In September this year, our young people held a successful Art Exhibition at the arts venue Out Of The Blue Drill Hall. At the opening event of CREATE TO ESCAPE, the young people sold prints of their artwork and raised just over £600 for for the charity Turn The Tables DJ, which offers workshops to improve mental health for those affected by homelessness.
Following on from the success, there will be an ART POP UP SHOP & DJ evening where some of our young people will be doing a DJ set, demonstrating the fantastic work they have been doing with their Music teacher Hope, here at the Alternative School. There will also be a chance to purchase some of the incredible Artwork by young people.
Wednesday 13.12.23 5-6:30pm
Spartans at 94 Pilton Drive, upstairs in the Robinson Trust Suite
Please come along and support our young people in their final fundraising effort for this worthwhile charity which they chose to support!
Plans to deliver a fairer system with more positive outcomes if Scotland becomes an independent country
Independence would give Scotland the opportunity to take a new approach to social security designed to be fairer, more dignified and more respectful according to a new paper published by Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Shirley-Anne Somerville.
The ninth paper in the Building a New Scotland series – Social Security in an independent Scotland – sets out how the UK Government holds the majority of social security powers including low income and working age benefits.
It evidences negative impacts of the UK Government’s current welfare policies on poverty levels, outlines the progress the Scottish Government has already made in creating a fairer system with limited powers, and demonstrates how an independent Scotland could go even further.
These include:
supporting and protecting everyone who needs financial help and support at any point in their lives
introducing early reforms to Universal Credit – removing the bedroom tax, benefit cap, two child limit, ‘rape clause’ and young parent penalty which have all been introduced by the UK Government
working alongside wider labour market, health and social policies to create a stronger and more dynamic economy like comparable European countries
stopping the rollout of changes to the delivery of reserved ill-health and disability benefits introduced as a result of the UK Government’s Health and Disability White Paper
moving towards a new system grounded in adequacy, such as a Minimum Income Guarantee, to ensure that everyone could have a decent level of income and live with dignity
"For too long, Westminster's approach to social security has provided inadequate financial support."
Social Justice Secretary @S_A_Somerville sets out how an independent Scotland could deliver a new approach, based on dignity, fairness and respect.
Ms Somerville said: “With independence, we believe Scotland can do better. With limited powers, the Scottish Government has already demonstrated that things can be done differently with an approach to social security that treats people with dignity, fairness and respect.
“An estimated 90,000 fewer children are expected to live in relative and absolute poverty this year as a result of actions we have taken.
“With the powers of an independent nation, Scotland could do more to make our system fairer and move away from the UK Government’s system of benefit freezes, caps and punishment. We could move away from the UK Government’s system that offers inadequate levels of financial support and is pushing people into poverty.
“The best-performing independent countries comparable to Scotland demonstrate that a strong social safety net is a foundation of a dynamic, innovative and productive economy, rather than a barrier to it.
“We can become a stronger, fairer and more prosperous country – this government believes that independence is the best route to getting there.”
Defence Secretary Grant Shapps will push for humanitarian aid to be delivered to Palestinians faster – including by sea directly into Gaza – when he visits the Occupied Palestinian Territories and Israel this week.
The trip will see him discuss options with leaders to provide civilians in Gaza with more aid and how the UK can support the Palestinian Authority, as well as efforts to prevent further escalation in the Middle East.
He will also discuss progress in recovering hostages – including a number of Britons – who were taken by Hamas terrorists during the 7 October attacks.
With Palestinian civilians experiencing a growing humanitarian crisis, the Defence Secretary will address options for providing Gaza with more medical and humanitarian aid, including potential routes via land, sea, and air. To date, four RAF flights carrying over 74 tonnes of aid have landed in Egypt with aid bound for Palestinians.
Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said: ”My visit this week is an important opportunity to discuss efforts to accelerate the delivery of lifesaving humanitarian assistance into Gaza and efforts to secure the release of all remaining hostages.
We are working to find the best way to get aid and support to those in desperate need in the quickest and most direct route. That includes options by land, sea and air.
We have deployed an extra 1,000 military personnel in the Middle East and our forces are there to support the humanitarian aid effort and help in stabilising the area.
“The events of 7 October horrified the world and I personally want to offer my support and condolences to Israel and its people.
“We fully support Israel’s right to defend itself, but it is important their fight against Hamas terrorists remains within international law.”
In the OPTs, the Defence Secretary is expected to meet the Interior Minister of the Palestinian Authority, General Ziad Hab Al-Reeh, to address the urgent need for measures to improve security for Palestinians in the West Bank.
In Tel Aviv, the Defence Secretary will meet Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant to address the current security situation and Israel’s next steps.The UK has made clear that Israel has the right to defend itself against terror, restore its security and bring the hostages home, but it must abide by international humanitarian law and take all possible measures to protect civilians.
Since Hamas’ terrorist attacks against Israel on 7 October 2023, the UK has increased its military presence in the region in order to support contingency planning, monitor the evolving situation, and to be ready to react and respond to regional threats.
This included the deployment of a Royal Navy task group to the eastern Mediterranean, including RFA Lyme Bay and RFA Argus, three Merlin helicopters and a company of Royal Marines.
In support of the ongoing hostage rescue activity, the UK Ministry of Defence is also conducting unarmed surveillance flights over the eastern Mediterranean, including operating in airspace over Israel and Gaza.
In total, the UK has deployed an additional 1,000 personnel to the Middle East, bringing the total number of Armed Forces personnel deployed to the region to around 2,500 – including those deployed for counter-Daesh operations, training, and maritime security.
Last week, the Defence Secretary also announced that HMS Diamond is deploying east of Suez to join HMS Lancaster on Operation Kipion, the UK’s longstanding maritime presence in the Gulf and the Indian Ocean, following increasing concerns about the security of important maritime trade routes.
On Wednesday, the Defence Secretary also travelled to the Republic of Cyprus and the Sovereign Base Areas (SBA) of Akrotiri and Dhekelia. During this visit, he met with the Cypriot Minister of Foreign Affairs Constantinos Kombos and discussed the importance of humanitarian support for Gaza, the war in Ukraine, and shared security interests.
The Consul General of India in Edinburgh, Mr. Bijay Selvaraj, has hosted a warm welcome event for new Indian students arriving in Scotland to pursue their academic aspirations (writes PRIYA CHADDA).
Held on November 24, 2023, the event brought together prominent guests and members of the Indian community to celebrate the achievements of these students and welcome them to their new home away from home.
Cllr Robert Aldridge, Lord Provost of Edinburgh, extended a warm welcome to the students on behalf of the city, highlighting Edinburgh’s rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere. The Lord Provost warmly greeted each student and engaged in meaningful conversations, exemplifying Edinburgh’s commitment to embracing its diverse student population.
Dr. Sreevas Sahasranamam, Senior Lecturer at the University of Strathclyde, shared his insights into the Scottish academic landscape and offered valuable advice to the Indian students, emphasizing the importance of striking a balance between personal, academic, and professional well-being. His insights provided a roadmap for success, both academically and personally.
Gopalan Rajagopal, Head of TCS Scotland, offered insights into the growing opportunities in the Scottish technology sector and emphasized the significance of AI in shaping sustainable career paths. His perspective highlighted the dynamic and promising nature of the Scottish tech industry and the relevance of AI in the current job market.
An INSA student leader from Edinburgh shared his personal experiences and highlighted how INSA’s support has positively impacted his journey as a student in Scotland. His firsthand account demonstrated the tangible impact of INSA’s efforts in fostering a supportive environment for Indian students.
Enhancing the engagement of students and attendees, INSA organized a lively quiz testing their knowledge of Indian culture and Scottish traditions. The quiz not only added a touch of fun but also fostered a sense of camaraderie among the Indian students, creating a sense of belonging and shared identity.
INSA honored the remarkable contributions of Prof. Pankaj Pankaj, Personal Chair of Computational Biomechanics and International Dean for South Asia, with a prestigious
Lifetime Achievement Award. Prof. Pankaj’s unwavering dedication to education and his unwavering support for Indian students have had a profound impact on countless individuals, making him a true inspiration to the Indian student community.
Rittika Chanda Parruck MBE, Director Education India had an amazing speech thereafter. Her speech highlighted compelling data reinforcing the strong cultural ties between the UK and India, emphasizing how this enduring relationship contributes to the growth of the UK economy. Her insights underscored the mutual benefits of cultural exchange and collaboration between the two nations.
Mr. Bijay Selvaraj, Consul General of India message to students focuses on reminding them of India’s rich academic heritage, he expressed his unwavering confidence in their ability to excel in their studies. His words of encouragement and support resonated with the students, instilling a sense of pride in their academic heritage and fueling their determination to succeed.
Puneet Dwivedi, INSA Scotland President, aware everyone with the initiatives INSA is working on tirelessly for the welfare of Indian students, and welcomed the students to INSA’s current leadership team representing various Scottish universities and encouraged them to join the organization as volunteers, contributing to the well-being of fellow Indian students. His invitation highlighted the importance of peer support and the role of INSA in fostering a sense of community among Indian students.
INSA extends a heartfelt gratitude to the exemplary students – Priya Chadha from Dundee University, Jayanth and Ninad from Edinburgh, and Jaimin Desai from Glasgow University – along with a multitude of other dedicated volunteers who have selflessly invested their time and effort in supporting Indian students transitioning from India to Scotland. Their unwavering commitment has been instrumental in guiding and assisting countless students, making their journey to Scotland smoother and more enriching.
INSA also expresses its deepest appreciation to the Consul General staff including Shobna and Hari for their meticulous planning and execution of this warm welcome event. Their unwavering dedication created a truly memorable experience for all attendees, exemplifying the spirit of hospitality and inclusivity that Scotland extends to its international students.
The event concluded with a networking reception, providing an opportunity for the new Indian students to connect with their peers, representatives from Indian organizations, and other members of the Scottish community. The delectable snacks provided during the reception were an added touch that perfectly complemented the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
INSA (Indian National Students Association) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the welfare and advancement of Indian students in Scotland.
INSA provides a platform for Indian students to connect, socialize, and engage with the wider community, fostering a sense of belonging and support.
Home Secretary James Cleverly addressed Parliament on the Rwanda Treaty and the new Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill yesterday:
With permission, Madam Deputy Speaker, I would like to make a statement about the government’s plans to stop the boats and tackle the vile trade in people smuggling across the Channel.
Three weeks ago, the Supreme Court handed down their judgment on this government’s Migration and Economic Development Agreement with Rwanda.
In that judgment, their Lordships upheld the view of the High Court and the Court of Appeal that it is lawful to relocate illegal migrants, who have no right to be here, to another safe country for asylum processing and resettlement.
But the Court upheld the judgment of the Court of Appeal, meaning that the government cannot yet lawfully remove people to Rwanda. This was due to the Court’s concerns that relocated individuals might be “refouled” – i.e. removed to a country where they could face persecution or ill-treatment. We did not agree with that assessment, but of course we respect the judgement of the Supreme Court.
The Supreme Court also acknowledged that their concerns were not immutable, were not an aspersion on Rwanda’s intentions, and that changes may be delivered in the future which could address their concerns.
Today I can inform the House that those concerns have been conclusively answered and those changes made, as a result of intensive diplomacy by the Prime Minister, by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, by the Attorney General’s Office and of course by the Home Office.
We have created a situation which addresses these concerns.
Our Rule of Law Partnership with Rwanda sets out in a legally binding international treaty the obligations on both the UK and Rwanda within international law, and sets out to this House and to the Courts why Rwanda is and will remain conclusively a safe country for the purposes of asylum and resettlement.
This is a partnership to which we and Rwanda are both completely committed. Rwanda is a safe and prosperous country and it is a vital partner for the UK. Our treaty puts beyond legal doubt the safety of Rwanda and ends the endless merry-go-round of legal challenges that have frustrated thus far this policy and second-guessed the will of Parliament.
I want to put on record my gratitude to President Kagame, Foreign Minister Biruta, and the Rwandan government for working with us at pace to do what to takes to get this deal up and running, with flights taking off as soon as possible.
Rwanda will introduce a strengthened end-to-end asylum system, which will include a new, specialist asylum appeals tribunal to consider individual appeals against any refused claims.
It will have one Rwandan and one other Commonwealth co-president and be made up of judges from a mix of nations, selected by those co-presidents.
We have been working with Rwanda to build capacity and to make clear that those relocated to Rwanda will not be sent to another third country.
The treaty is binding in international law. It also enhances the role of the independent Monitoring Committee, which will ensure adherence to obligations under the treaty and have the power to set its own priority areas for monitoring.
It will be given unfettered access to complete assessments and reports and monitor the entire relocation process, including initial screening, to relocation and settlement in Rwanda.
And it will develop a system to enable relocated individuals and legal representatives to lodge confidential complaints directly with the Committee.
But given the Supreme Court’s judgment, we cannot be confident that courts will respect a new treaty on its own. So today the government has published emergency legislation to make unambiguously clear that Rwanda is a safe country and to prevent the courts from second guessing Parliament’s will.
We will introduce legislation tomorrow, in the form of the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill, to give effect to the judgement of Parliament that Rwanda is a safe country, notwithstanding UK law or any interpretation of international law.
For the purposes of the bill, a safe country is defined as one to which people may be removed from the UK in compliance with all of the United Kingdom’s obligations under international law that are relevant to the treatment in that country of people who are removed there.
It means that:
someone removed to that country will not be removed or sent to another country in contravention of any international law; and
anyone who is seeking asylum or who has had asylum determination will have their claim determined and be treated in accordance with that country’s obligations under international law.
Anyone removed to Rwanda under the provisions of the treaty will not be removed from Rwanda except to the United Kingdom in a very small number of limited and extreme circumstances.
And should the UK request the return of any relocated person, Rwanda will make them available.
Decision-makers – which both the Home Secretary and immigration officers and the courts – must all treat Rwanda as a safe country.
And they must do so notwithstanding all relevant UK law or any interpretation of international law, including:
the Human Rights Convention;
the Refugee Convention;
the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights of 1966;
the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment of 1984;
the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings done at Warsaw on 16 May 2005;
customary international law; and
any other international law, or convention or rule of international law, whatsoever, including any order, judgment, decision, or measure of the European Court of Human Rights.
Where the European Court of Human Rights indicates an interim measure relating to the intended removal of someone to Rwanda under, or purportedly under, a provision of the Immigration Acts…
…a Minister of the Crown alone – and not a court or tribunal – will decide whether the United Kingdom will comply with those interim measures.
And to further prevent individual claims to prevent removal, the bill disapplies the relevant provisions of the Human Rights Act 1998, including sections 2, 3, 6, 7, 8 and 9.
It is a bill which is lawful, it is fair, and it is necessary.
Because people will only stop coming here illegally when they know that they cannot stay, and they will be detained and quickly removed to a safe third country.
Because Mr Deputy Speaker, it is only by breaking the cycle and delivering a deterrent that we will remove the incentive to come and stop the boats.
This legislation builds on the Illegal Migration Act that this House passed this summer and complements the basket of other measures that the UK government is employing to end illegal immigration.
The largest ever small boats deal with France, for example, tackling the supply of boats and parts, the arrest and conviction of people-smugglers, and illegal working raids have all helped to drive down small boat arrivals. Drive them down by more than a third this year even as numbers are rising elsewhere in Europe.
Parliament and the public alike support the Rwanda plan. Other countries have since copied our plans with Rwanda. And we know from interviews that the prospect of being relocated out of the UK has already had a deterrent effect. This will be considerably magnified when we get flights off to Rwanda.
The treaty and new bill will make that a reality.
I commend this statement to the House.
IMMIGRATION minister Robert Jenrick has resigned over Rwanda legislation.
Nicola Benedetti CBE, was officially presented with the coveted Edinburgh Award by the Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge yesterday evening (December 5) at a civic reception at the City Chambers.
Since 2007, the Edinburgh Award has celebrated individuals who have made a truly unique contribution to the city and brought the Capital to national and international attention.
Alongside family, friends and invited guests, Benedetti received an engraved Loving Cup from the Lord Provost, an official award certificate, and a set of her handprints preserved in stone in the City Chambers quadrangle was unveiled. As part of the ceremony, a specially commissioned poem by Hannah Lavery, the Edinburgh Makar, was recited in Benedetti’s honour.
This year marked Benedetti’s first edition of the International Festival as Festival Director, which was a resounding success. Over 24 packed days, the Edinburgh International Festival saw performances from 2,500 remarkable and diverse artists representing 50 nations.
The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, and Chair of the Edinburgh Award Panel, Robert Aldridge said: “I was delighted to present Nicola Benedetti with the Edinburgh Award yesterday evening.
“Nicola’s handprints are now immortalised in stone at the City Chambers quadrangle, and she deservedly follows in the footsteps of some of the finest individuals associated with our great city.
“From heading up one of the world’s most important cultural celebrations in the Edinburgh International Festival, to being a globally renowned musician in her own right, she has represented the Capital with pride, dedication, and skill. Nicola is also one of the youngest ever recipients of the Edinburgh Award which shows the measure and scale of her talent and achievements.
“I’d also highlight the fantastic work of the Benedetti Foundation, based in the city, which focusses on musical education, participation, and experiences. Since its establishment in 2019 it has reached over 50,000 participants of all ages from 103 countries,
“I’d like to congratulate Nicola on behalf of the city, and I’m sure she will continue to do great things in the future, both here in Edinburgh and beyond.”
Festival Director of the Edinburgh International Festival, and Recipient of the Edinburgh Award 2023, Nicola Benedetti CBE said: “Each gift in our life, such as the role of Festival Director or a recognition such as this award, serves as a propellor – and an opportunity for choice.
“Each gift holds the potential for responsibility to others, that you choose to serve and grasp, or not. Each gift is a reminder of our place in a lineage of contributors to bettering life for ourselves and for others; a reminder of the collective potential we have when we all consider – in our own unique way – our civic and moral duty.”
UNION CALLS FOR ACTION FOLLOWING ALARMING WORKPLACE SURVEY
New survey data from UNISON’s recent research among Edinburgh City Council workers sheds light on the challenges faced by school support staff, echoing the findings of the Scottish government’s Behaviour in Scottish schools: research report 2023.
UNISON Edinburgh City Branch emphasises that the impact of pupils’ behavioural challenges is disproportionately falling on the shoulders of support staff, who are often the lowest paid and receive minimal training and support.
The violence at work survey, conducted among our members, saw the highest response rate from staff working in schools with 82% of respondents in that area. The Edinburgh Branch survey indicated a need for clearer reporting procedures and improved feedback mechanisms to ensure member concerns are addressed promptly and effectively.
The return aligns with the government’s findings, revealing that 86% of support staff encounter low-level disruptive behaviour daily. Additionally, 66% experience verbal abuse, and 59% face physical aggression on a regular basis. This supports what UNISON members have been telling us – the lowest-paid support staff, mainly women, are the frontline responders to challenging pupil behaviour.
Pauline Henderson, UNISON Edinburgh Convenor for education, stated: “No one should face violence and abusive behaviour at work, and if they do, they need proper support.
“Yet, in our schools in Edinburgh, it is the lowest-paid, mostly women support staff who deal with challenging and disruptive behaviour every day.”
“UNISON stresses that support staff are more likely than teachers to report the greatest negative impacts from serious disruptive behaviours”.
Tom Connolly, UNISON City of Edinburgh Branch Secretary, emphasised UNISON’s consistent advocacy on the issue: “UNISON has consistently raised violence and abuse of school support staff with employers and the government.
“Now that we have evidence backing up this growing problem, we need government funding and action to help schools deal with it.”
“More than half of the respondents (57.6%) feel their employer does not take violence at work complaints seriously. Addressing this perception is crucial for fostering a supportive and protective workplace culture.”
Key Points from UNISON Edinburgh City Survey:
Daily Challenges for Support Staff:
66% experience verbal abuse, and 59% encounter physical aggression regularly.
Comparisons with Government Report:
UNISON’s survey findings align with the Scottish government’s report, emphasising the universal nature of challenges faced by support staff.
Impact on Support Staff:
Support staff report the greatest negative impacts from serious disruptive behaviours, underlining the urgent need for comprehensive support and strategies.
Call for Edinburgh City Council Action:
Urgent action is needed to protect council staff. UNISON continues to advocate for enhanced reporting, substantial local authority investment, and comprehensive support for all council staff.
Call for Government Action:
UNISON Edinburgh City urges the Scottish government to recognise the inadequacy of current council funding and take substantial action to address the challenges outlined in both the survey and the government report.
The National Galleries of Scotland has announced that its blockbuster exhibition, Grayson Perry: Smash Hits, was visited almost 100,000 times in its four-month run. Since opening on 15 July, 95,852 visits were booked to enjoy the celebration of Sir Grayson Perry’s 40-year career at the National (Royal Scottish Academy) before it closed on Sunday 12 November.
On show exclusively in Edinburgh, Grayson Perry: Smash Hits explored the remarkable 40-year career of contemporary cultural icon, Sir Grayson Perry.
Visitors were able to enjoy over eighty works, including richly detailed tapestries, subversive pots and elaborate plates – some of which were on public display for the first time.
Developed in close collaboration with the artist, the exhibition renounced the tradition for chronological displays. Instead, Perry’s work was presented as a journey through themes including masculinity, sexuality, class, religion, politics and identity.
Grayson Perry: Smash Hits was the National Galleries of Scotland’s most visited exhibition in over ten years, and the fourth most visited since the reopening of the refurbished exhibition galleries in the RSA building in 2003.
Surpassing all expectations, over 10,000 people were welcomed in the first two weeks alone. The final weekend, which offered extended opening hours to allow as many people as possible to experience the exhibition, with over 2,200 visitors each day.
Home to Scotland’s superb art collection, the National Galleries of Scotland operates three galleries in Edinburgh.
At the National visitors can discover treasures from Botticelli to Titian, as well as the world’s largest collection of works by artists from Scotland. The Portrait gallery is packed with famous faces from history and contemporary portraits of pop culture icons, while Modern showcases the very best modern art.
As well as conserving and researching the national collection, the National Galleries of Scotland is committed to reaching the widest possible audience through an active programme, including partnerships across Scotland, the UK and abroad, as well as online.
Visitors enjoyed sharing their experience of Grayson Perry: Smash Hits with feedback captured by National Galleries Scotland throughout the duration of the exhibition. Some notable takeaways included:
“So accessible. I loved his commentaries. It is the only exhibition I have ever been to and laughed out loud.”
“I have never been to an exhibition where almost all of the visitors were smiling and laughing.”
“This was the best, most thought-provoking exhibition I’ve been to in years!”
Sir Grayson Perrysaid: “It was one of the most enjoyable and proud exhibiting experiences of my career. Many thanks to the brilliant team at the National Galleries of Scotland and the people of Scotland!”
Sir John Leighton, Director-General of the National Galleries of Scotland,said: “Welcoming almost 100,000 visitors to Grayson Perry: Smash Hits is a significant and proud moment for the National Galleries of Scotland.
“It has been a privilege from the start to work with Sir Grayson Perry in bringing this phenomenal exhibition to the people of Scotland. The response from our visitors, through their verbal and written feedback, photos they’ve shared and online engagement, has been incredible to witness.
“My congratulations and thanks to Sir Grayson – it has been smashing!’
