Granton Goes Greener are very excited to be part of @EdClimateFest on 14th August at Leith Links …
We are very excited to have our stall with FREE clothes, shoes and some books at the festival.
Plus we are preparing a basic weaving workshop, where we will be teaching how to do weaving with upcycled materials like T-shirt yarn or plastic fruit nets.
And we will have some weaving kits to give away, so you could take them home and practise!
Remember, the Climate Festival is taking place in Leith Links Park this year on Saturday 14 August between 12 noon and 7pm.
If you have any plastic fruit nets ( from your lemons, onions etc), we would happilly accept them at Share’n’Wear on Friday between 11:30 am and 1 pm or you can bring them to the festival.
– Back To School Pick Up Packs containing essential stationery items to be distributed to local schools and community groups –
– New scheme follows the success of food packs in store that has so far seen over £1 million of food donated to those in need in 2021 –
Morrisons is giving customers the opportunity to support children and their families who may struggle with the cost of going back to school by creating stationery Pick Up Packs in store which can be bought and donated in time for the new school year.
Pre-packed bags will be available to purchase each day and will contain popular items needed to get children ready for returning to school such as pens, pencils, rubbers, rulers and maths sets.
Customers can pick up a pack on their way into the store, pay for the items at the till and then place the bag in a dedicated donation station. Store Community Champions will then collect and distribute the packs to local schools and community groups.
The packs will cost up to £5 and will vary on price depending on the products inside each pack.
Back to School Pick Up Packs is the latest scheme introduced by Morrisons to help make it easier for its customers to help those in their local community and follows the success of Pick Up Packs for food which has seen over £1 million donated to local food banks this year.
Rebecca Singleton, Customer & Community Director at Morrisons, said:“Going back to school can be both a nervous and exciting time for families. We hope these packs go some way to helping local children and their families who may struggle with the costs of going back to school – and take one thing off the to do list.”
Morrisons has committed £15million across 2020 and 2021 to support stocking food banks in local communities as well as introducing initiatives such as ‘Ask for Sandy’ which helps to fight back against period poverty by offering customers in need a discreet package of sanitary protection products.
After a year and a half of virtual events, we’re heading back out on the road!
We’ll be holding a number of small events around Scotland, bringing people together outdoors for a natter about all things community, a cuppa, and maybe even some cake!
These gatherings will be small, safe, community focused events that help us get together again to simply chat, catch up, share stories and hear from others.
Whether you’ve been part of our network for ages, attended a Community Camp (at the Eden Project or online) or are just interested in meeting other people and groups that share an interest in making positive change in their local neighbourhood, you’re most welcome to join us.
All events are free, but spaces are limited so registration is essential.
Follow the Eventbrite link for more detailed information on each location and to book your place:
Additional £1 million annually for third sector organisations
Organisations across Scotland will share £21 million funding over three years to advance human rights, promote equality and tackle discrimination.
A total of 48 organisations – including five specialist human rights organisations – will benefit from the new Equality and Human Rights Fund.
Overall, this new three-year programme will provide an additional £1 million per year for organisations dedicated to tackling inequality and discrimination, furthering equality and advancing the realisation of human rights in Scotland.
One of the charities set to receive funding for the first time is Civil Rights First, which provides specialist legal advice and representation to people with protected characteristics such as ethnicity, age or disability.
Five human rights organisations receiving additional funding for the first time are: Civic Rights First, Environmental Rights Centre for Scotland (ERCS), Glasgow Council for the Voluntary Sector, JustRight Scotland SCIO and The Poverty Alliance.
Other organisations include Intercultural Youth Scotland, Generations Working Together and Neighbourhood Networks in Scotland.
Equalities Minister Christina McKelvie said: “We want to build a fairer, more equal Scotland which is free from discrimination and where the human rights of everyone are respected, protected and fulfilled.
“Equality and human rights are at the heart of all we do. As we ease out of the pandemic, we are providing an annual increase of £1 million to support the vital efforts of these expert organisations to strengthen communities, further equality, and advance human rights of people across the country.”
Dionne McCabe, Trustee of Civil Rights First, said: “This funding award, made in recognition of our specialist service delivery, is a significant step for our small charity in delivering to the most vulnerable with access to justice and a step change in growth across Scotland.
“We look forward to making a real difference with positive outcomes for vulnerable people.”
A spokesperson for the Poverty Alliance said: “We are delighted to be one of the organisations awarded funding by the Equality and Human Rights Fund.
“Rights in Action, our funded project, will support organisations and individuals to better understand and use their economic, social and cultural rights to address poverty.
Celia Tennant, Chief Executive of Inspiring Scotland, which manages the fund on behalf of the Scottish Government, said: “Everyone in Scotland deserves, and has a right, to live their life to their maximum ability, to contribute to society in the widest terms, and to have full self-determination.
“The large number of strong applicants to the fund demonstrates the depth of commitment from the third sector. We look forward to working with the diverse range of funded groups to share challenges, develop solutions and amplify learning.”
The Equality and Human Rights Fund is a new programme that supports organisations that deliver work focussed on tackling inequality and discrimination, furthering equality, and advancing the realisation of human rights in Scotland.
Blair Drummond Safari Park, one of Scotland’s most popular visitor attractions, has been cleared of animal welfare allegations following a robust investigation by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA).
The assertions, made to BIAZA in March 2021 by a whistle blower, sparked a four-month inspection by the governing body which included park inspections, staff interviews and process reviews.
The findings, which include some recommendations for upgrading of processes, ends what has been a ‘deeply upsetting’ time for the keepers and the wider team at Blair Drummond Safari Park.
Speaking on the conclusions, Blair Drummond Safari Park owner Hector Muir, said: “BIAZA’s investigation has confirmed that Blair Drummond provides a safe and caring environment for our animals, and this is what we work tirelessly to achieve each and every day.
“The team participated fully with the investigation, and we were confident throughout that the outcome would be positive. This has been the case. We are always looking to improve the Park’s process and procedures and we embrace the opportunity to work with an experienced sector professional to support us in achieving this.”
Dr Jo Judge, CEO of BIAZAsaid: “BIAZA is satisfied that there are no ongoing serious animal welfare concerns. Many of the complaints were historical and we were pleased to find improvements have already been made to address them.
“The management team at Blair Drummond Safari Park are very keen to ensure that their animal welfare is of the highest standard and welcome the opportunity to learn from a BIAZA mentor”.
Adam Ant, Lulu, Tony Hadley, ABC, Howard Jones, Heather Small and many more …
LOVE LIVE music? Love the 80s? Then why not volunteer at Let’s Rock Scotland this summer?
By signing up to do a four-hour shift with festival charity partner Child Bereavement UK, ticket scanning and selling wristbands and raffle tickets on the day, you’ll not only be helping a great cause, you’ll also be able to enjoy the festival free of charge.
Let’s Rock Scotland takes place at Dalkeith Country Park on Saturday 28 August 2021 and will include performances from Adam Ant, Lulu, Tony Hadley, ABC, Howard Jones, Heather Small and many more.
Child Bereavement UK helps children and young people (up to the age of 25), parents, and families, to rebuild their lives when a child grieves or when a child dies.The charity also provides training to professionals, equipping them to provide the best possible care to bereaved families.
To volunteer please visit www.childbereavementuk.org/lets-rock-the-80s-and-pennfest. Volunteers will be fully briefed at the start of their shift and will be supported by Child Bereavement UK staff throughout. They will also have access to free water and snacks whilst volunteering and will be provided with any PPE required, in line with regulations.
To find out more about the charity and for support please visit:
UK Government announces 40,000 students and pupils are set to study and work abroad under new student exchange programme, spanning 150 countries
40,000 students will be able to study and work abroad thanks to the government’s new Turing Scheme, with universities and schools due to be told this week that their bids for funding have been successful.
Over 120 universities, as well as schools and further education colleges across the UK, will be awarded grants from the £110m Turing Scheme – which will see 48% of places go to those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
As part of the new global scheme, Canada, Japan and the United States are amongst over 150 international destinations where UK students will be funded to take up work and study placements – alongside popular European countries like Germany and France.
At the heart of the Government’s post-Brexit vision is an ambition to create a truly Global Britain where we learn, work and trade with countries well beyond Europe’s frontiers. The Turing Scheme, which has replaced the UK’s participation in Erasmus+, gives young people the opportunity to benefit from working and studying abroad, while boosting our ties with international partners in the process.
The scheme also aims to improve social mobility across the UK by targeting areas which had seen lower uptake up of the Erasmus+ programme, including across the Midlands and North of England – with education providers in the West Midlands set to receive the most funding.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “The chance to work and learn in a country far from home is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity – which broadens minds, sharpens skills and improves outcomes.
“But until now it has been an opportunity disproportionately enjoyed by those from the most privileged backgrounds. The Turing Scheme has welcomed a breadth of successful applications from schools and colleges across the country, reflecting our determination that the benefits of Global Britain are shared by all.
“By strengthening our partnerships with the finest institutions across the globe, the Turing Scheme delivers on the Government’s post-Brexit vision, and helps a new generation grasp opportunities beyond Europe’s borders.”
Ministers have set out a range of measures to improve access to international opportunities through the programme, including funding for travel and expenses such as passports and visas, as well as a grant for living costs, to tackle the barriers some students face to studying overseas.
Extra support has also been guaranteed for preparatory visits to make sure placements meet the needs of participants with disabilities and special educational needs.
Universities Minister Michelle Donelan said: “Our schools, colleges and universities have worked tirelessly to make this programme a success, and I am grateful to them and their global partners who have truly embraced this opportunity for international collaboration.
“I look forward to seeing the innovation and expertise our students, pupils and vocational learners bring back to this country from their journeys to every corner of the globe – from Canada to Japan, and Australia to the United States.”
The total number of individual placements supported this year through the £110m scheme stands at over 40,000 – exceeding the Department for Education’s own estimates. This includes 28,000 placements for university students – compared with only 18,300 under Erasmus+ in the academic year 2018/9.
The Turing Scheme, announced by Education Secretary Gavin Williamson last year, is named after pioneering UK war hero and father of modern computing Alan Turing, who studied abroad at Princeton University before going on crack the Enigma code in World War Two.
Vivienne Stern, Director, Universities UK International, said: “The Turing Scheme will create opportunities for thousands of students from all over the country to gain experience working and studying abroad.
“We know from the evidence we have collected that students who have such experience tend to do better academically and in employment outcomes – and that this is especially true for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
“We want more students from a wider range of backgrounds to get these sorts of opportunities and believe, that if they do, the UK economy will benefit in the long run.”
David Hughes, Chief Executive, Association of Colleges, said: “The opportunity to work, study or compete abroad is so important for the life chances of all young people.
“It’s encouraging to see colleges taking up all that Turing can offer – including colleges that are newer to international partnerships – exploring exchanges across a broad range of countries.”
Student mobility will be crucial post-pandemic as the world reopens and learners from all backgrounds access their chance to develop technical and personal skills, build their confidence and experience other cultures.
Hamilton & Inches are set to celebrate handcrafted works from their 155-year history in their exciting new Celebrating our Craft exhibition in August.
Located at their recently renovated showroom in Edinburgh, the exhibition highlights the exceptional work of generations of artisans, the earliest piece dating back to 1887.
Amongst the collection of handcrafted items is a jewelled cover of JK Rowling’s handwritten The Tales of Beedle the Bard. Trophies celebrating The Scottish Open, the Royal Highland Show and Scottish Women’s Football will also be on display, alongside a further 70 items generously donated by businesses and customers alike.
The Tales of Beedle the Bard was originally handwritten and illustrated by J.K. Rowling as a limited edition of only seven copies, one of which was sold at auction in 2007 to raise money for charity. It was then published in 2008 and continues to be sold in aid of J.K. Rowling’s children’s charity Lumos.
Last year, the Edinburgh-based jewellers – which has held a Royal Warrant for over 120 years – launched a search for bespoke items created by its talented craftspeople to create an extensivedisplay featuring some of its greatest designs.
Home to an expert team of silversmiths and jewellers, Hamilton & Inches has created items for a wide array of clients including Archerfield, Diageo and more.
The intricate and luxurious creations will feature within this incredible display from the 26 August until 5 September at their beautifully reimagined showroom in central Edinburgh.
Victoria Houghton, Hamilton & Inches CEO, said: “One hundred and fifty-five years in business is a wonderful milestone to reach and we want to make sure we mark the occasion properly. Showcasing the pieces created by our extremely talented team and celebrating their craft is the perfect way to do so.
“We look forward to welcoming visitors and sharing the history behind the items featured within the Celebrating our Craft showcase.”
Bespoke commissions continue to be created in the workshops with experts utilising ancient skills and crafts to create beautiful, iconic items that will be remembered and celebrated forever.
Hamilton & Inches is committed to ensuring craftmanship is relevant to contemporary life, especially at a time when sustainability is of such importance. The Celebrating our Craft showcase will shine a light on the impact and reach of Hamilton & Inches and how important it is for the craft to continue throughout Scotland.
Following a Freedom of Information request the Scottish Government has released the following submission from Forth Ports:
Wardie Bay was not included on the list of Scotland’s designated bathing waters when it was published on 1st July.
The Wardie Bay Beachwatch environmental group appealed the decision and received the following response from the Scottish Government’s Environmental Quality Unit last month:
Thank you for your letter to Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Islands, about the application for Bathing Waters designation at Wardie Bay, Edinburgh. Bathing Waters fall under the remit of Mairi McAllan, Minister for Environment, Biodiversity and Land Reform, and I have been asked to reply.
The Bathing Waters Review Panel is multi-stakeholder group, chaired by SEPA, that considers and reviews the list of bathing waters, including new applications for designation and provides recommendations to Scottish Ministers. The Panel met on 8 December 2020 and made recommendations to the Minister for Wardie Bay bathing water designation application in May 2021.
The panel recognised numerous positive aspects of the Wardie Bay application and agreed that user number criteria was met in 2020 and seemed sustainable. However, Forth Ports provided a submission which mentioned swimmer safety in relation to offshore vessel/harbour activity, and this would have to be managed by clear beach management and bather information.
The relevant local authority, City of Edinburgh Council, indicated overall support in principle for the application. However, despite the Transport and Environment committee outcomes you mention in your letter, there are still on-going discussions at Committee level on their current roles and resource to perform beach management functions.
As beach management is a key criteria for designation, until such times as the City of Edinburgh Council concludes its deliberations on these matters, the Panel was unable to recommend designation.
Having considered the Panel’s advice on the circumstances at Wardie Bay, the Minister accepted the Panel’s recommendation that Wardie Bay is not designated as a bathing water at this time, noting that the outcome of the Council’s current deliberations on beach management will inform the Panel’s future recommendation regarding this location.
I hope you find this information helpful.
The group’s petition to have Wardie Bay included on the list of designated bathing waters remains live on Change.org – over 1730 people have signed so far.
New research published today in a leading GP journal shows that large parts of Scotland do not have an effective way of identifying people with liver disease, resulting in late diagnosis.
The research, produced from a survey undertaken by the British Liver Trust, used a Freedom of Information request, and shows for the first time how many areas across the country have little or no formal structures in place for detecting and managing liver disease and liver cancer.
The mapped survey results (see below) also show huge swathes of the UK (marked in red) do not have any effective patient pathway in place. This is in sharp contrast to other chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease, where patients receive standardised care.
Figure 1 Areas in red have no pathway in place. Amber denotes areas with a partial pathway or pathway in development. Green areas have a full pathway in place. Areas in black did not respond.
Three quarters of people in the UK are currently diagnosed when it is too late for effective intervention or treatment and one in four people diagnosed late in hospital sadly die within a couple of months.
The charity is now calling for earlier detection of liver disease and better patient care across all regions of the UK to be prioritized, and is working to influence healthcare commissioners.
Dr Helen Jarvis, Clinical Advisor for the British Liver Trust and lead author of the research, says: “Anyone who has liver disease, or is at risk of getting it, should get the medical care and advice they need no matter where in the country they live.
“The publication of this new data shows that, unfortunately, in the UK this is not yet the case. There are pockets of good practice, but there are also many areas that do not have a consistent approach to testing for and diagnosing liver disease. It shouldn’t be a postcode lottery.
“GPs and other healthcare professionals in primary care are doing a fantastic job under a lot of pressure, but in many areas, they’re working within a system that doesn’t allow them to detect and treat liver disease effectively.
“Unfortunately, many GPs also report a lack confidence and knowledge when it comes to managing the condition. Sadly, this means that in many cases, people with liver disease are diagnosed far too late when treatment options are limited. This had led to thousands of avoidable deaths.
“The liver is an incredibly resilient organ, but only up to a point. Symptoms of liver disease often only appear once damage has progressed and the liver is starting to fail. However, 90% of liver disease is preventable and, in many cases, it’s reversable if caught in time. That’s why early detection and prevention are key.”
Pamela Healy OBE, Chief Executive of the British Liver Trust, said: “Shockingly, deaths due to liver disease have more than doubled in the last 20 years and the condition is expected to overtake heart disease as the biggest cause of premature death in the UK in the next few years.
“Obesity, alcohol and viral hepatitis are the three main risk factors for preventable liver disease.
“We need to take urgent action to stop this silent killer in its tracks. Although the results of our research are very concerning, we do know that there are areas of good practice and that the changes we’re calling for are entirely possible and will save many lives.
“We now need to take what’s working well in those areas with good liver patient care and apply them in others so that every person with liver disease gets the best possible care, no matter where in the UK they live.”
