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Number 163 February 2019

SPEAKING UP FOR , LOCHEND AND Published by The Ripple on behalf of the community INSIDE Benefit L A Caring Soles Updates Gave it Away Appeal page 2 page 6 page 7 NEW FACES WELCOMED AT THE RIPPLE

By Liz Fer guson in one place. I really like the been really welcoming. The fact that it’s an organisation building is always busy and KEY local community really heavily based on there’s a really friendly organisation the Ripple volunteering. There is a core atmosphere.” marked the start of the year by group of really committed While still busy getting to introducing two new members staff and a really supportive know the names of the 80+ of staff to fill vacancies at its Board, but it’s the volunteers young people she works with base at Restalrig Lochend that make it. It’s very much every week, Danielle has a Community Hub. Rachel Green led by what needs the message for any young people now takes over the lead as the community has instead of in the community who may charity’s new Director while people just deciding what not currently be coming to Danielle Ward has been to do.” groups at the Hub. She said: appointed as the new Youth As well as maintaining what “Come along and give it a try. Service Manager. the Ripple is currently doing There are lots of supportive Educated to degree level Rachel plans to spend the next youth workers and it’s a great in Community Learning and few months talking and place to have a bit of fun. Development, Rachel brings listening to local people, Whether you want to play more than 15 years of relevant organisations and statutory football, sit and chat, listen experience in both the public partners such as the Council Delighted to take up their new posts: Youth Service Manager to music, try art or cooking, and voluntary sector to her and the NHS to establish how Danielle Ward (l) and Ripple Director Rachel Green learn some new life-skills, new post which she describes Ripple can contribute most there’s something for as her ‘dream job’. She said: effectively in the currently of this year that we know Starting out at the age of 14 everyone. If you’re a bit “The Ripple offers everything pressurised financial climate. what people would like from as a youth work volunteer in boisterous you can blow off I thought I was looking for She said: “Another thing we us as an organisation.” Pilton before becoming a Pupil steam, or you can just hang and wanted to go back to all are going to be looking at is Youth Service Manager Support Assistant and then out with friends.” how to engage with people Danielle will be using her a qualified Youth Worker, Details of the Ripple’s youth who are not currently experience to help maintain Danielle brings a raft of groups programme at the Hub engaging with us. I’d like and develop Ripple’s links relevant experience and can be found on the back to be very clear by the end with local young people. enthusiasm to a post she is page of this Speaker. Young clearly enjoying. She said: people can just drop in or for

M “I am delighted to be here. more information they can Ripple is really busy and phone Danielle at the Ripple

c vibrant and everyone has on 0131 554 0422. G

l FUNERAL L PERSEVERE

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V 0131 555 2323 24 Hour Service R Golden Charter People carriers Local private hire

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Y 24 hour friendly established Tel: 0131 554 7777 service over 20 years Mob: 07508 178 433 139/141 Restalrig Road ‘Safe secure EH7 6HW and reliable’ 2 The Speaker, February 2019 INFORMATION TO BENEFIT FROM

Granton Information Centre Grant. The grant is a payment ‘new’ benefit payment. As a reports on some important of £600 (for your first child) or result of this, making new dates and benefits information: £300 (for later children), which claims for legacy benefits such THE SPEAKER is published by is made directly to you, so as Child Tax Credit, Working The Ripple Project Warm Home Discount Scheme you are free to spend it on the Tax Credit, Housing Benefit, 198 Restalrig Road South THE deadline for applying for things that you most need for Income Support, income-based Edinburgh EH7 6DZ Scottish Charity No. SC024973 the Warm Home Discount your family. Jobseeker’s Allowance and Company Limited by Guarantee No. 214364 Scheme is fast approaching. In order to qualify for the income-related Employment 0131 554 0422 There are different routes grant, you must be in receipt and Support Allowance is [email protected] for accessing the scheme of certain means-tested usually no longer possible. www.rippleproject.co.uk depending on what benefits benefits. These are described If you are currently you receive. in the item above along with in receipt of any of the Editor Liz Ferguson Receiving the discount Child Tax Credit, Working Tax legacy benefits and your Phone 07876 178734 should be relatively Credit and Housing Benefit. circumstances do not change, Email [email protected] straightforward if you are Applications can be made at you will continue to receive in receipt of the Guarantee any time from the 24th week the legacy benefit for the time Post 198 Restalrig Road South Pension Credit. If you were of pregnancy up until your being, though keep watching Edinburgh EH7 6DZ eligible for the discount on child is six months old. If this space for future Advertising Donna Gilfillan 8th July 2018 then you should you think that you might be developments as there are and Production 019 68 673229 have received a letter in early eligible, you can apply by plans to move existing [email protected] December 2018 outlining any either calling 0800 182 2222 claimants over to Universal further steps that you need or online pregnancy-and-baby- Credit in the future. The Copy deadline to take. payment/ , where you can also timetable for this has been for March issue Friday 15th February In addition to being in find more information about delayed whilst the Department receipt of Guarantee Pension the payments. of Work & Pensions undertake Printed by D C Thomson & Co Ltd Credit, to qualify for the As well as the Pregnancy further testing and assessment Distributed by Out of Hand scheme your energy supplier and Baby Payment, Social of the impact of moving people must be part of the scheme Security Scotland intends to over. The Speaker is an independent community newspaper which aims and you or your partner’s introduce additional payments If you are in receipt of a to provide a forum for free speech and debate, an effective method name must appear on the bill. later this year for when your legacy benefit and your of information sharing and a way to celebrate local achievement. If you believe that you are child reaches nursery and circumstances do change this Community involvement is key to its success and any individual eligible and have not yet school age, so keep watching may trigger you having to or group within Restalrig, Lochend, Craigentinny and surrounding received a letter, then you this space! move to universal credit local area is welcome to contribute. The views expressed in The should contact the Warm Home now. The list of changes in Speaker are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the Discount Team on 0800 731 Carer’s Allowance Supplement circumstance that may trigger Editor or Publishers. Please note copy may be edited. Any letter or 0214 as soon as possible as The second round of payments a universal credit claim is quite article which is considered libellous will not be published and the deadline is 28/02/2019. of the new Carer’s Allowance complicated. Essentially it’s individuals will be protected from personal attack. If you are not receiving Supplement were made in likely to be when something Guarantee Pension Credit, but December 2018. The Carer’s happens that would trigger the have a low income and/or are Allowance Supplement is an need to claim a new benefit. in receipt of another means- additional, ‘top up’ payment Some changes may mean that HAVE YOUR SAY! tested benefit you may be of £221 that is paid to those you can decide whether to Say what you think – write to The Speaker. eligible to apply for it on a who were receiving payments move over or stay on the discretionary basis through of Carer’s Allowance on a ‘old’ benefit. Again it’s a bit Raise local issues, celebrate achievements, put forward your electricity supplier, who particular, ‘qualifying’ date. complicated and it’s generally suggestions. Help make sure The Speaker is the kind of may have additional eligibility The qualifying date for the best to come in for a chat as newspaper you want to read. criteria – so enquire with your most recent payment was 15th soon as you are aware of the If you would like your letter to appear in the paper it must supplier if you think you might October 2018. So if you were change. include your name and address, although these may be be eligible. receiving payments of Carer’s withheld from publication at your request. The number of discounts that Allowance on that date you Personal Appointments energy companies are able to should by now have received For an appointment to see Send your letters to: The Editor, The Speaker 198 Restalrig Road South provide is limited, so it is the additional payment. If you James at the Restalrig/Lochend Edinburgh EH7 6DZ encouraged that applications believe that you are eligible for Community Hub to discuss E-mail: [email protected] are made as soon as possible. the ‘top up’ but have not yet welfare rights, housing or The value of the Warm Home received any payment you money/debt concerns please Discount is usually £140 paid should contact 0800 182 2222 call Granton Information Welfare rights, housing and debt advice directly into your electricity to chase it up. Centre on 0131 551 2459 or at Restalrig Lochend Community Hub account. 0131 552 0458. Universal Credit For registered patients of Appointments available on Wednesdays Best Start Grant Since the end of November Restalrig Park Medical Centre Social Security Scotland has 2018, Universal Credit is now appointments for welfare To book an appointment with James call recently begun accepting a ‘live’ service throughout rights, housing and Granton Information Centre on applications for the new Best Edinburgh. Universal Credit is money/debt service are 0131 551 2459 or 0131 552 0458. Start Grant (Pregnancy and a new benefit that replaces a available on a Wednesday Free, impartial and confidential advice Baby Payment), which replaces range of ‘legacy’/‘old’, means- afternoon with bookings made the old Sure Start Maternity tested benefits with a single directly with the surgery. The Speaker, February 2019 3

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Exercise for Everyone

To advertise in the at Restalrig Lochend Community Hub Speaker, support your H ealthy Hub Walking Groups 198 Restalrig Road South community, reach your at 9.15am and again at 10am on Thursdays 0131 554 0422 target market Join in on our free 30 minute walks to meet new friends, Every Wednesday 10.00am to 10.45am and take advantage of our improve your fitness, discover local places of interest and extremely competitive £2.50 per session enjoy free tea/coffee back at the Hub. rates contact Donna on Just turn up and join us! Just turn up at Restalrig Lochend Community Hub 01968 673229 or email Varied fun exercise suitable for men and women of all ages 198 Restalrig Road South. [email protected] 4 The Speaker, February 2019 COMMUNITY POLICE REPORT News from St Margaret’s

HAPPY New Year from your this in mind please ensure In our time of vacancy St of all ages. If you have any gives a full programme of what Community Officers! We that your car is ‘Winter Margaret's continues to worship enquiries regarding baptisms, is available in our church halls. carried out extra patrols and Ready’. Check your tyre each Sunday assisted by our weddings or funerals please Date for your diary licenced premised checks pressures and fluid levels Interim Moderator Rev Stewart phone our church office on World Day of Prayer during the festive period should be topped up. It’s Weaver, our Locum Minister 0131 554 7400 or check out our Friday 1st March at 2pm. This and are pleased to say that always good to have an extra Douglas Paterson and our website or facebook page at year it is St Margaret's turn to in the North East bottle of screen wash Worship Team. As usual we http://www.facebook.com/pages host this service and all the of Edinburgh the in your boot as well offer a varied, inclusive and /St-Margarets-Parish-Church/ local churches will be involved. majority of people as water, food, warm vibrant worship for everyone 355714741285129 which also Everyone is welcome. enjoyed the festivities clothes and a shovel responsibly, without just in case. Make sure coming to our that you consider attention. having to defrost News from St Ninian’s Officers were also your windows in the out on the main roads mornings and don’t travel Home & Away (Part 1 ) fun. On alternate Monday considering rollercoasters carrying out high visibility until your windows are Fr Syriac will be back now evenings from 5th February at on foreign beaches this road checks as part of our completely clear. after his month’s holiday with 7.30pm the One World Group August – the emotional kind annual Festive Drink Driving family and friends in Kerala, gather, no doubt preparing experienced when visiting the Initiative. Numerous vehicles India. He left on Boxing Day the May Appeal. The Men’s Normandy beaches in this were stopped and breath tests Got an issue several weeks after his return Group meet mid-month on 75th year of D-Day. As part carried out. We will continue or problem? from a temporary assignment Wednesdays at 2pm. On 13th of a wider grouping there to carry out checks on the to two other parishes that February they’re going to a would be visits to Pegasus roads in the coming weeks Need a chat? began in September. During mosque. At the Thursday Club Bridge, Sword, Gold, Juno and months to keep you safe that time former parishioner people, including those with and Omaha beaches as well as on the roads. Coffee with a Copper Fr James Smith again did learning difficulties, spend a number of other less well- Winter is here and as we 12.30-1.30pm Sunday Mass. 7-9pm together. On Fridays known sites. Back in Blighty move into the New Year we Friday 15th February News after the break the Open Door serves soup, in mid-September plans are can expect darker nights and at the Hub After a brief interruption rolls, teas, cakes and company afoot for a weekend away in colder weather affecting road normal service is restored. from 12.30-2pm to all, no Liverpool covering the history and travel conditions. With On Mondays every afternoon money asked. of the port, its role in the from 1-3pm the Over 60’s Home & Away (Part 2) slave trade and the Swinging meet for bingo, tea and Some parishioners are Sixties. Here for Another Year

EDINBURGH Palette is pleased A wide range of creative to announce that recent workshops, classes and News from Willowbrae Parish Church developments mean they will events will continue to run now be able to remain at throughout the year ahead. We hope that everyone had the usual 10.30am morning The architect who is working their St Margaret’s House For more detail of what an enjoyable time over worship. Now that the festive with us on the plans for the base on Road for is on offer pop into the Christmas and New Year. season is over, all our redevelopment of our premises the duration of 2019 and building at the top of This year we introduced Early organisations have resumed met with the congregation perhaps some of 2020. Smokey Brae or visit Bird services on three their activities and we hope after worship on 20th January This extension from www.edinburghpalette.co.uk Sundays in Advent when that they will continue to explain details of the building owners Caledonian children enjoyed a short to flourish and expand in proposed alterations and the Trust will allow the participative service prior to the coming months. costs involved. organisation to continue their role of providing affordable studio space for artists, charities and other News from Christ Church local groups. The cold winter days can be pop along on Tuesday at the life of Elijah, the a difficult time for many, so afternoon at 1.30? This term famous prophet who why not join us for a soup they’ll be continuing their confronted a society that had lunch each Thursday at study of the book of Jonah, rejected God, and as such 12.15pm. You’ll also be able a surprising little book about found itself in a mess – and to meet new people and have God’s mercy to someone who people say the Bible isn’t a chat, and most importantly tried to run away from God, relevant! Why not join us there is always a short talk and to a city that had no time one Sunday, or listen in by someone from the church, for God. On Sunday mornings on our church website bringing the good news of we’ll be studying the book of www.christchurchedinburgh.org the message of the Bible. Colossians, a short letter that We are also planning a coffee If soup isn’t your cup of tea, Paul wrote about who Jesus morning on Saturday 23rd and you are the right half of really was and the difference February. Look out for more the population to come to the that he makes. In the details on our Facebook page Ladies Bible Study, why not evenings we’ll be looking or noticeboard. The Speaker, February 2019 5 News from your local Councillors

Cllr John Mclellan Cllr Joan Griffiths

THE wheels that and wait for it to be completed before IT SEEMS a they can reduce the packaging but keep Edinburgh anything can happen. None of the long time since more definitely needs to be done. Council’s show councillors are happy about this and we were With more and more cyclists on our on the road can we are working together to speed looking roads Road has been turn very slowly things up. It’s a similar story on forward to carrying out Operation Close Pass at times and the Craigentinny Road where resurfacing Christmas and Initiative locally, speaking to drivers result is usually work is taking place. A resident got in the New year and reminding them to leave space frustration. touch to ask when double yellow lines celebrations. I when overtaking cyclists. It was Last year there would be painted near the junction can’t believe good to see our community councils was a successful with Britwell Crescent, which is often that when coming together to discuss the City consultation to gather ideas from difficult to access because passing you read this column we will be in of Edinburgh Council consultation local people to spend a fund of over drivers often park up while they use the second month of the year. A new on its scheme of administration for £400,000 set aside to improve the the shops. It was raised nearly two year makes us take stock of our lives, community councils. This was a area through the Neighbourhood years ago and an agreement reached, maybe try a new activity, think about really good example of community Partnership. Officers ran events in but the necessary order is still awaited getting fitter. Over the break I spent councils in the North East locality the community and lots of projects so the lines can’t be painted at the time going to the recycling centre as working together. The current were identified from which a list of same time as the roadworks. we had accumulated so much scheme for community councils was priorities was assembled by a funding Meanwhile, what seemed like a simple recycling, cardboard boxes, various approved in 2013. A decision will panel led by the community councils. request last October for help to empty types of plastic. Whilst most of us be taken in February on whether to Top of the list were new bin stores in bins used for dog poop at the Piershill do our best to recycle it would be proceed to a statutory consultation. those locations where waste storage Back Green is still awaiting a solution, good to try and reuse more items. Meadowbank Area Sounding Board is and collection had become a problem, despite the fact the Council owns the Edinburgh Remakery offer free a response to the planning condition and with funds available and a land, empties park bins on a daily collections of second-hand furniture for Planning Permission in Principle unanimous agreement the project was basis and senior officers didn’t think every Tuesday to Thursday. If you for the wider site. The Board will be very valuable, we expected the work it would be a problem. Sometimes have any unwanted items, you can chaired by an independent chair with to go ahead quickly. However it what seem like straightforward, arrange for them to be collected on a membership comprising people from transpired that a wider review of the common sense requests become day that best suits you. I would also the local community and other communal bins service was going the most exasperating. like to see a reduction in plastic relevant stakeholders. Contact me at ahead and now the Craigentinny Contact 0131 529 4395 packaging and I know that some [email protected] or projects will have to fit in with that or [email protected] supermarkets are starting to see how 0131 529 4019.

Cllr Ian Campbell Cllr Alex Staniforth UNFORTUNATELY Councillor Campbell is currently HELLO again, I first meeting was very positive, with unwell and therefore unable to contribute a column to hope you all had the new architects Collective’s ideas the Speaker or to attend any of his surgeries. Any a great Christmas taking into account the feelings that constituents who are in need of assistance should and New Year. had been expressed at the various contact Debbie Marshall on 0131 469 3781 or at For me, though, public consultations. While nothing [email protected] my present came is set in stone as yet their early ideas early with the seem far superior to the over-tall news that – after proposed development that caused so I had called for much community outrage (and quite a pause in charges and a review of rightly) that it was soon taken off them earlier in the year – the council the table by the council. Keep an decided not to introduce the extra eye out for the forthcoming public Fit the Hub charges to sports clubs for using school consultations, the designs are not into Your halls. For some of the junior sports finished yet! Finally the new City Plan Fitness Plan clubs in the city it would have meant for Edinburgh is beginning to take an increase in costs of over 200% and form in earnest. The timetable for the Get fitter some clubs would have had to fold. first stages has had to be changed Have fun Now we can be sure that those clubs owing to delays in the Scotland-wide Burn calories can continue and that junior sports development plan coming from the Exercise For All clubs will continue to thrive across Scottish government but do get Wednesday 10am the city. As I write this I have just involved in any of the ongoing Boxercise got out of the first meeting of the consultations on it if you can. Let’s Wednesday Meadowbank Sounding Board, which make sure we have a sustainable, green 6.30 – 7.30pm is a forum comprised of local interest city planned for the future. – That our Walking Groups groups such as the Ripple and Save city population will grow is inevitable Thursday 9.15 & 10am Meadowbank in order to make sure the but it’s up to us how we handle that Just turn up or call new Meadowbank development is the growth. Contact me 07738 116027 or 0131 554 0422 best it can be for the local area. The at [email protected] 6 The Speaker, February 2019 ACADEMY REPORTS ON THEIR BIG GIVE AWAY

LEITH Academy was proud to host its very first Leith Big Leith Academy Give Away event on Saturday 0131 554 0606 8th December. The event was designed to try to help [email protected] local families cope with the ever-increasing demands of February dates for your diary Christmas, giving free access 7 Intermediate Maths Challenge to a range of both useful 11-15 HALF-TERM HOLIDAY and festive items. 18 Feb-29 May SNSA window opens for all S3 We were very privileged 20 Various vaccinations – Dip, Tetanus, Polio to work alongside a new organisation, Recreate 25 Senior Phase Parents’ Info Evening (SLT) (7pm) Scotland, set up by the talented Keirin Burns. Keirin has established a contract with addressing its many aspects, Leith Academy was delighted Edinburgh University and was we were delighted that we to host this event and is able to supply the school with could incorporate period already planning others. an impressive collection of poverty into this event. One Community spirit and equality clothes and crockery as well of our S1 pupils hosted a stall are at the heart of what we as help staff the event itself. handing out sanitary products stand for and working with Leith Academy staff also for free and raising awareness our families to break down went above and beyond by of the issue. barriers and offer support is donating, clothes, crockery, Our Parent Council not only integral to our planning at Christmas decorations, toys, greatly assisted in promoting all times. stocking fillers and much the event in the community more. All items collected were but also hosted a stall, offering set out on stalls and people tea, coffee, soup and biscuits. could take what they needed, The Big Give Away was the completely free of charge. embodiment of community Poverty can assume many spirt and showed the power guises and as part of our and impact communities ongoing commitment to coming together can have.

Ends 10 Dec restarts 15 Jan The Speaker, February 2019 7

CAMPAIGNING TO SAVE THEIR SOLES Edinburgh City FC Social Club

THE Eric Liddell Centre has Live Music Local Bingo launched an urgent funding Saturday Quiz Night Every campaign in a bid to save the 2nd February Friday Night Saturday Caring Soles Footcare Service 8pm 7pm 23rd February for older people that it Toffeehammer runs at Restalrig Lochend 8pm Community Hub and at three 1st Prize £40 cash Max teams of 4 other centres across the city. If you are interested in The service offers low cost becoming a member or using any of our facilities we can be footcare delivered by skilled contacted at any of the following: volunteers who are trained by 74 Lochend Road South Eric Liddell Centre staff in Edinburgh EH7 6DR collaboration with NHS The service has been Caring Soles users. Volunteer Telephone 0844 330 1932 Website www.edinburghcityfc.net Lothian Podiatry. praised for the range of Rhona said: “When you’re Facebook Edinburgh City FC Social Club The Caring Soles service health benefits it brings to working with somebody is very popular in this area participants, who are often and doing their feet, the with over 80 registered users not only more mobile as a conversation quite often goes benefitting from the low result of their treatment but to activities that they might cost, non-medical podiatry can also experience general want to engage in. You offer Give generously treatment and advice offered improvements to their mental them information and that’s at the Hub. For many and physical health and often really important for people IF YOU are headed to the Hibs used in the Restalrig, Lochend, this support would be engage more in their who are isolated.” v Hamilton match at Easter Craigentinny and surrounding prohibitively expensive in community. After a recent unsuccessful Road on Saturday 16th area to help finance the wide the private sector, yet its Lisa Jennings of Caring public sector funding bid, February please look out for range of Ripple projects that impact on quality of life Soles said: “To me the pressure Ripple staff and volunteers support people of all ages in can be transformative. it is clear that is on to save rattling their collection buckets this community. Members of the Ripple without our the popular in your direction. Their goal The Ripple is grateful to Walking Group are among presence many service. Caring is to net some much needed Hibs for this fundraising those who keep active as of these older Soles advises funds for the organisation so opportunity and you can be a result of Caring Soles. service users would it is actively what about a wee throw in? sure that all donations will be Regular user Christine Sadler find it challenging to seeking alternative funding All monies collected will be greatly appreciated. said: “If your feet are wrong, afford private sector but is currently reliant on you are all wrong. If your chiropody for their basic donations to remain feet are good, you are footcare and also might not operational beyond March. walking on air and the low feel supported to look after To find out more about or to cost and local venue are their feet as well.” contribute to the current great bonuses.” Coming to the Hub for fundraising campaign visit Fellow Caring Soles client footcare has also led to www.ericliddell.org or ring David Elder agreed. “I had increased interest in other 0131 447 4520. To find out been having to pay over £30 exercise classes and walking more about the Caring Soles to have my nails cut at a groups available locally and sessions running at Restalrig private chiropodist. This increased the fanbase of the Lochend Community Hub ring saves me a lot of money.” community café among 0131 554 0422.

Community Council report

THE Craigentinny & We have received some replace the Tai Chi centre Meadowbank Community information about a pre- on Marionville Road. Council team would like planning application on 18/10499/FUL is the number to send our best wishes for you need if you are looking to 2019. We will resume our comment online or send meetings at the Craigentinny comments to the council Community Centre on Loaning planning team. The deadline Road on 30th January. There is 29th January. has been some activity over Looking forward to seeing the festive break. We have London Road for potential you at our next meeting at partnered up with the charity student accommodation for 7.30pm on 30th January at People Know How to help which there will be a first Craigentinny Community us with the Loganlea Park consultation at the Centre. If you can't make that consultation and we hope to Meadowbank Church between one our February meeting have some guidelines to send 2pm to 8pm on 31st January. will take place same place, the council for changes to the There is also a planning same time on Wednesday park towards the end of 2019. application for housing to 27th February. 8 The Speaker, February 2019

JUST THE TICKET Gentle Exercise to Music Class THE Ripple Friday Social Club for Individuals with for those 60 years and over Additional Needs was delighted to receive a donation of £250 raised from raffles held by the Dixie Saltire Wednesdays Line Dancers and the Lochend 1.00-2.00pm Toddler Group. The funds will certainly Craigentinny Community enhance the fun Centre on a Friday by 9 Loaning Road going towards Edinburgh EH7 6JE the cost of a new speaker FUN-FUN-FUN & FREE and an electronic Includes a drink bingo machine. and biscuits

Everyone Welcome

Events At Piershill Library Congratulations to local resident Elaine Pomeransky who recently won the Interfaith Scotland 'Connecting Generations' art competition with her painting 'The Rainbow of Mankind'. The painting is now on display at Borders Hospital. Monday 11th and 25th February 6.30pm to 7.30pm: Piershill Library Book Group.

Tuesday 26th February 1.30pm to 3pm: LOOP (Local Opportunities for Older People) Information Stand.

Wednesdays 2pm: Bookbug Rhymetime. Wednesdays 5.30pm to 6.30pm: NHS Stop Smoking Support Group.

Thursday 14th February 3pm: Children’s February Break Craft Session.

Fridays 10.30am: Children’s Story Time. Friday 15th February 3pm: Children’s February Break Craft Session. Friday 22nd February 3pm: Last Friday of the Month Children’s Craft Session.

Meet at Restalrig Lochend Saturday 2nd and 16th February 11am: Polish Bookbug Community Hub Rhymetime. 198 Restalrig Road South Edinburgh EH7 6DZ Please note that at all library children’s events children aged 8 or under must be accompanied by a parent/carer This is a fun, friendly, FREE aged 12 or over. Piershill Library, 30 Piersfield Terrace, exercise session for mothers, Edinburgh EH8 7BQ telephone 0131 529 5685. parents and guardians with children in buggies. Suitable for all levels of ability. For more information www.jogscotland.org.uk To advertise in the Speaker Please contact the leader contact Donna on before attending your 01968 673229 or email first session [email protected] [email protected] The Speaker, February 2019 9 MAKE A MOVE AWAY FROM OBESITY MICROWAVE MEXICAN BEAN SOUP Lesley Curtis – ANutr, Food and a figure the Scottish restrictions already imposed on Health Development Worker at Government aims to halve by the promotion of tobacco and Ingredients (serves 4-6) Edinburgh Community Food 2030. Obese children are five alcohol, whilst others want to 1 onion writes: times more likely to become see a total ban on junk food 2–3 garlic cloves obese as an adult, increasing advertising altogether. 1 red pepper IT IS widely accepted that a their risk of serious long-term What can we do? ½ vegetable stock cube poor diet is one of the major health conditions including type A simple and straight forward 1 x 400g/14oz can red kidney beans lifestyle factors associated with 2 diabetes, heart disease, high practical tip is simply to limit 1 tsp vegetable oil obesity, along with physical blood pressure and certain the amount of time we spend 1 tsp chilli powder inactivity. In Scotland cancers. Children and young sitting. We are now encouraged 1 tsp ground cumin (optional) economically disadvantaged people spend a significant to get up from our seats every 1 tsp dried oregano (optional) areas have higher levels of amount of time in school, 30 minutes, even if only for a ground black pepper (optional) obesity, particularly amongst but whilst schools have made brief stroll around the home or 1 x 400g/14oz can chopped tomatoes women and children. However some progress in the food they office. All movement is good: 2 medium carrots (or 1 medium carrot and what role does the food offer, there are clearly other pottering around the house, 1 medium sweet potato) environment play in enabling environmental factors to walking, doing household the problem? Obesity is a result consider when it comes to chores, shopping and Method of consuming more energy food choice. playing with children or 1. Peel the onion and chop into small pieces, then peel and (food) than we use (through Advertising. grandchildren – even standing press or finely chop the garlic (chop it as small as you movement and physical When we make healthy food is preferable to sitting. Of can). Peel, top and tail the carrots (and the sweet potato activity). As a society we now choices, how much does food course the more we do the if using) and chop into small chunks. Wash the pepper, spend far more time sitting advertising play a role in our better. deseed and slice into small chunks. than ever before and this decision-making? The food Many of us may head to 2. Place the onion, garlic, carrots and sweet potatoes (if is known to be hugely industry spends many millions the gym for an hour or two a using) in a microwavable bowl and mix well. Place the problematic not only for on advertising, including week thinking that’s enough bowl in the microwave and cook on full power for three weight management but also online, because it works. A to maintain a healthy weight, minutes. for overall health and life 2018 report by Cancer Research whilst continuing to eat less 3. Measure 300ml/10fl oz of boiling water into a measuring expectancy, independent of our found teenagers aged 11-19 healthy foods. However when it jug, crumble in the stock cube and stir to dissolve. Open weight. Our modern sedentary years who watch more than comes to weight management the can of kidney beans, drain and rinse with cold water lifestyles and easy access to three hours of commercial TV and obesity in particular (rather through a colander. Set aside. cheap junk foods, which are a day are more likely to eat than overall health and life 4. Add the red pepper, oil and chilli powder to the high in sugar, salt and fat, much higher levels of junk expectancy) exercise is only microwavable bowl. Add the cumin and oregano, if continue to exacerbate the food snacks, demonstrating part of the battle. Getting a using. Stir and microwave on full power for one minute. issue. The term ‘obesogenic the power marketing has on good balanced diet through 5. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, stock and black pepper, to environment’ describes the way food choice. The public are moderate portions of healthy, taste (if using). Stir well again, then microwave on full that our external environment supportive of a ban on junk high fibre foods is a far larger power for 15 minutes, stirring every five minutes. leads us to make unhealthy food advertising before the 9pm part. But moving beyond 6. Remove the soup from the microwave. If you prefer it choices. Although the causes watershed. However industry personal responsibility there smooth you can blend it. of obesity are multifactorial and businesses, who oppose is a vital role for policy makers 7. Add the kidney beans to the soup and microwave on and complex, it is important changes to the law, argue to play in tackling our broader full power for three minutes, stirring after two minutes. to understand how influential there should be more focus on food environment. Remove the soup from the microwave and allow to stand our surroundings can be when education instead of restricting As a nation Scotland does for one minute before serving. it comes to making healthier customer choice. Nevertheless not shy away from bold public food choices. from February 2019 the entire health policies. Scotland was ¢ Obesogenic Environment. Transport for London network the first country in the UK to The environmental influences will ban junk food adverts. introduce the smoking ban and reducing smoking rates and which advertising is a major on our diet can include access This includes the London the first country in the world to helping create a societal shift part. What is clear is that to supermarkets and takeaways. underground, tram services, bus introduce a minimum unit price away from the acceptance of proportionate action needs Currently nutritionally poor stops and London Overground for alcohol. We also became the tobacco. Before there is an to be taken to address our foods that are high in sugar, trains. In Edinburgh Lothian first country in the world to improvement in the quality of surroundings which encourage salt and fat tend to be cheaper Buses are considering banning have LGBTI-inclusive education our diet the outcome will in obesity and that this should be and quicker to cook compared such ads on bus and tram embedded throughout the part depend on us as customers, carried out with the support of with other, healthier foods. shelters. The Scottish curriculum and are leading but also largely on the the public if such plans are to Those on a low income and Government are also consulting Europe in terms of LGBTI legal environment around us, of succeed. with little time may opt for on plans to restrict the equality. these foods more frequently promotion and marketing of However is banning junk and take advantage of other foods and drinks that are high food advertising the answer unhealthy foods on offer. There in fat, sugar and salt, to to decreasing overweight and is also evidence showing there improve the health of the obesity levels, and what real are more hot food takeaways nation. There is already public impact can we expect to see if in deprived areas and children support for the Scottish we do? In truth the answer is who spend more time in Government’s proposals to unknown, as no country has Great selection of low cost freshly made meals and deprived areas eat more fast restrict the advertisement yet imposed a ban on junk food delicious homebaking. Friendly atmosphere. Come alone or bring a friend. food. In 2016 29% of children of junk food. Many believe advertising. However bans on in Scotland were at risk of restricting junk food advertising tobacco advertising have played 11.00-1.30 Monday to Friday becoming overweight or obese, would be as effective as an extremely important role in 198 Restalrig Road South 10 The Speaker, February 2019 Knitting Network

Every Tuesday 2-3.30pm Restalrig Lochend Community Hub

Hear all the latest yarns at this thriving fun and friendly group for all ages. So whether you’re a needle novice or a knitting wiz whatever your age and whatever your knowledge come along to your local Knitting Network for the chance to chill, chat, socialise and get creative over a tea or coffee. Needles, wool and patterns are available free to get you started or you can bring along your To advertise in the Speaker contact own. Donna on 01968 673229 or email Only 50p per person to [email protected] cover tea/coffee/ biscuits.

WEE SPEAKER’S CORNER

HAPPY NEW YEAR CHINA

By Dawn Baxter Here’s a wee poem for your card to that someone special. Roses are red, rhyming Happy New Year of the Pig! The Chinese ain’t easy, and that’s why this poem has New Year starts on Tuesday 5th February turned out so cheesy! Enjoy your week and Edinburgh will host its biggest ever off from the 11th to the 15th. Chinese celebration with lots of events Wee Facts. The Scotland China around the city. From calligraphy to Association was founded in 1966, a music and dance, from the Usher Hall membership organisation for people to the Zoo, Edinburgh will celebrate interested in all things cultural in China. Scotland’s unique relationship with China. We also have the Confucius Institute for More on this later. From 1st to 28th the Scotland and, of course, Leith Academy Central Library on George IV Bridge will hosts the first dedicated Confucius Hub host Firebrand Women: Generating promoting the study of Mandarin and Change, a free exhibition of stories of 100 Chinese Studies across city schools. years of women challenging the politics Scotland is so popular with Chinese of their day; from suffragettes to the visitors that they have renamed many radical zine-makers of today. A zine is a of our tourist attractions. See if you can magazine or fanzine, usually produced guess these literal translations from the by one person and home-printed or Chinese of these five. photocopied in very small numbers, often 1. A beautiful street with long history and less than 100. Zines typically cover a profound culture. 2. Grand ceremony for niche hobby or interest and appear in Edinburgh's soldiers. 3. Glorious armoured different formats like the printed word or giant horses. 4. Strong-man Skirt Party. comic style animation. Does this column 5. Baa-baa pudding. qualify as a zine? I hope it’s not just you Answers. and my Mum reading it! February also 1. The Royal Mile 2. The Tattoo 3. The brings us Valentine’s Day on the 14th. Kelpies 4. Highland Games 5. Haggis. The Speaker, February 2019 11

St Margaret’s Christ Church Parish Church (Free Church Thee LunLunchnch Clubb Restalrig of Scotland) Sunday Service Britwell Crescent FreshFrresh ccookedooked hhotot memealsals ffoforor ppeopleeople 660+0+ 10.30am Sunday Morning Good News Team 10.30am 11.00am Join The Ripplepple Lunchnch Clubub Creche 10.30am with crèche and Sunday School Tea/Coffee after service att RestalrigResttalriig LochendLochhend CommunityCommmunity HubHub Sunday Evening Communion last Sunday 6.00pm 1198 RestalrigRestalrig RoadRoad SouthSSouth every month Tea and coffee available after both MondayMonday ttoo FFridayriday St Ninian’s services ssesett ppricerice ofof £4.50£4.50 pperer ddayay RC Church Prayer meeting forfor 2 cocourses,ourses, tea/coffeetea/coffffee andand bbiscuits.iscuitss. Marionville Rd Wed 7.30pm LLunchunch seservedrvved aatt 111.30am.1.30am.

Sunday Mass Wilson Memorial OpenOpen toto aanyonenyone ooverver 660.0. 10.15am Church Craigentinny Weeklyeekly bbookingooking requiredrequired inin advance,advance, comecome anyany day/sday/s oror allall week.week. Children’s Liturgy corner of Moira Terrace (filled rolls and and Kekewich Avenue Each year on 4th February, World Cancer Day TransportTransporrt availableavailable wwithinithin tthehe refreshments after Mass) empowers communities and individuals across the RRestalrigestalrig LLochendochend CCraigentinnyrraigentinny Polish Mass 1pm Sunday Worship11.00am (Creche and children’s world to show support, raise a collective voice, take aandnd PiPiershillershill aareas.rreas. There is now Mass at programme provided) personal action and press governments to do more. SubjectSubbjject ttoo spacesspaces bbeingeing aavailable.vailable. 10am every day Tea/coffee afterwards Why cancer? Cancer is a critical health and human Door-to-doorDoor-to-ddoor chargecharge ofof 50p50p perper dayday except Wednesday issue. Today 9.6 million people each year will die Bible Study - 6.30pm from cancer, yet at least one third of cancers can be CAALLLL 01310131 555454 00422422 FFOROR MMOREORE IINFORMATIONNFORMATION & Fr Syriac Palakudiyil (3rd Sunday of month) prevented. The campaign theme I am and I will TTOO JOIN,JOIN, OROR DROPDROP ININ ANDAND SEE FORFOR YOURSELF.YOOURSELF. Parish House Mid-Week Quiet Time stresses the fact that you can be the hero of this 12 Marionville Drive The Church is open for story. Whoever you are, you have the power to 0131 661 2867 quiet reflection every reduce the impact of cancer for yourself, the people 07504 802 728 Wednesday you love and for the world. Increased awareness [email protected] 11.00am to 12 noon and accurate information and knowledge can Lochend Toddler Group Hall Bookings empower all of us to recognise early warning signs, A congregation of the United 0131 554 9788 make informed choices about our health and is run by local parents and open to parent/carers Free Church of Scotland counter our own fears and misconceptions about [email protected] and pre-schoolers from babies upwards. cancer. To find out more about the part you can play www.wilsonmemorial.org.uk Willowbrae in reducing the impact of cancer visit The group meets Monday mornings Parish Church www.worldcancerday.org 9.30am – 11.30am (closed 11th February) 1 Willowbrae Road Hub Grub Café Sunday Worship Book Exchange Restalrig Lochend Community Hub 198 Restalrig Road South 10am – Prayers before Grab a coffee. Have Join us in the village halls, Restalrig Service In Church Centre a read. Find a book Last Tuesday of the month 10am or Last Thursday of the month 10.30am Come along to find out more during the 10.30am – Morning you like and take it Service For more information contact above times. home to finish it for [email protected] New members warmly welcomed. Refreshments and free . or ring 0131 554 7400 £2.50 per session per family, children’s fellowship in the Mon-Fri 11-1.30pm Do you like reading? Everyone welcome Hall after the Service snacks included.

Craigentinny/Lochend Social Centre Programme 9 Loaning Road Edinburgh EH7 6JE Centre Programme – Castle Hall (CH) Main Hall (MH) Disco Room (DR) Lounge (L) Youth Club Floor (YCF)

Monday Wednesday Friday Playgroup 9-12pm (MH) Playgroup 9-12pm (MH) Playgroup 9-12pm (MH) Alma Project 12-2pm (CH) Silver Works (Self Run Group) 10-12pm (CH) Art Class 10-12 (CH) (class full) Monday Social Club1-3.30pm (MH) Guitar Group 9.30-12pm (CR) Kids Dance Class 1.30-3.30pm (MH) Kids Dance Class 4.45-7.30pm (CH) Keep Fit Class for individuals with additional needs Polish School 1.15-4.30pm Junior Youth Club P3-P6 6-8pm (MH) 1-2pm (MH) Tai Chi 2.15-3.15pm (CH) Saturday Kids Dance Class 3.45-7.30pm (CH) Tuesday Polish School 9.45-2.15pm Beat Breakers Dance 4-5pm (MH) Playgroup 9-12pm (MH) Junior Youth Club 5-8 years 10-12pm Youth Club P7-S3 7-8.30pm (YC) Playgroup 9-12m (MH) Digital Skills Academy 10-12pm (Art Rm1) referrals Carpet Bowls 1-3.30pm (MH) Jewellery Class (Self Run Group) 10-12 (CH) Thursday The centre is also available to let for private parties Alma Project 12.30-2.30pm (CH) Playgroup 9-12pm (MH) and community events. Free wi-fi for all users. Kids Dance Class 2.45-7.00pm (CH) 7-7.45pm (CR) Alma 1-3pm (CH) Highland Dancing Adults 6.45-7.30pm (MH) Kids Dance Class 3.30-6.45pm (CH) Boot Camp 7.00-8.00pm (CH) Line Dancing 6.55-8.55pm (MH) Contact Archie or Donna 0131 661 9404 Karate Adults 7.45-8.45pm (CH for further details www.joininedinburgh.org/craigentinny 12 The Speaker, February 2019 Restalrig Lochend Community Hub 198 Restalrig Road South, Edinburgh 0131 554 0422

February Daily Open Programme A Hub of activity you can join in with

ay y – Frid Hub Grub Café Monda Open Monday – Friday 11am – 1.30pm. café Our community café offers tasty, affordable homemade food, hot and cold drinks and somewhere sociable for you to meet and eat. Free internet access for café customers. Lunch Club for Older People Monday – Friday 11.30am – advance booking required. 60+. £4.50 per day. Two delicious and nutritious courses, plus tea/coffee and biscuits. Door-to-door transport available in Restalrig/Lochend/Craigentinny area if required. 50p return journey. For more info or to book call 0131 554 0422.

day Toddler Group (closed 11 February) day Healthy Hub Walking Group Mon 9.30am – 11.30am. Parent-led group. hurs Half hour walks 9.15am and 10am start. Plenty of toys and activities for under 5s. T Gather at the Hub and join in on our free Thursday £2.50 per family per session for children’s snacks. walks to meet new friends, improve your fitness and Dixie Saltires Line Dancing discover local landscapes and places of interest. 11.30am – 12.30pm. £3 per week. Caring Soles Suitable for beginners. Wear comfortable shoes. Footcare service. 10am – 2.pm. Appointments only. Girls Only Drop In (closed 11 February) To make appointment call 0131 447 4520. 6.30pm – 8.30pm 11 to 16 years. Lochend Seniors Computer Group 50+ computer training. 2 – 4pm. Bring your own device or laptop. Buggy Walk Write On day 7 February to 28 March. 12.45pm – 2.45pm. ues 10am. Come on a buggy walk with T Route 10 Rollers. (see page 8) Getting it down... 8-week creative writing course. Knitting Network Refreshments provided. (see page 8) 2pm – 3.30pm all ages and abilities welcome. ROSP Drop in Youth Café We have wool and needles to get you started. Just (closed 14 February} drop in. 50p per session for tea/coffee and biscuits Thursdays 7pm – 9pm. S3 – S6. Hub 198 Drop In Youth Café Wide range of activities and workshops provided by (closed 12 February) Ripple youth work team and other partners. 6.30pm – 8.30pm. P7 to S2. day Community Policing Team Surgery Exercise for Everyone Fri 15 February. 12.30 – 1.30pm. day Ripple Project Friday Club 60+ social club dnes 10am – 10.45am. £2.50. We Suitable for men and women of all ages. £1 – 1.00pm start. Just turn up. 15 February – Disco with DJ Steve. Sing-A- Reconnect Digital Drop In Long, Dance-A-Long for a fun afternoon of 11.30am – 2pm. Laptops provided. music from the 40’s to the naughties. Drop in and have a chat. Tea/coffee and raffle. (see page 8) Granton Information Centre Free welfare rights, housing and debt advice. To book an appointment call James on 0131 551 2459 or 0131 552 0458 (see page 2). Boxercise for Beginners 6.30pm – 7.30pm. Boxing moves combined with circuit training. Suitable for beginners. No booking required. £4 per class or £20 for block of 6 sessions.

Politicians’ Surgeries Ash Denham MSP Cllr Joan Griffiths Tommy Sheppard MP Monday 25th February Friday 22nd February Friday 1st February 12.00pm 12.00 to 1.00pm 1.00pm – 2.00pm