Ferryhill pupils pour themselves into water efficiency learning

Edinburgh-based water retailer Business Stream partnered with local school, Ferryhill Primary School, on Thursday, 12 May to deliver an interactive water efficiency session and enterprise challenge activity to pupils.

During the day the primary six students at the Drylaw school were taught all about the importance of saving water. They were tasked with designing their own water saving posters and to take on the challenge of becoming water champions for their school.

In addition, the Business Stream volunteers, led by an external expert in enterprise education, James Tindell, also ran an enterprise challenge to help educate the children about the world of work.

The children made origami toy frogs and were then coached to help develop a business plan, create their own brand name and logo, and ‘sell’ their finished products to their peers.

The purpose of the session is to help inspire the children about working in business and teach them new skills such as team building.

Douglas McLaren, Chief Operating Officer at Business Stream said: “We had a brilliant day at Ferryhill Primary School and it was great to see the children’s enthusiasm and entrepreneurial spirit in action.

“We really enjoyed the opportunity to increase awareness of the importance of saving water for our planet and are looking forward to running more of these sessions in the year ahead”.

Business Stream’s school volunteering programme supports the company’s vision to Make a Positive Difference to local communities and the environment.

Following the easing of the COVID-19 restrictions, the retailer has re-started its school programme and plans to deliver further water efficiency and enterprise challenge sessions to schools in Scotland.

Jack Knott, Primary Six Teacher, Ferryhill Primary School, added: “I’d like to say a big thank you to both Business Stream and James Tindell for running this really exciting volunteering day.

“The pupils were given a fantastic insight into how a business is set up and run, from product design through to selling and making profits. They really developed their teamwork skills and it was great to see them so engaged in the tasks. 

“Given the current importance of tackling climate change, teaching pupils about the importance of saving water was extremely worthwhile. Our eco rep for the school will be taking forward what we have learned with our eco-committee so we can share some key water saving tips with the rest of the school!”

Four more monkeypox cases confirmed in England

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has detected 4 additional cases of monkeypox, 3 in London and one linked case in the north east of England.

The 4 new cases do not have known connections with the previous confirmed cases announced on 14 May and the case announced on 7 May.

Investigations are underway to establish links between the latest 4 cases, who all appear to have been infected in London. All 4 of these cases self-identify as gay, bisexual or other men who have sex with men (MSM). 

Currently, common contacts have been identified for 2 of the 4 latest cases.  

There is no link to travel to a country where monkeypox is endemic, and exactly where and how they acquired their infections remains under urgent investigation, including whether they have further links to each other.

Those patients needing medical care are all in specialist infectious disease units at the Royal Free Hosptial, Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle upon Tyne and Guys’ and St Thomas’. The individuals have the West African clade of the virus, which is mild compared to the Central African clade.

These latest cases mean that there are currently 7 confirmed monkeypox cases in the UK, diagnosed between 6 and 15 May.

Due to the recent increase in cases and uncertainties around where some of these individuals acquired their infection, we are working closely with NHS partners to identify if there may have been more cases in recent weeks, as well as international partners to understand if similar rises have been seen in other countries.

Monkeypox is a viral infection usually associated with travel to West Africa. It is usually a mild self-limiting illness, spread by very close contact with someone with monkeypox and most people recover within a few weeks.

The virus does not spread easily between people and the risk to the UK population is low.

However, the most recent cases are in  gay, bisexual and other MSM communities, and as the virus spreads through close contact, we are advising these groups to be alert to any unusual rashes or lesions on any part of their body, especially their genitalia, and to contact a sexual health service if they have concerns.

Anyone with concerns that they could be infected with monkeypox is advised to make contact with clinics ahead of their visit. We can assure them their call or discussion will be treated sensitively and confidentially.

Dr Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Adviser, UKHSA, said: “This is rare and unusual. UKHSA is rapidly investigating the source of these infections because the evidence suggests that there may be transmission of the monkeypox virus in the community, spread by close contact.

“We are particularly urging men who are gay and bisexual to be aware of any unusual rashes or lesions and to contact a sexual health service without delay.

“We are contacting any potential close contacts of the cases to provide health information and advice.

“Clinicians should be alert to individuals presenting with rashes without a clear alternative diagnosis and should contact specialist services for advice.”

Symptoms

Initial symptoms of monkeypox include fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills and exhaustion. A rash can develop, often beginning on the face, then spreading to other parts of the body including the genitals.

The rash changes and goes through different stages, and can look like chickenpox or syphilis, before finally forming a scab, which later falls off.

Charity expert Marie to lead inspirational innovator awards

An inspirational design competition has a new cheerleader after a charity expert was appointed to help drive as many entries as possible.

Highly experienced Marie McQuade will now devote herself to raising awareness of the Blackwood Design Awards, which aim to transform the lives of those who need support to live independently.

The Dragon’s Den style competition has helped uncover a host of innovations to help people with disabilities or age-related conditions – but was put on hold for two years during the pandemic.

Now it is hoped Marie’s appointment will help relaunch the refreshed competition which typically attracts innovation and design breakthroughs from all over the world.

She said: “In Blackwood’s 50th year, it is more important than ever to celebrate and showcase the amazing inventions that have the potential to accelerate the industry and provide significant benefits to peoples’ lives.

“Every year individuals and organisations from around the world send in their thoughtful designs and we are really looking forward to seeing who will submit what and from where.

“This opportunity is hugely exciting and I am really looking forward to organising this unique and highly impactful competition that will see new designs, technologies and adaptations come to life.”

Marie joins Blackwood with over 25 years’ experience in the charity sector, having worked in diverse roles, supporting causes including Victim Support Scotland and the Scottish International Development Alliance. 

She previously held a senior role at THINK Consulting Solutions, an International fundraising specialist which has worked with charities all over the world, developing fresh, innovative solutions to boost not for profit funds in a competitive landscape.

She has also supported Third Sector Organisations to grow their insights, income and impact at charities such as Changing Faces UK, Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centres and Mencap, where she gained a wealth of knowledge in fundraising, events and communications.

Colin Foskett, Blackwood’s Head of Innovation, who kickstarted the Design Awards, said: “Marie comes with a tremendous amount of experience and knowledge in the charity and fundraising sector and is perfectly equipped to deliver the Design Awards to the highest standard.

“She has already thrown herself into the jobs at hand and we are both really looking forward to welcoming this year’s wonderful selection of up-and-coming innovators.”

Marie’s work will see her approaching universities, innovation hubs, tech incubators and other organisations with a stake in design, engineering and technology to encourage them to enter the awards.

She will also play an instrumental role in organising the event, including attracting sponsorship and recruiting members of the judging panel for the Dragon’s Den style competition, which will see entries evaluated on their ability transform lives.

Previous winners have included an app that helps make living spaces safer for people with dementia and inventor Grant Douglas’ “spill proof” spoon – the S’up Spoon – designed for those affected by conditions which cause them to shake. 

Key categories include Best Collaborative Project, Best New Concept and Best New Aids, Equipment or Accessible Technology. 

Groups or individuals can apply for the Blackwood Design Awards which are open to both seasoned professionals and gifted amateurs, meaning that both technologically advanced and those simpler, yet often most successful designs, are equally welcome.

The awards will mark Blackwood’s 50th Anniversary, since the it was founded by Dr Margaret Blackwood, a respected campaigner for improvement to help people with disabilities to live more independently.

Blackwood now operates more than 1500 properties across 29 local authorities, and invests in innovation and technology to help people live life to the full.

The charity has already built two developments of tech-smart ‘Blackwood Homes’ in Glasgow and Dundee which use a “CleverCogs” digital system to make life easier for older people and people with disabilities.

For more information or to enter the awards, please visit www.bespoken.me or e-mail bespoken@blackwoodgroup.org.uk. 

People looking to join can find more information at:

www.blackwoodgroup.org.uk/peoplehood 

or by messaging: getinvolved@blackwoodgroup.org.uk

For more information, please visit: https://www.blackwoodgroup.org.uk

Time to rediscover Fjord Norway as Edinburgh launches flights to Stavanger and Bergen

Loganair route to Bergen, norway returns from Edinburgh Airport

Last week saw the long-awaited return of direct flights from Edinburgh to Bergen and Stavanger, as Loganair revives the popular services, reconnecting Scots with Norway.

The two direct services from Edinburgh to Stavanger and Bergen have been relaunched for the first time since the pandemic, and they also mark the airline’s first international routes from Edinburgh Airport since 2019, and the first international route launches in the airlines 60th anniversary year.

The routes will see three flights per week reinstated to each destination. Flights to Stavanger take-off Tuesday, Thursdays and Sundays. Flights to Bergen take-off Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Additional flights from Aberdeen to Oslo Gardermoen will also commence in September to further strengthen connectivity between the countries.

Customers in Scotland that wish to venture further and explore Northern Norway will have the opportunity to connect easily via Loganair’s codeshare partnership with Norwegian regional airline, Widerøe. Flights to these destinations can also be booked at Loganair.co.uk.

Upon visiting Stavanger and Bergen, you will find much more than just breath-taking Fjords, but an unforgettable experience.

Bergen, Norway’s second largest city, is an incredible hub for both culture and history, with a vibrant night life, juxtaposed with contemporary art museums, such as the KODE. Similarly, Stavanger is full of colourful homes on colourful streets, white sandy beaches, and is home to some of Norway’s top restaurants.

Not unlike Edinburgh, Bergen and Stavanger’s dynamic central and urban culture makes the perfect getaway.

Both routes are operated by an Embraer 145 jet, and fares to Bergen and Stavanger start at £99.86 including 15kg luggage allowance and a mandatory carbon offset charge as part of Loganair’s sustainable flying programme – GreenSkies.

Kay Ryan, Loganair’s Chief Commercial Officer, said: “We are really excited to launch the recommencement of our international services between Edinburgh and the Norwegian cities of Bergen and Stavanger.

“As we start to see European travel strengthen as summer approaches, it is the ideal time to bring back two services that were, pre-pandemic, incredibly popular for both leisure and business travellers looking to enjoy all that Edinburgh, Bergen and Stavanger have to offer.”

Kate Sherry, Aviation Director at Edinburgh Airport, said: “Seeing these routes return to Edinburgh with Loganair is further evidence that things are really moving in the right direction as we continue our strong recovery.

“Welcoming back more routes between Edinburgh and Norway allows us to enhance connectivity for leisure and business passengers from both countries.

“For us it’s about offering passengers choice, and we’re excited to work with Loganair on helping people experience all Bergen and Stavanger have to offer.”

Stein Ove Rolland, CEO of Fjord Norway, said: “It is very positive that Loganair is relaunching its routes to the Fjord Norway region. After a demanding pandemic many are eager to get out and explore again, and the routes to Stavanger and Bergen will make experiences to the Norwegian fjords easily accessible for the Scottish people.”

Reservations for Loganair’s newly launched service between Stravanger and Edinburgh Airport can be made at www.loganair.co.uk, by calling Loganair’s Customer Contact Centre on 0344 800 2855 or via travel agents and travel management companies using all major global distribution systems.  

Brighter Journeys:Waverley flower installation to boost mental health

A sensory flower installation is to be unveiled at Edinburgh’s Waverley Station in a bid to make the station feel ‘lighter and happier’ for passengers returning to rail travel following the lifting of Covid restrictions.

From tomorrow, passengers are being encouraged to take a moment to view the installation situated on the station’s concourse. It has been organised by Network Rail and the charity, Chasing the Stigma.

The unveiling of the installation coincides with data from the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, which revealed that nearly three quarters of UK adults (70%) say their mental health has been negatively impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Patrick Henry, station manager at Edinburgh Waverley, said, “Life since the pandemic is difficult for many people, with many challenges yet to be overcome and Mental Health Awareness Week is a timely reminder of the need to take care of ourselves and each other.

“That’s why we’re supporting Brighter Journeys and encouraging passengers who may be struggling, to share and download the Hub of Hope app.”

Jake Mills, founder of Chasing the Stigma and Hub of Hope app, added, “It is great to be working with Network Rail on the Brighter Journey’s campaign. Nature is really important for mental health, so we hope commuters enjoy seeing these floral installations and they puts a smile on people’s faces.

“We also hope that this acts as a reminder that no one is ever alone, and mental health support is available at any time, you don’t have to be in crisis to get help. If anyone is struggling or knows someone who needs help, please download the Hub of Hope app.”

NHS Lothian Summer Youth Taster Volunteering Programme

NHS Lothian is delighted to announce the launch of its Summer Youth Volunteering Programme.  The programme offers young people aged 16-24 the opportunity participate in a series of taster volunteering experiences over a five week period in one of our Acute or Community Hospitals. 

Young people participating will gain – 

·       The opportunity to gain insight into the NHS Lothian and careers in health care

·       The opportunity to build confidence and develop skills

·       A reflective workbook to identify new skills and experiences to support applications for work or study

·       Travel expenses

·       Volunteer uniform

·       Young Scot Points

·       A reference on completion of the summer programme

·       The opportunity to volunteer to extend volunteering beyond the summer programme commitment if desired

·       You can also use the volunteering hours towards a Duke of Edinburgh or Saltire award

We are currently accepting applications. The closing date for applications is the 3rd of June. 

If you have any queries about the Summer Youth Volunteering Programme or would like a member of the Voluntary Services Team to speak to a group of young people or to your colleagues, then please contact Head of Volunteering Jane Greenacre via jane.greenacre@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk

Civil Service job cuts: Union responds

NATIONAL STRIKE ‘VERY MUCH ON THE TABLE’

PCS has warned of the consequences for everyone who relies on public services of Boris Johnson’s plans to cut up to 91,000 civil service jobs to tackle the cost-of-living crisis.

It is understood the prime minister wants to see civil service staffing levels cut to 2016 levels.

PCS General Secretary Mark Serwotka condemned the plans and said: “Cuts have consequences.

Not just on those whose jobs are being sacrificed to throw red meat to the dwindling number of Conservative voters, but on everyone who relies on the services our members provide. 

“The government complains about longer delays for passports and driving licences at the same time as sacking the people who are working so hard to clear the backlog. 

“Let’s be clear, this is not about efficiency. This is about the prime minister trying to create a smokescreen to detract from his utter shambles of a government. 

“He has chosen to cause our cost-of-living crisis and is desperate to point the blame somewhere – and he has chosen to point the finger at hard working PCS members who kept the country running throughout the pandemic. 

“Our members will not be the scapegoats for a failing government. We have our conference in 10 days’ time: taking national strike action is very much on the table.” 

Football and dining experience TOCA Social is coming to St James Quarter

St James Quarter has let 30,000 sq ft of space to TOCA Social, the world’s first interactive football and dining experience, combining immersive football-based gaming with modern Americana-inspired cuisine.

The new brand launched its first venue at The O2 in London last year (above), boasting three bars, selfie booths, arcade machines and a Willy Wonka inspired dessert room, and has since announced expansion into Birmingham and even Dallas in the US.

TOCA was founded by Eddie Lewis, a two-time U.S. World Cup and former MLS and English Championship midfielder who developed the TOCA Touch Trainer, a ball machine that is the centre of all TOCA experiences.

The latest signing at St James Quarter will further cement the lifestyle district’s position as a new entertainment, culture and fashion hub that merges seamlessly with the city’s cultural offering and events calendar. Blending the ancient spirit of the city with the dynamic and cosmopolitan soul of the new, it will be yet another reason to visit Edinburgh.

TOCA Social will add 22 boxes and 2 bars in Edinburgh, while supplementing the other nine event spaces at St James Quarter that will host an array of fashion and music events.

Ed Corrigan at St James Quarter, commented: “TOCA Social has been something of a phenomenon since launching last year, their venues and the interactive experiences they offer have proved immensely popular.

“We expect them to be a key fixture for social activities both for local residents and visitors to Edinburgh.”

Alex Harman, President at TOCA Social, added: “We are delighted to launch our next TOCA Social venue in Edinburgh. St James’s Quarter is an amazing addition to the city centre and is the perfect home for our first venue in Scotland.

“TOCA Social gets everyone up and playing – whether competitively or just for fun, alongside world class food and drinks. It’s been a huge hit since we launched at London’s The O2, and we can’t wait to bring it to Edinburgh next year!”

Share your Fringe memories

We recently put out a call asking for people to share their Fringe moments and memories as part of our 75th anniversary celebrations this year, and we’re overjoyed with what we’ve received so far.

From staffing the box office in the 1980s and bumping into celebs on the Royal Mile, to discovering unknown relatives and even getting secretly married at the festival(!), it’s amazing to hear about the place the Fringe holds in people’s lives.

We’re still on the hunt for more stories and pictures, so if you haven’t had a chance yet, please take a moment to share your Fringe moments with us.

Whether you’ve attended the festival to work, perform or enjoy a show, we want to hear about any Fringe memory that makes you smile when you look back on it.

All the stories we gather will be catalogued and presented by the Fringe Society as part of our 75th anniversary celebrations, and potentially incorporated into the special edition of our printed programme.

FIND OUT MORE AND SHARE YOUR FRINGE MOMENTS ➤