People in Edinburgh who have successfully given up smoking in the last couple of years are being encouraged by a campaigning health charity to share their experiences about how they managed to quit.
As part of the charity’s preparations for No Smoking Day which takes place on 13 March, ASH Scotland is urging Edinburgh residents to share details of their journeys to live a tobacco-free life by highlighting the motivating factors which prompted their quit smoking attempts and if they gave up through sheer willpower and personal determination or the types of support they found to be most useful.
Sheila Duffy, Chief Executive of ASH Scotland, said: “Ahead of No Smoking Day on 13 March, we would love to hear from people in Edinburgh about their successful experiences in the last couple of years or so of giving up smoking for good.
“We look forward to discovering everyone’s inspirational stories, which could encourage others to quit smoking for the first time or try again to live a life free from tobacco and enjoy a healthier future with opportunities to spend their money in other ways.”
ASH Scotland is tackling tobacco head-on by campaigning to reduce the harms caused by smoking. For more information, follow the health charity’s social media channels on Instagram and Facebook.
Snow and sub-zero temperatures predicted in parts of UK this week
Commercial insurer NFU Mutual issues advice to businesses and retailers with cold snap set to hit
Businesses warned of risks of frozen pipes and dangerous ice on premises
Commercial insurer NFU Mutual is urging businesses to be prepared for heavy snow and freezing temperatures as icy weather is predicted this week.
After weeks of unsettled weather, a cold snap is expected throughout the week, with the Met Office warning of plunging temperatures and snow.
A yellow warning for snow and ice was issued on Monday, with snow showers and sub-zero temperatures predicted – bringing risks for businesses and the high street.
Zoe Knight, Head of Commercial at NFU Mutual, said: “While businesses will have rightly been focusing on the potential flood risks due to recent storms, we are now facing a period of colder weather and possible snow showers, which will bring a different set of risks.
“Retailers, hospitality, and independent businesses should all be prepared and take essential steps to keep themselves, their premises and their customers safe during adverse weather.
“NFU Mutual urges business owners to clear and grit pathways and car parks, include warning signage for customers, check your boilers have been serviced, ensure pipes are insulated and check your roof in preparation for the strain caused by potential snowfall.
“Don’t be complacent about the risks cold weather can pose to businesses and customers. As well as causing disruption across the UK, cold weather and snow storms can bring devastating damage to businesses, so it’s well worth taking simple steps to reduce the risk.”
Commercial insurer NFU Mutual’s cold-weather and snow advice to businesses
Safe premises:
Clear and grit pathways and car parks to ensure the surface isn’t dangerously slippery.
Use warning signs if safe to do so and where they do not obstruct pathways
Check your boiler has been serviced as winter months will put more strain on parts
Ensure pipes are insulated in unheated areas to avoid the risk of costly damage due to frozen pipes often resulting in water leaks
Make sure your heating is on a temperature setting high enough to prevent freezing of pipework when the premises are unattended
If a pipe does become frozen, turn off the water supply and then gently heat the relevant area. Flame producing equipment should not be used for this.
Make sure you know where the stopcock is in case you need to turn off your water supply. Have buckets or other containers available in case of emergency
Maintain roofs, gulleys, gutters and downpipes in good condition. The weight of accumulated snow can put added pressure on roofs, particularly if they are in poor condition.
Clear drains or ditches outside your business to allow melting snow to run away.
Safe people:
Make sure there is a place for your staff to keep warm or warm up, such as a rest room or kitchen where they can make a hot drink
If work rooms are cold, consider providing temporary extra heating – make sure they are in good working order and checked for electrical faults
Provide your staff with warm weather clothing if their work involves long spells of exposure to the cold
Avoid making non-essential business journeys in your vehicles unless it is safe to do so
If you decide to close your premises, notify customers and keep in touch with staff to avoid unnecessary journeys
Make sure you assess the risks from cold and adverse weather for all the work that is done as part of your business – don’t carry out a task if it’s not safe to do so.
Winter can be a fun time for pets, but with forecasts of an ‘arctic blast’ on the way, PDSA experts are warning owners to keep our four-legged friends safe and warm in the wintry conditions. Pets can be at risk of hypothermia if they get too cold, but it’s also important to ensure they stay active during freezing temperatures.
PDSA, the vet charity for pets in need, asked their Vet Nurse Nina Downing to put together her top tips on keeping our pets cosy and safe through the big freeze:
Dogs
Giving dogs their daily walks is important for their physical and mental health, even during the colder months. Try to do this during daylight hours if possible, and consider getting a good dog coat.
LED collars or high-vis leads are a good investment, to help keep both you and your pooch visible if you’re braving the dark nights and mornings.
If your dog gets wet while out, dry them off as soon as possible. If you drive your dogs to walks, then keeping a towel in the car is a good idea.
Check their paws after walks too, as snow can build up and form clumps on the fur between dogs’ toes, which can be painful. Salt and grit can also irritate their pads, so when they return from winter walks it’s a good idea to wash their paws in warm water. Keep the fur between their toes trimmed short, and you can even use some paw butter or pet-friendly skin cream which may prevent their pads becoming dry and sore.
Don’t leave dogs in cars – the inside temperature can quickly become as cold as the outside, even if you’ve just been driving with the heating on.
Never leave dogs locked outdoors, ensure they can always access shelter and warmth.
Watch out for ice, this can be slippery for them as well as us, and if it’s broken it can even cut their paws. Keep dogs off icy surfaces, and definitely keep them away from any frozen lakes and ponds.
If your dog is very young, elderly, skinny or poorly then they are at higher risk of hypothermia. They can’t control their body temperature well so need extra care to keep them warm. High risk pets should only go outside for short times in cold weather, and should be closely supervised. Give them extra bedding and consider getting a pet-safe heat mat.
Nina added: “It’s worth considering whether your dog would benefit from a good winter coat to keep them warm and dry.
“Pets that are young, old, unwell, or that have very thin fur, can all benefit from this extra protection. Make sure coats fit well and don’t restrict your dog’s movement.”
Cats
Make sure your cat has a warm, comfy bed, in a draught free area of the house. If possible, make sure this is raised off the floor – cats are often more comfortable when higher up and it will keep them out of the coldest draughts.
Never leave cats locked outdoors, ensure they can always access shelter and warmth.
If your cat prefers to stay indoors during very bad weather, help them stay active by providing toys and enrichment activities. This will ensure they don’t miss out on vital exercise. Also make sure they have a litter tray that’s kept clean, so they don’t have to go outside if they don’t want to.
If your cat prefers to spend time outside, make sure they can always come inside when they want to. Providing an alternative option, in case cat flaps get frozen shut or blocked by snow, is also a good idea.
Nina continued: “It’s really important that our pets stay active during the winter – don’t let them become a coach potato! This can be challenging when the weather is uninviting, but many dogs and cats still enjoy exploring the great outdoors even during the cold and the wet.”
She also has some advice for keeping smaller pets like rabbits, guinea pigs and ferrets cosy in the cold weather:
Small pets
Bring hutches under shelter – a shed or car-free garage is ideal, to protect them from draughts, rain and snow. Pets that are used to living outdoors can find a centrally heated home a stark contrast, so a cooler room is better, if you bring them indoors. Make sure they have access to natural light and an exercise run.
Bulk up bedding – give small pets extra bedding during the winter, so they can snuggle right down to keep warm.
Provide protection – if there’s no option than to keep hutches outdoors, then drape a blanket or piece of carpet over the mesh door to keep out the worst of the weather. You could also use plastic sheeting, but make sure any covers don’t obstruct ventilation.
Don’t forget to check water bottles or bowls several times a day to make sure they’re not frozen.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has issued urgent guidance to those travelling in cold and snowy weather
Disruptive conditions are set to hit many areas of the UK
Road experts warn of increased chance of collisions
With icy temperatures and ‘disruptive’ snow hitting large parts of Britain, and parts of the UK still grappling with flooding, leading road experts The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has issued some vital road safety advice.
Advising on winter driving, Rebecca Guy, RoSPA’s Road Safety Manager for England, said: “Snowy conditions can pose a real challenge for drivers so it’s worth knowing how to prepare yourself so your journey can be as smooth as possible.
“Before you set off, check the weather conditions to ensure you’re not caught out, and don’t forget to wipe off snow from the top and windows of your car. This will avoid snow falling onto your windscreen while driving and impacting your line of sight. In very bad conditions, avoid driving completely, unless you absolutely have to make the journey and driving is the only option.
“It’s also a good idea to leave more time than usual for your journey, and to check your tyres, fluid levels, lights and fuel or charge levels before you set off. If your journey is essential, packing some warm clothing, a fully charged mobile phone, some food and a drink can help you to be prepared if you do break down – and even a pair of sunglasses can stand you in good stead in case the sun comes out and reflects on the road ahead.
“If you can, try and move off in second gear and change to a higher gear as soon as possible once the car is moving. Ensure you accelerate gently and smoothly, using low revs. Ideally, stay in a steady gear and leave as much room in front of you as possible so you can maintain a constant speed – and don’t forget that stopping distance can be increased up to 10 times in snowy weather.”
Other factors to consider if driving in snow or ice:
Slow down in plenty of time before bends and corners
Braking on an icy or snow-covered bend is extremely dangerous. The centrifugal force will continue to pull you outwards and the wheels will not grip very well. This could cause your vehicle to spin
Increase the gap between you and the vehicle in front. You may need up to 10 times the distance for braking in good conditions
Visibility will probably be reduced, so use dipped headlights
If you get stuck in snow:
If you get stuck in snow, revving your engine to try to power out of the rut will just make the rut worse. Instead, move your vehicle slowly backwards and forwards out of the rut using the highest gear you can
If this doesn’t work, you may have to ask a friendly passerby for a push or get your shovel out.
Rebecca went on to advise those encountering flood water: “The past few weeks have seen a concerning level of flooding in many areas of the UK. It is essential to have the latest information at hand to avoid roads or pathways that are submerged in water.
“Not only can a flooded car be costly, it can lead to drowning so it is important to never attempt to drive through a waterlogged area, especially If the road has been closed off.
“Before leaving the house, consider whether your vehicle really is in a roadworthy condition for extreme weather, and check its tyres, brakes, lights and fluid levels.
“If your vehicle is not in tip-top condition, you are more likely to break down and get stranded. Therefore, keep an emergency kit in your car, especially if you’re going on a long journey. If this seems unnecessary, take a moment to imagine yourself stranded in your car overnight. ”
If you’re in a flooded area, it is also worth considering the following when nearing an affected road:
Avoid the deepest water – which is usually near the kerb
Don’t attempt to cross if the water seems too deep
If you are not sure of the water’s depth, look for an alternative route
If you decide to risk it, drive slowly in first gear but keep the engine speed high by slipping the clutch – this will stop you from stalling
Be aware of the bow wave from approaching vehicles – operate an informal ‘give way’ with approaching vehicles.
For more information, please visit our Winter Driving Tips page here.
After HMRC revealed 5.7million people still need to submit their tax return before the January 31 deadline,NFU Mutual Chartered Financial Planner Sean McCann shares five top tips:
1. Don’t forget to claim higher rate tax relief on pension contributions
Sean said: “Millions more people are paying a higher rate of income tax thanks to the long-term freeze on the £50,270 threshold, and the Office for Budget Responsibility estimate six million paid higher or additional rate income tax in 2022/23.
“When you pay into your pension, for every £80 you pay in, your pension provider will get another £20 direct from HMRC. If you pay 40% or 45% income tax you’ll need to claim the extra 20% or 25% tax relief via your tax return.
“Many higher and additional rate taxpayers do not do this, potentially missing out on thousands of pounds in unclaimed tax relief. Those who crossed the 40% threshold for the first time in the last tax year may be unaware that they are entitled to a rebate.
“Additionally, if you haven’t claimed on previous year’s tax returns, you can go back up to four years and claim any higher rate relief due by contacting HMRC direct.”
2. Get help with the cost of professional subscriptions
Sean said: “If you need to be a member of a professional organisation to do your job, and your employer hasn’t paid the subscription for you, you may be able to claim tax relief on the cost. There is a long list of approved professional organisations on HMRC’s website.”
Sean said: “If you’re the highest earner in your household with an income of more than £50,000, and you or your partner claim child benefit, you’ll need to pay the child benefit tax charge. For every £100 of income you have over £50,000 you pay back one per cent of the child benefit. Once your income reaches £60,000 you repay the full amount.
“You can become subject to the charge if you moved in with someone who is claiming child benefit, even if they’re not your children. The good news is anything you’ve paid into your pension is knocked off your income before the charge is assessed. If it reduces your income below £50,000 you won’t need to pay the charge.
“HMRC sent out more than 127,850 reminders in 2022/23 to people who needed to pay the High Income Child Benefit Tax Charge. Ignoring these letters could land you with interest payments and a fine. HMRC has collected nearly £20m in fines from people who failed to pay this tax since its introduction in 2013.”
4. Charitable donations
Sean said: “If you’ve given to charity via gift aid and you pay higher rate tax, you can claim back additional tax relief through your tax return.
“For example, if you donate £100 via gift aid, the charity will claim an additional £25, to make the total gift £125. If you pay 40% tax, you can reclaim up to an extra £25 for yourself (£125 x 20%).
“Previous research has indicated that only 22% of higher and additional rate taxpayers who donate to charity claim this relief because the perceived effort involved puts many people off.
“However, it is relatively simple to do via a self-assessment tax return and could be worth a lot of money for those who donate significant sums.
“Because more people are being dragged into paying higher rate of income tax, the amount of charity tax relief claimed by higher rate taxpayers has rocketed 34.5% in the past two years from £550m in 2020/21 to £740m in 2022/23.”
5. Don’t forget any capital gains
Sean said: “If you sold or gave away shares in the 2022/23 tax year, you need to declare and pay any tax due on gains made.
“Many people don’t realise that they can face a Capital Gains Tax bill when they gift shares or property – other than their main home – to anyone other than their spouse or civil partner.
“It’s worthwhile checking if you have any losses available to offset any potential bill. Any shares or investment held within an ISA or Pension are normally exempt from Capital gains tax.”
As Euro 2024 approaches, excitement is building among UK football fans planning to visit Germany for the tournament. However, post-Brexit travel rules and potential additional costs are crucial considerations for UK travellers.
Travel experts from Football Ticket Pad, delve into the key aspects UK fans need to be aware of to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:
Passport Validity and Visas
Since Brexit, UK passports must meet specific criteria for travel within the Schengen Area, including Germany:
Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of return.
Issue Date: Passports older than 10 years, even with validity remaining, might not be accepted.
For stays up to 90 days in a 180-day period, UK citizens do not require visas for tourism, including attending sports events. However, keep an eye on any changes in visa policy as the event draws closer.
ETIAS Requirement (Expected from 2024)
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is expected to be operational by 2024. UK citizens may need to apply for this pre-travel authorization, similar to the US ESTA system. The process involves a small fee and is completed online.
Health and Travel Insurance
With the UK no longer part of the EU, European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) issued in the UK are not valid. It’s vital to have comprehensive travel insurance that includes health coverage. Failure to have appropriate insurance might result in significant costs if medical care is needed.
Roaming Charges and Connectivity
Since Brexit, the guarantee of free roaming within the EU no longer applies to UK mobile users. Check with your provider for specific roaming policies and consider purchasing a local SIM card in Germany for cost-effective data and calls.
Driving in Germany
If you plan to drive:
International Driving Permit (IDP): Depending on the type of UK licence you have, you may need an IDP.
Vehicle Insurance: Ensure your vehicle insurance covers travel in Germany.
Emission Stickers: Some German cities require an emissions sticker to drive in certain areas.
Cultural Etiquette and Local Laws
Understanding local customs and laws can help avoid unintentional disrespect or fines:
Recycling Laws: Germany has strict recycling laws. Improper disposal of waste can result in fines.
Public Behaviour: Disorderly behaviour, especially in public spaces, is frowned upon and can attract penalties.
Managing Costs and Budgeting
Currency Exchange: Remember, Germany uses the Euro. Keep an eye on exchange rates and consider using travel cards to manage currency exchange fees.
Accommodation and Travel: Book NOW, to secure better rates. Consider alternative accommodations like hostels or Airbnb.
Final Tips for a Hassle-Free Experience
Emergency Numbers: Familiarise yourself with local emergency contacts. In Germany, 112 is the emergency number.
Language: While many Germans speak English, learning basic German phrases can enhance your experience.
Event Tickets and Local Transport: Ensure your event tickets are booked in advance and research local transport options.
James O’Leary, from Football Ticket Pad says: “While the post-Brexit era has brought changes to travelling from the UK to EU countries like Germany, with adequate preparation and awareness of the new rules and potential costs, UK fans can look forward to an exciting and memorable experience at Euro 2024.
“Remember, the key to a smooth trip lies in planning ahead and staying informed!”
AGE Scotland has produced a new guide to support older people through the #costofliving crisis.
It’s packed with advice on energy bills, tips on how to shop smart and eat well when food prices bite, cost-effective recipes, and a directory on where to go for help:
The cost of living crisis is forcing many older people to make incredibly difficult financial choices between powering and heating their homes and the food they can afford to buy.
Age Scotland’s helpline is hearing from an increasing number of older people who are finding it near impossible to pay their energy bills, having cut down on all but the essentials, and are now at risk of falling into unmanageable debt as a result.
Their Big Survey 2023 really highlights the stark reality and toll the cost of living crisis has taken on older people’s financial and physical wellbeing.
Age Scotland has pulled together this guide to support older people as we believe nobody should face the ongoing cost of living crisis alone.
It’s packed with advice on energy bills, tips on how to shop smart and eat well when food prices bite, recipes from top Scottish chefs, including Tom Kitchin and Tony Singh, and a directory on where to go for help.
We hope you find it useful. For further help and advice or to get a benefits check please call our free Helpline on 0800 12 44 222.
The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) is issuing safety advice as people take risks as severe floods continue to cause disruption
As Storm Henk continues to affect large parts of the UK and causes ongoing severe weather conditions, there have been an increasing number of incidents reported involving driving through and entering flood water.
The media has also reported incidents of people falling on slippery banks into open water, with these events sadly resulting in the loss of lives; including three male victims named in North Yorkshire and one woman in Scotland.
With the increase in number of weather-related accidents, there have also been hundreds of rescues as emergency services have been enlisted to help navigate the stormy conditions.
And with harsh weather set to continue and more serious flood warnings expected, safety around floodwater could mean the difference between life and death.
Due to the hazardous weather conditions, RLSS UK is urging people to use its water safety advice in a flood:
RLSS UK’s quick advice tips for staying safe during times of flooding:
Never try to walk or drive through floodwater – six inches of fast flowing water can knock an adult over and two feet of water will float a car.
Never try to swim through fast flowing water or flood water – you may get swept away or be struck or caught up in an object in the water. If stuck, call 999 and wait for help.
If you see someone in trouble in the water – do not go in yourself to attempt to rescue them – shout for help, call 999, and find a nearby rescue device such as a life buoy. If there is no water rescue equipment nearby – try and find something that floats and throw it to them if possible.
Get to the highest level if trapped in a building – only get on the roof if necessary and signal for help. Do not climb into a closed attic to avoid getting trapped by rising floodwater.
Keep an eye on weather reports for flooding in your area. Do not travel in heavy rainstorms unless necessary.
Once flood water has rescinded stay well clear of the water’s edge as it is likely to be extremely slippery and prone to erosion in places.
2023 was particularly harsh on young drivers, with premiums soaring by over 50% as the cost-of-living pressures took effect.
The sky-high cost of learning to drive combined with these higher insurance premiums and new emissions costs for older cars, are all making it a struggle for young drivers to get on the roads.
Data shows the average car insurance premium for young 18-year-old drivers increased to £1207 in 2023.
The experts at Quotezone.co.uk have revealed ten savings hacks to help young drivers give their finances a fresh start for the new year.
One of the most important things for young drivers is to be safe and avoid penalty points, a fifth of convicted drivers in the UK have been driving for a year or less – according to a sample of over 15,000 convicted drivers, analysed by Quotezone.co.uk.
Penalty points on a licence may not only result in a steep fine but will also bump up the insurance costs. Drivers can expect premiums to rise by 5% for three points and 25% for six points if they’re starting from a clean licence.
Young drivers or those with penalty points may be able to get cheaper insurance by opting for a telematics policy, or black box insurance.
Black box insurance starts collecting data on their driving immediately, if they’re a safe driver, this can help the insurer see them as less of a risk and may result in a more competitive price. Although, like all premiums this year, prices are on the rise, in 2023 telematics was still able to save young drivers an average of £75 annually.
Age group 18-24
NO telematics
YES telematics
2021
£1199
£938
2022
£1047
£1050
2023
£1230
£1155
Quotezone.co.uk CEO Greg Wilson said: “Young drivers had a tough 2023 with delays to driving tests and backlogs for lessons plus the rising cost of everything associated with motoring – insurance, repairs, fuel – we’re hoping 2024 is a much better and cheaper year for those new to the road.
“There are lots of things young drivers can do to help bring the cost of driving down, from knowing how to avoid even the most unusual fines and penalty points to installing a black box and keeping modifications and mileage to a minimum.
“We’re researched the top 10 ways we think will help young drivers save in 2024 along with the essentials such as shopping around and comparing product details, annual payments if possible and reviewing when exactly is the best time to buy, normally three weeks before the policy is due for renewal is the most competitive.
“Passing your test and taking to the road for the first time is a rite of passage and it would be worrying if new drivers started to struggle to make driving a reality due to cost, hopefully our money saving tips go some way to making a more affordable 2024.”
Quotezone.co.uk’s Top ten hacks that could help young drivers save:
1. Do check your mileage
When taking out insurance, you will be asked to estimate your annual mileage. The costs will rise in incremental bands so the more miles you drive, the more you pay so try to be accurate and realistic with your prediction.
2. Do park in a safe place
Car owners that make use of their garages, driveways or carports for overnight parking could make big savings on their car insurance – parking on driveways rather than on the road can save you over £140 on average every year and carports could save you even more, with £230 savings on average.
3. Do consider switching to a smaller engine
Be sure to check your vehicle’s engine size and horsepower, both can impact the cost of your premium. Also, some small engines are turbocharged and that can give them more power than might be expected, which will likely cause the premium to increase.
4. Do keep modifications to a minimum
It comes as no surprise that adding a custom exhaust or putting in lowered suspension might cause insurance premiums to rise, but even seemingly innocuous changes such as addingbranding to a vehicle can affect the cost.
5. Do consider a black box
A telematics policy, or black box insurance – starts collecting driving data immediately, this can help the insurer with their risk analysis, safer driving increases the chances of a competitive price for young drivers.
6. Don’t over pack the vehicle
Packing items above the seat line will impair vision, while heavy loads are likely to affect a car’s handling and stopping distances. Overloading a car past its capacity is a punishable offence, with a fine of up to £300 and 3 points. Driving without full visibility out all windows is also punishable and could result in a £50 fixed penalty.
7. Don’t forget your sunglasses
Sunglasses are labelled with a ranking from zero to four in order to determine their strength and the time of day they can be worn. The average pair of sunglasses is categorised as a number two – these are recommended for daytime driving. Driving with inappropriate eyewear could be detrimental to other road users, leaving drivers unable to detect dangers. Motorists could be hit with a £100 on-the-spot fine and up to three penalty points for driving without due care or attention.
8. Don’t use the wrong fuel
Misfuelling is one of the most expensive mistakes motorists make. Pumping diesel fuel into a petrol car can lead to engine failure, leaving motorists to pick up the maintenance costs. Rule 97 of the Highway Code states before drivers set off, they should ensure they have ‘sufficient fuel or charge for your journey, especially if it includes motorway driving’. Careless or dangerous driving caused by low fuel will see motorists face fines of up to £100 and three points on their license.
9. Don’t leave the car switched on while waiting for friends
‘Idling’ or leaving the engine running unnecessarily while stationary on a public road goes against Section 42 of the Road Traffic Act. Drivers risk a £20 penalty notice that will double if not paid in full within 28 days. According to research conducted by Quotezone.co.uk, almost 11% of drivers fail to turn off their engines while waiting.**
10. Don’t splash pedestrians
Splashing pedestrians is actually illegal under section three of the Road Traffic Act, 1988 – and is considered to be driving ‘without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road’ – resulting in a fine of £100 and three penalty points on the licence, in some cases, fines can reach as much as £5,000 for driving without reasonable consideration for others on the road.
Be suspicious of any ‘too good to be true’ offers or prices
