City council’s Twenty Minute Neighbourhood Strategy updated

A key strategy has been updated to help people across Edinburgh live well locally in places that are healthier, greener, more vibrant and inclusive.

The Council’s initial 20-Minute Neighbourhood Strategy was approved by the Policy and Sustainability Committee on 10 June 2021, outlining a vision for a city where everyone can meet most of their daily needs within a short walk, wheel or cycle from their home. A further report on 30 November 2021 gave an update on how the Strategy was being delivered.

This strategy has now been refreshed to provide the latest information on key projects that are being progressed, alongside the overall direction and delivery of the concept in Edinburgh. 

Through the 20-minute neighbourhood approach, the Council is working in partnership with local communities across the capital to help to deliver its strategic priorities of creating good places to live and work, while meeting its targets of ending poverty and becoming net zero by 2030.

The 20-minute neighbourhood approach in Edinburgh focusses on making it easier for people to access daily services and facilities in their local area. It is now being implemented through several key ‘building blocks’:

•    Working with local communities
•    Supporting people to access the services they need locally
•    Providing multiple services and facilities from a single location
•    Delivering mixed-use regeneration and development
•    Making our town and local centres greener, more inclusive and more people-focussed
•    Supporting local economies and businesses
•    Improving sustainable and active travel access to services and facilities

Councillor Val Walker, Culture and Communities Convener, said: “We want to support people across the city to live well locally, and this latest update to our 20-Minute Neighbourhood Strategy shows how we are working to deliver this approach in different parts of Edinburgh. 

“The 20-minute neighbourhood concept is one that many communities already enjoy: ensuring services and facilities are close to residents, enabling walking, wheeling and cycling to be the natural choice for shorter journeys. 

“Now, we are starting to see how all residents throughout Edinburgh can fully enjoy this approach and live in a cleaner, greener and more thriving city that supports communities and brings people together. By putting local people at the heart of everything, each person living in the city can choose to participate in all community, cultural and heritage activities.

“The updated strategy outlines how our support for local living can give more people more choice within their neighbourhood, while also making it easier to travel further to access the services and facilities they need on public transport and by active travel. 

“We know people have strong views on this concept, and we believe engaging and collaborating with communities across the city to understand their needs is essential. That’s why we’re involving communities at an early stage of design projects as a key priority. If we work together, everyone can benefit from healthier, well-connected and thriving neighbourhoods right across the city.”

Read the full 20-Minute Neighbourhood Strategy here.  

Current key projects

These updates show different examples how the 20-minute neighbourhood concept is currently being embedded into key projects across the city.

Following initial engagement with communities earlier this year, proposals are currently being developed to make it easier to access Gorgie Dalry, Portobello and Craigmillar town centres by walking, wheeling cycling and public transport while improving the quality of local streets and public spaces.

Further information on these projects is available on the 20-Minute Neighbourhoods section of the Council’s website.

Pennywell & Muirhouse

The regeneration of Pennywell and Muirhouse is a long-standing objective for the Council and its partners.  Work completed to date includes a new School, medical centre, retail centre, improved public realm and new homes. There will be around 1000 new mixed tenure homes of which over 50% will be affordable.  730 new homes have been delivered to date across several sites in the area.

A community hub is also under construction at the local centre. The hub will have an early years centre, library, skills hub, six affordable homes and space for North Edinburgh Arts. 

The hub is being delivered in partnership with North Edinburgh Arts and aims to promote culture, learning, work and wellbeing within the local community. All staff operating from the hub space will follow a ‘No Wrong Door’ approach to make sure citizens can access relevant services in the space or be signposted where necessary.

The NEAT Connections project will deliver improved active travel links to the new local centre, schools and services. 

Granton Waterfront

The Granton Waterfront regeneration will deliver a new coastal town with an ambitious 20-minute neighbourhood vision over the next 10-15 years. The regeneration will deliver around 3,500 new net zero carbon homes (over 35% of them affordable); a primary school, commercial, creative, and community space, and a new coastal park. 

The project will create new employment opportunities, meaning residents of this fast-growing area will be able to access work locally. Partner organisations will deliver substantial new cultural and educational assets over the regeneration timeframe.

Early Action housing projects are well underway at Western Villages, Silverlea and the Demonstrator site at Waterfront Avenue. In March 2023, the Granton Station Square building opened and provides affordable workspace for artists and creative industries. 

New active travel and public transport infrastructure will be created throughout the regeneration area, including new cycle paths and a mobility hub.

Liberton

Planning permission for a new Liberton High School has been granted, with a GP practice and community facilities a key part of the design. 

The creation of a community campus will deliver a range of services and activities and aims to create a place where multiple services and partners can be accessed that contribute to health, wellbeing and learning of young people and the wider community. 

20_Minute_Neighbourhood_Strategy___August_2023Download

Programme for Government launched

2023-24 Programme for Government published  

Reducing poverty, delivering growth, tackling climate change and providing high-quality public services will be the Scottish Government’s top priorities for the year ahead, First Minister Humza Yousaf has pledged. 

Outlining his first Programme for Government, the First Minister described it as “unashamedly anti-poverty and pro-growth”. The package of measures aims to help build a more equal society through concerted efforts to eradicate poverty, tackle the cost of living crisis, and create opportunities for businesses and individuals.

The Programme supports the Scottish Government’s wider work in building a fair, green and growing economy, and strengthening public services.

Key commitments include: 

  • expanding access to funded childcare
  • paying social care workers in a direct care role and frontline staff providing funded early learning and childcare in the private, voluntary and independent (PVI) sector, at least £12 an hour from April 
  • speeding up renewable energy projects with a new deal for the onshore wind industry
  • delivering a new £15 million support package to unleash entrepreneurial talent 
  • expanding free school meals in primary schools

The First Minister said: ““The Scottish Government will always be on the side of the people we serve. Scotland is – certainly should be – a land of opportunity, but I know it doesn’t always feel like that to people bearing the brunt of the UK Government cost-of-living crisis, to families living in the poverty, to struggling businesses, to those who still face consequences of discrimination and inequality. I get that.

“This Programme is an opportunity to be explicit about the driving mission of this government. So let me make it abundantly clear, we are a government who will maximise every lever at our disposal to tackle the scourge of poverty in our country.

“But let me be equally clear, we also need to support economic growth. Not for its own sake but so we can tackle poverty and improve our public services. And we will be unapologetic in taking the action necessary to ensure a sustainable future for our children and planet.

“The unfortunate reality is that the Scottish Government is currently operating with one hand tied behind our back. In the last five years we have spent more than £700 million in countering the impact of UK Government welfare cuts alone.

“That’s why this government will never stop believing that decisions about Scotland should not be made by a government based in Westminster, but by the people of Scotland. In proposing the case for independence we will set out a positive vision for Scotland’s future.

“Scotland’s economy already performs better than most parts of the UK, we have world-class universities and colleges, and significant strengths and potential in many of the key economic sectors of the future. Today’s Programme for Government sets out how we will build on these strengths, to make people’s lives better.

“In the year ahead, we will support more than 300,000 children with more than £1,000 a year through the Scottish Child payment.

We will expand the availability of high quality childcare – providing funding in six early adopter local authority areas to offer increased access to childcare from nine months through to the end of primary school. And we will invest in raising the pay of childcare and social care staff.

“We will also safeguard the rights of tenants, promote payment of the living wage, and provide help for disabled people with complex needs, so that they can live independent lives.

“We will do all of this – first and foremost because it is the right thing to do. And also, as I know well from my own family history, because providing people with support and security helps them to contribute to society and to create opportunities for others. This Programme for Government shows how we will make progress towards a fairer, wealthier and greener Scotland.”

Programme for Government

SCVO: PFG IS TOO TIMID

Responding to Tuesday’s Programme for Government, Anna Fowlie, Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations’ (SCVO) Chief Executive, said:  ““The First Minister has today set out a Programme for Government (PfG) which outlines priorities for Scotland which voluntary organisations working in and for communities have welcomed.

“While the PfG recognises the contribution voluntary organisations make across different portfolios, it doesn’t move far or fast enough to address fundamental changes to the operating environment that would recognise the vital role of Scotland’s voluntary sector in delivering on government priorities. 

“Today’s PfG restates the Scottish Government’s commitment to Fairer Funding for the voluntary sector, which we welcome. The Scottish Government’s current poor grant-making practice makes the focus on improving the clarity and consistency of existing approaches very important, but we must continue to work together to support the sector to be financially sustainable. 

‘To secure the future of the invaluable work our sector delivers, we must not only address disappointing practice, but also implement the longer-term improvements that are so desperately needed. 

“We can’t forget that an on-paper commitment to Fairer Funding was made by ministers earlier this year. It is disappointing that progress on this commitment has been so slow. Today’s announcement commits to developing a plan, when urgent action is needed. Our long-term work on Fair Funding provides clear recommendations, based on the sector’s experiences, and a clear blueprint for next steps. 

“The PfG’s firm commitment to taking forward a wider review of charity law is also welcome, particularly the commitment to work alongside the sector. It is important that the review is comprehensive and independent and doesn’t shy away from fundamental issues. We need a holistic approach to regulating the voluntary sector that supports the role of modern charities. 

“With charities experiencing growing frustration at the funding relationship with Scottish Government and the impact this is having on organisations, staff, volunteers, and the services and support they offer, we had hoped for more action and urgency.

The steps outlined will move us in the right direction, albeit slowly, and we will of course work with the Scottish Government to ensure that they do so in the ways that make the biggest difference to voluntary organisations across Scotland, supporting the invaluable contribution they make to Scotland’s economy and society.” 

‘Warm words won’t stop a warming planet’

Climate campaigners have reacted to the latest Scottish Programme for Government saying that “warm words won’t stop a warming planet.”

Friends of the Earth Scotland climate and energy campaigner Caroline Rance commented, “This is an underwhelming programme for more of the same when what is needed a radical change that can speed Scotland away from the damage being wrought by fossil fuel companies.

“The First Minister talked a good game about the importance of climate action and a just transition to net zero, but warm words won’t stop a warming planet.

“The climate emergency demands scaled up action that rapidly shifts us away from fossil fuels, prioritises public transport and puts in a credible plan in place to support workers in the transition from the oil industry to good, green jobs.”

+++ SPEEDING UP OF RENEWABLES PLANNING

Rance commented: “It’s a positive step that the process for onshore renewables will be quickened up but sites must still be environmentally appropriate, and far more work is needed to ensure that local communities can benefit from developments in their area.

+++ SINGLE USE VAPES

Friends of the Earth Scotland circular economy campaigner Kim Pratt: “The evidence that single use vapes are harmful to young people and polluting our environment is overwhelming.

“Businesses have been allowed to put profit before their obligations to provide safe disposal service for these products. The quickest and surest way to end the harm caused by single use vapes is to ban them.

“While consultation on a ban is welcome, we don’t have time to change our economy one product at a time. From wasteful plastic packaging to phones that can’t be fixed, and harmful products like single use vapes, everything we own needs to become more sustainable.

“That’s why the Circular Economy Bill is so important because it must transform our economic systems so that all materials are used sustainably.”

+++  CIRCULAR ECONOMY BILL

Friends of the Earth Scotland circular economy campaigner Kim Pratt commented: “Scotland’s material use is more than twice sustainable levels. The Circular Economy Bill is an important opportunity for Scotland to change the way it uses materials by making businesses design products with less materials, encourage repair and reuse and limit harmful single use products.

“The Circular Economy Bill must be as strong as possible to create the system change that we need, including strong targets for reducing our consumption and consideration of the social impacts of material use.”

Independent Age: ‘A Missed Opportunity’

Following the First Minister’s Programme for Government, Debbie Horne, Scotland Policy and Public Affairs Manager at Independent Age said: “Today is a missed opportunity to help the 150,000 older people living in poverty across Scotland.

“Alarmingly, this figure has risen by 25% in the last decade alone, with the ongoing costs crisis squeezing the budgets of those in later life to breaking point. The First Minister should have used today’s Programme for Government to announce a strategy to tackle pensioner poverty and reverse this frightening trend.

“None of us dream of a later life where, because of the cost, we risk falls by not turning on the lights or are forced to skip meals, yet this is now a reality for 1 in 7 older people.

“With over 3 in 5 over 65s on a low income currently cutting their food spending, and almost 3 in 4 reducing their heating, they’re terrified for the winter to come.

“The Scottish Government should reconsider this glaring omission from today’s announcement and urgently announce a plan to reduce financial hardship in later life. They’ve said that tackling poverty is a key priority – older people must not be forgotten in this.” 

Edinburgh Award 2023: Nominations open

The Capital is once again searching for a worthy recipient of the coveted Edinburgh Award, with nominations for the 2023 now open.

To broaden the range of nominees it has been agreed to widen the eligibility criteria to include people who have ‘a substantial association with Edinburgh’. The update was approved at last Thursday’s meeting of the City of Edinburgh Council.  

Previously, some nominations received have been excluded due to an individual not having been born or lived in Edinburgh. Consequently, the Edinburgh Award Panel agreed unanimously to reflect this by adding in ‘substantial association with Edinburgh’ and the panel is particularly keen to welcome nominations which reflect the diversity of the city. 

Since 2007, the Edinburgh Award has celebrated an individual who has made a truly unique contribution to the city. With the new criteria it means that someone can now be nominated – whether or not they were born or lived in Edinburgh – if they have gained national and international recognition for Scotland’s Capital through their work.

The 2022 recipient was Sir Geoff Palmer, in recognition of his ground-breaking contributions to academia, his indefatigable defence of human rights in Edinburgh and beyond, and most recently his work heading up the Edinburgh Slavery and Colonialism Legacy Review Group. Sir Geoff was presented with an engraved Loving Cup from the Lord Provost and had his handprints set in stone at the City Chambers quadrangle.

Edinburgh has four weeks to cast nominations for this year’s award, before a recipient is selected by a panel chaired by the Lord Provost.

The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge, has urged individuals and businesses in the Capital to nominate someone for the Award:

“I am delighted that common sense has prevailed and someone who clearly has a substantial association to Edinburgh will be eligible to receive the Edinburgh Award.

“Edinburgh has been a global force in many fields, for over two centuries and this is down to the character, achievement, and excellence of our citizens. The Edinburgh Award represents an opportunity to celebrate exceptional individuals who make Edinburgh the fantastic city we see today and have enhanced the city’s reputation nationally and internationally.

“By nominating someone you can help us showcase these people and give that person the recognition and praise they deserve.

“From outstanding individual feats to the work of community groups, as Lord Provost I am consistently inspired by the ways in which the citizens of Edinburgh calmly persevere and look out for one another. This speaks to the very heart of our capital city and is a source of huge personal pride. If this reminds you of someone, I urge you to put forward a nomination.

“Edinburgh, its reputation, and its enduring global appeal is down to its people. Now looking for its 17th recipient, The Edinburgh Award needs the help of our communities, citizens and businesses to come together and find a worthy winner.”

Nominations are now open and close at 5pm on October 2, 2023.

More details about the criteria for the Edinburgh Award 2023 and to submit a nomination can be found online. 

Laura Bond set to open flagship store in heart of Edinburgh

Boutique will offer luxury jewellery piercings, pieces, and bespoke ear styling service

Edinburgh-born jewellery brand, Laura Bond, is set to open its flagship store, located on Thistle Street in Edinburgh on Saturday (9 September). Previously available online only, the new home of Laura Bond will allow customers to receive the full brand experience in person for the first time. 

The new headquarters, in Scotland’s capital, will showcase Laura’s full luxury jewellery collection, provide bespoke ear styling consultations, and will soon be offering piercing services.

Designed by Laura herself, every piece of jewellery is ethically produced and made with responsibly sourced gold. The brand has attracted a strong customer and celebrity fan base including Florence Pugh, Michelle Visage, and Nathalie Emmanuelle, who wore Laura Bond to the 2022 Oscars.

Speaking of the launch, Laura Bond said: “This is a huge opportunity for us and I’m so excited to be opening our first store in Edinburgh. To say it’s a dream come true is an understatement. I can’t wait to welcome customers – old and new, from near or far – to experience our bespoke ear styling service and to get pierced in our stunning piercing parlour.

“I really believe Laura Bond offers a unique experience in the world of luxury piercings and jewellery and I can’t wait to meet everyone in store.”

The new store was previously occupied by the award-winning and much-loved Edinburgh women’s boutique, Jane Davidson. After 53 years of business in the capital, the luxury brand carefully chose Laura Bond to be its successor.

Sarah Murray, Proprietor of Jane Davidson said: “The boutique had been a constant presence in my life; our customers were not only incredibly loyal, but many became dear friends. 

“As difficult as the decision was to close our doors last year, I was always determined that if we did, then we would have to find the perfect brand to take on our property. Laura Bond is just that; we can’t wait to watch Laura and her brand grow at 52 Thistle Street.”

With each collection, Laura Bond continues to push the boundaries of delicate and decorative pieces, leaving an indelible mark on the world of conscious luxury jewellery.

Laura said: “I really believe jewellery should be an expression of the person wearing it, and each piece I design is crafted with that in mind. 

“We are committed to creating jewellery that isn’t just saved for special occasions but tells a unique story and invites people to express themselves and mark relationships, milestones, or memories with others.”

Laura Bond is available to buy online and in their new flagship store on Thistle Street in Edinburgh from Saturday the 9th of September.

For more information visit www.laurabond.co.uk.

Little Scare-lings get in the Halloween spirit at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store

Garden Centre to host children’s pumpkin themed event

Dobbies, the UK’s leading garden centre, is inviting children in Edinburgh to its great value Little Scare-lings event this Halloween, guaranteed to get them feeling pumpkin-tastic with a treasure trove of family-friendly activities. 

Available in Dobbies’ Edinburgh store between 26-29 October, Little Scare-lings is guaranteed to get everyone in the spine-chilling spirit. Great for kids aged 3-10, this event is action-packed and has something special in store for those hunting for the perfect pumpkin to take home and carve.

Kids can also strut their spooky style and take part in the garden centre’s annual scare-a-thon to be in the chance of winning a prize for the best dressed.

Little Scare-ling attendees will sink their fangs into Halloween treats, pumpkin-themed activities and games.

With plenty options for even the fussiest trick-or-treaters, children will have the choice of fish fingers, chicken nuggets or plant based goujons, served with chips and garden peas, or a cheese and tomato pizza with vegetable sticks.

Adults can enjoy a selection of soup and sandwich pairings or a slice of cake. Sticky chocolate orange, blueberry Victoria sponge or a nutty coffee and walnut cake ensure the parents are spoilt for choice.

Families will be invited to visit Dobbies’ very own miniature pumpkin patch. Here children can take a pumpkin home, carve it up using Dobbies’ guide and create their own personalised pumpkin for welcoming trick-or-treaters.

Sarah Murray, who created this year’s event, loves Halloween and can’t wait to welcome Little Scare-lings along for the event. She said: “We’re really excited about this year’s Halloween event in Edinburgh and warmly welcome kids of all ages to get involved with our pumpkin extravaganza.

“ These events are always extremely popular with our regular Little Seedling Club attendees, so please book in advance to save any disappointment. It’s a fang-tastic way for families to get together this Halloween.”

Tickets for Little Scare-lings are now available for Dobbies’ Club Members, priced at £9.99 per child and from £3.95 for adult tickets, which officially go on sale to all customers from 5 September.

For more information about how to take part in Dobbies’ Little Scare-lings afternoon event, visit Events | Dobbies Garden Centres.

Extinct Butterfly Makes Remarkable Return

Northern Brown Argus butterfly discovered after 100 year absence

A once locally-extinct butterfly has made a remarkable return to Stirlingshire after a 100 year absence, Butterfly Conservation and The Future Forest Company has revealed. 

The Northern Brown Argus was once found in abundance throughout the Ochil Hills, but due to habitat loss including overgrazing, was believed extinct in Stirlingshire and across much of its former range.

Very few colonies remain in the Ochils, with small numbers clinging on above the village of Alva in Clackmannanshire, living on steep crags where sheep cannot graze the food plants required by their caterpillars too heavily. 

However, in a remarkable discovery, a volunteer from Butterfly Conservation found Northern Brown Argus in her garden in Blairlogie, just inside the Stirlingshire border, after planting Common rock-rose, the only plant eaten by Northern Brown Argus caterpillars. 

This sparked hope for the once locally-extinct species. Staff and volunteers from Butterfly Conservation and The Future Forest Company conducted a series of searches on the hillside at the award-winning Dumyat Estate in Blairlogie, discovering a few small colonies of the butterfly on the steep hills. 

In another exciting turn of events, the Northern Brown Argus is now confirmed to be breeding at the site, which is owned by The Future Forest Company, giving hope for the return of this species across its former habitat. 

David Hill, Conservation Manager at Butterfly Conservation, said: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime event, the reemergence of a previously locally-extinct species in its former habitat is incredibly special and rare.

“We’re committed to protecting the Northern Brown Argus and helping it to thrive, with hopes that it will spread across its former home and stretch right across the Ochil Hills once again.”

Lindsay Mackinlay, The Future Forest Company’s Head of Biodiversity, explained: “We are delighted that this rare butterfly can once again be spotted on the hills below Dumyat. We hope to work in partnership with Butterfly Conservation to monitor its numbers in the coming years. 

“With the help of volunteers, The Future Forest Company is starting to clear the invasive scrub that is threatening the Common rock-rose plants which this beautiful butterfly depends on, however, more conservation work is required to ensure the long-term survival of this species at Dumyat.

“We have a biodiversity crisis on our hands and everyone can play a part in reversing this, including the private sector. That’s why we are inviting any company that wants to help ensure a future for wildlife at Dumyat, or through our other exciting projects, to get in touch and help transform our landscapes into wildlife havens for local people.”

The State of UK Butterflies Report in 2022, published by Butterfly Conservation, revealed that Northern Brown Argus suffered a 58% decline in abundance between 1979 and 2019, and a 43% decline in distribution during the same time period.

The species is mostly found across Scotland and requires short grassland managed by light-grazing to thrive, however, much of its former habitat has been lost to overgrazing, lack of grazing or encroachment of scrub and woodland. 

Butterfly Conservation and The Future Forest Company are working together to protect the fragile colonies and extend the range of this enduring butterfly by planting more Common rock-rose for its caterpillars to feed on and creating more habitats for it to thrive. 

For more information on Butterfly Conservation visit:

www.butterfly-conservation.org

To find out more about The Future Forest Company visit:

https://thefutureforestcompany.com/ 

Police appeal launched after three Ukrainian youths assaulted in Niddrie

POLICE are appealing for information after three youths were assaulted in Niddrie.

Around 8.30pm on Sunday, 3 September, 2023, three Ukrainian youths, two males aged 13, and one male aged 15 were walking towards a bus stop in Niddrie Mains Road, Edinburgh. 

Around this time, they were approached by a group of eight youths dressed in dark clothing. Two youths from the group assaulted one of the 13-year-old males, leaving him with a laceration to his ear. Other members of the group then attacked the other two youths. The 15-year-old was punched and the 13-year-old was stabbed.  

The group, who were all wearing dark clothing, ran off following the incident. 

The injured boys were treated at hospital and the incident was reported to police yesterday (Monday, 4 September, 2023).

Officers are treating the incident as racially aggravated and relevant CCTV footage is being reviewed for any additional information on the group of youths. 

Detective Inspector Keith Fairbairn said: “I know there were members of the public in the area at the time of the attack and I am asking them to contact us with any information they may have.

“We are appealing for details on the group of youths, who were dressed in dark clothing, perhaps you saw them somewhere else, did you see them running off? Any small piece of information could assist us in identifying those responsible for these attacks.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 2523. You can also call Crimestoppers and give your information anonymously. They can be contacted on 0800 555 111.

Over two-thirds of patients in Scotland say recent NHS changes do NOT benefit them

  • Almost half of respondents desire more same-day appointments (49%)
  • Almost two-thirds (61%) would like to see prioritisation systems to help with hospital backlogs
  • Almost one in five (19%) have seen benefits from the addition of more over-the-phone appointments

Recent research has shown a deepening public concern about NHS services, as only 10% of people in Britain believe ministers are tackling the NHS’s many problems in the right way.

With this in mind and following rising waiting times and growing pressure on the NHS from strike action, healthcare management consultancy, Acumentice, surveyed 1,000 UK adults to explore the public’s opinion of the current healthcare system and how it could be improved in the future.²

Over two-thirds (68%) of patients in Scotland do not believe that any recent NHS changes have benefitted them personally. In particular, text availability with doctors for advice appears to have been the least popular initiative in the region, with no respondents acknowledging the benefit.

In contrast, the survey suggests the most impactful NHS offering for Scotland was the addition of more over-the-phone appointments, with almost one in five (19%) professing they have seen the most advantage to their care from this out of all recent NHS changes.

When questioned about which changes Scotland would like to see from the NHS to improve their experience, the most popular suggestions were: the ability to book appointments online and/or in the NHS app (54%), more same-day appointments (49%) and the option to book double appointments for multiple concerns (41%). 

In addition, over 6 in 10 (61%) respondents felt that using prioritisation systems to ensure that patients with the most urgent needs are seen first would help the backlog of patients waiting for hospital treatment. 

Looking at average perception across the whole of the UK, the survey suggests people desire an updated approach to accessing NHS health services to improve service and efficiency, with a remarkable half of respondents (50%) saying that none of the recent changes already made by the NHS has benefitted them.

Respondents from Wales, in particular (68%), found the least benefit from recent initiatives, while Yorkshire and the Humber were the areas least critical of recent changes (38%). 

Nationally, when asked what they would like to see implemented by the NHS to improve experience, the biggest priority across the UK was A&E waiting times, with nearly half of the respondents (47%) looking for shorter waiting times, followed by an increase in same-day appointment availability (46%) and more flexibility when booking future appointments over the phone (44%).

Interestingly, more than one in four (27%) respondents would like to see the introduction of fines and consequences for cancelled or no-show appointments in a bid to improve the availability of bookings.

Stephen Hall, Director of Consulting Services at Acumentice and former Executive Director for Performance and Planning across Kingston Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and Hounslow and Richmond Community Healthcare NHS Trust, commented on the findings: “This research indicates that, despite recent changes to the NHS, people in the UK believe it has not been successful and have little faith in the future.

“They feel that the approach to NHS care has not changed much in the past and that there is a need for more investment in digital innovation and data-driven healthcare.

“The outcome is that there is undoubtedly scope for a serious debate regarding access to data and analytics within the NHS as it undergoes a period of significant change. It’s also hugely important that digital transformation support plays an increasing role in ensuring these programmes deliver the benefits they should.”

You can find the full study here: https://acumentice.com/the-future-of-healthcare-survey-through-the-public-eye/ 

Exciting opportunities with Screen Education Edinburgh

Screen Education Edinburgh is delighted to announce two exciting opportunities aimed at young people passionate about film

BFI Film Academy Short Course for Edinburgh and South East Scotland, delivered by Screen Education Edinburgh (SEE), and the SEE Young Filmmakers Hub

The BFI Film Academy Short Course for Edinburgh and South East Scotland, delivered by Screen Education Edinburgh (SEE), and SEE Young Filmmakers Hub are both projects designed to help aspiring young filmmakers gain practical knowledge and experience, while highlighting the various pathways into the screen industries.

These courses seek to empower learners to pursue their passion for filmmaking, inspiring them to future careers and success within the screen industries

BFI Film Academy Short Course 2023 for Edinburgh and South East Scotland, delivered by Screen Education Edinburgh: 

The BFI Film Academy Short Courses offer opportunities for ambitious 16 to 19-year-olds to get to know more about film and how to forge a career in the screen industries. Delivered by Screen Education Edinburgh and supported by the BFI, awarding National Lottery funding, and Screen Scotland, this introductory, hands-on course builds knowledge and skills and shows the different pathways into the industry.

BFI Film Academy Short Courses take place across the UK for talented and committed young people aged 16-19, and they have proven to have an excellent track record of inspiring the next generation of filmmakers and crew.

Participants of the Course will make short films, learn from top talent working in the industry through masterclasses, and acquire the necessary knowledge and experience to build a career within the screen industries.

Not only does this course provide practical filmmaking experience, but also instils confidence, develops teamwork skills and creates a sense of being a part of a community of aspiring screen industry professionals. Along with filmmaking experience, these soft skills are crucial in finding success within the industry.

‘Prior to the BFI, I really lacked in confidence with film equipment and experience on set, and now I feel comfortable vocalising what I need done and know how to achieve it.

‘My biggest achievement on the course was when we were filming, my teammates and I worked well together, communicating and asking each other for help and advise.

‘This cemented the fact that I want film to be my chosen career and that I have new found skills. The course has given me a realistic understanding, as well as an appreciation of the film industry – inspiring me to make films of my own.’ – BFI Film Academy Short Course Participant 2022

Subject to successful completion of required assessments, this course can award learners the Preparing to Work in the Film Industry qualification, an NCFE Level 2 award. This qualification will benefit their professional development, whether through further film education courses or entering the industry.   

This course is open to young people aged 16-19 years old, living in the Edinburgh, Clackmannanshire, East Lothian, Falkirk, Fife, Midlothian, Scottish Borders, Stirling and West Lothian areas. No prior experience is required.

The deadline for applications is the 24th of September 2023, at 5pm.

More information and the application form can be found at https://www.screen-ed.org/bfifilmacademy.

The BFI Film Academy Edinburgh and South East Scotland Short Course will take place on the following dates:

October 2023 – 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 24th, 28th.   

November 2023 – 4th, 11th, 12th, 14th, 18th, 19th, 25th, 26th.   

Sessions will take place from 11am to 6pm, while shooting days will last from 10am to 6pm. The sessions taking place on the 24th of October and 14th of November will be online, from 6pm to 8pm.

The course fee is £25; however, for those unable to pay this, we still encourage applying. Bursaries will be available for those who require assistance with fees or travel costs.

We understand that people have different accessibility needs, and that some communicate better through different mediums. Therefore, there is an option to submit a video application, rather than a written online form; further details regarding this can be found here.

In addition, we will be holding an open day for applicants at SEE on the 9th of September, 10am – 1pm. During this drop-in session, we will be on hand to help with the application process, as well as answer any questions.

SEE Young Filmmakers Hub: 

Supported by the Sean Connery Foundation, the SEE Young Filmmakers Hub offers young people the opportunity to learn more about the art of filmmaking, regardless of their circumstances. Aimed at those aged 12-18 living in Edinburgh, learners will gain experience of working in a variety of filmmaking roles.

From sound and lighting design to cinematography and directing, this practical course provides valuable hands-on training in all aspects of filmmaking, allowing young people the chance to discover new interests and strengths. 

Working in groups learners will be tasked with developing, shooting and editing their very own narrative short film. Through this course, we seek to empower young people to create their own ideas and tell stories that are meaningful to them, gaining self-confidence and fostering good teamwork skills. 

‘My long term goal is to get into the film industry. I haven’t decided exactly what I want to do but I think I have a clearer idea after this course.

‘It feels like a very effective introduction to film as you gain an understanding of a wide range of different aspects of film, such as directing as well as sound and editing, rather than just one. I gained a lot of confidence with the technical side of filmmaking.’ – Participant Young Filmmakers Hub

The next stage of the Young Filmmakers Hub will take place from September/October to December 2023. Young people aged 12-15 years old living in Edinburgh are eligible to apply. More information and an application form can be found at https://www.screen-ed.org/yfh.

Learners will be split into groups based on age, with the course running on the following dates:

Group 1 (12-14): starting 21st September and continuing every Thursday

Group 2 (14-15): starting 19th September and continuing every Tuesday

Group 3 (16-18): starting 6th September and continuing every Wednesday

SEE is dedicated to making filmmaking accessible to people of all backgrounds and experience levels. The Hub is free, and no previous filmmaking experience is necessary; the only requirement is a love for films, and a desire to make your own. 

Upon completion of this course, learners will be invited to enrol in more year-round filmmaking activities here at SEE. We are committed to providing ongoing support and development, nurturing the talents of aspiring filmmakers and empowering them to pursue their passion further.

New programme launches to help Scottish businesses cut costs and protect the planet

Environmentally conscious SMEs are being offered the chance to reduce their carbon footprint and lower energy bills thanks to a new partnership between Royal Bank of Scotland, the Edinburgh Climate Change Institute (ECCI) and the University of Edinburgh.

The free course allows businesses to identify the simple, cost-effective steps they can take to reduce emissions and save on outgoings while also helping the planet at the same time. 

Successful applicants will take part in three 2-hour workshops that begin by helping SMEs to understand their own energy and carbon usage data and how they can build their own tailored ‘Carbon Reduction Plan’.  

The free workshops also explain how taking positive environmental action can result in lower energy usage and therefore lower bills. Organisations can become more cost efficient by making positive changes such as changing boiler settings, installing smart lighting systems, swapping to sustainable suppliers and upgrading insulation. 

The scheme is currently accepting applications from all sectors, having already supported over 60 participants from industries such as manufacturing, charity and education.  

Applications for the next cohort close on 3rd October, with a later session set to launch at the start of November also welcoming candidates.  

Code Hostels completed the course earlier this year and has used the learnings from the programme to make sustainable improvements across the business, including buying more produce from local suppliers and switching to eco-friendly cleaning products. 

Talking of his experience, Jamie Greig, Operations and Design Consultant at Code Hostels, said: “The programme was a game changer for us. As a business, when you start looking at reducing emissions it can seem like an incredibly daunting process, and net zero targets can seem a long way off.  

“We found it really valuable to chat to the other groups on the cohort, and we quickly realised we weren’t alone in the challenges we were facing. 

“Sustainability in the hospitality industry is a personal passion of mine and we know that many other SMEs across the hospitality sector are experiencing the same challenges as we had at Code. I now run my own separate business, Our Property Bear, using energy monitors to help hotels and hostels monitor and reduce their energy consumption.” 

Judith Cruickshank, Chair, One Bank Scotland said: “Royal Bank of Scotland is delighted to work with the University of Edinburgh’s Edinburgh Climate Change Institute to deliver a programme which can make a real difference to SMEs across all sectors. 

“It offers the insight, learnings and access to experts to help businesses see the opportunities it can offer them – and see the potential tackling climate change could make.”  

Prof Dave Raey, Executive Director of ECCI, University of Edinburgh said: “The Climate Springboard programme is inspiring. The great engagement and responses from participating businesses is a testament to the fantastic work of the team here at Edinburgh Climate Change Institute and our partners at the Royal Bank of Scotland.  

“In simultaneously helping to cut energy costs and carbon emissions for such a wide array of businesses, they are delivering exactly the kinds of cost-effective climate action so desperately needed in every sector.” 

The scheme is currently accepting applications from all sectors, having already supported over 60 participants from industries such as manufacturing, charity and education.  

Applications for the next cohort close on 3rd October, with a later session set to launch at the start of November also welcoming candidates.  

SMEs looking to learn more about their emissions and how they can start reducing them are invited to register their interest here. More information about the programme is available here.