Author: davepickering

Edinburgh reporter and photographer

City Council: Taking big steps towards solving housing emergency

Councillor Mandy Watt, Depute Leader and Finance and Resources Convener, writes:

As Edinburgh continues to grow, one of the most pressing issues we face is the shortage of affordable housing.

We’ve seen demand for homes increase year after year, but at the same time housing costs keep rising. The city’s supply of social housing and the grant funding we receive from the Scottish Government to build new homes just hasn’t kept pace with demand.

We’re working to tackle this housing emergency by both building homes and buying them. With around 5,500 households in temporary accommodation every night because of homelessness, we’ve set a target to significantly improve housing and to source homes quickly, within the means that we have.

Edinburgh continues to be the lowest funded local authority in Scotland per head of population, and currently has fewer council-owned homes, so we need to do things differently from other councils.

In the same way that homebuyers need a mortgage, borrowing has become a vital and standard part of our financial planning when we buy or build homes. It’s the most straightforward way to overcome the shortfall in our grant funding.

At the same time, we’re also continuing to make considerable investment in net zero energy improvements to existing council homes and retrofitting buildings because we need them to be more sustainable and in good condition. This too is supported by capital borrowing.

While our debt levels remain prudent, and in line with our income and spend, our financial planning in this area is enabling us to fund the regeneration the city needs. We’re using this approach to build and extend schools for the next generation, restore important structures like the North Bridge and create new communities, like the Granton Waterfront.

We’ve also taken a big step this week towards finding a solution for the existing community on Dreghorn Estate, and it’s an excellent example of the power of well-managed borrowing.

At a special meeting of our Finance and Resources Committee on Monday, we agreed in principle to purchase 38 homes from the Ministry of Defence for £6.65 million, using a mix of funding from the Scottish Government housing grant together with long-term loans. Rental income, over the life of the properties, will cover the borrowing costs.

If agreed at Full Council, this purchase will secure the futures of families already living on the estate, and it will also provide us with an already thriving community for other council tenants to move into.

This is a huge step towards a positive outcome – a fantastic example of doing things differently to make sure we address our housing emergency – and I know residents are very grateful that this proposal has had so much support from councillors.

This article first appeared in the Edinburgh Evening News on 11 June 2025

Scotland’s unpaid carers over £4,400 better off

Carers urged to check for financial support during Carers Week

This Carers Week (9 – 15 June), unpaid carers across Scotland are being encouraged to find out if they are eligible for social security support – through Carer Support Payment, Carer’s Allowance Supplement and Young Carer Grant  

Carer’s Allowance Supplement – a payment only available north of the border – was the first benefit delivered by Social Security Scotland in 2018 to provide extra financial support for carers, recognising their important contribution.   

Since the payment’s introduction, unpaid carers in Scotland will be up to £4,475 better off by the end of 2025. 

On a visit to Midlothian Carers Centre to meet with parent carers of adults with additional support needs, Minister for Equalities, Kaukab Stewart, said: “Social security in Scotland isn’t about renaming benefits previously delivered by the UK Government.

“We are about delivering social security with dignity, fairness and respect, continually listening to what carers and support organisations have to say to help shape the changes we’re making.  
  
“We introduced Carer’s Allowance Supplement and Young Carer Grant, which are only available in Scotland, and widened eligibility for Carer Support Payment to enable more carers in education to access it.

“We’re also committed to introducing new extra support for carers who care for more than one person. Changes to help improve the lives of carers in Scotland. 

“Social security is something anyone may need at any point in their life. It’s a public service and I encourage all unpaid carers to find out if they are entitled to financial support and apply.”  

Carla Bennett, Carer Services Manager at VOCAL Midlothian added: “Unpaid carers often face financial hardship, with many forced to give up paid work or reduce their hours to support those they care for.

“Caring for someone comes with additional costs too, such as transport, heating, equipment and food. These expenses, combined with reduced income, mean carers are more likely to experience poverty.  

“Demand for VOCAL’s income maximisation service has doubled in the past year, showing that carers are feeling the strain. Accessing financial and social security support can ease this burden and make a significant difference to the lives of carers and those they care for.

“We would encourage carers to find out what they might be eligible for.” 

ELREC: Sir Geoff Palmer OBE KT

With a heavy heart, we share the sad news of the passing of our dear honorary patron and ELREC’s longest serving member, Professor Sir Geoff Palmer, OBE KT.

A man of immense wisdom, dignity, and unwavering integrity, Sir Geoff’s life was a powerful testament to resilience, courage and a commitment to justice.

His contributions to science, education, and the ongoing fight for racial equality have left an indelible mark on the world.

Beyond his remarkable achievements, Sir Geoff will be remembered for his humility, kindness, and the way he inspired generations to think critically and act compassionately. His voice was one of clarity in challenging times, and his legacy will continue to guide and uplift us.

Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. May he rest in peace, and may we honor his memory by continuing the work he so passionately championed.

Gone, but will never be forgotten ❤️

ELREC (Edinburgh and Lothians Regional Equality Council)

Walking charity steps into new era with new name and bold rebrand

PATHS FOR ALL HAS BEEN RENAMED WALKING SCOTLAND

  • New name signals commitment to making Scotland more active

SCOTLAND’S national walking and wheeling charity has today announced it has rebranded, marking a bold new chapter after almost 30 years of empowering people to walk more, move more and enjoy the outdoors.

Walking Scotland has officially unveiled its new identity, replacing its long-established name, Paths for All, to better reflect its mission and growing impact across the country.

The change signals the charity’s renewed commitment to embedding walking and wheeling into the everyday lives of Scots, enhancing health, wellbeing and sustainability.

From local Health Walks to national policy changes, the organisation has built meaningful partnerships and inspired communities to enjoy the benefits of active travel.

This rebrand follows their ‘Every Day in May’ campaign as part of National Walking Month, which encouraged people across Scotland to walk daily and to discover the profound social, physical, and mental benefits that even short walks can bring.

The charity’s new name reinforces its position as the country’s national authority on walking and wheeling – building on decades of proven impact while setting ambitious goals for the future. It envisions a Scotland where everyone, regardless of who they are or where they live has access to safe, welcoming environments to walk and wheel.

Walking Scotland’s launch follows overwhelming support for a clearer, bolder brand that better communicates its purpose and makes it easier for people to get involved – whether through walking, wheeling, supporting or donating.

The shift also reflects the growing recognition of walking as a low-cost, high-impact solution to a range of societal challenges, from health inequalities to the climate-nature emergency.

Kevin Lafferty, Chief Executive of Walking Scotland said: “This isn’t just a name change, it’s a renewed commitment to putting walking and wheeling at the heart of everyday life in Scotland.

“For almost 30 years, we’ve made a real difference in communities across the country. But we’re not done yet. Walking changes lives – it improves health, connects people and helps address some of Scotland’s biggest challenges.

“Walking Scotland reflects a fresh and inclusive identity that truly captures the scale of our ambition for the next 30 years. We want everyone in Scotland to be able to walk and wheel, everywhere, every day.

“The feedback from our stakeholders, communities and partners has been incredibly positive – this brand resonates and will help us reach more people and grow our impact.”

The organisation points to a growing body of evidence that supports its mission. According to the most recent national attitudes survey, over 77% of Scots agree that walking helps to clear their minds and improve their mood.

Crucially, walking is free, widely accessible, and requires no special equipment, making it a simple yet powerful tool in the fight against inactivity, social isolation, and pressure on the NHS.

To find out more about Walking Scotland, visit: www.walkingscotland.org.uk

Scotland’s first ‘Breast MOT’ Clinic launches on Edinburgh Waterfront

Advanced clinic provides same-day scan and surgeon consultation

SCOTLAND’s most comprehensive same-day breast implant health check service has launched at a new state-of-the-art hospital.

Based at Waterfront Private Hospital in Edinburgh, the specialist service is the first of its kind in the country, providing women with same-day ultrasound scans and consultant-led advice from a plastic surgeon, all in a single visit.

Leading the service is radiologist Dr Theodora Zachari, whose expert ultrasound scanning is carried out using advanced Canon Aplio i-series equipment, regarded as the gold standard in soft tissue imaging.

Following the scan, patients immediately meet with a highly experienced consultant plastic surgeons for interpretation and advice.

Dr Omar Quaba, consultant plastic surgeon and co-founder at Waterfront Private Hospital, said: “Many women with breast implants are unsure about their long-term condition, especially those placed over a decade ago or performed overseas.

“This one-stop clinic removes the need for multiple appointments, giving patients peace of mind and a clear pathway for future care, all on the same day.”

While breast implants are considered safe, patients are advised to monitor them regularly, particularly as they age. Changes in shape, discomfort, or concerns about rupture or capsular contracture are among the common reasons for seeking checks.

Until now, women in Scotland often faced long waiting times, fragmented care or the need to travel elsewhere in the UK to access equivalent services. The new health check clinic aims to address these gaps by providing a streamlined, patient-focused experience delivered by specialists.

Dr Theodora Zachari, Consultant Radiologist, said: “Women deserve accessible, high-quality care when it comes to their health. This service brings together radiology and surgical expertise to provide answers without delay.”

The hospital’s new clinic provides a safe, professional alternative for those seeking clarity on the health of their implants, whether they are experiencing symptoms or simply want reassurance.

Operating as a boutique family-run hospital, Waterfront Private Hospital has gained a strong reputation for personalised care and surgical expertise. Patients are seen in a luxury clinical environment, with direct access to the same medical team for follow-up care and advice.

Dr Quaba added: “Our goal is to demystify breast implant health and make it easy for women to take control. Whether it’s peace of mind or planning a revision procedure, this clinic gives them the trusted information they need.”

Women can self-refer or be referred by their GP, and the service is open to anyone with implants, regardless of where or when the surgery took place. Consultations typically last around an hour and are followed up with a tailored report and further guidance where needed.

The Waterfront Private Hospital team stresses that implant-related issues can often be managed effectively when identified early. As such, regular health checks are increasingly considered a vital part of long-term cosmetic care.

Opened in late 2023, the hospital is home to some of the most qualified and experienced plastic and skin surgeons in Scotland, including dual-qualified specialists in plastic surgery and dermatology. This expertise allows for a full spectrum of care, from cosmetic procedures to life-saving skin cancer treatments.

For more information or to book a consultation, visit: www.waterfronthospital.co.uk

Edinburgh College Modern Languages department wins national education award

Edinburgh College’s Modern Languages department proved they’re fluent in success after picking up a national education award at a ceremony in Glasgow recently.

The team won the Partnership with Schools Award at the Herald Higher Education (HE) Awards in recognition of their work in collaborating with schools the length and breadth of the country to deliver National Qualifications in Modern Languages to young people through an innovative online model.

The department’s inspiring work has helped increase opportunities for school pupils to continue learning French, German, Italian and Spanish at Higher and Advanced Higher levels, thereby bridging the gap between school and university and allowing students from any school in Scotland to potentially go on to study languages at university level.  

This project initially started with a number of local schools and has since gone from strength to strength. In the academic year 2024/25, the College worked with 180 pupils – up from 62 in 2014/2015 – in 95 schools across Scotland, across over 20 local authorities, including many remote areas where in-person language hubs are not possible.

Feedback from learners shows that the online delivery has been enormously appreciated and instrumental in improving pupils’ range and sophistication in the language they have chosen to learn.

Pupils report that their work ethic, organisational and IT skills have also improved, which has resulted in an increased feeling of confidence inside and outside of their digital classroom.

Edinburgh College Head of School for Community-based ESOL and Modern Languages, Kay Penman said: “I am so proud of the whole team. This award reflects their hard work, innovative online delivery model and commitment to their students as well as the sector-leading SQA results achieved in the exams.

“I also want to highlight the outstanding efforts of Caroline Cordier, our Curriculum Team Manager, whose commitment to providing access to language learning to school pupils across Scotland has really driven this project to where it is today.

“Thanks to our provision, hundreds of pupils in almost a hundred schools have been able to continue learning languages.”

Edinburgh College Principal Audrey Cumberford said: “Congratulations to our Modern Languages department on this fantastic award success!

“This is well-deserved recognition of their hard work in building partnerships with schools across Scotland to deliver a vital online service for many young people who want to continue learning a language.”

The Herald HE Awards took place on Thursday 29 May at the Radisson Blu hotel in Glasgow.

Council to consider findings of independent review into handling of misconduct allegations

The findings of an independent review into how the Council handled allegations of misconduct have been published.

Led by former Scottish Information Commissioner, Kevin Dunion, the investigation focused on how the Council handled any allegations made, the policy and procedures in place to deal with similar types of allegations and what improvements, if any, could be made to safeguard against any inappropriate behaviour in future.

Following his appointment in February, Mr Dunion carried out a detailed review of relevant council policies, reports and other documents, webcasts of council meetings and 35 structured interviews. He also received 20 written representations from current and former councillors and staff.

In his report, which will be considered by councillors at a council meeting next Thursday (19 June), he concludes that complaints were, for the most part, handled properly and that the policies and procedures in place are broadly effective. In particular, he states that the recent allegations were ‘well handled and properly considered in line with the Council’s policies’.

However, he did identify issues with how previous concerns were dealt with and makes a series of recommendations around the Council’s complaints procedures and whistleblowing policy – in particular around the safeguarding of victims and/ or those making a complaint.

He also recommends further consideration of councillors’ conduct, their interactions with staff and the appropriateness of some social events in the City Chambers.

Chief Executive Paul Lawrence said: “I want to thank Kevin Dunion for leading this sensitive review and for his report, not least given the complexity of the brief and tight timescales.

“I know this must have been challenging and a difficult experience for many people and I particularly want to thank those who came forward to be interviewed or provided information to the review. Your input is very much appreciated.

“Subject to approval by councillors next Thursday, we will bring a further report back to the Policy and Sustainability Committee in August, outlining our proposed actions in response to Mr Dunion’s recommendations.”

Poverty Alliance: Spending review misses need for fundamental change

Commenting on the Chancellor’s Spending Review, Poverty Alliance chief executive Peter Kelly said: “People in the UK are desperate for a government that delivers a just and compassionate country – and that’s one of the reasons so many voted for change at the last General Election. They will feel that today’s Spending Review falls short.

“There was a positive story to tell on capital spending and increased resources for health and housing are welcome and will have benefits for the Scottish Government too.

“But that story masks cuts to day-to-day spending in unprotected areas. We all rely on public services, but when libraries, buses and social care system see cuts, it will be people living on low incomes that feel that impact the hardest because they are more likely to use and rely upon those services.

“After 14 years of austerity, any spending cuts will drive living standards down further. We’ve been down that road before and it’s not what people voted for.

“This review also includes £5bn worth of cuts to social security for disabled people which are expected to push 400k people into poverty. It is completely unjust to see the UK Government once again try to balance the books on the backs of disabled people. That also has financial implications for the Scottish Government’s devolved social security benefits.

“After almost a year in power, we had expected the UK Government to take action on the two-child limit – an unjust policy that forces 80 children into poverty every single day. Thousands more children will be in poverty by the time the Chancellor considers the policy again at the Autumn Statement.

“It doesn’t have to be this way. We’d like to see the Government take a different road at the next budget – and make changes to their self-imposed fiscal rules and look seriously at the tax options being put forward by Tax Justice Scotland and our UK counterparts, so we can pay for the things our economy and society needs to function.”

OPEN LETTER: Hidden Door Festival Director on the importance of supporting the arts

Arts venues and cultural events need your support now more than ever: Hazel Johnson, Festival Director at Hidden Door, invites you to be part of something special at The Paper Factory this week

Scotland’s arts scene is vibrant, innovative, and utterly vital to our national identity, wellbeing and economy. Yet, like many sectors, it faces unprecedented challenges, from funding pressures to the ever-shifting landscape of audience engagement. Cities like Edinburgh are at their best when they have cultural venues that can thrive all year round, not just in festival season.

This week, we launch our most ambitious venture yet. The Paper Factory is a magnificent, abandoned industrial site which we’re transforming into a vibrant new arts venue hosting an amazing programme of music, visual art and performance. It’s a monumental undertaking, driven by a passionate team of volunteers, and its success hinges, quite simply, on audiences coming along to experience it.

Hidden Door was born from a belief that Edinburgh needs vibrant cultural venues that offer something different. By literally and figuratively opening up forgotten spaces for the arts, we create a place where creative talent can flourish.

We exist to provide a vital platform for new and emerging artists in Scotland, offering them the crucial opportunity to experiment and reach new audiences.

From our diverse music lineup, including promising local bands selected from hundreds of open call applications, to the captivating, site-specific art installations and immersive performances that bring The Paper Factory’s history to life – every element of Hidden Door is designed to be unique and unforgettable.

We were fortunate this year to benefit from the Creative Scotland Development Fund – a fiercely competitive pot of funding. We are also hugely grateful to the sponsors and partners who believe in us enough to generously give their support.

This support has meant we can be as accessible and inclusive as possible. This year we have offered more concessions and free tickets than ever before, including a “pay what you can” option to help us better serve the many different communities across the city.

But the stark truth is that as a volunteer-run charity, we rely on ticket sales. The magic we create, the opportunities we provide for artists, and our ability to keep opening up new, surprising spaces for the arts across our city – all of it depends on you stepping through our ‘hidden door’.

Your ticket isn’t just access to a great night out; it’s an investment in Edinburgh’s creative future, a vote of confidence in the artists who are shaping our cultural landscape, and a lifeline that allows us to continue our unique work. Without you, non-profit organisations like Hidden Door simply can’t exist.

We’ve all seen much-loved venues and arts organisations forced to close, a worrying trend accelerated by ongoing economic uncertainties. The impact from these external factors on the arts sector is all too real, with arts venues and cultural events needing your support now more than ever.

So I invite you to join us at The Paper Factory this week, from Wednesday to Sunday. Come and discover the energy, witness the innovation, and be part of a truly unique cultural moment.

If you want Hidden Door to keep doing what we do, transforming forgotten spaces and championing incredible local talent, then please come down and support us. We’ve been doing this for over a decade, and with you on board, we’ll keep doing it.

Hazel Johnson

Festival Director, Hidden Door