Self Assessment: 100 days to go

Tick Tock! 100 days left on the Self Assessment clock!

With 100 days to go until the deadline for online returns, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is reminding Self Assessment customers that the countdown to complete their tax return has begun.

Self Assessment customers have until 31 January 2023 to submit their online return for the 2021 to 2022 tax year.

More than 66,000 taxpayers beat the clock and filed their tax return on 6 April – the first day of the new tax year. HMRC is encouraging others to complete their return as soon as they can, so they know what they owe and can budget to make the payment by 31 January 2023. This also means that if a repayment is due, it can be claimed back sooner.

More information about Self Assessment can be found on GOV.UK.

Completing a tax return using HMRC’s online filing service is simple and convenient. Last year, more than 95% of customers filed online with many choosing to start it, save their progress and go back to it as many times as they need before it’s ready to submit. Those who submit their returns early still have until 31 January 2023 to pay.

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, said: “With 100 days to go until the online deadline, there’s still time to complete your tax return, to budget and look into the range of payment options if you need to.

“Help and support is available online to help customers with their tax returns. Just search ‘Self Assessment’ on GOV.UK to find out more and get started today.”

Filing early also means they will have plenty of time to access the number of payment options available including:

  • paying via the free and secure HMRC App
  • setting up an online monthly payment plan (self-serve Time to Pay)
  • paying through PAYE tax code (subject to eligibility) 
  • payment on account

Those who are unable to pay their tax bill in full can access the support and advice that’s available on GOV.UK. HMRC may be able to help by arranging an affordable payment plan.

HMRC has updated their Self Assessment guide to help customers complete their tax return. The guide contains helpful information including:

·         what help and support is available when completing their Self Assessment

·         what documents they need before they start

·         what earnings they need to declare including funds received through COVID support schemes

·         help with paying their tax bill and what to do if they have overpaid and are due a refund

All Self Assessment customers need to be aware of the risk of scams and HMRC is reminding them never to share their login details. Someone using them could steal from the customer or make a fraudulent claim in their name. Check HMRC’s advice about scams on GOV.UK

Anyone can check if they need to complete a tax return by using the free online tool on GOV.UK.

Those new to Self Assessment for the 2021 to 2022 tax year may include:

  • those who are newly self-employed and earned more than £1,000
  • a new partner in a business partnership
  • those who have received any untaxed income
  • those claiming Child Benefit but they or their partner have an income above £50,000

Self-employed workers must also register for Class 2 National Insurance contributions.

National Museums Scotland acquires rare medieval gold sword pommel

National Museums Scotland has acquired an exceptionally rare gold sword pommel, created around 700 AD.

Discovered in Stirlingshire, this spectacular object is one of the first of its kind found in Scotland and has been allocated to the Museums by the King’s and Lord Treasurer’s Remembrancer following the recommendation of the Scottish Archaeological Finds Allocation Panel. 

The pommel is a decorative fitting that would have capped the top of a sword hilt made over 1000 years ago. Crafted in solid gold, the object is encrusted with garnets and intricate goldwork. This rich and technically accomplished decoration is highly symbolic, featuring religious motifs and fantastical creatures.  

The discovery was made near Blair Drummond in Scotland, adding significantly to its archaeological value, affirming important cultural, political and artistic interactions within northern Britain.

Its decoration masterfully combines elements from both Anglo-Saxon England and the kingdoms of Early Medieval Scotland. This vibrant ‘Insular art’ style, made famous by illuminated manuscripts such as the Lindisfarne Gospels, is Britain’s unique contribution to medieval European art and the Stirling pommel is an outstanding expression of this creative fusion in gold. 

Dr Alice Blackwell, Senior Curator of Medieval Archaeology and History at National Museums Scotland, said: “Goldwork from this period is virtually unknown from anywhere in the UK and we are delighted to secure the Stirling Pommel for Scotland’s national collections.

“It is a hugely significant archaeological find, revealing more about this fascinating period in the history of northern Britain and representing the spectacular skill and craftsmanship of the period.” 

The pommel was discovered by a metal detectorist and declared to the Treasure Trove unit, in accordance with Scots Law. It was subsequently allocated to National Museums Scotland by the Scottish Archaeological Finds Allocation Panel (SAFAP). 

John Logue, King’s and Lord Treasurer’s Remembrancer, said: “This discovery highlights the positive work done by the Treasure Trove Unit to decide upon the preservation of rare items for the nation.”  

The announcement follows the success of  Scottish Archaeology month 2022 in September. This initiative is focused on sharing and engaging with stories related to history, heritage and archaeology in Scotland. 

Edinburgh Leisure: In for a penny to lose the pounds

With the rising cost of living, Edinburgh Leisure is running their ‘penny campaign’ reducing their joining fee to just a penny on their fitness, gym, class, swim and climb memberships, helping you to lose the pounds in time for Christmas and helping you find that wellbeing factor, now the dark autumn nights are drawing in.

The offer is available from today – Monday, 24th October until Sunday, 6th November 2022 and is available to buy online only.

As everyone is different and needs to find their own way to a healthy and active life, Edinburgh Leisure offers a range of different membership options to suit everyone including swim, gym and fitness classes only to full monthly memberships.

By offering different types of membership, people can match their activity preferences to their pocket.

And as part of the promotion, Edinburgh Leisure is running their Free Friend Friday whereby existing members are able to bring a friend for free this Friday, 28th October.

With 30+ venues including 1 climbing centre, 12 swimming pools, 14 gyms, and 750+ fitness classes per week, Edinburgh Leisure is the ‘biggest club in town’ providing the widest range of fitness classes, state of the art facilities and community-based programmes across the capital.

To join online, visit: https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/in-for-a-penny

Cramond’s Got Talent: Residents take centre stage at city care home

Excited contestants vie for the ‘Golden Buzzer’ at Cramond home’s talent show

RESIDENTS at a luxurious Edinburgh care home put on their dancing shoes and warmed up their vocal cords in anticipation of the home’s talent show.

‘Cramond’s Got Talent’ was the latest addition to Cramond Residence’s activities rota, with the aim of encouraging residents to lead fun and fulfilling lives.  

At least 10 of the home’s residents and staff members took centre stage to perform in front of a judging panel which also consisted of six residents.

Many of the performances included tributes to bands such as ABBA, whilst one resident showcased traditional Spanish dancing and another performed a piano symphony.

The idea for Cramond’s Got Talent came from one of the home’s Lifestyle Coordinator’s, Garylee Rushforth. He said: “It was great to see the residents and staff members at Cramond let their hair down and fully immerse themselves in the experience.

“The residents were really excited and couldn’t wait to witness the array of talent that was to be showcased from not only their fellow residents, but also their favourite key workers.

“Each member of the panel had their own unique judging style as they all have a range of different backgrounds and life experiences, consisting of a dance teacher, a former RAF engineer, a pianist and singer to name a few.

“One of the residents was set on taking a Simon Cowell type approach in their judging style, which certainly made for an entertaining show!”

Activities are resident-led and aim to make life as fun and fulfilling as possible. The Lifestyle Team are continually looking for new exciting and engaging activities to implement into each month’s carefully-planned programme.

Facilities provided include a cinema and function room, a dedicated games room and also a sensory experience which offers therapeutic activities for those with dementia.

Garylee continued: “The vast array of offerings at Cramond really is exceptional. I love seeing the joy on our resident’s faces when they are participating and having fun during one of the planned sessions.”

Located in Cramond, the care home was launched in 2018 to offer uncompromising nurse-led care, as well as respite and dementia specialist services, and provides small-group living for up to 74 residents in nine luxuriously-appointed homes.

Cramond Residence offer tours of their quality accommodation and facilities, allowing potential residents and loved ones to see the residence for themselves, meet the team and discuss requirements.

To find out more, call 0131 341 4037 or visit https://cramondresidence.co.uk/

Scottish Fire & Rescue Service: Fireworks Safety

It is safer, better for the environment and often less expensive to attend organised public firework displays.

Fireworks and the law

It is illegal for the general public to use fireworks before 6pm or after 11pm (this extends to midnight on 5 November and 1am on Hogmanay, Chinese New Year and Diwali). It is illegal for adults to buy or supply fireworks to anyone under the age of 18 – with the exception of F1 fireworks.

Examples of F1 fireworks include party poppers, novelty crackers and certain sparklers.  The category of firework is legally required to be displayed on product packaging.

If you are unable to attend an organised display, we would ask you to consider the impact of fireworks on people and animals. It is often children rather than adults who are injured by fireworks.

The noise and lights that fireworks emit can also be overwhelming for people with a sensory impairment and those with neurological differences such as autism. Animals can also find fireworks particularly distressing.

Check back here for details of organised events across Scotland. We strongly encourage anyone who does wish to host a private event to familiarise themselves with our firework code and fire safety guidance.

THERE ARE CURRENTLY NO ORGANISED BONFIRE EVENTS IN EDINBURGH

New vaccine marketing campaign urges millions to boost their immunity

COVID-19 and flu marketing campaign launches in England today encouraging eligible people to get their vaccines ahead of winter

A new country-wide marketing campaign urging millions of eligible people to get their flu and COVID-19 booster vaccines to top up their immunity will launch today (Monday 24 October), as almost 10 million people in England have already received their boosters.

Over-50s in Scotland can book their winter vaccines from today (October 24) protecting them from COVID-19 and flu, easing pressure on the NHS this winter.

Adverts will air across television, radio, social and digital media, stressing the importance of people getting both vaccines to increase their protection this winter.

Targeted communications for individuals with long term health conditions, pregnant women and ethnic minority communities, with a particular focus on those with low vaccine confidence, will also appear, and will include examples of where vaccine uptake rates have been low in the past.

More than 10 million people are expected to have received their COVID-19 autumn booster in England by today, with 49.5% of those 65 and over getting their flu jab, helping protect against serious illness throughout the winter.

Latest COVID-19 data has shown continued high rates of cases and hospitalisations in recent weeks.

Cases of flu have climbed quickly in the past week, indicating that the season has started earlier than normal. This is leading to increased pressure on emergency departments, with rates of hospitalisations and ICU admissions rising fastest in children under 5.

Deputy Prime Minister and Health and Social Care Secretary, Thérèse Coffey received her autumn booster this week and urges those eligible to take up the offer as soon as possible, saying: “Our COVID autumn booster and flu vaccination programmes are in full swing. Vaccines are our best line of defence against both viruses and will help keep people out of hospital this winter.

“While we have made great progress with almost 10 million people already boosted, including me, we are actively encouraging, through our new marketing campaign, everybody eligible to come forward for both jabs as soon as possible.”

Vaccination for flu is currently behind last season for pre-schoolers (12.1% in all 2 year olds and 12.8% in all 3 year olds), pregnant women (12.4%) and under 65s in a clinical risk group (18.2%).

Vaccines are the best defence against both viruses and will help reduce the amount of people requiring hospital treatment, reducing pressure on the NHS.

Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England, Dr Thomas Waite said: “The restrictions we had in place to curb the spread of COVID and protect the NHS last year also prevented the flu virus from spreading as we would normally expect to see, so levels of immunity in the population are likely quite low.

“Flu has started circulating at low levels, mainly in children and younger people at the moment. As winter approaches, we can expect flu and COVID cases to rise in all age groups. Getting vaccinated against both viruses is the most important thing you can do to reduce your chances of getting seriously ill.

“If eligible please come forward for your jabs as soon as you can – it is important to be protected before any winter surges begin.”

Dr Mary Ramsay, Director of Immunisations at UK Health Security Agency, said: “The latest data follows the pattern we predicted, and a difficult winter is expected.

“This year we want people to think about COVID-19 and flu as equally important – and both vaccines will provide a ‘boost’ this winter. COVID-19 vaccine protection decreases over time and topping up immunity will help to provide better protection against new variants.

“So far, we have seen millions of people getting their vaccines, particularly older age groups who remain at risk of severe illness and deaths from both diseases. Having both vaccines will help to protect you and to protect the health service so we can continue to treat patients with other conditions.

“I urge everyone who is eligible to book your vaccine as soon as you can and not to delay – you could be in contact with flu or COVID-19 tomorrow.”

NHS director for vaccinations and screening, Steve Russell said: “Thanks to the efforts of staff, the NHS autumn booster programme has vaccinated twice as many people as it had at this stage last year with almost 10 million people getting their COVID-19 boosters already.

“We are seeing evidence of increasing levels of COVID and flu infections in the community and care homes, and so ahead of what will be a very challenging winter, it is vital that everyone eligible gets protected; it has never been easier to get your vaccines, so book in without delay.

Building on the success of the 2021 to 2022 COVID-19 vaccination campaign, this year’s campaign will stress that the protection provided by vaccines wanes over time, so everyone eligible should boost their immunity by getting both vaccines ahead of a difficult winter.

The adverts use blue (flu) and yellow (COVID-19) halos to represent the protection both vaccines provide.

They will run on TV, video on demand, radio, social and digital channels. Highly targeted, eye-catching information on digital channels will help to reiterate the importance of boosting your immunity ahead of a difficult winter by booking jabs early.

The NHS Winter Vaccines chatbot will return, helping to guide those who are searching online for the right information. This instant online conversation tool was first developed to support last winter’s campaign and answers frequently asked questions with trusted NHS information in a single place.

Multicultural community activity will see teams of campaign ambassadors engage with a range of different ethnic groups who tend to be more vaccine hesitant. This will take place across the country in high footfall places of worship and nearby community settings. Dedicated radio adverts and unique social media material will reinforce key messages.

Around 33 million people are eligible for the flu vaccine and 26 million people are eligible for the COVID-19 booster in England.

Over-50s in Scotland can book their winter vaccines from today (October 24) protecting them from COVID-19 and flu, easing pressure on the NHS this winter.

Citizen writers meet in person tonight

Edinburgh International Book Festival’s Citizen writing programme has been working in communities across Edinburgh and the Lothians since 2019.

The weekly local writers group, which meets on Monday evenings, has met online since the Covid lockdown, but will meet in person tonight for the first time in a very long time at Musselburgh’s Fisherrow Centre from 6.30 – 8pm.

As life slowly returns to normal (fingers firmly crossed!) another in-person workshop is planned for granton:hub at Madelvic House on Monday 21st November from 6 – 8pm.

Online weekly sessions will continue between the two ‘in-person’ workshops.

The local writers showcased a selection of writing at the Edinburgh International Book Festival in August and are now looking forward to presenting more of their work at Winter Warmer events in Musselburgh and North Edinburgh in December.

Provisional dates for the two Winter Warmer events are Friday 2 December in Musselburgh and West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre on Saturday 3 December – more details to follow soon.

Like to get involved, or just find out more? New writers of all abilities are always welcome – email Citizen programme’s Eleanor Thom at citizen.nea@gmail.com

Cramond Inn…or Cramond Out?

Public Meeting to Discuss the Future of the Cramond Inn –  TONIGHT 7.30 pm

The Cramond Association has arranged a public meeting to bring the local community together to discuss the future of Edinburgh’s historic Cramond Inn which has remained closed since the pandemic. 

Working in partnership with Cramond & Barnton Community Council, the meeting is geared to creating a local action group to get the Inn, owned by brewery company Samuel Smiths, open and functioning again. Speaking at the event will be a representative of Community Shares Scotland to present a ‘model’ for community ownership. 

Chair of the Cramond Association Adam Cumming said: “The ongoing closure of the Cramond Inn is one of the most important current issues of concern both for local people and for the thousands of visitors who regularly visit the Cramond Foreshore. 

“The Inn has always played a historic role in providing an important local focal point for our community, as well as providing a stunning location from which to explore and enjoy the local area. 

“To have its doors shut, with no immediate prospect of reopening is a very sad state of affairs for all of us.  We would like to open a positive dialogue with the Inn’s owners to explore all possibilities of it opening up for business and, once again, being at the heart of our local community.”

The open meeting will take place tonight Monday 24th October at the Millennium Hall at Cramond Kirk Halls, starting at 7.30 pm.

For more information, visit www.cramondassociation.org.uk 

Small Mercies: Serial liar withdraws from Tory leadership race (following another lie about numbers)

FORMER Prime Minister Boris Johnson issued the following statement last night:

Johnson’s final acceptance that the anticipated support just isn’t there for him clears the way for a run-off between hot favourite Rishi Sunak and Penny Mordaunt – but only if the latter can attract enough votes among her fellow Tory MPs. That’s looking increasingly unlikely.

If she can’t reach the 100 vote target, we can look forward to the anointing of Rishi Sunak as our new Prime Minister, with the Tory party membership having no say.

Contest or coronation? We’ll know at 2pm.

Community info event at Royston Wardieburn Community Centre

The main purpose of the event is to provide an opportunity for local people to access information about services which will be able to offer advice and support during the difficult months ahead.   

We’re also having a community lunch on the day. 

We are hoping to be able to open up the cafe area and increase the days that we are doing the community lunch and the pantry.