By young people, for young people: Creative Canvases exhibition at The Junction

The Junction’s Creative Express project uses creative arts to support the health and wellbeing of local young people. It is a safe and confidential space where small groups of young people can express their thoughts and feelings about anything affecting their lives using a variety of creative media , including poetry, art, drama, creative writing, movement and music (writes Tessa Hughes). Continue reading By young people, for young people: Creative Canvases exhibition at The Junction

Burns Night: First Minister reflects on importance of Scotland’s national bard

Looking ahead to Burns Night 2018, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “We’re very proud in Scotland that Burns Night is celebrated every year in towns and cities right around the world – from New Zealand to Norway and from Mexico to Malawi.

“Here in Scotland, there are events taking place the length and breadth of the country: from Dumfries’s Big Burns Supper, an 11 day festival, to Inverness’ Stramash – a celebration of Burns which this year has a special focus on children and young people. And of course Burns suppers will be taking place in homes and social venues throughout the land.

“I always think it’s remarkable and admirable that Scotland’s most celebrated national figure isn’t a politician, a soldier, or a king or queen, but is instead a writer – someone whose songs and poems have enriched millions of people’s lives.

“I think that says something about the continuing importance of culture in our lives. And of course it also highlights the enduring value of Burns’ work – the way his sympathy, humour and passion still speak profoundly to us today.

“For those qualities, and many more, Burns will be remembered and celebrated, ‘till a the seas gang dry.’

“So wherever you are, in Scotland or around the world, I hope you have a fantastic Burns Night.  And I hope you’ll join me in taking time to toast the immortal memory of the great Rabbie Burns.”

Information and tips on celebrating Burns Night is available online.

There’s a local opportunity to celebrate the life and works of Rabbie Burns at North Edinburgh’s very own Community Ceilidh on Saturday 3 February at Royston Wardieburn Community Centre.

Tickets are still available – see below for details:

 

 

 

Auld Dram Syne: Whisky Festival cocktails honour Burns’ greatest works

Dram O’ Shanter, The Speyside Grace and Best Laid Drams … the most famous works of Scotland’s national bard have been immortalised in the form of cocktails by the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival. Continue reading Auld Dram Syne: Whisky Festival cocktails honour Burns’ greatest works

CALA Site Manager in running for major UK award

An Edinbugh based professional is in the running to scoop one of the UK housebuilding industry’s most prestigious awards. Neal Toland, former Site Manager at Leith’s Ten Brunswick Road, is one of a handful of nominees vying for glory within the Best Multi-Story Development category at the NHBC Supreme Awards. Continue reading CALA Site Manager in running for major UK award

Second phase of flood prevention scheme completed

Community members have officially marked the completion of phase two of Edinburgh’s major Water of Leith Flood Prevention Scheme.

Water of Leith Murrayfield

Pupils from Roseburn Primary School joined Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Lesley Macinnes, to cut the ribbon on a new bridge across the river, built as part of the City of Edinburgh Council’s multi-million pound project, which has been delivered significantly under budget. Continue reading Second phase of flood prevention scheme completed

Scots urged to practise positivity in year of 365 Brighter Days

A campaign to encourage Scots to practise a positive outlook to life throughout 2018 is being led by Breathing Space, Scotland’s mental health helpline. Continue reading Scots urged to practise positivity in year of 365 Brighter Days

Freeman to argue case for UC flexibility

The rationale for introducing Scottish Universal Credit (UC) choices will be outlined by Social Security Minister Jeane Freeman when she gives evidence to the House of Commons Work and Pensions Committee inquiry into the roll-out of UC this morning. Continue reading Freeman to argue case for UC flexibility

Scots at risk of being unprepared for death

 

  • Half (50%) of adults in Scotland with important financial information online haven’t told their next of kin about their online financial accounts
  • Whereas one in eight (13%) in the region have thought about their Facebook account when they die
  • Almost two thirds (63%) of Scottish people don’t have a will
  • Nearly half (47%) of Scotland’s parents with children aged 18 and under don’t have plans for their children in the event of their death

Continue reading Scots at risk of being unprepared for death