Nominations close at 4pm on Thursday 17 April 2025.
If you work with networks, groups, or community organisations in any of these areas we would be most grateful if could pass on this information.
Anyone who wishes to stand should complete a nomination form signed in ink, and return it to the Governance Team at Waverley Court, 4 East Market Street, Edinburgh, EH8 8BG by the closing date at 4pm on Thursday 17 April 2025. Alternatively, a mobile phone picture or scan of the nomination form can be returned by email tocommunity.councils@edinburgh.gov.uk by the same deadline.
NICEIC, the UK’s leading certification and training body for the electrical industry, is urging householders to avoid DIY electrics during the upcoming bank holidays, as new research reveals that one in three (30%) UK adults have attempted DIY electrical work.
The research, carried out by YouGov and commissioned by NICEIC1 discovered that DIY electrical works are still being carried out in homes across the country despite 89% of UK adults either strongly agreeing or agreeing that undertaking some domestic electrical work could be dangerous or life threatening.
The arrival of warmer weather during the spring and summer months often motivates people to take on home improvement projects, transform their garden or get on top of renovations that went untouched over the winter. Plus, with many of the major DIY stores running promotions over the Easter and May bank holiday weekends, it also makes it a cost-effective time to stock up on essentials.
With nearly 10,000* monthly Google searches for ‘renovation’, social media is also playing a key role in making people more aware of home and lifestyle trends, and driving a new wave of DIYers armed with inspiration and easily accessible ‘how to’ guides.
Many DIY projects can be tackled safely but NICEIC is highlighting the importance of using an NICEIC-registered electrician to carry out any domestic electrical works. DIY electrics can have potentially serious consequences, highlighted by NICEIC’s Don’t Do DIY Electrics campaign.
Paul Collins, Technical Director at NICEIC, commented: “Many householders will choose to take advantage of the extended bank holiday weekends to make some home and garden improvements.
“Whilst it may be tempting for householders to do DIY electrical work to keep down costs, ultimately it’s a risk that isn’t worth taking and a false economy which will cost far more to put right.
“Our research indicates that people are well aware of the risks, but some still chose to attempt DIY electrics. I would urge anyone considering electrical work to use an NICEIC-registered electrician to ensure that electrics are installed correctly and prevent any risks to their home and family.”
With this in mind, NICEIC recommends that any electrical installation and repair work is completed by an NICEIC-registered electrician. There are currently over 40,000 NICEIC-certified businesses that are regularly assessed to ensure that they provide quality work in line with up to date electrical standards.
The Young family have also knitted scarves which if tied together would be taller than the Eiffel Tower – all for charity
Three generations of a Midlothian family have raised over £35,000 for charity by knitting 6,500 chocolate ‘hats’.
And as Easter approaches, the Young family are spreading joy once more by knitting their charming chocolate egg covers to raise funds for international school feeding charity Mary’s Meals.
Colin, 67, and Jackie, 64, from Dalkeith in Midlothian, first discovered Mary’s Meals 12 years ago while watching a television programme featuring the charity’s work in Malawi. Moved by the charity’s impact – providing meals to hungry children to encourage school attendance – the couple felt inspired to take action.
Colin recalls: “We were inspired by the transformative power of providing food in schools and how such a simple act can lead to a better life for children.
“Seeing the scale of hunger and poverty was daunting, but we found encouragement in Mother Teresa’s words: ‘If you can’t feed a hundred people, then just feed one.’ So, we set out to do just that.”
Mary’s Meals, founded in a shed in the Scottish Highlands, provides daily school meals to more than 2.6 million children across 16 of the world’s poorest countries, including Haiti, Malawi and South Sudan. The charity’s feeding programme ensures that a nutritious meal attracts children into the classroom, where education becomes the key to a brighter future.
Jackie’s knitting journey began when someone offered to pay for a scarf she made as a Christmas present. Instead of accepting payment, she donated the money to Mary’s Meals. That simple act of kindness has since blossomed into an ongoing project, producing more than 410 scarves, 35 baby blankets and an astonishing 6,500 ‘hats’ for chocolates.
Having raised more than £35,000 for Mary’s Meals over the past decade, the couple estimates that if all the scarves Jackie has knitted were joined together, they would stretch from the top of the Eiffel Tower down to the ground.
Fundraising for Mary’s Meals has become a true family effort. Their granddaughter, Lucy, now 16 years old, started helping at just eight years old. Initially assisting with table sales, she now creates crochet animals to sell alongside her grandparents’ knits, raising an impressive £1,000 to date.
Colin and Jackie’s daughter, Laura, 41, has also joined the cause, contributing new, creative ideas and making paper-based crafts that have generated around £1,200 for the charity.
This year, the family hopes to raise £3,000, largely through their Easter and Christmas projects, with support from Beeslack Community High School in Penicuik, Midlothian. Their continued dedication is a testament to how small, heartfelt actions can make a significant impact.
Sally Davidson, Supporter Engagement Officer for East Scotland at Mary’s Meals, says: “Colin and Jackie’s dedication is truly inspiring. Their creativity and generosity demonstrate the power of small acts of kindness in transforming lives. Every stitch they knit helps provide nutritious meals for children who might otherwise go hungry.
“We are incredibly grateful for their support and for the way they’ve brought their whole community together to help Mary’s Meals feed the next child waiting for a nutritious daily meal in a place of education.”
For those feeling inspired by Colin and Jackie’s efforts, there are many ways to get involved. Whether it’s knitting, baking, hosting a fundraiser, or simply spreading the word, every action – no matter the size – can make a big difference.
Visit Mary’s Meals website for more ideas on how to help feed hungry children and find out how Mary’s Meals is providing More Than A Meal for some of the world’s poorest communities.
Scotland will respond to the ongoing global economic uncertainty by highlighting its economic strengths and making clear it is open for business, Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes has said.
Speaking ahead of a trade and investment visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Ms Forbes promised the Scottish Government would do everything it could to promote trade and attract jobs and investment.
The Deputy First Minister is undertaking a three-day programme of engagements designed to build relations with the UAE Government and position Scotland as an investment destination.
She will meet the UAE’s Minister for Investments and Minister of State for Foreign Trade. Alongside Scottish Enterprise, the Deputy First Minister is aiming to help a range of Scottish businesses to secure new export and investment opportunities.
The visit coincides with the UAE’s first Scotland Week, a programme of business activity developed to showcase Scotland’s innovation and expertise across science and technology, the energy transition and food and drink.
The Deputy First Minister said: “The global economic uncertainty we currently face makes it an imperative to send a message to the world that Scotland is open for business and to highlight our remarkable economic strengths.
“While all the economic levers are not in our hands, what the Scottish Government can and will do is stand square behind Scottish business and help open the doors that will deliver jobs and increased investment.
“That is why I will be in the UAE promoting Scottish companies and encouraging greater collaboration. Scotland’s unique strengths, expertise and innovation are recognised around the world, including in the UAE. This is an opportunity to build on that reputation and secure trade and investment opportunities to help the Scottish economy to prosper.”
Prices slashed on 89 foreign products – ranging from pasta, fruit juices and spices to plastics and gardening supplies – over next two years
Cheaper imports will save businesses at least £17 million per year in a further bid to kickstart growth as part of the Plan for Change
Savings could be passed onto families, mixologists and amateur gardeners through lower prices on everyday items and summer essentials
UK committed to economic growth, business security and lower prices through free and open trade
UK businesses and consumers could benefit from lower prices on imports of everyday essentials like spices and juices as the Government takes further action to make the UK the best place to do business and kickstart economic growth.
In a further demonstration of the government’s commitment to free trade and responding to business need, the UK Global Tariff will be temporarily suspended on 89 products saving UK businesses up and down the country at least £17 million a year.
The products include plywood and plastics, which are essential for construction – making life easier for chippies all over the country.
Working in partnership with industry, the government has decided to suspend import tariffs on a whole range of products to lower costs for businesses, tariffs will now be cut to zero until July 2027.
The savings to businesses on products such as pasta, fruit juices, coconut oil and pine nuts could be passed onto consumers just in time for the summer season, meaning lower food prices in supermarkets, restaurants and pubs.
Products including agave syrup, often used in margaritas, and plant bulbs will also see tariffs removed meaning keen cocktail-makers and amateur gardeners could enjoy lowered costs as the warmer weather approaches.
These changes will support key growth sectors such as advanced manufacturing and clean energy to compete with international rivals, supporting the Government’s Industrial Strategy with the Plan for Change.
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “Free and open trade grows economies, lowers prices and helps businesses to sell to the world, which is why we’re cutting tariffs on a range of products.
“From food to furniture, this will reduce the cost of everyday items for businesses, with savings hopefully passed onto consumers.
“As we face a new era of global trade, this government is going further faster to make Britain the best country to do business, delivering on our Plan for Change. These suspensions are just another example of that.”
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: “In a changing world we know families are anxious about the cost of living, and businesses uncertain about their future. That’s why we’ve announced lower prices on imports of everyday essentials – helping businesses to thrive and pass on savings to customers.
“Through our Plan for Change we’re supporting British business and putting more money in people’s pockets.”
The UK Global Tariff applies to goods entering the UK that do not qualify for preferential treatment under, for example, a free trade agreement.
Businesses across the UK apply for temporary suspensions on a regular basis by providing evidence of the benefits to themselves, their sector and the wider economy.
CBI Europe and International Director Sean McGuire: “In the face of an uncertain and unpredictable global trading environment, government should be commended for suspending import duties on an array of products.
Measures like these will be important for reducing the financial pressures on firms and help to drive growth for businesses of all sizes across the country.
The UK has already reduced tariffs on certain imported goods, benefitting British consumers with better choice, quality and prices on products like fruit juices from Peru and vacuum cleaners from Malaysia.
The Government is going further and faster in negotiating trade deals with partners including India, the Gulf Cooperation Council, South Korea and Switzerland which will unlock new opportunities for businesses, support jobs, and boost wages.
These measures come as the government acts swiftly to protect UK businesses and workers in a new era of global trade, through increasing flexibility on the zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate, cutting the red tape and bureaucracy that slows down clinical trials in the life sciences sector, investing up to £600 million in a new Health Data Research Service and backing a £30 million package to support the reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport which is expected to support 5,000 jobs and boost the economy by £5 billion.
Seven projects will receive a share of funding through Historic Environment Scotland’s (HES) Partnership Fund.
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has announced over £3.9 million in funding to seven organisations with a track record of making a significant contribution to Scotland’s historic environment through its latest round of Partnership Fund grants.
The Partnership Fund was created in 2021, replacing HES’s Organisational Support Fund, to better help Scotland’s third sector promote, celebrate and enhance the country’s rich and diverse heritage. It funds organisations that engage with communities and make a national impact on Scotland’s historic environment through targeted activity, national programmes and financial support.
Alison Turnbull, Director of External Relations and Partnerships at HES, said: “Community engagement is at the heart of our work, and what better way to involve communities than by supporting the organisations that serve them?
“Our Partnership Fund has awarded grants to seven projects which reflect our commitment to strengthening the resilience of Scotland’s historic environment in different ways.
“These projects support investment into traditional skills and retrofitting, encourage communities to engage with their local archaeology and places of worship, and help communities adapt historic buildings for social and economic benefit.
“At their core, these initiatives embody the principle of heritage for all, ensuring that everyone can access, participate in, and benefit from Scotland’s rich historic environment.
“And this is just the beginning. We expect the benefits of these projects to have a long-lasting and sustainable impact on the historic environment and communities across Scotland for years to come.”
The largest single award, £1.9 million, was granted to the Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) to support its ongoing efforts to help community-led groups across Scotland find sustainable new uses for historic buildings in ways that directly benefit local people and places.
The AHF’s ‘Heritage Developed & Sustained’ project enhances community engagement with historic environments and its use as a catalyst for climate action which supports key HES priorities in supporting Scotland’s journey to net zero.
AHF has a particular focus on supporting groups with developing projects that serve areas of multiple deprivation or involve a building’s energy efficiency or environmental sustainability.
HES has previously provided grant funding for this project through the Organisational Support Fund, the predecessor to the Partnership Fund. Through advice and the financial support that it can offer as a result of the grant, the AHF has helped repurpose buildings to be used as affordable housing, community centres, workspaces and childcare facilities.
Matthew McKeague, CEO of the AHF, said: “We are immensely grateful to Historic Environment Scotland for this renewed and increased investment in our grants and support programme.
“It will extend our valued long-term strategic partnership and will enable us to continue providing funding and guidance over the next three years to support communities across Scotland, to take control of and adapt historic buildings for sustainable social and economic impact.”
The announcement took place at Gracemount Mansion in Edinburgh, a community-led repair project supported by both HES and the AHF.
Further information on the Partnership Fund is available on the HES website. Organisations who are interested in applying to the Partnership Fund can submit an expression of interest no later than 15 August 2025.
This Easter, get ready to bounce into an unforgettable adventure at Gravity Active. Whether you’re planning a family day out, a meet-up with friends, or an action-packed treat for the kids, Gravity Active is the place to be for an egg-stra special Easter!
From bouncing challenges to egg hunts and Easter bunny visits, Gravity Active is packed with egg-citement for all ages. It’s the perfect way to burn off the Easter chocolate while having a cracking time too!
Visitors can look forward to a magical Easter Bunny Meet & Greet, offering the perfect chance to snap festive photos and create lasting memories. The fun continues with a twist on the classic favourite, the Easter Egg Hunt Extravaganza, where participants search for hidden Easter egg pictures around the park, each one unlocking a fun-filled challenge.
Adding to the egg-citement is the brand-new Bunny Bounce Challenge. Visitors must complete five bouncing tasks, from star jumps to 180-degree spins, culminating in a final jump pose in the designated photo zone.
Beyond the bounce, tuck into egg-citing Easter-themed treats at the café and hop to the groove at the high-energy daytime discos.
Plus, this year Gravity Active is set to energise the Easter break with its brand-new “Bunny Bounce Challenge”, a fun, high-energy activity designed for all the family. Shoppers are invited to take part in this interactive trampoline adventure, hopping and bouncing through the park to discover five hidden Easter egg pictures.
Each egg location presents a unique jump challenge, from star jumps and frog leaps to bunny hops and mid-air spins. The final task encourages participants to strike their best jump pose in a designated photo zone.
As an added bonus, those who complete the challenge can scan an on-site QR code to enter a prize draw for the chance to win a family pass for four.
With something for every-bunny to enjoy, Gravity Active is the go-to destination for families looking to make this Easter extra special. To book your trip, and for more information, please visit www.gravity-global.com.
Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland proudly present a special VE80 commemorative concert at Usher Hall, Edinburgh, on 6th May.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of music and storytelling as we mark 80 years since Victory in Europe.
Performing in the concert we have The Bands of HM Royal Marines Scotland, The Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, RBLS Dunfermline Pipe Band, Military Wives Choirs from all over Scotland, Cammy Barnes, Amy Hawthorn, Iona McDonald from the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Ralph from All Creatures Great and Small with Sadie Addington and Anaïs Doppel.
The event will be narrated by Alasdair Hutton OBE TD, previously the voice of the world renowned Edinburgh Military Tattoo, with broadcaster Mark Mckenzie from BFBS Scotland acting as the evenings compere.
This national tribute, endorsed by the Scottish Government, is not to be missed.
Pension Credit can top up your income to a minimum level if you’ve reached State Pension age. Lots of people who qualify for it aren’t claiming it, so it’s worth checking if you can get it.
To qualify for Guarantee Credit, your weekly income will need to be less than the minimum amount the government says you need to live on. For 2025/26, this is £227.10 for a single person and £346.60 for a couple. This amount could be higher if you’re disabled, a carer, are responsible for children or have certain housing costs.
You can only get Savings Credit if:
you reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016, or you have a partner who reached State Pension age before this date and was already getting it
and you have qualifying income of at least £198.27 a week for a single person and £314.34 a week for a couple.
Use our free benefits calculator to work out if you might be able to get Pension Credit. You can also call our free Helpline on 0800 319 6789 to speak to an adviser.
How much can you get?
Guarantee Credit tops up your weekly income to:
£227.10 for a single person
£346.60 for a couple (married, in a civil partnership or living together).
You might be able to get more than this if you’re disabled, a carer, are responsible for children or you have certain housing costs. See our factsheet Pension Credit for more information.
Savings Credit can give you up to:
£17.30 a week for a single person
£19.36 a week for a couple (married, in a civil partnership or living together).
The exact amount you’ll get depends on your income.
Savings, investments or other capital of more than £10,000 will also affect how much you get. For every £500 (or part of £500) you have over £10,000, it’s assumed you have an extra £1 of weekly income.
Here’s an example:
Mr Smith is 76 years old. He is not a carer and he has no health conditions or personal care needs. He is single, rents his home and has a State Pension of £140.18 a week and an occupational pension of £25 a week. He also has savings of £11,000. The first £10,000 are ignored, and an extra £1 of income is counted for every £500 above this. This means he has an assumed income from savings of £2 a week. So, his income is calculated as:
£140.18 State Pension + £25.00 occupational pension + £2.00 assumed income = £167.18 total income
Mr Smith’s appropriate minimum guarantee is £227.10
£227.10 appropriate minimum guarantee – £167.18 income = £59.92
This gives him Guarantee Credit of £59.92 a week.
Other entitlements if you get Pension Credit
If you get Pension Credit, you may qualify for other benefits, including:
help with NHS costs, including free dental treatment and travel costs for NHS treatment
help with the cost of glasses and contact lenses.
If you’re 75 or over, you can also apply for a free TV licence.
How to claim Pension Credit
To apply for Pension Credit, call the claim line on 0800 99 1234. You can also claim online if you’ve already applied for your State Pension. Or you can download an application form to print out. You won’t need a stamp when you return your form.
You can apply for Pension Credit up to four months before you reach State Pension age, and any time after. Claims for Pension Credit can be backdated by up to three months if you qualified for it for the whole of that period.
When you claim, you’ll need the following information:
your National Insurance number
information about your income, including your pensions
details of your savings, investments and other capital
your bank account details.
If you have a partner, you’ll need the same details for them too.
