Uncategorized – Page 31 – The NEN

Scottish charity declares fuel poverty emergency

ALIenergy calls for social energy tariffs as it celebrates 25th anniversary

Lynda Mitchell, CEO of energy charity, ALIenergy is calling on the UK Government to back the introduction of targeted social energy tariffs to curb the ‘fuel poverty emergency’.
Fuel poverty is at record levels, and the charity fears that more Scots will be afflicted this winter, with the energy price cap set to increase next week
The charity is encouraging households to take advantage of the support that is available to them this winter.

ALIenergy is calling on the UK Government to introduce a social energy tariff ahead of the energy price cap rising again next week.

The most recent fuel poverty statistics from the Scottish House Condition Survey and Scottish Government (2023) displayed that overall fuel poverty in Scotland is 34%, up from 31% in 2022.¹

On the 1^st October, the energy price cap is set to rise again, meaning the average annual price will rise by about £35 per home when compared with last year. As energy prices continue to rise, more people will be affected by fuel poverty.

The introduction of a targeted social energy tariff will help to decrease the burden on low-income families.

The tariff provides a discounted energy price for those who meet the eligibility criteria, such as low-income households and those living with unavoidably high energy costs due to disability or illness.

It supports the previous calls from the Scottish Government for the introduction of a targeted tariff. The Scottish Government established the Social Tariff Working Group, which submitted its final recommendation in April of this year, calling for a unit rate discount or real-time rebate for eligible households.

Following this, the Energy Social Tariff Bill was introduced as a private member’s bill by Labour MP Polly Billington in July. The Bill calls for a requirement for energy companies to provide social energy tariffs for low-income customers.

If introduced, this could pull thousands out of fuel poverty in Scotland.

ALIenergy was established in 2000 to ensure sustainable energy use and generation to the benefit of individuals, communities and the local economy, and to combat fuel poverty.

The charity provides much-needed advice and support to around 2,000 households a year. Initially operating only in Argyll, the charity has expanded its services over the years, branching into the Highlands and increasing its partnerships on local, national, and international levels.

Celebrating its 25^th year, ALIenergy is hosting a celebratory event on 25th September, with politicians, revered environmentalists, and fuel poverty activists in attendance. The local MP, Brendan O’Hara and revered environmentalist and poverty activist, Ashok Sinha will be key speakers at the event.

ALIenergy is encouraging households to take advantage of the support that is available to them this winter such as checking their eligibility for the UK Government’s Warm Homes Scheme, a £150 energy bill discount for low income families.

The 25^th Anniversary of the charity has been celebrated with motions in both Westminster and Holyrood.

Links to the full text of the motions can be found below:

Parliamentary Motion – UK Parliament, lodged by Brendan O’Hara MP, Argyll and Bute (SNP).

Parliamentary Motion – Scottish Parliament, lodged by Rhoda Grant MSP, Highlands and Islands (Scottish Labour)

ALIenergy CEO, Lynda Mitchell said: “We are delighted to be marking our 25^th year, but we are focused on the real issue that we are living through a fuel poverty emergency.

“On a daily basis, we assist people who have to make the terrible choice between eating and heating their homes, and with winter on the way and the energy price cap set to increase yet again, this issue must be addressed by the UK Government.

“Much of the region we operate in is off the gas grid, and residents are often paying up to four times more for their heating.

“To address this, we are calling for the UK government to support a social energy tariff, to aid the most vulnerable in our society and pull people out of fuel poverty.

“I hope our anniversary event will send a message to residents living in fuel poverty across these regions and Scotland as a whole, that they are not alone.”

Ashok Sinha, Environmentalist and CEO of Ashden added: “I am delighted to be speaking at ALIenergy’s 25^th Anniversary event.

“I am happy to support them in their fight against fuel poverty and look forward to lending my support to the charity’s call for the introduction of a social tariff.”

Roxy Malik, Argyll and Bute Resident who lives in fuel poverty: “My long-term conditions and the energy crisis are having a huge impact on my physical, psychological and mental health and wellbeing.

“I end up leaving bills, bank statements, important letters and emails unopened because I’m so concerned – how much will I have to pay and how can I pay it?

“It becomes very daunting and overwhelming. Especially when you’ve been independent and worked hard all your life. It’s hard.

“A social tariff seems like a fairer way of doing things; it accounts for what a person needs, such as their health and medical needs. If it could take away the unjust cost of standing charges when you aren’t even using power, that would be brilliant.”

1 Scottish House Condition Survey: 2023 Key Findings

“Walk to Work for MND”

Alexander Middleton’s 90 Mile Challenge for MND Scotland

For some people the daily commute to work is a routine part of life. But for Alexander Middleton, a 32-year-old solicitor from Edinburgh, it became an opportunity to raise awareness and vital funds for a charity that supports individuals and families dealing with a motor neuron disease (MND) diagnosis.

Over the course of five days during September, Alexander walked from his home in South Queensferry to his office in Edinburgh. This was a round trip of approximately 18 miles each day with the aim of raising funds and awareness for Scotland’s motor neuron disease charity, MND Scotland.

Alexander is a lifelong rugby player and has seen the devastating impact of MND on figures like Doddie Weir, Rob Burrow, and Ed Slater. He wanted to take on the challenge to help raise funds for families in Scotland affected by the brutal disease.

Alexander said, “I’m young, I’m healthy, and while I can do it, I want to try and raise as much awareness as possible.

“I just feel for people that are suffering from it. If I can do something that helps them, then hopefully that’s me doing something good. For me, I see the challenge as short-term suffering- it’s nowhere near as challenging as MND. That’s what keeps me going”.

Each day, Alexander walked approximately five hours, starting at 5:30am and ending with another long trek home after a full day’s work.

Regardless of the weather, he kept going, driven by the thought of those who no longer have the ability to walk, let alone work: “I’m in a privileged position where I can do it. I can walk and I can speak to my partner. I’m not suffering from the disease.”

There are around 480 people in Scotland currently living with MND. On average almost 200 people are diagnosed each year in Scotland. The average life expectancy is just 18 months from diagnosis.

MND Scotland is the only charity dedicated to directly supporting people with MND, their families and friends across Scotland.

“Health is wealth. It’s opened my eyes to what’s important and not letting things bother you”, Alexander said.

The challenge became a community effort. Friends and family joined him on different parts of the walk, including his 64-year-old mum who trained to take part. Local businesses stepped up too – Rogue Bros in South Queensferry donated pizzas for the final day celebration, and nutrition brand ELEAT provided high-protein snacks to fuel Alexander’s challenge.

His passion doesn’t stop there. He’s already planning his next challenge for 2026. Alexander aims to organise a four-day run from Edinburgh to Newcastle, covering the distance of four marathons. He hopes to engage colleagues from both offices, raise even more funds, and continue building awareness around MND.

“I’d love for Walk to Work to become popular,” he said. “If people are inspired by my challenge and decide to do something themselves, that’s a bonus.”

Alexander believes that small actions can lead to big change. His efforts mirror the commitment of other MND champions like Kevin Sinfield, whose fundraising efforts have inspired thousands, including Alexander.

He added: “If someone’s inspired by my challenge, then that’s a bonus. You never know what’s around the corner, so go and do that holiday, or go and fundraise, do something silly, because you just never know what’s coming.”

Jonathan Mitchell, Head of Fundraising for MND Scotland, said: “We would like to thank Alexander for taking on his incredible “Walk to Work Challenge”.

“MND Scotland is supporting more people in Scotland who are facing MND – and the descent into the unknown – than ever before. The support from people like Alexander means that people in Scotland won’t have to face the unknown alone.

“Whether you decide to follow in Alexander’s ‘footsteps’ by encouraging your workplace to take on a walking challenge in support of MND Scotland or come up with a unique quirky idea of your own, everything you do will be helping to support people affected by MND in Scotland.”

Alexander’s “Walk to Work for MND,” has already surpassed his fundraising target and has raised over £3,800. If you would like to donate to his JustGiving page, please visit:

https://www.justgiving.com/page/alexander-middleton-1

“Until we find a cure, we need to keep banging the drum”, Alexander said.

For more information about MND Scotland, please visit: www.mndscotland.org.uk, email: info@mndscotland.org.uk, or call: 0141 332 3903.

Twin brothers up for Unsung Hero award after 40 years at Fettes College

Twin brothers who have spent their entire working lives looking after the grounds of Fettes College in Edinburgh have been shortlisted for a Tatler Schools Award in the Unsung Hero category.

George and Kevin McNab are heading to London on Monday 29th September, with their wives, to attend the Award Ceremony at the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane Hotel.

George and Kevin McNab joined Fettes on the same day back in January 1985 when they were only 16. Following in the footsteps of their father, who worked at the school as a joiner for nearly 30 years, they quickly became part of the fabric of Fettes’ life.

The Tatler Schools Guide celebrates the top prep and public schools in the UK and the Tatler Schools Awards celebrate the exceptional contributions of UK staff, pupils and school communities.

The Unsung Heroes category shines a spotlight on individuals whose work is totally invaluable to a school and makes a lasting difference behind the scenes. George and Kevin are the only shortlisted nomination from Scotland and are up against candidates from four English schools.

Over four decades, George and Kevin have seen a lot of change, from chalk-clogged pitch markers to today’s robot line marker, affectionately nicknamed “Lionel Pitchie” and much more, witnessing thousands of children grow up at the school. But what hasn’t changed is their friendship, humour and loyalty to each other and to the school community.

Over the years, the brothers have shared countless memories at Fettes, including George meeting his future wife in the school dining hall. This moment remains one of their most cherished stories alongside decades of tending rugby pitches and cricket squares in all four seasons.

Head of Grounds Kevin McNab said: “Being nominated for this award is a huge surprise and a real honour. We never imagined that our work behind the scenes would be recognised in this way.

“It’s very humbling to be included alongside so many outstanding people and we are looking forward to attending the Award Ceremony in London.”

His brother George, who is Deputy Head of Grounds, added: “It’s wonderful to have our efforts acknowledged.

“We’ve always loved what we do and to be nominated for an award is something we’ll never forget. It feels like a recognition of the whole team, not just the two of us.”

Peter Worlledge, Bursar and Head of Operational Staff at Fettes said: “Everyone at Fettes is delighted for George and Kevin – now nicknamed our ‘Tatler Twins’! – They are pillars of our school community, who have spent over four decades going the extra mile for students and staff alike.

“Their dedication, care and humour have shaped Fettes in countless ways over the past 40 years and their contributions to our school are innumerable.

“This nomination is a fitting recognition of everything they have done for generations of students and staff, and we hope they enjoy the experience of attending this prestigious event.”

The winners of the Tatler Schools Awards 2026 will be announced at the awards ceremony on Monday 29 September 2025.

Easter Drylaw Flood Management: Community consultation tomorrow

JOIN the AtkinsRealis team tomorrow (Friday 26 September) from 2pm to see the Concept Designs for improving flooding issues on Easter Drylaw Avenue and Easter Drylaw Drive.

The organisers say:

‘Currently, during high rainfall, this junction and surrounding homes experience flooding.

‘The objective of this project is to respond to the existing drainage challenges in the area by incorporating nature-based solutions.

‘Through the strategic use of planting, green spaces and Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), the project will help to manage rainwater naturally by capturing surface water in an attenuation feature (Eh? – Ed).

‘This will helpslow water down from entering the sewage system, reducing pressure and lowering the risk of flooding on streets, footpaths, homes and gardens.

‘To ensure the project delivers a green community space suited to local aspirations, we would love to hear what you would like to see incorporated in this project.’

We’ll be on the corner of Easter Drylaw Avenue and Easter Drylaw Drive (foot of Easter Drylaw Bank) from 2pm.

Not going to be at home tomorrow? You can still get in touch with your thoughts or any questions at flood.management@edinburgh.gov.uk

Edinburgh Leisure’s ‘Balanced Life’ programme supports older adults to prevent falls

WORLD FALLS DAY – 22nd SEPTEMBER

As the world marks World Falls Day on 22nd September, Edinburgh Leisure is shining a spotlight on its Balanced Life programme – a specialist initiative helping adults reduce their risk of falling and maintain independence.

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury and hospital admissions among older adults. They place a significant burden on the NHS and social care, but many are preventable. It is estimated that falls cost the NHS more than £2.3 billion annually. In 2023, over 15,000 people attended A&E in relations to a fall, 10,000 of which were people over 50 years old. (Lothian Falls Prevention and Management Framework).

Working in collaboration with the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership (EHSCP), Balanced Life is integrated into Edinburgh’s new Falls Prevention and Management Pathway and is already making a difference across Edinburgh.

As well as Balanced Life, working in partnership with EHCP has enabled Edinburgh Leisure to grow their provision from 33 to 73 classes per week creating capacity to support 2,632 adults this year to improve their balance, strength, and confidence – key factors in preventing falls.

Balanced Life is an evidence-based two-tiered falls prevention programme designed for adults who have had or are at risk of having a fall. Offering a range of tailored classes which build strength, balance and mobility, this programme supports people to maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life through targeted exercises delivered by specially qualified instructors.

Level 1 – Active Balance is a weekly class focusing on functional exercises that promote balance, confidence and daily movement
Level 1 – Grounded Balance is a weekly class which teaches participants how to get down to and up from the floor safely using backward training principles to reduce ‘long lies’ following a fall
Level 1 – Dynamic Balance is a weekly circuit-based class which focuses on strength and functional fitness
Level 2 – Balance Plus is designed for people with a higher falls risk of having a fall. People referred to Balance Plus are asked to attend 3 classes per week to build their strength, mobility and balance confidence

Claire Craig, Health and Wellbeing Manager at Edinburgh Leisure, said: “Falls are widely recognised as a significant and costly, yet largely preventable, source of harm within the health and social care system.

“We are excited to be working with Health & Social Care to expand our successful Steady Steps programme, launching a new two-tiered programme to reduce falls and frailty in the city.

“This collaboration is focused on reducing avoidable harm caused by falls and delivering meaningful, city-wide benefits for the people of Edinburgh, improving lives and helping ease pressure on the NHS.”

Hannah Cairns, Chief Allied Health Professional at the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “We have enjoyed working closely with Edinburgh Leisure on the falls prevention pathway.

“They bring a wealth of experience in the role of physical activity in health and wellbeing, and have a proven track record of delivering groups and services that have a positive impact on people’s lives.

“We are proud to support the development of Balance Life, a key contributor to the integration of physical activity within the newly developed falls prevention and management pathway.

“This collaboration is focused on reducing avoidable harm caused by falls and delivering meaningful, city-wide benefits for the people of Edinburgh.”

By supporting people to stay active and steady on their feet, Balanced Life is helping to reduce avoidable falls and the associated healthcare costs.

Balanced Life is referral-only, ensuring those most at risk are supported. Health and social care professionals can refer eligible individuals.

Edinburgh Leisure remains committed to promoting healthy ageing and tackling health inequalities through inclusive physical activity programmes.

To find out more about Balanced Life or how to refer someone, visit https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/balanced-life/ or speak to your local health practitioner.

If you would like to find out more about how people can reduce their risk of falling, visit https://services.nhslothian.scot/fallssupport/i-live-in-edinburgh/

UK fighter jets begin NATO air defence missions to bolster European security

Royal Air Force Typhoon patrolled the skies over Poland as part of NATO’s Eastern Sentry mission

Royal Air Force Typhoons have flown their first NATO air defence sortie over Poland as part of NATO’s Eastern Sentry, strengthening the Alliance’s defences on its eastern flank following a reckless Russian drone incursion.

Two British fighter jets took off from RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire on Friday night, supported by an RAF Voyager aircraft, to patrol Polish skies and deter and defend against aerial threats from Russia, including drones. They returned safely to the UK early Saturday morning.

This first operational mission follows the reckless and dangerous incursion by Russian drones into Polish sovereign airspace – the most significant violation of NATO airspace by President Putin to date since his illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine – and further breaches of NATO airspace by Russian jets and a drone over the past week.

On Monday, the Defence Secretary visited RAF Brize Norton, home of the Voyager air-to-air refuelling aircraft, to announce the UK’s contribution. He met with some of the RAF personnel who are among more than 400 personnel set to directly support these missions.

The UK operation comes as the UK marks the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain this weekend, with the UK and Poland sharing a poignant history. Just as during the Battle of Britain, when Polish pilots came to the aid of the UK forming one of the largest and most successful foreign contingents in the RAF, the UK is now standing side by side with the UK’s Polish allies in the face of Russian aggression.

The UK commitment follows last week’s North Atlantic Council meeting where Allies expressed full solidarity with Poland after it requested consultations under Article 4 of the Washington Treaty.

Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, said: “RAF Typhoons have now flown their first air defence mission over Poland, sending a clear signal: NATO airspace will be defended.

“I’m proud of the outstanding British pilots and air crew who took part in this successful operation to defend our Allies from reckless Russian aggression.

“This weekend, as we honour the heroism of the Battle of Britain generation, it is especially poignant that RAF pilots and crew are once again standing shoulder to shoulder with Poland in defence of our shared security – making us secure at home and strong abroad.”

Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Harv Smyth, said: “Our partnership with NATO has never been stronger. This sortie marks the RAF’s first operational mission on Eastern Sentry, reinforcing the UK’s steadfast commitment to NATO and its allies.

“RAF Typhoons, supported by Voyager air-air refuelling aircraft, joined allies along the eastern flank to bolster NATO’s defence and deterrence.

“We remain agile, integrated, and ready to project airpower at range.”

This new era of threat – exemplified by Russia’s intensifying airspace violations – requires a new era for Defence, and the government is delivering the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War, to 2.6% of GDP by April 2027. The UK’s national security , the foundation of the government’s Plan for Change, starts with an unwavering commitment to NATO and Euro-Atlantic security.

The UK’s commitment to NATO is unshakeable. British Armed Forces continue to play a leading role in the Alliance, from the Army’s continuing presence in Estonia as part of NATO’s Forward Land Forces, to the RAF’s enduring air policing missions in Europe.

Over the past 18 months, the RAF has deployed Typhoons to both Poland and Romania to protect NATO airspace.

Typhoons are equipped with advanced sensors and infrared-guided ASRAAM missiles (Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missiles), making them ideally suited to detecting, monitoring and intercepting potential aerial threats.

Earth in Common is growing!

We’re thrilled to announce that Earth In Common is growing!

Earth In Common is expanding beyond Leith and will be setting up two new urban crofts in the Trinity and Costorphine neighbourhoods!

Get involved in these exciting new projects by helping out at our very first volunteer days at our new sites. We will be at St Margaret’s Park on 23rd Sep and Victoria Park on 24th Sep so come along to lend a hand and meet the team!

Swipe through for more details and get in touch with us if you have any queries!

Look forward to seeing you there!

Empty Kitchens Full Hearts closed for essential maintenance

NO COMMUNITY LUNCHES TODAY AND NEXT FRIDAY (26TH)

We’re undergoing essential maintenance next week, which means a change in our usual operations!

As a reminder, this means:

There will be no community lunch today (19 September) or 26 September

Our kitchen is closed from the 22nd to 26 September. Meal deliveries restart on the 30 September.

We’re sorry for any inconvenience and thank you for your understanding

Serious assault in Clerk Street: Do you know this man?

Police have released images of a man they believe may be able to assist with their investigation into a serious assault in Edinburgh that took place on Clerk Street around 10.45pm on Tuesday, 12 August 2025.

The man in the image is described as white, around 30 to 40 years old and of slim build. He was wearing a white t-shirt with a collar and carrying a black Fox Racing rucksack on his back.

Detective Sergeant Mark Richmond said: “We would encourage this man, anyone who may recognise him, or anyone with information about this incident to get in touch.”

Anyone who can assist is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 4130 of 12 August 2025. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.

Reducing drugs harm

Funding enables more people to access support

More people impacted by drugs have received support after the Scottish Government funded 225 community-based projects across the country.

The National Drugs Mission Funds distributed almost £13 million in grants in 2024-25 through the Corra Foundation. In 2024-25, there were more than 51,000 interactions with support services, an increase from 33,613 the previous year thanks to sustained funding.

The multi-year funding helps people in crisis and provides continued support throughout their recovery, including access to medication assisted treatment and residential rehabilitation.

Drugs Policy Minister Maree Todd said: “These funds are enabling vital, community-led work that supports people affected by drug harm with care, compassion, and dignity.

“The projects are focused on a wide range of areas, including recovery, mental health, reducing stigma and supporting young people.

“This report highlights the progress and impact of these projects and the types of support provided directly to people, their families and communities impacted by drugs. I have been especially struck by the creativity, resilience and partnership shown by organisations delivering support which is rooted locally, with more than 51,000 interactions this past year.

“I’m proud to continue the work of those who came before me, and to be part of a mission that is turning hope into action. My sincere thanks go to Corra, and to every person and project involved – these efforts are saving lives and helping to build a Scotland where recovery is real and support is always within reach.”

Corra Foundation Chief Executive Carolyn Sawers said: “Corra is honoured to work in partnership with organisations that are making a meaningful difference to the lives of people affected by drug use in Scotland.

“This report recognises the vital work of these projects, the committed efforts to reduce drug harm and the challenges encountered in addressing the issue.

“It makes clear the importance of access to multi-year funding to provide security for organisations to sustain their work.”

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