Lord Provost – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

Edinburgh stands in solidarity with Ukraine four years on

The Lord Provost Robert Aldridge reflects on the Capital’s response over the last four years:

As we mark this solemn fourth anniversary of Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine, we also draw hope and comfort in Edinburgh’s long history as a proud, welcoming and diverse city.

Our biggest strength lies in those who live here – people from all walks of life, cultures, and backgrounds.

From our long-standing links with the Norwegians and Poles during and after the Second World War to the thousands of Ukrainians, Afghans, Syrians and other refugees and displaced families who now call Edinburgh home, we’re proud to be a city of sanctuary – welcoming all those who come here in search of a better life.

As Kyiv’s twin city, I’m incredibly proud of the role that Edinburgh’s communities have played in helping those fleeing the horrors of Russia’s illegal war, with around 3,000 Ukrainians now residing in the Capital.

Since the first days of the invasion, we’ve been working hard across our services to help assimilate Ukrainians into their new lives here. The wider collective response encompassing the public, private and third sectors represents the very best qualities of our city and our citizens.

Residents, volunteers, and colleagues have worked steadfastly to help our new arrivals, opening their hearts and in many cases their homes to Ukrainians in their hour of need.

In the first year of the conflict we worked alongside the Scottish Government and other partners to house over 1,500 Ukrainians aboard the MS Victoria at the Port of Leith.

Edinburgh continues to be the gateway for the vast majority of Ukrainian arrivals into Scotland. Since February 2022, we have had almost 12,000 Ukrainians pass through our Welcome Hub, first at Gogarburn House and now at Flassches Yard.

On Tuesday morning, alongside representatives from the Scottish and UK Governments, the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain and other partners, I laid a wreath at the Stone of Remembrance.

My thoughts remain with those continuing to fight for freedom, those who have fallen or been injured in defence of Ukraine, and for everyone who has had to abandon their homes and lives.

Whilst this terrible war has endured for longer than any of us could have imagined, my hope remains that we will soon see peace in Ukraine.

To Edinburgh’s Ukrainian population my message is simple. This is your home. You are a valued part of our city and have our full support for as long as you need it.

Sir Geoff Palmer OBE KT

With a heavy heart, we share the sad news of the passing of our dear honorary patron and ELREC’s longest serving member, Professor Sir Geoff Palmer, OBE KT.

A man of immense wisdom, dignity, and unwavering integrity, Sir Geoff’s life was a powerful testament to resilience, courage and a commitment to justice.

His contributions to science, education, and the ongoing fight for racial equality have left an indelible mark on the world.

Beyond his remarkable achievements, Sir Geoff will be remembered for his humility, kindness, and the way he inspired generations to think critically and act compassionately. His voice was one of clarity in challenging times, and his legacy will continue to guide and uplift us.

Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. May he rest in peace, and may we honor his memory by continuing the work he so passionately championed.

Gone, but will never be forgotten

ELREC (Edinburgh and Lothians Regional Equality Council)

Edinburgh’s Lord Provost Robert Aldridge said: “I was deeply saddened to learn of Sir Geoff Palmer’s passing. A tireless advocate for equality and a pioneering academic, Sir Geoff was a true inspiration and will leave a lasting impression on Edinburgh.

“In 2022 I was honoured to present Sir Geoff with the Edinburgh Award in recognition of his academic achievements and his passionate defence of human rights and justice in the city and beyond.

His handprints remain immortalised alongside those of other Edinburgh Award recipients and will give passers-by pause to reflect on the huge impact he had here.

“In chairing the Edinburgh Slavery and Colonialism Legacy Review Sir Geoff made a vital contribution to recognising and profiling the Capital’s links with Slavery and Colonialism in the public realm.

“I know Sir Geoff’s legacy in academia and activism will live on for years to come, inspiring future generations. He will be dearly missed – my thoughts are with his friends, family and all those who knew him.”

Edinburgh celebrates 25 years of Volunteer Edinburgh’s impact with Civic Reception

The Lord Provost of Edinburgh hosted a Civic Reception at the City Chambers last night to honour the 25th anniversary of Volunteer Edinburgh as an independent organisation and its outstanding contribution to the life of the city.

The event brought together past and present staff, volunteers, trustees, and civic leaders to mark a quarter-century of innovation, impact, and service.

At the heart of the celebration was a powerful address by the organisation’s CEO, Paul Wilson, who reflected on the journey from a small volunteer exchange to becoming one of the city’s most dynamic and adaptive third sector organisations.

Paul said: “If anyone asked me what Volunteer Edinburgh is all about,I simply say: ‘people’.”

A Legacy of Innovation and Impact

Volunteer Edinburgh has supported over 60,000 individuals in their volunteering journeys and welcomed more than 20,000 visitors to its annual recruitment fair over the past 25 years. Its pioneering Health and Wellbeing Service, which began as the UK’s first “Voluntary Work as Therapy” project, has helped more than 2,500 people in the past decade improve their lives through volunteering — many credit it with literally saving their lives.

However, this world-leading project is currently under threat due to potential disinvestment from the Health and Social Care Partnership. The CEO called on civic leaders to recognise and protect this invaluable service that embodies Edinburgh’s compassionate values.

Leading in Digital, Crisis Response, and Community Engagement

From launching Scotland’s first local authority-backed Volunteering Strategy in 2006 to building the country’s most-used volunteer management resource at volunteerwiki.org.uk, Volunteer Edinburgh has consistently led the way in developing practical solutions that scale.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisation rapidly built and deployed a Community Taskforce, onboarding 550 trained volunteers to deliver over 17,000 critical support tasks city-wide. This flexible model later supported displaced Ukrainians, NHS vaccination efforts, and even mobilised 200 volunteers during the vigil for the Queen at St Giles’ cathedral in 2022.

“We Just Get Things Done”

Described by peers as an organisation that “just gets things done”, Volunteer Edinburgh has continually reinvented itself — from launching an AI tool for volunteer managers to establishing city-wide hubs and community engagement tools. The CEO paid tribute to the team’s dedication, noting “for a tiny wee organisation, we regularly punch above our weight.”

A Shared Belief in Service

Reflecting on his own 27-year journey with the organisation, the CEO emphasised that the core of Volunteer Edinburgh’s success is a shared belief across its team that “service to others is inherently a good thing.”

He paid tribute to his predecessors, trustees, and colleagues past and present, saying, “Thank you to everyone who has contributed to making Volunteer Edinburgh the vital asset it is today.

“Edinburgh needs it — and I hope it continues to flourish for decades to come.”

Lord Provost’s New Year Message

Edinburgh’s Lord Provost Robert Aldridge reflects on 2024 and looks ahead to the new year:

“As we enter 2025 and reflect on the year gone by, I am filled with gratitude and joy to serve as the Lord Provost of Edinburgh.

2024 has been another busy year in the civic life for the Capital, there has been a running theme of recognition and reward—celebrating the contributions of our citizens, our volunteers, and our ongoing efforts to reduce poverty while honouring our rich heritage.

A highlight of the year was presenting the prestigious Edinburgh Award to social entrepreneur Mel Young MBE. His tireless work, including founding the Homeless World Cup, has made a lasting impact on our community.

Edinburgh’s volunteers are a great source of pride. As Volunteer Ambassador, I’ve seen firsthand the invaluable contributions of the city’s 152,000 volunteers, who dedicate over 27,000 days each week to helping others. These volunteers form the backbone of our communities, making a real difference in the lives of vulnerable residents. I’ve been fortunate to visit many volunteer-led projects and witness the transformative work they do.

Despite the city’s prosperity, we must acknowledge that around 17% of residents and 20% of children still face poverty and disadvantage. Tackling these challenges remains a priority, as we continue to support those in need. I am honoured to be President of the One City Trust, the Capital’s leading charity which continues to fight against poverty, inequality and exclusion.

During the year, the Trust had its 21st birthday, having invested £1.3 million in 270 local projects over the last two decades, and most recently provided £0.17m to 28 voluntary groups.

Earlier this year we celebrated the 70th anniversary of our very first twinning with Munich and it was my pleasure to visit Munich as well as host representatives here as we celebrated 70 years of partnership and looked to the years ahead.

In 2025 we will mark 40 years of twinning with Xi’an and I look forward to marking this milestone and with all our twin cities – fostering these valuable relationships in the years to come.

2024 marks a milestone in Edinburgh’s rich history: its nonacentenary. To commemorate this, the Edinburgh 900 programme launched a year-long series of events and initiatives that will take place across the city and its local communities. This diverse and dynamic programme celebrates Edinburgh’s history, culture, and vibrant present, while also looking ahead to the city’s future.

The celebrations will continue well into 2025, with community groups, businesses, and enterprises invited to contribute events. You can track these on the Edinburgh 900 website, where the city’s rich history will be showcased in ten key themes, including commerce, culture, and diversity.

As I reflect on my third year as Lord Provost, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported me. This festive season, we must also remember the global conflicts affecting so many people and wish for peace, unity, and care for one another, as is our city’s tradition.

I wish all residents and visitors a happy festive season and a prosperous New Year.”

Capital’s Christmas tree lit up

Edinburgh’s iconic Christmas tree on the Mound was officially lit last night (Monday 18 November) in a special ceremony led by Lord Provost Robert Aldridge.

He was joined by representatives from Edinburgh Candlemakers, the Norwegian Embassy and the Norwegian Honorary Consulate General, marking the start of the city’s festive celebrations.

The event saw Lord Provost Robert Aldridge, Counsellor Dr. Øystein Lund and Honorary Consul General Professor Julian Jones from the Norwegian Honorary Consulate General, come together to switch on the lights of the stunning 18-metre-tall tree. This cherished annual tradition celebrates the strong ties between Scotland and Norway, honouring the Scottish people’s unwavering support for Norway during World War II.

Gifted by Vestland (formerly Hordaland), the tree stands as a symbol of Norway’s gratitude for Scotland’s assistance during its darkest days. The tradition of gifting the tree began in 1947, and although it has been sourced from Scotland since 2008, it remains a meaningful token of friendship and solidarity between the two nations.

Edinburgh’s Christmas officially opened on Friday 15 November, and following last night’s Mound light night a number of community light switch on events will be taking place across the city.

Lord Provost Robert Aldridge said: “Edinburgh’s famous Christmas tree is a fixture on the Mound every winter and the switch on of the lights not only signals the start for the festive season it is an important reminder of our close ties with Norway and of the strength and universal values of friendship, solidarity and compassion.

“I hope Edinburgh residents and visitors alike will enjoy the opportunity to view this beautiful Christmas Tree in the heart of our city. My heartfelt thanks go to the people of Vestland for their continued generosity and friendship over so many years, as well as to our partners Field and Lawn for their support and Bernard Hunter for their kind donation of crane services.

“As Edinburgh’s Christmas gets underway, the tree’s sparkling lights bring a festive glow to the city centre and with more community light switch-on events planned across the city, Edinburgh is embracing the Christmas spirit, uniting residents and visitors alike in a celebration of joy, hope, and goodwill.”

Honorary Consul General of the Norwegian Consulate General in Edinburgh, Prof. Julian Jones said: “The Christmas Tree symbolises all that is best about what Norway and Scotland, and what Vestland and Edinburgh, have in common.

“Every year Vestland gives a Christmas tree as a gift to Edinburgh, as a ‘thank you’ for the help received from Scotland during the Second World War.

“Norway and Scotland are neighbours, and we have a common history going all the way back to the Viking times.

“There are strong ties between Edinburgh and Vestland, and our culture and our heritage bring us together in our Christmas festivities, with a splendid concert in St Giles cathedral following the lighting of the Tree, with Scottish and Norwegian musicians.

“The Christmas Tree celebrates all that we have done together in past, and all that we will do together in the future.”

Lord Provost opens Edinburgh Garden of Remembrance

The Right Honourable Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge, led a special group of wreath-layers at the annual Opening Ceremony of the Edinburgh Garden of Remembrance, at the Scott Monument, Princes Street Gardens, yesterday.

Members of the Armed Forces community, including veterans, attended the poignant event, organised by Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland, to remember those who have fallen in conflicts, with more than 40 wreaths laid at a service which was also well attended by members of the public.

Among those that joined Edinburgh’s Lord Provost was Reverend Dr Karen Campbell, National Padre of the Royal British Legion Scotland, who led the service, along with attendees from Scottish Government, Police Scotland and other dignitaries.

Music was provided by The Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, as well as piper Rory Cairns, who led the wreath-layers into the garden.

Commenting on the service, Legion Scotland Events Manager, Brian Ward, said: “Despite a weather warning in place and a few gusts of wind, this was a wonderful occasion which was very well attended by representatives of the Armed Forces and other dignitaries from across our capital city and of course Scotland.

“It was truly lovely to see so many people turn out, as well as the many passers-by who stopped to reflect and pay their respects to our fallen.”

The Garden features thousands of poppy crosses and other remembrance symbols with personal dedications from across Scotland. It will remain open until the Armistice Day service on Monday, November 11 for residents and visitors to pay their own tributes.

The Scottish Poppy Appeal is Scotland’s biggest fundraising appeal, with more than three million poppies already being distributed around the country. All funds raised will go to support Poppyscotland’s work, providing life-changing support and advice to veterans, servicemen and women, and their families.

Homeless World Cup co-founder and social entrepreneur Mel Young MBE to receive the Edinburgh Award 2024

The Homeless World Cup co-founder and social entrepreneur, Mel Young MBE is to receive the prestigious Edinburgh Award.

Mel Young MBE has been selected to receive the accolade from a shortlist of nominations cast by the Edinburgh public. He will receive an engraved Loving Cup from the city’s Lord Provost at a ceremony within the City Chambers later this year.

Since 2007, the Edinburgh Award has empowered its citizens to recognise and celebrate individuals who have made a real and lasting impact to the city and brought the capital to national and international attention. Previous recipients include bestselling authors, ground-breaking scientists, human rights activists, and exemplary sportspeople.

Mel Young is President of the Homeless World Cup which he co-founded in 2003. Under his leadership, the Homeless World Cup has expanded all over the world and now has partners in 70 countries, touching the lives of over 100,000 homeless people every year – more than one million people in the last decade.

A movie called “The Beautiful Game” which is based on the Homeless World Cup was released this year and has been a global movie hit.

Mel also co-founded the Big Issue in Scotland in 1993 and was Chair of Sportscotland, the national agency for sport, between 2016 and 2024.

Mel will become the 18th recipient of the coveted Edinburgh Award. His handprints will be immortalised on a flagstone in the City Chambers quadrangle alongside those of previous recipients, all of whom have contributed in their own unique way to the Capital.

The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, and Chair of the Edinburgh Award Panel, Robert Aldridge said: “I’m delighted that Mel Young MBE has been chosen as the latest recipient of the Edinburgh Award. He deservedly follows in the footsteps of some of the finest individuals associated with our great city.

“From The Homeless World Cup, to The Big Issue in Scotland, his passion and dedication to changing lives and advocating for fairness is admirable and inspiring. Through his work he has represented the Capital with pride, dedication, and skill.

“I’d also highlight the fantastic work of The Homeless World Cup charity, based in the city, which now has partners in 70 countries, touching the lives of over 100,000 homeless people every year.

“I’d like to congratulate Mel on behalf of the city, and I’m sure he will continue to do great things, both here in Edinburgh and beyond.”

Homeless Word Cup founder and social entrepreneur, Mel Young MBE said: “I am humbled and honoured to receive this Award. Edinburgh is a beautiful city, and I am proud to be one its citizens.

“The Homeless World Cup has its international headquarters in Edinburgh and connects all over the globe. I’d like to share this Award with the team of fabulous people in our organisation and to salute the real heroes of our work, the homeless people themselves who change their own lives through their involvement in our operations across the world.

“Thank you so much for giving me this Award.”

Lord Provost’s Burns Supper raises over £30,000 for the One City Trust

The OneCity Trust has received a Burns Night boost thanks to the Lord Provost’s annual fundraising supper which took place on Friday January 26.

The traditional Scottish dinner held at Prestonfield House raised a total of £30,500 in ticket sales and donations. This amount will be used by the OneCity Trust to support Scottish charitable organisations and constituted groups in their 2024 Main Grant Funding Programme which opens to applicants in March.

The funding theme for the coming year is ‘assisting people affected by the housing emergency’.

Over 200 guests attended the Lord Provost’s Burns Supper which featured an excellent array of entertainment. This included a rousing ‘Address to the Haggis’ from James Macsween (Managing Director of Macsween of Edinburgh – Haggis Producers) followed by a poignant and fascinating ‘Immortal Memory’ from Professor Sir Geoff Palmer, culminating in a boisterous ‘Toast tae the Lassies’ from Cameron Goodall and a hilarious ‘Reply fae the Lassies’ from comedian Janey Godley.

Guests were also treated to a musical rendition of Burns songs from multi-award-winning Scots musician Robyn Stapleton.

The Lord Provost and President of the One City Trust, Robert Aldridge, said: “I’m delighted that the annual Burns Supper has raised much needed funds for the One City Trust which will be distributed as grants to projects across our city.

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

“I want to sincerely thank all colleagues involved in organising this year’s event, particularly James Thomson OBE and his staff at Prestonfield House, our Sponsors, Macsween of Edinburgh – Haggis Producers, Bentley Edinburgh, Whyte & Mackay, Tunnocks and Turkish Airlines.

“My special thanks must go to all my guests for attending and supporting the event, and every single person who donated and took part in the fundraising activities, making the night such a resounding success.”

About the OneCity Trust:

The mission of the One City Trust is to fight inequality and exclusion in the City of Edinburgh. It is an independent charity which is uniquely linked to the city.

The Trust was established in 2003 in response to the One City report of the Lord Provost’s Commission on Social Exclusion. It uses the idea of a ‘community foundation’ to give people and organisations a means to reach across the divides of the city and support those who are excluded from the community. A permanent endowment was established with a donation from the City of Edinburgh Council, which the Trust has added to over the years, and continues to build.

In 2012 with the creation of the ‘Lord Provost’s Rapid Action Fund’ the Trust acquired the ability to raise funds specifically for the purpose of giving out grants (rather than rely solely on the interest from the Trust).

Further information on the 2024 Grants Programme, or to make a donation, go to the One City Trust website.

Lord Provost calls for unity and understanding in Festive Message

The Lord Provost Robert Aldridge delivers his festive message to the city for 2023:

The spirit of the holidays endures not only in the gifts we exchange, but in the way we treat our neighbours.

Edinburgh’s rich history of traditions and celebrations around the festive season have truly come alive as we mark the end of another eventful year. This has been marked by momentous events such as the Coronation of His Majesty The King, and our ongoing response to helping Ukrainian refugees in Edinburgh to name but a few.

With the holiday season upon us, I would like to take this opportunity to extend the immense gratitude I have for the people of Edinburgh who make our city the peaceful, diverse, and welcoming place it is. I have always been proud to represent our unique and vibrant city and this year is no different.

Regardless of our backgrounds, traditions, and beliefs, we all have the common ground of calling this city our home. The true beauty of Edinburgh lies in our ability to embrace our diversity as our strength so as we exchange gifts, share meals, and spend time with loved ones.

Let’s remember that Christmas, at its core, symbolises unity. In a world often marked by division, the holidays are a chance to come together and show kindness no matter what you are celebrating.

On behalf of the City of Edinburgh, I would like to extend my heartfelt well wishes to you and your loved ones. Here’s to a 2024 that’s full of hope, understanding and peace.

Alistair Darling

The Lord Provost pays tribute to former Chancellor of the Exchequer, Edinburgh MP, and Councillor, Alistair Darling who passed away yesterday (November 30):

The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge said: “Alistair Darling’s life was one marked by a deep devotion to public service, proudly representing our city for well over 30 years on the local, national and international stage.

“From 1982-1987 he served on the then Lothian Regional Council before going on to represent Edinburgh as an MP until 2015. Following his illustrious political career, he continued to play an active part in city life and remained a respected member of his local community in Morningside.

“From the council chamber to the highest offices in the land as Chancellor of the Exchequer, alongside many other Ministerial appointments, he typified calm professionalism and pride in serving his constituents and the country.

“My thoughts and condolences are with his wife Margaret and their children, alongside his many friends and former colleagues.”

Fellow Edinburgh Labour MP tweeted: ‘Can’t remember politician receiving such glowing tributes from such a wide range of people richly deserved first knew Alistair Darling in Broughton Inverleith Labour Party 1981 and as fellow Edinburgh MP from 1992. Always outstanding, witty and kind – condolences to Maggie and family.