Tag: support

Parliament Committee backs Bill which would introduce safe access zones around abortion services

After carefully considering views from a broad cross-section of stakeholders, the Scottish Parliament’s Health, Social Care and Sport Committee has agreed to the general principles of the Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) (Scotland) Bill.

The recommendation comes as part of the Committee’s Stage 1 report. The Committee say the evidence it has gathered has led it to conclude that the creation of safe access zones around abortion services are necessary to protect women’s rights so they can access healthcare services without experiencing harassment and undue influence. 

At the same time, the report acknowledges evidence on the potential impact the Bill will have in restricting the human rights of those who engage in anti-abortion activity outside abortion services. The Committee says it recognises the right to protest and private thought are cornerstones of a free democracy, but concludes that the restrictions on human rights imposed by the Bill are proportionate to achieving its aims.

The report highlights a difference in views amongst the Committee on the issue of silent prayer. It says it could be difficult for the police to decide whether a law has been broken by people silently praying and that this issue requires further consideration.

The Committee stress that the Bill’s implementation needs to be subject to ongoing post-legislative review to ensure that these restrictions continue to be proportionate and kept to a necessary minimum, as well as being subject to continuing parliamentary scrutiny. The Committee has made several recommendations to strengthen the Bill to ensure the provisions reflect this and said any future changes to safe access zones should be subject to additional human rights considerations.

The Committee also say it is vital that individual cases are assessed according to their particular circumstances and that how the legislation is enforced will have a critical role to play in ensuring its appropriate implementation.

Speaking on the publication of the report, Clare Haughey MSP, Convener of the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee, said: “Our Committee is united in backing the Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) (Scotland) Bill.

“We recognise the strong views it has generated and that not all are in favour of its introduction. But ultimately we believe the creation of safe access zones around abortion services is necessary to enforce the principle that everyone should be able to access healthcare free from intimidation or harassment.

“We understand there are competing human rights at play but we have concluded this Bill strikes an appropriate balance.

“We held extensive discussions on the issue of silent prayer and while some Members felt this should be exempt from the provisions in the Bill, other Members felt an exemption would fundamentally undermine its purpose and that silent prayer can be intimidating to those accessing services. This will need further consideration if the Bill proceeds to Stage 2.

“We’d like to thank all who shared their views with us and helped inform our recommendations.”

Some of the other key conclusions in the report include:

  • The Committee has concluded that, due to the very clear and narrowly defined scope of the current Bill, there is no potential for its provisions to be applied more widely to anything other than abortion services. 
  • The Committee seeks further explanation as to why the default radius of safe access zones has been set at 200m when evidence suggests a radius of 150m would be sufficient for all but one protected premises currently providing abortion services in Scotland.
  • The Committee say they are satisfied that the penalties in the Bill are appropriate and proportionate to achieving the aims of the Bill. 
  • The Committee has called on the Scottish Government to put in place the necessary funds for Police Scotland to develop and deliver specialist training on the enforcement of offences created by the Bill, and that the financial memorandum be updated to reflect that commitment.

Read the report: 

Stage 1 report on the Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) (Scotland) Bill

£30 million paid this year to help households with higher energy bills

Number of winter payments passes 400,000 mark 

 People in Scotland have received more than £30 million via two Scottish Government benefits to help them deal with increased energy costs this winter, new statistics have shown.   

Winter Heating Payment supports households on low incomes, including older people, disabled people and families with children under five.    

Child Winter Heating Payment helps families of the most severely disabled children and young people.     

The official figures show more than 400,000 Winter Heating Payments of £55.05 were issued between November last year and the end of March. More than 30,000 Child Winter Heating Payments of £235.70 were made in the same spell.    

Winter Heating Payment replaced the UK Government’s Cold Weather Payment in 2023. Most people getting it receive more money on average than via Cold Weather Payment. 

People receive Winter Heating Payment whatever the weather, unlike Cold Weather Payment when the temperature needs to drop to a specific level.  

Child Winter Payment, introduced in 2020, is not available anywhere else in the UK. There is also no cap on the number of children who can get it in the same family. 

 Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Shirley-Anne Somerville, said:   “The £30.2 million paid over the course of winter provides support to those who need it most. It is being paid quickly and effectively to help mitigate the worst of the cost of living crisis.  

“Winter Heating Payment guarantees those who qualify will get a payment every year – in contrast to the UK Government approach which needs the weather to be under a certain temperature for a sustained spell.    

“Both Winter Heating Payment and Child Winter Heating Payment have recently been increased in line with inflation which means we will be getting more money into people’s pockets in 2024/25. I am pleased that we are getting the vast majority of these payments to people in good time.   

“I urge anyone who is struggling during the cost-of-living crisis to visit the Scottish Government’s Cost of Living website for support and advice.”    

Cadenza concert in support of Kindred

Cadenza Spring Serenade in support of Kindred

Date: Saturday 11th May 2024

Time: 7.30 pm

Tickets: £12 (Children free) available on

Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cadenza-spring-serenade-tickets-862646728587?aff=ebdssbdestsearch or on the door

Venue: Inverleith St Serf’s Parish Church, 280 Ferry Road, EH5 3NP

One of Edinburgh’s leading mixed voice choirs, Cadenza, celebrates sunny days, starry nights and air filled with birdsong, in works by Ravel, Elgar, Saint-Saens and more …

Funding to support refugee integration

Ensuring access to information and advice

Refugees and people seeking asylum who live in Scotland will be supported to settle into local communities through new funding for Scottish Refugee Council.  

Scottish Government funding of £3.6 million will support Scottish Refugee Council’s Refugee Support Service, which helps people access health, housing, welfare and employment support. It also provides information and resources, as well as encouraging social connections.

The funding will ensure this support can continue, after EU funding the service had previously received came to an end in 2023.

Migration and Refugees Minister Emma Roddick said: “Scotland welcomes refugees and people seeking asylum. Supporting them to settle into communities from day one of arrival, and ensuring they can access information and advice, is key to helping people integrate successfully.

“This Scottish Government funding will ensure that Scottish Refugee Council can continue their vital work to help people begin to rebuild their lives here, particularly as EU funding is no longer available to the service after Brexit.

“Respect and compassion underpin our approach to supporting people displaced by conflict or other circumstances beyond their control. While the UK Government pursues harmful policies on asylum and immigration, we will continue to do everything we can to mitigate their impact.”

Chief Executive Officer of Scottish Refugee Council, Sabir Zazai said: “We welcome this timely investment in a Scotland-wide Refugee Support Service to ensure people seeking protection across Scotland feel welcomed and supported and can start rebuilding their lives in their new communities. 

“This integrated service will be available and accessible to everyone who needs it, wherever in the country they are based.  

“With a focus on collaboration and partnership, we will work with local authorities, grassroots organisations and communities to build a better future for refugees and people seeking asylum. This approach builds on our extensive expertise of delivering vital integration services over the years.  

“Scotland is known around the world for being a warm and welcoming country. We look forward to building on this proud reputation in the coming years as we aim to make Scotland the best place for refugees to thrive, challenge injustice, achieve their ambitions and empower their communities, no matter where they have come from or how they arrived.” 

The Refugee Support Service supports refugees, people seeking asylum and other groups of displaced people.

More information, including on how to access advice and support, can be found on Scottish Refugee Council’s website.

Minimum Unit Pricing rise supported

Holyrood agrees continuation of policy and increase to 65p

The minimum price per unit of alcohol will increase by 15 pence after the Scottish Parliament approved plans to continue with the public health measure.

As part of a ‘sunset clause’ when Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) legislation was introduced in 2018, it had been due to end on 30 April, however today’s vote by MSPs ensures its continuation.

In addition, a price increase was required to counteract the effects of inflation, with a rise to 65p selected as the Scottish Government seeks to increase the positive effects of the policy.

The increase will take effect on 30 September 2024.

Drugs and Alcohol Policy Minister Christina McKelvie said: “I’m pleased that Parliament has agreed to continue MUP legislation and to raise the level it is set at.

“Research commended by internationally-renowned public health experts estimated that our world-leading policy has saved hundreds of lives, likely averted hundreds of alcohol-attributable hospital admissions and contributed to reducing health inequalities.

“Despite this progress, deaths caused specifically by alcohol rose last year – and my sympathy goes out to all those who have lost a loved one. However, as a letter to The Lancet by public health experts makes clear, it is likely that without MUP there would have been an even greater number of alcohol-specific deaths.

“As we have made clear, the policy aims to reduce alcohol-related harm by reducing consumption at population level, with a particular focus on targeting people who drink at hazardous and harmful levels. 

“We believe the proposals strike a reasonable balance between public health benefits and any effects on the alcoholic drinks market and impact on consumers. Evidence suggests there has not been a significant impact on business and industry as a whole but we will continue to monitor this.”

Circle’s annual fundraiser The DARED Challenge is back!

Circle, a local Edinburgh-based charity dedicated to supporting children and families, is thrilled to announce the return of its annual The DARED (Do A Run Every Day) Challenge.

Back for another exhilarating year, The DARED Challenge promises to ignite a month-long celebration of fitness, community, and charitable giving throughout June.

Since its launch, The DARED Challenge has captured the hearts of over 600 runners, raising an impressive £87,000 for local children and families in Scotland. This year, Circle aims to reach new heights in fundraising, gathering passionate participants from Edinburgh and beyond to join in making a significant impact on the lives of local children and families.

“The DARED Challenge is more than just a run; it’s a testament to the power of community and compassion,” says Kirsty Henderson, Events Officer at Circle.

“We’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact of this event on both our participants and the families we support.

“It’s a chance to challenge yourself, meet and connect with new people, and make a tangible difference in the lives of others.”

The concept of The DARED Challenge is simple yet impactful: participants pledge to run every day in June, at a time that suits them. Whether it’s before work, after work, or during lunch breaks, runners have the flexibility to choose when and how they complete their daily run.

Physical activity has been shown to have a positive impact on our mood. A study from the Mental Health Foundation asked people to rate their mood immediately after periods of physical activity (e.g. going for walk or run).

Researchers found that the participants felt more content, more awake and calmer after being physically active compared to after periods of inactivity. 

…This can be you too!

Participants can opt for one of three exciting challenges: the 1-mile run, the 5K run, or the DARED To Be Different Challenge.

No matter your fitness level, there’s a challenge suitable for everyone. Plus, participants have the option to raise funds for Circle’s children and families or make a one-off donation entry fee, both including a welcome pack, runner’s t-shirt, water bottle, and other exciting offers.

Also, you don’t need to run alone, you can also sign up as a team – so why not DARE your friends, family, or work colleagues to join you!

“DARED really is more than just a physical challenge; it’s a journey of personal growth,” adds Kirsty. “Every penny raised, and every mile run directly supports local children and families in our communities facing difficult times.”

Ready to join? Sign up for The DARED Challenge now at:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-dared-challenge-2024-tickets-862920266747

Help for families during holidays

‘Extra Time’ partnership providing vital support

A joint initiative between the Scottish Government and the Scottish Football Association is supporting low-income families.

Launched by the First Minister with a £2million Scottish Government investment last year, the programme provides before-school, after-school and holiday activities for around 2,700 children each week.

The Extra Time programme aims to tackle poverty by delivering accessible and affordable activity clubs for children from low-income families.

During a visit to Dundee United Sports Club, which received £95,000 from the fund and provides support during term time and school holidays, Deputy First Minister Shona Robison said: “School holidays should be a time for fun and enjoyment for children, but for many families it is a time of added financial pressure.

“Scotland currently has one of the most generous childcare offers in the UK, and our investment in early learning and childcare, and school age childcare, is a key part of our goal to tackle child poverty.

“We are committed to building a system of school age childcare that helps to support parents and carers into employment, training or study. Our investment is helping to reduce inequalities that exist for children from lower income families who might otherwise struggle to participate in activities before or after school or during the holidays.

“Our Extra Time partnership with the Scottish Football Association is in the early stages of delivery, but we are already seeing the positive impacts that access to term time and holiday clubs are having on both children and parents.

“For example, we have early evidence from families that they feel better supported to work, with children seeing the benefits of increased physical activity as well as other benefits such as improved attendance, and improved behaviour at school’.

Chief Executive of the Scottish Football Association, Ian Maxwell, said: “It is fantastic to see the impact this vital programme is already having across the country since its launch last year, building on the initial success of the pilot in Ayr.

“Every child should have the opportunity to experience our national game and play with their friends within their local communities. There is no doubt that initiatives such as the Extra Time programme help remove barriers for children and their families around accessing after school and holiday activity clubs.

“We are appreciative of the continued support of the Scottish Government on this project, as we continue to pursue avenues in which the power of football can make a tangible difference in the lives of people in Scotland.”

An estimated £5 billion in support has been paid throughout Winter to help families with energy costs

Nearly £5 billion of support has been paid to help households with their energy bills this winter  

  • Over £4 billion was paid to pensioners between November and March through the Winter Fuel Payment and Pensioner Cost of Living Payment   
  • An estimated £550 million has been spent this winter as part of the Warm Home Discount to support three million households   
  • Over 1.1 million £25 Cold Weather Payments have been made to households in England and Wales

Halving inflation has ensured everyone’s money goes further, however we remain committed to supporting households across the country with 11.8 million pensioners receiving up to £600 in Winter Fuel Payments and Pensioner Cost of Living Payments.

On top of this, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has today estimated over 1.1 million Cold Weather Payments worth £29.6 million were paid out from November until the end of March – with over £9 million of this going to low-income pensioners receiving Pension Credit.    

Further support was also made available through the Warm Home Discount – to support three million households at risk of fuel poverty, allowing families to keep costs down and more money in their pockets. The Government expects partnered energy suppliers to have spent around £550 million this winter across Great Britain, through direct bill rebates as well other financial and energy efficiency support. 

This support was needed to protect everyday Brits from the inflationary impact of Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine – helping millions of people get through the winter. Now – with energy bills dropping, wages rising, and taxes being slashed – people are set to have more cash in their pocket to help fire up the economy and beckon in more growth.   

We have turned a corner after the shocks of the past few years, and we are in a new economic moment and 2024 will prove to be the year that the economy bounces back.  

Minister for Pensions, Paul Maynard said:  “This Government’s actions have provided vital support to pensioners most in need.

“Halving inflation has helped everyone’s finances, and we remain committed to protecting our older loved ones across the country, with 11.8 million pensioners receiving up to £600 in Winter Fuel and Pensioner Cost of Living Payments. 

“And we are uprating the State Pension further from next week, meaning the full yearly basic State Pension will be £3,700 higher than in 2010, whilst the full rate of the New State Pension will rise above £11,500 a year.”

From this week people will start to see an increase in their Local Housing Allowance rates – benefitting some of the poorest families on either Universal Credit or Housing Benefit who will gain around £800 a year on average. This puts more money in the pockets of the lowest earners – giving them more spending power to boost their local economy.  

The UK Government is delivering £108 billion of support over 2022-2025 – worth an average £3,800 per household – and will continue to drive down inflation to help everyone’s money go further.    

These measures are boosted in April with Universal Credit and other benefits rising in line with inflation by 6.7 percent, and the State Pension increasing by an inflation-busting 8.5 percent – making sure that targeted support is going to those who need it most.  

Social security payments rise

Support for more than 1.2 million people in Scotland

All Scottish social security benefits are increasing by 6.7% in April, providing more support for disabled people, unpaid carers and people on low incomes.

Scottish Child Payment, which helps the families of more than 327,000 children, is now worth £26.70 per child per week.

A person eligible for the highest rate of Adult Disability Payment will receive £184.30 per week.

Carer Support Payment, Scotland’s newest benefit, has gone up to £81.90 every four weeks. The benefit for unpaid carers launched in three local authorities last year and will be available across Scotland by Autumn 2024.

Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “Our investment in social security helps low‑income families with their living costs, enables disabled people to live full and independent lives, and supports older people to heat their homes in winter.

“This financial year we are committing a record £6.3 billion for benefits expenditure – which is £1.1 billion more than the UK Government gives to the Scottish Government for social security.

“We are making a choice to increase direct support for people who need it the most and that is more important than ever during the current cost of living crisis.”

Barratt Developments donations support local communities

Three vital causes supporting families and individuals in Edinburgh and the Lothians have been named the first recipients of this year’s Barratt Developments Community Fund.

Barratt Developments, which includes Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes, currently donates £1,500 per month to local charities in its divisions as part of the homebuilder’s pledge to improve the quality of life of those living in the areas in which it operates.

The homebuilder kicked off 2024 by donating £3,000 to its new East of Scotland main charity partner, Cash for Kids. 

The charity aims to improve the lives of disadvantaged children and young people living locally who are affected by poverty, illness, neglect or have additional needs. The cause also works with grassroots organisations that aim to make a difference to young lives, directly supporting families who often have nowhere else to go.

Cash for Kids replaces St Columba’s Hospice Care as the East Scotland division’s main charity partner, having raised a whopping £247,909 in the last two years through fundraising, including a Pentland Hills walk, charity dinners and office events.

Victoria Hendry, Charity Manager at Cash for Kids, said: “We were absolutely thrilled to receive the Barratt Community Fund for this first quarter of the year. This £3,000 will make such a difference in our local community, specifically to families really struggling with the cost of living.

“We are receiving hundreds, if not thousands, of requests for support with real basics such as food, toiletries and nappies, so these funds will go a long way in supporting us with helping these families who are living on our doorstep.

“To also be chosen as Barratt East Scotland’s new main charity partner was really just the cherry on top. I was delighted to get the phone call and we are excited to build some brilliant fundraising plans across the next two years and help even more local children.”

In February, a further £1,500 was given to Capital Carers, which supports carers in the North West of Edinburgh. 

The organisation’s highly trained staff provide one-to-one support as well as a range of services which enable individuals to support the person they care for and assist them in carrying out their caring responsibilities, while ensuring that they also look after themselves.

Lauren Alexander, Young Carers Support Worker at Capital Carers, said: “A huge thanks to Barratt for this generous donation, it will enable us to provide respite trips for young carers and young adult carers which we would otherwise not have been able to do.

“All of our carers love interaction with animals, and this therapeutic approach can really benefit those with challenging situations. Horses are a big favourite, but it is an expensive activity. The money will allow us to take several groups horse riding, alpaca trekking, a trip to the zoo and going out to eat.

“The funding has already allowed us to take young carers on active respite trips, to Laser Tag, swimming and escape rooms, and meals out where all carers can relax together, make new friends, reconnect with old ones and have that important peer support.”

Finally, in March, Barratt Developments donated £1,500 to Midlothian Foodbank. 

The charity, which is supported by The Trussell Trust, provides three days’ nutritionally balanced emergency food and support to local people in need in the Midlothian area.

Ian Purves, from Midlothian Foodbank, said: “Thank you to Barratt for their generous donation to Midlothian Foodbank.

“The donation will help people in our area struggling with the cost of living and support them with emergency food parcels, food vouchers for families in school holidays, or a hot meal at one of our two weekly lunches. 

“They also have access to an advisor from Citizens Advice who is present during one of our lunches. All this helps to reach our aim of ensuring that no one in Midlothian goes to bed hungry.”

Alison Condie, Managing Director at Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes East Scotland, said: “We’re proud to be supporting causes which are carrying out such essential work in communities throughout Edinburgh and the Lothians.

“From foodbanks through to care, cost of living has placed a significant strain on the services that charities can provide. We hope that our donations can help to alleviate some of this pressure and allow causes to continue supporting families and individuals in the communities in which we build.”

For more information on Barratt Developments in the East of Scotland, visit:

https://bar.homes/east-scotland