Off the Bench at Spartans

Off the Bench starts next January at Spartans!

Our new Off the Bench programme for young people aged 16-25 years and not in education or employment starts at the end of Jan 2025.

Come along to our open days at Ainslie Park on the 16th and 23rd of Jan from 1.30-3pm.

Participants will be able meet staff, get a game of five a-side football, tour the facility and ask questions about the programme.

Contact Eddie for more info eddiemalone@spartanscf.com or sign up here:

https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx…

Chancellor: Every pound spent will deliver Plan for Change

  • Prime Minister’s Plan for Change at heart of Spending Review, which will drive reform and root out waste.
  • Every pound of government spending to be interrogated to ensure it represents value for money for working people. 
  • External experts will scrutinise budgets, bringing ideas, expertise and innovation of the private sector into the heart of government.

Government departments will be expected to find savings and efficiencies in their budgets, in a push to drive out waste in the public sector and ensure all funding is focused on the government’s priorities.

Every single pound the government spends will be subjected to a line-by-line review to make sure it’s being spent to deliver the Plan for Change and that it is value for money, as the Chancellor Rachel Reeves yesterday (Tuesday 10 December) launched the next round of government spending.

It will be the first time in over a decade and a half that government departments have been asked to take such an approach, with what’s called a “zero-based review” last undertaken 17 years ago.

Rachel Reeves will today begin her work with government departments and reiterate that they cannot operate in a business-as-usual way when reviewing their budgets for the coming years, as the new government continues to fix the foundations after inheriting a £22bn black hole, alongside crumbling public services and damaged public finances.  

Secretaries of State across government will need to allocate their budgets to ensure that government spending is focused on the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change, and that every pound of taxpayers’ money is spent well. The Chancellor will work with departments to prioritise spending that supports the milestones to deliver the Plan.

This includes boosting growth to put more money in working people’s pockets, fixing the NHS, creating safer streets, making Britain a clean energy super-power and giving every child the best start in life while strengthening our borders, national security and the economy.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:By totally rewiring how the government spends money we will be able to deliver our Plan for Change and focus on what matters for working people. The previous government allowed millions of pounds of taxpayers’ money to go to waste on poor value for money projects. We will not tolerate it; I said I would have an iron grip on the public finances and that means taking an iron fist against waste. 

“By reforming our public services, we will ensure they are up to scratch for modern day demands, saving money and delivering better services for people across the country. That’s why we will inspect every pound of government spend, so that it goes to the right places and we put an end to all waste.”

The Prime Minister has been clear that public services must reform if they are to be put on a sustainable footing in the long-term, so that outcomes can be improved for people who depend on services every day. 

Yesterday’s announcement builds on the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster yesterday launching a £100 million fund to pioneer public service reform and deliver the Government’s Plan for Change, by deploying new test-and-learn teams into public services across the country.

They will be empowered to experiment and innovate to fix the public sector’s biggest challenges, working towards the Government’s ambitious and far-reaching reform programme that will seek to break down Whitehall silos and galvanise government as it seeks to deliver the Plan for Change.

Departments will ensure budgets are scrutinised by challenge panels of external experts including former senior management of Lloyd’s Banking Group, Barclays Bank and the Co-operative Group. Panels will bring an independent view to what government spend is or isn’t necessary, with a mixture of expertise from local delivery partners, think tanks, academic experts and private sector backgrounds.

In letters sent by the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, departments will be advised that where spending is not contributing to a priority, it should be stopped. Although some of these decisions will be difficult, the Chancellor is clear that the public must have trust in the government that it is rooting out waste and that their taxes are being spent on their priorities.

Work has already begun on evaluating poor value for money spend, with an evaluation into the £6.5m spent on Social Workers in Schools programme, which placed social workers in schools, finding no evidence of positive impact on social care outcomes, meaning the intervention was not considered cost-effective.

The Government has made clear it will not shy away from taking the difficult decisions needed to fix the foundations, as shown by the Chancellor’s decisions at the Budget to balance the books.

Departments will be expected to work closely together to identify how their work contributes to the Government’s missions, meeting in mission clusters throughout the process to agree priorities and links. 

Throughout this process, the ideas, expertise and innovation of the private sector will be sought out and brought right into the heart of government. 

An online portal will also be launched to give businesses the opportunity to put forward policy proposals for the Spending Review, including on how government can deliver public services more efficiently or effectively. These representations will be collated and shared with departments for consideration in their submissions.

Award for St Columba’s garden volunteer David

We couldn’t be more excited to celebrate David Waughman, who was awarded the ‘Anne, Duchess of Norfolk Award for Volunteer Gardener of the Year’ at the recent Hospice UK Annual Conference!

David has been a dedicated part of our team from the very start, serving as one of our original Compassionate Gardeners. Before that David helped maintain the grounds of St Columba’s Hospice Care, showing his passion for both gardening and volunteering.

Our Compassionate Gardeners are a special group. We’re one of the only UK hospices offering a little TLC to the gardens of people living at home with an end-of-life diagnosis, and helping restore them to what they once were.

Sharing the joy of the garden through the seasons, our Compassionate gardeners add so much to the wellbeing of the garden owners in the most precious of times.

It was truly heart-warming to see David recognised by his colleagues and peers from across the hospice sector. Thank you, David, for your dedication and for the incredible impact you make to those you support. Congratulations on this well-deserved award! 👏🌟

Are you a keen gardener? Find out how you can put your skills to good use by becoming a Compassionate Gardener https://bit.ly/3OH1Wwb.

Man arrested and charged in connection with attempted murder of police officer

A man has been arrested and charged in connection with the attempted murder of a police officer in Wester Hailes. 

Around 12.45am on Friday, 6 December, 2024, officers attempted to stop a stolen vehicle on Dumbryden Gardens.

A male officer was struck by the vehicle as it made off. He was taken to hospital for treatment and released. 

The car was found abandoned nearby. 

The 21-year-old male driver of the vehicle was later arrested and charged. He was due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday, 9 December. 

CashBack projects support thousands of young people

A programme funded from the seized assets of criminals has supported 15,368 young people in 2023-24.

CashBack for Communities delivered £5.5 million to 29 partners in that period for projects that divert young people away from anti-social behaviour and crime.

A report into the first year of the programme’s three-year funding phase, which runs from April 2023 to March 2026, showed that after taking part in CashBack for Communities projects:

  • 7,440 young people reported positive changes in their behaviour
  • 4,318 young people reported that their anti-social or criminal behaviour reduced
  • 6,292 young people felt less likely to engage in anti-social or criminal behaviour
  • 4,954 young people gained an accreditation in furthering their development
  • 8,348 young people reported an increase in their wellbeing
  • 64,240 volunteering hours were contributed

Victims and Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown met with some participants who have been taking part in Scottish Rugby Union’s CashBack Community Rugby at Castlebrae Community Campus in Edinburgh.

The SRU’s programme works with young people most at risk of being drawn into offending or being involved in anti-social behaviour to help them resist pressure to take part in it.

Ms Brown said: “Supporting and encouraging young people to make informed choices is crucial for their personal growth and future success. The CashBack for Communities Impact Report highlights the positive contribution the programme has had on over 15,000 young people. 

“CashBack is an early intervention programme and its partners provide a range of support and activities which includes providing safe spaces, trusted adults they can speak with and a range of diversionary and support activities.

“Young people need our support and encouragement to make choices that allow them to develop their aspirations and potential, and we should rightly be proud of them and this programme.

“I had the opportunity today to see exactly how CashBack partners like Scottish Rugby Union work alongside young people to develop their understanding of the positive impact they can have on their communities.”

CashBack for Communities Impact Report 2023-24

More information on the CashBack for Communities programme.

Planning permission secured for 172 new homes at Millerhill

Cruden Homes and Mac Mic Group get green light for landmark Millerhill development

Two of Scotland’s most established property companies, with a combined 181 years of expertise, are set to invest into the thriving community at Millerhill, just south-east of Edinburgh.

Cruden Homes, with 81 years of innovation in homebuilding, and Mac Mic Group, marking its centenary next year, have secured planning consent for 172 energy-efficient new homes in one of Scotland’s most vibrant and best-connected new communities.

The Millerhill development is part of the wider Shawfair masterplan to create a new town on Edinburgh’s doorstep. The new development will include a mix of private sale, build-to-rent, and affordable housing, helping to combat Edinburgh’s ongoing housing emergency.

Work will start in early 2025, with the first phase of homes expected to be completed and ready for residents by the end of the year.

Both businesses have a strong local heritage, having been involved in the delivery of a number of new homes in the area in recent years. This latest development includes a range of houses and flats for private sale, offering an impressive selection of two-bedroom flats, two- and three-bedroom terraced and semi-detached homes, four-bedroom townhouses, and four- and five-bedroom detached properties.

Additionally, a number of houses and flats are to be retained by Mac Mic Group as part of its longstanding rental portfolio, offering an important alternative for home seekers. Thirty-five homes, consisting of six houses and 29 flats, will be affordable, providing much-needed options for local families and individuals.

Nestled in the desirable Millerhill area, this thoughtfully designed development combines the appeal of country living with exceptional transport links to Edinburgh, the Borders, and beyond. Residents will enjoy a new neighbourhood with landscaped streets, carefully planned frontages, extensive landscaping throughout and a tree-lined corridor.

The new homes lie within easy reach of the vibrant new Shawfair town centre, with a health club, offices, shops and places to eat, and are well served by excellent local schools and plentiful landscaped green space, woodland paths and open water. The development is close to Shawfair train station and benefits from a network of cycle and walking paths, providing an abundance of sustainable transport options.

All of the new homes will incorporate a cutting-edge district heating system, providing a low-carbon solution for heating and hot water. This innovative heat network eliminates the need for individual boilers and significantly reduces carbon emissions.

Kevin Reid, Executive Chairman of Cruden, said: “We are delighted to take forward this fantastic new development at Millerhill in partnership with Mac Mic Group. Not only will it deliver much-needed new housing across all tenures, but it will also add to an already vibrant, sustainable community that offers the perfect blend of connectivity, green spaces, and excellent amenities on the doorstep.

“Work will start early next year and will deliver a blueprint for quality, energy-efficient new homes that are perfectly suited to the needs of modern living.”

Andrew Mickel, Group Director of Mac Mic Group, added: “2025 marks our centenary year in the land and property sector and Mac Mic is proud to continue our legacy of quality placemaking on this important development in partnership with Cruden Homes.

Millerhill, and the wider Shawfair area, offers the best of country living, just 15 minutes from Waverley Station, making it an increasingly sought-after neighbour to the Capital.

Edinburgh is facing a well-documented housing emergency, and this innovative new development will be part of the solution, providing a diverse range of high-quality homes, including affordable housing, private rental options, and homes for sale.”

Kick off 2025 with the Lost Shore Loony Dook!

A New Year’s Day like no other!

Lost Shore Surf Resort, Europe’s largest inland surf resort, is making a splash with its inaugural Lost Shore Loony Dook on New Year’s Day, 2025. Inspired by Scotland’s cherished tradition of braving icy waters, this event offers a thrilling inland twist, inviting participants to dive into Europe’s largest wave pool for an unforgettable celebration.

The original Loony Dook, first held in South Queensferry in the mid-1980s, began as a remedy for New Year’s Day hangovers. Over the decades, it has evolved into a cherished annual tradition, featuring participants in fancy dress parading through town before taking the plunge into the frigid Firth of Forth. This iconic event has inspired similar gatherings across Scotland, from North Berwick to St Andrews. The Lost Shore Loony Dook aims to honour and expand this legacy.   

Unlike traditional seaside dips, this event offers the comfort of heated changing room facilities, delicious post-dook dining, and the chance to experience Lost Shore’s world-class surf pool.

Cold water dips, like the Lost Shore Loony Dook, are celebrated for their many health benefits. Regular cold water immersion can help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and boost recovery, making it an excellent remedy for muscle soreness and fatigue. It’s also been shown to enhance mood, focus, and resilience to stress while promoting better sleep and an invigorated immune system. What better way to kickstart the New Year than with a refreshing boost for your mind and body?

Lauren Hyder, Head of Events and Sales at Lost Shore Surf Resort, said: “Whether you’re a seasoned Dooker or taking the plunge for the first time, the Lost Shore Loony Dook offers an exhilarating way to start the year.

“We’re embracing a much-loved Edinburgh tradition and giving it a unique inland twist, creating a vibrant new way to celebrate New Year’s Day.

“After your dip, the fun doesn’t stop—we are inviting guests to treat themselves to breakfast pastries and hot drinks at our waterfront restaurant, Canteen, unwind with a session in the Spear Sauna, or enjoy soothing treatments and massages by Michelle Denham, delivered by Lost Shore’s highly skilled therapists.

“For those seeking more adrenaline, catch a wave at our world-class surf facility and truly kick off 2025 in style!”

For just £5 (plus a booking fee), participants can enjoy the thrill of the dip and warm up afterwards with a complimentary hot drink. Friends and family are welcome to cheer from the sidelines, with free Supporter Tickets available for non-swimmers.

Loony Dook – What You Need to Know

  • Tickets: Registration is £5 per participant (+ booking fee). Supporter tickets for spectators are also available free of charge.
  • Safety Requirements: Participants must wear wetsuit boots or water shoes (available on-site if needed).
  • Arrival Time: Arrive by 9.30am to allow time for check-in and preparation. The group will gather at 9.45am, with the event kicking off promptly at 10am.
  • Age Policy: Participants under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
  • Visit Lost Shore Loony Dook ~ Lost Shore Surf Resort

Facilities: Changing rooms and showers are provided for participants, alongside secure lockers for added convenience. Please bring your own towel. 

Both surfing lessons and sessions and Surfskate Academy sessions will also be available on New Year’s Day. 

The Loony Dook kicks off a programme of wellbeing running throughout January at Lost Shore with activities including yoga, motivational talks and wellbeing sessions. 

Scottish breast cancer support charity announces first location with backing from the Scotto

The House of Hope, Scotland’s first dedicated wellbeing and support centre for people with breast cancer, has announced its first location on Gorgie Road in Edinburgh ahead of its opening in Spring 2025.

The announcement comes thanks to financial backing from early supporter The Scotto, which will fund the initial rent of the premises. The Scottish lottery, which also sponsors mental health charity SAMH and children’s cancer charity Calum’s Cabin, has generously donated £50,000 to The House of Hope. 

The House of Hope’s first centre will be 490 Gorgie Road, a 3,016 ft² / 280 m² detached farmhouse-style office building located between the city centre and Edinburgh City Bypass. The property – previously home to Autism Initiatives UK’s Edinburgh office – is currently undergoing renovation and will welcome its first visitors next year. 

Founded by Lisa Fleming, who was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2017, with husband Euan, The House of Hope will provide a supportive space for people impacted by breast cancer, as well as access to holistic therapies and wellbeing services away from the sterile hospital or clinical setting to compliment medical treatments. 

The House of Hope was inspired by London’s first-ever specialised breast cancer centre, Future Dreams House, which offers support through a range of services for women affected by breast cancer, including counselling, yoga, massage, nutrition advice, and peer support groups.

Earlier this month, the centre also welcomed its first Centre Manager, Hazel McLinden, who will manage the House upon its opening in Spring and play a key part in supporting volunteers and visitors alike. Hazel brings over a decade of experience in charity sector to the role, having previously worked with Team Jak Foundation, a charity supporting children and young people with cancer and their families throughout Scotland.

Founder of The House of Hope Scotland, Lisa Fleming, said: “We are so grateful to The Scotto for committing its long-term support to The House of Hope in Scotland, as we prepare to open the doors to the centre in Gorgie next year. 

“It’s so important to have a safe space that offers community and compassionate support for patients and their families following a breast cancer diagnosis, and that’s what we want The House of Hope to be – a haven away from clinical settings while still supporting medical treatment.”

Sales and Partnerships Manager of The Scotto, Marie-Claire Le Ray, said: “At The Scotto, we’re strongly committed to supporting good causes.

“Lisa is an absolutely inspirational woman and we’re proud to support The House of Hope and its vision to support those affected by breast cancer.”

Landmarks made of shortbread unveiled in giant snow globe

A life-sized snow globe, displaying famous Scottish landmarks made from Walker’s Shortbread has been unveiled at Edinburgh Airport, bringing joy to thousands of travellers over the Christmas period.

Located opposite the main entrance to the World Duty Free store at Edinburgh airport, the snow globe will be on display until the 6 January, and forms part of a new festive pop up by Walker’s Shortbread in partnership with Avolta, that will bring the joy of shortbread to life, with a unique and immersive experience for visitors.

Travellers will be taken on a magical journey across Scotland, starting in the Scottish Highlands at Walker’s famous bakery shop in Aberlour. The original Walker’s van is shown travelling down to Edinburgh to deliver shortbread in time for Christmas, with the journey continuing past nine iconic landmarks in Scotland including Fingal’s Cave, Glenfinnan Viaduct, the Wallace Monument, The Kelpies and Greyfriars Bobby.

The eye-catching shortbread structures are designed by food artist, Prudence Staite, who has previously created models of Edinburgh Castle, Burj Khalifa, and other landmarks, entirely out of Walker’s Shortbread.

For a truly captivating immersive experience, the globe will have “snow” inside the display which is accompanied by the scent of freshly baked shortbread, helping transport visitors to Walker’s home in Aberlour. Complimentary samples of Walker’s will also be available.

Bryony Walker, Head of Commercial Strategy at Walker’s Shortbread, said: “The holiday season is a special time filled with excitement, celebration and good-will. We wanted to capture this ‘festive spirit’ and bring it to life within our first ever snow globe while also paying tribute to our Scottish roots which forms a big part of who we are as a brand.

“Above all, we wanted to create a fun and memorable experience for our shoppers to enjoy – whether that’s through tasting our shortbread, seeing the shortbread sculptures or purchasing a special gift for a loved one.”

In the spirit of giving, a personalisation station will open at the pop-up site, providing shoppers with free personalised festive sleeves to wrap purchases of Walker’s Twin Pack of Shortbread Fingers and Walker’s Festive Shortbread Tubes range. To create the special gift, all passengers must do is type their message on the provided screen and a sleeve will be printed on site.

Adding to the festive fun, Walker’s is launching a hamper giveaway where passengers can guess the amount of shortbread in the snow globe. Then by scanning a QR code they can enter their chosen number to join the giveaway, and they can also nominate a loved one to receive the hamper if they win.

Gail Taylor, Chief Commercial Officer at XAero, commented: “We love bringing an extra special twist to Christmas travel so why wouldn’t we combine snow and shortbread!?

“We know many of our passengers always look for that sweet treat as a special gift for someone, and we hope this activity also leaves them with some fun memories as well.”

Jonathan McIvor, Category Manager for Food & Confectionery for Avolta in the UK added, “We’re always looking for novel ways to bring memorable experiences to shoppers. By partnering with forward-thinking brands like Walker’s Shortbread, we can really elevate the shopping experience for our customers.

“Exciting fixtures like Walker’s snow globe will really surprise and delight travellers as they pass through Edinburgh Airport and visit our World Duty Free store.It’s a sensory display that is sure to capture the attention of everyone who passes by!”