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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 want to let Ben's constituents know that our office is currently experiencing a very high volume of enquiries. We are a small team, and we appreciate your patience as we work hard to respond to everyone as quickly as possible in order of urgency. Your concerns are important to Ben and the team, and we will get back to you as soon as we can. Thank you for your understanding during this very busy time.
📢Office of Ben Macpherson MSP📢:
We would like to highlight that this summer, artists, creative organisations, and communities across Scotland are being invited to take part in roundtable discussions as part of the independent Review of Creative Scotland, led by Angela Leitch CBE.
These sessions are a chance to share your views and help shape the future of support for Scotland’s vibrant cultural sector.
The Review will look at:
• Creative Scotland’s purpose and functions
• Its structure and performance
• Governance and leadership
• Finances and funding distribution
• Collaboration and partnerships
The Edinburgh roundtable will take place on Monday, 23 June.
If you’d like to take part, please email:
creativescotlandreview@gov.scot
My question is though that despite this being a great and welcome idea will it really result in any meaningful change? I've been part of several of these consultations before and what has flowed from these isn't anything other than the same funding models and same processes simply repackaged and presented as new. I'm yet to be convinced that the Scottish Government actually listens.
Cronyism seems to be the main route to funding. I know of a number of extremely talented creators who have been knocked back several times for funding. The top heavy executive wages are obscene. A voluntary board of creators should replace the current executive team who , as previous scandals have shown are not fit for the job.
The "Creative Scotland scandal" refers to the controversy surrounding the funding of an arts project called "Rein," which involved real sex acts. The project, funded by Creative Scotland and the National Lottery Open Fund, faced intense criticism and led to the withdrawal of funding and attempts to recover funds. The scandal also highlighted issues with Creative Scotland's funding decisions and accountability, with some accusing them of a cover-up.
Ben Macpherson MSP for Edinburgh Northern and Leith - the Edinburgh event is on a weekday (as are all the others). Will it be held outside of normal business hours, or is the idea that people who work for a living will have to lose an afternoon’s pay in order to attend?
Sylvia Dow
Claire Duffy
Cosima Canneti
Zac Mckay
Sophie + PMC artists at Pathhead Villagers
I’d be happy if ‘creative’ Scotland could fund some actual things normal people would be interested in, instead of satanic inspired porn Seeing the popular comedian shawny boy having to skrimp and save to produce content that’s widely enjoyed while actual porn gets handed our money is beyond insulting, it really is time to take the whole organisation and sack them and start again, away from the jobs for the boyos clubhouse that it’s turned into the last few years
📢Message from the Office of Ben Macpherson MSP📢:
We would like to highlight the RTS switch-off which is happening soon. Has your energy supplier contacted you about your Radio Teleswitch electricity meter? From 30 June, the signal controlling these meters is being switched off, which could affect your heating or hot water. If your supplier has been in touch, don't delay - contact them now to arrange a new meter installation.
Further information is available at the following link:
www.ofgem.gov.uk/information-consumers/energy-advice-households/replacing-your-radio-teleswitch-e...
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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.A brilliant day at the North Edinburgh Community Festival with Pulse of the Place and so many others! Congrats and thanks to all the participants and organisers.
A really good campaign day in Hamilton, supporting our superb Scottish National Party (SNP) by-election candidate Katy Loudon! ☀️
#activeSNP #voteSNP
Enjoyed knocking doors with Jamie Hepburn MSP and seeing fellow Edinburgh SNP candidates Euan Hyslop - SNP, Kate Campbell SNP and Sally Donald SNP.😊
All Leith Walk SNP, Leith SNP, Craigentinny & Duddingston SNP, Forth SNP, SNP Edinburgh North & Leith, SNP Edinburgh Eastern, Edinburgh Western SNP, Edinburgh Southern SNP and Edinburgh University SNP Society members will get a very warm welcome if you want to go over and help this weekend.💛
🙌
Good luck guys🏴
Yesterday, I had the privilege of speaking outside the Scottish Parliament at the “Millions Missing” event held in support of people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). ME/CFS, is a long-term neurological condition with no known cure and it is characterised by a wide range of symptoms, the most common being extreme fatigue. I am pleased that for the first time ME was specifically named in the most recent Scottish Budget, and £4.5 million is committed by the The Scottish Government to supporting those with ME/CFS and Long Covid. I have long championed the voices of those with ME in the The Scottish Parliament, and while this funding from the Scottish Government is welcome, we must work to ensure that further progress is made on providing care pathways for those with the condition.
MEAction Scotland
There are lots of new, exciting opportunities emerging to work at the Port of Leith. It was great to host a Renewable Energy Skills Pipeline Roundtable at The Scottish Parliament this week, bringing together a remarkable group of businesses, educators, and other key stakeholders.
The event aimed to strengthen partnerships, deepen collaboration, and align the needs of local employers with training and skills development. There are many fantastic opportunities in our area - it’s important that young people, as well as those seeking to train or retrain, can pursue these exciting career paths.
A big thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to the engaging and constructive discussions, including Graeme Dey MSP , Minister for Higher and Further Education and Veterans. We have several actions to follow up on in the coming weeks, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact we can achieve together.
The Scottish Government
Forth Ports Community
The City of Edinburgh Council
Edinburgh College
The University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh Napier University
Heriot-Watt University
Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh
Nova Innovation
Vestas
Delighted & grateful to receive confirmation earlier this evening that I’ve successfully been selected by Leith SNP, Leith Walk SNP & Craigentinny & Duddingston SNP members to re-stand for the Scottish National Party (SNP) next year for the constituency of Edinburgh North Eastern & Leith.🙏
Good to attend Craigentinny & Duddingston SNP’s branch meeting this evening as our campaign begins, together - for the common good of all the communities of this new constituency & for the cause of taking Scotland forward.🏴
Thank you to everyone for your kind comments. It’s been a busy 24 hours, with all of this party activity and my MSP work too. I’ll reply to you all personally asap. Before any more time passes, however, I also want to commend Adam McVey and Andrew Ewen on their selection campaigns - as other members have rightly commented in this selection process, both Andrew and Adam would have been effective candidates for the SNP and would have made an impact in Parliament, if elected, for the cause of Scotland and greater social justice - to me it’s a shame that we were all going for the same constituency, but that’s what happened. I learned some helpful things through observing them over this last month and I really hope we can collaborate going forward. They’ve both contributed a lot, are talented communicators and campaigners, and I wish them well.
Congratulations Ben.
Congratulations Ben ! Well deserved.
Congratulations and good luck
Well done 👍🏴
Well done!
Can't get anyone to answer your phone. Tried twice this week.
Congratulations from Wales Ben.
Congratulations Ben xx
Fantastic Ben congratulations
Well done Ben see you on Friday
Good luck Ben
Congratulations Ben 🥂
Congratulations Ben. This is excellent news 🙂
Delighted!!! 🥳🥳🥳🥳
Congratulations Ben! All the best 👍
Congratulations Ben Macpherson MSP for Edinburgh Northern and Leith
Congratulations Ben
Congratulations Ben we are so proud of you the work continues
Brilliant News Ben! You've got my vote.
Well done Ben! Congratulations!
Congratulations Ben !
Congrats Ben!
Superb news. Well done Ben. Testament to your hard work and dedication 🙂
Was only ever one winner. Well done Ben 👍
Over the last few months, constituents in Edinburgh Northern and Leith have received my MSP Community Update 2024/2025 through their doors. The update tells you about some of the issues my team and I have been working hard at on your behalf. It can also be viewed on my website using the following link: benmacpherson.scot/reports/
I will continue to focus on the issues that matter most to people living in our part of the city. If there’s anything you would like to raise or discuss with me, please get in touch. I’m always #HeretoHelp
Forth SNP
Craigentinny & Duddingston SNP
Leith Walk SNP
SNP Edinburgh North & Leith
SNP Edinburgh Eastern
Edinburgh SNP
Leith SNP
📢Office of Ben Macpherson MSP📢:
We would like to highlight that Trading Standards Scotland (TSS) has launched a new campaign to raise awareness about consumer rights. A recent poll by ScotPulse revealed that half of Scots have faced aggressive or misleading sales tactics, affecting their mental and physical wellbeing. If you've been misled or pressured into buying something, you have the right to a refund and may be entitled to compensation.
Signs to watch out for:
• High-pressure sales tactics? You may have the right to cancel and get a full refund within 90 days. More info: consumeradvice.scot.
• Repeated pressure to buy? This could be aggressive selling. You may have the right to cancel or get a refund. More info: citizensadvice.org.uk
• Poorly installed or dangerous product? Ask the trader to fix it. If they don't, you may be entitled to a refund or price reduction. More info: consumeradvice.scot
You can get help or advice at Citizens Advice Scotland and Consumer Advice Scotland. You can report rogue traders and find trusted local ones at Scotland's approved trader directory. Links to these organisations can be found in the comments.
Approved Traders: approvedtrader.scot/
Advice Direct Scotland: consumeradvice.scot/
Wow I didn't know Trading Standards was still funded I thought they had be cut into oblivion! And it would seam so do a lot of traders!
📢Office of Ben Macpherson MSP📢
A reminder that Ben's monthly drop-in “Help & Advice" surgeries are taking place tomorrow, Friday 2 May.
As housing is one of the biggest issues in our area, I take every opportunity I can to raise it on behalf of my constituents and argue for more social housing to be provided in Edinburgh. The Scottish National Party (SNP) / The Scottish Government is taking extra steps to make a positive difference in our area.
My question to the First Minister in The Scottish Parliament today.
Leith SNP
Leith Walk SNP
SNP Edinburgh North & Leith
Forth SNP
Craigentinny & Duddingston SNP
SNP Edinburgh Eastern
Edinburgh SNP
Great 👍
Being a really hard-working, effective, reliable, accessible local MSP has always been a top priority for me - serving local people, championing local campaigns, supporting local businesses and collaborating with local organisations. This is what I've done for nearly a decade and I've helped thousands of constituents and achieved many successful outcomes and positive changes locally. If I'm selected by the local SNP members to be our candidate, and then elected again next year as the MSP for the new seat of Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith, I'm excited about the possibility of continuing to do good work locally for Leith and also delivering well for the communities joining Leith in this new constituency (which are in the Craigentinny/Duddingston Council Ward area) - Abbeyhill, Restalrig, Craigentinny, Lochend, Meadowbank, Northfield, Duddingston and Willowbrae, all of which I know well from living in and around the North-East of Edinburgh for nearly all of my days.
Craigentinny & Duddingston SNP Leith Walk SNP Leith SNP SNP Edinburgh Eastern SNP Edinburgh North & Leith
Another one wanting his snout in the trough
Great guy ❤️
Do you not think that the people should be told what the fully funded and costed financial forecast for a indy scotland would be ,, you do have one ,,
Another waste of space and non entity.
Says him with the Greens tie on , kinda mixed up Snatzi , same as the rest of them .... Vote REFORM .. Rid Scotland of this Snat virus ... 😎😎😎😎😎😎
Great and brave leader
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
You have my vote Ben!!! 100%💕
I wish there were no boundary changes and you’d still be my MSP.
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
😊😊❤️❤️👍👍
Hi Ben how much salary and expenses ?
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.