Bi-weekly newsletter hosted by famous female authors
Home of female fiction and letterbox lockdown companion, Rare Birds Book Club, is set to launch a brand-new newsletter, aimed at budding writers.
From 22nd March, Prompt will be dropping into inboxes every other week packed with tips, tricks and invaluable info for those who like writing – from the daily scribblers to the ‘going to write a book someday’ dreamers.
Containing a writing exercise, pointer or prompt to encourage writers (and aspiring writers) to put pen to paper and get composing, each newsletter is hosted by a published author who has been there before and wants to share some writing wisdom to help spark inspiration.
The first newsletter, hosted by Maggie O’Farrell, author of best-selling novel, Hamnet, will be followed up by further writing royalty, with editions from the likes of Jessie Burton (The Miniaturist), Elizabeth MacNeal (The Doll Factory), Laura Jane Williams (Our Stop) and Elizabeth Day (How to Fail).
Authors will provide the tips they themselves use, from ideas on how to start a project and exploring new or current scenarios, to getting out of a writing rut. There will also be exercises to try when you have the writing itch, but no idea how to scratch it and prompts to help you get to know your characters or story.
Rare Birds founder, Rachel Wood, shares why Prompt is the perfect bookmark for writers old and new: “This newsletter is all about ideas – how to get them and how to build on them and the aim is simply to prompt our readers to get writing.
“We want to spark creativity, push boundaries, and chart new territory. They say we all have a book in us, well we want to be the ones who coax it out of you. Who knows, one day we could be sending your book out to our book club!”
Free to subscribe and featuring past and present Rare Birds Book Club authors, as well as Wood’s personal favourites, the newsletter will also shine a spotlight on the author themself, as well as their current work and future projects.
Over 8,500 blind and partially sighted people and their supporters across Scotland have been urged to join a concerted drive to contact their local candidates for the Scottish Parliament election in May.
The move comes after a year of lockdowns which sight loss charity RNIB Scotland says has exacerbated the issues that have made life more difficult for those with a visual impairment
It is linking people on its database to an online system that will let them quickly find and email the election candidates standing in their area.
“Covid highlighted some serious gaps in our services last year, gaps that were troubling enough in normal times but very alarming during a period of crisis,” said director James Adams.
“Vital information that sometimes wasn’t available initially in formats like audio and braille, access to online shopping, confusion over social distancing and guiding – not priorities for most people, perhaps, but absolutely essential to those who are blind and partially sighted.
“We want to mobilise our members and supporters to push their concerns onto the political agenda.”
In its own manifesto for the election, RNIB Scotland is calling for sight loss issues to be given more priority – not least a commitment that voting itself will be made more accessible for blind and partially people.
Research by RNIB last year found that only 13 per cent of one blind voters across the UK, and less than half of partially sighted voters (44 per cent), said they were able to vote independently and in private in the last General Election. A legal ruling in 2019 criticised existing arrangements for voters with sight loss as ‘a parody of the electoral process’.
The RNIB Scotland manifesto also calls for emotional support for people first diagnosed with sight loss, more specialist teachers in schools, disability benefits that better recognise the needs of blind and partially sighted people, and support in finding employment.
The charity wants an assurance, too, that the new post-covid emphasis on ‘active travel’ – which could see the legalisation of rented e-scooters – doesn’t infringe on the rights of people with disabilities to go safely outdoors.
“After the shock that was covid in 2020 we need to make our society safer and more resilient,” said Mr Adams. “But let’s grab this opportunity to make it fairer, too. Covid gave us all a sense of what it’s like to feel more vulnerable and unsure, more dependent on each other.
“Scotland should plan for more than just a return to yesterday in 2021 but aim towards a better tomorrow. Let’s make sure that the society and structures that we do at last come back to are open and inclusive for everyone.”
* The RNIB Helpline can be called on 0303 123 9999. The RNIB Scotland website is at www.rnib.org.uk/scotland.
The UK’s largest independent road safety charity is urging the police to take notice of UK motorists who are calling for them to better utilise equipment already available for speed detection to ensure vehicles have valid insurance, MOT and Vehicle Excise Duty (often referred to as road tax).
The findings come from new research conducted by IAM RoadSmart, which has revealed that nine-in-ten (90 per cent) motorists, who were surveyed as part of the charity’s annual Safety Culture Report, backed the idea that speed cameras should also be used to catch drivers who are flouting these motoring violations.
Estimates suggest that someone is injured every 20 minutes on UK roads by an uninsured driver* and that more than a quarter of motorists don’t even know when their vehicle’s next MOT is due, while there’s around 630,000 unlicenced vehicles in the UK.
Neil Greig, IAM RoadSmart Director of Policy & Research, said: “These results paint a very clear picture. Law-abiding motorists are in favour of the police using existing equipment to help make our roads safer by catching motorists who think the rules don’t apply to them.
“Of course, the primary purpose of catching speeding motorists is paramount but it should not be overlooked the suffering that drivers of vehicles which are uninsured, unlicenced and without a valid MOT can cause other road users.”
Meanwhile, further findings from the in-depth research of motorist attitudes by IAM RoadSmart discovered that an overwhelming majority, (82 per cent), also supported using cameras to automatically fine drivers who run red lights in urban areas.
The research also found that 80 per cent of motorists were in favour of using cameras to automatically fine drivers who drive more than 10mph over the speed limit on residential streets.
Neil added: “There is no excuse for speeding, driving uninsured, unlicenced or without a valid MOT. If speed camera partnerships are issuing speeding tickets they should also follow up on a wider range of offences and this is backed by the vast majority of drivers.
“Getting law breakers off our roads could significantly help reduce the number of casualties caused by motorists with no regard for their motoring responsibilities.”
Lothian Buses has announced its intention to withdraw ALL services from 19.30hrs tonight (17 March) following months of incidents of antisocial behaviour. This will include all services operating on Lothian Buses, Lothian Country and East Coast Buses.
The company has announced that all journeys across Edinburgh which are due to depart terminal points after 19.30hrs will not operate tonight. This applies to evening services only – NightBus services are expected to operate as normal.
Lothian has said that services are expected to return as scheduled on Thursday 18 March but will be kept under review with services diverted away from any area targeted by further attacks until it’s safe to return.
Sarah Boyd Lothian’s Operations Directorsaid: “It is with pride that Lothian serves at the heart of our local communities and after the challenges of the last year it’s frankly appalling that the actions of a few can directly impact on so many. However, driver and customer safety is our absolute priority and so it is with deep regret that we have to take this action.
“We understand that we provide a critical service for key workers and those for whom travel is essential and we can only apologise to these customers who we know will be inconvenienced by this decision.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Police Scotland for all their efforts in helping us to maintain service this far. I would also like to thank our customers and all of our colleagues for their continued support and patience.
“We would urge anyone with any information relating to these incidents to come forward to ensure those responsible are held accountable for their actions.”
Lyn Turner, Unite Regional Industrial Officer said: “Our members have the right to work without fear and we stand by Lothian’s decision to withdraw services from areas in which they cannot operate safely. The safety of our members is paramount.
“We would urge communities to come together and provide information on those responsible for these dangerous acts of criminal behaviour which are putting the safety of our members and that of the public at serious risk.”
City council Transport Convener, Lesley Macinnes, said: “Like everyone who’s seen coverage of the horrendous attacks on our bus services in recent days I’ve been utterly appalled by the reckless and intimidating behaviour of those behind the assaults. Enough is enough, it has to stop.
“I’m completely behind Lothian’s decision to withdraw bus services tonight as a clear message that this criminal targeting of a vital public service will not be tolerated. Anyone out there who thinks they know someone who’s involved in this despicable campaign of antisocial behaviour needs to do the right thing and report it to Police right away.”
All customers are urged to plan their journeys in advance through Lothian’s app (www.tfe.com) or website journey planner (www.lothianbuses.co.uk)
If you have any information about these incidents of antisocial behaviour, please contact the police on 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Donations will support both charities work and services across Edinburgh.
Cyrenians and the Bethany Christian Trust have both received donations of £2500 from convenience store retailer, Scotmid, to help support homelessness across Edinburgh and the Lothians.
The charities received a £1500 cash donation as well as £1000 in Scotmid vouchers to help users of their accommodation services gain a sense of independence, as the vouchers will allow them to purchase items for themselves, from Scotmid stores.
Ewan Aitken, CEO at Cyrenians, said: “Thank you very much indeed to Scotmid. It is such a delight to talk with an organisation that is so open to ideas and understands intuitively the importance of dignity in how we support people.
“The vouchers will be a welcome addition to those who have been disproportionately affected by the impact of the pandemic. They will allow each person to hold on to dignity as they are able to choose food and toiletry items that meet their own preferences and needs.
“We are very grateful that Scotmid, like us, recognise the power of supporting individuals to make their own steps towards recovery and a positive life journey.”
Bethany Christian Trust will be using its vouchers to help men who are seeking to move on from a history of homelessness and addiction. The Bethany Christian Centre facilitates a safe and supportive space for individuals to grow in their recovery, helping them reach a place where they feel ready to move into permanent accommodation and sustain independent living for the future.
Alasdair Bennett, CEO at Bethany Christian Trust, said: “We are really grateful for the donation of £2,500 from Scotmid, which will go directly to supporting the men in the recovery project, contributing to the range of opportunities provided within this life saving service.”
Since April 2020, Bethany Christian Centre has accommodated and supported 26 different men who were seeking to improve their lives and opportunities.
Harry Cairney, Chairman of Scotmid, said: “Our stores focus on serving the local communities that they are located in and so it’s important for us to be able to support charities that work within those communities, improving people’s everyday lives.
“We are pleased to be able to make these donations to both Cyrenians and Bethany Christian Trust to aid the incredible work they do.”
Brian was a previous resident at Bethany Christian Centre and has now moved on to his own flat.
Brian said: “Before I arrived at Bethany Christian Centre, my life was very sad and I suffered with depression. I had really lost all hope. I constantly battled feelings of fear and insecurity, but instead of trying to get help I found an escape in drink and drugs and shut myself away from others.
“Although I’ve had periods of recovery from time to time, I never felt that I could see a way out and become totally free.
“I came to Bethany Christian Centre to get help for my addiction. I was lost and had no direction or hope. Coming to the Centre has helped me see myself differently; that I am fully loved and accepted. It hasn’t been an easy programme for me but without the help of the staff, I don’t think I would have made it.
“With their love I have found strength and confidence within me that I never thought I could have. Now, I have more to look forward to, and I’m excited to have moved on to my own flat. I thank God for the people he has put in my life and for the newfound love and security that I have.”
The Daily Mile Foundation, Living Streets Scotland, Paths for All, and the Active Nation Commissioner, in partnership with the Scottish Government, are calling on families to reclaim the joy in everyday movement on the journey to school.
As schools return after months of being closed, the return of primary pupils to schools in Scotland is an opportunity for children and families to start the day active and energised, by choosing to make the journey by walking, wheeling, skipping, scooting or cycling instead of by private car.
The call is supported by a range of sport, health and physical activity organisations and is part is a strategic approach by the Scottish Government to support active journeys to school.
The campaign supports Scotland’s ambition to become the first Daily Mile Nation, and the Scottish Government’s Clear Your Head campaign by encouraging families to connect and chat with others on an active school run.
Over the last year, many families rediscovered the joy of getting outside and walking, cycling and exploring their local areas.
During lockdown the number of adults visiting the outdoors at least once a week had increased to 80% by August 2020.
These increases are also seen on the journey to school: in September 2020 more than half of pupils in Scotland walked, cycled or scooted to school, and the number of pupils walking to school increased by 3.8% on the previous year. With active travel at its highest level for ten years, families have an opportunity to lock in the benefits of an active journey to school.
Mairi Gougeon, Minister for Public Health and Sport said:“I’m a keen runner and walker and even if I can only fit in a quick ten minutes around the block in the morning it has such a positive impact on my day.
“It’s been great to see the increase in walking running, cycling and scooting and we should build on these positive habits so that they become a routine part of the day. Not only do these activities have many benefits for our physical and mental health, they can also improve our environment.”
Lee Craigie, Scotland’s Active Nation Commissioner said:“It’s time for a cultural shift in how we undertake our everyday short journeys, in particular the school run.
“Instead of this daily journey continuing to be a stressful chore that clogs our streets and lungs with vehicles and their emissions, we must all play our part in creating the sort of environments where children (and their parents and teachers) can start their day with fresh air and exercise.
“When walking, cycling, scooting and wheeling to school becomes the norm for everyone, we embed healthy, sustainable, fair travelling behaviours in our communities.”
Families should adhere to social distancing rules and wear face coverings at the school gates.
To create more space for safe interactions and social distancing, schools and local authorities can consider implementing traffic-free school streets during the busiest times.
Following enquiries as part of Operation Agora, a 43-year-old man has been charged with over 40 incidents relating to the thefts of pedal cycles and their subsequent re-sale in and around Edinburgh.
He is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court today (Wednesday 17/03/2021).
Forth 1 and Clyde 1 to broadcast special show today
Following the tragic death of Sarah Everard, Clyde 1, Forth 1 and their sister stations are set to broadcast a special show: ‘Women’s Safety: What Can Men Do?’ to discuss this essential issue.
This morning (Wednesday 17th March) from 9.30pm to 10pm, the show will be broadcast across Scotland on the Hits Radio Network including MFR, Northsound 1, Tay FM, Radio Borders and West FM.
The show will be hosted by Garry Spence and Arlene Stuart and the panel will include:
Davy Thompson from White Ribbon Scotland which is the largest effort in the world of men working to end men’s violence against women.
Selena Jackson – Radio Clyde journalist who has covered this key issue extensively
Donna Davies – counsellor of children, young people and adults
Victoria Easton-Riley, Content Director for Hits Radio brands in Scotland said: “The tragic death of Sarah Everard has dominated the news agenda for the last few weeks. It is a very important conversation and we want to share insights from key figures about the way that everyone can play a part and for us all to talk about it.”
‘Women’s Safety: What Can Men Do?’ will be aired on Wed 17th March 2021 from 9.30pm to 10pm on Clyde 1, Forth 1, MFR, Northsound 1, Tay FM, Radio Borders and West FM.
Incorporation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) into Scots law finally gives children real power to hold the government to account, says the Children and Young People’s Commissioner Scotland.
The country became the first part of the UK to vote to enshrine the UNCRC into domestic law after the Scottish Parliament passed the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (Incorporation) (Scotland) Bill last night.
Bruce Adamson, the Commissioner, warned the government and decision-makers that there is now no hiding place when it comes to upholding children’s rights.
He said: “Incorporating the UNCRC into Scots law is the most important thing we can do to protect and promote the rights of children and young people.
“People in power can no longer ignore or conveniently forget about children’s rights. If they do, children and young people can challenge and will have a meaningful system of redress when things go wrong.
“There’s no question this will improve life for all children, but those who will feel the biggest impact are children whose rights are most at risk – children living in poverty, disabled children, young carers, those who have experience of the care system, children from black and minority ethnic backgrounds.
“Their rights will be at the centre of every policy, law, or budgetary decision from now on. This will lead to significant change in things like addressing poverty and supporting mental health which children themselves have identified as priorities. It will also mean better support for families.
“This law gives children power – they will be consulted and listened to. Children and young people, as well as other campaigners, have fought tirelessly for incorporation for many decades, and today is testament to their determination. The government and decision-makers should know that all eyes are on them and children won’t hesitate to hold them to account.”
MSPs voted unanimously for the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (Incorporation) (Scotland) Bill to become law, meaning public authorities will have to comply with children’s rights. The Bill will commence six months from Royal Assent, signalling a culture shift that has the potential to transform children’s lives in Scotland.
A £2.1 million programme over three years will help public authorities implement the legislation. This will include funding for guidance and training to help public authorities prepare for implementation. Work will also be done to empower children to claim their rights.
Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: “This is a landmark Bill which is the most significant piece of legislation since devolution, delivering a revolution in children’s rights. That is a major cause for celebration.
“The Bill will deliver the highest protection possible for children’s rights across Scotland within the powers of this Parliament and ensure that a rights-respecting approach is at the heart of our recovery from the pandemic.
“Parliament passing this Bill means that Scotland stands amongst a small number of nations like Norway, Belgium and Finland, and I hope our action today will encourage other countries to follow suit.
“But it does not represent the end of the journey in making children’s rights real. It is now incumbent upon us all to ensure the Bill’s ambitions are translated into real-life improvements which transform the lives and life chances of our children and young people.”
Young human rights defenders have also praised the passing of incorporation of the UNCRC.
Jonathan, a young adviser to the Commissioner, said: “Until now, if a young person had felt their rights were not being respected, it was quite difficult for them to complain and there was no legal obligation to respect their rights.
“But by putting it into law, it shows children that the government and local authorities and other public bodies will take them seriously and do care about their rights.”
Fellow young adviser Abigail said: “Incorporation of the UNCRC will give young people a sense of security. They’ll now feel safe in the knowledge that their rights are in law. Incorporation is a way of children having their voices heard, they know that they will be listened to, and they know that they matter.”
Since it was created by the Scottish Parliament 18 years ago, the office of the Children and Young People’s Commissioner has campaigned for incorporation of children’s rights.
Scotland’s first Commissioner, Professor Kathleen Marshall, said: “There is still a job to be done in keeping governments to their promises.
“With the incorporation, we have been given a fantastic new tool – bright, shining, and wanting to be used. Everyone has a part to play.”
Director of Together (Scottish Alliance for Children’s Rights) Juliet Harris said: “In passing this Bill, the Scottish Parliament is making a promise to children and young people that their human rights will be at the heart of every decision impacting children that Scotland makes.
“This historic moment will be celebrated by the countless children, young people and charities across Together’s membership who have worked so hard over the past decade to make this happen. This Bill is a significant step forward in ensuring Scotland is a great place to grow up – for today’s children and young people and for future generations.”
The TUC Race Relations Committee is proud to present this year’s Roots Culture and Identity Exhibition.
A launch event will be taking place at the TUC Black Workers Conference on Friday (19 March) at 6 pm. Due to the pandemic, the exhibition is hosted online.
The exhibition aims to provide an opportunity for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BME) artists with a focus on young people, who are marginalised, face discrimination in the arts and culture sector, disproportionately impacted by austerity and now the coronavirus pandemic.
This year, the exhibition focuses on the events impacting black communities over the past year.
The artists reflect on living through the pandemic, the murder of George Floyd and the impact of systemic racism on BME communities.
The move to an online exhibition has allowed us to broaden our exhibits, and for the first time, we welcome international artists. View the exhibition.
Artists in this exhibition include:
Antonietta Torsiello
Ruby Khan
Joshua Donkor
Liz Awoyemi
Raymond Daley
Samia Malik
Jamie McKinley
Zita Holbourne
Amanda Walker
Sonia E Barrett
On Friday 19th of March as part of the TUC Black Workers conference programme there will be an exhibition launch event and fringe meeting hosted by TUC Race Relations Committe and Artists’ Union England from 6pm to 7.30pm.
This will be chaired by Zita Holbourne and speakers include Theresa Easton, Organiser AUE, Antonietta Torsiello , artist and activist, AUE, Wilf Sullivan, TUC Race Relations Officer and some of the participating artists.
