Here’s what’s on in Blackhall Library for the week beginning 26th of June!
Please note registration for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge has now begun and will run until the 31st of August! 
What’s On at Blackhall Library this week
Tag: school summer holidays
Schools face summer crime spike
Schools in Scotland are being warned to take precautions amid fears of a rise in crime over the summer holidays.
As many schools across the country prepare to close their doors for the summer holidays, specialist insurer Ecclesiastical says schools will be an attractive target for criminals over the coming months.
Ecclesiastical is encouraging residents in Scotland who live near local schools to be vigilant this summer and report any unusual or suspicious activity they notice on school grounds.
Ecclesiastical reports schools have been targeted over the summer months including vandalism, arson, break-ins, smashed windows, theft of lead from roofs and stolen laptops.
Amid high inflation, soaring prices and more facing economic hardship, there are worries there will be a large spike in criminal activity.
Faith Kitchen, customer segment director at Ecclesiastical Insurance, said: “Schools are far more vulnerable during the summer holidays when school buildings are closed and largely unoccupied, tempting opportunists.
“With high inflation and the cost of living crisis, it is more important than ever that schools take steps to protect their premises from offenders. There are a number of measures schools can take to better secure school property and assets, which would ideally be a combination of both physical and electronic protection.
“Fencing around the perimeter can often offer a good first line of defence against unwanted visitors, while CCTV can act as a visual deterrent for those not wanting to be caught on camera.
“Vigilance from the local community can be a huge help. We urge those who live near schools to be vigilant this summer and report any unusual or suspicious activity they notice on school grounds.”
How to protect schools in Scotland this summer
- Ensure CCTV systems have remote 24/7 monitoring services. Monitoring and alerting the police is far more effective than tracing criminals after a crime has taken place.
- Install remotely monitored intruder alarms and change alarm security codes and passwords on a regular basis.
- Install security lighting systems that have motion sensors to detect body movements.
- Restrict access to school premises. Well-designed perimeter security such as walls, fences and electric security gates, and anti-climb paint help to prevent people from getting onto school sites.
- Restrict vehicular access to the school site. Locate any designated parking as far from the school building as possible. The further thieves have to travel on foot the greater the risk of detection.
- Use security marking systems such as SmartWater which can help with successful prosecution of thieves.
- Ask the local community near your school to be vigilant and report any unusual or suspicious activity they notice on school grounds.
- Inform neighbourhood watch schemes / police liaison officers of planned work over the holidays as thieves might pose as contractors.
- Seek advice. Specialist insurers can offer advice and expertise to help schools manage security risks. Insurers can offer a combination of onsite and remote risk management services including security assessments and advice, alongside broader property protection and building valuation services.
Ecclesiastical Insurance offers a range of risk management support and guidance to help schools manage the risks they face.
For more information, visit the Hub for Education.
Twelve ideas for cheap or free days out with the kids this summer
With the summer holidays here and the cost-of-living crisis continuing to bite, job booking portal redwigwam has pulled together a list of some cheap or free ideas that anyone can do with their children over the summer holidays.
Claire of redwigwam says: “We know how hard it is to keep the kids entertained without spending an absolute fortune while they are off school, so hopefully these ideas will help.”
1. Go to a farmers’ market
Always fun to have a walk around, and often with animals to have a look at while you’re there, and you can always make a small purchase if you feel like it. We know items can be expensive at farmers markets, but you might fancy treating yourself to a nice jar of honey. There’s no pressure to buy though.
2. Go for a walk
Completely free and it gets you out of the house and into nature. If it’s raining, pop the waterproofs on and jump in some puddles. You’ll be doing wonders for your health both mentally and physically – and then feel less guilty about spending the rest of the day doing very little.
If you’re feeling inspired before you set off, you could even make some lists of things for the children to find while they are out – a stone, a flower, a feather etc. If not, my children always like a spot of healthy competition, so counting steps, and seeing if we can beat the total we did on our last walk is always a winner – and helps tired legs complete the last bit home.
3. Have a water fight
The weather doesn’t have to be roasting, but a water fight is always a winner on a hot day. If you’re feeling brave, get the kids to invite their friends round to add to the fun! You can invest a small amount in water guns if you don’t already have any – but we always find Calpol syringes (or similar) work really well (and let’s face it, we all have kitchen drawers full of them!)
4. Take a picnic to the park
Don’t know about you, but one of the worst things about the summer holidays is the never-ending demand for snacks and trying to figure out what you can make for lunch which is a) different and b) they will eat.
For a cheap lunch out – and lots of fresh air – take a picnic to the park. Even the same sandwiches you’ve eaten every other day taste different in new surroundings.
You can even take your own ice lollies in a freezer bag for a real treat.
5. Go to the beach
If you’re close enough, a day trip to the beach can feel like you’ve been on holiday. Pack the buckets and spades, a ball, and the swimming stuff (and a picnic of course)
One of our favourite days out last summer was an evening trip to the beach after work – nothing like vitamin sea to cleanse the soul.
6. Go camping
While you will need some equipment for this, it’s a cost-effective way to get away from it all for a couple of nights. If you don’t have a tent, see if you can borrow one – or have a look on Facebook marketplace to see if someone is selling one second hand.
And if you really can’t get away, put it up in the garden – the children can use it as a den, and maybe even have a sleepover at home.
7. Plant flowers, vegetables, or herbs in your garden
Seeds are readily available, and cheap. This is a great project for kids as they can watch how the plants grow over the summer. You can even encourage them do some research into how to look after various plants.
If you do end up with fully grown vegetables or herbs, you can harvest them and have them for dinner. Win-win.
8. Go to the library
Anything that encourages them to read over the summer. Most local libraries have a summer reading scheme for children, when they’ll receive a reward for reading a certain number of books.
Libraries often have events you can join in over the summer months – often an opportunity to do some crafts (with the bonus of keeping the mess out of the house)
If you have time, it’s always pleasant to choose some books and stay at the library to read for a while for a change of scenery. (Our local one has a café attached, so even the option of a cuppa for me too)
9. Swimming
Always a winning activity. Find out how much pools near you charge for entry and choose a cheap one. As with the library, see if your local pools offer fun sessions with inflatables, or even canoeing to try out. Fun and exercise in one go.
10. Visit a museum
Wherever you live, there’s usually a museum to visit. In many towns and cities, these are free (although do often charge for special exhibitions). Here in Liverpool, we are spoilt for choice – my own children love the World Museum – dinosaurs and an aquarium in one building.
Make a list of as many museums and art galleries with free entry which are within traveling distance and try and visit as many as possible over the summer holidays.
11. Have a games night
Board games are always a huge hit in our house. And even better if we ask friends round and they bring games we don’t already own.
A few snacks and drinks and we’re set up for the evening. You could even add a competitive element by creating a tournament with a small inexpensive prize for the overall winner.
12. Try cooking new recipes
Have a look through the cookbooks you already have or get one from the library. Or you can even research recipes online.
Try to choose a few recipes with similar ingredients so you can keep costs down when you’re doing your food shopping.
Get the children involved with planning, preparing and cooking the meal – they’ll get a great sense of satisfaction and may even be more likely to eat the meal!
If you’re feeling the pinch this summer and are looking for a way to top up your income and help pay for your summer plans, why not join redwigwam and work with us flexibly. There’s a huge choice of jobs, with hundreds added every week.
Because our jobs are completely flexible, adding extra hours around existing work commitments or childcare is no problem. You simply book the jobs and shifts to suit you.
We have all sorts of jobs in all sorts of industries including: bar work, baristas, mystery shoppers, hotel receptionists, retail assistants and waiters.
Find out more at www.redwigwam.com
Explore Edinburgh this summer with the National Trust for Scotland
With over 100 sites across the country, including six in and around Edinburgh, and activities for all interests, spend your summer with the National Trust for Scotland:
The National Trust for Scotland is offering visitors the opportunity to spend their summer exploring the nature, beauty and heritage of Scotland, with a different site to discover each day, alongside lots of fun-packed summer activities to try across Edinburgh and the surrounds.
Summer officially starts today, 21 June, shortly followed by the school holidays, and families will be looking for inspiration to fill those long summer days. The Edinburgh area alone offers a wealth of opportunity for the summer months, with sites including the Georgian House and Newhailes House in Musselburgh.
New and existing members of the conservation charity can visit its 129 sites for as little as £5.25 for adults and £9.80 per month for families, equating to just 17p or 32p per day, making it a great value option for excitement-filled days, all while contributing towards the conservation of Scottish heritage.
From paddling and kayaking at Kintail, to conquering Ben Lomond, whirling through the Wild Wood at Crathes Castle, going down the rabbit hole at Brodie Castle’s Playful Garden, minding your Ps and Qs at Robert Smail’s Printing Works, or drinking in the breath-taking views at Glencoe National Nature Reserve, summer fun abounds with the National Trust for Scotland.
The Trust also recently relaunched its initiative with Young Scot which offers anyone aged 11-25 with a Young Scot National Entitlement Card the chance to visit National Trust for Scotland properties, such as the tranquil Malleny Garden and the carefully restored Gladstone’s Land on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile for just £1.
For families searching for budget-friendly ways to keep children amused during the holidays, the Trust has a packed programme to help with summer holiday planning. Events taking place across the Edinburgh area include Doghailes on 31 July at Newhailes House, a fun dog event for all the family with competitions, food and drink and lots of activities for furry four-legged friends.
For those looking to embrace the health and wellbeing benefits of the outdoors there’s no shortage of breath-taking views to discover and gardens to enjoy.
Inveresk Lodge Garden is a peaceful spot tucked away in a charming village near Musselburgh while Malleny Garden is the place to go to see heritage roses sat beneath 400-year-old-yew trees.
Additionally, for people looking to soak up some culture and discover more about Scotland’s heritage, the Trust holds a wealth of stories and objects which have been passed down through the centuries at some of Scotland’s most notable historical homes, large and small.
The Georgian House in Edinburgh’s New Town has an interesting collection of paintings, costumes and period furnishings, while the immersive visitor experience at Gladstone’s Land takes you through three centuries of the building’s history.
Under an hour outside the city, you’ll also find The Royal Burgh of Culross where you can experience the paranormal in an after-hours tour of Culross Palace, or, if you prefer a more peaceful experience, Dollar Glen provides a serene green escape.
And if all of that isn’t enough, The Trust is also hosting a programme of events throughout the summer, including:
- Doghailes 22 – a firm favourite for canine lovers, Doghailes takes place at Newhailes Estate, Musselburgh, on 31 July.
- Redcoats in Residence – Alan Breck’s Regiment bring a Jacobite re-enactment to Gladstone’s Land on the 9 July. Meet soldiers of the Edinburgh city Guard as they support the army’s plans to march out against Bonnie Prince Charlie.
- Carhailes 22– Carhailes is back, and its bigger and better then ever, with iconic cars old and new gracing Newhailes estate on 28 August.
- Ceilidh in the Courtyard– an evening of dancing and amazing music brought to you by the Scottish fiddle Orchestra will be held in the stables courtyard of Newhailes estate on 13August.
Philip Long OBE, Chief Executive of The National Trust for Scotland, said: “The last two years have been a difficult time for us all, but our charity was pleased that our countryside and gardens were able to provide respite to many.
“As the country gets back on its feet post-pandemic, we look forward to welcoming new and returning visitors to our places and helping them to make the most of a summer free of travel restrictions and lockdowns.
“At the Trust we pride ourselves on creating memorable experiences. Whether attending one of our creative events, enjoying an engaging historical tour or taking part in an adventure activity, there are lots of ways to enjoy all that Scotland has to offer.
“We want to inspire everyone who spends time at our places and encourage even more people to discover the National Trust for Scotland. With so many of our beautiful places, spread all over Scotland, visitors could explore a different one every day of the summer holidays and still have more to discover. We look forward to welcoming back regular visitors, reconnecting with those we’ve missed over the past few years, and welcoming new audiences this summer to experience nature, beauty and heritage.”
Established in 1931, the National Trust for Scotland cares for, shares and speaks up for Scotland’s magnificent heritage.
Membership, which provides funding for Scotland’s largest conservation charity, can be purchased online from just £9.80 per month for families, £5.25 for adults and £3 for children.
For more information on the National Trust for Scotland and to plan your summer itinerary, visit: www.nts.org.uk.
Aldi donates over 22,000 meals to Edinburgh and Lothian charities over the school summer holidays
Local charities across Edinburgh and the Lothians helped Aldi donate 22,752 meals to people in need over the summer school holidays.
The supermarket paired up its stores with local charities, community groups and foodbanks to donate surplus food, with the majority of meals going to causes supporting families and children.
The donation is part of Aldi’s commitment to donate 10 million meals across the country in 2021, in partnership with community giving platform Neighbourly.
Mary Dunn, Managing Director of Corporate Responsibility at Aldi UK, said: “We were proud to support so many incredible causes across Edinburgh and the Lothians this summer, helping them to donate meals to those in need.
“The school holidays can be a hard time for families, particularly when many are experiencing heightened financial hardship due to the pandemic, and this is why we committed to donating more meals than ever before.”
Steve Butterworth, from Neighbourly, added: “The summer school holidays are always one of the busiest times for the nation’s charities and food banks, but this year things were even busier. Aldi’s donations have never been more of a vital support to these organisations.”
Aldi stores across the country work with Neighbourly to partner with local charities, who can collect surplus food and perishable products, such as fruit, vegetables and baked goods, up to seven days a week.
HMRC can help towards the cost of children’s holiday activities
Tax-Free Childcare – a childcare top-up for working parents – can be used to help pay for accredited holiday clubs, childminders or sports activities – giving parents and carers that extra peace of mind that their child is having fun during the school summer holidays and it can save them money.
Tax-Free Childcare is available for children aged up to 11, or 17 if the child has a disability. And for every £8 deposited into an account, families will receive an additional £2 in UK Government top-up, capped at £500 every three months, or £1,000 if the child is disabled.
Parents and carers can check their eligibility and register for Tax-Free Childcare via GOV.UK. They can apply for an account at any time and start using it straight away. By depositing money into their accounts, families can benefit from the 20% top-up and use the money to pay for childcare costs when they need to, for example, during the summer holidays.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, said: “We want to help kids stay active this summer, whether they are going to summer holiday clubs or a childminder.
“A childcare top-up will go a long way towards helping parents plan and pay for summer activities to keep their kids happy and healthy. To find out more search ‘tax-free childcare’ on GOV.UK.”
Iain Stewart, UK Government Minister for Scotland, said: “There can be a lot of pressure on working parents to find suitable childcare during school holidays but the UK Government’s Tax-Free Childcare scheme gives a massive helping hand.
“It helps parents ensure their children are in a safe environment where they’ll have fun and be well looked after, and it saves money at the same time. The Scottish school holidays are almost upon us and I’d urge all eligible parents to apply.”
15,240 working families used their account in March 2021 in Scotland. And in the same month, HMRC paid out more than £33 million in top-up payments, which was shared between more than 282,000 families across the UK.
Tax-Free Childcare is also available for pre-school aged children attending nurseries, childminders or other childcare providers. Families with younger children will often have higher childcare costs than families with older children, so the tax-free savings can really make a difference.
Childcare providers can also sign up for a childcare provider account via GOV.UK to receive payments from parents and carers via the scheme.