In October 2021 there were 108,279 attendances to major Emergency Departments across Scotland, the number of attendances dropped by 5,719 patients (5%) compared to the previous month, September 2021.
Despite this, data show that four-hour performance in major departments has once again reached a new record low, with 70.9% of patients being seen, transferred or discharged within four-hours – 2.5 percentage points lower than the previous month, September 2021.
In October 2021 2,533 patients spent 12-hours or more in a major Emergency Department, this is an increase of 30% compared to the previous month, September 2021, and the highest number on record.
Data also show that 8,181 patients spent eight hours or more in a major Emergency Department. This is an increase of 21% compared to the previous month, September 2021 and is also the highest number on record.
Dr John Thomson, Vice President of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine Scotland, said: “Yet again we are reporting on the worst performance figures on record. 1 in 13 patients are now delayed by eight hours are more.
“This trend is extremely worrying and, most of all, dangerous for patients. Each month, the number of patients that have come to avoidable harm grows. So far in 2021, 387 excess deaths have occurred as a direct result of crowding.
“This number will continue to increase unless patient flow is prioritised this winter; this means freeing up beds where possible by ensuring that patients have timely access to social care, utilising the Discharge to Assess model, and avoiding admission when appropriate by maximising the use of Same Day Emergency Care.
“Every winter we know that the increase in demand for unscheduled care, and therefore beds, disrupts elective surgery – this is not a new phenomenon by any means.
“However, with a record number of patients awaiting surgery, ensuring that unscheduled care does not derail progress on the backlog is more crucial than ever. This requires a whole system approach and cannot be tackled in isolation. If poor patient flow in emergency departments is addressed successfully, this will go some way in mitigating the risk of further disrupting elective care.
“We are very keen to work with the Scottish government on what can be done in the short term to alleviate the immense pressures EDs are currently facing.
“Accompanying this, we continue to call on the Scottish government to set out a long-term workforce plan. The required expansion in capacity cannot be safely achieved without both recruiting new and retaining existing staff.
“At present we need an additional 130 EM consultants along with sufficient numbers of both junior and supporting staff and nurses.”
Psychologists share tips and tools to help you cope with Christmas triggers
Although Christmas is time for joy and celebration, for many it can be overwhelming and have an impact on their mental wellbeing. With last year’s Christmas being heavily impacted by Government restrictions, this festive season may present new challenges for some.
Psychologists Madeleine Gauffin, Dr Cecilia Radecka and Dag Härdfeldt, at digital healthcare provider Livi share some tips and practical tools to help you manage your mental health this Christmas.
Dealing with stressful family gatherings
Madeleine says: “Consider how you want to spend your time. Just because things feel more open this year, it doesn’t mean you have to spend time with absolutely everyone you know and love.
“If you’re worried about family pressure, try putting boundaries in place. Families can be invasive or cast shame or guilt. You don’t have to justify your decision on how you spend your time. Allow yourself to be honest and try to communicate that”.
Managing anxiety
Madeleine says: “There are several types of anxiety disorders, from Generalised Anxiety Disorder to social anxiety disorder. With the return of office Christmas parties and family gatherings, this year may be particularly challenging for some.
“Although it’s important to talk to a doctor or psychologist about your anxiety, there are a number of tools you can use to cope in the moment when your anxiety feels overwhelming. For example, try this simple breathing exercise to help calm your nervous system and reduce stress in your body:
· Sit or lie down comfortably
· Exhale completely
· Gently and slowly inhale through your nose for the count of 4
· Gently exhale through your mouth for the count of 4
· Pause and hold for the count of 4
· As you breathe, imagine your breath moving around the image of a square
· Repeat for 1 or 2 minutes, or until you feel calmer
“Exercise is also one of the best ways to help you manage your anxiety in the longer term. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins that enhance emotional wellbeing. High intensity aerobic exercise like jogging, running or brisk walking, 2-5 times a week for at least 2 weeks, can be effective in reducing anxiety”.
Dealing with depression
For people living with depression the holidays can be a difficult period. The latest data from the Office of National Statistics found self-reported depression in Great Britain has increased compared with pre-pandemic levels, with one in five adults experiencing depressive symptoms in the last quarter, compared to one in ten prior to the pandemic.
Madeleine says: “During the festive season and winter months, a lack of sunlight has shown a correlation with symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in some people. This is a type of recurring depression with a seasonal pattern.
Try to get as much daylight as possible. Even a short daily walk can be beneficial . Natural light is the most important cue for maintaining circadian rhythms (the body’s natural sleep/wake cycle).”
Reducing feelings of loneliness
There are nine million lonely people in the UK and four million of them are older people. Christmas is a particularly painful time for older people who experience loneliness throughout the year, but there are a variety of ways which can help to combat feelings of loneliness.
Dr Cecilia says: “Being part of a community gives us a strong sense of belonging. Doing activities that we enjoy is good for our mental wellbeing and a way to meet new people. Try taking part in a book club, choir or volunteering at a community garden. One study found that group singing significantly boosts psychological wellbeing”.
Madeleine adds: “If you can’t see friends or family in real life this Christmas, it helps to make the effort to keep in touch with people in any way you can – video calls or phone calls can help. You can consider starting new networks, too, like an online book club. Or, arrange to have a festive dinner with friends or family over the internet.
“A study has shown that even going for a walk on your own for at least 20 minutes a day can help to reduce feelings of loneliness. When you’re outdoors, your world opens up. You see nature and other people, and this is a good distraction away from your own thoughts”.
When to see a doctor
Madeleine Gauffin, Livi psychologist, said: “Sometimes, you may need professional support to help manage feelings of stress, grief or mental health conditions. If you regularly feel overwhelmed, book an appointment to speak to a doctor or therapist where you feel most comfortable, whether that’s digital or in-person.”.
Scotland’s National Clinical Director Jason Leitch is becoming a vaccinator and is encouraging more people to enrol to help accelerate the national booster jab programme.
Since 19 November, the equivalent of 300 full-time additional staff (more than 1000 individuals) have joined the national vaccination effort and health boards are actively recruiting to create extra capacity.
Following the most recent advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) everyone aged 18 and over who is eligible will be offered a slot for the booster jab by the end of January. Currently those aged 40-49 are invited to make an appointment through the online portal or the national helpline, from 12 weeks after their second dose. The national programme is also delivering second doses to 16 and 17 years olds.
Professor Leitch said: “I am pleased to join the fantastic team at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and look forward to helping administer booster jabs to adults and second doses to 16 and 17 years olds as we continue to protect Scotland’s population as quickly as possible.
“To be a small part of this national mission is a real privilege. It also gives me the opportunity to thank the clinical teams and volunteers who have got us this far.
“This has been the biggest immunisation programme in the history of the NHS and the hard work and commitment shown by health boards and vaccination teams across Scotland means we have the highest vaccination rate for people aged 12 and over of all UK nations for first, second and boosters/third doses and the winter vaccination programme has already delivered more than 2 million booster and third doses to the most vulnerable groups, covering 45% of the adult population (aged 18+).
However, we would warmly welcome any former NHS employees and of course, they will receive full training before giving any vaccines. I’ll be helping when I can alongside my main role.
“Even a shift a week will help, so if you’re a dentist, a nurse, an optometrist or a doctor and you can help us then please contact your local health board. Every vaccine dose given is another step out of the pandemic. If you don’t have a clinical background, it’s not a problem, you can still assist the programme in another capacity through the British Red Cross.
“We have accepted the JCVI’s updated recommendations and aim to offer the booster vaccine to everyone aged 18 or older who is eligible by the end of January, and we would love some more vaccinators to join our incredibly national programme to assist us through this particularly busy period.”
Vaccination Programme Director at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Anne Harkness said: “In the last year, our vaccination team at NHSGGC have administered more than 2.1 million jags, working with the public to protect our communities.
“We are continuing to build our pool of vaccinators and we are delighted to welcome Jason to the vaccination team and wish him – and all the new recruits – well.”
People who wish to apply to become a vaccinator can find more information at NHS Scotland
Volunteers who are not currently involved in COVID response, or other critical work, who would be interested in assisting the COVID response generally and the vaccine programme in particular, can find out more by emailing:
Homebuyers can now get their first online glimpse of Artisan Real Estate’s much heralded Rowanbank Gardens in Corstorphine, promising immaculate environmental credentials and providing a spectacular blueprint for low-carbon living.
The development website goes live this week and potential buyers can register interest by logging on to www.rowanbankgardens.com ahead of the formal launch of the on-site sales office and marketing suite early in the New Year.
Rowanbank Gardens is an industry-leading sustainable development delivering 126 high quality apartments in a well-connected central location. When complete, it will provide a mix of one, two and three-bedroom spacious apartments on the site of the former Gylemuir Care Home, just a few minutes’ walk from main access routes into the city for bus, train and car.
Work on site began in summer this year, and the first ‘move-ins’ are anticipated for early 2023. With no fossil fuels being used and both heating and hot water delivered through individual air source heat pumps, the development offers smart energy-efficient design geared to achieving low to zero carbon ratings – with the added benefits of lower home-running costs.
Rowanbank Gardens has also been designed to respond to the rapidly changing requirements of both home buyers and the wider community. Apartments have been designed around an internal courtyard garden, filled with fruit trees and communal planting and growing beds as well as a natural woodland area and formal lawns.
The spacious apartments will provide open-plan living with easy access to a private courtyard or large balcony overlooking the gardens, making them ideal for families and downsizers alike. While innovations such as green roofs ensure benefits of surface water retention, improved insulation and ecology.
Welcoming the launch of Rowanbank Gardens, Artisan’s Regional Sales Manager, Christie Turner, said: “This is part of Artisan’s £90 million investment commitment to raise the standards of sustainable living at prime city centre sites across Edinburgh.
“At its heart is a sustainable design which reflects the demands of modern life, with buildings designed to minimise carbon footprint and maximise daylight. Significant emphasis is placed on the quality of internal space and light to create enjoyable home-working environments, whilst accessible gardens and landscaping promote health and well-being by making nature and well-designed outdoor space integral to the day-to-day living experience.”
She added: “There has already been strong interest in the development from Corstorphine residents, many of whom wanted to downsize and stay in the area and from families looking for more space.
We are now looking forward to launching our marketing suite on site and progressing with the development, continuing with our ongoing investment to get the city living again following lockdown.”
Artisan is perhaps best known in Scotland for large-scale urban regeneration projects like the award-winning New Waverley at the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. The developer is now applying the same values, resource and design philosophy to its residential developments which is quickly setting it apart from other major homebuilders in Scotland.
The launch of Rowanbank Gardens comes hot on the heels of sales success at the award-winning Canonmills Garden site, Artisan’s other Edinburgh city centre development comprising 180 luxury apartments and colony properties overlooking the Water of Leith.
Sales of the 135 apartments available for private sale are now nearing completion with the development welcoming its first ‘move-ins’ in the summer.
David Westwater, Artisan’s Scottish Regional Development Manager said: “The Rowanbank Gardens site fits in well with Artisan’s approach of regenerating city centre sites with good local amenities and public transport links.
“It is well set to meet the Council’s stated requirement for well designed, high density living whilst providing spacious communal areas and well-established public transport links ensuring low car ownership.
“Artisan now has an opportunity in Scotland to set a new benchmark for high quality urban regeneration in sensitive city-centre environments – whether it be residential, commercial, or mixed-use. Our track record across Scotland has given us a strong understanding of the importance of sustainable low carbon living combined with high quality placemaking, which is at the heart of all Artisan’s developments.”
To register interest In Rowanbank Gardens, savvy homebuyers should now visit the development website at www.rowanbankgardens.com.
The Rowanbank Gardens Sales Team is now based at the offices of lettings and estate agency Umega at 10 Lister Square, Edinburgh, EH3 9GL.
EIGHTEEN of the UK’s most impactful coaches and organisations were recognised and celebrated at the UK Coaching Awards 2021 in Leeds on Tuesday, (7 December).
Whittled down from 27 finalists and many more strong nominations, each winner received a memento to commemorate their extraordinary contribution to sport and wellbeing.
This year’s awards, with an in-person showpiece ceremony not possible the year previous due to Covid-19 restrictions, focused not only on the outstanding level of technical coaching, but those who had gone the extra mile to support participants mentally and emotionally as we transition out of the pandemic.
The winners are:
Changing Lives Award – Andrew Joyce, Christchurch
Coach Developer – Andrew Noble, Sheffield
Coaching Chain, supported by Sport England – Kadeena Cox MBE’s chain (Tom Hodgkinson, Joe McDonnell, Jon Norfolk MBE, Brian Scobie, Sue Bowles, John Westerman and Nathan Wells)
Coaching for an Active Life Award, supported by Spond – Our Parks
Community Coach – Adults, supported by Sport England – Alice Tribedi, London
Community Coach – Children & Young People, supported by Sport Scotland – Sean Ross, Hull
Great Coaching Moment – Jane Figueiredo, London
High Performance Coach – Richard Morris, Sheffield
Lifetime Achievement Award – Richard Brickley, Fife
Talent Development Coach – Julie Maiden, Milton Keynes
Transforming Coaching Award, supported by Reading Room – Coach Core Foundation
Young Coach – Tor Freeman, Biggleswade
UK Coaching CEO, Mark Gannon, said:“This year we have been blown away by the commitment and ingenuity shown by each of our winners. The UK Coaching Awards recognise the huge variety of ways that coaches make a different to people’s lives, whether through training and improving skill level, education and development, or mobilising their community and bringing people together.
“Coaches are a powerful unifying force for good and the amazing examples we have seen this year showcase why we are right to be so proud of the coaching workforce here in the UK.
“I would like to extend a personal congratulations to each of our winners – great coaching has always been about inspiring others, and the pandemic has made this more vital than ever. At a time where we have all needed motivation, that boost to carry on and to be the best we can be, coaches have stepped up and rejuvenated their communities.”
Winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award Richard Brickley, was honoured to be recognised for his long-standing contribution to disability sport.
“I am thrilled to receive the UK Coaching Lifetime Achievement Award but at the same time recognise that there are so many others who could equally claim the right to be here,” he said.
“To be in the company of so many amazing young people who believe sport can change the world is humbling. Thank you to UK Coaching for recognising the impact of coaches at every stage of their journey.”
Sean Ross, winner of the Community Coach of the Year for Children and Young PeopleAward, was in disbelief that ‘someone like him’ could be considered a top coach in the UK.
He said: “It feels absolutely amazing to be Community Coach of the Year. I didn’t think I’d have a chance with so many incredible coaches nominated – it feels great just to share a room with so many fantastic people. It’s inspiring for us to keep on learning and achieving more than ever before.
“A great coach is someone who inspires belief, regardless of what walk of life you are from. I believe everybody deserves a chance in life, and I suppose that is what makes a really good coach – someone who gives people the chance they need to be their best self.”
Another remarkable community coach honoured at the awards was Alice Tribedi, who proves great coaching can reach everyone, working with older participants up to 93 years old.
She said: “Coaching means a sense of community to me. I coach mostly those who are older, up into their nineties, and for many they have been on their own throughout the pandemic.
“In my classes there was a lot of depression, many suffering from isolation. That’s why it’s important to support everyone, because these are the people that need it most.
“To be recognised means the world. Having had to give up my dancing career when I was so young due to injury, means that my coaching career is everything to me. I enjoy it so much, and it means everything to coach the amazing people I do.
“One lady told me that not long before her husband died, he had told her to continue coming to my classes to help her. She told me last Christmas that the class had been a lifeline for her. That makes you realise the power of coaching.”
Find out more about this year’s winners and the awards by heading to:
The 2022-2023 Scottish Budget will help transition Scotland to becoming more prosperous, fairer and greener, Finance Secretary Kate Forbes has said.
Speaking ahead of delivering the Budget to Parliament today, Ms Forbes said the Scottish Government will deliver a bold and ambitious package of public investment that delivers on the priorities which matter most to the people of Scotland.
Ms Forbes said: “The Scottish Budget will provide taxpayers with stability and support, set out clearly how we will accelerate our Covid recovery, and crucially, how our spending plans will set Scotland on a new ambitious path.
“It has been a challenging Budget due to the continuing impact of the pandemic, and the uncertainty and worry that Covid poses for us all. This has been confounded by the UK Government’s decision to remove necessary Covid consequential funding at a time when we undeniably need to help our public services.
“The Scottish Government has taken spending decisions that prioritise supporting people and our vital public services through the twin crises of Covid and the cost of living. It is a budget for Scotland’s future – one that will help us secure a fairer, greener and more prosperous country.”
Responding to the Scottish Budget, Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said:“While the Finance Secretary has outlined some helpful interventions for business, firms that have been working tirelessly to get back on their feet after two miserable years will be left with little to get excited about.
“The removal of the business rates cliff edge in April for hospitality, retail and tourism firms will be welcomed, however many will be disappointed that the government hasn’t gone further – particularly as uncertainty around Omicron gathers pace.
“Increased funding for employability is clearly a step in the right direction but much more detail is needed on how skills funding will help firms address immediate challenges. Ultimately, greater ambition is needed on upskilling and retraining if we’re to ensure workers are equipped with the skills they need for a modern economy.
“On green investment there were some welcome announcements around green jobs and just transition. However, failing to use the non-domestic rates system to incentivise private sector investment in low carbon infrastructure feels like a missed opportunity that could have helped Scotland push-on towards its net zero target.
“Overall, business shares the Scottish Government’s vision for a fairer, greener and more prosperous economy. Firms will be keen to see how the forthcoming National Economic Transformation Strategy turns ambition into action; setting Scotland on a path towards competitiveness, dynamism and productivity growth – which is the only sustainable route to higher living standards.”
Scottish workers bitterly disappointed by pay deal as STUC insists ‘budget will result in robbing Peter to pay Paul’
The Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) acknowledged the increase in public sector pay floor to £10.50 and insisted that pay rises must be fully funded by Scottish Government to avoid cash strapped councils having to make other cuts to pay the increased rate.
STUC General Secretary Roz Foyer said: “Workers across Scotland will be bitterly disappointed as they hear about the pay cuts announced today. Below inflation pay increases do nothing to help people deal with escalating costs this winter. Councils will have to rob Peter to pay Paul as services could be cut to meet the gaps in funding.
“There is a desperate need to back our public services. Huge gaps in funding in the NHS and social care have left some of the most vulnerable people in our communities without the treatment and services they urgently need. The Scottish Government have failed to take the opportunity before them to step up and back public sector workers.”
COSLA released its ‘Budget Reality’ document last night in response to the Scottish Budget.
COSLA’s Resources Spokesperson Councillor Gail Macgregor said that COSLA Leaders will meet today to discuss the implications for Local Government and respond more fully then.
In a brief statement Councillor Macgregor, said: “Our ‘Budget Reality’ document is important as it sets out the facts about the Local Government Settlement.
“It appears to be a disappointing budget for the communities that we represent, as it does not give Local Government what we need to survive and nor does it meet our campaign aspiration to help those communities to ‘Live Well Locally’,
“Once more, our core financial settlement has been hit.
“That said, we will take time to consider the finer details of today’s announcement and the full implications for both ourselves and our communities.
“As a membership organisation, our Council Leaders will come together virtually tomorrow to consider the implications, before we make a more formal response following that meeting.”
Responding to the Scottish Government’s budget, which was published today, Peter Kelly (Director, Poverty Alliance), said: “Today’s Scottish Government budget contains a number of welcome commitments.
“Doubling the Scottish Child Payment from April, as we and so many others across Scotland campaigned hard for, will help stem the rising tide of poverty across the country. Introducing free bus travel for young people under 22 is also a positive step toward a transport system that can tackle inequality.
“But with over one million people in Scotland living in the grip of poverty, it is clear that we cannot let up. In 2022 we must see these actions built upon, with further steps taken to build a Scottish social security system that unlocks people from poverty.
“We must also go further in redesigning our public services, like by extending free bus travel available to all under 25s and to everyone on low incomes.”
Scottish debt help charity welcomes the doubling of the Scottish Child Payment in the Scottish Budget
Child poverty is rising in every local authority in Scotland. Even before the pandemic, one in four children in Scotland were growing up in poverty and food bank use has increased by 63% over the last five years.
The pandemic has made things even more difficult for those already struggling as it has disproportionately impacted people living on low incomes.
CAP Scotland National Director, Emma Jackson, says, “We are delighted to hear about the Scottish Government’s commitment to double the Scottish Child Payment for families with children under the age of six.
“This is the single most impactful action that will take us four percentage points closer to reaching our interim child poverty targets and signals that ending child poverty will be a defining priority for Scotland. It is encouraging to see Scotland leading the way with this unique payment for families.
“This additional income will make a significant difference for the families we work with at Christians Against Poverty (CAP) Scotland. Families like Holly’s, who experienced problem debt after an overnight reduction in hours at work. Coupled with ill health and the challenges of being a single parent, debt began to deeply impact all aspects of Holly’s life.
“Through working with CAP Scotland, Holly was able to access the right debt solution for her and begin a debt free fresh start. The additional £40 per month will mean not having to worry as much about keeping her home warm for her and her son or buying him more food.
“Yet the very real challenges of making a low income stretch far enough to meet essential living costs remains. We welcome the news of free bus travel for those under the age of 22, the extension of free school meals to older age groups and the accelerated roll out of the Scottish Child Payment to include all children under the age of 16 by the end of next year. However, we would urge the Scottish Government to do all it can to bring the roll out of the Scottish Child Payment forward.
“With the rising cost of living and the end to the Universal Credit uplift, many families are facing a significant struggle this winter. We’re concerned that even more people will be pushed into poverty. We are keen to hold the Scottish Government to their commitment that “we can’t leave anyone behind”.
“The announcements in today’s budget leave a risk that key groups could experience further hardship. For too many households we work with at CAP, like single adult households, there is insufficient income to cover everyday essentials – rent, food, fuel, toiletries – and borrowing money is often a necessity to survive. No one should be forced into problem debt in order to survive.”
The Scottish budget 2022-23 includes £150 million for walking, wheeling and cycling, an increase of £19.6m.
Living Streets Scotland, part of the UK charity for everyday walking has welcomed the significant funding and the impact it will have to make cleaner and healthier forms of transport.
Stuart Hay, Director, Living Streets Scotland said: “Today marks a fundamental and positive change in how transport is funded with a much greater focus on people walking, wheeling and cycling.
“Walking accounts for 22% of all trips, so it’s great to see spending levels reflecting this reality, switching from a focus on new road schemes that have resulted in congestion and emissions.
“The £150 million investment will make it easier, safer and more attractive for more people to choose cleaner ways to travel. This is vital in the face of a climate emergency and a crisis in public health brought about by inactivity.
“This level of investment means new projects, such as national action to get more children walking to school are possible. It also makes plans to cut traffic on Scotland’s roads and streets by 20% more realistic.”
Responding to the Scottish Government’s Budget for 2022-23, Dr Liz Cameron, Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce said:“Scotland’s economy is recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic faster and stronger than many expected, and this budget offered the Scottish Government an opportunity to accelerate this return to growth.
“Whilst there was much to welcome in this budget the Scottish Government should have gone further to support Scotland’s businesses, the drivers of economic growth.
“Many economic deterrents as a result of the pandemic remain in place, impacting on footfall on our town and city centre high streets, driving down demand in our vital tourism and aviation sectors, and the looming threat of a return to greater level of restrictions is holding back investment. The Scottish Government should have provided assurances for businesses that targeted financial support will be made available to those ongoing affected sectors to deliver a clear pathway to recovery.”
On Non-Domestic Rates:
“Businesses will welcome the extension of rates reliefs afforded to properties in the retail, leisure, and hospitality sectors for an additional three months, however, this should have gone further to give businesses the time they need to recover from this incredibly challenging period.
“Scotland’s town and city centres have already lost thousands of businesses over the past twenty months and prolonged periods of home working have made the trading conditions for brick-and-mortar retailers tougher than ever, and many ratepayers will question if this extension goes far enough to support them.
“It was also disappointing that the Scottish Budget failed to confirm whether or not the long awaited NDR Revaluation due to take place in 2023 will go ahead as planned.”
Training, Skills and Supply Chain:
“Scotland’s businesses are still experiencing challenges through supply chain connectivity problems, rising cost prices, inflationary pressures, and recruitment difficulties.
“Additional funding for training interventions at all levels is welcome news and investment in Scotland’s workforce drive up business capacity and improve investment opportunities.
“Cost pressures and supply chain challenges require urgent action from government and whilst we await further details in the forthcoming National Economic Transformation Strategy, it’s important Scottish Government act now, collaborate with business and begin to resolve these issues as a priority for our economy.”
Energy and Just Transition:
“The energy sector remains a critical part of Scotland’s economy and the funding commitments in the budget to support a Just Transition are a step in the right direction.
“To meet Scotland’s Net Zero ambitions and secure the future of jobs in the energy sector and North and North-East though, this investment and funding needs to continue to be stepped up, at pace, in partnership with industry to enable businesses to pivot successfully.”
An extensive expert review has found failings in the standard of hearing tests carried out for children in NHS Lothian’s Paediatric Audiology service.
The review, conducted independently by the British Academy of Audiology (BAA), identifies significant concerns about hearing tests that were not carried out to the required professional standard, with consequences for children and their families. In some cases, diagnosis of hearing loss or impairment may have been missed or delayed.
Early identification of hearing loss or impairment from birth is important because the earlier it is picked up, the more successfully it can be treated with hearing aids or cochlear implants and the better the outcomes for the child.
Tracey Gillies, Medical Director NHS Lothian said; “We are very sorry and saddened to learn that there are some children whose conditions were not diagnosed correctly, or as early as possible, as a result of testing that was not up to standard.
“Due to these failings, the diagnosis of hearing loss or impairment in six children was missed. Diagnosis of a further six children was significantly delayed with long term consequences for these children. Their long-term development of speech and language will be affected and these children will require specialist support.”
Ms Gillies continued “Delayed diagnosis of hearing loss in a further 48 children is also likely to have resulted in some harm, though the longer-term impact of this will depend on the individual circumstances of each child. Some children may require to be retested.
“We have already written to the most severely-affected families individually to offer support and a face-to-face meeting to discuss their child’s condition. We have also arranged appointments for those children whom the review recommends should be tested again.
“In addition, measures have been put in place to identify young children currently in the system whose cases may require clinical review. If any concerns are found, the families will be contacted immediately.
“We apologise sincerely to all affected children and their families for these failings and for the worry and distress caused. We would encourage families who may have concerns to contact our helpline for information on 0131 465 5457. Lines will be open on Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm.
“We have been engaging closely with the National Deaf Children’s Society and would like to thank them for the support they are able to provide families via their own helpline, which can be contacted on 0808 800 8880.”
NHS Lothian commissioned the full, external review of the service following criticism in May about the diagnosis and care of a child with hearing difficulties. The review is part of the Health Board’s response to the recommendations made by the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman who investigated that case.
Other actions already taken include the appointment of an additional senior expert to provide support in Paediatric Audiology, a comprehensive training programme for service staff and support from NHS Ayrshire and Arran and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde with testing in the interim.
The review consisted of an audit of cases from 2009 -2018, an appraisal of the clinical governance structures in place as well as a week’s residential visit by external experts to observe working practices in the service.
NHS Lothian Chief Executive, Calum Campbell said: “The thoroughness of the review reflects our determination to improve the service and outcomes for the children in our care.
“We note that the report was positive about some aspects of the care of the audiology team who are committed to working hard to improve the quality of testing provided by the service.
“A number of improvements have already been made and a detailed action plan has been developed to implement all the recommendations of the BAA in full.
“We continue to work closely with the BAA and would like to thank them for their diligence and support in conducting the review.
“I apologise to the affected families and give them my assurance that lessons have been learned and that the recommendations from the review are being implemented in full.”
The National Deaf Children’s Society has called for a sweeping review of children’s audiology services in Scotland after almost a decade of failures by NHS Lothian.
At least 887 children are known to have been affected during the nine-year period, 155 significantly, but the actual number could potentially include thousands more and the problems have continued.
The charity has spoken out after a new report, published yesterday, uncovered repeated mistakes by NHS Lothian’s audiology service, with at least 100 deaf children among those affected.
The report reveals cases of deaf children being wrongly deprived of crucial technology, incorrectly discharged or identified years later than they should have been. Some have been left with life-changing consequences as a result.
In response, the charity has today written to the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Humza Yousaf MSP. The letter calls for an assurance that such catastrophic errors will never happen again and asks for urgent Government action to improve audiology services across the country.
The failures were revealed in a new audit report, carried out by the British Academy of Audiology to examine NHS Lothian’s children’s audiology caseload of 22,900 from 2009-2018.
It sampled 1,007 cases and found there were concerns about assessment and care in 887 of them (88%). Of those, 155 had “significant concerns”.
The specific findings of the report include:
The average age of children identified as deaf under NHS Lothian was 1,653 days (4.53 years old), compared to 109 days in England. The report says this appeared to have gone “unreported and un-noticed.”
12 children were eligible for cochlear implantation, but this was significantly delayed, to the extent where some missed out on getting them altogether.
There was no evidence that nine of the children were offered a hearing aid, even though it would likely have helped them.
49 children had a delayed identification of hearing loss or the fitting of their hearing aid was delayed.
30 were not offered the right hearing aids.
The remainder of the 155 were wrongly discharged or mismanaged.
As a result, the National Deaf Children’s Society is calling for a review of children’s audiology services across Scotland. It wants to see the Scottish Government introduce national leadership for services, robust data collection and a mandatory program setting out clear standards for care.
Without urgent action, the charity says there’s a real danger that many more deaf children risk not getting the quality of care they need.
Locally, it wants NHS Lothian to commit to following the recommendations made by the report, review its past caseload to avoid repeating the same mistakes and announce a clear plan on how it will catch up and deliver for deaf children and their families.
The charity is also strongly advising all affected families to seek independent specialist legal advice. It is already offering support to families affected and says that anyone who is worried about the report should contact its helpline.
Susan Daniels, Chief Executive at the National Deaf Children’s Society, said:“The horrendous findings in this report represent a real-life nightmare for the families involved.
“They placed their trust in a service that was supposed to help, only to be completely let down. Some will be left with life-changing consequences, while many others across Scotland will now be facing the very real fear that the same thing could happen to them.
“Early identification and the right care are vital in helping deaf children develop language and communication at a crucial age, so this must never be allowed to happen again.
“This means we need urgent action from the Scottish Government, starting with a thorough review of children’s audiology services across the country. Until we have national leadership, better data collection and mandatory standards that services must comply with, thousands more deaf children could be at risk and families won’t be able to rest.
“We’re already in touch with several families affected and we’ve provided them with support and guidance. Anyone else who’s been affected, or feels worried about this issue, can contact our helpline or visit our website at www.ndcs.org.uk.”
Lothian MSP, Miles Briggs said: ““These findings by the British Academy of Audiology are extremely concerning and families in NHS Lothian have been totally failed.
“It is crucial that all 36 recommendations for the paediatric audiology service are implemented as soon as possible.
“The average age for diagnosing hearing loss in NHS Lothian is far too late and measures must be put into place to ensure that children with hearing loss are diagnosed much sooner.
“I have written to the Health Secretary to request a meeting about why it takes four and half years in NHS Lothian for a child to be diagnosed with hearing loss, compared to 109 days in England.”
Given the number of COVID-19 outbreaks that are being linked to Christmas parties, particularly those caused by Omicron, Public Health Scotland (PHS) is URGING PEOPLE TO DEFER SUCH PARTIES AT THIS TIME.
Dr Nick Phin, Director of Public Health Science and Medical Director, PHS explains: “There is much that we still need to learn about Omicron, but early evidence suggests that this new Covid variant is much more transmissible.
“The impact of this transmissibility has been seen in recent weeks, with a number of Omicron outbreaks linked to parties.
“We still need to learn more about the severity of disease caused by Omicron and the effectiveness of vaccines, but there are important things that we can do to help protect ourselves and our families now. To help minimise the further spread of Covid-19, and Omicron in particular, I would strongly urge people to defer their Christmas parties to another time.
“I appreciate that everyone is keen to celebrate this festive season, particularly after the pressures of the last twenty months, but by postponing some plans we can all do our bit to protect ourselves and our loved ones.”
A reminder of the other measures we can all take to continue to keep safe over the festive period:
Please get your vaccine and your booster when your turn comes.
Please test at least twice weekly using LFDs and take a test each time you are socialising with people out with your household.
Reduce the number of people you catch up with. Try to meet outdoors; if indoors, ensure ventilation is good.
Keep up the other public health measures: wash your hands, clean surfaces, maintain distances and of course wear a face covering in public spaces.
It’s understood First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will give a Coronavirus update tomorrow (Friday).
This Christmas, The Scotch Malt Whisky Society has teamed up with Kingdom Scotland to pair single cask whiskies with two gorgeous perfumes
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) has collaborated with Scotland’s first fragrance house, Kingdom Scotland, pairing SMWS single cask whiskies with two luscious perfumes.
Available to sample at Society venues in London, Glasgow and Edinburgh – including Edinburgh’s Kaleidoscope Bar, Whisky Magazine’s ‘Whisky Bar of the year’ – the partnership explores the fascinating relationship between whisky and perfume.
The Kingdom scents Metamorphic and Portal have been expertly paired with SMWS Flavour Profiles Lightly Peated and Juicy Oak & Vanilla. The collaboration will bring to life Society guests’ olfactory systems (sense of smell), igniting the senses at Society venues across the UK this festive season.
METAMORPHIC paired with LIGHTLY PEATED
Inspired by metamorphic rock, Metamorphic fuses black pepper and tobacco, incense, minerals and rose absolute. As it’s warmed on the skin, the scent reveals a base of amber resin and leather. A natural fit for the Lightly Peated Flavour Profile, the scent was matched with bottling ‘Peat fire tales on Orkney’.
PORTAL paired with JUICY OAK & VANILLA
Portal evokes a fresh, outdoorsy, gusting nose with herbaceous botanicals and bergamot, resting on a veritable forest floor of vetiver and Scots pine. Sampled & sprayed with ‘Summer garden curiosity’, a match made in heaven for Juicy Oak & Vanilla.
Inspired by a career in the aromatic world of luxury Scotch whisky, Kingdom Scotland founder Imogen Russon-Taylor has created a fragrance house with a difference.
Kingdom’s scents capture the history and majestic landscapes of Scotland in a contemporary way. The perfumes capture stories, experiences and dramatic contrasts at the heart of a land that enthrals the imagination.
Expertly crafted using only the most precious natural and aromatic ingredients. Kingdom is Scotland’s first fragrance house creating evocative and modern, unisex scents.
Commenting on the collaboration, Imogen Russon-Taylor said: “I’m delighted to be working with The Scotch Malt Whisky Society. My background is in luxury whisky, so to be working with such a well-respected organisation is a dream.
“Your sense of smell is an incredible thing. It possesses the same characteristics as a dram, especially a Society dram, by transporting you away to great memories and special places.
“I can’t wait to hear the feedback from Society guests this Christmas, I’m very confident these pairings will inspire new conversations on appreciating fine spirits.”
Belonging to the world’s most entertaining whisky club gives you access to exclusive Members’ Rooms, partner bar discounts, colourful tasting events, whisky education, and a monthly members’ magazine Unfiltered.
Click here to take part in this truly unique sensory journey.
The Christmas whisky gift that keeps on giving all year round. There’s so much more than whisky to appreciate when your loved one joins the Society for just £65 this Christmas: https://smws.com/whisky-club-membership
Time to reflect on what we have achieved this year with all your help, and to look forward to the next stage of our journey.
The BIG news – We secured the funding from The Scottish Land Fund to buy the school, amazing!
But that was hugely helped by the support we could show from you – the community, not least through our crowdfunder ‘Kick Start the Heart’ in February. Showing such support was and is essential.
Victoria Primary School is moving to their new site over the Christmas period in what will be an exciting step in their long history.
The next step for HoNC is to take vacant possession of the current site and buildings although the actual sale process is in the hands of Edinburgh Council. We anticipate by the end of March but as soon as possible we hope the Heart will begin to beat.
We are working with our architects and Planning Aid Scotland (PAS) to bring all potential tenants and users together to try and ensure that the spaces work to mutual benefit.
In the meantime watch this space for news of initial programmes of community activities and for ways in which you can help us to raise further funds to now keep The Heart beating.
Please continue to spread the word– and if you think you can help us to do that and have skills and experience to offer in communications and marketing, please get in touch!
Don’t forget to follow us on our social media or get in touch via the website and to the read the various blogs!
Finally, have a safe, healthy and happy Christmas and all best wishes for the New Year.
