Views are being sought on new national priorities for policing in Scotland.
The priorities set the long-term overarching framework for Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority. They are being updated to reflect significant developments and progress in operational delivery, emerging threats and the changing needs of communities. The priorities also focus on anticipated future demands of the service. Continue reading Have your say on future police direction
New figures showing there were almost 1200 drug-related deaths in Scotland last year have been described as shocking by Public Health Minister Joe FitzPatrick.
The National Records of Scotland statistics reveal there were 1,187 drug-related deaths registered in Scotland in 2018, the largest number ever recorded. Continue reading “Shocking”: Statistics show highest ever level of Scottish drug deaths
People facing homelessness will have better access to support with new legislation coming into effect later this year. Continue reading Homelessness consultation backs stronger protection
Scotland’s Deposit Return scheme will give industry, business and individuals the opportunity to drive sustainable economic growth while reducing their impact on the environment. according to a new report.
The wide-ranging social and economic benefits of the proposed scheme were published yesterday. Continue reading Deposit Return Scheme will drive a circular economy
Children and young people across Scotland will benefit from funding of £1.7 million to support health boards deliver new standards for weight management services. Continue reading More funding for diet and healthy weight services
The Scottish Government has proposed a Citizens’ Assembly of Scotland, but what IS a citizens’ assembly?
The University of Edinburgh and Electoral Reform Society Scotland have organised a panel discussion on Monday (July 8th) from 6pm – 8pm with speakers including:
The event has been incredibly popular, and is oversubscribed so we will be live streaming it at https://livestream.com/DemocracyTV/ers-citizens-assembly
We are collecting suggestions for questions for the panel. You can submit your questions here https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/M9WZCLN
Bookmark the link now and add the event to your calendar – don’t forget to tweet along with the stream with the hashtag #ShapingScotland
Phil Connor,
Campaigns Officer,
ERS Scotland
A new taskforce to tackle the rising number of drug deaths in Scotland is to be chaired by Professor Catriona Matheson from the University of Stirling.
Continue reading Catriona Matheson to chair drug deaths task force
To protect patient safety the Health Secretary has delayed the move of patients, staff and services from the existing Royal Hospital for Sick Children to the new site at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, which was due to take place next week. Continue reading New Sick Kids Hospital: MOVE HALTED
People with lived experience to have their say
Volunteers are being asked to shape Scotland’s new, fairer social security system.
Applications are open to people from any background with experience of the current benefits system to join the Scottish Government’s Social Security Experience Panels.
Ethnic minorities, those living in rural communities and people under 25 are being particularly encouraged to apply to make panels as representative as possible.
The 2,400 panel members who have signed up so far are helping shape every detail of Social Security Scotland – from the opening hours to the design of benefit application forms.
Members are regularly asked for their views in a number of ways, including workshops, interviews and surveys that can be carried out face-to-face, on the phone and online.
Social Security Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “We want social security in Scotland to be based on dignity, fairness and respect, that’s why the views from the people who actually use the service are so important.
“Panel members have told us they find the experience rewarding, offering a real chance to make a difference to thousands of people’s lives.
“Panels should be a true representation of our society, so I’d like to encourage those from all backgrounds to join us and help make the system one we can all be proud of.”
Rob, a volunteer experience panel member, said: “Sadly there isn’t a week which goes by without a story in a national newspaper highlighting the systemic problem with the current social security system administered by the DWP.
“Joining the Experience Panel has given me a renewed sense of purpose and has allowed me to meet and work alongside a range of other people with first-hand experience of the current system.
“The panels have brought us together with a common purpose to make the most of this unique opportunity to help design a new Social Security system fit for a 21st century Scotland.”
The Scottish Government Social Security Experience Panels have been running for two years and will run for at least two more.
A number of research reports have already been published on work with panel members so far.
People can apply online or by calling 0800 029 4974.
Applications can also be completed on paper forms, which can be requested on the number above or by emailing socialsecurityexperience@gov.scot.
More children and young people will benefit from a nutritious meal and a place to play this summer holiday.
Charities and councils will increase support for children from low income families during the school holidays, backed by £350,000 from the Scottish Government.
National charity Cash for Kids, CentreStage in Ayrshire, Community Food Initiatives North East, Moray Food Plus, and Milton Holiday Hub in the Highlands will share the funding.
Communities Secretary Aileen Campbell said: “The school holidays are a time for fun, but I know it can be a struggle for families when schools are closed.
“That is why we are working in partnership with the third sector and councils to provide more places where children and young people can go during the school holidays to play, socialise, and, importantly, have a nutritious meal.
“We know that income is a key driver of food insecurity during the school holidays – our new Scottish Child Payment, worth £10 per week per eligible child, will lift 30,000 children out of poverty by 2023-24.”
Chief Executive of Community Food Initiatives North East (CFINE) Dave Simmers said: “CFINE is delighted and appreciates the financial support we get through the Scottish Government which we will use to feed over 400 children per day through the summer holidays.
“Working in partnership with Aberdeen City Council, AFC Community Trust, Sport Aberdeen and others, and with Scottish Government support, ‘Food and Fun’ will provide the children with delicious, healthy meals combined with active, fun activities. This makes a huge difference to low income families in the city.”
