For #FallsAwarenessWeek, RoSPA ran a Fall Fighter awareness session with some of our colleagues at HQ!
Anyone can become a Fall Fighter – taking part is simple and requires no prior knowledge. The materials are designed for quick and effective delivery, with an average completion time of just 15-20 minutes.
Midlothian Council and Cruden celebrated the completion of an energy-efficient Passivhaus development on Scottish Housing Day.
The milestone marked the official completion of 20 new council flats at St Cuthbert’s on Bonnyrigg High Street, built to the energy-efficient Passivhaus standard.
These flats include assisted living apartments and homes for residents aged 55 and over and were designed by the award-winning architecture firm AHR. The project is part of the most ambitious Passivhaus programme in Scotland, with a total of 182 new homes constructed by Midlothian Council to meet stringent building standards and achieve up to 90% in energy savings.
Councillor Stuart McKenzie, Cabinet Member for Housingcommented: “It’s fantastic to see what was once a building site transformed into a modern, attractive development that our tenants are now calling home.
“Hearing first-hand how local people are enjoying warm, comfortable, and energy-efficient homes while helping us make progress towards our net zero target by 2030 is truly inspiring.”
The Passivhaus-certified homes feature bright, spacious interiors designed to reduce energy consumption, with Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems providing fresh air circulation while retaining the heat already generated in the apartments.
With an exterior designed to complement the surrounding architecture, the development seamlessly blends into the local community, enhancing the character of Bonnyrigg High Street.
Fraser Lynes, Managing Director at Cruden, expressed the company’s pleasure in working with Midlothian Council on these new homes: “It’s incredibly rewarding to see tenants already settling in and benefiting from energy-efficient living. This year’s Scottish Housing Day theme, ‘Homes for Life,’ truly reflects what we’ve accomplished here—creating a sustainable, future-proof community that addresses the environmental challenges of tomorrow.
“Knowing we’ve built homes that not only protect the environment but also significantly enhance the comfort and quality of life for residents is what makes projects like this so fulfilling.”
Midlothian Council’s commitment to sustainable housing is part of its wider strategy to achieve net zero emissions by 2030. With this latest Passivhaus development, the council continues to set an example for local authorities across Scotland, providing residents with affordable, energy-efficient homes while supporting environmental goals.
Broxburn residents Stuart and Mhairi Shand conquered the Edinburgh Kiltwalk in support of the National Deaf Children’s Society on Sunday 15 September.
The couple took part in the Big Stroll Kiltwalk, which started in Musselburgh and passed through Portobello and Leith before finishing at Murrayfield Stadium, where they were greeted by their family. They completed the 11.2-mile course in three hours, 50 minutes.
They chose to support the National Deaf Children’s Society because their son Tommy was born deaf in April of last year and the family has been receiving ongoing support from the charity.
They’ve smashed their original fundraising target of £500, with over £1,000 raised so far for the charity, which supports the UK’s 50,000 deaf children and their families.
Stuart and Mhairi live in Broxburn, West Lothian, with their four children, Amelia, 14, Kian, 11, Annie, 6, and Tommy.
Stuart said: “The overall experience was amazing. It was a great atmosphere during the event and great to be part of it! Choosing the National Deaf Children’s Society was a no brainer for us.
“The support the charity has given us from day one has been great and the British Sign Language classes have been invaluable in helping us communicate with Tommy.
“The main inspiration though was Tommy. He’s our wee superhero and we just want to help make his life as easy as possible. He was waiting at the finish line for us but he was sleeping!”
Hannah Awesome,who supports fundraisers for the National Deaf Children’s Society, said:“I want to say a huge thank you to Stuart and Mhairi for taking on the Edinburgh Kiltwalk for us. We’re all very proud of you.
“The National Deaf Children’s Society is dedicated to supporting the UK’s 50,000 deaf children and their families. The efforts of selfless fundraisers like Stuart and Mhairi will help us to keep on doing our vital work, now and into the future.”
The Scottish Parliament’s Economy and Fair Work Committee will examine how effective funding deals have been in improving Scotland’s local economies, in a new inquiry launched on Friday.
The Committee has opened a consultation to look at the implementation and effectiveness of Scotland’s City Region and Regional Growth Deals.
These are funding agreements between the Scottish Government, the UK Government and local partners to boost regional economic growth. Calling for views, the Committee aims to find out how the deals have contributed to addressing local issues, and supported development and inclusive growth.
There are currently 12 deals in Scotland, each tailored to local circumstances and priorities. This might include improved broadband and mobile coverage, reducing unemployment or supporting the life sciences industry.
Claire Baker MSP, Convener of the Economy and Fair Work Committee, said:“City Region and Regional Growth Deals have the potential to deliver significant transformations in communities across Scotland by attracting investment, creating new jobs and improving economic growth.
“We would like to understand more about how these impacts have been and are being measured, and how far lessons learned from earlier deals are informing newer deals.
“We’re particularly keen to hear from Scottish businesses to gauge experiences of engaging with local city region deals and about what support has been provided to bid for work.
“As a Committee, we will examine the progress of the Deals so far and identify whether they are delivering what they intended for the people of Scotland.”
Do you live or work in or around Corstorphine and could spare an hour or two a week to help tackle loneliness in your area?
We’re looking for lovely locals to become a friendship volunteer to a local older person who’s feeling alone.
To find out more about how you can change someone’s life for the better and make a difference on your doorstep, send us a DM or visit, vintagevibes.org.uk.
PCHP BOSWALL PARKWAY – MONDAY 23 SEPTEMBER from 12 – 1pm
Community Police Drop-In Event
Hello neighbours!
We’re excited to host a Community Police Drop-In event happening Next Monday!
Date: Monday 23rd of September
Time: 12-1 pm
Location: Pilton Community Health Project, 73 Boswall Parkway, EH5 2PW
This is a fantastic opportunity to meet our local police officers, ask questions, share concerns, and learn more about how we can work together to keep our community safe.
Whether you have specific issues to discuss or just want to say hello, everyone is welcome! Let’s build a stronger, safer community together.
Feel free to bring your family and friends. Light refreshments will be provided.
Miles Briggs MSP has visited local opticians McGraths Opticians in Edinburgh, ahead of National Eye Health Week.
He is backing the awareness week’s key message that going for regular eye examinations, which are free for everyone in Scotland, remains as important as ever in protecting your sight.
Miles Briggs, Conservative MSP for Lothian, says: “Meeting today with McGraph’s Opticians in Edinburgh, I heard directly about how important regular eye tests are for public health.
“National Eye Health Week is an opportunity to highlight how essential having a regular eye exam is.
“I encourage everyone to make sure they get an eye test, which is free in Scotland, at least every two years.”
National sight loss charity RNIB Scotland, and Optometry Scotland, the representative body for optometrists and dispensing opticians in Scotland are promoting this year’s National Eye Health Week which takes place from 23 to 29 September 2024 to highlight the importance of good eye health and the need for regular eye tests for all.
Positively, recent research from Public Health Scotland indicates that there has been an increase in eye examination uptake this year compared to last. There was a 6.7% increase across NHS Lothian for NHS funded eye examinations.
RNIB Scotland Director, James Adams says: “Having a regular eye test is important for people’s wider health – they can pick up early signs of sight threatening conditions as well as many other underlying health conditions.
“We are encouraged by a recent increase in the uptakes of eye tests, however we need to make sure everyone feels comfortable getting one.
“We’re here to support anyone experiencing changes in their vision and is worried about what this could mean. Along with other charities, we can provide the advice and support so you can make an informed decision about your healthcare. No one should go through an eye condition diagnosis without support.”
Optometry Scotland’s Executive Committeeadds, “‘We are proud to collaborate with RNIB Scotland during National Eye Health Week.
“As part of our commitment to improving public health in Scotland, we want to encourage everyone to make use of NHS-funded eye examinations. These vital checks are not just about vision correction but are essential for the early detection of eye conditions and overall wellbeing.
“We are also grateful to work alongside RNIB Scotland in organising MSP visits, further highlighting the importance of eye health across the nation. By ensuring the public knows about the accessibility of these services, we can help safeguard the eye health of communities across Scotland.’
ICONS is an 18+ historical erotica exhibition centred around mythology, cultism and the human body. Inspired by the life of Sir William Peck, the exhibit will take place in his genuine historical cult meeting house that entertained the golden dawn religion.
Hosted by Ethyn Haynes, an Edinburgh based artist inspired by historical technique, will showcase not only his artwork but also the work of Rachel Cornwall and Bronwen Winter Phoenix.
The pieces will be up for sale along with signed prints and other goodies.
The exhibition runs from Saturday the 28th until Sunday the 29th, 11am till 4pm.
Leading renewable energy firm ScottishPower has announced a major expansion to its support for women’s and girls’ football with the sponsorship of all Scottish Women’s Football (SWF) cup competitions.
The four separate trophy competitions are open to over 75 senior female teams from right across the country that all play out with the ScottishPower Scottish Women’s Premier league.
The exclusive sponsorship announcement was made at Riverside Park in Dundee, where the first ever Scottish Women’s Cup final was played in 1970, and cements ScottishPower’s position as the most prolific sponsor of the women’s game in Scotland.
That inaugural match saw Stewarton beat Aberdeen Prima Donnas 4-2 with Scottish football legend and Stewarton-born striker Rose Reilly, who attended today’s launch, playing a major role.
The announcement also comes just weeks after the 50-year anniversary of the Scottish Football Association lifting its ban on women’s football and officially recognising the Scottish Women’s Football Association.
The notable deal will see the four SWF competitions become:
The ScottishPower National League Cup – previously the Championship & League One Cup and currently held by Rossvale
The ScottishPower Regional League Cup – previously the SWFL Cup and currently held by Glenrothes Strollers
The ScottishPower Regional League Plate – previously the SWFL Plate and currently held by Linlithgow Rose
The ScottishPower Highlands & Islands Cup – previously the Highlands & Islands League Cup and currently held by Buckie Ladies
ScottishPower is already the exclusive Principal Partner for Scottish Women’s Football (SWF) and the Scottish Women’s Premier League (SWPL), sponsor of the Scottish Youth Challenge Cups at all three age groups and the first ever title sponsor of the Scottish Women’s Highlands and Islands League.
Keith Anderson, Chief Executive of ScottishPower, said: “I’m delighted to announce the expansion of our support for women’s football in Scotland. As a business that serves communities right across Scotland, we are dedicated to energising the game from its grassroots whether in the far north, central belt or very south of the country.
“With over 75 clubs and hundreds of women competing for all four of these prestigious trophies, we’re thrilled to be playing our part in supporting SWF as they ensure that grassroots football for women in Scotland continues to thrive.”
Commenting, Aileen Campbell, CEO, Scottish Women’s Football said:“It’s absolutely wonderful to have our Principal Partner ScottishPower expand into our senior cup competitions. This is the first time in our history that all senior cups have had a title sponsor which underlines the growth in the women’s game.
“We’ve already seen the great value this partnership has given the Highlands and Islands League and the Youth Challenge Cup. Expanding support as title sponsors for our senior cups is a clear indication of ScottishPower’s commitment and recognition that women’s football is growing at all levels, giving support to women right across Scotland as they go for cup glory.”
Despite early success in her footballing career in Scotland, Rose Reilly was barred from playing the game in her native country. She later joined AC Milan in Italy. During her time at the club, Rose won eight Serie A titles, four Italian Cups and twice won the Golden Boot.
Speaking at the launch event in Dundee, Rose said: “When I won the cup with Stewarton, there was no support from authorities for women’s football, but we did it anyway. It was unofficial.
“We’ve come a long way since then, and it’s great to see companies like ScottishPower recognising the women’s game and adding to its value like this. I can’t wait to watch the cup finals.”
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has recently issued a Safety Alert, highlighting the potential risks that water beads pose to children and vulnerable adults. RoSPA (The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) fully supports this important alert and encourages everyone to take necessary precautions when using or handling water beads.
Water beads, often marketed as jelly balls, sensory beads, or water crystals, are small beads that can expand up to 400 times their original size when exposed to liquid.
Though popular for use in toys, decorations, and sensory play, they can present serious dangers, particularly for young children under 5 and vulnerable individuals, such as those with special educational needs or disabilities.
The Risks of Water Beads
The main concern with water beads is their ability to expand when swallowed. Once inside the body, they can block the gastrointestinal tract, leading to severe complications that may require surgical intervention. The risk of choking is also significant, as small children often explore by putting objects in their mouths. Reports have linked water beads to injuries in the UK, and there have even been fatal cases overseas.
Another alarming aspect of water beads is their difficulty to detect if ingested. They are not visible on X-rays, meaning early symptoms may go unnoticed. It is crucial to be aware of signs of ingestion or choking and to seek immediate medical attention if a bead is swallowed. Symptoms can include vomiting, stomach pain, or changes in behaviour, which may appear hours or even days later.
Preventative Measures
RoSPA urges parents, caregivers, educators, and businesses to take the following steps to minimise the risks posed by water beads:
Keep water beads away from young children: For children under 5, water beads should be stored out of sight and reach to prevent accidental ingestion or choking.
Avoid using water beads in homes or settings with young children: Caregivers should avoid having water beads in environments where young children are present, even if they are intended for older children or adults. This helps reduce the likelihood of accidents, as younger children are prone to putting objects in their mouths.
Supervise closely when using water beads: If water beads are used by older children or vulnerable individuals, they should be supervised closely. Ensure that no beads have been left behind after play or use, and limit the number of beads available at any one time.
Know the signs of ingestion or choking: Be on the lookout for symptoms such as stomach pain, vomiting, or difficulty breathing. Choking signs may include grasping the neck, a change in skin colour, or distress. If you suspect ingestion, seek medical help immediately, and if possible, bring a sample of the product for identification.
Stay Informed for Safety
RoSPA encourages all caregivers, educators, and businesses to remain alert to the risks of water beads and to take action where needed. The OPSS has already taken steps to remove unsafe products from the market, but everyone plays a role in ensuring these risks are minimised in homes, schools, and beyond.
RoSPA encourages all caregivers, educators, and businesses to remain alert to the risks of water beads and to take action where needed. The OPSS has already taken steps to remove unsafe products from the market, but everyone plays a role in ensuring these risks are minimised in homes, schools, and beyond.
Phil Le Shirley, Product Safety Advisor at RoSPA, emphasises the importance of awareness: “Water beads may seem harmless, but they pose a real and often hidden danger to young children and vulnerable adults.
“We strongly urge parents and caregivers to follow the OPSS guidance and take immediate action to prevent unnecessary injuries or worse.”
For more information and to read the full OPSS Safety Alert, visit the official GOV.UK website.
Community Police Drop-In Event 
Date: Monday 23rd of September
Time: 12-1 pm
Location: Pilton Community Health Project, 73 Boswall Parkway, EH5 2PW
