love – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

SWALK? Call to help Scots reunite with loved ones

Equalities Minister urges UK Government to change family visa rules ON Valentine’s Day

Changes to the UK Family Visa Route would support the wellbeing of married couples and families by helping them reunite in Scotland, according to a new Scottish Government report.

Under current rules, people living in the UK need to earn a minimum of £29,000 to bring an immediate family member from abroad to live here.

Planned increases to this threshold were paused in July 2024 by the UK Government, which is currently seeking views on whether the requirements should continue in their current form.

The Scottish Government report sets out evidence that the minimum salary requirement does not support Scotland’s interests, and disproportionately impacts women and part-time workers.

Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart said: “This Valentine’s Day, I am calling on the UK Government to make the changes needed so that couples and families who do not meet the current financial requirements can be reunited.

“People who live in Scotland should be able to build a life with their spouse and raise children here – wherever in the world their husband or wife is from. Allowing more people to bring their families to live here would enrich communities, support public services and contribute to the economy.

“The UK Government’s review of the income threshold is welcome, and the Scottish Government is clear that the minimum income threshold needs to be reduced or removed altogether to allow more families to build their lives here in Scotland.”

Sarah Douglas is from the Scottish Borders. She is currently living in Perugia, Italy with her husband and their three children. Sarah would like to return to Scotland with her family, however due to the minimum income requirement, they are unable to move to the UK.

Sarah said: “The minimum income requirement is currently preventing me from living in Scotland with my Italian husband.

“As a mother to three young children meeting the threshold is challenging especially since I’m expected to do so whilst being separated from my husband and caring for my children alone.

“I am faced with a choice between separating my family or permanent exile. It is a cruel policy which places unnecessary emotional and financial strain on families. A new policy should be implemented to ensure that families like mine can stay together.”

Demi Kara is from Edinburgh. She married her husband, who is from Adana, Turkey, in 2024. Due to the minimum income requirement, the couple are currently living separately in Scotland and Turkey.

Demi said: “A price on love seems very much unfair. Younger long distance couples have no chance in this generation – you pay the price and put your life on hold, or you leave, it’s as simple as that.

“I put my degree on hold to fight for my husband to be by my side – a basic right every person should have. A change the minimum income requirement would allow my life to be whole, allow my heart to be full of love and not broken and torn between two countries.”

Film fans invited to channel their inner Bridget Jones at Vue venues this Valentine’s Day Weekend

As the iconic character sets out on the next chapter of her story in Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, Vue venues in Edinburgh are welcoming film fans to get dressed all cosy in their pyjamas for the opening weekend of the film.

In addition to having the fun of channelling their inner Bridget, any guest who attends a screening of the film between February 14 – February 16 in their pyjamas will receive a complimentary sweet or savoury treat (in the form of a packet of Minstrels or Popworks) to share with their date, their friends – or all to themselves.

Heading to Vue on February 14, Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy sees two-time Academy Award winner Renée Zellweger back in the titular role as the loveable British singleton – her first romantic adventure since 2016. After the loss of her husband Mark, Bridget, now a single mother, is stuck in a state of emotional limbo, raising her children with help from her loyal friends, including her former lover, Daniel Cleaver…

Also arriving at Vue this Valentine’s Day is Captain America: Brave New World, debuting Sam Wilson’s role as the new Captain America. Using his abilities, skill and new gear to help protect the president from a shadowy threat, expect edge of your seat adventures when this superhero epic explodes onto the screens.

In addition, two romantic re-releases are heading to Vue, the 35^th anniversary of Julia Robert’s Pretty Woman and what is often described as one of the best films of the 21^st century, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.

Robert Smith, General Manager at Vue Edinburgh Omni, said: “A trip to Vue has always been a hugely popular choice for Valentine’s and we’re excited to welcome couples, friends and film fans to enjoy the very best in big screen drama and romance this weekend – as well as chance to gain bag themselves some free sweet or savoury treats.”

Tickets cost from £7.99 when booked online. To find out more, visit www.myvue.com

Frankie & Benny’s host free wedding for lucky Valentine’s lovebirds

Lovebirds Darren and Anneka are celebrating after enjoying a FREE wedding worth £10,000 thanks to top Italian American restaurant Frankie & Benny’s.

The restaurant is known for great food at great prices but it’s also a place to host big occasions. And what better way to bring families together to celebrate those special moments than a wedding!

Just in time for St Valentine’s Day Frankie and Benny’s announced they were offering a FREE wedding for a special couple and were swamped with applications.

The popular restaurant launched the ultimate cost of living crisis busting wedding competition and had thousands wanting to say ‘I do’.

After a lot of consideration the winners were chosen and the lucky couple were Darren, 36, an ecologist from Chesterfield and Aneeka, 38, from Ashton-Under-Lyne who works at a secondary school.

The couple met on a dating website in 2018 and their love blossomed over the following years. The pandemic kept them apart but love conquers all and on Feb 22, 2022, Darren proposed to Aneeka at a beauty spot where they both enjoy long walks.

The cupids at Frankie & Benny’s spent hours on Saturday night getting the reception ready at the restaurant in Batley, Yorkshire. The team decorated the venue in readiness for the Sunday wedding which included food, drink, a DJ, a photographer, a live band with a saxophonist as well as the special celebrity guest James Argent who acted as the officiant.

The spectacular event called ‘With Love From Frankie’s’, worth £10,000, included the tailored ceremony for the lucky couple and twenty friends and family.

Anneka said: “Frankie & Benny’s went above and beyond to make our special day seamless and unforgettable and it brought two families together who had no yet met.

“The service and food was flawless, no one went home hungry! Everyone went home with a huge piece of cake, smile and fond memories, especially us.’

“It’s a story for our relationship. We are going to have that forever, we’ll always laugh and smile about that day,” Darren added.

Sasha Storey, Frankie & Benny’s Head of Brand, said: ““At Frankie & Benny’s we believe nothing should get in the way of love!

“We understand that with the current cost of living crisis it may be hard for couples and families to prioritise paying for a wedding when disposable income has become so squeezed.

“We were thrilled to help take that pressure off and throw an all-out wedding and reception, bringing families and friends together in true Frankies style!”

Show your dog some love this Valentine’s Day

Canine Behaviourist shares her top ways both you and your dog can show some love in time for Valentine’s Day.

Love is a four-legged word, and we all know that life is a little easier with a furry friend by your side. People often think our dogs can’t communicate with us, but actually they speak to us with what they do – their body language and behaviours.

If we can learn to recognise these behaviours, we can improve our relationship and build a stronger bond that lets them live the healthy, happy lives they deserve.

Bella & Duke’s Natural Canine Behaviourist, Caroline Spencer Dip.AdvCanBhv, shares her top tips for understanding your dog’s behaviour and how you can show them some love this valentine’s day.

Eye contact & facial expression

The signs your dog loves you come from their whole body. Dogs watch us, they look deep into our eyes and study our facial expressions. Our own dogs will look into our eyes with a soft gaze of pure adoration. If you’re looking at displays of affection from your dog, you are looking for a super-soft, gentle blinking gaze and relaxed body.

Snuggling up and sleeping next to you

Dogs snuggle up to each other like any other family animal for warmth, comfort, and security. A cuddle shows they would rather be snuggled with you than anywhere else. A true trusting love cuddle is one where your dog sleeps soundly and remains super relaxed, whatever goes on around them. They trust you as much as love you, meaning They can deal with the comings, goings and noises of daily life.

Waggy tail with relaxed body

Body language should always be taken as a whole, as opposed to isolated elements. If your dog displays a relaxed body with a lovely swish of their tail when in your company, it’s a sign that they are happy and relaxed.

Yawning in sync with you

Many studies have been done to explain and understand yawning in dogs and humans. Often, when we yawn, others yawn around us, and so do our dogs. This can mean they want to show their connection and empathy towards us.

A happy greeting at the door

Coming home from a day of work to be greeted by a happy dog can easily cure a stressful day. When you are greeted by a playful pooch it’s for a reason, they’re genuinely happy to see you and this can be a great opportunity to initiate play time, make use of their excitable energy and build a stronger bond with one another. Be sure to make the most of these times, play some games or step out for some fresh air, stretch the legs and play a game of fetch.

As well as understanding your furry friend and the ways they show us love, Caroline also shares her five key ways that you can show your love to your four legged friend this Valentine’s Day and beyond:

Patience and respect are key – When we relax and simply help our dogs to make better choices, they will fit in with ease. Dogs can pick up on when we feel anxious or tense and tend to mirror these emotions. Embrace your dog for who they are, their personality and character will shine through. Guide them, but don’t force them, to fit into our sometimes-confusing world. Boundaries, personal space, and safety are paramount and always work both ways. Treat them with trust, love and respect and they will treat you the same way.

Make them the centre of your world – Spending quality time with your dog is one of the best way to show your furry friend that you love them. Dogs are social animals, they need company. Although every dog is different, we don’t recommend leaving them alone for more than four hours per day as this can be detrimental for their mental health. Enjoying a cosy cuddle together, playing games they enjoy, or simply enjoying each other’s company are easy ways to make your furry friend feel great!

Surprise them with treats – Everyone deserves tasty treats, it’s a great idea to use natural treats to reward your dog and reinforce a positive connection between you both. Natural treats allow you to treat your dog without feeling guilty, and they can be a great tool for training, enrichment or simply a surprise. Just make sure not to use this as the only tool to gain a connection at the expense of not forming a proper bond.

Make them feel safe – Your dog is part of the family, and like children, they look to you for guidance and protection. As pet parents it is important to eliminate as much fear, stress and anxiety we can for our furry friends. You are their guardian, mentor, and trusted companion. Gaining your dog’s trust by making them feel safe will earn you a friend for life.

Ensure their life is full of enrichment – Allowing your dog to try different fun activities, such as nose games/brain games and sniffy walks with you will make them happier. Ensure your switching up from the expected every now and again to give them some variety. Visiting different environments together such as the beach or the forest can help grow the bond between you. You know your dog best, so work together, experiment and find ways to enrich their life that suit you both to make sure you are living a life well loved.

Caroline Spencer, Natural Canine Behaviourist at Bella & Duke, added: “Living together and forming a relationship with your dog takes time. Highs and lows through puppyhood, adolescence to adulthood are natural as they learn how to fit in, and we learn what they mean by what they do.

“There is no rush to make the grade, any grade. Just do right by them the best you can, and enjoy one another’s company naturally.”

Six signs that you love your cat more than your partner

6 signs that you love your cat more than your partner

Does your cat get more attention than your partner? Take a look at Cats Protection’s Valentine’s checklist to see how deeply cats have left pawprints on your heart.

With over 11 million pet cats in the UK, it’s clear we’re a nation who love our moggies and the charity’s CATS Report 2022 revealed that 92% of cat owners consider their cat as part of the family and 88% admit to talking with their cat regularly.

Many of us would do anything for our feline friends, and you may even find that you love them more than your significant other. For fun this Valentine’s Day, check the signs that your cat could mean more to you than your human partner.

You don’t dare disturb them when they’re sleeping

You’re sitting on the sofa, desperate to use the toilet, but when your darling puss has graced you with their presence on your lap, you simply cannot ask them to move. You’ll happily put up with the discomfort, so long as your kitty is snoozing soundly. As a result, it’s your partner who must make the tea and generally wait on you hand and foot, so you and your kitty can stay cosy.

Find out more about cats and sleep.

…but you don’t mind if they wake you

No need for an alarm clock, your cat will make sure you know when it’s time to get out of bed and serve them their breakfast, and you will happily oblige, even at 5am. However, if your partner dares snore in the night, they get a gentle whack with a pillow.

Find out more about night-time waking and how to prevent it.

Your phone is full of photos of them

As you scroll through the camera roll on your phone, there’s a very noticeable trend. Almost every photo is of your cat in various adorable or funny poses, as you try to capture them in all their glory. On the other hand, your partner only features in around 1% of your photos and hasn’t even managed to make it onto your home screen background.

Learn how to take great photos of your cat.

You choose their food carefully

When it comes to mealtimes, you choose only the best cat food that has your feline friend’s approval, and make sure to pick out their favourite flavours so they’re not disappointed. Food is served precisely on schedule (or as soon as your cat demands it) and perhaps even presented in a Michelin star-worthy fashion in their favourite bowl. Meanwhile, your partner has to make do with whatever leftovers are in the freezer.

Find out more about what to feed your cat.

You worry about them when you’re away

If you need to be away from your cat, even for a few hours, you’re constantly wondering what they’re up to and if they’re ok. If you could call them to check, you would, but chances are they haven’t even noticed you’ve gone. When you’re away from your partner, you’re just grateful for a few hours of peace.

Find out more about keeping your cat safe at home.

You have several nicknames for them

A cat is never known by just one name, and you have a whole register of creative monikers for your moggy. Some may closely resemble their given name, others may be completely random and ridiculous. Your partner has just the one name, plus maybe a more a formal version you use when they’ve done something wrong.

Discover the top cat names, and how to get your cat to respond to their name.

Of course, it’s all a bit of Valentine’s Day fun and there’s room in most hearts for our partners and pets.

But if you can think of any signs that show how much you love your feline friend, Cats Protection would love to hear from you on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Crisis: Gorgie Farm faces closure again

FUTURE OF POPULAR LEARNING CENTRE IN DOUBT

Love Learning released the following statement yesterday:

So sorry to release this folks

Love to withdraw from Gorgie Farm

Love Learning have regrettably announced that their intention to return the lease on Gorgie Farm to the City of Edinburgh Council. Love will begin a period of formal consultation with staff on 4 January 2023.

Love CEO, Lynn Bell, said: “We have tried everything to avoid this situation, however with Covid and now cost of living crisis we do not believe we are able to support the Farm alone moving forward.”

CEC funding for the Farm was withdrawn in 2020 and over recent months Love have been seeking detailed discussions with City of Edinburgh Council over funding and the future operations of the Farm. Love have developed a plan for the Farm, based on the development of a Care Farm and utilising buildings on the Farm for respite accommodation for Looked After Children.

However, on preparation of the Love Learning 2021-22 accounts it became clear that Love was not able to take this forward without assistance.

Lynn added: “The support for Gorgie Farm from the public has been tremendous, and I would like to thank every single person who has supported the Farm over the last few years. Gorgie Farm is unique, and it has the potential to deliver so much for so many.

“We know that changes could be made to raise funds and support wider Council objectives around looked after children and tackling poverty, but we are not able to take this proposal forward unaided.

“A partnership approach has always been central to our plans, but this partnership has not materialised. While we have had many positive individual conversations ultimately there is a need for detailed discussions and agreements to allow the redesign of the Farms operations to meet wider needs.”

Edinburgh Greens have pledged to work for sustainable future for Gorgie Farm.

The much-loved local community farm in Edinburgh has announced that they plan to hand their lease back to Edinburgh City Council when it comes to an end.

Gorgie Farm has been run by ‘LOVE Learning’ since the previous long-term owners entered financial difficulties in late 2019.

Since reopening in early 2020, LOVE Gorgie Farm has become a community hub with programmes for local people to connect, and a young people to learn.

Gorgie Green Councillor Dan Heap said: “After 50 years of operation, Gorgie Farm is an integral part of the Gorgie community, and it is impossible to imagine Gorgie without the fun, life and incredible services the Farm brings the area.

“I think it is absolutely possible we can find a sustainable model for the Farm, and it is vital that all partners, including the City of Edinburgh Council, work together to achieve this.

“I will be working closely with them to ensure this happens.”

Lothian Green MSP, Lorna Slater said: “I am sorry to hear that Gorgie Farm is facing closure.

“It was a pleasure to have visited the farm in September and to hear about the exciting future plans that had been set out for this much-loved community farm.

“When the farm was threatened with closure in 2019, Green MSPs and Councillors were at the heart of the campaign to save it. I will work closely with local councillor Dan Heap and all partners involved in the farm and do everything I can to help in ensuring that it can have a sustainable future.”

Five signs that your cat loves you

Cats can’t express love with a thoughtful greetings card or box of chocolates but learning to read a few tell-tale pointers can reveal how they really feel about you.

This Valentine’s Day, Cats Protection is sharing five behavioural signs that your cats loves and trusts you, as well as some tips for keeping them happy, healthy and safe.

If your cat displays any of these behaviours, it’s likely you’ve found a very content soulmate:

1. Slow blinking

If your cat slow blinks at you, it’s a big deal. It’s their way of signalling that they trust you enough to close their eyes in your presence. The best response is to slow blink back, letting them know the affection is mutual.

2. Showing their tummy

A cat’s tummy is a vulnerable area and most cats don’t like to be touched there. If your cat rolls over and shows their tummy, it’s a loving greeting and sign of trust. The temptation to stroke their tummy could result in a warning scratch. A better response would be a nice chin rub or tickle behind their ears as a sure way to generate affectionate purrs of appreciation.

3. Head bumps

Head bumps are the cat equivalent of a hug. When a cat rubs their head or cheek on you, they’re transferring some of their own scent, marking you as someone who is familiar and can be trusted. You might see them doing this to objects in your home too, which is marking their territory as safe and familiar.

4. Kneading

Kneading or ‘making biscuits’ is a behaviour cats perform as kittens to stimulate the flow of milk from their mum. Many cats continue doing it into adulthood and it’s thought they do this simply because it feels good and is a sign of contentment. If your cat starts kneading you, it likely means they’re happy and comfortable on your lap. If you can withstand their claws, that’s an extra sign that you love them too.

5. Tail pointing up

Cats can communicate a lot with just their tail. If it’s low and swishing from side-to-side, they’re feeling worried or indecisive. If their tail is puffed up, then it’s likely they’re scared or feeling stressed. But if your cat comes towards you with their tail pointing up, they are happy to see you and the best response is to let them sniff your hand and give them a fuss to show you’re happy to see them too.

Learning to read your cat’s body language is a great way to help you understand when they’re happy or when they’re stressed and want to be alone.

Nicky Trevorrow, Cats Protection’s Behaviour Manager, said: “While there are behaviours that are true for most cats as well as a few things that should be avoided, each cat is an individual. Getting to know your cat is one of the most fulfilling things about becoming a cat owner.

“Take your time, take their lead. Ask your cat to show you how they like to be treated. Some cats take longer than others to build a relationship, so don’t be too disappointed if you don’t become best friends straight away.”

Sharing special moments can be beneficial for you and your cat and there are simple ways to show them you care.

Cats love boxes. Anyone who has ever owned a cat knows how cats will squeeze into the smallest cardboard cartons. As solitary creatures by nature, having somewhere safe to snooze is important, especially if it is up high so they can keep an eye on their surroundings. Try filling a box with a blanket to make it even more cosy and place it in a warm, quiet corner.

Playing with your cat will release their feel-good hormones called endorphins and help to burn off excess energy. As natural hunters driven by the thrill of the chase, not hunger, cats love to stalk and pounce. Just 10 minutes a day will keep them happy, healthy and your best friend.

For more information visit Cats Protection’s online guide to cat behaviour.

Care provider launches scheme to recruit young people in care and armed forces veterans into the care sector

A leading Scottish care provider has today launched a revolutionary scheme giving care experienced young people and armed forces veterans the opportunity to work in the care sector. Continue reading Care provider launches scheme to recruit young people in care and armed forces veterans into the care sector

Romance? Give a card or a kiss – not a cold sore!

PEOPLE in Scotland are being reminded to take some time to think of their health this Valentine’s Day …

As people’s thoughts turn to celebrating love and romance (Eh? – Ed), Scotland’s national telehealth and telecare service is urging people to take some simple steps to avoid passing on any unwanted gifts on February 14th.

Professor George Crooks, NHS 24 Medical Director, said: “Many people mark Valentine’s Day by exchanging cards with their loved ones. Make sure the only thing you share with your partner this Valentine’s Day are these type of romantic moments and not a cold sore or other infection.

“If you have a cold sore, it is important to avoid kissing until they have completely healed and always wash your hands before or after touching the affected area. The online health library at NHS inform also includes helpful advice and tips about preventing halitosis or bad breath. Practising good hand hygiene will also ensure that you don’t pass on any unwanted germs to your loved one.

“You could also give your partner the gift of stopping smoking this Valentine’s Day. As well as preventing bad breath, there are many benefits to quitting, from lowering the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases to saving money which you could use to buy flowers or chocolates for that someone special in your life.

“Take some time to think about your health this Valentine’s Day and remember there is a wealth of health advice and information available at your fingertips at www.nhsinform.co.uk”

Find us at www.twitter.com/nhs24 and www.facebook.com/nhs24