly constructed building.”
Tejas’s father, Mukesh Mittal, Senior Delivery Manager at Cognizant, said: “As a parent, I am beyond thrilled with the progress Tejas has made through the Abacus Maths course at BYITC. The transformation has been remarkable, not just in his academic performance but in how he applies maths in daily life.
“Tejas confidently uses his abacus skills in real-world scenarios, impressing us and even our friends and family. We are incredibly grateful to the team at BYITC for their dedication and the positive impact they’ve had on our son’s education and overall development. Thank you for making maths not just a subject but a life skill that Tejas will carry with him always.”
BYITC teaches abacus maths online to students globally through its interactive Supermaths programme, which offers a mix of weekly teacher-led abacus maths classes and online tutorials.
The abacus is thought to have been first used by the Babylonians, an ancient Middle Eastern civilization, as early as 2,400 BC. The device consists of several rows of beads grouped in tens and mounted on a frame. Maths calculations are made by sliding beads back and forth to represent the various numbers in the calculation.
“Fingers, pebble calculators and computers have been used across history to calculate big numbers,” Dr Mantri said. “But the abacus is the one device that stands the test of millennia and is known to be highly effective at training the brain to make mathematical calculations involving huge numbers.”
Numerical Memory – Learning to do maths on an abacus makes it easier for students to memorise long numbers. A study at Japan’s Shinshu University showed that nine-digit memorisation was ‘fairly easy’ for students
Problem-Solving Skills – The abacus method improves problem-solving skills, both in maths and other areas of life. The method teaches children to think through problems logically.
Rapid Calculations – Learning maths with the abacus method equips a student to do rapid calculations without the need for electronic devices or writing instruments. All calculations are performed in the head by visualising the abacus.
Critical Thinking – The skills learned in the abacus method make students better at critical thinking in other areas of life. They are better able to conceptualise all sorts of challenges. They think through solutions and reach conclusions more easily.
Dr Mantri started teaching her son, Dhruv, maths using the abacus method when he was in Primary 5. By the age of 12, Dhruv – who has featured on TV shows for his “human calculator” skills – was developing web programming tutorials and giving online cyber security seminars. Now 18, he is pursuing a career in data science and analytics.
BYITC holds regular maths competitions to showcase the remarkable skills of its students.
18-Year-Old Caoimhe O’Neill-McGuinness from Eastbourne wins prestigious culinary opportunity
Le Cordon Bleu London is proud to announce the winner of its prestigious 2024 Scholarship Competition, following an exhilarating finale held on Monday 16th September 2024.
The final stage of the competition took place at Le Cordon Bleu London, where the shortlisted finalists showcased their exceptional culinary skills in an exciting challenge. Fifteen finalists were tasked with recreating a Provençal Tart, as demonstrated to them by Le Cordon Bleu London’s Head Cuisine Chef, Eric Bediat.
Judged by senior Le Cordon Bleu staff and a panel of distinguished guest judges including Chris Galvin of Galvin Restaurants, Emily Roux of Caractère, Phaidon’s Managing Culinary Editor Ellie Smith and Le Cordon Bleu’s Culinary Arts Director Chef Emil Minev. The competition was fierce, with all finalists demonstrating remarkable talent and creativity.
After much anticipation, Caoimhe O’Neill-McGuinness, 18, from Eastbourne, East Sussex was crowned the winner at an elegant awards ceremony and dinner held at CORD Restaurant. Two runners up were also recognised; Fiona Fitwe from Belfast was awarded second place, and William Walker-Hardie of Edinburgh came in third.
The evening was attended by leading figures from the hospitality industry, including celebrated chefs and restaurateurs such as Michel Roux Jr, Chris Galvin, Michael Kwan (The Dorchester), Rakesh Nair (Cinnamon Collection), Nicolas Houchet (The Savoy), Daniel Stucki (Sketch) and Shaun Whatling (The Berkeley).
The winner, Caoimhe O’Neill-McGuinness, has been awarded a full scholarship to pursue Le Cordon Bleu’s renowned Grand Diplôme®, combining both cuisine and pâtisserie training, along with a coveted internship at CORD by Le Cordon Bleu, mentoring from Michel Roux Jr, and accommodation in London for a year—an extraordinary prize package valued at over £60,000.
Caoimhe will also enjoy a range of exclusive prizes provided by the scholarship’s esteemed sponsors. These include work experience at the renowned Galvin Restaurants and mentorship with Chef Patron Chris Galvin, a work experience session with the renowned Galvin Restaurants, a behind-the-scenes trip to Andros HQ in South-West France, and one-on-one time with Phaidon’s Managing Culinary Editor, Ellie Smith, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the cookbook creation process.
The winner and runners-up also received bottles of wine and Champagne from prestigious producers Gosset and Louis Latour, adding to the celebration of their success.
Caoimhe O’Neill-McGuinness comments: “It feels amazing to be the winner of the 2024 Le Cordon Bleu scholarship. What an incredible prize, studying the Grand Diplôme and the opportunity to intern at CORD, where I will be producing food of such a high standard.
“It’s incredible to have Michel Roux Jr and Chris Galvin as mentors and accommodation from Londonist is something I never would have been able to have without this scholarship.
“I never thought I’d be workshopping a cookbook with Phaidon or visiting the Andros factory in France to see what other career paths are like. I’m just so excited and can’t wait to start.”
Emil Minev, Culinary Arts Director at Le Cordon Bleu London, said: “We were thoroughly impressed with the level of talent displayed by all of our finalists.
“Caoimhe truly stood out for her passion, drive, and she presented an excellent dish in the finale. We are excited to see what she will achieve in her culinary career.
“This competition is a testament to the incredible future that awaits the next generation of chefs, and we are honoured to be part of Caoimhe’s journey.”
The competition, designed to identify and nurture the next generation of culinary talent, was one of the most competitive in recent years. Guests at the awards dinner celebrated the finalists’ achievements while enjoying a reception and exquisite meal prepared by CORD’s Executive Chef, Karl O’Dell, and his team.
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership with one of the city’s most beloved attractions, Edinburgh Zoo.
Together, they are set to launch a roarsome Afternoon Tea experience, taking inspiration from the cherished children’s book, The Tiger Who Came to Tea. This family-friendly event will debut on Friday, 18th of October, perfectly timed to coincide with the October school break.
The collaboration aims to provide a truly unique and unmissable experience for both locals and visitors to the capital. The event will take place in the hotel’s stunning Oculus Lounge, combining the opulence of the hotel’s popular Afternoon Tea service with a playfully wild twist for its younger guests.
Those who attend can expect a fun and immersive experience, hosted by one of Edinburgh Zoo’s talented Discovery Rangers.
The Ranger will kick off the event with an exciting storytelling experience, which allows guests to learn about the resident tigers at Edinburgh Zoo.
But that’s not all: the specially themed Afternoon Tea menu will also include a carefully curated selection of treats for children, ensuring that the whole family has a roaring good time.
Guests can enjoy a stylish Afternoon Tea menu of exquisite pastries paired with savoury treats and finely brewed teas, while the younger ones enjoy special treats like tiger cookies, milk chocolate pandas, scones and more! Pricing begins at £35 for adults and £15 for children, with two sittings available at 1pm and 3pm.
Adding to the excitement, guests will also get a glimpse straight into the ‘Tiger Den’ at Edinburgh Zoo on the day through a live stream.
Following the event, guests will be invited to the Scarlett Lounge for an exclusive screening of The Tiger Keeper Who Came to Tea animated film, giving adults the opportunity to relax with refreshments at Eve or Commons Club Bar.
Mafalda Albuquerque, General Manager at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh said: “We’re thrilled to offer our guests this unique family Afternoon Tea experience.
“Our collaboration with Edinburgh Zoo for this themed Afternoon Tea allows us to craft a memorable and educational day out, perfectly aligning with our mission to deliver family experiences that can be enjoyed by all.”
You can find out more information about this partnership here. Reservations can also be made by emailing afternoontea@virginhotels.com
