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West College Scotland becomes first Scottish college to achieve Carers Federation Quality Standard

Claire and Marie SAS

West College Scotland (WCS) has become the first Scottish college to achieve the Carers Federation Quality Standard in Carer Support (QSCS) accreditation.

WCS is committed to ensuring young adult carers in the west of Scotland have the same opportunities and access to high quality Further Education as those without care responsibilities. Young adult carers make a huge contribution to their families and wider society, but in doing so can miss out on other life chances. The changes West College Scotland has introduced are aimed at ensuring local young adult carers have the chance to achieve their full potential.  

 

Working with the Lottery-funded Driving Change Project, which aims to improve the support available to young adult carers in Further Education across the UK, West College Scotland has actively removed some of the barriers that can prevent young carers from accessing continued education, developed new policies and procedures, improved access to bespoke support and raised awareness – including demonstrating good practice in supporting carers in the wider community. 

 

Iain Forster-Smith, Assistant Principal Student Life and Skills at West College Scotland said:

“We are delighted to have achieved the Carers Federation Quality Standard in Carer Support accreditation.   Student Carers must cope with the extra pressure of caring for a loved one and this award acknowledges that we recognise their contribution and have robust Student Carer support services in place and a fantastic team supporting our students.”

 

He added, “WCS works closely with local services such as Carers Trust Scotland, Inverclyde and Renfrewshire Carers Centre, and Y-Sort It in West Dunbartonshire which provide wraparound support for Student Carers covering finance, networking and physiological needs. This really is a fantastic recognition of the hard work, commitment and innovation which has been going on across the College.’

 

The Quality Standard in Carer Support (QSCS) assessment report on WCS observed “West College Scotland has implemented effective systems and processes to support early identification of student carers and ensured cross-college uniformity in provision. The Student Services team show a clear commitment to developing support for YACs alongside other vulnerable student groups. There is clear evidence of wide cross-college commitment and understanding of processes and responsibilities, and staff recognise the benefits of new developments for students.”

 

Naomi Sykes, QSCS Development Worker, Carers Federation Limited said:

“The Carers Federation Quality Standard in Carer Support (QSCS) accreditation demonstrates West College Scotland’s commitment to improving access to education for young and young adult carers.” 

 

The Quality Standard criteria helps schools, colleges and universities develop effective processes to identify student carers and to improve their wellbeing, learning experiences and educational outcomes. Importantly, the process helps participating organisations to provide consistent provision of support and enables them to monitor the collective and individual outcomes for their students with caring roles.  

 

Naomi added, “West College Scotland has developed comprehensive systems to ensure student carers are recognised and supported to achieve their aspirations and goals, raising awareness of young and young adult carers across the college and increasing understanding of the additional challenges they face in education.”

 

Stephen Evans, Chief Executive, Learning and Work Institute said:

 “Many congratulations to West College Scotland for becoming the first college in Scotland to achieve the Driving Change quality standard in carers support. Young adult carers make a huge contribution to their families and society, yet they too often miss out on vital opportunities and support. The changes that the college has put in place will give local young adult carers the chance to pursue their talents and achieve their potential. We look forward to working with many other colleges in Scotland to build on the achievements of West College Scotland so that young adult carers across the country get the opportunities they deserve.”

 

West College Scotland students can receive confidential support by contacting info@wcs.ac.uk. The Student Carers team assess each carer’s personal situation and identify what support mechanisms are available through the College and includes bespoke induction programmes, support services and financial support. 

 

As a nationally recognised accreditation, it is hoped that both prospective and current students will feel more comfortable disclosing that they are carers and are more aware of what support mechanisms are possible to make sure that the College recognises their unique circumstances. West College Scotland welcomes students from a wide range of experiences and backgrounds and will offer appropriate, discrete support.

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Transition to level 0 allows for further gradual expansion of cultural, leisure and sport services for the local community.

Transition to level 0 allows for further gradual expansion of cultural, leisure and sport services for the local community.

Renfrewshire Leisure is making plans to further expand its range of services in the wake of the Scottish Government’s confirmation that Renfrewshire moves to level 0 COVID restrictions. With the long period of restrictions gradually easing, the charity wants to extend delivery gradually to support local people in living lives which are healthy, happy and fulfilled.

The return will be aiming to reinforce community well-being as the charity’s priority. Ever since COVID restrictions were introduced, the organisation has maintained safety as its top priority for those using its facilities or benefiting from its services. 

The latest extension of services provided will be phased in over the coming weeks and follows a gradual reopening of facilities since the most recent period of enforced lockdown closure came to an end on April 26th.

The next developments will be:

  • Indoor leisure services further expanding to include the recommencement of indoor contact sports in line with information from Sporting Governing Bodies
  • Swimming pool capacity constraints easing to allow us to introduce a 25% increase at the Lagoon and ON-X leisure centers in booking slot availability next month, although COVID precautions will remain in place. 
  • The Active Schools programme and the schools’ library service is set to recommence at the start of the new school term.

 

Locals are being urged to monitor the charity’s social media channels and website (www.renfrewshireleisure.com) for up to date confirmation on individual activities.

 

Victoria Hollows, Chief Executive of Renfrewshire Leisure, emphasised the importance of moving to build capacity to meet the needs of local people and help them rebuild their physical and mental health after the long period of restrictions since March of last year. She said:

 

“We take very seriously our commitment to local people who depend on our range of services to support their wellbeing, so we are gradually and carefully expanding provision to meet that need. However, it will inevitably take time to do so in a way which ensures that members and users of our services and facilities can continue to do so safely, whilst we monitor infection rates in the community.

 

“We know how much local people have missed our wide range of activities, and how important it is to their physical and mental welfare so we will be constantly reviewing demand, usage and local infection rates to meet people’s needs as quickly as we can.

 

“We look forward to continuing to welcome you back, safely.”

 

Information about all Renfrewshire Leisure services and how they are operating can be found at www.renfrewshireleisure.com, where details can also be found about the innovative programme of online services, which staff have been running help people stay fit and healthy during all phases of lockdown and the route map out of it.

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Food Train expands Phone Friends to tackle loneliness in Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire

Increased support for older people in region amid concerns about increased social isolation as a result of Covid-19 pandemic

Jo Dallas who volunteers for The Food Train.
Jo calls a core group of seven people who live on their own or who feel isolated.
The talking is something Food Train offer as well as help with shopping.
Often Jo and the people she calls will talk about food and what they are cooking.
Jo regularly talks to a retired home economics teacher and they share tips for making scones.

A scheme tackling loneliness among older people is being expanded to reach more in Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire.

Food Train has opened its Phone Friends service to the general public after work to support its members during the pandemic highlighted the strong need for it.

It connects an older person with a volunteer who regularly phones them for a chat – giving them someone with whom they can share how they are and enjoy a laugh.

Food Train is best known in Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire for its shopping services, which have faced sustained high demand to deliver groceries to the homes of over-65s since Covid-19 took hold.

Morna O’May, who is overseeing Food Train’s Phone Friends service, said: “Covid has had a huge impact on older people who have had to shield and isolate. Because of the length of time this is going on for, they are losing confidence in being able to get back out and about again in public.

“It is creating a situation where people who had a connection to their community are losing that and those who were already isolated are feeling it even more keenly.

“The Phone Friend service is an ideal way to make connections again from the safe environment of your own home.”

Food Train first opened its Phone Friends to members after volunteers made check-in calls to older people during lockdown – to ensure people were well and had all they needed – when many of its members were unable to enjoy the social side of shopping deliveries or days out organised by the charity.

That service to members across the country has seen volunteers make 1,550 calls – chatting to older people for 28,000 minutes.

The response to it has been so positive that the service – which costs £5 per month to join – is being made available to non-members too. Phone calls can be weekly, fortnightly or less often if people wish.

Morna added: “Phone Friends allows a friendship to develop without having to involve any travelling or visiting which suits many older people and volunteers.

“We have volunteers vetted, trained and ready to be matched.”

For more information about Phone Friends, call 0800 048 9945 or email phonefriends@foodtrainconnects.org.uk.

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Evolve Seedhill Workshops

We began last week with a fantastic turnout and are looking forward to getting going again this week in the lovely sunshine!

Our 4:30pm – 6:30pm workshop will now be taking place from 4pm – 6pm.

We have updated our flyers and our plain text which I have attached below to be shared.

RIG Arts are super excited to announce the launch of the EVOLVE project with 2 FREE weekly outdoor arts workshops, open to all. Join artists Marie and Seamus and the RIG Arts team to get creative in Seedhill.

Where:
McKerrell Street Playpark

When:
Every Friday starting 9th July for 6 months.

Times:
– 1pm-3pm

– 4pm-6pm
What to expect:
– arts, crafts and fun!
– masks and costumes
– creative map-making
– exploring Seedhill in a new way
– creative planning for the future
– have your voice heard – your thoughts count!
Just drop in and get involved. Stay for as long as you like.
Covid precautions will be in place and we’ll have plenty of hand sanitiser and surface cleanser on hand.
For more info, contact Rebecca on rebecca@rigarts.org or info@rigarts.org

Find us on FB: @RIGArtsInverclyde, IG and T: @RIGArtsGreenock
@CultureColSco @CreativeScots #EvolveSeedhill #CultureCollective

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Financial support for parents during Scotland’s peak baby month

Social Security Scotland is encouraging families who have welcomed a new arrival during Scotland’s peak baby season to find out if they are eligible for family payments.

According to figures from National Records of Scotland, July is the month most of Scotland’s babies are born in Scotland. 4,266 babies were born in July 2020 despite there being an overall decline in babies born in Scotland in 2020. December was the quietest month with 3692 babies born.

Parents who get tax credits or certain benefits could be eligible for family payments including Best Start Grant Pregnancy and Baby Payment, Scottish Child Payment and Best Start Foods.

The Pregnancy and Baby Payment is open to parents from the 24th week of pregnancy up to the day a baby is six months old and Scottish Child Payment is a recurring payment of £40 every four weeks for eligible children.

Minister for Social Security Ben Macpherson said:

“If this year mirrors previous trends, many families will be welcoming a newborn into their lives. This will be a very exciting time for parents – but it can also be expensive.

“Scottish Child Payment and Best Start Grant payments can help ease some of the financial pressure – especially at a time when many people have been hit hard economically by Covid-19.

“At a busy time for expectant and new mums, we wanted the application to be accessible and straightforward. Parents and carers can use the same form to apply for Scottish Child Payment, Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods and it only takes an average of 12 minutes for those applying online.

“Social Security Scotland also offers a pre-paid Best Start Foods card for eligible families that can be used to buy healthy foods for children under three.

“I’d encourage anyone who thinks they might be eligible for these payments to find out more and apply today.”

Jane Brumpton, Chief Executive of Early Years Scotland, said:

“We support and recognise the vital role that Scottish family payments play in helping to alleviate financial pressures for eligible parents and carers nationally.

“The peace of mind that comes with knowing there is additional financial support available for children and families is incredibly important, and it is crucial in supporting their wellbeing as we exit the pandemic during these very challenging times.”

Background

  • Scottish Child Payment is payment of £40 every four weeks for each eligible child under the age of six, there is no limit on the number of children a family can claim for.
  • The payment will be rolled out to under 16s by the end of 2022 subject to the Scottish Government receiving the necessary data from the UK Government.
  • In the meantime, the Scottish Government will introduce bridging payments of £520 to be paid in both 2021 and 2022 for those receiving Free School Meals due to low income.
  • Best Start Grant Pregnancy and Baby Payment is a £606 payment for a first child and £303 for other children.
  • Best Start Grant Early Learning Payment is a £252.50 payment when a child is between the ages of 2 and 3.5 years.
  • Best Start Grant School Age Payment is a £252.50 payment to help eligible families with the costs of starting school.
  • Best Start Foods is money every four weeks on a pre-paid chip and pin Mastercard. The amount is £17.00 every four weeks during pregnancy and for any children between one and three years old. The card can be used to buy healthy food including eggs, milk, fruit, vegetables and pulses.
  • People can apply online at mygov.scot/benefits or by calling Social Security Scotland on 0800 182 2222
  • National Records of Scotland birth rates publications can be found at https://www.nrscotland.gov.uk/statistics-and-data/statistics/statistics-by-theme/vital-events/general-publications/weekly-and-monthly-data-on-births-and-deaths/monthly-data-on-births-and-deaths-registered-in-scotland
  • *The following is an extract from  Table 6 accessed via the link above
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Work begins on £42million transformation of Paisley Museum

Paisley Museum’s £42million transformation is now underway as construction work starts on campus to redevelop the four buildings which make up the site.

Kier is delivering the main works phase on the campus which includes two grade A listed buildings, including Scotland’s first public Observatory. Construction is likely to be completed by late 2022, with the museum reopening to the public in 2023.

This marks a significant step forward in the Paisley Museum Reimagined project – the signature project in Paisley’s radical regeneration which also includes the £22million refurbishment of the town’s A-listed Town Hall and a new learning and cultural hub housing library services on the town’s High Street.

The project will see the overall museum campus grow by 20 per cent delivering a 27 per cent increase in public space and 26 per cent increase in gallery space, allowing for Paisley’s internationally-significant collections to be re-interpreted and the number of objects on display to be more than doubled.

The Garden Gallery, which will be located in a new-build extension housing an accessible visitor reception and café, will deliver a true ‘wow’ moment for visitors with spectacular views and a unique social space connecting the Museum with the outdoor landscape. New images of the Museum’s Garden Gallery and exterior have been released to coincide with the start of construction.

As part of the redevelopment, there will be two dedicated learning spaces, a makers’ space and a revamped heritage centre which will introduce users to its key resources in an engaging way, encouraging interaction, research and participation. Other notable additions to the campus include new facilities such as a revitalised shop, multifaith prayer room, improved access with new lifts and a public courtyard. There will also be a museum café with capacity for 60 covers providing a social space for families, groups and individuals to enjoy. A picnic area will also be located close by.

The museum transformation project is an important part of Paisley’s economic recovery from lockdown, both in terms of the on-site activity that will take place during construction and the increased footfall that will follow when the museum reopens to the public. When Paisley Museum opens its doors, it is expected to attract 128,000 visitors each year from Scotland, the UK and overseas and provide a £79million economic boost to the area over the next 30 years.

Councillor Lisa-Marie Hughes, chair of Renfrewshire Leisure, said: “The beginning of work on site is a major step forward in our journey to transform Paisley Museum into a world-class destination, bringing in visitors from across Scotland, the UK and abroad.

“The project is part of a wider investment by the council in Paisley’s venues to transform the town centre and take the work already done to make the town a key cultural destination within Scotland to a new level.

“The project team have already worked with hundreds of local people and groups to capture their stories. And we will continue to work with neighbours and surrounding businesses to make sure they are involved throughout the project and are ready to benefit from the massive boost this will bring to the town.”

Architects AL_A have radically reimagined the museum and its campus, reshaping it into a cultural hub of discovery, skills development, creativity and innovation. Working with an international team, including exhibition designers Opera Amsterdam, their design will allow the number of objects on display to be increased by 150%.

Matthew Wilkinson, Project Lead for AL_A, said: “The new museum will have a profound impact on Paisley’s future and it’s testament to the commitment and hard work of the whole community that we’ve reached this point. We’re extremely excited to be starting construction at Paisley Museum and to see our ambitious proposals coming to life.”

Kier have worked on a number of high-profile heritage construction projects throughout the UK and are currently helping to deliver the refurbishment of The Burrell Collection in Glasgow.

Phil McDowell, regional director for Kier Regional Building North & Scotland, states: “We know that Paisley museum is important to the local community as well as being a significant cultural destination in Scotland and we are delighted to start on site to expand and transform the building.

Over the duration of the project, we will work collaboratively with Renfrewshire Council and local supply chain partners to deliver this project. As part of our commitment to leaving lasting legacies in areas in which we build, we will also be providing job, training and apprenticeship opportunities.”

The project is being taken forward by Renfrewshire Council and led by a project team based within charitable arts and leisure trust, Renfrewshire Leisure. The project is being funded by Renfrewshire Council, the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Scottish Government’s Regeneration Capital Grant Fund.

The museum’s final phase of fundraising is now under way, with the museum website reimagined.paisleymuseum.org showcasing the project’s ambitious vision.

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West College Scotland August Clearing Days

West College Scotland August Clearing Days: 2-7pm – Pre-Register Now!

Greenock (Finnart): 10 August

Clydebank: 11 August

Paisley: 12 August

Whether you are a school leaver or an adult returner looking to upskill or retrain, West College Scotland’s Clearing Days are the perfect opportunity to chat with staff and sign up for an August Start course that’s right for you!

Over the three events they have over 25 curriculum departments attending alongside our Student Services Department, who can guide you through your application.

They’ll also have representatives from Student Funding, the Student Association, Student Wellbeing, Enabling Services and  Digital Device Support, who’ll be able to give further advice and support available to you whilst you study at College.

If you’re a school pupil in the Senior Phase they have some options available to you to enhance your school experience. Go along and chat to their Schools Programme and Foundation Apprenticeship Team!

To minimise queuing on the day and to receive Clearing Day updates direct to your inbox:

PRE- REGISTER HERE

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EVOLVE outdoor workshops starting on 9th July!

RIG Arts are super excited to announce the launch of the EVOLVE project with 2 FREE weekly outdoor arts workshops, open to all. Join artists Marie and Seamus and the RIG Arts team to get creative in Seedhill.

Where:
McKerrell Street Playpark

When:
Every Friday starting 9th July for 6 months.

Times:
– 1pm-3pm

– 4.30pm-6.30pm
What to expect:
– arts, crafts and fun!
– masks and costumes
– creative map-making
– exploring Seedhill in a new way
– creative planning for the future
– have your voice heard – your thoughts count!
Just drop in and get involved. Stay for as long as you like.
Covid precautions will be in place and we’ll have plenty of hand sanitiser and surface cleanser on hand.
For more info, contact Rebecca on rebecca@rigarts.org or info@rigarts.org

Find us on FB: @RIGArtsInverclyde, IG and T: @RIGArtsGreenock
@CultureColSco @CreativeScots #EvolveSeedhill #CultureCollective

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AGS AIRPORTS COMMITS TO NET ZERO AS PART OF NEW SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY

  • AGS commits to achieving net zero for direct emissions by mid-2030s

AGS Airports, which owns Aberdeen International, Glasgow and Southampton airports, has committed to achieving net zero for its direct emissions by the mid-2030s as part of its new sustainability strategy which it launched today (Wednesday 30 June).

Scotland’s Minister for Transport, Graeme Dey MSP, joined AGS’ Chief Executive, Derek Provan, to launch the strategy which sets out how AGS will balance the undoubted social and economic benefits of aviation with its climate change responsibilities.

All three AGS airports achieved carbon neutrality status in 2020 and the group has now set a roadmap for its transition to net zero by the mid-2030s which will involve the decarbonisation of AGS’ infrastructure.

The strategy, which is anchored in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, sets commitments against a wide range of material issues including decarbonisation, biodiversity, modern slavery, circular economy, community support and how it will support its people. Commitments include:

Achieving net zero

  • AGS will maintain its commitment to carbon neutrality as it delivers its net zero roadmap to achieve net zero carbon for direct emissions by the mid-2030s.
  • AGS will support the continued development of Sustainable Aviation’s Decarbonisation roadmap including the promotion of Sustainable Aviation Fuels, hydrogen and electric flight.
  • AGS will transition its fleet of vehicles to ultra-low emission vehicles and will continue the roll-out of electric charging infrastructure.

Supporting communities

  • AGS will continue to invest in its community funds which have awarded over £2 million to local community groups and charitable organisations since 2010.
  • AGS will work with partners, including the NHS, to trial the UK’s first medical drone distribution network.
  • AGS will work with local communities, schools, colleges and universities to provide training and internship opportunities.

Supporting its people

  • AGS will align policies and processes with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
  • AGS will work with the Slave Free Alliance to review its approach to modern slavery and develop and publish an action plan, in addition to establishing a supplier code of conduct.
  • AGS will implement a gender equality strategy with objectives focused on flexible working, pay equality and gender composition.

Derek Provan, Chief Executive of AGS Airports, said: “At AGS we have always been acutely aware that operating such important pieces of infrastructure comes with responsibilities; to our people, to our communities and to the environment. As we seek to regrow and restore the connectivity that will help drive Scotland’s and the UK’s recovery post-COVID, we will balance the undoubted social and economic benefits of aviation with our climate change responsibilities.

“We have made significant progress in addressing our own environmental impacts however, we recognise there is more work to do. In 2020 we became carbon neutral which is an important first step towards our ultimate goal of achieving net zero carbon for our direct emissions by the mid-2030s. Whilst this is a central pillar of our strategy, our sustainability commitments go beyond the decarbonisation of AGS. We want to create shared value and ensure our communities can share in our success as we seek to rebuild.

“In November, the world will look to Glasgow when we host the United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP26. This will be the opportunity for governments to agree a global response to what is a truly global challenge. At AGS, we are committed to working with governments to ensure we play our role in addressing the climate emergency whilst supporting economic and social development in the regions we serve.”

Scotland’s Minister for Transport Graeme Dey said: “I’m delighted to see AGS Airports lay out their plans to reduce emissions across their sites and play their part in helping Scotland achieve our ambitious climate change targets.

“I warmly welcome their commitment to achieving net-zero carbon for direct emissions by the mid-2030s and working with the wider aviation sector to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2045.

“Working together, Government and the aviation industry can look to create a future in which we enjoy the social and economic benefits of air travel without having an impact on the environment.”

In 2020, AGS Airports was recognised as an “airport transport sector lead” for its sustainability performance by the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB) which assesses the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance of real estate and infrastructure portfolios.

Glasgow was ranked as the best performing airport in the world by GRESB. Together with Aberdeen it received a five-star rating for its sustainability performance, and both were recognised as “airport transport sector leads.”

Glasgow, Aberdeen and Southampton were ranked first, second and third respectively within both the UK and European Transport: Airport Companies categories. In the same worldwide category, Glasgow was ranked first, Aberdeen second and Southampton sixth.

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Youngsters can have free fun and games all summer long

YOUNGSTERS can enjoy their summer holidays filled with fun and games – and it’s all for free.

A whole range of exciting sports and leisure activities has been organised by Renfrewshire Leisure’s Active Schools team at venues throughout Renfrewshire.

The Get Into Summer activities, which include multi-sports taster sessions, colour runs and disability sports clubs, are being funded by the Scottish government and are taking place from now until Friday, August 13.

The Get Into Summer Multi Sports Clubs for young people from Primary 1 to Sixth Year take place between noon and 2pm every Tuesday, at Johnstone Sports Hub; every Wednesday, at Park Mains Sports Complex, in Erskine and every Thursday at the ON-X, in Linwood.

Sessions feature tasters in various sports including archery, bushcraft, orienteering, dodgeball, rounders, and many more sports and fun activities.

There is fun for all the family with two colour runs being held at the ON-X, in Linwood between noon and 2pm on July 7 and July 21.

The colour run is an obstacle course with a difference, with participants getting sprayed with various colours of powdered paint as they complete the course.

A Get Into Summer Active Families Disability Sport and Activity Club is being held at the ON-X, in Linwood, between 3pm and 4pm every Tuesday until August 3 for primary school age children.

Youngsters will be able to take part in sports and leisure activities led by qualified coaches. These include boccia, archery, football, basketball and frisbee golf. And if Renfrewshire is within Covid restriction Level 1 or 0, youngsters can play on two bouncy castles.

This club is available to any family with a young person aged between five and 12 with a disability and/or sensory impairment. Siblings are welcome to attend.

A Get Into Summer Outdoor Disability Sports Club is being held at Johnstone Community Sports Hub pitch every Thursday. The sessions for Primary school age children are between noon and 1pm and those in secondary school, between 1pm and 2pm.

The club is open to any young person with a disability and/or sensory impairment and they will take part in outdoor activities including football, archery and frisbee golf delivered by qualified coaches.

Covid-19 guidelines will be followed at all activities with temperature checks on arrival, sign in and sign out required, one way system in place inside, and a reminder that children should not attend if they are experiencing Covid symptoms.

A new summer challenge to travel the 13,503 km distance from Renfrewshire to Tokyo where the Olympic Games are being held later this month has been launched.

The Trek to Tokyo idea is for children and grown-ups to run, walk, skip, swim, pedal, or paddle as many kilometres as possible without leaving the country and added together reach the target.

Go to https://www.cognitoforms.com/RenfrewshireLeisure3/RLTrekToTokyoChallenge to register for the challenge and you will be asked to submit the distance that you have covered.

Fiona Watson, Renfrewshire Leisure’s sport and health services manager said: “We’re aiming to make this summer as active and fun-filled for everyone.

“There are plenty of sport and leisure activities to choose from and best of all everything is free, although activities should be booked in advance.”

Find out more at https://www.renfrewshireleisure.com/get-into-summer/ . And to book activities go to https://renfrewshire-leisure.class4kids.co.uk/ .

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Dee Dental Paisley

  • Please note our number has changed to 01417375488 – please be patient when you ring us as we get busier and hang on the line it will reach a voicemail

– We are still available through social media, email and WhatsApp for any queries

  • More Dee dental Invisalign favourites on our instagram – it is all about the side profile here- aligned straight teeth from every angle and stunning results with happy patients is what we are about!
  • Come join the only Platinum practice in our area and see how we could enhance your smile today with free digital scans available and teeth whitening this month with every sign up
  • At Dee dental Paisley our aim is to provide a 5 star service and we want you to leave with a big smile on your face- we know coming to the dentist can be a nerve wracking experience

-Why not join us today? On our practice plan or as an NHS patient on our waiting list as we have a new dentist joining us soon that will allow us to see even more of you!

  • Our incredible 5D digital scanner @iteroscanner also shows you how your teeth could look after @invisalign – in moments we can scan your teeth and show you your incredible new smile

-So what are you waiting for? Contact us today for your free consultation and scan

-Rejuvenation starting from £175 – goodbye wrinkles

– Boutique whitening- £225 including 4 syringes!

-Free virtual consultations can be booked through the site today

– Free whitening and free scans with every new Invisalign case

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Miller Homes’ Paisley Site Manager scoops prestigious industry award

Paisley Site Manager John Mitchell, from Miller Homes’ popular Hawkhead development in the town, is celebrating after receiving a Quality Award in this year’s NHBC Pride in the Job Awards.

Miller homes

The annual awards recognise the commitment and dedication of development site managers in attaining consistently high standards in the delivery of new homes. They are among the most prestigious awards for site managers in the housebuilding industry, where more than 10,000 candidates from across the UK are assessed across six key areas for up to 12 months against the NHBC’s stringent standards.

Miller Homes’ team in Paisley demonstrated best practice in the field, and Site Manager John Mitchell took delight in achieving the Pride in the Job Award while facing stiff competition from the best in the country.

John, a Paisley local, is passionate about bringing quality homes to his hometown and has proven a popular fixture with residents of the Hawkhead development, where he is known for his can-do attitude and commitment to ensuring that the neighbourhood becomes a key part of Paisley’s thriving community.

John’s win is his second Quality Award after he continued to show outstanding service and ensured that his team delivered consistently in creating homes of the highest standards for Paisley residents.

John Mitchell, Site Manager at Miller Homes Hawkhead, said: “It’s a huge honour to have won the Quality Award at this year’s NHBC Pride in the Job Awards. I’m so proud to have stood out to the judges among such strong competition from so many brilliant candidates, including several of my colleagues at Miller Homes.

“This year had been a difficult one for the housebuilding community, and we’ve faced many unprecedented challenges. I’m thrilled we’ve managed to keep up our high standards through a particularly demanding period and deliver beautiful homes for our customers here in Paisley.

“I’d like to say thanks to my brilliant site team, who work so hard, as well as our wider team at Miller Homes and our excellent suppliers for all of their support, and of course, our wonderful residents of Hawkhead. I’d also like to thank my partner, friends and family – especially my mum and dad, Anne and Jim, who have been cheering me on the whole way.”

John explains how he got into construction: “I grew up in South Park Drive and attended St Charles Primary School and St Andrew’s Academy. From there, I joined the TIGERS training scheme, which enabled me to gain an apprenticeship as a joiner with a local business David Barclay Joiners. After gaining valuable experience, I wanted to take the next step in my career. I wanted to progress into a managerial role, so I studied Construction Management at North Glasgow College.

“I’d like to encourage school leavers to give the construction industry a go. My job brings me lots of joy and satisfaction, and I truly love every minute of it. It feels really special to be building homes in the town where I grew up.”

Greig Anderson, Regional Production Director for Miller Homes Scotland West, commented: “Everyone at Miller Homes is incredibly proud of John for winning this award. It’s a fantastic achievement for our site managers to be recognised among their peers in the industry and shows John’s dedication to his role. He has gone above and beyond to ensure that our customers in the West of Scotland enjoy homes of the highest standard, and we’d like to send him our warmest congratulations from everyone across the business.”

Following on from the Quality Awards are the NHBC’s Seal of Excellence and Regional Awards, which will be announced in Autumn.

For buyers interested in the Hawkhead development, there are a series of four and five-bedroom homes soon to be available to reserve. Interested buyers can find out more by visiting www.millerhomes.co.uk.

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