Tag: information

BAME concerns over Covid and vaccine information

As the Chair of ELREC, an equality organisation, I want to share some of our concerns in regards to Covid and the roll out of the vaccine, especially amongst BAME groups. 

Since the start of this pandemic, it’s been obvious that information has not always been disseminated properly specifically amongst our local ethnic minority communities. 

There hasn’t been official translated information made available to minority groups, specifically to those with language and literacy issues which is quite prevalent amongst the older BAME generations.

People not being able to understand something is daunting as it is but if it relates to their health and wellbeing then it’s an actual risk to them. Many older south Asians living in Edinburgh and Lothians rely on friends and family to relay information to them, and this doesn’t always happen so they are left to rely on foreign messages which may not always be correct.  

During the Covid-19 pandemic the information hasn’t always been executed the best or in a responsible manner which has led to many relying on other sources.

Misinformation in these circumstances can be just as deadly as the virus. People need to know factual information about every aspect of the pandemic. As the vaccine is being rolled out, we need to know the facts, in order to ensure all individuals are vaccinated.

We need facts, such as the ingredients and side effects. Many BAME people have underlying health issues and illnesses specific to their groups so how will the vaccine affect them, has it been tested vastly and diversely enough.  

Everyone has the right to correct information, in a manner they understand and can apply to their lives and this is the responsibility of every government. I call on the Scottish Government to ensure the facts regarding the vaccine are communicated to the BAME community in a way that reassures them.  

Foysol Choudhury MBE

Chair. Edinburgh and Lothian Regional Equality Council

Staying mentally healthy while working from home

12 tips from SAMH

Working from home, especially during extended periods can be difficult to adjust to. For many of us, it means learning how to manage our different areas of work under new circumstances.

While we all experience and learn to adapt to new situations and environments differently, there are some challenges that we are all facing.

We’ve put together some top tips on how to get the most out of working from home while looking after yourself and your mental health.

  1. Create your morning routine

Create a morning routine that brings you up until the moment you begin work for the day. It may sound trivial, but this helps you mentally prepare for the day ahead and get into the “I’m going to work” mindset.

You probably have a routine when you get to work, so creating a routine at home is also a good idea.

It could be making a cup of coffee. It might be returning home after a jog, or doing some mindfulness sessions. It could be getting dressed (although it may be tempting to stay in your pyjamas, it may not be the best look for those video conference calls!).

Whatever it is, setting yourself up for the day can improve your state of mind and psychologically prepare you to start work.

Why not try mindfulness or meditation to get your morning started: Headspace – Weathering the Storm.

2. Establish boundaries

It is easy to lose track of time when working from home, so set a schedule, and stick to it…where you can.

Having clear guidelines for when to start work and when to call it a day helps maintain your life-work balance. Aim to start and finish at your normal working times.

We know that those in self-isolation, who have childcare or other caring responsibilities, may need to be more flexible in the times they might work. For example, you may need to switch to some evening work so you can spend time with children during the day. Speak to your line manager about agreeing a new temporary work schedule.

3. Create your own workspace

Although it’s tempting to head to your sofa with a laptop, you’re may find setting up a work area helps you stay focused. If you can, try to set aside a specific area or space where you can work. If you don’t have a desk, use a table or worktop.

Besides making you feel like you’re at an “office,” this helps you maintain good posture, avoid distractions, and mentally leave your work behind at the end of the day. The NHS advice is that you should adjust your chair so you can use the keyboard with your wrists and forearms straight and level with the floor.

4. Set ground rules with the people you share your space with

There might be other people in your home during these exceptional times. They may be working from home too or self-isolating. You may all need to share a limited amount of space so it’s important to set some ground rules. For example, when you need access to a certain area of your home; or designated times for ‘quiet time’.

Working with limited childcare options

With schools and nurseries closed, you may find yourself needing to come up with new routines not only for your working life, but within your personal life for your children or siblings. Talk to your employer or manager about potential flexible working opportunites at your place of work. You may want to consider the following:

  • Are the children old enough so you can still continue to work?
  • Can someone supervise the children some of the time?
  • Can you alter your working times?
  • Do I want to consider using some annual leave to spend time with children?

If children are at home, then try set some ground rules. Have clear rules about what they can and cannot do during that time, when they can come and speak to you and when you need left alone.

We also know that many schools have reminded parents not to set unrealistic expectations or goals.  Its important parents take time to look after themselves too. If you are social care staff or co-parent with someone classed as a key worker, your children may still be able to go to school. Follow the Government’s most up to date advice.

5. Take breaks

Remember to take normal breaks, including your lunch break. Get up and move about, go for a short walk or make a coffee. Try setting a timer or alarm on your computer screen or mobile phone to remind you to take a break.

6. Connect with colleagues

Loneliness, disconnect, and isolation are common problems in remote work life, especially in the current uncertain and worrying situation. Making the effort to speak to your colleagues regularly can make a difference.

Conference calls, Zoom, Skype, and Microsoft Teams are all examples of how you can keep connected. Try to pick up the phone for a real conversation rather than relying on email or instant messaging all day. Video calls in particular can help you still feel connected to your colleagues.

7. Get some fresh air when you can

For those who need to self-isolate, opening the window may help you get as much fresh air as possible. Try to choose a spot with lot of natural light to work if you can.

Follow Government advice and do some exercise outside, even a short walk can benefit you both mentally and physically. Make sure to keep a distance from others when outside and be sure to wash your hands as soon as you return home.

8. Drink plenty of water

People get dehydrated when they sit, and if you’re heating is still on in your home, then you’ll need the extra water to keep yourself physically and mentally healthy.

To ensure that you are consuming a sufficient amount of water, keep bottles of water handy to make sure you drink your recommended 1.5-2 litres per day. You can also download apps on smartphone or tablet to remind you to drink regularly.

9. Stand up and stretch

Sitting all day isn’t healthy even if you’re at the office, but working from home means you skip your commute and have fewer reasons to get up from your chair throughout the day.

If it’s possible in the area you have set up for home working, try standing up to do your work for a change of pace. Standing uses more muscles and burns more calories than sitting and it’s good for your back and posture.

If you can’t stand and work, stretching is vital for maintaining good posture, especially when working at a desk for several hours a day.  Try standing up every 30 minutes or so to stretch your chest and extend your spine to reverse the hunched position of sitting. 

Standing and stretching can also help to reduce back and neck pain. Here are some suggestions to help you move and be mindful: a

10. Listen to music

If you find working from home to be a little too quiet, you miss the buzz of the office and find it difficult to focus, listen to music, turn on the radio, or put the TV on quietly in the background

11. End your day with a routine

Just like you should start your day with a routine, create a habit that signals the close of the workday. You might have a simple routine such as shutting down your computer and turning on a favourite podcast, or writing the next day’s to-do list.

Whatever you choose, do it consistently to mark the end of working hours. Put your work away or shut your laptop so you know you are back in your personal home time and place.

12. Reflect on your mental health

Ensure you take time to reflect on and try to be mindful of your mental health. Look out for changes in your feelings, practice self-care and be aware of any triggers or symptoms surrounding your mental health.

Make sure you keep in touch with support networks, even a text, phone call or video chat can make a difference.

For more ways to protect your mental health during these challenging times, check out our online information hub:  www.samh.org.uk/coronavirus.

First Minister: Please stay

Citizens of the European Union who live in Scotland are being urged to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme.

In an open letter and video message,  First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said it is vital that every EU citizen who wishes to stay in Scotland completes an application by 30 June, 2021.

While it is the Scottish Government’s view that EU citizens should not need to apply to protect the rights they already have to live, work and study here, the UK Government has made it a requirement.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “My message to everyone from the EU who lives and works here remains this: Scotland is your home, you are our family, and we’d be privileged if you would stay here with us.

“We are drawing close to the end of the Brexit transition period, and the end of a year in which we have together faced the unprecedented challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In these times of uncertainty and disruption, I would like to once again re-assure EU citizens that Scotland values you for the contribution you make to our society, our culture and our economy.

“While I don’t agree that you should have to go through an application process to secure rights that you should automatically have, I do want to ensure that you are able to stay in Scotland.

“Many EU citizens have already applied for the Settlement Scheme – but many more do still need to apply.

“My message is a simple one. Please apply. Scotland is a better place because you are living here.”

The open letter and video mark International Migrants Day, Friday 18 December.

The First Minister’s video message is available to view on @scotgov social media channels including Twitter, Facebook and Instagram from 18 December.

The open letter has been translated into Italian, Lithuanian, French, Polish, Romanian, Spanish and German, and is being made available to public and third sector stakeholders.

Stay in Scotland social media graphics have also been translated into Italian, Lithuanian, Polish, Romanian, Spanish, French and German.

For more information on the support available, visit www.mygov.scot/stayinscotland

Full text of the open letter from the First Minister:

Dear European Union citizens living in Scotland,

I wrote to you last in October 2019 at a time of considerable uncertainty leading up to our exit from the European Union. Since then all of us in Scotland and across Europe and the wider world have faced the huge challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic.

I would like to thank you for all you have done during this time as we have faced, and continue to face, this challenge together. You are of course our friends, family and neighbours in a year when the importance of these relationships cannot be overstated.

I believe that EU citizens in Scotland should not need to apply to protect the rights you already have to live, work and study here, but nevertheless there is a requirement, however unwelcome, to apply to the UK Government’s EU Settlement Scheme.

Thankfully, many of you have now applied to the EU Settlement Scheme and secured your status. Yet many of you are still to secure your status, and I must sadly reiterate that it remains critical that everyone who wishes to stay in Scotland must complete an application by 30 June 2021. Any EU citizen who is resident in Scotland before 31 December 2020 is eligible to apply, and I encourage you to do so.  

The Scottish Government’s Stay in Scotland campaign provides practical guidance and support to help you protect your rights and complete your application to the UK EU Settlement Scheme.

Working with our partners we fund an EU Citizens’ Support Service with a telephone helpline which is free to use and staffed by qualified advisors. In addition we part-fund a network of advisors in Citizen Advice Bureaux throughout Scotland.

Accurate information about your rights is crucial. That’s why the Scottish Government commissioned the human rights charity, JustRight Scotland, to produce a series of accessible guidance notes on EU citizens’ rights. These are available in six languages and will help you better understand your rights to healthcare, housing, banking and other services in Scotland after  31 December. 

You can find information on all the different support available to you at mygov.scot/stayinscotland, or contact the helpline for free on 0800 916 9847.

In light of the devastating impact of the pandemic, I hope that these resources will help you understand and exercise your rights. Please use them and encourage others to do the same.

My message to you remains the same: Scotland is your home, you are welcome here, we want you to stay.

Social media giants agree package of measures with UK Government to tackle vaccine disinformation

  • Platforms endorse the principle that no company should be profiting from COVID-19 vaccine mis/disinformation and commit to swifter responses to flagged content
  • Platforms will step up work with public health bodies to promote factual and reliable messages

Digital Secretary Oliver Dowden and Health Secretary Matt Hancock have agreed with social media platforms new measures to limit the spread of vaccine misinformation and disinformation and help people find the information they need about any COVID-19 vaccine.

At a virtual roundtable to address the growth of vaccine disinformation, Facebook, Twitter and Google committed to the principle that no company should profit from or promote COVID-19 anti-vaccine disinformation, to respond to flagged content more swiftly, and to work with authorities to promote scientifically accurate messages.

As the UK moves closer to developing a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine, Mr Dowden and Mr Hancock used the roundtable to welcome the progress these companies have made in strengthening their policies towards false coronavirus information and helping publicise the steps people should take to prevent the spread of the virus.

But the ministers raised concerns about the length of time misleading and false information about coronavirus vaccines remains on platforms, and called for swifter action to tackle such content.

Together the platforms have now agreed:

  • To commit to the principle that no user or company should directly profit profit from COVID-19 vaccine mis/disinformation. This removes an incentive for this type of content to be promoted, produced and be circulated.
  • To ensure a timely response to mis/disinformation content flagged to them by the government.
  • To continue to work with public health bodies to ensure that authoritative messages about vaccine safety reach as many people as possible.
  • To join new policy forums over the coming months to improve responses to mis/disinformation and to prepare for future threats.

The forums will see the government, social media platforms, public health bodies and academia increase their cooperation and ongoing information sharing to deliver a better understanding of the evolving threat caused by false COVID-19 vaccine narratives.

Digital Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “Covid disinformation is dangerous and could cost lives. While social media companies are taking steps to stop it spreading on their platforms there is much more that can be done.

“So I welcome this new commitment from social media giants not to profit from or promote flagged anti-vax content, given that making money from this dangerous content would be wrong.”

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “After clean water, vaccination is the most effective public health intervention in the world and has saved countless lives across the globe, eradicating one disease entirely.

“I am encouraged that social media companies have agreed to do more to prevent the spread of dangerous misinformation and disinformation on their platforms.

“We want users to have greater access to reliable and scientifically-accurate information on vaccines from trusted sources like the NHS so they can make informed decisions to protect themselves and their loved ones.”

Vaccines are overwhelmingly safe and effective healthcare solutions. Ministers used the meeting, which also included representatives from fact-checking charities, academics and data experts, to highlight that robust action must be taken against misleading messaging and content online which could harm and discourage people from protecting themselves or their loved ones.

Throughout the pandemic the government’s Counter Disinformation Unit has been developing a picture of the extent, scope and reach of disinformation and working with online platforms to ensure appropriate action is taken.

The unit has observed a range of false narratives about coronavirus vaccines across multiple platforms, including widespread misuse of scientific findings and baseless claims challenging the safety of vaccines or plans for their deployment.

Ronan Harris, Google UK Managing Director, said: “Since the beginning of the covid-19 epidemic, we have worked relentlessly to promote authoritative content from the NHS and to fight misinformation.

“In the last few months, we have continued to update our policies to make sure that content contradicting scientific consensus about the virus is swiftly removed and demonetised.

“Today, we are redoubling our commitment to take effective action against covid vaccine misinformation and to continue to work with partners across Government and industry to make sure people in the UK have easy access to helpful and accurate Information.”

Katy Minshall, Head of UK Public Policy, Twitter UK, said: “We are focused on protecting the public conversation and helping people find authoritative information on Twitter – in May 2019, we launched a search prompt that serves people with credible vaccine information from the NHS.

“In January this year, we launched a dedicated COVID-19 search prompt, ensuring that when people come to the service for information, they’re met with authoritative, public health information first. To date, over 160 million people have visited the Twitter COVID-19 curated page, over two billion times.

Since introducing COVID misinformation policies in March, and as we’ve doubled down on tech, our automated systems have challenged millions of accounts which were targeting discussions around COVID-19 with spammy or manipulative behaviours.

“We remain committed to combating misinformation about COVID-19, and continue to take action on accounts that violate our Rules. We look forward to continued collaboration with government and industry partners in our work towards improving the health of the public conversation.

Rebecca Stimson, Facebook’s Head of UK Public Policy, said: “We’re working closely with governments and health authorities to stop harmful misinformation from spreading on our platforms.

“Ads that include vaccine hoaxes or discourage people from getting a vaccine are banned, we remove harmful misinformation about Covid-19 and put warning labels over posts marked as false by third party fact checkers.

“We’re also connecting people to accurate information about vaccines and Covid-19 whenever they search for these topics. In the first months of the pandemic we directed more than 3.5 million visits to official advice from the NHS and UK government and we’re pleased to continue to support public health efforts.”

Braille versions of Test and Protect guidance will be available for Scots with sight loss

Sight loss charity RNIB Scotland will produce braille versions of the Scottish Government Test and Protect guidance relating to the current coronavirus situation.

The move follows concerns that some blind and partially sighted people might be unable to access important health advice and guidance. In a  survey of people with sight loss commissioned by RNIB in May, one in four respondents said they had struggled to get information in a format they could understand.

James Adams, director of RNIB Scotland, said: “In the current situation accessible healthcare information is more essential than ever. It is vitally important everyone knows how to keep themselves and their community safe, and that blind and partially sighted people, who can be particularly vulnerable, are kept informed of new developments and guidance.

“So we are pleased to be able to assist the Scottish Government in making braille versions of information available on procedures for testing.”

Braille is the tactile system of raised dots on paper that can be ‘read’ by  fingertip touch. Although many blind and partially sighted people now use audio or screen-reading software to access information, thousands still use the system invented by Frenchman Louis Braille in 1837.

RNIB has produced guidelines on making information accessible for a range of public bodies and businesses. Some adjustments are relatively easy to make, points out Mr Adams.

“Even people who don’t consider themselves sight-impaired can sometimes struggle with very small print, or with text that doesn’t have a sharp enough contrast with the background colour,” James said.

“Much information is now communicated electronically or online. For people who use screen-reading software – which reads out text on websites or emails – this might not seem a problem. But some graphics can still confuse screen-readers, such as text superimposed on images, photos that don’t have alt-tags, text that is justified on both sides, or even just sentences that don’t end with a full-stop.

“That’s why it’s absolutely vital that we give full consideration to how accessible our communications are.”

Braille copies of Scottish Government Test and Protect information materials relating to the current coronavirus situation can be obtained from scotland@rnib.org.uk.

Test and Protect information is also available in audio and large-print format, as well as other languages and formats, from the Scottish Government website at  www.gov.scot/test-and-protect,

* The RNIB Helpline is available on 0303 123 9999.

New Town North community newsletter

Latest update from the New Town North project team

Latest Information From The New Town North Project Team

Welcome to the fourth edition of our newsletter updating you on New Town North – a new mixed-use development being delivered in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town by developers Ediston and Orion Capital Managers.

Plans are in place to transform a 5.9-acre site between Dundas Street and the King George V Park, previously owned by the Royal Bank of Scotland, into a vibrant mixed-use community bringing together new homes, offices and local amenities.

Project Update

We are aiming to submit the planning application for the New Town North development to the City of Edinburgh Council by the end of July 2020. The team is currently finalising proposals as well as considering feedback from all our statutory stakeholders and from the latest consultation event which was held in April 2020.

Because of the coronavirus lockdown, the planned public exhibition was replaced with a fully interactive online consultation which generated a huge amount of interest from local, national, and international audiences. Viewers could access updated design information online and use a special ‘chat-box’ to ask questions or raise issues before submitting an online feedback form. During the ‘live’ exhibition period, the website recorded almost 2000 hits with visitors hailing from Scotland, the UK and overseas – proving how much national and international interest there is in this development. 

In total, 87 completed feedback questionnaires were received covering a wide variety of issues. This compared favourably with previous public exhibitions held in September 2019 (59 completed forms received) and December 2010 (77). Thanks to all those who took part in this latest public consultation and made it such a success. All feedback from individuals and from nearly a dozen local groups at numerous local meetings has helped inform our proposals.     
 

Key Consultation Issues & Responses

 Height and Scale of the Proposals

Some residents have expressed concern about the height and scale of the proposals. This has been raised throughout the consultation.  As a result of our approach and the feedback, the proposals have been have been carefully designed to ensure that the overall scale and density of the proposed development are in keeping with the character of the surrounding area. Density levels reflect that of the existing communities and developments around the New Town North proposals. 

Green and Public Space

Residents were keen to understand the impact of the proposals on King George V Park, and considerable effort has gone into ensuring that additional green space is created within the development and that it blends well with the park. In total the available green space and soft landscaping on the site will increase that provided within the park by more than 25%, in addition to extensive public realm in newly created courtyards and pathways.  The design team has been determined to make a significant improvement to the available public space and is confident this has been achieved in the latest proposals. We’d like to thank everyone, particularly the Friends of the Park, for their help in improving the proposals through the consultation. 

Tree Maintenance

Trees in the area have now been subject to detailed reports by two independent arboriculturists to make sure we are taking a fully informed approach. The tree survey work has included King George V Park and the tree belt along Royal Crescent and Fettes Row will be managed in order to maintain its long standing and important presence. The team is finalising proposals on how this can be best achieved with the Council. In addition to the long-term management of the trees on Royal Crescent and Fettes Row there will be considerable new tree planting incorporated into the soft and hard landscape throughout the proposals.

Overshadowing 

Some residents asked about overshadowing of the park. The team has been aware of this issue from early in the consultation process and this has been fully taken into account in the latest proposals. The plans remain fully compliant with the guidance applied by the Council for development beside parks and public places and will not result in any material additional overshadowing and in a couple of locations will offer a moderate benefit.  The team has always worked to ensure that the proposals are coordinated with King George V Park and the planning application will reflect that approach. 

Parking

Some of the local residents have raised concerns about the number of car parking spaces and seem to have been advised that there were only going to be 20 car parking spaces created. We have no idea how this rumour originated, but we are delighted to clarify the position. Parking numbers are strictly controlled by the Council on new developments. 
The proposals comply with Council Parking Standards, with off street parking being created for a total of 164 cars, across all uses. We also have incorporated 700 spaces for cycle parking, also based on guidance from the Council. 

Eyre Place Courtyard

Eyre Place residents have raised questions about the relationship of the new development with their existing courtyard, which currently abuts a blank wall adjacent to the existing office building. An expanded courtyard is being created adjacent to their properties. We can confirm that this expanded courtyard space is 50% larger than the existing space.  Sunlight penetration into the courtyard will also be increased. There were also questions about overlooking, which is inevitable on any city centre development.  Any new directly facing windows will be the same distance away, or further, than at present. 

Materials 

Many residents asked about materials being used in the development. We have been working hard with the Council and Historic Environment Scotland to get the right mix of stone and other materials for use in the development, which is obviously a major challenge on such a complex proposal. These discussions are nearing a conclusion and will be reflected in the Planning Application. 

Pathways/Cycling

Some residents were concerned about increased cycling through the park. The proposals for pathway access have been significantly reduced to reflect these concerns and to manage the interface between pedestrians and cyclists, with one of the proposed access points being removed. This will create an environment where walking is given an appropriate priority. 
 

Local Businesses on the Road to Recovery

Local business in Dundas Street and the area surrounding the New Town North development are now opening up for business, following almost four months of lockdown caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. And while economic forecasts for the area make grim reading, with Edinburgh predicted to record its highest levels of unemployment since July 1995, the New Town North planning application is set to bring confidence and hope to many neighboring businesses who are committing to a long-term future in the area. 

Latest published research shows the New Town North development is poised to bring significant economic benefit to the local area, and the wider Edinburgh economy. A report by UK planning and engineering consultancy The Waterman Group, commissioned by Ediston, reveals that the operational phase of the development would create more than 700 full-time jobs whilst generating an annual GVA (Gross Added Value) economic uplift of £34.4 million to the local and regional economy. 

The construction phase alone would create a further £27.7 million GVA at a regional level, creating a further 60 full-time jobs.  And many of the local bars, restaurants, cafes, barbers, hairdressers and shops will also benefit from the huge amount of business and activity that development is set to generate during construction and beyond.
 

Reflecting the Best of the New Town

New Town North is a new mixed-use development being delivered in the heart of Edinburgh’s celebrated New Town by developers Ediston and Orion Capital Managers. Plans are in place to transform a 5.9-acre site between Dundas Street and the King George V Park, previously owned by the Royal Bank of Scotland, into a vibrant mixed-use community bringing together new homes, offices, hotels and local amenities.
The site has lain largely derelict and inaccessible for almost three years since RBS moved out in 2017. We now have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform this empty space into a world-class development for Edinburgh’s city centre, reflecting the very best of the city’s New Town. 
 Visit Our Website

Feedback & Contact

For more information on New Town North, please contact:

Ross McNulty, Development Director, Ediston.ross.mcnulty@ediston.com 

Mobile: 07651 207 402

Everything you need to know about getting a mortgage during Covid-19

Covid-19 is impacting many families and individuals in very different ways. But with so many of us spending more time at home than ever before, many people are thinking about whether they can move or extend to gain more space, or just taking advantage of lower interest rates.

The housing market is now opening up and rates are changing yet many people are unsure about whether mortgages are available for them.

TSB’s Head of Mortgages, Nick Smith answers some important questions on getting a mortgage in the current environment: 

Can I still get a mortgage in the current environment?

Yes, you can. However, getting a mortgage really depends on individual circumstances. Think about your personal situation – is your income sustainable? Are you happy with the deposit you’ve built?

If you’re planning to get a mortgage, speak to your lender or broker openly about your financial situation and they will be able to advise on the best options for you.

Can I physically view properties?

Estate agents are opening up and you should be able to do physical viewings in England. But in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales viewings are not yet permitted.

If you’d prefer an electronic viewing – speak to your agent, they can likely help you, although for many people, nothing can replace the sense of space and perspective you get from being physically in the property.

Can I get a valuation or survey done on a house I want to buy?

Yes, most lenders are now conducting physical valuations where electronic valuations have not been possible.

Most surveyors will be taking their precautionary measures with full PPE equipment, therefore ensuring the homeowner’s safety as well as their own.

However, more and more lenders are using electronic valuations, which are very accurate and can be done very quickly. Remember – the valuation done by your mortgage lender is to satisfy themselves that the house is a good security for your loan.

I’d always advise when buying a new house that you consider a more detailed survey for your own benefit and peace of mind. The RICS consumer guide to home surveys on their website is a useful guide to your different options.

Are first time buyers impacted more than second time buyers?

No, they’re not. It really depends on how much equity you have either as a first-time buyer or those remortgaging/buying a second property.

If you’re looking to remortgage just remember you don’t have to move to a new bank/lender. All major providers will offer a product transfer which means that you can move to a lower rate.

Is there anything I need to be aware of when applying for a mortgage in this environment?

There are a few things to bear in mind. Crucially, it’s important to think about your financial situation. Has your income changed recently? Will you be able to make payments now and in the future? When speaking to your lender/broker, provide as much information as you can about your income. Ultimately, they will want to protect you as much as possible, so that you can comfortably meet your payments and not find yourself in a financially vulnerable position.

For example, consider the following when speaking to your mortgage advisor: have you been working more overtime than normal lately? Will this continue in the future or will your hours and overtime reduce?

Most lenders will lend to those who have been furloughed but each lender will have their own lending criteria. Your mortgage advisor will be able to help with the best options for you. For more complex income circumstances, a specialist mortgage broker will be able to talk through your options.

The physical process of buying a house has also changed very slightly – there will be more social distancing for example and so it is likely a mortgage meeting will take place over the phone rather than face to face.

A mortgage meeting over the phone is easier to book in whereas face to face is a little more difficult at the moment. The Government has recently issued detailed guidance on how house viewings should be conducted with social distancing in mind.

With the rapid market changes, we’ve also seen banks responding very quickly and reintroducing higher loan to value products. At the moment, most banks have reintroduced lending up to 85% of the value of the property – so there are more mortgages becoming available again for those with a 15% deposit. Do your research and speak to your advisor about the best mortgages for you.

If I’ve been offered a mortgage is my bank obliged to offer it if my circumstances change?

No, they’re not. Offers can only be withdrawn under certain limited conditions but this includes a change in income. If your circumstances change, speak to your lender or broker as soon as possible.  It’s important to remember that they will always want to ensure you can afford repayments now and in the future and they will work with you to find the best options for you.

I’m thinking about enlarging my home to create more space – how do I get a mortgage for this?

You have three options to consider, and the best option for you will depend on a number of things, such as how much additional money you need to borrow, how much your house is worth, and whether your current mortgage is still in a period where early repayment charges apply.

Option 1: would be to speak to your existing mortgage provider about a “Further Advance” – essentially borrowing more money on your existing mortgage. This is likely to be the quickest option to get funds in your bank account, as there’s no change in lender, but you should weigh up both the convenience and the cost, as it won’t necessarily be the cheapest option.

Option 2: would be to move your entire mortgage to a new lender under a remortgage process, taking additional borrowing as part of your application. If you want to take this option, be careful to speak to your existing lender about any early repayment costs associated with your current mortgage.

Option 3: would be to take out what’s known as a “second charge” loan – this is where a new lender advances you the money, accepting that if you default on your mortgage and your house is repossessed, they only get funds from your property once the first-change lender (i.e. your main mortgage) has recovered their debts. As a result, these are usually more expensive interest rates, and are less common in the market.

If the above options don’t appeal, or if you don’t have much equity in your property, you could also consider an unsecured loan.

Whilst interest rates are usually higher than on mortgages / further advances, there is some flexibility in taking a separate unsecured loan, as long as you can afford both payments, and most mainstream lenders will offer up to anywhere between £25k and £50k as their maximum unsecured loan amount.

Do note though, repayment terms are usually shorter, so these will almost always have a higher monthly repayment.

I’m not feeling confident about buying in the current environment, what should I do with my deposit?

If you’re feeling uncertain about buying a house right now, think about when you believe you might feel ready. When thinking about where to put your hard-earned deposit, consider whether you really want it tied-up.

If there’s a chance that you might find somewhere you would love to buy in six months, then putting your deposit in a longer fixed-term savings account, where you might forfeit interest if you withdraw early, probably isn’t the right thing to do, even if it has a slightly better interest rate.

Equally, you should think very carefully before moving any of your deposit into stocks, shares or funds, where the value could go down as well as up – what if the value has decreased at a time you want to buy? Would that be a problem for you?

If so, now probably isn’t the time for that sort of investment. Speak to your bank about your options, they can assist and talk you through what is suitable for you and your circumstances.

Nick Smith, TSB’s Head of Mortgages, concludes: “The market is changing rapidly and we are seeing some confidence grow in the housing market, which will be welcome news for those eager to buy a new home or to remortgage.

“There are mortgages available, but you will need to remember to do your research and have open discussions with your mortgage advisor.”

 

Free School Meals: It’s not too late to claim

FREE SCHOOL MEALS 

information for parents and carers

from GRANTON INFORMATION CENTRE

Families of children from P4 to S6 who receive Free School Meals, and those in P1 to P3 who are entitled to clothing grants, will receive a fortnightly electronic payment during term time and the Easter Holidays equivalent to the cost of a school meal.

Payments are £22.50 per child every fortnight until further notice from 23 March.

All children in primary 1 to 3 receive free school meals if they are attending school, but not free milk or a clothing grant.   In the present circumstances, those families won’t receive the £22.50 fortnightly payment unless they are eligible to get the clothing grant and free milk due to low income.

The criteria is the same as for P4-7s.

IT’s NOT TOO LATE TO CLAIM

Parents may still apply for the current academic year and, if eligible, awards will be backdated to 23 March, the start of school closures. 

The eligibility for free school meals and/or substitute payment (including P1-3s) depends on the family’s income and they need to be in receipt of one of the following benefits:

  • Universal credit (with monthly earnings up to £610)
  • Income Support and Income Based Job seekers Allowance or Employment and Support Allowance
  • Child Tax Credits only with gross income up to £16105
  • Child and Working Tax Credits with gross income up to £6900
  • Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999

Some families will get an automatic award for 2020-21 but others will have to apply when the time comes (they are not receiving applications yet).

Clothing grants applications closed on 31 March but will reopen for the next academic year later.

For more information and keep up to date with possible changes please visit www.edinburgh.gov.uk/schoolgrants

https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/food-clothing/free-school-meals-school-clothing-grants/1

Free Coronavirus Information book for children

Axel Scheffler has illustrated a digital book for primary school age children, free for anyone to read on screen or print out, about the coronavirus and the measures taken to control it.

Published by Nosy Crow, and written by staff within the company, the book has had expert input: Professor Graham Medley of the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine acted as a consultant, and the company also had advice from two head teachers and a child psychologist.

The book answers key questions in simple language appropriate for 5 to 9 year olds:

• What is the coronavirus?
• How do you catch the coronavirus?
• What happens if you catch the coronavirus?
• Why are people worried about catching the coronavirus?
• Is there a cure for the coronavirus?
• Why are some places we normally go to closed?
• What can I do to help?
• What’s going to happen next?

We want to make sure that this book is accessible to every child and family and so the book is offered totally free of charge to anyone who wants to read it.

However, we have suggested, at the back of the book, that families might make a donation to help our health service if they find the book useful: https://www.nhscharitiestogether.co.uk/.

Kate Wilson, Managing Director of Nosy Crow, said: “We were very aware that many parents and carers are struggling to explain the current extraordinary situation to children, many of whom are frightened and confused.

“We thought that the best thing we could do would be to use our skills to produce a free book to explain and, where possible, reassure children. We asked Axel, whose work is so familiar and so loved, to illustrate it. He was happy to do it, and did it extraordinarily quickly.

“Meanwhile, having heard Professor Medley interviewed by the BBC, we looked him up and wrote to him, and despite his huge workload, he reviewed the book over a weekend, and we were able to incorporate his suggestions, together with those of two head teachers and a child psychologist, into the final version of the book. We hope it helps answer difficult questions in difficult times.”

Axel Scheffler, illustrator of The Gruffalo, said: “I asked myself what I could do as an children’s illustrator to inform, as well as entertain, my readers here and abroad. So I was glad when my publisher, Nosy Crow, asked me to illustrate this question-and-answer book about the coronavirus.

“I think it is extremely important for children and families to have access to good and reliable information in this unprecedented crisis, and I hope that the popularity of the books I’ve done with Julia Donaldson will ensure that this digital book will reach many children who are now slightly older, but might still remember our picture books.”

Professor Graham Medley, Professor of Infectious Disease Modelling at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, said: “This pandemic is changing children’s lives across the globe and will have a lasting impact on us all.

“Helping children understand what is going on is an important step in helping them cope and making them part of the story – this is something that we are all going through, not something being done to them.

“This book puts children IN the picture rather just watching it happen, and in a way that makes the scary parts easier to cope with.”

You can download a copy of the book here 

Granton Information Centre: still here for you

Due to the Coronavirus outbreak our office is currently closed to the public – but  GIC is still operating!

Call us Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4pm on on 0131 551 2459 or 0131 552 0458 if:

•You would like to arrange a telephone appointment to discuss money, benefits, housing or debt

•You wish to discuss an existing case

•You require a foodbank referral

All messages will be returned as long as you leave a clear telephone number for us to reach you on.

Emails will be checked daily: our email address is info@gic.org.uk