Turmoil at Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre following critical report

ERCC Chief Executive resigns

Rape survivors are no longer being referred to an Edinburgh support service after a review found Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre failed to protect women-only spaces.

The report, which was commissioned by parent body Rape Crisis Scotland, says ERCC’s chief executive officer – a trans woman – failed to behave professionally and did not understand the limits of her authority.

The report also found that Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre had not put survivors first or adhered to national service standards.

Rape Crisis Scotland, Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre’s parent body, issued the following statement in response to the independent review:

‘The independent review of Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre (ERCC) has presented challenging findings, and recommendations for improvements to the organisation, its operations, and how it provides services. It also makes important recommendations for Rape Crisis Scotland (RCS), which we accept and will act on.

‘We are extremely concerned that for around 16 months ERCC did not provide dedicated women only spaces, as required by the National Service Standards, while declaring to RCS that they were adhering to the standards. This is a significant breach.

‘We have asked ERCC to produce an action plan, with clear timescales, to implement the review’s recommendations. We have also requested that ERCC conducts an urgent review of its data protection and safeguarding policies and procedures, and they have confirmed that this work is underway.

In the meantime, we have paused referrals to ERCC. Our helpline workers can discuss alternative support arrangements with survivors in Edinburgh at this time.

‘The needs of survivors should be listened to and respected when they come to any Rape Crisis Centre. It is important that survivors can make informed choices about the services they access at Rape Crisis Centres, and we recognise that for some survivors this includes the choice of a single sex service.

‘We are working with our member Rape Crisis Centres across Scotland to consider what more we need to do to ensure survivors can make informed choices about the support they receive from Rape Crisis Centres, to ensure they are able to access the services they need.

‘All member Rape Crisis Centres are signed up to working within National Service Standards which operate across Scotland, and England and Wales. These standards detail the high quality of service every survivor should expect to receive from a Rape Crisis Centre. Membership of Rape Crisis Scotland is based upon a shared commitment to, and evidencing of, the Rape Crisis National Service Standards.

“Over the next year, we will go through a process of assessment with our member centres to support them to evidence that the National Service Standards are being met across Scotland.”

That response is simply not good enough for some organisations that work with women, however. Women’s rights group FOR WOMEN SCOTLAND issued the following statement:

‘We are saddened – if unsurprised – that Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre has been found wanting in so many respects.

‘The Review Report lays bare the failings which have impacted the most vulnerable women. While Edinburgh RCC, undoubtedly, adopted a particularly extreme and egregious version of gender identity ideology and relentless pursued anyone who dared to question their policy of self ID, similar issues are apparent in other centres in Scotland and in Rape Crisis Scotland itself.

‘Sandy Brindley (Chief Executive of Rape Crisis Scotland – Ed.) has been repeatedly warned by women in the Rape Crisis Network, by survivors, and by women’s rights organisations that self-ID policies were reckless and cruel.

‘Nevertheless, she insisted – including to a group of survivors – that men were women if they claimed a female identity, she vigorously defended Mridul Wadhwa who conducted the heresy hunt in ERCC, and she presided over the introduction of policies which included trans-identified men in women only services.

‘In several Parliamentary appearances, she claimed that these policies did not create any problems in running rape crisis services. That has now been exposed for the lie it always was.

‘We believe that the problems are endemic and structural, and they cannot be resolved simply by rearranging the deckchairs at ERCC. As a matter of priority, Mridul Wadhwa must be removed from post, but those board members who presided over his tenure and defended him at Roz Adams’ tribunal must also go.

‘We also believe that Sandy Brindley’s position is also now untenable. Fortunately, women in the Lothians have an alternative women-only service and we believe that Rape Crisis Scotland should, as a matter of urgency, confirm that Beira’s Place will be able to take on referrals.

‘Beira’s Place should also be involved in restructuring both the local and national services. Only these measures will restore trust in this critical service.

‘Too many women were betrayed and harmed – this must never happen again.’

**** UPDATE ****

It has been announced this morning that ERCC Chief Executive Mridul Wadhwa has stepped down:

Mridul Wadhwa and the Board have decided that the time is right for a change of leadership in at Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre (ERCC).  

Mridul has stood down from her role as CEO of ERCC. Recruitment of a new CEO will happen in due course.  

We are committed to delivering excellence while taking on board the recommendations from the independent review to ensure we place survivors voices at the heart of our strategy.  

We are in daily communication with Rape Crisis Scotland, have met their urgent demands, and are currently implementing the recommendations in the report.

“We will continue to work alongside RCS to ensure our services not only meet but exceed the National Service Standards. 

Board of Directors, Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre

ALBA MSP Ash Regan said: “The Minister for Equalities must now report to Parliament on what steps will be taken to ensure those at the government-funded Rape Crisis Scotland, who presided over the unlawful introduction of males within their single-sex service, are accountable for their part in this damaging dereliction of duty to service users.

“Thank goodness @jkrowling stepped up for Lothian women with the single-sex trauma service @beirasplace in 2022.”

Former Edinburgh MP Joanna Cherry KC said: “I’m glad to hear that Mridul Wadwa is no longer the CEO of Rape Crisis Edinburgh but the appalling culture over which this man who identifies as a woman presided goes much deeper.

“This should not be an end of the matter. Others need to consider their position”.

Charity marks World Sepsis Day with viral petition urging action in light of Lord Darzi’s NHS investigation

  • The findings of Lord Darzi’s independent review of the National Health Service echo a national sepsis charity’s calls for action
  • The UK Sepsis Trust’s petition calling for Government to ‘step up’ its act on sepsis has accumulated over 35,000 signatures since launch at start of September for sepsis awareness month
  • The charity has three key asks to help improve sepsis outcomes and reduce the total number of deaths each year in the UK from 48,000  

TODAY, on World Sepsis Day, 13th September 2024, the UK Sepsis Trust is calling for urgent action to address health inequalities, prevent avoidable infections, and integrate advanced diagnostics into NHS clinical systems to improve sepsis care.  

Recent reports from the National Child Mortality Database and research from the University of Manchester, have shed light on the critical role health inequalities play in sepsis outcomes; these findings underscore the need for equitable access to healthcare services, particularly in sepsis cases, where delays in diagnosis and treatment contribute to 48,000 deaths in the UK each year.  

As highlighted in Lord Darzi’s Independent Review of the NHS, published yesterday, there are stark regional variations in access to GP services—an issue mirrored in the management of sepsis across the country. 

UK Sepsis Trust’s Founder & Joint CEO Dr Ron Daniels said: “To further strengthen our health system’s ability to respond to sepsis, we need to urgently integrate diagnostics into clinical systems, enabling healthcare professionals to make rapid, targeted decisions.

“This forms one of the three key demands in our charity’s petition to the Government, which has gathered over 35,000 signatures since the start of September. Our petition calls for sepsis to be prioritised alongside heart attacks and strokes, ensuring that rapid diagnostics are available at every patient touchpoint within the NHS.  

“Sepsis has far-reaching economic impacts. As highlighted in Lord Darzi’s report, the NHS has struggled to support individuals in their recovery from critical illness, often failing to help them return to work.

“This is not only a health issue but an economic one. On World Sepsis Day, we renew our call for the Government and the NHS to take immediate action. Sepsis is an emergency. Let’s prioritise its prevention and treatment to save lives, improve outcomes for survivors, and safeguard the future of our health system.” 

Even when sepsis outcomes do not result in tragic loss of life, many survivors and their families continue to suffer from long-term health issues and challenges. Around 40% of survivors have one or more of cognitive, psychological or physical sequelae, with nearly 80,000 people each year suffering with potentially life-changing after effects.

UKST provides free, Support Nurse-led services to survivors, many of whom find their ability to function is impacted by Post Sepsis Syndrome (PSS) – with symptoms reported by sepsis survivors including fatigue (80%), anxiety (53%), and trouble concentrating (47%). 37% report difficulty performing tasks they could previously, while 34% suffer with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It’s easy to see how this affects peoples’ ability to work.  

In a survey conducted in August 2024, UKST found that 83% survivors were not told about PSS by healthcare professionals, and 68% of survivors and 64% of caregivers of survivors, weren’t given information about support resources and services after sepsis.

To help improve sepsis outcomes, The UK Sepsis Trust is calling for the government to:  

  • Measure and publish performance data on the sepsis care pathway. Reliable data are needed to understand the quality of NHS sepsis care, identify opportunities for improvement and provide targeted support where needed. 
  • Empower frontline decision-making with better integration of rapid diagnostics. There is no single test to diagnose sepsis, but diagnostics help doctors make important decisions about the types of treatment to use. Diagnostic tests are typically done in centralised laboratories, which means clinicians have to wait for the results. Time is of the essence when treating sepsis, so health professionals need access to fast and reliable tests to reduce preventable deaths. 
  • Raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of sepsis and signpost rehabilitation services to reduce pressures on the NHS. Empowering the public to ‘Just Ask: Could it be Sepsis?” can help save lives, and ensuring survivors have access to ongoing care and support will help keep them well and out of hospital. 

Sign and support the charity’s petition here: Make Sepsis a Priority in the NHS. 

Bold new vision for Princes Street and ‘Waverley Valley’?

BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO SHABBY OLD PRINCES STREET?

‘Ambitious’ proposals to conserve and revitalise one of Scotland’s most iconic streets have been welcomed by councillors.

Designed to improve connectivity between the historic Old and New Towns of Edinburgh and target regeneration within the World Heritage Site, the Council’s draft Princes Street and Waverley Valley Strategy has been approved by members of the Planning and Transport and Environment Committees.

The Strategy aligns with Edinburgh’s Net Zero 2030 ambitions, City Mobility Plan, Edinburgh City Centre Transformation (ECCT) and City Plan 2030 to guide the long-term regeneration of Edinburgh’s city centre.

A more accessible city centre

The masterplan approved by councillors recommends guiding the area from the West End of Princes Street along to Waverley Station to become more accessible, with improvements such as additional ramp access to Princes Street Gardens, a footbridge over the Waverley Valley, more public spaces to enjoy, an improved crossing and pedestrian improvements to Castle Street, the Mound Precinct, and Waverley Bridge.

Protected green spaces

The strategy looks to integrate climate resilience and biodiversity measures to protect the existing Waverley Valley and Gardens from climate change and to plant more trees and flowers – also promoting sustainable transport options and the retrofitting of historic buildings in line with Edinburgh’s net zero aims.

A revitalised Princes Street

Working with developers, the strategy suggests improvements to Princes Street with temporary pop-up premises, building wraps and artwork and encourages mixed-uses for the prominent high street. Improvements to historic buildings, from the Ross Bandstand to Waverley Station, are also suggested to create better opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the area.

Councillor James Dalgleish, Planning Convener, said: “Princes Street and the surrounding area is the beating heart of our city and well used by Edinburgh residents, businesses and visitors from across the world. We have a great duty to protect and invest in it.

“This masterplan presents a new opportunity for us focus on how we can make sure we take care of the area going forward and guide improvements to parts of the World Heritage Site which need to be nurtured.

“There is a desire from residents and visitors to see us invest and make areas like the Gardens more accessible for everyone to enjoy, and we hear that loud and clear.

“We must balance our city’s rich heritage with the urgent need for sustainable and accessible spaces, and with new development which can make our cherished high street a thriving, welcoming place.

“This plan has the potential to breathe new life into Princes Street and the surrounding area and make sure it’s cared for and invested in for many years to come.“

Following the decisions this week of the Planning and Transport and Environment Committees, the strategy will be considered by the Culture and Communities Committee when it meets in October.

A public consultation phase will then take place to gather feedback from residents, businesses, and stakeholders on the draft strategy, before it is finalised in 2025.

And here was me thinking Auld Reekie was skint! Be nice for the tourists, mind …

Construction work begins on iconic Jenners building

GRAHAM appointed to reinstate one of the world’s oldest department stores

Leading construction firm GRAHAM has begun construction work on the historic Jenners building on Princes Street, to transform the location into a contemporary mixed-use space.

The development encompasses 17,500 square metres across ten floors. The plans include the restoration of Jenners and will feature its iconic atrium. The upper floors will house a new 90-room boutique hotel, along with vibrant café, bars and restaurant spaces that will complement the Jenners building’s future offerings. GRAHAM has been appointed to carry out the shell and core works.

 please see here for drone footage.

The plans for this Category A-listed structure, led by David Chipperfield Architects, focus on a sensitive restoration that will revive many original features lost over time. The Jenners building first opened in 1895 and was expanded in 1903, with further additions in the 1950s and 60s. It closed its doors in December 2020.

Gary Holmes, regional managing director at GRAHAM Building North, said: “Edinburgh is a globally renowned city with a thriving hotel and leisure sector that draws visitors from around the world.

“It is exciting to see such an ambitious development taking shape, marking a new chapter for one of Edinburgh’s most iconic buildings.

“GRAHAM is proud to contribute to this historic transformation. Our team’s expertise will ensure a sensitive restoration as we work to bring the new vision for this landmark to life.

“We thank the owners of Jenners for believing in us and providing us with this great opportunity”.

Children’s author shares Talk PANTS message to help keep children safe in Edinburgh

A popular children’s book author took time out of writing recently to read a book to youngsters which aims to spread crucial messages to help keep children safe from abuse.

Bruna De Luca (47), who lives in Melrose in the Scottish Borders, was delighted when the children at the Sighthill library event joined in with all the catchphrases when she read from the NSPCC’s Talk PANTS story which features a colourful animated dinosaur, called Pantosaurus, and her own book ‘I’m Not Cute, I’m Dangerous’.

The Pantosaurus book and animation, which features a fun song, helps children to understand the talk PANTS messages which includes that their body belongs to them, that they have a right to say no, and they should tell a safe adult they trust if anything makes them feel upset or worried. 

Bruna, mum of two girls aged 10 and seven, said: “As a parent of young children I love how the Talk PANTS book approaches such a tricky topic without introducing fear or ideas that children might worry about.

“It helps parents and carers to talk about this subject in a positive and reassuring way that won’t make their child feel anxious.

“The children really enjoyed hearing these stories and it was lovely to see the delight on their faces when a life-sized Pantosaurus visited too!

“Many of the children already knew the words to the Talk PANTS song and they joined in. They were having so much fun that they didn’t even know they were learning some very important messages at the same time.”

Talk PANTS gives parents, carers and professionals advice on how to have simple, age-appropriate conversations with children to help keep them safe from sexual abuse.

This event was part of the NSPCC’s Edinburgh Talk PANTS campaign to help protect young children from sexual abuse which has resulted in approximately 4,110 Talk PANTS conversations with people in the city since it launched last September.

Edinburgh, Talk PANTS is being delivered by NSPCC Scotland, the Edinburgh Child Protection Committee and a wide range of partners across the city to spread the NSPCC’s Talk PANTS message.

During the past year, local PANTS professionals have been trained to deliver the campaign messages and resources to other professionals and families across Edinburgh through webinars and workshops.

And several awareness raising events have been held across the city for parents, carers and children, including a fun family day with Pantosaurus at Edinburgh Zoo and family sessions at Edinburgh Book Festival.

Carla Malseed, NSPCC Scotland Local Campaigns Manager, said: “We are very grateful to Bruna for supporting this campaign – the children absolutely loved meeting her and listening to her story as well as The Power of PANTS.

“We know that a simple conversation can make a big difference in helping to keep children safe and that’s what Talk PANTS is all about.

“With the help of our fun, loving dino – Pantosaurus – we’ve already reached thousands of people across the city, and we’re looking forward to having more conversations at upcoming events.”

Lillian Cringles, Chair of the Edinburgh Child Protection Committee, said: “We’re extremely pleased that this campaign has already helped thousands of parents, carers and professionals to have such important conversations with children about their bodies and how to stay safe. 

“I’d urge families to look out for other events on our web pages to learn more about the TalkPANTS message.”

There will be a reading of Pantosaurus and the Power of PANTS and a special visit from the friendly dinosaur at Portobello Book Festival on Saturday, 5 October – following bookbug. For more information, visit: EdinburghTalkPANTS

Anyone with concerns about the welfare of a child can call the NSPCC’s free and confidential helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email: help@NSPCC.org.uk for advice.

Children and young people can contact Childline about anything that may be worrying them by calling 0800 1111 or by visiting: www.childline.org.uk

The NSPCC would like to thank Baker-Ross for their donation of children’s craft packs.

Joint plan to secure industrial future of Grangemouth

HOLYROOD and WESTMINSTER GOVERNMENTS RESPOND TO PETROINEOS’ DECISION TO CLOSE OIL REFINERY

The Scottish and UK Governments have announced a joint investment plan for Grangemouth following Petroineos’ decision to decommission its oil refinery and pledged to work together for an industrial future for the site.

The company today confirmed it will cease refining oil at the site during the second quarter of 2025 onwards due to global market pressures and competition from bigger, more modern and efficient sites in the Middle East, Asia and Africa.

This follows years of loss-making, with the company stating that it has lost more than $775 million since 2011 despite having invested more than $1.2 billion to maintain the refinery’s safe operation.

UNITE trade union general secretary Sharon Graeme said the closure is ‘an act of industrial vandalism, pure and simple’.

The Scottish Government has been working with the UK Government to deliver an investment plan that will help secure Grangemouth’s industrial future and protect its skilled workforce.

This includes:

  • £100 million package. This includes £20 million in joint funding from the Scottish and UK Governments announced today on top of £80 million in joint funding from the two governments for the Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal. This funding will support the community and its workers, investing in local energy projects to create new opportunities for growth in the region. Over the next 30 years, it is estimated that the Falkirk & Grangemouth Growth Deal will deliver over £628 million in economic benefits, with an employment impact of 1660 net jobs across the Falkirk Council area.
  • Immediate career support for workers. Scottish and UK Government to provide tailored support that will help affected workers in finding new employment.
  • Investment in the site’s long-term future. The £1.5 million joint-funded Project Willow study has identified a shortlist of three credible options to begin building a new long-term industry at the refinery site, including low carbon hydrogen, clean eFuels and sustainable aviation fuels.

It comes as the UK Government confirmed today it stands ready to engage on how the National Wealth Fund could back projects that have the potential to yield a viable long-term future for the site.

Ministers have confirmed that both governments will put local businesses, workers, and trade unions at the heart of decision-making on determining the region’s industrial future.

Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin said: “My immediate thoughts are with the workforce. This is a very challenging time for them and their families, and we will support every worker affected by this decision. 

“We are working very closely with the UK Government and together we have communicated our disappointment to Petroineos today.

“The Scottish Government has consistently made clear our preference was for refining to continue as long as possible, and we have continued to press the shareholders for a positive decision until the 11th hour.

“This significant package of support combines immediate help for affected workers and a long-term contribution to ensure that Grangemouth continues to thrive in the future. We are clear that there should be a just transition for the refinery site and we remain committed to bringing forward low carbon opportunities that will sustain skilled jobs across the wider area for many years to come.”

UK Government Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “It is deeply disappointing that Petroineos have confirmed their previous decision to close Grangemouth oil refinery.

“We will stand with the workforce in these difficult times, that is why we are announcing a package of investment to help the workforce find good, alternative jobs, invest in the community and serve a viable industrial future for the Grangemouth site, with potential for future support from the National Wealth Fund.

 “Unlike in the past, the government is working in lockstep with the Scottish Government across every front. Workers and their families should be in no doubt this is a Government that stands with workers, trade unions, and businesses to fight for jobs and investment in Scotland.”

Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray said: “I understand this is a worrying time for the workers at the refinery and the UK Government is working closely with the Scottish Government and Petroineos to ensure they are being supported.

“Both governments have invested in Project Willow to examine how Grangemouth remains an energy hub in Scotland. The enhanced £100 million Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal announced today will help ensure the long-term future of the site – a key part of our journey to clean energy by 2030.

“We remain committed to working together looking at how we can help the area build on its skilled workforce and local expertise to boost economic growth.”

The Energy Secretary Ed Miliband and Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin have taken joint action to urgently engage with Petroineos, industry experts, and trade unions in exploring all possible solutions to secure a viable industrial site for the future, in the event of a decision from the company to close the refinery.

Ministers continue to urge the company to keep refining open for as long as possible, emphasising the company’s responsibility to its employees and the community. 

As the company has made clear that there is no viable commercial future for the refinery business, the Scottish and UK Governments have today unveiled a package to help the workforce, invest in the area and secure a viable industrial future for the Grangemouth site, as one of Scotland’s key industrial heartlands.

The company’s decision to convert to an import terminal means that their fuel supply will now be maintained by importing refined products directly, rather than importing crude oil to refine on site.

This will form part of the UK’s diverse and resilient fuel market, covering both imported fuel and refined oil production. Since 2013, the UK has been a net importer of refined products, with imports accounting for 51% of UK demand for all petroleum products in 2023.

In response to today’s news from the company, the Energy Secretary Ed Miliband will co-chair an immediate virtual meeting of the Grangemouth Future Industry Board, with Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin, and the UK Government Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray. Ministers will discuss next steps with local industry leaders, Falkirk Council, trade bodies and unions – ahead of an in-person meeting of the Grangemouth Future Industry Board later in Autumn.

‘AN ACT OF INDUSTRIAL VANDALISM’

Unite, the UK’s leading union, has vowed to explore all avenues to preserve high quality jobs at Grangemouth following the announcement that PetroIneos will go ahead with its plans to close its refinery.

PetroIneos confirmed today that it intends to close the refinery at Grangemouth between April – June 2025 and become an import and export only facility. The announcement places in jeopardy the jobs of the 500 workers directly employed (represented by Unite) at Grangemouth and thousands more in the supply chain.

There is widespread fury within the workplace due to the failure of the bosses and politicians to ensure the future of the site.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This is an act of industrial vandalism, pure and simple. 

“This dedicated workforce has been let down by PetroIneos and by the politicians in Westminster and Holyrood who have failed to guarantee production until alternative jobs are in place.

 “This is now the last chance for this Labour government to show whether its really on the side of workers and communities. The road to net zero cannot be paid for with workers’ jobs.

“The government must put its money where its mouth is to ensure the jobs are safeguarded. This is the only refinery left in Scotland and it must remain. There are alternative plans.

“This is yet another example of workers paying for a crisis they did not create while billionaire owners laugh all the way to the bank “

Unite is now in high level talks with the government about alternatives for the site including the production of sustainable aviation fuel.

Derek Thomson, Unite Scottish Secretary said: “The sole objective for Unite remains that the jobs at the refinery and thousands more in the supply chain are protected by any means.

“Unite does not accept that the future of the refinery should have been left to the whim and avarice of shareholders. The complex is critical to the nation’s manufacturing base and energy security. The governments involved cannot simply hide behind the convenient smokescreen that this is a commercial decision which they couldn’t influence.”

The Grangemouth complex is of critical strategic economic and infrastructure importance for Scotland and the UK.

It is the only oil refinery in Scotland and it provides four per cent of its GDP and eight per cent of the nation’s manufacturing base.

The Grangemouth support package announced by the Scottish and UK Governments today includes :–

Joint Grangemouth support package:

The Scottish and UK Governments have today confirmed a joint £100 million support package for Grangemouth.

This includes a total of £20 million in additional investments, to support the local Grangemouth community following the closure of the refinery. It covers:

  • The £10 million Scottish Government ‘Greener Grangemouth’ programme, that aims to deliver projects at the heart of Grangemouth’s just transition.
  • £10 million from the UK Government for local energy projects, as well as new skills support from the Office for Clean Energy Jobs to help the site’s workers into good clean energy jobs. 

Today’s additional funding comes on top of an £80 million Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal, match-funded by the two governments, to back new industries across the region.

The Growth Deal will support a range of new projects, including:

  • A bioeconomy plant already in the pipeline, which could use waste whisky and food in chemical production processes to reduce reliance on fossil fuels – via technology currently unavailable in the UK.
  • A new £9m technology centre to support the development, manufacture and use of low carbon technologies. This will help companies substitute their products and industrial processes for greener alternatives, and will be linked to wider hydrogen and carbon capture use
    and storage projects.
  • An employment hub led by one of the UK’s largest operators, Forth Ports, will help develop the skilled workforce needed to support emerging energy sectors. The move will help to drive innovation and attract new investment across sectors, such as offshore wind energy, renewable energy production, storage and distribution, and tidal power. 

Immediate career support for workers:

The Scottish and UK Governments are working closely with the company, Petroineos, to provide immediate support for affected workers at Grangemouth refinery, while longer-term projects get up and running on the site.

The trade body Fuels Industry UK will ensure affected Grangemouth workers have direct access to a wide range of potential employers. The association will also work with the specialist skills provider Cogent to host job vacancies from relevant employers for the Grangemouth workforce.

Workers at the refinery will also receive tailored advice, helping them to identify new training opportunities – backed by the Scottish Government’s Partnership Action for Continuing Employment framework.

The UK Government has also confirmed that Grangemouth will be among the first areas that the new Office for Clean Energy Jobs will work with to help deliver a just transition for workers.

Project Willow:

A range of proposals to deliver a viable long-term future for the Grangemouth refinery site have been shortlisted by the UK and Scottish governments, as part of a joint-funded £1.5 million feasibility study. 

The project is exploring how the region can build on its skilled workforce, local expertise and long heritage as a fuel leader in Scotland to forge a new path in clean energy production.

Following an initial research phase, the project has identified three potential industries that could be hosted on the refinery site.  These are:

  • The production of low-carbon hydrogen.
  • Clean eFuels synthesised from chemical components like hydrogen or carbon dioxide
  • Sustainable aviation fuels which use lower carbon sources like forestry and agricultural waste, used cooking oil and carbon captured from the air to produce jet fuel.

These options will now be tested against their potential to create long-term industries in Grangemouth, support new jobs and contribute to the UK’s clean energy transition. The project will engage extensively with the local community, trade unions, businesses, and industrial experts on rapidly assessing the most viable candidates for industrial production on the Grangemouth site.

AdvoCard Celebrates 30 Years of Advocacy with Milestone Exhibtion and Community Events

Independent advocacy charity, AdvoCard, is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special exhibition and a series of events highlighting its work and its impact from 1994 to 2024.

The exhibition will be held at the Out of the Blue Drill Hall from Tuesday 8th to Saturday 12th October 2024, running from 10 a.m. daily (end times may vary).

30 Years of Advocacy

The journey of AdvoCard began in the early 1990s when a steering group formed to explore the need for independent advocacy services in Edinburgh.

By 1994, with funding from Edinburgh City Council, the organisation was officially established, led by a small team of three part-time staff, including founding member Karen Anderson, and a small group of dedicated volunteers.

By 2001 they had moved to their first office in Leith and began expanding their service into the South East Locality of Edinburgh, becoming city wide in 2003. 

In 2009, they expanded again, opening a second site at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital to complement the original office in Leith and have continued to grow to meet the increasing demand for services. 

 Today, AdvoCard operates from two main offices: the Duncan Place Community Hub in Leith and the Andrew Duncan Clinic at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital in Morningside with a team of 20 staff and 18 volunteers.

Over the years, they have expanded their original remit to include advocacy for people with problematic substance use, outreach services, a welfare and benefits advocacy worker, prison advocacy and a volunteer team who support people navigating complex challenges related to health and social care, medical treatments, and decision-making processes.

Independent Advocacy focuses on ensuring that people can have their voices heard in decisions impacting their health and well-being, providing an essential service to those often left unheard. In todays current climate of reduced funding for health and social care services, AdvoCard are playing an increasingly vital role in helping individuals understand and assert their rights. 

Celebrating 30 Years with Community Events

AdvoCard’s 30th anniversary will be marked with an exhibition at the Out of the Blue Drill Hall from 8th to 12th October. This exhibition will showcase the organisation’s history, its evolution, and its impact on the community over three decades. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage with staff and volunteers, learning more about the vital role independent advocacy plays in empowering individuals.

AdvoCard workers will also be celebrating with a special event on Thursday 3rd October from 3pm at its former offices on 322 Leith Walk (now home to the Indigo Hair and Beauty Salon), where the salon has generously donated eight free treatments for AdvoCard’s staff and its volunteers. 

AdvoCard invites the media and the public to join in these celebrations, meet the team, and learn more about the crucial services they provide.

Karen Anderson, founding member of AdvoCard and current board member, reflects on the organisation’s milestone: “That AdvoCard has grown and developed so much over the years is a testament to the hard work, commitment and dedication of the many staff, volunteers and  board members who have been involved over the years.”

Advocacy partners (service users) have shared how AdvoCard has positively impacted their lives:

– “AdvoCard took the time to listen to me, which helped me regain my confidence and self-esteem. They couldn’t change my issues, but they empowered me to face them.”  

– “My advocacy worker has been amazing. I feel that I’m taken more seriously now and am regaining power I felt I had lost.”

– “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of AdvoCard.”

Volunteers also speak about the significance of independent advocacy:

– “It’s important to help people voice their opinions when they are struggling. I want to make sure they are heard while maintaining their agency.” 

– “Making a difference by challenging unfair systems is incredibly rewarding.”  

– “Helping someone resolve issues affecting their daily lives is why I volunteer.”

New school uniform guidance published

Reducing the cost of the school day

New national guidance which aims to reduce the cost of school uniforms for families has been published.

Following consultation with schools, families, uniform suppliers, pupils and councils, the new guidance also sets out key considerations to ensure pupil comfort, freedom and happiness.

The guidance, which can be used to form individual school uniform policies, includes advice on encouraging schools to adopt measures that limit costs for families and reduce waste, including limiting the number of items that pupils need and promoting items that can be reused more easily.

The Education Secretary launched the guidance during a visit to Camperdown Primary School in Dundee where she learned about work by pupils to develop a cost of the school day action plan.

Ms Gilruth said: “Every child in Scotland should be able to attend school feeling comfortable, confident, and ready to learn. However, we know the cost can be a significant burden for families and we want to support schools to minimise these costs.

“This new national guidance contains measures for schools to develop and implement their own affordable and sustainable policies that recognise the individual needs of all pupils.

“It makes clear that schools are expected to do all they can to limit school clothing costs for families as part of our wider aim to reduce the cost of the school day. The guidance also encourages schools to develop flexible and inclusive policies which promote generic items of clothing and do not include compulsory branded items, supporting our efforts to be more sustainable.

“Ending child poverty is the central mission of this government and reducing the cost of the school day for families will play a crucial role in this work.”

A spokesperson for Edinburgh School Uniform Bank reacted: “We’re delighted that the government has adopted many of our suggestions around school uniform in their new guidance:

👉 Pupils’ comfort, happiness and freedom to learn and play should be at the centre of considerations about school uniform and clothing, alongside a focus on removing barriers to participation in school education.

👉 Branded items of uniform and blazers should not be compulsory, nor promoted or encouraged by schools.

👉 Schools should avoid including items that need frequent washing or are difficult to wash or dry, and

👉 promote and support arrangements for families to access pre-loved clothing, and

👉 consider the availability of non-standard sizes of uniform, clothing and footwear included within their policies to ensure that all pupils, regardless of their age or build, are able to access comfortable and practical clothing and footwear at a reasonable cost.

School uniform and clothing: Guidance for schools and education authorities

New Home Bargains store opening at Fort Kinnaird Retail Park

Home Bargains has invested approximately £1million into its new store, ‘Edinburgh 3’, located at Fort Kinnaird Retail Park, Edinburgh, which will be officially opened at 8.00 am on Saturday 14th September, 2024.  

As one of the UK’s largest family-run retailers, Home Bargains is creating 60 new jobs in the local community with its new store in Edinburgh.

The new ‘Edinburgh 3’ store will complement the existing Edinburgh stores and over 600 outlets across the UK. Opening approximately 50 stores a year, Home Bargains is bucking current trends in the industry.

Robert Sivewright, the new Edinburgh 3 store manager, said: ” I am super excited to be opening the new XL store in Fort Kinnaird, there is nothing about the process that hasn’t excited me, the planning stages and keeping things on track with my secret love of a spreadsheet.

“The pressure of a new store and a brand-new team of around 60 team members and 6 management has given me even more drive and determination, my goals for the store are clear for everyone to ‘be their best’ and together as a team we can achieve.”

 “As the latest location in this vibrant community, we’ve created 60 job opportunities, igniting pride and progress among our fellow residents. This store goes beyond mere bricks and shelves; it symbolizes a place where dreams can flourish.”

The 15,672 sq. ft store, will offer shoppers a range of products, including homewares, health and beauty essentials, sweets, snacks and drinks, as well as fresh and frozen food.

Robert Sivewright added: “Our new Edinburgh location will be a great store for us, and we’re proud to be able to offer local people top-branded goods at exceptionally low prices.”

With more than five million customers each week, Home Bargains is one of the country’s best-loved discount retailers, stocking top-quality branded goods at low prices.

For more information on the ranges available, visit www.homebargains.co.uk. 
Edinburgh 3 Store Address: Fort Kinnaird Retail Park, Edinburgh, EH15 3RD.

28% unpaid carers across Scotland are living in poverty

ONE IN TWELVE IN DEEP POVERTY

28% unpaid carers across Scotland live in poverty, with 1 in 12 in deep poverty 

  • The rate of poverty amongst unpaid carers is 56% higher than those who do not provide unpaid care in Scotland.  
  • 8% of unpaid carers in Scotland live in deep poverty; 50% below the poverty line. 
  • As many as 100,000 unpaid carers in Scotland are living in poverty. 
  • Carers Scotland is calling for an increase in the value of Carer Support Payment and in its earnings-limit along with an increase in support for unpaid carers on means-tested benefits.

 

New research finds that unpaid carers in Scotland are significantly more likely to experience financial hardship compared to those who do not provide unpaid care. The report by WPI Economics for Carers UK, funded by arbdn Financial Fairness Trust, explores the drivers and extent of poverty amongst unpaid carers in Scotland, finding that 28% are living in poverty, with 8% classed as being in “deep poverty”. 

One of the main drivers of poverty highlighted in the report is the difficulty unpaid carers have combining paid work with their caring role. Many unpaid carers have to give up their careers or reduce their working hours as a result of their unpaid caring responsibilities, which can result in a loss of income and their ability to accumulate savings and pensions.  

Other drivers of carer poverty include high housing costs, lack of support and access to social care services and the inadequacy of social security.  

Fiona Collie, Head of Public Affairs and Communications for Carers Scotland, said: “It’s deeply disturbing and shocking to hear that as many as 100,000 unpaid carers in Scotland are living in poverty.

“Every day across the country, the care they provide helps to hold society together, and too many are finding themselves in precarious financial positions as a result. Relatively small increases to support can have a big impact on carers’ lives and lift many thousands out of poverty. 

“Many carers face huge challenges juggling paid work and unpaid care. We need better support for carers in paid work, and to see visible change for those facing high costs linked to caring by the planned National Care Service meeting the needs of unpaid carers and supports them to continue with paid work, where they are able to combine this with their caring role.  

“Carers who are struggling financially, caring for more hours, and caring over a longer period of time are under immense pressure. They urgently need proper support, new rights and legal protections to ensure that they are not penalised as a result of their caring role.” 

Vivienne Jackson, Programme Manager at abrdn Financial Fairness Trust, said: “The care system would collapse without the vital people who provide unpaid care.

“It’s not right that those who provide essential services to some of the most vulnerable people in our society are living in poverty. Government and employers need to work together to help lift carers out of poverty.” 

Carers Scotland is now calling on the both the UK and Scottish Governments to act on the detailed recommendations laid out in the report, including committing to reviewing Carer Support Payment to increase its low value, reducing complexity and to increasing carer top-ups for those on means tested benefits such as Universal Credit. 

The Scottish Government must also continue to develop and deliver its commitment to pilot a minimum income guarantee for unpaid carers in Scotland 

The charity also wants to see better support for carers who might be able to combine paid work with unpaid care, including increasing the earnings threshold in Carer Support Payment to 21 hours at the National Living Wage.