DRYLAW NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE – MONDAY 30 JUNE at 6.30pm
Drylaw & Telford. Don’t forget!
@everyone
The Drylaw Telford Community Council meets on the last Monday of every month (except July & December) at 6:30 PM at the Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre.
Pop the next date in your diary and come along! We’d love to see new faces. 
Heading off on your holidays this summer? 
#PackPlanProtect!
Even if you are heading away from home only for a night or two, don’t forget to pack any prescribed medicines!
It’s also a good idea to consider taking with you:
paracetamol and ibuprofen for pain relief
anti-histamines to help with allergies like hay fever
anti-diarrhoeal medication and rehydration sachets for diarrhoea
indigestion remedies like an antacid
mild laxatives for constipation
medicines specifically for children
For more tips check out our summer health advice page on #NHSinform.
MSPs on Holyrood’s Social Justice and Social Security Committee are seeking views on the positive and negative aspects of growing social security spend in Scotland.
The Committee has launched a call for views to help inform its scrutiny of next year’s Scottish Budget. The devolution of social security payments started in 2016 and since then the Scottish Government has introduced policies that are specific to Scotland, like the Scottish Child Payment and greater funding for Adult Disability Payment and carer benefits.
A key theme in the Committee’s inquiry will be the interplay between different policy decisions taken by the UK and Scottish Governments.
The choices that the Scottish Government has made have meant that this year the Scottish Government is spending £1.2 billion more on social security policies than it gets in funding for social security from the UK Government.
Any changes to disability payments by the UK Government could change the funding the Scottish Government receives. In this context, the Committee is asking how much the Scottish Government’s ability to manage the devolved social security budget is affected by UK Government policy choices.
The Committee also wants to hear people’s views on the most cost-effective ways to reduce child poverty and the advantages and disadvantages of universal benefits compared to those targeted at low-income households.
Collette Stevenson MSP, Convener of the Social Justice and Social Security Committee, said: “The Scottish Government has invested in social security with the aim of tackling specific challenges in our society. As we look towards the next Scottish Budget, we would like to hear your views on the effectiveness of this approach.
“We’re keen to hear from people who receive social security benefits, and organisations who provide advice or support, government agencies and public bodies and anyone with expertise or interest in social security spending and public finances.
“Our call for views is open for responses until 17 August 2025. We then plan to take evidence on the issues raised over the autumn.”
Find out more about the Committee’s inquiry into future social security spending
The Fraser of Allander Institute and the Poverty Alliance, as part of Serving the Future, published a policy briefing earlier this week which says policy changes are needed to support the hospitality industry and to improve pay and conditions for workers.
The briefing says that struggling hospitality workers would benefit from increased fair work practices in the industry. But many employers are hindered by “factors beyond their control” in the implementation of fair work.
These include gaps in transport and childcare provision, which create barriers to work for their staff, along with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the UK’s withdrawal from the EU and the more recent cost of living crisis.
Hospitality workers face higher than average risks of experiencing in-work poverty. A third of workers spoken to by researchers were on zero-hour contracts, or had no contract at all, while the workers’ median hourly pay rate was under the low pay threshold of £11.58.
The policy briefing, produced by Serving the Future, makes a series of recommendations for Government action, including:
The Research forms part of Serving the Future, a project which has been working directly with employers and people with experience of low-paid work in the hospitality sector to identify changes that could be made by employers and policy and systems-wide changes to address in-work poverty in Scotland.
Fair work is defined by the Scottish Government as “secure employment with fair pay and conditions, where workers are heard and represented, treated with respect and have opportunities to progress.”
Hospitality is a significant part of Scotland’s economy, comprising around 3% of Scotland’s GDP and, before the pandemic, accounted for 8% of its jobs.
Chirsty McFadyen, a Knowledge Exchange Associate with the Fraser of Allander Institute, said: “Our research shows that hospitality employers often want to do the right thing by their employees, but they don’t always feel supported by policy to do so.
“If we are to meet the 2030 child poverty targets, the Scottish Government has a role to play in ensuring that housing, childcare and transport policy support the industry and its workers.”
Dr Laura Robertson, research manager with the Poverty Alliance, said: “Low pay and job insecurity have a big impact on households in Scotland.
“A lack of affordable, accessible childcare and housing, alongside continued high costs of living, is also preventing families from being lifted out of in-work poverty.
“The Serving the Future project shows key challenges facing households working in the hospitality sector in Scotland and that both employers and policy makers have a key role in tackling poverty in Scotland.”
There was widespread concern among workers about a lack of effective regulation and oversight of the hospitality sector, leading to an absence of clear standards which allowed exploitation and unfair practices to persist.
Staff shortages were leading to many workers taking on extra hours and duties, creating burnout, stress, and deterioration in work-life balance. This was sometimes the result of a practice known as ‘clopens,’ or late closing and early opening.
One worker said: “Sometimes I could finish at twelve at night and be in at ten the next day. That’s very common, as well, like ‘clopens.’ I think they shouldn’t be legal.”
The researchers also identify opportunities in proposals in the UK Government’s Employment Rights Bill, which include: a right to a contract with guaranteed hours; a requirement for employers to consult with employee representatives on tipping and gratuity policies, and the creation of a Fair Work Agency with powers to investigate and take action against businesses that do not comply with the law.
Proposals based on the Fair Work Convention’s Hospitality Inquiry were also highlighted in the policy brief.
The Serving the Future project is funded by The Robertson Trust.
You can find the Policy briefing here:
https://www.servingthefuture.scot/blog/report/serving-the-future-policy-briefing
And the Tourism & Hospitality toolkit here:
2025 FESTIVAL PROGRAMME RUNS FROM 1–24 AUGUST 2025
eif.co.uk / @edintfest
Edinburgh International Festival Director and Scottish violinist Nicola Benedetti performed alongside guitarist Plínio Fernandes as part of a series of NHS Festival Sessions, a heartfelt partnership between the International Festival and NHS Lothian Charity: Tonic Arts bringing transformative live performances directly to patients, families, staff and volunteers across healthcare settings.
Now in its second year, the NHS Festival Sessions take place regularly year-round, bringing an exciting array of International Festival artists into NHS Lothian spaces to create curated moments of musical and emotional connection.
Previous artists include the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Bamberger Symphoniker and the Philharmonia Orchestra, visiting sites such as the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Royal Edinburgh Hospital and St John’s Hospital, Livingston.
Ms Benedetti’s performance is part of her wider Festival vision: to ensure that the joy of life-altering live performance is accessible to the broadest possible audience.
This year, the International Festival continues to break down barriers to cultural participation with a range of affordability initiatives. These include:
Festival Director Nicola Benedetti said: “I believe in removing barriers to cultural discovery. Everyone is invited to the International Festival – that’s why half of our tickets will be sold for £30 or less, and by extending our performances into community and healthcare settings, we’re reaching people where they are, and bringing a taste of the Festival to those who may be unable to attend.”
Len McCaffer, Tonic Arts Manager at NHS Lothian Charity, said: “Our partnership with the Edinburgh International Festival through the NHS Festival Sessions is a fantastic way to bring the transformative power of music directly into our hospitals.
“These year-round performances are a hugely anticipated part of our participatory arts calendar, making live performances accessible for those who would otherwise be unable to attend.
“It is such a privilege to work together to bring world-class artists and musicians like Nicola Benedetti to perform directly to our patients, staff, and volunteers. Witnessing the joy and emotional connection these live sessions create, really demonstrates the importance and positive impact of the arts on wellbeing.”
This summer’s International Festival will also see flagship projects that bring groups into the heart of August’s performances, developing long-term connections with Edinburgh’s communities to find enrich local life and reflect the ideas, ambitions and creative interests of different groups within the International Festival’s year-round work.
This year’s activities focus on three key areas identified with staff and residents: Dementia Friendly activities, Skills and Training Development, and tackling Social Isolation. Throughout the year—and during August’s Festival— the range of creative, community-led projects includes a six-week artist-led course for New Scots that culminates in a co-designed August festival event featuring musicians from the Aga Khan music programme.
A multi-year Community Connections Hub partnership with Space @ Broomhouse Hub includes collaboration with citizens from across the neighbourhood connecting with Festival artists. The residents respond creatively to music by the London Symphony Orchestra, inspired by the 2025 Festival theme The Truth We Seek and their work will be shared with the community at Space @ Broomhouse Hub.
In partnership with the Wellbeing onto Work (WOW) project, an eight-week course has also been delivered for 10 young people. The course focuses on building confidence and communication skills within Festival environments, with graduates offered supported, paid work experience during the Festival.
For the first time, the International Festival will also present a Dementia Friendly Concert in collaboration with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra—a relaxed, welcoming performance designed for people living with dementia and their caregivers.
For more information on the range of tickets for performances across music, dance, theatre and opera at the 2025 Edinburgh International Festival, visit:
A pipeline of programmes to build entrepreneurial ambition, capability and networks for Scotland’s current and future entrepreneurs will be delivered with investment from the Scottish Government’s Ecosystem Fund.
A total of 28 projects will deliver initiatives in 2025/26. They range from inspiring school pupils to helping businesses realise international growth.
They include:
A new, fully digital application process used by the Fund’s delivery partner, Inspirent, this year means that awards have been made just a few weeks after more than 300 applications were received, meaning programmes can be delivered sooner and for longer during the financial year.
Nearly £100,000 of additional funding has been awarded to projects in response to demand to the Fund.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “Scotland has always been a nation of innovators and these projects will build the infrastructure, networks and support systems that our entrepreneurs need to thrive, creating lasting change that goes far beyond individual businesses.
“The Ecosystem Fund sits at the heart of the Scottish Government’s £30 million record investment in entrepreneurship – the biggest commitment we’ve ever made to establishing Scotland as one of Europe’s leading start-up economies.
“The exceptional response to this year’s Fund demonstrates the vibrant entrepreneurial energy that exists across Scotland. I am proud not just to be supporting projects, but investing in the entrepreneurial talent that is the backbone of our economy.”
Chief Entrepreneur Ana Stewart said: “It’s extremely encouraging to see the quality and diversity of applications received. What’s particularly reassuring is to see the new digitised process working effectively, streamlining and achieving a shorter and simpler process for applicants ensuring funds reach them much earlier. This is the fastest turnaround the Scottish Government has achieved to date, reflecting a more responsive, agile approach.
“The successful projects will deliver targeted support that founders need in the earliest stages of their business. From accessible business training and mentorship programmes, to networks that connect entrepreneurs across Scotland’s regions and sectors.
“Moving forward, the commitment is to work more closely with partners across our entrepreneurial ecosystem to ensure public sector support delivers maximum impact for Scottish founders.”
More details about the Ecosystem Fund can be found at: www.ecosystemfund.co.uk
Projects awarded:
Tenants at Jameson Place in Leith are celebrating ‘Glastoldbury’ this weekend. The festival line-up includes Edinburgh Festival Fringe singer Sean Mearns and Leona Corio.
The tenants’ outdoor space will be transformed with tents and festival decorations with around 40 festival-goers expected to attend Glastoldbury. There will be a BBQ lunch, mocktails, fun tattoos and a photobooth to enjoy between sets.
A slot has been carved out for games and chip butties before the party continues into the late afternoon.
Maureen Combe, Sheltered Housing Manager at Harbour Homes said: “Our tenants have a varied social calendar and, with so many music fans here, we decided to bring a little bespoke festival atmosphere to our doorstep in Leith.
“A big thank you to the singers who are performing at Glastoldbury and to all those involved in making this idea a reality. We’ve got our fingers crossed for a little sunshine on Leith this weekend!”
Your wish was granted, Maureen!
As the UK enjoys a weekend of soaring temperatures, Dog Friendly Retreats is urging dog owners to take precautions against one of the most serious seasonal risks facing pets: heatstroke.
Whether you’re away on holiday with your 4-legged friend, or are enjoying the sun at home, dogs are far more sensitive to heat than humans.
As many as 1 in 7 dogs affected by heatstroke die from the condition, according to research from the Royal Veterinary College. It’s also not just life-threatening, it’s costly with the average cost of a heatstroke insurance claim in 2023 hitting £945.25, with emergency care, fluids, and potential hospitalisation often required.
Unlike us, they cannot regulate their body temperature through sweating. Instead, they rely on panting and sweating through their paw pads, which becomes far less effective in hot, humid weather.
With temperatures forecast to exceed 30°C in some regions, the risk of heat-related illness is particularly high for flat-faced breeds, puppies, older dogs, and those with thick coats.
Josh Williams, founder of Dog Friendly Retreats, says: “Heatstroke can affect any dog in a matter of minutes, especially during exercise or prolonged sun exposure which can be more common if you’re on holiday with your dog.
“Many owners, especially on busy summer days are surprised at how quickly it can develop, and by the time symptoms are visible, it’s often already serious. Prevention is far safer and more effective than treatment.”
The symptoms of canine heatstroke can include excessive panting, drooling, bright red or very pale gums, vomiting, diarrhoea, confusion, unsteadiness, and in severe cases, collapse or seizures. If a dog shows any of these signs, it is a medical emergency and veterinary attention is required immediately.
Any of these symptoms may indicate heatstroke, which is a medical emergency. Immediate action is critical.
Owners should act fast by moving their dog into a shaded or cool area. Wet towels soaked in cool water (not ice-cold) should be placed over their body, particularly the neck, armpits and between the hind legs.
Paw pads and ears can also be gently cooled with water.
Fresh drinking water should be offered in small amounts, but it’s important not to let the dog gulp it down too quickly. Ice should be avoided, as it can cause shock in an overheated dog.
Acting quickly can save a dog’s life. Here’s how:
To reduce the risk, owners are strongly advised to avoid walking dogs during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 11am and 4pm. Early morning or evening walks are safer and dogs should never be left in parked cars or enclosed spaces, even with windows cracked, as internal temperatures can rise to fatal levels within minutes.
Garden surfaces such as patios, decking, and artificial grass can also become dangerously hot and burn a dog’s paw pads. A useful test is to press the back of your hand to the ground for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws.
Dogs should have continuous access to clean, fresh water and shaded areas throughout the day. Cooling mats, damp towels, and fans can all help regulate their body temperature. For those joining their owners at outdoor gatherings such as barbecues or garden parties, care must be taken to prevent overexertion, sun exposure, or access to harmful foods and drinks.
Josh Williams adds: “Every year, heatstroke catches owners off guard, and sadly, the outcome isn’t always a happy one.
“This weekend, as we all enjoy the sunshine, we urge dog lovers to think ahead and take those simple steps that could protect their pet’s life.”
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Edinburgh started to unwrap its annual Christmas present on Friday, with the announcement of this year’s festive celebration dates and a first hint of what to expect this year.
Festivities in the capital will start from Saturday 15 November 2025, running over New Year and through to Sunday 4 January 2026, 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.
East Princes Street Gardens sees the return of the Traditional Christmas Market, 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.
Last year three quarters of the Christmas Market was made up of local and Scottish traders selling everything from hand-made Christmas Ornaments to delicious festive fare. Organisers have opened applications for this year already seeing a strong return interest but have put out a call encouraging more local businesses and independent retailers to take the opportunity to showcase the best of our arts, crafts and artisan produce.
Organisers work closely with traders to ensure a successful winter season supporting the local economy. Find out more information here.
Councillor Margaret Graham, Culture and Communities Convener, said: “This year Edinburgh’s Christmas looks set to light up the city centre once again with an exciting programme of events for everyone to enjoy.
“I’m really pleased that the Edinburgh community will be a focus too, with discounted tickets, offers for local groups and fund-raising for local charities taking place. The Capital truly is a magical place to be at this time of year and there’s so much on offer throughout the city.”
Lawrence Thorburn, owner of Edinburgh’s Nutcracker Christmas Shop said: “As local business owners, we are thrilled to see the return of Edinburgh’s Christmas Market this winter.
“We have already submitted an application for what will be our 12th season at the Edinburgh’s Christmas Market. As a local, family business, with permanent premises in the city we welcome the opportunity to showcase our products and provide Christmas gifts to such a large audience.
“Working with Unique Assembly over the past three years, we have seen the Market go from strength to strength and we are keen to return, looking forward to welcoming locals and visitors from around the world.
“The event has become imperative for our small family business and our team look forward to taking part each year.”
For those with a head for heights, a trip on the LNER Big Wheel or the 80M Around the World Star Flyer offer incredible views of the city. Of course, for those who prefer to be at ground level, other rides will be available and a trip on the Helter-Skelter is always a family favourite.
Edinburgh’s Christmas will also be welcoming families back to West Princes Street Gardens and organisers look forward to revealing more about the programme of free festive community events and family funfair rides in the coming weeks.
Other favourites returning this year include the very popular opportunity to meet the man himself and his elves at Santa’s Stories. Children will also be able to write that all important letter to the big man and drop it straight into the Santa Post-box. And for budding Dancing on Ice stars and those who just want to have a wobble, the return of the outdoor ice rink will be welcome news.
Each year Edinburgh’s Winter Festivals brings festive cheer across the city. In 2025 the EH 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 will once again be working with local community groups to give away thousands of tickets for fairground rides, ice-skating and Santa Stories and looking to raise donations for city charities through tickets and donation points across Edinburgh’s Christmas. More information regarding this year’s charities will be announced in due course.
Edinburgh’s Christmas attractions are open daily except Christmas Day, with varying opening dates and times available at the official website.
Register now to receive updates, be the first to hear when tickets are about to go on sale, and access a limited opening ticket discount by signing up here – www.edinburghwinterfestivals.com
Roddy Smith, Chief Executive of Essential Edinburgh said: “Edinburgh’s Christmas is always a highlight of the year within our city centre. The attractions welcome thousands of residents and visitors to enjoy the most magical time of the year.
“With Edinburgh’s city centre home to high class retail and hospitality businesses to suit everyone’s tastes, this Christmas promises to be another fantastic time to visit and enjoy the best of Edinburgh.”
Unique Assembly, producers of Edinburgh’s Christmas said: “We are thrilled to share this year’s dates for Edinburgh’s Christmas celebrations, 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 best ever and we look forward to welcoming everyone to enjoy some sparkle as the nights close in.”
SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity recently commemorated a significant milestone marking 140 years of support to the military community with a special service held at St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral in Edinburgh.
The event brought together over 200 attendees from across the military, civic, and charity sectors to honour SSAFA’s enduring support for the military community since 1885.
The service was a blend of music, reflection, and gratitude. The congregation was welcomed with stirring performances by The King’s Own Scottish Borderers Pipes and Drums and Duncan Ferguson, Organist and Master of Music at St Mary’s Cathedral.
Reverend Nicki McNelly, SSAFA Chair for Edinburgh & the Lothians, opened the ceremony, with prayers and a sermon delivered by Rev Dr David Coulter.
A heartfelt address from SSAFA’s National Chair, Air Marshal Sir Simon Bollom, underscored the charity’s historic and ongoing impact. Sir Simon later led an Act of Dedication, reaffirming SSAFA’s commitment to its mission.
Musical highlights included performances from the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, Edinburgh and Rosyth Military Wives Choirs, and a rousing rendition of Highland Cathedral which, according to one guest, “sent shivers down my spine.”
A particularly touching moment came with a poem reading by Anya Rose McNelly, followed by a spirited performance by the Queen Victoria School’s Pipes, Drums and Dancers.
The event concluded with a full ensemble performance of the SSAFA March, a fitting tribute to the charity’s legacy and community spirit.
Feedback from guests has been overwhelmingly positive. ‘It was truly a memorable and emotional event to mark our 140th,’ said Sir Simon Bollom.
A representative from the City of Edinburgh Council added, “It was terrific and it was great to be part of the celebrations.”
SSAFA extends heartfelt thanks to all participants, performers, and guests who made the event a success — a powerful reflection of 140 years of steadfast support for those who serve, have served and will serve.
