News
Major milestone reached in joint inspection process
A joint inspection of services for children and young people at risk of harm has passed the halfway point with a major milestone reached.
The joint inspection is being carried out by The Care Inspectorate, Education Scotland, Healthcare Improvement Scotland and HM Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland. It is looking at the difference our community planning partnership is making to the lives of children and young people up to the age of 18 who are at risk of harm, and to their families. Inspectors are reviewing the services provided by East Lothian Council, East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership, East Lothian and Midlothian Public Protection Committee, Police Scotland NHS Lothian, VCEL, Children’s Hearings Scotland and Scottish Children’s Reporter.
Extensive evidence
The East Lothian partnership submitted its position statement, a 5000-word report of its joint work in this essential area, to inspectors on 28 February. The statement is an important document that draws together extensive evidence across six key areas:
- context of services for children
- collaborative strategic and operational leadership
- children and young people’s participation
- quality assurance and evaluation activity
- what our data tells us
- our partnership achievements.
Significant milestone
The submission of the position statement represents a significant milestone in the robust inspection process. It follows a file reading exercise and comes ahead of the start of engagement week, a series of events and opportunities for inspectors to meet with children, young people, parents, carers, staff and leaders. A video update for staff working across the partnership is being prepared ahead of engagement week to advise more on the format and focus of this important activity.
The final report is due to be published on 7 May 2024.
Further information
For further information on the East Lothian Joint Inspection of Services for Children and Young People at Risk of Harm 2023-24 please contact:
Social work: Jen Fraser (jfraser@eastlothian.gov.uk)
Education: Jennifer Boyle (jboyle@eastlothian.gov.uk)
David takes on carers representative role
We are delighted to announce that David Binnie has been appointed as the Carers Representative of the Integration Joint Board (IJB) for East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP).
David has a wealth of experience and knowledge in the field of caring, both as an unpaid carer for 30 years and as a former Director and Chair of Carers of East Lothian, a local charity that supports carers in the area. He also served as a Director and Vice Chair of Couple Counselling Lothian, a service that provides relationship counselling and support.
David is passionate about social justice and the rights and wellbeing of unpaid carers, who make a huge contribution to the health and social care system. He said:
“Being an unpaid carer is one of the most challenging roles in life. It demands commitment, resilience, sacrifice and love amongst many, many other things. We find ourselves dealing with challenges and stresses that we’d never previously imagined. Through the IJBs directions, support has been given to a wide range of advice and practical support services to unpaid carers. I’m pleased to have been invited to continue to highlight the profile of unpaid carers and the immense contribution that they make. I want to support the voice of unpaid carers across East Lothian being heard at the IJB and help aid services being shaped to meet their needs and priorities.”
Councillor Shamin Akhtar, Cabinet Spokesperson for Health and Social Care, welcomed David’s appointment and praised his work. She said:
“It’s great news that David has been appointed to this role as he has been making a really valuable contribution in raising awareness of the issues impacting on carers and HSCP services. Unpaid carers play a vital role in how social care is provided and their dedication and expertise cannot be overstated. His appointment means that the IJB will continue to benefit from his experience and knowledge and I’m delighted that he has been appointed.”
David’s role as the Carers Representative is to ensure that the views and interests of unpaid carers are taken into account by the IJB, which is responsible for planning, resourcing and overseeing the delivery of integrated health and social care services in East Lothian. He will also work closely with other IJB members, HSCP staff and partner organisations to promote and improve the support available for carers.
We are very pleased to have David on board and look forward to working with him to make a positive difference for carers and the people they care for in East Lothian.
Edinburgh LEZ enforcement starts soon
The City of Edinburgh Council approved a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) Scheme Proposal for the city centre in March 2022 which was subsequently approved by Scottish Ministers and introduced on 31 May 2022. Enforcement will start on 1 June 2024, following a two-year grace period for all
If you drive into Edinburgh city centre it's important that you're aware of the start of the enforcement.
The LEZ boundary circles the city centre from:
- Tollcross in the south
- to Palmerston Place in the west
- along Queen Street in the New Town
- to Picardy Place
- around Abbeyhill and onto Holyrood Road
- along the Pleasance in the east
- before heading back along the Meadows to Tollcross.
The LEZ will:
Feelgood Friday
Individuals, teams and departments across 
the council regularly receive compliments from residents, visitors and businesses. Here are some from this week.
Visitor: Sports, Countryside and Leisure I'm contacting you to express my appreciation for the Ranger Service provided by East Lothian Council. Last week our local U3a group visited Aberlady Bay in the company of John Harrison. In past years, Richard English has helped us understand the geology of the East Lothian coast and guided us at Yellowcraig. The wealth of their local and general knowledge of the wildlife and environment is really impressive and their skills in communication, friendliness and efficiency are so much appreciated by our groups. We have seen places we would not otherwise have visited and revisited again on other occasions with our families and friends.
So thank you for funding this Service and long may it continue.
Local Resident: Facilities Management - Thank you so much to the team that keeps Haddington Public Toilets so CLEAN. And Thank You to the council keeping public toilets Open. As someone with health issues, this means that I can go out.
Council tenant: Property Maintenance I recently had a roof repair - 3 men - Ritchie, Paul & Kevin completed the job I wanted to pass on my thanks. They cleaned my roans and a ledge above the door as extra. They were absolutely lovely, did a really good job and gave me a bunch of flowers at the end of the job. I was really impressed and happy with the workmen.
New play area opens at Yellowcraig
A new play area with equipment suitable for toddlers through to teenagers has opened at Yellowcraig.
The design was chosen by pupils from Dirleton Pimary School, Gullane Primary School and Law Primary School, North Berwick and replaces an earlier play area.
Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing, Cllr Colin McGinn, said: “The play area at Yellowcraig has been a popular attraction for residents and visitors over the years and it’s great that the new play area has opened in time for the Easter holidays.
"The Council has invested in play areas across the county and in recent years has installed new equipment in Musselburgh, Pencaitland and Aberlady with further installations shortly in Tranent and Dunbar.
“The new play area is not just appealing for a range of ages but also includes equipment accessible for young people with mobility issues including wheelchair users. The installation work was undertaken by Amenity Services Play Squad and I would like to thank them for completing the work earlier than scheduled and working through some miserable weather conditions to do so!”
The play area improvements in Yellowcraig have been funded with a combination of East Lothian Council capital funding and Scottish Government funding for Play Parks renewal.
Increase to foster carers' weekly fees
Councillors in East Lothian have agreed to increase the fees paid to local foster carers in recognition of the valuable role that they play in the lives of children and young people. The decision was approved at a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 12 March.
East Lothian Council will increase its weekly payment from £160 for carers of 0-11 year olds and £220 for young people aged 12 and over, to £315 per week regardless of the age of the child. An enhanced payment of £365 per week will be paid to existing ‘level 3’ carers who have significant experience. The new rate will take effect from 1 April 2024.
Important role
The increased payment reflects the important role that East Lothian foster carers play in keeping children and young people within local communities when they need care outwith their home. A shortage of local foster carers means that children and young people may be moved to available homes outside the county disrupting connections with schools, friends and family members at an already difficult time. It also reflects the higher costs of living that all families face.
It is hoped that a more streamlined payment structure and higher weekly fee will retain existing carers and encourage new ones to come forward. The council’s children’s services team are urgently seeking more local foster carers to bring children or young people who are in an out of area placement, home to East Lothian.
'Positive relationships'
The Council’s Fostering Service was recently praised by the Care Inspectorate for the support it provides to caregivers and the difference it is making in the lives of children and young people requiring foster care. Describing the support for wellbeing as ‘4: good’ and the planning of care and support ‘5: very good’, the Inspectorate concluded that caregiver families benefited from positive relationships and responsive support to assist them in their role. Carers were quoted as saying “the staff are always accessible and there to help” and “our social worker always supports us well”. Inspectors also highlighted the enduring and loving relationships that children experienced with their foster carers and improvements in their well-being as a result of the stability they receive.
Find out more about fostering
To find out more about fostering with East Lothian Council visit www.eastlothian.gov.uk/fostering or call 01620 827 643.
Works to replace Markle level crossing, East Linton
Works for the construction of a replacement bridge and new diversionary road at Markle Steading in replacement of the existing Markle Level Crossing at East Linton started earlier this month with a 10-month construction programme planned.
These new works will see the removal of the existing Markle Level Crossing and its replacement with a road overbridge. Markle Level Crossing is one of only two remaining road-rail interfaces on the East Coast Main Line Scotland. The crossing closure will remove the risk that the crossing presents to everyone and the national rail network. The new road bridge and removal of the crossing will also benefit pedestrians and road traffic as there won’t be delays due to the level crossing barriers being down when trains are approaching.
East Lothian Council Leader, Norman Hampshire, said: “Scottish Government funding has enabled an integrated major infrastructure project with the opening of the new station at East Linton and these new works at Markle Steading which will greatly improve both access and road safety.
“I would like to take this opportunity to recognise and thank the many individuals and organisations who have lobbied over the years for a station to re-open in East Linton and the realisation of this major infrastructure project thanks to successful partnership working of Transport Scotland, Network Rail and East Lothian Council.”
Approval to reduce speed limits for Active Freeway
The Active Freeway will be a high-quality commuter cycling and walking link connecting the towns and villages of Dunbar, East Linton, Haddington, Gladsmuir, Macmerry, Tranent and Musselburgh along the route of A199. It was formerly known as the Segregated Active Travel Corridor and is a transport intervention first proposed in the East Lothian Local Development Plan 2018.
The new lower speed limits of 40mph would be introduced on the A199 between Dunbar – East Linton; East Linton – Haddington; Haddington – Gladsmuir; and Gladsmuir to Macmerry but existing 20mph and 30mph within and on approach to the settlements would be retained.
Cllr John McMillan, Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment, Economic Development and Tourism said: “The Active Freeway is an exciting initiative offering safer conditions for people choosing to cycle or walk between towns and villages in the south of the county. Just as the A1 provides quicker accessibility to much of East Lothian by motorised transport there is also a demand expressed by both local residents and visitors for active travel options recognising their particular needs.”
“I think it’s also important to highlight that the Active Freeway is supported by a range of national organisations which includes the necessary finance to realise its development. I am grateful to the individuals and groups who took the time to come along to presentations on this project held last year and others who provided comments on our consultation. Whether selecting to use this route for commuting or pleasure I am sure when established it will quickly become a popular active travel destination.”
An application to fully fund the detailed design and construction of the Active Freeway is currently under review with a decision expected by the end of March.
Musselburgh Coastal Change Assessment report available to view
The outline design of a scheme to protect Musselburgh from major flood risk was presented to elected members at the full meeting of East Lothian Council on Tuesday 23 January 2024.
At the meeting The Musselburgh Flood Protection team presented an update on the Musselburgh Coastal Change Assessment undertaken by Dynamic Coast, including an Executive Summary. It was confirmed that the full final report would be made available to the public when finalised. 
Dynamic Coast aim to provide strategic evidence based on the extent of coastal erosion in Scotland. They were formally commissioned by East Lothian Council in 2023 to undertake a detailed analysis of the coastal change in Musselburgh, and to consider the risk of future changes in shoreline due to projected sea level rise associated with climate change.
The Musselburgh Coastal Change Assessment was undertaken by Dynamic Coast and the University of Glasgow in partnership. This assessment provides a review of recent and future coastal changes under a range of climate change scenarios. It aims to inform the East Lothian Council’s works as part of the Musselburgh Flood Protection Scheme as well as the council’s wider Planning and Climate Change duties.
East Lothian Council Leader, Norman Hampshire, said: “Both East Lothian Council and the Musselburgh Flood Protection Scheme’s project team are committed to ensure that all appropriate details concerning the proposed scheme, including the factual evidence gathered that guides its development, are available for all to access.
“Following the presentation of the outline design to full Council in January, approval was given to move to the formal, statutory approval process, which will begin in March, providing an opportunity for the community to view and comment upon the proposals."
The Musselburgh Coastal Change Assessment is available to download at: https://www.musselburghfloodprotection.com/dynamiccoast-musselburghcoastalchangeassessment/
In addition, later this year East Lothian Council plans to update their Shoreline Management Plan with a Coastal Change Adaption Plan in line with current Scottish Government Guidance.
Path upgrades create gateway for active travel in Musselburgh
A path connecting Queen Margaret University (QMU) to the centre of Musselburgh has been refurbished and upgraded to meet the needs of local users after receiving a grant through Scotland’s national walking charity Paths for All on behalf of Transport Scotland and the Scottish Government and funding from East Lothian Council.
Minister for Zero Carbon Buildings, Active Travel and Tenants' Rights, Patrick Harvie MSP, joined representatives from Paths for All, East Lothian Council and QMU to see the benefits this project has delivered. 
The path, which runs under the railway line between residential areas at Craighall Drive and Monktonhall Place also links the University with NCR1, has been revitalised following a £58,800 grant from Paths for All’s Ian Findlay Path Fund.
This grant funding for 'A short path with a big impact’, has allowed the university, with support from East Lothian Council, to invest in making the route more accessible to all.
Work on the path involved removing physical barriers, resurfacing, new lighting and drainage. The result is path that is accessible to all and resilient to poor weather and flooding.
Minister for Zero Carbon Buildings, Active Travel and Tenants' Rights, Patrick Harvie MSP, said: “I’m really pleased to be able to visit this project which has been made possible through grant funding provided by the Ian Findlay Path Fund (IFPF).
“Ian would have been enthused by the projects coming forward through the fund and that it continues to support communities across the country to put their ideas for local walking and cycling infrastructure into practice, and encourage more people to choose active forms of travel for their everyday journeys.
“This new path will not only help staff and students to travel in a more sustainable way, but also provides a safe and accessible connection to the wider National Cyle Network for surrounding communities.”
Queen Margaret University applied to the Ian Findlay Path Fund last year and was one of 22 successful projects to be offered funding and support to improve active travel networks in their area. Most of those projects are now reaching their conclusion, delivering improvements for communities all around the country.
Professor Richard Butt, Deputy Principal of Queen Margaret University, said: "As a university with sustainability central to our values, this new accessible path that helps our students and staff travel to and from the university safely, without the need for a car, is a huge benefit. Importantly, we know that it will also help people living around the campus.
"It's been great seeing this project develop first-hand, knowing the positive impact it will have for our community and the surrounding area."
East Lothian Depute Provost, Andy Forrest, said: “In recent years more people have expressed an interest in active travel both within and to our towns and villages. This new route offers a safe path segregated from traffic for people to walk or cycle to parts of Musselburgh connecting with the QMU campus.”
Senior Development Officer for the fund, Yvonne McLeod, said: “The Ian Findlay Path Fund team has been delighted to be able to support this project and it is fantastic to see the finished path being put to such great use.
“The purpose of the fund is to support community projects just like this one and it has been great to witness this fantastic example of team work between the University and the Local Authority which has allowed this path to be upgraded to such a high standard.
“Seldom has a project been so well named and we hope the newly refurbished path will continue to have a ‘big impact’ for this community, well into the future.”
CEO of Paths for All, Kevin Lafferty, said: “The QMU path has meant that people of all abilities can get outside, be safe and get exercise while commuting on routes that are used on a daily basis.
“Delivering safe environments for active travel is at the forefront of our Paths for All objectives, supporting people to live active healthy lives. The success from QMU’s use of the funding shows the differences that path development can make for communities.”
The fund concluded its second round of awards to community-based groups on 8 March and a further £1.5 million will be allocated to similar path improvement projects located all around Scotland.
The Ian Findlay Path Fund, established in memory of Ian Findlay CBE, the late Chief Officer of Paths for All, continues to support local initiatives aimed at enhancing path networks and removing barriers to active travel.
The team works directly with communities to improve local path networks that will make it easier and more attractive for people to walk, wheel and cycle or choose public transport for local everyday journeys.
Community groups interested in potential future funding can reach out to the Ian Findlay Path Fund team at IFPF@pathforall.org.uk.
For more information about the Ian Findlay Path Fund, visit: https://www.pathsforall.org.uk/community-paths/cmp-grants/ian-findlay-path-fund
Work starts on Edinburgh Innovation Hub
A ‘ground-breaking’ ceremony has taken place to mark the start of construction on an innovation hub designed to become a nationally significant centre for innovation driven business growth and to create new high value employment.
The Edinburgh Innovation Hub is a joint venture between East Lothian Council and Queen Margaret University (QMU).
Representatives of the council and university were joined for the ceremony by Donald Cameron, UK Government Minister for Scotland, and Richard Lochhead, the Scottish Government’s Minister for Small Business, Innovation, Tourism and Trade.
The 7,200 sqm Hub, which received planning permission last September, is expected to be completed in 2025. It will comprise flexible laboratory, office and fully equipped meeting and conference spaces for rent by high growth small to medium enterprises (SMEs).
The Hub will support and grow businesses driven by innovation, knowledge exchange and technology, bringing together research, industry and academia under one roof, creating opportunities for synergies and knowledge-sharing. Tenants will be able to rent accommodation packages, for move-in ready space, that fits their size and needs. The design of the Hub will enable tenants to take up more space as and when they need to.
The venture is supported by £28.6 million from the UK Government, £1.4 million from the Scottish Government and £10 million from East Lothian Council as part of the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal (ESES City Region Deal).
Councillor Norman Hampshire, Leader of East Lothian Council, said: “The start of construction on this project highlights our ambition to create a sought-after location for business growth and increase high value jobs for East Lothian. It aligns with our aim of making East Lothian the best place in Scotland in which to live, work and do business.
“By supporting the food and drink and other important economic sectors, including tech and life sciences, we can attract innovative businesses to one of Scotland’s fastest growing areas.
“The 52 acre Edinburgh Innovation Park adjacent to the Edinburgh Innovation Hub will transform a strategic economic development site, owned by East Lothian Council, into a nationally significant cluster of knowledge exchange, innovation and high value business growth.”
Sir Paul Grice, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of QMU said: “Along with driving economic development locally and nationally, the Hub will act as a gateway into QMU for businesses, increase opportunities at the University for industry-relevant research and knowledge exchange, promote an entrepreneurial culture, and increase the vibrancy of the area around the campus.
“The Hub is not just a new building, it will be a new business. Importantly, it will provide a much more bespoke and focused service than is currently offered by business parks, providing not only physical facilities but also the operational support SMEs need to work effectively and grow.”
UK Government Minister for Scotland, Donald Cameron said: “Construction starting on this UK Government and partners funded innovation hub is a hugely exciting milestone for the area. I can't wait to see the facility up and running as it will help boost the local and national economy through generating innovative business and employment growth. The UK Government is backing the facility with £28.6 million investment - part of our £300 million commitment to the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal. In total we are investing more than £3 billion to level up across Scotland.”
Scottish Government Minister for Small Business, Innovation, Tourism and Trade Richard Lochhead said: “This is an important milestone in the development of the Edinburgh Innovation Hub, which is being delivered with Deal partners and £1.4 million of Scottish Government investment.
“We are investing £300 million in the Deal across a range of projects, which will be crucial in helping us deliver a fair and sustainable wellbeing economy with good quality jobs at its heart.
“Our National Innovation Strategy for Scotland sets out our vision of how, over the next ten years, Scotland will become one of the most innovative small nations in the world – projects such as this are going to be crucial in fulfilling that ambition.”
The Hub will help to initiate development of the wider Edinburgh Innovation Park on land adjacent to the QMU campus. The development was granted planning permission in principle in March 2019, as part of a wider mixed use development, including new homes and a new primary school, business & industry use and community facilities.
More information on the Edinburgh Innovation Hub is on the website.
Feelgood Friday 22.3.24
Individuals, teams and departments across the council regularly receive compliments from residents, visitors and businesses. Here are some from this week.
Resident: Waste Services Dunbar Recycling Centre I just had to write to say what a fantastic facility this is! It is by far the best centre I have ever used in all the places I have lived. The whole facility is well signposted and unbelievably organised. The staff always have a smile for customers and are very happy to help answer any questions.
The whole site is SPOTLESS and there's never anything overflowing/too full.
Even the reuse container is organised so that things can be left tidily on shelves, making it much easier to donate or indeed easier to see items, should you be looking for something to reuse.
I honestly can't praise this site enough. The staff should be commended and I hope you will pass on my comments to them. They are a credit to ELC and credit where credit is due!
Resident: Adult Wellbeing & Customer Services I’ve had reason to contact East Lothian’s Social Work department recently regarding getting a care package put in place for my elderly father who will be 92 in September. All my dealings with the department have been extremely positive.
The call centre staff have always been very pleasant and efficient. My mum received a care package prior to her going into a nursing home back in 2018 and I am pleased to say that all our dealings with this department have always been very positive.
Resident: Property Maintenance Within the last week 2 new council-maintained (public) LED wall lights were installed to the rear of properties in Tranent. I would like to say well done to the council workers who carried out this work. Please send my compliments to them. This was definitely a job well done & the new LED wall lights are large, extremely bright and effective.
What's On
March Madness at The Brunton!
March Madness - Exclusive Offers! 
Counterfeit Sixties Saturday 23 March 7:30pm - The Brunton is thrilled to announce a special offer for an incredible evening of entertainment. Experience The Counterfeit Sixties show and relive the vibrant sounds of the 1960s with Britain’s top tribute show, honouring over twenty-five bands from that period.
Redeem the code ‘ELC Staff’ at checkout for a deal of £35 for two tickets or £17.50 for a single ticket. Come and join us at Haddington Corn Exchange for a nostalgic night celebrating the sixties!
March Movies
We are excited to present an exciting line-up of films in The Brunton’s March programme at Loretto School Theatre. This month, we are also expanding to include two screenings at Haddington Corn Exchange for the first time! Here's a glimpse of what's to come:
- On 13 March at 7:30pm, catch The Color Purple (12A), a musical drama portraying a story of love, resilience, and a woman's quest for independence across decades.
- Join us on 20 March at 7:30pm for the inaugural screening at Haddington Corn Exchange, Bob Marley: One Love (12A), a tribute to the life and music of the iconic reggae artist.
- Additionally, in Haddington Corn Exchange, don't miss the National Theatre Live's screening of The Motive and The Cue on 21 March at 7pm. Sam Mendes directs Mark Gatiss as John Gielgud and Johnny Flynn as Richard Burton in this fierce and funny new play.
- At Loretto School Theatre on 26 March 26 at 7:17pm, we will also be screening Royal Opera House Live’s Madama Butterfly. With a score that includes Butterfly’s aria, Giacomo Puccini’s opera is entrancing and ultimately heart breaking.
- Wrapping up the month on 27 March at 7:30pm, we bring you Wicked Little Letters (15), a film inspired by a scandal that shook 1920s England. Featuring Olivia Coleman, Jessie Buckley, and Timothy Spall, this promises to be a riveting watch.
Snooker Greats
- Seven-time World Snooker Champion, Stephen Hendry, competes against his long-time rival John Higgins, a four-time World Snooker Champion, in a thrilling recreation of the matches that propelled these snooker legends to the pinnacle of their careers. An Evening with Snooker Greats: Clash of The Titans comes to Haddington Corn Exchange on 26 March at 7:30pm
Bite-sized concerts at lunchtime
- Guitar Masterpieces: Tim Beattie, guitar joins us on Tuesday 19 March at 1pm for our bite-sized concerts at lunchtime. Relax at lunchtime in the beautiful Northesk Parish Church, Musselburgh. An optional, light lunch of soup and a sandwich is served in the Church Hall adjacent to the church at 12pm
Staff book group programme for 2024
The staff book group is always open to new members and we’ve just picked our books for the rest of the year. If you’d like to join our read along and discussions of any of these books email the Healthy Working Lives team: hwl@eastlothian.gov.uk for details. The group meets at lunchtimes over Teams.
Staff book group picks and meeting dates for 2024
Shrines of Gaiety by Kate Atkinson - Thurs 4 April 1pm to 2pm
In a country still recovering from the Great War, London is the focus for a delirious nightlife. In Soho clubs, peers of the realm rub shoulders with starlets, foreign dignitaries with gangsters, and girls sell dances for a shilling a time. There, Nellie Coker is a ruthless ruler, ambitious for her six children. But success breeds enemies. Nellie faces threats from without and within.
The Fire next Time by James Baldwin - Weds 29 May 12:30pm to 1:30pm
A bestseller when it first appeared in 1963, The Fire Next Time galvanized the nation and gave passionate voice to the emerging civil rights movement. At once a powerful evocation of James Baldwin’s early life in Harlem and a disturbing examination of the consequences of racial injustice, the book is an intensely personal and provocative document.
Verity by Colleen Hoover – Tues 27 Aug 1pm to 2pm
Lowen Ashleigh is a writer on the brink of financial ruin when she accepts the job offer of a lifetime. Jeremy Crawford, husband of bestselling author Verity Crawford, has hired Lowen to complete the remaining books in a successful series his injured wife is unable to finish. Lowen arrives ready to sort through years of Verity's notes and outlines. What she doesn't expect to uncover in the chaotic office is an unfinished autobiography Verity never intended for anyone to read.
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby van Pelt – Weds 12:30 pm to 1:30pm
Remarkably Bright Creatures, an exploration of friendship, reckoning, and hope, tracing a widow's unlikely connection with a giant Pacific octopus.
The Night Swim by Megan Goldin – Thurs 28 November 12noon to 1pm
Ever since her true-crime podcast became an overnight sensation and set an innocent man free, Rachel Krall has become a household name—and the last hope for people seeking justice. But she’s used to being recognized for her voice, not her face. Which makes it all the more unsettling when she finds a note on her car windshield, addressed to her, begging for help.
Book recommendations
If you are a book lover the group is also a friendly place to get lots of excellent book recommendations for your “must read” list.
Reading can help improve mental health.
Research carried out in 2009 found that 30 minutes of reading can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and feelings of psychological distress just as effectively as yoga and humour do. Reading as part of a night-time routine can also help with sleep.
JGC Film Appreciation Club
The John Gray Centre Film Appreciation Club 2024 programme kicks-off on Thursday, 14 March at 6pm (Star Room) with a ‘fantastic female’ themed screening for Women’s History Month. 
The Club will be screening Where Do We Go Now? (2011), a comedy by Lebanese & Canadian actress, director, and activist, Nadine Labaki, which tells the story of a group of women who try to ease religious tensions between Christians and Muslims in their village.
The film explores the complex and taboo subjects of sectarian violence, religion, and patriarchal oppression in contemporary Lebanon through humour expressed almost entirely by women.
Refreshment and post-screening discussion/expertise is provided. ELC staff can attend free-of-charge provided you show your staff pass.
Otherwise, club membership donation towards costs is £15 per term (Spring & Autumn) or £30 per year. This allows free entry to all screenings (6 films per term). Single entry/guest/visitor donation charge is £5.
Give blood this month
This month blood donation sessions will be held at: 
- Sunday 17 March 10:20 - 12:30 14:00 - 15:30
- Monday 18 March 14:10 - 16:00 17:30 - 19:30
Both at Musselburgh East Community Learning Centre, Haddington Road, Musselburgh
All ScotBlood sessions are run by appointment. When you book an appointment it's easier to regulate blood stocks. You can book online or call 0345 90 90 999 to book in.
Green Corner
A Ranger's View
A quick wander along the Tyne near East Linton recently showed that spring is well and truly on its way. A pair of dippers hopped around on the rocks, looking rather amorous, whilst the first wild garlic leaves were starting to appear along the banks. Under the riverside willows and alders there were weird looking white (ish) shoots emerging from the soil. On closer examination these proved to be the early signs of purple toothwort, a plant which parasitises these particular tree species.
Another hardy little plant daring to show its face just now is the lesser celandine. 
It can bloom as early as February, but most will flower between March and May. Several of the plant’s folk names reflect its early appearance, including spring messenger and April’s eye. Even celandine itself is thought to derive from chelidon the Greek word for swallow (the bird that is) - although lesser celandine blooms well before the return of the swallows, both were seen as harbingers of spring. On a slightly less poetic note, the plant was also known as pilewort, as it was used by herbalists to treat haemorrhoids, possibly with limited success.
It’s a very attractive plant, appearing as small golden/yellow star-shaped flowers in a carpet of dark green leaves. The flowers can have between seven and twelve petals and they open and close depending on the amount of sunlight. There is a superficial resemblance to dandelions, but this is actually a relative of the buttercup, belonging to the family Ranunculaceae.
Lesser celandine can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, woods and hedgerows. Like many early flowering plants, lesser celandine is able to exploit the springtime lack of foliage on larger plants. Later in the spring, as the trees green up, the amount of available sunlight reaching the ground is greatly reduced. However, it can also tolerate shade, meaning that it can add a welcome splash of colour to some otherwise drab locations.
In addition to the aforementioned treatment for piles, lesser celandine has also been used to treat other external lumps and bumps. This idea grew from the Doctrine of Signatures, 
a piece of old nonsense that says that a plant can be used to treat a part of the body, or an ailment that it resembles in some way. The knobbly, tuberous roots were thought to look like assorted growths on the skin. The plant was also used to treat scurvy, which had some validity as the leaves do contain vitamin C. However, they also include dangerous toxins which can cause skin rashes, nausea, paralysis and liver damage.
Lesser celandine is, like most spring flowers, of great value to wildlife. Queen bumblebees are emerging from hibernation at this time of year and will be searching for suitable sites to establish nests. Sources of nectar are few and far between, so lesser celandine is hugely important to these, and other early-flying insects. Surely that’s more important than a dodgy 'cure' for an itchy bottom.
Tips to make Spring more eco-friendly
Daffodils are blooming, the birds are chirping and the days are getting longer. That can only mean one thing, Spring. The first signs of Spring are always a delight, even more so at the moment, as it brings a renewed hope for the year. Symbolising rebirth and growth, it’s the perfect time to embrace Mother Nature.
You may think that Spring is inherently ‘green’, with flowers blooming and creatures coming out of hibernation, but there are actually a few things we should consider to ensure we’re treating our home and garden sustainably.
Eco-friendly DIY
Whether you’re planning to revamp the garden, redecorate the house or tear something down, you should consider the environmental impact of your Spring project first. This means researching eco-friendly methods and materials, and if the project is too much for your own hands, reaching out to sustainable contractors.
Whatever your project, you’ll most likely need materials. If you’re redecorating with paint, opt for non-toxic paint like Earthborn, which is free from acrylics, oils and nasty emissions. Choosing paint with low volatile organic compound (VOC) will keep your home happier as it’s better for the environment and your health. Other eco-friendly paint alternatives include Farrow & Ball, The Organic & Natural Paint Company and Edward Bulmer.
If you’re going one step further and renovating, aim to source sustainable or recycled materials. Construction has a huge environmental impact: construction materials account for 122 million tonnes of waste and 18% of total carbon dioxide emissions. Choosing sustainable, salvaged and reclaimed materials will reduce your home’s carbon footprint.
You’ll most likely be planning a good Spring clean soon. It’s a chance to spruce up your home and give it a dose of TLC. Spring cleaning is about embracing the natural so it seems odd that we bring in extra toxins for cleaning. Opting for homemade cleaning products or environmentally-friendly products is safer, cleaner and sustainable. Vinegar, baking soda, lemon, salt and essential oils are all household products that make great cleaning solutions. An added bonus is that you know exactly what you’re putting into your home, so you don’t have to worry about unwanted chemicals.
Spring cleaning usually includes a much needed de-clutter too. As the change of seasons brings a change in weather, it’ll be time to dust away the cobwebs on your Spring / Summer wardrobe so now is the best time to decide what is worth keeping. If you haven’t worn something in six to nine months, perhaps it’s time to consider a new home for it. Think practically, will you wear it again? Donate, sell or give away any unwanted items.
Remember, don’t throw away any items that need mending or altering, the internet has tons of tutorials to help you revamp your wardrobe.
Also, while you’re cleaning, remember to be energy-wise. Don’t leave the tap running while you’re cleaning and fill up any buckets with excess water for your garden. While you’re at it, check for leaky taps or pipes to prevent any water waste and a big water bill. Additionally, make the most of the sunshine and clean your clothes on the washing line instead of the tumble dryer.
Getting the garden Spring ready
One of the best things about Spring is the blooming flowers which can bring vibrant colour and an uplifting mood booster to your home. Spending time outside in nature can boost your mood and reduce stress, especially with an added dose of vitamin D. In theory, gardening is inherently green, but there are things you can do to increase sustainability outdoors.
When planning your garden, have sustainability in mind. Real Homes recommend sticking to this philosophy when gardening, 'plant according to the garden, not the gardener' they say. Begin by making the most of native plants. According to Gardener’s World, the UK's native wildflowers include ox-eye daisy, forget-me-nots, marigold, foxglove, lily of the valley, knapweed, primrose, honeysuckle and many more! These flowers are best suited to our climate, requiring less watering and maintenance, helping to sustain local wildlife. This is especially necessary for bees, which are crucial to our sustainability. Due to climate change, pesticide use and habitat loss, bees are slowly declining. But nearly every mouthful of food can be traced back to bees, so we need to do our part and protect them.
Spring cleaning your garden involves getting rid of any Winter debris like weeds, mould and dead plants. As Spring promotes new growth, it’s pruning time, which keeps plants healthy and thriving. But make sure you don’t prune blooming plants (wait until they’ve flowered). However, sustainability isn’t always pretty. It’s recommended to keep some of your garden messy and natural. The Woodland Trust suggest allowing nature to take its course in a section of the garden so it will attract and home local wildlife. Seed bombs (best used early Spring) would be useful to throw on this patch, all you have to do is wait for the magic to happen. You can also create your own bug house using garden materials like leaves, moss and logs to shelter your garden guests.
You could also begin to save water for garden use with a water butt. Conserving rainwater means you’ll save yourself some money and preserve energy. Read more about the benefits of water butts here.
Other ways to reduce your carbon footprint in the garden are propagating and composting. Composting can add nutrients to your soil and prevent waste ending up in landfill. If you don’t have a garden or your garden has limited space, you could try making a worm farm which works in a similar way, on a smaller scale. Propagating involves collecting seeds and taking cuttings from your own garden. You can swap and share your cuttings with friends and family so you don’t have to spend on buying new ones.
Thanks to www.savemoneycutcarbon.com for these tips
Waterbirds Walk at Aberlady
Thursday 28 March 
| 1330-1530 | Sea Green, Aberlady £8
Join the Countryside Ranger for a 2-hour stroll to discover many different kinds of birds and learn about the great journeys they are about to undertake.
The walk will be along a hard-surfaced path and around 2-kilometres in length.
Dress for the weather and bring binoculars, if you have them.
BOOKING ESSENTIAL Age 16+ Full details online.
East Lothian Green Futures Festival
Get ready for a day filled with inspiration, education, and action at the East Lothian Green Futures Festival, on Saturday 16 March at Queen Margaret University 10am-3pm, organised by the East Lothian Climate Hub! Free to attend (but you can reserve a space) or exhibit 
There will be: Loose parts play, willow weaving, mini beast hunts, woodland activities and explore the grounds.
An opportunity to connect and learn more about local district heat networks, tool libraries, nature restoration, retrofitting, community farms, climate cafes, and more. Activities for families inside and outdoors, local bands and food.
Create your bake for the Vegan Bake-off - can you nab star baker and the prize?
This festival will bring together individuals, community groups and organisations to share and learn about amazing work already taking place in East Lothian and build a vision for a positive future for our environment and people.
MORE INFO available here www.sccan.scot/elcan
Full programme released soon