While all households benefit from public services – some benefit more than others
Research from 2007-08 found that the average cash benefit to households from public services was more than £21,400 per year – but that those on low and modest incomes gain especially.
Spending on public services is particularly valuable for families with children.
We know that women use and depend upon public services more than men. This is because women are more likely to be on low wages, more likely to experience poverty, more likely to have unpaid caring responsibilities for children, elderly, and disabled people, and far more likely to experience domestic abuse and gender-based violence. Services that support families on low incomes including free school meals and childcare are vital to women in Scotland.
In contrast, men disproportionately benefit from tax cuts, such as cuts to national insurance, as they earn more. Across the UK, 26% of men are classed as high earners, but only 18% of women.iii
As well as being more likely to benefit from receiving public services, women are also more likely to work in public services. In Scotland, 40 per cent of female employees are public sector workers compared to only 23 per cent of male employees.
Research from last year found that a 12% increase in public sector pay would reduce Scotland’s earnings gap between men and women by about 2 percentage points.iv
The STUC Women’s Committee is calling for tax raising measures to be put in place to protect our public services. This includes increases in income taxes for high earners, as well as wealth and property taxes.
Lorna Glen, Chair of the STUC Women’s Committee said: “If the Scottish Government are serious about tackling gender inequality, then they need to invest in our public services.
“STUC’s tax report shows that is within the powers of our parliament – through income and property taxes – to raise £1.1 billion from April next year. Coupled with longer-term wealth, property and aviation taxes, the Scottish Government could raise a further £2.6 billion.
“Rather than threatening cuts to public services, these are the measures that we need to see if we are to reduce gender inequality.
“It is women who both power our public services and depend on them.”
UK Chief Vet urges owners to take all necessary steps to ensure they are complying with the law
From 31 December all XL Bully type dogs must be kept on a lead and muzzled in public.
It will also be illegal from this date to breed, sell, advertise, gift, exchange, and abandon these dogs or let them stray.
UK Chief Vet urges owners to take all necessary steps to ensure they are complying with the law.
Over 4,000 exemption certificate applications have now been received.
XL Bully owners are today being urged to make sure they are ready to comply with new restrictions that come into force on 31 December in England and Wales.
The message from the UK Chief Vet Christine Middlemiss comes with less than two weeks for the deadline for keeping XL Bully dogs on a lead and muzzled when in public. It will also become illegal to breed, sell, advertise, gift, exchange, abandon, or let XL Bully dogs stray from this date.
There is also just over 6 weeks left to apply for an exemption certificate before the ban of the breed comes into force on the 1st February. Over 4000 applications have been now received with the majority of certificates issued in less than a week.
Owners will need to provide proof that their dog has been microchipped and it will need to be neutered by 30th June for older dogs, and the end of 2024 if the dog is under one year old.
Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss said: “New legal restrictions for XL Bullies are now less than a fortnight away. Owners should read the guidance and ensure they are ready to comply with the new rules, which includes keeping your XL Bully dog muzzled and on a lead in public from 31 December.
“From 1 February 2024, it will also be a criminal offence to be in possession of an XL Bully in England and Wales unless you have applied for an exemption. Please do not risk leaving it to the last minute if you want to keep your dog, you should apply now for a Certificate of Exemption.
“We recommend a precautionary approach – if you are unsure if your dog is an XL Bully or whether any puppies may grow up to be of this dog type, you should comply with the relevant requirements and restrictions.”
After the transition period ends, owners without a Certificate of Exemption could receive a criminal record and an unlimited fine if they are found to be in possession of an XL Bully type. These measures are being introduced to safeguard the public following an increase in dog attacks in recent years. Up until 2021 there were around 3 fatalities per year. There have been 23 since the start of 2021 – with the XL Bully being disproportionately involved in this rise.
To receive an exemption, owners must hold active public liability insurance for their dog, have had their dog microchipped, and pay the application fee. Owners will also be required to provide proof that their dog has been neutered. For most dogs, this will be by 30th June, and for dogs under one year old, this should be by the end of 2024.
During the transition period, owners who no longer wish to keep their dogs and who arrange for a vet to euthanise them may apply for compensation towards this. Owners and their vets will need to complete a form to make a claim.
Leading animal welfare organisations including Blue Cross, Dogs Trust, PDSA and Battersea Dogs and Cats Home have developed a range of helpful resources and free online learning opportunities to support owners to muzzle train their dogs.
Owners whose dogs are dangerously out of control are already breaking the law, and the enforcement authorities have a full range of powers to apply penalties to them. Under the Dangerous Dogs Act, people can be put in prison for up to 14 years, be disqualified from ownership and their dangerous dogs can be euthanised.
If your dog is less than one year old on 31 January 2024, it must be neutered and evidence received by 31 December 2024
more than one year old on 31 January 2024, it must be neutered and evidence received by 30 June 2024
If your dog is already neutered, a vet must confirm this by:
31 December 2024 for dogs less than one year old on 31 January 2024
30 June 2024 for dogs more than one year old on 31 January 2024
DOES THE LEGISLATION APPLY IN SCOTLAND?
Then Secretary of State for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs, Therese Coffey (remember her – Ed.?) confirmed the UK Government intention to add XL bullies to the 1991 Act and plans to speak to devolved nations to implement this across the UK. If Scottish Ministers agree, then the ban will be applied in Scotland.
If a ban is implemented in Scotland then this does not mean XL bullies will be euthanised, they can be added to the index of exempted dogs.
The UK Government plans to convene an expert group to specify a legal definition of the XL bully. The group will consist of animal welfare experts, veterinary professionals, the police, experts in breeds and representatives from the four nations.
The findings of the group will inform Scotland’s actions on the ban going forward.
(INFO – Scottish SPCA)
Last month (November) a Scottish Government spokesperson said: “We are carefully considering the evidence as to whether changes to ban the XL Bully dogs and breed will be applied in Scotland.”
Jet2holidays launches a cracker of a Christmas competition, offering 13 tree-mendous holidays
Jet2holidays has announced the launch of Smashing Through the Snow – a very merry competition online, giving holidaymakers the opportunity to win one of 13 tree-mendous holidays over the festive period.
Customers are being given daily chances to win a holiday between 14th-25th December by smashing through presents to gain as many points as possible in 30 seconds. Watch out for the coal, however, as points will be deducted!
To enter customers must sign up to become a myJet2 member and download the Jet2 mobile app.
With points contributing towards entries into a grand prize draw on 28th December to win a 7-night Indulgent Escapes holiday for two adults and two children to the 5-star Cullinan in Antalya, there are additional ways for players to increase their chances of winning. Entering consecutive days in a row creates a bonus multiplier which increases each day users play and sharing the campaign with friends earns extra entries too!
In addition to the lucky grand prize draw winner, twelve more holidaymakers will be jetting off with Jet2holidays, Jet2CityBreaks, Jet2Villas, Indulgent Escapes or VIBE by Jet2holidays in the instant daily wins hidden behind each door.
With a total of thirteen prizes up for grabs and multiple chances to win, entrants have plenty of opportunity to grab a getaway with Jet2holidays in the run up to Christmas.
A 7-night VIBE by Jet2holidays getaway for 2 adults to the Amare Beach Hotel in Ibiza
Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “We are delighted to be giving the gift of holidays this Christmas and spreading some festive fun by unwrapping our Smashing through the Snow competition.
“With 13 holidays up for grabs, customers have plenty of opportunity to win a holiday this festive season. We wish everyone the best of luck!”
In a world that often seems filled with challenges and stressors, films targeted at an adult audience can offer not just entertainment, but also valuable psychological insights and a much-needed escape from the same old festive films …
Orange County CBD have teamed up with psychologist James Williams, who picked out 10 feel-good movies for adults, each chosen for their unique psychological insights and their ability to uplift and inspire:
The Grand Budapest Hotel
Psychological Insight:
This whimsical yet profound film illustrates the beauty of friendship and loyalty in a visually stunning and quirky way. It underscores the importance of human connections and the memories we create with others.
Silver Linings Playbook
Psychological Insight:
A candid look at mental health issues, this film highlights the power of optimism and finding the ‘silver lining’ in tough situations. It’s a poignant reminder of the importance of understanding, compassion, and accepting one’s flaws.
Lost in Translation
Psychological Insight:
This film explores themes of loneliness, connection, and the search for meaning in life. It beautifully captures the psychological journey of finding solace and understanding in unexpected places.
Little Miss Sunshine
Psychological Insight:
This dark comedy deftly balances humor with serious themes, exploring the complexities of family life and individual struggles. It highlights the psychological importance of acceptance, support, and unconditional love within a family.
Amélie
Psychological Insight:
A charming and visually rich film, Amélie explores the joy of small things and the impact of kindness. It shows the psychological benefits of altruism and its uplifting effects on mental health.
Garden State
Psychological Insight:
This film delves into themes of self-discovery, healing, and the search for authenticity. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of the journey towards understanding oneself and forming genuine connections.
Midnight in Paris
Psychological Insight:
A magical realist journey into the world of nostalgia and the allure of a ‘golden age.’ It offers a psychological exploration of the dangers of romanticizing the past at the expense of the present.
The Intouchables
Psychological Insight:
This heartwarming story of an unlikely friendship showcases the transformative power of human connection and empathy. It highlights how breaking down social and physical barriers can lead to fulfilling and life-changing relationships.
Sideways” (2004)
Psychological Insight:
A nuanced exploration of midlife crises, friendship, and personal growth. It demonstrates the psychological process of coping with disappointment and the journey towards self-acceptance.
Her
Psychological Insight:
This unique film offers a meditation on love, loss, and the human need for connection in an increasingly digital world. It explores the psychological impacts of technology on relationships and the nature of intimacy.
Each of these films, while catering to an adult audience, offers a deep dive into the complexities of human emotions and relationships. They are not just movies; they’re experiences that resonate on a psychological level, providing both entertainment and a chance for introspection and emotional growth.
Through their narratives, these films remind us of the power of resilience, the importance of human connections, and the endless possibilities that life offers, making them perfect for those seeking a feel-good experience with depth and maturity.
AS many homeowners up and down the country will be transforming their homes into a beautiful winter wonderland this Christmas, NICEIC, the UK’s leading body for registered electricians, are encouraging households to recognise the lurking dangers that can stem from plugging in extra Christmas décor around the home.
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Paul Collins, Technical Director at NICEIC shares his tops tips for a safe Christmas:
Paul comments: “After 12 months of being stored away, Christmas lights can easily get damaged. You should always check the lights thoroughly to ensure they are not impaired or broken and only use replacement bulbs of the same type and rating as those originally supplied.
“Never attempt to repair lights by using tape or joining with another set of lights and remember to check the wiring of the plug to make sure no bare wires are visible. Finally, avoid using too many extension leads or adapters and always switch lights off before you go to bed or go out as they can overheat.
“Many will be unaware of the additional dangers that can arise, but with our advice, we hope that we can limit any Christmas catastrophes and that everyone can enjoy the festivities safely.”
You can search for a registered electrician in your area by visiting www.niceic.com
Barratt Developments Scotland, which includes Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes, has made a substantial contribution of £355.5m to the Scottish economy, with the housebuilder’s East Scotland division supplying £115.5m in GVA itself.
In the year ending 30 June 2023, Barratt East Scotland also completed 847 new homes of which 187 were affordable, and supported 1,641 direct, indirect and induced jobs across the region, which includes Edinburgh and The Lothians.
2023 also saw the largest UK housebuilder reinforce its commitment to creating homes for nature as well as people. The business created 10.3ha of public green spaces and private gardens around the region, the equivalent of 15 football pitches, to help support wildlife on and around its sites.
Across the UK, Barratt is working towards reducing its direct carbon emissions by 29 per cent by 2025 and indirect emissions by 24 per cent per square metre by 2030. In the past year, CO2e emissions per 100m.sq. of completed build area fell to 1.87t in Scotland – a reduction of 2 per cent from the 2018 benchmark.
Alison Condie, managing director for Barratt Developments East Scotland, said:“As the UK’s largest housebuilder, and one of the most sustainable, we place considerable emphasis on supporting people, the environment and generating strong economic growth for the region.
“We are proud to have made such a positive contribution to the region in 2023 with 847 new homes being delivered to families and boosting the local economy by £115.5m.”
As part of its housebuilding activity, Barratt East Scotland has made £3.4m in local contributions to help build new facilities and community infrastructure. This contribution includes the provision of 173 new school places. More than £27.3m has also been spent on physical works within communities, such as highways, environmental improvements and community facilities.
Other key findings from the Barratt East Scotland 2021 socio-economic report include:
Increased support for public services with £28.9m in generated tax revenues
Over £96,000 donated to local charitable and community causes
296 supplier and 276 sub-contractor companies supported
Increased support for the UK supply chain with 90% of all components centrally procured, assembled or manufactured in-country
More than £15.2m in retail spending by new residents, helping support 150 retail and service-related jobs
The development of new and future talent remains a key priority for Barratt Developments Scotland and 75 graduates, apprentices and trainees launched their careers with the company in 2023, including 24 from its East Scotland division.
The assessment of Barratt Developments’ performance was carried out by independent consultants Lichfields, who analysed socio-economic impacts through the delivery chain for new housing based on Barratt datasets, published research and national statistics.
The World Health Organisation released its Global Status Report on Road Safety
Stats show the UK has made much less progress in the last decade when compared to the decade before
RoSPA: The Government must publish its long overdue Road Safety Strategic Framework as soon as possible and set casualty reduction targets in line with other G7 countries
The United Kingdom is lagging behind other European countries when it comes to road safety progress in reducing the number of people killed on its roads.
The latest Global Status Report on Road Safety should be a wakeup call to Government, leading accident prevention charity The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has said.
RoSPA is calling for the Government to publish its long overdue Road Safety Strategic Framework which has not been updated in England since 2019.
According to the latest figures from the report[1] and RoSPA’s analysis of recent road safety statistics[2], the UK road safety progress has come to a grinding halt since 2010, with fatalities and injuries plateauing.
This December marks a decade of stagnation, during which we have seen a five per cent reduction in deaths across Great Britain versus a 46 per cent reduction across UK in the decade to 2010.
While road safety in the UK has stalled, overall, the European region has seen a 36 per cent reduction in road deaths.
David Walker, Head of Road and Leisure Safety at RoSPA, said:“We are seeing around 81 people killed or seriously injured on our roads every day, which is unacceptable and evidently linked to the dramatic lack of UK road safety progress over the last decade.
“We cannot and must not wait to act and urge the Government to publish its long overdue Road Safety Strategic Framework for England, and to set out casualty reduction targets that are in line with other G7 nations. Only then can we begin to address our woeful position on the road safety leaderboard.”
Nearly three-quarters of people are happy to embrace new traditions
1 in 4 people will spend Christmas Day with friends
1 in 2 have had an unexpected guest turn up on the day
Dive deeper into the One Roof, One Christmas campaign, here
In a delightful departure from tradition, Christmas 2023 is set to showcase the evolving spirit of British family and social gatherings. New research indicates a heart-warming shift towards inclusive celebrations that blend families, friends, and even unexpected guests into the festive mix.
As part of its One Roof, One Christmas campaign, One4all Gift Cards has surveyed 1,009 UK adults, uncovering some of the new ways families are deciding to spend their Christmas Day – with 74% of people revealing they’re happy to embrace new traditions or guests for the day.
Nearly three-quarters (72%) of people said they typically spend the day with additional guests beyond their immediate family, with their partners’ siblings, in-laws, and colleagues all potentially bagging an invite.
1 in 2 (50%) people revealed they’ve had an unexpected guest turn up for Christmas Day, with 7% of respondents even revealing an ex-partner has still made an appearance at the dinner table.
And with all these extra guests stopping by, it’s no surprise that more than a quarter (26%) revealed they’ve had to change their plans to accommodate another guest’s requests.
From indulging in two dinners to please the in-laws, last-minute dog-sitting duties until the new year, and even a quick trip to the hospital as a guest went into labour, it’s good news to hear that nearly half (47%) haven’t let these changes turn into a disagreement with their family.
More than 1 in 5 (22%) said they’ve introduced new traditions as part of someone’s culture or religion, including a festive bike ride, attending mass, or indulging in cuisines from around the world. 1 in 4 (26%) said they’ve eaten something different to a traditional Christmas dinner to accommodate new guests.
The survey also revealed Christmas traditions which some families have had to adopt from their partners, including door-to-door carol singing and putting up less-than-appealing Christmas decorations.
And whilst 54% of people said they embraced their partners’ traditions, 8% admitted they don’t enjoy doing these at all.
But above all else, the most important traditions families like to stick to on the day were to eat a particular meat at dinner and open their presents at the same time every year.
As part of their campaign, One4all Gift Cards has partnered with TV personality and presenter Ferne McCann to share how she celebrates Christmas with her family.
Ferne, who has recently given birth to her daughter Finty with fiancée, Lorri Haines, who also has a daughter, Sunday from a previous relationship. Discusses how she plans to spend the festive season with her blended family.
“This Christmas is a particularly special one for me and my partner as it will be our first with our newborn Finty. It’s such a special time of year, bringing together our children, friends and family under one roof to celebrate.
“Every year our Christmas morning begins with a tradition that we’ve always stuck to – the whole family has to wait until after breakfast before we can open presents!
“Food is an important part of our celebrations too, growing up I was always on stuffing ball duty on the big day. I’ll be passing this tradition down to Sunday this year so she can get involved in preparing the Christmas dinner and she loves helping my Mum make her famous homemade sausage rolls and mince pies too.
“As it’s Finty’s first Christmas, we’ll be introducing a new tradition to our festivities. I love the old-fashioned traditions and making Christmas about the people who are in your life all year round. So, I’ll be hosting a little Christmas carol get together in my home on Christmas morning, with family, friends and neighbours. It’s a lovely way to bring everyone together on this special day.”
Lou Hickey, Marketing Director atOne4all Gift Cards, commented, “Christmas can be a wonderful time of year for many, who love nothing more than celebrating the season with their favourite traditions, spent with their closest relatives.
“But it’s natural that some of us are now adopting new traditions, spending the day a little differently as many families grow and change shape, welcoming extended family and friends under one roof on the big day.
“Whether we are embracing different cultures, inviting our neighbours to pull up a chair, or even carving something other than a turkey for dinner, our survey revealed that Brits are happy to incorporate new traditions and new guests into their day.
“If anything, it adds even more magic to Christmas. Also, with the potential of unexpected guests joining for the day, a One4all Gift Card can easily double up as a last-minute present or be spent on additional food and decorations to accommodate everyone.”
The most common unexpected traditions Brits have had happen at Christmas are:
Spending the day visiting multiple family members (39%)
Having an unexpected guest join the day (35%)
Eat something else besides Christmas Dinner (26%)
Introducing new traditions related to culture or religion (22%)
Having an ex turn up at Christmas (7%)
Give a gift of choice with a One4all Gift Card that can be spent with more than 170 brands in-store or online with participating retailers. Available to buy from your local Post Office, Tesco, selected Morrisons, Co-op, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Aldi, Poundland and Iceland supermarkets nationwide, and online at one4all.com, ranging in value from £10 to £120.
With a commitment to continuous improvement, the Scottish Parliament is actively exploring new Gaelic resources for its website users and social media followers. As part of this initiative, the Parliament is seeking input on potential offerings.
This work follows the recent approval of The Scottish Parliament’s latest Gaelic Language Plan for 2023 to 2028 by Bòrd na Gàidhlig. The Plan lays out the commitments to supporting and promoting the use of Gaelic within the organisation.
Since the Gaelic Language Act was passed in 2005, public bodies like the Scottish Parliament need to prepare a Gaelic Language Plan every 5 years.
Earlier in 2023, the Scottish Parliament sought public input on its proposed Plan. The consultation received a range of responses, from fluent Gaelic speakers, those learning the language, and others with an interest in the language. Most of the responses expressed approval for the existing plans with some valuable new suggestions also contributed.
“Over 120 people helped us with shaping our approach to Gaelic over the next five years,” said Dr Alasdair MacCaluim, the Scottish Parliament’s Gaelic Development Officer.
“The Parliament extends its gratitude to all participants for their valuable contributions. We now want to understand what Gaelic resources our audience would find most useful going forward.”
“For example, do you have an interest in Gaelic podcasts? Would you be interested in subscribing to a monthly Gaelic newsletter? Are you currently following our Gaelic Twitter account (ParlAlba)? We’d love to hear from you.”
Ealasaid MacDonald, Ceannard (CEO) of Bòrd na Gàidhlig said: “It is important that public sector bodies like the Scottish Parliament are taking seriously the principle that Gaelic belongs to the whole of Scotland and are championing the promotion of a positive image of Gaelic, increasing the learning of Gaelic, and increasing the use of Gaelic.”
You can share your thoughts with the Scottish Parliament’s Gaelic team by emailing gaidhlig@parliament.scot
Children’s charity helped during toughest months with new funding
Edinburgh’s Children’s Hospital Charity (ECHC) has been boosted at a crucial time following an £8,000 donation from a business close to its heart.
After completing the capital’s gruelling Seven Hills of Edinburgh challenge, an 11-strong team from residential developers Square & Crescent raised thousands of pounds that will go directly to the charity’s Hospital Hub.
The timely funds will support the charity’s active Hospital Hub, which is located within the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People and is at its busiest time during winter months.
Entirely reliant on donations, the Hub is the hospital’s wellbeing centre, acting as a non-clinical space for children and their families to spend time away from wards, allowing them to enjoy a range of activities, events and therapies.
The donation further strengthens the link between ECHC and Square & Crescent, with the latter refurbishing large elements of Edinburgh’s former Royal Hospital for Sick Children into its Royal Meadows development and agreeing a formal partnership earlier this year.
Kate Dixon, Corporate & Partnerships Lead at ECHC, said: “Square & Crescent’s donation comes at a really important time for ECHC. Our Hospital Hub sees the most use during the festive months, providing comforting respite for children and families during difficult hospital stays, so this extra funding is a great boost.
“Not only do we want to continue to improve the Hub’s facilities but it’s about expanding its offering past just a safe space, offering valuable activities and events so children and young people can make the best of a tricky time.
“We’re very grateful, not just for the latest funding from Square & Crescent, but for its ongoing support and collaboration with our charity.”
The team at Square & Crescent raised £8,000 by tackling the Seven Hills of Edinburgh challenge, which consists of reaching the peak and walking between seven of the famous hills in the capital – Arthurs Seat, Castle Rock, Calton Hill, Corstorphine Hill, Braid Hills, Blackford Hill and Craiglockhart Hill.
ECHC is currently fundraising for its annual Christmas appeal, which aims to bring festive fun and happiness to children and families facing potentially life-changing hospital visits this December.
This includes a programme of daily activities throughout the month to make sure no one spending the season in hospital misses out on the magic. So far, children have been entertained by Santa abseiling into the building, a silent disco around the wards and a live pipe band.
ECHC’s former headquarters is one of the buildings being converted as part of the major Royal Meadows development, which will see the former hospital site transformed into a mix of luxury townhouses and apartments.
The charity was founded in the 1980s where it was based at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children site near Edinburgh’s Meadows, before the hospital’s relocation to Little France in 2021.
Euan Marshall, Co-Founder and joint Managing Director of Square & Crescent said: “ECHC is doing incredible work so we were delighted to take on a challenge like the Seven Hills to raise vital funds.
“As we sensitively redevelop the former Royal Hospital for Sick Children into our Royal Meadows development, we feel a real connection with the charity. It brings us a lot of pride to give back in any small way we can and to be able to support the vital work they are doing for young people in Edinburgh and the Lothians.”
Square & Crescent’s Royal Meadows development is targeted for completion in 2025 and is set to launch a sales suite in early 2024. It spans across four-acres and is situated one mile from Princes Street and a short walk from Lothian Road, benefitting from a city centre location.
Square & Crescent is a widely-regarded residential developer with a primary focus on the acquisition, development and refurbishment of beautiful homes.
For more information on Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity, visit https://echcharity.org/
For more information on Royal Meadows, or to register interest, please email sales@squareandcrescent.com or call Lesley Coyle on 07586 129184.
