Tag: information

XL Bully Ban: PDSA outlines looming deadlines

With the start of the New Year also being the introduction of the XL Bully ban in England and Wales, the countdown is now officially on for owners to comply with the new legislation before time runs out.

In the latest news from the Scottish Government, there are now plans for an XL Bully ban to come into force in Scotland as well, with little known detail just yet, but it was shared the ban will mirror the measures that have been introduced in England and Wales. 

PDSA Vet Lynne James shares a breakdown of the timeline impacting owners in England and Wales, plus some key information, as well as some of the charity’s concerns.

Timeline of the ban

“The timeline of the ban is one of the most important factors, especially now, as owners in England and Wales do not have very long to ensure they comply with the new rules soon to come into force.”

  • Right now, all XL Bully type dogs must be wearing a muzzle and kept on a lead when in public. It is also now illegal to breed, sell, advertise, exchange, gift, rehome, abandon or allow an XL Bully type dog to stray.
  • Owners can no longer apply for a Certificate of Exemption by email or by post (deadline was 15 Jan) – the only way to now apply is through the government website.
  • The deadline to apply for an Exemption through the Government website is by midday on 31 January.
  • From 1 February, XL Bully type dogs must have a Certificate of Exemption.
  • By 30 June 2024, all XL Bully type dogs over 1 year old on 31 January 2024 must be neutered. 
  • By 31 December 2024, all XL Bully dogs under 1 year old on 31 January 2024, must be neutered.

What we know

“Although there is now a ban in England and Wales, the current population of XL Bully type dogs is going to be around for years to come, and this will likely be the same in Scotland too. With the average lifespan being around 10-12 years, the ban does not mean these dogs will suddenly disappear.

“The government has determined the physical characteristics which will decide if a dog fits the ‘breed type’ of the XL Bully. They have shared DNA or simply what owners were told their dog was when they were bought or rehomed will not count as evidence of breed.

“However, they have confirmed that other established breeds, such as those recognised by the UK Kennel Club, who may meet some of the characteristics of the XL Bully breed type, are not covered by the ban.

“The Government has also stated that owners are responsible for determining themselves if their dog is classified as an XL Bully type or not, and whether that means they should apply for an Exemption.

“We also know, regardless of personal thoughts about the ban, all owners of dogs deemed to fit the XL Bully type will now need to follow the guidance. Owners found not complying with the legislation may face a criminal record and an unlimited fine if they are found to be in possession of an XL Bully type without a Certificate of Exemption, and their dog could be seized, or in some cases, dogs may even be put to sleep by the authorities.

“We’re aware this a worrying time for many, in England, Wales and now Scotland, and we maintain our position that Breed Specific Legislation is not the right course of action to protect the public.

PDSA’s concerns

“In addition to our concerns about this rushed through legislation, the timeline of the ban in England and Wales is adding unnecessary pressure on owners who are already in a stressful situation.

“We know recent years have been financially tough for many, with PDSA seeing an increase in demand for our low-cost services. Finding the funds in a short space of time to cover the cost of an Exemption, as well as what is needed to comply, including neutering, may not be easy for many, and may have long-term impacts. With no help to cover these costs announced from the Government, it leaves animal charities like PDSA left to pick up the pieces.

“We’re also concerned that the potential stigma of owning a ‘banned breed’ could sadly lead to owners feeling unable to walk or socialise their dogs. This will no doubt have a severe negative impact upon the welfare of these dogs, whose health and welfare must remain an upmost priority.

“We know the announcement in Scotland may not be the news many want to hear, but we will continue to support owners across England, Wales and Scotland however we can. PDSA’s main focus remains supporting owners with our aim being to keep people and pets together.”

As the weeks go by, and the deadlines get closer in England and Wales, and more information is shared about the upcoming ban in Scotland, PDSA will continue to update their website to ensure all of the information is up to date and relevant for owners.

Head to PDSA’s website to find out more: pdsa.org.uk/XLbully

Tomorrow: Winter Warmer at Royston Wardieburn Community Centre

COMMUNITY EVENT – WEDNESDAY 29 NOVEMBER from 9.30am

Hold the front page: Rebrand for Scottish Newspaper Society

The trade association for Scotland’s news publishers, the Scottish Newspaper Society, has been renamed Newsbrands Scotland, dropping “newspaper” from its title for the first time in a history stretching back 108 years.

While printed newspapers remain an important part of news publishers’ operations, the name change reflects modern newsrooms which reach far bigger audiences through digital platforms, with news operations working round the clock to deliver news to readers in the format they want, when they want it.

Newsbrands Scotland’s inaugural president, National World plc’s chief commercial officer Mark Hollinshead, said: “Our newsbrands reach more people than they ever did in the print-only days and the new name of our trade association reflects the multi-platform reality of the modern newsroom.”

Industry research [TGI, December 2022] shows that nine out of ten adults in Scotland engage with print or digital newsbrands at least once a week and are seven per cent more likely to rely on newspapers to stay informed than UK adults. And according to the latest JICREG analysis, 96 per cent of Scots read a local brand once a month.

Mark added: “Ever since the advent of the internet, Scottish news publishers have been evolving and innovating to keep their audiences well-served with up-to-the-minute, trusted information and analysis, and the audience figures speak for themselves.

“Scottish newsbrands keep communities across the country well-informed and connected, have a vital role to play in holding national and local politicians to account for the decisions they make, and are an essential means for services, businesses and charities to communicate with their users and customers.”

Further research from the news industry marketing body Newsworks reveals people are 2.4 times more likely to find news brands reliable than social media, and three-quarters believe it is important their news comes from a respected and recognised news provider.

Newsbrands Scotland director John McLellan said “Our titles continue to provide a depth and breadth of coverage that few, if any, networks can match, and the fact that all our members are independently regulated is also vital for maintaining public trust.

“Readers want to know they are being provided with professionally produced news, and our commercial partners benefit because readers recognise they are in a trusted environment.

“News publishers also continue to support and train the journalists of the future, and it’s important for our name to reflect an industry that is always looking forward.”

The rebranding project was a collaborative effort across member companies, with the branding design produced by DC Thomson and the marketing campaign devised by National World, with input from News UK and Newsquest Scotland.

“This was a very good example of publishers working together for the benefit of the whole sector in Scotland, whether society members or not,” added John McLellan.

Have your say on Waterfront plans again

The creation of a £1.3bn connected and sustainable new ‘coastal town’ at Granton Waterfront has reached its next major phase. The Proposal of Application Notice (PAN) to transform Edinburgh’s largest brownfield site has now been published.  

The plans have been developed in partnership with Cruden Homes (East) Ltd. They include plans for over 700 net zero homes, of which at least 35% will be affordable, capacity for a primary school, commercial units, active travel routes and other sustainable transport infrastructure as well as attractive public and open space.

The Council would like to find out what people think about the plans for Phase 1 and have organised in-person events: Tuesday 13 June from 4pm to 7pm and Saturday 17 June from 11am to 2pm at the Granton Station building, 1 Granton Station Square.

People will also be able to share their views online.

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An online event will be held on Thursday 22 June from 6pm to 7.30pm and a ‘You Said, We Did’ event will be held in person on Wednesday 23 August from 4pm to 7pm at 1 Granton Station Square.

The City of Edinburgh Council Leader, Cammy Day, said: “It’s great to see that plans have now been submitted for the largest regeneration project of its kind in Scotland at Granton Waterfront. The PAN is for the first phase of this ambitious and exciting £1.3bn regeneration project for the city.

“Sustainable regeneration like this is so important as we transition towards a greener economy in our Capital. We have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity here to build a 20-minute neighbourhood completely from scratch with affordable net zero homes, shops, cultural and leisure and education facilities all close by.

“We’ve been consulting with people at every step of the way during this project so please be a part of this transformation of the north of the city and give us your views either at one of our events or online.

“This will help us to make sure we get it right for those who will be living in, working, and visiting this new area as well as everyone currently living in the many established communities nearby.”

Further information: 

Choose your future at Edinburgh College Course Clearing Event

People seeking to take the next step in their education journey are encouraged to attend Edinburgh College’s course clearing event being held at its Granton Campus this Friday (12 August).

The event, which runs from 11am until 3pm, provides prospective students of all ages with the opportunity to speak to lecturers about their options following the release of exam results this week and to secure a place on a course for session 2022/23.

Those who would like to change their original choice of course, or have not yet made an application for College but would like to study this year, are also invited to get advice about study options for the new academic session.

Edinburgh College delivers a wide range of courses across the following areas: Creative Industries; Engineering and Built Environment; Health Wellbeing and Social Sciences; and Tourism, Hospitality and Business. Courses are delivered in variety of study modes including full-time, part-time, day and block release, with a return to campuses the focus for the College in 2022/23.

Student Services staff will also be on hand to provide advice on funding options and access to learning support.

As well as the in-person clearing event, the Edinburgh College course clearing line will also be open for applicants and prospective students to call on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this week (9, 10 and 11 August) from 9am until 4pm.

The clearing line gives a further opportunity to discuss applications and courses ahead of the new term. The course clearing line is 0131 297 8500.

Edinburgh College Principal, Audrey Cumberford, said: “The new academic session is fast approaching and clearing day is an important time for applicants and prospective students to firm up their plans for the year ahead.

“I would encourage anyone who is unsure about their existing application or is thinking of starting a new course in 2022/23 to come along and speak to our teams at Granton Campus, or to call our clearing line.

“Our College offers a vast and diverse range of courses, all delivered by expert teaching staff, which are geared towards equipping students with the skills they need to forge a successful career in their chosen field.”

NHS 24: Safe summer play for kids – tips and health advice

As part of their summer health campaign, ‘Hello Summer,’ NHS 24 are offering advice about what to do if a child hurts themselves while playing outside during the holidays.

Dr Laura Ryan, a GP and NHS 24’s Medical Director said: ‘We’re halfway through the summer holidays, and as the weather has been so good it has been a great opportunity for young people to play outside and get some exercise.

“While it is brilliant that they are getting a chance to get some fresh air and stretch their legs, this can also mean there is an increased risk of a wee accident.

‘If that happens it is important that you check that there is no serious damage. Ensure that the child is conscious, alert and responding normally. If not, dial 999 and ask for an ambulance.

‘Fortunately, most of the time injuries are small and can be soothed by a cuddle to help with the shock and a dose of child-appropriate painkiller such as Calpol if there is any pain. Your local pharmacist will be happy to provide advice on child medications and treating simple injuries yourself.

‘If your child continues to be in pain, you can check our health information website NHS inform – there’s lots of information and advice there for you. If you think you need more help, call NHS 24 on 111 and our team can assess what is the most appropriate care for your child.

‘If you need to take them to a minor injuries unit for example, we work in partnership with your local health board to arrange the next steps. This could be a call back from their team or an appointment to visit, which should also lessen any waiting time.

‘By following this advice, we hope that many more people will have a happy and stress-free break this summer.’

For more hints and tips on how to stay healthy this summer – https://www.nhsinform.scot/summer

General advice and information on how to stay healthy can be found at www.nhsinform.scot.

Heart of Newhaven June Newsletter

Welcome to your June Newsletter

First of all, we hope you enjoyed the Picnic in the Park on Sunday 19th June in collaboration with the Friends of Victoria Park and the Victoria Park Allotment Holders. There seemed to be hundreds of people there, all having a great time. We hope you caught up with some old friends and made some new ones.

Next in the calendar will be our second Annual General Meeting. This will be held on Saturday 2nd July and members will be receiving their own invitation to attend in person this year, now that Covid restrictions have been relaxed. There will be more details in the members’ invitations.

If you think you are already a member, but have not received the AGM invitation by email in the last few days, please do get in touch with us to check your membership status by emailing admin@heartofnewhaven.co.uk .

Just a reminder that receiving this newsletter does not necessarily mean that you are a member. You might just have signed up to receive the newsletter but not joined as a member.

Check out our website for membership conditions, which are purely geographical. If you live in our area of benefit (there’s a map on the website) then you can become a full member with voting rights.

If you live outside the area then you can still become an associate member but will not be able to vote at the AGM.

Joining is free. If you haven’t joined and wish to, then you can find the form under JOIN on the website.

The Trustees look forward to meeting members in person, many of them for the first time, and discussing our exciting plans for the future.

We would also like to use this newsletter to introduce you to a new member of our team. Bryan McCarthy joins us as our new Volunteer Coordinator.

One of our trustees, Christine McDerment has been on the other end of the volunteering email address up until now, but Bryan has stepped up and answered the call for some help.

Bryan is originally from Cork, Ireland, but moved to Edinburgh five years ago and has been living in Leith while working in criminal justice with Edinburgh City Council. “I have always enjoyed volunteering in my spare time and am excited to put my energy into coordinating the volunteering activities of Heart of Newhaven,” he says.

Now, a reminder: we are looking for volunteers to get involved in reminiscence training.

Sharing family stories is therapeutic and instructive, not to mention enjoyable. If you’re interested in helping to record people’s stories and memories, to then share with the community, then please get in touch. We have secured funding for this, so the training would be free for the participants.

Contact: judy.crabb@heartofnewhaven.co.uk

or Christine.mcderment@heartofnewhaven.co.uk

Remember to check the website regularly for blogs.

The month of May saw a visit to the Scottish Fisheries Museum in Anstruther, with whom we hope to collaborate on exhibitions and events in the future. As well as their regular collection they also offer temporary exhibitions and the current one runs until 19th June.

You can find the blogs, including Culture & Heritage and View From The Chair, under BLOGS on the website.

Surviving Suicidal Thoughts – sharing personal stories for support 

“‘I’m struggling’. Those two words were all it took.“

NHS 24 and the National Suicide Prevention Leadership Group (NSPLG) are offering new support to people living with thoughts of suicide or plans to end their own life.

Short video clips are hosted on NHS inform, where people from across Scotland tell their individual stories. The people featured generously share the ways they have found to live past their suicidal thoughts or intentions. The aim is to offer people in this situation support to better manage these thoughts and to find hope..

The videos are presented alongside information on how to listen and talk about suicidal feelings. There is advice on ways to cope when it feels as though you can’t, and what warning signs to look for as well as how to reach urgent help via 999, the Samaritans or 111.

NHS 24 Director of Service Delivery, Janice Houston said: “Our first priority is offering a compassionate service to everyone that contacts us about their mental health, and we know that some people would prefer to listen than to talk – at least at first.

“We are very pleased to be able to offer this option to people experiencing thoughts of suicide and our thanks go to those who have shared their journeys so generously.

“For anyone who is concerned for themselves or anyone else, we encourage you to listen to these stories and to find someone who can listen to you – whether that is a friend, colleague or family member, or one of the specialist helplines available 24/7.”

NSPLG chair Rose Fitzpatrick CBE QPM said: “We are committed to exploring innovations in digital technology to help save lives from the tragedy of suicide. The creation of the new Surviving Suicidal Thoughts resource on the NHS Inform website represents a significant step towards better supporting those who are having suicidal thoughts and their loved ones.

 “This new resource, developed with our partners at NHS 24, is intended to help those thinking about suicide and those who are supporting someone who may be suicidal.  It features people who have themselves known these tough times describing what they experienced and what has helped each of them get through.

 “We hope these compelling personal stories will encourage people experiencing suicidal thoughts to know that they can get through such dark moments and will also provide information for others on how to support someone who may be suicidal.  We believe that suicide prevention can be everyone’s business.”

NSPLG Lived Experience Panel member Neil Renton features in one of the videos and is urging people to seek help by talking about their mental health.

Recalling his own story, he said: “Currently I feel really good mentally, but it’s not always been like that.

“I think the thing that caught me out was I wasn’t expecting to feel as bad as I did. It was hard to pinpoint exactly what made me feel depressed and low and took me to feel suicidal.

He added: “I think I was in denial because there wasn’t anything that set it off or triggered it, I came from a loving family, I’m well-supported, life and soul of the party. I felt I didn’t have an excuse so I found it really difficult to appreciate that I could have been suffering mentally.

“It was a struggle to be open and honest with others, be it my wife, family, medical people, friends and colleagues as well. You were always worried you were going to be judged, people would look at you differently.

“I remember what it was like when I was suicidal and just felt like there was nothing else I could do.

“I’d hate for anybody to be in the position I was in. I could see it like an edge I was running towards and no obstacle could stop me.

“My family would be like a wall I would smash through, my friends barbed wire I could jump over and there was nothing stopping me getting to that edge.

“And I just remember thinking: ‘I really need to say something at this point or that’s me gone’.

“I was dreaming up this big speech to my wife that I wanted to be poignant and memorable, but I simply said: ‘I’m struggling’. Those two words were all it took.

“We talked for hours, I gained confidence, felt supported and from there I got the help I needed and continue to work on my mental health to this day.

“Please talk about it.”

The content is for anyone experiencing thoughts of suicide. It is for those around them, family, friends, work mates and others too. The full stories are also on the NHS 24 YouTube channel.