I’m pleased to have received support from Ian Blackford, as I continue to urge Leith SNP, Leith Walk SNP and Craigentinny & Duddingston SNP members to place their trust in me again to be our local candidate next year.
“Ben has been a first class MSP since being elected in 2016, and I know how hard-working and highly effective he’s been in both Parliament and his constituency. I had the pleasure of working closely with Ben in his various roles as a Scottish Government Minister, when I was an MP and SNP Westminster Leader. Not only did Ben always master his ministerial briefs but he was an extremely helpful and co-operative colleague. Having done the job very well for nearly 10 years already, I know that Ben will be a local champion for the constituency of Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith. Ben’s experience as an MSP and Scottish Government Minister is much needed as our Parliament and country move forward during challenging times - delivering on the people’s priorities and progressing purposefully to Independence.” ~ Ian Blackford
SNP Edinburgh North & Leith
SNP Edinburgh Eastern
Best MSP around. All the best Ben
📢Office of Ben Macpherson MSP📢:
We would like to highlight this week is National Stalking Awareness Week. National Stalking Awareness Week aims to educate the public, support those affected, and promote safety and prevention measures. This year's campaign focuses on healthcare providers spotting the signs of stalking to ensure early and effective support.
What is Stalking?
Stalking is a pattern of repeated, unwanted attention, harassment, or contact that causes fear or distress. It can happen to anyone and often involves behaviours such as:
▪️Following or spying on someone
▪️Unwanted communication (calls, texts, emails)
▪️Showing up uninvited at someone's home or workplace
▪️Sending unwanted gifts
Recognise the Signs:
▪️Feeling constantly watched or followed
▪️Receiving persistent, unwanted messages or calls
▪️Finding unexpected items or gifts
▪️Experiencing threats or intimidation
How to Get Help: If you or someone you know is experiencing stalking, please reach out for support.
Here are some helpful resources:
National Stalking Helpline: 0808 802 0300
Victim Support: 0808 168 9111
Police (non-emergency): 101
Local Resources in Edinburgh:
Action Against Stalking: 0800 820 2427
You can also access support from the University of Edinburgh at the below link.
Like many constituents, I have been concerned to see instances of gang-related crime in our area in recent weeks.
Yesterday, I asked The Scottish Government how it is working with partners to tackle this. I also thanked Police Scotland Edinburgh for their ongoing actions and updates.
Anyone can report a crime or suspicious behaviour anonymously via the Crimestoppers service by calling 0800 555 111 or going online. Your anonymity is guaranteed, and your information could make a difference.
I will continue to raise this issue, and other matters of concern to my constituents, whenever I can.
Ben is a great 👍 person
Yes we need more things back into the community Ben we need the clubs back when we where young in summer I'd have a club to go to go on trips ect but now there's nothing to do in 2025 but lots of more opportunities to do ie music, boxing or mma or some self defence group & also some social clubs wouldn't go a miss for the adults/parents to attend and get to socialise with other people get to know who's in your community's again
I’m asking members of Leith SNP, Leith Walk SNP and Craigentinny & Duddingston SNP to vote for me number 1 to be your candidate in next year’s Scottish Parliament election for the Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith constituency.
I’ve put myself forward again for 5 main reasons:
1) I’m a proven local election winner for the Scottish National Party (SNP), in 2016 and again in 2021.
2) I’m a hard-working constituency MSP, with a very strong local reputation for grafting, being there to assist people and getting things done in our communities.
3) I'm involved in politics to help other people and tackle poverty - creating greater social justice and a better Scotland for all is what drives me.
4) I’m an experienced local MSP (10 years) and The Scottish Government Minister (5 years).
5) I’m a well-respected contributor in The Scottish Parliament, working effectively towards taking Scotland forward on our journey to independence.
Vote Ben Macpherson #1 for an experienced, reliable, hard-working local candidate.
SNP Edinburgh North & Leith
SNP Edinburgh Eastern
SNP all the way👏🏴👏
Good Luck Ben Macpherson MSP for Edinburgh Northern and Leith … I’m not going to be in your area anymore, these boundary changes are so annoying!
Good luck Ben
Come on Ben 👋👍
Rooting for you Ben
😊😊❤️❤️👍👍
I can only hope for the sake of Scotland you are defeated , I note you do not mention anything you have achieved, have you done anything to improve education? Improve the health service? Can you guarantee I will get a dentist appointment when I need one or can see a GP when I need to see them?
Fcuk the SNP
With all that experience and a champion for independence ,, could you please tell us what the fully funded and costed financial forecast for a indy scotland would be
As ballots are issued today to Leith SNP, Leith Walk SNP and Craigentinny & Duddingston SNP Scottish National Party (SNP) branch members, to choose our candidate for next year's election, I'm both delighted and very grateful to have the support of my good friend Fiona Hyslop MSP (one of my mentors in The Scottish Government, a former local Leith SNP candidate, and a long-standing Lothians SNP MSP who has served in The Scottish Parliament since it was reconvened in 1999).
I hope to gain the support of local members to stand for re-election for our party and win again, continue to represent and serve our side of the city, and use all of my 10 years of experience to keep making a difference locally and nationally, to help take us forward to Independence.
SNP Edinburgh North & Leith
SNP Edinburgh Eastern
Go get ‘em Ben
Good luck Ben! You've got my vote. Great local champion. Onwards to indy now.
Good luck Ben. I've just cast my vote. BEN No1 truly deserved.
You will always have my support Ben!!
Hyslop was a failure so what are you going to do
Like so many, I was very sorry to learn of the passing of Pope Francis - a kind, thoughtful and powerful voice for peace, social justice and environmental protection.❤️ My thoughts are with all constituents of the Catholic faith, who I appreciate will be feeling this loss most deeply.🙏🏻
Pope Francis: Life in pictures - BBC News
www.bbc.co.uk
Defining images of the first Latin American to lead the Catholic ChurchEnjoying a re-read of the brilliant Leith Annual - very proud to have been involved in several of the successes featured and pleased to be engaged with many of the ongoing projects, campaigns and initiatives. Much done but more to do.
Worth picking up a copy of the booklet if you haven’t already.
#Leith
I’ve been thinking back in recent days that in the election in 2021 I was proud and grateful to help win one of the largest amounts of votes for the Scottish National Party (SNP) in Scotland, building on my first term where I worked really hard serving the constituency, in Parliament and as a government Minister. And I have worked at least just as hard during this current term. Previous evidence shows that I know how to win elections and am popular in our area, with a solid reputation as a constituency MSP. If I’m re-selected and re-elected then I can continue to be a proven grafter, effective campaigner, committed local representative for our communities, and an experienced contributer to serving the common good of Scotland and progressing to independent statehood.
How Lorna Slater got anywhere near some form of power or responsibility after results like this is beyond belief!!
Grateful to have been invited to be part of Hillside Bowling Club ‘s Opening Day and 155th anniversary. Nice to meet so many good folk and celebrate this gem of a facility in the local community. Check them out if you’d like to get involved.
One of the things I love most about being a constituency MSP is being out and about in the area, supporting local organisations and emphasising to them that I’m here to both help and recognise their contributions.
Cool entrance design by Colony of Artists.
The oldest member raising the flag.
Great pics and thank you again for attending our day.
Ben is a great 👍
Experienced | Reliable | Hard-Working |
A Local Champion
✅ A proven winner 🗳️
✅ Involved in politics to help other people ❤️
✅ Credibility in taking Scotland forward 🏴
I would be the most experienced and reliable local candidate in an important Scottish Parliament election next year. I am serious, very hard-working and have a track record of winning elections. I am popular in the area and have a solid reputation for getting things done, both locally and in Parliament. I’ve helped thousands of people in our communities and have worked effectively to help take Scotland forward, through challenging times. I’m determined, energetic and best placed to deliver more.
In the next few weeks local members in the Leith SNP, Leith Walk SNP and Craigentinny & Duddingston SNP branches will have the opportunity to select who the Scottish National Party (SNP)'s candidate will be in the forthcoming 2026 election, in the new constituency of Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith. For those unaware, I am in an internal contest for selection with Councillor Adam McVey and fellow local activist Andrew Ewen.
As many of you know I live in this area/constituency, grew up in and around this side of Edinburgh, and have represented most of the new constituency for nearly 10 years, as the local MSP (the first person to win this area for the SNP in a Scottish Parliament election). Before being elected in 2016 I worked in a variety of roles including as a lawyer for one of Scotland’s leading commercial firms, for a renewable energy company and in a school.
I’ve delivered well for the local area as best I could, through Brexit, the pandemic and the cost of living crisis. I’ve helped thousands of people and got results for and with local businesses, campaigns and organisations - working very well with Deidre Brock for Edinburgh North and Leith over many of those years. I’ve helped secure investment to build more social housing, improve Council housing and improve vital infrastructure like the Seafield wastewater facility. I’ve done loads of work in Parliament on local priorities - like making the case successfully for legislation to tackle problematic short-term let issues and gaining more resources for Edinburgh to meet the needs of our growing population. I’ve also served on multiple committees - currently I am on the Criminal Justice Committee, scrutinising important legislation, and I chair another short-term Committee.
I have served in The Scottish Government in four roles - building support for Scotland abroad when I was Europe Minister during Brexit, helping to assist the country through the pandemic when I was Public Finance Minister, getting things done to protect nature when I was Natural Environment Minister, and as Social Security Minister I delivered the extension of the Scottish Child Payment, Adult Disability Payment, Winter Heating Payment and shaped Carer Support Payment. Crucially, during this time I also led on building up Scotland’s new social security system - vital infrastructure for the Scottish people and independence (to deliver more benefits and pensions in the future).
Becoming an independent state is a serious goal and process and we’ve made significant and remarkable progress in recent times towards achieving that. The most important next step now is making sure that the SNP wins this election and that credible people serve as MSPs for the SNP - I know how to do the job well, am popular locally and amongst civic Scotland, and I am able to reach out and convince others (who are undecided) of the case for more powers for Scotland, and I know how to deliver well locally for people and how to use the powers we already have well to competently implement policy, which I consistently have.
I urge local SNP members to give me their number 1 vote. I have delivered a lot for our area and in The Scottish Parliament, I'm well-respected and I have so much more to give. I want to use my skills and experience to help make further progress towards creating a fairer, better, more successful, independent Scotland, building on the many current SNP achievements, whether that's regarding: further developing our progressive tax system; strengthening the economy (locally and nationally) to make the most of our resources and talents, for the benefit of Scotland and our people; building even more social housing and improving housing affordability and quality; progressing urban land reform, to make it easier to get the land necessary to build housing and infrastructure for the common interest, rather than private profit; further enhance social security provision, to help those who need more assistance to flourish; progress public service reform and make sure we are efficiently delivering value for money; support our NHS to meet growing demands and improve public health outcomes; deliver educational development to meet the needs and complexity of this new technological age, and enable our young people to take advantage of new opportunities (like the renewable energy jobs coming to the Port of Leith); make sure our communities are safe as our city grows; do more with what powers we have to tackle low pay and poverty; and so much more...
This is a really significant election and I am a proven winner. I know how to lead campaigns and to do the job well once elected. I'm in politics to help people and for the benefit of other people. I'm deeply committed to improving Scotland for all who live here.
I offer my experience, my work ethic and my abilities again - to win, to serve, to get things done for local people and in Parliament, and to keep Scotland moving forward to independence.
Vote Ben Macpherson #1 for an experienced, reliable, hard-working local candidate.
SNP Edinburgh North & Leith
SNP Edinburgh Eastern
Good luck Ben 🍀
If I was living in the area, you’d be number one on my list for candidate. You are a decent, hard working individual who has a proven track record and is highly visible in the area at various events. Always willing to stop, talk and listen. I wish you all the best and urge the members to use a common sense and proven track record approach to select you as their candidate.
You are a genuine, class politician who really cares about constituents - a calibre very difficult to find today. 🙂
terrible goal keeper tho lol x
You've got my vote, Ben
💪💪
Great news!
Best of luck Ben . Ben is a great
A class operator, reliable, trustworthy it’s not a hard decision!. Hopefully common sense prevails. I’m behind you Ben 👍
Best of luck, Ben!
Got my vote❤️
😊😊😊❤️❤️❤️
You have my vote Ben Macpherson MSP for Edinburgh Northern and Leith 👍🏻
Good luck Ben!
Independence front and centre away from little 🏴🇺🇸
Anything we can do to keep McVey away from politics the better.
Message from the office of Ben Macpherson MSP:
We would like to highlight recent work by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) on public safety awareness regarding lithium-ion batteries.
SFRS have launched a campaign to address a worrying rise in incidents involving rechargeable batteries. Their safety messaging includes:
• Buy devices from reputable retailers and use approved chargers.
• Charge safely: keep exit routes clear, avoid charging in hallways and bedrooms, and never charge while asleep.
• Recycle batteries safely; check with your local authority.
Find out more information by viewing the animation linked below:
📢Message from the office of Ben Macpherson MSP📢
The Edinburgh Science Festival is back! Running until 20 April, the festival is a fantastic chance to explore science, technology and creativity across the city - with events for all ages.
There's an impressive range of exhibitions, workshops, performances and screenings at venues like the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, The Scottish Parliament and National Museums Scotland.
It’s well worth a visit this Spring! Edinburgh Science Festival #edscifest
www.edinburghscience.co.uk
Best known for organising Edinburgh’s annual Science Festival. We're an education charity that brings science to life for all ages and backgrounds.I am continuing to work to help address the recent uptick in crime and antisocial behaviour in our communities, perpetrated by a small minority of people in our city. I have previously raised this with Scottish Government Ministers and the Chief Constable of Police Scotland, emphasising the need for additional police resources in our area and the importance of funding preventative youth work. As part of these continuous efforts, I have asked the Community Safety Minister about the responsibility of social media platforms to prevent the spread of harmful online content that encourages copycat crimes and antisocial behaviour, often with the use of face coverings. We need the UK Government to assist in taking more action on this and to appropriately and responsibly regulate online platforms.
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it's been deleted.📢Office of Ben Macpherson MSP📢
A reminder that Ben's monthly drop-in “Help & Advice" surgeries are taking place tomorrow, Friday 4 April.
Message from the Office of Ben Macpherson MSP:
This #BowelCancerAwarenessMonth we're supporting @Bowel Cancer UK’s #PassItOn campaign.
Bowel cancer can affect anyone, whatever your age, gender, ethnicity, or location. The most important thing to know is that the earlier the disease is spotted, the more treatable it’s likely to be.
Bowel Cancer UK encourages everyone to share information about bowel cancer, as spreading awareness can help someone recognise when something might be wrong.
Find out more via the link below:
Signs and symptoms of bowel cancer
www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk
Learn all about the symptoms of bowel cancer. If you have one or more of these, or if things just don't feel right, go to see your GP.Thank you for your support.💛
Mobile phone reception is not consistently strong enough along Edinburgh’s waterfront. Recently I met one of the biggest private network providers to discuss inconsistencies in coverage and I will be engaging further with them and other companies, urging providers to better meet the connectivity needs of underserved areas and working collaboratively with them to help achieve this. If you also think your mobile phone signal could be better, please help me by visiting my website at the link below and completing a short survey. Let’s improve this together!
Survey on mobile connectivity in Edinburgh Northern and Leith | Ben Macpherson
benmacpherson.scot
Survey on mobile connectivity in Edinburgh Northern and Leith Survey Your Name Your Email Question 1 1 2 3 4 5 How would you rate your overall mobile phone connectivity in the Edinburgh Northern and L...
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it's been deleted.Over recent months I have been very concerned about the potential impact of proposed cuts to the third sector by the Edinburgh Integration Joint Board on several remarkable organisations in Edinburgh, which play important roles in preventing people from reaching crisis point. Therefore, I have actively engaged with Council Officers, elected Councillors, and the Edinburgh Integration Joint Board to raise these concerns directly.
In our discussions, I have argued that if these cuts go ahead, the statutory sector, including primary care, secondary acute care, and emergency services, will likely incur additional costs in time that will be greater than any savings made. The UK Government's National Insurance hike is making things more difficult for the board.
This weekThe Scottish Parliamentament, I raised the issue with Scottish Ministers, askinThe Scottish Governmentnment would consider further engagement with the parties involved about the long-term impact of these proposed reductions if they are implemented after June. The third sector is so important in helping people and preventing hardship and ill-health. We must invest to save in the longer-term and embrace a preventative agenCyreniansniThe Rippleipple
This was always going to happen. I wrote this a while back but it's warning brings us to the disaster that is Health and Social Care in Scotland and particularly in Edinburgh we have today. ---------------------- "The City of Edinburgh Council ought to hang their heads in shame that they hived of Health and Social Care into the hands of private providers and third party sector over the past 15-20 years. I created enemies in management when I vocally opposed the gradual dismantling of public sector service, leaving CEC as a provider of last resort, that is a whittling down to the bare minimum the statuary obligations to provide care to those in society for which no private company could make a profit from, the most challenging behaviourly and the most needy. Valued, highly trained and committed staff in the public sector, providing high standard care were thrown under the austerity bus and replaced with poorly trained casual agency staff. I predicted the crisis in social care and the solution of taking service back into public sector, I highlighted the findings of research by Stirling University that pointed toward Glasgow taking back control from failed private enterprises, just as Edinburgh were making the move into it, I was told "Edinburgh doesn't follow, it leads" and yes it led straight to disaster and now here we have it writ large." When Andrew Kerr was at the helm, deemed the grim reaper of service provision, ask the staff. He oversaw the systematic, slash and burn of a great public service, through back door privitisation to third party for profit providers, the deskilling of staff through the reduction of educational oppertunity and reduced the right to staff progress through acquired skills and knowledge, the expulsion of a dedicated highly skilled and experienced senior work force through restructuring the organisation in the most awful way, described as "a brutal interview process" in local press, making people reapply fir their own jobs, try squaring the claim 'Investers in people' with notices handed out to staff describing them as 'surplus to requirments'. Kerr also over saw the closure and dismantling of valuable resource centers throughout the city. You get the picture the man had no concern for the welfare or well-being of service users or staff for whom he had a duty of care, reducing the council to a 'provider of last resort in care, he was only every concerned with budget savings... It's a scandal and he recived an honour for it, when he and his senior management team should have been hang their heads in shame. Andrew Kerr had previous on cut and slash as he made good for himself. "At Wiltshire Council, Kerr was appointed to the Wiltshire job in January 2010, and in May 2011 he made headlines with an increase to his £189,000 salary while the Council was cutting hundreds of jobs. While initially defending his pay rise, after media and political pressure he decided to turn down the increase." source Wikipedia " While in Cornwall Council in April 2017, The Sunday Post reported that Kerr had taken a flight to a property investment conference in Cannes at a cost of £4,000 on the day that news broke of five hundred council staff agreeing to take voluntary redundancy to cut costs." source Wikipedia ------------------------ That the SNP Government recently stepped back from creating a National Social Care model is extremely disappointing, it was and still is much needed. It was always going to be the case that third sector providers would demand more and more financial resource, to do a job half as effective and efficient as public sector provision had done previously. The whole sector is a mess. Only nationalisation will provide the resources and oversight necessary for people before profit services. tribunemag.co.uk/2022/02/adult-social-care-private-profit-nationalised-service
A hard day in The Scottish Parliament as we tried to come to terms with the tragic loss of our remarkable colleague and friend, Christina. As well as being a strongly committed constituency MSP, for years she was a national champion for equality, the less fortunate, minorities, social justice and the arts. As a Minster she made a positive impact for many, including in our area. She was also a wonderfully supportive and uplifting colleague and friend. Such a sad loss to us all. My thoughts are with those most close to her.❤️🙏🏻🌟
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it's been deleted.Yesterday in The Scottish Parliament, I welcomed The Scottish Government's cladding remediation plan, and the work that's been done, but I also emphasised that there must be much faster progress made from now! I know affected constituents will agree with me.
I also asked the Housing Minister how the Scottish Government will keep MSPs updated on progress, engage more with residents, property factors and other associated organisations like housing associations, while ensuring developers follow through on their commitments.
Singularly more impactful and effective in 30 seconds than a so-called High Rise Scotland ‘Action’ Group in the last many years!
Leith's contribution to Scotland's food and drink sector is diverse and remarkable. I am proud to support and champion this, as the local MSP. Governments need to support this vibrant industry, which is why I constructively advocate on their behalf.
In light of the challenges posed by Covid, Brexit, and the current Trump Administration’s actions, it important that we support local enterprises and celebrate their contributions to Scotland's wider success.
Crabbie's
The Port of Leith Distillery
Cold Town Beer
Pilot
Campervan Brewery
Newbarns Brewery
Moonwake Beer Co.
PekoeTea
Shortbread House of Edinburgh
Babyfaced Baker
Mimi's Bakehouse - Leith
Krema bakehouse
I agree Roland Reid - well said and thanks for your comment. There are a few other businesses I could name too. And the distillery started in a one of the small business/industrial areas locally before moving to their current site, showing the value of local industrial space for start ups. I do raise this matter with the Council and Councillors, and will do so again soon. Connectivity is also part of the issue. It’d be good if we can get some of VQ reallocated as an innovation and business space too. Thanks again.
It is great to live in such a vibrant area. However it is worrying we're losing traditional industries, services and consequently local employment. Bolton Roofing has relocated to Whitecraig, George Brown Engineers to Macmerry, Stax Trading Centre is closed, Edinburgh Picture Framers on Bangor Road is subject to a planning application for student accommodation. I recall the Community Council campaigning to save the Shortbread House from a proposed Council plan to redevelop Jane Street/Tenant Street for housing. None of the industrial areas in Leith are zoned to safeguard their use should a developer consider it more profitable to redevelop for housing be it for student or mainstream. The mix of housing and small businesses needs to be protected to the lively character of Leith..
Local MSP - my annual community update report is currently being hand delivered across the constituency - get in touch if there's anything you wish to raise with me: benmacpherson.scot/repor#HereToHelpohelp
What are the boundary changes I don’t know who my MSP will be ?
I wish you were still going to be my MSP after the next election but: boundary changes. 🤷🏻♂️
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it's been deleted.
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it's been deleted.I am increasingly concerned about how many Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) proposals are being put forward by developers and I have expressed this to them when they've contacted me about their plans, including regarding the site in this article. I would much prefer to see more affordable and social housing built on this land instead. Students are very welcome in our area but there is probably too much PBSA already in my view (either built or approved).
If you have concerns about the amount of PBSA then please responThe City of Edinburgh Counciluncil's consultation that is live at the moment: consultationhub.edinburgh.gov.uk/sfc/non-stat-guidance-student-accom/.
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it's been deleted.These sort of places are for wealthy students. My nephew is studying at Edinburgh University but has had to return home to live in the Borders as he can’t afford to rent in Edinburgh, especially in sites like these. Far too many of these developments being approved.
There should be a Complete ban on additional PBSA until the housing emergency is over, There is more than sufficient PBSA in the city, we need more affordable housing which can be used by both students and families. PBSA neither serves the interest of Students nor the wider community. The only people who's interests are served by PBSA is the property developer who is looking for maximum yields.
Thank you Ben. I live in that area, and people in my neighborhood are really concerned. This is the wrong building in the wrong place. We have raised our concerns, including : averse effect on the Community, overload on an already high populated area, access to services including GPs, the building itself is 6 floors high and affecting the skyline of our residential area, serious concern on flood management as the building will be exactly on the edge Water of Leith, ... Everyone knows this is a money making scheme at the expense of us, ordinary people living there. But is the Council listening? Thank you so much for your support.
If the number of overseas students has dropped dramatically do we need all these student accomodation applications? Is the bubble going to burst?
Well I'm increasing concerned by the Scottish Governments lack of action on land reform leading to inflated and increasing land prices undermining and volume and quality of housing provision, keeping rents and mortgage rates high. Being concerned about the inevitable judicial review is not a reason for failure to act over 4 parliaments. Of course, hereditary landowners and powerful vested interests are going to use the courts to protect their power. If you are not prepared to fight, then step aside. The attempts so far, undermined recently by the Scottish Government’s the Natural Capital Markets framework and actions of the Scottish National Investment bank have ensure land ownership remains at the same concentrated levels as when we came to power. You can be concerned about the local and proximal impacts all you like but unless we address the structural causes, we won’t address the housing crises nor the poverty crises. The SG also have to acknowledge its role in creating the need for student housing by under-funding undergraduate education in Scotland, leaving our universities with very little option but to expand PG provision and then to seek to profit from the need to house them.
I’m wondering if it!s as bad a situation in Edinburgh as it is here in Glasgow. It seems as though very little else is being built. And some bog standard buildings being thrown up too, with what looks like no joined-up thinking regarding where they’re being flung up. It’s really random.
At the end of the day they do it because they are cheap to build and it makes them shed loads of money. I hate to say it but social housing just isn't as lucrative.
As I keep saying. We need social rent homes not unaffordable affordable
I think the Council/University is trying to get students out of ordinary tenements and into purpose built accom. I lived for a year under a student flat in the New Town and it was a horrendous - and they were post-Grad students so not even just first year students going wild. This in turn should mean more flats would be available for working families. The theory behind this is great. But the reality is that the Universities keep offering more and more places so the number of students keeps rising much faster than the purpose built accommodation. The forecasted drop in students travelling from abroad may relieve some of the pressure on the housing market but the downside of that is we'll have fewer foreign students and we'll miss the diversity and colour they bring to Edinburgh.
Not before long Ben. This has been obvious for years! Council just accepting anything that says student accommodation. Also had enough of developments saying 25% are affordable. 100% should be affordable!!
Ben Macpherson MSP for Edinburgh Northern and Leith BIT LATE TO THE PARTY. ITS BEEN GOING ON IN EDINBURGH SINCE THE 1ST DAY I STEPPED INTO THE CITY 20 YEARS AGO. I AS AIA MET WITH PLANNERS THEN TO DISCUSS. NOBODY TOOK US SERIOUSLY SO WHY NOW.
📢Office of Ben Macpherson MSP📢:
We wanted to highlighted that Marie Curie's Great Daffodil Appeal runs for all of march.
Marie Curie is a campaigning and social justice organisation with a mission to close the gap in end of life care. It is the biggest charitable funder of palliative care research in the UK, to better understand unmet palliative care need and support a better end of life for all. In Scotland, they are campaigning for people’s right to palliative care to be recognised and delivered.
The charity is the largest third sector provider of palliative care for adults in Scotland, supporting over 7,200 terminally ill people in 2023-24. Marie Curie delivers expert support and advice through its two Hospices in Glasgow and Edinburgh, and Hospice Care at Home Service across most of Scotland’s Local Authorities.
To find out more about this years appeal, follow this link:
Donate to the Great Daffodil Appeal
www.mariecurie.org.uk
Every five minutes, someone dies without the care they need. Donate to the Great Daffodil Appeal to provide urgent end of life care to those in need.Today I have written to Tracy Gilbert MP and Chris Murray MP about the very concerning UK Government proposals to cut support for disabled people, and the consequential impact this would have on the Scottish Government’s budget.
www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cd7ep8ypd9xo
www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ckg8pdq1lqyo
Tracy Gilbert MP’s response page 2:
Tracy Gilbert MP’s response page 1:
Thanks Ben… as the mother of a physically disabled child now grown, this means a great deal… unable and dependant on others when she can’t walk or leave the flat, enforced isolation, needing food and essentials.
Thank you
Unfortunately this scum of a government don't care about anyone , the letter will be shredded and in the bin , nothing will happen no matter what anyone says or do ... this government the dictator and his gastapo have already showed us they can do what they like and get away with it. I'm waiting for them to start sending out ration books and treating even more like prisoners if war ...
📢Office of Ben Macpherson MSP📢:
White Ribbon Scotland is an organisation that Ben has worked with since being elected that focuses on men’s role in tackling violence against women and girls. They have created a short quiz or “ally self-assessment” entitled “Am I Part of the Solution?” Through simple and thought-provoking questions, you’ll explore your awareness, actions and attitudes towards challenging harmful behaviours, supporting women and creating safer spaces for everyone.
You can take the quiz here: www.canva.com/design/DAGfGMZ1w_A/YtGQhhZXZMpHu1ESej5X3w/view?utm_content=DAGfGMZ1w_A&utm_campaign...
And can find out more about the work of White Ribbon Scotland, and how to get involved here: www.whiteribbonscotland.org.uk
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it's been deleted.I’m grateful to the many people who’ve been in touch recently encouraging me to stand for re-election next year! My current seat is splitting in half in 2026 due to boundary changes, because of population growth. I live in the new seat of Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith and have decided to seek to stand there. Local SNP members will have the opportunity to decide who the candidate is over the next months. It’s been a privilege to serve (and win) over the last 9 years and I hope to have the opportunity and responsibility to do so again, and keep working hard for local people and in parliament for the common good of Scotland - delivering well, gaining more independence and making progress towards statehood.
I will say more in the days and weeks ahead. In the meantime, enjoy this sunny weekend.
Ben is a great
Good luck Ben 🤞
It was great to have you as my MSP.
I hope you do well.
Great news, Ben 👍
Good luck, Ben. You’ll be missed in the rest of North Edinburgh.
All the best, Ben!
👏🏼👏🏼 hopefully you get to stay on done well thank you every input you’ve put in for our community 🙏
Respect & support for Sandie Peggie & all Women
I spoke in The Scottish Parliament about the significant and long-standing cost of living injustices in Britain. I also emphasised that support for those in need should be enhanced by the UK Government, and support for disabled people should not be cut!
The cost of living issues today have built up over decades. During this time the Conservatives have held power at Westminster for longer than any other party. The Labour Party haven’t done enough and look set to make things worse. The Lib Dems were part of the austerity agenda taking hold in 2010. However, all parties now have the opportunity to improve the lives of people in the future - I called on all to act.
There are unacceptable levels of wealth inequality in the UK. Rising housing and energy costs have made life increasingly difficult for many. In Scotland, we need to try to stabilise house prices and rents as a ratio of wages, and use our devolved powers to support those in need.
The Scottish Government has made strides with initiatives like the Scottish Child Payment, but at a UK level Universal Credit needs to be fixed and we must ensure that disabled people, and others unable to work, are properly supported.
📢Office of Ben Macpherson MSP📢:
We wanted to highlight that today is Young Carers Action Day 2025.
The theme for this year’s Young Carers Action Day is ‘Geeza Break’, emphasising that young carers have so much responsibility on their shoulders that they often have little time for themselves and are at risk of burnout. They need a break. Research suggests that young carers are significantly more likely to report severe psychological distress then their peers without a caring role. They need time out from their caring responsibilities to rest, recharge and focus on themselves – be it for a hobby, or just spending time with friends, like other people their age.
Organisations such as Edinburgh Carers Centre in the Edinburgh Northern and Leith constituency provide the opportunity for groups of young carers to take much needed respite from their responsibilities, helping them to recharge and spend time with peers.
You can find out more about this year’s Young Carers Action Day 2025 at the link below.
Young Carers Action Day 2025: Resources
carers.org
Get ready for Young Carers Action Day 2025! Download resources to raise awareness and support young carers on 12th March with the theme 'Give Me A Break'.
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it's been deleted.Message from the office of Ben Macpherson MSP
The Scottish Government is currently seeking feedback on its Cruise Ship Levy Consultation, which aims to explore the potential introduction of a levy for cruise ships visiting Scottish ports. This consultation provides an opportunity for local communities, businesses, and industry stakeholders to share their thoughts on how this proposed levy could impact Scotland's tourism, environment, and economy.
Whether you're a local resident, a business owner, or simply passionate about Scotland’s tourism sector, your voice matters! Your input will help shape policies that balance economic growth with sustainable tourism.
You can read more and submit your views here: Cruise ship levy: consultation - gov.scot
Cruise ship levy: consultation
www.gov.scot
Scottish Government consultation on a potential cruise ship levy. It seeks views on the benefits and problems a cruise ship levy could bring, the potential impacts (both positive and negative), and pr...Good news for Granton! The Scottish Government gives £16 million grant for affordable housing at Granton waterfront: www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/news/edinburgh-housing-scottish-government-gives-ps16-million-gran....
“As the constituency MSP, for some years I’ve been working constructively with the Scottish Government and the council to make the case for investment in Granton – arguing in parliament and elsewhere for additional funding streams to deliver more, affordable homes in North Edinburgh and emphasising the huge potential there is to develop the waterfront to meet local needs.
“Therefore, I’m delighted to see the progress that’s been made so far and warmly welcome the significant financial commitments being made by Scottish Ministers to invest in the area.
“Granton is a strategic site for development in our city, for tackling the housing shortages that we have, and for delivering new opportunities and facilities for the people of North Edinburgh. I look forward to seeing even more money being invested into Granton in the years ahead.”
By affordable does that mean affordable rent? Social housing rent or unaffordable affordable rent? Some people can't afford what is called affordable.
the roads round here are not coping with the added traffic but carry on..
Excellent news. Just have to deal with all the antisocial behaviour.
Message from the office of Ben Macpherson MSP
We wanted to highlight that Duncan Place Leith is looking to expand its board by welcoming five more members. Trustees play a vital role in guiding the strategic direction of the organisation, ensuring effective governance, helping to achieve their mission.
Duncan Place Community Hub is a friendly, welcoming, and inclusive space in the heart of Leith. As a charity, they offer a range of community events and activities.
If you're interested in supporting Duncan Place, they would love to hear from you.
You can read the full advert and find out more here: goodmoves.org/vacancy/a4sP1000000lZGrIAM/trustees
You can also visit their website here: duncanplace.org/
Trustees with Duncan Place – Goodmoves
goodmoves.org
Duncan Place Community Hub is a friendly, welcoming and inclusive hub in the heart of Leith. The charity provides a brilliant programme of community events, is financially sound and has a great team o...Thank you for sharing this Ben, much appreciated. 👍
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it's been deleted.📢 Message from the office of Ben Macpherson MSP 📢
We wanted to highlight that this week marks Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2025. This year's theme emphasises that anyone can experience an eating disorder—it is a health condition that can affect individuals of all ages, genders, and races.
Statistics show that eating disorders affect at least 1 in 50 people across Scotland, but support and help are available for those who need it.
Eating Disorder Resources:
Eating Disorder Resources | NHS Inform - www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/eating-disorders/
• BEAT Eating Disorders Website - www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/
• BEAT Eating Disorders Helpline: 0808 801 0432 (Monday-Friday, 3:00-8:00pm
www.nhsinform.scot
Learn about different types of eating disorders as well as possible causes and treatments.