The Capital is once again searching for a worthy recipient of the coveted Edinburgh Award, with nominations for the 2023 now open.
To broaden the range of nominees it has been agreed to widen the eligibility criteria to include people who have ‘a substantial association with Edinburgh’. The update was approved at last Thursday’s meeting of the City of Edinburgh Council.
Previously, some nominations received have been excluded due to an individual not having been born or lived in Edinburgh. Consequently, the Edinburgh Award Panel agreed unanimously to reflect this by adding in ‘substantial association with Edinburgh’ and the panel is particularly keen to welcome nominations which reflect the diversity of the city.
Since 2007, the Edinburgh Award has celebrated an individual who has made a truly unique contribution to the city. With the new criteria it means that someone can now be nominated – whether or not they were born or lived in Edinburgh – if they have gained national and international recognition for Scotland’s Capital through their work.
The 2022 recipient was Sir Geoff Palmer, in recognition of his ground-breaking contributions to academia, his indefatigable defence of human rights in Edinburgh and beyond, and most recently his work heading up the Edinburgh Slavery and Colonialism Legacy Review Group. Sir Geoff was presented with an engraved Loving Cup from the Lord Provost and had his handprints set in stone at the City Chambers quadrangle.
Edinburgh has four weeks to cast nominations for this year’s award, before a recipient is selected by a panel chaired by the Lord Provost.
The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge, has urged individuals and businesses in the Capital to nominate someone for the Award:
“I am delighted that common sense has prevailed and someone who clearly has a substantial association to Edinburgh will be eligible to receive the Edinburgh Award.
“Edinburgh has been a global force in many fields, for over two centuries and this is down to the character, achievement, and excellence of our citizens. The Edinburgh Award represents an opportunity to celebrate exceptional individuals who make Edinburgh the fantastic city we see today and have enhanced the city’s reputation nationally and internationally.
“By nominating someone you can help us showcase these people and give that person the recognition and praise they deserve.
“From outstanding individual feats to the work of community groups, as Lord Provost I am consistently inspired by the ways in which the citizens of Edinburgh calmly persevere and look out for one another. This speaks to the very heart of our capital city and is a source of huge personal pride. If this reminds you of someone, I urge you to put forward a nomination.
“Edinburgh, its reputation, and its enduring global appeal is down to its people. Now looking for its 17th recipient, The Edinburgh Award needs the help of our communities, citizens and businesses to come together and find a worthy winner.”
Nominations are now open and close at 5pm on October 2, 2023.
The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, and President of the One City Trust (OCT), Robert Aldridge, looks back on two decades of the Trust and sets his sights on the future:
I am immensely proud of the work that the OCT has undertaken in the last twenty years. Since the Trust was established in 2003, we have delivered over £1.3m of grants to 265 projects across the Capital whilst promoting community benefits and social value amongst our city’s business and private sector community.
Over the years, we have enjoyed the support of notable ambassadors and supporters. These include Sir Ian Rankin, Irvine Welsh, Alexander McCall Smith, Sara Sheridan, Nadine Aisha Jassat and Anne Hamilton; who last year collaborated to produce ‘The People’s City’, a celebration of Edinburgh’s literary heritage in aid of the Trust.
Unfortunately, we still face major challenges in the fight against poverty, inequality, and social exclusion across the city. The pandemic also cast these into sharp light and made us consider how we could reach and help our citizens in different ways.
Now, perhaps more than ever, the OCT and the organisations it supports are key to supporting our communities as we move forward. From Edinburgh Interfaith Association breaking down cultural barriers, to Fresh Start Pantry providing low-cost nutritious and healthy food to tackle holiday hunger and many more we are committed to helping our residents through these difficult times.
I would encourage anyone reading this to consider the ways that they can contribute whether that be through donations, community benefit partnerships, volunteering or spreading the word of the Trust and its affiliates.
I’d like to thank everyone who has supported and been involved in the activities of the OCT in the last twenty years.
Last Friday (August 25) it was a real privilege to host a civic reception at the City Chambers to mark twenty years since the establishment of the OCT. The event was attended by former Lord Provosts of the City of Edinburgh, partner organisations, key supporters, and other distinguished guests.
We were lucky enough to hear from a range of truly inspiring speakers who have been involved in the Trust over the years, and those who continue to undertake excellent work in the fight against poverty, inequality, and social exclusion here in Edinburgh.
We heard a powerful speech from representatives of Jock Tamson’s Gairden at Duddingston Loch who are dedicated to providing an inclusive community garden that is open to all. Indeed, the famous phrase ‘We’re a’ Jock Tamson’s bairns’ perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the OCT and its goals.
We also heard about the work of the Edinburgh School Uniform Bank who make sure our schoolchildren are properly clothed regardless of circumstances. I continue to be inspired by the ways in which the Capital’s community groups look out for one another in these difficult times. Groups like these truly reflects the very best qualities of the individuals who make up our city.
Another highlight of the evening was hearing from Dr Jim McCormick, Chief Executive of the Robertson Trust, and former Chair of the Edinburgh Poverty Commission (2018-2020). This reminded us to remember the need for humanity, respect, and decency at the heart of every experience of poverty, inequality, and social exclusion. Each individual that we can help in Edinburgh is an important victory.
I’d also like to thank our partners Travis Perkins and the Edinburgh International Conference Centre for generously sponsoring the reception.
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 Trust continue its work in the next twenty years and beyond, and it is my sincere hope that we will be able to make a strong and lasting difference for our most vulnerable residents.
National sight loss charity RNIB Scotland commemorated its late patron The Queen this morning by joining with Edinburgh Lord Provost Robert Aldridge to unveil a plaque beside a tree they have planted in the city’s Hillside Crescent Gardens.
The site is opposite the charity’s headquarters in the crescent, a long-established service hub and social haven for the city’s 15,000 blind and partially sighted people.
Lord Provost Aldridge noted that The Queen’s Green Canopy initiative, created to mark her Platinum Jubilee, has now seen over a million new trees planted in her name across the UK.
“Over the last year in Edinburgh, we have planted a large number of new trees as part of the National Canopy,” he said: “1,270 new trees planted at Stenhouse, and most recently on Calton Hill to highlight our fantastic Ukrainian community. Growing the Canopy through planting more trees is a lasting tribute to Her Majesty’s extraordinary seven-decade service to our country and to all of our peoples.”
The Lord Provost recalled that The Queen was an annual visitor to Edinburgh throughout her reign. “After celebrating her Platinum Jubilee only a few months earlier, this city, our nation, and those around the world were stunned and shocked by the sudden death of Her Majesty at Balmoral Castle.
“The atmosphere in our city quickly changed and became the focal point of mourning in Scotland, and our military, police, ceremonial, public, charitable and other services – alongside old and young alike – came together to offer their great respect. I could not have been prouder of our city, of our people and of our community.”
Matt Stringer, chief executive of RNIB said: “Her Majesty became RNIB’s patron in 1952 and made a tremendous contribution to our work. She was a passionate advocate for the rights of blind and partially sighted people and generously hosted many receptions on our behalf. RNIB was honoured to have had The Queen’s company at gala events over the years. Her presence elevated any event for our donors, guests and service users.
“Her Majesty’s support over the decades helped us work towards our hopes for a world where blind and partially sighted people can participate equally.”
The plaque placed alongside the newly planted deciduous tree reads in both text and braille:
‘This tree is planted in lasting memory of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Patron of the Royal National Institute of Blind People for 70 years. On behalf of the blind and partially sighted community of Edinburgh and Scotland, Robert Aldridge, The Right Honourable Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, unveiled this plaque on 15 March 2023’.
Sylvia Paton OBE, a member of RNIB Scotland from Corstorphine who has the sight loss condition aniridia, said: “The Queen lent us her support and encouragement to reach out to and help all blind and partially sighted people. I’m so glad this tree will mark and celebrate the backing she gave us.
“The tree is called a ‘davidia involucrate’ or ‘dove tree’, and will reach heights of between 20 and 25 meters, with lovely white and purple flowers. I hope it will stand as a proud Edinburgh token and tribute to our late Monarch and her wish to encompass all of her people, whatever their abilities or disabilities.”
Queen Victoria was the charity’s first royal patron after the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) was founded in 1868 by Thomas Rhodes Armitage, a physician who had lost his own sight.
Since then, RNIB has established itself as the UK’s leading sight loss charity, advocating and campaigning for the rights of blind and partially sighted people and helping them to live as fully and independently as possible.
Around 183,000 people are currently living with sight loss in Scotland and two million across the UK.
“Scotland has now bid our Queen of Scots a sad, but fond farewell. We will not see her like again.”
Her Majesty The Queen departed Scotland for the last time last night. She will now Lie in State at the Palace of Westminster ahead of Monday’s State Funeral.
People across the country have been paying their respects, attending remembrance events and reflecting fondly on a life of service to Scotland.
Her Majesty’s departure from Edinburgh Airport concludes the ceremonial events programme in Scotland, known as Operation Unicorn, as the nation continues to mourn The Queen’s passing.
Around 33,000 people filed past Her Majesty The Queen’s Coffin, Lying at Rest in St Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh, to pay their respects.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “Scotland has bid a final and poignant farewell to our much loved Elizabeth, Queen of Scots.
“Over these past few days we have seen just how much Her Majesty meant to the people of Scotland.
“As anticipated, people from all walks of life gathered across the country and in our capital city to pay tribute to the only Monarch most of us have ever known.
“The scenes on Sunday as Her Majesty’s cortege made the journey from Balmoral Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and then yesterday and today as thousands gathered along the Royal Mile and queued to enter St Giles to see the Queen’s Coffin, will forevermore form a very special part of the history of Scotland.
“The sympathy and good wishes of Scotland for The King and Royal Family has also been evident in these last few days, and on behalf of the Parliament and people of Scotland, I continue to offer my heartfelt condolences to all of Her Majesty’s Family.
“I also want to record my sincere thanks to, and admiration for the many public servants who have worked tirelessly in recent days and over many years to develop and, when the time sadly came, implement Operation Unicorn.
“Thousands across the emergency services, local authorities, armed forces, volunteer networks, transport and government agencies have helped ensure that Scotland paid fitting tribute to The Queen, and that Scots from all walks of life could celebrate the unparalleled contribution She made in her 70-year reign. The events of recent days have provided a sincere, solemn and fitting tribute from the people of Scotland to Her Majesty The Queen.
“Scotland has now bid our Queen of Scots a sad, but fond farewell. We will not see her like again.”
The Princess Royal Princess Anne was Her Majesty The Queen’s constant companion during her last days in Scotland and she accompanied her mother on her final journey south.
In a short statement issued last night, The Princess Royal said:
‘I was fortunate to share the last 24 hours of my dearest Mother’s life. It has been an honour and a privilege to accompany her on her final journeys. Witnessing the love and respect shown by so many on these journeys has been both humbling and uplifting.
‘We will all share unique memories. I offer my thanks to each and every one who share our sense of loss.
‘We may have been reminded how much of her presence and contribution to our national identity we took for granted. I am also so grateful for the support and understanding offered to my dear brother Charles as he accepts the added responsibilities of The Monarch.
‘To my mother, The Queen, thank you.’
The Queen’s cortège arrived at the Palace of Holyroodhouse on Sunday afternoon, with The King and members of the Royal Family following on Monday to participate in the Ceremony of the Keys.
They then joined a historic procession up the Royal Mile and a service at St Giles’ Cathedral, where the Queen lay at rest until her final departure for London.
There were also two public Proclamations in Edinburgh on Sunday to announce the Accession of The King.
Hundreds of thousands of people descended on the city to pay their respects and millions more across the world tuned into the broadcast coverage.
Rt Hon Lord Provost and Lord Lieutenant of the City of Edinburgh Robert Aldridge, said: “The last four days have marked a significant, historic occasion globally, and it is with immense pride that we look back on Edinburgh’s contribution.
“It’s thanks to the monumental efforts of all those involved that we, along with the public, were able to say a heartfelt farewell to Her Majesty, whose strong connection to the Capital and Scotland was widely known.
“This has been the result of a very detailed and successful planning operation that has been delivered flawlessly by a community of partners and is a shining example of the power of coming together in difficult circumstances.
“I know many will remember this for a lifetime, and we’re honoured to have played such an important role in this moment.”
The public have been invited to take part in a National Moment of Reflection to mourn the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and reflect on her life and legacy.
The National Moment of Reflection will take place at 8pm on Sunday 18 September, the night before the State Funeral, and be marked by a one-minute silence.
The silence can be marked privately at home, with friends and family, out on doorsteps or the street with neighbours, or at locally arranged community events and vigils.
Community groups, clubs and other organisations across the country are encouraged to take part and people overseas are also encouraged to observe the one-minute silence at 8pm local time.
Sir Geoff Palmer, Professor Emeritus and Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University, has been selected to receive the Edinburgh Award 2022.
In recognition of his ground-breaking contributions to academia, and his indefatigable defence of human rights in Edinburgh and beyond, Sir Geoff Palmer will be presented with an engraved Loving Cup from the Lord Provost and have his handprints set in stone at the City Chambers later this year.
Sir Geoff has a long association with the city of Edinburgh, he first arrived in the Capital in 1964 to pursue a PhD in Grain Science and Technology jointly with the then Heriot-Watt College and the University of Edinburgh. Upon completion of his doctorate in 1967 he began working at the Brewing Research Foundation where he developed the industrial process of Barley Abrasion and pioneered the use of the Scanning Electron Microscope to study cereal grains.
In 1977, he returned to Heriot-Watt University as a staff member and gained a DSc degree for his research work in 1985. In 1989 he became the first black professor in Scotland and remained in Edinburgh until his retirement in 2005. In 2021 he was appointed Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University.
Sir Geoff was knighted in the 2014 New Year’s Honours for services to human rights, science, and charity. In 2018, he was appointed Jamaica’s first Honorary Consul in Scotland and is the 2020 recipient of the Jamaican national honour, the Order of Distinction (Commander Class).
Between December 2020 and June 2022, Sir Geoff chaired the independent Edinburgh Slavery and Colonialism Legacy Review Group whose work has been vital in profiling the Capital’s historic links with Slavery and Colonialism in the public realm. The findings and recommendations of the Group were endorsed unanimously by councillors on 30 August and the actions they suggest will form the basis of the Council’s continued response to these key issues.
Sir Geoff will become the 16th recipient of the coveted Edinburgh Award and will join the esteemed company of previous recipients who have all contributed in their own unique way to the Capital.
The Lord Provost, Councillor Robert Aldridge, said: “It is my absolute pleasure to announce Sir Geoff Palmer as the recipient of the Edinburgh Award 2022. In a career spanning over fifty years, he has made an indelible mark on the life sciences and is a shining example to the world of Edinburgh’s academic prowess, force, and rigour.
“Alongside his academic achievements Sir Geoff has been instrumental in examining Edinburgh’s past and helping us collectively move forward as a city. As chair of the Edinburgh Slavery and Colonialism Legacy Review Group he has conducted himself with absolute distinction and provided a firm foundation for Edinburgh’s future as a modern, conscious, and considerate capital city.
“The Edinburgh Award, nominated by the public, identifies individuals that have made an extraordinary impact on our capital city. Sir Geoff has contributed substantially to the betterment of this great city, and I am confident that his legacy both in academia and activism will live on for many years to come.”
Sir Geoff Palmer, Professor Emeritus and Chancellor of Heriot Watt University, said: “This award is more than a great honour; it is a recognition of all the people whose goodness has contributed to my life and work.
“I arrived in Edinburgh as a research student in 1964 and I thank the City of Edinburgh Council for all it has done for the community.”
Council Leaders’ plea to citizens to help limit Covid spread
Council Leaders have called on the public to continue following measures to limit the spread of Covid, as new guidance to reduce a rise in Omicron infections is announced.
The appeal by Council Leader Adam McVey and Depute Leader Cammy Day follows yesterday’s update from the First Minister, which included advice to limit social interactions and for businesses to reintroduce physical distancing.
People were also urged to book vaccinations, including boosters, where eligible. The public was encouraged to test regularly and follow existing guidance around hand washing, mask wearing and ventilation too.
In the coming days the Scottish Government will issue additional guidance for businesses, which the Council will be closely assessing to provide support and advice.
Council Leader Adam McVey said:“The advice issued by the First Minister today will have made for difficult listening for many, particularly as we approach the festive season, but we know that it’s the right thing to do – particularly as transmission numbers increase across our communities.
“It’s clear that the Omicron variant of Covid is spreading rapidly, and we simply can’t hang around to see what impact this will have on services, the NHS and, of course, our own health.
“Over the coming days we’ll be carefully reviewing the public health guidance shared by the Scottish Government to assess what measures we need to take, both in our own buildings, schools and events being held in the city.
“We’ll also be considering the support we provide to businesses – since the beginning of the pandemic we’ve administered over 19,000 payments totalling over £250m to businesses – and we’re gearing up to help the Scottish Government to distribute £100m of national funding to those most affected by these most recent changes.
“We’ve come a long way since March 2020, and, collectively, have made many sacrifices to help limit the spread of this virus to protect ourselves and families and the NHS. I know it’s hard, but it’s essential that we now redouble our efforts to follow the latest guidance, and the advice already in place.
“By doing things like wearing masks, washing hands, ventilating rooms and limiting social interactions – as well as regular testing and getting vaccinated when eligible – we can protect one another and avoid being overwhelmed by this virus.”
Depute Leader Cammy Day said: “The introduction of further protections in the lead-up to Christmas is not what we had hoped for but we know it’s for all the right reasons.
“This virus is spreading exponentially and we still don’t know how badly it can affect us. There’s a lot we can do though, first and foremost getting our booster jags – I would urge everyone who’s eligible to book theirs as soon as possible.
“I know many people will be hoping to enjoy Christmas with their friends and families but it’s crucial that we take extra precautions to do so. By limiting social interactions, practising good hygiene and self-isolating where required, amongst all the other measures in place, we can hopefully enjoy a safe holiday together.”
Lord Provost Cllr Frank Ross wrote in today’s Evening News: ‘In what continues to be an unsettling time for us all I would like to send my deepest condolences to those who have lost loved ones this year and wish a speedy recovery to all who are currently battling coronavirus.
‘As we continue to find ourselves faced with uncertainty on what the upcoming months will be like we must remain proud of what we’ve achieved while we remain resilient, continuing to support our family, friends, neighbours and communities as we face the challenges that still lie ahead.
‘As Lord Provost, I continue to be proud to represent our diverse and vibrant city. Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege to meet or visit with some of the fantastic people and organisations who have gone above and beyond to support fellow citizens.
‘We were able to host small civic receptions and in September I was able to honour some of the dedicated volunteers who give their time, energy and commitment to the people of Edinburgh at the Inspiring Volunteer awards.
‘I’ve also been able to visit a number of community organisations which have been really inspiring and great examples of the marvellous community spirit and how people have pulled together to support those in need over the past year.
‘The pandemic continues to have far-reaching consequences beyond the spread of the disease and efforts to limit its transmission. As we prepare to begin 2022 be assured that the Council remains focussed on how we continue to respond, support and inform our residents.
‘We’re also doing everything we can to support businesses in light of changing guidance. With so many businesses struggling to recover from the effects of the pandemic, it’s more important than ever that we all try to shop local and support businesses in our area. Campaign activity lead by our Forever Edinburgh channels like our #ShopHereThisYear and Resident Rewards really shines a light on what’s on our doorsteps.
‘On behalf of the city I would like to thank the outstanding commitment and care demonstrated by our NHS and emergency services, the doctors, nurses, hospital staff and care workers who have kept going under the most intense pressures. My thanks also to all front line workers and council employees who have been working so hard in these challenging times to make sure our services are maintained.
‘With the emergence of this latest variant, we must continue our efforts to limit its transmission, particularly through the cold winter months. Please get vaccinated – get both your jags and, if eligible, your third, booster dose.
‘It’s also crucial that we test ourselves regularly, especially if we’re mixing with others, and, of course, carry on following the public health guidance on handwashing, face-coverings, ventilation and meeting outdoors wherever possible.
‘As we look forward to Christmas and the New Year, we all have a duty to do so responsibly with the safety of others foremost in our minds.’
Community test centres and mobile test centres are open for people with no Covid symptoms. Full details of these, and how to order home lateral flow testing kits, are available online.
The Lord Provost has wished all those born or based in the Capital the very best for the Tokyo Olympic games which open today (Friday 23 July).
Team Edinburgh includes rowers Katherine Douglas, Harry Leask, Polly Swan, Karen Bennett and Lucy Hope as well as Bradley Forbes-Cryans going for gold in the canoe slalom. In the pool will be divers Grace Reid and James Heatly, as well as swimmers Lucy Hope and Cassie Wild.
Ross McCann will compete in the GB Rugby Sevens team, while Sarah Addlington will battle for Team GB in judo. On the track, Joshua Kerr will compete in the 1500m and shooting star Seonaid McIntosh will be gunning for a gold medal this weekend.
Lord Provost Frank Ross, said: “As Lord Provost and on behalf of the people of Edinburgh, I would like to congratulate all the athletes on their selection to represent Team GB at the forthcoming Olympic Games. They are fantastic ambassadors for the City.
“In taking part in the Games they are representing extraordinary dedication and determination in their sports and are an inspiration for sporting fans throughout the Capital. Edinburgh has impressive representation with athletes born, based or training and studying in the Capital and I’m sure residents will join me in cheering them on as they go for gold. I wish you all the very best for Tokyo 2020.”
On behalf of the City of Edinburgh, I extend my heartfelt and warm wishes this Christmas to the citizens of Edinburgh.
Christmas is traditionally an occasion for getting together with friends, family and loved ones and celebrating. This year we have to do this in different ways – either in our “Christmas bubbles” or by fully embracing technology that will allow us to be together even when we can’t gather in person.
Undoubtably, it is disappointing that we’ll be missing out on many of our customs this year, but there are still many things to be thankful for – our family and friends, our NHS, those who work tirelessly to keep us safe and provide vital services and, of course, science and vaccines.
It has been an unsettling and uncertain time for us all and I send my deepest condolences to those who have lost loved ones this year, and my best wishes to all who are currently fighting the virus.
We know the coronavirus pandemic has had far-reaching consequences beyond the spread of the disease and efforts to quarantine it. As we prepare to enter a new year, please know that the Council remains focussed on how we respond to the ongoing pandemic. We’re doing everything we can to keep services running and residents informed and supported. We will continue to explore further ways to support businesses as we hopefully see a return to normal.
Like other cities and towns across the world this has been an incredibly difficult year for Edinburgh. The pandemic brought with it widespread, unexpected and sudden change which affected every resident. We’ve faced dark days, but we’ve faced them together, as one city. I’d like to thank every household and business across Edinburgh for following the rules. Let’s keep going and keep the case numbers down.
As Lord Provost, I’ve always been proud to represent our diverse and vibrant city. I’ve never been prouder than this year. The pandemic has brought out the very best in our community. This city has adapted and come together in our battle to beat the virus. In my role I have had the privilege of meeting (mostly virtually) many exceptional people as well as organisations who have worked tirelessly to support residents who have been disadvantaged and vulnerable throughout the pandemic.
On behalf of the city I would like to acknowledge and thank the outstanding commitment and care demonstrated by our NHS and emergency services, by all those working in schools caring for our children and their futures, by Council staff who ensure our services are maintained, and by all those reaching out to help the vulnerable members of our community.
As 2020 comes to a close and the roll out of the vaccine has begun, we can look more positively towards 2021. But please don’t stop, please keep following the guidance: wear face coverings, avoid crowded places, clean your hands regularly, keep a two-metre distance and self-isolate and book a test if you have symptoms.
All my best wishes for a merry Christmas and a happier new year.
This Volunteers Week, Lord Provost Frank Ross pays tribute to those who have volunteered to support vulnerable residents during the pandemic:
During national Volunteers’ Week, I would like to pay tribute to the thousands of people who have volunteered to support vulnerable residents across the Capital during the coronavirus pandemic.
Volunteers’ Week, which runs from June 1-7, gives organisations across the country an opportunity to thank their dedicated volunteers for the huge contribution they make.
Normally, I have the honour of hosting Edinburgh’s Annual Inspiring Volunteer Awards to celebrate the huge range of organisations and individuals who give their time freely to work with the city’s vibrant charity and non-profit sectors.
However due to the current restrictions this is not possible so it has never been more important than now to use the platform Volunteers’ Week gives us to celebrate the efforts of the capital’s volunteers.
From those supporting their neighbours and friends to those giving hours of their time helping strangers through volunteering with organisations.
Over the last few months I’ve heard of the great work being delivered by Helping Hands (@EdiHelpingHands) all done by volunteers in their community, funded by their community, working with the community through their People’s Free Food Program.
I have also been directly involved with Corstorphine Community Centre (@CorstorphineCo1) which has been working with local restaurants the Torfin, Jill’s Deli and Abida to deliver free meals to those most in need in the community.
Edinburgh has always had a thriving voluntary and community sector with thousands of volunteers helping people throughout the city giving their valuable skills and time to worthy causes every year.
In my role as Volunteer Champion I have the privilege of meeting many who go out of their way to help others and I’ve been further humbled over these past few months when the city has come together in our response to the pandemic. Every single person giving their time, skills and commitment to help others is a vital part of Edinburgh’s response and a symbol of how we’ll move forward.
It will not be forgotten and as we get ready to launch our annual Edinburgh Award scheme – work is underway to look at how we can honour those who have gone above and beyond this year during the pandemic and I look forward to sharing more details on this in the near future.
The world has been changed forever, but what has not is that we will always help one another. This week is dedicated to you. And on behalf of the people of Edinburgh – I thank you.
Lord Provost Frank Ross writes about alternative ways to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of VE Day:
This Friday, 8th May, marks 75 years since the guns fell silent and the Second World War in Europe came to an end.
Our original plans were for the city to come together to mark this important anniversary with a series of events in the Capital. More than 100 Second World War veterans were due to take centre stage in West Princes Street Gardens as the whole country paused to remember the generation who sacrificed so much on a special bank holiday Friday.
Unfortunately, the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has forced the cancellation of these events but I believe it remains important to remember the sacrifice, courage and determination shown during World War Two and do what we can to mark the important anniversary.
As we remember and pay tribute to the struggles the war time generation faced, we’re experiencing an uncertain and difficult time ourselves. As we honour VE Day we can look to that generation and learn from their resilience, determination and hope for better days to come.
While we can’t have street parties and celebrations in pubs, or services in churches, as with many other areas of our lives, we can join in virtually.
On Friday (8th May) from just before 11am there will be a virtual service of remembrance which will be broadcast live on the Legion Scotland Facebook page.
The service will be followed at midday by a virtual tribute concert, featuring performances from several of the groups who had been lined up for the Princes Street Gardens concert.
Poppyscotland have a range of online and virtual activities that you can get involved in including learning resources for young ones to a guide to hosting your own “virtual” VE Day party.
Whilst of course it is disappointing that the events have been cancelled, we are all playing our part by remaining indoors and I hope everyone takes a moment to remember those who fought for us. I will be joining the nations toast at 3pm and then we all have the chance to join a national singalong of Vera Lynn’s “We’ll Meet Again.” as part of the BBC 1 programming. Surely to be very emotional.
It’s been a tremendous effort to rearrange how we can celebrate the day and I want to thank Legion Scotland and Poppy Scotland.
We must all remember the struggles people went through during the second world war and let us use their resilience and determination as inspiration to carry everyone through the difficult period we’re facing during the pandemic.
As always, my thoughts and prayers are with everyone who has been touched by the Coronavirus. Let’s do what we can (safely) in these challenging times to mark this significant occasion.
National commemorative events – 8th May
11am Two-minute silence for a national moment of remembrance
2.45pm Commemorative programme on BBC One
3pm Nation’s Toast to the Heroes of WW2
8pm Commemorative programme on BBC One.
9pm Her Majesty The Queen will send a message to the nation on BBC One, at 9pm, the same time her father, King George VI, gave a radio address in 1945. Followed by a national singalong of Dame Vera Lynn’s ‘We’ll Meet Again’.
This first appeared in the Evening News on Wednesday.
