Scottish Government to end the use of non-corporate mobile messaging apps

‘Commitment to openness and transparency’

The Scottish Government is to stop the use of mobile messaging apps, including WhatsApp, on official devices following the publication of an externally-led review.

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes welcomed the review of mobile messaging apps and non-corporate technology and confirmed that access to these apps will be removed from government devices in spring 2025.

Updated guidance and training for staff and Ministers will take place ahead of the new policy being implemented.

The review, led by former Channel Islands data protection commissioner Emma Martins, was commissioned in January this year by the then First Minister as part of the Scottish Government’s commitment to improving openness and transparency.

Ms Martins makes 20 recommendations on different areas of corporate governance, including the values of the Scottish Government, learning and development process, recruitment procedures, records management and the use of mobile messaging apps. Improvement work is already underway – including strengthening the Scottish Ministerial Code and refreshing the mobile messaging app policy.

The Deputy First Minister said: “I am very grateful to Emma Martins for her time and insight in conducting her review.

“We have carefully considered the recommendations and we will end the use of mobile messaging applications to conduct government business by spring 2025.  At that point, mobile messaging apps will be removed from corporate devices.

“The use of mobile messaging apps increased during the pandemic as staff worked remotely in unprecedented and difficult circumstances. Having reflected on our working practices, we are now implementing changes to the use of mobile messaging apps.

“Ms Martins’ timely review sets out some of the most challenging issues facing all governments. Work has already started to implement recommendations, and we will build on that work to ensure that data management, especially in relation to new technologies, is as robust as possible in order to continue to deliver efficient and effective public services.”

Emma Martins said: “I was pleased to be appointed to conduct this review and I am grateful to the Scottish Government for the open and constructive way in which they have engaged with me throughout. 

 “Technologies are changing our lives at home and in the workplace. No organisation can afford to sit back and hope that navigating those changes will come without effort. Values need to be clear, individuals need to engage, and governance needs to be effective.

 “The Scottish Government already understands this and there a number of improvements already in train. It is my sincere hope that the recommendations in this review serve as additional fuel for that important journey.” 

Externally-led review into mobile messaging apps and non-corporate devices

BETRAYED: WASPI women fury over Labour Government U-turn

WASPI women WON’T be compensated

Women who say they weren’t given fair notice about a rise in State Pension age will NOT receive compensation, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall confirmed yesterday.

Angela Madden, chairwoman of Women Against State Pension Inequality (Waspi) said: “The Government has made an unprecedented political choice to ignore the clear recommendations of an independent watchdog which ordered ministers urgently to compensate Waspi women nine months ago.

Waspi campaigner Jan Fulster told BBC Breakfast she feels feels “very let down” by the government. “We’d expected that the government would do the decent thing,” she said.

She adds she was shocked by the decision not to pay compensation because many senior Labour figures had been supportive of the Waspi campaign while in opposition.

“It just feels as if it’s all been a lie,” she says.

WASPI’s response to the Minister’s statement:

“The Government has today made an unprecedented political choice to ignore the clear recommendations of an independent watchdog which ordered ministers urgently to compensate WASPI women nine months ago.

“This is a bizarre and totally unjustified move which will leave everyone asking what the point of an ombudsman is if ministers can simply ignore their decisions. It feels like a decision that would make the likes of Boris Johnson and Donald Trump blush.

“The idea that an ‘action plan’ to avoid such mistakes in future should be the result of a six-year Ombudsman’s investigation is an insult both to the women and to the PHSO process.

“An overwhelming majority of MPs back WASPI’s calls for fair compensation and all options remain on the table.

“Parliament must now seek an alternative mechanism to force this issue on to the order paper so justice can be done.”

UNITE General Secretary Sharon Graham, said: “@GOVUK’s decision not to compensate the @WASPI_Campaign women despite the Ombudsmen’s recommendations is a disgrace.

“Ministers are making the wrong choices – they need to turn back now because voters will not forgive them.”

Labour MP John McDonnell said yesterday: “I am not in Parliament today as I have the flu that’s going round & I am just feeling too ill but having heard of the government’s rejection of any compensation for the Waspi women I believe they will consider this to be a betrayal & I doubt if they will just go away quietly.”

I THINK HE’S RIGHT …

Colinton/Fairmilehead by-election candidates confirmed

The candidates standing in the forthcoming Colinton/Fairmilehead by-election have been confirmed. 13 candidates have been nominated to stand in the by-election, which will elect two new councillors, on Thursday 23 January 2025.  

The candidates standing for election are:

  • Bonnie Prince Bob, Independent
  • Mev Brown, Independent
  • Mairianna Clyde, Scottish National Party (SNP)
  • Neil Cuthbert, Scottish Conservative and Unionist
  • David Henry, Independent
  • Nick Hornig, Independent
  • Grant Lidster, Reform UK
  • Richard Crewe Lucas, Scottish Family Party
  • Daniel Aleksanteri Milligan, Scottish Greens
  • Mark Ney-Party, Independent
  • Peter Alexander Nicholson, Scottish Liberal Democrats
  • Conor Savage, Scottish Labour Party
  • Marc Wilkinson, Independent

Returning Officer for the City of Edinburgh Paul Lawrence, said: “With nominations now closed and just over a month remaining until polls open, residents of the Colinton/Fairmilehead ward can start considering who they will vote for in the upcoming by-election. It’s important to make sure you’re registered to vote by 7 January 2025, to make your voice heard.

“Councillors play a key role in our democratic system, making crucial decisions that impact our city. I encourage as many residents as possible to take part in this by-election.

“The election will use the Single Transferable Vote (STV) system, where voters rank candidates in order of preference by assigning numbers rather than just marking a single cross. You can choose to vote for as many or as few candidates as you wish.”

Poll cards will be delivered to registered voters in the area from today (Wednesday 18 December) including further information on when and where to vote.

If you live in the Colinton/Fairmilehead ward you must register to vote by 7 January and anyone wishing to vote by post can sign up for a new postal vote up until 8 January 2025.

You can also apply for someone to vote on your behalf via proxy, with the deadline for new proxy vote applications on 15 January 2025 (for registered voters). 

Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm and will be at:

  • Charwood
  • Fairmilehead Parish Church Hall
  • St. Cuthbert’s Episcopal Church Hall
  • Oxgangs Neighbourhood Centre
  • Pentland Community Centre

The electronic election count will take place on Friday 24 January 2025 starting at 9:30am. 

The by-election follows the resignations of Councillors Marco Biagi and Louise Spence in November 2024.

Find out more about the Colinton/Fairmilehead by-election on the Council website.

Double jobbing no more: Modernising Scottish Elections

Bill will ‘strengthen democratic process’

Legislation which will enhance Scotland’s democratic processes has been backed unanimously by the Scottish Parliament.

The Scottish Elections (Representation and Reform) Bill has passed its final stage, maintaining and improving Scotland’s robust electoral system.

The Bill contains a mix of technical and other improvements such as improving candidate and campaigner safety and advancing candidacy rights.

The new law introduces a ban on people from being MSPs if they are convicted of a sexual offence or subject to a sexual offence order.

In addition, MSPs will be barred from also being an MP or Peer through regulations to be brought forward in 2025 so they can be in place in time for the 2026 Scottish elections. The details of the regulations will be informed through a consultation beginning next month. 

Parliamentary Business Minister Jamie Hepburn said: “Since 1999 the Scottish Parliament has improved participation, extended voting rights, and enabled more people to stand for election and this legislation seeks to continue the evolution of our democracy.

“It will modernise Scottish elections and take important steps to safeguard our democracy for voters, candidates and administrators.

“Through positive cross-party working, we have agreed a robust set of improvements to the law, which will deliver real benefits to voters and prospective candidates.”

Background

Scottish Elections (Representation and Reform) Bill | Scottish Parliament Website

£4,740 for Armed Forces charity at annual fundraiser in Edinburgh

The dinner saw SSAFA’s Edinburgh & Lothians outgoing President, former Lieutenant Colonel Jonny Gray, host for the final time as he hands the role to new President, former Brigadier Tim Lai.

Nearly 70 guests gathered at The New Club, raising a total of £4,740 for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity. Among the guests were Major General Robin Lindsay, General Officer for Scotland; the Honourable Barney Campbell; and representatives from Close Brothers, which has provided generous corporate support for SSAFA.

The funds will go directly towards the Armed Forces charity’s work with serving personnel, veterans and their families in Edinburgh and the Lothians.

Jonny said: “While always a fantastic fundraising event, this year felt particularly special as I hosted for the very last time.

“We are very grateful to everyone who attended and showed their support for our work with the local Armed Forces community. I would like to thank the event organisers for a fantastic night.

“I’d also like to wish our incoming Branch President, Tim Lai, the very best as he takes on a new role. I know he will excel, supporting our team as they provide tailored welfare and wellbeing support to the local Armed Forces community.”

Tim added: “Having served in the Armed Forces, and working in the defence sector as a veteran, I am proud to now join SSAFA’s branch in Edinburgh and the Lothians.

“The charity, with its team of local volunteers, does fantastic work to support Armed Forces personnel, veterans and their families in the area.”

SSAFA has been working for the whole UK Armed Forces community since 1885.

Its mission is simple: to reach and embrace the Armed Forces family, so they never battle alone.

Visit https://www.ssafa.org.uk/edinburgh-lothians to access support.

Fort Kinnaird appoints six-year-old Ruari as Chief Christmas Officer

Fort Kinnaird has revealed the successful candidate in its search for a new Chief Christmas Officer (CCO) – with six-year-old Ruari from East Lothian appointed in the inaugural role.  

Ruari was recruited to try out the wealth of retailers and festive experiences at the centre for free, indulging in tasty seasonal treats and bagging plenty of Christmas goodies to make sure they’re fit for a fun-filled festive season.

Ruari’s application stood out to Fort Kinnaird due to his volunteering efforts from a young age and passion for helping others, that the team felt should be rewarded. Ruari volunteers for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) with his granny, helping to collect cans and support at craft stalls. He has also encouraged his school to take part in fundraising for CHAS at Christmas over the last few years too.

Ruari spent a full day at the centre this week, testing out the diverse range of activities available. From watching seasonal favourite, Home Alone, at ODEON Cinema to reviewing the new festive menu at Frankie & Benny’s.

After sampling the new festive hot chocolate and treats at Hotel Chocolat, Ruari also got to test out this year’s most popular toys and gadgets at Menkind – and even got to take one home! 

He said: “When Mummy told me I was going to be Chief Christmas Officer for Fort Kinnaird I felt really excited and happy – it was such a fun visit!”

Mum Sarah added: “Ruari knows being kind is the most important thing you can be and to have his efforts recognised in this way is really special.

“I’m so grateful to the team at Fort Kinnaird for making the day so much fun.”

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “We had some wonderful applications for our Chief Christmas Officer role, and were blown away by the number of entries and everyone’s passion for the job!

“It was a difficult decision to select just one candidate, but Ruari stood out as a brilliant choice for us and he’s done a great job in putting our festive fun to the test.   

“We’re always looking for ways to enhance our visitor experience, and we’d like to thank Ruari for helping us to do just that.” 

For more information on the stores available at Fort Kinnaird, please visit:

 https://www.fortkinnaird.com/  

Childline ready to be there for thousands of children in need of help and support over the festive period

  • Last year, the NSPCC-service delivered almost 5,500 counselling sessions to children and young people across the UK over the 12 Days of Christmas, averaging more than 450 a day.
  • Recurring festive worries for young people include bereavement, family relationship issues and adults drinking too much.
  • Childline remains open for children and young people throughout December, including Christmas Day, for any questions, concerns or worries they may have.

The NSPCC’s Childline service is anticipating thousands of children and young people reaching out to them for help and support across the upcoming festive period, with counsellors available around the clock throughout the holidays.

Over the 12 Days of Christmas last year (24th December 2023 to 4th January 2024) Childline delivered almost 5,500 counselling sessions to children living across the UK, averaging out at more than 450 a day.

As throughout the rest of the year, problems with mental health and wellbeing is the main reason why children and young people contact Childline.

However, there are also recurring issues and worries arising that are more specific to the festive season including:

  • Young people reflecting on the prospect of Christmas without a loved one
  • Being worried about family conflict and adults consuming alcohol
  • Feeling pressure to eat more than normal/coping with an eating disorder
  • Concerns about family money worries
  • Feelings of guilt or jealousy about the presents they receive

One girl from Scotland aged 18 told Childline: “I’m feeling very on edge right now as all the family is home for Christmas. They’re all in a room laughing and drinking, but any time I try to say anything they just talk right over me, like I don’t exist.

“I’m now in my room alone, so I thought I’d come on here for a chat.”

Another girl from Scotland aged 15 told Childline: “I feel like a failure whenever I eat something cos my brain tells me that not eating is the only thing I’m good at – and in a way it’s true.

“I’m worried about Christmas tomorrow as there is obviously going to be lots of food and my parents don’t know that I’ve been struggling a lot with it. I don’t know what to do.”

Childline bases across the UK, including in London, Liverpool, Leeds, Birmingham, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Cardiff, will be in operation throughout the Christmas period, filled with both full-time staff and volunteers.

Adeniyi Alade, Service Head of Childline and based at the Aberdeen base, said: “Childline will be there, as always, to help the thousands of children who contact us by phone and online over the festive period.

“We know Christmas can be a difficult time for some children and young people when they are spending more time at home.

“This time of year, can cause added stress to family life such as financial worries, arguments, and adults drinking a lot of alcohol.

“Whatever they may be worried about we’d like to reassure children and young people that our trained counsellors will be there to listen and support them on every day of the 12 Days of Christmas and into the New Year.”  

Adam Perry (36) from Glasgow has been a volunteer at the city’s Childline base since January this year.

He’s doing a shift on Christmas Eve for the first time and said: “Children have got all sorts of things going on in their lives, and often they are trying to cope with so much that’s happening to them.

“Someone needs to be there for them to listen, without judgement, and I feel privileged to be able to do that.

“At the end of every shift at Childline you feel like you’ve made a positive difference for at least one child, often more. To be honest there’s not much else I could do in an evening after work that would be as worthwhile.

“While I know it will be tough, I’m happy to volunteer this Christmas Eve. During the festive period, children have less support from their usual networks, such as school and friends, so I’m looking forward to being there to listen to them.”

This Christmas, a child will contact Childline every 45 seconds on average. Help the charity to make sure Childline is ready for every question this festive season by visiting the NSPCC website. Just £4 could help a counsellor answer a call this Christmas.    

The Childline service is here for children every day, even on Christmas Day.

Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or childline.org.uk 

Police Scotland launch BSL videos to support deaf survivors of domestic abuse

Police Scotland, supported by Heriot-Watt University, has created a series of British Sign Language (BSL) videos aimed at the deaf community affected by domestic abuse.

The series, comprising 13 videos, provides crucial information on domestic abuse, including how to recognise abusive behaviours and how to report them. These videos are available on the Police Scotland website, offering accessible resources for the deaf community.

Professor Jemina Napier, Chair of Intercultural Communication at Heriot-Watt University, collaborated with Police Scotland’s Domestic Abuse Coordination Unit (DACU) and its Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Unit to develop the project.

As a leading expert in the field of sign language interpreting and translation, Professor Napier brought extensive experience, having led significant studies such as Justisigns2 and SILENT HARM, which were among the first UK research efforts to document the unique experiences of deaf women surviving domestic abuse and communicating via interpreters.

In this latest project, Professor Napier led a mixed deaf-hearing team of experts who created a BSL glossary of 33 key terms related to domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence. This glossary was integral to the videos, ensuring that critical concepts were accurately conveyed in BSL.

Professor Napier explained: “The translation of the videos was made possible through generous support from the Heriot-Watt University Impact Acceleration Fund, allowing us to effectively donate the BSL-translated videos to Police Scotland.

“Collaborative research and evidence-based development of resources like these are essential to ensure that deaf individuals reporting domestic abuse have equitable access to information, services, and support. It also ensures that BSL interpreters are equipped to meet the needs of deaf BSL users in such sensitive contexts.”

Early next year, Professor Napier will begin a new project examining the impact of domestic abuse on families across the UK.

The 12-month study will involve interviews with deaf survivors of domestic abuse and practitioners, documenting the impact on children as co-victims if they get drawn into interpreting for their deaf parents in domestic abuse situations.

The new Police Scotland videos tackle some of these barriers by translating key information into BSL. Topics include questions such as “What is domestic abuse?” and “What can I do if this is happening to me?”

Detective Constable Sarah Winters, from Police Scotland’s Domestic Abuse Coordination Unit, has been working with Professor Napier on the development of these videos.

She said: “The opportunity to collaborate on these groundbreaking projects has been one of the most profound and humbling experiences of my career. I feel incredibly privileged to have learned directly from those with lived experience.

“Their courage and insights have not only broadened my understanding but reignited a determination to drive meaningful change. The work is far from over – this is the start of a dedicated journey to ensure that all survivors of domestic abuse have access to the resources and services they need, delivered in a way that truly supports and empowers them.

“Partnering with Professor Napier and HWU has been a truly enriching experience, showcasing the power of collaboration in achieving transformative progress.”

The videos are available now and can be accessed on the Police Scotland website.

Care Home celebrates ‘Superstar’ team member

 Staff and residents at Woodhorn Park and Station Court care home in Ashington are celebrating because their wonderful colleague, Natalie Lochhead, has been awarded the prestigious title of Queen’s Nurse.  

Natalie was selected earlier this year to take part in a nine-month development programme run by the Queen’s Nursing Institute Scotland (QNIS). She is among an elite group of just 21 extraordinary community nurses to have been awarded the prestigious title of Queen’s Nurse this year.

Queen’s Nursing in Scotland dates back to the late 19th century, when nurses completed specific training which allowed them to work as district nurses to provide nursing care for the ‘sick poor’ of Scotland’s communities.

QNIS organised the training of District Nurses in Scotland until the late 1960s. Nurses who qualified from the Institute were known as Queen’s Nurses, they provided healthcare and health promotion to people in their own homes and became well respected figures within their community.

Around 20 community nurses and midwives are chosen each year to embark on the Queen’s Nurse Development Programme (QNDP) after which they are awarded the title of Queen’s Nurses. There are now over 170 contemporary Queen’s Nurses working across Scotland.

Natalie Lochhead, Divisional Clinical Lead Nurse for Barchester Healthcare, said: “I have the best job in the world, I work with such brilliant people across our homes and I love each and every one of my residents – it is the best feeling in the world to know you have made someone feel better and put a smile on their face. 

“I was very happy to be selected for the programme and it is lovely to be recognised for doing the job that I love.”

General Manager of Woodhorn Park care home, Emma Saunders said: “This is such a fantastic achievement, the whole home is so proud of Natalie. 

“She is so dedicated, she is a wonderful mentor and support for her colleagues and always goes the extra mile for her residents.  She really deserves this accolade and we are delighted to celebrate her success!”

Dr Sarah Doyle, QNIS Chief Executive and Nurse Director, said: “Queen’s Nursing in Scotland is delighted to award the Queen’s Nurse title to Natalie.

“Community nurses and midwives occupy a unique position in Scotland’s health service, working as they do in the heart of communities, championing the cause of those who are not heard, helping those facing real adversity. They do extraordinary work, every day.

“The Queen’s Nurse Development Programme supports participants to build their confidence, inspiring them to find and lead creative responses to the challenges faced by their colleagues and the communities they serve.” 

Sporting Memories Club seeks volunteers to support older adults through sport

Sporting Memories Foundation Scotland (SMFS) and Edinburgh Leisure are calling for volunteers to help launch a new weekly club that tackles depression, dementia, and loneliness through the power of sport.

The proposed Sporting Memories Club would be based at Meadowbank, with plans to start in the new year, pending volunteer support.

Following a successful one-off session at the Royal Commonwealth Pool, to mark the launch of Edinburgh 900 exhibition, organisers are eager to establish a regular programme for older adults passionate about sports.

Volunteer Opportunity Highlights

The clubs are run by trained by Sporting Memories volunteers who use a wide range of Sporting Memories reminiscence resources developed specifically to help prompt conversation and discussion. There is always great fun and laughter, friendships are forged, and some remarkable sporting stories often emerge.

Sporting Memories has developed an innovative and engaging approach to tackling the challenges of our ageing society. Their work focuses on reducing loneliness and isolation; getting older people physically active; and helping people to live well with dementia.

Donna Mackey, Partnership Manager at SMFS, emphasised the need for volunteers: “We’re looking for people with a love of sport and some spare time. No expert sports knowledge is required – we’ll provide full training and resources.”

Key points for potential volunteers:

  • No specialised sports expertise needed
  • Comprehensive training will be provided
  • Opportunity to make a meaningful difference in community health
  • Support for older adults, including those living with dementia

Community Impact

Sam Scott from Edinburgh Leisure explained the broader significance: “These clubs support Edinburgh Leisure’s mission to keep people active and well, no matter what age or stage.

“Using the rich history and heritage of sport, we’re creating a space where older adults can connect, reminisce, and build friendships through their shared love of sport.”

The clubs offer:

  • A welcoming environment for sport enthusiasts
  • Opportunities to share sporting memories
  • Social connection and support
  • Activities designed to combat isolation and support mental well-being

Who Can Participate?

The club welcomes:

  • Older adults who enjoy talking about sport
  • Individuals living with dementia
  • Carers interested in supporting their loved ones’ social engagement

Contact Information

Volunteering Enquiries:

Donna Mackey, donna@thesmf.co.uk

Further information on running a club: 

https://www.sportingmemories.uk/volunteer/

Attendance Registrations:

Sam Scott, active@edinburghleisure.co.uk