Tracker urges drivers not to leave their vehicles vulnerable
As the UK prepares for a drop in temperatures, stolen vehicle recovery expert, Tracker Network (UK) Ltd, is urging motorists to be on their guard from unscrupulous thieves when de-icing their windscreens and warming up their cars.
Over £4 million worth of stolen vehicles were recovered by Tracker between November 2023 and January 2024, the peak months for vehicles to be ‘frost jacked.’
‘Frost jacking’ is usually an opportunist crime when thieves see an unattended unlocked car, typically with the keys in the ignition, as drivers wait elsewhere to thaw out frosted windows and warm up cars on cold days.
Not only does leaving vehicles unattended make them an easy theft target, but motorists also run the risk of invalidating their insurance or facing fines.
“Whilst it can be very tempting to leave your car running on these cold and dark mornings, the wider risk of theft if just too strong,” warns Clive Wain, Head of Police Liaison at Tracker.
“It is always best to just wrap up warm and stay with your car whilst you are defrosting the windows, whether it is on your driveway or parked in the road. Using a combination of new and traditional methods to keep cars safe from thieves is always recommended, especially in the winter when there are less daylight hours.”
As well as being vulnerable to theft, additional legal matters come into play when leaving a vehicle unattended. Unnecessarily leaving the engine running on a vehicle parked on the public road is an offence under regulations 98 and 107 of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, which reinforces rule 123 of the Highway Code.
Contrary to the Road Traffic Act, engine quitting, where a person leaves their vehicles’ engine running whilst not actually in the vehicle, is also an offence. Drivers caught engine quitting could be fined anywhere between £20-£80. Not correctly defrosting a windscreen and leaving it dangerous to drive can also result in a potential fine and three penalty points.
“Although it isn’t always the nicest option, staying with your vehicle in frosty conditions can help to prevent theft, invalid insurance, fines and penalty points,” continues Clive Wain. “One of the best ways to protect cars in the winter is to fit a tracking unit, which can significantly increase the chances of a vehicle been recovered if it is stolen.”
Tracker is the only SVR provider supported nationwide by U.K. police services that track, locate and recover stolen assets. More than 2,000 police patrol vehicles and all police helicopters are fitted with Tracker detection units. Confirming Tracker as a superior security defence against determined thieves, Tracker boasts a 95% success rate, 50% of which are recovered within 4 hours and 80% are returned to their owners within 24 hours, undamaged.
Tracker’s Winter Security Advice
At home, don’t keep keys in a place where they can be seen or accessed from outside
Never leave the keys in the ignition, even if you are just stopping quickly
Never leave your car running unattended when de-icing
Always lock and secure your vehicle
Don’t leave belongings on show, lock them in the boot or take them with you
Do not leave technology items on display, such as satnavs or mobile telephones. Take them with you or lock them in the boot.
Never leave car documents or spare keys inside the car – this only makes it easier for thieves to sell it on
Park in busy or well-lit and attended car parks near CCTV cameras
If you have a garage, use it to park your car
Consider fitting a tracking device to help police recover your vehicle if it’s stolen.
Engagement to tackle gendered violence highlighted at start of 16 Days
More than 27,000 young people have benefited from education and awareness-raising sessions on tackling gender-based violence over six months, thanks to 45 grassroots organisations across Scotland.
The latest Delivering Equally Safe impact report, published by Inspiring Scotland, shows that the number of young people accessing sessions on issues including consent and gender equality through these organisations is increasing. The report also includes data on the number of people who have received frontline support, and the type of support provided.
The report publication comes as the global 16 Days of Activism campaign gets underway. To mark the start of the campaign, Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart visited Monklands Women’s Aid in Airdrie to hear about their vital work to support women, children and young people.
Ms Stewart said: “Preventing violence against women and girls is key to creating a society where women and girls can live safely. I am proud to be supporting the 16 Days of Activism campaign to tackle and prevent violence against women and girls.
“Thanks to organisations supported by our Delivering Equally Safe fund, workshops supporting young people to understand consent, healthy relationships and the signs of abusive behaviour have reached more than 27,000 young people.
“In the two years since Delivering Equally Safe started, nearly 17,000 children and young people have engaged in frontline funded support.
“Among the organisations providing frontline support is Monklands Women’s Aid, whose work to address both traditional and emerging forms of violence against women and girls is vital and innovative.”
Monklands Women’s Aid Chairperson, Christine Buckel said: “Grassroots organisations like Monkland’s Women’s Aid are the backbone of community support for those facing the trauma of domestic abuse.
“Our integrated approach ensures women, children, and young people receive tailored support when they need it most. Most importantly, we listen to and respond to those we serve, ensuring that their voices shape the services that make a real difference in their lives.
“The Delivering Equally Safe programme fund provides vital funding that enabled the organisation to deliver frontline domestic abuse interventions to 1,571 people since October 2021.”
Edinburgh Libraries are among the thirteen services to receive a grant from the 2024/25 Public Library Improvement Fund (PLIF). Administered by the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) on behalf of the Scottish Government, the fund supports initiatives designed to inspire engagement across areas such as digital upskilling, sustainability and inclusivity.
Delivered in partnership with community repair hub The Edinburgh Remakery, this new project will promote sustainability through the provision of tech donation boxes in all 28 libraries in the city. Visitors will be able to donate their old devices, which will be repaired and given a new home if possible and recycled responsibly if not.
Other projects to receive a share of the 2024/25 fund include an interactive flora trail in Orkney, equality, diversity and inclusion training in Glasgow and workshops for young people facing digital exclusion in East Dunbartonshire.
As one of few open-access spaces left in our local communities, the remit of libraries is ever-evolving and service delivery teams maintain a sharp focus on meeting the needs of modern users. The PLIF 24/25 grant, launched in August this year, prioritised applications seeking to strengthen digital inclusion and sustainability efforts, as well as Gaelic and Scots language and new Scots languages initiatives.
The projects awarded PLIF 24/25 funding include:
‘Innovation Station’, a new teaching hub in Aberdeen City Library
‘Sensory Library Services’, for library users with additional support needs in Angus
‘Cultural Connections’, expanding the collections of Gaelic and Ukrainian language books in Dumfries and Galloway
‘Creating Social Engagement through Digital Activities’ with children and young people in East Dunbartonshire
‘Libraries and Remakery Partnership Project’, hosting tech donation boxes throughout Edinburgh
‘EDI: Change-making Leadership and Practice Development in Public Libraries’, management training in Glasgow
‘Library Digital Learning Stations’, promoting accessible, self-paced learning opportunities in Midlothian
‘Tech Trolley: Outreach for Inclusive Futures’, facilitating intergenerational learning in Moray
‘Beyond Ramps: Creating Safe and Supportive Library Spaces For All’, tackling barriers for physically disabled library users in North Lanarkshire
‘Interactive Orcadian Flora Trail’, tackling social isolation in Orkney
‘Inclusive Libraries’, in partnership with Borders Additional Needs Group (BANG) in the Scottish Borders
‘Libraries Empower Connections’, taking on child poverty and digital exclusion in West Dunbartonshire
‘Fèis Ghàidhlig Leabharlainn’ (Libraries Gaelic Festival), literary arts workshops and events celebrating Gaelic language in the Western Isles
Alison Nolan, Chief Executive of (SLIC), said:“Public libraries offer truly diverse value to their communities. They provide access to vital services and resources, a wealth of social activities and are hubs for expression and creativity.
“Investment is so important for the continued provision of these services, and the Public Library Improvement Fund is one of the ways in which we bolster our public libraries.
“People, place and partnership are the pillars of our strategy for Scotland’s libraries, and this year’s winners captured the spirit of that vision. These thirteen projects expand on the vision of a library as solely a centre of literacy – they encourage civil engagement, expand people’s skillsets and celebrate the richness of local heritage.”
Culture Minister, Angus Robertson, added: “Libraries are at the heart of our communities, offering inclusive and accessible spaces where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together to learn, create, and connect.
“The Public Library Improvement Fund brings important projects to life, which will make a positive impact on people. This year’s 13 innovative projects show the difference libraries can make to communities and how they can help to unlock people’s potential, increase employability and improve wellbeing.”
The Public Library Improvement Fund (PLIF) is an annual £450,000 administered by the Scottish Library and Information Council on behalf of the Scottish Government that sees £200,000 given to support creative, sustainable and innovative public library projects throughout Scotland.
Kat Brogan, the visionary leader behind one of Scotland’s most progressive tourism businesses has been named as the winner of one of the country’s most prestigious tourism and events awards.
The Managing Director of Mercat Tours took home the Scottish Thistle Awards’ highest accolade, the Silver Thistle, at the national final held at the Hilton Glasgow on Thursday 21 November.
Delivered by VisitScotland, the Scottish Thistle Awards, with headline sponsors Johnstons of Elgin, celebrate the very best of the tourism and events industry. They have become an annual celebration of excellence, collaboration, and innovation within one of the country’s most important sectors.
The Silver Thistle is awarded in recognition of an outstanding contribution to tourism, an honour bestowed by the industry to someone who delivers stand out work and inspires excellence in others.
Judges said Kat Brogan represented the ‘very spirit of the Silver Thistle Award; a leader whose passion, vision, and commitment to excellence has left a lasting impact on Scottish tourism.’
Business Minister Richard Lochhead who presented the award said: “It was a privilege to award Kat Brogan the coveted Silver Thistle award, celebrating her commitment to inclusivity and sustainability while showcasing the best of our capital city.
“Tourism is vital to Scotland, providing jobs and highlighting the diversity of Scotland’s offer to global audiences.
“And it is a sector which is passionate about driving positive change on behalf of communities across the country. The Scottish Government is committed to supporting the industry at every step.”
Among the other Edinburgh winners were The Scotch Whisky Experience which took home the award for Best Visitor Attraction, sponsored by Jacobite Loch Ness Cruises. The popular attraction which is based on the Capital’s famous Royal Mile impressed judges with its clear culture for innovation including several examples such as tasting and story-telling experiences.
Susan Morrison, Chief Executive, said: “We are thrilled and honoured to receive the award for Best Visitor Attraction.
“A huge thanks to our amazing customer-facing and support teams. This award is truly the culmination of everyone working together to welcome the world and help them on their journey to fall in love with Scotch whisky.”
Meanwhile, nearbyCamera Obscura & World of Illusions, was namedTourism & Hospitality Employer of the Year.
Judges commended the attraction for its diverse workforce which fosters an atmosphere of dignity, honesty and response. It was also praised for having regular dialogue with staff with lots of opportunity for innovation, training, sharing of ideas and providing feedback.
Andrew Johnston, General Manager, said:“We are very grateful to the judges for this prestigious award and to our dedicated team for their tireless efforts.
Their commitment to enhancing our facilities and visitor experience has been invaluable. Thank you to our visitors for continuing to enjoying our unique offer of interactive fun.”
Finally,Business Events Shaping Tomorrow ‘BEST’ Business Event – ACNAP 2023 which took place at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) was named Best Business Event.
Held in June 2023, the event welcomed 450 delegates to the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing & Allied Professions’ Annual Conference, bringing together cardiovascular nurses, allied professionals, pharmacists and health care scientists in cardiovascular care.
The conference was praised for contributing to Scotland’s Cardiovascular Nursing expertise, advancing the quality of life for the people of Scotland, and for showing excellent alignment to Scottish Government Policy aims, sustainability and legacy.
EICC Chief Executive, Marshall Dallas said:“At the EICC, we’re dedicated to hosting impactful business events. ACNAP’s 2023 conference is a brilliant example of how a business event can be a catalyst for positive societal impact, by raising public awareness and driving policy change.
“We’re really proud to see this legacy work recognised with a Thistle Award.”
Steven Walker, Chair of the Scottish Thistle Award Industry Panel, said: “My sincerest congratulations to Kat Brogan, The Scotch Whisky Experience, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, the EICC and the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing & Allied Professionals, on being crowned winners at this year’s Scottish Thistle Awards national final.
“This is a remarkable achievement and shines a spotlight on the excellent tourism offerings available in the city.
“Earning recognition as one of the best in the country is a fantastic accomplishment. It not only shines a spotlight on the city but also underscores the positive impact our tourism and events industry has on Scotland as a whole.
“Winning a Scottish Thistle Award means joining a prestigious roll of honour, placing these winners among the country’s finest and opening doors to new opportunities.”
The Scottish Thistle Awards champion innovation, collaboration and sustainable practices, in line with the ambitions of the national tourism strategy, Scotland Outlook 2030.
2024 saw more than 700 entries submitted by individuals, businesses, events and community organisations in the bid to be recognised for the role they play in making Scotland a must-visit, must-return destination.
The Scottish Thistle Awards are delivered in partnership with Highlands & Islands Thistle Awards (HITA), the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards (ACSTA) and the South of Scotland Thistle Awards, supported by a panel of industry representatives.
This year’s national sponsors of the Scottish Thistle Awards include headline sponsor, Johnstons of Elgin, as well as Abbey UK, Jacobite Loch Ness Cruises, The Macallan Estate, LNER, STV, SLTA, Historic Scotland and Fishers. The Scottish Thistle Awards also includes a media partnership with News Scotland including The Times Scotland and the Scottish Sun.
Full list of winners:
Category
Winners
Best B&B or Guest House Experience – sponsored by Abbey UK
Glenegedale House, Isle of Islay
Best Bar or Pub – sponsored by Scottish Licensed Trade Association
The Cross Keys Inn, Ettrickbridge
Best Business Event
Business Events Shaping Tomorrow ‘BEST’ Business Event – ACNAP 2023, Edinburgh
Best Eating Experience
The Globe Inn, Dumfries
Best Hotel Experience – sponsored by Fishers
Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa, Dundee
Best Luxury Experience – sponsored by The Macallan Estate
Trump Turnberry, Girvan,
Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience
Nevis Range, Torlundy
Best Self Catering or Unique Stay
Kabn, Loch Fyne
Best Visitor Attraction – sponsored by Jacobite Loch Ness Cruises
The Scotch Whisky Experience, Edinburgh
Celebrating Thriving Communities – sponsored by The Scottish Sun
Friends of Dundonald Castle SCIO, Dundonald
Climate Action Award – sponsored by LNER
Glasgow Science Centre, Glasgow
Inclusive Tourism Award – sponsored by Historic Scotland
Trimontium Museum, Melrose
Innovation in Tourism – sponsored by The Times Scotland
Loch Ness Hub and Travel, Drumnadrochit
Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival – sponsored by STV
Wigtown Book Festival, Wigtown
Outstanding Sporting Event
World Athletics Indoor Championships, Glasgow
Rising Star Award
Hannah Cochrane – Scottish Event Campus, Glasgow
Tourism & Hospitality Employer of the Year
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh
Tourism Individual of the Year
Russell Fraser, Loch Ness Hub and Travel, Drumnadrochit
The wholesale reform of the criminal justice sector required to tackle increasing financial pressures has been too slow, say the Criminal Justice Committee.
The Committee say organisations across the sector have said they are looking for increases in their resource funding and significant investments in capital budgets for 2025/26 but there is ‘a stark gap’ between what these organisations say they need for 2025/26 and what they may be given.
The Committee say that the wholesale reform of the sector which is required can only be achieved by adopting a new strategy, moving away from short term fixes of a few years or a single parliamentary term. It recommends that the Scottish Government explores moving to a system of multi-year funding cycles to help aid this reform.
Whilst a range of current reform work is welcomed, such as the pilot of the Summary Case Management system, there are other areas where progress on reform has been too slow.
The Committee again highlight the inefficiencies and wasted cost of citing police officers to attend courts, only for them not be called, and the time that the officers spend on calls with vulnerable people experiencing poor mental health due to a lack of wider support services.
The Committee welcome in-year investments by the Scottish Government in various parts of the criminal justice system, but call for increased transparency about these payments to ensure adequate scrutiny.
Issues around underestimating the costs of implementing new legislation impacting the sector are also highlighted in the report. The Committee call for financial memorandums to be as accurate as possible and say proposed legislation must be accompanied by appropriate resources.
The Criminal Justice Committee Convener, Audrey Nicoll MSP, said:“Right across the sector we are seeing increasing cost pressures, and it’s clear there is a stark gap between what these organisations say they need for 2025/26 and what they may be given.
“Last year we emphasised the need for change in how the Scottish Government fund and support the justice sector and that the status quo could not continue. However, progress still needs to be made to implement the wholesale reform required, which takes the long-term view.
“The evidence we have gathered has made clear that multi-year funding could be hugely beneficial for the sector, help them manage resources and plan for the future, and we’re calling for the Scottish Government to explore this route further.”
In the lead up to the festive period, Fort Kinnaird is on the hunt for its first ever Chief Christmas Officer (CCO)!
The lucky young recruit will bag their dream role, with the opportunity to try out the wealth of retailers and experiences at the centre for free, indulging in tasty festive treats and bagging plenty of Christmas goodies all in exchange for their review.
The new CCO will spend a big day out at the centre from seeing one of the latest movies at ODEON Cinema to reviewing the new festive menu at Frankie & Benny’s, with Fort Kinnaird’s newest and littlest recruit rating their experience to make sure it’s fit for a fun-filled festive season.
What’s more, the CCO will also get the chance to sample the new festive hot chocolate and treats at Hotel Chocolat and test out this year’s most popular toys and gadgets at Menkind, with the lucky individual getting to take one home.
The ideal candidate for the role will be a fun-loving adventurer who loves trying new experiences and must be aged between six and twelve.
To apply for the opportunity of a lifetime, youngsters should ask their parent or guardian to email fortkinniard.CCO@citypress.co.uk with their name, age and why they’d be the perfect candidate, by Monday 2nd December at 23:59.
Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “At Fort Kinnaird, we’re constantly working to improve the experience of our visitors, and launching the quest for our new Chief Christmas Officer does just that – helping one lucky family to make unforgettable memories while ensuring our festivities are up to scratch!
“Whether you’re shopping for a new Christmas outfit, sampling the latest festive menus or catching a much-loved family-favourite on the big screen, Fort Kinnaird is the perfect place to enjoy a family day out, and our CCO’s suggestions will help us to make sure we’re giving visitors the best possible festive season.
“This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a child to become our new Chief Christmas Officer will be the ultimate test to see how we shape up, and we can’t wait to welcome the lucky recruit to the centre!”
For more information and to find out whether the CCO role is for you, please see the full job description and terms & conditions, here.
Mental Health Bill will give patients enhanced rights to make decisions regarding their own care, ensuring their voice is heard throughout the treatment process
Landmark reforms to better care for mental health patients one step closer to becoming law, with Second Reading of the Mental Health Bill in the House of Lords today
The Bill will also address inadequate care of people with a learning disability and autistic people, as well as reducing the number of unnecessary detentions
Long awaited legislation to reform care for mental health patients is one step closer to becoming law, as the Mental Health Bill has Second Reading in the House of Lords today (25th November 2024).
The Mental Health Bill, introduced earlier this month, will modernise the Mental Health Act, giving patients a greater say in their care, along with bolstered support from family and friends as part of treatment to ensure that their interests are protected and that their voice is heard throughout the treatment process.
Last year, over 50,000 people were detained under the Mental Health Act, but an independent review of the Mental Health Act, chaired by Professor Sir Simon Wessely, President of the Royal Society of Medicine, found rising rates of detention under the act, along with racial disparities, and poor patient experience especially for autistic people and those with a learning disability, with patients being detained unnecessarily and for longer than needed.
Alongside making it legal requirement for each patient to have a care and treatment plan, the Bill will also give patients the right to an Advance Choice Document, which can be used by patients to set out what they want their care to look like in the event of a mental health crisis.
These changes will ensure that care is tailored to individual needs and encourage patients to remain in contact with health services and continue to engage with treatment.
Police and prison cells will also no longer be used to place people who need care under the Mental Health Act. Instead, patients will be supported to access a suitable healthcare facility that will better support their needs.
Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, said: “The Mental Health Act is there to protect people when they’re at their most vulnerable, and in many cases, it has saved lives. But it is hugely outdated, depriving people of their liberty, especially autistic people and people with a learning disability.
“We are now one step closer to bringing forward the essential reforms that will transform the care of some of our most vulnerable people, meaning patients receive the right care in the right place.
“Modernising the act will strengthen the decision-making processes, helping to better support people, and giving them the appropriate and compassionate care they need.”
The Bill will help deliver the government’s commitment to transform mental health care, giving it the same focus and attention as physical health.
It will also address unnecessary detentions for people with a learning disability or autistic people. At the end of October 2024, 1,880 people with these conditions were detained in hospital under the Mental Health Act, and research suggests that some would be better suited to care in the community.
If passed, the Act will limit the length of time that they can be detained under the Act if they do not have a co-occurring mental health condition that needs hospital treatment and have not committed a criminal offence.
Claire Murdoch, NHS national mental health director, said: “This Mental Health Bill is a once in a generation opportunity to ensure that patients experiencing serious mental illness and crises receive safe, modern, evidence-based care, and that the needs and wishes of patients and their loved ones are central to their care and better mental health outcomes.
“This comes alongside the NHS’s work to transform mental health services which are treating record numbers with existing resources – either through intervening earlier with hundreds of NHS teams working in schools, or trialling new 24/7 crisis mental health hubs to prevent people needing hospital care in the first place, and if an admission to hospital is needed the health service is working with local services to ensure this is delivered in a safe and therapeutic environment close to people’s homes.
Dr Layla McCay, director of policy at the NHS Confederation, said: “This marks another important milestone towards the long overdue reforming and updating of the Mental Health Act to ensure people with severe mental illness are given greater control over their treatment and are not subjected to unnecessary detentions.
“Our members have long called for these reforms to address the unacceptable disparities in rates of detention for people from some ethnic minority backgrounds.
“The Bill should also stop patients with a learning disability and autistic people from being detained long-term, unless they also have a severe mental illness for which detention may be needed.
“This is a welcome step towards these vital reforms, and we look forward to working with the government to ensure there is enough capacity to implement the Bill’s plans.”
Mark Winstanley, Chief Executive, Rethink Mental Illness: “In the depths of a mental health crisis, everyone deserves care that respects their rights and gives them a say in their treatment. Today marks another milestone in the journey to reform the Mental Health Act, bringing us closer to vital legislation that’s fit for the 21st century.
“After years of tireless campaigning, we’re determined that this legislation fulfils its potential. We will support efforts to ensure the Bill passes through parliament to deliver meaningful, positive change for the tens of thousands of people detained under the Mental Health Act every year.
“In tandem, we will look to the new Ten Year Plan for the NHS to provide the resources and support necessary to ensure people receive the right care and treatment at the right time, to prevent people from experiencing a mental health crisis.”
Measures in the Bill will ensure patients, staff and the general public are better protected, through improved decision making and new processes requiring clinicians to seek a second opinion before discharging a patient. Discharge processes will also be reviewed more broadly and will include a safety management plan for the patient, to keep them and others safe.
A baby boy who has spent his entire life at Edinburgh’s Royal Hospital for Children and Young People (RHCYP) has now had the honour of turning on the hospital’s Christmas lights.
One-year-old Gabriel Sebastian was born 17 months ago at the hospital and has not spent a single night at home since. His parents, Teena Thomas and Sebastian Paul, have never left his side.
Gabriel has Spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia – a 1 in a million genetic condition so rare that doctors cannot predict how it might shape his life. He may be short and could have facial abnormalities and brittle bones. He is unable to breathe by himself so has a tracheostomy.
Yesterday afternoon, alongside his proud parents, and Hibs captain and Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity volunteer Joe Newell, Gabriel pressed the big red button to light up the 20ft tree and surrounding area of the hospital which has cared for him since birth.
Mum Teena said: “At our five month scan, we were told something was wrong with our baby. His bones weren’t really there, his spine barely developed, his tiny arms and legs too short. And there was a 50% chance that he would be stillborn.
“But I could feel him moving so strongly, like he was saying, ‘I want to come into the world Mama.’ How could we not fight for him?
“We prepared for the worst but clung to hope. We bought a Moses basket, decorated his room. We thought, ‘We’ll be in hospital maybe five days, then he’ll come home.’ He was born on 2nd June 2023. We’ve been living here ever since.
“Gabriel’s smile is the most powerful thing. Through every invasive operation, every painful procedure, every heart-wrenching emergency, he comes back smiling. And that keeps us going.”
Teena and Sebastian will always be grateful for the incredible care and support they and Gabriel have received from the RHCYP, as well as from Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity (ECHC).
The family is supporting ECHC’s Christmas appeal, which asks supporters to help bring the sparkle to seriously ill children and families in hospital this Christmas.
Teena continued: “The care and love we have been shown by everyone at the RHCYP has been outstanding. Everyone has been such a huge part of his journey. It’s thanks to everyone there that Gabriel is here with us this Christmas.
“We are honoured to have Gabriel switch on the Christmas lights for ECHC. We’ve missed out on so much of what it is to be a ‘normal’ family. This is what the charity really understands. We never wanted him to be treated like a child who is ill. Even in the chaos, he gets to play, to laugh, to have moments of happiness. ECHC makes this happen.
“Gabriel’s future is uncertain. We don’t know if he will ever breathe on his own. We don’t know if he will speak or eat. But we do believe he will be with us. If you’re heading home this Christmas, please spare a thought for children like Gabriel who will be in hospital instead this year.”
The Christmas Light Switch On is just one of many hospital activities that ECHC has planned to make this Christmas one to remember for children who are sadly too unwell to spend it at home.
Pippa Johnston, Deputy CEO at ECHC, said: “We would like to say an enormous thank you to Gabriel and his wonderful family for helping to make the hospital’s Christmas light switch on so memorable. They are a remarkable family and Gabriel is a little star in every sense of the word.
“Every year, in partnership with our friends at NHS Lothian, ECHC works hard to bring the sparkle to the hospital at Christmas. We rely solely on donations to do this. We are asking the people of Edinburgh (and beyond) to help make Christmas extra special for children in hospital this year.”
Anne Milburn, General Manager for Women’s and Children’s Services at NHS Lothian, said: “Christmas can be a really difficult time for patients who are unwell, and so watching Gabriel and his family turn on this year’s Christmas lights at the RHCYP has brought a real sense of festive cheer. I’d like to extend our thanks to them for making the light switch on so special.
“Our expert staff and ECHC go above and beyond every day of the year to make sure that children experience the best care, and so it’s important that those who will be spending most of the festive period in the RHCYP still experience the magic of Christmas.”
Police chiefs, industry executives and transport bosses called to Downing Street to crack down on spiking and protect women and girls
Spiking will become a new criminal offence in England and Wales
Commitment to halve violence against women and girls is central to the government’s mission to make our streets safe
Police chiefs, industry executives and transport bosses must work together to keep women and girls safe, the Prime Minster will urge when he convenes leaders in Downing Street later today.
Reiterating his personal commitment to halve violence against women and girls, the Prime Minister will also confirm that his government will make spiking a new criminal offence. This will send a clear signal that this is a crime, and perpetrators should feel the full force of the law, empowering victims to report offences and giving them confidence the justice system will support them.
Speaking to leaders later today, the Prime Minister will set out how the new offence is just one of part of the solution. He will demand coordinated action across the police, transport network and venues to stamp out this cowardly act and take back our streets.
This will include training thousands of staff working in the nighttime economy on how to spot and tackle spiking. Piloted from December, the training will help equip staff with the skills they need to prevent incidents, support victims and help police collect evidence. This will be rolled out to up to 10,000 bar staff across the country by spring next year.
At today’s meeting, which comes just weeks before Christmas and when violence against women and girls is known to rise, the Prime Minister will hear from police forces and industry leaders about the tactics already being used to keep women safe and urge other forces and venues to follow their lead.
Chief Constable Jason Hogg, Thames Valley Police, will set out how his force has deployed plain clothed officers into areas around bars and clubs to spot predatory sexual behaviour. This tactic is now being used by over 20 forces across England and Wales.
Chief Constable Lucy D’Orsi, British Transport Police will set out work being undertaken to keep women safe using public transport. This includes relaunching the text-to-report number, 61016, that is now free across all major networks, allowing women to discretely contact British Transport Police for help if they are or someone else is being harassed on the train. In one case, a victim texted 61016 to alert the police, officers met the train, and the offender was arrested just half an hour later.
Kate Nicholls, CEO of UKHospitality and Chair of Institute of Licensing, will discuss supporting the Home Office in its plans to roll out nationwide training to make sure all door and bar staff know how to prevent spiking and have the skills needed to act if they suspect someone has been spiked.
Chief Constable Maggie Blyth, the NPCC lead for VAWG, will talk about the ongoing scale and threat of violence against women and girls, its prevalence in the night-time economy and what policing needs to tackle offenders and reduce the number of victims enduring abuse.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “My government was elected on a pledge to take back our streets, and we will never achieve this if women and girls do not feel safe at night.
“Today, I will bring together police chiefs, heads of industry and transport bosses to demand coordinated action to stop women being targeted, whether they are out with friends or simply travelling home.
“Cracking down on spiking is central to that mission.
“We know it can be incredibly difficult for victims to come forward to report this awful crime, and these cases can be very hard to prosecute. We must do more to bring the vile perpetrators who carry out this cowardly act, usually against young women and often to commit a sexual offence, to justice.
“That is why I made a promise that, if elected, I would make spiking a new criminal offence. Today, I am proud to have come good on that pledge.”
Action against spiking is just one of the measures being taken to meet the government’s unprecedented manifesto commitment to halve violence against women and girls in the next decade, a fundamental part of the mission to make our streets safe.
Within the first few months of being in office, the government has already announced plans to launch new Domestic Abuse Protection Orders to give greater protection to victims, and that domestic abuse specialists will be embedded in 999 control rooms. More announcements are expected in the coming weeks.
Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper said: “Spiking is a disturbing and serious crime which can have a damaging and long-lasting impact on victims.
“That’s why today we are taking decisive action to prevent this devastating crime and to crack down on perpetrators, by introducing a new criminal offence for spiking and launching specialist training for thousands of bar staff nationwide.
“People shouldn’t have to worry about the safety of their drinks on a night out. These changes are about giving victims greater confidence to come forward, and ensuring that there is a robust response from the police whenever this appalling crimes take place.”
Kate Nicholls, Chief Executive of UKHospitality, said: “Our pubs, bars, clubs and restaurants are where Brits go to enjoy themselves and our priority is to ensure everyone can do that safely.
“I’m pleased that we’re able to support the Home Office in its plans to roll out a nationwide training programme as part of these efforts, to help ensure all staff know how to prevent spiking and have the skills to act if they suspect someone has been spiked.
“This is all part of hospitality’s unwavering commitment to keeping customers safe and ensuring our teams have the knowledge and skills they need.”
Minister for Victims and Violence Against Women and Girls, Alex Davies-Jones, said: “Christmas should be a time for celebration and community but all too often perpetrators of vile crimes like spiking take advantage of festivities to target women and girls.
“As a society we cannot accept that, and this government is taking firm action to keep them safe – from creating a new criminal offence of spiking to working hand-in-hand with police and business to crack down on this behaviour.
“These are just some of the steps that will allow us to achieve our aim of halving violence against women and girls.”
Assistant Chief Constable Samantha Millar, National Police Chiefs’ Council Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Programme Director, said: “Spiking can have a significant, traumatic impact on victims and feelings of safety in the night-time economy, particularly for women and girls.
“Spiking is a complex offence to investigate as drugs can pass through the system quickly and there is often a lack of evidential opportunities, which is why quick reporting and early evidence gathering, including forensic testing, is key.
“Police forces across the country have been working proactively to stop spiking from happening in the night-time economy and improve feelings of safety for women and girls. This includes regular, targeted patrols of busy town centres and visiting organisations, such as universities, to raise awareness of the symptoms of spiking.
“Forces also work closely with bars, pubs and clubs to tackle spiking, and during the first national spiking police week of action in March, forces collectively visited over 1900 licensed venues to ensure that staff understood how to support victims.
“I hope that the policing response to protect women and girls in the night-time economy shows how committed we are to making our streets safer. I would encourage anyone who is a victim of spiking to report it to the police, you will be listened to, and you will be taken seriously.”
The arts spectacular is calling on fans to choose a charity to receive a special 75p donation from every ticket sold for the 2025 performance
In celebration of the upcoming 75th anniversary, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo launches its new initiative to donate 75p of every 2025 Show ticket sold to a new charity.
Tattoo fans are being asked to vote from selected charities to receive this one-off donation which could equate to £162,000 in line with expected ticket sales.
The theme for next year’s Tattoo, The Heroes Who Made Us, will spotlight the individuals who have shaped and supported the iconic performances over the past 75 years. This theme aligns with the Tattoo’s ethos of ‘Performance with a Purpose’ and its commitment to honour people across the country and support the heroes who are making a difference in their communities.
In line with this ethos and in addition to the brand’s annual charitable donations, five charities have been shortlisted to win the share of the 75p per ticket charity donation for one year only.
The shortlisted five charities have been nominated by Tattoo staff who put a case forward for them to be on the list, these are all non-military charities that are close to the hearts of those who put on the iconic spectacle.
They are: the British Heart Foundation, Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity, Parkinsons UK, Rock Trust and St Columba’s Hospice Care.
The Tattoo’s annual charitable giving continues alongside this new initiative, as it aims to build up to pre-Covid donations of £1M a year which is thanks to those who attend the Show each year. Charities that are continuing to benefit include The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, the Army Benevolent Fund, the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, and the Scottish Schools Pipe and Drums Trust.
Fans of the Tattoo across the UK are invited to cast their vote to determine which charity will receive the 75th anniversary donation.
Voting closes at midnight on Sunday 5 January 2025. Stay updated by following Tattoo social media channels, where the winning charity will be announced in January 2025.
Jason Barrett, Chief Executive Officer at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “In celebrating 75 years of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, we honour the heroes who have made the Tattoo so great throughout the years. Additionally, we honour the local heroes within our communities in Edinburgh, throughout Scotland, and around the world.
“Charitable giving is at the heart of everything the Tattoo does. Being able to contribute to our longstanding charitable partners as well as selecting a specific charity chosen by the Tattoo fans is a special benefit this year.
“We are committed to continuing our legacy of making a meaningful impact to those who continue to make a difference in our communities every day.
“I encourage everyone to join us in this celebration by casting their vote to support a worthy cause.”
Tickets for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo’s 75th anniversary Show are now on sale and can be purchased at edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or on the phone, 0131 225 1188. The Show will run from 1-23 August 2025.