Winter – Page 2 – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

Driving home for Christmas – Winter car tips for motorists

Brits are being urged to prepare for their Christmas drive home, with experts advising how motorists can travel safely this December.

Road safety experts at Road Angel have offered six tips for those driving home this Christmas to help them travel safely and keep their cars prepared for winter conditions.

Winter driving requires extra care and caution at all times because of potentially adverse conditions so it’s important to get vehicles ready for the cold and plan out a route home in advance.

Although it may ruin Christmas day plans, the Highway Code instructs motorists to stay safe and only drive in icy or snowy conditions if the journey is essential.

For those travelling in adverse conditions, it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast beforehand and pack an emergency breakdown kit just in case.

Gary Digva, founder of Road Angel said: “Christmas is a time when lots of us are making long car journeys to get back and see our loved ones yet the roads at this time of year can be treacherous.

“We want to make sure everyone gets to enjoy a safe and happy Christmas celebration and there are several things drivers can do before setting off to make sure their journey goes as smoothly as possible.

“Planning a route out in advance and travelling early on a Saturday morning will help you get home for Christmas as soon as possible. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on the weather forecast and prepare an emergency breakdown kit, just in case.

“No one wants to break down at the best of times, never mind on Christmas Day – that’s why it’s important to prepare your car for the cold and drive safely with care and caution at all times – you’ll be sure to home for a wonderful Christmas time spent with loved ones.”

Driving home for Christmas – Road Angel’s winter car tips for motorists:

Plan route in advance

One of the most important things you can do before travelling in winter is to plan the route home in advance. Although drivers may think they know where they’re going, it’s always best to double check directions to avoid driving around unknown roads in the dark and harsh weather. It’s also a good idea to plan route alternatives in case the original is not accessible because of the harsh weather.

Try to avoid traffic

Remember that lots of other households will be driving home for Christmas, so it’s best to leave plenty of time in advance to avoid getting stuck in traffic and delays to Christmas parties and gatherings. If possible avoid travelling at rush-hour to steer away from the commuter traffic – the best time of the week to drive is early morning or evening on a Saturday.

Get the car ready for the cold

Get the car ready for the cold weather of winter by checking the vehicle over before making long distances when visiting loved ones this Christmas. Check the tyre pressure, heating and oil, as well as making sure that the car battery doesn’t stall by turning on the car before setting off, and most importantly, ensure that all the bulbs on the car are working fully.

Check the weather forecast

The weather has a massive impact on how motorists should drive over wintertime. Check the forecast before setting off to avoid driving in any adverse conditions – and be prepared to cancel or amend plans if the weather is too dangerous to drive in. The Highway Code says drivers should not travel in snowy and icy conditions unless the journey is essential, and before setting off drivers MUST be able to see. Clear all snow and ice from all of the windows and keep them demisted, ensure mirrors are clear, the number plate is visible and lights are fully functioning.

Pack an emergency breakdown kit

Breaking down in the winter can be very dangerous, because of the extreme weather and darkness. It’s a good idea to pack an emergency breakdown kit in the car just in case any accidents happen. Pack a foil blanket, spare clothes and shoes to keep warm. Food, water and a phone charger are also good essentials to pack. A torch, jump leads, shovel and de-icer are again good emergency breakdown kit ideas for winter.

Driving safely

There are also several driving tips motorists can follow to get back home safely for Christmas. The Highway Code recommends to avoid overtaking and keep further back from the car ahead as stopping distances can be up to 10 times longer in adverse conditions. When it’s icy on the roads drivers should use a high gear and slow speed, accelerating and braking gently and drive especially slow around bends when it’s much more likely to lose control of the car. Other tips include driving with care and caution at all times, and keeping updated on the latest travel and weather news.

The Christmas driving tips are just one of several road safety initiatives the team at Road Angel are currently working on.

For more information please visit https://www.roadangelgroup.com/blogs/news.

Cost of car insurance in Scotland increases by 18% in the last 12 months

Drivers currently paying £463 on average following a recent spike

Drivers in central Scotland have seen the biggest increase to their car insurance premium over the past 12 months. The current cost stands at £505, on average, following a £73 (17%) rise.
Drivers in the Scottish borders are currently paying the cheapest rates for their car insurance. Premiums are £391, on average, despite a 20% price increase in the past 12 months.
Although FCA changes to regulation have made pricing fairer to customers at renewal, further research highlights that this does not necessarily protect customers from price increases. More than 2 in 5 (41%) UK drivers who received a renewal quote in the past 3 months said that they saw an increase of £38, on average(1).
However, those who shopped around using a price comparison website were able to save £50 on their car insurance, on average.
With the current cost-of-living crisis affecting millions across the UK, Confused.com recently launched its money saving hub to support consumers and give advice on how to manage recent price hikes.
In light of the recent price increases, Louise O’Shea, CEO at Confused.com emphasises the importance of shopping around for the best deals and why drivers shouldn’t settle for auto-renewal.

That means motorists are seeing a £69 increase compared to this time last year. That’s according to the latest car insurance price index (Q3 2022) from Confused.com, powered by WTW. Based on 6 million quotes a quarter, it’s the most comprehensive car insurance price index in the UK.

However, some drivers in Scotland could be paying more than the national average, depending on the region in which they live. The latest data shows that drivers in central Scotland are currently paying the most for car insurance.

Their current premium is £505, following a £73 (17%) year-on-year increase. Despite facing an annual increase of £64 (20%), drivers living in the Scottish Borders pay the cheapest rates for their car insurance, with an average premium of £391.

Meanwhile, drivers in East and North East Scotland are paying £431, on average, for their car insurance. That’s as drivers faced a £69 (19%) increase in the past 12 months. And as for drivers in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, the current car insurance premium is £420, on average, following an increase of £61 (17%).

Region	Average Premium	YOY £	YOY %
Scottish Borders	£391	£64	20%
Central Scotland	£505	£73	17%
East & North East Scotland	£431	£69	19%
Scottish Highlands & Islands	£420	£61	17%

It’s a similar picture across the rest of the UK, where prices continue to rise. In fact, premiums have risen by £72 (14%) in the past 12 months alone.

The current UK premium stands at £586, on average, and is the highest annual increase in the past 5 years.

With the latest data revealing that premiums are on the rise, some drivers might think that they’re better off sticking with the same insurer when it comes to renewal. But further research conducted by Confused.com finds that some insurers don’t seem to be doing enough to protect their existing customers.

In a survey of 2,000 UK drivers, data reveals that more than 2 in 5 (41%) drivers who considered sticking with their current insurer received renewal quotes £38 more expensive than the previous year, on average⁽¹⁾. That’s despite the fact that more than a quarter (28%) of drivers who have renewed so far this year thought that their insurance quote would be cheaper this time around.

However, some motorists are taking action after receiving a more expensive renewal and are really seeing the benefits of switching. More than a quarter (27%) of drivers who chose to shop around using a price comparison site were able to save £50, on average. In fact, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is actively advising consumers to shop around when it comes to buying insurance for this very reason.

Earlier this year, the FCA made important changes to stop ‘price walking’ and ensure all customers were treated fairly, but it seems some motorists remain complacent as a result. One in 5 (20%) drivers told Confused.com that they were less inclined to shop around because of these changes.

However, these new regulations don’t mean that better deals still can’t be found elsewhere and, as research shows, consumers are saving money by switching.

While the cost of car insurance premiums is on the up, there’s no ignoring the fact that the general cost of living is increasing, too. That’s why it’s more important than ever to shop around for the best deals. And as we head into the colder months, it’s clear that money will be tight for many.

With difficult months ahead, Confused.com has launched a money saving hub to help people understand where they can save money on bills to balance out price hikes. The hub focuses on a variety of insurance options, but also includes advice on how to be more fuel efficient and keep car costs down.

Its aim is to provide useful and digestible information that will help customers save money, without necessarily having to compromise and give up essentials.

Louise O’Shea, CEO at Confused.com, comments: “With costs currently rising all around us, I’m sure it comes as no surprise that the cost of car insurance is increasing, too.

“However, the pace at which it’s rising will be a real worry for many. The latest figures reveal a true example of how volatile the market currently is, which is why I need to stress just how important it is to shop around when it comes to renewing any insurance policy.

“As we head into winter, money is going to be tight. With concerns over the rising costs of energy, fuel and even food, millions of us will be looking for new ways to number-crunch and save money where we can. In recent months, the FCA have really amplified the importance of shopping around to help find some of the best deals out there during this time.

“Research shows that customer loyalty doesn’t always pay off, which is why it’s always encouraged to shop around and see what else is out there. If you switch insurers using Confused.com, there’s some fantastic rewards available that could help during a difficult time.

“A £20 voucher could pay towards a food shop in Lidl or even go towards an MOT or service in Halfords. And we even guarantee to beat your renewal⁽⁵⁾. If we can’t, we’ll give you £20, plus the difference. Either way, you’re better off just by using a price comparison service.

“I cannot emphasise enough just how important it is to take time, do your research and compare insurance prices. You might be missing out on fantastic deals and it will really help in the long run.”

Keeping Santa Heart-Healthy

Heart Research UK campaign seeks to educate people on the risk of heart attacks over the winter period

Reports have found that the risk of heart attack rises approximately 15% over Christmas time. To highlight the dramatic effect the festive season can have on heart health, national heart charity Heart Research UK has created a special Christmas awareness campaign that aims to inform the public and raise vital funds that will benefit life-saving research.

Research from the UK and Sweden has shown that Christmas can put a huge strain on our hearts, with approximately a 15% increase in heart attack risk at Christmas time. Seasonal changes and the rise in contagious illnesses including influenza can contribute to a person’s increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease and it’s especially dangerous for the elderly and those with certain underlying health conditions.

Reports show that deaths due to cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease increase during the winter months with heart attacks (myocardial infarction) being more prevalent.

In 2019/20 in the UK, there were 6,661 excess winter deaths due to cardiovascular disease which included 2,820 deaths due to coronary heart disease. In addition to this, research from Sweden found that the risk of heart attack increased by 15% during the Christmas and New Year period.

It is therefore easy to see why Santa Claus finds himself the subject of Heart Research UK’s latest campaign. With his stressful job, poor diet, irregular exercise and fondness for mince pies and sherry, Santa fits this profile of someone who needs to be aware of their heart health over the Christmas period.

Introducing ‘A Healthy Heart Christmas’– a new campaign from Heart Research UK designed to raise awareness of the risk of heart disease during the winter months.

The campaign highlights the increase in risk of heart attack over the winter months and highlights the dangers of a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption and stress whilst providing a number of handy resources via their website to help everybody enjoy a heart healthy and stress-free Christmas.

To accompany the campaign, Heart Research UK has partnered with thortful, the UK’s largest online card marketplace, to create a set of hand-drawn, limited-edition Christmas cards showing traditional festive scenes. Proceeds from sales of the cards will go towards funding Heart Research UK’s lifesaving research.

“We are extremely grateful to all the thortful customers for their generous contributions. The donations from the Christmas card sales will help us raise much-needed funds for our pioneering medical research into the prevention, treatment and cure of heart disease. We are so thankful for their support. Together we can take on heart disease.” says Kate Bratt-Farrar, Chief Executive at Heart Research UK.

Finally, as part of a radio spot promoting the campaign, BAFTA-winning actor and Line of Duty star Mark Bonnar has lent his distinctive voice to a special retelling of the iconic Christmas poem ‘A Visit from St Nicholas’, leading with the famous ‘Twas the night before Christmas’ verse before encouraging people to visit Heart Research UK’s website and donate.

Anyone who wants to donate towards their life-saving research or learn more, can visit the Heart Research UK website (https://heartresearch.org.uk/), where they can access a range of useful tips and guidance on how to take care of their heart and make little changes to their lifestyle and diet over the holidays.

The range of limited-edition Heart Research UK Christmas cards are available to purchase here https://www.thortful.com/creator/heartresearchuk with all proceeds supporting Heart Research UK.

UKHSA calls for everyone to get their flu jab this week

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging all those eligible to take up their flu vaccine by 10 December to ensure protection in time for Christmas.

The vaccine takes 14 days before it provides maximum protection, so people should get it before 10 December to help keep themselves and vulnerable relatives safe throughout the festive season.

Flu is a highly infectious disease and can lead to serious complications for those living with a long-term health condition, including respiratory and heart conditions, diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease or a chronic neurological disease like multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy. People with underlying health conditions overall are 11 times more likely to die if they catch flu compared to healthy adults.

Pregnant women are also at increased risk of serious complications and should have the flu vaccine to help protect themselves and their babies.

While many people aged 65 and over have already come forward for their flu vaccination, exceeding the WHO target of 75%, less than half of those with underlying health conditions have taken up the offer. Uptake in pregnant women also lags behind other groups, with just 34.4% vaccinated so far this season.

While levels of flu infection are still low, typically levels ramp up over December, with a peak in January. We are calling on people to take up the flu vaccine, along with practicing good hygiene, ventilating rooms, and staying at home if unwell.

Health and Social Care Secretary, Sajid Javid said: “Getting your winter vaccines – whether that is your flu jab if eligible or your booster jab – is one of the most important things people can do for yourself an your family this winter.

“Record numbers of people took up the offer of a free flu vaccine last year and the programme is expanding even further this year, with a record 35 million people in England eligible.

“Don’t delay – book your flu vaccine as soon as possible.”

Dr Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “The threat of flu has not gone away – it can cause serious illness and be fatal.

“Flu vaccination saves lives. If you are eligible, you don’t have to wait to be called up – book your flu vaccine as soon as possible to help protect yourself and family this Christmas.”

Almost 20 million COVID-19 booster vaccines and third doses have been administered in the UK.

Rum & Cake – Scottish botanists launch NEW wild sipping rum

Combining flavours of the wild with some of our seasonal favourites, Scottish alchemists, Buck & Birch, have launched an innovative and indulgent spirit just in time for Christmas. A wild sipping rum, Rum & Cake, will warm the cockles and tease the tastebuds, as it quickly becomes your go-to drink for the cold winter nights.

The finest dark rum is infused with the incredible Buck & Birch Hogseed Parkin, then cold-filtered to ensure a sumptuous sipping sensation, laced with molasses and Scottish spice. And what is hogseed we hear you say? A lesser known but fantastic spice that grows abundantly in Scotland and enlivens this rum with the heady scent of orange peel and warming spice on the palate.

Offering a fresh, but heady scent of orange peel with a spicier kick on the palate, the Hogseed Parkin adds a snappy taste note to make this luxurious liquor unmistakeable.

Big, bold and well-rounded, Rum & Cake is rich, buttery and full bodied in your mouth. With notes of warming ginger and clove, orange zest and a touch of caramelised fennel, this is a spirit to sip

Creative Director and co-founder, Tom Chisholm on the creation of this new taste sensation: “Rum in cake works a treat, but cake in rum – even better! No tricks or fancy science. We don’t rely on over complicated techniques or any other chemical wizardry to capture this unforgettable flavour. Instead, we rely on good old-fashioned methods of infusion and patience.

“Newly baked parkin is added to rum and left to macerate, slowly imparting all of those beautiful flavours into the liquid. The finished spirit is then cold filtered for clarity whilst the all-important flavonoids are kept intact. Basically, it’s what Santa will want you to leave out for him with the mince pies this year.”

Decadently seasonal when served with ginger ale or apple juice, it is just as much at home neat and over ice with a twist of orange. Salivating yet?

Rum & Cake – go on, name a better duo …we’ll wait!

RRP: £32.99. 700ML. 39.6% ABV.

To view a full selection of drinks and gifts available or to book a distillery tour in The Tasting Room, visit www.buckandbirch.com

Winter is here: seasonal driving hacks to save motorists money

A leading insurance comparison firm is revealing the top winter driving hacks that could help motorists avoid higher premiums and retain those all-important No Claims Bonuses.

Quotezone.co.uk says many motorists overlook the winter conditions and can make unnecessary mistakes that will hit them hard in the pocket.

The firm, one of the UK’s leading car insurance comparison websites, says even minor adjustments in behaviour could save hundreds of pounds. Here they lay out some of the pitfalls motorists can find themselves in this winter:

Defrosting – It is tempting to leave the engine running while the windscreen unfreezes, and the car warms up. However, if an opportunistic thief takes the vehicle, many insurance companies will not cover the loss.

Leaving engines running is also an offence under section 42 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. Doing this is known as ‘idling’,and is bad for the environment as it increases the amount of dangerous gases emitted into the air from the car’s exhaust.

Don’t use boiling water on windscreens – Glass can crack when it experiences a sudden change in temperature, and windscreen damage isn’t always covered by a standard car insurance policy.

Simply using a frost guard, a defogger or even homemade de-icer – lukewarm water mixed with rubbing alcohol.

Clear your windscreen before you set-off – Windscreens with inhibited views can land owners with a £1,000 fine and three points on a driving licence. So any leaves, snow, ice, mud or even condensation, needs to be fully cleared before setting out.

Check tyres – Motorists can be fined an eye-watering £2,500 for each faulty tyre and receive three points on their driving licence. If the police see another tyre falling short, it doubles to £5,000 and six points. Four faulty tyres could even see the maximum 12 points – resulting in the loss of a driving licence.

Commercial vehicle drivers, where the car or van is owned by their employer – could land firms with penalties of up to £20,000.

Numberplate – Excess mud and grit on the roads this time of year can make your car dirty very quickly, and if the numberplate isn’t clearly visible, drivers could face a fine of £1,000.

Floods – Some car insurance policies include clauses advising policyholders not to drive through flooded roads, and may specifically exclude cover for any water damage to the car if the motorist goes against this advice.

Avoid puddles – Soaking pedestrians by deliberately driving through large puddles can results in a £100 fine and three penalty points.

Greg Wilson, Founder of car insurance comparison site Quotezone.co.uk said: “As winter approaches, it’s not just the fines that motorists should worry about, points on a driving licence are noted by insurers as a sign of how safe a driver is and what the risk of a claim might be when calculating premiums.

“Three points on a licence can add 5% to premiums every year until the points are spent after four years. Six points pushes premiums up by as much as 25%, and let’s not forget No Claims Bonuses and what they might be worth if they’ve been built up over time and now have to be accrued again from scratch.

“Careful, considerate and patient drivers who plan for the winter weather and adjust their behaviour to meet the conditions give themselves the best chance of avoiding points and keeping their premiums low.”

Quotezone.co.uk helps around 3 million users every year, with over 400 insurance brands across 60 different products including car insurance, convicted drivers and breakdown cover.

Quotezone.co.uk is recommended by 97% of reviewers on Reviews.co.uk

Fight the freeze!

Five ways to prepare your pets for below zero temperatures

With icy weather warnings predicted to sweep across the UK this weekend, a national vet charity is urging pet owners to take extra precautions to protect furry friends from the cold.

PDSA Vet Lynne James said: “Winter can be a dangerous time for all animals, but fine coated, poorly, young or elderly pets are at higher risk of hypothermia in freezing temperatures. Thankfully, there are simple steps we can all take to keep our precious furry family members safe, warm and healthy as the mercury drops.

Extra layers

“Use a well-fitting, fully lined, non-restrictive waterproof coat to help keep your pooch warm and dry when on walks if they are very young, old or have thin fur. Try to avoid walking your furry family member in freezing cold weather if they are poorly – instead, encourage them to go to the toilet in the garden, then bring them straight back into the warmth.

Slippery surfaces

“Ice and snow can be painful for large and small pets alike if it gets stuck between their paws, so try to keep hair in between their pads trimmed and check their paws when they come back inside. Using a paw butter can help prevent sore cracked pads.

Shelter for small pets

“When the temperature hits below zero, move outdoor rabbits and guinea pigs to a warm and sheltered area, such as a shed or car-free garage, making sure they’re protected from drafts and exhaust fumes. They should still have access to natural light, plenty of room and be given regular access to an outside run so that they can exercise when the temperatures are slightly milder.

Curfew for cats

“Your puss may want to stay indoors more when it gets cold – give them toys to play with to keep them occupied and a litter tray so they don’t have to brave the elements if they don’t want to. If they still prefer to go outside, make sure they can easily get back inside or have access to a warm, sheltered area when the temperature plummets.

Snuggle up

“All furry friends should have extra bedding over winter, and small pets will love piles of extra hay to snuggle up to. Your puss will really appreciate a few extra comfy spaces to curl up in around the house, too – igloo beds are ideal, as they help furry friends get really cosy. You can even place a safely wrapped, animal-safe heat pad under their bedding for extra warmth.”

Vet charity PDSA provides free and low-cost vet care for those who struggle to pay treatment costs for their sick and injured pets. For many vulnerable pets, PDSA is there to help when there is nowhere else for their owners to turn.

Since the first UK lockdown began, PDSA’s dedicated vet teams carried out more than one million phone consultations.

With 388,000 pets treated in 2020, by keeping their 48 Pet Hospitals open, PDSA can support the thousands of pets that need help across the UK every day.

Every pet deserves a fighting chance. Please donate today and help save pets’ lives – www.pdsa.org.uk/pdsa-chance.

Winter road safety advice from Police Scotland

Advice for pedestrians

Advice if you are out walking during winter:

Dress for the weather by wearing reflective or bright-coloured clothing so other road users can see you when it’s dark or visibility is poor
If you are walking home late at night, make sure someone knows where you’re going and when
Vehicles can take up to ten times longer to stop on slippery road surfaces so take extra care crossing the road
Stick to pedestrian crossings
If there are no crossings nearby, find a place with a clear view and wait for long gaps in the traffic before crossing the road
Don’t cross the road between parked vehicles, unless it can’t be avoided then take extra care (look out for vehicles that suddenly pull out or reverse)
Never cross the road behind a bus
If there is no pavement, keep to the right hand side of the road so you can see traffic coming towards you.

Advice for cyclists

Advice to consider if you are cycling during winter:

Make sure your bike can be seen by people on the road
Use a good set of front and rear lights (white at the front, red at the back)
Wear clothes that help you be seen on your bike, such as bright and light reflective items
Pay attention to road signs, markings and particularly red lights
Do not cycle on the pavements, they may be slippery and can also endanger pedestrians
Be mindful of the effects poor weather can have on other road users
Make sure you know about the dangers around you
Cars can take twice as long to stop in wet weather
Braking can be unpredictable in ice and snow.

Advice for drivers

Advice for drivers during winter:

Make sure your car is ready for winter
Check that your tyres, brakes, windscreens, wiper blades and windows are free from defects and clean
Drive to the road conditions. Road conditions can change without warning, stopping distances will be affected by the weather
Make sure your windows are clean and aren’t misted up
Make sure there is no snow and ice on your windows before you drive
When the roads are icy, drive at a slow speed in a high gear
Accelerate and brake very gently
Driving distracted (for example, using a Sat Nav) can cause additional stress. It is dangerous to yourself, passengers and other road users.

Betting on a white Christmas: William Hill reveals odds on festive flurries

William Hill, which instituted betting on a white Christmas, has made northerly duo Edinburgh and Newcastle favourites for festive flurries.
Britain’s highest airport, Leeds Bradford, is 6-1 to experience snowfall on the big day.
Last snowfall on Christmas Day was in 2017, and the last widespread white Christmas was in 2010.

Bookmaker Wiliam Hill has opened its book on the UK being treated to a white Christmas, with prices being assigned to 10 major UK airports.

For many of us, snow is synonymous with Christmas – Bing Crosby even dreamt of it – but in the UK, snow or sleet falls an average of 3.5 days in December, with the MET Office able to accurately forecast whether snow is likely on any given Christmas Day up to five days beforehand.

Edinburgh and Newcastle Airports are current favourites, both 4-1 to experience wintry conditions on December 25. And despite its disruptive nature, Christmas is the one time of the year when the bothersome weather appears to get a free pass.

Leeds Bradford Airport is more than 700ft above sea level and holds the record for being the highest airport in the UK. It is therefore surprising to see it appear alongside the likes of Birmingham, London City Airport and Dublin on 6-1.

Manchester is 13/2 while Bristol, Liverpool and Cardiff Airports are 8-1.

The popular pastime of betting on a white Christmas was in fact instituted by William Hill, and traditionally required a single snowflake to fall on the MET Office operations centre in London.

Nowadays, and with that building long since sold – the national weather service now based in Devon, all that is needed to declare a white Christmas is the observation of a single snowflake falling in the 24 hours of December 25, at one of 10 major UK airports.

The UK has not seen snow on the ground on Christmas Day since 2015 when it was observed at a tenth of weather stations. Those 2015 flurries came five years after widespread snow and the coldest December for a century in 2010.

The last widespread white Christmas (2010) saw snow on the ground at 83% of weather stations (the highest amount ever recorded), while snow or sleet fell at 19% of stations.

Technically though, 2017 was the last true white Christmas in the UK – with 11 percent of weather stations recording snow falling, but none recorded any on the ground.

If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, please visit:

https://sports.williamhill.com/betting/en-gb/tv-specials/OB_EV21589670/snow-on-christmas-day

Welcome Centre reopens its doors for people facing homelessness this winter

The city council and national homelessness charity Bethany Christian Trust announced the re-opening of the Welcome Centre earlier this week.

The Welcome Centre, which provides accommodation of last resort, tailored support and positive move on options for people who would otherwise be sleeping on the streets, opened on 4 October. It will operate until 2 May 2022 in the Haymarket Hub Hotel in Edinburgh’s West End.

Founded by Bethany Christian Trust in partnership with the Council, and supported by the Scottish Government, the Welcome Centre was pioneered last year in an emergency response to the outbreak of Covid-19, providing en-suite rooms as a deliberate move away from congregate shelter provision, and has since helped to establish a new model of tailored support for people rough sleeping.

Ahead of World Homeless Day (10 October), the Council’s Convener and Vice Convener for Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work, Councillor Kate Campbell and Councillor Mandy Watt, together with Bethany’s Chief Executive, Alasdair Bennett visited the Welcome Centre to meet some of the front-line staff from both the Council and Bethany Christian Trust that manage, work and volunteer at the facility and offer vital support for its service users.

The Welcome Centre takes an innovative and person centred approach, providing 24 hour tailored support for individuals all in one place. Guests receive their own en-suite room and 3 meals a day, including a hot evening meal prepared by volunteers.

Crucially, they are also able to work with dedicated staff and visiting professional services with support to access longer term accommodation as well as on site assistance with mental health, addiction, wellbeing, health needs and accessing benefits.

Councillor Kate Campbell, the Council’s Convener of Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work, said: “It’s been inspiring to meet staff at the Welcome Centre. Everyone is united in a strong desire to end rough sleeping and the Welcome Centre plays a crucial role. It’s somewhere that anyone who is at risk of rough sleeping can go and have a place to stay that night.

“But it can’t stop there. Which is why it’s been so good to see so many partners working together, from the third sector, health and social care and the council, to make sure that anyone who stays at the centre has support wrapped around them. From advice to health care and support to register as homeless.

“Bethany’s Welcome Centre has to be a first step on resolving people’s homelessness long term. And the warm welcome and support they are given here is vital to building trust and relationships that enable that journey to begin.”

Councillor Mandy Watt, the Council’s Vice Convener of Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work, said: “It’s been fantastic meeting everyone here at the Welcome Centre and seeing the vital work that they do. But on World Homelessness Day it’s important to say that our long term goal is to prevent homelessness in the first place.

“Which is why our Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan is not just focussed on how we resolve rough sleeping, or improving temporary accommodation, but on long term actions we can take.

“It’s crucial that we prevent homelessness by supporting people early on when they’re at risk of losing their home.

“Ultimately I think we all want to get to a place where there isn’t a need for the Welcome Centre, because we’re able to intervene to make sure that in the future no one faces being without a home or having to sleep on the streets.

Cameron Black, Director of Crisis Intervention, Bethany Christian Trust said: “People need genuine support when they are having the worst day of their lives and that is what they find at the Welcome Centre.

“The staff are there for people 24 hours a day to offer professional and real care. We are so grateful to the Edinburgh Collection Hotel’s accommodation and our partner agencies who go the extra mile to bring their expertise to where people are.

“All of the support from volunteers from the local churches and all who help fund this innovative project saves lives. We just couldn’t do it without you!”

Relying on the financial support of the general public, local churches, trusts, businesses, the City of Edinburgh Council and the Scottish Government, the Welcome Centre shows what can be possible when the people of Edinburgh come together to create change.

With a large professional staff team, over 1,000 Bethany volunteers and more than 20 visiting partner services, the Welcome Centre saw remarkable success in 2020 – 2021 in helping people recover from the crisis of homelessness and move on to a more stable situation.

The service accommodated and supported over 860 individuals who had fallen into homelessness because of a wide range of circumstances as well as those rough sleeping, with 97% of known outcomes positive.

Bethany’s Buy a Bed campaign, which is vital in enabling the service, will launch on the 18 October and gift vouchers can be purchased in Bethany Shops and online: https://www.bethanychristiantrust.com/support-work/buy-a-bed/