Pints For Passengers this Six Nations Weekend!

 Innis & Gunn ‘prop up’ with free award-winning pints for tram passengers at this weekend’s Six Nations game

Scottish brewer Innis & Gunn and two former Scotland internationalists* are giving rugby fans a helping hand to get in the game spirit for the Scotland v Wales kick-off with free flavour-packed pints for passengers travelling to the stadium by tram tomorrow (Saturday 11th March).

The Innis & Gunn pop-up bar will be making a rare appearance at the Murrayfield Stadium tram stop where the Brewer’s team will serve up free pints of its award-winning lager and Lager Beer 0% to fans en route to the first Six Nations’ home game.  

Whatever your team, whether you’re backing blue or supporting red, the free pints are on offer for all rugby fans who spot the bar, provide proof of age, and a valid tram and match ticket.

That’s not all. For those who will be making their way to the stadium by foot, you can check out the Innis & Gunn ‘One for the Road Bar’ that will be popping up at Malone’s on Morrison Street – providing the perfect pre-match pints for the road. 

Capturing the free-spirited and original nature of the brand, Innis & Gunn aims to unite the nations in their shared passion for Scotland’s biggest craft lager and most loved craft brand – no matter the score.  

Innis & Gunn’s founder, Dougal Sharp, said: “We know our customers are massive rugby fans, so we want to surprise and delight match goers with a perfectly refreshing pint as they arrive by tram to the stadium on Saturday. A good way to showcase our superb Scottish hospitality to the Welsh. 

“Avoid the scrum at the stadium bars – we’ll see you on Saturday. Good luck to both teams!”

*Former Scotland International rugby prop and Northampton Saints and Sale Sharks legend, Barry Stewart, and former Scotland international and 1990 Grand Slam winner, Sean Lineen, were on hand to pass out the pints to passengers. Backwards passes only, obviously!

Photography course at Inch House

Photography Workshop 

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This is a 5 week course mainly outdoors although weather may mean more of each session indoors at Inch House.

It is an informal course for students to learn how to make the most of their camera and improve the standard of personal photography. The tutor is very friendly and experienced and can help with general or particular photography or camera queries. 

Students will learn to use the camera functions, cover various modes, and discuss composition in relation to landscape and (potentially) nature photography.

Standard fee for the 5 weeks course running on Thursdays from 1pm-2.30pm each week is £32.63 and only £17.25 for any senior citizens, students or benefits. 

To book on, please ring 0131 556 7978 or online at www.joininedinburgh.org

Earthquake survivors in Turkey and Syria will receive emergency aid of £60,000 from Freemasons

Survivors of the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria will be receiving vital emergency supplies thanks to a £60,000 grant from the Freemasons to the British Red Cross, UK for UNHCR and UNICEF who are leading the relief effort on the ground.

More than 16,000 people are reported to have died in the two quakes which have devastated large areas of south west Turkey and across the border in Syria. The death toll is certain to rise significantly as more bodies are found.

Tens of thousands of survivors are sleeping in the open in temperatures which have fallen well below zero. Snow is falling in some parts as the region experiences colder than average winter weather that is also hampering rescue efforts.

Damage from the quake has affected at least seven provinces in Turkey as well as areas across northwest Syria. Thousands of homes have been destroyed, displacing families, and schools, hospitals, and other medical and educational facilities will have been damaged or destroyed by the quakes. Potential damage to roads and critical infrastructure will also complicate search and rescue efforts and the wider humanitarian response.

The grant comes through the Masonic Charitable Foundation, which is funded by Freemasons, their families and friends, from across England and Wales.

Luke Tredget, Head of Emergencies from the British Red Cross, said: “We’re very grateful for this generous grant which will allow us to provide immediate emergency relief to people who are in desperate need.

“This disaster has devastated vast areas of both countries and left millions of people in urgent need of help.”

Les Hutchinson, Chief Executive of the Masonic Charitable Foundation, said: “I’m very pleased we’ve been able to help the Red Cross, UNICEF and the UNHCR with their relief effort following this terrible earthquake.

“Many thousands of people are in very urgent need of assistance and I’m proud that Freemasons are providing essential support to charities on the ground working with survivors.”

Case review on management of transgender prisoner: Women were not at risk from harm

An urgent case review into the management of a transgender person in custody has found that at no point were any women in the care of the prison service at risk of harm.

The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) review also confirmed the person did not come into contact with any other prisoners during their time at HMP&YOI Cornton Vale and that SPS policy was followed during each decision making process and risk assessment.

The review makes four key recommendations into the management of transgender individuals:

  • the creation of a shared justice process for admitting transgender people to prisons in Scotland – to help improve decision making at admission and subsequent case conferences
  • better communication between justice partners to ensure a clearer approach to the transfer of transgender people from court to custody
  • for the wider SPS Gender Identity and Gender Reassignment (GIGR) Policy Review to consider improvements to ‘admission’ and ‘placement and management’ and for SPS to consider the weight of a person’s previous offending history to be considered as part of the case conference process
  • to strengthen the balance around the risk of harm with an individualised approach as part of the admissions process to prison, allowing for someone to be located in secure isolation for the sole purpose of a risk assessment based on known and unknown risks

In addition to the recommendations, SPS is also undertaking a full multi-disciplinary case review for each transgender person in custody. The Service is also continuing to progress, in dialogue with the Scottish Government and other stakeholders, a review of the management of trans prisoners as part of its GIGR Policy Review.

Until these reviews are complete any transgender person in custody who has a history of violence against women – including sexual offences will not be relocated from the male to female estate. Additionally,  any newly convicted or remanded transgender prisoner will initially be placed in an establishment commensurate with their birth gender.

Justice Secretary Keith Brown welcomed the findings in a letter to the Scottish Parliament’s Criminal Justice Committee.

The Justice Secretary said: “Firstly, I want to acknowledge my concern for victims of crime and the distress caused to them.  It is important that consideration of issues relating to the management of prisoners is measured and does not retraumatise victims or risk unintended consequences for transgender people or individuals in the care of SPS.

“All recommendations from the review have been accepted by Ms Medhurst as Chief Executive and will be progressed by SPS in collaboration with others as needed. As confirmed in the letter, SPS will factor the learning identified from this review into its Gender Identity and Gender Reassignment (GIGR) Policy Review, which is ongoing.

“Pending the outcome of the GIGR Policy Review, measures to provide reassurance as set out in Ms Medhurst’s letter will remain in place.

“I would like to acknowledge the work SPS has done in continuing to fulfil its operational responsibilities while completing the lessons learned review. SPS has considerable expertise in managing complex, high-profile and challenging individuals within their care and keeping people safe; and I commend their professionalism.”

In her letter, the SPS Chief Executive Teresa Medhurst reiterated that the SPS remained firmly committed to providing person-centred care to their entire population, including managing and identifying risks, which are not exclusive to transgender people in their care.

She added: “Staff in our establishments have demonstrated their long-standing expertise and strong track record in the management and care of an increasingly complex prison population.

“My priority remains the health, safety, and wellbeing of all people in our care, many of whom are the most marginalised in our society, and that of staff.”

The Ivy on the Square celebrates the Six Nations Championship with new cocktail line up

As Edinburgh prepares to welcome back the Six Nations Championship at BT Murrayfield, The Ivy on the Square has launched the ultimate cocktail menu inspired by the participating teams to honour the occasion and support the fans this rugby season.

With the first Scotland match in Edinburgh just around the corner, guests are invited to tackle the tension and try the latest creations made by the experienced bar team in the heart of the capital. 

The six delicious cocktails include  Scotts on the Rocks, (£10.50) featuring Plymouth gin, Chivas 12 year, ginger juice, lemon juice and clear honey, The Emerald Isle, (£12.00) consisting of Jameson, Lillet Rouge, Cointreau, lime juice, and a dash of whiskey barrel bitters, The G.O.A.T, (£10.50) a mix of Plymouth gin, Plymouth sloe gin, lemon juice and lavender syrup, garnished with a lavender sprig, Le Coqs, (£12.75) which includes, Beefeater gin, Lillet Blanc, lemon juice, sugar syrup and topped with The Ivy Champagne, English Rose, (£10.50) featuring Beefeater gin, Pimm’s and Elderflower cordial, topped with Fever Tree lemonade and garnished with a mint sprig, and finally the Zesty Italian, (£10.95) a tantalising mix of Malfy Arancia gin, Barolo Chinato, Campari and a dash of whisky barrel bitters.

To complete the game day offering, The Ivy has introduced a new limited-edition dessert Over The Line, a chocolate ganache with mint mousse, vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce – perfect for those rugby fans with a sweet tooth.

Guests are invited to try the limited-edition menu at The Ivy on the Square from today until 18 March (weekends only). To book a table, visit TheIvyEdinburgh.com.

David Wilson Homes reveals three-storey maximalist Cammo townhouse

Maximalism, eye-catching colours and unbridled joy are key themes adorning the inside of David Wilson Homes’ newly launched show home at Cammo Meadows in the north-west of Edinburgh.

As the region’s only three-storey show home, the three-bedroom Ashworth from the five-star housebuilder showcases multifunctional rooms fit for modern family living, designed by leading interior specialists Show Business.

A palette of bold, energetic colours has been used throughout the home, invoking feelings of cheerfulness and happiness – acknowledging a key interior trend for joyful, uplifting and mood boosting spaces recently identified by Wunderman Thompson in its annual trend report.

And with various paint brands proclaiming shades of red as their 2023 “colour of the year”, including Pantone’s Viva Magenta, a deep rose shade was selected for the ground-floor family dining room, working as both a grounding neutral and a touch of drama, complemented by a calming teal shade on the opposite wall. Relaxed textures create a laid-back feel to the room, including wood, soft accessories and fur throws. 

Interior showhome photography of The Ashworth at David Wilson Homes Cammo Meadows development in Edinburgh

Alix Riding, creative account manager at Show Business said: “Personality is key when it comes to styling a three-storey home, due to the vast amount of space.

“In this particular home we injected some fun and humour into the rooms with styling pieces such as artwork featuring jumping dogs and children’s artwork, as well as canvasses covered with splashes of paint to add a playful element.

“Pulling colours from wallpapers is a good guide when choosing cushion colours, and don’t be afraid to mix and match different patterns as this adds to the theme of fun and playful.”

Interior showhome photography of The Ashworth at David Wilson Homes Cammo Meadows development in Edinburgh

Upstairs, subtle touches of maximalist wallpaper make a statement, including animal print in the family bathroom and striped wallpaper on the stairwell. To demonstrate the flexible nature of a three-storey house, the first-floor lounge with Juliet balcony takes an escapist “getaway” style to invoke a sense of calm above the hustle and bustle of family life downstairs. 

On the top storey of the house is the main bedroom with en-suite, which features smooth velvets and panelled walls to create a well curated, smart feel with a wow factor.

Interior showhome photography of The Ashworth at David Wilson Homes Cammo Meadows development in Edinburgh

Anne Ross, sales director at David Wilson Homes East Scotland, part of Barratt Developments Scotland, said: “We’re really excited to reveal the east of Scotland’s first ever three-storey show home at Cammo Meadows, featuring three uniquely designed floors created for modern family living and with the latest design trends in mind.

“The house sits within a lovely community in the north-west of Edinburgh, less than ten minutes to the beach and just six miles to the city centre.”

House hunters are welcome to tour the show home at Cammo Meadows to get a feel for the property first-hand, as well as discover the surrounding area. A mix of three and four-bedroom homes are available, with David Wilson Homes offering incentives including up to £30,000 towards a mortgage, deposit or moving and running costs.

Modern building methods and materials also mean owners of new build homes can enjoy savings of up to £2,600 per year on energy bills, according to the HBF “Watt a Save” report published October 2022.

For more information, visit www.dwh.co.uk.

Mary’s Meals launches emergency appeal to help vulnerable children in Syria

Mary’s Meals is helping communities affected by this week’s devastating earthquakes

MARY’S Meals have launched an emergency appeal to deliver much-needed food aid to children in Syria, following two earthquakes on Monday, 6 February. 

We have been  working in the city of Aleppo since 2017. With our local partner Dorcas, we usually serve nutritious meals to children at school – many of whom are experiencing trauma caused by more than a decade of civil war.  

Daniel Adams, executive director of Mary’s Meals, says: “The updates we are receiving from our partner on the ground are simply heart-breaking. After more than a decade of civil war, Syria has been plunged into this new crisis. Many people have lost their loved ones and their homes, and they have very little access to food and shelter. They now face yet another a fight for survival. 

“Conditions in and around Aleppo are very difficult – roads have been destroyed, and our partner organisation has seen heavy damage to its buildings. Despite these challenges, we are already reaching many children with essential food supplies.” 

Mary’s Meals serve school meals in some of the world’s poorest countries. The promise of food attracts hungry children into the classroom, giving them the energy to learn and hope for a better future.  

In addition to this important work, the charity provide effective, expert support through emergencies – including delivering food aid to thousands of people affected by Ebola in Liberia and supporting communities impacted by the earthquake in Haiti in 2021.  

Daniel continues: “With our partner, we are working around the clock to feed hungry children in Aleppo. But there’s so much more we can do to help the communities that have been devastated by these earthquakes – and we stand ready to expand our emergency response as funds allow. 

“Time and time again, we have seen people across the UK give generously to help those facing desperate and frightening situations. I urge you to give what you can today – no donation is too small – so that we can bring hope to the people of Aleppo.”

Please donate today if you can.

DONATE NOW

Adult Education Course: Archaeology & History of Cammo Estate

Archaeology & History of Cammo Estate – All – (18/3) – OUT57986M

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Cammo Estate was built in 1693 for John Menzies , and the house is considered to be the inspiration for the House of Shaw in Kidnapped written by Robert Louis Stevenson. The grounds are a nature reserve with walled garden, hot walls and a Pinetum. Many visitors are unaware of the history surrounding them as they walk past the ruins. 

Archaeologists have uncovered a stash of personal items that used to belong to the housekeeper in the grand lost mansion and lots of interesting stories are being unravelled through further excavation. 

This one day course looking at the history and archaeology will offer fascinating insights into the particular site as well as broader guidance about archaeology in general. 

Enjoy a fun day out with the very friendly and knowledgeable tutor able to answer queries and generate interest in local history. 

The course takes place on Saturday 18th March from 10.30-3.30pm 

Standard fees for the day £21.75 and £17.25 for senior citizens, students and benefits. 

To book a space please ring 0131 556 7978 or go oniine at www.joininedinburgh.org

TODAY: Leith Library Fun Day

FREE FAMILY FUN ACTIVITIES

We’d love all the Leith community to join us for our Warm and Welcoming family fun day, TODAY – Friday 10th February – from 11am to 3pm.

– info & advice stalls throughout the day providing support with the cost of living, employability, health and wellbeing

from Access to Industry, AdvoCard, Age Scotland, Bethany Christian Trust, Changeworks, Edinburgh City Libraries, CEC Family & Household Support Service, LifeCare Edinburgh, People Know How, Social Security Scotland, Volunteer Edinburgh and more!

– Macmillan at Edinburgh Libraries are hosting a drop-in coffee morning from 11am to 12pm

– children’s face-painting, & other activities from Fair Saturday Scotland from 12pm to 2pm

– tour of Leith Theatre at 1pm (sign up for this on the day)

– dance workshop for children ages 4+ and their families at 2.30pm

*please book free ticket(s) for the children’s dance workshop in advance here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/…/dance-workshop-for…

#EdinWarmWelcoming

Find out other things to do over the winter: edinburgh.gov.uk/warmandwelcoming

Help and advice with the cost of living: edinburgh.gov.uk/costofliving

Regulator highlights considerable pressure on councils’ services for people experiencing homelessness

A new report by the Scottish Housing Regulator highlights that some councils are finding it increasingly difficult to fully meet their statutory duties on homelessness, particularly providing temporary accommodation to people experiencing homelessness.

The report highlights that councils are making considerable efforts in very challenging circumstances to deliver effective services and some have had success in moving toward an approach with rapid rehousing at its centre. 

The Regulator also found that there is an emerging risk of systemic failure in their homelessness services. 

The report sets out three main strategic challenges facing councils in providing services to people experiencing homelessness: dealing with the number of people in temporary accommodation; maintaining an adequate supply of temporary accommodation; and ensuring homeless people have sufficient access to permanent housing. 

John Jellema, Assistant Director Of Regulation, said: “Some councils are finding it increasingly difficult to meet these challenges, and so to fully meet their statutory duties. This includes difficulties in ensuring that people with particular equality characteristics – such as single women and children – have temporary accommodation options that meet their needs.

“There are actions councils can and should take to respond to these challenges, and there are other improvements to services they can make. All councils should continue best efforts to meet their statutory obligations.

“The Scottish Government has put in place a wide range of policy actions aimed at achieving the goal of ending homelessness in Scotland. Having said that, the Scottish Government may need to consider what further urgent measures it can take to support councils to respond to the immediate challenges they face in delivering services for people who are homeless.”

Read the Regulator’s thematic inquiry report on homelessness services in Scotland.

Shelter Scotland has responded to yesterday’s report by the Scottish Housing Regulator, outlining the emerging risk of systematic failure within local authority homelessness services, particularly in securing temporary and permanent accommodation.

The report supports Shelter Scotland’s continued messaging that Scotland is in a housing emergency, and that the supply of more social homes must be prioritised by the Scottish Government. 

It shows that councils are making considerable efforts in very challenging circumstances to provide homelessness services, however, are finding it increasingly difficult to meet their statutory duties in the provision of temporary and permanent accommodation. 

The report highlights three major strategic challenges councils are facing: dealing with the significant numbers of people currently in temporary accommodation; maintaining a sufficient supply of appropriate temporary accommodation; and ensuring access to the number of permanent homes that are needed.

The report calls on the Scottish Government to consider what further urgent measures it can take to support councils to respond to the challenges they face in delivering services for people who are homeless. 

It also notes that some households do not always receive a service that meets their specific needs, further demonstrating that the system is broken and biased. 

In its Scottish Housing Emergency Action Plan last year, Shelter Scotland outlined three key priorities as the most critical to tackle the housing emergency: buy and build 38,500 social homes by 2026, fully fund local authority homelessness services and guarantee the right to a permanent home for every household.

Shelter Scotland Director, Alison Watson, said: “The Scottish Government know how to fix homelessness and the wider housing emergency in Scotland.

“As indicated in this report, an adequate supply of permanent, affordable housing provided by councils and RSLs is vital in ending homelessness.

“Over the years they have been presented with endless evidence and testimony that investing in social housing ends homelessness, tackles child poverty and is crucial in fighting the housing emergency. Yet, they are choosing to look the other way as thousands of families continue to struggle. 

“If ever there was a clearer message from the sector that the time to act is now, this is it. The Scottish Government must recognise that its choices to ignore the housing emergency will have devasting consequences for the fight against homelessness.”

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