Category: North Edinburgh News

Scottish students debate on climate crisis at COP28 mock event

OVER 100 pupils aged between 16-18 from Scottish schools played the part of politicians, journalists, and lobbyists to debate on the climate crisis.

They were taking part in the British Council’s COP28 Climate Simulation Negotiation at Moray House, School of Education, University of Edinburgh, and had the opportunity to find out what it’s really like to negotiate a climate deal.

Delivered with Learning for Sustainability Scotland this debate was the first time the event has come to Scotland and the first in a series coordinated by the British Council in five cities across the UK.

The event kicked off with a keynote address from Learning for Sustainability lead at Scottish Government, Lucia Ramon Mateo, with the debate taking place in the run-up to the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in the United Arab Emirates which starts on November 30.

During the negotiations, the pupils had to agree on a global strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and successfully reduce global temperature rises to no greater than 2 degrees C, making sure that all countries were on target to reduce temperatures by 2030. To do this, they used computer software developed by Climate Interactive and MIT to create a real-life climate simulation.

They were led by Professor Peter Higgins, Director of the United Nations University Regional Centre for ESD (Scotland) and Professor Dave Reay, Executive Director at Edinburgh Climate Change Institute and Professor of Carbon Management at the University of Edinburgh.

Attending the event students Rosie Zisman, and Raphael Uddin from Boroughmuir High School in Edinburgh shared the role of United Nations Secretariat General.

Speaking about the negotiations, Raphael said: “Today our aim was to reduce greenhouse emissions drastically and we just reached the target agreement for warming, bang on 2.0 degrees.

“We were able to work together, compromise, and reach this goal and no countries were left behind or lost out. It was also great to have schools from Egypt join us today, to hear about their experience during COP27 and to get an insight into the different issues, especially with COP28 coming up in Dubai”.

Rosie added: “We managed to reach consensus to fund $1billion in climate financing per year globally, which was a big win.

“At 2 degrees, we will still see dramatic increases in climate change. Today gave us just a flavour of what is possible and it is progress, but not our final destination”.

Speaking at the event, Professor Reay said: “We’ve seen skilled negotiations from the students today and many congratulations to all those taking part who have worked diligently debating the issues.

“It is extremely important that we have opportunities like this to maintain the conversation about the vital importance of keeping warming under 1.5 degrees.

“This event shows that while the global conversation on the climate crisis still falters, young people have the energy, drive and ambition to focus and ask the hard questions. Today at Moray House, we have had the privilege of working with future policy makers and global citizens, a generation who already know that activism for the planet is crucial”.

Peter Brown, Director, British Council Scotland provided a welcome to the students, he said about the event: “Well done to all those involved in today’s event – I’m delighted that young people from across Scotland, the wider UK, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates are coming together to actively engage in the challenges of climate change.

“Our research at the British Council shows clearly that the climate crisis is of deep concern – particularly to young people, and this event has put students at the head of the negotiating table.

“It has given them a unique chance to experience the realities of diplomacy and international negotiation such as that taking place at COP28, providing them with the skills and confidence to take on some of the world’s biggest challenges.”

The initiative is part of the British Council’s Schools Connect programme for schools in the UK and around the world. The British Council works with education policymakers to explore effective practices from other countries and help teachers to bring an international perspective to the curriculum. This supports all young people to build the skills, knowledge and attitudes they need to respond to global challenges and develop international understanding. 

Through the Climate Connection programme, the British Council is also supporting people globally to find creative solutions to climate change in support of the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in UAE this month.

The British Council is supporting the summit by engaging with networks of education professionals, students, academics, researchers, artists, civil society leaders and policymakers to participate in meaningful dialogue and bring about real change for our planet.

This event continues the British Council’s work, building connection, understanding and trust between people in the UK and overseas through arts, education and English language teaching.

To find out more about their work in Scotland visit:

https://scotland.britishcouncil.org/ or follow on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

Holyrood publishes data charges bill

The Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body has instructed Holyrood officials to conduct an urgent review of the Scottish Parliament’s policies on mobile devices and data roaming charges for MSPs.

The review will include options on disabling sim cards, a mandatory opt-in to data roaming bundles, and personal liability for MSPs where Parliament’s procedures have not been followed.

The Parliament has also published the full billing it holds for Michael Matheson’s data charges incurred while in Morocco.

Presiding Officer Rt Hon Alison Johnstone MSP said: “Following a meeting of the SPCB on Tuesday afternoon, officials have been instructed to carry out an urgent review of the Parliament’s policies and procedures around mobile device use and data roaming charges, and how these are handled.

“This is an issue which I and the SPCB take very seriously. We must be in a position where we have reviewed and tightened all policies to ensure the present situation cannot happen again.

“The policy review will also set out the circumstances, and cost thresholds, for ‘out of the ordinary’ bills to be escalated to the SPCB for explicit sign off.  This will ensure full transparency and full accountability. It is vital that we have every confidence in the expenses scheme and that its integrity is maintained.” 

On Michael Matheson’s data charges, the Presiding Officer said: “The Member himself has acknowledged he failed to update his sim card and incurred significant charges, which he has now agreed to meet in full. 

“The review will give officials and the SPCB greater ability to intervene where Members have not followed guidance. 

“The SPCB recognises that Members are the elected representatives of their constituents and privacy and confidentiality is fundamental to that relationship.”  

The expenses scheme operates on trust, transparency and assurances from Members. The SPCB is satisfied that appropriate due diligence checks were carried out on Mr Matheson’s ipad and his billing charges – and that written assurances were sought and received that all use was for parliamentary purposes.

The SPCB is satisfied that the checks carried out by officials on Mr Matheson’s ipad struck the necessary balance between confidentiality and due diligence.

Mr Matheson’s data charges bill is available on the Parliament’s FOI disclosure log.

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Eric Liddell 100 campaign launched

Inaugural lecture by the University of Edinburgh’s Chair of Sport to rally support from charity peers and Scotland’s business scene

On Tuesday 7th November 2023, a momentous event took place at the Fingal Hotel in Leith. Esteemed members of society came together to demonstrate their support for The Eric Liddell Community’s ambitious legacy campaign: “The Eric Liddell 100.”

Hosted by The Eric Liddell Community, in the presence of Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, this event marked a milestone in the exciting journey to commemorate the centenary of Eric Liddell’s historic triumph at the 1924 Olympic Games in Paris while ensuring his inspirational legacy endures for generations to come.

Supported by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Patron of The Eric Liddell 100, the programme of events and activities will recognise and celebrate the life, sporting, and community service achievements of one of Scotland’s most iconic sporting figures, Eric Liddell.

John MacMillan, CEO of The Eric Liddell Community who is leading this legacy initiative said: “With the 2024 Olympic Games returning to Paris exactly 100 years since Eric Liddell’s amazing success at the 1924 Games, we have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to commemorate, remember, and celebrate ‘The Flying Scotsman’.

“The Eric Liddell 100 campaign, along with its programme of events and activities will recognise and celebrate Eric – one of Scotland’s and the UK’s most iconic sporting figures – and embed his story for young people today, future generations, and communities across the world.   

“’The Eric Liddell 100’ campaign will not only commemorate his historic achievement but also serve as a reminder of his unwavering dedication to his values and his people. We are not only thrilled but deeply honoured to have the support of Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal and Professor Dr Grant Jarvie.

“It also wouldn’t be possible without the support of our partners and supporters, many of whom were in the room with us at the event. We cannot thank them enough for their drive to help us secure the legacy of Eric Liddell.”

Reflecting on the event, Professor Dr Grant Jarvie, Chair of Sport and Founding Director of the Academy of Sport at the University of Edinburgh said: “It’s an honour to be asked to deliver the Inaugural Eric Liddell Lecture. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, it will be 100 years since the athlete won gold and bronze and refused to run on a Sunday.

“Yet what Eric Liddell offers us is an example of what is possible. Eric Henry Liddell’s humanity and values are as good a foundation as any for striving to make the world a better place. Eric Liddell – a legacy, an inspiration a legend who chose to make a difference, did referee sports matches on a Sunday, did inspire the building of sports facilities in China and whose life could and should inspire future generations”.  

The Eric Liddell 100 campaign will encompass a series of events, educational initiatives, and community outreach programmes throughout 2024 and beyond, to mark the centenary of Eric Liddell’s historic victory at the 1924 Olympic Games.

For more information and to get involved, please visit https://ericliddell.org/the-eric-liddell-100/.

PICTURES: Mike Wilkinson

5th November disorder: More Arrests

Eight further people have been charged in connection with bonfire night disorder seen in Edinburgh on Sunday, 5 November.

Two male youths, both aged 15, have been charged in connection with preparing petrol bombs and firing fireworks at police in the Niddrie area.

Six other male youths, all aged between 14 and 16, have been charged in connection with possession of fireworks and associated disorder in the Southhouse/Gracemount areas.

Work remains ongoing to establish the identities of others involved and a number of others have been identified.

Officers continue to appeal to the public to provide any information that can help with ongoing enquiries.

There is a Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) that allows members of the public to send information directly to the police that can be accessed as follows: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT23S38-PO1

Chief Inspector Kieran Dougal said: “The disorder seen in the capital on bonfire night was completely unacceptable and these charges show our continued commitment to identifying and tracing those involved in the incidents.

“Our investigation continues and I would urge the public to continue to help us with that by reporting any information to 101, or send it to the portal link. Alternatively you can call Crimstoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.”

Give the Gift of Home this Christmas

Social Bite reveals ‘Nest House’

  • Social Bite reveals first-look of new ‘Nest House’ design in Edinburgh for Villages in Dundee and South Lanarkshire
  • ‘Nest House’ unveiled as part of charity’s Festival of Kindness campaign which aims to provide 300,000 gifts, meals and essential items to homeless and vulnerable people this Christmas

Leading homelessness charity, Social Bite, has unveiled its new ‘Nest House’ prototype, as part of the launch of its fourth annual Festival of Kindness.

Kicking off the campaign in Edinburgh yesterday, Josh Littlejohn MBE, founder of Social Bite, unveiled the new Nest House design which will feature in two planned new villages – one soon to be announced in South Lanarkshire, and the other in the recently announced Recovery Village in Dundee.

Located in St Andrews Square in Scotland’s capital, the Nest House will give an insight into the plans for the new village in South Lanarkshire, as well as the state-of-the-art Recovery Village in Dundee, both planned to open in early 2025. 

As part of the charity’s Festival of Kindness campaign, the public are being encouraged to ‘give the gift of home’ and can make a donation to the new Villages which put dignity and support at the core of recovery and people’s journey out of homelessness.

Social Bite’s Festival of Kindness campaign has run nationally every year for the past four years with the aim of providing 300,000 gifts, meals and other essential items to homeless and vulnerable people this Christmas.

Donations can be brought to the tree itself located outside Charing Cross Station on the Strand or made online, with a wish list of gifts published that homeless and vulnerable people need most at Christmas.

In addition, five ‘Trees of Kindness’ have been installed in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Aberdeen and London where donors can bring a physical gift which will all be distributed to homeless and vulnerable people in time for Christmas.

Donation stations will launch today (Saturday 18th November) in Edinburgh’s St Andrews Square. A donation station was also launched at Charing Cross station on The Strand in London yesterday.

Donations will be able to be made in other major cities this month from:

  • 29th November – Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow
  • 30th November – City Square, Dundee
  • 1st December – St. Nicholas Street, Aberdeen

For those who can’t make it along to the Festival of Kindness donation points, contributions can also be made online to the ‘Festival of Kindness’.

The charity has published a wish list of items and gifts that vulnerable people and those experiencing homelessness need most at this time of year. These include a warm pair of gloves, a hot water bottle and a torch, good quality socks and toys for children living in temporary accommodation to open on Christmas morning.

Donors can also buy a Christmas dinner, a gift, a pack of essential items and overnight emergency accommodation for £28.

With homelessness in Scotland reaching record levels, more children than ever living in temporary accommodation and rhetoric of ‘lifestyle choices’ of those experiencing homelessness making headlines, Social Bite is on an urgent mission to raise funds and donations for those who need it most, and is calling on big-hearted Scots to help them provide essential items and some much needed joy to those who need it most.

Josh Littlejohn MBE, founder of Social Bite, said: “This year we have seen an increase in homelessness in Scotland to record levels.

“From Covid, to the cost of living crisis, and now unfortunately, misleading commentary from some high-profiled politicians, those experiencing homelessness have been subject to the toughest few years we’ve seen; so once again we are asking the people of Scotland to join us in helping raise critical funds for those that need it most at Christmas.

“As well as donating towards Christmas dinners and gifts, this year we are also asking the public to give the gift of home by donating towards two new villages.

“The proposed new Villages will be amongst our most important projects to date and that’s why we wanted to give donors the option of helping us create these crucial facilities. We are thrilled to welcome the public to see our prototype house being displayed in St Andrews Square.

“We believe that everyone, no matter their circumstances should be treated with respect and dignity, which these homes reflect in their design.”

Move in for Christmas at Shawfair  

Five-star housebuilder, Stewart Milne Homes, is offering new residents the opportunity to move into a brand-new home before Christmas at the popular Shawfair development.  

Shawfair is a new community offering spacious country style living within easy reach of Edinburgh, with its thoughtfully designed town centre set to bring a range of local shops and restaurants to the neighbourhood. Located on the edge of the village of Danderhall, Stewart Milne Homes offers an exclusive range of three-, four-, five- and six-bedroom homes for the community.  

Two well-appointed homes are available to move in to before Christmas, with buyers invited to take advantage of a range of exclusive offers including Part Exchange, a 5% Mortgage Deposit Contribution or a£10,000 contribution towards LBTT.  

As well as financial incentives, new home owners will also receive a £250 Marks & Spencer gift voucher to spend on a special Christmas Day dinner.  

The available homes include:  

  • The Kendal – a striking five-bedroomed detached home complete with striking full-height French doors that open onto the rear garden and an integral garage space from £437,000.  
  • The Harris – a generously proportioned detached four-bedroom family home, with prices starting at £414,000. 

Part of Stewart Milne Homes’ Villages range, the homes are architecturally designed to meet the changing needs and lifestyles of owners.

All homes feature high-quality finishes throughout, including integrated appliances in the kitchen and Porcelanosa tiles in the bathrooms. The external finishes of the homes vary from plot to plot creating a unique and varied street scene.   

The main bedrooms all include integrated wardrobe space, with some homes also featuring dedicated walk-in dressing space. Perfect for entertaining family and friends in, private garden space features in all homes and is complemented by the surrounding greenspace within the development.  

Importantly, the homes are all energy-efficient and can save residents over £2,000 per year on energy bills when compared to an older property*.  

Isabel Warnock, Head of Sales Scotland, said: “Spending your first Christmas in your new home is always a special life milestone and we are excited to help make that extra special this year for new residents at Shawfair. 

“At Stewart Milne Homes, we pride ourselves on making the buying process as stress-free as possible for residents. Our competitive incentives are an added bonus, with many people having already taken advantage of the savings to be had.  

“Shawfair is attractive to a range of buyers given the wide selection of homes available coupled with the amenities available in the surrounding neighbourhoods.” 

To book an appointment to speak with a sales advisor or arrange a viewing, please contact 0345 0170923. The sales office is open between Thursday – Monday from 10.30am to 5.30pm.  

For more information about Stewart Milne Homes Shawfair, please visit:

https://www.stewartmilnehomes.com/new-homes-for-sale/edinburgh/shawfair

Talonmore & Wavelength create festive non-alcoholic cocktail for National Hiking Day

In celebration of National Hiking Day on Friday 17th November, Edinburgh’s Talonmore is teaming-up with Wavelength Drinks to create a brand new festive non-alcoholic cocktail, the ‘TalonWave Wine’ – a warming winter mulled wine alternative which can be easily crafted at-home or outside. 

Talonmore & Wavelength Drinks support the importance of health & wellbeing and advocate the outdoors lifestyle. With nature playing a key part in both brand mantras, the partnership aims to encourage people to get outside, ensuring balance in everyday life. 

On Talonmore’s website, the companies are offering a special bundle deal with 10% off both brands up until New Year’s Day, for consumers to purchase bottles and make the delicious, easy-to-make winter cocktail for themselves. 

Talonmore’s distinctive taste is fired by the spice of ginger and Assam tea whilst complemented with malty notes and fruit sweetness. Pairing with the zing and freshness of the hibiscus, lavender and orange & pink grapefruit zest found in WaveLength’s Ruby Non-Alcoholic Aperitif, the ‘TalonWave Wine’ is a gorgeous fruit-forward nod to the classic festive favourite mulled wine.

‘TALONWAVE WINE’
– Measure 50ml Talonmore NA Spirit, 50ml Wave Length Ruby NA Aperitif, then 100ml Hot Water
– Pour all liquid ingredients into tempered glass or mug
– Stir until all ingredients are incorporated
– Garnish with Slice of Orange
– Enjoy, indoors or out! 

Spending time in nature has become a key topic across the nation, with time outdoors known to boost physical and mental health in a range of ways. According to a recent study* that included data from 19,906 participants, spending at least 120 minutes in nature per week can significantly boost health and well-being. 

Talonmore is a Scottish based, family run business established in Edinburgh in 2020. Lewis Kennedy, 25-year-old Managing Director, recently made it to the final of Scottish Edge, where over 160 applicants enter to impress a board of seasoned business experts. 

Using a mix of rooted and plant-based ingredients and inspired by Edinburgh’s festival spirit and history of innovation, Talonmore was created to provide an exceptional alcohol-free drink that can be enjoyed without compromising health, control and taste. Choosing brewing methods of manufacture, rather than distilling, Talonmore have developed a unique beverage that ensures flavour is at the forefront, replicating the experience of drinking a dark spirit. 

Talonmore can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, with a mixer or in a multitude of non-alcoholic cocktails, such as the ‘TalonWave Wine’. In 2022, Talonmore was awarded Silver at the International Wine and Spirits Competition scoring an impressive 92 points out of 100. The latest batch of Talonmore includes a new look & feel, with an upgraded label and eye-catching flagship red foil. 

Similarly to Talonmore, Wavelength’s process starts by brewing, but also fermenting. Tapping into decades of experience, Wavelength’s brewers create the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spice. The result is delicious flavour, inviting aroma, and lasting aftertaste. Fermentation takes time, but time brings rich flavours, deep aromas and complexity. Like waiting for the perfect wave, it takes patience and time. 

Founder, Eddie Lofthouse, has a vision to take a stand for flavour by making exceptional non-alcoholic fermented drinks. He brought together his knowledge of brewing beer to brewing premium, non-alcoholic liquids. Wavelength produces wonderfully complex non-alcoholic drinks that actually taste good. 

Lewis Kennedy, Managing Director at Talonmore Drinks Company, said: “Talonmore has been a fan of the Wavelength brand for a while now. I’ve always been really interested to see if the flavours and liquid of the two brands work together, and they do! The team at Wavelength are delightful, we hope this is the first of many partnerships. 

“Talonmore has always, and always will be, a supporter of the outdoors lifestyle, and the importance of it for health & wellbeing. We’re encouraging everyone to get those hiking boots on and head up that hill for National Hiking Day. We guarantee it will be worth it, with the reward of a ‘TalonWave Wine’ at the summit. 

“The flavoursome fruitiness of both liquids match together perfectly. Talonmore offers the malty notes while the zing of Wavelength creates a conjuring of festive flavours for the tastebuds. Garnishing with an orange makes the serve that touch more festive. Definitely a quick-and-simple cocktail to impress family & friends over the Christmas period too.” 

Wavelength Drinks Founder, Founder, Eddie Lofthouse, added: “We are really excited about this collaboration with Talonmore. The two liquids combined create a delicious drink that is perfect for winter gatherings with friends which make long lasting memories.”

With over 8 million adults in the UK looking to reduce their alcohol intake, Talonmore is designed to shake up the non-alcoholic drinks market through championing the adventurous lifestyle that could normally be sacrificed with traditional alcohol. 

Non-Binary Equality Action Plan published

First plan in the UK to improve the lives of non-binary people

New actions to improve the lives of non-binary people in Scotland and tackle inequality will be taken forward.

The five year plan includes actions to support specific research on the experiences of non-binary people in Scotland, fund training for fertility preservation providers on trans and non-binary healthcare needs and meaningfully include non-binary people in decision-making by making processes accessible.

The plan is in response to the recommendations of the Scottish Government’s Working Group on Non-Binary Equality, whose members included non-binary people, charity representatives and academics.

Equalities Minister Emma Roddick said: “Our vision is for Scotland to be a place where everyone’s identity is recognised, respected and celebrated.

“This action plan aims to improve equality and wellbeing for non-binary people and is the first of its kind in the UK.

“Some actions are straightforward and immediate whilst others are long-term and systemic. However, they will all contribute to improving the experiences of non-binary people and begin to tackle some of the challenges that they currently face in their everyday lives.”

Vic Valentine, Manager of Scottish Trans said: “It is really positive to see this Action Plan published, and to see that the Scottish Government has made public, concrete and measurable commitments to changes that will make non-binary people’s lives better.

“I particularly welcome the commitments that will have a positive impact not only on non-binary people but on marginalised people more widely: such as those that seek to make it easier and fairer for people on benefits to participate in policy making processes and be paid for their time, and to look at how the design of public buildings does, or doesn’t, work for everyone in Scotland.

“As with any plan, the most important thing will be delivering. We look forward to working with non-binary people across Scotland to challenge the Government to turn these commitments in to real change.”

Non-Binary Equality Action Plan

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The Centre book club welcomes award winning author Catherine Rayner

The Centre, Livingston Book Club is set to welcome the multi award-winning author and illustrator Catherine Rayner, who has just launched her 21st book, ‘Molly, Olive and Dexter – The Guessing Game’ at this month’s storytelling event on Saturday, 18th November.

The free monthly Book Club was officially launched in October by authors, Linda Erskine and Justin Davies, to encourage a love for reading, the joy of discovering new books and the chance to meet various authors.

Catherine, whose extensive list of books include ‘Victor – The wolf with worries’ and ‘Arlo – The lion who couldn’t sleep’ has also illustrated books for many well-known authors, like Julia Donaldson and Michael Morpurgo. 

Her awards include ‘The Kate Greenaway Medal’ and ‘Booktrust Early Years Award’.

On Saturday, 18th November at 12noon and 2pm, she will be running fun and interactive storytelling sessions for children aged two to seven at The Centre, Livingston, across from Waterstones and next to River Island.

There will also be a live ‘draw along’ which is a step-by-step guide to drawing the characters in her books, including ‘Augustus the tiger’. Activity sheets and stickers will be available for kids to take home.

Catherine said: “I’m really excited about taking part in this event. It’s always great fun to meet little readers and I hope they will enjoy the storytelling and drawing activities I have in store! 

Patrick Robbertze, Centre Director at The Centre, Livingston, said: “We are delighted to welcome the fantastic children’s author Catherine Rayner into The Centre, Livingston for our next storytelling session.

“Our launch last month was very popular with our shoppers and we’re expecting our interactive session this month to be another big hit.”

The Centre, Livingston Book Club follows on from the recent installation of the shopping centre’s free book recycling vending machine to enable people to swap their favourite novels.

Details on the Book Club can be found on The Centre, Livingston website, www.thecentrelivingston.com and @shopthecentre on Facebook and Instagram.