Sunday 31 January 2021

Latest update during the COVID-19 health emergency



From Bailie Fraser Macpherson (West End) and Councillor Craig Duncan (Broughty Ferry) :


RESTRICTIONS REVIEW
On Tuesday 2nd February the Scottish Government will announce decisions made on the next phase of the restrictions. This will include whether schools will reopen in the middle of February. It has already been decided to keep schools closed until March in other parts of the UK.


COVID VACCINE UPDATE
Across Scotland the schedule is:
• Groups 1 and 2 – from now until the first week in February.
• Group 3 and 4 – February – middle of February.
• Group 5 - February – beginning of March.
• Groups 6 - 9 - by early May


The second dose will run in parallel from the end of February. 400,000 vaccines every week will be administered from the end of February.


Group 1 - Residents in a care home for older adults and their carers
Group 2 - All those 80 years of age and over and frontline health and social care workers
Group 3 - All those 75 years of age and over
Group 4 - All those 70 years of age and over and clinically extremely vulnerable individuals
Group 5 - All those 65 years of age and over.
Group 6 - All individuals aged 16 years to 64 years with underlying health conditions which put them at higher risk of serious disease and mortality. This also includes unpaid carers.
Group 7 - All those 60 years of age and over
Group 8 - All those 55 years of age and over
Group 9 - All those 50 years of age and over


For details of the progress of the vaccination programme:
https://beta.isdscotland.org/find-publications-and-data/population-health/covid-19/covid-19-statistical-report/


ISOLATION HOTELS AND INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL
Non-UK residents from red list countries which are already subject to a UK travel ban will be refused entry.


Those who cannot be refused entry will need to stay in managed isolation in a hotel for ten days.


Anyone who does not have a valid reason for travel out of the UK will be directed to return home and may face a fine.


All country exemptions (sometimes referred to as Travel Corridors) have been suspended until further notice.


Passengers travelling to Scotland from outside the Common Travel Area must have a valid negative COVID-19 test result, taken no more than three days before the scheduled time of departure.


You must self-isolate for 10 full days if you arrive in Scotland from a country outside the Common Travel Area (UK, Republic of Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man).


Travel to or from Scotland without a reasonable excuse is not permitted.


https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-public-health-checks-at-borders/
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/tougher-border-controls-to-protect-public-health


DRAFT BUDGET 21-22
The Scottish Government’s draft budget for next year increases funds for most areas in line with the increased overall funds available. These are the notable changes in tax and spend:


• Finance to encourage local authorities to leave council tax frozen for 2021/22.
• Public sector workers earning up to £25,000 can receive at least a 3% pay increase via a £750 cash underpin, while there is a 1% rise for those earning above that amount, capped at £800 above £80,000.
• A new Green Workforce Academy and a Green Jobs Fund.
• A new £55 million programme to support town centres and community-led regeneration projects.
• Doubling the Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund, helping tourist attractions and local communities make improvements to cope with increased visitors.
• Local Authority Discretionary Fund for business support will be doubled to £60 million in this financial year.
• Businesses eligible for the Strategic Framework Business Fund will receive full Level 4 payments on 22nd February, regardless of any future changes to local restrictions.


https://www.gov.scot/news/scottish-budget-2021-22/


Income tax bands:
https://www.gov.scot/publications/scottish-income-tax-2021-2022/


WEDDING SUPPORT
In recognition of the ongoing challenges faced by the wedding sector, a further £10 million has been added to the £15 million announced in December. Open for applications now, the fund provides one-off grants of up to £25,000 for eligible businesses which includes venues and the supply chain.
https://findbusinesssupport.gov.scot/service/funding/scottish-wedding-industry-fund


FLU
The flu vaccination programme for those outside the most at risk groups has been suspended. The Chief Medical Officer has advised that overall levels of seasonal flu are very low. The vaccination of the most at risk groups has largely been completed but you can check here:
https://www.nhsinform.scot/flu


£500 PAYMENT
As previously announced, there is to be a £500 one off payment for all health and care staff. The one-off pro-rata non-consolidated £500 will be payable to all directly employed NHS staff, as well as bank workers and locums paid through NHS Payrolls who have had at least one month’s continuous service in the NHS Scotland between 17th March and 30th November 2020. The payment will be based on average hours over the qualifying period, or over the time in service during the qualifying period, capped at a maximum of £500.


The payment will also be made to staff on COVID Special Leave or who are shielding, on sick leave for other reasons or on maternity leave. Staff will receive their bonus payment in February salaries. However, if the lump sum payment will have an adverse effect on benefits, paid by the Department for Work and Pensions, staff can opt to receive their payment in equal instalments over a three-month period February to April.


STUDENT RENT REBATES AND HARDSHIP FUNDING
Students experiencing hardship as a result of coronavirus will be supported by £20 million fund. A further £10 million has also been allocated to universities and colleges for income lost in providing rent rebates. To complement the additional £30 million, the Scottish Funding Council is also repurposing £5 million of student support funding towards discretionary funding for FE students in the college sector. This is support that we called for.
https://www.gov.scot/news/support-for-students-in-hardship/


BUSINESS FUNDING
Strategic Framework Business Fund
Applications are made through the council. A business only has to apply once and they will then receive the four-weekly recurring grant for as long as they remain eligible:


• temporary closure grant - £2,000 or £3,000 for those required to close by law
• business restrictions grant - £1,400 or £2,100 for those that can remain open but is specifically required to modify its operations by law


Top up grant
Some of those who receive the Strategic Framework Business Fund will also receive a top up grant. Restaurants, bars, pubs, licensed social and sports clubs, cafes and hotels are in scope for the hospitality top up payment. Other accommodation providers (self-catering, B&Bs, guesthouses, campsite and caravan parks) are not eligible.


• £25,000 for larger hospitality businesses on top of the 4-weekly £3,000
• £6,000 for smaller hospitality businesses on top of the 4-weekly £2,000
• £9,000 for larger retail and leisure businesses on top of the 4-weekly £3,000
• £6,000 for smaller retail and leisure businesses on top of the 4-weekly £2,000


The following sector specific targeted grant schemes are now live:


• Taxi and Private Hire Fund - the Universal Credit benefits grant condition has been removed. Councils will approach eligible drivers so they do not need to apply.
• Creative Freelancer Hardship Fund
• Museums Recovery and Resilience Fund Top up
• Travelling Show People Support Fund
• Culture Collective Fund
• Youth Arts Access Fund
• Creative Communities
• Sector and Destination Operational and Market Readiness fund
• Scotland Pivotal Event Business Fund
Funds going live this month are:
• Mobile Close Contact Services Support Fund including driving instructors and hairdressers
• Newly Self-Employed Hardship Fund
• Outdoor Tourism Sector Recommissioning Fund
• Travel Agents Fund
• Wedding Sector Support Fund
• Events Industry Support Fund
• Grassroots Music Venue Stabilisation Fund
• Brewer Support Fund
• Indoor Football Centres Fund
Funds due to go live in February are:
• Tour Operators Fund
• Visitor Attractions Fund
• Ski Centre Support Fund
• Visitor Accommodation Hostels Fund
• Large (7 or more guests) Self-Catering Grant
• Exclusive Use Grant Self-Catering


All self-catering properties, B&Bs and guest houses that pay non-domestic rates are eligible for regular payments through the SFBF. Support equivalent to the SFBF will also be available to these B&Bs which pay council tax.


The £7 million funding for the self-catering sector will be used to offer one-off grant support of £2,000 to self-catering businesses sleeping seven or more guests and additional one-off grant support of £10,000 to exclusive use premises.


The £60 million Local Authority Discretionary Fund enables councils to allocate support to specific groups or sectors that are important to their local economies.
www.findbusinesssupport.gov.scot


Childminders
Grants of up to £1,000 each will be made to eligible childminding providers, and work is now underway with the Scottish Childminding Association (SCMA) to finalise the details of the scheme.
https://www.gov.scot/news/support-for-childminders/


LOCAL CASES
You can access local information on the spread of the virus in your council area then choose Dundee City from the menu in local neighbourhoods.
https://public.tableau.com/profile/phs.covid.19?fbclid=IwAR1IzNvu3sjbCI6NCjU7mY-Pebmk7eWkh0P0ijzpPs-pdQll6YllQDQ_wpY#!/vizhome/COVID-19DailyDashboard_15960160643010/Overview


IF YOU HAVE SYMPTOMS
If you have symptoms of the virus check out this link.
https://www.nhsinform.scot/self-help-guides/self-help-guide-coronavirus-covid-19


POLICE CONTACT FORM
https://www.scotland.police.uk/secureforms/covid19/


INFORMATION
UK Government news: www.gov.uk/search/news-and-communications


Scottish Government Updates: www.gov.scot/news


Dundee City Council updates: www.dundeecity.gov.uk/coronavirus-covid-19


NHS Inform – https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/coronavirus-covid-19


NHS Tayside website: www.nhstayside.scot.nhs.uk


Helpline for those who do not have symptoms but are looking for general health advice Tel: 0800 028 2816


Health Protection Scotland Guidance - www.hps.scot.nhs.uk/a-to-z-of-topics/covid-19


Federation of Small Businesses: www.fsb.org.uk/coronavirus


Helpline for small businesses, Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5.30pm. Tel: 0300 303 0660


Ready Scotland Information - www.readyscotland.org/coronavirus


Tayside Cares - www.taysidecares.co.uk


SUPPORT AND ADVICE
This has been an anxious and uncertain time but we want you to know that we are here to try to help constituents in whatever way that we can.


CONTACT DETAILS


WEST END WARD – Bailie Fraser Macpherson
Phone – Dundee 459378 (home)
E-mail – fraser.macpherson@dundeecity.gov.uk
Facebook updates : www.facebook.com/dundeewestend

Saturday 30 January 2021

Former Tay Valley Coaches Building, Bellfield Street #dundeewestend

Many of us remember the former Tay Valley Coaches in Bellfield Street and I was grateful to receive this update last week from a local resident, together with some great photos of some of the murals from the building. 

He said, "I was sorting through some old pics and came across these.

I was quite upset, when the old Tay Valley Coaches Garage was converted into a car showroom/workshop and some of these lovely tiled murals were removed.

I got there almost in time (but not quite) to save the images for posterity."

Transport panels were designed for the wall of Tay Valley Coaches by Kenny Munro in 1983 and, in addition, five ceramic panels were designed by Keith Donnelly for the building next door :





Friday 29 January 2021

Fairtrade Fortnight 2021


Fairtrade Fortnight 2021 will take place from Monday 22nd February until Sunday 7th March.

As a member of Dundee Fairtrade Forum, I am keen to see Fairtrade Fortnight being promoted in the city.

Fairtrade Fortnight 2021 will focus on the growing challenges that climate change brings to farmers and workers in the communities Fairtrade works with. Farmers and workers in developing countries are feeling the impact of the climate emergency now despite having contributed to it the least. 

Fairtrade works to raise the voices of producers and prioritise what they need to respond to the environmental crises unfolding in already vulnerable communities. This Fortnight, the campaign will focus on the theme of ‘Choose the World You Want’ and to encourage people to use their voice to tell others about the challenges that farmers face from climate change. 

In 2021, Fairtrade Fortnight will feel very different.   Physically campaigning and meeting people will continue to be challenging but so many people want to continue to support Fairtrade through this time. 

Fairtrade Fortnight will be hosting an online festival bringing together schools, universities, businesses, supporters, campaigners and farmers from across the world to choose the world they want.

More information is available at the Scottish Fairtrade Forum website at www.scottishfairtradeforum.org.uk

Thursday 28 January 2021

Getting things done - Cleghorn Street #dundeewestend


Following requests, I highlighted to the City Council's Roads Maintenance Partnership the need for an additional grit bin towards the Lochee Road end of Cleghorn Street as it is sloped there and also some distance from the nearest grit bins at Pitfour Street and Mitchell Street.

I am grateful to the resident who highlighted the best location for this (see his graphic) adding "there are actually glass recycling bins just up from this so it seem like a grit bin next to these would be an ideal location."

I am very grateful to the Roads Maintenance Partnership Manager who responded positively as follows :

"I agree that this section of Cleghorn would benefit from a self help grit bin being installed.

 I’ll pass this on to the relevant people ... to action and this should be in place by the end of the week."

I am pleased to say the new grit bin is now in place.

Wednesday 27 January 2021

Q&A panel session - assisting children with type 1 diabetes


I am pleased to have been advised that Diabetes UK is running a virtual Q&A panel session tomorrow (Thursday 28th January) between 7pm and 8.30pm to assist parents and carers of children with type 1 diabetes.

It will include parents of type 1 children, who will talk about how they’ve managed their biggest challenges, and they’ll reflect on how they keep positive. 

You can ask them any questions you like, no matter how big or small. 

This is aimed at parents/carers of children & young people with type 1 diabetes, aged up to 18 years.

You can register at https://eu.eventscloud.com/esurvey/index.php?surveyid=200042039

Tuesday 26 January 2021

Big Energy Saving Month


Just a reminder that Dundee Citizens Advice Bureau is taking part in with this year’s Big Energy Saving Month campaign, which seeks to help people save time, money and energy through everyday actions.

Energy bills are a real struggle for many people.    Figures released by the Scottish Government last year revealed 1 in 4 households in Scotland, over 600 000 people, find themselves in fuel poverty and official estimates suggest this could rise to 29 per cent of households as a result of the pandemic.

This issue is a real problem for those already struggling with energy bills, with inefficient and expensive heating systems or those who are unable to access discounts and support online.

The nationwide campaign will run until next Sunday - 31st January - and encourages people to get energy advice, and focuses on five key consumer groups :

People on electric only heating

People on prepayment meters

People struggling with energy bills

Those who frequently turn off the heating to save money

People who can’t access deals and support online

Big Energy Saving Month is looking to raise public awareness of the simple changes people can make to help them save this winter.    It looks to support people to save energy, reduce their bills and access any entitlements that they are due. 

For further details, please go to www.cas.org.uk/BESM2021.

Monday 25 January 2021

Weekly Road Report – West End Ward #dundeewestend


REPORT FOR WEST END WARD - 
WEEK COMMENCING MONDAY 25 JANUARY 2021

Hawkhill – traffic control for up to one week for street lighting column removals.

Strawberrybank – closed on Thursday 28 January for Scottish Water mains repair works.

Forthcoming Road Works

A991 West Marketgait (Hawkhill to Guthrie Street) – northbound nearside lane closure on Monday 8 February for roof inspection works.

Sunday 24 January 2021

Blether Tay-Gither - Storytelling in Dundee


Blether Tay-Gither is the Dundee Storytelling Group.

From Sheila Kinninmonth, Blether Tay-Gither’s secretary :

Hope you can join us for our January Blether on Zoom

Tuesday 26th January - 7pm to 9pm 

With a nod to the bard and legend Robert Burns, our theme is poetry.

Many stories were once told in poetry form by the bards of old, as many were sung as ballads.   Bring a poem this month or a story about poetry, or a story that includes a poem.   Or a story that is a poem, or perhaps a poem that has a story.   Or just come to listen if you want.

Come along and join us, in the virtual format.

Event link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88956592545

Meeting ID: 889 5659 2545

Saturday 23 January 2021

Ninewells Community Garden - latest blog update #dundeewestend


Ninewells Community Garden has an excellent blog and you can read the latest update - "
Take a walk in the park" - here.



Friday 22 January 2021

Fuel Well Dundee


I am pleased to advise of a new programme that has been launched in the city for households facing fuel poverty as a result of the pandemic.

The Fuel Well Dundee Programme will support people on a low income whether they are in or out of work, on reduced incomes as a result of COVID-19, or are already experiencing fuel poverty. 

People may have heating systems or home insulation that is inadequate and causing high energy bills or are struggling with other financial or coronavirus related issues.

The scheme can help with top up payments of between £40 and £100 if certain criteria are met, as well as short, medium and longer-term support from fuel advisers and welfare rights advisers.

This can include other areas of financial inclusion including energy advice, a benefits check and debt advice; where appropriate, consideration of referral for Discretionary Hardship Payments or to the council’s Hardship fund; and crisis grants and community care grants advice.

Run by Dundee City Council and SCARF (Part of the Home Energy Scotland network) the Fuel Well Dundee Programme can be accessed directly here.

Thursday 21 January 2021

Getting things done - Riverside Approach #dundeewestend


As residents will be aware, the recent further consultation on a 'modal filter' at Riverside Approach that woudl have seen a temporary one-way arrangement as part of Spaces for People during the COVID-19 health emergency, resulted in a majority against so it will not go ahead.

I previously asked for some 'local traffic only' or similar signage to be provided to discourage non-local traffic and HGVs and am pleased this has been agreed to.

I also asked that the City Council revisits the idea of a pedestrian crossing on Riverside Approach between the Roseangle playpark and Magdalen Green and the Head of Sustainable Transport & Roads has responded helpfully as follows :

"With regard to the pedestrian crossing proposal, this has been reviewed by our Traffic Team pre-Covid and the pedestrian counts didn't meet the levels required for change to the current arrangement. 

Post Covid the pedestrian counts may be significantly different and we will review this location once the pandemic has concluded and future travel patterns have stabilised."

Wednesday 20 January 2021

Temporary Traffic Order - Strawberrybank



From the City Council :

THE ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14(1)

THE DUNDEE CITY COUNCIL AS TRAFFIC AUTHORITY being satisfied that traffic on the road should be prohibited by reason of Scottish Water mains repair works being carried out HEREBY PROHIBIT the driving of any vehicle in Strawberrybank, Dundee.

This notice comes into effect on Thursday 28 January 2021 for 1 day.

Pedestrian thoroughfare will be maintained.

Alternative routes for vehicles are available via Magdalen Yard Road / Windsor Street / Perth Road.

For further information contact 433082.

Executive Director of City Development
Dundee City Council

Tuesday 19 January 2021

Getting things done - Newhall Gardens and Millhall Crescent #dundeewestend


During the recent wintery weather, residents highlighted to me that it would be helpful to have an additional grit bin in Millhall Crescent and also have one at the west end of Newhall Gardens.

I am pleased to say that the Roads Maintenance Partnership agreed to my request for these.     The additional one for Millhall Crescent has since been delivered and I hope the additional one for Newhall Gardens will be in place soon.

Monday 18 January 2021

Weekly Road Report – West End Ward #dundeewestend


DUNDEE CITY COUNCIL - WEEKLY ROAD REPORT

REPORT FOR WEST END WARD - COMMENCING MONDAY 18 JANUARY 2021

Hawkhill – traffic control for up to 2 weeks for street lighting column removals.

Forthcoming Road Works

Strawberrybank – closed on Thursday 28 January for Scottish Water mains repair works.

A991 West Marketgait (Hawkhill to Guthrie Street) – northbound nearside lane closure on Monday 8 February for roof inspection works.


Sunday 17 January 2021

Money Map – an update from Dundee Citizens’ Advice Bureau


Dundee CAB has advised councillors of a very useful online ‘Money Map’ tool from Citizens’ Advice Scotland.

It advises :

“The tool is hosted at www.moneymap.scot  and brings together all the options for how people can improve their incomes and cut their living costs through areas such as housing, benefits, grants and energy bills and directs them to online sites where they can access these options. 

The strength of the tool is that it gathers in all the best online sources of help, because we know that people can get frustrated searching endlessly online for information and often end up in the wrong place.

In Dundee we’ve seen people struggle with money, often not knowing what they are entitled to, and we know the pandemic has exacerbated this problem for many people. 

Polling by YouGov shows the extent to which the pandemic has had an impact on household budgets. Almost half of people have run out of money before payday since restrictions began, and of those people 30 per cent have seen their financial situations worsen during restrictions.

While this is a digital option for people who can self-help, please also be aware that at Dundee CAB we have been providing advice throughout this crisis by telephone, email and face to face appointments in essential circumstances. 

We want to help people in Dundee through this crisis and plan to be there to help them afterwards.” 

Saturday 16 January 2021

Fire safety and home fire safety visits


The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has advised that there has been a concerning increase in the number of people who have been injured and have sadly died due to fires within the home. This has been the case in Dundee where there have been 2 fatal fires this year. Over the previous 3 years, there were not any fatal fires in Dundee.

The service has identified that the key common factors are people over 50 who smoke and have mobility issues or live alone or use medical oxygen.   Therefore the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is targeting its focus on people who meet these criteria in addition to its broader home fire safety visit checks. 

Further to this, you can access here a useful guide and self-assessment about fire safety in the home – this also advises how you can book a home fire safety visit as does the above poster.

Friday 15 January 2021

Dundee Libraries - an update

Dundee Libraries has a new Pressreader service which is an excellent service.

Library users can now access the latest local, national and international newspapers from home.

Find out more here.

Thursday 14 January 2021

Getting things done - Balgay Hill #dundeewestend

In the past few months, many residents have expressed concern to me about unofficial bike trails that have been created on Balgay Hill.

Leaving aside their unauthorised nature and damage to the hill, the other concern is the health and safety of mountain bikers using these.

I have raised this with the council's environment team who are tackling the issue and have recently placed some sensible signage about these and suggesting better and safer places where mountain bike skills can be practiced.

Wednesday 13 January 2021

Improvements to the Green Circular route in the West End #dundeewestend

I am pleased to advise that the City Council has confirmed to me that it is looking at improvements to where the Green Circular route crosses the Perth Road.     

Currently at this location cyclists and pedestrians use the existing carriageway junction cross as there is no footpath provision at this point.    The proposed works will include a new footpath creating a safer crossing as the images indicate :


There are also a couple of locations along Riverside Avenue where vegetation will be cutback to effectively widen the useable footpath/cycleway.

Tuesday 12 January 2021

Business support in Dundee – an update


The Boxing Day shift from tier three to four, along with the move to lockdown last week, has changed the business situation and the need for support has never been greater. In particular, non-essential retail businesses and business premises delivering close contact services may now be eligible for support at level four.

A one-stop information guide for business with advice from Dundee City Council, support organisations, Scottish Government and other agencies can be found here

If you are already in receipt of grants from these funds you do not need to re-apply. The City Council will automatically alter grant payments to reflect the change of level. But if you have not previously applied, or applied but did not meet the criteria for level three support, and are now eligible under level four, you should make an application as soon as possible, so do please go to the link above.

Monday 11 January 2021

Christmas Tree Recycling


Do you have a 'real' Christmas tree that you would like to be recycled? 

You can request an uplift from your property and further details are available here.

Sunday 10 January 2021

Get Out Get Active Tayside programme


Get Out Get Active Tayside's Online Activity Programme starts back tomorrow - 11th January.

Whether you have taken part in an activity before, coming along for the very first time or know someone who would really benefit from a friendly, supportive community during this challenging time we want everyone of all levels and abilities to get involved.
The Online Activity Programme is free and offers activities 5 days a week.

You can sign up here.

Saturday 9 January 2021

Weekly Road Report – West End Ward #dundeewestend


DUNDEE CITY COUNCIL - WEEKLY ROAD REPORT

REPORT FOR WEST END WARD - WEEK COMMENCING 11 JANUARY 2021

Hawkhill – traffic control for up to 2 weeks for street lighting column removals.

Friday 8 January 2021

Friends of Wighton Saturday classes online!


From Sheena Wellington :

Saturday morning playing is back! 

We've all been missing our Saturday morning fix of tunes and, with no sign of classes being able to start in-person again any time soon, classes are moving online. 

Obviously, the format will be slightly different, but hopefully still enjoyable. 

A mixed instrument class will run 11am - 12 noon on Saturday mornings using Zoom, starting this Saturday.    Here is the Zoom link:

MoragAnne is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Saturday morning class

Time: Jan 9, 2021 11:00 AM London 

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83717837909

Meeting ID: 837 1783 7909

To begin with I'll be taking the classes, with the hope of introducing guest leaders on a regular basis.    I'll be teaching a couple of slow tunes (for those who like time to think as they play, or for those who want to try out learning by ear) and then a faster tune.    Music will be shared to the screen (she says confidently!) on the day.

If participants want to contribute financially they can donate to my paypal account here.

Thursday 7 January 2021

Harris Education and Recreation Association update


From Harris Education and Recreation Association :

“Why not make some time for yourself this January and fill the long days with one of our evening classes -all done from the comfort of your living room. We have various topics including Pilates, Crochet, songwriting, Climate Change, Spanish and American History.  

You can enrol online from 13th January, and classes start at the end of the month.”

Online registration from the 13th will take place here.

Wednesday 6 January 2021

Latest update during the COVID-19 health emergency


Latest update from Bailie Fraser Macpherson (West End) and Councillor Craig Duncan (Broughty Ferry) during the COVID-19 health emergency :

As residents will be aware, stay at home advice has become law, just as it was in the lockdown last year. This means it will only be permissible to leave home for an essential purpose. This will include caring responsibilities, essential shopping, exercise, maintaining a shared parenting arrangement and being part of an extended household. Unlike the lockdown last year, the frequency of outdoor exercise is not being limited.

MEETING OTHERS
A maximum of two people from up to two households will be able to meet outdoors. Children aged 11 and under will not be counted in that limit, and they will also be able to play outdoors in larger groups, including in organized gatherings. However, for everyone else – including 12 to 17 year olds - outdoor exercise should only take place in a way which is consistent with the 2 people from 2 households rule.

HOME WORKING
Anyone who is able to work from home, must do so. It will only be a reasonable excuse to leave your home to go to work, if that work cannot be done from home. 

TRAVEL
You cannot leave your home except for an essential purpose. When you do go out, stay as close to home as possible and stay away from crowded places. And it remains the case that no-one is allowed to travel into or out of Scotland or between council areas in Scotland unless it is for an essential purpose.

EVIDENCE

LOCAL CASES
You can access local information on the spread of the virus in your area by selecting Dundee City then choose from the menu in local neighbourhoods.

PLACES OF WORSHIP
Places of worship will close until 1st February for all purposes except broadcasting a service, or conducting a funeral or wedding. While up to 20 people will still be able to attend funeral services, wakes will not be possible during January … and a maximum of 5 people will be able to attend wedding and civil partnership services. This is different advice from England so we contacted the Scottish Government to ask if this would change to bring it in line across the UK. The Scottish Government said it had considered is extensively before the decision so would be unlikely to change.

SCHOOLS AND NURSERIES
The school closure period will be extended until the end of January with most school pupils learning remotely – rather than in school. This will be reviewed on 18th January. The change will apply to all pupils - except vulnerable children, and children of key workers. And it includes nursery schools, as well as primary and secondary schools. The fortnightly review will not simply be a choice between opening and closing schools – but may see a gradual or staggered return with nurseries and primary schools returning earlier than secondary schools.

PARENT CLUB

Updated guidance for the safe running of organised activities for children and young people during lockdown.

UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES
The Government already had plans in place for the staggered return of universities and colleges. There is likely to be more information on this soon.

COVID VACCINATION
In total, over the period to the end of January - including the more than 100,000 already administered – the government expect to have access to just over 900,000 doses of vaccine. These will be split roughly equally between the Pfizer and Astra Zeneca vaccines.

Current expectation, based on assumptions about supply and the new advice on doses being administered up to 12 weeks apart, rather than 3, is that by early May everyone over 50, and people under 50 with specific underlying conditions, will have received at least the first dose of the vaccine. That is everyone who is on the JCVI priority list, and comprises more than 2.5 million people.

Once everyone on the priority list has been vaccinated, the Scottish Government will start vaccinating the rest of the population, and will do this in parallel with completing second doses for those on the priority list.

Information on the vaccination programme including on the dose interval increase:

This is the vaccination priority list:

This is the vaccine update statistics:

Over 80s are starting to receive the covid vaccine.

PAVEMENT AND ROAD GRITTING
We received many complaints this week about slippy pavements and roads due to ice. We have raised every concern with the Roads Maintenance Partnership and are here to assist residents at all times. We thought you would find it helpful to have the Dundee City Council guidance on this.

ADDITIONAL MEASURES FOR BUSINESSES
The number of non-essential services which remain open will be further restricted. Premises which will need to close as a result of these changes will include, for example ski centres, showrooms of larger retailers, and clinics offering cosmetic and aesthetic procedures. Construction and manufacturing remain open.

The current 1 metre exemption for workplace canteens will end – so canteens will have to ensure that employees sit 2 metres or more apart, rather than 1 metre.

LEVEL FOUR BUSINESS SUPPORT
Businesses required to close by law are currently able to claim up to £3,000 every four weeks through the Strategic Framework Business Fund. use the link below to apply.

We estimate that the applications for the following additional funds will start to open next week sometime. 

• £19.2 million to provide one-off grants for hospitality businesses
• £50.8 million for businesses with a rateable value of more than £51,000 that have not received support from the Pivotal Enterprise Resilience Fund or Hotel Support Programme and some additional support to smaller businesses impacted by restrictions
• £11.8 million for international inbound, coach tourism and domestic tour operators
• £7 million for self-catering
• £5 million for visitor attractions
• £2.5 million for outdoor tourism
• £2.3 million for hostels
• £2 million for ski centres
• £1.5 million for travelling show people ineligible for other support
• £1.2 million for Destination Management Organisations
• £1 million for B&Bs and guest houses excluded from the latest Non Domestic Rates scheme 

SHIELDING
If you were shielding and you cannot work from home, the clear advice now is that you should not go into work at all. The Chief Medical Officer is writing to everyone who falls into this category, and his letter will count as a Fit Note for those who need it. If you were shielding and not in employment, then you should follow CMO guidance and stay home where possible.

CARE HOME GUIDANCE
Guidance on adult care home lateral flow testing.

IF YOU HAVE SYMPTOMS
If you have symptoms of the virus check out this link. 

POLICE CONTACT FORM

INFORMATION
Scottish Government Updates: www.gov.scot/news

Dundee City Council updates: www.dundeecity.gov.uk/coronavirus-covid-19


NHS Tayside website: www.nhstayside.scot.nhs.uk 

Helpline for those who do not have symptoms but are looking for general health advice Tel: 0800 028 2816.

Health Protection Scotland Guidance - www.hps.scot.nhs.uk/a-to-z-of-topics/covid-19 

Federation of Small Businesses: www.fsb.org.uk/coronavirus 

Helpline for small businesses, Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5.30pm. Tel: 0300 303 0660.

Ready Scotland Information - www.readyscotland.org/coronavirus 

Tayside Cares - www.taysidecares.co.uk 

SUPPORT AND ADVICE
This has been an anxious and uncertain time but we want you to know that we are here to try to help constituents in whatever way that we can.

CONTACT DETAILS

WEST END WARD – Bailie Fraser Macpherson
Phone – Dundee 459378 (home)

Tuesday 5 January 2021

Discovery Days 2020


The University of Dundee’s Discovery Days will take place from Wednesday 13th to Friday 15th January.

You can join online to listen to the newest professors and award-winning teachers and students, as they share the ideas that inspire them. 

Everyone is welcome and for more information and free tickets click here.

Monday 4 January 2021

New Year update from Friends of Wighton

From Sheena Wellington :

“The Friends of Wighton invite you to an online illustrated talk on the Montgomerie Collection to be given by Dr Margaret Bennett this Wednesday - 6th January.   

After organising a successful event online for Scottish Book Week we have decided that it is worth trying to put some concerts online too. We plan to hold the concerts on the first Wednesday of the month at 1.15pm. 

The first will be on Wednesday 6th January when the  guest will be Dr Margaret Bennet with an illustrated talk on the renowned Montgomerie collection, the children’s songs recorded in Dundee’s Hilltown in 1952.    

The talk starts at 1.15pm but you can log-in at any time from 1.05pm.”

Join Zoom Meeting here.

Meeting ID: 816 9660 4953 

Passcode: 157803

You can read more about the Montgomerie Collection in this interesting Evening Telegraph article here.

Sunday 3 January 2021

EU Citizens Support Service


The deadline for the applying to the EU Settlement Scheme, June 2021, is slowly creeping closer. 

Estimates suggest there are still thousands of EU citizens and their families living in Scotland who have not yet applied to the scheme. 

The Citizens Advice service across Scotland wants to help EU citizens preserve their rights in the UK by making a claim.

Citizens Advice Scotland is running a dedicated EU Citizen Support helpline to assist with the application process for settled or pre-settled status - 0800 916 9847 (Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm).

At Dundee CAB, it is also offering telephone appointments and, in emergency situations, face to face appointments. It can be contacted by calling 01382 214633 or emailing bureau@dundeecab.casonline.org.uk

Saturday 2 January 2021

Royal Voluntary Service Update

The Royal Voluntary Service in Dundee is pleased to continue to provide a lifeline to our vulnerable, older people (over 50) and or their carers. 

The support we have been providing (during the COVID-19 health emergency) and will continue to provide includes companionship (telephone befriending) calls and welfare checks (Safe & Well phone calls), help packs of essential food and toiletries– providing vital food for those struggling to pay for daily necessities. Read more about existing services here

For further information on any of the services mentioned please contact: Michelle Manzie, Service Manager michelle.manzie@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk or 07834 753386.

For referrals for services or enquiries about volunteering for Royal Voluntary Service, Dundee City, please contact either Irene Wallace, Service Coordinator 07917 183548 Thursday or Friday - or email at Dundeehfh@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk

Friday 1 January 2021

Happy New Year! #dundeewestend


After such a challenging year, here's hoping for a much better 2021 ... best wishes to all residents in the West End for the New Year!