Green Councillors are proposing that Edinburgh Council should pursue a lifeguard station on Portobello beach, along with a suite of other measures aimed at enhancing the safety of people using the water.
The motion, discussed at a meeting of the Council yesterday, also asked for beach safety and hygiene to form part of the ongoing Portobello Promenade regeneration project which will see improvements to the beachfront.
Green Councillor for Portobello/Craigmillar, Alys Mumford, who brought the motion, said: “The last time Portobello Beach had a safety audit was almost a decade ago.
“In that time, we have seen visitor numbers explode and with it, increased potential for danger as we see more people using the water to swim, sail, and enjoy everything the water has to offer. Edinburgh currently has no lifeguarded beaches, and from conversations with the RNLI, it seems clear that there might be a case for Portobello to be the place to host lifeguards for the city.
“Portobello beach is one of Edinburgh’s jewels, but issues around safety and water quality mean it isn’t able to be enjoyed equally by everyone. This is an issue that is raised with me repeatedly by residents and visitors alike, and I hope this motion goes some way towards making progress.”
The motion also highlights the concerns about sewage incidences impacting on the water and the beach.
Lorenzo Martinico, Scottish Green Party Candidate in the upcoming by-election in Portobello/Craigmillar, has pledged to do more to inform residents about water quality, and endorsed the motion from Cllr Mumford.
Lorenzo Martinico said: “Part of the problem is our ancient sewage system, which the council can’t upgrade on its own without government funding, butin the short-term, we need to make sure that people know when it isn’t safe to go in.
“Currently we have two electronic noticeboards, but they are not necessarily in the places where people are going to go into the water – and even if you do remember to check, SEPA doesn’t test the water often enough for them to be accurate.”
St George’s School, Edinburgh has appointed Niamh Green, who currently leads the prestigious girls’ school Roedean in the south of England, as its next Head.Niamh Green takes up the role at the leading independent school for girls in Edinburgh next year and brings more than 20 years’ experience in girls’ day and boarding education.
Green will succeed Carol Chandler-Thompson, who has led St George’s since August 2022 and leaves next year to take up a Director of Education role with a global schools group. Chandler-Thompson will remain connected to the school as a Member of Council.
Tracey Ashworth-Davies, Chair of Council at St George’s, said: “On behalf of the Council, I am delighted to confirm the appointment of Niamh Green as St George’s next Head, following a rigorous search with the support of Saxton Bampfylde.
Niamh’s breadth of experience, across teaching, boarding, pastoral leadership and headship, combined with her strong commitment and expertise in the education of girls, made her the outstanding choice to lead St George’s forward. I could not be more confident in her ability to build on the legacy and historical foundations of the school.”
Ms Green joined Roedean as Head in 2023 and this year the school achieved its best A-level and GSCE results in the last ten years.
Previously, she was Acting Head at Mayfield School, Deputy Head (Pastoral) at Godolphin School and a Housemistress at Sherborne Girls. Prior to that, she was Head of Upper School at Woldingham School and a teacher at the International School Luxembourg. She is a serving Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspector, sits on committees at both the Heads’ Conference (HMC) and the Girls’ Schools Association (GSA), and is a Governor at Marymount School in London.
She holds an MBA in Educational Leadership from UCL, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from the University of Cambridge, a Certificate in Boarding Education from the University of Roehampton, and an MA in International Relations.
Niamh Green said: “Stepping into the role of Head at St George’s is a real honour. From my first visit, I was impressed by the whole community – exceptional pupils, staff dedicated to the girls, and governors of real calibre.
“The girls I met were articulate, energetic, and compassionate young women, with clear ambition and pride in their school. I am very much looking forward to championing this remarkable school and breadth of opportunities it offers all pupils from age two to 18.”
Ms Chandler-Thompson’s tenure saw the completion of the ‘One School’ project, bringing pupils and facilities together on the Ravelston campus and setting the direction for the school’s estate and development plans.
She reinvigorated the school’s Signature Curriculum, which is explicitly designed for girls, and boasts high achievement in traditionally male-dominated STEM subjects while bucking the trend in girls’ sports with 100% participation levels throughout the school.
Academic results in 2026 were the school’s strongest since the pandemic, with first-choice university outcomes holding above 95% throughout her tenure and 100% A grades in Higher and Advanced Higher music and languages. She also grew the school’s partnerships programme and widened community access to its facilities.
Tracey Ashworth-Davies said: “I want to thank Carol Chandler-Thompson, whose leadership has been exceptional. Throughout her tenure, Carol has amplified how relevant the School’s founding principles and values remain today, as we prepare young women to keep pace in a fast-changing world.
“She leaves St George’s in excellent health, and we wish her all the best in her new role.
“We are delighted she will continue to support the school as a Member of Council.”
LifeCare are proactively recruiting 4 new trustees, as members of our existing board reach the end of their term. This year more than ever is an exciting time to join our board as we celebrate our 85th year.
“After a long career in the NHS, becoming a LifeCare Trustee felt like a natural way to continue supporting peoples’ health, wellbeing and independence.
I feel I bring experience in strategy and governance, whilst helping to support LifeCare to turn good ideas into practical action for older people, their families and carers” – Lorna Jackson-Hall, current Chair
Swinney: Nobody will take better decisions about Scotland’s future than the people who live here
The draft Referendum Bill has been published asking ‘Should Scotland be an independent country? Yes or No.‘
The Bill, which will be introduced into Parliament once the necessary powers are secured, was a commitment in the Scottish Government’s 100 days programme.
It sets out the question, defines the franchise for the vote, and will include a date upon introduction.
First Minister John Swinney said: “The world has changed fundamentally since 2014. So has the UK, and so has Scotland.
“While people living in the UK endure flatlining living standards and the economic damage caused by Brexit, countries all around us are enjoying a higher quality of life and have more wealth to invest in their public services – often without a fraction of the abundant resources and economic strengths that Scotland enjoys.
“In May, the largest number of pro-independence MSPs in history voted to support the call for powers to hold a referendum on Scottish independence to be devolved to the Scottish Parliament.
“This draft Bill is simple, straightforward and direct. It proposes a clear, unambiguous question, sets out who can vote in the referendum and, once agreed, will include the date. It provides people with certainty. What is now needed is the UK Government to respect the voice of the Scottish people and Parliament and transfer the necessary powers.
“Scotland is ready. The Scottish people are ready. It is time the UK Government delivered.
“I will have more to say about Scotland’s constitutional future in the coming weeks. Fundamentally, nobody will take better decisions about Scotland’s future than the people who live here. That future belongs to the people of Scotland – and no one else.”
From stunt shows and pedal-powered activities to interactive sessions and STEM science, there’s something to set everyone’s head spinning. See amazing 360° stunts and bike parkour from cycling experts, The Extreme Mountain Bike Show, get involved with hands-on activities in the aircraft hangars and have a go at some cycling fun.
National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Open 10:00–17:00 daily
LAST CHANCE TO SEE Giants
Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3 Until 14 Sep Tickets from £13
Giants showcases the colossal prehistoric creatures that lived after the extinction of the dinosaurs, 66 million years ago. Discover life-sized 3D sculptures, skeletons, and fossils in this immersive, family-friendly exhibition. The Giants exhibition is designed and produced by the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences.
Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3 Until 16 May 2027 Entrance into the museum and exhibition is free
Explore archaeological evidence for the origins of organised conflict, from the Neolithic (late Stone Age) to the Romans, through over 250 objects. Scotland’s First Warriors explores how and why people fought, the impact of war, and the legacy of prehistoric conflict. Internationally significant discoveries from Scotland will be on display for the first time, including the Carnoustie Hoard.
Sep 7, 14, 21 10:30 – 11:15 or 11:45 – 12:30 Tickets from £4 per session
Our Magic Carpet sessions introduce you and your little one to some of the fascinating objects and themes in the museum in a fun and interactive way.
Each month we will explore a different theme using song, rhyme, movement, play and handling objects. This will help you and your little one discover more about our topic.
12 Sep 12:30–16:30 Tickets from £30, Members and concessions available
In this workshop, led by geologist and illustrator Vojta Hybl, you will explore the rock cycle – the process by which rocks change from one type to another. 2026 marks 300 years since James Hutton’s birth. Often credited as the father of modern geology, Hutton’s ideas about deep time changed how understood the age of the Earth. Vojta will combine scientific knowledge of geology with a range of creative approaches to demonstrate just how dynamic rocks can be. You will visit some of our collections inspired by James Hutton, to encourage your drawing as a new way into understanding geology.
The Sunday Sketch 20 Sep & 25 Oct 14:00 – 16:00 Tickets from £13
Join artist Sheena Russell to take a new look at our collections and be guided through a range of drawing activities within the museum’s galleries. All abilities are welcome at this relaxed and informal session. Each month we will explore a different theme, and all materials are supplied.
26 Sep 10:30-12:30 Tickets from £50, Members and concessions available
Join Nic DeRushie, researcher and living educator, for this inspirational and practical workshop around traditional spinning techniques. There will be the opportunity to make spindles and learn the basics of spinning using Scottish heritage breed fleeces. Learn about yarn plying and explore projects that can be done using a small amount of hand-spun yarn.
In Conversation: Understanding Prehistoric Lives Beyond Conflict
26 Sep 14:30-16:00 Tickets from £10
The exhibition curator of ‘Scotland’s First Warriors’, Dr Matthew Knight, is joined by Tristan Hughes, television presenter, author and history podcast host, and Nicole DeRushie, historian and author of ‘Bog Fashion’, to discuss the archaeological evidence that tells us about life beyond conflict in prehistoric Scotland.
27 Oct – 2 Mar 2027 11:30 – 12:15 and 13:30 – 14:15 Free, drop-in
In collaboration with Live Music Now Scotland, we are bringing live music into the heart of the museum on Tuesdays. With experienced performers and rising stars of live music, each week features a different soloist, duo or ensemble.
4 Sep – 26 Feb 2027, Friday afternoon during term time 13:30 – 16:00 Free, drop-in
Explore a different theme each week on Friday afternoons with our Learning team. Find out fascinating facts and hear surprising stories about our collections and get hands on with some of our favourite objects.
Learning Centre Seminar Room, Level 4 Third Friday of the month 10:30–12:00 Free, booking required
Museum Socials events are designed for people living with dementia, their relatives, friends, carers, and supporters. Relaxed and informal, each session explores a different museum theme through various interactive activities, including curator talks, object handling, and creative crafts. Tea, cake and a warm welcome are always provided.
15 & 22 September, 10:30 – 12:00 or 13:00 – 14:30 Tickets from £10, advance booking required
Discover the secrets of how we store and research our collections. Find out how our collections are used in international research and see objects rarely on public display.
Philipshill Road, East Kilbride, G76 9HR Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Working Animal Day
12 Sep 10:30-16:00 Free with museum admission
Join us for a fun-filled celebration of working animals at the National Museum of Rural Life.
See amazing outdoor displays from sheepdog training experts Glen and Jan Welsh, and specialist dog stunt team Les Amis d’Onno. Then head inside the museum for themed crafts and family storytelling.
18 & 21 Sep, 2 and 5 Oct Learning Centre £25 per child for block of 3, £20 per Member child for block of 3
Running in blocks of three sessions, Tractor Tots offers a fun, focused experience for younger visitors, introducing them to rural life through interactive creative play. Each session will feature handling objects from learning boxes, singing, storytelling, rhymes, actions, and sensory play to learn all about life in the countryside
Last Tuesday of every month 14:30-17:00 Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
Relaxed Afternoon is for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum. This session is primarily for, but not limited to, families with neurodivergent children; neurodivergent young people and adults; adults living with dementia; adults and children with mental health problems; and any other visitors with sensory needs or who may prefer a more relaxed experience, plus their families, friends and carers.
Tue 13 – Fri 16 Oct 10:30 – 15:30 Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
Our Autumn Explorers family activities are back, and this time we’re going back to our roots, digging into the traditions of the Scottish potato harvest.
Ever wondered why there’s a school holiday in October? Come along and discover how this tradition began when children would swap the classroom for the fields to help with the tattie howking. Find out how this crop has fed families for generations and get hands-on with sustainable activities, some surprising science and spud-tacular storytelling.
Tickets from £65, Members and concessions available
Join Glasgow-based natural dyer and botanical printer Elisabeth Viguie-Culshaw for an introduction to sustainable monoprinting using only locally foraged botanicals. You will learn how to select and prepare plant-based elements to create your own set of monoprints on paper.
This workshop is for anyone curious about sustainable processes and creativity with nature. Elisabeth will also share some of her work along with her new book ‘Botanical Printing on Paper’.
East Fortune Airfield, East Lothian, EH39 5LF Open Weekends only, 10:00–16:00
360 Fest
29 Aug 10:00-17:00 Tickets from £17
From stunt shows and pedal-powered activities to interactive sessions and STEM science, there’s something to set everyone’s head spinning. See amazing 360° stunts and bike parkour from cycling experts, The Extreme Mountain Bike Show, get involved with hands-on activities in the aircraft hangars and have a go at some cycling fun.
Every second Sunday of the month, 10:00-12:00 Free with museum admission
Relaxed Morning at the National Museum of Flight is for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum. Friendly staff will be there to give you a warm welcome and support your visit, as you explore the museum without noisy interactives and videos to create a more relaxed environment.
Concorde Theatre 11 Sep & 16 Oct 11:00-11:20 Free with museum admission
From April to October, learn more about the collections and history of East Fortune Airfield with a series of free expert talks at the museum. There will be an opportunity to ask questions at the end of each talk. In August, Eilidh MacKenzie will discuss ‘The Work of Poppy Scotland’ and in September, Elaine Edwards will discuss ‘The Work of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.’
Visit the museum for free over Doors Open Days East Lothian weekend and learn about the history of aviation from the First World War to the present day. Immerse yourself in interactive galleries, supersonic experiences and our historic hangars and airfield.
Mon 12 – Fri 16 Oct 10:30 – 15:30 Free with admission
The National Museum of Flight is full of things that fly of all shapes and sizes. This October Break you can discover how they fly with a range of fun family activities.
Build a glider with wings shaped like a real aeroplane. Try some popular flying toys from our toy trolley. Watch our 10 minute How things fly show.
Scotland’s national campaign for aspiring business owners, Scottish Start-up Month, returns this September after its first year of running coincided with 1,922 new businesses launching* between September and November, 201 more than the same period the previous year.
Led by Business Gateway, Scotland’s national business support service, Scottish Start-Up Month aims to inspire more people to explore self-employment and starting a business, whilst encouraging Scotland’s business community to pledge support and share advice with the next generation of business owners.
For those looking to take the first step, Business Gateway’s ‘Business Support Tool’ tool is the place to begin. By answering a few quick questions, users can assess how ready they are to start a business and access a start-up toolkit filled with resources, advice, webinars and support tailored to their idea.
The tool’s impact was clear during last year’s campaign. Completions rose 18% in September, with 1,092 people using it to test their business idea, up from 924 the year before. Business Gateway also received 2,750 enquiries during the month, an increase of more than 7% on the previous September.
Alongside the online tools, local business advisers are on hand to offer free one-to-one support in each of Scotland’s 32 local authority areas. These advisers can help refine business ideas, develop plans, identify customers and access the support needed to launch and grow a successful business.
Councillor Gail Macgregor, Chair of the Business Gateway Board and COSLA Economy and Environment Spokesperson said:“Business Gateway supports business owners year-round, but we felt it was important to create a milestone within the year to focus attention on those that might be out there considering an idea but just need to take the first step.
“Last year’s campaign showed the appetite is there when we demonstrate what support is available, with over 2,700 enquiries around Scotland.
“Whether you’re ready to launch or simply curious about self-employment, our advisers can help to make the first – often daunting – move. And if you already run a business, I’d encourage you to make a pledge this September and share what you’ve learned with the next generation of Scotland’s business owners.”
The campaign is backed by leading voices from across Scotland’s business community. Cabinet Secretary for the Economy Stephen Flynn said: “It is vital that we encourage more people to consider starting and growing their own business – it’s important for economic growth, and for helping people realise their full potential.
“The Scottish Government is committed to working with Business Gateway and a range of partners across the business community to make sure there is a growing network of support at every stage of the start-up journey.
“My plea to anyone who thinks they have even the tiniest seed of an idea for a business is to take the opportunity of Scottish Start-up Month to find out more and take the next step.”
Stuart Common, Managing Director of Mackie’s of Scotland, added:“We’re proud to support Scottish Start Up Month and the ambition behind it to encourage more people to turn good ideas into growing businesses.
“Mackie’s has always believed in the value of building for the long term, investing in Scotland and being prepared to innovate, and we know how important that same ambition is for the next generation of businesses.
“Scotland has no shortage of people with great ideas, but making the leap from an idea to a sustainable business takes confidence, support and the right connections.
“Scottish Start Up Month is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate those taking that first step and to create an environment where more home-grown businesses can start, grow and ultimately become employers and success stories in their own right.”
Scottish Start-Up Month runs throughout September, with a programme of free resources, expert guidance and inspiring real-life business stories designed to help take anyone take their first step.
Olympic legend leads training session with employees as company backs Tour de 4 for a second year
Sir Chris Hoy joined ScottishPower employees in Glasgow to share expert cycling tips ahead of this year’s Tour de 4, as the leading renewable energy company confirmed its support for the unique fundraising event for a second consecutive year.
The six-time Olympic champion met a group of colleagues taking part in the challenge at Bellahouston Park, where he led a relaxed training ride and advice session designed to help riders prepare for the event taking place in Glasgow on Sunday, 6 September.
The gathering brought together employees with a range of cycling abilities and personal motivations for taking part in Tour de 4, reflecting the event’s core aim of building a community around those living with and affected by cancer.
Founded by Sir Chris, Tour de 4 challenges perceptions around living with stage 4 cancer while raising vital funds for cancer charities across the UK. Last year’s inaugural event raised more than £3 million, with Sir Chris hoping to inspire even more people to take part in 2026.
Sir Chris Hoy said: “It was brilliant to get out on the bike with some of the ScottishPower team today and hear their stories ahead of Tour de 4.
“What makes this event so special is that everybody has their own reason for taking part. Some are riding for loved ones, some for friends, some because they’ve been affected by cancer themselves, but together they become part of something much bigger.
“Last year’s event was incredible. We saw so many people come together and raised more than £3 million, creating an amazing atmosphere and a genuine sense of community.
“This year, we want to build on that and encourage even more people to get involved. Tour de 4 is about bringing people together. Everyone who takes part has their own reason for being there, but together we create a community that can make a real difference.
“I’m delighted that the ScottishPower team will once again be joining us on the start line.”
Andrew Ward, CEO ScottishPower’s Customer Business, said:“We are incredibly proud to support Tour de 4 for a second year and continue our support for Sir Chris and his inspiring vision.
“Tour de 4 is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when people come together behind a common cause. Whether riding, volunteering or cheering from the sidelines, our teams are proud to play their part and help support the fight against cancer.”
ScottishPower’s support for Tour de 4 reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to supporting people affected by cancer. Separate from Tour de 4, ScottishPower has partnered with Cancer Research UK since 2012.
Together with its customers and employees, the company has raised over £45 million for the charity, helping to fund life-saving research for more than a decade.
Community organisations, charities, social enterprises and local residents are being invited to help shape the future of the Norton Park Conference Centre as part of a new study exploring how a bespoke heritage space could better serve Edinburgh’s third sector as well as the local communities round Easter Road.
Norton Park has commissioned a comprehensive options appraisal to identify new and enhanced uses for its Conference Centre, with the ambition of creating greater social impact, stronger community benefit and improved long-term sustainability.
The study will explore how the building could support voluntary organisations, community groups, social enterprises, local residents and purpose-driven businesses, while respecting the heritage character of the building.
The project is being led by Community Enterprise and Fraser/Livingstone Architects. A central part of the project is understanding what Edinburgh’s third sector actually needs. The team is keen to hear from charities, voluntary organisations, community groups, social enterprises, networks and public sector partners about the challenges they face, the facilities they currently use, the gaps in provision across the city and the opportunities they would like to see developed.
Keith Robertson, Chief Executive of Norton Park, said: “Norton Park has a long history of supporting the voluntary and community sector in Edinburgh.
“We know there is potential for the Conference Centre to play a much bigger role in supporting organisations and communities across the city. This project is an opportunity to think creatively about the future and ensure that the building responds to real needs.
“We are keen to hear from as many organisations as possible so that any future plans are rooted in evidence, demand and community benefit.”
Norton Park is Edinburgh’s leading third-sector hub, providing affordable, high-quality workspace and a supportive community for charities, social enterprises and community organisations.
The study will examine a range of possibilities, including workspace, meeting facilities, training and event space, partnership working opportunities and other community-focused uses. The findings will help Norton Park identify a preferred option and develop a longer-term vision for the building’s future.
Robin Livingstone, Director of Fraser/Livingstone Architects: “Sitting next to Easter Road stadium in Leith, Norton Park has a legacy in building repair, having rescued a Victorian school building from disrepair.
“This feasibility commission is an opportunity to build on that heritage by transforming the Conference Centre, housed in a makeshift conversion of a neighbouring B-Listed church.
“We will open the building to the community, unlock underused spaces, and improve energy efficiency by enhancing the building fabric to reduce carbon emissions. Creating a retrofit exemplar that supports Norton Park’s charitable purpose.”
Douglas Westwater, Chief Executive of Community Enterprise, added: “Edinburgh has one of the most vibrant third sectors in Scotland, but organisations are facing significant pressures around costs, sustainability and access to suitable space.
“We want to hear directly from the sector about what would make the biggest difference. Whether you are a small community group looking for meeting space, a charity seeking collaborative opportunities, or a social enterprise with ideas for the future, we would love to have a conversation.”
Get Involved
Organisations and individuals with an interest in the space are encouraged to get in touch and share their views.
To discuss your organisation’s needs, opportunities for collaboration, or wider priorities for Edinburgh’s third sector, please contact Douglas Westwater at Community Enterprise, email douglas@communityenterprise.co.uk
For a one-week, special engagement, the award-winning, off-Broadway, country rock musical, OIL & WHISKEY, will make its way to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe ahead of a 3-week Off West End London run.
OIL & WHISKEY will perform at The Nightclub at The Street as part of PBH’s Free Fringe, Sunday 23 – Sunday 30 August.
‘The Last Five Years’ meets Nashville Honky Tonk; Oil & Whiskey is a dramedy about two ex-lovers who meet for a drink and relive their entire relationship over a couple of rounds of whiskey.
You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and by the end you will remember why: you don’t text your ex. At the forefront of the recent Americana resurgence in Edinburgh and NYC, this toe-stomping musical written in Nashville, Tennessee, will immerse audiences in an authentic country rock cabaret concert akin to an evening at the Grand Ole Opry.
Oil & Whiskey is the debut musical for producer, musician, and songwriter Kit Nolan. The Nashville based multi-instrumentalist who has toured the world performing for millions as the Music Director for Lindsey Stirling, and as a session musician for Robbie Williams and One Direction.
He is joined by award-winning playwright and storyteller Dax Wiley. Wiley has written and produced musicals across the U.S.A. such as New York’s first immersive musical, The Limbo Lounge, and Good Fishermen Know A Lot About Sex, a powerful drama performed on theatre row in Los Angeles about the dangers of opioid abuse in America.
First debuted at the New York City Fringe Festival 2025 where it won the SOLD-OUT Award, Oil & Whiskey has big plans for 2026; beginning in June as one of two shows performing in New Musical Theater Nashville’s First Stage Showcase, and touring to popular Honky Tonk and off-Broadway venues in NYC, including iconic venues such as The Bitter End; home to where artists like Bob Dylan got their start in Greenwich Village, NYC.
Oil & Whiskey comes to the Edinburgh Fringe for a one-week special engagement, Sunday 23 – Sunday 30 August, 19:45 at The Nightclub at PBH’s Free Fringe @ The Street.
Oil & Whiskey Kit Nolan | Dax Wiley | Alexa Karas | AK INK
19:45 23 – 30 Aug | The Nightclub at PBH’s Free Fringe @ The Street
Positive progress is being made on in tackling Edinburgh’s housing emergency, according to updates considered by the Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Committee on Tuesday (25 August 2026).
Since the Housing Emergency Action Plan was agreed in 2024, 1,473 affordable homes have been completed by the Council and partners, 1,144 sites started and 866 additional suitable temporary accommodation properties purchased.
There has also been a significant reduction in the number of families with children living in unsuitable temporary accommodation.
In addition the Ask and Act pilot scheme has been launched in Wester Hailes, which aims to prevent people from becoming homeless at the earliest opportunity by working with partners across the public and third sector.
Members also agreed to end the suspension of the Council’s allocations policy, put in place to prioritise people facing homelessness, following progress in reducing the number of void Council homes alongside an increase in the supply of suitable temporary accommodation. This follows the commitment of the Council to invest £1.6bn in affordable housing.
A new grant scheme will also provide eligible owners of empty homes with up to £20,000 to bring properties up to a lettable standard. In return, owners will be required to make the property available for Private Sector Leasing for a period of three or five years.
The grant scheme is intended to allow empty home owners who do not have the financial means to address necessary works to bring the home into use. In turn, this will contribute to the number of suitable temporary homes available, easing pressure on the current housing emergency. Overall up to £600k is to be granted through the scheme.
Councillor Tim Pogson, Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener, said: “I’m encouraged by the progress being made to tackle Edinburgh’s housing emergency, with significantly fewer people not being provided with temporary accommodation, and a reduction in the number of children living in unsuitable accommodation.
“Everyone has the right to a safe and suitable place to call home. The pause on housing allocations has helped us prioritise those facing homelessness, while we work to increase the supply of temporary accommodation across the city.
“Bringing empty homes back into use is another important part of increasing the supply of housing. This funding will help owners meet the costs of essential works while, in return, making these homes available for private sector leasing for a 3 or 5 years.
“If you or a friend or relative own an empty home, I would urge you to find out more about how the support available.
“There is still much to be done, but I’m encouraged by the progress being made on the Housing Emergency Action Plan, which demonstrates tangible improvements being made.”
Efforts to increase suitable temporary accommodation include bringing houses back into use, purchasing properties and commissioning new temporary accommodation.
While in place, the suspension of the allocations policy allowed more than 350 households, including 200 families, to be moved out of unsuitable temporary accommodation and directly into a settled tenancy.
