Stay off the ice to save your life – that’s the warning from the National Water Safety Forum as the UK experiences a significant cold snap.
Cold temperatures have led to the freezing over of many inland waters, which can be a risk to life. Although frozen lakes, ponds, canals, rivers and lochs may look enticing, ice can be extremely unpredictable – it is impossible to tell how thick it is or if it can bear weight.
The warning comes in the wake of several fatalities in recent years, where sadly people lost their lives after falling through ice.
The National Water Safety Forum is aiming to educate the public about the dangers of frozen and icy waters and promote informed, safe outdoor activities during the colder months to prevent further tragedies. With some schools closing due to weather conditions, parents and carers are encouraged to share the warning with young people.
Professor Mike Tipton, Chair of the National Water Safety Forum, said: “Icy conditions present a unique set of risks and frozen waterways are a serious threat to life, increasing the chance of an accidental immersion and cold shock, which can kill in seconds.
“As with all risks, a little knowledge and consideration can make a lifesaving difference: the NWSF is providing this knowledge.”
Gavin Ellis, Water Safety Lead for the National Fire Chiefs Council, said: “Our message is simple: please stay off frozen lakes, rivers and canals.
“Ice is never safe, and what looks like fun can quickly turn into a life-threatening emergency. We urge parents and carers to speak to children about the dangers and help keep them safe this winter.”
To keep yourself and your loved ones safe around water this winter, the National Water Safety Forum is urging everyone to follow this essential advice:
Stay off the ice – icethickness and water depth are variable and unpredictable
Keep back from the edge – fallen leaves or snow might obscure the boundary, whilst ice makes things slippery underfoot
Always supervise children – talk to them about the dangers of ice and never let them play on or near frozen water
Keep dogs on a lead – prevent dogs from venturing onto the ice and don’t throw balls or sticks onto frozen water for them to fetch
What do in an emergency:
If someone falls through the ice:
Do not go onto the ice yourself to attempt a rescue – instead, phone 999 immediately
Tell the person in the water to stay calm and float on their back
Look for nearby rescue equipment to throw, or try to reach them from solid ground with a branch or pole
Try to keep your eyes on the person in the water at all times
If you are able to get the person out safely, keep them warm with dry clothing and/ or shelter until the emergency services arrive
If a dog falls through the ice:
Do not attempt a direct rescue – instead, encourage your pet to swim back to you so that you can lift them out
If your pet cannot reach you, use a branch or pole to reach them without venturing onto the ice.
If you fall through the ice:
Float on your back until you feel calm
Shout for help when your breathing is under control
Try to climb out by spreading your arms across the surface of the ice in front of you and pulling yourself out slowly
If you cannot climb out, continue to float with your head clear of the water and wait for the emergency services.
The first in a series of visits to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) Inpatient units has found a mix of concerns for the safety and wellbeing of young people, alongside committed staff and positive initiatives at the Melville Unit in Edinburgh.
The joint unannounced visit was carried out in May 2025 by the Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland together with Healthcare Improvement Scotland, following a commitment from the Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport to address national concerns about the care of young people in mental health units.
The Commission listened to the experiences of the young people in the unit during the visit. While young people reported feeling listened to by staff and staff were praised for their clear commitment and passion, the visit identified several critical areas requiring immediate action.
Key findings on safety and wellbeing of young people
The report presents a mixed picture of the care provided at Melville. On one hand, the Commission observed positive interactions between staff and young people, who reported feeling listened to by dedicated and passionate staff.
However, there were concerns for the safety and wellbeing of young people. A significant issue was the use of restraint. The report calls for urgent improvement when this highly restrictive response is used, noting a lack of detailed care plans and incomplete records.
Of particular concern is the practice of nasogastric tube feeding under restraint, which requires immediate review to ensure it follows best practice and respects young people’s involvement in decisions about their care.
The unit has also yet to ensure all care is lawful under the Mental Health Act, as our previous recommendations have yet to be fully acted on and embedded. The quality of care planning and communication with parents also requires improvement.
Young people and their families reported a lack of activities, especially in the evenings and on weekends. Some young people said this meant they spent “too much time thinking their own thoughts,” which directly impacts their recovery.
The physical environment was also noted as requiring attention to ensure the safety of both staff and patients.
Julie Paterson, Chief Executive of the Mental Welfare Commission and Robbie Pearson, Chief Executive of Healthcare Improvement Scotland said: “Inpatient care provides intensive support for children and young people experiencing acute mental health crises and it is crucial such care meets both legal requirements and standards for the safe delivery of care.
“This report has identified areas for improvement as well as good practice. It is important the NHS Lothian addresses the recommendations and requirements with appropriate urgency.”
Claire Lamza, Executive Director (Nursing) of the Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland, said: ““The safety and wellbeing of vulnerable young people in specialist inpatient mental health units is a key priority for the Mental Welfare Commission. Several findings from our visit to Melville were concerning as they did not provide the quality of lawful care and treatment every young person has a right to.
“We recognize the dedication of staff at Melville who genuinely advocate for young people. However, decisive action from NHS Lothian is needed to address the issues identified in this joint report and in previous Commission visit reports. This must include honest reflection on why previous action plans and intentions have yet to deliver meaningful change for young people and their families.”
Nicola Killean, Children and Young People’s Commissioner Scotland, said: “I’m deeply concerned about the findings from the Mental Welfare Commission into the care of children at Melville Unit, which highlight potential rights breaches including the safe and lawful use of restraint.
“This is further worrying evidence about the use of restraint on children living in some of the most vulnerable situations. Alongside partners I have been raising my concerns with the Scottish Government about the use of restraint on children in mental health provision for over two years.
“Following my recent letter before action, I am pleased that the Scottish Government has now confirmed that it will revise the statutory code of practice to include human rights-based guidance and put in place mandatory recording and reporting of restraint and seclusion.
“I have also been given assurances that it will designate the Mental Welfare Commission as the appropriate monitoring body. These steps must be taken urgently to protect children from harm.”
NHS Lothian says it is working to improve services for young people at the Melville Inpatient Unit after it accepted a joint report published today (Thursday 23 October) by Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) and the Mental Welfare Commission (MWC).
A robust action plan is already well underway to address the report recommendations and improve care in the specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) unit which supports up to 12 young people with complex needs.
CAMHS has made significant progress in recruiting and retaining more skilled staff and developing new care pathways, with the report also highlighting positive staff interactions and their commitment and passion for working with young people.
However, Jim Crombie, Deputy Chief Executive for NHS Lothian, said that wider improvements were continuing across the unit.He added: “We want to reassure young people and families that we are committed to delivering safe, high-quality and effective care and we take the findings of the report extremely seriously.
“The safety and care of young people and staff is always our top priority. Restraint is only ever used in the unit as a last resort to prevent harm for young people or to staff or other patients.
“We introduced an initiative to reduce the use of restraint further, which was observed by HIS during the inspection, and has shown positive results. Systems are also in place to improve the recording, monitoring and auditing of restraints.
“We want to thank staff for their ongoing dedication and HIS and MWC for their expertise and guidance in shaping improvements to the mental health care of young people. We will welcome any forthcoming national guidance or best practice from these essential reviews.”
The action plan also includes work underway to improve multidisciplinary team dynamics through enhanced meeting structures, communication, collaboration and decision making to work more effectively with young people.
Since May 2025, a system has been in place to monitor legal authority for treating young people under the Mental Health Act, with enhanced managerial oversight and daily checks by registered nurses to ensure documentation is in place before administrating care.
Work also continues to expand meaningful evening and weekend activities for young people with regular reviews planned. Nurses will also receive refresher training to strengthen their therapeutic skills in individual and group settings.
A review of the physical environment of the Melville Unit, including looking at options for how best to provide care safely while meeting the needs of young people, is also well underway.
A copy of the report is available from Healthcare Improvement Scotland.
‘See it. Say it. Sorted’ rail security campaign given its first major refresh since it was launched almost a decade ago.
Bold new design makes the British Transport Police’s 61016 number more prominent, helping the public easily identify and report suspicious activity.
£17 million investment to better connect CCTV at train stations, enabling greater real-time access for police to accelerate investigations and help passengers feel safer.
Train passengers across Great Britain will start to see new ‘See it. Say it. Sorted’ posters and hear updated announcements from today (16 September 2025), marking the campaign’s first major refresh in a decade.
Since the campaign’s launch in 2016, reports to BTP’s 61016 text service have increased more than eightfold to 255,088 a year – helping to improve the safety of travellers across the rail network.
To make reporting even easier, posters have had a makeover to clearly display the 61016 text number, and the renowned ‘See it. Say it. Sorted’ train and station announcements have had an upgrade to make their wording clearer.
The new campaign is designed to help passengers more easily spot when something doesn’t look right, by explicitly showing and telling them what this could be, like an unattended bag, or someone accessing an area they shouldn’t.
The Government is also providing a nearly £17 million funding boost so Network Rail can make improvements to enhance police access to CCTV from railway stations. This will enable BTP officers to have more access to real-time footage from across the railway and help to identify offenders as quickly as possible, supporting the Government’s Plan for Change by making our streets safer.
The Rail Minister, Lord Hendy, is meeting British Transport Police (BTP) Chief Constable Lucy D’Orsi at London Victoria to unveil the renewed campaign and hear about how it helps passengers report to the BTP.
Rail Minister, Lord Hendy, said: “‘See it. Say it. Sorted’ isn’t just an earworm that’s been the soundtrack to our trains for nearly a decade now – it’s a really important security and public safety campaign.
“It plays a crucial role in making our railways safe, and this refresh will help spread its message to even more people.
“We’re committed to making our railway as secure as possible, which is why we’re also improving CCTV connectivity, to help police identify offenders and bring them to justice faster – particularly key as we work towards our goal of halving violence against women and girls in the next decade.”
BTP Chief Constable Lucy D’Orsi said: “Our officers are out across the railway network 24/7 working to keep the public safe – but ‘See it. Say it. Sorted’ reminds us that passengers and rail staff also have a vital role to play in being our eyes and ears.
“Our pioneering 61016 text service is a simple and discreet way to report crime across the rail network, and thanks to the ‘See it. Say it. Sorted’ campaign, you can save 61016 in your phone today and contact BTP immediately if something doesn’t feel right on your journey.
“Over 1 million 61016 texts have been sent since its introduction in 2013 – so I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank the public for continuing to help us create a network of vigilance. Trust your instincts and text us on 61016.”
Security Minister, Dan Jarvis, said:“‘See it. Say it. Sorted’ has become part of the national consciousness – whether you’re commuting into work or waiting for a coffee at the station, we’re all familiar with the message.
“As we relaunch the campaign, I encourage everyone to look out for one another, trust your instincts and if something doesn’t feel right, text British Transport Police on 61016.”
The campaign has also evolved to encourage passengers to report any non-urgent crimes to the BTP, including anything that makes passengers feel unsafe or uncomfortable, helping police keep our railway safe.
For example, in May, a man was jailed after he sexually assaulted three women on trains in London. All three of his victims reported the assaults to the BTP, including by texting 61016, which meant BTP officers could obtain CCTV, identify the perpetrator, and bring him to justice.
The new design marks a new era for the internationally renowned ‘See it. Say it. Sorted’ campaign, which launched in 2016 with a focus on counterterrorism. Although it serves a very serious purpose, ‘See it. Say it. Sorted’ has also become a cultural phenomenon, entering everyday vocabulary, inspiring punny spinoffs, and even a play of the same name.
Lucy McAuliffe, Network Rail’s Sussex route director and crime lead for the southern region, said: “This refreshed campaign will ultimately keep our railway running reliably by encouraging passengers to be our eyes and ears.
“When people speak up, it really helps us respond faster and more effectively to keep everything on time.
“It’s all part of a wider range of measures we’re taking to keep people safe and of our shared commitment to getting everyone home safe everyday.”
Siwan Hayward, TfL’s Director of Security, Policing and Enforcement, said:”For a decade, the ‘See it. Say it. Sorted’ campaign has been instrumental in encouraging public vigilance and providing a simple way for our customers to take action to keep our railways network safe.
“British Transport Police’s 61016 text service provides an easy and accessible way for passengers to report crime, any unusual behaviour, or anything that makes them feel unsafe. 61016 remains central to our shared commitment that every journey in London is safe and feels safe.
“We’re proud to be working alongside the BTP, the Department for Transport, and other partners as we launch the next phase of this important campaign across our network.”
Jacqueline Starr, Executive Chair and CEO of Rail Delivery Group, said: “The safety and wellbeing of both our rail customers and frontline workers is a top priority across industry.
“That’s why we want everyone to feel confident in knowing that they can use 61016 to report anything that’s inappropriate, doesn’t look right or makes them feel unsafe while they’re on a train or in a station.
“If you report it, rail staff and transport police can sort it.”
Timely with the warmer weather across the UK this summer, a mother is launching a charity in honour of her son’s life after tragically losing him almost year ago to drowning.
Rebecca Hinde lost her 8-year-old son, Joshua Hillstead, to drowning in River Arrow in Alvechurch, Alcester, on 23 July 2024. Marking the first anniversary since his death, Becky is founding The Joshua Hillstead Foundation charity.
The newly founded charity will be launched on Saturday 26 July at Wythall Park for a memorable day. Filled with fun activities for children, there will also be local food stalls on hand for everyone to enjoy.
Becky’s mission and determination to fight for wider water safety awareness has seen her support national charity, the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), with initiatives such as Water Smart Schools, to help share free education with young children.
In June, Becky also went to Westminster, joining RLSS UK to help lobby at Parliament for class-based water safety education to be included across all schools in the National Curricula in England.
Becky Hinde, speaking on the launch of The Joshua Hillstead Foundation, said: “The 22nd July 2024 was the day my life changed forever. At around 9:30pm, I received a call that ensured life would never be the same again.
“My lovely son Joshua had fallen into the River Arrow and was being taken to Birmingham Children’s Hospital. His heart had stopped beating, but paramedics had got it beating again. Once at the hospital, he suffered a pulmonary haemorrhage and was having seizures.
“He was put onto a ventilator and the doctors worked tirelessly but unfortunately he stopped responding and we had to make the hardest decision to turn off the machines and let him go. He passed away on 23rd July at 10:46pm, the day before his ninth birthday.
“As Joshua’s mother, a piece of me died that day too. Every day my heart breaks all over again. I will never get to see my son again, I will never get to kiss or cuddle my child again and I will never get to see him grow into a man. He will never get to grow up, fall in love or feel how wonderful it is to hold your own child. He had so much life ahead of him and I’m so proud to have been his mum.
“He was the most wonderful, kind caring boy with so much love for his family. I see now just how loved he was and how many people are feeling the deep pain of his loss, his sister trying to reconcile with not being able to save him and living without the person she was the closest to, his little brother who tells me all the time that he misses his Joshy, and his friends trying to understand a loss that they should never have to feel at such a young age.
“I couldn’t be there to help save my son as he wasn’t with me at the time of the accident, so now my goal is to help other families and prevent others from feeling the devastation we feel every day.
“In honour of Joshua, my family and I have created The Joshua Hillstead Foundation. Our aim is to help raise awareness and empower children through education on the dangers of natural waterways.
“We want to introduce comprehensive water safety and first aid in schools across the UK in order to prevent any further accidents such as Joshua’s.
Our goal is to help all children to understand undercurrents, tides, ice, cold water shock, whilst also highlighting surrounding dangers such as sand banks, rocks, weeds and sudden drops. We endeavour to give them the knowledge and tools to keep themselves and others safe around water.
“People say to me that they couldn’t imagine what it’s like to lose your child, I hope no-one ever does – it’s a pain that never goes away. It’s complete desperation for so many things we take for granted every day, from a cuddle, to a kiss or even just to smell his scent. It’s being completely lost and not knowing what to do because there’s no words or actions that will ever take this feeling away.
“We strongly feel that water safety should be a part of the National Curriculum as there are too many accidents occurring every year where children are drowning. Even one child drowning is too many. This is so very important and is needed to ensure that no other parent has to feel the way I feel.
“We need to educate our children to help keep them safe. We can’t be there for them 24/7 but we can definitely give them the skills and knowledge to keep them safe.”
Housing association calls for pragmatic approach to innovation
EFFORTS to modernise heating systems across Scotland’s housing stock risk failing the very people they are designed to support – unless lived experience is put at the heart of decision-making.
That’s the warning from one of Scotland’s leading housing associations, which is using a combination of technology trials, resident feedback and real-world data to challenge top-down assumptions about sustainable heating.
Hanover Scotland, which operates more than 200 developments across the country, is calling for a more nuanced and realistic approach to heating innovation.
While committed to the transition to net zero, the housing provider says current solutions often don’t account for the unique challenges faced by older residents living in supported environments.
Angela Currie, Chief Executive of Hanover Scotland, said: “Net zero goals must not come at the cost of resident wellbeing. When an 84-year-old is unable to get the level of heat in their home that they need, we’re no longer talking about sustainability, we’re talking about safety.”
At the centre of Hanover’s approach is an honest reappraisal of legacy communal heating systems, once considered reliable and cost-effective, but now increasingly out of step with residents’ expectations for control, transparency and value. It is vital that we consider solutions that limit disruption, avoid stress, and have operating functions that are easy to understand and make sense.
Through a series of live trials, the organisation is equipping homes with performance sensors, enabling data to be collected from multiple flats within a development. This information is then cross-referenced with resident feedback and energy use, helping to expose the gulf between theoretical models and lived experience.
Our survey information and honest and practical feedback from our valued residents will help us to better understand our older residents thinking as their needs are at the heart of every decision we make.
Angela argues that assumptions about efficiency are often based on averages and hypotheticals. She added: “What works on paper doesn’t always work in practice, especially for older residents who may be more vulnerable to temperature changes or who use their heating in traditional ways.
Typically, Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) deliver slower heat as the water is heat to an average of between 35 – 55 degrees and provides a more gradual steady heat where electric or gas fuelled heaters deliver instant heat to a higher temperature, often 70 – 80 degrees. All of these variances need to be understood and considered.
“There’s a risk in rushing to adopt solutions that haven’t been designed with our residents or specific housing types in mind.”
Where renewable technologies on new build projects are able to go through a forward planned detailed design and feasibility process, retro-fit projects do not have the same luxury. Often, they have to be more re-active, trying hard to find ways of incorporating new technology into older buildings, this mix is not always feasible, practical or achievable for some of the following reasons:
Older electrical supply infrastructure may need upgrading to support ASHP loads.
Existing heating systems such as electric storage heaters or gas boilers may be incompatible.
Older radiators in existing facilities are often undersized for lower temperature ASHP’s.
Sheltered housing often has limited space externally for ASHP units.
Internal plant room space is restrictive for buffer tanks or hot water cylinders.
Older buildings may have poor insulation making heat pumps less efficient.
Although widely promoted as a silver bullet, heat pumps have emerged as one of the technologies that require a more thoughtful introduction. While low-carbon and efficient in theory, they are designed to maintain a consistent, low-level background heat – a fundamental shift from traditional systems that switch on and off at scheduled times, or offer a ‘boost’ option. Hanover’s trials show that it’s not the technology itself that poses a problem, but the difficulty some residents face in adapting long-held routines and expectations to a very different way of heating their homes.
Designed to maintain a constant low temperature rather than respond quickly to on/off scheduling or boost commands, they can challenge residents’ expectations and habits.
Angela said: “The technology itself is not the issue. The real challenge lies in helping our residents – many of whom have used the same heating routines for decades – to understand and adapt to a completely different way of managing warmth in their homes.
“This isn’t about rejecting progress. It’s about ensuring new systems are introduced with the right support and context. Our sector should not be a passive recipient of technology – it should lead from the front, shaping solutions that genuinely meet the needs of our residents.”
Hanover Scotland has empowered independence for over 40 years by providing safe, secure social housing that allows residents to live fulfilling, independent lives.
Focused on innovation and sustainability, the expert team at Hanover Scotland develops new models of social housing, care, and support while achieving value for money as a trusted, credible partner in urban renewal projects.
The Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS UK) is urging parents to always supervise children in and around water and always keep young children within arm’s reach, ahead of Coronation Street’s latest storyline.
The advice comes as tonight’s episode of the ITV soap features six-year-old Bertie Osbourne involved in a shocking hot tub incident.
The storyline reflects the dangers that children face at home, in and around water, as the charity has previously highlighted that on average, one child a month drowns at home.
In the upcoming episode of the award-winning show, Jenny, who is babysitting Bertie, gets distracted by a phone call from her bank and loses sight of the young child.
After noticing his football floating in the uncovered hot tub, Bertie reaches towards it and falls in unexpectedly, leaving him at risk of drowning. Fortunately, Steve and Cassie find Bertie quickly, pull him out of the water and he is rushed to hospital.
A survey conducted by water safety charity, RLSS UK, found that 1 in 5 parents have a hot tub at home, yet over half of them (59%) do not always replace the cover immediately after use* allowing children open access, often without parents’ knowledge.
RLSS UK’s Child Drowning Update highlights evidence from the National Child Mortality Database (NCMD) that the number of child drowning deaths in England has doubled over the last four years**.
RLSS UK’s Interim Charity Director, Matt Croxall said: “Whilst lots of fun can be had with water in the home and garden/outdoor space, easy access to water in familiar spaces can sometimes make it easy to forget the risks water can bring. Hot tubs are a great place for grown-ups to unwind and socialise, but they can be especially hazardous for children.
“Our recent Child Drowning Update highlighted the risks that hot tubs can pose – three children accidentally drowned in the 12 months to March 2023 in hot tubs after they were left uncovered.
“It is great that such a high-profile programme as Coronation Street is featuring such an important issue and highlighting how quickly such incidents can happen.”
The charity is reminding parents that drowning happens quickly and often silently in as little as 2” (5cm) of water. RLSS UK is urging parents to always supervise children in and around water and always keep young children within arm’s reach. Evidence shows that 86% of child drownings happened when the child was unsupervised**.
To help raise awareness of the risks water can pose around every home, RLSS UK launched a new campaign called Splash Safety at my Pad.
The campaign, which returns in May, seeks to provide young families with advice, hints and tips about how to enjoy water safely at home.
RLSS UK’s Top Tips for Staying Safe around Hot Tubs
Cover it Up
Ensure hot tubs are covered with a solid, lockable cover immediately after use to prevent curious children from climbing or falling in.
If your hot tub doesn’t have a cover or it is broken, replace this vital piece of safety equipment as soon as possible. Don’t fill or use your hot tub until you’ve replaced the cover.
Stay Together
Ensure children are always supervised by an adult when they are spending time in and around a hot tub – even when the cover is on. Accidents can happen quickly, and children are naturally drawn to water.
Top Tip: If you’re with a group of adults, take it in turns to oversee supervising children near water. Always ensure that everyone in the group knows who’s responsible for watching the children at all times.
3. Not for Little Ones!
Children under five should not use a hot tub in any circumstances.
4. Talk about the Risks
Talk to older children about how to stay safe around hot tubs. Be clear children should stay away from hot tubs when not in use. Ensure that they never open the cover without an adult present.
Sources:
* Royal Life Saving Society UK Consumer Survey, geographically represented sample of n=1,003 parents of children aged five years and under, (September 2024).
5153 PENALTY NOTICES ISSUED FOR PARKING ON PAVEMENT
The benefits of the pavement parking ban have been praised by Guide Dogs Scotland and Living Streets Edinburgh.
The Council previously worked with these organisations to lobby for the introduction of controls in Scotland.
Earlier this week (January 29) marked a full year since enforcement began against parking on pavements, at dropped kerb crossing points and double parking.
The council introduced these rules to make our streets safer for pedestrians and road users. Pavement parking particularly impacts people who use wheelchairs and mobility, those who are blind or partially sighted and people pushing prams or buggies. This practise also damages pavements, which are expensive to repair and become a trip hazard for everyone.
Parking attendants have the powers to issue Penalty Charge Notices (PCN) to vehicles parked on pavements, some verges, at crossing points or double parked. A parking ticket will be issued at the national level of £100 but reduced to £50 if paid within the first 14 days. This follows a similar process to existing parking tickets issued in Edinburgh.
Up to 26 January 2025 there had been 5,153 PCNs issued for footway parking, 1,612 for dropped kerb parking and 1,629 for double parking.
Since enforcement began there has been an overall decreasing trend in PCN fines being issued for pavement parking – with the exception of the busier summer months.
Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said: “Since we first introduced these changes one year ago, we’ve seen many residents and visitors modify their parking habits accordingly, with the problem of pavement parking disappearing in many streets across our city. The overall gradual decrease in PCN fines for pavement parking also shows we’re headed in the right direction, ultimately we want to see zero fines.
“Every driver is responsible for parking their vehicle considerately, and where this would not cause an obstruction to the pavement or road. We brought the pavement parking ban in to provide a safe and accessible environment for everyone, especially those with sight impairments, mobility issues or pushing buggies.
“We’ve also heard from many people who really appreciate clearer, wider pavements and who no longer need to walk on the road as a result of the ban.
“I’m proud that we took this decision to make our streets as safe and accessible as possible – and that local authorities across Scotland are now looking to Edinburgh’s lead and implementing schemes of their own.”
Transport and Local Access Forum Convener, Councillor Kayleigh O’Neill said: “The pavement parking ban has been so well received in Edinburgh, and I am so grateful to everyone who has played a part in making that happen.
“Strong awareness, resident co-operation and Council enforcement has meant that disabled people, elderly people, those with buggies and prams, all have an easier time getting around.
“So many streets that have been blighted in the past are now free and accessible for people who move around the city like me who uses a power wheelchair.
“Pavements are for people and the enforcement of this ban reinforces that. It is great to also see that Glasgow has followed us and are beginning enforcement on their city streets from January 29.”
Policy and Campaigns Manager at Guide Dogs Scotland, Mike Moore said: “One year on from the enforcement of pavement parking restrictions in Edinburgh, people with sight loss say it has made a real difference.
“By keeping pavements clear, the new rules have helped to ensure that people in the capital can get out and about safely, without the fear of being forced on to the road by inconsiderate parking.
“We welcome the start of enforcement in Glasgow this week, which marks an important step towards a consistent approach across Scotland. With both of Scotland’s largest cities now taking action, we hope to see continued progress by local authorities to make our streets safer and more accessible for all pedestrians.”
Living Streets Edinburgh Group Convener, David Hunter said:“The City of Edinburgh Council deserves credit not only for being the first in Scotland to apply the national ban on pavement parking, but also for adopting a “no streets exempt” policy.
“This been the most significant change to make Edinburgh a safer and more attractive city for pedestrians since the introduction of widespread 20mph speed limits.”
Tests on children’s Halloween costumes revealed that over 80% of costumes for under-sevens failed basic safety tests, including those for flammability and strangulation risks. RoSPA advises parents to take one simple but crucial step this Halloween: choose costumes from trusted sourcesthat meet UK safety standards.
As Halloween approaches, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is urging families to take action following alarming news from the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS).
New Findings on Costume Safety
Tests conducted by OPSS on 128 costumes purchased from various online marketplaces found that more than 80% failed safety tests. Among these, 28 costumes did not meet flammability standards, and 59 were found to have dangerous cords or drawstrings that posed a strangulation hazard. Many costumes also lacked appropriate labelling, with 98 out of 128 failing to provide essential safety information.
Adrian Simpson, Head of Policy and Press for RoSPA said: “These results are deeply concerning. Parents and those responsible for children need to be extra cautious this Halloween. Always purchase costumes from reputable retailers and check for the UKCA or CE mark to ensure they comply with UK safety regulations.
“This is important as it shows that the product has been tested to meet UK safety standards, and indicates that the costume has passed essential safety tests, including those for flammability.
“With the recent findings from the OPSS, it’s clearer than ever that safety needs to come first. If you’re buying a Halloween costume for your child, checking for that the product meets labelling requirements should be a top priority. This simple check can prevent accidents and ensure a safer Halloween for everyone.”
ADDITIONAL SAFETY TIPS FOR HALLOWEEN
In addition to choosing costumes that meet flammability and safety standards, RoSPA advises families to follow these important guidelines:
Avoid open flames: Keep children away from lit candles, fireplaces, and any other open flames.
Supervise children: An adult should always be present to supervise children, especially near fire hazards.
Make costumes visible: Add reflective strips to costumes or provide children with torches to ensure they can be seen in the dark while trick-or-treating.
Stay cautious with homemade costumes: RoSPA advises against homemade costumes, as they are unlikely to meet the same fire safety standards as store-bought ones that comply with UK regulations.
Check for product recalls: The OPSS regularly updates its website with information on recalled products, including Halloween costumes. If you’re unsure about a costume’s safety, check online before using it.
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has produced safety tips for this fireworks season on how to use fireworks responsibly and considerately to help protect both people and animals:
You must only buy from licensed sellers
Make sure you buy fireworks from licensed or registered in-store and online retailers. Do not buy fireworks from unknown retailers on social media sites. Remember it is illegal for under 18s to buy fireworks.
Choose traditional dates and keep to the curfew
People are more likely to plan to protect pets and other animals if fireworks are let off on traditional dates. The firework curfew is midnight on Fireworks Night, 1am on Diwali, New Year’s Eve and Chinese New Year, and 11pm the rest of the year. Firework timings may differ in Scotland. Search ‘fireworks’ on gov.scot for more advice.
Follow the instructions carefully
Before letting off fireworks, read all the safety instructions on the box, so you know important things like how far away people need to stand. If you do not understand the instructions and warnings, do not use the firework. Once any debris has cooled down, tidy it up and soak it in water overnight. Then put it in a rubbish bag and in the bin.
Check what fireworks you can use at home
Category F1, F2 and F3 fireworks are on sale to the public depending on the safety distance required. Check the labelling to ensure you have enough space to safely use a firework before you buy it.
Always follow the Firework Code. Search ‘fireworks’ on GOV.UK for more advice.
Think of local animals before setting off fireworks
If you plan to let off any fireworks, let your neighbours know in advance so they can plan for pets that might be affected.
If you live close to horses, let their owners know well in advance that you are letting fireworks off. Site your fireworks well away from them and aim them in the opposite direction. It is important to be considerate to horse owners as they cannot easily move horses away from fireworks.
Notify nearby farms and stables if you are planning to use fireworks. Do not let off fireworks if they will disturb wildlife habitats, or roosting bats and birds.
Keep your pet safe
On nights where fireworks are being let off, keep dogs and cats inside with somewhere to hide and give small outdoor pets extra bedding and nesting material to burrow in.
A NEW framework that aims to revolutionise water safety in schools has been celebrated in Edinburgh.
Scottish Swimming, in partnership with Scottish Water, hosted a landmark event yesterday at Edinburgh’s Royal Commonwealth Pool to celebrate The National Primary School Swimming Framework.
The celebration introduced Scotland’s most decorated Olympian Duncan Scott MBE and double Paralympian Toni Shaw as ambassadors for the Framework and highlighted the critical importance of swimming education in primary schools across Scotland.
The National Primary School Swimming Framework aims to ensure pupils across Scotland, particularly at Primary 4/Primary 5 level, learn basic water safety and drowning prevention skills to be safer and more confident in, on, and around water.
Olympic champion Duncan Scott MBE shared: “Swimming isn’t just a sport; it’s a life skill that can help save lives. I’m honoured to be part of this initiative that aims to make swimming accessible to every child in Scotland.
“The fact that over 9,200 pupils have already benefited from the pilot phases is encouraging, but it’s crucial that we continue to bridge the gaps and ensure equal opportunities for all our young people.”
During the event, attendees heard from Scottish Swimming, Scottish Water, sportscotland, Duncan and Toni, as well as seeing a lesson in progress with children from Niddrie Mill and Castleview primary schools.
Paralympian Toni Shaw added: “Swimming has transformed my life, and I believe every child should have the chance to experience its benefits.
“This framework is a step in the right direction, but we need to ensure it reaches every corner of Scotland. Inclusive swimming education is not just about creating champions, it’s about empowering all children with confidence and safety in the water.”
The Framework, now available for schools across the nation, has already made significant strides. More than 9,200 pupils have participated in two phases of pilots carried out across nine local authorities in Scotland.
Craig Burn, Director of Sport at sportscotland said: “The National Primary School Swimming Framework represents a significant step forward in our efforts to improve water safety and swimming education across Scotland.
“By partnering with Scottish Swimming and other key stakeholders, we’re creating a comprehensive approach that will help ensure every child has the opportunity to learn essential water safety skills. We’re excited to see the positive impact this will have on young lives, potentially reducing drowning incidents.”
Peter Farrer, Scottish Water’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “Scottish Water is proud to support this new framework. Water safety is paramount – with Scotland’s natural landscape which has approximately 30,000 inland waters and 6,000 miles of coastline, coupled with worryingly high drowning statistics.
“This framework will be key to creating ‘Generation Swim’ and ensuring more children across the country get the basic – but vital – water safety knowledge and skills to help keep them safer in, on and around water.”
The National Primary School Swimming Framework offers flexible delivery models, allowing schools to adopt different approaches based on their circumstances, such as universal or targeted programmes for non-swimmers.
It focuses on water safety education, with the Water Safety Code integrated throughout, aligning with Water Safety Scotland’s drowning prevention initiatives.
The framework’s development has been supported by the Scottish Government through sportscotland, with additional credibility added by the inclusion of Education Scotland and Water Safety Scotland.
To learn more about the National Primary School Swimming Framework or to support its implementation, visit:
