Tag: Children and Families

Family Mediation Week: Parents urged to consider mediation as a way to build a positive future for their family

80% of parents who participated in mediation said communication with the other parent had improved

Parents living in Scotland are being urged to consider mediation as a way to resolve conflict and create a more positive future for their family. The calls come as Family Mediation Week gets underway, running from 27th to 31st January.

Relationships Scotland is the country’s leading relationship support charity. Figures from its  Measuring Outcomes Report 2023-24 show that 80% of parents who participated in mediation said communication with the other parent had improved, while 88% saw a reduction in conflict after mediation. Furthermore, 97% would recommend the process to others. 

Relationships Scotland is encouraging couples who are considering separation or divorce to seek an alternative to a courtroom confrontation to settle parenting arrangements.

January traditionally sees an increase in the number of parents deciding to live apart as the various pressures that go hand-in-hand with the Christmas period act as a final straw for their relationships.

Janie Law, Head of Practice for Mediation at Relationships Scotland said: “Often families who are experiencing challenges in their relationships will automatically think of court as their only option to resolve these difficult issues, but mediation can be hugely beneficial in helping separating couples agree what works for them, whilst avoiding the court process with all the stress, delay and cost it can bring.

“Family Mediation Week is about raising awareness of the benefits of mediation as a way of helping parents make decisions together, which can result in more positive outcomes for the whole family that would be the case with court action.

“Here in Scotland we find that parents in this position simply don’t know which way to turn. Their life-changing decision to separate brings with it so many tough questions: Where will the children live, and how will we make sure we each spend time with them? How will we sort out the money issues? What about debts and pensions? And even the family pet?” 

Family mediation is a process where an independent, professionally-trained mediator helps separating or separated couples work these things out, enabling them to avoid courtroom confrontation. Professional mediators help empower families to take control of their individual circumstances, rather than leaving it to a court to make decisions on their behalf.

A parent who has been using mediation added: “We are talking in mediation now. It’s completely changed days between us.

“I couldn’t have imagined us being able to do that when we started. We can be civil now and focus on the children together.”

The Scottish Government fund Relationships Scotland to provide family mediation at low cost where children are involved, and Legal Aid may also be available.

Anyone wanting to know more about the benefits of family mediation can visit www.relationships-scotland.org.uk or call 0345 119 2020.

Family Mediation Week takes place from Monday 27 – Friday 31 January 2025.

Family Fun Day at Muirhouse Library

Our Family Fun Day is looking so exciting!

It’s next Friday, 31st January, 11am – 2pm.

We will have face-painting, slime-making, a magic show, a drop-in sewing workshop and the opportunity to meet the Muirhouse Library team and lots of great local organisations! It’s totally free – just pop by! We can’t wait to see everyone.

Special family trip to Edinburgh for brave heart hero Evie

A family from Tyneside was this week given the chance to make lasting memories after a challenging two years, thanks to South Shields-based children’s charity, The Charlie and Carter Foundation and its community partner, train operator, Lumo.

At five years old, Evie Green has already faced challenges beyond her years. Diagnosed with myocarditis at just four months old, Evie’s condition progressed to the point where, by the age of four, she was in urgent need of a heart transplant.

In the spring of 2023, Evie was placed on a Berlin Heart Ventricular Assist Device while awaiting a heart transplant. While the device was lifesaving, it meant she had to stay in the hospital and couldn’t run or play freely because she was connected to the machine.

After more than a year in hospital and a national call out for a new heart, Evie finally received a transplant in the summer of 2024 at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital. While Evie was in hospital her family was supported by The Charlie and Carter Foundation, which provides financial relief to families of critically ill children, so that they can stay by their side without the worry of financial strain.

Lumo, who selected The Charlie and Carter Foundation as its charity partner of the year for 2024/25, following a unanimous internal vote and as part of its ongoing commitment to the organisation, were delighted arrange a special trip to Edinburgh for Evie and her family to enjoy some much-needed family fun.

The day to the Scottish capital included a complimentary visit to Edinburgh Zoo, Camera Obscura and even a ride in Lumo’s driver’s cab.

Sarah Cookson MBE, Co-Founder of The Charlie and Carter Foundation, said: “The biggest thank you to Lumo for organising this very special trip out for Evie and her family, helping them make precious memories to treasure forever.

“This beautiful and brave little girl has spent so long in hospital and her family have spent so long worrying, they deserve the world and more.

“Our charity provides financial support to families who care 24/7 for their sick children who are suffering from life limiting conditions and we know only too well how much they struggle and worry each day. 

“Days like these would have just been a dream before Evie received her gift of life. Thank you never seems enough, but thank you Lumo, it was a day they will remember forever.”

Martijn Gilbert, Managing Director of Lumo, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have given Evie and her family a wonderful day out in Edinburgh. After spending so much time in hospital and missing out on experiences most children enjoy, providing them with a memorable day of fun together was truly the least we could do.

“We’re proud to partner with South Shields based Charlie and Carter Foundation, whose incredible work supports families like Evie’s right across the country. We look forward to continuing our efforts together to make a meaningful difference.”

Evie’s mum, Chloe Green, said: “We are very grateful to Lumo for providing a VIP day out in Edinburgh and to The Charlie and Carter Foundation for nominating our family for this special trip.

“Evie received a heart transplant last summer and was in hospital for 18 months overall, so it is so nice to be able to go on days out thanks to Evie’s special donor heart. We had a fantastic trip exploring Edinburgh, going to the zoo, Camera Obscura and walking along the Royal Mile and we will be forever grateful for this trip.”

Children First urges families in Edinburgh: don’t suffer in silence over finances this Blue Monday

As festive bills start to arrive, Children First is urging families in Edinburgh not to suffer in silence and get in touch with their support line.   

January is one of the busiest times of year for Scotland’s national children’s charity. The new year can be extremely tough for families who face worries about Christmas spending and increased living costs during the colder weather.

Getting advice early can make a huge difference to families and can help address any issues before they escalate and help them back to financial health.

To get on the front foot for 2025, Children First’s expert support line team have put together some handy hints for healthier finances.

Children First support line is here to help families with budgeting, benefits, debt and energy bills. They work with parents and carers by listening to any worries they may have about their finances and then put a plan in place to navigate their difficulties.

Sinead Haddow, service manager at Children First said, “Talking about your finances can be really daunting and we understand it can cause lots of anxiety for families.

“Our friendly support line team will listen to your worries, free of judgement, and start to help you put together a plan to get back to financial health.

“When families speak to us, it may be the first time they have had a good night’s sleep in months.

“Pick up the phone to our support line today, by calling 08000 28 22 33 from 9am – 9pm, Monday to Friday or 9am – 12 noon Saturday and Sunday.

“If speaking on the phone is daunting, you can also speak to our support line via webchat on our website at https://www.childrenfirst.org.uk/supportline..

“Whatever way families want to  contact to us, we’re here to listen.”

Michelle Supple, Director of Fundraising, Children First said: “January can be a tough time for many children and families.

“Thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery the Children First support line can offer free, confidential, support to any family anywhere in Scotland, which many families tell us can feel like a lifeline.”

Last year, Children First helped almost 1,000 families to put £1.9 million back into their pockets through unclaimed benefits, grants and budgeting.

The charity can also provide expert support on debit and helped double the number of families in 2023-2024 to manage over £813,000 in debt.

Children First support line is here to help families across Scotland with whatever challenges they face. From mental health, money worries and online harm to struggles at school the charity’s support line can offer free help and advice thanks to funds raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery and awarded by Postcode Children Trust.

Stay active this January at Gravity Active Edinburgh

Don’t let the shorter days and chilly weather get you down this January.  Stay active and experience boundless fun at Gravity Active Edinburgh. With wall-to-wall trampolines and climbing walls galore, there’s plenty to entertain all the family, whatever the weather!

After the indulgences of Christmas, January is a traditional time to think about wellbeing and fitness for the year ahead.  At Gravity Active this is easy, as bouncing around on a plethora of trampolines makes physical activity fun, all while improving heart health and cholesterol levels. 

For kids who have been cooped up over the festive period, unleash them at Gravity Active to use up that excess energy in a safe and entertaining environment. 

From the trampolines to the climbing walls, which are great for developing stamina and muscle strength, kids and adults alike will love the challenge and the satisfaction of reaching the top!

Harvey Jenkinson, co-founder and CEO of Gravity, commented: “January is a tricky time when the excitement of Christmas is over and the weather outside is still generally frightful!

“Gravity Active offers an escape from the January blues, with a bright, fun atmosphere and plenty to keep the whole family entertained. 

“For anyone looking for a great family day out in the new year, a session at Gravity Active will keep spirits high and energy levels met.”

Book your session at Gravity Active Edinburgh today at https://gravity-global.com/active/edinburgh

Burns Night Community Ceilidh: Tickets go on sale tomorrow

Coming soon! Our 11th Annual Burns Night Community Ceilidh!

Saturday 25th January 5-8.30 at Royston Wardieburn Community Centre.

Tickets on sale from tomorrow – Monday 13th January.

With Pilton Community Health Project 

Royston Wardieburn Community Centre 

Tinderbox Collective and many more..

The Big House Multibank launches campaign to support child hygiene

  • Amazon supports with the launch of You Buy. We Donate which will donate thousands of hygiene products to local families in need
  • The Big House Multibank is a charity initiative formed by former Prime Minister Gordon Brown and Amazon, which has donated essential items to over 120,000 families in need acrossScotland

The Big House Multibank in Fife is calling on local residents to support its drive to combat hygiene poverty in the region and help to ensure children can return to school this week feeling comfortable in their own skin.

To kick-start the campaign, Amazon has joined forces with its suppliers of well-known household brands including Unilever, L’Oréal, and Colgate-Palmolive to deliver thousands of hygiene products to families in need acrossFife via The Multibank charity.

From today until 28 January, for every two purchases on Amazon.co.uk from a selection of over 800 personal hygiene, household and baby products, Amazon and its suppliers will donate a third item to the network of Multibanks across the UK, including The Big House Multibank, Fife.

According to a recent survey for The Hygiene Bank, teachers are spending £40 million out of their own pockets to combat the effects hygiene poverty in the classroom as 1 in 4 children (28%) are reported to be regularly missing school because they or their clothes or kit are not clean.

Former UK Prime Minister Rt Hon Gordon Brown, said: “I’m delighted Amazon, whose surplus stocks are already a mainstay of Multibank goods, are launching a multi-business collaboration amongst hygiene companies to increase the amount of hygiene goods supplied to our Multibanks. I thank all the companies involved.

“We know The Multibanks are making a real difference keeping hard-pressed families facing the future with some hope of better days ahead. We must now keep innovating how we do charitable work in our communities because too many children need the help right now and teachers tell us that keeping kids clean and smelling fresh is for them a priority issue.”

Kirsty Thomson, CEO of The Big House Multibank, said: “Rising living costs are forcing people into impossible situations where they’re having to choose between feeding their families, and keeping them clean.

“Family finances are under even more pressure during the winter months so we are grateful to Amazon and its suppliers for their commitment to unlock more hygiene products which will provide life-changing support to the most vulnerable in our communities.”

John Boumphrey, Amazon UK Country Manager, said: “We are incredibly proud to have supported the foundation and growth of The Big HouseMultibank.

“We want to support their drive to combat hygiene poverty across the region helping as many families in need as possible. By working together with our suppliers and our customers, we hope to generate hundreds of thousands more donations.”

Chris Barron, General Manager for Personal Care UK&I at Unilever, said: “The support that The Multibank provides is so important, helping households that are facing hygiene poverty to access the daily products that help people to feel clean and confident.

“We know that together we can do more, so we’re really pleased to be partnering with Amazon with a shared commitment to get more products to the charities and people that need them most.”

Brands participating in You Buy. We Donateare Amazon brands by Amazon, and Mama Bear, as well as, Dove, Elvive, Colgate, Garnier, L’Oréal Paris, Lynx, Men Expert, Nivea, Palmolive, Radox, Revitalift, Sanex, SheaMoisture, Simple, Sure, Tommee, Tippee TRESemme, and Vaseline.

Transport logistics specialists, Palletline is providing logistics support for the campaign free of charge, handling the storage and onward distribution of all donations to The Multibank’s network of regional hubs.

Together with Mr Brown, Amazon formed the UK’s first Multibank in Scotland three years ago to redistribute surplus stock from its largest returns centre in Fife to local families in need.

A second Multibank in Wigan opened in 2023, followed by Swansea, London and Middlesbrough in 2024.

Working together with local charity partners and a network of suppliers, The Multibank movement has donated more than 5 million surplus essentials to help more than 500,000 families experiencing poverty.

PYCP: We’re Back!

❗ WE’RE BACK! ❗

We’re so excited to welcome everyone back to our groups next week!

All our groups are back from Monday 13th of January – remember if you are new to us or have not completed a consent form since before September 2024 then you need to collect one to come along!

Also please pay attention to the age of the groups as some of them have changed! Any questions, give us a call or pop by and we are happy to help

🤩

Thousands of lonely children turning to Childline for help and support

  • Childline delivered almost 5,000 counselling sessions across 2023/24 where the main concern was loneliness.
  • Causes include being bullied by peers and seeing their friends having fun on social media and feeling as though they are missing out.
  • This January, Childline continues to be there for young people who need a safe and confidential place to turn to.

Thousands of children and young people across the UK continue to turn to Childline to discuss and seek help for feelings of loneliness.

In 2023/24 the NSPCC service delivered almost 5,000 counselling sessions related to the concern, both online and over the phone from one of their 13 bases around the country, including Aberdeen and Glasgow in Scotland.

Reasons children and young people have cited for feeling lonely in the last year include moving house or school and having to make new friends, their parents working long hours, being bullied by peers, and seeing their friends having fun on social media and feeling as though they are missing out.

One 11-year-old girl from Scotland said to Childline: “I feel so lonely at school, I only really have one friend.

“What’s harder though is I feel I can’t talk about how much it upsets me. My parents seem annoyed or judgemental when I try to talk about my feelings. Speaking to Childline feels like a weight has been lifted.”

The charity is revealing these figures to remind children and young people that they are not alone this January, or any other time of the year, with Childline ready to provide help and support 24/7.  

Adeniyi Alade, Childline Service Head, based in Aberdeen, said: “The dark and cold winter months can be a difficult time for many of us when feelings of loneliness and isolation can become more intense.

“Sadly, a high number of children and young people contact Childline because they feel lonely and isolated. We know this can have a serious impact on their mental wellbeing, often leaving young people feeling depressed and helpless.

“Children don’t have to face these emotions alone. Childline is here for every young person, no matter what their situation. Whether they’re missing a member of their family, struggling with friendships and bullying, or finding it difficult to talk with those around them, our counsellors are ready to listen.

“We’d encourage young people to get support as early as possible because that can help prevent the situation from getting worse.”

Tips for adults to help children and young people who may be experiencing loneliness include:

  1. Communicate openly: Encourage children to talk about their feelings and listen without judgement.
  2. Discover what’s causing the problem: Gently explore why they might be feeling this way and validate their emotions.
  3. Encourage socialising: Help children find opportunities to connect with peers through hobbies, clubs, or activities.
  4. Help them build their confidence: Celebrate their strengths and achievements and remind them of the positive relationships in their lives.
  5. Build a supportive environment: Loneliness isn’t something that can be resolved with one conversation. It is important to create an environment of openness where a child can talk to you about their feelings and any struggles they may be facing.

To support young people who may be dealing with loneliness, the NSPCC also offers an online text befriending service called Building Connections.

This service, available to anyone up to the age of 19, matches young people with a trained befriender for 11 weeks who will help them to build their confidence and better manage their loneliness. To refer a child to the Building Connections service visit: https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/services/building-connections?modularPage=make-a-referral

Childline is available for young people via the phone on 0800 1111 and online through the 121 chat on the Childline website.