Edinburgh eyes smart city status with new cutting-edge control centre

City of Edinburgh Council Leader Cammy Day has officially opened a revolutionary new City Operations Centre.

Harnessing high-tech to help keep the city safe and moving, the new centre will position Edinburgh as a leader in the UK for smart security and surveillance tools.

It has been delivered in partnership with IT service and solutions provider North as part of a £2.6m contract, funded by the Council and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) 2014-2020 programme known as ‘Scotland’s 8th City – the Smart City’, which is contributing £712k in grant funding towards the project.

Replacing an outdated control centre which was no longer fit-for-purpose, the new smart Operations Centre will be manned and receive real-time data from the CCTV network 24/7. This will integrate other technologies which will help to improve traffic flow, transport infrastructure and city planning – subsequently improving the city’s collective carbon footprint.

Given the accessibility to real-time data, advanced analytics will drastically help the Council and partners respond to emergencies and manage large-scale events like Edinburgh’s Hogmanay and August Festivals.

Council Leader Cammy Day said: “This new operations centre has been years in the making and it’s fantastic to see it live in action. With cutting-edge low-carbon technology designed to keep the city moving and our communities safe, it drastically steps up our capabilities as a Council.

“We’ve completely overhauled the technology we use within the control centre and across the city – replacing outdated analogue cameras with intelligent internet-enabled devices. This means we can analyse events and traffic in real time. Particularly as our city grows, our investment will support the safety of the public and wider community, deterring and preventing anti-social behaviour and crime like we sadly experienced recently on Bonfire Night and Remembrance Sunday.

“Edinburgh is fast becoming an example of a truly smart city and its thanks to trailblazing projects like this. We’re also rolling out waste and housing sensors, innovative digital learning opportunities in schools, while exploring an urban traffic management control system which is a tool for monitoring traffic flow.

“The whole operation is much more sustainable and data driven which, crucially, is going to lead to more efficient Council services for the people of Edinburgh.”

Scott McEwan, acting CEO at North, said: “Helping to drive positive change through smart technology and improved operational systems across Edinburgh is something that North is incredibly proud of. Working together, the city now has access to real-time data that will influence the future of city planning, improve large-scale events and create a greener environment for generations to come.

“The City of Edinburgh Council is making transformational steps to becoming a Smart City and its forward-thinking approach to the adoption of IoT solutions will help to accelerate their ambition to reaching such status.

“We are really excited for the local authority to see the seismic impact introducing smart technologies has on the quality of the environment, and importantly, on the health and wellbeing of people who live in and visit Edinburgh.”

The data is captured by a new CCTV system rolled out across the city which is significantly expanding security coverage. This has included upgrading the city’s digital Video Surveillance System (VSS), enhancing video analytic function and data protection capabilities, and replacing analogue cameras with high-resolution Internet Protocol (IP) devices.

As part of the delivery, North also contributed to a number of community benefits to help deliver social value within local neighbourhoods. This included recruiting an Edinburgh-based modern apprentice and an apprentice to assist the roll-out of the CCTV network and the provision of curriculum support activities to local schools and community volunteers.

Edinburgh is one of the seven Scottish cities collaboratively working towards becoming a world leading Smart City. Supported by the Scottish Cities Alliance, a partnership of Scotland’s seven city local authorities and the Scottish Government, £45 million, including £18 million of ERDF support plus cities match funding of £28 million, is being invested in the ‘Scotland’s 8th City – the Smart City’ Programme.

Drop-in clinics available across Lothian for winter vaccines

Waverley Mall and Ocean Terminal units open every day

Vaccination clinics across Lothian are now welcoming drop ins from all adults who are eligible for this year’s winter vaccines.

Until Thursday 22nd December 2022, adults who are eligible for a flu vaccine and/or a COVID-19 winter booster can get their vaccinations without an appointment.

So far, over half a million winter vaccines have been delivered in Lothian, protecting hundreds of thousands of people from the latest strain of flu and topping up their protection against COVID-19.

The COVID-19 vaccine on offer in Lothian is a Spikevax bivalent booster vaccine, which is proven to protect from the Omicron variant as well as older strains of the virus.

For those who are eligible for both vaccines, getting these at the same time is a safe and efficient way to deliver maximum protection over the winter months.

Pat Wynne, Nurse Director for Primary and Community Care for NHS Lothian, said: “The flu virus is always changing and COVID-19 protection can fade over time, so it’s important we keep ahead of these viruses and top up our protection when offered.

“Even if you’ve already had COVID-19, you can get it again and vaccination is still the best way of protecting yourself and those around you against severe COVID-19 illness.

“If you’re an eligible adult and are yet to get your vaccinations, I’d urge you to take up this offer and drop in to one of our clinics before Christmas.

“For more information on these clinics, and details of how children and teenagers can get their vaccines, please visit our website.”

You may have to wait to be seen if you drop-in.

If you are required to queue and have mobility issues, or need any support or assistance, please make yourself known to a member of staff.

You are welcome to bring a carer, family member or friend along if you wish.

If you prefer to book an appointment, you can still do so online via the booking portal or by calling the National Vaccination Helpline on 0800 030 8013.

Drop-in clinic details can be found on NHS Lothian’s website. Please visit NHS Inform to find out more about the winter vaccines.

If you prefer to book an appointment, you can still do so online via the booking portal or by calling the National Vaccination Helpline on 0800 030 8013.

AreaSiteDaysDrop-in times
East LothianHaddington Corn ExchangeMonday to Sunday8.30am – 12pm1pm – 4pm
EdinburghOcean TerminalMonday to Sunday9am – 6.30pm
EdinburghWaverley MallMonday to Sunday10am – 5.30pm
MidlothianRosewell SteadingMonday to Sunday8am – 5pm

*Please note the main car park will be closed between 3pm and 5pm on Sunday 4th December for the switching on of the Christmas lights. On street parking will be available.
West LothianLivingston Designer OutletMonday to Wednesday and Friday9.30am – 5pm
​​Thursday9.30am – 6pm
​​Sunday10.30am – 4.30pm
West LothianCarmondean Health CentreMonday and Tuesday9am – 12pm1.15pm – 4.30pm
West LothianWest Calder Health CentreWednesday and Friday9am – 12pm, 1.15pm – 4.30pm
West Lothian
Strathbrock Partnership Centre 
Monday to Sunday
9am – 6pm 

Native Edinburgh announces festive programme of events

Lifestyle aparthotel, Native has announced an exciting programme of fun creative events in the run up to Christmas to kickstart the feelgood in your festivities in the Capital. 

Collaborating with local neighbourhood heroes including floral ateliers, Olly & Ivy and book store, Lighthouse, Native Edinburgh will host a jam-packed programme of interactive events in its speakeasy lounge Counter. 

From laid back Lounge Listening sessions where the best contemporary music is played on vinyl to wreath making masterclasses with a local Edinburgh florist, Counter will be the perfect place to unwind and get creative in Edinburgh this busy festive season. 

Their bustling festive schedule will see them partner with luxury floral designers Ollie & Ivy, Counter to host two elegant wreath making workshops on the 8th of December and 15th of December from 7pm.  

Trained in Paris and specialising in contemporary floral arrangements, Ollie & Ivy will teach guests how to expertly make striking festive wreaths. Using locally sourced foliage and organic materials, guests will learn how to create contemporary rustic Christmas wreaths that they will be proud to hang in their homes. Limited tickets include all materials to make the wreath in this two hour class.

Counter is also introducing a new monthly social club with the aim to bring creatives together in the local community. Their first meetup takes place this evening (November 30th) with curated readings and speakers from Lighthouse Books and is free to attend. Join them in Native from 7pm. 

Igniting creative imagination, don’t miss the boutique hotel’s debut Artist in Residence series featuring Stew Bryden – on display in Native Edinburgh until the end of the year. This new creative collaboration sees ten striking pieces shot by Bryden – famed for fashion and celebrity portraits, and displayed in Counter by Native Edinburgh for all to enjoy. 

Lsst night Counter hosted a ‘Lounge Listening’ session dedicated to South-London-born singer-songwriter Tom Misch, who performed his latest release ‘Quarantine Sessions’, an eight-track album composed of instrumental jam sessions, three originals and a diverse assortment of covers ranging from Solange to Nirvana. 

To make the working day easier, Counter’s popular ‘Coffee and Co-Work’ will continue every Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm in December offering guests a comfortable home from home.

Offering fast wifi and a luxurious selection of food and drink, 9-5ers can have a change of scene at Counter, swapping working from home for working from a luxury apart hotel. To sweeten the deal, Counter is offering free coffee to guests when they purchase breakfast. 

Gary White, Regional Manager of Scotland Native Aparthotels, said: “Christmas is such a wonderful time of year and we’re excited to bring some Christmas magic to Native Edinburgh. 

“We hope to be a place where our guests can escape to kick back, relax and indulge their creativity this festive season. And it’s even better that we can support local businesses like Ollie & Ivy and Lighthouse Books whilst doing it. Our festive programme is now live and we hope you can join us.”

Festive Wreath Making with Ollie & Ivy events are expected to sell out quickly, and will take place on: Thursday 8th of December and Thursday 15th of December from 7pm 

For more information on Native’s festive programme, simply head HERE 

Foysol Choudhury MSP: Speak out about Islamophobia

Responding at the end of Islamophobia Awareness Month, which ran during November, Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “Islamophobia and other religious and racial hatred is a stain on our society that needs washing out urgently.

“The theme this Islamophobia Awareness Month was tackling denial: tackling the denial that Islamophobia exists in Scotland and tackling the denial about the effect it can have on recipients of Islamophobic abuse.

“I tried to encourage all my constituents this month to speak out when they experienced abuse, or saw it being perpetrated.

“By raising awareness that these problems exist, we can all support each other, encourage more victims to speak out and inform parliamentarians and law officials about what constituents are facing daily.

“I know from an event I attended with the organisation MEND that many victims of Islamophobia feel unable to raise this issue with their MSPs, whether this be due to worry about the consequences, a lack of supportive access to MSPs or language barriers.

“MEND can offer you support on these issues and help you to reach out to parliamentarians, so I would encourage those struggling to contact them.

“I was glad to see that Islamophobia Awareness Month also coincided with Interfaith Week.

“Religious hatred and intolerance affects all and so I believe that religions should be working together to foster peaceful relations and end abuse such as Islamophobia and Antisemitism.

“By working together and joining each others’ celebrations, we can learn more about our differences and be unified it our common aims of equality and peace.

“It was also interesting to learn during Islamophobia Awareness Month that many Islamophobic attacks are also carried out against those who aren’t even Muslim.

“For example, I heard of a Sikh man who was a victim of Islamophobic attack because the attacker mistook him for a Muslim.

“These forms of Islamophobia also have a devastating effect on recipients of the abuse and we must develop more robust reporting and monitoring frameworks for hate crime so that these intricacies can be better understood and better support can be given to victims.

“Whilst this Islamophobia Awareness Month has brought many saddening factors to light about how far we have to go until we live in an Islamophobia free world, it has also highlighted the positive impact of how we can work together to provide each other with support and hopefully end religious intolerance and abuse once and for all.

“If I could give everyone one takeaway this Islamophobia Awareness Month, it would be to speak out about Islamophobia, provide support for religious communities and work with all to create a better, more tolerant and peaceful world.”

Santa Claus abseils into Edinburgh Children’s Hospital

Children at the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People (RHCYP) were given a wonderful surprise when Santa and his elves abseiled in to spread a ho-ho-whole lot of Christmas cheer.

Jolly old Saint Nick, two of his most trusted elves, and their super friend Spiderman descended the side of the hospital, much to the delight of unsuspecting children, families and staff watching through the ward windows and from the ground below.

The fearless festive friends scaled two different parts of the building to ensure as many children and young people as possible had a chance to view the spectacle.

Organised by Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity (ECHC) in partnership with Edinburgh Rope Access, the daring deed is raising money to deliver magic and happiness to seriously ill children in hospital this Christmas.

Nicky Erskine, managing director at Edinburgh Rope Access, dedicated the gutsy stunt to all those at the hospital who fight their own brave battles on a daily basis.

Nicky said: “Who needs a chimney when Santa can abseil off the roof instead? Scaling the side of a hospital isn’t for the faint-hearted but it is nothing compared to the challenges that children staying here face with such courage every day.

“We wanted to do our bit to spread some Christmas cheer, bring lots of smiles to those on the wards and raise funds for an incredibly worthy cause while we were at it.”

Pippa Johnston, Director at ECHC, said: “We are enormously grateful to Santa and his elves for coming all the way from the North Pole to visit children and families at the hospital. It was marvellous to see so many faces light up when Santa dropped by their window and gave them a wave!

“Every year, together with our friends at NHS Lothian, ECHC works hard to make time spent in hospital a little bit brighter. At Christmas, this becomes even more vital, but we rely solely on donations and kindness to do this.

“Though we can’t stop their pain, we can deliver some happiness. For those facing a hospital stay at this time of year, special events like this really do go a long way in delivering magic and lifting everyone’s spirits.”

To find out more about ECHC’s Redirected Letters to Santa Christmas appeal and to donate, visit www.echcharity.org/donate

More support to make homes warmer and greener

New offer to make climate-friendly energy improvements simpler

As of today it will be simpler and more affordable for people to install climate-friendly heat and energy efficiency measures in their homes.

Homeowners can now apply for a standalone grant of £7,500 from the Home Energy Scotland Scheme to install heat pumps. Previously, applicants were required to sign up for a loan before they qualified for this funding, but can now access the money directly.

The new approach is designed to offer greater flexibility for those looking to make their homes more climate-friendly.

The enhanced measures will also include an extra £1,500 to homeowners in rural areas, in line with a commitment made as part of the Bute House Agreement. A standalone grant of £7,500 for energy efficiency improvements to homes will also be made available.

Minister for Zero Carbon Buildings, Patrick Harvie announced the changes whilst on a visit to a Home Energy Scotland advice centre in Edinburgh to learn more about the ways their advisors have been helping people to access energy efficiency funding.

He said: “Reducing emissions from our homes and buildings is one of the most important things we can do to help end Scotland’s contribution to climate change.

“Our Heat in Buildings Strategy sets out ambitious targets to transform how we heat and insulate buildings and we have committed £1.8 billion over this parliament to support its delivery. This includes doubling our funding for the Home Energy Scotland scheme this year.

“The improvements to the Home Energy Scotland Scheme – including, importantly, targeted support for those in rural areas – will make it easier for people to access funding to ensure their homes are more energy efficient and use climate friendly-heating.

“I would encourage anyone that is interested to visit the Home Energy Scotland website. Advisors are also available to guide applicants through the process.”

Harry Mayers, Head of Home Energy Scotland, said: “Having a warm home and reducing energy bills are big priorities for households in Scotland. The Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan will help thousands of households make much-needed improvements to their homes to keep out the cold and drive down bills.

“The changes being made mean that homeowners can now apply for grant funding without a loan; this will be a huge help towards covering the cost of making energy efficiency improvements or installing renewable systems such as heat pumps.

“The updated scheme comes at just the right time as we’re going into winter with energy prices at record highs. The rural uplift, which will provide extra financial support for those who live in rural and island communities who often face increased costs for home improvements, is especially welcome.”

Business Secretary launches review to prevent small firms from being ripped off by larger companies

Comprehensive review into tackling late payments for small businesses announced by Business Secretary

  • Business Secretary Grant Shapps announces in-depth review into payment practices to prevent small firms from being ripped off by larger companies
  • aimed at ensuring small businesses across the UK receive the payments they deserve, with £23.4 billion currently owed in outstanding invoices
  • comes as the Small Business Saturday Campaign marks its 10th anniversary

Business Secretary Grant Shapps has today – Small Business Saturday – announced a comprehensive review into tackling late payments for small businesses, while urging large companies to pay their smaller suppliers promptly.

Small businesses routinely spend significant time and resources chasing late payments from businesses they supply which can lead to cash flow problems, putting their firms at risk and preventing them from growing. The majority of small businesses do not have large balance sheets and cannot accommodate long payment terms or delays to receiving payment within their cash flow cycle.

The Payment and Cash Flow review will scrutinise existing payment practices and the measures in place to make sure small firms are not ripped off by their larger clients – with over £23.4 billion currently owed in outstanding invoices to UK businesses.

The review will consider the progress made in specific sectors of the economy in combatting late payment and will also include an in-depth examination of current payment reporting regulations and the Prompt Payment Code.

In addition, the statutory review of the Small Business Commissioner will help to ensure that the UK has the right arrangements in place to best support small businesses.

Business Secretary Grant Shapps said: “The UK’s 5.5 million small businesses are an integral part not just of our economy, but of our communities too, and this government is firmly on their side.

“That many small firms are routinely paid late is intolerable and presents a real barrier to productivity, the creation of high-skilled jobs and ultimately economic growth.

“This review will allow us to build on the success we have had so far in curbing late payment, unshackling small businesses from this exploitative practice and creating a system that is fit for the future.

“While we crack on with this work, I also want to remind big businesses of their duty to ensure their smaller suppliers are paid promptly.”

The government is already demonstrating its own commitment to prompt payment through the Procurement Bill, which is currently being debated in Parliament. The legislation sets out the requirement for 30 day payment terms to apply in public sector supply chains which will help level the playing field for SMEs and encourage more businesses with smaller budgets to bid for public sector contracts

The announcement comes alongside the government’s support for Small Business Saturday – which celebrates small business successes and encourages consumers to support smaller firms in their area – with the Business Secretary out on a visit to his local high street in his Welwyn Hatfield constituency.

Also within the scope of the review is the role of technology-enabled accountancy platforms in tackling late payments and promoting a better understanding of prompt payment measures within the small business community.

The role of finance, particularly how major banks and innovative lenders can help small businesses manage their cashflow and identifying barriers to accessing finance will also be part of the review’s remit. The review will include a consultation on the payment reporting regulations, setting out specific proposals on renewal and improvement of these duties. 

The review of the Small Business Commissioner will consider both its role and effectiveness, drawing on the consultation on the Commissioner’s powers that was conducted in 2020.

The government is committed to supporting small businesses across the United Kingdom through a series of measures including the recently expanded Start Up Loans scheme which saw an additional 33,000 new loans made available to SMEs.

Small businesses have also benefited from the Energy Bill Relief Scheme which provides non-domestic customers with a discount on their gas and electricity bills in light of the rise in global energy prices.

As part of the Autumn Statement, the Chancellor announced a £13.6 billion package of support for business rate payers, including the £500 million Supporting Small Business scheme.

United Kingdom Health Security Agency issues Scarlet Fever update

The latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows that scarlet fever cases continue to remain higher than we would typically see at this time of year. There were 851 cases reported in week 46, compared to an average of 186 for the preceding years.

Health officials have recorded more than 430 cases of Strep A in Scotland in two weeks.

Scarlet fever is usually a mild illness, but it is highly infectious. Therefore, look out for symptoms in your child, which include a sore throat, headache, and fever, along with a fine, pinkish or red body rash with a sandpapery feel. On darker skin, the rash can be more difficult to detect visually but will have a sandpapery feel. Contact NHS 111 or your GP if you suspect your child has scarlet fever, because early treatment of scarlet fever with antibiotics is important to reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia or a bloodstream infection. If your child has scarlet fever, keep them at home until at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment to avoid spreading the infection to others.

Scarlet fever is caused by bacteria called group A streptococci. These bacteria also cause other respiratory and skin infections such as strep throat and impetigo.

In very rare occasions, the bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause an illness called invasive Group A strep (iGAS). While still uncommon, there has been an increase in invasive Group A strep cases this year, particularly in children under 10.

There were 2.3 cases per 100,000 children aged 1 to 4 compared to an average of 0.5 in the pre-pandemic seasons (2017 to 2019) and 1.1 cases per 100,000 children aged 5 to 9 compared to the pre-pandemic average of 0.3 (2017 to 2019) at the same time of the year.

So far this season there have been 5 recorded deaths within 7 days of an iGAS diagnosis in children under 10 in England. During the last high season for Group A Strep infection (2017 to 2018) there were 4 deaths in children under 10 in the equivalent period.

Investigations are also underway following reports of an increase in lower respiratory tract Group A strep infections in children over the past few weeks, which have caused severe illness.

Currently, there is no evidence that a new strain is circulating. The increase is most likely related to high amounts of circulating bacteria and social mixing.

There are lots of viruses that cause sore throats, colds and coughs circulating. These should resolve without medical intervention. However, children can on occasion develop a bacterial infection on top of a virus and that can make them more unwell.

As a parent, if you feel that your child seems seriously unwell, you should trust your own judgement. Contact NHS 111 or your GP if:

  • your child is getting worse
  • your child is feeding or eating much less than normal
  • your child has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more or shows other signs of dehydration
  • your baby is under 3 months and has a temperature of 38°C, or is older than 3 months and has a temperature of 39°C or higher
  • your baby feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest, or feels sweaty
  • your child is very tired or irritable

Call 999 or go to A&E if:

  • your child is having difficulty breathing – you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs
  • there are pauses when your child breathes
  • your child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue
  • your child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake

Good hand and respiratory hygiene are important for stopping the spread of many bugs. By teaching your child how to wash their hands properly with soap for 20 seconds, using a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, and keeping away from others when feeling unwell, they will be able to reduce the risk of picking up or spreading infections.

Dr Colin Brown, Deputy Director, UKHSA, said: “We are seeing a higher number of cases of Group A strep this year than usual.

“The bacteria usually causes a mild infection producing sore throats or scarlet fever that can be easily treated with antibiotics.

“In very rare circumstances, this bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause serious illness – called invasive Group A strep (iGAS). This is still uncommon; however, it is important that parents are on the lookout for symptoms and see a doctor as quickly as possible so that their child can be treated and we can stop the infection becoming serious.

“Make sure you talk to a health professional if your child is showing signs of deteriorating after a bout of scarlet fever, a sore throat, or a respiratory infection.”