Our council is first in Scotland to train teams in safeguarding scheme

We've become the first council in Scotland to train our teams and partners in Ask for Angela, a simple and effective safeguarding scheme. 

Easy and discrete alert

Ask for Angela offers people an easy and discrete way of letting staff know they feel unsafe without further explanation. It’s advertised using posters and promotional materials (as pictured, right) within participating venues; staff can help visitors to safely leave the premises, call a taxi or contact a friend, alert security or contact police if required.

While Ask for Angela is known for being used in pubs and entertainment spaces, we believe the principles of being able to quietly signal that you need help are really important. That’s why we’ll be rolling out Ask for Angela amongst our own East Lothian Council services delivering frontline services such as our community centres and libraries, housing and social work teams, as well as helping other partners in East Lothian to do the same.

Wide range of partners 

Our Licensing Standards Officer Karen Harling worked with Ask for Angela to deliver a ‘train the trainer’ session with 40 people attending from a wide range of departments, enjoyLeisure, Volunteer Centre East Lothian, Substance Support Scotland, East and Midlothian Public Protection and licensed premises. Feedback after the event showed that the majority of people attending would feel very confident responding to issues in their venue and very knowledgeable about the Ask for Angela scheme.

They will now start to roll out what they have learned and raise awareness in their areas as part of a coordinated approach. Further training and development of Ask for Angela will also take place across East Lothian’s licensed premises to compliment a safer night time economy.

Positive response 

Iwona Kossek, Director of Ask for Angela said: "It was a real pleasure to deliver this training and see such a positive response from everyone who attended. The level of engagement throughout the session was fantastic, with attendees demonstrating a genuine commitment to learning how they can play their part in creating safer, more welcoming environments for everyone.”

Find out more

Find out more about Ask for Angela from their website or contact Karen Harling to find out more about East Lothian’s roll-out. 

Going for Gold at the Duke of Edinburgh Awards

More than 600 young people from across Scotland gathered at the Palace of Holyroodhouse this summer to celebrate gaining their Gold Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award.

Amongst them were five East Lothian youngsters who'd achieved the scheme's highest level and council colleagues who help to deliver the programme in East Lothian. 

The celebration in June was attended by His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh and featured inspiring speakers including Olympic curler Bruce Mouat, strongman Luke Stoltman, model and activist Eunice Olumide MBE and wildlife filmmaker Gordon Buchanan MBE. Each shared personal stories of overcoming challenges and embracing opportunities, highlighting the values at the heart of DofE.

One of the highlights of the day was hearing from Gold Award holder Isla Ranger, who spoke about her journey from Bronze to Gold. Through volunteering with her local Beaver Scouts group, achieving Grade eight Violin, taking part in physical activities and completing expeditions, Isla developed confidence, resilience and a passion for the outdoors, which has inspired her studies in Earth and Environmental Science at university.

Her story was a powerful reminder that DofE is about much more than completing sections and gaining certificates. It helps young people develop valuable life skills including teamwork, leadership, problem-solving and resilience, qualities that support future education, employment and personal growth.

Truly unforgettable

Marie Waddell, Project Officer with East Lothian Works, said: “As the new Award Verifier for East Lothian, attending the celebration provided a fantastic opportunity to see first-hand the impact of DofE on young people's lives. Every Gold Award holder began their journey at Bronze level, and their success demonstrates the benefits of progressing through Silver and Gold.

“As a Project Officer with East Lothian Works, I see the value that DofE brings in helping young people develop skills that support their future employability and aspirations. I would like to thank the schools, DofE centres, volunteers and Leaders who dedicate their time to supporting participants throughout their Award journey.

“We are here to support all Duke of Edinburgh participants across East Lothian and would encourage every young person to consider taking the next step and 'Go for Gold'. The journey is challenging, but the rewards, including the opportunity to celebrate at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, are truly unforgettable.”

Find out more

Find out more about Duke of Edinburgh Awards scheme online or contact dofe@eastlothian.gov.uk. 

Help shape the future of Adult Support and Protection

Do you, or someone you know, have lived experience of Adult Support and Protection (ASP) services in East Lothian and Midlothian?

We are inviting people with lived experience of ASP to share their views as part of an important new advocacy project. CAPS Independent Advocacy is setting up local groups to gather feedback from people who have been involved in the ASP process. Participants will have the opportunity to speak directly about their experiences.  

The project aims to understand what worked well, identify areas for improvement and help shape future services to ensure people continue to feel safe, supported and protected. Every experience shared will contribute to making the process better for others in the future.

A thank-you voucher will be offered to those who take part.

For more information, or to express an interest in joining a group, contact Elli at elli@capsadvocacy.org or call/text 07948 740 164.

People with lived experience make a difference. Let your voice be heard!