Healthcare Improvement Scotland has published a report relating to an unannounced follow-up inspection visit to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, NHS Lothian. The inspection took place in September 2023.
The purpose of the follow-up inspection was to assess progress and provide assurance on NHS Lothian’s improvement actions in response to serious patient safety concerns that were identified and escalated during a previous inspection of the hospital in February 2023.
To provide assurance of improvement following the concerns previously identified, the main focus of the follow-up inspection was the emergency department. Inspectors also visited a number of wards and the medical assessment unit.
Donna Maclean, Chief Inspector, Healthcare Improvement Scotland, said: ““Serious concerns raised in our previous inspection related specifically to the safe delivery of care and to potential patient safety risks. During this follow-up inspection we observed that considerable progress has been made in responding to these concerns.
“The delivery of fundamental care has improved with the addition of care and mealtime coordinators in the emergency department. Improvements have also been achieved in supporting patient care, dignity and leadership and in the coordination of care within the department.
“Implementation of a new continuous flow model has improved the flow of patients through the hospital during weekdays. However, further work is needed to support the timely flow of patients from the emergency department to an appropriate care area out of hours and at weekends.”
Six of the previous 13 requirements have now been met and progress has been made with four requirements, with further work to be undertaken.
Three requirements have not been met. These include hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment and the management of intravenous fluids.
One new additional requirement has been added with regard to the safe management of cleaning products. One new recommendation has been added in relation to the timeframes for the completion of significant adverse event reviews.
An improvement action plan has been developed by NHS Lothian in order to meet the requirements.
The full inspection report is available to view at:
We are thrilled to announce that we have received just over £7,000 from the National Lottery towards the greening of the Heart grounds.
The aim is to bring together people of all ages and from all walks of life to help not only with the greening work itself, but also to improve their own physical and mental wellbeing by being involved in the creation of a green and welcoming space.
Not only will the space look more attractive to visitors and local residents alike, but all the new planting will contribute to the “green lungs” of the city.
The first stage of the project, beginning on 1st March, engagement, gardening and landscaping opportunities as well as harvesting produce for use in the community teaching kitchen, is expected to last one year, but we have loads of plans for future improvements, which would involve more trees and reducing the amount of hard playground surfacing.
More good news on the conservation works on the Victoria Building
As we have previously reported, funding has been awarded to us over the past year for significant conservation repairs to the Grade B Listed Victoria Building. As good stewards, we have prioritised some of the more urgent repairs to the stonework, roof, rainwater goods and windows and having tendered the project, we hope to start Phase 1 of the works in the New Year. So watch out for the scaffolding going up and the work beginning.
Of course we’re always on the lookout for more funding, or sponsorship, so spread the word, or if you can help our Operations Group with managing the upkeep or health and safety of the Heart, please get in touch as we would love to hear from you.
On the warm front…
Recent visitors may well have noticed a welcome rise in temperature inside the Victoria Building, especially with the cold weather outside. Repairs have been successfully carried out on the boiler which had originally been installed in 1983 and we are now feeling much warmer as we go about our work. We were even able to find the original engineer who installed the old machine and he was more than happy to come and look after it for us. Enjoy the warmth!
The Heart’s Christmas tree project
What would Christmas be without a tree? You may have heard that at the Heart we are planning to knit next year’s Christmas Tree!
The year-long project was unofficially launched this month (watch out for the official launch in January) as we decorated the Heart for this Christmas.
The idea came originally from a tree that was knitted in Norwich in 2012 and was displayed in prominent buildings to raise funds for Livability, a charity which cared for people in John Grooms Court in Norwich. Such was the success of the tree that they achieved enough money to provide a second lift for the building as well as an extension.
Now the Heart of Newhaven also needs a lift to provide access to the upper floors of the Victoria building, but we will similarly be partnering with local charities and are beginning with the announcement that Homestart, which helps families give children a good start in life will be one of our beneficiaries.
More will be announced in due course.
We’re going to need at least 5000 six-inch squares knitted or crocheted in any shade of green, as well as colourful decorations and adornments for the tree.
You have twelve months to get knitting, so don’t say we haven’t given you enough warning!
Talking of knitting, there are three new knit and natter groups starting at the Heart next month from 9th January.
Bring your own knitting or crochet, or join in with the Heart of Newhaven’s exciting new project to knit the 16ft Christmas tree to go on display next year and raise money for our chosen projects. We’ll give you more details next month.
The groups will meet on Tuesdays at 7.15 till 8.30 pm, Wednesdays from 9.30 till 12 noon and Saturdays from 9.30 till 12noon.
Start of regular Heart talks in January.
From local archaeology discoveries to water purity, from Newhaven witches to how to look after your own heart, watch out for an announcement on a new seasonal series of talks at the Heart. We’re creating a schedule of what we hope will be interesting talks which will take place on Friday afternoons in the spring beginning on the 26th January. Come and be enlightened and entertained. More news to follow.
Reminiscence
The next reminiscence sessions with our trained volunteers will be taking place on 21st December and 17th January, 10.30 – 11.30, and will then move to a regular day each month. Watch this space for further details.
Thinking of running away to the circus?
Why not try out some practice sessions first?
The Kids Circus (thinkcircus.co.uk) has found a new home at the Heart, so young people between the ages of 5-8 and 8-11are invited to explore the world of juggling, hula hoop, poi, flower sticks, plate spinning and many other tricks while developing their balance, coordination and confidence.
We now have two Youth Circus Clubs, Teen Circus, running every Tuesday and Friday at the Heart: bookwhen.com/thinkcircus Further classes soon.
Looking back
Remembrance weekend
Two events were held on both the Friday 10th Saturday 11th November
Fair Saturday
Back on the 25th November we got together to celebrate community and culture.
Interested in caring for old heritage buildings?
Lastly, join us in creating a safe, welcoming hub for the whole community. We’re always on the look-out for new trustees and consultants, but we’d like to extend a special welcome to anyone who is interested in the maintenance in an old heritage site such as the Victoria Building.
It has so many special needs and with frequent changes in legislation, we could do with an extra pair of hands for advice or practical help.
If you have even one hour a week to spare and you could walk around the site and lend a hand on health & safety issues, please contact linsay.miller@heartofnewhaven.co.uk.
This might suit anyone from a retired surveyor to a student studying estate maintenance, so come and talk to us if you think you could help.
Finally may we wish everyone a happy festive seasonand a very Guid New Year!
Make some New Year resolutions and join us in January.
Steps to provide displaced people with accommodation stability
Ukrainian people seeking refuge from the war will be supported to access longer term housing, under plans to further reduce the number of displaced people in Scotland living in temporary welcome accommodation.
From Thursday 7 December, Ukrainians arriving in Scotland for the first time through the Super Sponsor scheme and entering welcome accommodation will be supported by local authorities to identify two longer term accommodation options. Temporary welcome accommodation will be available for a maximum of six months, but may be extended in certain circumstances.
Ukrainians who are already in welcome accommodation will also be supported to find two longer term accommodation options. Where a displaced person chooses to make their own accommodation arrangements after six months and has declined offers, a maximum of 60 additional days in welcome accommodation will be permitted to allow them to safely move on.
From January, displaced people who have previously stayed in welcome accommodation and have left for an extended period will not be able to return in most cases, but will be offered help and advice to identify alternative housing options.
Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “Over 26,000 people from Ukraine have arrived in the UK with a Scottish sponsor, more than 20,500 of them through our Super Sponsor scheme.
“Our welcome accommodation ensures that we can offer everyone who needs it an initial safe place to stay. However, we do not want people to spend longer than necessary without a settled place to call home.
“Thanks to our close working with local authorities and the third sector, the number of Ukrainians living in welcome accommodation has more than halved over the past year. These next steps will help us support even more people to find safe, settled accommodation for the longer term. This will provide much-needed stability, helping them set down roots and make the most of local opportunities.
“We will work with local authorities and COSLA to help meet the needs of individuals and families – helping those who need additional support and considering affordability, employment and education. Many Ukrainians choose to make their own accommodation arrangements and the resettlement and housing teams in our local authorities can also support this.”
COSLA Community Wellbeing Spokesperson, Councillor Maureen Chalmers said: “Since Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, Scottish Local Government has worked in strong partnership with Scottish Government, third sector colleagues and the Ukrainian community to support displaced people seek refuge and safety in Scotland.
“Throughout this period, we have seen an exceptional level of public support. This has included thousands of people offering rooms in their homes to support hosting arrangements; a flourishing network of community and third sector activity to welcome Ukrainian households into local neighbourhoods; and support from colleagues across public services to ensure that guests have access to vital services which support resettlement and integration.
“This announcement is the next step in ensuring Ukrainian households who have arrived in Scotland have access to a home which meets their needs. Prolonged stays in welcome accommodation are unable to support the long-term integration needs of displaced people.
“Local Government is committed to supporting displaced households settle into longer term accommodation and integrate into local communities to ensure they benefit from the enhanced wellbeing that this brings.”
NHS Lothian is urging those who have not yet had their flu and/or COVID-19 vaccines to top up their protection ahead of the festive period, with maximum protection taking around 10 days following vaccination.
Last winter in Scotland, hospital admissions for flu and COVID-19 peaked on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day respectively.
Those who are most at risk from flu and COVID-19 are being invited for vaccination this winter. That includes people who are older, are pregnant, have an underlying health condition, provide vital face-to-face care for someone or who work in certain roles.
People can check which vaccinations they are eligible for, book online or rearrange an appointment by visiting NHS Inform or calling 0800 030 8013.
You can also drop-in to a clinic of your choice across Lothian, including Waverley Mall, The Gyle and Ocean Terminal, open 9am to 7pm seven days a week. More clinic details are available at NHS Lothian, including arrangements for school children and clinics for pre-schoolers.
Pat Wynne, Nurse Director for Primary and Community Care, NHS Lothian, said: “As people socialise with family and friends over the festive period, the chances of catching viruses increase. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and those around you from flu and COVID-19.
“We expect another challenging winter for the NHS, and getting vaccinated can also help to alleviate pressures on the system and keep our staff well.
“The flu virus is always changing and protection from the COVID-19 vaccine fades over time, so it’s important that those eligible keep their protection levels topped up by getting their vaccines now.
“To help make it as easy as possible for you to get your vaccine(s), you can drop-in to a number of clinics or book an appointment if preferable.”
Andy Burnham, Sadiq Khan, Steve Rotherham and Tracy Brabin – as well as 10 other mayors and council leaders – join forces to slam minimum service levels
Metro mayors and council leaders say they will “explore every possible option” to avoid issuing work notices
“Once in a generation” special Congress kicks off on Saturday – as unions debate how to step up campaigning against new laws
Metro mayors and council leaders from across the UK yesterday warned that Conservative anti-strike laws will “make disputes harder to solve” and “lead to more frequent and longer strikes”.
The mayors of London, Greater Manchester, Liverpool, West Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, Bristol and North of Tyne, and council leaders of Birmingham, Cardiff, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle and Nottingham and Sheffield, have joined forces to issue a scathing statement on minimum service levels.
The leaders of towns and cities pledge to “work with trades unions and employers to explore every possible option to avert any prospect of work notices being issued in our areas”.
The TUC has hailed the announcement as “hugely welcome”, particularly as the mayors and council leaders run services – such as transport – which could be subject to the legislation.
The mayors and council leaders also slam the new laws as “placing severe and unacceptable restrictions on the fundamental right of a worker to take industrial action to defend their pay and conditions”.
The statement comes after Mark Drakeford, First Minister of Wales, and Humza Yousaf, First Minister of Scotland, have both said they will do everything in their power to avoid issuing work notices.
New laws restricting the right to strike and introducing minimum service levels in rail, border security and ambulance services are now on the statute book – after passing in parliament this week.
Ministers are also consulting on rules affecting workers in hospital settings, schools, universities and fire services.
The intervention comes as unions discussed how they take on the new anti-strike laws at a “once in a generation” special Congress yesterday.
Widespread criticism
The legislation gives ministers sweeping powers to impose strike restrictions in any service within health, education, fire, transport, border security and nuclear decommissioning – and has faced widespread criticism.
NHS Providers recently warned that the legislation could worsen industrial relations, harm patient care and lead to more disruption.
The Joint Committee on Human Rights (JCHR) wrote to the government to express “serious concerns” about its anti-strike legislation breaching international law.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) also warned that the legislation could see all striking workers in affected sectors lose their unfair dismissal protection, as whole strikes could be deemed illegal.
TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said: “I welcome today’s pledge from elected leaders across the UK to do all they can not to impose minimum service levels on striking workers.
“This statement from mayors and council leaders across Britain is the latest in a long list of scathing criticism for minimum service levels.
“Employers, politicians and civil society organisations have all condemned this legislation.
“And it’s little wonder so many are opposed these new laws. They are a deliberate attempt to restrict the right to strike – a fundamental British liberty.
“Make no mistake – they are undemocratic, unworkable and likely illegal.
“And crucially – as the leaders of our towns and cities say – they will poison industrial relations and drag out disputes.
“That’s why we are calling today’s once in a generation special Congress. Unions won’t stop fighting this spiteful legislation until it’s repealed.”
On the commitment of mayors and council leaders to do everything in their power to avoid issuing work notices, Paul added: “It’s hugely important and welcome that council leaders and mayors have joined the First Minister of Wales and the First Minister of Scotland in saying they will do everything they can to avoid issuing work notices.
“These politicians all run services which could be affected by the legislation.”
Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said: “The way for the government to resolve industrial disputes isn’t through draconian legislation, but to negotiate.
“Workers in our public services don’t take the decision to withdraw their labour and lose a day’s pay lightly, and strike action is always the last resort.
“Ministers threatening to sack workers for going on strike during a dispute is both wrong and likely to be counter-productive. This is why we have opposed minimum service levels every step of the way – and will do everything in our power not to issue work notices.
“It also undermines devolution, as services in Greater Manchester such as transport are devolved, with no role for government in decisions such as service levels.”
Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol, said: “Minimum service levels are a desperate attempt by a government that has run out of ideas to stop workers taking action to defend their pay and conditions.
“Disputes at work are only solved effectively when people sit down and negotiate.
“Strike action is a human right and provides a basis for workers and employers to find solutions together. Legislating away worker dis-satisfaction does nothing to promote good working conditions or positive relations”.
JOINT STATEMENT:
The government’s proposals for minimum service levels in the event of strike action would place severe and unacceptable restrictions on the fundamental right of a worker to take industrial action to defend their pay and conditions.
They are unfair, undemocratic, and likely to put the UK in breach of our international legal commitments.
Crucially, they would make disputes harder to solve and lead to more frequent and longer strikes.
The recent publication of a draft code of practice that would put impossible hurdles in the way of unions complying with this draconian legislation shows that it is intended to stoke conflict not resolve it.
As leaders in our towns and cities, we urge the government to abandon plans to minimum service levels in any service.
We will work with trades unions and employers to explore every possible option to avert any prospect of work notices being issued in our areas.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester
Oliver Coppard, Mayor of South Yorkshire
Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
Jamie Driscoll, Mayor of North of Tyne
Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol
Cllr John Cotton, Leader of Birmingham City Council
Cllr Huw Thomas, Leader of Cardiff Council
Cllr Susan Aitken, Leader of Glasgow City Council
Cllr James Lewis. Leader of Leeds City Council
Cllr Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council
Cllr Nick Kemp, Leader of Newcastle City Council
Cllr David Mellen, Leader of Nottingham City Council
A new approach aimed at reducing domestic abuse-related homicides and suicides has received overwhelming backing.
The proposals for a Domestic Homicide and Suicide Review Model would help identify what lessons can be learned and applied following the death of a partner, ex-partner, or child where abuse is suspected. Ministers hope that this will ultimately lead to fewer such deaths.
Nine out of 10 people who took part in a consultation – including those with direct experience of domestic abuse and bereavement – backed the Scottish Government’s plans.
There was also substantial support for the inclusion in the Model of cases involving violent-resistant homicide, where the victim kills the perpetrator of abuse.
The Model will now be developed by the Scottish Government’s Domestic Homicide and Suicide Review Taskforce, Model Development Subgroup and Task and Finish Groups.
Justice Secretary Angela Constance said: “Nobody should die at the hands of a partner. While overall homicide rates are falling, there remains a significant number involving domestic abuse, where the vast majority of victims are women.
“Our plans would see agencies across justice, health and social care, the third sector and beyond work together to establish what could be done better. It is absolutely right that these reviews should also happen in cases of suicides, as well as homicides, where abuse has been a factor.
“By identifying areas for change and improvement, we can help to prevent further deaths and give a voice to those who have been killed.”
EmilyTest founder and CEO Fiona Drouet, who will chair the Domestic Abuse Related Suicide Task and Finish Group, said: “The decision for Scotland to include domestic abuse-related suicides in the new review model reflects a country that is progressive and recognises the extent of the harms caused by domestic abuse. This decision evidences that our Government values the voices of professionals and lived experience.
“After losing a loved one to suicide, families shouldn’t encounter obstacles when asking authorities to investigate further, regardless of whether the victim was known to domestic abuse services or not.
“These reviews will be absolutely pivotal in gaining valuable lessons and will go some way to helping us build a safer society. It signifies a positive move towards understanding and addressing the complexities surrounding domestic abuse and its consequences. I feel very privileged to be invited to chair the Task and Finish group and, after losing our daughter in these circumstances, I wholeheartedly commit to working with valued colleagues in the field to get this right for everyone.”
Head of the School of Social and Political Science at the University of Edinburgh John Devaney, who chairs the Model Development Subgroup, said: “The findings from the consultation on the key elements of the new domestic homicide and suicide review process is an important milestone in the considerations of the Taskforce.
“It is positive to note the overwhelming support for the core purpose of the review process, and the key aspects that the Taskforce should ensure are covered by future reviews. I’m very grateful to everyone who took the time to contribute, particularly those with experience of losing a family member to fatal domestic abuse.”
The first-ever ‘Breakfast with Santa’ events launched last weekend, (2nd and 3rd of December) at The Centre, Livingston with proceeds going to the children’s charity CHAS, which provides the country’s only hospice services for children and young people with life-shortening conditions.
The breakfast events, which are a first for the shopping centre, are running over the first three weekends in December, on both Saturday’s and Sunday’s, in The Wintergarden, adjacent to Aerial Adventures.
Over 100 people attended the first weekend and enjoyed a ‘Meet and Greet’ with Santa and a story from his favourite festive book, and a hearty breakfast, followed by a personal chat with him in his Grotto, then presented with a special gift.
Families also had the chance to join in some festive fun activities, hosted by Santa’s elves, including party games, dancing, reindeer food making and designing their own Christmas tree decorations.
Tickets for the remaining ‘Breakfast with Santa’ events on the 9th & 10th and 16th & 17th of December are £14.95 for children, which includes a present from Santa, and £10.95 for adults, with £3 from every ticket sold going to CHAS. Bookings can be made on The Centre, Livingston website, www.thecentrelivingston.com.
Patrick Robbertze, Centre Director at The Centre, Livingston said: “We are delighted our ‘Breakfast with Santa’ events got off to such a fantastic start at the weekend and will help us to raise even more money for the children’s charity, CHAS.
“It was great to see generations of families joining in all the activities and having such a fantastic time, and Santa too who really enjoyed taking part in the dancing games and reading his favourite Christmas story to the kids.”
The Centre, Livingston also organised it’s second Elf Toddle Walk this year with all funds going to CHAS once again and welcomed the charity into the shopping centre at the weekend to help raise money and awareness.
Zhenya Dove, Community Fundraiser at CHAS, said: “We are very excited to be a part of yet another heart-warming initiative by The Centre, Livingston. ‘Breakfast with Santa’ is not just about bringing joy to families; it’s about creating a positive difference in the lives of those we care for at CHAS.
“It is wonderful that some of the CHAS families had the opportunity to join in the festive spirit and meet Santa.
“Our gratitude knows no bounds to The Centre, Livingston and the compassionate community whose generosity and unwavering dedication fuels our mission. Thank you!”
Another of Edinburgh Leisure’s gyms has had a major makeover, following hot on the heels of the recent one at the much-loved Leith Victoria gym.
Gracemount Leisure Centre’s gym has undergone a refurbishment and reopened today – Saturday, 9th December. This follows a huge renovation at another of their gyms, Leith Victoria Swim Centre, with it becoming the first gym in Scotland to get new high-tech SE4 consoles from Life Fitness, aimed at improving workouts.
New cardiovascular (CV) equipment is being upgraded to the latest model, SE4. This new CV kit gives the option of on-demand workouts, additional fitness testing and connectivity to apps such as Netflix and Spotify on a 24-inch HD screen, built in wireless charging and improved touch screen capacity. Some new bits of kit include an additional Powermill, a concept 2Ski-Erg, Watt Bike and Arc Trainer.
Resistance kit includes a new glute drive, Plate loaded Lateral row, and equipment upgrade on all their current models. Improvements to the free-weights areas is being made by the addition of another half rack and dumbbell benches and increasing the floor area. Dumbbells will increase up to 50kg, in addition to upgrading bars and weight plates, as well as functional equipment such as kettlebells.
There will be a new designated area for their Gym Based Circuit Classes, included as part of an Edinburgh Leisure full fitness or gym membership, and there will be brand-new flooring throughout the gym.
Gracemount have also introduced a new Boditrax body composition scanner. Others can be found in the gyms at Meadowbank Sports Centre, the Royal Commonwealth Pool, Leith Victoria Swim Centre, and Drumbrae Leisure Centre.
Boditrax is a quick, easy and accurate tool for measuring body metrics. By using it, customers will have a better understanding of body composition and overall fitness levels. Free for members to access whenever they visit the gym, they can easily monitor their progress.
Like Gracemount, Leith Victoria’s gym has also had a recent upgrade with the installation of the new cutting edge SE4 machines Additional racks for weight-lifters, new dumbbell benches, a Hammer Strength Air Bike and an Arc Trainer were also added, as were new stations in the gym for beginners looking to get started on their own personal fitness journey.
Studio 1, located off the gym, was also given a makeover, receiving a lick of paint as well as having the floors and stage sanded and varnished.
Leith Victoria previously underwent renovations in 2020 which included a refurbishment of the changing areas in the pool, updated lighting and heating to improve efficiency and works to restore damage to the outside of the property.
Ally Strachan, Fitness Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure said: “We’re really excited about being the first gyms in Scotland to get the new high-tech SE4 Life Fitness consoles, which will really improve and enhance the customers’ experience.
“Edinburgh Leisure is constantly reinvesting thousands of pounds in improving our venues and equipment to ensure that customers are guaranteed as good an experience as any they might have at a private gym, but with the added bonus of flexibility and choice. As the biggest club in town, we like to think that wherever you’re at on the map or in life, Edinburgh Leisure has something to suit you, with a budget to match.”
Edinburgh Leisure is currently offering a Winter pass promotion. A short-term alternative to a full-time membership, the two-week pass costs just £20 for 14 days.
Available to buy online or in venue from to 18th December, the Winter Pass includes unlimited access to all Edinburgh Leisure’s 17 state-of-the-art gyms, 12 swimming pools, the Turkish Baths at Portobello Swim Centre, over 750+ fitness classes per week, and Europe’s largest climbing arena at Ratho, and represents excellent value for money.
Twenty-six people have now been charged with a total of 51 offences following bonfire night disorder seen in Edinburgh on Sunday, 5 November, 2023.
A further individual will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal in connection with two charges, meaning a total number of 27 people have been identified for 53 offences.
The ages of those range between 12 and 34 years of age, with the majority aged in their mid to late teens.
A total of 31 charges against 15 individuals relates specifically to the significant disorder seen in the Niddrie area.
Within this, two men, aged 29 and 27 have been charged in connection with inciting violence. They are alleged to have filmed the events on mobile phones while encouraging youths to be violent towards police.
A 31-year-old man and a 34-year-old woman were also charged in connection with supplying fireworks to youths.
The charges are a result of an extensive investigation which has been ongoing since bonfire night by a dedicated team of officers.
Chief Inspector Kieran Dougal said: “The events of bonfire night, especially in the East of the city, were wholly unacceptable.
“The scenes experienced are not reflective of the Niddrie community as a whole and were acts carried out by a minority.”
Sign-ups already flooding in for the much-loved fundraising event taking place on Sunday 15 September
GRATIS IMAGES
Pictures by Jamie Simpson/Kiltwalk
Pictured: Sir Tom Hunter sets of the first wave of the Mighty Stride
17 September 2023
Edinburgh goes Kiltwalk Crazy to Boost 710 Scottish Charities
Seven was Edinburgh’s lucky number today as a massive 7,000 Kiltwalkers took to the streets of the capital to fundraise for 710 different Scottish charities. 17th September goes into the history books as the city’s biggest ever Kiltwalk.
The Hunter Foundation underwrites Kiltwalk and Sir Tom Hunter was at the Start Line and on the route to praise the walkers:
“The good people of Edinburgh and the East love Kiltwalk. We had 1,700 Kiltwalkers in our first Edinburgh Kiltwalk 7 years ago, today we have over 7,000 heroes walking for 710 charities.
It’s incredible and every penny raised here at the Edinburgh Kiltwalk will make such a difference to charities who really, really need a hand up, not a handout in these tough times.
“I’m proud of every single person who took part and crossed the finish line at Murrayfield; be they a Mighty Strider, a Big Stroller, or a Wee Wanderer. I am so grateful for their generosity.
I’d like to say to each one of them, thank you for your Kiltwalk Kindness.”
Among the famous faces taking part in Scotland’s favourite mass participation event were David Marshall, Hibs and Scotland goalkeeper who stepped out on behalf of the Hibernian Community Foundation, which was also the biggest fundraising team at today’s Kiltwalk. New manager, Nick Montgomery, was there as a late addition to the 330 strong squad.
An impressive 3,000 Kiltwalk heroes undertook the Mighty Stride from Bingham Medway taking the 21-mile route through Portobello Promenade, Leith Shore and Gypsy Brae before triumphantly crossing the finish line at the Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium.
The Big Stroll saw 2,000 Kiltwalkers walk 15 miles from Musselburgh to the home of rugby, while 2,000 Wee Wanderers walked five miles from Gypsy Brae to meet their fell
Registration has opened for the 2024 Edinburgh Kiltwalk on Sunday 15 September. Kiltwalkers can take part in one of three walks: the 21-mile Mighty Stride, the 11-mile Big Stroll, or the Wee Wander of just five miles.
A record 7,000 Edinburgh Kiltwalkers raised over £1.25 million for 713 Scottish charities at this year’s Edinburgh Kitwalk, it has been revealed. Overall the 2023 Kiltwalk campaign was the biggest ever attracting a total of 27,500 Kiltwalk heroes across Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Dundee who raised a phenomenal £5.1m for 1,550 charities.
Over the last eight years, Scotland’s favourite mass participation charity event has raised a staggering £42.5 million for 3,300 Scottish charities.
Due to The Hunter Foundation underwriting Kiltwalk, entry fees have been frozen at 2023’s heavily discounted prices to make it as easy as possible for people to raise money for the charities they care about.
It’s just £20 for walkers taking on the Mighty Stride or Big Stroll. Adults doing the Wee Wander will pay £12.50 and children £6.50. Kiltwalkers can raise money for any charity they choose, with funding going directly to their chosen cause, plus Gift Aid. This means that charities will receive up to 125% of all funds raised at Kiltwalk.
In a recent video announcing this year’s fundraising total, philanthropist Sir Tom Hunter, paid tribute to the event’s headline sponsors Royal Bank of Scotland and Arnold Clark.
He added: “What a year it has been for Kiltwalk. This has been the biggest ever. We had 27,500 walkers raising £5.1 million and most importantly for 1,550 Scottish charities.
“We know how tough it is out there with the cost of living crisis, and how hard it has hit the charity sector. So we have made the decision to keep the entry price at £20 – that’s the best value you will get anywhere in the world to raise funds for a charity you love and have some fun.
“Good luck to everyone – I will see you on a Kiltwalk.”
To sign up for Edinburgh (September 15), Glasgow (April 28), Aberdeen (June 2) or Dundee (August 11) Kiltwalks, visit www.thekiltwalk.co.uk.
