First Minister supports Scotland’s diverse communities
First Minister John Swinney joined faith and belief leaders at the Candle for Peace ceremony to encourage dialogue, reflection and remembrance among Scotland’s diverse communities.
At the annual ceremony, he was invited to light a candle with the Chief Imam from the Scottish Ahlul Bayt Society, Dr Sayed Razawi, and the Welfare Convenor of the Edinburgh Hebrew Congregation, Edward Green.
It was the first time senior Muslim and Jewish leaders have come together in this way at the ceremony, a gesture reflecting their shared commitment to peaceful coexistence and community cohesion.
Representatives of NHS Scotland and Police Scotland also took part to honour sacrifices made by health workers and police officers.
The First Minister said: “Strengthening the connections between our diverse communities is so important, especially at a time when we see so much conflict across the world.
“I was honoured to attend this profound and symbolic peace ceremony alongside so many of Scotland’s faith leaders. We are united in our shared commitment to eliminating barriers and increasing understanding.
“Scotland is a diverse, multi-cultural society and this diversity strengthens us as a nation. We continue to work cooperatively with partners to tackle all forms of hatred and prejudice, so people of all faiths, and none, can be supported to follow their way of life without fear of discrimination.”
The Candle for Peace ceremony took place at Edinburgh City Chambers. The annual event is organised by the Scottish Ahlul Bayt Society, which represents Shia Muslims.
Edinburgh-based charity project, Vintage Vibes held a week of celebrations, marking 9 years of tackling the loneliness crisis in the city.
The week of celebratory activity started on Older Peoples’ Day (on 1st October) with Kaukab Stewart MSP, Minister for Equalities, joining the charity project’s VIP Voices group, where people over 60 who are lonely and isolated are invited to meet every two months and share their views on current topics affecting older people.
The topics for discussion with the Minister covered the value of older people in society, over 60s contributing to communities through volunteering, and how to make local heritage and culture venues barrier free for the older population.
Kaukab Stewart MSP, Minister for Equalities said: “I want to congratulate Vintage Vibes for the great work it has been doing over the last nine years to bring generations together and provide companionship and support to older people.
“The Scottish Government has delivered a range of policy measures over the last five years aimed at reducing inequality and promoting health and wellbeing and reducing social isolation for all older people across Scotland.
“We aim to enable better access to a range of services for older people as and when they need them and we want to ensure people are financially secure and supported as they age. We will ensure that older people’s views and aspirations are taken into account as we undertake a refresh of our strategy for older people.”
The VIP Voices group and fellow VIPs (over 60s supported by Vintage Vibes) also came together to celebrate 9 years of friendships and connections at The Broomhouse Hub with a pizza party filled with fun, games, singing, chat and laughter.
Alongside this, the Vintage Vibes team hand-delivered cakes to those who are housebound and unable to attend the birthday celebrations, to ensure every member felt included and shared in the fun.
Vintage Vibes VIP, Shelia said: “Vintage Vibes lifts my spirits enormously. I get on so well with my friendship volunteer, Nicky and we just laugh and laugh when we’re together.
“I love everything about Vintage Vibes, it’s so much fun and I get to be involved in so many things – it’s just lovely.”
Vintage Vibes brings people together through friendship matches, groups, meet-ups and events to tackle social isolation and loneliness in the over the 60s across Edinburgh. Since its creation in 2015, the charity project has now helped over 1200 older people in the city to establish one-to-one friendships and delivered over 30,000 hours of volunteering.
Events, and groups are also available including film, theatre and singing or simply meeting for a chat over a coffee, bringing older people together for friendship, improve their wellbeing and have some much-needed fun.
Alongside this, the charity project has a passion for tackling ageism, changing perceptions and reducing stigma around isolation and ageing.
Gemma Wright, Communications and Fundraising Lead at Vintage Vibes said:“We are incredibly grateful to our fabulous VIPs (older people we support), volunteers and supporters for helping to us to build this amazing, supportive, empowering community.
“Over the past 9 years, Vintage Vibes has changed the lives of so many older people feeling alone for the better.
“We’d like to thank Kaukab Stewart MSP for taking the time to listen to the insightful thoughts, views and ideas of our VIPs and hope that together we can create a brighter future for the circa 11,000 older people in Edinburgh who are often or always alone.
“As we celebrate 9 fabulous years at our pizza party, we are joined by our wonderful VIPs and volunteers. It is always so special to see everyone laughing, chatting and having fun to mark the difference Vintage Vibes makes to so many.
“For those who sadly couldn’t attend due to ill health, we delivered cakes and flowers to their homes and popped in for a chat. We exist to prevent the development of chronic loneliness and bring fun, fulfilment and friendship to older people who are feeling lonely and isolated through our network of amazing friendship volunteers and the support of local people, businesses and funding partnerships.
“We would like to thank all involved for your ongoing support and helping us to ensure everyone is included and feels valued.”
Having successfully delivered over 30,000 hours of volunteering, Vintage Vibes’ 2024 annual survey showed that 97% of their VIPs felt that being involved in the project left them feeling happier and gave them a better quality of life and 91% saying it had improved their mental health.
Vintage Vibes is now seeking amazing new Edinburgh-based volunteers to expand the project and offer support to even more older people across the city.
Scotland’s First Minister calls for fastest possible deployment of Scottish carbon capture scheme
New era for the clean energy industry with carbon capture clusters launched – in the week that Britain became the first industrialised nation to end its 150-year usage of coal
UK will be among the first to deploy this game-changing technology at scale in Teesside and Merseyside – capturing CO2 emissions before they reach the atmosphere and storing them away safely
projects will create thousands of jobs, attract £8 billion of private investment, and accelerate the UK towards net zero in 2050
The UK today enters a new era for clean energy investment and jobs, as the government announces it has reached commercial agreement with industry, and funding to launch carbon capture in the UK.
Major funding for 2 carbon capture sites will inject growth into the industrial heartlands of the North West and North East of England – directly creating 4,000 jobs and supporting 50,000 jobs in the long-term while powering up the rest of the country.
This comes 10 days before the government’s set-piece International Investment Summit which is poised to put the UK back at the global table – kickstarting a decade of economic renewal and giving business confidence and opportunity to invest in the United Kingdom.
CCUS technology removes CO2 emissions before it reaches the atmosphere and stores it safely beneath the seabed – using tried and tested technology that has been deployed across the globe for over 20 years.
In a boost for economic growth and protecting the environment, the new carbon capture and CCUS enabled hydrogen projects will create 4,000 new jobs, sustain important British industry, and help remove over 8.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions each year – the equivalent of taking around 4 million cars off the road.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the Chancellor Rachel Reeves, and Energy Secretary Ed Miliband are visiting the North West today to confirm the funding for 2 sites in Teesside and Merseyside, which are expected to bring in £8 billion of private investment into these communities.
These projects will set the UK on course to become a global leader in CCUS and hydrogen – delivering good jobs and turbocharged growth for decades to come.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “We’re reigniting our industrial heartlands by investing in the industry of the future.
“For the past 14 years, business has been second-guessing a dysfunctional government – which has set us back and caused an economic slump.
“Today’s announcement will give industry the certainty it needs – committing to 25 years of funding in this groundbreaking technology – to help deliver jobs, kickstart growth, and repair this country once and for all.”
Today’s announcement confirms up to £21.7 billion of funding available, over 25 years, to make the UK an early leader in 2 growing global sectors, CCUS and hydrogen, to be allocated between these 2 clusters. The UK’s commitment was first made in 2009, and the confirmation of funding today represents a major success story for British industry.
In the week in which Britain became the first industrialised nation to end its 150-year usage of coal to produce power, the nation now begins a new era of clean energy technology. The UK has enough capacity to store 200 years’ worth of emissions – making CCUS a revolutionary method in tackling the climate crisis and helping industry to decarbonise.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “On Monday, 150 years of coal in this country came to an end. Today, a new era begins.
“By securing this funding, we pave the way for securing the clean energy revolution that will rebuild Britain’s industrial heartlands.
“I was proud to kickstart the industry in 2009, and I am even prouder today to turn it into reality. This funding is a testament to the power of an active government working in partnership with businesses to deliver good jobs for our communities.”
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves, said: “This game-changing technology will bring 4,000 good jobs and billions of private investment into communities across Merseyside and Teesside, igniting growth in these industrial heartlands and powering up the rest of the country.
“Working in partnership with business is at the heart of our plan to deliver strong growth and investment, so we can rebuild Britain and make everyone better off.”
This announcement will also help turbocharge the low carbon hydrogen sector by paving the way for the UK’s first large-scale hydrogen production plant, decarbonising vital industrial sectors.
It also marks a game-changing development in the mission to tackle climate change – protecting the environment from harmful emissions at a time when the UK has seen a year of record-breaking temperatures.
It follows advice from the independent Climate Change Committee, who described CCUS as critical for decarbonising the UK’s heavy industry and a “necessity” for the UK to reach its legally binding target for net zero emissions by 2050.
Similarly, the International Energy Agency and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change have endorsed CCUS as a critical tool in decarbonisation, particularly in heavy industry such as cement and steel.
The carbon capture, usage and storage industry is expected to support 50,000 good, skilled jobs as the sector matures in the 2030s, helping to support the oil and gas sector’s transition away from high emission fossil fuels by using the transferable expertise of their workforce. This supports the UK’s mission for growth, while putting the country at the cutting edge for developing the skills of the future.
An up and running carbon capture industry is expected to add around £5 billion per year to the UK economy by 2050 and the backing of these 2 sites sends a clear signal to investors that the UK is open for business.
As part of the partnership with GB Energy and The Crown Estate, the progress on Track-1 comes as The Crown Estate awarded an Agreement for Lease to Eni to repurpose existing infrastructure to transport and store CO2, reducing cost and environmental impact.
Louise Kingham, SVP Europe and head of country, UK for bp, said: “This announcement represents another step forward for the Northern Endurance Partnership and East Coast Cluster.
“Major projects like these have the potential to help stimulate economic growth – supporting thousands of jobs, helping UK companies prosper through the vast supply chains involved and creating the infrastructure to help major industrial companies with their decarbonisation plans.
“Collaboration is key in helping to progress and deliver the energy transition in the UK, and we look forward to continuing to work alongside the government and our partners to move these innovative projects forward.”
Alex Grant, SVP and head of country, UK for Equinor, said: “We welcome this major milestone in progressing these 2 key projects and applaud the hard work and collaboration that has led us here.
“Equinor has been an energy partner with the UK for over 45 years and today’s announcement is a step for both Equinor and the UK to progress our energy partnership further.
“This will help decarbonise the country’s industrial heartlands and achieve its net zero ambitions whilst providing jobs and value creation.
“The UK will continue to be a key market for Equinor, building on our history of significant energy provision along its East Coast, which is transitioning from traditional oil and gas demand to renewables and low carbon options like CCS and hydrogen.”
Eni CEO, Claudio Descalzi, said: “Today’s news is an important step towards the creation of a new business chain linked to the energy transition.
“HyNet will become one of the first low-carbon clusters in the world and the project will decarbonise one of the key energy-intensive industrial districts as well as unlock significant economic growth in this region of the UK.
“This commitment is clear evidence of how governments and industry can work together to implement pragmatic and effective industrial policies, in order to accelerate decarbonisation. On our side, it reaffirms Eni’s role as a key partner with the UK in enabling its journey towards Net Zero.”
James Richardson, Acting Chief Executive of the Climate Change Committee, said: “It’s fantastic to see funding coming through for these big projects. We can’t hit the country’s targets without CCUS so this commitment to it is very reassuring. It will no doubt provide comfort to investors and business about the direction of travel for the country.
“We know these projects will provide good, reliable jobs in communities that need them. It is important that prosperity for these parts of the country is built into a clean energy future.”
Emma Pinchbeck, Energy UK’s Chief Executive, said: “CCUS is a tool in our armoury of technologies which we need to decarbonise parts of energy that we currently can’t do with clean electricity, such as major industrial processes.
“The energy transition is gathering pace, and the development of CCUS here for industrial processes unlocks inward investment, creates jobs and helps areas with a proud history of engineering and industry pioneer the technologies of the future in the UK.”
Olivia Powis, CEO of the Carbon Capture and Storage Association (CCSA), said: “The government’s confirmed support for carbon capture and storage and hydrogen demonstrates their commitment to the UK’s journey to net zero.
“Today’s announcement shows that decarbonisation does not mean de-industrialisation, and highlights the UK’s leadership in these important technologies.
“The industry has made significant strides towards deploying carbon capture projects and by establishing the first 2 CCUS clusters in the North West and North East of England, it means that we can deliver thousands of new highly skilled jobs whilst reducing our CO2 emissions and retaining existing jobs in our industrial areas in critical industries like cement and manufacturing across the UK.”
Celia Greaves, CEO of the Hydrogen Energy Association, said: “This is a vital step forward, catapulting hydrogen towards long-term certainty we need in the UK.
“Supporting hydrogen at scale in 2 of the biggest UK industrial clusters is the government giving hydrogen another green light as a key component of its green energy ambitions.
“We particularly welcome the news that this will provide thousands of new jobs given the HEA’s solid focus on hydrogen’s role in delivering clean growth.
“Our own project map has built up a blueprint of hydrogen endeavours across all parts of the UK and this significant investment in carbon capture clusters is going to bring forward the first large scale projects we have seen in the country.
“What’s more, it will inject further enthusiasm for wider investment to power-up business confidence which will have a knock-on effect of continuing to position the UK as a global player in hydrogen technology and innovation.”
Clare Jackson, CEO of Hydrogen UK, said: “We are thrilled to see the UK government’s commitment to advancing Track-1 clusters in partnership with the private sector.
“This initiative is a crucial step forward for regional development, driving economic growth, and creating high-quality jobs across the country.
“The integration of CCUS technology with hydrogen production is pivotal for achieving our net zero targets. CCUS-enabled hydrogen not only provides a low carbon, and scalable energy solution but also ensures the UK remains at the forefront of the global hydrogen economy.
“By moving forward with Track-1, we are laying the foundation for a cleaner, more resilient energy future for all.”
EVERYBODY HAPPY, THEN? NO, SAYS SCOTLAND’S FIRST MINISTER JOHN SWINNEY
Following the announcement of £21.7bn for two carbon capture and storage projects in the North of England First Minister @JohnSwinney has written to the Prime Minister seeking clarity on timelines, funding and criteria for the Acorn project in Scotland.
First Minister John Swinney has written to the Prime Minister seeking clarity on timelines, funding and criteria for Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage Track 2 clusters, which includes the Acorn project in Scotland.
The letter was sent on the day the UK Government announced £21.7 billion of funding for the two carbon capture and storage projects in the North East and North West of England.
Edinburgh Council’s Senior Housing Staff meet North Edinburgh Parents Action Group at Royston Wardieburn Community Centre
Last Wednesday (27th September), North Edinburgh Parents Action Group met with senior members of the Council’s housing management team and the Chair of the Housing Committee to discuss the issues raised in their report ‘SOS North Edinburgh’s Housing Emergency’ .
The group used the meeting to highlight many of the housing problems which sadly are common in most areas of North Edinburgh including mould and dampness, overcrowding, anti-social behaviour and an unacceptable repairs service.
Shocking
Group members shared their own personal stories about how these issues were impacting on their familiies’ physical and mental health. The housing staff and the chair of the Housing Committee were visibly shocked at some of the stories shared by members.
The senior housing staff gave a commitment to work with the parents group to address these issues as a matter of urgency. They also agreed to work closely with local families who have been involved in the project to try to resolve their ongoing housing problems and will use this process to identify what needs to change.
Susan Rowand, Chairperson of the Parents Group, said: “People have been waiting so long to get their housing issues fixed, many of them can’t wait any longer. We really hope that things begin to happen soon.
“A follow up meeting has been planned for the end of November to update the group on progress made.”
A group member added: ” I feel pain and anger at what my family have been through, maybe something will happen now – I don’t know.”
Next Steps
After the October break, group members will meet with Dr Olivia Swann, Clinical Lecturer in Paediatric Infectious Diseases at Edinburgh University.
Dr Swann worked with the parents group earlier this year on their publication and told group members that “strong scientific evidence has shown that poor housing can affect someone’s physical and mental health throughout their life.”
This is a very worrying concern for group members and highlights the need to address the area’s housing emergency now.
First event details and tickets released for Edinburgh’s Christmas 2024 festivities
Family favourites return including Big Wheel, Santa Stories, George Street Ice Skating, Around the World Starflyer and the Family Festive Funfair
Traditional Christmas Markets return to East Princes Street Gardens
All-New Christmas Tree Maze set to transform St Andrew Square Gardens into a festive wonderland
Free family and community entertainment at Ross Bandstand throughout November & December, including Light Night Concert and 20th anniversary Santa Run
Local charities to benefit from Edinburgh Winter Festivals – Social Bite, When You Wish Upon A Star, One City Trust and Simon Community Scotland
Local resident discount returns to spread Christmas cheer across the city
Organisers of Edinburgh’s Christmas today unwrapped the first attractions from a bumper programme of events in the capital, bringing the gift of joy and sparkle to the city’s many residents and visitors this winter.
Running from Friday 15 November 2024 to Saturday 4 January 2025, Edinburgh’s city centre will be aglow with festive wonder, as this year’s hugely varied programme of festive favourites and fresh winter wonderlands really does have something for everyone.
From the opening weekend (Fri 15 Nov), East Princes Street Gardens launches proceedings, as the Traditional Christmas Market returns, where a multitude of market stall holders offer locally made crafts from twinkly wooden cabins. Whether visitors fancy strawberries and marshmallows dipped in chocolate, mulled wine or big bratwurst sausages, the food and drink stalls placed throughout the market cater for all tastes.
For those with a head for heights, a trip on the Edinburgh’s Christmas Big Wheel or the 80M Around the World Star Flyer offer incredible views of the city. Of course, for those who prefer to be a ground level, other rides are available and a trip on the Helter-Skelter is always a favourite.
Edinburgh’s Christmas welcomes families to West Princes Street Gardens from Saturday 16 November with the Festive Family Funfair returning with favourite rides for children young and old.
The Winter Warmer Zone with its festive food and drink stalls bringing the temperature up with some delicious hot chocolate and treats. Winter Windows Walk presents beautiful artwork from school children from across the city, part of an illumined walk beneath the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
A programme of festive fun at the Ross Bandstand throughout winter offers families even more, bringing colour and joy through the Light Night Concert (Sun 17 Nov), St Andrew’s Day Ceilidh (Sat 30 Nov), Nativity Carol Concert (Sun 1 Dec), and this year When You Wish Upon A Star celebrates 20 years of the Santa Run (Sun 8 Dec), with another spectacular fundraising event, giving kids of all ages a chance to join in the festive fun. Full programme to be announced in the coming weeks.
The following weekend sees the New Town transformed into a winter wonderland, in partnership with Essential Edinburgh. At the West End of George Street, the spectacular outdoor Ice-Rink returns, welcoming skaters to glide around the 120m rink, with spectators enjoying the action from a viewing gallery.
Moving up the street, visitors will discover a feast of festive treats, delicious food and drink, and an all-new warming area presenting live entertainment throughout winter, along with Festive Workshops, where audiences can learn new skills from Christmas Decorations & Wreath Making to Ice Carving & Mixology.
New for St Andrew Square, Edinburgh’s Christmas presents Scotland’s largest Christmas Tree Maze, inviting participants to lose themselves amongst 450 illuminated Christmas Trees, discovering festive surprises along the way.
Santa returns to the beautiful Piccolo Spiegeltent, where once again children can book a slot to hear some Christmas tales, meet the man himself and his elves in Santa’s Stories. Children can also write that all important letter to the big man and drop it straight into the Santa Post-box.
Each year Edinburgh’s Winter Festivals set out to makes lives better across the city. In 2024 the residents discount will return, offering locals over 100,000 tickets at a 20% discount for the ice-rink, Santa Stories and fairground rides, helping locals to enjoy that little bit more this Christmas.
Edinburgh’s Christmas is working with local community groups to give away thousands of tickets for fairground rides, ice-skating and Santa Stories. Donations and money raised across Edinburgh’s Christmas and Hogmanay festivals will this year be split across local charities Social Bite, When You Wish Upon A Star, One City Trust and Simon Community Scotland.
Charity donations can be made on-line when purchasing tickets and also at fundraising points around Edinburgh’s Christmas.
Edinburgh’s Christmas attractions are open daily except Christmas Day, with varying opening dates and times available at the official website. For further information and to buy tickets (from noon Friday 4 October), please go to www.edinburghwinterfestivals.com
Culture and Communities Convener Val Walker, said:“Edinburgh at Christmas is a magical experience, and it’s exciting to be announcing such a varied programme of events and attractions for 2024. We will see the return of many favourites like the Traditional Christmas Market, Santa Stories and Big Wheel, as well as a brand-new Christmas Tree Maze in St Andrew Square!
“We want Edinburgh’s Christmas to be a welcoming and inclusive experience for everyone, and this packed programme has something for families and Christmas enthusiasts of all ages.
“We are especially proud of the opportunities it affords to raise funds for local charities. The free tickets donated to charities and community groups will help spread Christmas joy across the capital. We’re also looking forward to supporting other events in communities across the city”
Roddy Smith, Chief Executive and Director of Essential Edinburghsaid: “Christmas is a special time of year for everyone, it is also a really important trading period for our city centre retailers and hospitality businesses.
“We are delighted to partner with Unique Assembly to support this year’s Edinburgh’s Christmas activities encouraging our residents and visitors to come into the city centre to enjoy themselves.
“With the now well-established Ice Rink on the West End of George Street joined by the new Christmas Tree Maze in St Andrew Square Garden, we have festive fun for all ages all the way from the West End to the St James Quarter.”
Unique Assembly, producers of Edinburgh’s Christmas said: “We are thrilled to unwrap the first exciting attractions for this year’s Edinburgh’s Christmas, with a seven-week programme packed full of family favourites, plus new events and attractions to be announced.
“This year’s event promises to be one of the biggest and best ever, and we look forward to welcoming everyone when we open doors in only six short weeks!’
For the first time ever in Scotland, experience one of the finest and most significant collections of drawings and watercolours direct from Chatsworth in Derbyshire.
Exclusive to the National Galleries of Scotland, Dürer to Van Dyck: Drawings from Chatsworth House will take over the lower galleries of the Royal Scottish Academy building this winter, bringing the magic and beauty of Chatsworth’s outstanding collection of drawings to the heart of Edinburgh.
From 9 November 2024, visitors will enjoy a unique opportunity to view almost 50 beautiful and rarely seen drawings by some of the most famous names in European art including Albrecht Dürer, Hans Holbein the Younger, Peter Paul Rubens, Rembrandt van Rijn and Anthony van Dyck.
Not one to miss, this will be the only chance to see Dürer to Van Dyck: Drawings from Chatsworth House anywhere in the world, with all but two of the artworks on display in Scotland for the first time ever.
The exhibition will include a striking double portrait painting of Peter Paul Rubens and Anthony van Dyck, recently returned to Chatsworth after being stolen while on loan in 1979. Lost for over 40 years, this intricate artwork by Flemish artist Erasmus Quellinus II was remarkably tracked down by the Belgian art historian, Bert Schepers, who identified it at a European auction.
The double portrait was reinstated at Chatsworth earlier this year and will make its Scottish debut as part of Dürer to Van Dyck: Drawings from Chatsworth House.
Explore the intricacy of some of the most important Flemish, Dutch, Early Netherlandish, and German drawings and watercolours from the Devonshire Collections, in a dazzling display spanning from 1500 to 1700.
Travel along the idyllic banks of the River Amstel and spot the windmills in Rembrandt’s View on the Amsteldijk at Meerhuizen, Looking Towards the Little Windmill (1648-50). Join the thrill of the chase and engage in epic moments of battle with Anthony van Dyck in works such as A Wolf and Fox Hunt (1616-17) and Horatius Cocles Defending the Tiber Bridge (1618-21).
Witness iconic biblical scenes as realised by Peter Paul Rubens in Five Groups of Figures for a Last Supper (Christ Announcing his Betrayal) (1601), Adam and Eve (1520)by Jan Gossart and the ethereal The Virgin and Child with the Infant St John (1516-18)by Albrecht Dürer, the earliest drawing on display.
Home to the Devonshire family for almost five centuries, Chatsworth is renowned for its Grade I listed house, romantic sprawling grounds and one of the most significant private art collections in Europe.
From holding Mary, Queen of Scots captive in the 16th century, to playing the fictional home of Pride and Prejudice’s Mr. Darcy, Chatsworth has been an important backdrop to some of the most significant moments throughout history and popular culture. The core of this collection was assembled by the 2nd Duke of Devonshire in the early eighteenth century.
Tico Seifert, Senior Curator of Northern European Art at the National Galleries of Scotland said: “This exciting partnership with Chatsworth presents a rare opportunity to bring a world-renowned collection of drawings to Edinburgh for the first time.
“Dürer to Van Dyck: Drawings from Chatsworth House spans two hundred years of exceptional artworks by many of the best-known names in the art world, and it invites an intimate look at some of the most beautiful drawings they ever created.
“It’s a privilege that the National Galleries of Scotland becomes the first and only venue to display these timeless works of art in this specially crafted exhibition and we cannot wait to share it with our visitors.”
Alice Martin, Head of the Devonshire Collections said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with the National Galleries of Scotland on this exhibition.
“We are always looking at ways to increase access to the Devonshire Collections, especially for those unable to visit Chatsworth, and share works with new audiences. We hope that people will take the opportunity to visit the Royal Scottish Academy and enjoy this wonderful collection of drawings and watercolours.”
Dürer to Van Dyck: Drawings from Chatsworth House, a National Galleries of Scotland exhibition at the Royal Scottish Academy, is yours to discover fromfrom Saturday 9 November 2024.
Boundaries Scotland are reviewing Scottish Parliament boundaries to make them more fair.
The Second Review of Scottish Parliament Boundaries started in September 2022. In early 2023 and again in April/May 2024 we consulted on proposals for constituency boundaries and names.
We are now consulting on Provisional Proposals for region boundaries and names.
The rules that govern Scottish Parliament region design are
a constituency must fall wholly within a region.
the electorate of a region must be as near the regional electorate of each of the other regions as is practicable, having regard (where appropriate) to special geographical considerations.
Why is this happening?
Boundaries Scotland undertakes reviews of Scottish Parliament boundaries every 8 -12 years to ensure each region or constituency has an equal number of electors.
What Boundaries Scotland says
We now want to hear the views of the public on our proposals, we will reflect on responses to the consultation and make changes where appropriate and where the legislation allows us to do so. We strongly encourage people to make their views heard.
Forever Edinburgh is partnering with tourism businesses in Scotland’s capital to launch the ‘Meet Edinburgh’s Makers’ series, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of Edinburgh’s local producers.
This series celebrates the enterprises at the heart of Edinburgh’s world-leading visitor economy, starting with the dynamic distilling and brewing scene that has established the city as the new spirit of Scotland.
This series is a key initiative in the city’s inbound leisure visitor campaign, Experience the Beauty.
The initiative highlights Edinburgh’s most innovative makers and craftspeople, fostering awareness and appreciation for their unique qualities while inviting visitors to explore the city’s diverse tasting experiences.
Featured producers include Holyrood Distillery, renowned for its diverse range of whiskies and rum; Port of Leith Distillery, the UK’s first vertical distillery, leading the charge in sustainability; Summerhall Distillery, celebrated for its bold and inventive gin flavours; Secret Garden Distillery, which embraces a ‘seed to sip’ ethos with seasonal botanicals; and Vault City, known for brewing innovative sour beers using real fruit.
Interviews with key makers are now live on Forever Edinburgh’s website (https://edinburgh.org/meet-edinburghs-makers/), alongside a brand-new Brewers and Distillers Map showcasing over 60 businesses across the whole city.
Forever Edinburgh, Edinburgh Maker’s Map
This guide invites visitors to discover the spirit of Edinburgh, featuring bars, pubs, pop-ups, retailers and distilleries, all easily accessible by foot or sustainable travel options, including bus and tram.
Map highlights include Hey Palu in the Southside, the Innis and Gunn Brew School in Tollcross, and the Pilot Brewery Tour and Beer Tasting in Leith.
Edinburgh has emerged as a prime destination for food and drink tourism, and has seen a 50% increase in businesses in the city distilling, rectifying and blending spirits, 25% increase in beer manufacturers and 35% increase in beverage manufacturers since 2019. A 2023 VisitScotland survey found that nearly half (46%) of visitors participated in at least one food and drink experience during their trip to Scotland.
The Brewers and Distillers Map will be featured on the Forever Edinburgh website, The Official Guide to Edinburgh, and promoted through digital channels, showcasing what makes it a unique, must-see UK city break all year round.
Cllr Cammy Day, leader of the City of Edinburgh Council said:“Distilling in Edinburgh links back to the 18th century, and we have seen a revival of late with so many wonderful producers and brewers choosing the capital at their HQ. We’re really lucky in Edinburgh to have some of the best in the country, from the Port of Leith Distillery to Innis and Gunn, Edinburgh Gin and many more.
“The Meet Edinburgh’s Makers initiative celebrates Edinburgh’s renaissance as the true spirit of Scotland, and uses the stories of the dedicated craftspeople and their exceptional experiences around the city to draw more interest from our visitors.
“The Makers interviews and Brewers and Distillers Map, will exist year-round and are excellent resources no matter the time of year. This is a chance to sample some of Edinburgh’s finest offerings and appreciate the rich flavour profiles that define our city’s vibrant spirit.”
Callum Rae, distillery manager at Holyrood Distillery said:“We’re thrilled to be part of the ‘Meet Edinburgh’s Makers’ series, which highlights the incredible producers that call Edinburgh home.
“With such a wide variety of experiences in the city, being showcased by Forever Edinburgh is a fantastic opportunity for our business.
“This campaign will bring more people through our doors and give them a chance to explore the great drinks Edinburgh has to offer.
“We’re delighted to be listed alongside other local brands and share in celebrating Edinburgh evolving from being the heart of Scotland to embodying its spirit as well.”
Views are being sought on a new strategy Palliative Care Matters for All.
Palliative care is holistic care that prevents and relieves suffering through the early identification, assessment and management of pain and other problems – whether physical, mental, social or spiritual.
An ageing population that is living longer, with more complex needs, means more people will need access to palliative care in the future. The draft strategy has been developed in collaboration with the palliative care community and people who have experience of palliative care.
The aim is to deliver the best possible standards of palliative care for adults and children, families, and carers wherever and whenever it is needed.
The public are being asked for their views on a palliative care strategy consultation published by Public Health Minister @Jenni_Minto.
Public Health Minister Jenni Minto said: “Talking more openly about palliative care is the first step to understanding how and when it can benefit us – often at a much earlier stage and for longer than most people realise.
“We want to make sure that everyone who needs it can access well-coordinated, timely and high-quality palliative care along with care around dying and bereavement support.
“This consultation is important as many of us at some point in our lives will need to have conversations with people close to us about serious illness, death and loss. We’re asking the public to share their views with us to help shape our new strategy, because palliative care matters to us all.”
Scottish Government Palliative Care Clinical Lead and Chair of the Palliative Care Strategic Steering Group Dr Kirsty Boyd said: “I have seen first hand how timely, high quality palliative care can really make a difference to people and their families in supporting them to live their life to the full.
“Palliative care focuses on what matters to each adult or child and how we help them live as well as possible for however long that is. What counts when someone is dying is that they are well cared for, comfortable and with the people closest to them wherever they are.”
Medical equipment and supplies will be sent from Scotland to Ukraine.
The shipment of over 500 items includes oxygen concentrators, electric height-adjustable beds with replacement batteries and mattresses, and ICU ventilators identified by NHS Scotland as surplus to operational requirements
The donation will not impact on services to patients using the healthcare services in Scotland.
It brings the total value of medical supplies donated from Scotland to Ukraine to £3.8 million.
First Minister John Swinney confirmed the latest donation during a meeting with the Ukrainian Ambassador to the UK General Valerii Zaluzhnyi in London. It follows a request from the Ukrainian Consulate in Edinburgh in May 2024 to contribute medical equipment on a humanitarian basis.
The First Minister said: “The people of Ukraine are suffering as a consequence of the illegal invasion of their country, and it is vital we do all we can to support them.
“These supplies, identified by NHS Scotland as being surplus to requirements, will provide direct humanitarian support to Ukraine at a critical time.
“Scotland stands in solidarity with Ukraine and offers unqualified support for its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Ambassador of Ukraine to the United Kingdom General Valerii Zaluzhnyi said: “The act of generosity and solidarity demonstrated by NHS Scotland in extending a helping hand to Ukraine in its time of need exemplifies the true spirit of humanity and compassion.
“It serves as a powerful reminder that, in the face of adversity, solidarity and cooperation can transcend borders and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in war. The Ukrainian people are deeply grateful for the support and assistance provided by NHS Scotland, knowing that these supplies will make a difference between life and death for many.
“The bonds of friendship and solidarity forged through this act of kindness will not be forgotten and will serve as a beacon of hope for a brighter future beyond the shadows of Russia’s war against Ukraine.”
