Tag: support

‘We’re proud of all of our teams’

Senior NHSGGC clinicians write to First Minister and Cabinet Secretary over ‘unfounded criticism’ by politicians and in media

Senior clinicians from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde have written to First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Humza Yousaf, to express their disappointment and frustration about the way in which their work and integrity have been portrayed in the Scottish Parliament and the media in recent days.

Here is the full text of that letter:

Dear First Minister and Cabinet Secretary,
 
Queen Elizabeth University Hospital/Royal Hospital for Children
 
As NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde clinicians and clinical leaders, we write to express our immense disappointment and frustration about the way in which our hospitals, our colleagues and the treatment of our patients is being portrayed in the press and the chamber of the Scottish Parliament.
 
Our highly specialist services care for, treat and support some of the most vulnerable adults, young people and children in the country. Our sole aim is to deliver high quality, person centred care to our patients and focus on what matters most to them; fundamental to this is the strong working relationship between our clinical teams and infection control teams to keep our patients safe.
 
We have been, and remain, fully committed to being completely open and transparent in all that we do and we are dismayed that the integrity of our staff has been repeatedly called into question. Do we always get everything right when we discuss issues with families? Perhaps not. Do we ever wilfully withhold information from them? Absolutely not. 
 
We have grave concerns that the continued undermining nature of the current negative headlines will result in an erosion of trust between clinical staff and patients and their families. Indeed, we have already seen evidence of the impact this is having on individual patients and carers, with staff reporting that families are very anxious about the safety of their relative while in our care.
 
We are particularly disappointed that individual patients are being discussed in Parliament without the knowledge of the families concerned, causing untold distress to families already grieving the loss of their loved one.  
 
This unfounded criticism of our clinical teams and staff as well as the safety of our hospitals, is also hugely detrimental to staff morale at a time when so much is being asked of them.

Our staff across NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, including the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital campus, provide professional, dedicated care to their patients and as we prepare for a challenging winter, this sustained criticism of our staff is undoubtedly causing them distress and worry.
 
We are proud of all of our teams, many of which include leading specialists, but we fear that such negativity will have an enormous impact on our ability to recruit and retain such skilled individuals in the future as well as those of wider clinical, nursing and support staff. We will always treat our patients with integrity, dignity, respect and honesty and this should never be in doubt.
           
We accept that there will always be improvements we can make and learning we can implement, but at the heart of all that we do, is the commitment from every clinician working within NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde to provide the best quality of care for all of our patients and to be open and honest with them and their loved ones about their diagnosis and treatment.

Anything less would undermine the professional code of practice each of us sign up to at the start of our careers and adhere to throughout.
 
Yours sincerely
  
 
Dr Jennifer Armstrong, Medical Director
Dr Margaret McGuire, Nurse Director
Dr Scott Davidson, Deputy Medical Director (Acute)
Angela O’Neill, Deputy Nurse Director (Acute)
Dr Chris Deighan, Deputy Medical Director (Corporate)
Dr Kerri Neylon, Deputy Medical Director, Primary Care
Mr Wesley Stuart, Chief of Medicine, South Sector
Dr Claire Harrow, Chief of Medicine, Clyde Sector
Ann-Marie Selby, Interim Associate Chief Nurse Clyde Sector
Hon. Professor Colin McKay, Chief of Medicine, North Sector
John Carson, Chief Nurse, North Sector
Hon. Professor Alistair Leanord, Chief of Medicine, Diagnostics
Dr Alan Mathers, Chief of Medicine, Women and Children’s Services
Morag Gardner, Chief Nurse, South Sector
Mandy Meechan, Interim Chief Nurse, Women and Children’s (designate)
Patricia Friel, Interim Chief Nurse, Women and Children Services
Dr David Dodds, Chief of Medicine, Regional Services
Lorna Loudon, Interim Chief Nurse, Regional Services
Dr Martin Culshaw, Associate Medical Director, Mental Health
Gail Caldwell, Director of Pharmacy
Fiona Smith, AHP Director
Evelyn Frame, Chief Midwife
Margaret Connelly, Assistant Chief Nurse, Governance and Regulation
Lesley Rousselet, Chair, Area Clinical Forum

Councillors approve a one-year pilot for Winter Festivals

Councillors yesterday gave unanimous backing to a proposed route map for the future of Edinburgh’s Winter Festivals, following the findings of a major independent survey.

The results, published last week, revealed overwhelming support from residents and organisations for continuation of Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations in the Capital, but with a revised format. Councillors from across all political parties have endorsed the findings and agreed to run a one-year pilot .

For winter 2022/23, a procurement exercise will be undertaken to identify a producer to deliver Edinburgh’s Christmas and an individual or organisation will be appointed to a Winter Festivals Director role.

The All Party Oversight Group (APOG) will now agree the brief for these appointments using the clear feedback from the consultation to ensure that it meets the needs of residents and businesses and is of appropriate scale.

More than 8,600 people and 35 organisations responded to the survey on the future of Edinburgh’s Winter Festivals, with 87% expressing support for a Christmas celebration and 86% for Hogmanay.

The 12-week consultation, carried out in Spring this year by independent market research company Progressive Partnership on behalf of the Council, sought feedback from the Capital’s residents, communities and businesses on the events from 2022 onwards.

Overall, results showed a wish to continue to provide high quality Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations which will in turn be valued by residents and visitors.

Council Leader Adam McVey said: “When we agreed to run a citywide conversation with our residents, businesses and stakeholders on the future of Edinburgh’s Winter Festivals we had a very open mind on what the format of these events could be in future years. 

“We had an excellent response to the consultation, and it was encouraging that so many want to see Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations continue in the years ahead, while providing us with a valuable insight into what exactly people and businesses would like to see changed. 

“I know there are lots of differing views on major events, such as Edinburgh’s Christmas and Hogmanay, but it has been encouraging to see this level of input from people of all ages and from right across the City into the consultation.

“Whilst some differences of opinion can’t be reconciled, the input from people has set a road for these events to reflect residents’ aspirations for these celebrations for future years while dealing with concerns raised about previous years.

“Our focus here is firmly on our residents and local businesses. If we get it right for them first and foremost, then these events will be enjoyed for many years to come.”

Council Depute Leader Cammy Day said: “We’re very pleased to see such a large and positive response to the consultation and that the majority want Edinburgh to keep its place on the international map for Christmas celebrations and as home of Hogmanay.

“There’s no doubt that our Winter Festivals deliver real economic impact, benefitting tourism, retail, hospitality and leisure sectors in particular. However, taking heed of the findings and looking ahead to events next year we’ll be looking to share these benefits and look to spread events across our town centres and communities.

“Thanks to the feedback already gathered, we’ll now be able to take people’s comments and ideas into account as we plan for next year, and beyond. Making sure we have a great winter festival and Edinburgh remains the best city to visit!”

Find out more about the consultation responses.

Dame Esther sends message of support to children in Scotland

  • December 2020 saw Childline deliver a record number of counselling sessions across the UK for a single month*
  • NSPCC launches its ‘Here for Children’ TV Christmas Appeal
  • On 21st December, NSPCC supporters will take to the streets to walk 5K so the NSPCC can be here for children this Christmas, as landmarks across the UK, including the Glasgow Science Centre and the Camera Obscura in Edinburgh, light up green in support of the charity 

Childline is here for every child struggling or feeling alone this Christmas, is Dame Esther Rantzen’s message to children in Scotland after UK counselling sessions about loneliness peaked during last year’s festive period.

The NSPCC-run service Childline, which has bases in Aberdeen and Glasgow, can today reveal the service delivered a record number of almost 600 monthly sessions about this concern to children across the UK last December.

From April 2020 to March 2021 there were 6,039 counselling sessions about loneliness with children from across the UK, marking an all-time high for a single year. This is an increase of nearly half (49%) over the past four years.

The NSPCC has long highlighted that many children and young people struggle with loneliness and isolation. The data released today suggests that these feelings were exacerbated during the pandemic, as schools were closed, and they were forced to stay at home. Children shared with Childline’s counsellors that these experiences were particularly acute over the festive period, as households were unable to mix.

Dame Esther Rantzen, Founder of Childline said: “At Childline we know how painful Christmas can be for some children, particularly when the media is filled with pictures of families happily celebrating together, and they are feeling alone and unloved. A child once described it to us as like looking through a shop window where everything inside is warm and bright, and you are outside where it’s cold and dark. 

“The festive period can be especially difficult for children who are struggling with their mental health or are in homes that are unsafe. Given the impact of the pandemic, it is no surprise that this year we’ve seen record numbers of children from across the UK get in touch with us about loneliness.

“The lockdowns exacerbated these feelings for some young people, especially when schools had to close, and they couldn’t see the friends and family they loved and needed.

“Last Christmas was one of the toughest in living memory, bringing with it great sadness and challenges for many children. And we want to remind children in Scotland who are struggling or feeling alone that our Childline counsellors, working from bases across the UK including Glasgow and Aberdeen, are there for them whenever they need to talk to someone, and that they can contact us by phone or on-line, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.”

The charity can also reveal that loneliness is particularly affecting younger children. In 2020/21, there was a 47 percent increase in counselling sessions with children aged 11 and under when compared to the year before.

Young people who contacted Childline about loneliness also talked about being unhappy, feeling unloved and generally low. Some described it as a dark experience that was overwhelming. As well as loneliness, the top reasons children turn to the service for support with their mental health include anxiety and stress, low mood, and depression.

Childline is staffed by 1,200 Childline volunteer counsellors across the UK and last month celebrated its 35th birthday.

A 14-year-old boy from Scotland told a Childline counsellor: “I self-harmed a couple of days ago after being clean for a year and it triggered a panic attack. I think I self-harmed because I felt lonely and bored.

“I just don’t know what to do anymore and really regret what I have done. I am bored with life and am lonely because I don’t get to see anyone because of COVID. I don’t have the energy to arrange to meet up with anyone.”

In response to concerns about children this Christmas, the NSPCC has launched its ‘Here for Children’ TV Christmas Appeal. The advert sees Childline counsellors taking calls at Christmas from children struggling with loneliness and isolation, suicidal thoughts and feelings and physical abuse.

Christmas can be a very challenging time for children who suffer from abuse, neglect and are struggling with their mental health. Cut off from school and other support, it is vital they have somewhere to turn.

The NSPCC is reaching out to the public to support its Here for Children Appeal and make a donation, so Childline counsellors can answer a child’s call for help this Christmas.

Despite the challenges of the past 18 months, as well as seeking support from Childline counsellors, young people accessed Childline online resources, information, and tools to support their mental health in ways and at times that were most convenient and helpful to them.

Childline saw huge increases in the number of young people using the website to access information, advice and resources.

Landmarks light up green as people walk for children

On the 21st December, which is the longest night of the year, hundreds of people will walk 5K to support the NSPCC.

On this night, landmarks across the UK, including Glasgow Science Centre and the Camera Obscura in Edinburgh, are also supporting the charity by lighting up and turning the NSPCC’s trademark green colour. The people taking to the streets to walk and the landmarks lighting up green represent the hard-working Childline counsellors who are there for children, offering a beacon of light in their darkest times.

The Childline service is here for children every day, even on Christmas Day.

Children can contact Childline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. When a child needs help, Childline can be a lifeline. When a child feels like they have nowhere else to turn to, it’s vital that the NSPCC is here, ready to listen and support children across the UK.

Capita secures JETS contract extension after supporting 4,000 Scottish job seekers into new roles

Capita plc has announced that it has secured a £7.7m 8-month extension to its  contract to run the Job Entry Targeted Support (JETS) programme in Scotland. Capita will continue to run the programme to March 2023. 

Capita launched the Scottish JETS programme in January 2021 and since then, it has  successfully supported over 4,000 job seekers, who had become unemployed due to the Covid 19 pandemic, into new roles in sectors, such as, hospitality, retail, care and construction. 

JETS is a Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) programme designed, following the pandemic, to support jobseekers across the UK, who have been unemployed for more than 13  weeks, find work.  

Over the course of the extension, Capita will continue to work with Scottish supply chain partners – including The Wise Group, The Lennox Partnership and Reed in Partnership– to match jobseekers with skilled advisers who will provide specialist and local support tailored to their  needs.  

All jobseekers referred to JETS meet every 10 days with their adviser, who works with them to  make them job ready and improve their knowledge, skills and confidence. JETS participants  benefit from digital interview training and access to a Capita-developed online portal which features: 

• Online learning which provides users with opportunities to get new qualifications for  sectors of the economy that are growing. 

• A skills library which enables users to measure their existing skills and knowledge to help  them decide what the most appropriate online courses are for them to complete. • An AI-powered CV builder which links a user’s CV to a job feed to enable them to access  employment opportunities.  

• An action plan, devised with a user’s JETS employment adviser, and online calendar to  track their progress.  

Mims Davies MP, Minister for Employment, said: “It’s wonderful to see over 4,000 people, like Adam, across Scotland getting back into work thanks  to our DWP JETS scheme.  

“The £500m expansion of our Plan for Jobs will continue to deliver for people of all ages across  the country – giving them tailored support to find that next opportunity and really progress in their  careers.” 

Andy Start, CEO Capita Public Service, said: “We are delighted that we have secured this  extension to our JETS contract. I am proud that our team has helped over 4,000 jobseekers in  Scotland into work.

“Every person Capita has supported into a new role, through our digital tools  and our advisers, is now pursuing a rewarding career and developing their expertise further. In  the coming months, we will help many more jobseekers get job ready by giving them the advice,  support and skills they need to re-enter the workforce. 

“The Covid-19 pandemic is not over and as we continue the rebuilding process, programmes like  JETS are vital to securing the UK’s economic recovery. We will continue to use our extensive  experience of delivering digital services, which support diverse groups of vulnerable people, to  fulfil our role on the JETS programme in Scotland.”  

Adam, a JETS participant who Capita has placed in work, said: “I hadn’t done many job interviews  and I found them nerve wracking. I was in a very difficult cycle before I was with JETS, interviews  wouldn’t go well and I didn’t know what to focus on for the next one. The JETS mock interviews  and online training courses really helped to build my confidence.  

“My JETS advisor always made me feel like there was time for me and she was giving me the  help that I needed. I’ve already recommended the JETS scheme to other people in my life as a  helping hand really does make a world of difference.” 

Some of Capita’s JETS participants are dealing with mental health challenges. Capita offers these  jobseekers free access to a digital mental health platform, designed by Kooth Digital Health, that  provides immediate, anonymous access to self-help materials, an online community and  professional support via accredited counsellors and emotional wellbeing practitioners. 

Additionally, as part of Capita’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, the business has pledged to fund the planting of a tree for each jobseeker it places in sustainable employment.

The  trees will be planted through Revere, an innovative nature restoration finance organisation, across the Cairngorms, Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Parks and will help to combat climate  change and biodiversity loss. 

Foundation Scotland marks 25th anniversary

Scotland’s community foundation has distributed over £130 million to date 

Foundation Scotland, Scotland’s community foundation, is marking the organisation’s silver anniversary this St Andrews Day – also aptly ‘Giving Tuesday’ this year. 

 Originally established in 1996 as ‘Scotland’s Community Foundation’, the major funder has distributed more than £130 million to charitable organisations, social enterprises, and community groups operating across Scotland since its launch 25 years ago. 

The foundation specialises in supporting charitable initiatives within local communities: from local food banks to counselling services, to youth groups and education and training funds.

Set up with an initial group of three staff, the Edinburgh-based foundation now has over 30, managing around 100 different national and local funding programmes each year.  

Earlier this year the foundation began offering investment for social enterprises following the integration with Resilient Scotland, further expanding the breadth of financial support offered to charitable groups and enterprises.   

Through the pandemic, Foundation Scotland awarded over £1.1 million in crisis support grants to 268 Edinburgh-based community projects. 

Supported groups included The Eric Liddell Centre, East Lothian Roots and Fruits, Sikh Sanjog, Bridgend Farmhouse and The Edinburgh Tool Library (above).  

Quite often, groups can be eligible for more than one source of funding from the foundation and some organisations have received ongoing support from Foundation Scotland for many years.

The team pride themselves in getting to know and understand funded groups, supporting them with essential funding and vital advice to help them to develop and sustain their services.  

Giles Ruck, Chief Executive at Foundation Scotland, said: “We are proud to be Scotland’s community foundation.  For 25 years, we’ve maintained the vision of supporting confident, thriving, resilient communities across Scotland.

“And for every community to thrive, it should be resourced to match its vision and powered by transformative funding. That’s where we come in. Over the last quarter of a century, we have connected the generosity of donors, corporates and individuals, to enable and empower vital projects and grassroot-led change.  

“As we look ahead, we will continue to work hard to reach and connect with new donors keen to distribute funds effectively at a local level so that together we can continue to deliver extraordinary support.” 

The generosity of local donors 

Foundation Scotland is an independent charity. The funds awarded to projects within Scotland’s communities are thanks to the generosity of donors who support the foundation’s work.  

The breadth of donors includes individuals, families, companies, community bodies and other charities who distribute funds. The foundation connects donors funds with community organisations working on the ground, ensuring their support stays relevant to local circumstances and delivers real impact.

Even throughout the pandemic, new donors have come on board, and new funds have opened to help support communities through the crisis and beyond. 

In the summer of 2020, Edinburgh-based investment company Martin Currie approached Foundation Scotland to design and brand a new fund to help them support charities and community groups in Edinburgh, with consideration for projects across Scotland.

Their priorities were to address inequality and support initiatives that improved social and environmental sustainability.  The Martin Currie Community Partnership Programme launched in September, and to date has awarded almost £44,000 between 8 organisations Recent grantees include Edinburgh Remakery, Venchie Children and Youth Project and the Salisbury Centre. 

Jennifer Mair, Chief Operating Officer for Martin Currie said: “The Martin Currie Community Partnership Programme (MCCPP) is delighted to partner with Foundation Scotland to support local charities that promote diversity and inclusion, or social and environmental sustainability.

“The MCCPP was established in 2020 and focusses on the communities where we live and work by partnering with and building deep and lasting relationships with organisations who are well placed to help us deliver Martin Currie’s goal to improve lives.” 

Case Study: The Melting Pot 

The Melting Pot is Scotland’s Centre for Social Innovation. Based in Edinburgh’s city centre on Carlton Road, the organisation runs a large coworking hub, meeting venue and events programme for charities, social businesses, campaigners and freelancers.   

Foundation Scotland has supported The Melting Pot for over 15 years.  The organisation received its first award from the funder back in 2006 and has received £120,000 from a number of different funds to support their growth and development since 2006.  

Claire Carpenter, Founder and CEO of The Melting Pot said: “Foundation Scotland have been an instrumental investor for me and The Melting Pot. They’ve been part of the birthing story – twice now!

“Back in the 00’s when “Coworking” wasn’t a thing you could Google, they saw the potential in my big, novel and very practical idea to better support our sector, in all its diversity. Then, due to Covid, the landscape changed once again – for good.

“We’ve been able to play to each other’s strengths to help #BuildBackBetter. I’m looking forward to seeing how together we co-create the conditions for social innovators to thrive in the years ahead.” 

More Info:

From grantmaking to social investment opportunities, legacies to bursaries, Foundation Scotland is continually developing innovative and effective ways for donors to help Scotland’s communities thrive.

Anyone interested in finding out more can contact:

development@foundationscotland.org.uk 

or call 0131 524 0300. 

For more details visit https://www.foundationscotland.org.uk/ 

RWE’s £5 million community investment is upskilling lives in rural Scotland

·       RWE marks £5 million donated over 15 years to community funds in Scotland

·       Flexible financial support has benefited a wide range of local people, groups and infrastructure

·       Bad á Cheò Wind Farm education & training fund provides residents with opportunities to upskill and increase employment potential

RWE, one of the world’s leading renewable energy companies, has reached the milestone of donating £5 million over 15 years, through its community funds set up at projects it operates in Scotland. The community funds help charities and causes to thrive and supports local communities.

The funds, which are made available in local areas surrounding RWE’s renewable energy projects, are provided directly to local groups and causes to help enhance and improve the services they provide, with projects spanning education and training, sustainability, health and wellbeing support, and community facilities.

This money goes a long way to supporting the sustainable development of the communities in which renewable projects are located. Hundreds of projects and communities have already been supported across Scotland with many other projects ready to be funded across the country.

RWE has a proud history of renewable development and working with local communities in Scotland. Today RWE operates 10 onshore wind farms across Scotland, with 14 more in development and construction, and continues to operate Scotland’s first commercial-scale offshore wind farm, Robin Rigg.

In total, RWE operates 26 sites in Scotland with many employees living locally. In addition to Community Funds, RWE is committed to offering community shared ownership at many of the projects in development.

The funding process is flexible and easily accessible, with decisions about funding allocations made by a panel of local representatives who know their communities best.

A number of examples of positive, grass roots projects funded by RWE’s Community Funds, including causes such as:

1 – Education and training fund supported by Bad á Cheò Onshore Wind Farm

Bad á Cheò Onshore Wind Farm Education and Training fund is open to residents living closest to the wind farm and provides bursaries to local people to access training and education opportunities that better equip them with the range of skills required to enter into, or retain, employment in key sectors. To date it has awarded nearly £50,000.

Taking advantage of the fund, the first two beneficiaries, Zoe Farquhar and Louise Todd, both undertook courses that increased their ability to generate more income and work for themselves.

Zoe Farquharson undertook an Introduction to Kiltmaking course, to enable her to meet a demand locally for handmade kilts by participants in Highland Dance Schools as well as sympathetic repairs to older garments. Louise Todd formalised her accountancy skills by taking a professional bookkeeping course that enabled her to increase the services her business could offer.

Thirty-five local people have received funding towards courses as diverse as childcare, sign language, deer stalking, welding inspection, accountancy and kilt making, or to assist them with costs whilst completing university education.

2 – Helping communities on their journey to net zero by supporting community energy projects

The An Suidhe Onshore Wind Farm Community Fund provided an investment in equity (share ownership) towards the River Avich Community Hydro Scheme. Providing financial support to the project while enabling a return of 4% back to the An Suidhe Wind Farm Community Fund.

This was the first investment in a community-owned renewable project from a community benefit fund in Scotland and an exciting example of how an area can achieve its renewable energy ambitions whilst continuously reinvesting in local initiatives.

Community Benefit UK

Katy Woodington, Community Investment Manager UK & Ireland, said: “This is an important milestone, which represents the significant difference that renewable energy can make to people’s day to day lives as well as the planet.

“Funds are set up with decisions made by local people, so it is great to see them making the most of these flexible funds to support innovative projects, push boundaries and help realise their ambitions.”

There are additional long standing community and societal benefits that have been provided as a result of RWE’s green developments including a significant boost to local and regional supply chains, and supporting the development of high skilled, well-paid jobs and training programmes.

To date, RWE, which directly employs around 100 people in Scotland, has invested over £180 million in the country and recently confirmed its participation in the ScotWind seabed leasing round process, as we look to expand our global offshore wind portfolio.

RWE is the third largest renewable generator in the UK with the largest renewable project pipeline including the construction of the 1.4 GW Sofia and 857 MW Triton Knoll offshore wind farms. RWE is also progressing four extension projects in the UK, with a combined potential installed capacity of around 2.6 GW (RWE’s pro rata share: 1.3 GW.)

Furthermore, we successfully bid for two new adjacent offshore sites on Dogger Bank, developing some of the world’s most advanced offshore wind farms, in support of government net zero ambitions.

To find out more about RWE’s Community Funds, and the local projects and causes that they help to support, visit our Community finding in action page.

One in six women in Scotland are subjected to constant verbal abuse by a partner

●        More than a third of women (35%) have changed an aspect of themselves because of negative comments made by an intimate partner, increasing to 39% for 25-34 year olds

●        Over a third (36%) of women have insecurities about their self-worth based on negative comments made by a partner

●        81% believe more needs to be done to educate young men on their beliefs and attitudes towards women

●        Avon launches campaign to speak out against verbal abuse with resources, training and support for customers, Representatives and associates

●        In its 135th year, Avon donates $1.35 million to NGOs around the world to support women who have experienced abuse

New research from beauty company Avon and the NO MORE Foundation reveals that one in five women are consistently subjected to verbal abuse by an intimate partner.

The research, which surveyed over 8,300 women in eight countries, including the UK, Poland and the Philippines, also found that nearly two in five respondents aged 25-34 are experiencing potential signs of verbal abuse within their relationship – the highest amongst the age groups. As a result, over a third (36%) of women around the world have insecurities about their self-worth based on negative comments made by partners.

Commissioned in support of the UN’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, Avon and NO MORE are launching a campaign to help everyone recognise verbal abuse and its role in coercive control, domestic violence or intimate partner violence.

In the UK, when asked about seeking support for verbal abuse issues, one in 10 (11%) women reported that they did not know where to turn, and a further one in six (17%) were unable to take action due to having a controlling partner or being too scared of the consequences.

These barriers to help-seeking behaviours result in many survivors becoming trapped in abusive relationships.

Common comments

Nearly half (47%) of women have experienced negative comments from an intimate partner about their general appearance, with one in five (19%) facing this within the last month.

Other negative comments reported were about women’s intelligence (43%), job or career (44%), weight (50%) and clothing (50%).

This is most prevalent in those aged 25-34 with nearly a quarter (24%) being subjected to negative remarks about their weight within the last month, compared to 10% of those aged 55+.

Over half of women say an intimate partner has made criticisms towards their friends or family (55%), with nearly a quarter (23%) experiencing this within the last month; this is a common tactic used by abusers to manipulate their victims to alienate them from loved ones.

NO MORE Foundation’s Global Executive Director Pamela Zaballa said: “Verbal abuse is a serious, prevalent issue that takes a huge and often long-lasting toll on the self-esteem and confidence of those who experience it. It also can be a precursor and escalate to physical violence.

“Therefore, it is critical to increase awareness and ensure that verbal abuse is not overlooked, trivialised nor tolerated. We’re proud to partner with Avon to promote an online portal providing crucial information and tools to learn to recognise the signs of verbal abuse, find help if needed, and become inspired by courageous survivors’ stories.”

From Silence to Speaking Out

Of those subjected to signs of verbal abuse, 16% sought support, with 30% of these women going to a family member and 26% reaching out to a friend.

Despite a relatively small number in this survey, it is interesting that some respondents said they had sought support from the outside sources such as beauty therapists or hairdressers (2%) and their Avon Representatives (2%).

In a controlling relationship, where the abuser has isolated the victim from friends and family, it may be the case that these groups can provide an important lifeline.

With a network of relationships within their communities and peer to peer support available, Avon is offering training to its five million Representatives worldwide. In the UK, Women’s Aid and Avon are piloting a specialist training programme in Bristol for Representatives, offering on-the-ground, community support for those facing abuse in any form.

Training is also being offered to a range of GBV Ambassadors, offering support to associates who may be experiencing domestic abuse through Avon’s global GBV Protocol.

Not only a “Women’s Issue”

There is a strong feeling amongst women around the world that more needs to be done to educate young men on their beliefs and attitudes towards women (81%), with over three quarters believing there are deep-rooted issues within society which need to be addressed in terms of how men treat women.

Breaking the silence around gender-based violence, Avon and NO MORE have launched an online portal to provide people with crucial information about the signs of verbal abuse, what to do if someone you know is in an abusive relationship and where to go for help, including a collection of inspiring stories from survivors.

To support women who have experienced abuse, Avon is also donating $1.35 million in grants to NGOs around the world to fund support projects for life after abuse, in its 135th anniversary year.

In the UK, funding will support charities such as Women’s Aid and their Live Chat service which gives survivors a discreet and safe way to chat to an expert, as well as the National Domestic Abuse Helpline and Live Chat, ran by Refuge.

In addition, the beauty brand and charity are encouraging people to sign a pledge to end verbal abuse. This can be signed by saying ‘Alexa, open the NO MORE skill’ to an Alexa device or online via the Avon Worldwide website.

Angela Cretu, Avon CEO comments: “Our research highlights how crucial it is that we continue to stimulate conversation about all forms of gender-based abuse, be that verbal, emotional or physical.

“Over the last 15 years Avon has made it our mission to end violence against women and break down the wall of silence.

“With five million Representatives around the world, all with their own unique networks, we are committed to training in recognising the signs, having safe conversations, and signposting to local NGO support.

“We have also introduced a GBV Protocol and Ambassadors to support every associate who may be experiencing domestic abuse, for example offering them access to leave or facilitating conversations with managers.      

“This 16 Days of Activism we are calling for people unsure of what verbal abuse is, to get to know the signs; for victims feeling isolated, to know they are not alone; and for those experiencing abuse, to seek necessary help.

This is why this year, on its 135th year of championing women, Avon will donate $1.35 million to NGOs around the world to help more women overcome abuse and help change lives.”

For more information and if you need support, visit: 

www.avonworldwide.com/supporting-women 

to access the NO MORE directory.

Christmas Wonderland announces charity partnership with PKAVS

Perth’s newest lighting trail experience invites the community to get festive and give back

10th – 23rd December 2021  

Christmas Wonderland, Perth’s brand-new Christmas-themed lighting trail experience, which has been designed and produced by Scottish based events company, 21CC Group Ltd., has today announced their partnership with PKAVS, a local charity that works tirelessly throughout Perth and Kinross to improve wellbeing, connect communities, and help people to realise their potential. 

The charity partnership will invite the community of Perth to get festive and give back this Christmas, by making either a monetary donation – which will be gifted directly to the charity, who are helping individuals to overcome personal barriers and ensure they have every chance to achieve their goals in life –  or donating a family ticket to PKAVS, upon ticket check out.  

21CC Group Ltd. will also be gifting PKAVS with 100 tickets to the exclusive Christmas Wonderland VIP Launch night as well as supplying a 10% discount code to the charity which will be available for redemption by all PKAVS charity members and associates.  

Paul Graham, PKAVS Chief Executive, PKAVS, said: “We are delighted that the Christmas Wonderland at Perth Riverside has chosen PKAVS as the event’s Charity Partner.

“Since the pandemic, our services have been in more demand than ever. By supporting PKAVS to raise both additional funds and awareness of the vital services we offer, this partnership will allow us to reach even more people in Perth & Kinross with that bit of extra help they need.” 

From 10th to 23rd December, guests are invited to experience Norie Miller Walk at Perth Riverside as never seen before. Festive lighting, enchanting effects and a sparkling atmosphere will transform a winding pathway overlooking the picturesque Perth Riverside creating some unmissable memories for adults and children alike. Santa himself will be there, to welcome and greet everyone who comes.   

Geoff Crow, Managing Director of 21CC Group says: “This has been a really hard year for so many reasons and as a business owner operating in the events sector, I can say that it has most definitely been one of our most challenging for obvious reasons.

“Christmas is such a special time and an opportunity to take stock and reflect. We are really looking forward to bringing this special event to Perth, and hope that this charity partnership will go a long way to supporting those who need it most across the community. Come to Perth and experience the magic of Christmas.” 

Full price tickets start from £10 for adults and £7 for children under 16 on opening night (10th Dec). Children under 3 can also attend for free.

Family ticket bundles allow access for 2 adults and 2 children and are available from £30. The walk will take approximately one hour and tickets will have allocated time slots for guests to arrive.

First entry is at 4 pm and last entry is at 7:30 pm. 

Tickets can be booked online in advance to save disappointment. 

For further information and to purchase tickets, visit:

www.perthchristmaswonderland.co.uk 

National Mission funding for community project

Charity will increase support for drug users in recovery

Bluevale Community Club in Glasgow has been awarded almost £100,000 to enable them to continue with their recovery and wellbeing services, helping their work in the community and with people in recovery from problematic substance use.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will confirm the funding over the next two years during a visit to their recovery club which opened earlier this year.

The First Minister will also visit the community club’s sports facilities which offer a range of activities for young people and adults including boxing, personal training and strength endurance classes which focus on improving the mental and physical health of members.

She will be joined on the visit by Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross.

The First Minister said: “The work being done by Bluevale Community Club in their local area helping people to live healthier lifestyles through their activity classes and recovery drop-ins is fantastic. It is an excellent example of how sustained, meaningful activities and supportive social networks are key to building stronger communities.

“The funding of almost £100,000 will help them focus on expanding these services further and give employment to young people who have given their time free until now.

“The rights of individuals to access effective treatment and support underpins our national drugs strategy. But we know there is more to do to make these rights a reality which is why we launched the National Mission backed by an additional £250m over the next five years to improve and increase access to services for people affected by drug addiction – including an investment of £100m on residential rehabilitation.

“We are determined that every penny of that will make a difference to all those affected by this public health emergency.”

Bluevale Founder and Project Manager Kenny Trainer said: “We welcome the visit by the First Minister and Douglas Ross to see first-hand not only what we are trying to achieve here at Bluevale Community Club but also meet the people who remind us daily why we do it.

“We have run our club on a voluntary basis and welcome the investment from the Scottish Government that will allow us to employ two part time members of staff, allowing us to focus more on developing a whole community response to recovery. Prior to this funding we were unsure if we would last beyond Christmas. We will continue to look at further alternatives to meet the additional shortfall in meeting our charity’s mission and ambition. 

“We now ask that all parties, and both governments, put their political differences aside and agree on how we can tackle Scotland’s problems not just at a national level, but locally – ensuring that any investment reaches the heart of our communities where it will make the biggest impact.

“We have seen too many friends and family members die while seeking access to the help they needed and that’s why we back any rights-based approach when it comes to drug treatment – one based on holding decision makers to account where necessary.”

Barnardo’s resources to help teachers talk to pupils about grief

At the start of Children’s Grief Awareness Week, Barnardo’s is releasing resources for teachers to help children cope with bereavement. 

Before Covid-19, official stats showed one in 29 five-16 year olds had been bereaved of a parent or sibling – that’s at least one child in every average class. 

With more than 165,000 deaths from Covid-19 in the UK (deaths with Covid-19 on the death certificate), Barnardo’s says many more children and young people will be experiencing bereavement. 

Black people and men of Pakistani and Bangladeshi heritage are almost twice as likely to die from Covid-19 as White people, meaning children from these communities are more likely to experience loss. 

The free resources about grief are available on the Barnardo’s Education Community (BEC) website (https://www.educators-barnardos.org.uk/). 

They include an introductory worksheet which explores what grief is and a volcano-making activity that focuses on how grief impacts us. 

They also include some suggestions and advice about how to cope and who children can talk to when going back to school after someone special has died. 

Also in the resources are some coping techniques teachers can tell children about to use when times are difficult, exercises to help ground children and regulate their breathing. 

The resources will also be posted throughout Children’s Grief Awareness Week (November 18 to 24) on the Barnardo’s Education Community Twitter page (@BarnardosEduCom). 

Barnardo’s Interim Co-CEO Michelle Lee-Izu said: “Sadly the raw feelings of grief and loss will be familiar to thousands of children and families across the UK, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. 

“Children have suffered a huge amount of loss in the last year. For most this has meant missing out on school and playing with their friends, but for too many children it has meant the loss of parents, grandparents and members of their family or community. 

“I hope that teachers who are discussing the issue of grief with their pupils during Children’s Grief Awareness Week will find our tips and resources useful – and that they will be used to assist schools and colleges to support children who are struggling in the future.”