PAGE 3 PAGE 16 Fresh, tasty and healthy Saltire 2016 Our schools receive prestigious bronze Popular winter festival award for their nutritious meals programme unveiled

PAGE 3 PAGE 13 Investing in our Book your communities place Multi-million pound New mobile programme will boost skills, innovation library service and infrastructure

www.eastlothian.gov.uk SUMMER 2016 Living NEWS FROM YOUR COUNCIL Building a bright future ORE than 80 East Colin Macdonald, Managing Lothian senior Director at Hart Builders, said: school pupils will “The new centre presents a be embarking unique opportunity to grow Mon an exciting new course after our local talent and is the summer break when the something that Hart Builders Construction and Technology wholeheartedly supports. Centre welcomes its first intake. “Harts, as a local company, Located in a former council already employs a large number office in Musselburgh, which was of its workforce from the East also previously used as a Job Lothian area and offers Centre, the facility is an East regular work experience and Lothian Partnership initiative, set placement opportunities. up to help address a skills “We are keen to do even more shortage in the construction to help promote this initiative.” sector. The Dunbar Grammar It will also maintain East pupils pictured have secured Lothian’s position of having a places at the Centre higher than average number of through the well-established residents working in the industry. The new centre and successful partnership East Lothian, Edinburgh and the will address a skills arrangements facilitated by South East region are set to shortage in the the council’s employability hub, experience further significant construction sector East Lothian Works. growth in new housing along with investment in other major FOR MORE information construction projects, providing on the Construction and opportunities for those already Introductory construction by Edinburgh College, with direct to employment for the students. Technology Centre, email working in construction or those trades courses and the new input from the construction It’s hoped the centre will be [email protected] considering their options in terms Foundations Apprenticeship in industry to ensure courses are able to offer up to 160 places in Tel 01620 827262 of future career choice. civil engineering will be delivered relevant and likely to lead directly future years.

INSIDE: Superfast broadband • Affordable housing • What’s on • Work experience • Internship success 2 Living East Lothian News Summer 2016

Pupils look forward to new classrooms

PUPILS returning to Prestonpans a major population boom with Infants School for the new term new housing developments will enjoy extra classrooms across the town. provided as part of a £400,000 “The council aims to extension being delivered by the balance this growth with council’s development partner, an associated expansion of Hub South East Ltd, with our services, including our GRAHAM Construction the main school estate. contractor. . “Prestonpans Infants has The two-storey extension will already been extended and this provide two additional classrooms new work completes the second for the growing school and will be phase of major extensions. used by P2 pupils. “I know it is something that has Council Leader Willie Innes and some of the Council Leader, Willie Innes, been welcomed by local parents youngsters check out progress on the classrooms said: “Prestonpans is experiencing and school staff.”

Council prioritises the installation of superfast broadband in East Lothian CONTACT Living East Lothian, Communications and Marketing, John Muir House, Haddington EH41 3HA

Tel: 01620 827743 E-mail: living@ Connecting our eastlothian.gov.uk Web: www.eastlothian.gov.uk

Editor: Jill Mackay Contributors: Pauline Bristow Fiona Dawson Rachel Dixon communities Jane Ogden-Smith CCESS to a reliable funding and support for and detailed the next stages of John McMillan, said: “Improving Main photography: broadband service is a community-led broadband the project, which aims to community broadband in Mark Jackson key issue affecting solutions, confirmed that the gaps improve internet connectivity East Lothian is a top priority for rural communities in in coverage across East Lothian across the county. the council. Living is designed by AEast Lothian. would mean a county-wide project To take this forward, it is “I want this project to be another Connect Publications, Last year, a survey undertaken by could be established. envisaged that a community group step towards ensuring all properties Studio 2001, Mile End, the council about the demand for A public meeting was held earlier will be set up to manage the in East Lothian have access to Paisley PA1 1JS. superfast broadband and the this year to discuss bringing funding and delivery of the superfast broadband. Web: www.connect impact this issue has on the superfast broadband to the areas of superfast broadband project in “There is still more work to be communications.co.uk residents of East Lothian identified East Lothian that are not going to East Lothian. done with the Scottish Printed by Newsquest that 75 per cent of respondents Government, BT and other agencies (Herald & Times) Ltd on were dissatisfied with their internet “Improving community broadband to ensure that we do achieve behalf of East Lothian Council connection and that the superfast coverage in the county.” instability of the connection in East Lothian is a top priority for Stuart Gibb, Area Manager for This publication is available impacted on both their professional the council. I want this project to be Haddington and Lammermuir in Braille, large print, audio and social lives. another step towards ensuring all Area Partnership, said: “All and community languages on Four of the six Area Partnerships presentations and notes from the request. Tel: 01620 827199 in East Lothian have identified the properties in East Lothian have public event have been made need for superfast broadband in access to superfast broadband” available on the East Lothian rural areas as being a key element Council website for those who of their Area Plans and the be served by any of the existing Anyone interested in becoming were unable to attend, alongside Haddington and Lammermuir broadband programmes. involved in the community group links to relevant websites and Area Partnership is taking the lead Presentations from Digital should contact the Area Partnership further information on the Please remember to recycle role in finding and delivering Scotland Superfast Broadband, on areapartnership@eastlothian. community group. your copy of Living a solution. Community Broadband Scotland gov.uk “We want to make sure that © East Lothian Council 2016 Discussions with Community and Atkins-Farrpoint highlighted Economic Development and anyone with a vested interest in Broadband Scotland, who provide the work already under way Tourism spokesman, Councillor this project is able to get involved.”

Web: www.eastlothian.gov.uk E-mail: [email protected] Twitter: @ELCouncil Tel: 01620 827827 Living East Lothian 3 Summer 2016 News Ambitious plans for City Region Deal are outlined AST Lothian Council is one Infrastructure refers to both for East Lothian to be part of six local authorities that Multi-million investment will boost transport networks and digital of a massive investment to deliver make up the Edinburgh technology. A regional housing projects that will have a real impact and South East skills, innovation and infrastructure programme would aim to address on the lives of our residents EScotland City region, working the urgent need for affordable of all ages – and build a solid collectively on a bid to the UK and and decision-making powers council’s financial contribution housing across the City Region Deal future for young people and Scottish Governments for a City for the region to help us towards the deal. area of Edinburgh, East Lothian, communities. Region Deal. deliver public services more The proposals have been shaped West Lothian, Midlothian, and “The potential scale of the The deal is a mechanism for effectively and to tackle inequality around four interconnected the Scottish Borders. A culture and investment, plus the issues we’re accelerating growth by pulling and deprivation. programmes: tourism programme would build looking to tackle, are hugely in significant government At the June full council meeting, ●● innovation hubs on the estimated 3.8 million visitors significant. I’m very pleased we are investment. East Lothian councillors heard ●● infrastructure investment a year to the region. moving forward with this deal.” By investing this funding in more detail on the focus, scope and ●● a regional housing programme The deal aims to create a step Councillor John McMillan, infrastructure, skills and innovation scale of the proposed Edinburgh ●● a culture and tourism change in the economic Cabinet Spokesperson the region’s economic performance and South East Scotland City programme. performance while tackling for Economic Development will be significantly improved, Region Deal. Innovation hubs will be based deprivation and is hoped to attract and Tourism, said: “This which will not only generate funds Priorities for the deal were agreed, around low-carbon initiatives, data a £2 billion investment from the is potentially a huge investment to pay back this initial investment, along with approval to form a joint technology, life sciences, food and Scottish and UK Governments, with for the whole region that will but will also draw in significant committee to take forward the drink and textiles – connecting up a potential further £5 million from help to tackle the issues that additional funding from the programme. the world-leading research and the private sector. are very much at the heart of private sector. Chief Executive Angela Leitch has innovation being driven by our Council Leader Willie Innes said: growing our economies and It is also about greater autonomy been authorised to negotiate the universities and colleges. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance tackling inequality.”

New business School meals are more than tasty! units for rent EAST Lothian Council’s school in Haddington meal service has retained the Staff at Cockenzie prestigious Soil Association’s Primary School are NEW business units for rent bronze Food for Life Catering Mark proud to have have been created in for serving fresh and healthy meals contributed to the Haddington, responding to in their primary schools. Food for Life award demand for small business The Food for Life Catering Mark premises in East Lothian. brings together many issues that The units are in Brewery people care about – health, climate Park, opposite East Lothian change and animal welfare. It Council’s HQ, and have been recognises caterers and restaurants developed by East Lothian who serve fresh food that is free Land Ltd, the not-for-profit from controversial additives and company that developed better for animal welfare. Macmerry Business Park. More and more, people want to The building is a former know where their food comes from council office, which has and how it was produced. become vacant due to The Food for Life Catering Mark departmental restructuring offers a guarantee that fresh food and the introduction of more you can trust is always on the menu flexible working. so customers can tuck in with a Each of the 10 units clear conscience. features high-speed The Catering Mark is open to all broadband and secure food producers. The bronze, silver individual access. and gold tiers recognise caterers modified ingredients are used and seasonal meals that are free from enjoyed by pupils across who serve more locally produced, all eggs are from cage-free hens. controversial additives. the county.” healthy and organic food. Councillor Shamin Akhtar, “In recent years, there has been a The council’s catering team has ANYONE INTERESTED Caterers with the bronze Catering Cabinet Member for Education and wealth of research evidence that worked hard to ensure the 3800 in finding out more Mark serve seasonal meals that are Children’s services, said: “We’re shows the strong correlation meals they provide each school day about the new business freshly prepared and free from delighted that we’ve retained the between children’s health, meet the bronze Catering Mark space should contact undesirable additives including bronze Food for Life Catering Mark educational achievement and diet. standards, with fresh, seasonal, estates@eastlothian. gov.uk monosodium glutamate, tartrazine in recognition of our commitment “Our primary school meals healthier menus and meat that can and aspartame. No genetically to serving freshly prepared, provide a nutritional foundation be traced back to the farm. 4 Living East Lothian News Summer 2016

East Coast Buses are connecting communities Young people try

EAST Lothian’s previously “We are pleased to be in threatened bus service provision a position to take on and continues with the introduction continue providing these vital the world of work of East Coast Buses Ltd, a wholly services and be part of the owned subsidiary of Lothian local economy.” Buses Ltd. Councillor Michael Veitch, Project gives Earlier this year, First Scotland Transport spokesman, added: hands-on work East Ltd announced it was to “This should not only secure the close operations and withdraw future of the Dunbar and North experience services from the county. Berwick corridors currently An agreement was reached served by First, but will go that sees East Coast Buses further in creating an entirely INCE February, East Ltd operate newly liveried new operation dedicated to Lothian Works, the vehicles to provide a clean, serving our county. council’s employability efficient and reliable service “This is a hugely significant hub, has supported 12 across the two main routes development for East Lothian Syoung people to gain six months connecting and and secures vastly improved paid work experience in the The Paid Work Experience Dunbar to Haddington, public transport provision for Infrastructure Division of scheme is giving young Musselburgh and Edinburgh. local people in the future.” the council. people vital work skills Richard Hall, Managing For up-to-date information on Ray Montgomery, Head of Director of Lothian Buses, said: routes, timetables and fares, Infrastructure, was eager to offer “This deal will protect key bus please visit www.eastlothian young people the opportunity to SQA qualification Certificate of experience placement, providing services and jobs, but the buses.co.uk participate in the Paid Work Work Readiness. a meaningful qualification at a benefits go much further than There is the additional option Experience programme in All 12 participants have credible standard employers can that. The residents, workers to sign up to the “community” departments such as Amenity committed to the Certificate of recognise and trust. and businesses of East Lothian mailing list, which ensures Services, Kinwegar Waste Services, Work Readiness qualification, Successful completion of this rely on buses for their daily members receive all the latest Property Maintenance and either the full award which is qualification gives the young lives and wellbeing. information and offers first hand. Facilities Management. made up of five SQA units, or part person evidence of their East Lothian Works and award completing individual employability, which they can use Infrastructure are providing the units. Subjects such as when applying for jobs. placements and each has made a responsibilities as an employee, East Lothian Works is now 50 per cent financial commitment dealing with difficult situations in discussions with other to fund the positions. at work and skills for customer council departments to create As well as work experience, the care are all included in the award. similar opportunities. participants take part in learning The qualification is designed delivered by East Lothian Works specifically for young people who staff. This is identified by are ready for their first experience TO FIND out more contact: assessing the young person’s of the world of work and need East Lothian Works needs and can be in the form of some guided support. Included [email protected] literacy and numeracy support, within the award is a unique Tel 01620 827262 employability skills and the employer-assessed work Help when you need it most IF you own your home and are in Scottish Government taking up to financial situation before danger of having it repossessed a 30 per cent financial stake in applying to take part in the due to financial difficulties, you your home. You will still own it Mortgage to Rent or Mortgage to may be eligible for help. and continue to have Shared Equity schemes. The Scottish Government responsibility for maintaining Your application will not be operates the Mortgage to Rent and insuring it, but will be able to considered unless you have scheme and the Mortgage to reduce the amount you have to taken advice from an approved Shared Equity scheme as part of pay to your lender every month. Money Adviser such as a Citizens the Home Owners’ Support Fund Advice Bureau (CAB), or Money to help owners who have HOW DO I KNOW IF ONE OF Advice outlet. Contact details can difficulty paying loans secured THESE SCHEMES IS FOR ME? be obtained from: against their property. If you are experiencing difficulty ●● Haddington CAB, 46 Court Under Mortgage to Rent, a in paying loans secured against Street, Haddington, tel: 01620 social landlord such as a housing your home, tell your lender(s) 824 471; Musselburgh CAB, 141 association or council could buy immediately. You may be able to High Street, Musselburgh, tel: your home and arrange for you come to an arrangement with 0131 653 2748/2544. to continue to live there as a them. If not, seek independent ●● Money Advice Scotland: tenant. The Mortgage to Shared advice. You must obtain 0141 572 0237; www. Equity scheme involves the independent advice about your moneyadvicescotland.org.uk Living East Lothian 5 Summer 2016 News

Dog Watch cracks down on irresponsible pet owners

FROM April this year, the fixed significant health risks to people including parks, near schools, and details of the owner, we may be penalty for dog fouling doubled to and particularly children. sports pitches and beaches. able to visit and issue a warning.” £80. East Lothian community “Hopefully, the increased fine will Councillor Hampshire added: The community wardens wardens have launched a campaign act as a deterrent to the minority of “Our community wardens have continue to monitor many areas to advise dog owners of their dog owners who fail to clean up issued a number of warnings and through early morning and responsibilities when exercising after their pet.” fixed penalties for dog fouling and evening patrols and see the vast their pets in public. The community wardens set up we continue to get reports from majority of dog owners do pick up Councillor Norman Hampshire, a month-long dog fouling walkers of their responsibilities residents about problem areas. after their dog. cabinet member for Environment, campaign prior to the new charges. when exercising dogs in “We can take direct action If you witness an offence of explained: “Dog fouling is a concern The wardens conducted public areas. depending on how much dog fouling, you can pass on the expressed by residents across all numerous patrols throughout New signage advising of the £80 information is provided. If a resident relevant information to the our communities. It’s not only East Lothian, advising both dog fixed penalty has been erected in can provide a description of the dog, council on 01875 824305 or at unpleasant, but can also pose owners and professional dog popular dog walking areas, location and time of the incident, www.eastlothian.gov.uk/dogwatch

99 Objects – a Coastal Businesses help Communities Exhibition to develop our There is plenty to absorb young visitors – the “magic ball”, a feature on Victorian schooldays, young workforce the “Object Observer” quiz and the spectacular Stevenson EAST Lothian has six secondary Developing Scotland’s Young lighthouse optics. schools and approximately Workforce team has been Visit over, you can follow the 1000 school leavers each the creation of ‘Marketplace’, specially designed trail, across the year, all with individual talents an online digital platform coastal ward, which will take you and ambitions of what their that aims to improve to the site of some little-known future holds. engagement between historic gems, each with a link to Scotland’s youth employment employers and education one of the exhibition’s 99 objects. strategy, Developing the Young Graham Blaikie, owner at Or you could head to the Workforce, identifies that the Mercat Grill, Whitecraig, is Museum Café and enjoy a employers, parents, carers and urging local businesses to get break, before you return to the teachers play a vital role in the more involved in school beach and bask in the North shaping of youth talent. activity by getting on board Berwick sun. A regional Developing the with the region’s Marketplace. The exhibition is at the Young Workforce team has Graham said: “Marketplace Coastal Communities Museum, been established and is is going to give me an easier School Road, North Berwick working closely with East route into schools and to meet HE Scottish seaside regular feature of summer EH39 4JU, and is open every Lothian Works, Skills with pupils. holiday can be too much holidays in North Berwick and Wednesday to Sunday, plus Development Scotland and “When you are giving up of a good thing. If you along the coast at Gullane. bank holidays. From Sunday Edinburgh College to encourage your time to engage with are looking for a bolthole The bright yellow beach hut on 4 September, the exhibition is and support businesses to schools, it’s important to be Tfrom the beach this summer, display in the museum was crafted open on weekends only. become more involved. able to plan ahead. when the cool sea breezes by local cabinet-maker William The exhibition closes on Sunday There is already some great Marketplace will allow me to conspire to reduce the pleasure of Auld & Sons, in the early 1900s. 27 November 2016. The Museum work going on in East Lothian. do this to fit better with my paddling and take away the fun of The huts were hired out for the Café serves hot and cold drinks, Kevin Sutherland, Head of busy schedule. building sand castles, an season, then dismantled and home baking and lunches. Sales for Canon UK Ltd, “With schools being able excellent alternative is a visit to stored until the following year. highlights the benefits of the to book my offers posted on the 99 Objects Exhibition at the This one lay untouched at the work this company is doing in Marketplace in advance, I Coastal Communities Museum in back of Auld’s workshop for partnership with Knox will hopefully get an audience School Road, North Berwick. It’s decades until resurrected for the Academy, Haddington. of kids who are keen, a stone’s throw from the East Bay. current exhibition. “Giving young people the enthusiastic and want to hear Here you will find, among a The objects on display reflect opportunity to visit our what I have to say about the treasure trove of exhibits, an many aspects of the history of the business and see what we hospitality industry.” authentic beach hut dating from coastal communities, from are about is a benefit on the Edwardian era. Aberlady to Whitekirk. both sides: young people get In those days, modesty prevailed There’s a set of 18th-century sight of what a real workplace and genteel folks needed a degree stocks used to punish petty is like and start to understand IF YOU would like to of privacy to change in and out of criminals – a humiliating our industry, and we get to find out more or are interested in being their bathing costumes. alternative to prison! inspire young minds to think involved, please contact: When the weather turned, they Peden’s mask, pictured left, about coming to work for us East Lothian Works could sit and eat their picnic in is a scary reminder that you in the future.” [email protected] relative comfort inside the six foot could end up incarcerated on the One of the areas of Tel 01620 827262 square (2m2) hut. , for years, for your development for the regional Gaily painted beach huts were a religious beliefs! 6 Living East Lothian News Summer 2016

Provost Ludovic Broun-Lindsay and East Help to live Lothian Council Chief Executive Angela Leitch join East Lothian Food and Drink at home producers at the Highland Show THE council is supporting the East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership (ELHSCP) proposals to develop specialist support and care at home services. ELHSCP is seeking to develop new ways of delivering services, mainly focusing on adults with specialist support needs as part of their commitment to improving the quality of services. Through consultation with local Food and drink businesses vote ‘yes’! communities, the ELHSCP is aiming to plan and deliver EAST Lothian is set to be the with a board of directors and a Cabinet Spokesperson for whole new level, harnessing that appropriate services for world’s first food and drink manager, to deliver projects that Economic Development and collaborative power to help their those requiring them. Business Improvement District will help East Lothian’s food and Tourism, said: “I’m absolutely businesses grow even further.” The project team is (BID) after local businesses voted drink producers to grow and delighted our forward-thinking, A soft launch of the BID took meeting with providers, to set up this innovative scheme. market their businesses on a innovative businesses in this place at the Royal Highland carers, service-users and The BID will involve the national and international scale. sector have taken this Show. For details, visit www. advocacy groups to decide creation of a limited company, Councillor John McMillan, opportunity to collaborate on a foodanddrinkeastlothian.com how to best develop new contract arrangements that will be able to deliver services to all service-users. The project is being supported by a number of national bodies, including NHS National Services Scotland, the Scottish A shining example of Commission for Learning Disability and the Care Inspectorate. Social workers will be carrying out social work young people’s skills assessments for adults with specialist support needs to HE Duke of Edinburgh’s something I wouldn’t normally see how a more community Award (DofE), founded by have done. If I hadn’t done the and outcome-focused HRH The Duke of award I don’t think I would have framework can be Edinburgh in 1956, is done certain activities.” developed. They will also be Tcelebrating its Diamond During parts of a strenuous working with Housing to Anniversary this year. expedition when the weather was assess housing need for At 60 years young, the DofE has challenging, Gavin mentioned that: adults with specialist never been more relevant for young “At times when I was struggling I support needs and how best people aged 14-24 in Scotland, just powered through. I’ve learned to align these needs in the providing a framework of activities how to get myself motivated and community to inform future through which participants gain how to actually keep going.” Celebrating young people’s housing strategy. vital skills for life and work. Charlie said: “At the end of the achievements in the 60th East Lothian Integration Within East Lothian, more than year of the awards day, when you’re soaking wet but Joint Board Chairperson 300 young people start the DofE you’ve got a smile on your face, you Councillor Donald Grant said: programmes each year, supported know something’s going well.” “We will be helping people by about 40 volunteer leaders from of sport, dance or fitness activities what background or ability, to take Community Learning & achieve much more person- schools and community based ●● Skills – developing practical and part and succeed, regardless of Development Services at the centred services that really groups. Last year, just over 200 social skills and personal interests barriers. council, who train and support meet their needs. awards were achieved. ●● Expedition – planning, training Mark Sandford, Katie Meikle, DofE Leaders, would like to “I know people sometimes There are three levels – Bronze, for and completion of an Gavin Sandford, Charlie Riddell and thank them all for their valuable feel apprehensive about Silver & Gold – each one demanding adventurous journey. Leon Doig from a DofE youth group work guiding young people change but we will keep more time and effort. Bronze takes At Gold level, participants also in Haddington are nearing the end through the award. people engaged and a minimum of six months to take part in these four sections, of their Gold award. The group informed every step of complete, while Gold often takes plus a Residential, which involves didn’t know each other well at the the way. It won’t all about 18 months. staying and working away from start, but Katie said: “We are all IF YOU would be interested happen overnight and it Bronze and Silver have four home doing a shared activity e.g. good friends now. We’ve all learned in volunteering to help will deliver much better sections: attending a cook school, taking part how to get on with a variety of run DofE activities in East Lothian, please get in touch. outcomes for people who ●● Volunteering – undertaking in an outdoor sports programme or different people and managed to Email cldmusselburgh@ use specialist and help to service to individuals or the helping on a children’s camp. support and motivate each other.” eastlothian.gov.uk or live at home services.” community The ethos of DofE is to enable Mark added: “DofE has been a telephone 0131 653 4060. ●● Physical – improving in an area every young person, no matter good way to get me doing Living East Lothian 7 Summer 2016 News

Justice QMU duo celebrates services changes internship success THE Scottish Government has introduced a new WO communications connectivity in rural and remote model to improve the graduates from Queen areas of East Lothian. way that community Margaret University She said: “In my role, I work with justice services are (QMU) are celebrating a wide range of people on a variety delivered in Scotland. Tafter securing a 12-month graduate of different projects. I am gaining The changes are internship with the council. invaluable experience not only in intended to make the best Rachel Dixon (23) from Dunbar , communications and community use of the £100 million graduated from QMU in 2014 with a planning, but also in web design allocated by the Scottish BA (Hons) Marketing & and project management. Government each year to Management. Fiona Dawson (23) “I am now leading my own deliver community from Dunfermline, graduated from projects, developing my press sentences, support the QMU in 2015 with a BA (Hons) relations and writing skills, rehabilitation of offenders, Public Relations & Marketing. helping to plan and run public and reduce reoffending. Both graduates made successful Fiona and Rachel are engagement activities and creating A key change will applications to the new graduate enjoying their internships and managing social media and see the transfer of internship scheme, fully funded by with the council enews channels. No two days are responsibility for the East Lothian Council. the same.” planning and delivery Rachel and Fiona were keen to The council is promoting of community justice find paid work experience in the service. So far, she has been skills and enhanced my knowledge Investors in Young People, and services from Scotland’s local area that would allow them to developing her creative marketing and personal development in the Fiona and Rachel have both eight Community Justice build on the knowledge and skills skills, including print production, short time I’ve been working with become Investors in Young People Authorities to the 32 they had acquired while studying at social media management and the council.” Champions. Community Planning QMU. The new scheme offered by press release writing. Fiona is an assistant In this role, they are undertaking Partnerships. the council has meant that they are Rachel said: “I am working on communications and community a ‘health check’ on the status of the East Lothian Partnership now getting a valuable insight into various projects that are exciting engagement officer working in the council’s investment in young will provide strong links their chosen career. and ensure that each day is Corporate Policy and Improvement people from an employer’s between criminal justice Rachel is a graduate marketing different. team. Her role involves engaging perspective. social workers with assistant and is working with the “Right from the start, we were with local community groups, This involves setting up colleagues in the council Economic Development team, offered training and coaching project co-ordination and website interviews and focus groups with and also the opportunity which includes tourism initiatives, opportunities and I have already design and editing. young people aged 16-24 employed to develop closer working the Invest in East Lothian attended a number of seminars and Fiona has also been working with by the council. They will find out relationships with other campaign, and East Lothian exhibitions. These have vastly Community Broadband Scotland their views to help guide any areas local partners in health, Works, the council’s employability improved my communication on a project to improve broadband for future development. housing and social care to improve how they work together to tackle reoffending. Willie Innes, Chair Citizens have their say on local services of East Lothian Partnership, said: “While recorded crime levels in EAST Lothian’s Citizens’ Panel has We sent out our fourth East can work with communities to 41 per cent agreed that poverty is a East Lothian are well been gathering the views of local Lothian Citizens’ Panel Survey improve and develop town centres. real issue across Scotland below the national people for a number of years. Panel earlier this year. Here are some of We asked panel members where ●● when asked specifically about average, and continuing members receive a questionnaire the findings. they look for information about East Lothian, 12 per cent strongly to fall, it is clear that a twice a year asking their views on Panel members were asked what what’s on across East Lothian: agreed and 36 per cent agreed that localised approach to a wide range of topics and the they thought of their local town ●● 64 per cent said they got what’s poverty is a real issue. support offenders and information gathered is used to centre: on information from a local This information is of interest reduce reoffending will help plan and improve public ●● 36 per cent rated the range of newspaper and 32 per cent said to the East Lothian Poverty draw upon the relevant services in East Lothian. shops in their local town centre as from Living newspaper Commission, which was set up to factors applicable to East We’ve decided the time is right very good or good and 43 per cent ●● 64 per cent said they found out look at the issue of poverty in Lothian. to make a few changes to how we rated the range of places to eat and by word of mouth and 25 per cent East Lothian. The Commission has “This will improve run the panel to keep it interesting drink as very good or good from social media been gathering evidence from a collaborative working at and engaging for members and to ●● 42 per cent rated cleanliness as ●● 46 per cent picked up leaflets or wide range of sources and its a local level and tackle attract new members. very good or good looked at posters in local venues report will identify a number of the causes of offending We’ll be contacting members ●● 12 per cent rated traffic levels ●● 7 per cent used the Council key actions for tackling and within our communities.” slightly more often, but with as very good or good and 11 per website, 6 per cent used the Visit preventing poverty in East Lothian. A number of local shorter sets of questions on new cent rated car parking as very good East Lothian website and 3 per cent consultation events are and varied topics. or good. used other websites to find what’s currently being planned. We’ll also be using the panel Although levels of satisfaction on information. IF YOU would like to sign up To register an interest as a Citizens’ Panel member as a sounding board for ideas varied between town centres, the We were interested in finding out in the new Community email consultations@ and will invite members to get feedback pointed to some key about panel members’ perceptions eastlothian.gov.uk or phone Justice model, please email involved in focus groups and areas for improvement and will be of poverty: 01620 827270. [email protected] engagement events. fed into discussions about how we ●● 26 per cent strongly agreed and 8 Living East Lothian News Summer 2016

Your view counts

POLICE Scotland consults with the public every year on what its priorities are. Delivering affordable We want you to help us focus on the priorities that will help communities most. This is the first time Police Scotland’s public consultation is being hosted on a digital platform. This allows us to housing in East Lothian reach a much wider audience than before. The online consultation is open all year, which allows you to take part when it suits you but also gives the flexibility of being able to re-submit the consultation if your priorities change. It’s a very simple process that should only take a few moments. We will keep you updated on our quarterly results.

THE SURVEY can be accessed at www.survey monkey.co.uk/r/8LMB9WX

Advice for planning public events ARE you planning an event in East Lothian? The council can provide you with advice and guidance to point you in the right direction in delivering a successful event. The information will help North Berwick local businesses, community groups and other organisations through the initial planning stage and provide key factors The council has been working in partnership with a range of partners to to be considered to ensure provide new homes at sites across the county, many at discounted prices your event runs smoothly. Advice includes the following common topics: HE Council and its East Lothian Council has also private developer, Taylor Wimpey. both the council and its partners are ●● event planning partners have been busy worked with the Scottish Our Housing Association continuing to work hard with the ●● risk assessment delivering a mix of Government and secured funding partners have delivered amenity private sector to explore and secure ●● insurance affordable tenures across for both council and registered units at Eskmills, Musselburgh next new opportunities. ●● licensing TEast Lothian in recent years. social landlords partners to Tesco, 13 units at Orchardfield, “We are also working closely with ●● traffic management We have seen completions in contributing towards the success of East Linton, in partnership with the the Scottish Government to ●● planning consent all seven wards: Musselburgh, our delivery programme. private developer Miller Homes, as maximise funding opportunities to ●● food safety Whitecraig, Tranent, Prestonpans, Since April 2013, the council well as some smaller developments facilitate this delivery programme. ●● funding for your event Haddington, Dunbar and has delivered new-build units at at Dirleton Court, North Berwick “As well as delivering the ●● marketing your event. North Berwick. Goosegreen, Musselburgh, and East Saltoun. subsidised units for rent, the council We have also seen some smaller Lochbridge Road in North Housing spokesman Councillor has been exploring further developments complete in our Berwick, the site next to Lidl in Norman Hampshire said: “The opportunities to provide more FOR MORE information rural areas in East Linton and Prestonpans and about 70 units at council’s priority is to deliver as choice in our affordable housing by visit www.eastlothian.gov. East Saltoun. Pinkie in partnership with the many affordable units as it can and delivering other affordable tenures. uk/PlanningPublicEvents Living East Lothian 9 Summer 2016 News

Local flood risk management plans

TO HELP us manage flood risk and risk management and co-ordinate Delivering affordable reduce the impacts of flooding on the efforts of all organisations that our communities, economy and tackle flooding. environment, Scotland has Within each LPD, there is a lead developed its first Flood Risk local authority responsible for the Management Strategies, published co-ordination and publication of by SEPA in December 2015, and their Local Flood Risk Management Local Flood Risk Management Plan, which takes forward the housing in East Lothian Plans, published by local objectives and actions to translate authorities in June 2016. them into a local plan. “Our Housing Association Scotland has 14 Local Plan The City of Edinburgh Council partners can deliver shared equity Districts (LPDs) based on river leads on the Forth Estuary Local and a mid-market rent model and catchments and cross Plan, which includes East Lothian have in recent years done so in administrative and institutional and can be viewed at: www. Tranent and Prestonpans. boundaries. edinburgh.gov.uk/flooding “We have recently seen 12 units A Flood Risk Management Paper copies are also available delivered at the Pinkie Mains site Strategy is available for each LPD to view at Main Reception, John through a joint Scottish and, taken together, they set the Muir House, Haddington and The Government and private national direction for future flood Brunton, Musselburgh. investment initiative, the Local Affordable Rented Housing Trust, which offers a mid-market rent in perpetuity. The council is also delivering a new discounted sale Housing spokesman, Can we help reduce model through the private Cllr Norman Hampshire developers, which was approved welcomes new tenant your Council Tax bill? earlier this year. THE Council Tax Reduction Scheme is ●● you’ve come to live in the UK COMING SOON available if you are out of work or from abroad This year, East Lothian has already on a low income and can help reduce ●● you’re a full-time student seen a further 12 completions at your Council Tax payments. To ●● you live in residential care or a Pinkie Mains, Musselburgh, and is qualify, you must: nursing home on site at Hallhill, Dunbar, with 70 ●● be on a low income ●● you have savings over £16,000. units forecast for completion ●● be the person responsible for Apply online at www.eastlothian. between now and the end of paying the Council Tax. gov.uk/claimctr or call into your local March 2017. Our Housing The amount of reduction you will council area office and pick up an Association Partner Castlerock get depends on the amount of application form. Edinvar is also delivering a further Council Tax you have to pay, the For more information about 60 units on the same site, 24 of amount of money you have coming the scheme, call 01620 827730 which are social rent, 24 mid- in and the number of people living (council tenants) or 01620 827729 market and 12 Shared Equity. in your household. (private tenants / owner occupiers), Both the mid-market and shared You may not be entitled to Council or you can email benefits@ equity are currently being Musselburgh Tax Reduction if: eastlothian.gov.uk marketed. Castlerock has also recently started on site at Mingulay Court, Haddington to deliver eight end of the month. More Homes. They have a mix of two- units for social rent. information will be in the bed terraced houses and three-bed Paying via eBills is fast, East Lothian Housing local media. semi-detached properties for sale. Association is on site to deliver 18 In addition to this the council The two-bed properties are safe and convenient units for social rent at Bayswell has secured properties for sale at £112,892 and the three-bed Road, Dunbar, with a further 35 discount prices with a number of properties are for sale at £124,875. TIRED of paper cluttering up your To receive your Council Tax or units for social rent at Inglis developers. These are in the Avant Homes can be contacted on home or business? Then switch Business Rates bill by email, Farm, Cockenzie. following areas and are on 08442 578520 or by visiting the to eBills. contact [email protected]. Dunedin Canmore Housing sale currently: marketing suite on site. ●● it’s completely secure uk with your account number, Association is on site at Mains ●● it’s faster – you receive your bill name and address. Farm, North Berwick to deliver a HADDINGTON WALLYFORD as soon as a change is made to mix of social rent and mid-market Saxon Field, Gateside developed Dovecot Wynd, Salters Road, your account FOR ADDED CONVENIENCE, WHY rent, all of which should complete by Persimmon Homes. They have Wallyford developed by ●● it’s accessible – you can view NOT PAY YOUR BILLS ONLINE? by the end of March 2017. two-bed terraced houses for sale at Persimmon Homes. They have your bill on your smartphone, Like many banks and utility As part of the affordable housing £112,892. Persimmon Homes can two-bed terraced houses for sale tablet or pc companies, you can visit the requirement on this site, Cruden be contacted on 01620 670206 or at £109,000. ●● it’s secure council website and pay your Homes are delivering some email saxonfields.esco@persimmon Persimmon Homes can be ●● it’s free of charge Council Tax or Business Rates. It’s three-bedroom terraced housing homes.com contacted on or email ●● it will help us to reduce printing simple, quick and costs nothing. for discounted sale, for which Burnell Park, Aberlady Road, dovecotwynd.esco@persimmon and postage costs, making savings You will also receive a receipt marketing will begin towards the Haddington developed by Avant homes.com to the council’s budget and helping for your payment. Visit www.east protect services. lothian.gov.uk/payforit 10 Living East Lothian News Summer 2016

USINESS Gateway Enjoy a new Jane McMinn, left, provides access to free and Lesley Scott business support opportunity with a mature lobster for breeding services and advisers EAST Lothian Works is looking Bgive assistance and impartial to recruit people for the next advice to people starting or NOEL (New Opportunities growing their business. East Lothian) course, starting Steve Newlin had an unusual in September. encounter when he met Jane NOEL is an employability and McMinn to discuss expanding her personal development course business. Jane operates the aimed at people who are ready environmental charity the Firth of to progress into employment Forth Lobster Hatchery based at or further learning. North Berwick harbour. The charity It will run twice weekly rears and protects lobsters in their from September to December first stages of their life cycle before focusing on personal returning them to the sea. development, confidence Steve explained: “I have met a building, identifying existing wide range of clients over the skills and goal setting. years and advised at the start-up From January to March, of a new business, but at the participants will complete hatchery, I am literally seeing the an SQA unit in Employability, birth of these fascinating creatures carry out a work placement Helping to hatch whose population sadly has been and have the opportunity to declining in recent years.” gain certificates in Elementary Jane added: “We are aiming Food Hygiene and Emergency to produce 10,000 juvenile lobsters First Aid. to be released annually. This business ideas will benefit the fishing FOR FURTHER communities, strengthen the information call East FOR MORE information, visit www.firthofforthlobsterhatchery.org.uk local marine ecosystem and Lothian Works on ensure a sustained population.” 01620 827262 or email Business Gateway offices are at East Lothian Works, Lodge Street, Haddington, and Queen Margaret University, Musselburgh www.eastlothian.gov.uk Visitors are welcome to visit the [email protected] hatchery and discover more.

Thinking of investing in East Lothian?

INVEST in East Lothian is an initiative designed to attract and support inward investment into East Lothian and has been supported by a range of business partners and stakeholders. Via a specially designed web page, businesses can find all information they need when making their investment location decision. Look out too for our branding and messaging in key locations and where businesses congregate. We are delighted to have Queen Margaret University on board, who are promoting the county to their graduates and supporters. If you are a business located in East Lothian and are seeking to expand, or wish to share our materials with your key partners, please contact: economicdevelopment@ eastlothian.gov.uk or visit: www.eastlothian.gov.uk/ invest Living East Lothian 11 Summer 2016 News

Giving you George’s story GEORGE started 1:1 sessions with an Adult Literacy Tutor as confidence to he had no confidence learning in a group. With the support of the tutor, he joined the local library learn new skills and read a Quick Read book, which are short stories written DO you have the confidence and numeracy, IT and for emerging readers. George qualifications you need to: employability) soon started reading a much ●● get the job you want? ●● improve wider range of books and began ●● apply for an apprenticeship? your spelling visiting the library on his own. ●● go to college? and writing When he felt ready, George joined ●● help your children with their skills a group where he worked on his homework? ●● increase reading and writing. He sent a If the answer is no, why not talk your confidence story to the Scottish Book Trust as to East Lothian Works and take reading for work, part their annual campaign to get that first step back into learning college and pleasure Scotland writing and his story was with everyday reading, writing ●● update your chosen to be published in their and maths? everyday maths book last year. Free help and advice is available knowledge. “When I first started, I was to adults (16+) who may have Short courses on really shy and had no confidence missed out on their own education, offer include: at all. I couldn’t come into the or who find they now need new ●● preparing for group at first and I couldn’t talk, and different skills for life today. Interviews now I am a lot more confident. You can: ●● application forms and CVs I was pleased when I heard that ●● gain or upgrade SQA qualifications ●● preparation for driving test theory my story had been chosen to go ● in core skills (communication, ● get ready for college. George has enjoyed having into the Book Trust book. I am one of his stories included looking forward to reading and PLEASE CONTACT EL Works for more information: elworks@ in national publication writing with my grandchildren.” eastlothian.gov.uk or phone 01620 827262

The topics and tasks covered ESOL are relevant to learners and are Skills for work Find out more… related to everyday work, study, courses for community and social situations. SKILLS FOR WORK – EARLY ●● Emergency First Aid It also offers people an EDUCATION & CHILDCARE AND ●● Elementary Food Hygiene Adult all levels introduction to various aspects INTRODUCTION TO HEALTH & ●● Child Protection ENGLISH FOR SPEAKERS OF of everyday life in the UK. SOCIAL CARE Awareness Raising Learning OTHER LANGUAGES (ESOL) The qualification is made up of East Lothian Works and ●● Adult Protection HADDINGTON, MUSSELBURGH, one set unit – Everyday Edinburgh College are offering Awareness Raising Programme NORTH BERWICK, DUNBAR Communication – and one of two community based introductory ●● Introduction to Crèche Work. Autumn 2016 AND PRESTONPANS possible units – Work or Study courses in Early Education English for Speakers of Other Related Contexts. & Childcare and Health & LIP READING from Monday 1 August Languages courses are offered at Social Care. Lip reading groups are Access our Adult Learning a variety of levels and venues to ESOLWITHUS Both courses will run on a available for people who are Programme and enrol onto suit the abilities of all learners. MUSSELBURGH Monday morning starting on hard of hearing. your chosen class via our In addition to improving your The ESOLwithus group provides Monday 29 August in The groups provide an online booking system: skills in the use of English, you an opportunity for ESOL learners Musselburgh East Community opportunity for you to learn to www.eastlothian.gov.uk/ will have the opportunity to to meet new people, make Learning Centre. Free crèche see and recognise some of the AdultLearningOnline prepare for SQA qualifications friends and learn about the (max age 4) and transports speech you cannot hear; boost and to progress to a higher class services and facilities that East costs will be available. your confidence; share tips with You can also call as your skills develop. Lothian has to offer. The course is designed to others that may help you to our enrolment enquiry line: In addition, the group looks support and encourage cope, and find out about alerting 01620 827627 ENGLISH FOR SPEAKERS OF after our ESOL website participants to access and and listening devices around Or in person at: East Lothian OTHER LANGUAGES www.esolwithus.org.uk sustain learning within their your home, communication Works, 9 – 11 Lodge Street, INTERMEDIATE 2 regularly updating it with local community and provides tactics and hearing aids. Haddington EH41 3DX MUSSELBURGH news and competitions. opportunities to enter further There are groups available Both services available The Intermediate 2 English for education or employment. in Dunbar, Haddington, Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm Speakers of Other Languages In addition to the SQA units Musselburgh and North Berwick. If you require support to (ESOL) course is for candidates specific to Early Education & access information or enrol whose first language is not FOR INFORMATION, Childcare and Introduction to online you can also visit English. It assesses the four skills please contact Andy Stuckey Health & Social Care, learners FOR FURTHER information on 01620 827262 or your local library where staff of speaking, writing, listening have the opportunity to please contact East Lothian [email protected] Works on 01620 827262 or can assist you. and reading. participate in the following [email protected] additional courses: 12 Living East Lothian News Summer 2016 Home care goes digital

S the world of digital Telecare Service technology moves on, so does the council’s technology gives vital Telecare Service. AAdapting and reacting to the at-risk residents innovations in technology is crucial for the team that oversees peace of mind growing numbers of tenants who need support to maintain an independent lifestyle. issue is and contact the emergency From young people and adults services if necessary without with physical or learning difficulties the need for the individual to to a recent call-out to a 103-year-old press any button. tenant who needed some There have been instances where assistance to continue living this has saved lives in East Lothian independently in her home, there by ensuring emergency services are about 3,000 people in East were informed in advance where, Lothian with various needs relying for example, a fire started. on alarms from the council’s Mairi Morris, Telecare Telecare service. development officer at East Lothian A definition of Telecare is the Council, said: “It’s important that remote and continual monitoring we move with the times. It is of a person’s safety and wellbeing anticipated that traditional with the provision of assistance telephone lines will move from when a need is detected. analogue to digital connections by Support offered by the Telecare 2025 and we need to ensure our Service for many is a basic equipment is suitable. Technology community alarm which is should be an integral part of Keith makes a clean sweep! connected through a telephone people’s care, not seen as an line. The individual can summon add on.” CONGRATULATIONS to Dunbar-based Amenity Services worker, Keith McShane who received Dunbar help by pressing a button, which The Telecare service has Community Council’s Award 2016 for the “exceptional contribution” he has made to the local enables them to speak directly purchased a number of GPS community. to staff in the alarm receiving locating devices for people to trial Keith has worked to keep Dunbar’s streets and pavements clean and litter free for nearly 30 years. centre (ARC), who are available 24 (similar to satellite navigation) to Working first with barrow and brush and then with a motorised sweeper, Keith also does daily rounds hours a day. identify their whereabouts if there to empty public waste bins. For others, enhanced Telecare are concerns. Stephen Bunyan, chair of Dunbar Community Council, said: “Keith is a publicly quiet, reliable and consists of various sensors placed Such devices can allow people to diligent man who has become known to, and well liked by, the people of Dunbar whom he has served around the home. If any of the carry on their interests outwith the so well. This award was made in recognition and gratitude for the outstanding contribution that he sensors detect something unusual, home with the reassurance for has made to care for Dunbar’s environment.” it will trigger an alarm and send an them and their carers that they can Do you have a council community champion working in your area? We’d love to hear your emergency call to the ARC or be assisted if necessary. nominations of any member of council staff you feel has gone that extra mile. Email: Living@ directly to a carer. If you would like more eastlothian.gov.uk Environmental sensors such as information about the Telecare gas, smoke, carbon monoxide and service, please contact the heat sensitive detectors can also be Community access team on 01875 fitted, which link directly with the 824309 or email communityaccess@ ARC to identify exactly where the eastlothian.gov.uk New food waste bags on the way

IT has been just over a year since that are stronger and Please continue to only use we introduced your weekly food have handles to the bags we supply – more Comments on the service: waste collection service. make them easier bags can be ordered by ●● “This is a wonderful service, ●● “Many thanks for your Many of you have told us that to lift and tie. attaching the yellow tag which enables me to stay in my invaluable work that supports so the bio bags were difficult to use, The food waste to the handle of your own home.” many of our families.” – Children’s they ripped too easily and were treatment plant outdoor caddy. ●● “Just knowing they are there is Services social worker awkward to remove. has designed a As a result of the very comforting that I can get ●● “Pass on how pleased we are As a result, we have worked way to strip these changes made to the way help if needed, thank you all.” with the system that has been with the food waste treatment out of the process at we collect your waste our ●● “Thank you for suggesting installed.” plant to alter the process and no extra charge and the recycling rate in East Lothian an epimat and for supplying ●● Technicians “knowledgeable & once the current supply of bio material will be recovered is now above 55 per cent. one. It really came into its own friendly. The work was carried out bags is finished, we will supply and used in an “energy from Well done and thank you all today.” – carer quickly and efficiently.” – carer. specialist clear polythene bags waste” process. so much! Living East Lothian 13 Summer 2016 News

Universal New mobile library Credit UNIVERSAL Credit aims to make the welfare system simpler by replacing six benefits and tax credits with a single monthly payment. services welcomed Universal Credit replaces: ●● Housing Benefit HE return of a mobile ●● Income support library service to rural, ●● Income-based Job outlying areas of Seekers Allowance East Lothian has ●● Income-related Tbeen achieved thanks to an Employment and innovative approach involving Support Allowance neighbouring councils. ●● Child Tax Credits The new service is being delivered ●● Working Tax Credits. to the communities of Oldhamstocks and Innerwick by HOW TO CLAIM Live Borders – part of Scottish Set up your online account Borders Council – and to and claim Universal Credit Whitecraig, Pencaitland, Humbie, at: www.gov.uk/universal- Macmerry, East Saltoun and Gifford credit Remember to include by Midlothian Council’s mobile details of your rent when library service. you claim Universal Credit Councillor Tim Day, Cabinet so that your housing costs Member for Community Wellbeing, are included in your claim. said: “I am delighted with this If you’re going to struggle outcome from our discussions with financially while waiting for neighbouring councils. The mobile Councillor Tim Day meets your first payment, you may library service is used and enjoyed an enthusiastic young be entitled to an advance by individuals and families who library member payment from the can have problems accessing Department of Work and branch libraries on a regular basis. Pensions while your claim is “A difficult decision was taken at an extensive consultation exercise Midlothian and Scottish Borders ●● “The van is much bigger and being assessed. This will be the end of 2015 to stop our mobile with our mobile library users and councils, we are now able to offer a better than the old one.” recovered from your future library service as the van required the high volume of responses gave continued service.” ●● “We’ve really missed the van. monthly payments. replacement and the purchase and us a clear understanding of both The new service has already It means a lot round here.” Contact your Work Coach ongoing costs for a vehicle could current and future use. As a result received favourable comments: The full timetable information is at Musselburgh Job Centre not be met within current budget. of detailed discussions between the ●● “I’m so delighted that this available on the council’s website on 0345 604 3719. “The Library Service carried out service managers of East Lothian, service is back.” and from local branch libraries. Adding life to your years – and years to your life

AS we age, we all want to be as fit your mobility and independence. volunteering opportunities. These For more information about and healthy as possible, able to get Ageing Well tries to make its are a great opportunity to learn what is happening in your out and about and socialise with activities as welcoming and new skills and make new friends. area, or if you would like to our friends. supportive as possible with the Also, if you are part of a group know more about the volunteer The Ageing Well project has been help of dedicated volunteers and that would like some support to get opportunities available, contact set up to help older adults in East instructors. new participants or you have some the Ageing Well co-ordinator Lothian be as active as possible The Ageing Well project is happy skills you would like to share in on 01620 827240 or by email while having a laugh with friends to hear from you if you would like your community we would love to at ageingwell@eastlothian. and even learning something new. to find out more information on hear from you. gov.uk Whether you’d like to be out in the fresh air on a walk, shimmying on the dance floor or chatting over sporting memories, there is ‘Life has totally changed – I was very isolated before the classes’ something for everyone to try. ●● “I’ve been coming along for cinema. My walking is limited, so my memories with the other guys. seated. I cried during the first Being more physically active three years. I have arthritis in my seated exercise is ideal, as is It gives me something to look class as I couldn’t stand and helps to keeps your heart, lungs, spine and am in constant pain and swimming. I have lost two stones. forward to and my wife a break.” do the exercises – I can now bones and brain healthy. This I was depressed. The class helps The class helps me keep going.” ●● “I came to my first class after do the routine standing. I met my makes everyday tasks a little me to keep moving. I have made ●● “After retiring, I was just sitting being housebound for more than best friend at the class and we easier, improves your mood and new friends and a spin-off from around the house getting under four years, really stuck in just my call each other regularly. Life has helps reduce stress. this is that my social circle has my wife’s feet. She saw the advert bedroom. I had cancer and two totally changed; I was very While being active, you can meet increased and I am going out to and told me I should go along. I back operations. The first time I isolated and depressed before new friends and stay connected to other things like coffee, lunch and love sport and it’s great to share came I could only do the exercises attending the classes.” your local community, maintaining 14 Living East Lothian News Summer 2016

Blooming marvellous effort!

RESIDENTS and visitors alike Councillor John McMillan, admire and appreciate the Economic Development splashes of colour provided and Tourism spokesman, by the active In Bloom gardening said: “The In Bloom groups volunteers in East Lothian are community initiatives this summer. driven by local residents North Berwick in Bloom, seeking to make their areas Dunbar in Bloom and Blooming more attractive places to live Haddington have been and visit. planning, planting and “They rely heavily on preening displays hoping volunteers to deliver these to catch the eyes of the improvements and those judges in the national who contribute find it a great Beautiful Scotland and Britain way to keep fit, learn new skills, In Bloom awards. make new friends and help create The Cockenzie and Port a beautiful place to live, work Seton and East Linton In and visit.” Bloom groups, while electing not to enter the national competitions, have continued to raise IF YOU would like to find out more about these groups funds and provide attractive and become involved or help floral arrangements, but are sponsor their projects contact keen to attract extra volunteers [email protected] and sponsorship. ELSIE celebrates being named NHS Lothian Team of the Year

AST Lothian’s ELSIE East Lothian Health and Social specialist health and care Care Partnership director of health team has been voted Team and social care David Small said: of the Year in NHS “ELSIE has come on in leaps ELothian’s annual Celebrating and bounds since it was set up early Success Awards, which recognises in 2014. staff achievements, dedication “It now revolves around several and commitment. teams who work together in close The ELSIE (East Lothian Service partnership to prevent unnecessary for Integrated Care for the Elderly) hospital admissions, reduce the project is based at Roodlands need for patients to be in hospital Hospital, Haddington. when they no longer need to be The multi-disciplinary teams and provide more care in our local that make up ELSIE include the communities. hospital at home and hospital to “They are a fantastic team, home teams, as well as discharge drawn from a variety of social to assess and care home teams. care and health disciplines. They The integrated service is led by really epitomise what the ELHSCP a medical consultant and a range is all about – putting the service of staff including a GP, nurses, user at the centre and working advanced nurse practitioners, social together to support people at home workers, occupational therapists, or in their own communities. physiotherapists, and care workers. “I’m really proud of our ELSIE The ELSIE team were named Team of the Year The team liaises closely with team and would like to say both in NHS Lothian’s Celebrating Success Awards GPs and district nurses as well as very well done and huge thanks for acute hospitals. all you have achieved so far.” Living East Lothian 15 Summer 2016 News

An East Lothian Yeomanry Cavalry undress felt tunic worn by Thomas Hume Museums bring Junior, farmer, factor and town councillor, between history to life 1860 and 1888

ibrant new exhibitions striking addition to the display, Museum and Gallery, High Street, are being unveiled this as is a large World War Two Dunbar, East Lothian EH42 1ER. 01368 summer in the county’s communications receiver donated 866030, www.eastlothianmuseums.org museums. by a local collector. or [email protected] VThe Dunbar Town House St Anne’s Episcopal Church has Museum and Gallery on Dunbar’s kindly loaned two items including The Garden of Scotland: East High Street has opened Castle a poignant memorial on which the Lothian’s Community Gardening Conflict and Community: Delving names of local soldiers were Heritage has just opened at the costume created for the Ancient Friends of John Muir’s Birthplace into Dunbar’s Military History, recorded as they fell on the John Gray Centre Museum, Fraternity of Free Gardeners of East in Dunbar have been working hard running until late September. battlefields of the First World War. Haddington. Lothian, historic gardening tools on John Muir & America’s Best Poignant personal accounts from Dunbar Primary School has New research highlights the and a display of natural history. Idea: Celebrating the Centenary soldiers, business owners and contributed artwork in response to history of gardening in the county There are lots of hands on activities of the US National Park Service. townspeople and new research tours of the Castle with the Dunbar tracing its development as a centre for families including a gardening Find out how Muir fought explore the town’s involvement in and District History Society, while for excellence in market gardening games, a shed to explore and a passionately for the creation of wars fought both in Dunbar and pupils from Dunbar Grammar and reflecting on the factors that fuzzy felt flower garden. Gardeners Yosemite, Sequoia, Mount Rainier further afield. School have contributed reflective inspired the gardeners of the past. are encourage to share top tips and and Grand Canyon National Parks Fascinating objects span more work completed on their return East Lothian pioneers who made get involved in their local and others, and how he has come than three centuries. These include from tours of WW1 battlefield sites. a lasting contribution to community garden. to be regarded as the Father of a fragile document dating from There are lots of hands-on horticultural science are showcased Saturday 13 August to Tuesday 10 America’s National Parks. 1650 recording the names of Dunbar activities for families, including a alongside inspiring photographs January 2017, seven days a week, August Friday 5 August to Friday 30 people who claimed for loss of coded message challenge, dressing and accounts from three and September; closed Wednesdays September, Monday to Saturday 10am property in the aftermath of the up, colouring in and a chance to contemporary community gardens and Thursdays from October. John Gray to 5pm, Sunday 1pm to 5pm. Battle of Dunbar. design your own heraldic shield. currently working in East Lothian. Centre Museum, 15 Lodge Street, Admission free. John Muir’s Birthplace, A red yeomanry cavalry undress Seven days a week, 1pm to 5pm, until The display includes a wonderful Haddington, East Lothian EH41 3DX, 126 High Street, Dunbar EH42 1JJ. uniform from the late 1800s is a Friday 3 September Dunbar Town House range of objects including fragile 01620 820690, [email protected] 01368 865899. Dig deep into our heritage

THE annual Archaeology and Haddington and District Amenity Local History Fortnight will be Society about how a medieval back again in September, and palace once stood on Sidegate this year’s programme is packed in Haddington. with events all about the There will be guided walks in heritage of East Lothian. Musselburgh, East Linton and Taking place from 3 to 19 Gullane, as well as the chance to September, there will be events visit an excavation in Dirleton. throughout the county. The Battle of Pinkie Cleugh The fortnight launches with Balgone Windmill will be commemorated on 10 the annual day of talks provided near North Berwick September, with a guided walk by East Lothian Antiquarian and and the annual commemoration Field Naturalists’ Society at St at the memorial stone. Mary’s Church, Haddington, on landscape at Saltoun Hall on a Family History Day is a key Saturday 3 September. guided tour provided by the event of the fortnight, with Entitled “Union, Rebellion then Gardens Trust, as well as an activities for the whole family Enlightenment”, the day explores opportunity to see inside provided at the John Gray the historic events of the 18th Loretto School and see the Centre by the Archives and Local century and its effects on East historic interior of Pinkie House History Team. Lothian. and Chapel. This year, we are celebrating A guided walk from North TO FIND out more about the Year of Innovation, Berwick Law to the Balgone all the events happening 3-19 September 2016 Architecture and Design 2016, Estate will take in the history in the fortnight organised with events looking at historic and changing architecture of this by East Lothian Council’s buildings, designed landscapes quiet corner of East Lothian. Archaeology Service, go to: and innovations of the Medieval matters are on the www.eastlothian.gov.uk/ Enlightenment and Agricultural agenda on a guided walk around archaeology or pick up a Revolution. Morham, discovering the hidden programme in libraries and museums throughout East There will be a rare chance to history of this picturesque Lothian. explore the historic designed village, and at a talk given by 16 Living East Lothian News Summer 2016

Tourism landmarks will be lit up to celebrate East Lothian’s fantastic Saltire Festival Winter blues

HE Saltire Festival is back massive Kelpie sculptures which The Saltire Concert at The for 2016 to celebrate St are permanently based at Helix Brunton, Musselburgh – Andrew’s Day and the Park in Falkirk) will be hosted at featuring key Scottish acts Home of the Flag. The Musselburgh Racecourse Tfestival brings together people throughout Saltire week. SATURDAY 26 NOVEMBER from all over the world to Here’s a taster of some of The Epicurean Adventure at the celebrate Scotland’s fascinating the great events featuring in Corn Exchange, Haddington – a heritage, wonderful culture, 2016’s lineup: celebration of East Lothian delicious food and drink and Scotland’s local produce traditions, best of Scottish THURSDAY 24 NOVEMBER hosted by Haddington Wines music, arts, food and drink, Saltire Raceday – enjoy a day of & Whiskies innovation and entertainment. racing at Musselburgh Racecourse This year’s Saltire Festival is set Scotland on Film – a showing of WEDNESDAY 30 NOVEMBER to light up East Lothian and bring the movie ‘Trainspotting’ at The The St Andrew’s Day Concert at some welcome “winter blues”. Brunton, Musselburgh St Mary’s Church, Haddington – Celebrating the Year of Innovation, featuring choral and classical Architecture and Design 2016, a FRIDAY 25 NOVEMBER performances number of East Lothian’s key The Saltire Whisky Dinner at the Book Week Scotland will also tourism landmarks will be lit in Macdonald Marine Hotel, North feature as part of the festival, blue to highlight both the county’s Berwick – an evening of delicious, bringing the world of books to life great attractions and also its locally sourced food, accompanied through a varied programme for architecture and design history. by Scotland’s national drink all ages, including author events A visiting equine attraction will The Saltire Ceilidh at Archerfield at East Lothian libraries. FOR FURTHER details, visit saltirefestival.com or also be bathed in blue – the Kelpie Walled Garden – traditional fun Book Week Scotland takes http://scottishbooktrust.com/book-week-scotland Maquettes (small versions of the Scottish ceilidh place from 21 -27 November.

Enjoy Edinburgh Fringe in East Lothian

THE Brunton is your Edinburgh (Saturday 20 August), is a lunchtime concert series, a Enjoy the music of Fringe Festival venue by the coast, charming one-man play about showcase of the finest piano country legends with 17 amazing shows for the Herbert Pinnegar, his journey and chamber music from Royal Dolly Parton and whole family! Come and watch a from orphan boy to legendary Conservatoire of Scotland and St Kenny Rogers little theatre or catch a concert, head gardener and his friendship Mary’s Music School students. take a stroll on the beach, soak up with the lady of the house, Mrs Escape the hustle and bustle the sun, enjoy the fresh salty air Charteris Sown with seeds of and treat yourself to lunch in the and relax with an ice cream. gardening wisdom, this is a upstairs bar (from noon) before Prestonpans singer Alex humorous portrayal of a single- enjoying a delightful hour of Hodgson makes a welcome return minded yet gentle man with a classical music in the intimate to The Brunton with another passion for plants, and a character and informal surroundings of extravaganza showcasing old, new as outsized and unforgettable venue 2 (1pm). and traditional songs and stories as P G Wodehouse’s immortal Programmes feature classics (Saturday 27 August). servant Jeeves! from the piano repertoire Islands in the Stream – The The whole family can enjoy alongside a few surprises to Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers enchanting outdoor theatre with discover along the way. Story celebrates the Queen and Quantum Theatre at Inveresk King of Country Music in a show and Fraser Bruce – come together a backdrop of fantastic lights and Lodge Garden, a beautiful packed with hits (Thursday 25 as Auld Hat, New Heids, to lasers (Thursday 18 August). National Trust for Scotland TICKETS FOR Edinburgh August), while The Magic of The perform Scottish folk songs such Nostalgia, romance and showbiz property, where they perform Fringe Festival events at Beatles takes a musical tour as Jock Hawk and Up Wi’ the abound in The Ivor Novello Story, Once Upon a Time There Were The Brunton and Inveresk (Saturday 20 August). Bonnets of Bonny musical theatre that brings the Four Little Rabbits and Lodge Garden are available There’s more music with An (Wednesday 24 August). story of the famous musical Shakespeare’s magical play of love now from the box office Evening with The Dreamers, Also on the bill are Fringe composer and Hollywood and sorcery, The Tempest on 0131 665 2240 or online at edfringe.com (Friday 19 August), and four of favourites MacFloyd with their screenwriter to life with an actor, (Saturday 27 August). The full programme can Scotland’s most experienced folk new show On the Horizon, a two singers and a pianist (Friday This summer, seize the chance be downloaded from singers and musicians – Ian journey through a catalogue of 19 August). to hear the classical stars of thebrunton.co.uk Bruce, Gregor Lowrey, Pete Clark Pink Floyd classics, all against Giles Shenton’s Old Herbaceous tomorrow in the Pianos at One