Damehood for Dr. Jenny Harries

UKHSA Chief Executive, Dr Jenny Harries, has received the title of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for her outstanding service to public health.

Jonathan Turner, Head of Scientific and Technical Services has been awarded an MBE with Professor Kevin Fenton, London Regional Director of Public Health, Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, awarded a CBE.

Dr Harries has worked tirelessly to keep the nation safe during the COVID-19 pandemic with a focus on providing advice and support to the most vulnerable people in the country. Throughout the pandemic, she has provided health advice to the public at critical times in her role as Deputy Chief Medical Officer.

Dr Harries is now the Chief Executive of the newly formed UK Health Security Agency which brings together Public Health England and NHS Test and Trace, including the Joint Biosecurity Centre, with a remit to plan and prepare for current and future threats to our health.

Dr Harries is uniquely placed to understand the national challenges the nation faces and the importance of working closely with local and regional colleagues to address them, particularly supporting the most vulnerable in our communities.

Prior to becoming Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr Harries was the Deputy Medical Director at Public Health England, where she played a leading role in the UK’s response to Ebola in West Africa. She also provided crucial expertise to the Zika epidemic response, helping provide scientific advice and input to early studies to provide reassurance to expectant mothers across the UK at a time of considerable concern.

She also led the successful responses to the detection of MERS in the UK and the first UK cases of Monkeypox, ensuring dangerous infectious diseases were swiftly contained.

Using knowledge from her previous role as PHE Director for the South of England, Dr Harries was instrumental in shaping both the national and local public health response to the Novichok attack in Salisbury. Her public health advice helped contain the risk to the public.

Dame Dr Jenny Harries said: “I am hugely honoured to receive this award. It is accepted on behalf of the countless brilliant and committed colleagues in clinical and scientific communities as well as those who provide such dedicated operational response through every health protection incident and emergency.

“It is they, who have inspired and supported me throughout my career and who continue to work tirelessly to make the UK a safer place, often largely out of sight of the public.

“In the response to COVID-19, and in so much else, the unprecedented speed and diligence of scientific endeavour has saved many thousands of lives and I hope that today’s award will encourage more people, especially women, to pursue careers in science and public service.”

Ian Peters, UKHSA Chair, said: Jenny has made an enormous contribution to protecting the country’s health during an outstanding career. She has repeatedly provided leadership in helping to resolve the most challenging health issues in the UK and overseas, providing expert advice and a reassuring voice during incredibly critical times.

“From the outset in the pandemic firstly as Deputy CMO, and since April as CEO of UKHSA she has combined her public health knowledge and her wide experience, with an integrity and calmness of approach which has led to the saving of many lives. Her honour is thoroughly deserved

Jonathan Turner, Head of Scientific and Technical Services, has worked as a Biomedical Scientist for over 30 years to develop patient-centred and health protection focused public health microbiology services in the South West and across the national network.

Jonathan Turner said: “I am thrilled and honoured to accept this award but do so on behalf of the team in Bristol and the wider diagnostic community. I recognise the efforts of all the team, the support staff, our administrators, warehouse staff, logisticians, and managers as well as our clinicians and scientists.

“I also need to recognise the volunteers that came to our aid, without whom we would not have been able to achieve this response.”

Professor Kevin Fenton, London Regional Director of Public Health, Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, has received a CBE for his 30 years of service and leadership across all domains of public health.

This includes a recognition of his work in improving health outcomes in complex public health programmes including HIV prevention, sexual and reproductive health, child obesity, mental health, health equity and social regeneration, and leading London’s public health response during COVID-19.

Professor Kevin Fenton said: “I am honoured and humbled to receive such a prestigious award alongside other outstanding individuals. As we enter the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic response I am continually inspired by the professionalism, resilience and contributions of so many amazing colleagues who work relentlessly to keep us all safe and well.

“I am accepting this award on behalf of all the incredible public health and NHS teams I am privileged to lead and work with in London and around the nation, who are committed to improving health, tackling health inequalities, building resilient communities and providing high quality health and care services to all.

“They exemplify the best of public health and should be proud of all they have achieved.”

Pilton’s Wee Forests to help fight climate change

Three Wee Forests, including two in North Edinburgh, are to provide a range of benefits in the fight against climate change.

The City of Edinburgh Council, Earthwatch Europe, NatureScot and Edinburgh & Lothians Greenspace Trust kickstarted planting “Wee Forests” in the autumn, creating densely packed native forests – covering the size of a tennis court – built into urban spaces.

Edinburgh’s first three “Wee Forests” were planted over the last couple of months. These forests have been made possible through support from the BlackRock Charitable Trust, OVO Foundation – the charity arm of OVO Energy – and the Scottish Government.

The three Wee (or Tiny) Forests – which were planted at East Pilton Park, West Pilton Park and Mount Vernon supported by local residents and primary school pupils – will not only be attractive locations for wildlife, but for people too, and provide a range of benefits in the fight against climate change.

Wee Forests in Scotland are part of the global family of “Miyawaki Forests” or “Tiny Forests”. Following the method – with its emphasis on community engagement, co-design and careful soil preparation – means that Wee Forests meet a consistent global standard so their benefits can be measured and shared.

A Wee Forest is made up of 600 densely packed native trees in a space the size of a tennis court and is capable of attracting over 500 animal and plant species within the first three years. It also provides rich opportunities for engaging young and old alike with the environment and sustainability.

Culture and Communities Convener, Cllr Donald Wilson, said: “These new Wee Forests will allow residents to be directly involved in tackling the nature and climate crises by being involved in the planting, maintaining and development of the forests in their own community.

“The Wee Forests will also help us work towards our goal of being a Million Tree City by 2030 and contribute towards the Queen’s Green Canopy in celebration of The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee next year.

“For each Wee Forest, we look to engage a core group of volunteers called Tree Keepers to act as ambassadors for their local forest. Volunteering as a Tree Keeper is a great chance to get more involved in your Wee Forest’s development and track the amazing environmental impact of the site and I would encourage everyone to find out more by contacting Earthwatch.”

Culture and Communities Vice Convener, Cllr Amy McNeese-Mechan said: “Our green spaces are a hugely important part of our city and I’m delighted that we now have our first Wee Forests and are creating new spaces for people and wildlife.

“A Wee Forest brings the benefits of a forest – connecting people with nature, raising awareness of the environment, helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change, and supporting urban wildlife – right in the heart of our community within urban spaces in the city.

“I’m delighted that more Wee Forests are planned and encourage our communities to get involved.”

Louise Hartley, Senior Programme Manager said: “Wee (Tiny) Forests provide rich opportunities for connecting young people with the environment and sustainability. It’s vital that we give people the knowledge and skills to protect our natural world and inspire them to take positive action from a young age.

“We are delighted to be working with Edinburgh City Council, the BlackRock Charitable Trust, OVO Foundation and NatureScot to bring these inspiring spaces to Edinburgh and other communities across the UK.”

Gemma Gooch, Co-Head Global Social Impact at BlackRock said: “As more and more people live in urban areas, Wee (Tiny) Forests have the potential to help capture carbon emissions, increase biodiversity and contribute to a more climate resilient society.

“We are very proud to support Earthwatch Europe with this initiative, reminding us that there are ways we can help fight climate change in our own local communities.

Gaby Sethi, Head of OVO Foundation, said: “We’re passionate about educating the younger generation on how to reduce their carbon footprint, protect the physical environment, and limit their impact on the planet.

“Tiny Forests help children learn about the environment and sustainability in a really accessible way. By planting Tiny Forests in urban communities across the UK with Earthwatch, we will help connect children with their local green spaces and show them how they can protect it for future generations.

NatureScot Chief Executive Francesca Osowska said: “The Covid 19 pandemic has shown us just how important it is for people’s health and well-being to have opportunities to connect with nature close to where they live.

“These Wee Forests are not only a great way to make space for nature in our towns and cities, but they’ll also help communities become more resilient to the impacts of climate change, which is particularly important as we look ahead to COP26 and the huge challenges and opportunities facing us.

Charlie Cumming, Chief Executive, Edinburgh & Lothians Greenspace Trust said: “We are delighted to be a local delivery partner for the Wee Forest project. The creation of the Wee Forest is very important for people and wildlife, particularly with it being in an urban environment.

“It will provide the local community and schools with the opportunity to help tackle nature loss and the current climate emergency as well as contributing to Scotland’s tree planting targets.

“It will enable people to engage with nature on their doorstep and inspire young people to take an active interest in their local environment.”

Arise, Sir Gregor!

First Minister congratulates recipients of Queen’s New Year Honours 2022

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has paid tribute to the many recipients of The Queen’s New Year Honours in Scotland, in the year of Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee.

The recipients include:

Professor Gregor Smith, Chief Medical Officer, who is awarded a Knighthood for services to public health.

John-Paul Marks and Elizabeth Ditchburn who are among those who have been awarded a Companion of the Order of the Bath.

Those honoured with a CBE include Dr John Mitchell, Professor Anne Elizabeth Magurran, Norman Loch Murray, Dr Elizabeth Kelly Cameron and Grahame Smith.

Those honoured with an OBE include Dr Syed Ahmed, Professor Ailsa Hall, Rohini Sharma Joshi, Paul Robert Reddish and John Scott.

Laura Catherine Baxter, Hilda Campbell, Matthew John Clark, Michaela Collins, John David Vernon Dent, Kathleen Dawson, Owen Miller and Duncan William MacNaughton Scott are among those who will receive MBEs.

While those receiving BEMs include Anne Elizabeth Doherty, Joseph Freedman, Davina Mary MacInnes Gillies, Eileen Ross Haggarty, Mary Elizabeth Kenyon and Josephine Robson.

Assistant Chief Constable Judith Heaton, Chief Superintendent Louise Blakelock and Chief Inspector Marlene Baillie will receive The Queen’s Police Medal and Patrick O’Meara, of the Scottish Ambulance Service, will receive The Queen’s Ambulance Service Medal.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “The Queen’s New Year Honours list illustrates the outstanding contributions of those across Scotland who have made a difference to their communities throughout the country and beyond.

“From those who work in the arts and music, community and charity, to those who have excelled in the fields of science and medicine, these Honours highlight truly exceptional service to the people of Scotland.

“I am particularly delighted to see Scotland’s athletes who excelled at the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Tokyo so well represented.

“I’m also pleased to see those individuals who continue to do so much to help us in our fight against Covid receive the recognition they so richly deserve. We are all incredibly grateful for their selfless efforts and actions during a hugely challenging time, and it’s right that their outstanding contributions have been acknowledged in this way.

“I also want to extend my congratulations to those personnel who have been awarded The Queen’s Fire, Police or Ambulance Service Medals. Our emergency services have displayed incredible fortitude throughout the pandemic, and deserve our continued appreciation for keeping people and communities across Scotland safe, every day of the year.”

Recipients of The Queen’s New Year Honours in Scotland include:

A Knighthood for:

Professor Gregor Ian Smith for services to public health

Companions of the Order of the Bath (CB) include:

Elizabeth Jean Ditchburn for services to the Scottish economy
John-Paul Marks for services to welfare reform

Commanders of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) include:

Dr Elizabeth Kelly Cameron for services to the promotion of Scotland and UK international trade
Professor Anne Elizabeth Magurran for services to biodiversity
Dr John Ruthven Mitchell for services to improving mental health in Scotland
Norman Loch Murray for services to the arts

Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) include:

Dr Syed Ahmed for services to the Covid-19 vaccination programme
Helene Alexandra Marshall for services to maternity education in Scotland
Paul Robert Reddish for services to the voluntary and community sector during Covid-19
John Scott for political and public service

Among those to be made Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) are:

Hilda Campbell for services to mental health and wellbeing in the community in Scotland during Covid-19
Matthew John Clark for services for politics
Michaela Collins for services to the community in Glasgow during Covid-19
Kathleen Mary Dawson for services to swimming and women in sport
John David Vernon Dent for services to veterans, students and people with disabilities
Duncan William MacNaughton Scott for services to swimming
Owen Miller for services to athletics

Medallists of the Order of the British Empire (BEM) include:

Anne Elizabeth Doherty for services to Yorkhill Children’s Hospital and to the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow
Joseph Freedman for services to the Jewish community in Glasgow during Covid-19
Davina Mary MacInnes Gillies for services to Marie Curie Cancer Care and the community in Inverness and Ross-shire
Eileen Ross Haggarty for services to education and to the community in Dundee during Covid-19
Mary Elizabeth Kenyon for voluntary service to ex-service personnel and to the community in eastern Scotland
Peter Hunter Law for voluntary services to advanced higher physics education in Glasgow
Josephine Robson for services to foster care in Tweeddale.

Wee Oscar celebrates the best year of his life

A miserable year for most, but here’s an uplifiting story to bring 2021 to a happier close …

Oscar Edgar might be six, but he has just spent his first year doing the things other little boys do – playing football, going camping and making new friends.

A year ago little Oscar left the hospital that had been his home for five years. He had been a patient of the Royal Hospital for Children since his birth in April 2015 with an undiagnosed neurological / muscular / respiratory condition which meant he was ventilated until he was four and a half.

Mum Megan, from Glasgow, is now looking back on the 12 months, marvelling at all the ‘firsts’ she has been able to enjoy with her son.

Megan said: “Oscar has had the best year ever. We have been camping, had a cabin holiday with a hot tub, he’s met alpacas and had lots of other adventures.

“He’s also started playing football in a wee team, which he loves. He’s playing with a younger group of kids but that’s fine and he’s growing in confidence. Ronaldo is his favourite player and Rangers is his team, but no doubt that will change soon!

“Oscar and his brother Theo were also ring boys at my friend’s wedding in September – it was a really emotional day as we realised just how far he had come.

“Most importantly, he’s made a best friend – Annie. They just love each other and have a very special bond. Annie can understand everything he says, even when I can’t, which is amazing.”

Oscar’s journey to here has been a complex one and has involved clinical input from a number of different specialities. Still, over the last year, Oscar has had a number of trips to the Royal Hospital for Children, but for the majority of the time he’s been home with his family.

Megan added: “Of course this last year would not have been possible without the incredible support we have had from the amazing hospital staff. Even now, we know we can rely on them.

“Oscar is still terminally ill and for the last six months has also developed problems with air in his stomach. He had to have one operation but even then he was in and out in a day, with great care from the staff.

“They have also made so many things possible. We were told we might never get Oscar home, but with their help we have had an amazing year at home with him. While there were some lows, there were so many more highs.”

Oscar’s doctor is Phil Davies, who has treated him since he was born.

Dr Davies said: “It has been wonderful seeing Oscar at home with his family. He’s had a few ups and downs over the year but has done so well off his ventilator and it is a joy to see him living life to the full.”

HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYONE!

Celebrate safely this Hogmanay

Council Leaders and NHS Lothian’s Director of Public Health echo Scottish Government guidance:

Ahead of the midnight moment on Friday, 31 December, Council Leader Adam McVey, Depute Leader Cammy Day and NHS Lothian’s Director of Public Health Dona Milne are reminding residents to adhere to ongoing public safety guidance and to bring in the bells safely and responsibly.

On Thursday, 30 December a further 16,857 people tested positive for Covid-19 in Scotland, by far the highest daily case number of the pandemic so far.

The latest public health guidance, which was effective from 26 December, limits the numbers at outdoor public events to 500, resulting in the cancellation of the live events planned for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay including the Torchlight Procession, Party at the Bells, midnight fireworks and the Loony Dook.

Council Leader Adam McVey said: “As we approach Hogmanay, case numbers are continuing to increase significantly and I want to echo the First Minister’s advice to stay at home as much as possible in the coming days in a bid to slow down the spread. And if we do get together with friends and family, please limit this to no more than three households.

“Large gatherings at Hogmanay risk increasing further transmissions in our communities and put further pressure on our NHS staff and other vital services. I can’t stress enough the importance of following the rules around handwashing, mask-wearing and ventilation and testing. Visit our website for details of community testing sites or to order a home testing kit.

“As 2021 comes to an end, and with more people getting vaccinated and boosted, we can look more positively towards 2022. But for now, and this Hogmanay, please keep following the guidance and keep yourself and your family safe and protect our NHS.”

Deputy Leader Cammy Day said: The safety of Edinburgh’s residents remains our priority as we continue the battle against Covid-19 and the latest Omicron variant. This has meant that sadly no live events, including the midnight fireworks, will be taking place this year.

“Following the cancellation, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay have announced the release of a new film, ‘Journey Home’, which pays tribute to the hope, love and optimism that people feel when celebrating Hogmanay with those that matter most after such a challenging year, whilst expressing a positive look forward to the future.

“I would encourage you all to tune in as we bid farewell to 2021 – and look forward to a better and more positive 2022.”

Full details of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay film can be found at: www.edinburghshogmanay.com

Dona Milne, Director of Public Health, NHS Lothian, said: We know that everyone wants to welcome in 2022 and enjoy the festivities, however we would ask people to do so responsibly following public health guidance.

“Please do not mix in groups of more than three households and take a Lateral Flow Test before you go out or have people round. If you have not already done so, please make getting your booster your first priority of 2022.

“By taking these small steps, you can help stop the spread of Omicron.

“Remember, the Omicron variant is much more transmissible than previous strains. Although a smaller percentage of infected people may need hospital care, it is a smaller percentage of a far greater number of people, so still a lot of people.

So, even if the admission rate is a third of what we have seen with previous strains, it is expected that the scale of Omicron could still be higher than we have seen before. “

Community test centres and mobile test centres are open for people with no Covid symptoms. Full details of these, and how to order home lateral flow testing kits, are available online.

NHS 24 staff thanked after exceptionally busy four day Christmas weekend

With GP practices closed on Monday 3^rd and Tuesday 4^th, public are urged to be prepared for the long Hogmanay weekend

NHS 24 staff have been praised for their hard-work and dedication after the national service saw exceptional numbers of people using both its telephone and digital services over the Christmas period.

Like all other parts of the health and care service NHS 24 staff are affected by the impact of COVID-19 infection.

Over the four day festive weekend, 44 000 calls were made to the 111 service with 25% of all calls related to COVID.

NHS 24’s online information service, NHS inform, was also busy with 2 million page views across the four days. COVID content accounted for 1.2 million of those views and around 45,000 people completed the COVID self-help guide.

The COVID information-only helpline also saw heavy demand with over 3,000 calls on Monday and Tuesday – up 60% on last year.

Commenting on the efforts of NHS 24 staff working across Scotland, Medical Director Dr Laura Ryan said the weekend was challenging and that COVID related staff absences had inevitably affected the time it took for calls to be answered:

“We knew our 111 service was going to be busy, even before the Omicron variant, but now we have the added challenge of staff affected by COVID, which means we’ve had less available people to answer calls.

“Higher demand for the service, with fewer staff, meant some people had to wait longer than we would have liked for us to answer their call.

“It also meant those who could work, had to work even harder to help as many people as possible, as quickly as possible. I’m exceptionally proud of everyone for their efforts over the Festive weekend.

“We’re now planning for the Hogmanay weekend, which we know will also be busy, so we are urging people to be prepared. GP practices are not open until Wednesday 5^th January so people should pick up any regular medications they rely on.

“Home remedies such as simple pain relief, antihistamines or rehydration salts are a good idea and if you think you might need help or advice for simple health matters, please use NHS inform as your first port of call, including all matters related to COVID-19.

“You may get the answer you need there without having to wait in a queue. It’s also important for people to remember that their local pharmacy is a great source of help for a wide range of conditions and many community pharmacies are open over the weekend. They can also help if you run out of your usual medicines

“If you do need to call us please do be patient – our staff are working as hard as they can and they need your continued support to deliver the best service they can every time, all the time.”

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 2021 returns online tonight with ‘Journeys Home’ film

Following the global phenomenon of their 2021 film, Fare Well, and the cancellation of the live events, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay will release a new film tonight on Hogmanay at 5pm, providing a free and hopefully inspirational offer for the new year celebrations.

Available to stream for free, the film will pay tribute to the hope, love and optimism that people feel at Hogmanay and the turn of the year with a positive look forward to Scotland’s and Edinburgh’s future.

This new artistic collaboration isdelivered by Edinburgh’s Hogmanay producer, Underbelly, on behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council. Entitled ‘Journeys Home’, the project has been made possible with support from HM Government Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport.

The film is based on a short story written by Kathleen Jamie, the current Scots Makar, and specially commissioned by Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, and it draws inspiration from the resilience and sense of communitythat Edinburgh residents and Scotland as a nation have shown throughout the pandemic.

The film also features a specially composed soundtrack by Rura, one of Scotland’s most highly acclaimed folk bands featuring Jack Smedley, Steven Blake, Adam Brown and David Foley. With their distinct blend of fiddle, Highland pipes, flute, bodhrán and guitar, Rura capture the true essence of Hogmanay whilst also starring in the film themselves.

The film follows Kathleen Jamie’s four characters; Cait, Donald, Nana Jean and Calum, who narrate their personal Hogmanay stories, contemplating Hogmanay’s past and loved ones lost, as well as their hope and optimism for future Hogmanays to come.

The film, co-conceived by Underbelly and Arms & Legs, produced by Underbelly and directed by Ross Addy will premiere this evening, 31 December, from 5pm on the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay website here.

The new film has been created following the success of the 2020 production of Fare Well, which became a global phenomenon, seen by over 1 billion worldwide.

Underbelly Co-Directors, Charlie Wood and Ed Bartlam said: “Journeys Home feels like the perfect theme for this year’s film, as people yearn to meet family and friends at Hogmanay at the end of yet another scunnered year.

“Collaborating with the creative brilliance of Kathleen Jamie, Rura, and Arms and Legs has been really special – together they have made a film which sings to the world the creativity of Scottish artists and the hope and optimism that Scotland has for the new year.”

Scots Makar and ‘Journeys Home’ Writer Kathleen Jamie said: “As a writer, I’m not a great believer in ‘inspiration’. You just have to look and listen. We all know New Year is a complex time, more than just a big party – though there is joy and excitement too!

“But even in my own circle we have people who’ll be spending Hogmanay working in hospitals, or grieving loved ones lost in 2021, or who have had to cancel family visits yet again. We all know people who can’t bear to be alone, and others who take solace in the natural world, or in art and music.

“In ‘Journeys Home‘ I hope you will find someone or something you recognise, as we take leave of 2021, and look forward to better days ahead.”

Rura, ‘Journeys Home’ soundtrack composer said: “We were thrilled to be involved in the making of ‘Journeys Home’ and to join forces with such a fantastic team of collaborators!

“Obviously Hogmanay is the biggest night of the year in Scotland, so to play a small part in Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations, especially in the context of the past 2 years, is a true honour.

“We always strive to write music that resonates with people, and this film provided the perfect excuse to sit down and build an arrangement that conveys hope, love and optimism. The stunning camera work and spoken word really did bring tears to our eyes when we first watched it.”

‘Journeys Home’ Director, Ross Addy said: “We wanted to produce a film that faithfully represents the characters in Kathleen’s texts. Each is on their own unique journey, on their way to reconnecting with the people that matter most to them.

“Shooting on location in and around Edinburgh — as well as on Schiehallion — we always endeavoured to articulate the characters’ inner voices, while tracking their journeys through the cityscape and across one of Scotland’s iconic mountain landscapes.

“Hogmanay and New Year mean different things to different people. But the over-arching theme of the film is hope — the hope to reconnect and once again enjoy the relationships that make us human.”

Following recent COVID19 updates from the Scottish Government around Hogmanay celebrations, there will no longer be a midnight firework display at Edinburgh Castle on 31^st December.

For more information please visit https://www.edinburghshogmanay.com

New Year Intentions and Practice with Meadowlark Yoga

How to re-focus and re-energise this new year

New year’s resolutions are notoriously difficult to keep. January can feel gloomy enough without adding the pressure of ‘don’t do this’ and ‘you must do that’ to the mix.

Instead, Meadowlark Yoga is here to show you there is another way to harness the power of the fresh start without it feeling like a burden.

Meadowlark Yoga founder Karen Kirkness says: “Reframing our resolutions as an intention can be a great way to lighten the expectation and instead create opportunity.”

For many, it is a question of motivation – mainly, we aren’t really sure how to get any – but perhaps it is just a case of re-evaluating what it is we want to achieve and why.

“We often refer to the act of rolling out our mats and doing yoga as “practice”. The term reminds us that we are always in the process of learning, and that we will never reach an end goal or final posture. We are teaching ourselves that we approach this beautiful practice without expectation or ambition; we are just here to witness the experience – mindfulness, meditation and contentment. Indeed, yoga practice extends off the mat into our daily lives where we learn to apply the teachings to our ethical, moral and social lives.” – Karen Kirkness

Merging the ideas of ‘intention’ with the concept of ‘practice’ is a way to gently move into the New Year, without harsh agendas or prohibitive lists, just a soft opportunity to explore a new learning experience and a healthy habit.

“There’s no bad time to start a yoga practice but if you need that added momentum to get up off the sofa, step away from the Christmas leftovers and onto your yoga mat, there can be no time like January. You don’t need fancy gear or expensive equipment, just a yoga mat and some comfy clothes. Show up, roll out your mat and we’ll teach you everything you need to know.”

Meadowlark Yoga’s 6 Week Vinyasa Beginners Courses have seen hundreds of students move from their first time on the mat, into a regular, steady yoga practice. In these foundational courses students learn about breath, movement & alignment along with a sprinkling of the philosophy that goes behind the practice. After 6 weeks participants will be ready to join any yoga class or continue a home practice of their own.

Vinyasa Beginners Course:

Tuesday 19:45-20:45 – starting 4th January 2022

Thursday 19:45-20:450 – starting 6th January 2022

Sunday 12:30-13:30 – starting 9th January 2022

Book Now for 2022

Kirkness: “We invite you to join us in the New Year, here at Meadowlark Yoga to foster healthy habits, mindful movement and a lifelong practice, just for you.”

For more information, visit: https://www.meadowlarkyoga.com

New support to help vulnerable countries tackle Omicron

Foreign Secretary Liz Truss has pledged up to £105 million of UK emergency aid to help vulnerable countries tackle the Omicron Covid-19 variant, with a particular focus on Africa.

The vital aid will be delivered through trusted partners and will:

Scale-up testing – especially in parts of Africa where testing rates for Covid-19 remain lowest – allowing health systems to track and respond to the spread of the virus more effectively. This is in addition to the UK’s world-leading genomic sequencing support.
Improve access to oxygen supplies for ventilators – a surge in demand for oxygen is a significant risk for some countries.
Provide communities with hygiene advice, products and access to handwashing facilities and support deep cleaning in schools, health centres and other public places. This will build on the successful global hygiene campaign between UK aid and Unilever which has reached over 1.2 billion people since its launch in 2020.
Fund the UK’s ground-breaking science and research into the spread of variants like Omicron to enable innovative evidence-based policy responses in low and middle-income countries.
Ready the UK’s own expert emergency teams for deployment overseas to crisis hotspots, including with new medical equipment.

The UK Government has also confirmed today that over 30 million vaccines have been delivered so far as part of the UK’s pledge to donate 100 million doses to the world, benefitting more than 30 countries.

Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said: “The UK is providing vital assistance to help tackle the spread of new variants around the world. This is key to securing our freedom and ending this pandemic once and for all.

“I am proud that we have also delivered over 30 million vaccines to benefit our friends around the world this year. The UK is helping other countries most in need. No one is safe until everyone is safe.”

Doses donated by the UK have reached four continents and provided vital protection from Covid-19 in countries including Angola, Cambodia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, Indonesia, Malawi, Nepal, and Rwanda.

Of the more than 30 million doses now donated, 24.6 million have been received by COVAX for delivery to countries and 5.5 million have been shared directly with countries in need including Kenya, Jamaica, and Indonesia.

Millions more vaccines will be sent to other countries in 2022, including 20 million Oxford-AstraZeneca doses and 20 million Janssen doses.

The UK has been at the forefront of the global response to Covid-19. Today’s announcement builds on the £1.3 billion in UK aid committed to the international health response early on in the pandemic, supporting vaccines, health systems and economic recovery in developing countries.

The Government also invested more than £88 million to support the development of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, and the UK became the first country in the world to approve the jab a year ago today.

Thanks to AstraZeneca’s commitment distribute the vaccine on a non-profit basis, 2.5 billion doses have been used in more than 170 countries, two thirds of which are low- and middle-income countries.

Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said: “The global pandemic has challenged health systems around the world and the best way to overcome this awful disease is to unite and stand side by side with our international partners.

“By supporting countries with the UK’s ground breaking science and research into the spread of variants, improving access to oxygen and scaling up testing we will help those most in need chart their course out of the pandemic.

“I am proud that we have already delivered over 30 million vaccines to our friends abroad. The UK, as a global leader, is helping other countries most in need. No one is safe until everyone is safe.”

Dr Seth Berkley, CEO of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, said: “We welcome the UK’s commitment in new funding to protect the most vulnerable, particularly in Africa; the UK’s continued focus on COVAX and equitable global access to COVID19 vaccines, both through early financing commitments made at UNGA 2020, as well as meeting the Prime Minister’s G7 commitment to dose sharing – the 30m target set by the end of 2021.

“We look forward to operationalising the remainder of the UK’s dose sharing commitment via COVAX in 2022, while we also work with the UK Government on continuing to support Gavi’s ambitious 2021- 2025 routine vaccination programmes, of which the United Kingdom is the largest funder through the PM’s commitment made at the UK-hosted Global Vaccine Summit in June 2020.”

Firework fear: experts urge pet owners to start preparing their furry friends for New Year’s Eve

Vet charity warn fearful pets face fireworks misery

As we look forward to New Year’s Eve celebrations, many pet owners may find themselves more stressed than excited by the prospect.

Vet charity PDSA is urging owners to take preventive action – especially those who took on a pet during the pandemic – in a bid to reduce the extreme distress and suffering that fireworks can cause for many of our four-legged friends.

Our pets’ enhanced senses mean they can find the loud noises and bright flashes from fireworks overwhelming, which can lead to severe anxiety and trauma.

PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing said: “The firework season may be an especially difficult time for pups who were raised during lockdown – our 2021 PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report* shows that 15 per cent of UK dogs (139,000) obtained during the pandemic are showing signs of fear.

“One well recognised fear in dogs is noise phobias, and our previous research reports that 40% of dogs are afraid of fireworks. Of those dogs owned before the pandemic, our research revealed 3% of dogs (260,000) were reported as showing signs of fear, so it’s unknown what the impact will be come New Year.

“Thankfully, there are simple steps that can be followed to reduce distress in our pets – the sooner you can start preparing the better. While some pets who are very affected by fireworks can take months of training to make them more comfortable with the bangs and flashes, there are still plenty of things you can do now to help. PDSA has produced a free guide to help owners lessen the impact of this stressful period.”

PDSA’s top tips on tackling fireworks phobias include:

1. Start early

The earlier you can start your pre-fireworks prep, the better. Play firework noises quietly throughout the house in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve, and pair these with their favourite treat! If they show any signs of stress, stop the noises, and try again at a lower volume when they are not reacting. Continue to do this all year round, so your pet builds up positive associations with these sounds.

2. Secure your garden

Secure your home and garden in advance, as fearful furry friends may panic and scarper. Ensure any ‘escape routes’ – such as holes in fences – are inaccessible. Keep doors, windows and cat flaps closed to keep everyone safe, and pull the curtains to help muffle the sounds as well as block the flashes. Don’t forget to provide a litter tray for your cat if they usually toilet outside.

3. Set up a hideaway

Create a ‘den’ in a quiet room or cupboard, which your pet can use as a safe space to hide in. It’s important that your pet already views this space as a safe place that they can escape to. Make it extra cosy with blankets and their favourite toys and treats, and add pillows or cushions to help absorb the loud noises – you can also do the same to hutches for smaller four-legged friends, who may also appreciate some extra bedding to hide away in.

4. Create calm vibes

Using pheromone products can help anxious pets, as the scents they release provide a calming effect to relax a stressed pooch or puss. You can even prepare a calming playlist, as music with a repetitive beat might help to disguise the loud bangs from fireworks and may keep your furry friend relaxed.

5. Speak to your vet

If you’re concerned your pet has a severe phobia of fireworks, it’s best to speak to an expert. Your vet can advise you on measures to improve the phobia, such as professional behaviour therapy or prescribe medications to help.

For more information on how to prepare your pet for New Year’s Eve and to download PDSA’s free Firework Guide, please visit www.pdsa.org.uk/fireworks2021.