Author: davepickering

Edinburgh reporter and photographer

Mainstream Human Rights in future budgets, urges Equalities and Human Rights Committee

Holyrood’s Equalities and Human Rights Committee has published its findings into the Scottish Government’s Draft Budget. Released on World Human Rights Day, the committee is urging the Government not to step back in equalities budgeting, after having led the way in this area for many years. Continue reading Mainstream Human Rights in future budgets, urges Equalities and Human Rights Committee

Local MP spends day with Scottish SPCA

The Scottish SPCA was delighted to welcome local MP Ian Murray out on a trip in the Edinburgh area with animal rescue officer Sarah Auldsmith. Scotland’s animal welfare charity showcased their work by taking Mr Murray out to a number of animal rescues to show him what goes on behind the scenes. Continue reading Local MP spends day with Scottish SPCA

Letters: Lonely this Christmas

Dear Editor

Many people with the chronic, neurological condition M.E. tell us they feel very lonely and isolated at this time of year, particularly those who live alone with no family or friends to share the festivities with. A visit, phone call or simply a thoughtful card from a friend could make a positive difference – so if you know someone with M.E., let them know you are thinking of them this festive season.
If you have M.E. and you need information and support, call us on 0117 927 9551 (we’re here until 4pm on 22 December, and re-open on 3 January), or join one of our friendly online forums, open 24/7. You can also read advice from Rose, who has M.E., in her article on coping with Christmas alone at www.actionforme.org.uk/alone-at-xmas
Sonya Chowdhury
Chief Executive
Action for M.E.
42 Temple Street,
Keynsham BS31 1EH

Local Governance Review to ‘strengthen local decision-making’

Communities to have their say on how more decisions can be taken at a local level

 

The Scottish Government and COSLA have jointly launched a Local Governance Review, which will make sure local communities have more say about how public services in their area are run. The review will involve hearing from communities all across the country to get a clear understanding of the type of changes that are needed, and how these can be made to happen. Continue reading Local Governance Review to ‘strengthen local decision-making’

Mesh Implant report lets down survivors, says Green MSP

Green MSP Alison Johnstone has called for the findings of a report into the scandal of women being forced to live in severe and constant pain because of transvaginal mesh implants to be looked at again. The Scottish Greens’ health spokesperson says the recommendations do not give sufficient clarity to ministers, MSPs and the Scottish Mesh Survivors – the group behind the Hear Our Voice campaign.


Lothian MSP Alison Johnstone said: “The Public Petitions Committee has reflected that Professor Alison Britton’s report on the independent review will focus on the process that was followed and will not revisit the findings and recommendations of the report itself.  In Dr Wael Agur’s view, a consultant urogynecologist who is playing a leading role in the review, recommending that ‘transvaginal mesh procedures must not be offered routinely’ does not give sufficient clarity.  I too believe that the findings of the report must also be revisited.

“Scotland had an opportunity to show global leadership on mesh. I am, like other MSPs, extremely dismayed that the final report did not reflect that.  We missed the opportunity to lead then and we let down mesh survivors in the process.

“Work to improve reporting of adverse incidents related to medical devices is more urgent than ever.  The case for imposing a real suspension of all transvaginal mesh procedures is stronger than ever and I urge the Cabinet Secretary to open the Final Report of the Scottish review of mesh surgery up to public consultation.”

Ms Johnstone added: “Meeting the mesh survivors when they came to Parliament was eye-opening.  No one appreciates more than the women themselves how debilitating, how life-restricting incontinence can be.  While we all appreciate that surgery can never be guaranteed 100% safe or side effect free, to have such devastating outcomes in a group of patients is absolutely unacceptable.”

 

Tea from two: New Tea Sorbet celebrates the launch of The Giant Lanterns of China

This winter, RZSS Edinburgh Zoo is home to The Giant Lanterns of China, an installation of over 450 dazzling giant lanterns that will illuminate the Zoo for 50 awe-inspiring nights. To celebrate the magnificent spectacle, the UK’s leading leaf tea experts, eteaket, has collaborated with Mackie’s of Scotland to produce a refreshing and zingy tea sorbet. Continue reading Tea from two: New Tea Sorbet celebrates the launch of The Giant Lanterns of China