Britain’s best known female street artist and LUAP join anonymous art auction for charity

Harry Styles, Rihanna and Adele all have one – and now you have the chance to snap up one of Bambi’s works for yourself. The London street artist is joining several other famous artists in this year’s ‘anonymous heART project’.

Bambi’s identity remains a closely guarded secret and her contemporary art is loved by many and can be spotted across London. She first came up on the art scene in 2010, when her tag appeared by a stencil portrait of Amy Winehouse in a doorway in Camden.

Now you can buy one of her works for yourself, possibly for a bargain price!

The artist, who often uses social commentary in her art, will take part in Heart Research UK’s annual ‘anonymous heART project’, where artworks created on A5 postcards are auctioned off with all money raised going to the charity.

How is it anonymous? Though the list of artists will be available to all bidders, the artist of each individual piece will be kept anonymous, only being revealed once the auction is over.

This year, Bambi joins Heart Research UK patrons Paul Insect and Robert Smith, as well as Ralph Steadman and LUAP in providing pieces of art.

The artist known as LUAP is famous for his paintings and photographs of a giant pink bear. The bear suit follows him to remote locations across the world where he photographs himself in the suit, tackling themes like the climate crisis, mental health and isolation.

Heart disease is something that has been prevalent in LUAP’s family.

LUAP said: “My Grandad was in his late 40’s when he had his first heart attack and retired by his 50’s due to having had several more.

“My Mum’s partner died at 43 with a heart attack whilst riding his bike – this was a huge shock as he was very fit and active so came as a total surprise.

“Home is where the heart is, and that’s where my connection to the disease starts as I am sure it is with many other families. The heart is a symbol of life and of love, and I would do all I can do to help with that.”

The project is entering its fifth year, which will see hundreds of anonymous artworks go under eBay’s virtual hammer and has so far raised over £200,000 for the charity’s pioneering research.

Kate Bratt-Farrar, Chief Executive at Heart Research UK, said: “Everyone at Heart Research UK is so thrilled to be back with the anonymous heART project for the fifth year in a row. We can’t wait for the auction to open and for people to be able to start bidding.

“As always, we’re incredibly grateful to all the artists who have contributed and sent us such amazing pieces, and we’d like to send a special thank you to our patrons Robert Smith and Paul Insect for their continued support.

“This project really is both a fun and vital part of our fundraising, with all the money raised being invested in the prevention, treatment and cure of heart disease.”

Law firm Walker Morris is back as sponsors for the project, after successful partnerships in 2018 and 2021. This year’s auction will be live on eBay from the 4th – 13th November and you can bid on your favourite piece here:

https://heartresearch.org.uk/heart-auction

Energy efficient businesses charge ahead at 2022 VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Awards

Empowering homeowners on their own journey to NetZero, using treated wastewater to provide heating, and developing technology solutions to save energy – just some of the planet protecting efforts from organisations across Scotland recognised at the 2022 VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Awards. 

Many businesses in Scotland have already felt the impact of climate change, such as food and drink producers who faced significant water scarcity during the summer. This furthers the drive for positive and radical environmental action and VIBES recognises those leading the way and setting the bar high for others to follow.  

There were 12 winners at the annual awards in Glasgow on Tuesday 1 November, whittled down from 45 finalists and a record breaking 422 applicants across Scotland. At a time when saving energy has never felt more important, more than half of the winners cited such action as key to their plans for success and a third were named winners for their innovation in becoming more efficient.

A new Energy Transition Scotland Award was also added to the categories this year.  

VIBES is a partnership between the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), The Scottish Government, Energy Saving Trust, Highland & Islands Enterprise, Scottish Enterprise, South of Scotland Enterprise, Scottish Water, Zero Waste Scotland and NatureScot. 

The winners of the 2022 VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Awards are:

  • Adapting Scotland Award – Highlands Rewilding Ltd      
  • Circular Scotland Award – Kenoteq   
  • Engaging Scotland Award – The Highland Council
  • Hydro Nation Scotland Award – Green Action Trust         
  • Innovating Scotland Award – Innovatium Group
  • Leadership Scotland Award – Bruichladdich Distillery Co Ltd   
  • Moving Scotland Award – Arran Dairies Ltd      
  • Partnership Scotland Award – Renfrewshire Council      
  • Product or Service Scotland Award – ThermaFY Eco
  • Energy Transition Scotland Award – Multiplex Construction Europe
  • Nature Rich Scotland Award – SRUC Elmwood Golf      
  • Small Business Scotland Award – EGG Lighting    

Richard Lochhead, Scottish Government Minister for Just Transition, Employment and Fair Work addressed the Awards and presented the Leadership Scotland Award. Mr Lochhead said: “The VIBES awards are a fantastic demonstration of the work that businesses all across Scotland are doing to protect our environment and tackle the climate crisis.

“I would like to congratulate all the winners and I hope they will offer inspiration and ideas to other businesses looking to make their work more sustainable.”

Darren Pike, Project Director at Multiplex Construction Europe, winner of the Energy Transition Scotland Award said: “We are delighted to be recognised by the VIBES judges for our commitment to environmental best practice.

“The built environment will play a critical role in delivering Scotland’s Net Zero targets and we believe this award shows that we are on the right path.

“We work collaboratively with Clients and supply chain partners who share our values and look forward to building on these relationships to go further with our decarbonisation and broader sustainability ambitions.”

Laura McGadie, Group Head of Energy, Energy Saving Trust, said: “Through our work delivering energy saving support to businesses in Scotland, we see first-hand the positive steps that many organisations are taking to reduce carbon and contribute to a net zero society.

“We are delighted to support the VIBES Scottish Environment Business Awards to help showcase a cross section of inspirational businesses and we congratulate this year’s winners.

“It’s great to highlight the benefits that they are seeing as a result of taking steps to reduce their impact on the environment, so that others can be inspired to act too.”

Since 1999, VIBES has recognised more than 270 businesses championing sustainability and taking steps to protect the resources of our planet. Their dedication and action, from increasing recycling to supporting active travel, has been at the forefront of tackling climate change.  

Franceska van Dijk, Deputy Chair of SEPA and one of the head judging panel of this year’s awards commented: “Scotland is famous for its culture of innovation, making it ideally positioned to play a leading role in the journey to a more sustainable, low carbon future.

“We all have a role to play in tackling climate challenges, and it’s particularly significant for businesses. From creating innovative services and products to partnering with suppliers and supporting customers, all our entrants demonstrated a commitment to making the environment a key factor in decision making.”  

Gillian Bruce, Chair of VIBES, added: “Every year, we see more and more businesses and organisations who are working towards net zero carbon emissions, which is a challenging but necessary journey.

“This year’s VIBES winners are clearly demonstrating business cases for reducing their environmental footprint – highlighting the social benefits, as well as the positive economic impacts. We hope the efforts of our winners will encourage and inspire others to develop their environmental practices.”  

More information is available on the VIBES website.  

St James Quarter brings styles off the rack and onto the track

Fashion ‘flashmob’ comes to the capital ahead of Edinburgh Style Weekend 

Edinburgh’s iconic tram played host to a fashion flashmob as St James Quarter celebrated the launch of its Edinburgh Style Weekend (3rd – 6th November), taking this season’s must have styles off the rack and onto the track. 

Commuters who surprisingly found themselves on the FROW were given a sneak peek of the runway looks from this weekend’s fashion shows, with models styled in stylish, sparkly, attention grabbing looks from brands including Reiss, John Lewis & Partners, & Other Stories, Bershka, Stradivarius and Superdry – it was definitely an unexpected moment. 

Those who missed out will have the chance to see all the looks and more on the runway at this weekend’s Edinburgh Style taking place on the Quarter’s Level 5 rooftop, with epic views of the city as well as being projected through the Quarter and beyond.

The shows will feature looks styled by the Grazia fashion team as well as an evening Gala show featuring an additional show by flagship store John Lewis & Partners. 

Edinburgh Style will feature styling sessions with the Grazia team, as well as workshops with some of the Quarters’ best loved brands including John Lewis, Kiehl’s, designers Ro & Zo and Dyson. Events include: 

  • Hair Styling Masterclass with Dyson 
  • Christmas Gifting with Grazia 
  • H Beauty Carnival 
  • Stylish Interiors with Skela Studios 
  • Sleep Workshop with Neom 

Beauty lovers are invited to immerse themselves in this season’s trending makeup looks by visiting H beauty’s exclusive Carnival – featuring a line-up of tutorials, workshops and influencer masterclasses hosted by Love Island superstar Paige Turley  

Specially branded Edinburgh Style taxis will also be out and about in the city all weekend, offering complimentary rides to St James Quarter for any lucky fashion lovers who hop on board.

Those travelling by car can also take advantage of reduced parking prices when they stay for three hours or more. 

Susan Hewlett, Brand & Marketing Director at St James Quarter, said: “St James Quarter is all about embracing bold and exciting design, launching our first ever catwalk show on one of Edinburgh’s iconic trams was the perfect way to kick off this year’s Edinburgh Style event and give a taste of what’s to come.  

“We can’t wait to welcome Scotland’s Fashionistas to Edinburgh Style. If you’re looking for advice on how to upgrade your wardrobe this season, or even a sneak peek at our expert’s must-have items, make sure to grab your ticket – it’s sure to be a great weekend!   

For more information on the events taking place from Thursday 3rd November to Sunday 6th November and to buy tickets, visit St James Quarter’s event page at: https://stjamesquarter.com/event/edinburgh-style 

The Cove at the double!

It’s two in-a-row for Blackhall restaurant

Local Indian restaurant, The Cove, is celebrating after winning ‘Asian Restaurant of the Year, Edinburgh’ for the second year in a row at the Asian Restaurant Awards.

The ceremony, held at the Sheraton Grand Hotel on Tuesday 1 November, saw restaurants from all over the Capital and the rest of Scotland compete for the coveted trophies.

The eatery, located in Blackhall, opened three years ago and has proved popular with locals and tourists alike.

Masum Uddin, owner said: “I was surprised but delighted when The Cove won the award last year, but to win two years in a row is just amazing. Thank you to the panel for choosing us!

“To win this award is testament to the team we have at The Cove and our loyal customers who have supported us.

“We always strive to go that extra mile, both with our menu and our customer service and it’s lovely to see that hard work pay off.”

The awards are organised by the Asian Catering Federation, representing more than 30,000 restaurants.

Foysol Choudhury MSP: “It’s time to give Scotland’s restaurants the support they deserve” 

Responding after the successful 6th Annual Asian Restaurant Awards, held at the Sheraton Hotel in Edinburgh on the 1st November, Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “The restaurant industry is facing a devastating crisis.

“Whilst it was amazing to congratulate all of our nation’s fantastic winners and taste some delicious food on Tuesday night, it also became evident that urgent action is needed to prevent Scotland’s restaurant industry from being buried underneath the rubble of the cost-of-living crisis. 

“It was an honour to be asked to speak on Tuesday night and to present awards to some of Scotland’s most prestigious, delicious and well-loved restaurants. 

“At a time when the sector is facing significant challenges with staff shortages, along with rising energy and food prices, it is important that we acknowledge excellence and celebrate the success of Asian Restaurants across Scotland. 

“I would like to congratulate Mr Yawar Khan, the Chairman of the Asian Catering Federation, and his hard-working team for organising the 6th Asian Restaurant Awards in an amazing venue. 

“However, as well as celebrating achievements, we also need to offer the restaurant industry concrete support and solutions to the problems they are facing. 

“There is no doubt that restaurant and catering businesses in Scotland have suffered during COVID-19 and now the cost-of-living crisis.

“Even before this, problems with recruiting staff were also a prominent issue in the industry. On Tuesday night, some winners of awards weren’t able to attend as they couldn’t find cover. 

“I know from speaking to many of the restaurateurs on Tuesday night that they desperately need the Government’s support and guidance-with VAT and business rates, with energy costs, with staffing. 

“I will be writing to both the UK Government and the Scottish Government to see what collaborative approach can be taken so that Scotland’s restaurant industry can receive the supportive scaffolding that it is desperately asking for. 

“I’ll also be asking for meetings with the appropriate Scottish Ministers and lodging a motion of congratulations, to support the amazing success and provision of our nation’s restaurant industry. 

“It’s time to give Scotland’s restaurants the support that they deserve.” 

Join the fight for the rights of people with Learning Disabilities

EDINBURGH residents have been invited to attend a campaign meeting hosted by ENABLE Scotland at 95 Causewayside, Newington on 9 November 2022 from 7pm to 9pm designed to inform the charity’s calls to the Scottish Government.

The event is designed to collate feedback and evidence from the community that will then go on to inform the charities proposals for the Bill based on real, lived experiences of the learning disability community.

Following a campaign from ENABLE Scotland members, the Scottish Government has announced that it will bring forward a new Learning Disability, Autism and Neurodiversity Bill (LDAN).  This is believed to be the first Bill of its kind, worldwide.

Local people in Edinburgh can attend the event to find out more information about the proposed LDAN Bill and feedback their thoughts, asks and concerns about the protection of human rights and their first-hand experiences of the failings and challenges relating to the current system and the associated laws.

ENABLE Scotland will take the feedback from the event to inform its campaigning around the Bill proposals ensuring that people living with learning disabilities, and their families, are at the heart of the new legislation.  

Jan Savage, Director of ENABLE Scotland said: “For too long, people who have a learning disability have been Scotland’s invisible people.  Subject to poor attitudes and persistently poor public services where they have to fight for their rights. 

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to bring forward legislation which secures people’s rights in law. It is so important that every voice of every person who has a learning disability is informing this process which is why we are inviting people with lived experience – as well as supporters from the local community in Edinburgh – to come along, hear about the plans for the Bill and have their say in what ENABLE Scotland will be asking of the Scottish Government.

“The work will not stop there.   We are committed to the community that support us in our campaign for the LDAN Bill and as such we will ensure regular updates, information on campaigning and actionable communications to MSP will be shared with our supporters as the Bill progresses through Scottish Parliament over the next two years.

“The Scottish Government have agreed that change is needed.  We will not get this chance again.  If you care about the human rights of people who have a learning disability and want to be part of a movement for change with other like-minded people – we want to meet you on 9 November 2022!”

The charity says that now is the time for change, citing evidence that – amongst other shocking stats – less than 7% of people who have a learning disability have a job, adults who have a learning disability in Scotland die 20 years younger than other adults and children with a learning disability are 12 times more likely to die from preventable illness than other children.

The LDAN Bill provides an opportunity to ensure that the rights of people with a learning disability are protected in law.  The Scottish Government has also said that it will create a new Commissioner to make sure that these rights are upheld.

The LDAN Bill is being proposed as a replacement for the current Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003, that ENABLE Scotland believes does not go far enough in protecting the human rights of those in the learning-disabled community and a new Bill and set of laws is pertinent to the safeguarding of individuals in Scotland.

ENABLE has also launched a national survey for people to submit their views if they are unable to make it along to one of the local campaign meetings, please complete here.

Artists at Work 2: Exhibition celebrating talented colleagues at the National Galleries of Scotland

Artists at Work 2: Exhibition celebrating talented colleagues at the National Galleries of Scotland

‎29 Oct 2022—12 Feb 2023 
‎The Scottish National Portrait Gallery 
‎1 Queen Street, Edinburgh  
‎EH2 1JD| 0131 624 6200 |nationalgalleries.org|  
‎Admission Free

Artists at Work 2 showcases incredible artwork made by colleagues at the National Galleries of Scotland (NGS) in a group exhibition at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.

The exhibition celebrates the creative talents of over 100 colleagues working across the entire organisation and runs until February 2023. It is a celebration of the passion and skill of a team charged with caring for and sharing the national art collection for the world.

The exhibition displays a wide range of artistic disciplines; from paintings, drawings, illustration and photography to sculpture and jewellery making; all created by, amongst others, gallery attendants, conservators and retail team workers and follows on from the success of the first Artists at Work  exhibition in 2018.

Artist at Work curators ran an open-call submission across the organisation earlier this year and were amazed at the response.

There are 121 artists exhibiting in the show with 157 works on display. Each artwork is supported with information labels that offer insight on the artist, their methods, process, and how their concept came about.

There was no prescriptive theme for the open call which allowed artists to choose art forms and concepts that are personal to their own artistic style and thematic objectives. Themes range from realism to surrealism, the natural world around us and some choose to celebrate topics such as gender and identity with their own personal inflections.

From self-portraits to local landscapes, photographic observations of lockdown life to interpretations of pop culture – Artists at Work 2 is a smorgasbord of artistic talent, colourful reflections, and thoughtful interpretations.

The curatorial team responsible for the exhibition are also exhibitors. The project leads were Darren Duddy and Victoria Gazeley with Aitor Moncho Tudanca (Visitor Assistant) and Silvia Baarlam (Gallery Attendant, Scottish National Portrait Gallery) working alongside them to coordinate the show.

NGS Gallery Shift Attendant, Victoria Gazeley who has co-curated and contributed to the exhibition, said: “We are thrilled to be hosting this exhibition at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.

“The work on display represents the vast talents of National Galleries of Scotland colleagues and we’re delighted to offer a platform to spotlight this.

“Following on from the popularity of our first Artists at Work exhibition in 2018, we are looking to dazzle our audiences again in a gallery space that matches our growing ambitions. Many talented artists work across our organisation and this exhibition is a wonderful way to celebrate their creativity.”

Darren Duddy, Co-Curator and Conservation Technician at NGS, said: “A gallery is more than just a building and the artworks within. It is also about the people. This exhibition is a great opportunity to see what those of us who work, and volunteer here do in our free time.

“It is a difficult time for artists, and this is a great way for working artists to get their work seen in a national exhibition.”

The first Artists at Work exhibition was held in 2018 and excelled with 300,000 visitors seeing it.

We are delighted to be able to create another exhibition, this time moving from the Scottish National Gallery to the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Photography Gallery where we have more designated space to display the fantastic works.

The exhibition is open to public from Sat 29 October in Gallery 13 (Robert Mapplethorpe Photography Gallery), Level 1 West, Scottish National Portrait Gallery.

Santa Claus IS Coming to Town!

Edinburgh’s Christmas Programme Announced

TICKETS GO ON SALE TODAY

All images © Sandy Young Photography Launch of Edinburgh’s Christmas with Santa in and around Princes St. Web: www.scottishphotographer.com Blog: sandyyoungphotography.wordpress.com Mail: sandy@scottishphotographer.com Tel: 07970 268944 ***Credit should read Sandy Young/scottishphotographer.com***

UniqueAssembly, the producers for Edinburgh’s festive celebrations, are delighted to unveil the programme of events for Edinburgh’s Christmas, including traditional Christmas Markets, the much-loved Forth 1 Big Wheel and a selection of festive fairground rides, a new Christmas ice rink experience and, of course, the excitement of a visit to Santa.  

Opening on Friday 25 November, Edinburgh’s Christmas is set to have something for everyone with the addition of a series of fun, free festive events as part of the programme including a Nativity Carol Concert on Sunday 27 November and the Santa Fun Run on Sunday 4December.

Penny Dougherty & William Burdett-Coutts, Directors of UniqueAssembly, said: “We are delighted to be bringing Edinburgh’s Christmas to the city for both locals and visitors looking to get into the Christmas spirit.

“We really do have something for everyone with food and drinks, gift inspiration, fairground rides, and of course Santa himself ready to bring the Christmas cheer. We also have a number of free events taking place for everyone to enjoy including the Make a Wish Santa Fun Run – we really want to make it a Christmas to remember!”

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic city centre, with stunning views of the city’s iconic skyline, Edinburgh Castle and Scott Monument, East Princes Street Gardens hosts the traditional Christmas Market with around 70 stalls, featuring some of the best local traders alongside their UK and European peers selling everything from bespoke products and gifts to tasty treats.

The top of East Princes Street Gardens will be home to the Forth 1 Big Wheel and a selection of thrill rides.  At West Princes Street Gardens, visitors will find Santa Land, offering the excitement of a Christmas tree maze and a family-friendly funfair as well as an all-new Santa Stories in the Piccolo where children can enjoy a special Christmas tale, told by Santa himself along with some special guest helpers. All children will receive a gift and sittings will also include BSL, relaxed and audio described sessions.

There are even special Santa Paws sessions for the family’s best friend where you can take a pawfect photo with the big man himself.  Santa Paws sessions will see a donation from every ticket supporting a local animal charity. Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit to Santa! 

In addition to meeting Santa, children will have the chance to attend the Elf Workshop offering kid’s crafting sessions as well as view the Nativity Mural installation during their visit.

Lord Provost Robert Aldridge from The City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Edinburgh is one of the best places in the world to celebrate Christmas and this programme for 2022 promises a rich and varied programme of festive activities, events and experiences that will be enjoyed by residents and visitors of all ages. We can’t wait to see everyone enjoying it.”

George Street will be home to the spectacular Edinburgh’s Christmas Ice Rink, in partnership with Essential Edinburgh, which this year for the first time will be under cover allowing visitors to enjoy the fun in any weather surrounded by the elegant 18th century architecture. 

Skaters and friends can warm up with a mulled wine or hot chocolate from the winter warming area, enjoy a ride on a vintage funfair ride before enjoying the rest of what George Street has to offer.

Roddy Smith, from Essential Edinburgh, said: “Edinburgh’s Christmas celebrations attracts visitors from near and far. We are delighted to once again be supporting the ice rink on George Street and installing the Christmas lights in St Andrew Square, George Street and throughout Edinburgh city centre, highlighting our attractions and all the shops and restaurants both visitors to the city and residents can enjoy during the Festive period!”

Unique Events is also delighted to be back at St Andrew Square, in partnership with Essential Edinburgh, once again illuminating and playing host to Social Bite’s Festival of Kindness, Tree and Gift Donation point.

All images © Sandy Young Photography Launch of Edinburgh’s Christmas with Santa in and around Princes St. Web: www.scottishphotographer.com Blog: sandyyoungphotography.wordpress.com Mail: sandy@scottishphotographer.com Tel: 07970 268944 ***Credit should read Sandy Young/scottishphotographer.com***

Dedicated to spreading festive goodwill to those who need it most, people from all walks of life will be encouraged to help create a moment of kindness.

Donations can also be made to help provide thousands of Christmas dinners and food packs, to help with the distribution of gifts to homeless and vulnerable families, children and individuals or for shelter to those without a roof over their heads this winter.

Open seven days per week from 10am- until late, Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets, Santa Land, Forth 1 Big Wheel, and other festive rides open on the afternoon of Friday 25 November.  The George Street Ice Rink opens on Saturday 26 November.

For full details of all events, and to book tickets visit www.edinburghwinterfestivals.com

A new inflatable adventure awaits

AQUADASH ADVENTURE at AINSLIE PARK LEISURE CENTRE

Following the success of Aquadash and Aquadash Extreme, the inflatable playground on water, which launched at the Royal Commonwealth Pool in February 2018, Edinburgh Leisure is introducing Aquadash Adventure to its Ainslie Park Leisure Centre.

Suitable for ages 6 years and upwards, while it’s slightly smaller than its more extreme counterpart at the Commie, Aquadash Adventure at Ainslie Park is still an exhilarating workout for all family members. There are fewer people per session with a maximum number of 30 participants taking part at any one time

Tickets went on sale on 31st October, with the first sessions taking place on the weekend of Saturday, 12th November and Sunday, 13th November.

Sessions last 1 hour each and cost £8.50 for both adults and children. Unlike at the Royal Commonwealth Pool, your booking does not entitle you to access the pool for a swim afterwards.

Initially, sessions will be available to book up to 8 weeks in advance, with sessions bookable until 7th and 8th January 2023.  Aquadash Adventure sessions will run at weekends only and will take over the whole of the Ainslie Park pool meaning that no public swimming or coaching will be available at these times. However, the sauna and steam room will be available for use. 

Debbie O’Hara, Manager at Ainslie Park Leisure Centre said: “The new Aquadash Adventure is going to bring hours of fun to all the family in the north of the city.

“While not as extreme as the original Aquadash at the Commie, we like to think of it as the ‘younger sibling’ to the original one at the Royal Commonwealth Pool.  It will suit younger members of the family, from 6 years upwards or more cautious children. Parents and siblings are of course also welcome to join in the adventure too.

“It’s a great way for kids to work off that excess energy and they’ll be able to slide, climb and bounce their way around various thrilling challenges, giving not only a physical but a mental challenge too. And when booking opens, sessions will be available to book right through until January 2023, meaning that you can keep the children entertained in the run up to and during the Christmas break.”

Book online to be part of the adventure – https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/launch-aquadash

With 30+ venues including 12 swimming pools, 14 gyms, 6 golf courses, 141 sports pitches, 32 tennis courts, 1 climbing arena, 3 soft play centres and 750+ classes per week, Edinburgh Leisure is the ‘biggest club in town’ providing the widest range of fitness classes, state of the art facilities and community-based programmes across the capital, creating opportunities for everyone to get active, stay active and achieve more.

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Call for communities in Scotland to apply for Environmental Grants 

The Action Earth campaign, run by national charity Volunteering Matters, has just made Winter grants available to support communities with outdoor environmental volunteering. 

Projects can apply now to the campaign for activities such as tree and hedge planting, bird & bat box building and siting and habitat creation and improvements. Activities should conclude by the end of January 2023. The campaign is funded by NatureScot. 

Nature is in crisis and we face a climate emergency. Last year, 157 successful projects completed, showing great resilience and adaptability in the face of very difficult circumstances. This year our focus is on helping restore and protect environments to deliver a ‘nature-rich’ future for all.

Volunteering Matters Action Earth offers easy-to-access grants of up to £250 for environmental activities across Scotland.

We have limited numbers of nature awards for Winter for any group of volunteers carrying out practical environmental improvements or wildlife habitat creation in their local green spaces. Previous projects have included meadow and pond creation, woodland and wetland renovations and creating and improving community gardens. 

We are also keen to support projects working with people with disabilities, defined health issues or barriers to involvement.  From last year’s 157 projects to benefit from Action Earth grant funding, over 4,406 volunteers were involved in improving biodiversity in their community – 1,329 of them having defined health and social issues.  

The campaign is also keen to hear from projects whose work benefits disadvantaged communities especially in urban areas or in places with reduced local amenity.  50% of volunteers in 2021 were from areas in the lowest 20% of the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation. 

 NatureScot Chief Executive Francesca Osowska said: “Nature can be a powerful tool in bringing communities together and rallying them into action, whether it’s to protect local greenspaces or create new opportunities for enriched biodiversity.  

“In doing so, community groups have the chance, through the Action Earth campaign, to be involved in activities which help tackle the climate emergency, while enjoying the benefits of companionship, wellbeing and purpose.  We are looking forward to welcoming lots of exciting project ideas this year.”

For those looking for inspiration for their projects, the Volunteering Matters Action Earth website has instructions on how to build bird boxes, bat boxes, frog hibernacula, hedgehog boxes and bee/insect homes.

NatureScot also has a host of tips to help nature through its Make Space for Nature campaign.

More information is available and applications can be made NOW at the Volunteering Matters Action Earth website:

https://volunteeringmatters.org.uk/project/action-earth

Right Care, Right Place: Healthcare awareness campaign launched

Scots are being urged to play their part to ease pressure on the NHS this winter as an awareness campaign is launched.

Targeted advertising on TV, radio and online will encourage people to get the right care in the right place – diverting them away from busy A&E wards where appropriate.

It will make clear that – if a condition is not life-threatening – people can visit their local pharmacy, dial NHS 24 on 111, or contact their GP. It will also signpost people to the NHS Inform website which provides practical self-help guides.

Pandemic backlogs, Brexit-driven staff shortages and inflation costs have all contributed to make this the most challenging winter the NHS has ever faced.

This advertising campaign is the latest step in the £600 million winter resilience plan which is already recruiting an extra 1,000 extra staff, vaccinating the public from COVID-19 and the flu, and prioritising care for the most vulnerable.

Health Secretary Humza Yousaf visited Edinburgh’s Bangholm Medical Centre to hear experiences of how multi-disciplinary teams are already embracing the approach. He said: “I am under no illusion that this winter will be the toughest in the history of our great NHS, which is why I am pulling every lever at my disposal to help ease pressure where possible.

“This campaign will make it easier than ever to know where to go to get the right care in the right place – saving patients time and freeing up space in our emergency departments.

“It is the latest step in our £600 million resilience plan to support our NHS through the tough winter ahead, which will recruit 1,000 extra staff, vaccinate the public from COVID-19 and flu, and prioritise care for the most vulnerable.”

Peju Adeyemo, Physician Associate, at Bangholm Medical Centre said: “Physician associates are healthcare professionals with a generalist medical education, who work alongside doctors providing medical care as an integral part of the multidisciplinary team.

“We are able to alleviate pressure on GPs because we can see a broad spectrum of patients, provide holistic care and follow up. Furthermore, we are able to see more acute patients thereby freeing up time for GPs to see more chronic conditions where 15 minutes appointments may not be suitable.”