The Knowledge Transfer Programme will look at new ways to identify voters

Edinburgh Napier University and Democracy Counts, a company which runs elections around the world, are teaming up in a joint effort to give people more trust in their voting systems in the digital age.

The University’s Blockpass ID Lab will work with the firm over two years as part of a new Knowledge Transfer Programme, funded by Innovate UK.

While many electoral operators still rely on paper and pen to recognise voters, the partnership will look at developing new ways of identifying citizens, while keeping their personal information safe.

It is hoped that this will make elections more secure, transparent and reliable in future.

Professor Bill Buchanan OBE, who leads the Blockpass ID Lab at Edinburgh Napier University, said: “This collaboration will bring forward new methods, using our expertise in advanced cryptography, to properly identify voters at each of the key stages of an election.

“We will aim to replace our paper-based signatures with a more reliable and trustworthy digital approach. Through advancements like this, and digital wallets, we hope to provide more convenient and accessible ways for citizens to take part in the democratic process.”

Simon Verdon, CEO of Democracy Counts, said: “We run elections around the world, and each one differs in their scope and implementation.

“This collaboration will allow us to build the next generation of trusted voter registration and election systems which can integrate different levels of digital trust, and should make voting more transparent, more resilient, and more trustworthy.

“The opportunity is thus for the UK to continue to be an international leader in the setup of elections.”

Paul Keating, Technical Director of Democracy Counts, said: “Digital trust plays an ever-increasing role in our lives, especially as we move towards digital signing.

“As elections have to have high levels of trust and transparency, this work will bring forward the current state-of-the-art in digital trust.

“But there are challenges around using citizen data, and so the collaboration will bring forward the latest research in the preservation of privacy and make sure it has high levels of trust from citizens.”

Established in 2009, Democracy Counts is a market-leading provider of electoral management software, support services and training to the UK Government and local authorities across Scotland, England and Wales – as well as managed referendums and ballot services to public, private and community organisations.

Edinburgh Napier University’s Blockpass ID Lab has spent the last five years researching ways in which blockchain technology can protect personal data from online scammers and hackers.

Nzira Yeparuware is a new sound installation which explores colonialism’s impact on the environment

A new installation, which opened at Edinburgh Castle on Saturday (2nd September), will take visitors on a sound walk through the historic site to map Scotland’s involvement in the creation of Zimbabwe’s streetscapes.

Nzira Yeparuware, which translates to ‘a path upon a rock’, runs until Thursday 30th November and has been created by Zimbabwe-born artist Tanatsei Gambura in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland (HES) which manages Edinburgh Castle, and the University of Edinburgh.

The project was developed from field recordings taken at a selection of sites in Harare in Zimbabwe which were named after streets in Scottish places including Aberdeen, Angus, Edinburgh, Fife, Jedburgh, Lanark, Midlothian, Orkney, Perth and more.

As visitors explore Edinburgh Castle, they will discover signposts at 10 locations across the castle, which correspond to a soundscape that should be listened to at that location. The sound files can be accessed by visitor’s own devices through a QR code.

At each location, visitors will hear a different soundscape which explores the lasting impact and complexities of Scottish colonialism, the connection of the Zimbabwean capital to Scotland through street names, and the parallels and contrasts between Edinburgh and Harare’s historical timelines.

In addition to field recordings, the soundscapes will also feature improvised musical responses performed in Edinburgh by members of the Composer’s Orchestra as well as spoken words by the artist. The sounds play together in simulation to offer the visitor a multi-dimensional sonic experience.

Artist Tanatsei Gambura said: “Working on this project with such committed collaborators has been great artistic fuel. I’m thrilled to be exploring a history that is both personal and collective whilst using the tangible material of Scotland’s vast geography and heritage. I hope people will take up this opportunity to listen and discover how our landscapes are speaking back to us, and what they are saying.”

Alison Turnbull, Director of External Relations and Partnerships at HES, said: “Nzira Yeparuware offers visitors an immersive sound experience by international artist, Tanatsei Gambura, which combines field recordings with improvised musical compositions to explore colonialism’s link with the environment, including Scotland’s influence on street names in Harare. It is important that we highlight these less-well known aspects of Scotland’s past and present, and we’re pleased to be able to host this important work within Edinburgh Castle, providing a very personal, immersive opportunity to explore the links and complexities of colonialism.”

Dr Kirsten Carter McKee, Managing Imperial Legacies Research Manager at the University of Edinburgh, said:  “Nzira Yeparuware beautifully intertwines creative expression with geographical histories, sparking engaging conversations that shed light on Scotland’s history from a colonial perspective. Working alongside Tanatsei has been incredibly inspiring for the Managing Imperial Legacies Network, as her artistic vision strongly resonates with the Network’s aim to ensure that anti-racist conversations are included as a part of Scotland’s historic narratives. As a testament to the enduring creativity of this installation, the University of Edinburgh is also delighted to be purchasing this work as a permanent part of the university art collections, for future generations of creatives and researchers to experience beyond its tenure at Edinburgh castle.”

This installation is part of Managing Imperial Legacies, which is a collaborative network partnership involving the University of Edinburgh, HES, and the Coalition for Racial Equality and Rights (CRER).

CRER said: “Managing Imperial Legacies has sought to build conversations on the links and legacies of the transatlantic slave trade, empire and Scotland’s built environment. By looking at the ways Scottish imperialism has been reflected in multiple built environments, we can recognise and interrogate the colonial legacies of institutional white supremacy that still exist today.”

Nzira Yeparuware runs from Saturday 2 September until Thursday 30th November and is included in the admission price to Edinburgh Castle. To book tickets visit the Edinburgh Castle website.

Image attached L-R: Sheila Tulloch, Dawn Dickson, Musab Hemsi, Danielle Edgar, Gillian Murray, Chris Devlin, Caroline Pringle, Sarah Phillips, Neil Fraser.

“It’s great to see our next generation progressing and to hear their visions for the future… Making sure that Anderson Strathern is a great place to work, through initiatives including our Entrepreneurial Leadership Programme, extensive training opportunities, our Net Zero Working Group and various social, CSR and ED&I events is working.  – Fraser Geddes, Chair at Anderson Strathern

Independent Scottish law firm Anderson Strathern has significantly strengthened its partnership, with the promotion of seven new partners and the appointment of a further two.

Newly appointed to the firm are partners Dawn Dickson and Sheila Tulloch. Dawnjoins the employment law team fromEversheds Sutherland, where she has spent the past seven years as a partner. With strong experience in the manufacturing, finance, retail and hospitality sectors, Dawn has almost 25 years’ experience at the highest level in private practice.  She is also co-chair of the homelessness charity, Rowan Alba.

Sheila joins from Orkney Islands Council, where she was Service Manager for Legal Services. With extensive experience across the public and commercial sectors, Sheila will lead Anderson Strathern’s Shetland office, growing its market share across the islands and the North of Scotland.

Among the seven directors being promoted to partner is Chris Devlin. Accredited by the Law Society of Scotland as a specialist in planning law, he has particular expertise in the housing and renewable energy sectors. Chris also advises on environmental law. Leading directory Chambers & Partners 2023 describes him as “excellent and approachable” having “excellent specialist knowledge.”

Danielle Edgar holds specialist accreditations in both family law and child law from the Law Society of Scotland. She also sits as a member on the board of the charity, Sikh Sanjog. She appears regularly at Sheriff Courts throughout Scotland as well as running cases in the Court of Session with a particular focus on financial separations and also cases on behalf of local authorities in respect of children.

Also among the promotions is Neil Fraser, a leading specialist in property law. Neil handles complex issues, particularly in the housebuilding sector, although his experience is diverse, spanning commercial leasing, non-contentious construction and even the acquisition and disposal of lighthouses. He is a true advocate of Corporate Social Responsibility, being an active committee member who regularly champions the firm’s CSR events and initiatives.

Employment law specialist Musab Hemsi, who is accredited by the W.S. Society and doubly accredited as a specialist by the Law Society of Scotland, has also been welcomed to the partnership. He is a member of the European Employment Lawyers Association and Chair of the Scottish Discrimination Lawyers Association, and the Legal 500 recognises Musab for his expertise in advising corporate clients. In 2022, Musab was named as one of the Top 10 influential Muslims in the UK’s legal industry by EqualityX.

A commercial litigator with an interest in contentious insolvency, Gillian Murray acts for a wide range of clients from commercial businesses and private individuals to government bodies. She is also a tutor in civil litigation at the University of Strathclyde and a non-exec board member at Ayrshire College.

Experienced litigator Sarah Phillips, with over 25 years’ experience is also joining the partnership. Specialising in fatal accident inquiries and defending motor, employer and public liability claims in both the Sheriff Court and Court of Session, Sarah is frequently involved with complex, high value cases and has been recognised as a leader in her field by UK Chambers & Partners.

Caroline Pringle joined the firm’s private client team as a director in May 2022, bringing with her a decade of experience in estate planning and asset protection, with a particular focus on succession planning, inheritance and capital gains tax mitigation. She was previously named one of eprivateclient’s ‘Top 35 Under 35’.

Anderson Strathern Chair Fraser Geddes said: “Being able to promote so many of our directors to partner level this year is testament to the wealth of talent we have within the business. Sheila and Dawn are outstanding hires, both have strong reputations and impressive experience in their fields. And, it’s great to see our next generation progressing and to hear their visions for the future.

He added: “When I took over the reins as chair, I wanted to ensure we consciously invest in our existing team while continuing to attract Scotland’s top legal talent. Making sure that Anderson Strathern is a great place to work, through initiatives including our Entrepreneurial Leadership Programme, extensive training opportunities, our Net Zero Working Group and various social, CSR and ED&I events is working. These appointments give us every reason to be confident in the future and secure in the outstanding service we provide.”

The appointments come at the end of a strong year, as the firm’s Edinburgh team prepares to move to a newly-built Grade A office in Capital Square later this year.

A partnership of housing associations is working with leading environmental charity Changeworks to launch a new service, the Housing Association Energy Support Service. The service will give housing association tenants access to energy information, advice and advocacy. The pilot service is being supported by the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) via the Scottish Government’s Fuel Insecurity Fund with Changeworks driving the long-term development of the service. Changeworks will work on the pilot in partnership with: Hanover Scotland, Bield Housing and Care, Blackwood Homes and Care, Cairn Housing Association and Trust Housing Association Ltd.

Over the past year, Changeworks has seen demand for energy support increase, particularly from housing providers. The energy crisis has brought soaring energy costs, putting huge financial pressure on households. Tenants are struggling to manage these increased costs, driving a real need for energy-related advice and advocacy.

With the support of SFHA, Changeworks sought input and evidence from its members to understand what was needed to serve this growing demand for support.  Bield Housing and Care recognised the need to convene partners to bring a solution to life and Hanover Scotland volunteered to lead the bid.

The pilot will provide 17,000 housing association tenants with timely and practical energy advice and information throughout the year. This support will empower householders to manage their energy and stay affordably warm at home. Tenants will be able to access practical advice which will encourage energy efficient behaviours in the home, helping them get the most from their heating systems. Those most in need will be empowered to talk with their suppliers and troubleshoot problems. Specialist support from expert advisors will be available to help tackle complex fuel poverty issues such as fuel billing and fuel debt. Changeworks will work in collaboration with the housing associations to provide tailored support, advice and advocacy for the most vulnerable tenants.

Morven Masterton, Head of Community Engagement and Energy Advice Services from Changeworks said “Right from inception we have worked with partners to develop this new and vital service for tenants. We’re looking forward to delivering and learning from the pilot project with an aim of making the service available to more housing associations longer term. We all share the same goal of supporting and empowering tenants to save energy, access financial support and be affordably warm at home”.

Nikki Fields, Customer Experience Manager from Hanover Scotland, said “Hanover is delighted to be working together with Changeworks and our housing association peers at Bield, Blackwood, Cairn and Trust to support tenants across Scotland with energy advice and advocacy. We know that the cost-of-living crisis and sharp increases in utility costs have affected our customers and are pleased this funding will enable us to offer practical help and advice to those who need it”.

Louise Moules, SFHA’s Director of Operations said “The cost of living crisis has put so much pressure on tenants’ lives, with energy prices still far too high for many people. We’re delighted to support Changeworks and our members in this vital service to help the most vulnerable tenants manage their energy and most importantly, to stay warm in the colder months to come.”

Beyond the pilot, Changeworks plans to develop the service further to open it up to other providers to enable a sustainable and equitable service for all tenants in need, avoiding the short funding cycles that promote competition and inconsistency of support. Housing associations interested in finding out more about this new service should email workwithus@changeworks.org.uk

Changeworks has over 35 years’ experience in delivering high impact solutions for low-carbon living. They work collaboratively with partners, organisations and householders to drive transformation in energy efficiency and to tackle fuel poverty.

Yesterday (31 August), Air Canada released the 2022 edition of Citizens of the World, detailing the airline’s approach, commitments and progress respecting its environmental, social and governance activities and performance throughout 2022. The report also outlines Air Canada’s ambitions for the future.

“Last year was a pivotal one for our business. We celebrated our 85th anniversary and recovered from the pandemic’s effects on our industry, all while advancing our ESG priorities. As Canada’s flag carrier, we connect Canada to the world, and we are acutely aware of the responsibility we have toward the communities we fly to and our planet. We have developed corporate priorities to improve our operations while caring for our customers, our employees and our communities, as well as preserving the planet we help people explore,” said Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive Officer at Air Canada.

“We believe in the importance of taking care of one another. We lift each other up by creating a safe, healthy and inclusive environment, where our colleagues can grow and thrive, and our customers always feel welcome. Our next chapters may be challenging, but we are as determined as ever to deliver the care and class that Air Canada is known for, in a sustainable way.”

Citizens of the World, Air Canada’s 2022 Corporate Sustainability Report, is available at aircanada.com/citizensoftheworld. It describes how the airline integrates environmental, social and governance factors into its daily operations through three sustainability pillars: Business, People and Planet. To ensure transparency, integrity and accountability, an independent third party was retained for a limited assurance engagement on select performance indicators.

Highlights of this year’s report include:

  • Agreement to purchase 30 ES-30 electric-hybrid regional aircraft under development by Heart Aerospace and to invest US$5 million (approximately C$7 million) in the company.
  • Introduction of CHOOOSE, a global climate technology company, as our new carbon offset program provider, with the option for customers to purchase verified carbon offsets now seamlessly integrated into the airline’s Canadian and U.S. booking websites.
  • Investment of $6.75 million into Canada-based climate solutions company Carbon Engineering (CE), supporting the advancement of CE’s direct air capture (DAC) technology that pulls carbon dioxide directly out of the air at large, industrial scale.
  • Recruitment of eight corporate accounts (corporate and cargo) to the Leave Less Travel Program, designed for corporate customers and offering effective options to offset or reduce GHG emissions that are related to business travel and to reduce our carbon footprint.
  • First report aligned to the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), published in 2022.
  • Air Canada was named one of the World’s Best Employers and one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers by Forbes for 2022.
  • Several Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) were formalized, providing representation and a conduit for employee feedback for various identity groups, and corporate ambassadors were introduced.
  • 285 charities supported by the Air Canada Foundation in 2022 with over $1.6 million disbursed to 41 organizations that are focused on the health and well-being of children.
  • Additional 250 community organizations were supported in 2022, as well as over 300 events, initiatives or memberships across Canada and internationally.
  • More than 550 Air Canada employees participated in volunteer activities through the Air Canada Foundation.

At a meeting of the City of Edinburgh Council today, Council Leader Cammy Day spoke of the importance of International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD).

IOAD takes place on 31 August each year to create better understanding of overdose, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths, and create change that reduces the harms associated with drug use. Today we look at what an overdose means, how you can prevent it and where to find out more information and support.

This year’s theme is ‘Recognising those who go unseen’ honouring the people whose lives have been altered by overdose. They are the family and friends grieving the loss of a loved one, workers in healthcare and support services extending strength and compassion, or spontaneous first responders who selflessly assume the role of lifesaver.

Council Leader Cammy Day said:

“As we mark International Overdose Awareness Day today, I am conscious of the fact that for some of our residents this will be their first year living with the loss of a loved one through overdose. Each and every death we see is a tragedy and behind all of these are individual stories.

“Unfortunately, this has been a persistent issue for Scotland for a number of years with our national drug death rate continuing to be the highest in the UK and Europe. Too many people are dying prematurely across our country, with events like International Overdose Awareness Day we can raise awareness of the help and support available to those with substance issues. I am clear that the Council will closely support our partners to bring these figures down here in Edinburgh.”

Below is a list of services here in Edinburgh which specialise in dealing with issues around drugs and alcohol:

Balfour Beatty today announces that it has partnered with the New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE) – a new and innovative Higher Education Institution that is revolutionising engineering degree education in the UK.

Based in Hereford, NMITE has designed its curriculum to mirror real-world working environments with students engaged in projects to enhance their practical experience, arming them with critical skills and industry knowledge.

With an innovative accelerated degree programme and more flexible entry requirements which includes no prerequisites of Maths or Physics at A-level – this is embedded within the curriculum and students are taught what they need to know – the forward-thinking institution opens the doors for a broader and more diverse range of students to pursue careers in engineering.

Currently comprising 60 students, NMITE has ambitious plans to grow its student body to approximately 300 by 2027, having received vital funding from the UK Government in 2017.

Through the partnership, Balfour Beatty will actively contribute to the NMITE curriculum, ensuring a seamless integration of industry expertise with academia. The collaboration will see the company provide industrial placements for students on some of Balfour Beatty’s most exciting and inspiring projects across the UK, as well as host seminars that provide technical insights into the construction and infrastructure industry.

Paul Raby, Balfour Beatty Group HR Director said: “We are thrilled to join forces with NMITE and contribute to their ground-breaking approach to engineering education. By combining our industry expertise with NMITE’s innovative curriculum, we can empower the next generation of engineers to excel in practical skills and meet the evolving demands of the construction industry.

“With this partnership, we can open doors for a diverse range of young people to enter the construction industry by catering to a variety of learning abilities that equips students with a well-rounded skillset.”

James Newby, Chief Executive at NMITE, comments: “Our breakthrough, interdisciplinary model of higher education involves, at every stage, engagement with employer partners and work on real life projects. What better experience for our students to have than to hone their skills with a partner of the calibre of Balfour Beatty? Joining forces with this leading international group will be another fundamental part of shaping tomorrow’s engineers so that students leave NMITE not only work ready but as true game changers.”

This latest partnership is a further example of Balfour Beatty’s commitment to attracting the next generation of talent, with 6.5% of the company’s UK workforce now made up of Apprentices, Graduates, Trainees and Sponsored Students as part of its membership of The 5% Club – a dynamic movement of employers committed to providing ‘Earn & Learn’ positions.

  • Business confidence in Scotland rose four points in August to 36%
  • Companies in Scotland reported higher confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, up 12 points at 53%
  • In August, overall UK business confidence reached its highest level since February 2022, increasing 10 points on July’s reading to 41%

Business confidence in Scotland rose four points during August to 36%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.

Companies in Scotland reported higher confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, up 12 points at 53%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, down two points to 19%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 36%.

Scottish businesses identified their top target areas for growth in the next six months as evolving their offer (47%), investing in their team (39%) and entering new markets (31%).

The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide.

A net balance of 24% of businesses in the region expect to increase staff levels over the next year, down five points on last month.

National picture

Overall UK business confidence increased to its highest level since February last year, jumping 10 points to 41% in August. All 11 regions and nations reported a positive business confidence reading in August, with nine regions and nations reporting a higher confidence reading month-on-month.

Optimism in the UK economy also increased in August by 16 points to 37%, and the number of businesses expecting an increase in their trading prospects rose by three points to 46%.

Businesses in London reported the highest levels of business confidence at 52% (up 20 points month-on-month), its strongest reading in 14 months. Firms in the South East reported the second highest reading at 47% (up 17 points month-on-month), followed by those in the South West at 46% (up 12 points month on month).

The construction, retail and service sectors all saw a rise in business confidence in August. Services gained 12 points to reach a 22-month high of 42%, while retail firms were up nine points to 44%, an 18-month high. Construction firms’ confidence also increased by 11 points to a four-month high of 42%. In contrast, manufacturing confidence fell for a second consecutive month with a 4-point decline to 30%, taking it to the lowest level since April 2023.

Chris Lawrie, area director for Scotland at Bank of Scotland, said:
“It’s great to see confidence amongst Scottish firms climb this month and to see so many looking at avenues for growth. Businesses that invest now in new opportunities will stand themselves in good stead for the years to come.

“However, there are challenges, particularly with continued high prices which many firms are finding difficult to navigate. This makes it the perfect time for businesses to review their working capital and ensure they have the money they need to invest in opportunities as they arise.

“We’ll remain by the side of Scottish firms, providing them with the tools and support they need.”

Paul Gordon, managing director for SME and Mid Corporates at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said:
“We’ve seen a strong rebound in confidence, now higher than at any time since the Russian invasion of Ukraine and well above the long-run average. Business optimism is helped by the outlook on peak interest rates and the direction of travel on inflation.

“However, this month we are seeing a clear difference in confidence levels between large and smaller firms. Larger firms are continuing to feel the headwinds of the overall macroeconomic climate, while smaller firms, which are more likely to trade locally, are benefiting from the counter-inflationary measures and relative economic stability.

“We are here to support businesses of all sizes and can offer expertise not just for those who trade in the UK, but internationally as well.

“Manufacturing confidence in the UK has fallen this month once again, reflecting the overall challenges for the sector in most major economies. Some manufacturing businesses continue to experience challenges with recruitment, resulting in upward pressure on wages. The Bank of England will need to consider carefully in its next decision for interest rates.”

Hann-Ju Ho, Senior Economist Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said:
“The bounce in economic optimism this month is the standout point. Our analysis shows that businesses felt relief that interest rates may be reaching their peak, alongside hopes that measures to tackle inflation are having an impact. With trading prospects remaining stable, and hiring and wage intentions also rising, the macro environment for small businesses and those outside the manufacturing sector is more upbeat.

“From the data, large firms and manufacturers are experiencing some degree of caution, which is likely to reflect the wider global economic environment and, for manufacturing, the rotation of spending towards services.”

The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, and President of the One City Trust (OCT), Robert Aldridge, looks back on two decades of the Trust and sets his sights on the future.

I am immensely proud of the work that the OCT has undertaken in the last twenty years. Since the Trust was established in 2003, we have delivered over £1.3m of grants to 265 projects across the Capital whilst promoting community benefits and social value amongst our city’s business and private sector community.

Over the years, we have enjoyed the support of notable ambassadors and supporters. These include Sir Ian Rankin, Irvine Welsh, Alexander McCall Smith, Sara Sheridan, Nadine Aisha Jassat, and Anne Hamilton; who last year collaborated to produce ‘The People’s City’, a celebration of Edinburgh’s literary heritage in aid of the Trust.

Unfortunately, we still face major challenges in the fight against poverty, inequality, and social exclusion across the city. The pandemic also cast these into sharp light and made us consider how we could reach and help our citizens in different ways.

Now, perhaps more than ever, the OCT and the organisations it supports are key to supporting our communities as we move forward. From Edinburgh Interfaith Association breaking down cultural barriers, to Fresh Start Pantry providing low-cost nutritious and healthy food to tackle holiday hunger and many more we are committed to helping our residents through these difficult times.

I would encourage anyone reading this to consider the ways that they can contribute whether that be through donations, community benefit partnerships, volunteering or spreading the word of the Trust and its affiliates.

I’d like to thank everyone who has supported and been involved in the activities of the OCT in the last twenty years.

Last Friday (August 25) it was a real privilege to host a civic reception at the City Chambers to mark twenty years since the establishment of the OCT. The event was attended by former Lord Provosts of the City of Edinburgh, partner organisations, key supporters, and other distinguished guests.

We were lucky enough to hear from a range of truly inspiring speakers who have been involved in the Trust over the years, and those who continue to undertake excellent work in the fight against poverty, inequality, and social exclusion here in Edinburgh. We heard a powerful speech from representatives of Jock Tamson’s Gairden at Duddingston Loch who are dedicated to providing an inclusive community garden that is open to all. Indeed, the famous phrase ‘We’re a’ Jock Tamson’s bairns’ perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the OCT and its goals.

We also heard about the work of the Edinburgh School Uniform Bank who make sure our schoolchildren are properly clothed regardless of circumstances. I continue to be inspired by the ways in which the Capital’s community groups look out for one another in these difficult times. Groups like these truly reflect the very best qualities of the individuals who make up our city.

Another highlight of the evening was hearing from Dr Jim McCormick, Chief Executive of the Robertson Trust, and former Chair of the Edinburgh Poverty Commission (2018-2020). This reminded us to remember the need for humanity, respect, and decency at the heart of every experience of poverty, inequality, and social exclusion. Each individual that we can help in Edinburgh is an important victory.

I’d also like to thank our partners Travis Perkins and the Edinburgh International Conference Centre for generously sponsoring the reception.

As Lord Provost my duty is first and foremost to the people of Edinburgh and I am committed to helping them in any way that I am able. I look forward to seeing the Trust continue its work in the next twenty years and beyond, and it is my sincere hope that we will be able to make a strong and lasting difference for our most vulnerable residents.

Lothian is delighted to introduce a new group of first-year apprentice engineers to the company’s highly-regarded Engineering Apprentice training programme.

The public transport operator welcomed eight new apprentice engineers onto their four-year training course, underpinning Lothian’s investment in bringing through and developing home-grown talent.

Throughout their apprenticeship, the team of trainee engineers will be supported by the company’s dedicated Training and Apprentice Manager and wider engineering management team within Lothian’s garages to develop their practical skills through on-the-job training.

Colin Barnes, Engineering Director for Lothian, said: “At Lothian, we understand the importance and value of helping develop technical skills for our industry.

“Our apprenticeship programme allows our trainees to draw from the experiences of our dedicated engineering team and receive vital on-the-job training to help ensure their skills are well-rounded.

“We are delighted to be able to welcome another group of apprentices into the business this year and I’m sure they will go on to have successful careers within the company while helping to futureproof Lothian for years to come.”

Through the modern apprenticeship, apprentices will train in all aspects of bus and coach repair and maintenance including vehicle servicing, MOT preparation, removal, replacement and overhaul of major components and electrical fault diagnostics.

Working in partnership with Glasgow Training Group, apprentices are also given fantastic opportunities to develop their skillset in a modern, purpose-built training centre and at the end of their training, participants will achieve either an SVQ in Bus and Coach Mechanical/Electrical or SCQF Level 6 in Bus and Coach Body Cladding.

In the last 10 years, Lothian has trained over 120 apprentices with the majority of them still currently working at the company. With these new additions, Lothian now has 24 apprentices in training.