Day: July 30, 2025

Festival venue takes bold step towards greener Fringe

Sustainable souvenir scheme tackles single-use cup waste

FRINGE-GOERS picking up a drink at one of the capital’s busiest venues are being asked to make a small change with a big impact – as part of a bold new drive to reduce waste and support charitable causes.

In a new initiative Surgeons Quarter, the commercial arm of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, has introduced a £2 reusable cup policy, replacing throwaway plastic with souvenir-style cups that support good causes.

Customers pay a one-time £2 charge for a reusable cup, which is theirs to keep. When returning for another drink, they’ll receive a fresh, clean replacement cup at no extra cost.

Surgeons Quarter has a longstanding reputation for leading with innovation through environmental initiatives and investing heavily in the wellbeing of its staff.

Ten Hill Place Hotel, part of the Surgeons Quarter portfolio, was first awarded a Green Tourism Gold Award in 2008 and has proudly retained this accolade for 17 consecutive years.

One of the hotel’s many sustainable efforts has been the removal of single-use plastic bottles from guest bedrooms. It’s a change which has saved over 100,000 bottles to date. In their place, guests are gifted Scottish wildflower seed packets to take home, encouraging biodiversity in their own gardens and extending memories of their stay at the hotel.

Other green initiatives have included a £20,000 investment for installation of EV charging stations at the hotel, as well as a £60,000 investment in new staff members uniforms made from

recycled plastic bottles with each uniform preventing 45 bottles from reaching landfills or oceans.

But sustainability is only part of the picture. Surgeons Quarter also goes above and beyond for its team.

Recognised by the Living Wage Foundation (LWF), it ensures all staff, regardless of age, are paid above the LWF Living Wage. In addition, all employees contribute at least 12% of their salary toward their pension, with 7.5% of that contributed by the employer, more than double the required minimum.

Scott Mitchell, Managing Director at Surgeons Quarter said: “We’re always looking at how we can help improve the planet, improve the guest experience and also improve the working environment for our team.

“That’s why we continually invest in initiatives prioritising long-term sustainability and staff wellbeing. We believe these aspects go hand in hand.”

The reusable cup policy reflects this commitment. Surgeons Quarter invested over £20,000 in the upfront cost of the cups, making the £2 charge fair and necessary, so it can continue running operations that pay staff fairly, reduce environmental impact and maintain the support for its local charity partners.

Scott added: “This step is a part of a wider commitment to doing what’s right, even when it costs more. That’s why we’re asking the public to support the reusable cup chaange as it helps us improve standards across the board.”

Some of the reusable and dishwasher safe cups feature the striking silhouette of the iconic Playfair Hall, while others are branded with the logos of theSpaceUK, which hosts the largest and most diverse programme at the Festival Fringe, and Surgeons Quarter itself.

The variety of designs provides visitors with eye-catching tangible reminders of their Festival experience as well as supporting the drive to reduce single-use waste.

Scott said: “After testing the concept in 2024, we’ve streamlined the system and are excited to launch the full initiative.

“We’re trying to shift the mindset. Rather than something disposable, we want people to see these as souvenirs that do good.

“We know some will be resistant to change but when it’s a minimal cost for an item that supports local and global causes, we hope people will get on board.’’

A portion of proceeds from cup sales will support three key causes: carbon offsetting initiatives through Ecologi; a special Supper Soirée hosted by Surgeons Quarter in support of Cyrenians, the homelessness charity tackling isolation and homelessness; and the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh’s global efforts to improve patient outcomes around the world.

Under the new guidelines, festivalgoers are welcome to bring their own clean reusable cups for wine, spirits, bottled beer and soft drinks only — provided the cup is visibly clean.

However, if the cup is not SQ-branded, it is your responsibility to ensure it is hygienic, as staff are unable to wash or handle personal cups. Single-use plastic cups, including supermarket-style cups, will not be accepted.

Scott added: “This isn’t about jumping on a trend. It’s a long-term commitment to reducing our footprint and boosting our social impact.

“A single-use plastic cup has an impact of 0.07kg CO2e, and a reusable equivalent has an impact of 0.0084kg CO2e per use. Every cup that isn’t thrown away is a small win for the environment and every cup that helps someone in need makes that win even sweeter.”

Surgeons Quarter promotes, sells, and manages all commercial activities held within the RCSEd campus.

These include facilities for conferences, meetings, private events, parties, and weddings, as well as its own four-star hotel, Ten Hill Place, Café 1505, and SQ Travel.

To find out more about Surgeons Quarter, visit: 

https://www.surgeonsquarter.com/festival-fringe-2025/

Friends of Corstorphine Hill: Volunteers Needed!

🍀 ️Corstorphine Hill Tower – Volunteers needed! 🍀

We are looking to increase our pool of volunteers who kindly give a few hours as often as it suits them, to help us open the Corstorphine Hill Tower every Sunday, 2pm – 4pm, for visitors.

Unfortunately our volunteer numbers are running low, which means we may not be able to continue with this popular event on a weekly basis, unless we are able to recruit some additional volunteers.

This fun and interesting role would be to:

🌿 Meet at the tower on agreed dates (could be once a month, could be twice a season. Up to you!)

🌿 Meet the regular volunteers who will give you an overview of what happens and what you can do (it’s very relaxed, no prior knowledge of the tower or hill required!)

🌿 Chat to visitors to the tower! (If they ask any questions, our website has a lot of info and is an easy reference for answers!)

🌿 Enjoy yourself, and learn something about the hill!

If you might be interested in supporting FoCH, learning more about our wonderful Hill and the tower on it, and supporting the work we do in conservation of the Hill, then we would love to hear from you!

Please email fochcontact@gmail.com

Thanks,

Friends of Corstorphine Hill Committee

ASSC calls out lack of government and council guidance as Visitor Levy deadline looms

As the countdown begins to the introduction of Edinburgh’s visitor levy on 1 October 2025, the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC) is expressing serious concerns over the lack of official guidance and support for accommodation providers.

Since the introduction of the short-term let licensing legislation, the ASSC worked tirelessly to support Scottish operators through the transition, offering practical, reliable information and hands-on assistance where government failed to engage.

In 2022, ASSC CEO Fiona Campbell MBE and licensing solicitor Joanna Millar launched a nationwide Regulations Roadshow to help demystify the legislation and empower operators to comply, delivering 26 such events and partnering with many local councils, reaching nearly 10,000 people.

The ASSC also developed a suite of comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions, now in Version 7, which was widely adopted by VisitScotland.

The ASSC had intended to replicate this model – achieved without meaningful support or funding from the Scottish Government – to help operators in advance of the Visitor Levy going live in Edinburgh.

However, with less than 10 weeks to go, this has proved impossible due to the complete absence of guidance from either the Scottish Government or Edinburgh Council.

The outstanding issues include:

  • No business-specific guidance – only deficient guidance intended for local authorities
  • No clarity on VAT status
  • No method of calculation
  • No confirmed exemptions framework
  • No timing confirmed for collection (e.g. at booking, on arrival, or departure)
  • No detail on how the Levy aligns with the Digital Markets Act
  • A delayed National Portal, not due until March 2026
  • No consumer-facing communications strategy.

This lack of preparedness raises serious questions about how the scheme can be implemented fairly, consistently, or without negative consequences for businesses. 

The ASSC is calling for immediate clarity from both the Scottish Government and City of Edinburgh Council, and remains ready to support a pragmatic and effective rollout of the Visitor Levy – if and when the necessary tools are put in place.

Fiona Campbell MBE, CEO of the ASSC, said: “We were fully prepared to run another national roadshow to support our members and the wider accommodation sector through this significant change – but we simply cannot provide clarity where there is none.

“It is unacceptable that, with just weeks to go, businesses still have no official guidance on the most basic operational aspects of the Visitor Levy. Once again, industry is left to pick up the pieces. 

“We are committed to constructive engagement and practical solutions, but we cannot continue to operate in an information vacuum.

“Scotland’s accommodation providers and guests deserve better than this. The clock is ticking and the Scottish Government and Edinburgh Council need to act now.”

International Day of Friendship 2025: Supporting a friend with their mental health

MENTAL HEALTH FOUNDATION

We all need a little help from our friends sometimes.💜

Friendship is a crucial element in protecting our mental health. Our friends can help to keep us grounded, put things in perspective, and manage/navigate life’s challenges. 🫂

Talking to friends about your mental health, and supporting a friend with a mental health problem, can be difficult to do.

We have tips on how to start a conversation, offer support, and look after yourself – check them out here: http://bit.ly/3GVqjps 🫶

#Besties

#InternationalDayOfFriendship

#FriendshipDay2025

Foysol Choudhury aims to return to Holyrood as a constituency MSP

LABOUR LIST MSP SEEKS CONSTITUENCY NOMINATION

Foysol Choudhury MSP aims to return to Holyrood as a Scottish Labour MSP. He has been shortlisted as a candidate for the new Edinburgh Northern seat twinned with Edinburgh South Western.

Since his election in 2021, Foysol Choudhury has served as a regional MSP for Lothian, making history as the first Scottish Bangladeshi elected to Holyrood and the first ethnic minority MSP outside of Glasgow.

As one of the few ethnic minority voices in the Scottish Parliament, he brings crucial lived experience to national politics and has been a tireless advocate for equality, representation, and inclusion. His presence continues to challenge the status quo and push for a more diverse and reflective democracy in Scotland.

Now, drawing on his parliamentary experience and strong record of public service, Mr. Choudhury is seeking re-selection as Scottish Labour’s candidate for the newly formed seat of Edinburgh Northern twinned with Edinburgh South Western.

He is standing as a shortlisted candidate in the party’s internal selection process, and will take part in upcoming hustings, where local Labour members will vote to determine who will represent the party in the 2026 Scottish Parliament election.

“It was an honour of my life to represent the people of Lothian,” he said. “Now I am seeking to be the Labour candidate for the twinned seats of Edinburgh Northern & Edinburgh South Western, to continue giving a voice to our communities in Holyrood.”

“I’m honoured to be shortlisted to represent the parts of Edinburgh that have truly shaped my life,” said Choudhury. “I moved here as a teenager, went to Drummond High, built my family and my business in this city, and began my journey as a community activist here. I know the challenges our people face, and I’m ready to keep fighting for them.”

He has spoken out for Drylaw and Wester Hailes, from calling for urgent action housing issues in the region, on the deteriorating Drylaw Shopping Centre to defending essential mental health services like Redhall Walled Garden. He has been a visible and active campaigner on housing, healthcare, education, and environmental justice.

Choudhury currently serves as Scottish Labour’s Shadow Minister for Culture, Europe, and International Development, where he highlights the role of culture in bringing people together and supports international solidarity.

A proud member of Unite the Union and the Co-operative Party, Foysol’s politics are shaped by a strong belief in community, fairness, and standing up for people through collective action.

“I’ve always stood with working people,” he said. “With the backing of ASLEF, the CWU, Co-operative Party, and community organizations, I’m ready to win in 2026, and keep fighting to put power back in the hands of working people.

“That’s what our Labour movement is about, and that’s the fight I’m proud to lead.”

FOYSOL CHOUDHURY MBE MSP_ Leaflet (1)Download

Photomontaging Resistance Workshop and Community Lunch at Royston Wardieburn Community Centre

THURSDAY 5th & THURSDAY 19th AUGUST at RWCC

There is also a follow-up Songs of Protest workshop  TOMORROW morning (Thursday 31st July) from 10 – 12.30 at North Edinburgh Arts.   

Penny Stone will be introducing  more protest songs before we get down to writing a few more verses for a new North Edinburgh protest song!

Muirhouse Millennium Centre: We Want Your Ideas!

💬 We Want Your Ideas! 💡

We’re planning ahead and want to know. What would YOU like to see happening at the centre?

Whether it’s kids’ activities or adult only sessions, now’s your chance to help shape what we offer.

🎤 Karaoke night?

🧘‍♀️ Mindfulness or fitness sessions?

🎨 Art for adults?

🎮 Gaming clubs for kids?

🍿 Movie nights, pamper days, anything fun?

Nothing is too silly to suggest if you’d come along to it, let us know!

We’re using our resources carefully and want to put on things you actually want so if you don’t speak up, we’ll just go with what we think sounds fun 😜 (and then you’re not allowed to moan if we plan karaoke every week 😆)

Pop your ideas below or message us privately we’re all ears!

Let’s build a space that works for everyone. 💛

#LIFTCommunity

#YourCentreYourSay

#TellUsWhatYouWant

Committee concerns that new UC health claimants could face poverty

A new report from the Work and Pensions Committee has raised concerns that planned cuts to the health component of Universal Credit (UC health) will push disabled people into poverty despite the above inflation rise in the UC standard allowance. 

In its Pathways to Work report, the Committee repeated calls to delay planned cuts in UC health reform until the full impact of the changes are better understood.

The Committee wrote to the Secretary of State in May calling for a pause of the planned reforms to UC health and Personal Independence Payments (PIP) and called for PIP policy to be co-produced with disabled people. 

The Government subsequently dropped all the PIP proposals and agreed to co-produce a new PIP assessment process with disabled people and their organisations in a review led by Sir Stephen Timms.

However, under the planned reforms to UC health, from April 2026 although all existing claimants and new claimants with severe or terminal conditions will be protected, other claimants assessed as having limited capability for work and work-related activity will see their awards halved from £423.27 to £217.26. 

This is part of the Government’s drive to get more people off welfare and into work, as described in their Pathways to Work Green Paper.

Although the intent to safeguard these people was welcomed, MPs on the Committee raised concerns that some conditions, particularly serious mental health conditions, might not be included under the severe condition criteria; this also applies to people with fluctuating conditions.

The Committee also asked the Secretary of State why an assessment of safeguarding risks had not been conducted before the Green Paper was published. 

Committee Chair Debbie Abrahams said: “We welcome the concessions that the Government made to the UC and PIP Bill (now the UC Bill); but there are still issues with these welfare reforms not least with the cut in financial support that newly sick and disabled people will receive.

“The Government’s own analysis published in March indicates that from next April approximately 50,000 people who develop a health condition or become disabled – and those who live with them – will enter poverty by 2030 as a result of the reduction in support of the UC health premium.

“We recommend delaying the cuts to the UC-health premium, especially given that other policies that such as additional NHS capacity, or employment support, or changes in the labour market to support people to stay in work, have yet to materialise.

“We agree in a reformed and sustainable welfare system, but we must ensure that the wellbeing of those who come into contact with it is protected.

“The lesson learned from last month should be that the impact of policy changes to health-related benefits must be assessed prior to policy changes being implemented to avoid potential risks to claimants.”

Living Streets objects to two-way cycling on Rose Street

We object to the advertised Traffic Regulation Order (TRO/24/27 bit.ly/3IFOQQ6) allowing two-way cycling on Rose Street.

The idea of promoting two-way cycling on the street was raised in a report to the Transport and Environment Committee (TEC) on 30 January 2025, as a means to facilitate cycling across the city while the CCWEL route through George Street is not yet in place.  We made our objection to this proposal at that time.

The Council’s own report recognised that “integrating cyclists into a space primarily designed for pedestrians presents challenges. The narrow width of Rose Street, combined with the high footfall at certain times, could lead to safety concerns between cycling and walking/wheeling. With no dedicated cycling infrastructure, conflict could be created between users.”

It is not appropriate in our view to encourage Rose Street – the closest thing Edinburgh currently has to a pedestrianised street – as a major cycle route.

The proposal does not respect the Council’s agreed travel hierarchy which places walking and wheeling first. The TRO is especially inappropriate given that the TEC recently decided that two way cycle access should be maintained on George Street itself during any redevelopment works. 

You can object to the order by 1st August – details here: http://bit.ly/3IFOQQ6.