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New Annual Police Plan 2023-24

Police Scotland’s Annual Police Plan (APP) has now been launched.

Chief Constable Sir Iain Livingstone QPM presented the plan to the Scottish Police Authority Board in March. It was then laid in the Scottish Parliament as required under the Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012.

Our APP uses strategic outcomes and objectives to describe the impact that Police Scotland aims to make to the lives of people across Scotland. This aligns with the Joint Strategy for Policing, Policing for a Safe, Protected and Resilient Scotland, and our strategic planning framework.

It was developed with colleagues from across the service and describes how we will prioritise our resources towards the issues that cause the most harm to people and communities.

Progress will be reported across all the activities featured to describe and demonstrate the impact of policing on Scotland’s communities. Police Scotland’s Performance Framework is being refreshed and as in previous years, will fully align to the strategic outcomes and objectives set out in the Joint Strategy and the APP.

You can also download a PDF version here.

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Policing for a Safe, Protected and Resilient Scotland

In 2020, the Scottish Police Authority and Police Scotland agreed and published our Joint Strategy for Policing (2020), Policing for a Safe Protected and Resilient Scotland. This strategy describes our ambitions for the future of policing in Scotland framed around five strategic outcomes.

Good progress has been made in developing our service since that point and the time is right to review our strategy. The Vision for Justice was published in 2022, and Scottish Government has recently reviewed and confirmed their Strategic Police Priorities for the next three years.

We are now keen to engage with our partners, stakeholders and members of the public to gain feedback on the draft document before we finalise it later this Spring.

The Scottish Police Authority and Police Scotland have now launched a public engagement exercise on the draft Joint Strategy for Policing 2023-26.

The engagement exercise launched on 11 March 2023 and will run until 23 April 2023.

To find out more and to give us your feedback, please click here.

Aldi recruiting in Edinburgh

Aldi is currently looking to recruit over 20 new store colleagues across Edinburgh.

In a welcome boost to the local economy, the UK’s fourth largest supermarket is looking for people of all levels of experience to fill roles at its stores across the region including Hermiston Gate, Gilmerton Road, Oxgangs, Commercial Street, and Portobello.

This includes both full-time and part-time positions including Store Management Apprentice, Stock Assistant, and Store Assistant, all the way up to Deputy Managers.

The recruitment push forms part of Aldi’s nationwide expansion drive, with the supermarket set to open an average of one new store a week across the UK between now and Christmas.

Kelly Stokes, Recruitment Director at Aldi UK, said: “As we continue to invest in new stores, we’re looking for more colleagues to join our incredible teams across Edinburgh.

“Working at Aldi means a great working environment and real opportunities to progress within the business and we look forward to welcoming even more people to be a part of our success in the future.”

Starting pay for Store Assistants at Aldi is £11.40 per hour with the supermarket also paying for breaks.

Those interested in applying for jobs can visit www.aldirecruitment.co.uk.

Sashay your way to Virgin Hotels Edinburgh for a Drag Brunch at Eve

EVE, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh’s all day dining destination, is hosting a showstopping Drag Brunch tomorrow, Saturday, 5^th of August, with Queens from RuPaul’s Drag Race fame.

Kicking off at 12pm, guests will be able to enjoy death-drop worthy brunch classics that will satisfy every craving, from tasty crispy chicken burgers to sweet treats including wholesome granola bowls and pancakes, fabulously paired with pick-me-up martinis and mimosa cocktails, all accompanied by a live DJ set.

In partnership with Gilded Balloon and Klub Kids, legendary Queens Anita Wigl’it and Baga Chipz will have guests voguing like Madonna as they take to the stage to give a fierce preview of their respective Fringe shows, which are running from 4^th – 9^th August at Gilded Balloon Teviot.

The spectacular brunch event is free to attend, with guests only required to book a table to enjoy the experience in the glamourous surroundings of Eve – that are fit for a Queen.

David Moth, Virgin Hotels Vice President of Operations and Interim General Manager of Virgin Hotels Edinburgh said, “As part of an exciting new collaboration, we are thrilled to be working alongside Gilded Balloon and Klub Kids to start the Edinburgh Fringe Festival off right, with laugh-out-loud performances, live music and delicious brunch classics at Eve.

“Virgin Hotels is no stranger to fabulous live performances but we’re ready to raise the bar with two icons of the international Drag scene. The Fringe is all about bringing communities together and what better way to do so than with two of RuPaul’s most loved divas, hailing all the way from Australia and the UK.

“To mark our first year of being an official Fringe venue, we’re ready to get Cowgate up and dancing with this special Drag Brunch. For the rest of August, guests can expect top-notch entertainment up on our spectacular roof terrace as well as show-stopping performances in our classically restored Greyfriars Kirk.”

Brunch reservations are available to book from 12pm with the entertainment starting at 1pm. For more information and to reserve a table please visit:
https://virginhotels.com/edinburgh/event/drag-brunch/

The Drag Brunch is just one of many events hosted at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh. To stay up to date with the latest news and events, follow along on social media here:

Instagram @eveedinburgh @virginhotelsedi
Twitter @virginhotelsedi

SEPA urges businesses using water to stay vigilant after swing in weather conditions

New statistics highlight the contrasting conditions impacting Scotland’s water environment this summer, prompting a plea from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) for businesses to stay vigilant.

Some areas that were experiencing significant water scarcity at the end of June, including the Rivers Annan and Nith, have now recovered in just a few weeks after nearly double the normal amount of rainfall for July according to new figures from the Met Office. Scotland as a whole received around 50% more rain than average for the month.

This is in contrast to a very dry April, May and June for Scotland, with May in particular only recording less than half (44%) of the average rainfall.

The latest water scarcity report, published today by SEPA, shows a positive picture with most of the country now experiencing normal river and groundwater levels.

However, parts of the north-east around Morayshire and northern Aberdeenshire are recovering more slowly, with just average or below average rainfall for the previous month. This means a possibility remains of conditions worsening in these areas if August isn’t wetter than usual.

water-scarcity-report-04-august Download

Kenny Boag, Head of Environmental Performance at SEPA, said: “I’m sure many would agree it feels like we often experience all seasons in a single day in Scotland, and the country is in fact famed for its unpredictable weather. The difference between the situation facing Scotland’s water environment in June compared to July is stark.

“While this keeps locals and tourists alike on their toes, there’s no doubt it proves challenging for industries that rely on the environment to operate. Farms, whisky distilleries and golf courses are all examples of businesses that need a consistent supply of water.

“That’s why it’s crucial they’re aware of the conditions impacting sources like rivers and burns and reduce their reliance on them. We’re asking businesses to monitor how much they’re using, review techniques and best practice, and invest in improvements where needed. They should adopt a longer-term view to prepare for these dynamic conditions, rather than waiting until levels reach a critical state.

“SEPA works all year round, not just in summer, to support users and foster a culture of sustainable water management. This will not only reduce environmental impacts during dry periods but can also lead to cost savings and improved efficiency for businesses.”

At the end of June this year, SEPA varied water abstraction licences, requiring a number of farmers to reduce the amount of water they were taking from the environment to allow levels to recover.

Water abstractors and irrigators in all parts of Scotland are advised to manage water wisely to minimise the need for future restrictions:

Check SEPA’s water scarcity reports regularly to keep up to date with the water situation in your area. 
Regularly check abstraction equipment to make sure it’s in good condition and fix any leaks straight away.
Where possible, reduce the volume and rate of your abstractions.
Have a contingency plan for if restrictions or suspensions are put in place

More information, guidance and advice can be found at

www.sepa.org.uk/waterscarcity.

Bin man turned drag queen adds sparkle to Edinburgh streets

As Edinburgh enters its busiest summer festival season since the Covid pandemic, a Cheshire bin man has brought his extravagant performance to the capital to support keeping the streets clean.

To celebrate (?) the City of Edinburgh Council announcing the deployment of additional waste and cleansing resources over August in the city centre, Joe Leather treated Council Leader Cammy Day, cleansing staff and passers-by to a lively performance yesterday.

And Joe was very vocal in getting behind the message ‘bin your litter or take it home with you’ to make sure the world’s festival city is kept looking its best for residents, businesses and visitors this summer.

An additional team of 15 cleansing staff are now out in force targeting the busiest streets in the city centre each day. The 350 litter bins across the city centre will continue to be emptied overnight and there will also be a dedicated vehicle with cleansing crew emptying litter bins during the day.

In addition to this, an extra four waste vehicles will be out clearing up any areas where waste has built up and extra litter bins have been placed in busy ‘hot spot’ areas at Cockburn Street, High Street and the top of the Mound.

The Council also works with Out of Hand to make sure areas in the city centre outside the pedestrianised section of the High Street, looked after by the Fringe, has managed advertising space and is kept clear of fliers and other litter.

Alongside this, temporary changes have been made to some road layouts in the Old Town to create a safer, more inviting atmosphere for residents and visitors. By making it easier and safer to walk, wheel and cycle on key streets in the area during the busy festival period this will reduce pressure caused by increased footfall. This builds on the successful pedestrianisation of Cockburn Street and Victoria Street as part of Travelling Safely.

This year the Council has also brought back the popular ‘We’ll bin our jokes, if you bin your litter’ campaign, which urges residents and visitors to help keep the Capital city in shape.

Council Leader Cammy Day said: “It was great to meet Joe and get a sneak preview of one of the acts which will bring colour and culture to the streets of the Capital in the coming weeks as the festival season gets into full swing.

“This is our first restriction-free summer festival season since the Covid pandemic and there’s already a fantastic buzz building across Edinburgh. We’re also hosting a leg of the UCI World Championships road race and with all this activity it will be great to see residents and visitors out and about, soaking up the sights and sounds, and maybe some sun!

“That’s why we’re deploying extra waste and cleansing staff and I’d like to thank them as well as those from the Fringe, Out of Hand and other partners who will be working tirelessly in the background day and night to make sure Edinburgh continues to look its best. It’s important to recognise that we all have a part to play in keeping Edinburgh clean and I would ask you all to take pride in your city by binning your litter or taking it home.

“If you’ve larger items always remember to use our special uplift service or book an appointment at one of our Household Waste Recycling Centres to dispose of your waste responsibly. And if the weather improves and you’re out enjoying the sunshine and having a barbecue, please remember to protect the grass in our parks and other open spaces.”

Book Festival: Greta Thunberg event CANCELLED

THE Edinburgh International Book Festival has announced that Greta Thunberg’s event, which was due to take place on Sunday 13 August, will no longer go ahead.

Greta Thunberg said: “I am unfortunately unable to attend the Edinburgh Book Festival. As a climate activist I cannot attend an event which receives sponsorship from Baillie Gifford, who invest heavily in the fossil fuel industry.

“Greenwashing efforts by the fossil fuel industry, including sponsorship of cultural events, allow them to keep the social license to continue operating. I cannot and do not want to be associated with events that accept this kind of sponsorship.”

Nick Barley, Director of the Edinburgh International Book Festival, said:“While I am disappointed that Greta will not be joining us on the 13 of August, I fully respect her decision. I share Greta’s view that in all areas of society the rate of progress is not enough.

“However, in applauding Greta for standing by her principles, we too must stand by ours.

“The Book Festival exists to give a platform for debate and discussion around key issues affecting humanity today – including the climate emergency. As a charitable organisation, we would not be in a position to provide that platform without the long-term support of organisations such as Baillie Gifford.

“We strongly believe that Baillie Gifford are part of the solution to the climate emergency. They are early investors in progressive climate positive companies, providing funds to help them grow. While they acknowledge there is still work to do, we have seen them make rapid progress throughout our 19-year relationship.

“I apologise to all the people who bought tickets and were keen to meet Greta – and especially to the hundreds of young climate campaigners who we had invited to come along because of their hard work to change the system in Scotland. We will of course refund all ticket-buyers in full.”

Baillie Gifford said: “We are not a significant fossil fuel investor. Only 2% of our clients’ money is invested in companies with some business related to fossil fuels. This compares to the market average of 11%. Of those companies, some have already moved most of their business away from fossil fuels, and many are helping to drive the transition to clean energy.

“We are investing on behalf of our clients to grow their savings and retirement funds. When we invest in companies on their behalf, we do so over long time periods – typically 10 years or more – so this has naturally led us away from traditional fossil fuel firms. Currently, 5% of our clients’ money is invested in companies whose sole purpose is to develop clean energy solutions.

“We believe in open debate and discussion which is why we are long-term supporters of the Edinburgh International Book Festival.”

Princess Royal attends Tattoo rehearsal at Redford Barracks

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal attended one of the final rehearsals of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo ahead of its official opening night tonight (Friday 4 August).

All performers from this year’s Show, Stories, took part in tyesterday’s rehearsal at the Redford Barracks, giving Her Royal Highness an exclusive preview of their stunning musical and cultural showcases and military precision.

Over 800 performers from across the globe are taking part in this year’s production. Stories is a celebration of sagas, myths, and legends, transporting audiences on a journey of ideas – from the earliest campfire stories through to the world stage.

HRH The Princess Royal met with performers from countries including Trinidad and Tobago, Switzerland, Australia, Norway and The United States of America.

Building on last year’s successful return Show, Voices, audiences from around the world will gather at Edinburgh Castle this summer, from 4 August – 26 August, for the cultural spectacular.

Fringe: Skywalker Gibbon opens House of Oz

House of Oz opens today as Lisa Roet’s Inflatable ‘Skywalker Gibbon’ joins the Edinburgh Fringe Skyline

Everyone associates certain sights with the Edinburgh Fringe such as the iconic Udderbelly, and now a new creature is set to ignite the imaginations of Fringe audiences: Artist Lisa Roet’s “Skywalker” – a massive inflatable of a Skywalker Gibbon which will take pride of place above House of Oz.

In addition to its visually arresting look, visitors can also listen out for the peculiar love call of the gibbon which will be played between show times at the venue.

Roet is an Australian artist, based in Melbourne, whose previous work has graced locations from Beijing to Inverleith House, although this year will mark her first visit to Edinburgh. The structure will be not only an exciting visual for audiences to spot throughout August but is also a firm statement for environmental sustainability.

The venue, located at King’s Hall in Newington, was voted Edinburgh Fringe’s best venue in 2022, its debut year, and is back bigger and better this year, presenting eight of Australia’s most exciting new artists.

Celebrating the best in Australian creativity, from site-specific immersive theatre to family entertainment, as well as the best in the worlds of comedy, cabaret and circus, there is truly something for everyone at House of Oz.

This year’s venue is also set to be one of the most exciting hub spaces at the Fringe, offering an array of delicious food and drink options, including a Daisy Green pop-up café in the “Outback” garden bar.

This year’s programme champions original and boundary-pushing work, such as immersive audio experience Two Strangers Walk Into a Bar… the Adelaide smash-hit by award-winning actor, writer and director Tilda Cobham-Harvey that invites audience members to forge connections with a complete stranger.

A breakout theatrical success from festivals across Australia, Jonny Hawkins transforms into “working class glamour queen” Maureen as they celebrate the indomitable voice, wisdom and passion of dames who defy invisibility.

Blending circus and contemporary theatre, Common Dissonance from Melbourne-based Na Djinang Circus explores modern Australian identity and asks if there is space for the acceptance of indigenous spirituality in 21st Century Australia.

In the world of comedy, audiences can look forward to the UK debut of one of Australia’s most exciting, rising stars in Anna Piper Scott – Such an Inspiration. As both a trans woman and comedian, Anna grapples with a volatile conversation that has touched some of the biggest names in comedy like Hannah Gadsby and Dave Chappelle, about how to make fun of yourself whilst retaining a foundational respect for who you are.

Younger audiences won’t be left out this year, with shows for all the family to enjoy. Beetle, a new work from acclaimed physical theatre artists Legs On The Wall, is a heartwarming story that brings the magic of the Australian bush to life through the company’s trademark physical storytelling, alongside beautiful animated illustrations by beloved children’s author and illustrator Freya Blackwood.

Making their 10^th Fringe appearance, family Fringe favourites The Listies return with Make Some Noise, a joyous musical mishmash of sketches, songs and clowning that have brought fun and laughter to gazillions of ‘kidults’ around the world.

Audiences can be sure to revel in an evening at the House of Oz that is filled with music and cabaret. Michaela Burger traverses her family’s past in a new, original musical tribute A Migrant’s Son. Featuring a live band, including piano and bouzouki, Michaela pays tribute to her Greek migrant family and hard-working, fun-loving larrikin father Luke who defied all odds.

Armed with stilettos and a four-octave range, Leather Lungs: Higher Love is set to raise the roof of the House of Oz, as the queen of falsetto storms into Edinburgh with a heart-stopping celebration of liberation and exploration, featuring powerhouse anthems from Queen and Abba performed as you’ve never heard them before.

House of Oz is located at Kings Hall, 41A South Clerk Street Newington, Edinburgh EH8 9NZ, and is open every day from 10am to 11pm, with late-night shows on Fridays and Saturdays and later opening on Sundays and Thursdays.

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Festival support for Scotland’s artists

Showcasing home-grown talent to the world

The very best of cultural talent from Scotland will be under the spotlight this month as Edinburgh welcomes visitors from home and abroad to its world-class summer arts festivals.

Six of the festivals have received support from the Scottish Government’s Expo Fund to commission new work, some of which will tour internationally following festival performances. Under the Made in Scotland banner there are 18 funded shows this year featuring an exciting mix of theatre, music and dance commissions and performances.

In addition, the Platforms for Creative Excellence (PLACE) programme – jointly funded by the Scottish Government and the City of Edinburgh Council – focuses on programme innovation, creative development, and community.

Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said: “Scotland has a wealth of phenomenally talented artists and the Edinburgh festivals provide a fantastic platform for them to reach a much wider audience.

“Expo and PLACE funding have not only helped to raise the profile of Scottish artists but contributed to a more vibrant and diverse arts scene both at home and internationally.

“There is something for everyone across the summer festivals and I hope people from home and abroad, whether they’re taking part in events or watching performances will enjoy this fantastic celebration of culture.”

Festivals Edinburgh chair Dr Simon Gage said: “We warmly welcome this sustained support from the Scottish Government for our festivals and the people who make them happen.

“This is crucial in allowing us to deliver unparalleled cultural, social and economic benefits that enhance lives at home and Scotland’s profile around the world.”

Since it was set up in 2008, the Expo cohort has received £32 million. Within the first ten years, the fund had supported the commissioning of more than 550 new works of art, music and theatre.

Recipients awarded a share of the £1.8 million Expo Fund for 2023-24 include Edinburgh Art Festival (£130,000), Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society (£550,000), Edinburgh International Book Festival (£85,000), Edinburgh International Festival (£100,000), Edinburgh International Film Festival (£59,000) and Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival (£100,000).

The PLACE Fund was set up five years ago to provide £1 million each year over five years to the Edinburgh festivals.

Free Fringe Workshops in West Pilton

In collaboration with North Edinburgh Arts, JACK ARTS SCOTLAND is bringing a wee taste of the Fringe to North Edinburgh!

Looking for some summer fun? Next week, join us at West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre for a short programme of FREE creative workshops led by Scottish stars of the 2023 Fringe. Fun and memorable workshops for children and young people living in Muirhouse, Pilton, Granton and Drylaw.

No previous experience needed; all abilities welcome!

Find our more and sign up for FREE here:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/…/north-edinburgh-arts…