Chief Executive Monica Patterson

Before my retirement on 14 February, I would like to take this opportunity to provide some reflections on my career in East Lothian and to thank all colleagues, elected members and our partners for the support I’ve received since joining the council.

Great privilege

It’s a great privilege to have worked in local government for more than 40 years, the last 15 of which have been spent at East Lothian Council.

Public service is very dear to my heart, as I know it is to you all. In the years I’ve worked here, there have been so many highlights and achievements in pursuit of a more prosperous, safe and sustainable East Lothian. These could not have happened without your commitment, dedication and support.

We’re a council that punches well above our weight and, in providing a diverse range of services to local communities, the magnitude and diversity of what we do never escapes me.

Making change happen

We’re also a council that’s big enough to make change happen, whilst being small enough to forge strong connections – both internally and externally, which are so central to our many successes. Providing support to, and maintaining effective relationships with, elected members is also pivotal to our effectiveness.

Since becoming Chief Executive almost five years ago, we have had to deal with a period of unprecedented challenge and change, including our response to a global pandemic and significant financial pressures and constraints which, to a very large extent, are outwith our control.

We’re a council that plans and prepares and is also agile and responsive – as demonstrated by the excellent work carried out by so many colleagues, supported by partners, in responding to emergency events including the major disruption which arose recently from Storm Éowyn.

In my time as Chief Executive, council employees have maintained a focus on delivering the very best services and outcomes for the communities of East Lothian, as well as driving an agenda of continuous improvement. There is no doubt we have continued to see the very best of East Lothian Council with colleagues collaborating, innovating and adapting – always demonstrating our values of Enabling, Leading and Caring.

As we all know, change and transformation is a constant. These can often relate to very tangible things like investing in digital infrastructure and embracing technology to support different ways of working or making it easier for customers to access services.

Building blocks

Equally important though is putting in place the building blocks to position the council for future change. Our Local Development Plan is a good example of this, in addition to many other strategies and plans. Another demonstration would be the way in which, following the approval of the council’s transport strategy, we are working to improve the management of parking in town centres – benefitting communities, the environment and businesses in the process.

The work we do – to care for people and support thriving communities often through partnership working, whilst protecting and enhancing the environment, helping to grow the local economy and promoting East Lothian – is something I’m very proud of.

In one of Scotland’s fastest growing areas and a time of demographic change, we play our part in delivering national policy requirements. We have purchased the former Cockenzie Power Station site for economic development opportunities as well as partnering with Queen Margaret University through the City Deal to build an Innovation Hub which will play a central role in supporting and growing business and the economy for the future. It has been great to see these developments unfolding and in recent weeks I’ve visited both the Innovation Hub and the Cockenzie site to see the enormous progress that is being made. These major projects are pivotal in providing opportunities to grow the economy alongside opportunities for training and employment in East Lothian

Importantly we also continue to see a council-wide commitment to reducing poverty and inequality and responding to the Climate Emergency in all that we do.

We are a people-focused council – and see that both in terms of our determination to achieve continuous improvement in the services we provide to customers, as well as the culture we seek to create as a good, supportive employer.

Underlining all of this is the importance of a strong financial strategy, which signals our direction and ensures we are aligned to a process which achieves a sustainable budget.

There is also a lot that goes on behind the scenes to both achieve change whilst also influencing the setting of national policy, which in turn impacts on so many aspects of the way we are required to deliver services.

Positivity and confidence

I know that, whilst there will be many challenges and difficulties to contend with in the months and years ahead, East Lothian Council and the communities we serve will be able to look forward to the future with positivity, confidence and a strong desire to maximise all the opportunities that lie ahead, drawing upon a highly professional and committed staff in a variety of roles.

While it will continue to be a difficult financial environment, I believe the council will continue to make effective use of what remains a significant revenue budget of over £300 million.

Addressing the challenges will require initiatives to be introduced at pace whilst also, in some circumstances, requiring patience.

To keep up the momentum, I would encourage colleagues to value and build on the good relationships we have and continue to help and support each other, whilst continuing to collaborate across departments, with partners, and within communities.

It has been a huge privilege to work alongside so many dedicated, talented and committed individuals and teams. My sincere thanks to you all and I wish you the very best and every success for the future.

Preferred candidate for Chief Executive role announced

Laurence Rockey has been announced as the preferred candidate for the role of the council’s new Chief Executive.

Laurence – who is currently Director of the Scotland Office – will replace Monica Patterson. Monica is retiring after 15 years with the council, the last five of which have been spent as Chief Executive.

Council Leader Norman Hampshire said: “I would like to congratulate Laurence on his new role as our Chief Executive. This will be a fantastic appointment for East Lothian Council and the county we serve.

“As part of a rigorous recruitment and selection process, a number of high-calibre candidates applied. Elected members on the appointment sub-committee were greatly impressed by the expertise and commitment to public service by those who applied.

“As an outstanding candidate, Laurence was able to demonstrate a depth and breadth of experience. He has all of the qualities required to be a successful Chief Executive, while building on our successes and the excellent work of Monica Patterson.

“Working alongside a strong leadership team and our many skilled and committed employees, Laurence will ensure the council is well-positioned to address the challenges and maximise the opportunities that lie ahead. We look forward to working with him.”

‘A really exciting time’

Laurence said: “I am absolutely delighted to be preferred candidate for the role of Chief Executive at East Lothian Council.

“I look forward to working with the whole council to ensure we continue delivering high quality services for the residents of East Lothian.

“It is a really exciting time for East Lothian with some major opportunities for economic development in the pipeline. I look forward to helping deliver these.”

Background

Before taking up his current role with the Scotland Office in November 2020, Laurence was the Head of Strategy and Communications at the City of Edinburgh Council. In this position, he held responsibilities for corporate strategy, council wide change and performance, and communications.

He previously held a number of different senior civil service roles in the UK Government. He played a key role in the creation of City Deals and the wider devolution agenda. Laurence was the Head of the Cities Policy Unit in the Cabinet Office from 2013 to 2015 and the Head of Devolution Strategy at the Cities and Local Growth Unit from 2015 to 2016.

Laurence’s start date, as well as interim arrangements following Monica Patterson’s retirement on 14 February, will be confirmed in due course.

Weathering the storm: Éowyn's impact

Storm Éowyn brought very strong winds to parts of the country, including East Lothian.

The Met Office issued several amber and red weather warnings with the entirety of the UK having either yellow, amber or red warnings in place for Friday 24 January. The strong winds associated with Storm Éowyn and the red weather warnings represented a danger to life from flying debris, dangerous driving conditions, power cuts and damage to buildings. 

East Lothian Council's multi-agency response to Storm Éowyn

In the face of Storm Éowyn, we demonstrated excellent coordination and readiness through our multi-agency response. The Emergency Response group, comprising key service colleagues and partner organisations such as Police, Scottish Government and Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN), held regular meetings before, during, and after the red weather warning. This collaboration ensured a co-ordinated response to the storm's various challenges.

Proactive planning and early warnings

When the weather warning was upgraded to red, early planning and preparation were crucial. Swift decisions regarding school and early learning closures, waste service arrangements, and the closure of public buildings not only safeguarded staff but also provided the community with advance warnings, allowing residents to make necessary arrangements. Staff were advised to work from home where possible, ensuring their safety.

On-the-ground efforts during the storm

While many staff members worked from home, several teams were out in the storm, working tirelessly to keep roads clear, remove debris, deal with fallen trees, and provide vital care to those in need. Their efforts were essential in maintaining access for emergency services and ensuring the safety of the community.

Public communication played a pivotal role in our response. Using the website, social media, and press networks, consistent and reliable information was issued to help communities prepare and respond effectively. This ensured that residents could take appropriate actions to stay safe. 

Ongoing response and clean-up operations

The response and clean-up operations continued, with more reports being received in the days following the storm and ongoing tree works. Public buildings, while not severely damaged, are undergoing repairs to roof tiles, flashing, and gutters while fencing at Gullane Primary School is also being repaired. Buildings remain open during works ensuring minimal disruption to services.

Community support and resilience

Some residents faced power outages with around 2000 homes affected at the peak and some homes remaining without power as late as Wednesday morning, five days after the red warning came into place. The British Red Cross had a presence in Innerwick to provide residents with blankets, hot drinks and the offer of general support while SPEN arranged a food truck in other areas to provide a hot food to those still impacted by power outages.

US Consul General visits East Lothian

The Stars and Stripes flew over Athelstaneford last month as the United States Consul General in Edinburgh, Kathryn Porter, visited the county.

Ms Porter assumed charge as U.S. Consul General in Edinburgh in August 2024 following previous overseas postings to Moscow, Krakow, Johannesburg, Toronto, and Tijuana. 

Invited to tour East Lothian by Provost John McMillan, the Consul General visited John Muir’s Birthplace Museum in Dunbar, the Flag Heritage Centre at Athelstaneford, Glenkinchie Distillery near Pencaitland and the new Edinburgh Innovation HUB. At each stop on their short tour of East Lothian, they met with staff, trustees, and business leaders to hear about their work and ongoing connections with the USA.

Provost John McMillan said: “East Lothian has deep and historic links with the United States, not least through John Muir who is seen as instrumental in the establishment of the network of National Park in the U.S. and continues to inspire people all over the world to this day. Some 25 per cent of overseas visitors to East Lothian are from the U.S. and we were very happy to hear from the Consul General that ‘brand Scotland’ continues to grow in popularity in the USA.”

U.S Consul General Kathryn Porter said: “I am deeply impressed by the rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit of East Lothian. The strong ties between our communities are evident in the shared history and ongoing collaborations we witnessed during this visit. I look forward to fostering even greater connections that will benefit both the United States and East Lothian.”

Replacement of the council's booking system

Work is ongoing to transform our council service delivery portfolio into an innovative, efficient service within our financial constraints. Currently, room and estate bookings are conducted in wide range of ways using systems that are not fit for purpose. The Lets and Bookings project aims to develop a corporate bookings system on a Zipporah platform that is fit for the council's specific needs.

Phase one is simply a replication of our current systems’ functionality into the new system to ensure continuation of service. Expansion of the system to include refinements, hot desks, open spaces, events and customer online self-serve will roll-out in later phases.

BookingLive will cease to take bookings on 14 February and the new Zipporah booking system will be rolled out for use on 17 February. All bookings in BookingLive will be migrated over to the new system before 17 February.

The Zipporah booking system is very user friendly however, support material will be available from the room bookings page in the coming weeks. To discuss the project please contact Senior Project Officer Kellie Jewell kjewell@eastlothian.gov.uk

To report a fault with the Corporate Booking System please contact the Digital and Systems team cssystems@eastlothian.gov.uk phone 01875 824084

Planning Committee agrees consultation response to battery storage facility

East Lothian Planning Committee met on Tuesday 4 February and heard three applications including a battery storage facility at Cockenzie.

Members voted seven to four in favour of a proposed response to plans for a battery storage facility on land south-west of Inglis Farm, Cockenzie, consisting of 140 lithium-ion battery containers intended to provide electricity for export to the grid from batteries which would store surplus electricity to be fed into the grid when required at short notice. The item was called off the Scheme of Delegation List by Councillor Yorkston due to local concern.

Applications of this type in Scotland require the consent of Scottish Ministers, with applications processed by the Energy Consents Unit (ECU). The Council is a statutory consultee.

The proposed battery storage facility (BESS), had come to committee in June last year at which point it was agreed to submit an objection to the proposals. Since then, the council’s Chief Planning Officer had liaised with the ECU and conditions for the original objection had been resolved. Planning officers had recommended no objections to the amended application, which is broadly similar to the original, with a small change of splitting the development into two ‘parcels’ of land. An amendment proposed by Councillor McMillan and seconded by Councillor Yorkston was unanimously approved and recommended that the local community councils were to be consulted should a site safety management plan be required and that the ECU should ensure it was satisfied that the site did not pose an unacceptable fire safety risk.

Committee unanimously approved a change to a condition involving landscaping at the Cala Homes (East) Ltd development already well underway at Saltcoats Field, Gullane.

An application to build a new, single storey detached house on garden ground at Dirleton Avenue, North Berwick, was refused six votes to five by the committee. The application had been called off the Scheme of Delegation list by Councillor Allan for a full discussion. A total of nine representations had been received; three of which were letters of objection and six were letters of support. Planners had recommended refusal due to road safety concerns. A motion to continue the application for further information to be provided was outvoted.

The relevant application numbers are: Cockenzie, 24/00008/SGC; Gullane, 24/01266/PM and 18/01366/AMM and North Berwick, 24/01140/P.

 

Budget development update presented to Cabinet

An update on the funding settlement for local government and its implications for East Lothian Council’s 2025/26 budget was provided at a Cabinet meeting on 21 January.

Council approves 6.5% rent increase for council tenants

At a full meeting of East Lothian Council on Tuesday 18 February, councillors took the decision to approve a 6.5 per cent rent increase for council tenants for 2025/26, to maintain services and increase our modernisation programmes as well as continuing to deliver new build council housing. 

A rent level consultation with council tenants had been carried out at the end of 2024, which proposed an increase of seven per cent. Just over half of tenants agreed with the need to increase rent, with 75 per cent of those who responded agreeing that the rent they paid was good value for money, but 63 per cent disagreed with a seven per cent increase. 

At the meeting, Council agreed to increase rents for 2025/6 by 6.5 per cent with an extra £1 million in investment in all of the next five years to fund modernisation work for existing council homes. Councillors also heard that there are plans to deliver 774 new affordable homes by 2029/30 (cumulative since 2022/23). 

On average, while a new-build house will bring in under £5,000 in rent each year, the cost of building a new council house has increased significantly in recent years and is now in excess of £200,000. Without additional government funding or a review of the rent strategy this approach will become unsustainable over the medium term. In the context of elevated interest rates and increased costs to deliver new build affordable housing, alongside lack of certainty in government funding, Council agreed to review the longer-term strategy for the HRA, encompassing the business plan and future rent levels as well as a review of oversight and scrutiny arrangements for housing policy, performance and strategic planning. Plans are already underway to achieve a rent restructure in 2025/6. 

Councillor Andy Forrest, Cabinet Spokesperson for Housing and Property Maintenance, said: “Despite being one of the fastest growing local authority areas in Scotland, East Lothian’s council house rent levels are among some of the lowest. We know from consultation that the majority of tenants believe that their rent is good value for money and that they want us to use that rent to keep investing in modernisation work and bringing more new properties into council housing stock to ease pressure on our housing list. 

“This 6.5 per cent increase means an average weekly increase of £5.25 in what our tenants pay. My thanks to everyone who took part in the rent level consultation. I hope it is clear that this increase is absolutely necessary to maintain current levels of service to our tenants and to make improvements in our modernisation and new build programmes.” 

Councillor Forrest added: “I also welcome the review of oversight and scrutiny arrangements for housing policy, performance and strategic planning, as this will ensure that we can continue to deliver on our priorities.” 

Council also approved a Housing Revenue Account expenditure budget for 2025/26 of £40.958m, an increase of around £2.8m on last year, which will be spent on service costs including repairs and staffing. The Capital budget of £43.820m will be invested in new council housing, modernisation, extensions and energy efficiency improvements to existing council properties.

 

Free energy advice for council clients

Do you work with clients you think might benefit from energy advice?

Changeworks East Lothian Energy Advice Service offers free and impartial energy advice and support with fuel bill and debt issues. The service is open to East Lothian Council tenants, homeowners and those in private rented accommodation. Advice is available over the phone, online or face-to-face during a home visit. Support can be delivered in a way most appropriate to the client and acts as an early intervention approach to tackle fuel poverty.

Changeworks’ advisers can assist householders to reduce their energy use through low carbon behaviours and tackling high energy costs. Advice is available to ensure householders are getting the full benefit from their existing heating system as well as energy advice tips and tricks meaning households should see a reduction in energy costs

The Changeworks team also provide support with accessing funding where appropriate and help bill payers manage debts and set up payment plans with their energy supplier.

It’s very straightforward to refer someone for support from Changeworks. If you have the person’s consent you can do this on their behalf or they can request a callback themselves at www.changeworks.org.uk/referral

Those who are not online can contact Changeworks by telephone on 0800 870 8800. Their phoneline is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.

ELC staff offers - 20% off full ticket price at The Brunton

For a 20% staff discount on the following show, book online and input the code at the ‘Redeem Promocode' prompt on the shopping basket page.

Strong Enough: The Ultimate Cher Tribute Concert

A show-stopping dazzling extravaganza celebrating the global superstar and great female icon that is Cher! With full live band and dancers experience the passion, the flair and the glitter!
A musical journey with all the hits including Turn Back Time, Believe, Strong Enough, Gypsies Tramps and Thieves and many more.

Friday 14 Mar, 7:30pm

Corn Exchange, Haddington

Book online here

Staff code: Inform

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What's on at The Brunton this February

This February, The Brunton are thrilled to present another incredible month of programming. Whether your passion lies in the riveting narrative of theatre, the compelling rhythms of live music, or you’re ready for comedy that will have you falling off your seat laughing, The Brunton has something special in store for everyone.

In Musselburgh, Midweek Movies will be kicking off the month of February as We Live in Time (15) plays in Loretto Theatre, Musselburgh on Wednesday 5 February at 7pm, followed by A Complete Unknown (15) on Wednesday 26 February at 7pm.

We Live In Time (15) | Musselburgh

A Complete Unknown | Musselburgh

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National Theatre Live returns to Loretto Theatre with Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’, which will be screened on Thursday 20 February at 7pm.

NT Live: The Importance of Being Earnest

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Down the road at Northesk Parish Church, The Brunton are looking forward to welcoming Dunedin Consort on Thursday 6 February at 7:30pm. Join Nicholas Mulroy and a handful of Dunedin’s outstanding string players for a gig that showcases some of Henry Purcell’s greatest tunes. Nicholas Mulroy will also be holding a pre-concert talk: In conversation with Nicholas Mulroy at 6:30pm.

Dunedin Consort

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Also, at the beautiful Northesk Parish Church, relax at lunchtime with a Bite-Sized Concert in Musselburgh. The Brunton’s lunchtime recitals include established and emerging, prizewinning performers with sparkling programmes of music, specially selected for you to enjoy. Bach’s Chaconne for Solo Violin: Irene Duval, violin is playing at Northesk Parish Church, Musselburgh on Tuesday 11 February at 1pm. A light lunch of soup and a sandwich is served in the Church Hall adjacent at 12 midday.

Bach's Chaconne For Solo Violin: Irène Duval, violin

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To round off the month at Northesk Parish Church, The Maxwell Quartet are resident in our East Lothian community for their new project, Bridging, which features a wide range of concerts, workshops, school, and community collaborative performances. The Maxwell Quartet will be performing at Northesk Parish Church on Thursday 27 February at 6:30pm.

The Maxwell Quartet

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In Haddington, The Brunton will be hosting tribute legend Benidorm Tom on his tour of Sexbomb: Celebrating the Music of Sir Tom Jones. For one night only, join Andy Wood for an explosive celebration of one of the most powerful men in the pop music scene. This fun-filled evening will be coming to the Corn Exchange, Haddington on Thursday 6 February at 7:30pm.

Sexbomb: Celebrating the Music of Sir Tom Jones

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With support from Film Hub Scotland, The Brunton are delighted to bring Film Fridays to the Corn Exchange, Haddington - a fortnightly programme of Family Films (1.30pm), Matinees (4.15pm), and Big Screen Favourites (7pm). Newly released titles include Golden Globe nominees and Oscar buzz favourites Conclave, A Real Pain, and A Complete Unknown, also family friendly Moana 2 and big screen favourites include Gladiator II and We Live in Time. Film Fridays complement The Brunton’s popular Midweek Movies at Loretto Theatre in Musselburgh! Find the full Film Friday Listings below.

Film Events

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Don’t miss this unfiltered and hilarious evening with Scotland’s favourite high-octane Kilty Pleasure as Craig Hill returns to the Corn Exchange, Haddington. Craig Hill – I’ve Been Sitting on This for a While! Will be making you laugh-out-loud on Saturday 8 February at 7:30pm.

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Grease is the word as The Brunton Performing Arts Network bring this much-loved musical to Corn Exchange, Haddington. Join a talented community cast, supported by a professional production team, as they take you through the memorable story of boy meets girl. Grease will be singing its way to the Corn Exchange, Haddington from Thursday 13 to Saturday 15 February at 7pm.

Grease | Haddington musical theatre

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Get ready for a Scottish music extravaganza as The MacDonald Brothers come to the Corn Exchange, Haddington. This stunning new production will take you on a musical journey celebrating Scotland’s greatest songs and artists. The Pride of Scotland with The MacDonald Brothers concert will be held at Corn Exchange, Haddington on Saturday 22 February at 7:30pm

The Pride of Scotland with The MacDonald Brothers

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One of the most lauded and best-loved acts of the Scottish music scene is coming to Haddington at the end of February. For over a quarter of a century, no other band has quite captured Scottish fiddle music’s variety, energy, and sensitivity like Blazin’ Fiddles. Join Blazin’ Fiddles at Corn Exchange, Haddington on Thursday 27 February at 7:30pm.

Blazin' Fiddles

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Finally, The Scottish Comedians brings you different styles of comedy with a line-up of Scotland’s finest comedians. Prepare for one of the funniest nights out of 2025! The Scottish Comedians comes to Corn Exchange, Haddington on Friday 28 February at 7:30pm.

The Scottish Comedians

Book Online 24 hours a day at www.thebrunton.co.uk or call our Box Office on Monday to Friday 11am to 3pm 0131 653 5245

What's on in our museums

Museums are a warm place with a friendly face

Free to visit with regularly-changing craft activities suitable for children and families as well as temporary exhibitions and reference books available to browse and read.

John Gray Centre (Museum) 15 Lodge Street, Haddington, EH41 3DX.               

Thursday and Friday 10am to 1pm, 2pm to 5pm
Saturday 10am to 1pm, 2pm to 4pm.

John Muir's Birthplace 126 High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1JJ.

Wednesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm
Sunday 1pm to 5pm.

Dunbar Town House Museum and Gallery High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1ER.

Saturday 2pm to 4pm courtesy of Dunbar and District History Society volunteers.

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NEW EXHIBITION

A stitch in time. Recycle - Reuse - Create
A family friendly art exhibition which explores recycling materials in the context of an art project.

John Muir’s Birthplace, High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1JJ. www.jmbt.org.uk

1 February to 9 March
Admission free

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Working Lives at Dunbar Town House Museum and Gallery

Dunbar Town House Museum and Gallery, High Street, Dunbar EH42 1ER

October to March, Saturdays 2pm to 4pm

Display open courtesy of Dunbar and District History Society. Free admission but donations welcome.

Dunbar’s Town House or Tolbooth is more than 400 years old and touched the lives of many people through the Town Council, Police Station, Library, Registrars, Tourist Information, Housing Office, MP and MSP Office, Museum and many more!

Do you know someone who worked here? Have you been to a wedding here? We would love to hear your stories and see your photos.

Step back in time as we help you discover the hidden past of this iconic building.

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Visit past exhibitions or explore our local history from the comfort of your home or a local library!

John Gray Centre East Lothian History

What’s so special about bogs? An exhibition from one of our partner organisations, the John Muir Trust, as part of their Peatland Appeal. Discover more about this slow-growing, water-packed ecosystem that’s fast becoming recognised as an amazing collector of carbon, a rich archaeological site, and home to unique species of wildlife.

John Muir, Earth, Planet, Universe  This exhibition focuses on John Muir’s legacy and his role as an environmental activist and successful campaigner and his relevance for our situation today in addressing the climate crisis. 

Muir Houses Through Time Museum Assistant David Anderson spent part of the 2020 lockdown amalgamating all his research on the buildings occupied by the Muirs on Dunbar High Street. What has emerged are tales of commerce, greed and deceit as we follow the lives of those who have occupied the site from the iron age onwards. First published as a series of blogs June to August 2020

Gardens of East Lothian An exhibition by Sheila Sim Photography. East Lothian has a long and proud heritage of gardening and has produced several horticultural pioneers. With its good climate and fertile soil, the county has often been called ‘the garden of Scotland’.

125 Years of the Sierra Club This exhibition curated by Friends of John Muir’s Birthplace gave an overview of the history of the Sierra Club with an emphasis on John Muir’s involvement in the founding, and ethos, of the organisation.

John Muir and Geology  Another exhibition from Friends of John Muir’s Birthplace  John Muir and Geology explores the Scottish heroes who helped unravel Dunbar’s geological history.

The Big Pick Reused Clothing Sale:18 February at Port Seton Centre

Have you heard of THE BIG PICK?  

The Big Pick is a reused clothing sale event, organised by the Community Payback Team with the support of Reuse Scotland SCIO.

On offer is a wide range of clothes, shoes, jackets and accessories - used but still in great condition, with plenty of wear.  (Some items still have their price tags, and there can be a few designer labels in there too!)

Clothing is priced at £3 per kilo! 

Shoes, jackets and bags are sold separately (priced up to £3)

The aim of these events is to stop local textile poverty, and reduce the amount of textile waste. 

Do you know someone in East Lothian that may benefit from attending a Big Pick event? 

The next Big Pick event is being held on: 

• Tuesday 18 February 11am to 2pm
• Port Seton Community Centre 
• Cash only. Please bring own bags
  
  

Looking to donate items of clothing? 

Please drop-off any donations within the black textile bins at your local East Lothian recycling centre.

For further information, please contact Gavin Conington, Justice Social Work, gconington@eastlothian.gov.uk  

Get a £10 Digital Gift Card – Shop Local in East Lothian!

The East Lothian Gift Card went digital last November, making it easier than ever to support your favourite local businesses. To continue celebrating this exciting change, we’re offering an exclusive opportunity for you to get rewarded while shopping local!

Be among the first 60 customers to:

Shop at any participating East Lothian Gift Card business.
Capture a photo of your receipt.
Share your experience by emailing the receipt and a brief testimonial to economicdevelopment@eastlothian.gov.uk with 'GIFT CARD' in the subject line.
In return, you'll receive a £10 digital East Lothian Gift Card!

Your testimonial could highlight:

A compliment about the store or service.
Your thoughts on the East Lothian Gift Card.
The importance of supporting local businesses.

Important Details:

The competition closes on Sunday 23 March 2025 or when all 60 gift cards have been claimed, whichever comes first.
Only one gift card per customer.
Winners will receive instructions on how to claim their digital gift card via email after the competition has closed.
By participating, you’re not only enjoying the benefits of shopping locally but also helping us spread the word about the East Lothian Gift Card and its impact on our community.

For more information on the Gift Card and parcicipating businesses, visit the website. 

Meet Gayle!

Senior Customer Services Assistant Gayle Middleton has shared her experiences to help attract others into two vacant roles based in Musselburgh and Tranent libraries.

Gayle, who features in the social media campaign says East Lothian Council is a great place to work.

“I really enjoy the variety of the work”, explains Gayle, who joined us full-time in 2019, after studying English at university. “I really like the variety of people I work with across the Customer Services and Libraries team and it’s a really supportive working environment.

“I’ve found being creative is a real asset, especially in facilitating the various art and craft groups in the library.”

She highlights how the role of local libraries has evolved, saying: “People often have an outdated and stereotypical image of libraries and librarians; nowadays libraries are a real hub for communities and are home to a variety of different activities appealing to diverse age-groups and interests. The staff in libraries don’t just have a love of books and reading, they deliver a wide range of services from helping people learn IT skills and complete online applications to council tax enquiries, rent payments, ordering bus passes and completing blue badge applications.” 

Working in the library is not without its challenges, Gayle explains. 

“Being located within a community can be difficult, especially when working with vulnerable groups, but I can always count on support from the rest of my team. Having a good knowledge of my local community certainly helps with signposting people towards groups and services.

“Due to the libraries opening hours, I work some evenings and the occasional Saturday,” she adds. “I also travel to other libraries and customer service buildings to provide cover when needed." 

Gayle says that it’s an excellent time to come on board and she highlights the part played by her team. 

“We’re so much more than just a library with books; we offer a range of services to the whole community – it’s great being part of the Customer Services and Libraries team."

A Ranger Writes

Countryside Ranger Richard English clears up any corvid confusion and celebrates these beautiful birds.

February’s here and with any luck the first stuttering signs of spring should be starting to appear. Despite this, things can be a bit bleak - the trees are mostly still bare and, although the nights are getting a bit shorter, there’s still a gloomy, wintery feel to many days. Why not celebrate the bleakness, whilst also celebrating a group of birds often associated with the “dark side”.

I’m talking about crows and before we go any further, we should clear up some confusing terminology. The term “crow” can refer to a particular species, the carrion crow, but it can also be used to refer to the crow family, which includes carrion crows, rooks, ravens, jackdaws, magpies, jays and choughs. The family grouping should really be referred as corvids – this not only avoids confusion, but also makes you sound all scientific and clever.

Rooks and carrion crows are similar in size and shape. They can be told apart by the rook’s light-grey face and bill, which contrasts with the completely black plumage of the carrion crow. Rooks also have scruffy-looking leg feathers, giving them the appearance of wearing baggy trousers. Sadly, it’s not always possible to get such a good view of birds; they may be flying overhead, or in bad light or just far away. So, a decent rule of thumb is that if there are a lot of them, they’re probably rooks; if there are only a few, they’re more likely to be carrion crows, which are less social. This doesn’t always work, since carrion crows will form flocks, but it’s not bad as a guideline.

Large flocks of corvids are likely to contain more than one species, often rooks and jackdaws. The presence of the latter is often indicated by their harsh tchack-tchack call, from which they get their name. Jackdaws are noticeably smaller than rooks and have a silvery-grey sheen to the back of the head, neck and throat. They also have light grey eyes, unlike other UK corvids which have black eyes.

Corvids are generally not fussy eaters – they have been recorded shoving their bills into cowpats to pick out insect larvae. Carrion crows, jackdaws and magpies will eat pretty much anything, while rooks tend to feed on grain, seeds and invertebrates. This ability to eat a range of food is part of the reason corvids are so successful. It’s also partly why some people really don’t like them. Corvids, especially magpies, will take other bird’s eggs or young from the nest, which can be a distressing sight for bird lovers. However, the RSPB and other authorities have undertaken extensive research which suggests that magpie predation does not have a significant effect on songbird numbers.

Now let’s consider the positives. Corvids are, without doubt, the most intelligent of our birds. There isn’t room here to cover all the experimental work, but many experts would argue that corvids are more intelligent than most mammals. They also exhibit complex social behaviour and communication skills. So, instead of demonising our crows, perhaps we should respect them as the intelligent, resourceful and, dare I say it, beautiful birds that they are.

Follow our Countryside Rangers on Facebook for images of, and insights into, East Lothian’s beautiful wild spaces.

Six tonnes of medicine costing NHS an estimated £500,000 thrown away

Six tonnes of medicine waste from East Lothian had to be disposed of last year: that’s almost the weight of three cars, and an estimated cost to the NHS of £500,000. Those funds could have been used to pay for ten kidney transplants, fifteen hip replacements and fifty cataract operations.

Wasted medicine is an enormous financial challenge to the NHS, even more so given the current pressures on public spending. While it is accepted there will always be some medicine waste, approximately 50% could be avoided. 

Medicines can go unused for several reasons. It may be due to medical concern: medicines are stopped due to adverse side-effects or a change in treatment means they are no longer required.

We can all do something about this. Just the smallest of changes can have a big impact!

East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership (ELHSCP) are running an awareness campaign about how people can get the best from their medication and help reduce medicine waste in the process by following these simple steps:

• check what medication you have at home to avoid stockpiling
• ask the pharmacy for advice about everyday over the counter medications like paracetamol
• only order what you need from a repeat prescription
• speak up if there are items on your prescription you no longer use or take at a different dosage
• inform the pharmacist or your GP if you are experiencing side-effects from any medication
• ask for assistance if you would like to have your medication reviewed

ELHSCP Pharmacotherapy teams are also giving the opportunity for members of the public to directly request a medication review. This is a structured assessment by healthcare professionals of a patient’s medicines in relation to their health conditions. The aim is to optimise the contribution medicines make to the patient’s health, minimise the risk of medication related issues, remove unnecessary medications, and ensure prescribing is cost-effective.

Medication reviews are available to anyone who is receiving long-term prescriptions. They are especially important if individuals are taking medication differently from the dispensing label on the pack, if someone is struggling with their medicines daily, or if they are continuing to receive repeat prescriptions for items that are no longer required.

Fiona Wilson, Chief Officer and Joint Director of ELHSCP commented,
“It is a common misconception that unused medicine can be returned and used again. This is not the case. There are strict regulations in place that mean once a medicine has been dispensed from a pharmacy"

she added "We need the support of patients, family members and health professionals to get involved. This campaign is about empowering individuals to review their repeat prescriptions, to speak up if they have questions, and receive support to manage their medicines effectively.”

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Further information about medicine waste and how to request a medication review is available on East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership’s website www.eastlothian.gov.uk/medicine-waste or by enquiring at your local GP Practice or pharmacy.

Transform the lives of families in your community

Home-Start East Lothian is a voluntary organisation committed to promoting the welfare of families with at least one child under the age of five.

Working with families across East Lothian, their approach is as individual as the people they help. Non-judgemental, it offers compassionate and confidential help and support.

They offer full volunteer training to set you on your way including regular ongoing training, support and supervision and volunteer social gatherings.

Volunteers usually visit and support their families for two to three hours each week for around a year.

If you would like to find out more please email admin@homestarteastlothian.co.uk or telephone 01875 616066 or you can visit the website here

“I feel like ‘thank you’ is just not enough. What you have done for me and my boys over the last two years has been nothing short of amazing. This has without doubt been the hardest time of my life and it would have been even harder without Home-Start East Lothian’s help.” Joanne, parent

“Better than I hoped – love it, look forward to it.”  Mike, Home-Start volunteer

Wellness in the winter

As we move into February after a long (and stormy!) January, it can sometimes feel like winter is never-ending. It’s cold outside, evenings are dark, and it can be hard to find the motivation to do the things we know are good for our wellbeing.

Embrace the outdoors

While it might be tempting to hibernate, natural light and fresh air can give our mood a real boost.   Perhaps there is a corner of East Lothian you’ve always wanted to explore, or a place you haven’t visited for a long time. Why not check out East Lothian Walks: Top 10 for some ideas. 

For more walking inspiration, you can download the free Go Jauntly app. The app features local walks created by people who know and love them in areas including Musselburgh, Pencaitland, Dunbar, Haddington, Prestonpans, Cockenzie and North Berwick.

Stay active, stay happy

Did you know enjoyleisure.com provides council employees with discounted rates for swimming, entry into the health suite (steam room/sauna) and Bodyworks Gym.  Staff also receive a concession rate for activities such as badminton and squash. To receive the discount, present your council Staff Identification Pass or a current pay slip to the receptionist at the time of paying.

Warm Places, Friendly Faces

If staying cosy is more your thing, East Lothian has a number of community-run buildings where you can meet people and take part in activities warm, welcoming spaces.  There are meet-ups for almost any interest you can think of – knitting, film, reading, dancing or simply a 'brew and a blether'.

Spring is just around the corner…

 

When a colleague has cancer

World Cancer Day was on 4 February 2025.

One in two people will experience cancer at some point in their lives.

We may find ourselves working alongside someone who is undergoing cancer treatment or indeed be facing this ourselves.

How do we cope with work during these times?

How do we help colleagues when they have cancer?

A short podcast called 'When a Colleague Has Cancer' discusses these issues.

When a Colleague has Cancer - WATCH & GO from Scott Bradbury in association with East Lothian Council

Reminder: Organisational Development have a range of digital learning resources on a variety of workplace issues available from Scott Bradbury. You can find these on our dedicated intranet page.

Make room for kindness - skills challenge

There should always be room for kindness in the workplace.

People who care about others build strong and trusting relationships and achieve more.

Being aware of the needs of your colleagues, regardless of their position in the company, is the first step in enabling space for it.

A Skills Challenge called Make Room for Kindness is available from Scott Bradbury; to help you assess the kindness you both offer and receive at work. 

Make Room for Kindness - Skills Challenge

 

Reminder: Organisational Development have a range of digital learning resources on a variety of workplace issues available from Scott Bradbury. You can find these on our dedicated intranet page.  

Please note that not all the videos referenced in the skills challenges are available in the current Scott Bradbury subscription, but users can still undertake the main skills challenge within each. 

Updating your learnPro profile

LearnPro users can update their own account profile information by logging in and selecting the red ‘Profile’ tab. Any information requiring update can be amended and saved in this section. 

For example, if an employee moves to a new team within the council, they can access their own learnPro account and select their new location and role within their Profile to reflect this. All East Lothian Council learnPro users are responsible for ensuring that their own account information is accurate. 

Top Tip: If the email address which you set up your learnPro account with becomes redundant, it remains active as the username on your learnPro account. You can still use it to log in to learnPro along with your chosen password. You can then update the email address within your Profile to your active one.  

Video guidance for East Lothian Council staff on learnPro FAQs, including how to update a Profile, is available on the intranet. This resource can help users to resolve basic learnPro issues at a time that works for them.