The strict travel restrictions put in place by various governments in response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic have, understandably, resulted in the widespread grounding of flights.

With many of our airline partners having completed their repatriation flights and in line with passenger demand, there are now only a limited number of services available from the AGS group of airports (Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton). In light of this and to protect the health and wellbeing of all the staff who work so hard to keep our airports running, we will be introducing temporary restrictions on our operations from 1 April 2020.

To support our country’s response to this accelerating pandemic, Aberdeen and Glasgow airports will continue to support essential services. These will include lifeline links to remote communities in the Highlands and Islands, NHS and air ambulance services, and helicopters for the oil and gas industry. Southampton Airport will similarly support lifeline services to the Channel Islands. Our airports will also cater for those airlines who are continuing to operate. At this stage, it is difficult to say how long these measures will remain in place, however, we will continue to follow all government advice and keep them under constant review.

We are facing extremely challenging times and like all organisations, we have a duty of care to our staff, our business partners and to all those who use our airports. Introducing temporary operating restrictions will allow us to significantly reduce the number of staff who must travel to work.

Alongside this, we are working with our people and their trade union representatives to ensure those employees who will be furloughed during this period will have access to the Government’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. We have also proposed other measures to support the business at this time including temporary pay cuts for all staff including our Board and leadership team, an end to bonus payments, the option for staff to take unpaid leave and the option for reduced working hours.

These have been difficult decisions to take, however, I am absolutely clear they will enable us to protect jobs, protect the health and wellbeing of our employees and ensure AGS Airports is in a strong position to aid our country’s recovery when we emerge from this crisis.

27/03/2020/by Brian McGuire

MEMBERS of Renfrewshire Leisure’s Active Schools team have created an amazing video showing them juggling a loo roll then appearing to pass it on to each other in their own homes.

Introducing #ASCoordinatorChallenge – Renfrewshire Leisure’s Active Schools team challenges YOU. We challenge all other local authorities Active Schools teams to do the #StayAtHomeChallenge. Do you accept? Tag us and show us your attempt #RLSportAtHome @sportscotland pic.twitter.com/QV6eYMNns6

— RL Sports Services (@RLSportServices) March 24, 2020

They’ve used some clever video editing to create the illusion and then posted it on their @RLSportServices Twitter feed.

Now they are challenging the Active Schools teams from local authorities all over Scotland to match their efforts at the #ASCoordinatorChallenge.

Fourteen of Renfrewshire Leisure’s Active Schools team took part in the video, which has had more than 4000 views since it was posted on Tuesday evening.

Chairperson of Renfrewshire Leisure, Councillor Lisa-Marie Hughes said: “Since most of us are being asked to stay at home during the coronavirus pandemic, it’s good to have some light relief in our lives.

“I have to admit I laughed out loud when I saw the video. Well done to the Active Schools team for coming up with the idea and using some technical wizardry to put the video together.”

27/03/2020/by Brian McGuire

Residents are being urged to recycle more than ever while the current government guidance is to remain at home wherever possible.

Bin collections in Renfrewshire are continuing to run as normal at this time (26 March), but the area’s recycling centres are currently closed.

With an expectation more waste will be created during this time, the council have offered a list of handy tips to help people reduce, reuse and recycle.

Wash and squash your cans, plastic bottles, tubs and trays – a good rinse is all you need to do.
Reuse any containers you can. They’re perfect for freezing any batch cooking.
Break down cardboard boxes to save space.
If you run out of food waste bags, use old newspaper or put it in directly until you can get more.
Visit lovefoodhatewaste.com for advice on how to avoid wasting food, using up those ingredients that are stuck in your cupboard and how to store it correctly.
The council website has a list of what should and should not go into each bin, do you know what goes where?

Residents are asked to ensure that parked cars do not obstruct collection vehicles to ensure that waste can be uplifted.

Renfrewshire Council Leader Iain Nicolson said: “This is an unprecedented time with everyone advised to stay at home unless it is essential that they leave for food, medical issues or to work in a key role.

“Being at home, you are going to create more waste than normal so I would encourage you to take recycling more seriously than ever to ensure you have the space you need in your bins.

“Our waste collections are running as normal at this time, but we need your support to help our fantastic frontline workers do their job so please be patient and show understanding for the position they are in.

“Our teams have been given the appropriate advice and PPE to carry out their role in line with government guidance and I want to thank them for the outstanding service they are providing at this time.

“To all our staff, partners, Unison, RHSCP, health workers and volunteers, thank you on behalf of us all on the way you have risen to the challenge in these difficult times.

“Let’s keep working together and show the strength of community that I know we have here in Renfrewshire.”

For the latest advice and guidance on Coronavirus, visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/coronavirus or follow the council on Twitter via @RenCouncil.

26/03/2020/by Brian McGuire

AGS AIRPORTS PLEDGES £40K TO

SIMON COMMUNITY’S HOMELESS APPEAL

AGS Airports, which owns and manages Glasgow Airport, has responded to the #GiveHope appeal launched by homeless charity, Simon Community Scotland, by pledging £40,000 which will be used to support some of the most vulnerable people in society during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

The funding will be used to support the purchase of hotel accommodation for people who are homeless where they will be able to stay in single rooms, allowing them to self-isolate if necessary whilst accessing the range of services offered by the Simon Community.

The charity launched the appeal in response to a lack of suitable shelter facilities within Glasgow, several of which had to close due to health concerns.

Derek Provan, chief executive of AGS Airports, said: “We initially contacted the Simon Community with the offer of using our second terminal after partially closing our buildings at Glasgow Airport. This is due to the lack of passenger demand as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“When it became clear this wasn’t a viable option and we learned of the very real plight facing the city’s homeless community, many of which have underlying health conditions, we quickly took the decision to redirect funds from our charitable FlightPath Fund.

“This is an extremely challenging time for businesses across the UK. We are all taking steps to protect our businesses and our employees, but also want to help those who really need it most and do whatever we possibly can to protect the most vulnerable in our society. The Simon Community does amazing work and everyone at AGS is pleased this money will help support the homeless at a time when it is needed most.”

Lorraine McGrath, Chief Executive of Simon Community Scotland, added “It is exactly this type of rapid humanitarian response that will assist us to not just provide comfort, dignity and somewhere safe for people to be, but it will undoubtedly save lives by protecting some of the most physically vulnerable people in Glasgow right now. We are hugely grateful for AGS Airports’ rapid response to our appeal and we hope many more come alongside them in helping us help those in the worst possible circumstances as this crisis grows”.

26/03/2020/by Brian McGuire

Issued on behalf of Renfrewshire Child Protection Committee.

With the closure of schools and nurseries during the Covid-19 outbreak, a national child protection group is urging everyone to keep their eyes and ears open for children who may be at risk during this time.

Child Protection Committees Scotland, a national grouping of child protection professionals, supports all efforts by the Scottish Government, local authorities and the third sector to keep children safe from harm during the enforced break in normal routine.

John Paterson, Independent Chair of Renfrewshire Child Protection Committee, recognises the impact a significant change in day-to-day life may have on vulnerable children.

“Schools and nurseries in Renfrewshire play a central role in contributing to the safety of all local children, especially those who may be at risk of abuse and neglect. When children are not at school we lose the ability to monitor their wellbeing on a daily basis, and we are making every effort possible to support those children and families who may need it during these demanding times.”

However, Renfrewshire Child Protection Committee stresses the need for the public to join efforts to protect potentially vulnerable children during the Coronavirus outbreak. John Paterson urges everyone to play a part to keep local children safe.

“The onus of care has now shifted from schools to local communities, and we’re asking everyone to keep their eyes and ears open. Local people always provide a significant protective factor for children and that’s even more important at a time when families may be under significant additional stress. If you’re at all worried about a child’s welfare, it’s much better to say something than do nothing.”

Renfrewshire Council urges everyone to take action if they’re concerned about a child or children. If you’re worried don’t hesitate to contact Social Work Services – 0300 300 1199 or call the police on 101.

25/03/2020/by Brian McGuire

On Saturday 7 March 14 couples rocked the dance floor at St. Vincent’s Hospice’s ninth annual Strictly Come Prancing event, raising more than £67,000 for the charity.

Based on the hit TV series, this year was the biggest in the organisations history with more than 500 people in attendance to witness the record setting evening. After a hard fought battle with contestants who have been training hard over the last several months to wow the judges, it was married couple Allan and Julie Greenlees who took home the trophy after a stunning Tango.

Fundraising Manager for St. Vincent’s Hospice, Carol-Anne Lamont said: “What an absolutely fantastic night and an amazing show from every single one of our prancers! It was one incredible performance after another, and special congratulations to Allan and Julie, who went all the way to a tense dance off, before being crowned the Strictly 2020 Champions.

“This event was a complete sell out and was our biggest and most successful Strictly event to date and we owe a massive thank you to not only all of our dancers, but to all of our sponsors for making the evening possible, Ingliston Hotel and Country Club for going above and beyond to make the evening go off without a hitch, and to all of our staff and volunteers who gave us their time to help out on the night.”

One of this year’s winners, Allan, said: “To be part of Strictly Come Prancing again was such a great honour, as I know from the previous year how much money is raised from the night. The Hospice plays a vital role in the local community, for families in their time of need and it is amazing to play my part in the fundraising effort. I can’t thank all the team enough for not only letting me back in this year, but for all the effort they put in to making the night happen.

His partner, Julie, said: “When Allan asked me to dance this year, I was a bit reluctant, however I’m so glad we did. Gordon and Rebecca did an amazing job teaching us our dance and did even better teaching it while we constantly argued about the steps! This was better than I ever imagined it would be and everyone taking part did brilliantly. To win was such a great feeling, although the standard was so high, we really were lucky! All 14 couples should be proud of what they achieved, and I can’t wait to watch again next year.”

St. Vincent’s Hospice is a specialist provider of palliative care, supporting individuals who are affected by a life-limiting condition.

Managing Director of Hillhouse Group, the Headline Sponsor of this year’s event, Robert McNaughton said: “Glad to hear that everyone, dancers and spectators had a great night. What an amazing amount of money raised and we would like to wish St. Vincent’s every success for the future.”

Event Host from the evening, Peter from Beautiful Events and Productions said: “This is the most successful Strictly in nearly 10 years of doing the event”

The Hospice is already looking forward to Strictly Come Prancing 2021 and welcome all applications from potential dancers and sponsors. For more information, please contact: Info@svh.co.uk.

25/03/2020/by Brian McGuire

THOUSANDS of youngsters and adults will be dancing the days away when they’re stuck at home due to measures introduced to beat the coronavirus pandemic.

Renfrewshire Leisure’s Active Schools team has produced a free online dance workshop video for people to follow at home.

And within hours of the sign-up for the video being launched, more than 800 people registered to be sent a link to download the dance workshop, on Wednesday, March 25.

The video workshop is led by a former dancer, Samantha Duncan, who is now an Active Schools Co-ordinator with Renfrewshire Leisure.

The 30-minute video features three dances, including one which shows moves that can be done sitting in a chair.

Renfrewshire Leisure’s chairperson, Councillor Lisa-Marie Hughes said: “It’s a shame that our clubs and activity camps have had to be cancelled, but we’ve all got to do our bit by staying at home, to help stop the coronavirus spreading further.

“To make sure everyone has the chance to stay active and have some fun to look forward to, we filmed a dance workshop that everyone can download for free and follow in their own homes.

“The dance workshop is not just for children and young people, the grown-ups can also join in. And if anyone is in a wheelchair or is not that steady on their feet, they can still take part because one of the dance routines can be done sitting in a chair.

“And we’d encourage everyone to share videos of their family’s dance moves on social media by tagging @RL4Leisure on Facebook and @RLSPortServices on Twitter using the hashtag #RLSportAtHome.”

Councillor Hughes added: “We’re all facing challenging times just now and we’d like to say a big thank-you to our customers for their understanding and support.”

Log on to www.renfrewshire-leisure.class4kids.co.uk to get the free download link for the dance workshop.

Photo Booth London

24/03/2020/by Brian McGuire

Our emergency timetables are now live on our website, you can access these at the following ➡️ https://t.co/T9CvkEY4C0

Thank you for your support 😊🚌 pic.twitter.com/O9eKp0ni67

— McGill's Buses (@Buses_McGills) March 20, 2020

23/03/2020/by Brian McGuire

Changes to S4-S6 process for exams

Statement from Steven Quinn, Director of Children’s Services

Following the statement by the First Minister today, we are currently asking all S4-S6 pupils not to attend school. The health and wellbeing of our communities, our pupils and our staff is our priority.

I understand the concern this will be causing our pupils and their parents and carers at this time.

I want to reassure you that we are doing everything possible to support our young people in ensuring that they gain the grades in their exams that they have worked so hard for. Your child’s school will be in touch over the next few days to offer greater clarity on the arrangements that will be put in place to best support them.

Thank you for your patience and continued support. We will work together to ensure our young people are not disadvantaged.

Which schools and nurseries are providing childcare?

The most recent advice issued by the Scottish Government is that schools and council-run nurseries should close other than for specified groups. These groups are as follows:

– children whose parents have been designated as essential workers

– the children and young people deemed most vulnerable or in need of support. The parents or carers of these individuals will be contacted directly by their school or nursery.

Pupils in S4-S6 should not attend school. Any pupils that need to complete coursework will be contacted by their school.

We are following Scottish Government directives and trying to strike a balance between respecting the health advice designed to stop the spread of the virus, while still supporting those most in need, allowing the frontline staff providing lifeline services to do so, and allowing older pupils the best possible chance of getting the qualifications they hoped for.

The following locations will be open to provide childcare for the children of essential workers who we can accommodate:

West Primary School in Paisley (primary only)
West Johnstone shared campus (primary and nursery)
St James’ Primary campus in Renfrew (primary and Moorpark nursery)
Hugh Smiley Early Learning and Childcare Centre in Paisley (nursery only)
Riverbrae School in Linwood (for ASN children)

School and nursery staff will be in on Monday 23 March and pupils will be able to attend from Tuesday 24 March. Schools and nurseries will be open each week from 9am until 3pm Monday to Friday for the time being. We are looking at the possibility of having them open until later in the day but cannot offer that at this stage. All children attending schools and nurseries from next week will receive a free school meal.

Following the latest guidance from the Scottish Government, pupils in S4-S6 should not attend school.

We plan to open secondary schools to provide childcare for eligible pupils in secondary school and older primary school pupils. We are currently working through these plans and we will confirm which schools we will be open as soon as we are able.

When will I hear if I have a childcare place?

Families who applied by 9am on Saturday morning are being contacted on Sunday 22 March to let them know if we can provide a childcare place or if we can’t at this time. The good news is we have been able to accommodate more than 1,300 children. For those who we could not accommodate we are sorry we can’t do more to help during what we know is a challenging time for working parents. We know some parents will be disappointed but we have to prioritise to those who need it most.

Our capacity to offer childcare to the families of key workers is limited by the number of available staff and by the need to ensure a safe level of social distancing for pupils. Demand for this service has far exceeded the capacity available, thus we have had to prioritise within the essential criteria, in line with government advice.

There are some families who we hope to be able to offer a place to later in the week but we cannot guarantee this. Those families have been contacted to make them aware and we will be in touch on Tuesday to confirm. Our staff are doing all we can to put this service in place at short notice and react to extremely fast-moving and unprecedented circumstances. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

So far we have only been able to consider applications received by 9am on Saturday. If you applied after that point we will be in touch on Tuesday to let you know if we can accommodate. If you believe you meet the criteria and haven’t applied you can still do so via this link.

Key workers

Please be aware we are now at capacity so we won’t be able to accommodate at this time. If more places can be made available we would consider your application then.

Can you appeal if you don’t get a childcare place?

We have accommodated as many people as we can. If you believe your application was wrongly rejected, email education@renfrewshire.gov.uk and we will consider whether you could be accommodated if more capacity becomes available.

What about pupil transport?

We are afraid we cannot offer school transport to the schools and nurseries that are open, given these arrangements are being put in place at such short notice. Parents who have a place at a school or nursery will need to make their own transport arrangements for the time being.

Where can I get more information?

Parents will be kept informed through their school and your child’s school will advise you on how they will keep in touch with you in due course. If you have a question that hasn’t been answered in this email, visit our FAQs on our school information webpage.