Author: davepickering

Edinburgh reporter and photographer

Women’s History Month: Nine laws that have transformed the lives of women

There has been an incredible revolution over the past 100 years, which has transformed the lives of women. Opportunities have been created, expectations have been surpassed, and women are now on track to achieve equality. Changes in the law have empowered women to gain the right to vote, right to an education, right to divorce, the right to legal abortions, as well as provide them with a platform to advocate for issues that were not previously addressed (writes KAREN HOLDEN). Continue reading Women’s History Month: Nine laws that have transformed the lives of women

New chapter for Reading Challenge

More young people will be able to get involved in the First Minister’s Reading Challenge as it expands to include secondary schools, libraries and community groups. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon made the announcement at Riverside Primary School in Stirling – the winner of the School and Community Partnership Reading Journey award for its participation in the challenge. Continue reading New chapter for Reading Challenge

Exercising over 70? Old age no age to give up the lycra, says charity

  • ·          Many Scots in their 70s remaining fit and active with regular exercise classes, gym visits and walks
  • ·          70 + year olds do on average 2.8 hours physical activity a week
  • ·          32 per cent of older non-exercisers confess they have no reason not to
  • ·          Royal Voluntary Service says it’s possible to get in shape in later life and never too late to be active
  • ·          Ambassador Elaine Paige reveals why getting older won’t slow her down

Hundreds of thousands[1] of Scotland’s exercise conscious elders are giving younger people a run for their money by hitting the gym, striking yoga poses and playing sports at 70+. Continue reading Exercising over 70? Old age no age to give up the lycra, says charity

Happiness comes to Edinburgh on International Happiness Day

On International Happiness Day, a UN initiative recognising happiness as a fundamental human goal, two Edinburgh volunteers have announced they will be organising an eight-week happiness course in the Capital, supported by UK charity, Action for Happiness. Continue reading Happiness comes to Edinburgh on International Happiness Day

Safe as Houses: new home safety regulations proposed

All homes will have the highest level of protection from smoke and fire, the Scottish Government has announced. Following a consultation on fire and smoke alarms, the existing high standard required in private rented housing will be extended to all homes.  Continue reading Safe as Houses: new home safety regulations proposed

Good VIBES for Edinburgh businesses

Businesses in Edinburgh are being urged to act now to embrace the economic opportunity of sustainability by the VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Awards.The leading environmental awards underlined the need for urgent action to address the environmental challenges currently faced as well as highlighting the potential business benefits which this can deliver. Continue reading Good VIBES for Edinburgh businesses

Lights out at City Chambers on Saturday

On Saturday, the City of Edinburgh Council will once again demonstrate their commitment to action on climate change, joining WWF Scotland for the planet’s biggest environmental event. Following the unprecedented success of Earth Hour 2017, the Council will join millions of people from 187 countries around the world in switching off their City Chambers lights for one hour on Saturday 24 March at 8.30pm. Continue reading Lights out at City Chambers on Saturday