Edinburgh Scotmid stores add chippy-style products as a permanent listing following triumphantly tasty trial

Scotmid is giving customers across Edinburgh the chance to make the perfect Chippy Tea at home all year round, after making new supplier We hae meat’s, chippy style battered pork sausage and battered black pudding products a permanent listing in 125 of its stores across Scotland.

These sought after Scottish delicacies, produced by the Ayrshire-based business, are now available from Scotmid’s stores across the city.

The listing’s long-term success follows the family run business’s recent accolade of being named a ‘Scotmid Scottish Favourites’ winner – a competition run in partnership with Scotland Food and Drink launched during Scottish Food and Drink Fortnight in 2022.  After a triumphant three-week promotional listing back in February, which proved a triumph with customers, the products are back by popular demand on a permanent basis. 

Jessica van Tromp, Local Sourcing Manager at Scotmid said: “Our customers love these products! We hae meat’s commitment to excellence has paid off and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for this exciting Scottish business.”

Founded in 2007, We hae meat is run by Carlyn Paton and her husband Alex, on the family farm in Ayrshire’s beautiful Girvan Valley. With a commitment to developing products that are made from traditional recipes, while minimising their impact on the environment,  the business implemented a comprehensive carbon management plan aimed at reducing on-site emissions in 2016.

On securing the permanent listing, Carlyn Paton said: “Knowing our products are available in over 100 Scotmid stores is a huge achievement for us.

“We are so proud that our family-run, sustainable-focused business can provide tasty products to more customers than we’ve ever reached before across the country.”

Since then, prioritising sustainability and showcasing dedication to operating in an environmentally responsible manner has been We hae meat’s focus. A notable achievement in its sustainability efforts is the on-site renewables plant, which plays a pivotal role in reducing its carbon footprint.

This plant generates 100% of We hae meat’s hot water requirements and 80% of its electricity demands. By harnessing renewable energy sources, the company not only contributes to a greener future but also showcases their innovation and forward-thinking approach, ultimately providing stores and customers with convenient, tasty and sustainable products. 

We hae meat recommends that their chippy-style products are eaten with oven chips and peas – but the question stands on if they should be mushy or not!

The Edinburgh stores are:

  • Crewe Road
  • Pilrig
  • Sighthill
  • Rannoch
  • Balerno
  • Barnton
  • Leith Walk
  • Leven Street
  • Moredun
  • Colinton Mains
  • Westburn
  • Easter Road
  • Newhaven
  • Newtongrange
  • Warrender Park
  • South Queensferry

Letters: Look beyond the label to address skills shortages

Dear Editor

The news that more than seven in 10 Scottish businesses are struggling with skills shortages, but almost 40% don’t have programmes in place for under-represented groups, highlights the considerable opportunities being missed by Scotland’s employers (29th June 2023).

This Business Barometer Report, published by The Open University and British Chambers of Commerce, outlines the need for businesses to become better at hiring those from these groups, such as young people who are disabled or care experienced.

The rewards of getting these individuals into work are well worth it. They bring passion, skills, dedication and drive to the workplace. This also allows businesses to grow and fulfil their potential, delivering economic growth.

Employers are currently missing out on an immense untapped talent pool, and never has it been more important for businesses, the government and training providers to work together to address this.

We would urge Scotland’s employers to look beyond the label and take on an employee who may have an additional need, taking advantage of the excellent skills offered by many of these young people.

Yours faithfully 

The Scottish Children’s Services Coalition:

Kenny Graham, Falkland House School

Lynn Bell, LOVE Learning

Stephen McGhee, Spark of Genius

Niall Kelly, Young Foundations

42 Charlotte Square

Edinburgh EH2 4HQ

Tel: 0131 603 8996

Four more areas across Scotland now in Significant water scarcity situation

More parts of Scotland are facing critically low river and groundwater levels in the latest water scarcity report published by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).

Four areas have reached Significant water scarcity this week, the highest level, following a period of prolonged, dry weather. They are the Rivers Annan and Nith in the southwest, as well as the Black Isle and the Outer Hebrides.

There has been no improvement in the Loch Maree area of the Highlands, which remains in Significant for a fourth week, although the Esk in Dumfries and Galloway has improved from Significant to Moderate Water Scarcity.

In order to protect the sustainability of local water environments, SEPA has required a small number of farmers on the Black Isle to reduce the volume they take from the Newhall burn. These licence variations will be for the minimum time necessary and will be lifted as soon as possible.

Abstractors in other areas that have reached Significant this week have also been contacted by SEPA. Some already have conditions on their licence to protect the environment from low flows. For others, permitted volumes will be reduced where necessary.

Head of Water and Planning at SEPA, Nathan Critchlow-Watton said: “The water environment in parts of Scotland is clearly under stress and protecting it remains our top priority.

“We recognise the challenges businesses face as a result of these conditions, and we want to support those who are efficient and using the least water to continue operating.

“We will be avoiding full suspensions on water abstractions where possible and instead requiring a significant reduction in the volume of water taken from rivers and lochs.

“Where restrictions are not in place, abstractors are expected to follow SEPA’s advice and guidance for the conditions reported in their areas. This will give water levels a better chance to recover.”

There have been widespread showers across the country this week, with particularly heavy rainfall across central and western Scotland. This has caused some localised improvement in conditions, with further recovery in Argyll and Bute from Alert to Early warning. However, the rain has not been sufficient for large-scale recovery, and many areas remain at risk of water scarcity.

Without a period of consistent rain, it’s possible six areas could be escalated to Significant Water Scarcity in early July. SEPA is liaising with licensed abstractors in all affected industries, including agriculture, food and drink and leisure. Advice is also being provided to abstractors in Alert or Moderate Scarcity areas.

Guidance has already been published on which abstractors may be excluded from restrictions or have the volume of water they can take reduced rather than stopped. This will not be possible for all abstractors. SEPA will be in direct contact with businesses affected to provide additional advice.

Abstractors and irrigators are asked to manage water wisely, check SEPA’s water scarcity reports regularly and be aware of the situation in their area. They should regularly check abstraction equipment to make sure it’s in good condition and fix any leaks straight away. During dry periods, the volume and rate of abstractions should be reduced where possible.

It is also crucial for businesses to have a contingency plan for if restrictions are put in place by SEPA on abstractions. This can include using an alternative source if available within current authorisations.

SEPA continues to monitor and report weekly on river and groundwater levels.

More information, guidance and advice can be found at:

 www.sepa.org.uk/waterscarcity.

www.sepa.org.uk/waterscarcity.

Beyond the Little Black Dress: Major fashion exhibition opens tomorrow at the National Museum of Scotland

Major fashion exhibition ‘Beyond the Little Black Dress’ opens this weekend

A new exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland deconstructs the little black dress, examining the radical power of the colour black in fashion.

From design classics to cutting-edge catwalk creations, Beyond the Little Black Dress (1 July to 29 October 2023) brings together 65 striking looks from collections and designers around the world.

nms.ac.uk/BeyondLBD

The colour black can be interpreted in many subtle and often contradictory ways. The exhibition explores how its complexities have made the little black dress simultaneously expressive of piety and perversion, respect and rebellion; from the well-mannered cocktail attire of the early 20th century to the leather and latex worn by members of punk and fetish subcultures.

Beyond the Little Black Dress opens with a simple, short black dress designed by Coco Chanel in 1926. Considered radically modern, it disregarded convention entirely in both the stark design and sombre shade, that had traditionally been associated with mourning.

At the time it was hailed by US Vogue as “the frock that all the world will wear”. The ‘little black dress’ became a wardrobe staple, a symbol of femininity and a byword for chic, with each new silhouette capturing the spirit of its time.

The little black dress remains a blank canvas for broader political and cultural shifts. It can challenge social norms around race, gender and sexuality to reflect evolving ideals of beauty and identity, proving its infinite capacity for reinvention.

Visitors to Beyond the Little Black Dress, which is supported by Baillie Gifford Investment Managers, will discover a century of fashion in a series of themed, immersive displays. Iconic early pieces by Yves Saint Laurent, Dior and Schiaparelli will be juxtaposed with recent looks by ground-breaking contemporary designers and brands like Gareth Pugh, Simone Rocha and Off-White.

A section of the exhibition highlights Black British designers whose work explores both Blackness in terms of identity, and the role the colour black plays in crafting an Afrofuturistic aesthetic.

Elsewhere, the exhibition considers how perceptions of the colour black differ in a global context, while a film from Osman Yousefzada shines a light on the inequities of fast fashion, as well as global concepts of beauty.

A series of garments demonstrate how smart technologies are establishing a blueprint for a more sustainable future. A new commission by designers VIN + OMI incorporates nettles and horsehair sourced from Highgrove, the private residence of The King and Queen, exploring nature-led alternatives to fast fashion.

Georgina Ripley, Principal Curator, Modern and Contemporary Design at National Museums Scotland, said: “Few garments are as iconic as the little black dress, which has often been held up by the fashion industry as the one piece every woman should have in her wardrobe.

“It has evolved dramatically in the century since its creation. From a simple shift dress which helped democratise women’s fashion to a bold political statement, it has moved through various iterations which reflect changing ideals of beauty and body image.

“Displaying classic couture, avant-garde pieces and garments that make a political statement, this exhibition will explore its enduring success, and ask why, in the fickle and fast-paced fashion world, the little black dress has achieved that rare status of being truly above the fray.”

Sam Pattman, Philanthropy Manager at Baillie Gifford Investment Managers said: “We are delighted that our successful relationship with National Museums Scotland continues with our support for Beyond the Little Black Dress.

“This exciting exhibition takes a fresh look at a timeless classic, examining how it has remained in style for nearly a century and displaying a dazzling selection of garments from those worn by royalty to truly avant-garde creations at the cutting edge of the fashion industry.”

National Museums Scotland’s internationally significant fashion and textiles collection comprises around 50,000 objects and is one of the largest in the UK.

The collection includes textiles dating back to the 14th century and clothing and accessories dating from the 16th century to the present day. Beyond the Little Black Dress follows the acclaimed exhibition Body Beautiful: Diversity on the Catwalk.

The exhibition is curated by Georgina Ripley, Principal Curator, Modern and Contemporary Design, National Museums Scotland, Dr Sequoia Barnes, Guest Curator and Carys Wilkins, Assistant Curator Modern and Contemporary Design, National Museums Scotland. It will be accompanied by a programme of events.

The accompanying book Little Black Dress: A Radical Fashion edited by Georgina Ripley, £30.00, is published by NMS Enterprises Ltd – Publishing.

#BeyondLBD

Whoopy Do! King and Queen are coming to Edinburgh

Viewing opportunities for the public at city centre events

Public viewing areas will be available along the Royal Mile in Edinburgh as part of events to mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla on Wednesday 5 July.

Events will begin around lunchtime and will include:

  • a People’s Procession, involving around 100 people representing different aspects of Scottish life, walking on foot from Edinburgh Castle to St Giles’ Cathedral, accompanied by a military escort and cadet force bands
  • the Honours of Scotland escorted from Edinburgh Castle to St Giles’ Cathedral by The King’s Body Guard for Scotland (the Royal Company of Archers) and a Tri-Service Guard of Honour formed by contingents of the Navy, Army and Royal Air Force with a military band and pipes and drums
  • military pipe and drums, bands, and members of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment processing along the Royal Mile from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St Giles’ Cathedral
  • a Royal Procession from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St Giles’ Cathedral, attended by The King and Queen and The Duke and Duchess of Rothesay
  • a National Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication at St Giles’ Cathedral and presentation of the Honours of Scotland to The King. The Stone of Destiny will also form part of the ceremony
  • a 21 Gun Salute from Edinburgh Castle at the end of the St Giles’ Service, before the Royal Procession travels back to the Palace of Holyroodhouse
  • a flypast by the Red Arrows (in the direction of Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse)

There will be pavement space along the Royal Mile for people who wish to watch events in person. Those intending to come are advised to arrive early and prepare for changeable weather conditions.

Traffic restrictions and temporary road closures will be in place around the Royal Mile on the day of the events.

First Minister Humza Yousaf said: “Next week Scotland will welcome the new King and Queen with a series of events to mark their Coronation. Highlights include a People’s Procession, a Royal Procession, a National Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication, and a Gun Salute in Edinburgh.

“Many different people, charities and organisations from across the country will be involved. I will attend the Service at St Giles’ Cathedral and I look forward to representing the people of Scotland at this historic event.

“Any members of the public who wish to get involved will be able to follow TV or radio coverage, or view events in person along the Royal Mile. Space will be limited so those planning to come should arrive early and be prepared for whatever the weather may hold.”

King and Queen visit to Edinburgh July 2023: events – gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

Timings:

1315   People’s Procession departs Edinburgh Castle Esplanade

1330   People’s Procession arrives at St Giles’ Cathedral

1340   The Honours of Scotland leave Edinburgh Castle Esplanade under military escort

1340   Military pipe and drums bands and the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment move from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to West Parliament Square

1350   The Honours of Scotland arrive at West Parliament Square by vehicle

1405   Royal Procession leaves the Palace of Holyroodhouse 

1410   Royal Procession arrives at St Giles’ Cathedral

1415   National Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication begins

1515   Service ends

1520   The King and Queen exit St Giles’ to Gun Salute from Edinburgh Castle

1527   Royal party arrive at Palace of Holyroodhouse

1540   RAF flypast down the Royal Mile

POLICE SCOTLAND: ENGAGEMENT WITH PROTEST GROUPS

Engagement with protest groups is ongoing as part of preparations for a Coronation event being held in Edinburgh on Wednesday 5 July.

The event will take place during Royal Week where His Majesty King Charles III will be presented with the Honours of Scotland at a National Service of Thanksgiving at St Giles’ Cathedral, following processions on the Royal Mile. 

Police Scotland has been working with a number of key planning partners including the Scottish Government, Palace of Holyroodhouse, transport agencies and City of Edinburgh Council.

Police Scotland’s supporting role is to help the organiser deliver their event safely and securely and with dignity. One part of that is considering potential protests and a proactive engagement approach.

Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, police lead for the event, said: “Our priority is public safety and a policing plan is in place to maintain people’s safety, ensure the safe delivery of this significant event, enable peaceful protest and minimise disruption.

“Decisions about how to police protests require us to balance complex and often competing rights and issues.

“We have a legal duty to protect the rights of people who wish to peacefully protest or counter-protest. Our human rights based approach and legislation that applies in Scotland is unique amongst UK policing.

“Campaigning and demonstration is a legitimate, necessary and vital part of life. Abusive, threatening behaviour or activity intended to disrupt the event that risks public safety is not legitimate protest.

“Officers on the ground have to make dynamic assessments to quickly consider whether someone’s behaviour breaches the threshold of criminality. There are a range of factors and circumstances that affect this decision making, including considering the risk that behaviour has on the safety of those at the event, as well as any triggers that may lead to wider disruption.

“Every situation is unique. Safety is our priority, balanced against people’s rights.”

There will be road closures in Edinburgh and people should plan ahead by checking with City of Edinburgh Council and Traffic Scotland on their website and social media channels. Air restrictions for drones will also be in place.

Protest groups can contact Police Scotland by emailing OSDPLO@scotland.police.uk

More information about the event can be found on the Scottish Government’s website: Scotland marks Coronation of The King and Queen – gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

The Public Order Act 2023, which has recently been referred to in England and Wales, does not apply to Scotland.

Marine protection plans sunk

Further community and industry engagement planned

Plans to deliver increased protection for Scotland’s marine environment will be revised, with a new pathway and timetable, Net Zero Secretary Mairi McAllan has confirmed.

Addressing the Scottish Parliament, the Cabinet Secretary said proposals consulted on to implement Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs) across 10% of Scotland’s seas by 2026 ‘will not be progressed’.

Instead, the Scottish Government will take more time to work with industry, communities and conservation organisations to enhance marine protection, while supporting any groups that wish to pursue community-led marine protection in their local area on a quicker timescale, such as those initiatives in Lamlash Bay on Arran and St Abbs & Eyemouth in Berwickshire.

It follows a public consultation which ran earlier in the year on the principles of HPMA policy in Scotland and attracted thousands of responses.

Ms McAllan said: “We are in the midst of a nature and climate crisis and we must be prepared to take action commensurate with the scale of that challenge.

“Failure to safeguard and improve the resilience of Scotland’s marine ecosystems to a changing climate risks the very basis on which our marine industries and coastal communities are built.

“We chose to consult as early and widely as possible on the principles of HPMAs, with no pre-determined sites. It has always been, and continues to be, this government’s plan to work cooperatively with communities to identify how and where to enhance marine protection in a way that minimises impact and maximises opportunity.

“Therefore, while we remain firmly committed to the outcome of enhanced marine protection, the proposal as consulted on will not be progressed.

“I will outline more on our next steps after the summer recess, but I hope that it is clear that I am determined to protect our oceans in a way that is fair, and to find a way forward that ensures our seas remain a source of prosperity for the nation, especially in our remote, coastal and island communities.”

In the statement to Parliament, the Cabinet Secretary also confirmed that an ongoing programme of work to implement fisheries management measures in existing MPAs where they are yet to be introduced, and to protect some of the most vulnerable Priority Marine Features outside of MPAs, will be taken forward as a priority.

A full response to the consultation and the next steps will be published after the eight-week long summer recess.

60 members of The Royal Scots to commemorate a double anniversary

TODAY (Friday 30 June) 60 members of the proud Royal Scots Regimental Family will meet for an informal gathering at The Royal Scots Memorial Club in Abercromby Place to mark 40 years on from the regiment’s 350th anniversary celebration events in both London and Edinburgh in 1983, that marked the First of Foot’s 350 years of unbroken service to Sovereign and country.

All those taking part in this special Regimental event felt that this double anniversary should be recognised.

They all have a unique common bond of shared experiences. They were all members of the Royal Scots Regimental Family in 1983 for the events that marked a very significant milestone both in Pontius Pilate’s Bodyguard’s long and distinguished history, and the very significant service and sacrifice of those serving at the time.  The Royal Scots heritage is all about people, traditionally recruited from Edinburgh, the Lothians and Peebles, their stories, and their experiences.

Both the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Mike Ashmore, and the Regimental Sergeant Major, RSM Ian Johnstone, will be attending the gathering.  The charity, Fares 4 Free, has enabled two Regimental widows, from Kilmarnock and Livingston, to attend.

Overview of 350th Anniversary events in 1983:

·       Royal Scots Train with serving Royal Scots and veterans from the two World Wars and more recent campaigns travelled to London for a Reception in the National Armoury on the 28th of March; 350 years to the day since the founding of The Royal Scots by Sir john Hepburn at Athelstaneford.

·       The 1st Battalion of The Royal Scots paraded in Holyrood Park, Edinburgh, for the Royal Review by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, and to Troop the Colour, on 30th June.

·       On 1st July The 1st Battalion of The Royal Scots, Royal Scots veterans, and contingents from their affiliated Gurkha and Canadian regiments, and Army cadets marched along Princes Street, where the salute was taken by HRH Princess Anne, who was appointed the Regimental Colonel in Chief at Holyrood Park the previous day.

·       Rededication of The Royal Scots Monument in Princes Street Gardens.

Colonel Mike Ashmore CBE (commanding officer, and parade commander, of the 1st Battalion on the Royal Review): “It was my privilege to command the 1st Battalion in 1983 and to be the Parade Commander on 30th June 1983 when her late Majesty the Queen took the salute at the Royal Review in Holyrood Park.  

“In her address to those present Her Majesty said that she was pleased to announce the appointment of Her Royal Highness Princess Anne, who was also at the parade, to be The Royal Scots Colonel in Chief.

“At the 300th anniversary in 1933 in Aldershot my father was the Adjutant of the 1st Battalion, so I felt doubly privileged to be able to take part in the 350th anniversary celebrations.  Incidentally my father was present at the 350th Royal Review and was in the audience for the March along Princes Street the next day.

“There were many other important events in and around Edinburgh marking the 350th, not least the the Marches through the towns where the Freedom had been granted, Peebles, Haddington, Musselburgh and Linlithgow.”

Major Ian Johnstone (RSM of Ist Battalion on the Royal Review in 1983): “My family have served in The Royal Scots for many generations.

“To have such an important role for the 350th celebrations was a wonderful experience that will never forget; I was so proud of all those Royal Scots on parade.”

Colonel Martin Gibson OBE DL (serving major at the time of the Review in 1983, and lead of the team who have organised the Gathering in 2023): “This is a very special gathering that will have everyone reflecting on their experiences and, in particular, of 40 years ago when every one of the 963 Royal Scots serving across the world was issued with a 1633- 1983 medallion.

“We are very proud that when The Royal Scots left the Army’s order of battle in 2006 after 373 years our Royal title and the privilege of being Right of The Line was carried forward by The Royal Regiment of Scotland, today’s Scottish infantry.

“We are very grateful to the veterans’ charity FARES4FREE for making it possible for three of those attending coming to the gathering to get here and enjoy renewing friendships.

“From our origins way back in 1633 to 2006 our unique story is told in our Regimental Museum within Edinburgh Castle.”

When it was disbanded in 2006 The Royal Scots, The Royal Regiment, was the oldest Infantry Regiment in the British Army, having been in the UK Order of Battle for 373 unbroken years.  

Having been involved in almost every campaign the British Army had taken part in since it formed in 1633, it had more than earned its title, First of Foot and Right of the Line (Most senior infantry regiment of the line in the British Army).

In 2006, The Royal Regiment of Scotland (SCOTS) was formed from its antecedent regiments, including The Royal Scots – from whom they inherited the Royal title and the privilege of being Right of The Line – and take forward the traditions and heritage as Scotland’s Infantry.

Edinburgh Leisure’s 6-week summer pass

Wherever you are, or whatever you want, there’s an Edinburgh Leisure venue near you for a summer filled with activity


With Edinburgh’s numerous festivals about to begin, festival goers and workers can keep up their energy levels and enjoy their fittest summer ever.

Edinburgh Leisure has launched its ‘Summer Pass’, with everything you need for a sport-filled summer, with something for everyone to keep active and healthy throughout the heady days of the festivals.

The ‘Summer Pass’, which goes on sale on TODAY – Friday, 30th June 2023, offers unlimited access to the city’s 14 state-of-the-art gyms; 12 swimming pools, including 5 Victorian ones; over 750+ fitness classes per week; 1 world-class climbing centre; saunas, steam rooms, Turkish Baths for only £69. 

The pass lasts six weeks from the date of purchase, with the last day a customer can purchase a pass being 31 August 2023.

And for the first time ever, Edinburgh Leisure is introducing a reduced-price pass for young adults (18–24-year-olds), costing just £49.

Matthew Smith, Sales Manager at Edinburgh Leisure, said: “Anyone lucky enough to be in Edinburgh for the summer with its various festivals knows it is always a fantastic atmosphere, and it takes energy to take in so many shows and party into the small hours.

“We’re inviting festival-goers, workers, and visitors to the city on an extended stay to be inspired and keep their energy levels high by keeping fit and active throughout the summer.

“And for the first time ever, Edinburgh Leisure is introducing a reduced-price pass for young adults aged 18–24-year-olds.  We’re hoping to appeal to students returning home from university, or young festival workers staying in the city during the summer, with an attractive and affordable option.”

“Classes like Zumba or Sh’bam are brilliant fun and a great way to get you in the mood to party, while a workout at the gym will boost your energy for the night ahead. We’ve also got some quick hit X-press gym classes, which use high intensity training (HIT) methods with explosive bursts of speed and activity to achieve a total workout in a short period of time, in as little as 30 minutes.

“And if you have really overdone it, you can spend the morning chilling out with a swim and sauna, or even the Turkish Baths at Portobello.”

The pass is available to buy online on in venue. www.edinburghleisure.co.uk

Promote, Prevent, Provide: Scotland’s new mental health strategy published

A new strategy to improve the mental health and wellbeing of people across Scotland has been published.

The Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy, published in partnership with the Scottish Government and the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA), is built around three pillars of “Promote, Prevent, Provide”:

  • promoting positive mental health and wellbeing
  • preventing mental health issues occurring or escalating while tackling underlying causes
  • providing mental health and wellbeing support and care.

The strategy reflects views from more than 18 months of consultation, with a particular focus on the voices of lived experience and the role of inequalities. It details the standard of help people can expect, and outlines that it should be available locally where possible. It also recognises that specialist services are a crucial part of a high-functioning mental health system.

Social determinants and underlying causes of poor mental health have shaped the new approach, with a renewed focus on prevention and early intervention.

Mental Wellbeing Minister Maree Todd said: “Mental health does not just mean mental illness. It is important that we all maintain good mental wellbeing, and that we recognise there are many underlying social determinants, circumstances and inequalities that can affect people’s mental health.

“To deliver the ambitions of this strategy, and to create real and lasting change, we will need collaboration from a wide range of partners across Scotland including health boards, integration joint boards health and social care partnerships, as well as the third sector.

“This strategy has equalities at its heart. We have set out the outcomes we want to achieve so that we can be held to account for our progress and to show how this strategy is making a real difference to people’s lives. The accompanying Delivery Plan and Workforce Action Plan will be published in the autumn and will detail the work we will take forward to achieve those outcomes.”

Councillor Paul Kelly, Health and Social Care spokesperson for COSLA, said: “This strategy sets out an ambitious vision to improve the mental health and wellbeing of everyone in Scotland.

“Through the strategy and the associated delivery plan we seek to bring real change, ensuring for example, that our communities are equipped to support people’s mental health and wellbeing and  that there is  increased availability of timely and effective care, support and treatment.  

“We know that working collectively presents the best opportunity to achieve these goals and bring lasting change. We are committed to working in partnership across spheres of government, with those with lived experience, those who deliver services, and our valued  partners and stakeholders, to realise this vision together.” 

Gordon Johnston, Chair of Voices of Experience (VOX Scotland), said: “We welcome the new strategy and we are particularly heartened by the meaningful involvement of our members and people with lived experience of mental health conditions throughout the development of this.

“It is positive to see the strategy outline outcomes and priorities which reflect our members’ feedback and needs regarding timely and effective support, better informed policy shaped by people with lived experience, greater community resources and the expansion and improvement of services for those in distress and crisis.

“We also look forward to the publication of the delivery plan and continuing to work with the Scottish Government on the implementation of the new strategy.”

mental-health-wellbeing-strategyDownload

Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy

PDSA: Vet’s top three things you need to know when taking your dog swimming this summer

PDSA Vet Nurse Shauna Walsh says: “As we approach the summer months, many of us may consider taking our dogs with us to the beach or letting them cool off in lakes and ponds. Swimming can be great exercise for dogs, but there are a few water safety tips every pet owner should be aware of.

“Before you think about heading out, make sure to check how hot it’s going to be. Even with the opportunity to swim, days out in the sun could put your dog at risk of heatstroke, so consider whether it might be safer to leave them at home.

“Remember that if it is too hot, even getting your dog to the water might be a problem as hot sand or tarmac can burn their paws. Once you and your dog are by the water, there are many things to keep in mind to help keep them safe.”

  1. Make sure they can swim

“First, it’s essential to remember that not every dog is a natural swimmer. Dogs with shorter legs such as Corgis and dogs with flat faces such as Pugs may find swimming hard work. Some dogs won’t enjoy being in the water at all, so don’t force them. Watch out for signs that your dog is getting tired and encourage them back to you to rest.

“If your dog seems keen to enter the water, it is important to make sure they know how to swim first. If there is dog friendly or hydrotherapy pool nearby, they are great, safe places for them to practice swimming and get the hang of things.

“Taking it slowly and splashing in the shallows can help build their confidence before they venture deeper in. Use your arms to support them under their stomach as they get the hang of kicking with all four legs. Encourage them back to shore frequently, so they know where the exit point is and can return to dry land if they feel tired.

  1. Choosing the right spot

“Picking the right swimming spot is a big step in ensuring your pet’s safety. If swimming in nature, make sure your pet is up to date with their vaccinations, and carefully select the location.

“Lakes are often calm and have plenty of shallow spots for your dog to rest. Make sure to scan the area for any hazards, such as fallen branches, boats, windsurfers, or fishermen as they could potentially present a danger to your dog.

“Also be on the lookout for blue-green algae – this grows in stagnant water and is toxic to dogs even in small amounts. Dog friendly beaches can also make perfect spots for a dip – but remember to check the tide times, look out for warning flags, and make sure the waves are small.

“It is important you never let your dog enter the canals as the water is often stagnant, which can be a health hazard as they may catch an infection and there’s increased chance of blue-green algae growth. There are also often dangers under the water and not many places for your pooch to climb out. Fast flowing rivers or flood waters are also unsuitable as the currents can quickly cause your dog to struggle and get into trouble.

  1. What to do in an emergency

“Never leave your dog unattended around water, even if they are a strong swimmer. If your or someone else’s dog gets in trouble in the water, it’s best to avoid going in after them as this can put you in danger as well. If you can, remain on the shore, calling your dog to give them a target to swim towards. If there is an inflatable ring available, you can throw this into the water to help keep your dog afloat.

On a beach, lifeguards may be able to assist helping your dog to shore, otherwise ring 999 and ask for the coastguard to get help from professionals.

“If a pet becomes unresponsive after swimming or has drowned, it is important to know how to perform CPR to give them the best chance. While you begin CPR, have a second person ring your vet who will be able to offer support.

“If you do not feel confident in performing CPR or dealing with emergency situations with your pets, PDSA has a free pet first aid guide which offers both lifesaving and practical tips.”

For more information on water safety, you can visit https:\\www.pdsa.org.uk\\pet-help-and-advice\\looking-after-your-pet\\puppies-dogs\\water-safety