20th Anniversary – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

HMRC looks to the future as it marks 20 years

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) marks its 20th anniversary on 18 April 2025.
Two decades on, the department is harnessing the spirit of then Chancellor Gordon Brown’s bold reforms and embarking on a new era of transformation.
Supporting the government’s Plan for Change and mission for growth, HMRC is now firmly focused on closing the tax gap, modernising and reforming, and improving customer service.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) marked its 20th anniversary yesterday on Friday 18 April 2025.

The department was established in April 2005 through the merger of the Inland Revenue and HM Customs and Excise, combining tax administrations to reduce overlap and enhance service delivery.

The creation of HMRC by the then Chancellor of the Exchequer, Gordon Brown, marked a significant reform in public administration, bringing together both direct and indirect tax collection under one organisation.

Two decades later, HMRC is at the heart of the government’s Plan for Change, dedicated to providing the best possible tax and customs service that drives economic growth, and makes working people better off.

HMRC enforces the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage to make work pay, putting more money in people’s pockets. And in simplifying life for businesses through cutting red tape and improving digital services, it is helping them to grow the economy.

The new Child Benefit online claim service is also helping put money in new parents’ pockets, more quickly and easily, as well as boosting family finances through HMRC’s delivery of Tax-Free Childcare.

As the government works to deliver economic security and growth for working people, a more effective and digitally focused HMRC will be crucial to delivering a more productive and efficient state.

Key Milestones and Improvements

Over the past two decades, the decision to bring tax and customs together has enabled HMRC to undergo a transformative journey, marked by key milestones that have enhanced its operational efficiency.

Today, nearly every Self Assessment tax return is filed online. The top-rated HMRC app has been downloaded more than 7 million times, and our digital services continue to grow – making it easier for everyone to get their tax right and more difficult for evaders to cheat the system.

The introduction of Making Tax Digital (MTD) for VAT in 2019 has evolved customer interactions with the wider tax system, leading to a substantial increase in online VAT returns. And today, MTD for Income Tax Self Assessment is on the verge of being launched, in a move that will both make life easier for small businesses (sole traders) and tackle non-compliance to help close the tax gap.

HMRC has also reduced the number of its offices from more than 500 two decades ago to just 28 today, as it further reduces its office space in central London. The government is building on this journey of efficiency, as well as reinforcing HMRC’s status as a truly national organisation.

Angela MacDonald, HMRC’s Second Permanent Secretary and Deputy Chief Executive, said: “For 20 years and for centuries before, HMRC and its predecessor organisations have been an integral part of the UK’s fabric.

“With the support of our dedicated tax professionals right across the UK, our impact is far reaching. From tackling complex challenges and catching wrongdoers to implementing a nation-defining program like furlough, our work is pivotal.

“Day in and day out, whether seen or unseen, in the UK and with international co-operation, we collect the money that funds vital public services and provides financial support to those who need it most.”

As HMRC embarks on the next 20 years, the commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency remains a priority. By adopting new technologies, HMRC is focusing on improving customer service and delivery through further system improvements and faster, more user-friendly digital platforms.

HMRC’s journey continues to evolve, benefiting taxpayers, families and the overall efficiency of revenue collection. As HMRC looks to the future, it remains dedicated to providing the best possible tax and customs service, to fully support the UK economy in helping rebuild Britain in a decade of national renewal.

Edinburgh Art Fair to celebrate twentieth anniversary

**Edinburgh Art Fair Celebrates 20 Years!**

We are excited to announce that this year marks the 20th anniversary of the Edinburgh Art Fair, taking place from September 19 to 21 at the O2 Academy Edinburgh.

Since our first event in 2005, we have showcased hundreds of galleries and introduced thousands of artists from around the world to Scotland’s art enthusiasts and collectors. We look forward to presenting even more exciting and original artwork at this year’s fair.

For more information, please visit https://www.artedinburgh.com/.

If you are interested in exhibiting, please check out: https://www.artedinburgh.com/exhibitor-info.

Be Original!

#edinburghartfair

#eaf2025

#scotlandsinternationalartfair

#20thanniversaryartfair

#beoriginalbuyoriginal

One City Trust turns twenty

A celebratory reception to mark the One City Trust’s (OCT) 20th Anniversary was held at the City Chambers on Friday.

The event, hosted by the Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh and President of the One City Trust, Robert Aldridge, showcased the work of the Trust in the past two decades, and looked ahead to the challenges of the future.

The Trust was established in 2003 in response to the One City report of the Lord Provost’s Commission on Social Exclusion. It engages the idea of a ‘community foundation’ to give people and organisations a means to reach across the divides of the city and support those who are excluded from the community.

A permanent endowment was established with a donation from the City of Edinburgh Council, which the Trust has added to over the years, and continues to build.

In 2012 with the creation of the ‘Lord Provost’s Rapid Action Fund’ the Trust acquired the ability to raise funds specifically for the purpose of administering grants to projects and organisations across the city.

The evening began with an exhibition of the Trust’s archive, showcasing historic documents, photos, and other objects. This was followed by speeches and roundtable discussions focussed on the Trust’s work since 2003 in the context of the two poverty commissions which have reported on the situation in Edinburgh.

The celebratory reception concluded events with a keynote speech from the Lord Provost and President of the OCT, followed by a short film on the Trust’s work and a musical accompaniment.

The One City Trust is seeking donations to continue its work fighting poverty, inequality, and social exclusion in Edinburgh. Donations can be made online via the Trust’s webpage.

The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh and President of the One City Trust, Robert Aldridge said: “I am immensely proud of the work that the One City Trust has undertaken in the last twenty years.

“To date, we have delivered over £1.3m of grants to 265 projects across the Capital whilst promoting community benefits and social value amongst our city’s business and private sector community.

“I have no doubt that these efforts have made a positive difference to the lives of our residents. Over the years we have been able to support organisations doing truly amazing work across our communities.

“From Edinburgh Interfaith Association breaking down cultural barriers, to Fresh Start Pantry providing low-cost nutritious and healthy food to tackle holiday hunger for vulnerable families during school holidays, to the Edinburgh School Uniform Bank making sure our schoolchildren are properly clothed, I continue to be inspired by the ways in which the Capital’s community groups look out for one another in these difficult times. This truly reflects the very best qualities of the individuals who make up our city.

“Unfortunately, we still face major challenges in the areas of poverty, inequality, and social exclusion across the city. The pandemic also cast these into sharp light and made us consider how we could reach and help our citizens in different ways.

“Now, perhaps more than ever, the One City Trust and the organisations it supports are key to supporting our communities as we move forward. I would encourage anyone reading this to consider the ways that they can contribute whether that be through donations, community benefit partnerships, volunteering or spreading the word of the Trust and its affiliates.

“As Lord Provost my duty is first and foremost to the people of Edinburgh and I am committed to helping them in any way that I am able. I look forward to seeing the One City Trust continue its work in the next twenty years and beyond, and it is my sincere hope that we will be able to make a strong and lasting difference for our most vulnerable residents.”

Irvine Welsh, celebrated Edinburgh author, and Ambassador of the One City Trust said: “I’ve been involved with the One City Trust for almost two decades. Edinburgh and the wider world have undergone significant changes in this period, resulting in poverty, inequality, and social exclusion becoming even more acute.

“Edinburgh is a city blighted by geographical inequality, great wealth and abject poverty coexisting side by side. This wealth and international acclaim that the city commands does not translate to many communities who have been left behind in an era characterised by public austerity and private profit, and at the expense of key public services. This tale of two cities that is played out not just in Edinburgh but across the country.

“This is obviously something that is in dire need of rebalancing. In the meantime, ventures like the One City Trust continue to strive to offer a way for individuals in adverse socioeconomic conditions to find a way to express themselves through arts and culture. This in turn can give them the confidence to articulate their individual needs, those of their communities and consequently inspire them to go about meeting them.

“I am proud to support the One City Trust and I hope that in the next twenty years it will continue to inspire people to question the world we find ourselves in, and to take the necessary action to fight poverty, inequality and social exclusion here in the capital of Scotland.”

Sir Ian Rankin, celebrated Edinburgh author, and Ambassador of the One City Trust said: “It has been an honour as well as a pleasure to have been associated with One City Trust for the past twenty years.

“It continues to do valuable work in Edinburgh’s local and underprivileged communities – here’s to the next twenty years!”

Edinburgh’s YourGP marks 20th anniversary with Dundas Street move

Edinburgh’s YourGP marks 20^th anniversary with expansion into Dundas Street
and reveals huge shift in locals’ attitudes to health and wellbeing

Established in 2003, YourGP is one of Scotland’s leading independent medical practices, promising “affordable, friendly & local GP services”.

Throughout their 20 years of providing expert healthcare to Edinburgh residents from their Dean Village practice, they have seen a hugely positive shift in patients’ attitudes to health and wellbeing.

And so, as more locals seek to take a proactive approach to improving their health, the timing is perfect for YourGP to mark their 20^th anniversary by opening a second practice right in the heart of the Scottish capital.

Situated on Dundas Street, the new practice features four treatment rooms and will offer a full range of services including GP appointments, comprehensive health screening, cosmetic treatments, and sexual health services. Patients can benefit from short notice appointments and extended consultations to ensure all medical concerns are discussed in depth, as well as a fast turnaround of results.

Locals are being given the opportunity to join the launch day celebrations, be amongst the first to see the new practice and meet some of the team at the new practice open day.

Taking place on Friday 1 September, 12pm – 4pm, visitors can pick up an exclusive goodie bag while stocks last, enjoy 20% off GP and cosmetic services and enter a prize draw to be in with a chance of winning a Health MOT worth £495.

Commenting ahead of the open day, YourGP Clinical Lead, Dr Cathrow, said; “During my time in healthcare over the past 20 years I have seen a hugely positive shift in patients’ attitudes. Especially since the pandemic, people are more attuned to general wellbeing and are looking for a more holistic approach to their healthcare. Focus has moved more to prevention as opposed to simply looking for cures.

“We are seeing a much more engaged population who are taking control of their health and wellbeing in a more proactive manner.

“In response to this and to mark our 20^th anniversary, we are delighted to expand our offering and launch YourGP at Dundas Street which will give Edinburgh residents better access to friendly, affordable local GP services.”

“In so doing, YourGP can continue to support people to take charge of their wellbeing and enjoy life-long good health.”

Community Renewal to celebrate 20th Anniversary on Friday

Please come join us as we celebrate Community Renewal Trust‘s 20th Anniversary!

There will be food, music, fun and games – we can’t wait to see you there!

Please RSVP on Eventbrite to help us plan for numbers: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/community-renewal-turns-20-celebration-tickets-635374772047?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshwebdesktop

NHS 24 celebrates 20 years of service

NHS 24 is marking its 20^th Anniversary this May with the opening of a new centre in Hillington, Glasgow for more staff to meet the needs of people across Scotland.

Opening the new contact centre on behalf of NHS 24, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “NHS 24 has been a critical part of our NHS in Scotland for many years and it is fantastic to see the way the service continues to develop and adapt to the changing needs of the population.

“From the expanded 111 service available 24 hours a day seven days a week, to a key role in responding to the outbreak of COVID-19 and now dedicated mental health support through the NHS 24 Mental Health Hub and Breathing Space, it has become an indispensable part of our health service.

“The committed and professional staff providing these services work tirelessly day in and day out to make sure that the public always have access to the right information and support as quickly and as easily as possible. It is a pleasure to open the new Hillington centre and to be given the opportunity to put on record my thanks to everyone who has played a part in NHS 24’s journey over the past 20 years.”

NHS 24 took its first call at 14.10 in the afternoon of the 8th May 2002 at its Riverside Contact Centre in Aberdeen. The 27 millionth call to the service was made at 06.51 on Saturday 26^th March 2022, also to the North contact centre.

Originally set up as a pilot project to support patients in Grampian, the telephone service quickly expanded and by 2004 was serving the whole of Scotland. NHS 24 now provides a range of services in addition to the core telephone triage which was changed to 111 in 2014.

NHS 24’s Chief Executive, Jim Miller, says the 20^th Anniversary marks a significant moment in the organisations history: “As we slowly emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, NHS 24 is taking the opportunity to look at its services, technology and workforce to ensure we continue to meet the needs of people across Scotland.

“The progress we have made in the past two decades is really impressive and we are determined to continue to work collaboratively with colleagues from NHS Lothian and across the health and social care system to make sure people get the right care in the right place.”

‘Grief is the price we pay for love’

Remembering 9/11 at London ceremony

On September 11th, 2001 families who lost loved ones in the 9/11 attacks in the USA will mark the 20th anniversary of that fateful day.

This will include a private gathering organized by the September 11 UK families support group (S11UKFSG) at the September 11th memorial garden in Grosvenor Square, London.

The September 11th UK families support group represents relatives of both the 67 British victims and other nationals with strong links to the UK.

The memorial garden (above) is the only UK memorial specially designed in consultation with the bereaved families.

It was created in memory of all those who lost their lives in the atrocity and houses a pergola with the inscription: “Grief is the price we pay for love.”

Service of Remembrance

On Saturday September 11th 2021 families who lost loved ones in the 9/11 attacks in the USA will mark the 20th anniversary of that fateful day with a special Service of Remembrance for bereaved families.

This private gathering organised by the September 11 UK Families Support Group (S11UKFSG) will take place at the September 11 Memorial Garden in Grosvenor Square, London.

The focus of our commemoration will be the reading of the names by family members and the laying of white roses on the inscription stone within the Garden. We shall observe a one minutes silence during the service.

Candlelight Memorial

After sunset on September 11th 2021, an installation of 67 LED candles will be lit within the September 11 Memorial Garden in memory of the 67 British victims who perished that day. ‍

We shall remember the lives of those taken, mourn the beautiful souls no longer with us and celebrate the love they brought into our lives.

The Square will remain open until 8pm.

The memorial garden will be closed to members of the public from 1pm – 5pm on September 11th . Outside these hours the garden is open to the public as usual.

Popular characters to return to Holby City as part of 20th anniversary celebrations

2019 has already been a major year at Holby City as it continues to celebrate its 20th anniversary. Now, Paul Bradley (above) is amongst the latest set of classic characters confirmed to grace the hospital wards once again, returning to BBC One’s long-running drama series as Elliot Hope for its 1000th episode.

Patricia Potter returning as Diane Lloyd
Tan twins storyline from 2008 to be revisited

Coming back for a total of five episodes, Elliot visits the hospital to see his old friend and protégé Jac, or so he tells her, but it won’t be long before his ulterior motive is unveiled and his old colleagues discover the real reason behind his return.

Continue reading Popular characters to return to Holby City as part of 20th anniversary celebrations

Win tickets to see Her Majesty The Queen address Parliament’s 20th Anniversary

Ten members of the public will have the best seats in the house as they watch Her Majesty The Queen address the Scottish Parliament on Saturday 29th June.
Continue reading Win tickets to see Her Majesty The Queen address Parliament’s 20th Anniversary