ISSUE 335 FEB 2012 Your FrEE CommunitY nEwspapEr

Were back!
local workers, schoolchildren and centre members turned out in force to celebrate the occasion. The afternoon was packed with activities a royal Scottish national orchestra ensemble entertained guests and there was a presentation and short film (thirty hours edited down to five minutes!) presented by roberta Blaikie of the old Centres History Group. Councillor Maclaren also presented certificates of achievement to local children and members of the management committee who have successfully completed their reHiS Food and Hygiene Training, enabling them to assist in the buildings caf. Guided tours of the building were also provided for guests to see the superb new facilities the centre for themselves. royston Wardieburn Community learning and Development worker allan Hosey said: our new building was designed by architect Paul Grierson and we are all very excited about the opportunities the new centre will provide. The ideal situation will be the under-fives in the soft play area, their older siblings in arts and Crafts, a parent in the computer class with the other parent in the sports hall while Granny is attending the Community Councils public meeting in the big meeting room on the first floor! With the space available in the new building that model of utilising most of the centre is possible and, with careful programming, will certainly be achievable. our full programme started in January so please come along and see what this exciting new community space has to offer. Congratulations to everyone involved with the opening of royston Wardieburns new community centre and heres to another successful 45 years!

New Year, new NEN!

Hello again; its been a wee while but were delighted to be back! As you know, The NEN was forced to cease publishing last March after our funding was cut. Since then, we have kept The NEN alive through our on-line blog and have been working hard to get the paper up and running again. We know how much your community newspaper means to you, youve told us! Now, after months of planning and preparation, were back at the heart of the North Edinburgh community once again. We have many people to thank for making this possible:

Councillor Marilyne MacLaren and Joan Turner with brass accompaniment

The doors are OPEN!

Education Leader opens Royston Wardieburn
CounCillor Marilyne MaClaren unveiled a plaque to formally open the new royston Wardieburn Community Centre on 16 January. Cllr. Maclaren said the fantastic new centre is a major achievement and she praised the efforts of the local community for creating a centre it can be proud of. The education, Children & Families leader said: This is a very exciting day. as you all know a new community centre for royston Wardieburn has been on the to do list of the Council for many, many years and i am really pleased that despite the financial challenges we have faced we have delivered this fantastic new centre for the community. She went on: you will remember that original plans for the new centre were to build at royston School, but when i came into post and talked to you it was clear that you didnt want that you really wanted the new centre to be built here, as this is neutral ground that allows the people of the different neighbourhoods particularly the young people to come together. That seemed to me to make perfect sense, so the opening
VISIT OUR WEBSITE
by DAVID PICKERING

of this new building today is a major achievement of the local community. you told me what you wanted and we have made it happen, so well done to all of you for sticking with that commitment.

building has all that the old building had and much, much more a sports hall, state of the art computer suite, games room, caf area and meeting rooms large and small. Theres also ample accommodation upstairs for

Edinburghs Telford College kindly provided us with a work station and a base to operate from their support has been invaluable. Alan Lennon from Lennon Design, assisted with designing and laying out the new look NEN we hope you like it. Scotmid, who have generously sponsored this, our relaunch issue. This financial support is hugely appreciated and most welcome. NEN Board members past and present, who have worked so hard to keep The NEN alive. And finally, YOU the North Edinburgh community, our loyal readers, advertisers and contributors. This is your paper and we couldnt produce it without you.

Royston Wardieburn is a special place for so many people with a lot of happy memories
The original royston Wardieburn Community Centre opened in 1965 and, not unnaturally, the building in Pilton Drive north was showing its age after over forty-five years of constant use. over recent years the Centres management committee has campaigned tirelessly to get their building replaced and now at last after many ups and downs along the way the superb new centre is open for business for the whole community to enjoy. centre staff, the Stepping Stones team and local Community learning and Development workers.

A dream come true

The opening of the building is a dream come true for the centres chairperson Joan Turner. after watching a short documentary about the history of royston Wardieburn she said: royston Wardieburn is a special place for so many people with a lot of happy memories. if the new Centre is even half as successful as the old centre has been i think we will all be well pleased. it was certainly a day to remember at royston Wardieburn and community activists, politicians,
INSIDE

So much more
Royston Wardieburn is the first new centre to open in north edinburgh since Muirhouse Millennium Centre opened in august 2000. The new

We hope youll enjoy this issue and will continue to support your community newspaper in the months ahead. Weve missed you and its so good to be back again!
The NEN Board

www.northedinburghnews.co.uk

LOCAL NEWS / YOUR VIEWS / USEFUL INFORMATION / THE COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

Your FrEE CommuNiTY NEwspapEr

WelCoMe BaCk to your North Edinburgh News (NEN). After months of

The NEN Board: Martin Hinds (Chair) Cathy Ahmed Pam Barnes Willie Black Thomas Brown Ann Confrey Alex Dale James Thomson Eddie Thorn Tina Woolnough (until January 2012) Contributors: Active Schools Thomas Brown CORE Tony Delahoy Dunedin Canmore Housing Association Edinburghs Telford College Granton Information Centre Granton Primary School Living Well North Edinburgh North Edinburgh Childcare North Edinburgh Fights Back Oaklands School David Pickering Pilton Community Health Project Pilton Equalities Project Tenants & Residents in Pilton (TRIP) Volunteer Centre North Edinburgh Waterfront Churches Design: www.lennondesign.co.uk Distribution: Premier Delivery Edinburgh Printed by: quotemeprint

And a special thanks to scotmid, sponsors of our relaunch edition

The NEN Board issues the following Editorial Policy in each edition and welcomes comments from NEN readers

work to secure alternative funding and facilities we are proud to be able to deliver the first edition of your revamped and revitalised community newspaper. Your support has been invaluable in keeping up our spirits and spurring us on despite several delays and obstacles, without it the Board would have been tempted to throw in the towel at the closure of the Crewe Road office. Produced with sponsorship from Scotmid, the help and hard work of local residents and the advertising revenue from local businesses; this first issue aims to catch up on recent news, events and activities from throughout the Forth, Inverleith and Almond Wards. Some of the news items may be a few weeks old but we think they are still relevant and provide a round up of the key issues and updates on what is happening in your area. NEN has served the North Edinburgh area for over 30 years. It is a locally owned and managed organisation, which has charitable status and is also a company limited by guarantee. The NEN Board of Directors/Trustees is made up of people who live or work in the local area and give up their time to support the organisation without remuneration. The board currently comprises 8 members, details of whom can be found on the inside front cover Our aim is to produce a positive and informative community newspaper both in conjunction with, and for, the residents of North Edinburgh. We can only do this with your continued help and support. You are the ones that can make sure that the NEN truly reflects your area, your issues and your successes. So send in your news, photographs, along with details of your events and activities so that we can share the good and the not so good with your neighbours. If you have an opinion let us know and we will try to generate a debate. If you have a question ask and we will try to answer it, if you have a concern share it and we will try to ensure it is addressed. Your local roving reporter Dave Pickering is back on the team and looking forward to hearing from you. However with reduced funding and a skeleton staff (yes it is just Dave) he would appreciate you writing up the bones (sorry) of your story and sending in your own photos if you can. Articles and photos should be sent in by email wherever possible but Dave is happy to talk you through and help you edit and shape the article for publication if you need him to. Dont forget to include the names of people and places in your photographs and if you provide a quote please include the name and position of the person quoted. The NEN needs your advertising revenue to fund printing and distribution costs. Advertising in the NEN ensures that details of your products, services, events and activities are delivered direct to the door of potential customers and service users and available free to pick up at central points in surrounding areas. As a not for profit publication our rates are reasonable and you are supporting a community resource. Deadline for providing content to go into the second issue is Friday, 24th February. Contact Dave or a member of the board if you have something to share.

To produce a fair, interesting, positive, informative and independent community newspaper To increase community awareness and understanding of regeneration activities To promote the North Edinburgh area in a positive way, both locally and nationally To cover local campaigns and initiatives in a positive way To cover any negative issues brought to our attention by local people/groups, but highlight any positive responses/campaigns being initiated to address any such problems To counteract negative publicity from other media sources, by providing a positive/local angle on the story To include articles from local contributors, either groups or individuals To use the letters page as a forum for topical debate, fair and free speech for local people/group To use the letters page as a forum for free speech, allowing criticism of issues, but ensuring individuals are protected from personal attack To ensure all articles are balanced and that any person or group in the article is given the opportunity to present their side of the story/argument To implement/resolve any suggestions, criticisms etc (where appropriate to local issues) made at editorial forums To promote local businesses and organisations To ensure NEN remains apolitical Any letter or article which the Board or Editor consider libellous will not be published The factual content of any letter will be checked and if the facts cannot be verified the letter will not be published

Licketyspit
At the heart of Scottish communities since 1859

Lets work together to make a real difference

Scotmid supports a variety of community initiatives especially those that concentrate on children, education, community groups, active lifestyles, health promotion, the arts, the elderly and fair trade. If your community project falls into one of these categories we would like to hear from you. All requests for support should be sent in writing allowing eight weeks for consideration - to: Patricia Edrington, Membership & Community Manager Email: pedrington@scotmid.co.uk Post: Hillwood House, 2 Harvest Drive, Newbridge, EH28 BQJ Why not visit our website to see what kind of events and projects we have supported. www.scotmid.coop

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Please have your copy to us by 12 noon on Fri 24th February for inclusion in next months edition, out in March

CraiGroySTon nurSery and P1 children are taking part in lickety leap, an exciting new interactive theatre project for early years Children. licketyspit Theatre Company is based at north edinburgh arts, where the group has performed a number of popular shows. lickety leap is their first totally interactive show and is performed with small groups. a memorable and enjoyable experience for the children, it has a big impact on their developing confidence, social skills, ability to work together and problem solving. This group was great for the kids. My daughter loved it and when we saw everything the kids had done their faces showed just how much they loved it. its great how it gets the kids imagination going - Caitlins Mum Lickety Leap is a fun-filled and exciting project which children, parents and staff have enjoyed; it allows children to be actively involved in a fun adventure to find their hearts desire Craigroyston staff licketyspit has been funded to deliver lickety leap across Scotland and it all began here in North Edinburgh!

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Let there be light!

DrylaW TelForD CoMMuniTy CounCil is to raise concerns over the quality of recently-introduced lamp standards across the area. Community councilors believe that the new streetlights are not powerful enough and do not light pavements adequately, and the group plans to raise safety concerns at forthcoming neighbourhood Partnership meetings. The city council embarked on a rolling programme of replacing street lights last year, but community council members believe the new lights are not as effective as the older lamp standards they are replacing. Community councillor Jackie Brown also manages Drylaws rainbow Daycare Centre for older people, and she says members are feeling less safe at night as a result of the lighting replacement programme. The new lights are lower and less powerful so dont shed nearly as much light. older members of the community are feeling vulnerable. Some of them are carrying torches so that they can see where to put the key in the door lock when they get home, while some others are avoiding going out altogether when it gets dark. its not only older people who are affected by the new lights, though lots of people are not happy with the new lights. The city council is introducing the new units to reduce cost, energy use and light pollution. in october the councils Planning Committee approved a draft version of the edinburgh lighting Strategy for consultation and the closing date for comments was 31 December. Drylaw Telford Community Council has formally responded to the consultation and also plans to raise concerns at future meetings of inverleith neighbourhood Partnership and the local Clean, Green and Safe action group.

New career in childcare?

Want to work with children? The Childcare Academy could be for you! North Edinburgh Childcare is recruiting students for a free childcare training course. Participants can gain SVQ qualifications that can help you gain employment in the childcare sector.

For further information on the course, which starts on 27 February, call NEC Training Coordinator Barbara Webster on 311 6926.

Oaklands supports cancer charity

What do you think of the new street lights? Let us know!

Moving Edinburghs transport forward

by LESLEY HINDS

Oaklands Schools fantastic festive show A magical Christmas Dream raised 317 for macmillan Cancer Support. Collecting a cheque at a special school assembly last month, macmillans Jayne Forbes told the Oaklands children: We are really grateful for your support we couldnt do our work without your help. Thank you so much.

Weekend Drama at St. Serfs

St. Serfs Church Halls on Clark road is the venue for Scottish Community Drama Associations One Act Festival this month. With four plays on Friday 17th and three more on Saturday 18th theres a feast of drama for everyone to enjoy and you can vote for your favourite performance too. Tickets, price 8 per evening or 14 for both nights, are available from Elliot Clark florist in montagu Terrace and may also be bought on the door on the night performances start at 7pm.

Community anger
over Drylaw pensioner attack
A 35 YEAr OlD mAN has appeared in Court over the alleged assault of Drylaw pensioner Evelyn Crawford earlier this month. 75-year old Evelyn is now recovering at home following serious injuries sustained during the 15 January attack in Groathill road North. Evelyn Crawford is a much-loved figure in the local community. A Drylaw Parish church elder and a willing helper at Girl Guiding and youth clubs, she has also been an enthusiastic member of Drylaw Telford Community Council for many years. Her dedication to her community was rewarded in 2007 when she was awarded the community councils Thomas Tierney Award for Good Citizenship. News of the attack on a much-loved local pensioner left the community stunned. A spokesman for Drylaw Telford Community Council said: We are all shocked and sickened at this news. So many people know and like Evelyn put simply, you couldnt meet a nicer or more

eDinBurGHS eConoMy, and population, continues to grow. The Capital remains Scotlands powerhouse, but this brings its own difficulties. One of our biggest priorities and challenges is to address the citys transport needs and, at the same time, make our streets safer and care for the environment. Not easy! People have different views motorists want more and cheaper parking; pedestrians want safe and pleasant streets; cyclists want more cycle paths; and bus users want more frequent buses and more bus lanes. The current Vision for Transport is aimed at achieving the greenest, healthiest and most accessible transport system in northern europe. Can all these competing aims be reconciled? Since taking over as labours Transport spokesperson, i have been keen to get the thoughts of people regarding the pluses and minuses of edinburghs transport issues and how we can take things forward. This is particularly important for edinburgh labour as we develop our manifesto for the 2012 local government elections. We all have strong views on the Trams, but what about buses, cyclists, pedestrians and so on? With this in mind, i recently organised a well-attended, consultative meeting for anyone interested in the lifecare centre in Stockbridge. The meeting split into groups to discuss these issues and after some healthy debate, the following top priorities emerged:

Call 225 5952 for more information on the One Act Festival.

Cycling RULES
Register it UV mark it Lock it Electronically tag it Secure it

Good quality roads and pavements are needed We need to coordinate work by utility companies to minimise disruption a re-assessment of bus routes is needed We need to speed up buses and reduce stopping times 20 mph zones need to be extended a Public Transport Forum, open to everyone, is required

other interesting points included: utilising the south suburban railway for trams; pedestrianize Princes St; integrate bus ticketing (an Oyster-type card?); introduce workplace charging to raise money for public transport. In all there were over 60 suggestions! all in all i was greatly impressed by the enthusiasm and knowledge of everybody who attended the meeting and i got lots of useful ideas. if any readers have any views on transport matters, i welcome them. i can be contacted as follows:

Cycle theft is a real pain, so lothian and Borders Police are offering cyclists the opportunity to make things tougher for thieves at two sessions this month. You can get your bike registered and UV marked for 5, or registered, UV marked and electronically tagged for 16 at West End Police Station on 14 February from 12 2pm, or at Gayfield Police Station from 12 2pm on 23 February.

helpful person. She is now recovering at home after her ordeal but she is understandably still very shaken. We send Evelyn our heartfelt best wishes for a full recovery and we hope to see her out and about in the community again soon.

Email: Lesley.hinds@edinburgh.gov.uk Phone: 07778 413 792 You can also follow me on Twitter - @LAHinds

A limited number of bikes will be registered and marked for free, so arrive early to avoid missing out!

www.northedinburghnews.co.uk

A Charter is Born!
loCal CaMPaiGninG GrouP north edinburgh Fights Back, in conjunction with the STuC and the edinburgh TuC, held a very successful anti-Poverty conference last november in Craigroyston Community High School. The conference attracted 140 delegates and activists from across Scotland, who pledged to take up the question of poverty and inequality in our society. The work done in seven workshops laid the basis for an anti-Poverty Charter which will bring Trade unions and community organisations into action to demand a major attack on poverty and inequality. at the conference, local campaigner Sara Martin spoke about two types of poverty. There are two types of poverty, absolute poverty and relative poverty. Many people in Scotland go without things like a holiday, sending children on school trips and getting new shoes when they need them but there are also people who have to choose between heating and food. There was an opening session with powerful contributions from a range of campaigners and the conference workshops covered the following areas: fight for. For those who were at college the cuts in courses and the educational maintenance allowance were having a real effect on peoples ability to attend college. The young people gave a commitment to campaign and unite with others to build their part of the Charter.

Pensioners and poverty

The pensioners workshop didnt hang about, they went right into the effects of poverty and how to combat this scourge. From the abolition of VaT on fuel, the removal of telephone line rentals, expansion of the meals on wheels service, to demand major improvements in the care of the elderly, from care in the home to demands for transport to enable pensioners mobility and a demand for local organisations to be funded to provide essential local services. They were clearly fired up to fight on these Charter demands.

needs of millions of people living in poverty. a leading expert and campaigner, Stirling Howieson, gave a brilliant talk on how we could, right now, eradicate fuel poverty and provide houses for everyone. in north edinburgh and beyond where housing is to be built, proper insulated and affordable housing is one of the Charter demands. Tackling the energy companies and their greed was spoken about and campaigning plans were drawn up.

our local services here in edinburgh. Many ideas on how we could defeat privatisation that were discussed in this workshop have been carried out and having been put into action have been proved successful in defending local services and jobs. The Charter will continue this campaign against privatisation when it is launched in March/april of this year.

Help to build and launch the Charter

a draft of the Charter will be completed by the end of February and circulated for comments and further contributions to the Charter are to be gathered from the disabled community, from health groups and from tenants and residents groups. The Charter will then be ready for a March/ april launch. Conference participants were very happy with the day and what we achieved. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming with wonderful food from the Mosque kitchen and Barri Grub and music during the break from the Scots Music Group. Most of all the huge success of the day was down to the hard work and involvement of lots and lots of local people, too many to name, who welcomed activists from all over Scotland to a great day in Pilton.

The Living Wage Campaign and Employment Rights

This workshop heard that over 14,000 workers in edinburgh were now covered from the Scottish Parliament to the City of edinburgh Council by the living Wage agreement. This successful campaign will be included in the Charter and the fight to achieve this and protection in law for workers was seen as an important part of the fight against poverty.

Women and poverty

after a passionate and informative talk on the effect of poverty on women from the speaker, Sacha Callaghan, many examples were given from local women of how poverty was affecting them. it was clear that poverty affects millions, the impact on women in general is much greater and the Charter will reflect this inequality and the workshop again pledged to campaign around the Charter.

Tackling Racist attitudes

This workshop included local and national organisations fighting to unite people against the divisive impact of racist attitudes in communities and workplaces. it was felt that maximum unity was required if we were going to be successful in implementing the Charter and creating the necessary campaigning to achieve it.

Young People and Poverty

The cuts are creating massive unemployment among young people and the young people at this workshop were extremely angry about the effects of cuts and poverty on their lives. They gave examples of the lack of jobs through apprenticeships or other job opportunities and agreed this was something that they pledged to

Social Housing and Fuel Poverty

The requirement for a huge expansion and building of social housing and the tackling of fuel poverty is one of the most pressing

Challenging Privatisation and Education Cuts

it was no surprise that this session gave up its time to talk about the attempts to privatise

North Edinburgh Fights Back has a Facebook page and a web-site and regular meetings/public meetings. These meetings will be advertised on the above sites and in the North Edinburgh News. All are welcome to be part of this fight back.

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Broughton Gymnastics Festival is huge success

last months gymnastics festival at Broughton High School was a tremendous success, with children from across the city performing to a full house. Among those taking part were Broughtons City of Edinburgh Display Team, Castlebrae, Stockbridge, Broughton High, Corstorphine, Forrester High, Flora Stevenson, Ferryhill and Pentland schools and the City of Edinburgh Gym Club Display Team staged a fantastic finale. Jude Salmon, Active Schools Coordinator for the Broughton cluster, said: The first Inter City Gymnastics Festival was a non competitive display event, where all Edinburgh schools who take part in extra curricular gymnastics programmes came together to perform routines to showcase their skills. ActiveSchools worked in partnership with Activcity, City of Edinburgh Gymnastics Club and Edinburgh leisure to introduce this all inclusive event to provide a platform to encourage long term participation in gymnastics and physical activity. The event brought together children of all levels and abilities to perform a short routine to their friends, families and peers and were all delighted that the event went so well.

Stop dividing our communities

by THOMAS BROWN

laST MonTH Muirhouse and Salvesen Community Council launched their campaign to stop the Council closing paths that lead from Muirhouse into Silverknowes eastway. The petition was launched following a public meeting organised by the Davidsons Mains Silverknowes association where they have requested the Council look to close off these public footpaths. as well as closing off the footpaths the Council are also looking at installing up to twelve CCTV monitors in private houses, two of which will be linked to the City in View system which will allow the Police to monitor them at a cost of 4,800.00. The public meeting was attended by over two hundred residents from Silverknowes following a spate of vandalism and an increase in anti social behaviour. natalie Hoy, neighbourhood Manager for the West of the City, was in attendance along with ruth Stanley from the North Office, local Politicians and representatives from the Police. it was agreed that the Closure of the access points from Muirhouse was the most important consideration in trying to solve these problems and according to the Davidsons Mains Silverknowes association website there was an assurance this would proceed as quickly as possible Since then the Council has undertaken consultation with local people to gather their views about the issues in the area and locals had until the end of January to respond. This is a move, which has angered the Muirhouse and Salvesen Community Council and their Chairperson, roy Douglas said We are disgusted to learn that residents of Silverknowes (who are technically part of Forth Ward) want to close public access footpaths. These footpaths are part of Muirhouse and lead into a newish housing complex that is part of Muirhouse and the Forth Ward. no Berlin Wall should be allowed to be built between Communities in this day and age. These paths are used by our school children to get to school safely away from busy main roads and are used by people to access local shops and bus routes. We are also disgusted to learn what Police resources have been used and how much is being spent in response to the residents of Silverknowes eastway complaints. according

to a Police representative who attended our meeting said reports have been minor incidents, a smashed window, car keying. in other areas of the Forth Ward they happen every other day. We acknowledge that there is a youth issue in parts of Muirhouse but with the involvement of our local professional youth agencies which have great success in engaging with local youth in resolving such issues, and we feel that resources should be given to them.

Creating a wall of division...

if the Council allow such division in communities where does the equality and Diversity policies for our city stand? Peter Strong did apologise that our Community Council was not informed but he should hang has head in shame for allowing another neighbourhood Partnership to become involved in the affairs of the Forth Ward. We are heading up to a local election and councillors of an adjoining ward want to scare monger and get support to the splitting up of communities and get votes for their parties. leave our Community alone, do not create more problems with a wall of division. our Community Council have circulated petitions for residents of Muirhouse to become aware of this

Voices in the community

inspector John Cooper from lothian and Borders police said The main issues are youths passing through Silverknowes to congregate in the Davidsons mains area and this has lead to a number of minor vandalisms such as car windows being smashed and cars being scratched. at this moment in time we have not been asked to provide any evidence to suggest that closing these paths will resolve the problems currently being experienced. over the past few months we have had undertaken a variety of tasks to identify these youths and this has included increased patrols in the area as well as the use of the CCTV van which has been located in the are for the past few weeks.

natalie Hoy the West neighbourhood manager said To be very clear the Council and Police committed to commissioning a environmental Survey of the area using Safer by Design which is an accredited and recognised tool for assessing environmental factors in a local area, this survey is carried out by colleagues in lothian and Borders Police. The Council has committed to offering CCTV provision in domestic properties in the area affected and to explore the Silverknowes Community representatives idea that he would like to see further cameras purchased, no cameras have been purchased and these discussions have commenced this week. Significant work is already underway with young people in both the north and West looking at positive engagement and diversion, action will be taken in cases where this is appropriate jointly in partnership with our Police colleagues however we recognise that the vast majority of young people themselves want to live in a safe community. almond Councillor kate Mackenzie said There have been lots of issues in and around the Silverknowes area caused by young people passing through. These issues have been mainly vandalism and local people have had enough of it. i am unaware what, if any, work has done been to engage with the young people that are causing this problem. local Councillor Cammy Day said i was made aware of the issues in Silverknowes eastway, and a public meeting held in almond ward regarding a few incidents that had taken place. Silverknowes eastway is in the Forth Ward, and i was surprised not be invited to attend. its important that we take this in perspective, and we take appropriate action to respond positively to any acts of vandalism or anti social behaviour. i would be keen to have our community safety team and youth street work teams engage with the young people involved for a positive resolution. a meeting of local representatives is to be arranged later this week to agree a course of action.

The NEN would be interested in hearing your views.Write to the editor - details on page 2

www.northedinburghnews.co.uk

Greenhouse garden
in West Pilton
iMaGine a community garden in West Pilton growing fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs for everyone to enjoy. Come along and get involved helping build and plan the wee garden. Do you like gardening or want to learn? residents in West Pilton Brae looking out onto the grassland will be the first people involved deciding what the garden could look like and what to grow. i went door to door last year asking some of the residents views on having a community garden area growing fruit and veg, and what the grassland behind the greenhouse is currently used for. Some of the older residents remembered allotments in the area that were demolished during redevelopment, and most folk i spoke to like the idea and could see the benefits of food on their doorstep but were a bit worried about vandalism. Dog walkers use the open space so just a bit of the grassland would be used for a garden. none of the woodland surrounding would be touched as the local kids play in it and it is a beautiful landscape feature. The garden could provide an opportunity for young and old to get together in a healthy fun environment, learning where food comes from seed to plate. The local schools could
by KIRSTY SUTHERLAND

visit and work there as could local equalities groups. Seasonal gluts in crops could be used for cooking classes and sharing of recipes. and people living in flats without a garden could share the growing space those with gardens could swap plants and gardening advice. Tenants and residents in Pilton meet monthly in West Pilton neighbourhood Centre, giving anyone living locally a chance to voice their opinion and be involved with the community garden. We have obtained permission from the council to use part of the grassland for a community garden. a bit of money is available to buy ten fruit trees to start the garden and soft fruits like raspberries and strawberries would grow well. i will be going around the doors again to ask folk what they think and give anyone interested more information contact details are below. i like the gardening quote: Gardening requires a lot of water, most of it in the form of perspiration! Please get involved and help fight food poverty we could transform the grassland into a sheltered oasis!

ung Hei Fat Choy from Granton!

GrANTON PrImArY SCHOOl is celebrating the Olympics in style this year. The whole school has been split into six countries, with each group learning something of the language and culture of their chosen nation. last month the Chinese students to showcase what theyve learned and the children staged a special event to celebrate the Chinese New Year at the school. The children have been working with meryl James, who coordinates the Confucius Classroom Hub for Chinese Studies at St. Georges School, and the kids have certainly learned a lot as they brought a flavour of China to Granton with their special event. Parents and classmates participated in calligraphy, fan making and mastered the art of eating with chopsticks at the 27 January showcase. There was also an opportunity to make their own personal wish for the world, and sumptuous Chinese cuisine, too, prepared by the Granton parents and served up in the schools very own Chinese restaurant! This being the Year of the Dragon, the Granton kids also marked the Chinese New Year with their very own Dragon Dance. Visitors to the exhibition were very impressed. P2 pupil Hamish perhaps summed it up best: I think this is awesome! he said!

For further information, visit www. piltonresidents.org.uk

Throughout Scotland & Northern England

Engaging Communities

Call to Granton gardeners

The Granton Community Gardeners now have a Tuesday morning gardening club. We meet at 10.30 at the Salvation Army building on Wardieburn Drive for a cup of tea and to pick up tools. Then (weather permitting) we go to work on the community gardens at either end of Wardieburn Road. All very welcome! You dont need to know anything about gardening to join in. For more information and updates you can now follow us on Facebook at http://tinyurl.com/grantoncommunitygardeners

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All the latest news from

Edinburghs Telford College

Jennifer Kelly, Community Liaison Officer, gives a review of North Edinburgh focused activities the college has achieved since September 2011
For THe SeConD ConSeCuTiVe year our annual Higher education Graduation celebration was held in September in the Hub at the heart of edinburghs Telford College. a wonderful evening was had by staff, students and invited guests, including key members of the north edinburgh community. Graduands were piped in and entertained by singing, dancing and speakers including the College Principal Miles Dibsdall oBe, and guest of honour, comedienne and television presenter Jenny clair. looking at the stormy weather we have been having, it is hard to believe that it was only a couple of months ago we welcomed 4,000 local residents onto the Forthquarter Park for the third north edinburgh Community Festival. The day was a great success, and Telford staff and students worked alongside several community partners to provide a free day of food, fun, information and entertainment for what is now a popular annual event. Gala Day will be held on Saturday 29th of September 2012 by the way put the date in your diary now! The Forth neighbourhood Partnerships Public Meeting was given an employability focus in october and the College hosted a market place style event where local and city wide organisations offered information and help in job hunting, career development and education. People who came also heard a number of very informative presentations including an update from ken Shaw, Head of employability and Skills: City of edinburgh Council on current initiatives and how the city aims to support employability in this area with the local Forth neighbourhood Partnership and partners. The College is keen to support all of this in any way it is able to, and the past few months have seen Telford staff working closely with SaCro, Fairbridge, Citadel youth Centre, Four Square, Core, link living and WeaCT, Schools and Community learning and Development and others. There are many ways we can work together, including offering presentations, College visits and tours, providing information stands and staff at partner events, supporting Annual General Meetings (AGMs). This year we designed and produced annual reports for both Stepping Stones (North Edinburgh) and the Prentice Centre. We work with local schools and youth organisations including MyDG, Granton youth Centre and PyCP. We also welcomed parents and pupils from Craigroyston Community High School royal High School, leith academy and Trinity on 14th December, when the College hosted an Hn experience Conference . This was for S5 pupils from local schools, and gave them an ideal opportunity to get more information and advice on studying for a Higher National Certificate or Diploma (HNC/HND courses) in the future at college. The College was the location for the 2011 north edinburgh Waterfront Community Christmas Festival, which saw more than 150 students, employers and residents from the region attend the main Hub area of the Colleges Granton road campus and involved a range of activities including Christmas crafts,

One in three local children living in poverty

A rEPOrT published earlier this month says that nearly one in three children living in the Forth ward are living in poverty. The report shows that 13 Scottish councils have wards where more than 30% of children live in pockets of severe poverty, and campaigners are urging politicians to do much more to tackle this shameful social problem. The Campaign to End Child Poverty has produced a map of child poverty for every ward, council and constituency in the country. Scottish members of the Campaign to End Child Poverty include Action for Children Scotland, Barnardos Scotland, Child Poverty Action Group in Scotland, Children 1st, the Church of Scotland, One Parent Families Scotland, Poverty Alliance and Save the Children. The map classes children as living in poverty if they are in families on out of work benefits or work tax credits where income is less than 60% of median before housing costs. The Campaign to End Child Poverty said the latest official figures showed that overall in Scotland 20% of children live in poverty on this measure. In Edinburgh, Sighthill/Gorgie shows the highest levels of poverty at 36%, followed by Forth (30%), Portobello/ Craigmillar (30%), leith (29%) and liberton/Gilmerton at 28%. Child Poverty Action Groups John Dickie, speaking on behalf of Scottish members of the campaign, said: It is shameful that in almost every part of our country there are children who are missing out and seeing their future life chances seriously harmed. With public spending budgets under severe pressure the need to invest to prevent the numbers of children living in poverty spiralling is greater than ever. A Scottish government spokeswoman said: We are determined to address the root causes of child poverty. Thats why last year we launched Scotlands first ever national strategy to tackle child poverty, which will see Scotlands poorest families benefit from help to increase their household incomes and improve their childrens life chances.

face painting and interactive entertainment. Festival visitors were also treated to a special performance of Christmas carols by children from Granton Primary School, which proved to be one of the biggest hits of the event. The Christmas festival, which is now in its fifth year, started life as a carolling service at edinburgh Telford Colleges Hub, but has since grown into a fully-fledged festival event and one of the most important dates on the community calendar.

Providing support
You can see that events are a significant part of our Community activities, but we also provide support and information to any individual person who is interested in coming to Telford College. We have regular drop-ins at the Community Renewal Project office in unit 13, 11 Pennywell Court and represent the College at a wide variety of schools and careers events across edinburgh and the lothians. Get on edinburgh, which links people up with the support they need to move forward in life and to work, is a service available within learner Services in the HuB on the ground floor of the college and members of the public are welcome to visit between 1 and 3pm on Wednesdays. We are proud that our students also make their mark in our local community. HnD student Michael kerrs project to produce signage for the Forthquarter development was selected as the winning submission by national Grid. Michael produced a fully integrated campaign which included logo development, direct mail, signage points, ambient advertising and digital designs for web and mobile. Students have been helping to spread some joy before Christmas by offering free haircuts to the Capitals homeless community. Twelve students and hairdressing staff from our SVQ2 Barbering class visited three of the Salvation armys centres at niddry Street, Cowgate and Ferry road and brought some festive cheer by offering free haircuts to men at the centres. Congratulations to

royston Wardieburn Community education Centre, whose new (impressive!) purpose built premises will provide a huge boost to the local area. representatives from over 25 north edinburgh organisations were welcomed by Centre staff on 7th December for an inaugural visit and positive discussion about joint working and future initiatives. The 2012 diary is filling up and we look forward to working with Pentland Community learning and Development, Forthview Primary School, West Pilton neighbourhood Centre, apex Scotland, and of course many others.

If any member of the Community would like to arrange a College visit, we can be contacted via the following link on our website: www.ed-coll.ac.uk/community/community_ support.aspx

And Finally...
as you will have heard in the local and national press, edinburghs Telford College has taken the decision to enter merger discussions with Jewel and esk College and Stevenson College edinburgh. The Governments white paper on post-16 vocational education makes clear its aim to refocus college provision so that it is more aligned with employer and community needs, jobs and growth. Telford has for several years collaborated successfully with its sister colleges across the City and the announcement will bring further positive developments and benefits especially for young people across edinburgh. The College is in a strong position thanks to the quality and commitment of its staff, the engagement with its students, the courses we offer and the quality of the college building and estate. With our partner colleges we will continue to provide an effective college sector in edinburgh. Barbara lawson, Head of External Liaison for the College, confirmed that Telford would keep members of its north edinburgh Community up to date on opportunities for consultation and outcomes from these developments.

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The NEN is your community newspaper so please put your pen to paper and tell us what you think, what you feel strongly about or what makes you angry. If you would like your letter to appear in the paper it must include your full name and address, although these may be withheld at your request. Send your letters to:- The Editor, North Edinburgh News, c/o Edinburghs Telford College, 350 West Granton Road, Edinburgh EH5 1QE

New Group for North Edinburgh

Dear editor are you a woman living in north edinburgh? Have you ever been in the situation where you didnt get the chance to say what you meant? Do you want to feel more confident in getting your point across? if the answer is yes, you might be interested in a new course being run by north edinburgh Womens Group and Forth Community learning & Development. The course will be based on peoples real life experiences and will help participants feel more confident about dealing with stressful situations, like DSS interviews, problems at school and health and housing issues. If youd like to find out more, meet new people, get out of the house or just a break from the kids, please come along to north edinburgh arts Centre for coffee and some information on Wednesday 22nd February from 9.30-11am. a free crche is available and wed love to see you there! Sara Martin (on behalf of the group)

Food Festival
Dear editor Welcome back NEN! We thought your readers would like to know that the first annual Yummy Food Festival will be held in Muirhouse on Friday 16th March at north Edinburgh Arts Centre (next to Muirhouse Library). a follow on from the yummy Mummy Community Cook Book, the Festival will have cooking demonstrations, farmers markets, free Zumba sessions, craft stalls, face painting, a bouncy castle and much, much more! The Festival will be a real celebration of all the healthy eating that happens in Muirhouse; put the date in your diary now and look out for more details nearer the time! For more information, call lisa arnott (Pilton Community Health Project, 551 1671) or Sarah Low (Community Learning & Development, 552 5700). Sammy Conquer
(Yummy Food Festival Steering Group)

Run for a reason

Dear editor Macmillan Cancer Support is urging people to look out their trainers and sign up for a run to support them this year. We are involved in several local running events including the kilomathon on 1 April, the Rock n Roll Half Marathon on 15 April and Macmillan are the official charity of the edinburgh Marathon Festival on 26 and 27 May. Participants in the kilomathon can take on 13.1km, 6.5km or 2.62km, making it the perfect race distance for those progressing from a 5km or 10km and a great opportunity for junior runners to participate in a fully chip timed race. The rock n roll Half promises lots of fun with a scenic course through the city and live music at every mile. running is a fantastic way to support Macmillan and with so many events to choose from, there really is one to suit everyone. knowing that every mile you cover is raising money for people affected by cancer will give you real motivation to keep going with your fitness programme. Whether youre taking part in your very first 5k or running your 50th marathon, well be with you every step of the way. We provide comprehensive training, nutrition and kit advice, as well as very simple ideas to raise money. all the money raised from the run will be used to fund Macmillans vital cancer services, from specialist nurses and doctors, to help and advice for people who have financial problems as a result of their cancer. For more information on taking on a run for Macmillan please contact Fundraising@macmillan. org.uk or 0300 1000 200. Jayne Forbes
Fundraising Manager Edinburgh Macmillan Cancer Support

Reprieve for Granton gasometer

THE SCOTTISH GOVErNmENT has rejected an appeal by National Grid over their proposal to demolish the B-listed Granton gasholder. The future of the 111 year old, 150 foot high structure has been in the doubt for four years, but last months decision means the local landmark is here to stay. National Grid announced their plans to demolish Grantons last remaining gasometer back in 2007. The group faced a 7 million repair bill to make the structure safe, and said that the gasometer was an obstacle to future development of the waterfront. Objectors, including Historic Scotland and the Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland, argued that the gasometer is an iconic landmark in Edinburghs industrial heritage. Edinburgh Councillors voted to reject National Grids proposals to demolish the structure in April 2010 but National Grid appealed against their decision. A public enquiry was announced in April last year, and last month the government finally came down on the side of the preservationists. The reporter said: With wit and imagination a restored structure might frame or support a variety of leisure or commercial applications.

Tricky, tricky Tories!

Dear editor Some examples of the tricky, tricky Tories: The Tories having failed to get a majority at the last election, but determined to exercise power, linked up with the liberals. This alliance was vulnerable in the House of Commons to a vote of no confidence to protect themselves they almost immediately changed the traditional vote of 50% plus 1 MPs to 55% voting against them. The raising of the retiring age sounds all right for those who want to work and are able to do so. now they are going to relax the rules for employers on hiring and firing, so the scene is set for firms to sack those whom they consider not up to it. The government changed from using the retail Price index to Consumer Price Index to measure inflation. Consumer Price Index is a lower indication of the effects of rising prices. Very little was mentioned of how this would drastically affect pensions. The attempt to sell off the nations woodland and other areas was defeated by huge public opposition, but we now have their intention to relax planning permission needed by developers. This gives them the green light to sidestep public opinion. The claim the nHS is safe in their hands is belied by their actions. They know a full scale attack on the NHS as a national public service will be fiercely resisted so their tactics are a series of so-called reforms and modernisation, farming services out to private companies whose interests are to make a profit why else would they be involved? They also make great play to convince people to accept the changes by saying treatment will still be free at the time of need, so there is no need to worry! But what level of treatment will be provided by these private companies? at the moment there are hundreds of examples of poor care and treatment by Home Care companies it does not inspire confidence in privatised medical treatment. The latest proposal to discharge large numbers of elderly people from hospital care to receive home care is a disaster, introduced to save money. The result will be untold suffering and despair endured by our most vulnerable citizens. is there no compassion felt by these proposers? This proposal will also mean a cutting of funds to individual hospitals, leading to a lower level of service for the locality just another step in breaking the nHS as a public service. The Tories and their allies are past masters at diverse tactics to achieve their ends. We must watch their moves with great care! A. Delahoy
Silverknowes Gardens

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BaCk Row L-R: Patrick Hannon, Michelle Lee, Caroline Pickering and Roddy Samson FRoNT: anne-Marie Henderson, Frances Durie (Vice-Chair) and annaLauren Packer

Search is on for Drylaws Citizen of the Year

DO YOU kNOW SOmEONE living in Drylaw or Telford who goes that extra mile to help their neighbours, or a local person who carries out outstanding voluntary or charity work? If so, Drylaw Telford Community Council would like to hear from you. The community council is seeking nominations for their annual Thomas Tierney Award for Good Citizenship. The community council set up the award in 2000 to commemorate the work of local activist Tam Tierney who died in 1999. As well as being a founder of Pilton Sporting Club and an enthusiastic member of Craigroyston Community Centre and Drylaw Neighbourhood Centres management committees over many years, Tam was also a great supporter of the local community council. Drylaw Telford decided that an annual award to encourage community activism and good citizenship would be a preferable legacy than a bench or commemorative plaque. The annual award has become the highlight of the community councils year certainly the biggest social event and the search is now on for a worthy recipient of the 2011 award. Henry macDonald (pictured) received the award last year and it was a case of keep it in the family as Henrys dad Harry was the very first winner of the award! said mike Clark, chair of Drylaw Telford Community Council. Nomination forms are going out now and we hope there will be a great response. Were sure that there are many people, young and not so young, doing good things in our community and we want to hear about them and recognise their achievements.

GIC is up to Standard
Granton Information Centre received the prestigious Scottish National Standards certificate for the quality of their information and advice provision at a reception at the City Chambers
GIC was the first Edinburgh organisation - and one of only a few advice agencies in Scotland - to achieve the award at this level, and their certificate was presented by Sheriff Principal edward T Bowen QC. The certificate presentation was the centrepiece of an event organised to celebrate the success of EHAP (Edinburgh Housing Advice Partnership), a consortium set up to provide housing advice services across the city in a contract with the city council. The consortium partners - Granton information Centre, Community Health and Information (CHAI), Move On and FourSquare offer a comprehensive range of housing advice services to the people of edinburgh. eHaP provides a prison outreach project, a schools peer education service for S4 and S5 school leavers, housing advice in local neighbourhood settings and also provides representation at court both for pre-prepared cases and also through an emergency first aid service for people who turn up at court without representation. The EHAP event offered an opportunity to reflect on what has been achieved so far and to look ahead to future challenges. Welcoming delegates, Councillor Paul Edie (Chair of the Health, Social Care and Housing Committee) said: Homelessness is something im very passionate about and im very proud of this councils record. in Scotland, we have an obligation to eradicating unintentional homelessness by 2012 not something that applies south of the border and i think thats a sign of what a progressive country Scotland is and how our social conscience reflects on public policy. He went on: This council has a very radical strategy to tackle homelessness, developed in partnership with our colleagues in the voluntary sector and rolled out over the last couple of years. Critical to that strategy has been the provision of good quality right first time housing advice to our service users. im really proud that last year homelessness dropped by 13% in edinburgh, and eHaP are very important players in that strategy. no less than 99% of people who have used eHaP have not subsequently gone on to present themselves as homeless thats a jaw-dropping statistic; in any walk of life if you get that level of satisfaction rating youd be entirely happy. id like to thank our eHaP partners for the great work they are doing to stop people losing their homes a terrible thing to happen to anyone and i wish you every success in the year ahead. prior to cases coming before the court system; providing there is a proper input by way of advice at an early stage, housing disputes can be resolved. The court needs to have confidence that suitable advice is available, so the service that eHaP provides is critical to the function of edinburgh Sheriff Court. Thats demonstrated by the figures eHaP has provided for 2010 -11. We are indebted to all those involved in providing the eHaP service, which is widely acknowledged to be highly effective, and it gives me great pleasure to recognise that expertise by the presentation of these certificates today.

Weve always known that people coming to Granton Information Centre will get the highest standard of independent advice available anywhere, but its nice to receive wider recognition
Courting success
one of Sheriff Principal Bowens responsibilities is to ensure the efficient dispersal of Sheriff Court business and he explained that, while criminal cases take up the bulk of time at the court, civil business including housing cases dealing with evictions and repossessions take up a considerable amount of court time. He said that many of these cases could and should be resolved before they ever reached court, but added that there was also a need for suitable advice provision when cases did come to court. a recent review found that there is a need for proper advice there remains a significant unmet need and the EHAP service is critical to providing assistance Frances Durie, vice-chairperson of Granton information Centre, received the award on the projects behalf. She said: This is a really tremendous achievement and a great honour for Granton information Centre. our staff have worked very hard over a long period to achieve the levels of professionalism that they have, and its good that this effort has been rewarded. Weve always known that people coming to Granton information Centre will get the highest standard of independent advice available anywhere, but its nice to receive wider recognition for the quality of our advice work.

Nomination forms will be available at community venues including Drylaw Parish Church and Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre over the coming days, and forms will also be available by email from community council secretary Ian Greenhalgh at ian@scotfloor.co.uk
Get those forms in soon! Closing date for nomination is 29 February 2012

For further information contact Fiona or Rebecca on 0131-552-0458

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News update from CORE

Since the last publication of NEN, CORE has been undertaking much work within the Black and Ethnic Minority (BME) community, and promoting the integration of all races within North Edinburgh

Volunteer Centre moves to Muirhouse

A NEW SIGN has recently appeared in the muirhouse shopping centre. After 2 years of working from the Granton Youth Centre building on Granton Square, Volunteer Centre Edinburgh North (VCEN) moved premises at the end of September and is now based at the Community Renewal office. VCEN brings the services of the Volunteer Centre to north Edinburgh, giving people advice about volunteering opportunities both locally and across the city and helping them to overcome barriers to volunteering. Senior Development Worker Nick Woodhead said: A lot of people who come to see me are looking for work and volunteering is a great way to gain experience, practice skills, improve their CV, get a reference. But others just want to help out and use their spare time usefully. Whatever the reason people can drop in and arrange a chat. Community renewal manager James riordan said: As an employability organisation, we have referred many clients to the Volunteer Centre over the last 2 years. Volunteering has helped many people get back to work. Its good to have him so close at hand!

inValuaBle BMe employability work continues to support local people to gain access to education, employment, volunteering and training opportunities in adults and young people. The organisation of recruitment workshops for the new Primark store in the City Centre was well received by Core clients, and these were well attended. Cores youth work also carries on with a basketball group running for 10-18 years olds on a Thursday between 7pm-9pm (in partnership with Pilton Youth and Childrens Project) and a Health and Wellbeing group for 10-14 year olds taking place at Fet lor youth Centre on Wednesdays from 4.30pm-6pm. in addition to these, Core is about to start an exciting new music-making group on Saturday 10th December called Soundkidz which will run in partnership with north edinburgh arts and edinburgh Mela. The group is mainly targeted at minority ethnic children in Primary 2 Senior 1 (split into two age groups) and will run at North Edinburgh Arts Centre on Saturday afternoons from 2.30pm-4.30pm. The group will focus on musicmaking and discovering different types of music. all of the groups aim to provide an environment where children and young people can have fun and accept others without judgment or discrimination. Through observation of the group and liaising with staff, the group is going very well and the feedback has been positive. By mixing young people we have broken down stereotypes and various barriers which would normally stop these young people mixing with other ethnicities.

Experiencing aspects of Scottish history

in addition to the ongoing work, Core has been busy planning and delivering an exciting project funded by Historic Scotland, which aims to ensure that local black and minority ethnic (BME) people are participating and experiencing the different aspects of the Scottish historic environment. as part of this project Core organised outings to Craigmillar Castle, Stirling Castle (pictured) and Edinburgh castle in the autumn which were all fully booked! These events went very well, with the following feedback from one participant: We really enjoyed our day, learned a lot and also met with other communities. We would definitely visit another historic site again and enjoy learning about the rich Scottish history. as a follow up to these outings, Core and Historic Scotland ran a seminar and training session in november to educate the community in the importance of visiting and protecting Scottish historical places and focus on Scottish historic buildings what and where they are and their functions. This was followed by our november World Caf event. The World Cafe continues to run on the last Friday of every month; our october event celebrated Black History Month with an excellent turn out of over 60 people (pictured). On the menu were flavours from Sudan, Mozambique, iran and italy which were enjoyed by all, with comments from customers including lovely place, nice food and friendly people and i had seconds! Delicious thanks! This was topped off by the presence of the university of edinburghs Drumming Society who demonstrated their fantastic musical abilities on the african drums throughout the evening, and even had the kids joining in!

If you are interested in finding out more about volunteering, drop into the Community Renewal office and ask to speak to Nick or phone 0131 629 4202.

The World Cafe aims to bring a diverse mix of local residents together to enjoy each others company in a social environment, while learning and embracing a variety of foods and cultures. november marked the World Cafes third anniversary, and with good attendance at the events it seems that it is successful in its goals. unfortunately we also have to deal with a number of issues impacting on the lives of minority ethnic communities, and Core has dealt with a number of racial and anti-social behavior cases in the north of edinburgh. one particular family has been suffering racial harassment from youths in the area. This has resulted in the father having to reduce his working hours as the rest of the family are scared to go out. The youngest child and mother now refuse to go out alone anywhere. Mother commented: Before all of this happened we were very happy in the area. The family was given the option of moving to temporary accommodation but because they had invested so much money in their home they did not want to start again elsewhere. Father called the police several times before any action was taken against the youths who were causing distress to all of the family. However the support provided subsequently by the police was great and we are pleased to say the situation has improved, although it has left the family feeling vulnerable.

For further information on any of COREs activities or for advice and support, call 0131 467 7990 or email admin@coregb.org.uk. Alternatively, you can stay up to date with current events by checking our website at www.coregb.org.uk or like us on Facebook.

Margo opens Maginnis Court

mArGO mACDONAlD MSP performed the official opening of Elizabeth Maginnis Court, Dunedin Canmores new housing development in royston mains Crescent last month. Developed in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council and the Scottish Government, the superb new facility contains 68 flats and a variety of communal facilities all designed around a central landscaped courtyard. Its a building the late Granton councillor would have been very proud of -Elizabeth maginnis Court provides flexible accommodation for older and vulnerable people; a group long very close to Elizabeths heart. margo macDonald was joined by Councillor Paul Edie (Convener of Health, Social Care and Housing), Councillor Eric milligan and Cardinal keith OBrien - long time friends of Elizabeths - all of whom paid moving tributes to the late local councillor who died three years ago. The maginnis family was well represented at the event, hosted by Dunedin Canmore chief executive Ewan Fraser, alongside city politicians, officials, community representatives and of course the new residents themselves. Sisters Jean and Grace and their pals Betty and rosemary joined the celebration and they all love their new homes. Its really lovely here - I wouldnt swop for anything! said rosemary. Betty agreed: It really is a smashing place - everyone feels very safe here. And Jean and Grace couldnt be happier. We love it here - its been worth the wait and we are so happy. And doubtless Elizabeth would have been very happy for them too!

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Whats happening with Barri Grubb

Barri GruBB is Pilton Community Health Projects food and health project. We have been out talking with local people and workers about what they want Barri Grubb to do. The food culture and environment has changed dramatically in the past 20 years and Barri Grubb needs to change also. There is lots of really good food work going on in the area. everyone had lots and lots of really good ideas about what we can all do to encourage people to eat better. We want to be working together to support food work to develop and to take advantage of the enthusiasm there is to be part of it. Barri Grubb have a new part-time development worker who alongside the Senior Development Worker will: initiate a community food forum to support partnership working around food and health in the Greater Pilton area Work with other organisations to develop food projects Deliver a programme of cooking classes and other education work over the next few months we will be producing a food map of the area, so please let us know if you run a lunch club or a cooking group or community caf or any other food related activity so we can include it. Well also be working with people in West Pilton to develop a food co-op. Get in touch with Jen or anita if you are interested - 551 1671.

Move It Project
Local Physical Activity Programme

Jan-Mar 2012

Mon

10.00-11.00am Zumba Gold Prentice Centre- Paced for Older Adults 2 1.30pm Health Walk -1-1hrs Various Locations - Transport available 7.15-8.15pm Step & Sculpt West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre - 1

Tues 11.30-12.30pm Tai Chi Royston Wardieburn Community Centre - 2

1.00-2.30pm Line Dancing Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre - 2 7.30-8.30pm Total Toning West Pilton NC - 1

The next meeting of the Community Food Forum is on Tuesday the 7th of February at 10:30am until 12 noon at the Muirhouse Millenium Centre please come along if you wish to be involved.

Weds 9.30-10.30am Zumba For Parents Drylaw Church With Supervised Play - 2 W I N T E R WA R M E R R E C I P E Thurs 10.00-11.00am Gentle Exercise Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre - 1.50

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil 1 medium onion peeled and diced 2 cloves garlic peeled and crushed 1 potato peeled and chopped Butternut squash peeled and diced 1 vegetable stock cube 2 tbsp chopped fresh coriander (optional)

Potato and butternut squash soup

4 Blend the vegetable mixture using a hand blender until smooth. Alternatively you can mash the mixture using a potato masher. 5 Stir in the optional fresh coriander, dilute with water if necessary. 6 Serve soup hot or cold.

1.45-2.45pm Zumba For Parents Royston Wardieburn Community Centre - 2 7.00-8.00pm Boxfit West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre - 1.50

Fri

9.30-10.15am Aquafit Craigroyston High School - 1.50 9am Health Walk 45min - 1hr Volunteer led walk various locations - Transport available 1.00-3.30pm Tea Dance West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre Last Friday of month - 2 Charge Transport available

Method
1 Heat oil in large saucepan, add onion, and garlic, cook until soft. 2 Add potato and butternut squash, stir and cook for 2 minutes. 3 Add seasoning and the stock cube, bring to the boil and reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes or until the potato is cooked. Like Pilton Community Health Project on Facebook for regular recipes and updates on our work.

For enquiries or to book transport/supervised play call Lianne Pipskyj, Move It Project Coordinator on 0131 551 1671 email liannepipskyj@pchp.org.uk
Pilton Community Health Project is a Charitable Company Limited by Guarantee. Registered In Edinburgh NO. 339435. Charity No. SC018460

LIVING WELL NORTH EDINBURGH

We believe that people should be seen as themselves rather than their mental health difficulties
Our services are for people 18+ who have mental health concerns and live in North Edinburgh. Activities we offer include Relaxation, Support Groups, Tai Chi, Crafts, Pottery and Drop In sessions. If youd like a copy of our Spring Programme or some more information about our services, please just give us a ring on 0131 343 6375 or email us at

livingwellnorthedinburgh.org.uk 5 West Pilton Park Edinburgh EH4 4EL

OPENING HOuRS:

Monday to Thursday 9am to 4 pm

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For Your Information:

Welfare, Finance and Housing Advice at Granton Information Centre

Crunch Time
LOW INCOME LOW ASSET BANkRUPTCY
Everyones feeling the squeeze at the moment due to the poor economic climate. As a result many people are finding that moneys so tight that they are struggling to pay their debts. At Granton Information Centre were seeing more and more people asking about bankruptcy as a solution. Personal bankruptcy (known as sequestration in Scotland) occurs when a person is unable to pay their debts. There are a number of ways to become bankrupt, however the most common in North Edinburgh is the Low Income Low Asset (LILA) route. LILA was introduced in Scotland in 2008, and since its introduction it has become a common way which people apply for their own bankruptcy.

Is LILA right for me?

It all depends on your circumstances. Bankruptcy can be the best option for some people, but its often considered a last resort for struggling borrowers. There may be other solutions available that are more appropriate for your situation.

Advantages of LILA
Your lenders will no longer be able to pursue you or take action against you to recover what you owe. You may not have to make further payments to your lenders. You can expect to be discharged after 1 year and will then be free of debt

DEFENCE LAWYERS

Disadvantages of LILA
If you own any valuable property, including life assurance policies, you will probably lose them. If you own your own home you will probably lose it. If you are in paid employment you may have to make a contribution. If you acquire any money or property after the date of your Sequestration and before the date of your discharge you will have to surrender it to your Trustee. While you are sequestrated it will be unlawful for you to incur credit of more than 250 unless you tell the new lender that you are an un-discharged bankrupt. Your Sequestration will be noted by the Credit Referencing Agencies and you may have difficulty in obtaining credit even after your discharge. Sequestration will mean that you are unable to do certain jobs. It is important to remember that there are a number of solutions if you are having problems with your debts bankruptcy is usually the last option. You should take professional advice if you are considering bankruptcy. It is vital to seek professional advice as soon as possible if you are having money difficulties.

IN TROUBLE? NEED A LAWYER? CRAWFORD GOWANS DEFENCE LAWYERS CAN HELP YOU.
Do the Police want to interview you? Have you been charged by the Police? Do you just need some advice?
Our Lawyers have years of experience in defending people. We will give you advice, attend at the police station with you if you are to be interviewed and represent you at Court.

What is LILA
The LILA route into bankruptcy is available to people who meet the following criteria: You must owe 1500 or more Unable to meet debts when they become due Have a weekly gross income of no more than the standard weekly national minimum wage which is 243.20*, inclusive of maintenance and pension payments. Do not own or have a share in any property or land No one asset is worth more than 1,000 or your total assets are worth more than 10,000 *You are deemed to have met the criteria for a LILA even if your income is greater than 243.20 as a result of receiving either income support, working tax credits or income-based jobseekers. However, there is an application fee which must be paid and which is 100. The beauty about this type of bankruptcy is that you dont have to wait until a creditor takes formal action against you before going bankrupt.

Appointments not always necessary and the first meeting is always FREE. Registered to provide Legal Aid 36 MUIRHOUSE CRESCENT, EDINBURGH, EH4 4QL 24 HOUR CRIMINAL LEGAL ADVICE: 0131 343 1987

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13

Changes Ahead
Most of us will know from watching the news that there is a major shake-up of the benefit system underway, with some big changes ahead. Michelle Lee from Granton Information Centre describes some of the most important ones, and how they might affect you over the coming year.

Safe as Houses
According to housing charity SHELTER someone faces losing their home every two minutes. Thats a sobering thought, but thanks to an innovative approach to providing housing advice in Edinburgh homelessness in the city dropped by 13% last year. Granton Information Centre is a partner agency of the Edinburgh Housing Advice Partnership, a consortium set up to provide housing advice services across the city in a contract with the city council. The consortium partners - Granton Information Centre, Community Health and Information (CHAI), Move On and FourSquare offer a comprehensive range of housing advice services to the people of Edinburgh GIC has two dedicated housing advisers, Fiona McLuckie and Rebecca Reilly, who provide free advice, assistance and representation on any housing issue. In particular they provide advice and assistance with the following issues:

Income Support and single parents

The rules on who can claim income support change from April 2012. After this date, most people wont be able to claim income support on the grounds of being a single parent once their youngest or only child reaches age 5. You will have to claim JSA instead unless you qualify for income support on some other ground for example being a carer or a foster parent.

Rent Arrears
They can help you if you are falling behind with your rent by helping you agree an affordable payment plan with your landlord, advising you about any benefits and tax credits you may be able to claim, and by representing you in Court where necessary.

Incapacity Benefit
If you are currently getting incapacity benefit, you may have heard that the DWP is in the process of moving people from incapacity benefit onto employment and support allowance (ESA). This process should have been completed by March 2014. If you reach retirement age between now and 2014 you will not be transferred onto ESA. Instead, once you reach retirement age, you will be able to claim your state pension.

Housing and Council Tax Benefit

They can help you understand and appeal decisions and calculate your entitlement and also advise you about Local Housing Allowance rates if you are renting in the private sector. They can also help you with repayment plans for Council Tax arrears.

Employment and support allowance (ESA)

The introduction of ESA, and the very high numbers of people who have been refused this benefit have led to a huge rise in appeals. Currently, 65% of people claiming ESA who go for the work capability assessment (a test of the difficulties you have with work related activities) are found fit for work, and are refused ESA. A high percentage of those who appeal are successful. If your claim is turned down, and you think the decision is wrong, seek advice about appealing immediately a delay may mean you lose the right to appeal. You usually only have month to appeal a decision about your benefit, so act at once. Contributory ESA (this means ESA based on your national insurance contributions) will be payable for one year only, unless you have been place in what Jobcentre Plus call the support group. After one year, if your income and savings are low enough, you might be able to get income-related ESA. Again, if your contributory ESA is going to be stopped after a year, seek advice on your benefit entitlement.

Housing Options
They can arrange homelessness appointments with the council and advise you about your options for finding a new or more suitable home.

Issues with your Gas and Electricity provider

They can help you negotiate payment plans, resolve disputes and understand your bills.

Repairs
If your house is in disrepair they can help you negotiate with your landlord, and advise you on what options are available when communication breaks down.

Household items
They can advise you about eligibility for grants and loans for items to furnish your house and help you complete application forms.

Remember, while it is never too late to seek advice, it is always better to seek it early

Mortgage Arrears
GIC can also help you if you are a home owner and are having difficulty paying your mortgage or are worried about losing your home. They will check your income to make sure that you are receiving the correct amounts of benefit and tax credits, and give you advice about your options for dealing with your other debts. They can also negotiate with your mortgage lender to see if repayments can be agreed at a level you can afford. If you decide that you cannot continue to pay your mortgage they can advise you about other housing options. In some cases they can help you apply to the Scottish Governments Mortgage to Rent Scheme so that you can sell your property to a local Housing Association and rent it back from them, so that you will not have to leave your home. Rebecca Reilly, Housing Adviser at Granton Information Centre, summed up the need to get advice as soon as possible to make sure your housing problem is resolved swiftly. She said Remember, while it is never too late to seek advice, it is always better to seek it early. It is important to remember that many letters about benefits and rent arrears come with deadlines, and if you do not respond within that time the issue can become more difficult to resolve. So the message is clear if you have a problem with any of the above issues get advice before its too late. If you would like to speak to an adviser in confidence come to one of our drop-ins on Mondays and Wednesdays 9.30 12.30. Alternatively, you can call Fiona or Rebecca on 0131-552-0458. We can also arrange home visits if you are housebound. Our service is free and impartial and available to all residents in the Edinburgh area.

Housing Benefit
At present, people who are under the age of 25 qualify for a lower rate of housing benefit or local housing allowance than people aged 25 or over. This rule is about to be extended to people under the age of 35, although there will be some exceptions.

Working Tax Credit (WTC)

Currently, if you are a couple with dependent children, you can qualify for WTC if you work for at least 16 hours a week. However, from April, you will have to work for 24 hours between you, and at least one of you will have to work for 16 hours. The 50+ route allowed some people returning to work over the age of 50 to qualify for WTC if they worked for at least 16 hours a week. From April next year, people aged 50 and over can no longer qualify in this way. Instead you must work at least 30 hours (unless you are disabled or are responsible for a dependent child). (During 2011 the government made it possible for people aged 60 or over to claim WTC if they worked for 16 hours.) Some people with dependent children currently getting WTC will see a reduction in the amount of WTC they can claim year on year. This is because of a change in the way your income is treated. If you get a letter saying that your tax credits are going down, seek advice. Its also going to be even more important to get your claim for tax credits in on time. This is because the amount of backdating you can get is to be reduced from 3 months to 1 month from April 2012. If you delay claiming, or telling the Revenue about a change in your circumstances, you could lose money.

Granton Information Centre (GIC) provides free, impartial and confidential advice and assistance on a range of issues including welfare benefits, housing advice, tax credits and debt. Drop in sessions (Granton Information Centre):
Monday & Wednesday: Tuesday & Thursday: All HOUSING issues: 9.30 12.30 BENEFITS & MONEY ADVICE issues: 9.30 12.30 CREWE MEDICAL CENTRE (Only for patients of Crewe Medical Centre) MUIRHOUSE MEDICAL GROUP Only for patients of Muirhouse Medial Group)

Blue Badge
A Blue Badge allows disabled people to park closer, to the places they need to visit. Councils are allowed to increase the amount they charge you to apply for a Blue Badge from 2 to 10 from January 2012. If you think you qualify for one of these, you should apply before the end of December 2011. The last few months have seen some important changes in peoples benefit entitlement, with even more to come, says Michelle. Its more important than ever to make sure you claim the benefits you need at the right rate.

Outreach:
Tuesday: 10.00 1.00 Tuesday: 2.00 4.00

Home visits and appointments may be available on request. Telephone/Fax: 0131 552 0458, 134 138 West Granton Road, Edinburgh, EH5 1PE

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15

community directory
A DV I CE
CORE (formerly Black Community Development Project) Community Renewal Drylaw Police Station Granton Information Centre Lothian & Borders Police HQ, Fettes North Edinburgh Credit Union North West Carers Centre North Edinburgh Trust North Edinburgh Volunteer Centre Pilton Citizens Advice Bureau 467 332 343 551 311 466 315 625 629 332 7990 8773 3171 2459 3131 5006 3130 0045 4202 9434

H E ALT H /W E L FARE
Bangholm Medical Centre Barri Grubb Craigroyston Clinic Craigroyston Dental Clinic Crewe Medical Centre Davidsons Mains Medical Centre Inverleith Medical Practice Living Well North Edinburgh (formerly Stress Centre) Minor Injuries Unit, Western General Hospital Muirhouse Community Slimmers Club, Birnies Court Muirhouse Surgery NHS 24 North Edinburgh Drug Advice Centre (NEDAC) North West Carers Centre Pilton Community Health Project Stockbridge Health Centre Western General Hospital 552 6363 551 1671 315 2121 332 7930 552 5544 336 2291 552 3369 343 6375 537 1330 552 6477 537 4343 08454 24 24 24 332 2314 315 3130 551 1671 225 9191 537 1000

C H URCHE S / PLACES O F WO R SH IP
Blackhall Mosque, Queensferry Road Blackhall St. Columbas, Queensferry Road Bristo Baptist Church, Queensferry Road Church of the First Born, West Granton Green Drylaw Parish Church, Groathill Road North Granton Baptist Church, Crewe Road North Granton Parish Church, Boswall Parkway Granton United (Methodist/URC) Muirhouse St. Andrews, Pennywell Medway Old Kirk, Pennywell Road St Davids Episcopal, Royston Mains Place St Margaret Marys, Boswall Parkway St Pauls, Muirhouse Avenue St Serfs, Ferry Road Seventh Day Adventist, Boswall Parkway West Pilton Christian Centre, West Pilton Park 343 3802 332 4431 332 9488 551 5361 343 1441 552 0915 551 2159 332 3316 476 9525 332 4354 01890 781 542 552 3957 539 0085 249 4899 0777 239 1405 343 6391

R E C R E AT IO N /ARTS
Ainslie Park Leisure Centre Blackhall Library Granton Library Leith Library Muirhouse Library North Edinburgh Arts Centre Screen Education Edinburgh (formerly Pilton Video) Stockbridge Library The Spartans Community Football Academy 551 529 529 529 529 315 343 529 552 2400 5595 5630 5517 5528 2151 1151 5665 7854

C O MMUNI T Y C ENTRES
Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre Muirhouse Millennium Centre Royston Wardieburn Community Centre The Prentice Centre West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre 315 467 552 552 551 4989 3578 5700 0485 3194

SC H O O L S/E D U C ATI O N
Blackhall Primary School Broughton High School Community Learning & Development Forth Community Learning & Development Inverleith Craigroyston High School Craigroyston Primary School Edinburghs Telford College Davidsons Mains Primary School Ferryhill Primary School Flora Stevensons Primary School Forthview Primary School Granton Primary School Pirniehall Primary School St Davids Primary School Stockbridge Primary School The Royal High School Trinity Academy Wardie Primary School 336 332 552 332 477 343 559 336 538 332 332 552 332 332 332 336 478 552 1023 7805 5700 6316 7801 6465 4000 1184 7382 1604 2468 3987 5256 3500 6109 2261 5050 3896

O L DE R P E OPLE
Drylaw Rainbow Daycare Centre LifeCare, Stockbridge House Pilton Equalities Project (PEP) St Davids Wednesday Wanderers & Smarties Club 343 343 315 538 6643 0940 4466 6262

FA MI LI E S
Circle Scotland (formerly Family Service Unit) Granton Child and Family Centre Haven Project, Craigroyston Primary School North Edinburgh Childcare North Edinburgh Childcare Crche Services Pilton Retreat, Ratho Stepping Stones North Edinburgh St Davids Krazy Kids Club The Yard, Eyre Place Lane Women Supporting Women 552 552 332 332 311 333 551 538 475 551 0305 4808 9269 8001 6933 1659 1632 6262 4506 1671

YO U T H & C H IL D RE N
Fet-Lor Youth Centre Granton Youth Centre Muirhouse Youth Development Group Pilton Youth and Childens Project The Klub The Yard, Eyre Place Lane 332 467 332 332 315 476 4506 5854 3356 9815 2100 4506

H O US I NG
Castle Rock Edinvar Housing Association Central Muirhouse Low-Rise Tenants Association City of Edinburgh Council North Local Office Edinburgh Tenants Federation Fresh Start Housing Support Inclusion Service Manor Estates Housing Association Muirhouse Housing Association Pennywell Tenants and Residents Association Port of Leith Housing Association West Granton Housing Co-operative 657 467 529 475 476 529 337 336 476 554 551 0600 3570 5050 2509 7741 5093 3222 5282 2359 0403 5035

If your group or organisation would like to be included in the Community Directory please email us at northedinnews@gmail.com

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Spartans Women Celebrate Superb Season

SPArTANS FC WOmENS Premier league side gathered at the Academy last month to celebrate the 2011 season. Finishing in runners up spot to worthy champions Glasgow City was a great achievement and full credit must go to the whole squad of players, coaching staff and volunteers for their hard work and determination throughout the season. It was time for the Spartan players to recognise there team mates contributions and the Players Player of the year awards were as follows: In 3rd place was central midfielder Kirsty McLaughlin who has really excelled in her first season at the club with terrific performances, 2nd Place went to striker Sarah Ewens who has blossomed as a player this season and is fulfilling the potential she displayed when she joined the club in 2009 scoring 21 goals in 2011. Spartans Players Player of the Year and also the Coaches Player of the Year was awarded to Hayley lauder for a fantastic season for both Spartans and Scotland, the young midfielder played a huge part in Spartans success and all involved at the club are extremely proud of her individual achievements and we are all excited for her future. To honour the contribution made to Spartans and acknowledge the achievement of scoring 100 goals during the 2011 season the final award of the evening was made to Diana Barry, a special award to a special player. Diana has now scored 118 goals in 94 games for the club and as she continues to score goals she will continue to set records that will be very difficult to match. All the players receiving awards also received a generous gift from our fantastic sponsors Scott & Co and all pass on their gratitude for such a kind gesture.

The project has definitely put the young people in a more positive place

An inspirational performance
Dunedin Canmore scores as football project helps homeless men get lives back on track
WilliaM MClean couldnt believe his luck when he was selected to represent his country in the Homeless World Cup. William was a homeless ex-offender who had battled drug addiction when he started playing football, but the 27 year old edinburgh man says football has helped him turn his life around. now, William is volunteering as an ambassador for young people and training to become a community football coach. William got into football when he was staying at the Dunedin Canmore Housing association Hostel in leith. He took part in free Street Soccer events held at Portobello and Sighthill Power leagues as part of a Dunedin Canmore project to help homeless men get into work. after helping the Dunedin Canmore Partizan football team reach the Street Soccer national league Cup Final, William was invited to attend trials for the national team to represent Scotland in the Homeless World Cup in august. William was selected for the final squad of 8 players from over 300 applicants. The Scots did the nation proud at the games in Paris at games in Paris, out-performing 47 other teams to bring home the trophy and went on to pick up the most inspirational performance award at the Scottish Sports awards on 1 December. When Dunedin Canmore started partnering with Street Soccer Scotland to offer football sessions the goal was to get more homeless men involved in their employability project. now the edinburgh based social landlord is celebrating what it says is a real home win for young men like William who have turned their lives around. Since returning from Paris William has continued to work with the employability links worker and developed an interest in community coaching. He is now volunteering with Street Soccer Scotland, working towards gaining SFa coaching qualifications and hopes to move onto paid work as a community coach. James Horsburgh, the goalkeeper in the Homeless World Cup Team, also got involved through the Dunedin Canmore employability project and is now working as a community coach for a football team in South Gyle. William and James are former residents at Dunedin Canmore Hostel in leith and both are now living in a permanent home. contributing 5000 towards travel and accommodation for Scottish teams Dunedin Canmore sponsored William as an individual player. William said, The work that Dunedin Canmore has done for me is great. instead of pushing me into a job they took the time to find my interests and helped me find something constructive to do with my time. a lot of people say that were just playing football but the skills we gain from taking part in the sessions, working as part of a team, communication, trust, health and safety, compassion - it all makes a difference. Gavin edmonds, Community and Business Initiatives Officer said, Football is about team work. its great for improving fitness and health including mental health. The project has definitely put the young people in a more positive place. The skills they learn can help them move out of poverty and into a better life. it can really help them look to their future. ewan Fraser, Ce Dunedin Canmore said, We are proud to be associated with the Homeless World Cup and congratulate the team and players on winning this fantastic award. Dunedin Canmore is committed to helping others through a number of initiatives and the employability Pathways Programme is a great example of how we can make a difference by giving people the skills and confidence to help them to move on in their lives.

www.spartanswfc.com

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North Edinburgh News, c/o Edinburghs Telford College, 350 West Granton Road, Edinburgh EH5 1QE
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Committed to helping
The Dunedin Canmore Group was the official sponsors of both the mens and womens teams which competed in the prestigious international tournament. as well as