Latest Staff News

4 December - A mind boggling amount. Guess how many are wasted!

Over the festive period it is likely that we will consume more food and drink than at other times of the year. A mind-boggling amount of Christmas food becomes waste each year as more than one in every seven UK consumers purchases more food than they need. (*source GWP Group 2024)

Did you know that as many as 4.2 million Christmas dinners are wasted in the UK!

Consumers discard

• 263,000 turkeys
• 7.5 million mince pies
• 740,000 portions of Christmas pudding
• 17.2 million Brussels sprouts
• 11.9 million carrots
• 11.3 million roast potatoes.

Help to reduce your food waste

You can help to reduce your own food waste by planning meals in advance and making shopping lists before you go out to buy your goods.

• Visit our REDUCE - tips on reducing food waste - Glasgow City Council web pages for top tips on how to reduce your food waste and tasty recipes for using left over food.
• Love Food Hate Waste offers you 'How to Guides' to help you get started on reducing your food waste along with plenty of ideas and meal suggestions.
• For any festive food waste that is generated, please use the appropriate food bin for your property to dispose of it. For details of the types of food accepted for collection, the type of food bin for your property and how to order your indoor food caddy to help with recycling visit Food Waste Recycling - Glasgow City Council

Staggering Christmas food waste stats* include:

• In the UK, a typical Christmas sees Brits throw away two million turkeys.
• Five million Christmas puddings go to waste in the UK each year.
• UK residents throw 17 million Brussels sprouts away.
• The equivalent of a whole plateful of food per household goes to waste on Christmas Day, along with at least another plateful in the days immediately after.
• Some estimates suggest 74 million mince pies - of the total 175 million purchased - are also likely discarded.
• UK consumers bin two million kilos of cheese each Christmas.
• If you were to recycle all Christmas food waste into energy, it could power an average UK home for around 57 years.

More at REDUCE - tips on reducing food waste - Glasgow City Council

4 December - New cyber threat: be safe online this Christmas!

Christmas is the season of joy and goodwill. But regrettably it is the time when cyber criminals can have a field day with our online personal data.

This year there is a new cyber threat to be aware of - Quishing!

Quishing is where cyber criminals use QR codes to hide links to malicious websites and attack our data via our mobile devices which scan the code. Depending upon the nature of the website you could be asked to enter login credentials or financial details. This would then allow malware to be downloaded to your device which can steal your personal and financial data - especially on a mobile device where you may use it for online banking and not have the same level of security protections on it as your computer.

Protect your mobile data - attacks on the rise

Quishing by email is getting more and more common - especially at this time of year when you may be offered an 'exceptional Christmas deal' for a viral product on offer. However, victims have also fallen foul of these criminals when they have scanned a QR code from a poster in a public place from their mobile device. For example, in a restaurant or on a shared notice board.

How to prevent it

It can be hard to recognise a possible Quishing threat and spot a malicious QR code - as these codes don't reveal the full URL address before being scanned.

Therefore, you should be extra vigilant with any QR code before you interact with it. Only scan QR codes from 'trusted sources' and verify the context before scanning it. If you do scan the code, you must always check the URL carefully before entering any information. If in doubt, don't!

Similar to a potential Phishing attack you should watch out for email messages containing a QR code that:

• encourage you to act quickly and with urgency or authority
• are emotive and appeal to your caring nature
• may contain spelling mistakes and poor use of grammar
• are sent at strange times of the day or night.

Have a safe and happy Christmas

Being cautious whilst online and when using your devices out and about will help you have a safe and happy Christmas shopping experience.

Online safety tips

• Be wary of new retailers - check that any new retailer is showing full multiple methods of contact.
• Use retailers who have secured websites - these display a closed padlock in the status bar, and the URL will begin with 'https'.
• Run a regular scan of all your devices for malware.
• Don't use the same password for multiple online retailers.
• Set up a 'fraud alert' - contact a credit rating agency and request a fraud alert to be configured on your credit report.
• Delete emails from unrecognised senders. Bear in mind that you should never be asked to share any personal or financial information through email or text message.  If you are asked for this, hit the 'delete' button. 
• Check your bank, credit card and PayPal transactions regularly - allowing you to detect any unusual charges.  If you see anything suspicious, report it.
• Avoid connecting to a free public Wi-Fi network where possible as this could be easily compromised, and your data stolen. Use a VPN to secure your connection if you need internet access.
• Keep all your device software up to date.

More information - #Safe Glasgow - checking information to prevent cybercrime

4 December - Christmas shopping: 25% off staff discount  

With a great selection of gifting ideas instore and online, the perfect purchase is just one click away.

All staff can shop and save 25% on all purchases at our Glasgow Life Museum Shops - either in store or online.

Online

• Visit the online store.
• Simply create an account with Glasgow Life Online Shop using your work email.
• At the checkout, enter the code STAFF25 to apply your discount. (If you don't have a work-related email, please contact shop@glasgowlife.org.uk for assistance).

Instore

• You can also claim your 25% discount by showing your staff ID badge or a recent payslip at our shops at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Riverside Museum, Burrell Collection and GoMA.

Festive Opening Hours at https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/festive-opening-hours,

4 December - GUESS WHO? "I volunteer to work Christmas Day"

With the festive season fast approaching, not all staff across the council family will be taking a break over the festive season.  Our Customer Contact Centre is operational 24 hours a day for 365 days of the year and handles calls from Glasgow citizens and beyond.  Out-with normal business hours, the types of calls the contact centre receive are of an emergency nature including roads and lighting faults, pest control, trading standards, food safety, health and safety and dangerous buildings.  Historically, the calls on Christmas Day and New Years Day are usually of a roads and lighting faults nature. 

Catherine Edwin, Trainer, Customer and Business Services said, "I volunteer to work on Christmas Day as I have the family round later in the day. If I volunteer, it allows my colleagues to relax and spend time with their families and it also makes sure that the emergency lines can stay open for our Citizens over the festive period".

Uma David, Customer Service Adviser, Customer and Business Services (photo) added "I have volunteered to work during the festive period as I don't celebrate Christmas Day and New Year. This will give my colleagues who do celebrate, the opportunity to have some time off work with their family and friends. This ensures emergency lines can stay open for our citizens".

4 December - GUESS WHO? "December is one of our busiest months"

As we approach the festive season Glasgow Helps is open and ready to support those in need. December is one of our busiest months, and our focus remains on connecting people to the right services at the right time. Glasgow Helps is a free, confidential service here to help with whatever challenges you or those you support may face.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, phone us. Together, we can make this season a little brighter for everyone. 

The Glasgow Helps opening hours are Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Phone 0141 276 1185 to speak to one of our friendly advisors.

No credit, no problem! Use the link to request a call back: https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/article/6349/Glasgow-Helps-Referral-Form

We also recommend COPE's Winter Wellbeing Resource, which offers practical wellbeing advice for the colder months.

4 December - GUESS WHO? "Last Christmas Day we took nearly 600 calls"

HSCP's community alarm service is operational 24/7, including during the festive period and on Christmas Day. It is a support service for elderly and vulnerable people to help keep them safe in their homes and summon assistance in an emergency.

The service user has access to a device that allows them to contact the service from their home and puts them through to a call monitoring service. They will then assess the situation and decide if someone from the home care rapid response team can be sent to deal with the situation or if family or the emergency services should be called.

Chris Barton, Response Centre Manager, said: "We have 12 call handlers on shift on Christmas Day and another 15 staff working in the response team. There is usually a festive atmosphere among staff, and the morning shift tends to be quiet as a lot of service users are with family. However, it tends to pick up in the evening as they return to their own homes.

"Last year the team took 582 calls on Christmas Day, which was slightly less than our daily average for the month, which was 735. This year we will have 15 staff working in the response team; last year there were 79 callouts on Christmas Day, which is again slightly less than the average for the month, which was 84. We are expecting similar numbers this year.

"Some of the team will celebrate with their loved ones before or after their shift, and others will postpone their celebrations to Boxing Day- or the next available day. The staff know they play a critical part in keeping the service operational and that for some service users they will be the only person they see or speak to on Christmas Day."

4 December - GUESS WHO? "Serving up a festive feast on this scale is a huge challenge"

Our school catering teams are busy preparing for a huge feast this Christmas.

Over 37,000 pupils across the city's primary schools, secondary schools and early years establishments will tuck in to a Christmas lunch next week. A whopping 571 turkeys and 2.8 tonnes of sprouts will be cooked, as well as 1900 kg of potatoes and 795 kg of carrots, all accompanied by countless gallons of gravy.P

Stephen Sawers, Head of Facilities Management at Financial Services said: "Preparing a Christmas lunch on this scale is a challenge, but one our catering teams really enjoy. The schools are full of Christmas spirit in the build-up, and our hard-working staff are cooking up a Christmas storm to help them celebrate.

"We also have catering staff working over the festive period, including Christmas day, to cook and serve meals at the 21 children and adult residential homes that we provide services for.

"I hope that our pupils and residents enjoy their Christmas lunches, and I would like to thank our dedicated catering teams for their hard work throughout the year. I hope they all have a wonderful time over the festive period."

4 December - GUESS WHO? "The challenges are more difficult during the festive season"

The Scottish Welfare Fund (SWF) provides assistance through Crisis Grants and Community Care Grants to our citizens.  Crisis Grants provide Glaswegians with a safety net in the event of a disaster or emergency and Community Care Grants help citizens to leave care and live independently, or to continue living independently.

Mark Pettifer who works as an Administration Officer, Customer and Business Services said: "It is so important that we continue to provide the SWF service over the festive period to continue to support those in immediate need, especially when other services are closed. This can make a massive impact to customers who are struggling at a time where assistance can be limited. The feedback that we get during this time of year when helping those in crisis is highly appreciative which makes us in the Welfare Fund Team feel that we are making a big difference during an extremely challenging period".

Ross, Administration Officer, Customer and Business Services continued: "The Christmas and New Year holidays provide a much-needed seasonal break that is traditionally a happy time of year. However, for some of our residents this is not a time for festivities and fun.   Working within the Scottish Welfare Fund over the holidays allows us to proudly provide vital financial assistance to those who need it most, allowing service-users to purchase food for themselves and their families, to heat their homes and perhaps restore vital lines of communication.  The challenges our citizens face throughout the year is much more difficult during the festive season and I think a friendly voice on the line is most welcome at what can be a lonely time of year for many, where we can extend our support and warmth to our fellow residents in need".

4 December - GUESS WHO? "Emergency cover provided over festive period"

It is a busy time of year for our Registrars service, who register approx. 15,000 events each year. Thankfully staff will get some much-needed down time over the festive season as the service will close for Christmas and New Year. However they are open in between, offering a slightly reduced service over this festive period.

Emergency cover is also provided when the offices are closed for anyone who needs to contact the service with an urgent registration matter.

Audrey McMullan, Registration Service Manager said: "It is important to our customers and stakeholders that we can continue to deliver statutory registration services during the festive period, to allow funerals to take place at the earliest opportunity and to avoid any further distress or upset caused to families at what is an already difficult time.  Our emergency on-call number is available on our answer phone message for anyone who requires this. This is generally used for deaths where an urgent registration is required for a faith burial or a repatriation or in some cases for a marriage or civil partnership ceremony, whereby there is an urgent need for the ceremony to take place without further delay due to a terminal illness".

Further information on all our Registrars services is available at www.glasgow.gov.uk/registrars

4 December - GUESS WHO? "Continuing to operate for customers throughout the festive period"

City Property Markets, located at Blochairn, will continue to operate for customers throughout the festive period. The on-site team manages Glasgow Wholesale Market, Scotland's major fresh produce market which is used by businesses throughout Scotland, the north of England, and as far as the Faroe Islands. City Property Markets, a trading division of City Property (Glasgow) LLP also operates popular farmers markets in the city as well as one of the largest Car Boot Sales in Scotland, regularly attracting 200 sellers and 5,000 visitors to the Blochairn campus each Sunday.

Tom McIntyre, Markets Manager commented: "The Wholesale Market is the largest distribution centre in Scotland, with approximately 1,000 vehicles delivering to the market daily and approximately 540 people employed across the businesses that we have operating on site. It's vital that the wholesale market continues to operate and our team will be working hard to ensure that we are supporting our 34 on-site traders over the festive period. We'll also be operating Partick Farmers Market as normal, as well as Blochairn Car Boot Sale."

Partick Farmers Market will be open on 14, 21 and 28 December and Blochairn Car Boor Sale will open as normal on 22 and 29 December to ensure that Glasgow shoppers have every opportunity to pick up some festive treats and bargains.

Customers are advised to check City Property Markets website and social media for up to date opening times.

4 December - GUESS WHO? "Technical team on call 365 days a year"

City Property's technical team provide 24/7 cover, 365 days a year on call cover. The multi-disciplinary professional and technical team undertake a wide range of professional services and project management of the City Property Glasgow (Investments) LLP portfolio, as well as professional consultancy services to Glasgow City Council and ALEOs in connection with the management of surplus assets.

George McMillan, Head of Operations commented: "City Property's professional team provides a range of accredited services to the Glasgow Family, ensuring that the city's owned and managed property assets are looked after all year round. Our Technical Team will be on call as usual over the festive period to ensure continuity of service."

4 December - GUESS WHO? "Delighted to take part and host seasonal events"

Our Lord Provost and First Citizen of Glasgow, Cllr Jacqueline McLaren, plays a key role in the civic life of our city - working with and supporting many organisations. The weeks leading up to the festive season are particularly busy with lots of fun and exciting events for the Lord Provost to attend and her hard-working team to organise.   

Our winter programme of festivities kicks off with the city's iconic Christmas Light Switch On - the Lord Provost comments: "I am always delighted to take part in this seasonal event and see the excitement and joy it brings to people of all ages. It's a really special way to start the countdown to Christmas and is always guaranteed to lift spirits and get everyone in the festive mood."

Other key festive highlights for the Lord Provost include the annual St Andrew's Gala Dinner celebrations to mark Scotland's National Day. A fun evening with music and songs in aid of the Lord Provost's Charities - helping vulnerable and elderly citizens throughout Glasgow. This is closely followed by the Lord Provost's Children's Christmas Party, Baby's First Christmas and our Senior Citizens lunches held in the Banqueting Hall in the City Chambers. A very busy festive time indeed!

The Lord Provost continues: "Our annual tradition of hosting young people with additional support needs at our Children's Christmas Party is such a joyful and fun filled day with lots of happy faces and laughter. Santa himself even makes an appearance in between the dancing, Christmas meal and our amazing balloon animal artists. It really is such a special day to be part of this magic for our young people.  The following day I then get the pleasure of meeting our city's newborn babies at our Baby's First Christmas event. Families get to meet Santa in our wonderful grotto built and maintained by our City Building apprentices and are presented with a personalised certificate, a keepsake memento and photograph to treasure this special day."        

As well as hosting our young people, a week-long series of Christmas lunches are held to welcome and celebrate the festive season with our city's Senior Citizens. Around 250 guests attend each day and enjoy a Christmas meal, festive entertainment and dancing.

And finally, not forgetting our staff - the Lord Provost's Pop-up Festive Shop, based in the City Chambers allows staff and guests to buy Christmas goods from our Glasgow Life's shops where a portion of all profits goes to the Lord Provost's Charities.

4 December - Hot off the press!

Our new staff intranet will be launched early next year.

Our new site will provide a 'one stop shop' for all staff to be able to read the latest staff news and access key information to help support them in their role.

The site will include dedicated areas being made open and accessible to our front line workforce to view from any device with an internet connection - in exactly the same way as our current external staff site www.glasgow.gov.uk/staffupdates works.

Sensitive and operational material will remain protected and only viewable from a networked device.

More information will be communicated to staff before we go-live - so watch this space!

4 December - Top tips! 

Follow our top tips to help reduce your energy use this festive season -saving you money and reducing your carbon emissions.

• Switch from conventional Christmas lights to LED lights - this will reduce your energy consumption by 90%.
• Remember to turn off lights when you go out or go to bed.
• When cooking avoid repeated opening of the oven door as this lowers the oven temperature, wastes energy and increases cooking time.
• If you use a dishwasher, only wash full loads and use the energy-saving cycles.
• Turn off room lights when the tree is lit. The lights on your Christmas tree should provide more than enough lighting to navigate around the room.
• Turn your thermostat down when you have guests. Extra bodies in the house mean extra warmth at no cost to you.
• Avoid buying gifts that use electricity or batteries. There is a lot of money spent on batteries and a lot of energy used!
• Make a pledge to buy energy-free gifts and skip the expense entirely. If you must buy these, invest in rechargeable batteries or choose energy efficient appliances.
• Switch appliances off at the wall. TVs, DVD players, computers, printers, radios and many other electronics use energy even when they aren't turned on.

4 December - Party safe and get home safe: Nitezone

If you are going out to party in the city this festive season - you are being asked to plan ahead to make sure that you have the perfect end to a perfect night.

Stay safe this festive season and plan your journey home and always use a badged taxi.

Use a Nitezone

Glasgow's bustling nightlife will be even busier than ever - why not use one of the city's Nitezones where Home Safe Marshalls staff the taxi ranks and help keep the queues in order.

• Sauchiehall Street
• West George Street
• Gordon Street

Available from 11pm to 5am on:

• 6 and 7 December
• 13 and 14 December
• 20 and 21 December

Safe Zone

Volunteer Glasgow Street Pastors operate a Safe Zone in the former St George's Tron Church on a Friday and Saturday night during the festive period, for more info visit: https://gsp.scot/

Best Bar None

We want everyone to enjoy themselves throughout the party season, but to stay safe. And in a city which boasts 106 award-winning Best Bar None venues where staff and stewards are trained in customer safety, you know you're in good hands.

For more information visit  Best Bar None Glasgow - Best Bar None  for details and links to Best Bar None Glasgow venues.

4 December - WIN WIN WIN! Tickets to opening night to help launch our birthday year celebrations

Last month in our Staff News and 'Get Involved With' section we promoted that next year's iconic Celtic Connections Opening Concert will mark the start of Glasgow 850 - our city's year-long 850th birthday celebration.

'Let Glasgow Flourish' is the motto on the city's coat of arms, and this unique opening concert will pay tribute to the city's rich artistic heritage and flourishing future through a special night of surprises incorporating music, spoken-word, dance and film. 

WIN WIN WIN!

We are delighted to announce that we have two pairs of tickets to give away in a prize draw to staff to attend this epic opening concert on 16 January 2025 at 7.30pm at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall.

To enter

All you need to do is answer the following question and email your answer, along with your name and a contact email address to staffnews@glasgow.gov.uk before the closing date of Friday 20 December 2024.

The two lucky winners will be contacted by email with details of how to collect their prize.

Question

In what year was the first Celtic Connections festival held in Glasgow?

• General tickets on sale at www.celticconnections.com
• Get involved at Glasgow 850 - Glasgow 850

4 December - Public Holidays 2025

In accordance with council arrangements, the Public Holidays for 2025 are as follows and can be found on Connect at Glasgow Intranet - Public Holidays

4 December - Supporting staff who are carers - new staff guide

Thursday 21 November marked Carer's Rights Day.

Many people who are carers do not see themselves as such because first and foremost they are husbands, wives, partners, parents, grandparents, siblings or friends. Yet caring for someone can be a very demanding role and carers themselves may require support at different times. That is why we will do everything we can to support employees who are carers and we are a Carer Positive Employer.

The newly updated Supporting Employees who are Carers Guide, provides access to the range of policies, procedures and guidance in place to help employees balance life both within and outside of work.

You can find the guide at Supporting Employees who are Carers.

You can also visit our dedicated information pages at Workforce Wellbeing Support.

Find out about Carers Employee Support Network

4 December - Calling all young book lovers

Winter is a magical time of year and all Glasgow Libraries are challenging young book lovers to curl up with a good story this winter. Borrow and read any 3 books to complete the challenge and receive a certificate and colour-in bookmarks.

Taking part in the Winter Reading Challenge is FREE and open to children aged up to 12 years old.

The challenge starts on 2 December 2024 and runs to 4 January 2025. 

Visit your local library to discover amazing festive fiction and non-fiction. Check out our recommended reading lists on the Glasgow Libraries Online Catalogue. Festive Opening Hours at https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/festive-opening-hours,

November 

6 November - Glasgow confirmed as host city of 2026 Commonwealth Games

Last month the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) officially announced Glasgow as the host city of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

The 23rd edition of the Commonwealth Games will take place from Thursday 23 July to Sunday 2 August 2026, returning to the city 12 years after the hugely successful 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Glasgow 2026 will feature a 10-sport programme concentrated across four venues within an eight-mile corridor, ensuring an action-packed broadcast schedule across each day of competition and making the event accessible and appealing to spectators looking to enjoy the multi-sport environment and festival feel.

With over 500,000 tickets to be made available at a future date, there will be around 3,000 of the best athletes competing from up to 74 Commonwealth nations and territories that represent 2.5 billion people - one-third of the world's population.

Para sport will once again be fully integrated as a key priority and point of difference for the Games, with six Para sports included on the sport programme.

The sports programme will include Athletics and Para Athletics (Track & Field), Swimming and Para Swimming, Artistic Gymnastics, Track Cycling and Para Track Cycling, Netball, Weightlifting and Para Powerlifting, Boxing, Judo, Bowls and Para Bowls, and 3x3 Basketball and 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball.

The Games will take place across four venues: Scotstoun Stadium, Tollcross International Swimming Centre, Emirates Arena - including the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, and the Scottish Event Campus (SEC). Athletes and support staff will be housed in hotel accommodation.

Subscribe to the Glasgow 2026 newsletter to receive regular updates on the 2026 Commonwealth Games at https://www.glasgow2026.com/get-involved/sign-up

More information at https://www.glasgow2026.com/

6 November - Take a look at what's been going on behind the scenes at the People's Palace

The People's Palace is closed for a major refurbishment. Situated at the heart of Glasgow Green, one of our city's oldest green spaces, it is Glasgow's social history museum featuring a fascinating collection of objects, photographs, prints and film, exploring many stories of life in the city over the last two centuries.

Thanks to the recent funding secured from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, this exciting transformational project can begin. This much-loved attraction will reopen, unveiling a reimagined and restored museum and glasshouse where visitors will be able to learn more about the history of the city and how Glaswegians lived, worked and played.

Take a look at what's been going on behind the scenes at the People's Palace:Watch a short video with Pamela Hallan, Decant Manager at Glasgow Lifeshowing how precious objects are being carefully packed and stored as refurbishment work begins.

More information at People's Palace — Glasgow Life

6 November - Calling all Glaswegians: unique opportunity to be part of our city's 850th birthday celebrations 

Throughout 2025 Glasgow will mark its 850th birthday by delivering, with partners, a year long, citywide, programme that celebrates and reflects on our recent past, our present and future.

The programme of signature events and community-based activities will encourage those with a connection to Glasgow, at home and abroad, to get involved to tell their stories, honouring our rich heritage, reflecting on our transformational growth, and inspiring ambitious change for the city's next fifty years.

Marking this milestone acknowledges the contributions of generations who have shaped the city, gives a platform to grow a shared sense of belonging and invites people to guide our sustainable future.

As part of this, we are running a programme to recruit volunteers who will be part of the celebrations, and create a volunteer community that supports each other, provides opportunities to gain experience and engage while representing the city they call home.

Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are being sought to support the celebrations around Glasgow 850's yearlong programme of activities, next year.

The Glasgow 850 Volunteer and Employability programme will offer Glaswegians, a unique opportunity to play a key part in the city's birthday year, with opportunities to support the smooth running of its main events, and roles within local community projects.

Bailie Annette Christie, Chair of Glasgow Life, said: "Throughout 2025, the city will host an array of events and activities to mark Glasgow 850. To contribute to the success of this we are looking for volunteers with a love for Glasgow and desire to be part of the milestone year.

"We are looking to build an inclusive community of people who will, over the year, volunteer to support our core programme of activity and be at the heart of our city celebrations.

"Working with Volunteer Glasgow, the programme has been specifically developed to be as flexible as possible and provide a range of opportunities that suit people's different interests."

How to Get Involved

The programme aims to engage volunteers who have a connection to Glasgow and who represent the city.

The registrations will be managed via Volunteer Glasgow. Go to volunteerglasgow.org and either log into your volunteer account or register for an account with Volunteer Glasgow. Once logged in, search 'Glasgow 850' and the opportunity 'Glasgow 850 Registration' should appear. Click 'Apply' to register your interest with Glasgow 850 volunteering opportunities.

While you are there, why not have a look at other volunteering opportunities in the city that may be of interest.

Once you have registered, you will receive a request to provide additional information about yourself and your interests. This will help us ensure we have a team that is representative of the city, as well as provide some insight into what will be of most interest to you.

Should you have any questions, email us at glasgow850volunteering@glasgow.gov.uk.

6 November - Meet Craig from NRS: riding through grief and supporting others

When Craig White, Service Dispatch Officer (ASL Transport) at Neighbourhoods, Regeneration and Sustainability met Gordon Bissell for the first time six months ago, they felt an instant connection.  Although they both attended the same school in Paisley years earlier and had ridden motorbikes since the age of 16, what really brought them together was both being widowed earlier this year.

Craig met his wife Sarah when they were working at the Olympics in London in 2012 and they reconnected in Glasgow in 2014 for the Commonwealth Games.  Craig said: "There was an instant click, she moved up to Paisley from Sheffield and we got married the following August - life was perfect."

Unfortunately, in 2022 Sarah was told she had stage four stomach cancer, with only 12 to 18 months to live.  Throughout this time Sarah remained strong. Craig explains: "Two days before she died, Sarah gave me a book, 'Things to do When I'm Gone' - my very own bucket list of actions. It included tasks that I thought were possible - such as riding my motorbike along the iconic Scottish North Coast (NC500), to tasks I thought I could never complete, such as starting a YouTube channel to connect with others in a similar situation!

"However, with lots of encouragement and support from my friends and family I launched my Riding Through Grief video series on YouTube earlier this year. This is how I met fellow biker Gordon, who sadly lost his wife Ruth of 38 years, also to cancer, earlier this year.

"Men aren't good at talking to each other about how they feel! Riding Through Grief has helped Gordon and I to start conversations by talking openly about our own feelings and experiences - which has helped us to connect with others. The format for the channel is simple, it's a bike ride and a chat.  Through it we have created a positive and supportive online community where bikes and grief are the main themes. It's great to connect with people from all over, I mean when Gordon and I started chatting we could have been talking to each other from anywhere in the world - yet we were just a few miles apart!"

Craig concludes: "The first time I attempted the NC500, I had to give up due to grief but just a few months later, I completed it.  I really believe that Gordon and I are doing what Sarah and Ruth would have wanted - helping ourselves and others to live again."

• For further information, visit www.youtube.com/@RidingThroughGrief
• Visit our workforcewellbeing page for health and wellbeing support and contact details for our Employee Assistance Provider if you need to chat to someone about how you are feeling - 24/7 in confidence.

6 November - Pop along and find out why fostering is where the everyday means EVERYTHING

The next phase of our Dear Diary campaign has been launched and we are hoping it will dispel the myths of fostering.

The Dear Diary series illustrates a diary entry describing the quality time spent with foster carers through a simplistic animation from a child's perspective. The campaign will be seen across the city and will be aired on TV and radio backed up by social and digital media.

You can watch our campaign video at  https://youtu.be/PKzMkwCrBMY

We would love to hear from you:

• if you could help families in Glasgow by inviting a child into your home for one or two evenings or a weekend once a month
• If you or anyone you know could offer full time care to a child or young person
• If you have a spare bedroom and want to help children and young people - then please get in touch.

Pop along - open evening

Why not come along to our open information evening at the City Chambers on Monday 11 Nov from 5pm until 7pm. Our friendly staff will be there to answer any questions you have.

Mairead Fagan, Service Manager at Families for Children said: "Many of our short break carers work full time and really enjoy providing a weekend or a few nights a month knowing that they are making a real difference. If you think you have what it takes to make a difference to the children of Glasgow by being a full time or a short break carer then please get in touch."

Fostering is where the everyday means EVERYTHING

Please visit www.fosterglasgow.org

Want to chat about fostering or adopting? Phone 0345 276 5555

or email families.children@sw.glasgow.gov.uk

www.facebook.com/glasgowfamiliesforchildren

6 November - GCHSCP Health Improvement Annual Report 2023 to 2024

Glasgow City HSCP Health Improvement Annual Report demonstrates the exemplary work the Health Improvement Team have achieved throughout the city.

The team's focus as always, is improving health and wellbeing and reducing health inequalities.

The report captures the wide range of programmes and developments that staff are continuing to support, in what has been a financially challenging climate.

It continues to highlight the important emphasis on mental health, poverty and inequality, which remain key causes of ill health within the city. 

It reflects GCHSCP's refreshed strategic direction, and the important role of staff, volunteers, modern apprentices and partnership working across the city, in the aim to reduce health inequalities within our communities.

Highlights include:

• The Community Links Worker programme, which carried out 37,700 appointments, supporting patients referred by GPs to address a wide range of issues. Service users reported a significant increase in wellbeing.
• Place-based work in identified neighbourhoods where Health Improvement staff work in partnership with local, citywide and national organisations, empowering local people to address the issues that matter to them and to build local networks.
• Partnership work with Public Health Scotland to produce a collection of fully anonymised composite stories and posters reflecting the realities and experiences of gambling exposure, participation, risks and harms for people in Glasgow.
• Dedicated work with the Deaf community to reduce barriers to accessing health services, including staff awareness sessions and British Sign Language classes.

You can view the report at Health Improvement Annual Report for 2023 to 2024.

6 November - Drop off your pre-loved children's clothes this winter at one of our donation pods: City Chambers Complex

Our No Wrong Door Partner, ApparelXchange, are looking for donations of pre-loved children's clothes to help other children across the city this winter.

What can I donate?

• Donations of clothes, jackets, shoes and accessories for children up to age 18 years will be gratefully accepted
• Please make sure all items are clean and folded.
• However, they are also able to accept  clothing that might be damaged or stained - as they will repair and clean them if they can.

So don't hold back, have a good clear-out, and play your part to help the environment by recycling your pre-loved items.

Where can I donate?

• You can pop your items into one of our pods until the 23 of December
• Donation pods are located at across the City Chambers Complex at:
  • City Chambers West - Main Entrance
  • City Chambers East - 40 John Stret Reception
  • Exchange House - 231 George Street Reception

ApparelXchange is committed to providing affordable, sustainable fashion for all children across the city. They offer clothing packages (accessible through referrals) in their Southside shop or also online.

For any questions regarding this partnership initiative email Geraldine.Norval@glasgow.gov.uk 

6 November - "We still keep in touch. I'm so proud of how far she's come."

Jacqueline Murphy who works in the Business Support team for Neighbourhood and Regeneration Services, has been mentoring with MCR Pathways for seven years.

Jacqueline says, "I got involved with mentoring after attending an information session and being inspired by the positive impact that mentors have on young people. I had no previous experience working with teenagers but believed that I could support and encourage a young person to realise their potential.

"I've just been matched with my fourth young person who I'm looking forward to meeting. I built a longstanding bond with my last young person, we shared a mutual love of music and going to live gigs so used to chat about that. When she left school, she gave me a card that expressed how much gratitude she had for me as her mentor. She said she knew she could always count on me and thanked me for having faith in her.

"We still keep in touch and meet up for a coffee every so often; she's now studying law at college. I'm so proud of how far she's come; to see her overcome challenges and be at her side through her achievements was an incredible experience.

"I'd encourage anyone to consider mentoring, if you can spare an hour a week you can make such a difference in a young person's life."

Join our online session to find out more...

MCR are urgently seeking mentors for the following schools: All Saints, Drumchapel, John Paul Academy, Springburn, St Thomas Aquinas, Bannerman, Eastbank, Lochend, St Mungo's, St Roch's, Smithycroft, Whitehill, Castlemilk and Govan. 

If you live or work close to any of these schools please consider signing up. You can find out more at our MCR Staff Page or you can join an online session. Please click the link below to register your interest for the session that you would like to attend:

• MCR Pathways- Information Session- 20/11/24 12-12.30pm
• MCR Pathways- Information Session 28/11/24 9.30-10am

6 November - Supporting your financial wellbeing: dedicated factsheet including Bus Discount!

If you need to chat to someone because you are worrying about your financial wellbeing we have several support routes available to you as outlined in our staff financial wellbeing factsheet.

All are recommended Government approved pathways offering free, impartial and confidential money advice and support. The comprehensive list is divided into key sections to help you to find what you need easily - includes key discounts/offers available to you on local public transportsuch as:

• First Bus Glasgow, Commuter Travel Club - 20% discount on monthly tickets (paid via Direct Debit). Click on Commuter Travel Club | First Bus , go to the bottom of the page, register with your name and set up your personal password. Select Glasgow City Council from the dropdown menu and login using Password: GCC-FIRSTBUS-CTC
• Glasgow Tripper Ticket - travel in around Glasgow for less than £3 per day with a multi bus operator ticket. Day, weekly and four-week tickets are available, as well as flexi day bundles - no need to buy multiple tickets for different buses anymore!  More information at Glasgow Tripper - Unlimited Bus Travel Across Glasgow on how to buy tickets via the app or how to sign up for your Glasgow Tripper Smart Card.

For more information

• Visitour dedicated staff financial wellbeing support page 
• Visit Staff Travel Resources and Discounts - Glasgow City Council

October

2 October - Don't forget to share your Glasgow stories and memories with us: events announced!

With the city celebrating its 850th birthday next year - we are asking you to help us mark this milestone in the city's history and share with us what Glasgow means to you.

Everyone with a connection to the city, whether as a staff member serving our citizens, or working and also living here - you are invited to share your memories, stories, ambitions for the future, work related or not!

For example, we would love to hear your memories around:

• How do you think the city has changed over the past 50 years since our last birthday milestone celebration?
• What is your best memory of Glasgow?
• Is there a location in Glasgow that holds a special place in your heart and why?
• How has working for the council changed over the years?
• What makes Glasgow the place you call home?
• Do you have a workplace tale to tell?
• Looking ahead what are your aspirations for our city for the next fifty years?
• What makes you proud to be a Glaswegian?
• What makes you proud to work for the Glasgow family?

Showcasing your stories

We are keen to tell stories of the things that unite us as a workforce, but also highlight the diversity in our organisation, that is also reflective of our city.

So - please get in touch and share your story at staffnews@glasgow.gov.uk and you never know you could be appearing in our staff news or on a screensaver next year as part of our staff engagement activity!

Celebrations - events

Central to our yearlong birthday celebrations - details have now been published on a new website showcasing what people can get involved in throughout 2025.

Working with partners, our city-wide programme next year will celebrate and reflect on our recent past, our present and future. Central to the programme are signature activities including a music event, a pop-up exhibition and citywide food trail.

These events will be enhanced at the beginning and end of year by St. Mungo and Celtic Connections activity. The Lord Provost of Glasgow will also host a civic programme celebrating Glasgow's famous faces and community champions, and a number of partnerships with businesses will add to the experience for visitors and citizens alike.

In addition, the new Glasgow 850 Festival Fund is supporting established and popular city events to strengthen their impact and reach in local communities.

Volunteers

Glasgow 850 will also be an opportunity to get together with other volunteers and share your memories and experiences, building a community of volunteers and showcasing all you do for the city you call home. More information will be available next month.

Keep up to date

To keep up to date with news and information about Glasgow 850 and register your interest in volunteering, please Join our Mailing List.  More information will be released next month on the volunteering programme.

Visit the new Glasgow 850 website for more details at www.glasgow850.com 

2 October - Tell us about any changes

It's important to make sure that you keep your personal information on My Portal up to date - such as your home address and bank details.

This is to make sure that we have the most up to date information for you. So please tell us about any changes as soon as possible - so that we can get in touch with you when required.

To check and update your details

• visit My Portal on Connect.
• Login as usual
• Select Employee Services
• Select Personal Information
• Check, enter and change your information as required.

2 October - The Big Govan Community Litter Pick

Last month Jim Ellis, Govan Neighbourhood Coordinator, Neighbourhoods, Regeneration and Sustainability helped bring together several local businesses to work in partnership with the community to undertake a local litter pick.

The 'Glasgow Business for the Environment Group' (GBE) work with schools, housing associations and local partners to develop environmental projects that will benefit the surrounding community.

So, at the start September this partnership group gathered together an amazing 300 volunteers to hit the streets and take part in a Govan wide litter pick.

As Jim explains: "This event was a great example of collaborative working - bringing together a whole host of local volunteers from schools, housing associations and businesses for a common community goal.

"Supported by our Neighbourhood Improvement and Enforcement Team it was not only really important for the community on the day as we removed a staggering 175 bags of waste from 10 local locations - but we were also able to help promote the 5 Litter Hubs in the Govan area. The outcome of all our hard work had such a positive impact on the local environment and raised positive interest with several local residents about future events.

"All GBE group members who took part, including, Barclays, House of Sher, BBC, STV and BAE Systems partners now have access to key information needed to hold their own future events locally - which are already in the planning stages for next year!"

2 October 2024 - Helping to explain complex issues in a simple way: real Glasgow examples

We recently marked the end of Climate Week 2024 during which organisations across Scotland have shared their stories for change relating to the climate emergency.  Climate change is an urgent problem and therefore we need to embed climate adaptation and mitigation in every action we take. Events such as climate week allow us to promote and celebrate our achievements. More information on Scotland's Climate Week 2024 can be found here and for more information on the council's actions, please take a look at our social media or visit the sustainability webpage here.

Climate education is an essential step in helping us all to take action to reduce emissions and build resilience. The new Climate Literacy GOLD course provides an introduction to climate science, mitigation and adaptation and will help us to spread the knowledge and understanding needed to support action within our roles at work and in our personal lives.

The new Climate Literacy GOLD course is now available on the homepage of GOLD. Complete the training to learn more or refresh your knowledge on climate issues and understand how we can all can take action.Take the course here.

As Gavin Slater, Head of Sustainabilityexplains: "By providing all staff the opportunity to learn about climate change, we can empower action across the city. Understanding what is happening to our climate and what that means for Glasgow allows us all to apply learning to our everyday life."

Joanna, a Project Officer Graduate from Financial Services, has already completed the course and said: "I really liked the Climate Literacy GOLD course. It was easy to follow and very informative. The way complex ideas were explained in a simple way made it much easier to understand. I especially appreciated the use of visuals like charts and images, which helped clarify the information. The short videos were also very helpful, providing examples that made the content more engaging. Overall, the course was a great balance of being informative and easy to grasp."

2 October - National Hate Crime Awareness Week 2024

Glasgow's Hate Crime Awareness Week takes place from 7 until 14 October 2024 and the overarching campaign message is 'Glasgow is my city, there is no place for hate'. You'll see our awareness campaign on show throughout the city on SPT Subway Carriages, on BT Hubs and hear about it on Go, Clyde, Awaz and Nation Radio. You can follow the social media campaign on the hashtags #NationalHCAW #NoPlaceForHate #SafePlaceForAll #PeopleMakeGlasgow

Look out for daily posts on our council social media platforms drawing attention to each of the protected characteristics and a new video produced which will launch during the week, highlighting racist and offensive graffiti with details of how to report any accounts of vandalism through the My Glasgow App.

More information

• Find out more about hate crime and how to report it at www.hatecrimeglasgow.org
• Find out more about National Hate Crime Awareness Week at www.nationalhcaw.uk

Colleagues within the council family are encouraged to undertake our Hate Crime Awareness course on GOLD. Click here to take our Hate Crime Awareness Gold course.

2 October - Nourishing futures: a recipe for success

For the third consecutive year the council has achieved the renewal of the 'Food for Life Served Here' Bronze Award status for serving up fresh, local and sustainable school meals to pupils across our 141 primary schools and 112 early year sites - that is 37,000 healthy meals every day.

This is the first year Glasgow's nurseries and early years establishments have been included as certified sites, highlighting our ongoing commitment to putting healthy food onto plates. The hard work and dedication of everyone involved has once again been recognised as part of the independent assessment led by Soil Association Scotland.

The Bronze level award certifies Glasgow's school meals are free from trans fats, sweeteners and additives, and use free range eggs, higher welfare meat and ingredients from sustainable and ethical sources.

Stephen Sawers, Head of Catering and FM, Financial Services:"I am incredibly proud of the team and all our staff who deliver exceptional catering services day in and day out."

"It is a fantastic achievement to have our 'Food for Life Served Here' Bronze status renewed and now extended to include early years establishments too."

"The successful renewal of this, is a testament to the positive food journey we are on here in Glasgow and our commitment to ensure fresh, local and sustainable food is on the plates of all our young people."

More information

You can read more here: Glasgow City Council gains Bronze Award for early years

2 October - City Building raises staggering amount for charity

City Building has raised almost £7,000 for Breast Cancer Now.

As part of their commitment to giving back to communities, they have undertaken several fundraising initiatives to support the UK's largest breast cancer research and care charity.

Most recently, City Building's manufacturing division, Royal Strathclyde Blindcraft Industries (RSBi) - the largest supported employer in the UK - hosted a special afternoon tea event at its premises.

The event raised an impressive £935, bringing employees together to support Breast Cancer Now's vital work and enhancing RSBi's focus on social inclusion. RSBi provides employment and training opportunities for individuals with disabilities, with more than half of its workforce having additional learning needs or a physical disability.

Earlier this year, City Building made a significant corporate donation of £5,000 to Breast Cancer Now, while a successful Wear It Pink Day raised £970 for the same cause.

Through these efforts, City Building has contributed a total of £6,955 to Breast Cancer Now over the past year in support of some of their colleagues. These donations will help fund life-saving research and provide much-needed support for those affected by breast cancer across the UK.

City Building's Executive Director, Alan Burns, said:"We are incredibly proud of our contribution to Breast Cancer Now. The fundraising events organised by our people have also been great fun, uniting our teams for a fantastic cause.

"City Building's social ethos goes beyond construction, and we are committed to building a sustainable and caring community for everyone. Supporting charities such Breast Cancer Now is integral to upholding our values, and we look forward to continuing our fundraising efforts in the future."

2 October - Seeking new Childminders in Glasgow: share with friends and family

The Scottish Childminding Association (SCMA) is supporting the recruitment and training of new professional childminders in Glasgow through a targeted and supported recruitment campaign.  Childminders are in demand - and there is an urgent need from families for more high-quality, flexible childcare in your area. 

If you know anyone who would like a new, rewarding career that's flexible and allows them to earn an income while caring for their own family - then this could be a great opportunity for them to get started in childminding!

Childminders are able to develop new skills and qualifications whilst also contributing to a child's development, learning and wellbeing - through running a business from home. No specific professional qualifications are required, but it is essential that you have a passion for working with, and supporting the learning and development of children. Following induction training there is an ongoing requirement for completing 12 hours of continued professional learning (CPL) per year to ensure the high quality of your childminding business. All professional childminders are registered with the Care Inspectorate.

What support is available?

A SCMA's dedicated Workforce Officer will support candidates through induction training and the registration process - providing access to: 

• Free induction training
• Continued one-to-one support from a dedicated Workforce Officer, plus your first year of SCMA membership free
• A minimum £750start-up grant
• Free start-up package of three childminding-specific training courses.

Know someone who may be interested?

Visit www.childminding.org/getstarted to register interest. If you'd like an informal chat about getting started in childminding, please contact SCMA on 01786 449063 or email lisa.o'hare@childminding.org

2 October - What's Stopping You?

MCR Pathways launched their new 'What's Stopping You? 'campaign last month. The campaign aims to help break down common barriers that prevent people from signing up to become a mentor.

Celia Brown, Business Support Assistant in the Chief Executive's Department has been mentoring for over five years and says, "I was inspired to get involved with MCR Pathways after watching mentored young people speak at an event. They spoke about the impact mentoring had on them and how it had changed their lives, I was blown away."

"I've now been mentoring for over five years and am currently mentoring my fourth young person. The experience has given me so much confidence and opened new opportunities. Due to my involvement with MCR Pathways, I had the opportunity to work in a temporary post for the 'Talent Tasters' programme in Education Services. The programme gave young people a chance to try out a work, college or university placement in bitesize sessions; it is something I'm incredibly proud to have been a part of and I credit my mentoring experience and the new skills I gained with my success in getting that role and my recent role in Chief Execs.  There's nothing like an unrelated teenager to challenge your comfort zone and develop your interpersonal skills!

"People have pre-conceptions about mentoring, which is what the new campaign aims to challenge. You don't need a mentoring background or experience of working with young people, and you aren't there to solve their problems. All you need to do is turn up and listen for one hour each week, it really is that simple.

Join our online session to find out more...

MCR are urgently seeking mentors for Bannerman High School, so if you are in or around the Bailieston are please consider signing up. You can find out more at our MCR Staff Page or you can join an online session. Please click the link below to register your interest for the session that you would like to attend:

• MCR Pathways- Information Session Wednesday 23/10/24 at 12pm-12.30pm
• MCR Pathways- Information Session Thursday 31/10/24 at 9.30am-10.00am

September

6 September - Could you be the next star of our screens? Tell us what Glasgow means to you

With the city celebrating its 850th birthday next year - we are asking you to help us mark this milestone in the city's history and share with us what Glasgow means to you.

Everyone with a connection to the city whether as a staff member serving our citizens or working and also living here, is invited to share memories, stories, ambitions for the future, work related or not!

We are keen to tell stories of the things that unite us as a workforce, but also highlight the diversity in our organisation, that is also reflective of our city.

Working with partners we are delivering  a citywide programme throughout 2025 that celebrates and reflects on our recent past, our present and future.

So whether you have more years' service than you care to mention or have recently joined the Glasgow family we want to hear from you!

We will be looking to shine a light on our staff, share your stories, quotes and show photos across various corporate channels throughout the year - including our screensavers, TV screens in depots and our staff website.

So, get involved and share your moment at staffnews@glasgow.gov.uk Before Friday 27 September 2024

For example:

• What is your best memory of Glasgow?
• Is there a location in Glasgow that holds a special place in your heart and why?
• How do you think the city has changed over the past 50 years since our last birthday milestone celebration?
• How has working for the council changed over the years?
• What makes Glasgow the place you call home?
• Do you have a workplace tale to tell?
• Looking ahead what are your aspirations for our city for the next fifty years?
• What makes you proud to be a Glaswegian?
• What makes you proud to work for the Glasgow family?

Susanne Miller, Chief Executive said: "Marking the city's 850^th birthday is an opportunity that goes beyond celebrations and commemorations. It acknowledges the contributions of generations who have shaped the city, gives a platform to grow a shared sense of belonging and for us invites staff to guide our future."

The calendar of signature events and community-based activities will be launched this month and aims to provide a range of different activities for people to get involved in.  Programme and more information available at Glasgow 850 - Glasgow City Council (gosshosted.com)

6 September - Do you know a young person in Glasgow aged 10 to 26 years - who maybe needs some support?

Glasgow City HSCP funds mental health provision that is quickly and easily accessible to a range of young people dependent on their needs.

To help support our young people in Glasgow please share the following key services with your friends and family - so that they know where to signpost them to for free mental health support.

1.    Age 10 to 15 - can self-refer online

Kooth is an evidence based, clinically moderated, 24/7 online peer to peer Mental Health Community, commissioned by Glasgow City Council Education Services in 2022. It is freely available to young people aged 10 to 15 years with a Glasgow postcode. The contract has been renewed by our HSCP until March 2025.

Young people can access Kooth support services 24/7. In addition to chatting with qualified counsellors through the text-based service, they can message the team any time, join fully moderated support forums, read the online magazine, and utilise other self-help tools. Kooth supports young people with anything they are going through, including body image, self-esteem, bereavement, academic pressures, suicidal thoughts, friendships, bullying, low mood and anxiety.

• You can read more about Kooth 
• You can watch a short film about Kooth
• Digital resources for Kooth
• Visit the website www.kooth.com

2.    Age 16 to 23 - can self-refer online

Togetherall is an evidence based, clinically moderated, 24/7 online peer to peer Mental Health Community, commissioned by Glasgow City Council Education Services in April 2020. It is freely available to young people aged 16 to 23 years with a Glasgow postcode. The contract has been renewed by our HSCP until March 2025.

Togetherall can be used for anyone experiencing concerns with their mental health, low level anxiety and depression, common life stressors or anyone who would like to gain 24/7 community and professional support online to help enhance their own wellbeing.

• You can read more about Togetherall
• You can watch a short film about Togetherall
• A resource and referral pack for staff
• Visit the website  www.togetherall.com

3.    Age 16-25* - professional referral only by telephone/face to face

(*26 if care experienced. There is an additional pathway for 14 to 15 year olds via CAMHS, Glasgow City Youth Health Service and Social Work only.)

Young People's Compassionate Distress Response Service (CDRS) is an alternative, non-medical response for young people experiencing acute emotional distress. Following referral via a range of pathways including GP practices, CAMHS, Youth Health Service, Social Work and Education, young people are called by a Distress Response Worker within 24 hours. They receive compassionate listening and distress alleviation, and follow-up for up to 4 weeks.

For more information, to view a short film CDRS | Glasgow Association for Mental Health (gamh.org.uk)

To make a referral, call 0141 406 0899 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. Please note that  NHS 24 mental health services are available to everyone in Scotland, of all ages. The services offered include listening, offering advice, and guiding to further help if required.

6 September - Don't forget time is running out

All council family staff are reminded that they need to take our 2024 Information Security and Data Protection Course as soon as possible - if not already done so.

The course must be taken by us all each year to comply with core policies and make sure that we all understand our role and responsibilities when handling information - to help protect our buildings, staff, data and citizens. 

Uptake of the course is being monitored across the whole council family.

Taking the course

Online

• The quickest and easiest way to take this course is on GOLD here as it is accessible from any device with an internet connection.
• For example, you can login using your own device at home, to take the course, at a time that is convenient to suit your own personal circumstances.
• You just need your 8 digit SAP number and your GOLD login password.
• Visit Connect for support and guidance on using GOLD and information on passwords.

Hardcopy version

• However, if you are unable to access GOLD your manager can supply you with an alternative format of this course and record that you have taken it - using the information on our #Safe Glasgow pages on Connect.

More details at:

• Glasgow Intranet - Staff Security Messages and Annual Information Security Course
• Glasgow Intranet - Online Resources and GOLD
• Glasgow Intranet - Keeping our information safe

6 September - Customers are always at the heart of everything: City Building awarded Customer Service Excellence Accreditation

City Building undertakes nearly half a million repairs annually and strive to deliver cost effectiveness working in collaboration with the council and Wheatley Housing Group.

Their award, which is independently externally assessed is aimed at bringing a professional, high level of customer service concept into their delivery - through a unique professional tool which puts our customers at the core of what we do.

There are 57 criteria points within the assessment with an expectation of efficient, effective, excellent, equitable and empowering customer service - with the customer always and everywhere at the heart of service provision.    City Building is fully compliant with 43 of the criteria and awarded compliance plus for the other 14.

As a driver for continuous improvement the Compliance Plus criteria relates to customer communication, skills improvement, and overall service delivery.

Craig Stevenson, Divisional Director Operations said: "There is an emphasis placed on developing customer insight, understanding our customer's experiences alongside a robust measurement of service satisfaction and I am incredibly proud of our workforce in achieving this accolade."

6 September - Celebrating our Frontline Staff - NRS Awards

On Friday 28 June Neighbourhoods Regeneration Sustainability (NRS) were thrilled to host the first Frontline Staff Awards - to celebrate the fantastic achievements of cleansing staff who have recently completed training courses and gained additional qualifications.

George Gillespie Executive Director, NRS opened the event, in the City Chamber's Satinwood Suite, with warm words praising the commitment and achievement of all the staff who had earned their accreditation. Joined by Councillor Ruairi Kelly, the Convenor for Neighbourhood Services and Assets and Councillor Allan Casey, Convenor for Workforce and Homelessness and Addiction Services - certificates were presented to over 40 members of cleansing staff. 

On the day staff were all able to catch up over a cuppa before short speeches were delivered by the course training providers - Albion Environmental and the Road Haulage Association.

Jordan Andros, a team member from Gartcraig Depot said: "It was really great to attend this event to recognise my new qualification. I was really proud to be able to bring my wife Heather with me on the day to show her our City Chambers and it was great to meet our Executive Director. I'm now very keen to take other courses in the future as part of my own personal development."

George Gillespie praised the staff stating: "This was a great staff engagement event that brought people from across our depots together and once again reinforced the fact that our staff are our most valuable asset. I'm really proud of our workforce and our staff have shown great commitment and pride in developing and expanding their skillset which will greatly benefit not only our Service but our citizens too. It is a great achievement for everyone involved and we hope colleagues will continue to develop themselves and participate in future training programmes."

6 September - Home Carer Competes at Hyrox World Championships

Fitness fanatic and home carer at Glasgow Health and Social Care Partnership, Lesley Butler recently travelled to Nice, France to participate in the 'Hyrox World Championships'. The competition is a fitness race for elite athletes comprising of eight exercise stations interspersed with 1km runs.

Lesley said "I train at Elation gym in Parkhouse and a few of us from the gym qualified for the World Championship back in March, so we travelled out to Nice together representing Scotland. Out of the 200,000 people that enter, only 2% qualify so that in itself is a massive achievement.

"The World Championships were held in June and I competed alongside my gym partner Ashley Jones. The circuit was similar to the one in the qualifier circuit but with heavier weights at the exercise stations. We were delighted to complete the course in 1 hour and 13 minutes. Although we didn't win it was a very respectable time and we are both proud of our performance."

"My service users were blown away by it all, they loved the build up to the championships and their support meant the world. I had one service user who would say, 'There's my champion!' every time I visited him, and I received numerous good luck cards which was lovely.

"My aim now is to compete again in the World Championship next year and hopefully get an even better time. I'm already training for the qualifier and because I work split shifts it means I can train around my job which is great."

6 September - Added security for customer card payments

Payment card fraud is an increasing problem for the council and our citizens. In response to this, the council made the commitment to meet the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) to help protect our customers who make financial payments to us. A project team in Financial Services, led by Eileen Watt (Project Manager), worked in partnership with key stakeholders, Service areas and teams across the council family and, following a rigorous assessment process by external assessors, in March this year the council was awarded the PCI-DSS compliance standard.

Nigel Rooke, Head of FS Governance and Change, Financial Services, said: "It is a great achievement to be the first Scottish Local Authority to gain this compliance standard - offering more security to citizens who make payments to us. Achieving this has been a result of a lot of hard work and effort by all the teams involved and partnership working across the council family and with our external partners. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those involved."

"As a council we handle payments from citizens and businesses for our services in a number of different ways and increasingly online and over the phone by debit and credit cards - with over one million card transactions per year."

"The standard outlines a set of information security requirements to protect cardholders' data against misuse of their personal information and help reduce payment card fraud - and ensures we have control measures in place, and we are working from secure network systems with the use of encrypted data transmission."

"In line with PCI DSS compliance, we use encrypted chip and pin machines for all face-to-face payments and a fully PCI compliant system for our online and telephone payments providing more security for the card holder." 

How you can help keep our customer's data secure to help prevent fraud:

• If you find a credit, debit, or payment card at a council location, to comply with regulations and to prevent unauthorised access, it should be immediately destroyed using the dedicated card shredder at the payment location on site.
• Lost bags/wallets/purses should be treated as lost property and there is no requirement to remove and destroy any credit cards that may be found in them.
• To protect a cardholder's data, you must never listen to, write down or store the 16-digit card number, security code or expiry date in any format - this includes by email or over the phone.
• Never discuss a cardholder's details with anyone.

More information

If you are involved in handling card payments, payment data or using systems to process payments you must read and be familiar with our Cardholder Data Policy and Guidance

You should also complete our Information Security and Data Protection course for 2024 which has been developed to help you understand your role and responsibilities when handling information - to help protect our buildings, staff, data and citizens. The easiest and quickest way to take this course is on GOLD here - it can be accessed from any device at any time. A paper format of the course is also available.

July

3 July - Our new city 850^th birthday brand

Last month we revealed the new brand behind our plans to mark the city's 850th birthday, in 2025.

The four core icons used with the brand use recognisable symbols synonymous with Glasgow's story. More symbols will be developed to highlight the wide-ranging achievements of the city and its people, with a special focus on the past fifty years and a strong emphasis on its future ambitions.

Developed to complement the city's distinctive and popular People Make Glasgow look, the new brand brings plans for a yearlong programme of activities for Glasgow 850 together under one strong visual identity.

Throughout 2025 Glasgow will mark its 850^th birthday by delivering, with partners, a, citywide programme that celebrates and reflects on our recent past, our present and future.

The calendar of signature events and community-based activities is being curated to let those with a connection to Glasgow, at home and abroad, get involved to tell their stories, honouring our rich heritage, reflecting on transformational growth, and inspiring ambitious change for the city's next fifty years.

The brand, which is based on the idea of badges, will be free to use and made available to businesses, and community groups, to help them show support for Glasgow 850 and get involved. It has been developed in a way that the icons around the core Glasgow 850 image could be changed and customised to make it more personal to groups and individuals with an affinity to the city.

Designed by Glasgow-based firm Tangent, the idea came from thinking about how people have and continue to use physical badges to visually represent who they are - reflecting passions, achievements and allegiances.

In today's digital first age, people will be offered different digital 'badge' icons to use, each representing something the city can be proud of and a way to curate their own icons, with meaningful and relevant symbols. This allows everyone mark this milestone and show the world what Glasgow means to them, personally.

Susanne Miller, Chief Executive said: "Marking the city's 850^th birthday is an opportunity that goes beyond celebrations and commemorations. It acknowledges the contributions of generations who have shaped the city, gives a platform to grow a shared sense of belonging and invites people to guide our future.

"This new Glasgow850 brand is an imaginative and inclusive way for people to take part and express what Glasgow means to them and helping them to tell their story."

The main programme for Glasgow 850, starting January 2025 will be launched in September this year.

Full story at City Unveils New Birthday Brand to Mark 850th Year - Glasgow City Council (gosshosted.com)

More details at Glasgow 850 - Glasgow City Council (gosshosted.com)

3 July - Programme for George Square project confirmed

Last month at committee, an update on the programme for the George Square project was given - with confirmation that work will begin on-site in January 2025, with the main work to begin next April.

The first phase of this work will be the creation of a site compound and hoarding of George Square in January 2025, once the Christmas 2024 decorations come down.  Between January - March 2025, 11 bronze statues will be removed and transported to an adequate storage facility.

The statues will be conserved and restored between July 2025 - July 2027, before being returned to their new location on the completed Square from July 2027 onwards.

The public realm works on George Square and surrounding Avenues will start in April 2025, with phased completion up to April 2027 (with George Square delivered by August 2026).

The works in George Square will deliver high-quality stone throughout the Square; informal 'play' areas for children in sensory gardens in the eastern areas; a water feature; a raised lawn platform; bespoke sheltered seating; and feature lighting. 

In terms of the new design for George Square, the design for the eastern part of the Square responds to its institutional character and the formality of the City Chambers and of the Cenotaph; and a further raised green area will be created in front of the Cenotaph.  The western, non-institutional part of the Square will feature an area for cafes to spill out, as well as a generous paved area for events, including a water feature.

The final design of George Square - now ready to progress to public procurement - was informed by significant public engagement and stakeholder consultation in 2022 and 2023.  The next phase of activity in the George square project will be the preparation of tender documents for the various contracts required to deliver the works.

The George Square works are being delivered alongside those for the surrounding Avenues over two phases.

George Gillespie, Executive Director of Neighbourhoods, Regeneration and Sustainability said: "The confirmation of the timetable of works for the George Square project is clearly a significant stage in what will be a transformational scheme for Glasgow's foremost civic space.  A great deal of consultation led to the final design for the Square and reflects the ambition to build a space that respects the place the Square holds in our history and meets the future needs of the city and its visitors."

Read the story in full at Programme for George Square project confirmed - Glasgow City Council (gosshosted.com)

More information on the Avenues programme  

3 July - Visit Glasgow: our new city tourism brand

Last month our People Make Glasgow website and social media channels changed their name to Visit Glasgow to make it easier for visitors to search for and find the information they need to plan their trip.

You will still see People Make Glasgow displayed proudly in the city, welcoming tourists once they arrive and promoting activities to audiences within the city.

This summer Glasgow Life are enhancing People Make Glasgow with a You Make Glasgow campaign!

You may have spotted the posters around the city, on the underground and at train stations, thanking the people of Glasgow for helping us to be voted the Friendliest City in the World by Time Out. The posters include a cheeky nod to the iconic traffic cone that sits on top of the Duke of Wellington statue in front of GoMA - a symbol of the Glaswegian spirit and one of the reasons Banksy gave for choosing the city for his record-breaking solo show last year.

Go to www.visitglasgow.com  to find out more.

3 July - Shining a light on the wonderful work across the city: Glasgow's first Local Employability Partnership event

On Tuesday 18 June Glasgow's Local Employability Partnership (LEP) hosted the 'Shaping Employability Together' event at University of Strathclyde's Technology and Innovation Centre. The conference was attended by 300 guests representing employability service providers, the public sector and the third sector.

The event was co-hosted by Frankie Barrett, Group Manager - Employability, from Glasgow City Council's Economic Development team, and Pauline Gordon, Partnership and Engagement Manager, Glasgow Council for the Voluntary Sector and LEP Board Member. The aim of the event was to shine a light on the wonderful employability work that is being done in the city and showcase the impact that employability services have in improving the health, wellbeing and opportunities for participants.

The event included a fantastic performance from the Riverbank Primary School choir and keynote speakers giving an overview of the journey so far, including the launch of the new brand for the LEP, 'Glasgow Futures - an inclusive and positive identity with people at its very heart.' It also included an overview of the Service Design process, which has been led by our own Centre for Civic Innovation team alongside an update on the progress of the Working Together for a Fairer Glasgow Quality Standard.

On the day participants were able to get involved with interactive workshops and take part in engaging panel sessions on improving the employability system in Glasgow - one that puts people at the centre, is accessible to all, and is more joined-up. Post event feedback has been incredibly positive:

•  "The overall event was very positive. Fantastic to see that we are all working together to ensure that Glasgow is a fairer City."
•  "The range of people there, all working together for a shared outcome. There was a real buzz and enthusiasm to make it work."

Frankie Barrett, Group Manager - Employability, Economic Development Team said: "This was the first time that Glasgow's Local Employability Partnership has hosted such an event and it has been fantastic to receive such positive feedback. The LEP plays a crucial role providing direction and support to address the challenges people and families face through unemployment, being in low paid work or living in jobless households, and events like this play a big part in helping us to communicate with our partners across the city to achieve this."

More information on LEP at Employability Support - Glasgow City Council (gosshosted.com)

3 July - Staff offer: join Glasgow Club today and you and your wallet will feel better!

FitClub is Glasgow Life's most popular Glasgow Club membership plan. Including unlimited use of ALL their gyms, fitness classes (in-club and online) and swimming pools across the city - so you're never far from your next workout.

Sign up today at http://myglasgow.club/gccstaff 

Staff discount

FitClub normally costs £29 per month, however, a special rate for Glasgow City Council staff means it's now available for just £10 each month. The discount can be applied to your existing membership if you already have one.

Read our FAQs (PDF, 97 KB) for more detailed information and appy at  http://myglasgow.club/gccstaff 

3 July - Congratulations Elizabeth for your outstanding contribution to catering

ASSIST Facilities Management (FM) is the leading professional body for those who deliver FM Services throughout Scotland's 32 local authorities. The ASSIST FM National Awards celebrate individuals and teams who continue to make a real difference in the delivery of these services.

Congratulations to Elizabeth Boyle, Catering and FM, Financial Services - winner of the Outstanding Contribution to Catering Award 2024.

Elizabeth won the Award for being a standout employee and a role model for delivering outstanding service to her community and for the council. With over 27 years' service, Elizabeth has risen to Catering Manager at Govan Campus, which is one of Glasgow's busiest and oversees the production of over 900 meals daily, catering for two primary schools, a nursery and three additional units.

Her exceptional leadership, which includes managing 22 staff members, has been instrumental in maintaining high standards and boosting staff morale.

As part of an award submission letter, Brian Tracey. Head Teacher at St Saviour's Primary School (Govan) said: "Betty has been an ever-positive presence who is more than willing to go the extra mile to help both staff and pupils. A campus with three establishments all with differing requirements is not an easy shift but Betty always manages to respond to different situations. Her flexible, calm manner and approachable personality means she never gives the impression things are a hinderance to her. Betty and her team know all the children and take a keen interest in them, and this is much appreciated by myself and my staff."

Last year the council successfully received "A Food For Life" Bronze Award and Elizabeth played a crucial role in the application process working in partnership with the project team to develop new menu items and promoting healthier food choices for Glasgow's children.

Stephen Sawers, Head of FM, Financial Services said: "Elizabeth is a natural 'people' person and over her long career has coached and mentored a number of staff into successful promoted positions. She is a local champion for all things catering and happily assists colleagues and managers with her extensive knowledge.

"Despite some of the challenges we face as a council, Elizabeth is a role model for any catering assistant in overcoming challenges and delivering an outstanding service for her local community and the city as a whole. This is an exceptional achievement. Elizabeth should feel immensely proud, and it is testament to all her hard work, commitment and dedication throughout her career."

Elizabeth Boyle pictured with Peter Elflain from McCain Foodservice who sponsored the Awards.

3 July - Welcome to our 2024 summer interns

We extend a very warm welcome to our 2024 summer interns who started their 12-week programme on 10 June.

Over the next three months our interns will work on their assigned projects across various Services and teams. These include areas such as NRS and allotment site plot mapping, Economic Development - service design and comms, our corporate Legal department and Education Services as a business analyst.  We wish them all the best in these new roles and welcome them to the council for the duration of their internship.

June

18 June - Find out how you can vote

On Thursday 4 July 2024, a UK Parliament general election (the 'general election') will take place. This booklet for voters explains:

• How to register to vote 
• Which elections require photo ID 
• Which forms of ID will be accepted
• How to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate
• What to expect at the polling station
• Other ways to vote

If you have any questions or would like to find out more, go to the Electoral Commission website, or call their helpline on 0800 328 0280

6 June - Message from Susanne Millar, Chief Executive - Join us and become part of the election team

Updated 7 June 2024-  Thank you for your interest but due to an overwhelming amount of interest we are no longer taking applications.

6 June - Get ready to vote - support and advice

The next UK Parliament General Election has been called for Thursday 4 July 2024.

Are you registered to vote?

• If you've never registered before, have moved house, or changed your name - it only takes five minutes to register to vote online.
• You will need your National Insurance number.
• Register online here.
• You must register to vote in this General Election before midnight, 18 June 2024 deadline.

Voting in person at a General Election - you now need photo ID

• To vote in person on the day you will now need to show photo ID - so don't forget to bring an accepted form of ID to the polling station.
• Find out what forms of ID are accepted here.
• Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of ID will be able to apply for free ID online (known as Voter Authority Certificate) or by completing a paper form.
• You can still use your photo ID if it's out of date, as long as it looks like you.
• Deadline for applying for a Voter Authority Certificate 5pm, 26 June 2024
• Voter ID is not needed for Scottish Parliamentary or local elections.

Sign up for a postal vote online

• For a UK Parliament General Election, you can apply to vote online  through GOV.uk
• You must be registered to vote in the UK before you can apply.
• You will need:
  • the address where you are registered to vote
  • your National Insurance number or other identity documents, for example a passport
  • the specific date of the election - if you only want a one-off postal vote
  • to upload a photo of your handwritten signature in black ink on plain white paper.
• If you cannot apply online, download and fill in a postal vote application form. Send this to your local Electoral Registration Office
• The deadline to apply for a postal vote in the General Election is 5pm on Wednesday 19 June.
• However, if you are going on holiday at the end of June we advise applying for a postal vote earlier, and before 5pm 7 June - Provided you are a registered elector and not a new applicant this will ensure you receive your postal ballot pack around 20 June, to vote and return for counting.

Pre-election period - staff

Last week, all staff will have received information on email, or direct from their manager, on the rules that apply for staff in the run up to the General Election - in our pre-election guidance. Please read it carefully. 

All information at Elections and Voting - Glasgow City Council 

6 June - What is saving the same energy as watching 22,000 hours of TV?

The Print and Mail Project, led by Financial Services (FS) focuses on how we deliver our print and mail services across the council - to help reduce our energy consumption, carbon footprint and save time and money in the process.

There are many ways we can change our printing habits to help benefit our organisation and the environment. Small changes can collectively have a big impact and help to reduce costs or improve how we work.

So, what is saving the same energy as watching 22,000 hours of TV?

Customer and Business Services, in Financial Services, worked in partnership with Education Services to move primary school placing requests online - previously this was done by completing paper forms. This change has improved the customer journey by providing a more efficient and convenient service. It has reduced paper usage, freed up staff time to complete other tasks, and also contributes to reducing our carbon footprint and protecting the environment.

Linda Rae, Operational Delivery Manager said: "Parents/carers who were making a primary school placing request either had to be sent the form in the post or they had to visit the school to collect a paper copy - meaning large amounts of paper were being printed. Replacing this paper-based process with an online placing request form has not only made it simpler, quicker and more convenient for parents/carers, but it has also resulted in a 90% reduction in our paper usage. This is a saving of nearly 10,000 sheets of A4 paper per annum.

"The parent/carer also benefit from the online system sending automated responses meaning they get immediate confirmation we have received their application form. It also provides our team time to focus on other tasks." 

This change is a great example of how a small change can benefit staff, improve the customer experience and the council's carbon footprint at the same time.

Answer

10,000 sheets of paperis equivalent to 60 kg of CO2 and has the same carbon footprint as watching 22,000 hours of TV.

Read our other case studies to find out:

• How are we saving the same energy as charging 12,000 smart phones?
• How many cups of tea is Behind the Kettle saving from being made?
• iPads are saving the same emissions as sending how many selfies?

Nigel Rooke (Project Sponsor),Head of FS Governance and Change, said: "Over the last few years, it's been rewarding to see a significant reduction in paper use amongst our staff through innovative and creative projects that help change behaviours. In 2020, our paper consumption exceeded 66 million sheets, however by 2023, it's decreased to 47.5 million sheets."

"We all have a role to play and by creatively working together we can Make Glasgow Greener - and strive for carbon neutrality by 2030. Printing comes with a price tag, and paper impacts the environment and costs money. We want everyone to consider their printing habitsand become part of the change to continue the reduction in our corporate paper use. Together, we can all make a difference so let's all "Think Before You Print."

Reducing our printing - go paperless

Did you know there are different ways to review documents without printing? Check out our top tips to help you go paperless and change your printing habits and to read more about how staff are reducing the paper they use and going paperless at www.glasgow.gov.uk/reduceprinting

6 June - Kelvin Hall retains 5-star VisitScotland rating

Kelvin Hall was delighted to have been re-awarded 5 Stars from VisitScotland's Quality Assurance Scheme in April. VisitScotland is Scotland's national tourism organisation, and this scheme is the benchmark across Scotland for customer excellence. The team at the Encore café have contributed to this success, along with venue partners at Glasgow Life, The Hunterian, University of Glasgow and the National Library of Scotland.

Kelvin Hall was previously assessed in 2018, achieving 5 Stars on its first assessment from VisitScotland.  At the time, the Assessor commented on the incredibly friendly and engaging staff who ensured their visit was a first-class experience all round. Since then, the venue has strived to keep up its high levels of customer service.

The Encore Café is a bright and welcoming space, located just as you enter the building. The team were recognised in the VisitScotland Assessor's report with the Assessor commenting on, "Excellent interactions with both members of staff on duty. A timely acknowledgement as I entered the café, with the ordering and transaction both processed efficiently." The Assessor also mentioned how the milk/sugar station was proactively highlighted, the cleanliness of the area and they liked being able to view the menu online ahead of their visit. 

Yvonne Greenlees, Area Manager for Sport at Glasgow Life said: "It is truly remarkable to see the dedication and hard work of our entire team. Each member's contributions are invaluable, and together, they have achieved so much. Being the Manager of the venue, proud doesn't even begin to cover it!"

Ross McKenzie, Senior Operations Manager, Catering and Facilities Management, Financial Services said: "It is great to see the Encore team at Kelvin Hall receive such a high level of praise for the service they provide in the café. Achieving the 5 Star accreditation again demonstrates that the quality of food and the service provided by the team is first class. As a venue we never know when these visits will take place, so this really shows how everyone who visits can enjoy a consistently high level of customer service."

This Award is made more special as it will be one of the last Quality Assurance Scheme assessments from VisitScotland as they look to change their operating model.

6 June - World Environment Day: seek adventure and share your story

We're supporting World Environment Day.​

To mark this important date let's consider the adventurous ways that we can take sustainable action and feel all the benefits.​

Keep your eyes peeled for the Scottish Government's Net Zero campaign where you will be inspired to seek adventure to embrace a sustainable living.

The key changes that you make to become more sustainable can be seen as an exciting journey and not a sacrifice. For example, by exploring new routes to get around using public transport or walking or wheeling to your destination - rather than taking the car. This can be seen as an exciting adventure to explore new places.

Share your own sustainable adventures and ideas

We would welcome your real-life inspiring stories of how you are making a change to be more sustainable.

Get in touch at staffnews@glasgow.gov.uk

You can also share how you are talking action on social media and use the hashtags

 #LetsDoNetZero#WorldEnvironmentDay #LetsDoNetZero

Be inspired and get involved

• Visit our Sustainable staff campaigns to explore top tips on how to reduce, reuse and recycle and be more sustainable.
• This includes inspiring 'Think Before You Print' case studies from across the council family on how teams are changing how they work - to reduce printing costs and help save the environment.  

6 June - Make the most of our membership - sign up for key local government information

The council is a member of the Local Government Information Unit (LGiU) - a not for profit information service providing practical, up-to-the-minute intelligence to their members on policy issues important to local government in Scotland.

Working across an international network of councils, public sector bodies and academics, LGIU offers an array of resource to help staff stay ahead of the latest trends, developments and issues in local government.

So how can you join and benefit?

LGiU content is available to all staff and can be accessed on the website or email by signing up.

Becoming a member will provide you with direct information to become better informed, engaged and connected through:

• Daily News bulletins summarising what the media saying about local government across Scotland
• Weekly policy briefings, reports and other contentwritten by sector colleagues, academics and international associates on the key issues facing local government.
• the Global Local Newsletter giving international insights on a different local government theme each week
• participation in events such as the Global Local Executive Panels;
• Sector leading research with projects spanning across the UK, Ireland and Australia
• 25% discounton all LGIU Training, both our online courses, and in-house sessions.
• full access to an extensive online catalogue of Scottish, UK and international local government content.

Do you have a project you would like to share?

LGiU also regularly promote member councils' projects and people through short case study articles or interviews, like with Douglas Hutchinson or case studies from East Lothian, Argyll and Bute, and Dundee.

If you have a 500 word summary of a project you would like highlighted to our network of 35,000+ local government practitioners, contact Caitlin.lord@lgiu.org.

Top tips for website access

From the main navigation bar you can:

• click Topics to find published briefings, publications and research, sorted by topic, to help you in your role
• from the Resources drop down click:
  • Briefings to access the entire briefings catalogue. Use the side bar to filter by country, topic or date
  • Newsletters & Daily News to access the last months archive of Daily News to see what's been happening in the sector,
  • Global Local to explore previous editions of our popular Global Local Bulletin
  • Publications to find curated content such as Executive Panel writeups, COP27 resources, research centre outputs for example
• Click Comment> Articles to read our in-house and guest articles from local government practitioners in Scotland and across the world

You can also manage your preferences to make sure what lands in your inbox is tailored to your needs.

For more information visit https://lgiu.org/ or email caitlin.lord@lgiu.org

6 June - Clean Air Day - Thursday 20 June

Clean Air Day is the UK's largest air pollution campaign.

It's a great opportunity to find out more about air pollution, share information with friends and act to make the air cleaner and healthier for everyone.

Air pollution disproportionately impacts upon older and very young people, and on those with existing heart and lung conditions.

Led by Global Action Plan, Clean Air Day brings everyone together to:

• Focus attention on air pollution
• Improve our understanding of air pollution
• Increase levels of behaviours that can reduce air pollution
• Showcases that a cleaner air future is both possible and desirable

Cleaning up our air is good for us in many ways - it not only benefits our physical health and the environment but can also protect our mental and brain health. The physical health impacts of air pollution - such as asthma, heart disease and cancers - have been recognised for decades. More recently, researchers are beginning to understand how air pollution can affect the brain and the mind.

To stay up to date ahead of Clean Air Day 2024, sign up to the newsletter or for more information on how to protect your health from air pollution, head to the Clean Air Hub. 

May

8 May - Are you ready to vote?

With the next UK Parliament General Election due to take place before the end of January 2025, people are being encouraged to make sure that they are ready to vote when the time comes - this includes making sure you are registered to vote. 

Register now if you've never registered before, have moved house, or changed your name. To register to vote online, you need just five minutes and your National Insurance number.

You can also check if you are registered to vote by contacting your local Electoral Registration Office. For Glasgow details can be found here.

Did you know that you will need photo ID to vote in person at the next UK General Election?

For the first time people voting in person at the General Election will now need to show photographic identification (ID) at the polling station.

Accepted forms of photo identification include:

• a passport
• driving licence
• older persons or disabled persons bus pass
• Young Scot card.

Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of ID will be able to apply for free ID online at or by completing a paper form.

The full list of accepted ID is available on the Electoral Commission's website, along with more information about the new requirement and details of how to apply for the free ID.

Emma Rodger, Elections and Democratic Services Manager,said:"Anyone voting at a polling station will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper at the UK general election.

"It's important that everyone understands what types of ID they can use, and how to apply for free ID, if they need it. It may seem early but checking now that you are registered correctly and have suitable ID means you will be ready to vote when the election is called. Residents who do not have one of the accepted forms of ID can apply for free ID (known as Voter Authority Certificate) either online or by completing a paper application form."

For help with applying for the free voter ID or if you want to request an application form, contact the electoral registration office.

Voter ID is NOT needed for Scottish Parliamentary or local elections.

All information at Elections and Voting - Glasgow City Council 

8 May - Got a spare bedroom? We need you!

Help to support families in Glasgow by inviting a child to your home 

If you have a spare bedroom and would consider supporting a young person, we would love to hear from you.

Families for Children are urgently seeking foster carers for children who cannot remain at home on a full time basis but also carers who can provide short breaks carer support children for short periods, such as one or two evenings per week or a weekend once a month.

Terrihas been involved with short-term fostering for 14 years, she says "I work in adult social care but if I have a spare night or day at the weekend, I use it and give it to the kids. Giving a young person quality time whether it be playing cards, board games or even colouring in for a couple of hours is not hard work and they love it.

"If you can bring them that wee bit of security it's worth everything. I'd encourage anyone to consider helping to support a child or young person, it's not a huge time commitment and is so rewarding."

Cathy Coll, Service Manager, said: "Many of our short break carers work full time and like Terri really enjoy providing a weekend or a few nights a month knowing that they are making a real difference."  

Please help us to raise awareness and encourage your friends and family to find out more at fosterglasgow.org

8 May - Got a teen who is prepping for exams? It can be a challenging time!

Nobody likes exams. But some teens find them particularly stressful and difficult - especially S4s who may be sitting exams for the first time this year.

If you have a teen prepping for exams now, check out this handy list of support sources that Parent Club have put together to help your teen (and you!) cope with exam stress.

It includes tips like:

• trying to talk it through with them by doing something else while you talk - like walking or driving as this takes the pressure off
• praising them for learning and what they know
• reminding them that its normal to feel stressed or upset and they are not alone and this time will pass
• encouraging them to keep moving by taking regular breaks to move around which can help clear their head and reduce tension
• helping them find ways to cope such as heading outdoors, listening to music or talking to someone.

Support

Parent Club has tips and advice for parents and carers to help them support their teen who may be struggling to cope with exam stress, along with what to do if it all gets a bit too much.

For tips on helping them cope with the challenges of exam time, check out their website at www.parentclub.scot/articles/how-cope-exam-stress

8 May - Providing staff with direct access to health wellbeing resources

As part of our continued commitment to staff Health and Wellbeing, roadshows were held across the city for staff in Catering and FM, Financial Services. These took place at the Dalmarnock Legacy Hub, Netherton Community Centre, Barmulloch Community Centre and Barlanark Community Centre.

Linda Andrew, Senior Operations Manager, Catering and Facilities Management, said:"We have over 3,000 staff who work at locations city wide - these roadshows provided our staff with direct access to a range of information from our partners with leaflets and advice on all things Health and Wellbeing as well as financial wellbeing resources available to them on the day. Staff found the roadshows beneficial and the feedback we received was really positive."

You can read what staff thought about the roadshows below.

"It was very informative and worthwhile - it was also good to see fellow colleagues who you haven't seen for some time."

"I enjoyed the roadshow, and the free back, neck and shoulder massage was amazing."

"There was a lot of really useful information available at the event."

Sharon Kinney, Senior HR Officer, said: "We have a wealth of wellbeing support and  resources available to staff and as part of our health and wellbeing strategy and maximising attendance plans it is important staff can access information in a way that suits them - roadshows provide the opportunity for staff to speak directly to our external providers and find out first hand more about the services they offer."

More information

• The range of health and wellbeing support and resources available to all staff visit workforce wellbeing. 
• Visit 'Join-us' to see the full calendar of staff training and events on offer each month. The page is regularly updated - so please check it regularly.
• 'Join-us' is linked to our Inclusion Calendar on our Key Dates page.

April

3 April - Susanne Millar is appointed as new Chief Executive

Last week, it was announced that Susanne Millar (currently Chief Officer of Glasgow's Health and Social Care Partnership) will replace Annemarie O'Donnell as Chief Executive - after she announced earlier this year that she was retiring after more than 30 years working for the city.

It is anticipated Susanne will start to take on some of the duties of Chief Executive almost immediately, with a full handover complete before Annemarie retires in early May.

Susanne said: "I'm both delighted and really honoured to take on this role.

"I've known and worked closely with Annemarie for many years, and I think everybody understands she's going to leave very big boots to fill - but I can't wait to get started.

"As a Glaswegian, I've been privileged to spend my whole career working for the people and the communities of my hometown.

"I've enjoyed working with a really dedicated team at the Health and Social Care Partnership and I couldn't be more proud of them and the job they do for the city, day in and day out."

Councillor Susan Aitken, Leader of the Councilsaid: "We were lucky to have a really strong set of candidates demonstrating the real breadth of talent we have in the city, with deep personal commitment to improving the lives of Glaswegians. I'm very grateful to all of them.

"However, I'm delighted that we have appointed Susanne Millar, who will bring dynamism, energy and passion to the Chief Executive's office.

"Susanne has been a superb Chief Officer of Glasgow HSCP, driving real reforms which have delivered outcomes - such as a major reduction in rough sleeping and a transformation in our approach to supporting vulnerable children and families.

"She comes with a deep understanding of the damage inflicted on so many Glaswegian households by austerity and the urgency of lifting people out of poverty; but that alone does not define her vision of Glasgow.

"She also knows that there are incredibly positive things happening within Glasgow's economy right now; with record levels of investment, and that our shared challenge is to mobilise partnerships across the city to translate that into better lives and places for all Glaswegians, especially those who need it most.

"My experience of working with Susanne over the past few years has already shown me what an impressive person she is and I'm really looking forward to continuing to work with her as she takes this next step in her career and builds on the very strong legacy that Annemarie leaves behind her."

Susanne has spent her entire career working in social work and social care services in the city, then moving into work in integrated health and social work service. She started her career in residential care for older people, then working with vulnerable children and families.

After holding strategy and planning roles, she became the Head of Children's Services and Head of Homelessness and Asylum Services.

In 2012, Susanne became Assistant Director of Social Work Services in Glasgow, then Chief Officer for Planning, Strategy and Commissioning for the newly-formed Glasgow City HSCP, promoted in 2019 to the Chief Officer role within the HSCP, leading the team of 13,000 staff working across health and social work.

3 April - Secure your place at our next staff event : 24 April at 10am

Data is at the heart of everything we do across the council family. By improving our understanding about how to collect and use meaningful data we can add real value to a project or process and directly enhance the services we provide to our citizens.

Join us at the second instalment of our Data Makes a Difference event series on Wednesday 24th April at 10am, Satinwood Suite, City Chambers.

Secure your place today!

Places are limited and offered on a first come - first signed up basis. So do not miss out. Due to the popularity of the first event, we would encourage you to sign up today to secure your seat. You can Sign up here

On the day you will have the opportunity to hear from inspirational speakers from across the council family, talking through real life examples of projects which are using data to make a tangible difference to their work, including:

• using Dashboards for Absence Analysis
• enhancing our understanding of child poverty through data
• using Artificial intelligence (AI) to determine how busy our city spaces are
• how our Traffcom team uses data visualisations to support decisions around traffic management.

Following feedback from our first event - you will have more opportunity to chat to the teams in the demonstration area and talk with colleagues about how data can be used to improve our services, before and after the key speakers.

More Information

Read more about how staff use data every day to make a difference at Data makes a difference

GOLD Course

You are encouraged to take our 'Getting Started with Data' course on GOLD as an introduction to understanding the different types of information used across our organisation and how your actions can impact this information.

You will find the course on GOLD under Core Programmes, in the section on How to Handle Information. 

3 April - Supporting our staff: new family friendly legislation due in April

The UK Government is introducing some key employment legislation changes to strengthen family-friendly workplace practices from 6 April 2024.

As Thom Hughes, HR Manager - Corporate, explains: "The changes coming into force will help to provide greater flexibility and support for staff in relation to flexible working, paternity leave and carer's leave."

For example, from this date the regulations include:

• staff being able to make a request for flexible working arrangements from their first day in their role - instead of having to wait until after 26 weeks of continuous service
• new fathers being able to take their paternity leave at any time during their baby's first year - as opposed to within the first eight weeks. Or being able to split their two weeks leave into two separate blocks of leave, if suits them better doing so, or
• staff with long-term caring responsibilities being able to take up to one week of unpaid leave per year to help balance their duties as carers alongside their busy work and personal lives.

As Thom explains: "These family friendly arrangements will help to improve the work life balance of our workforce and reduce, where possible, additional stress during important life events. All HR colleagues and Service managers have been briefed on these changes to update their teams, and our HR policies and guidance have been updated online to reflect the new arrangements to support our workforce. Staff are encouraged to read our policies to better understand how they can benefit from these changes, should the need arise."

Support

• If you have any questions or need support understanding the changes and what they mean for you - please contact your Service Strategic HR team.
• You can read our Employment Conditions of Service, policies and procedures on our Staff Webpages and guidance is on Connect.
• Please just refer to the right section for the relevant information such as Worklife Balance, Flexible Working, Paternity Leave and Leave.
• Additional Staff Health and Wellbeing Support information

3 April - Enhance your skills through supporting others: Glasgow area seeks volunteers!

Support children and young people through supporting Panel Members - become a Panel Practice Advisor

The Children's Hearings System is Scotland's unique care and justice system for children and young people in need of care, protection and support. We are committed to #KeepThePromise to Scotland's infants, children and young people.

Panel Practice Advisors play a critical role within the local team supporting Children's Panel Members. 

The Glasgow Area Support Team is seeking to recruit volunteers as Panel Practice Advisers (PPAs).  If you have good assessment, observation, interviewing and communication skills and are able to regularly give your time to the Children's Hearings System, please contact us to find out more information.  You will be equipped with training and support to fulfil this role.

Panel Practice Advisors are responsible for selecting and recommending Panel Members for appointment. They also regularly observe Panel Members within children's hearings and feedback so improvements can be made. Their goal is to support Panel Members through feedback to ensure the strongest possible decisions are being made for children and young people.

Application

For further information: please visit chscotland.gov.uk, or for an informal conversation about this role please email sharon.angell@chs.gov.scot

To apply, please complete the online application: Vacancies (chscotland.gov.uk)

3 April - Equally Safe at Work: council award

Equally Safe at Work is an innovative accreditation programme for employers, developed by Close the Gap and funded by the Scottish Government. The programme is to help support and improve employment practices to progress gender equality at work and prevent violence against women. It enables organisations to progress through a tiered system - from building a foundation for change to embedding a strong culture of gender equality within the organisation.

Award

The council has been participating in this programme since 2022 and we're delighted to announce that 12 March 2024, we were awarded Development accreditation. Shona Thomson from GMB accepted the award, on behalf of the council, from Laura Martins at Close the Gap.

Christine Brown, Head of HR explains: "Achieving Development status is a real boost for the council as it provides us with an excellent foundation to start progressing our key priority of gender equality in the workplace and provide better support for victim-survivors of gender-based violence.

"We are committed to the health and wellbeing of our staff and it's important, therefore, we create a working environment where any affected employees feel safe and confident in seeking support and assistance. As we work towards achieving the next programme level, not only are we demonstrating our commitment as sector leaders to prevent violence against women, but we will continue to regularly review and update our HR policies and practices to make sure that they are reflective of the needs of our workforce. This also aligns with our Equality Outcome commitments to create and celebrate a diverse and inclusive workplace and reduce barriers faced by women in the workplace."

More information

• Equally Safe at Work
• Workforce Wellbeing Support
• If you need help right now 

3 April - Home care unveil rest and reflect benches

Glasgow City Health and Social Care's home care service donated a 'rest and reflect' bench to Govanhill Community Remembrance Gardens in memory of colleagues and service users who have passed away over the last few years.

Julie Stuart, Quality Improvement Officer said "We marked the unveiling of our memorial bench in Govanhill Remembrance Gardens with a short service, sharing tributes to our colleagues and service users who are no longer with us. It was attended by managers, home carers, family members, the volunteers from the garden and other individuals from the community. There was time afterwards to grab a cup of tea and a cake and share our memories.

"We hope the benches provide a place of peaceful comfort for our staff and the community or family to come and remember those who we have lost."

Clara Garner, Area Operations Manager said "It's important to keep memories alive and honour our colleagues and service users. The benches give us a space to go for quiet reflection."

Another two memorial benches will be placed across the city so that carers and family members in other areas have somewhere to remember their colleagues and loved ones. The benches were funded by the charity 'To Absent Friends', who aim to support organisations in providing opportunities for remembrance. The charity is part of the 'Good Life, Good Death, Good Grief' organisation.

March

6 March - Using Outlook: have you got the right email signature?

All staff are required to adhere to our Corporate Identity Guidelines to make sure that our council brand is used and portrayed in the correct manner. By doing this we present a clear, consistent and quality image - both internally and externally. 

Our email signature forms a key part of our Corporate Identity Guidelines and how we present our organisation in a professional manner with everyone who interacts with us.

We all have a role to play in representing our council brand and our email communication is a fundamental part of this.

Actions to take

Please take time to make sure that your email signature is:

• formatted correctly in line with our corporate guidelines  - as shown in section one of our Guidelines
• does not contain any logos or icons - this includes all partnership/programme logos
• that your email out of office message is formatted correctly in line with the guidelines.

Email signature example:

• Please follow the layout shown in section one of our Corporate Identity Guidelines
• Your email signature must be the same font size as the text in your email, minimum 10pt.
• Your email font should be Arial
• It should be black text on white background - no colours or italics to be used.

Please make sure that you have no reference to Covid, or the impact of Covid on your working arrangements and service delivery within your email signature. This is no longer required.

Out of office email example:

Please use the format shown in section one of our Corporate Identity Guidelines

More information

Visit: Glasgow Intranet - Corporate Identity Guidelines for more information on:

• our guidelines
• a copy of our corporate PowerPoint template
• details on how to format your profile photo in Teams and Outlook
• how to order a corporate lanyard.

6 March - Vehicle users: important information

As we continue to deliver on our Glasgow Transport Strategy as part of our ambition to become a Net-Zero Carbon city by 2030 - we are continuing to replace our traditional, diesel fuelled, council fleet vehicles with Electric Vehicles (EVs).

In turn, this is seeing more EV charging bays being installed across the council at our depots, offices and other work locations. These charging bays are essential refuelling points for our EV fleet - to make sure we can continue to deliver vital services to our citizens. 

We would like to remind all staff of the etiquette regarding the use of our fleet EV charging bays. 

Key information

If you use a vehicle to get to your work location, please park responsibly and remember that:

• An empty EV charging bay should not be viewed as a vacant car parking space for any vehicle - including personal EVs.
• These EV charging bays are for the sole use of refuelling our council 'plug-in' Electric Vehicles.
• Please be mindful that electricity is an EV's only source of fuel - and if our fleet vehicles can't charge, then they are unable to deliver essential services to the city.
• Only park in an EV charging bay if you intend to charge your council EV.
• Once your EV has finished its charging session, please move it to a regular parking place.
• We have more Electric Vehicles in our council fleet than we have charging bays so please move your vehicle on, once it's charged - to allow others access to the charging infrastructure.
• Do not unplug another user's vehicle when it is in the process of charging.

It is crucial that we all understand and respect the importance of keeping these Electric Vehicles charging bays clear and free when they are not in use. This is so that they are available for use, as electric fuel points, when required by our fleet of Electric Vehicles.

6 March - Easter Egg Collection: can you help?

A charity Easter Egg collection has been organised in the City Chambers complex.

Collection bins will be available in the reception areas at City Chambers East and West and 231 George Street.

Staff have been very generous with Easter Egg and Christmas gift donations in recent years and donated eggs will be distributed to charities and young people across the city.

6 March - Julie gets the chop for children's charity

Julie Stuart, Quality Improvement Officer at Glasgow Health and Social Care Partnership recently chopped her hair for charity.

Julie said "Little Princess Trust is a charity that provides free real hair wigs to children and young people who have lost their own hair through cancer treatment or other conditions. I have been growing my hair so that I could go for the chop and donated 20 inches to the charity for the creation of wigs.

"I wanted to support this charity as my aunt lost her hair when undergoing treatment for cancer and the difference a real hair wig made to her self-esteem was priceless. I wanted to help children in the same situation as her. My hair grows fast, and I know it will grow back quickly; some kids undergoing cancer treatment or with medical conditions aren't as fortunate.

"My colleague's wife actually surprised me by turning up at the hairdresser on the day I went to get it cut. She presented me with a bunch of flowers on behalf of my team, which was very thoughtful and lovely for them to show their support.

"In addition to donating my hair I also raised £780 to put towards covering the cost of the wigs to be made. I set up a just giving page for friends and family to donate to and did some fundraising activities around Blair Court which my fantastic colleagues participated in. I sold a variety of home baking and football cards and this helped bolster the donation."

Well done to Julie from all her colleagues in care services, they are all extremely proud of you.

6 March - 'Make it easier' with Multiply123 - free local numeracy courses

Adults across Glasgow City Region are being urged to take part in a new programme helping them 'make it easier' to use numbers and maths.

8 local authorities have joined forces to promote the Multiply123 numeracy programme - hundreds of funded courses and activities, free to local residents and available across the Region's eight council areas.

Are numbers getting in your way?

Research from the National Numeracy Charity shows that 40% of the UK's working-age population have the expected numeracy levels of a primary school leaver, and 30% of school leavers feel anxious about using maths and numbers.

Multiply123 will allow you to access fully-funded courses near you - across any of the eight Glasgow City Region council areas. The courses can help you to get better at budgeting or even help the kids with homework alongside feeling more confident with numbers in everyday life - such as working out how much to pay in a restaurant.

Get involved!

• You can contact Multiply123 on their dedicated freephone 0808 171 3030 - and the team will connect you with Multiply support in your local council area.
• Their website at www.multiply123.co.uk showcases all the help and support available across the whole Region.

Multiply Programme

The Multiply programme is funded by the UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund. Multiply courses and activities are available for anyone aged 19 or over; without a maths qualification above SQA Level 5; and resident in Glasgow, East Dunbartonshire, West Dunbartonshire, Inverclyde, North Lanarkshire, South Lanarkshire, East Renfrewshire or Renfrewshire.

Full story at 'Make it easier' with Multiply123 numeracy courses and support — Glasgow Life

6 March - Watch how we are supporting our citizens: maximising independence

Glasgow City HSCP's new Maximising Independence (MI) video shows how people and organisations are putting the MI approach into practice across the city.  The video has been produced working with key partners, community organisations and people we support, to help raise awareness and understanding about the MI approach.

Maximising Independence means supporting people, who can and want to, to remain living at home safely for as long as possible with the right support in place for them, and for their carers if they have them. This doesn't mean living without any support at all - it's about living as independent a life as you can, making choices about the things that matter to you, to live as full a life as possible, with support when you need it. We want our Glasgow citizens to have strong and reliable health and social care not just now, but for future generations too. So, we will talk, listen and work together to build a sustainable way of supporting people, so that everyone can achieve their full potential for health, wellbeing and independence.

Alison Noonan, Head of Maximising Independence and Transformation, HSCP, said "We know that the best way to share the message about how the Maximising Independence approach can make a difference is to show it in action, and I think the video shows the valuable work that our partners and colleagues do to improve outcomes for the people they support and the wider community. I hope the video will be a useful resource for anyone looking to find out more about MI, or to share information with their own partners and stakeholders.

"I'd like to extend a huge thanks to everyone who gave their time, energy and creativity to make the video happen."

The video will be shared across Glasgow City HSCP's communications channels, and also used for staff induction and training, as well as a range of partner and stakeholder engagement events to raise awareness and understanding about Maximising Independence approach. Shorter versions will also be produced over the coming months, focussing on specific topics.

For more information

• Visit Maximising Independence or email Marion Ballantyne (on Outlook.)
• Watch the video here.

6 March - Meet our new MCR Ambassador Lisa!

Lisa Brooks, Senior Homelessness Worker has been mentoring for the past two years. She has recently become our new Glasgow City Council MCR Ambassador for Social Work, fulfilling the role previously held by John Hampson.

Lisa says, "I first came across MCR Pathways when I was at university, I did a joint honours degree in Education and Social Policy, the subject of my dissertation was 'Poor educational outcomes in looked after and accommodated children'. As part of my research, I learned about MCR Pathways and used the initiative as an example of good practice. It gave me a good understanding of mentoring and how beneficial it can be for the young people involved.

"When I started working at the council three years ago, I discovered we had a partnership with MCR Pathways and was keen for the opportunity to get involved and become a mentor.

"I haven't looked back and it's been great to see first-hand how positive an experience mentoring is for young people. My relationship with my young person is flourishing. She is very similar to me in that she's outgoing and chatty and as time has progressed we are more comfortable with each other.

"I think there's a preconception that as a mentor you are a career's advisor but that's not the case at all. You are there for an hour a week to listen and chat to the young person. You don't need any qualifications to become a mentor- MCR will support you through training. I would say if you've been thinking about you should attend an information session or approach your service ambassador to find out more. I'm always happy to discuss my experience with colleagues and encourage them to take the step."

If you would like to find out more about MCR mentoring pop into our drop in, half hour information session on

• Monday 11 March, 3.30pm, 40 John Street, G1 1JL

Please email Donna Cunningham (on Outlook) to book a place as numbers are capped due to room capacity. Attendees should please report to reception on the day.

If you can't make this date,  you can sign up anytime and take yourself through the online information session - MCR Pathways Online Sign Up.

February

7 February - Glasgow celebrates World Gaelic Week - get involved

Lots of exciting Gaelic projects and initiatives are being planned to celebrate Seachdain na Gàidhlig (World Gaelic Week - February 19-25). Find out more and how you can get involved.

Gaelic Development Officer, Donald MacPhee, said: "We are delighted to announce that shortly we will be publishing our new Gaelic Language Plan 2023-2028, the council's fourth Gaelic Language Plan. We also will be delivering new Gaelic classes for staff, promoting our 2024 Gaelic skills staff survey, and making a call out for new Gaelic champions across the full council family. Gaelic is a language for everyone, a message that's at the centre of our commitment to the promotion, learning and use of Gaelic in Glasgow."

Donald explains: "The implementation of our Gaelic Language Plan is one of our Strategic Plan (2022 to 2027) missions. The Plan's ambition is that by 2028 Gaelic will be more accessible, more widely spoken, more visible and more celebrated in Glasgow than in any other city in the world.

"With nearly 1500 children and young people in Gaelic Medium Education and an annual contribution of £21.6m and 700+ FTE jobs to the city's economy, we are well on the way to achieving that goal. We work closely with Bòrd na Gàidhlig, who approved the Plan, as well as other organisations and individuals with an interest in Gaelic language and culture. The Plan will be published on our website during Seachdain na Gàidhlig."

Join in - become a Gaelic Champion

We know many staff already have a keen interest in Gaelic but may not know how to become more involved in the council's Gaelic work. We need Gaelic champions in every area of the council family to join the Gaelic Officers' Group who oversee the delivery of our Gaelic Language Plan. Are you interested? If so, then please email Donald MacPhee, Gaelic Development Officer for more information.

Don't forget that you can also Get involved with... with:  

• our Gaelic skills staff survey - to tell us if you are you fluent, currently learning or simply interested in Gaelic
• register for free Gaelic classes - but be quick as spaces tend to go very quickly.

Scottish Languages Bill - consultation

The recent introduction of the Scottish Languages Bill has sparked more interest and conversation around Gaelic and Scots. The Bill gives the Gaelic and Scots languages official status in Scotland and makes changes to the support for both languages in Scotland and in relation to Gaelic and Scots education. It also includes a provision for local authorities to designate all or part of their area as "an area of linguistic significance" for Gaelic language and culture. Glasgow as a whole or in part could be one of those areas of linguistic significance.

The public consultation on the Scottish Languages Bill is open until 8 March 2024.

For more information contact our Donald MacPhee Gaelic Development Officer.

7 February - Important - know how to protect yourself, our data and our systems

Did you know that Phishing is one of the most common and dangerous forms of cybercrime in the UK? All it takes is a well-crafted email, social media post or phone message, and someone who is too distracted or unaware to spot its true nature.

Phishing emails target our online activity to try and find our information (such as our log on details and passwords) that can then be used to steal information or money from us. While Spear Phishing emails often target finance officers, everyone is at risk from Phishing and Ransomware attacks. We should all take care when opening emails and report anything we are not sure of - as prevention is better than cure!

Cybercrime and our suppliers

As a council we have noticed an increase in supply chain fraud recently - this is where a criminal hacks into one of our suppliers and their email network, and then communicates with us pretending to be the trusted individual that we normally deal with.

These types of cybercrime can be harder for us to spot as there is no easy way to identify that you are communicating with a fraudster, and not your usual trusted organisation.

Staying safe

Key actions you can take to take to prevent falling victim to a cybercrime are to:

• regularly change your council login password - before the 90-day forced prompt. Make sure it is a strong password, is not shared with anyone and is not used for any other system login
• immediately report any suspicious emails, urgent demands for payments, urgent changes in supplier email addresses or spoof phone calls you receive to our integrity mailbox on Outlook. 
• take our annual information security and data protection 2024 course on GOLD -to remind yourself of key information security actions
• always be vigilant -check every email you receive, stop any unusual and urgent requests for payment, until verified and always report any suspicious emails to our integrity mailbox on Outlook.

More information

• #SafeGlasgow - Glasgow Intranet - How to report a suspicious email/text message you have received
• #Safe Glasgow -  Glasgow Intranet - Preventing cybercrime - different types  

7 February - Are you worried that an adult could be at risk of harm?

Throughout Glasgow there are some adults who are more at risk from harm, due to illness, trauma and physical or mental health conditions.

This Tuesday 20 February is Adult Support and Protection Day, and we are urging everyone to look out for signs of harm and report any concerns, ensuring those at risk can receive the help and support they need to live safely.

As well as physical, psychological, financial or sexual harm, individuals can also be at risk through neglect or self-neglect. Additionally, adults may find themselves dependent on alcohol and/or other drugs and lose awareness of the situation they are living in - or the consequences of decisions they make.

Harm can happen anywhere - in someone's home, where they work, or in a public place - and is often caused by the people closest to them. It can even happen in places responsible for keeping someone safe, such as a care home, hospital or day centre.

If you're worried an adult could be at risk, it's always better to say something than do nothing. Watch the video below to find out more.

It's important to speak up about any concerns you have, as the person may not be able to do so themselves.

Brenda Walker, National Adult Support and Protection Coordinator for Scotland, said: "It can be difficult to know what to do when you're worried about someone, and you might feel that you don't want to interfere. However, reporting your concerns could really help to keep someone safe and turn their life around.

"The current cost of living crisis is making it even more difficult for those who are looking after others, or struggling to take care of themselves, so it's more important right now than ever to keep your eyes open for signs of harm.

"Everyone has a role to play in keeping those in their communities safe, so I would encourage anyone who has seen something that worries them to please say something."

If you're worried that someone is at risk of harm or neglect from others - or harming or neglecting themselves - visit https://www.glasgowadultprotection.org.uk/ for all the relevant contact details.

Alternatively, you can contact the Police on 101, or call 999 if you believe the person is in immediate danger.

7 February - Could you support someone like Jack?

This new year we are asking you to consider becoming a mentor to help support a young person in Glasgow.

Last year with the support of colleagues and others across the city the number of MCR mentors increased by over 200. However, there are still 100 young people waiting for a mentor. We urgently need more mentors for All Saints Secondary, Eastbank Academy, Lochend High, Lourdes Secondary, St Mungo's Academy, St Pauls' High and Whitehill Secondary.

Mentors come from all walks of life, you don't need a specialist skill or to do a certain job. You don't even have to have experience of young people. Watch this short video to see what a difference you could make to a young person like Jack by becoming a mentor.

There are various ways to find out more about MCR mentoring pop into our drop in, half hour information session on

• Monday 19 February, 9:30am, 40 John Street, G1 1JL

Please email Donna Cunningham on Outlook  to book a place as numbers are capped due to room capacity. Attendees should please report to reception on the day.

Or sign up to attend an online MS Teams interactive session on 29 February at 12pm.

If you can't make any of the dates above,  you can sign up anytime and take yourself through the online information session - MCR Pathways Online Sign Up.

7 February - Help to make your home warmer

With the cost of living crisis and high energy bills, it's a worrying time for us all.

The Scottish Government has made funding available this year to help householders install energy efficient measures and save money. People are being urged to contact Home Energy Scotland, the Scottish Government's free energy efficiency advice service, to receive advice and support to help make their homes warmer and reduce their heating bills.

Financial support worth £10,000 or more is also available to make eligible homes more energy efficient through improvements like home insulation, draught proofing, or climate friendly home heating.

Did you know that a home that isn't well insulated can lose more than 50% of its heat through its roof and walls? Making energy efficient home improvements can make your space warmer and more comfortable, while also helping to lower Scotland's emissions.

Home Energy Scotland helps people access funding for energy efficient measures, along with a range of other financial support and impartial advice. If it looks like you might be eligible for help, you will be referred for an initial survey of your home to be carried out before measures are installed. The one-stop shop for support is funded by the Scottish Government and delivered by Energy Saving Trust.

To find out exactly what you are eligible for, whatever your circumstances, call the Home Energy Scotland hotline now on 0808 808 2282 or visit homeenergyscotland.org/contact to request a call back.

7 February - Glasgow Club - discounted membership and free month offer for council family staff

All council family staff qualify for a discounted Glasgow Club membership.

You can sign up to FitClub for just £10 per month instead of the standard rate of £27. If you already pay for a membership, you can apply for the discount and reduce your monthly fee (please see FAQs below). FitClub is Glasgow Club's most popular membership plan.

Join during February for even more savings

Even better - if you join during February and keep your membership going beyond the end of April you'll pay nothing for May.  Enjoy a month free to say thank you for making a commitment to your wellbeing with Glasgow Club!

You can enjoy the following at all Glasgow Club venues:

• unlimited Gym Sessions
• unlimited access to all fitness classes (in-club and digital)
• unlimited Swimming
• free personal appointments with a qualified fitness instructor
• pay-as-you-go for other activities (for example, football, badminton).

So why not make a difference to your health and wellbeing and enjoy a saving too?

To sign up: Scan the QR code below to get started or visit https://myglasgow.club/gccstaff

Support - FAQs

1.   What happens if I already pay for Glasgow Club membership?

Follow the link and skip straight to completing the form. Here you'll provide your current membership or card ID and upload your latest payslip. The team at Glasgow Club will apply the discount so you can enjoy the £10 monthly rate. We plan to do this in time for your next payment. However, we're anticipating high demand so please allow up to 6 weeks for the change to take effect.

2.   How soon will my membership start? And when do I pay?

You can sign-up or apply for a discount on your existing membership as soon as you register at https://myglasgow.club/gccstaff.

Your membership is immediately active. There's nothing to pay until the 7th of the following month. Payments continue on the 7th of each month until you cancel the direct debit with your bank. NOTE: your membership will become inactive if you don't upload a picture of your latest payslip to the staff membership page. As a result, you won't be able to access Glasgow Club activities.

3.   Is this offer open to my family members too?

No. This offer is only for those working at Glasgow Life, Glasgow City Council and our ALEOs.

4.   Do I get discounts on court/pitch bookings with my staff membership?

No. Only activities included in the FitClub membership.

5.   Can I purchase annual membership instead of paying monthly?

Staff membership is ONLY available on a monthly basis paid by Direct Debit.

6.   I'm not quite ready to take out a membership can I join at a later date? 

Yes, if you're not ready to take advantage of the offer right now, you can apply in the future.

If you have any problems, please contact the Glasgow Club team: glasgow.club@glasgowlife.org.uk

7 February - Supporting young adults into the workplace - Lord Provost lends support to Project Search

Meet James Elvin who has been on a ten-week work placement with Catering and Facilities Management (Financial Services) with the City Chambers Attendants. James from Royston enrolled in the UK DFN Project Search work experience programme tailored specifically for young people between 18-29 years with a learning disability or autism or both. The council is one of Project Search's key partners - working in partnership with the council's own Supported Employment Service; NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde; University of Strathclyde; Clyde College Glasgow and City of Glasgow College - helping to support and match students with work opportunities with the aim of supporting them into secure paid employment.

James said: "I really enjoyed my placement - it kept me busy which I really like. I was able to get involved in welcoming visitors to the City Chambers and taking them on tours of the building. My favourite part was helping at the Lord Provost's annual Children's Christmas Party. This is my third placement - before I came here, I was at City of Glasgow College, and I have spent time at Caledonian University at the gym and the student residencies. I am thrilled with the support and experience Project Search has provided me with and I am looking forward to my next job, a year-long paid internship with the Wheatley Group."

James, also worked with the Lord Provost and International Office where he was enlisted by Senior Civic Officer Stevie Buchanan to help clean the Lord Provost's and Bailies' chains of office.

The Lord Provost Jaqueline McLaren said: "I have met James and was very impressed. His work ethic and willingness to learn is the kind of attitude that attracts employers. I wish him well with Wheatley House and for the future."

James Currie, Attendant said: "This is the second time I have mentored a young person and it is such a rewarding experience. James has been enthusiastic and has enjoyed learning on the job. Project Search is such a valuable and important programme for helping a young person like James become familiar with the work environment in a supportive and inclusive way."

Sharon Kinney, Senior HR Officer, Strategic HR said: "These placements provide young adults with the opportunity to learn new skills and improve their confidence and ability to find a job. We work closely with Angie Black, Service Manager, Glasgow Supported Employment Service, GCHSCP to ensure we find the right placement to suit the individual. We could not do it without the commitment from departments offering rotations and the mentors who support the participants. It is great to see another successful placement and hear how James has benefited from his experience. We look forward to working with more departments in the future to support these."

More Information

Applications to join the programme in August 2024 are now on our college partners websites - if you know a young person who may be interested and meet the criteria, they can apply to join the programme here: Project Search Employability Programme

January

10 January - Would you consider mentoring in 2024?

Donna Cunningham, Head of MCR Schools Programme Glasgow, would like to encourage staff to make a positive change to the year ahead by considering mentoring with MCR Pathways.

Donna said "I would like to wish all our colleagues and mentors a Happy New Year. I am pleased to share that last year MCR recruited 109 mentors from across the Glasgow Family, to find out more about the huge difference our mentors have made you can watch this short video.

"Although this is an amazing achievement, we hope to recruit even more mentors this year. At the moment we urgently need mentors for All Saints Secondary, Eastbank Academy, Lochend High, Lourdes Secondary, St Mungo's Academy, St Pauls' High and Whitehill Secondary. If you live or work near these schools and can commit an hour of your time each week please consider mentoring and help make a positive change to a young person's life. The rewards you will get back as a mentor are immeasurable"

To find out more pop into our drop in, half hour information session on

• Monday 22 January, 9:30am, 40 John Street, G1 1JL

Please email Donna.cunningham@glasgow.gov.uk to book a place as numbers are capped due to room capacity.  Attendees should please report to reception on the day.

Or attend an online MS Teams interactive session on 11 January at 4:30pm:

MCR Pathways- Online Information Session- 11/01/24- 16.30-17.00

If you can't make any of the dates above,  you can sign up anytime and take yourself through the online information session - MCR Pathways Online Sign Up.

10 January - Data Makes a Difference: save the date and chance to learn more

We all need to better understand the value of collecting, processing and using data across the organisation as data really does make a difference and is at the heart of everything we do.

The Strategic Information, Innovation and Technology (SIIT) team would like to thank everyone who attended the Data Makes a Difference event last October. With over one hundred attendees, we were delighted to see so many people from across the council taking a real interest in how data can help to improve the services we deliver to our citizens as well as drive efficiencies.

Kimberley Hose, Head of Business Intelligence, SIIT team said: "Our aim for holding the event was to showcase how the team has been using data to make a difference, and to provide staff with an opportunity to consider how they can make better use of data and the support available to them."

"Guest speakers highlighted how using data better has made an impact across services including housing, economic development, planning and financial inclusion. One of the specific projects highlighted was the city centre data dashboard which provides real time information about key indicators for Glasgow such as footfall, retail spend, transport and office rentals - which supports the delivery of initiatives such as planning and transport."

"There were also practical demonstrations on the day from some of the recent projects supported by the Data team including poverty, homelessness, traffic and our city 3D model"

Feedback from the roadshows was positive

We received positive feedback from attendees - with respondents to our post event survey saying they would recommend the event to colleagues and said it had made them start to think more about how they could start using the data they have differently to achieve better outcomes.

"I thought the event was excellent. Great clear messages, speakers and real-life examples."

"I will be looking for opportunities to make better use of the data we use."

"I took inspiration from the event to create a dashboard for the data I hold. We have a ton of data that could be telling us so much"

"I will think more about the ways data and data visualisation tools can help tackle challenges in my day-to-day job."

Next event

This event is the first in a series to demonstrate the power of data - we are using the feedback from attendees to shape the content and structure of our next 'show and tell' event, scheduled for April 2024 in the City Chambers. So, look out for more information about this which will be coming your way soon.

GOLD Course

We are also delighted to be launching a new "Getting Started with Data" course which is now available on GOLD - this has been developed with the Scottish Government working in partnership with other councils, as well as Glasgow.

The course introduces the types of information used in our organisation and how your actions can impact on this information.

You will find the course on GOLD under Core Programmes, in the section on How to handle information. 

More Information

You can read more about how staff use data every day to make a difference at Data makes a difference

10 January - The right tree in the right place : tell us your location!

Glasgow has a new online Tree Plan Portal which is inviting city residents to suggest locations for woodland and wildflower planting.

Eighteen million trees and hedges are being planted across the Glasgow City Region to create new woodland and wildlife habitats by 2030.

We are now inviting citizens to come forward with site ideas for new trees as part of plans to:

• increase canopy cover
• reduce air pollution
• help tackle global warming.

The new online portal enables people to see where trees have already been planted and to suggest sites where they would like to see a new tree or wildflowers. Locations suggested by the public will be assessed by the council and if viable, a suitable species of tree will be chosen to suit the site's size and growing conditions.

Four current priority areas have been identified for increased canopy cover. The city's Tree Plan lists Bridgeton and Dalmarnock, Govan, Levern and District and Possilpark as communities which would benefit from more trees.

Almost 70,000 trees have been planted across the city since 2018 /2019 which will provide food, cover and nest sites for birds as well as habitat for insects, bats and invertebrates. The trees will also create shade for people and animals amid rising summer temperatures.

Young trees, known as saplings or whips, have already been planted at Cathkin Braes, Tollcross Park, Kings Park, King George V Park and Shannon Street.

Buy a tree - mark a life event

People can also buy trees as sustainable gifts via the portal to commemorate major life events such as births, special wedding anniversaries or in memory of a lost loved one. They will be planted by the council in locations such as Alexandra Park, Glasgow Green and Queens Park. Locations earmarked for a tree which can be bought to mark a life event can be viewed on the portal's interactive map which also has further information on the purchase process.

Get involved - volunteer

Businesses, community groups and individuals who would like to volunteer to help with tree planting across the city can also contact us through the portal.

The Clyde Climate Forest is being delivered with the help of Woodland Trust Scotland, Green Action Trust, the Conservation Volunteers, Trees for Cities, Scottish Forestry and Glasgow City Region.

The new Tree Plan Portal can be viewed at Tree Plan Portal.

10 January - Summer Internship Programme 2024

Our Service HR Teams are currently working with Leadership Teams to identify areas of the organisation who would benefit from offering a placement on our Summer Internship Programme in 2024. 

The programme provides an opportunity for services to employ a final year HND or penultimate year degree student to work on a 12 week project based activity during the summer.  The posts are advertised based on service project requirements with a person spec developed to ensure applicants are suitably experienced to be able to deliver with appointment decisions being made by the recruiting manager. 

If you're a manager with a project which you feel would be suitable and you can fund the post at Grade 1 for the 12 week period then please ensure you indicate your interest in taking part with your Leadership Team. 

Deadline for submissions is 26 January 2024

Full details of the programme and considerations are at http://connect.glasgow.gov.uk/summerinterns please email interns@glasgow.gov.uk if you need support to consider whether your project would be suitable or how to make your application. 

The programme supports our Youth Strategy commitments and the Council's Strategic Plans commitment to Reduce Poverty and Inequality in our Communities and Increase Opportunity and Prosperity for all our citizens.

10 January - Lord Provost's Christmas warm jacket and new toy appeal 2023

Following the Lord Provost's Christmas toy and warm jacket appeal, the Lord Provost, Cllr Jacqueline McLaren would like to thank all staff and organisations who contributed to helping those young people across the city.

A special thank you to City Building for their generous donation and to all staff and external organisations who kindly donated so much.

Such an example is the CBS Accounts Payable Team in Financial Services who decided to donate toys to the appeal instead of buying each other seasonal gifts.

Sandra McNamee, Operations Manager, Customer and Business Services said: "Every year as part of our Christmas lunch we always have a Secret Santa where each member of the team buys a colleague a present. This year the team decided that instead of buying gifts they would donate to the Lord Provost Toy Appeal."

"The team donated a wide selection of toys and delivered these to the Lord Provost Office - we all hope this can go some way to helping children experience some festive joy."

It is hoped that the many donations which were distributed across the city to those in most need, would give some comfort and joy over the festive period.

10 January - Staff health and wellbeing roadshow success

As part of our commitment to staff Health and Wellbeing roadshows were held - at the Dalmarnock Legacy Hub and in the Satinwood Suite, City Chambers - for staff in Financial Services, the Chief Executive's Department and City Property (Glasgow) LLP.

The roadshows provided staff with the opportunity to access key information from a range of awareness stalls from our external partners with leaflets and advice on all things Health and Wellbeing. This included information from PAM ASSIST, our Employee Assistance provider, the benefits of joining the Glasgow Credit Union, cost of living information, Menopause advice as well as free back, neck and shoulder massages and the opportunity to make a healthy drink on the smoothie bike.

Feedback from the roadshows was positive - you can read what staff said below

"I found the roadshow informative with a bit of fun thrown in. I collected reading material on mental and physical health as well as some freebies that were available. I found out more about the £10 a month gym membership, where I can get support for my arthritis and details on having a trial session on an electric bike. I really enjoyed the free neck and shoulder massage. Overall, I would recommend going along to these." 

"The health and wellbeing roadshow was a worthwhile event as there was a wide variety of stalls with information ranging from money management advice to Glasgow Life who were promoting the benefits staff can receive as a member and details of activities in your local area. And for a bit of fun there was a smoothie bike where you could use pedal power to make a delicious smoothie, which I did, and it was lovely!"

Julie Shields, Senior HR Officer, Strategic HR said: "It was great to hear the positive feedback from staff who attended the roadshows, and many took leaflets to share with their colleagues who were unable to attend. We would encourage staff to come along and benefit from hearing first-hand what health and wellbeing support is available to them by speaking to the experts or browsing through the information available at the stalls. We plan to hold more roadshows in the new year, so we look forward to seeing you there."

For more information on the range of health and wellbeing support and resources available to all staff visit Workforce Wellbeing Support.

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