Peterhead Councillors Welcome 'Milestone' Report on New Campus

Following a report to the Buchan Area Committee, Peterhead councillors have welcomed a report on the new Community Campus which sets out the preferred site as a “milestone” for the town.

Councillors discussed the report in a formal session at Buchan House before it goes to a meeting of the Full Council on Thursday for approval. It details the next steps in the process and asks councillors to agree the preferred site for the new Community Campus shall be the Kinmundy site.

Commenting, Cllr Stephen Smith (SNP-Peterhead South & Cruden) said:

“This is a milestone for Peterhead in terms of moving forward to a new secondary school and community campus for the town.

“The preferred site has now been formally identified and the next steps set out in terms of engagement with the community and the further reports required on the business case and town centre impact assessment. We now need to keep up the pace on progress with this important project.”

Cllr Stephen Calder (Independent-Peterhead South & Cruden) said:

“I'm very pleased to see such huge, united support for a new Community Campus in Peterhead. This will bring major changes and improvements to the educational, community, cultural, arts and sports facilities in the town. It is an exciting development which will be welcomed by the area and the whole community who will benefit from it."

Cllr Anne Allan (SNP-Peterhead North & Rattray) added:

“Having lobbied hard in previous council terms for a new academy for Peterhead, selecting the preferred site is a major step forward. The vast majority of Peterhead councillors have welcomed this as a positive development for the town and will continue to work together to deliver it for the community.”

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Peterhead Councillor Anne Allan Backs Retention of Free Parking Period

Peterhead North SNP councillor Anne Allan has described plans to end free parking periods in the town’s ‘Pay and Display’ council car parks as a “backward step” and “detrimental to Peterhead town centre”, ahead of a crunch council vote on Thursday.

In a bid to start making a profit from Aberdeenshire’s loss-making car parks, Conservative and Lib-Dem members of the council’s Infrastructure Services Committee tried to begin the process of removing free parking periods from council ‘Pay and Display’ car parks last November.

A counter-proposal from opposition councillors – which would instead have balanced the car parking budget while retaining a half-hour free parking period in all towns was defeated by 9 votes to 5, with Conservative and Lib Dem committee members voting against.

However, the Conservative and Lib Dem bid to scrap the free period was thwarted after opposition councillors insisted that any decision on the change be taken instead by all 70 councillors at a meeting of January’s full Aberdeenshire Council.

Speaking ahead of Thursday’s meeting of the Full Council, Cllr Anne Allan said:

“Introducing a free parking period was a key pledge made by SNP councillors standing for election in 2012 and we campaigned strongly on this issue, working across party lines with other councillors get it introduced.

“Having a free parking period removes one of the major disincentives for people who perhaps have only one or two items they need to get but don’t want to fork out to pay for parking when they are only going to need a parking space for maybe 10 minutes. It encourages people back into the town centre and that is a good thing.

“The proposal to remove free parking from our car parks just doesn’t make sense and is a backward step. If shoppers are forced to pay for making even a brief stop-off, many customers will choose to go instead to the supermarkets.

“All the feedback suggests that having this short free parking period has helped sustain town centres. Removing it will be detrimental to the town centre and I will be voting to support local shoppers and local businesses and retain a free parking period when this is debated next week.”

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Peterhead Councillor Backs Retention of Free Parking Period

Peterhead North SNP councillor Anne Allan has described plans to end free parking periods in the town’s ‘Pay and Display’ council car parks as a “backward step” and “detrimental to Peterhead town centre”, ahead of a crunch council vote on Thursday.

In a bid to start making a profit from Aberdeenshire’s loss-making car parks, Conservative and Lib-Dem members of the council’s Infrastructure Services Committee tried to begin the process of removing free parking periods from council ‘Pay and Display’ car parks last November.

A counter-proposal from opposition councillors – which would instead have balanced the car parking budget while retaining a half-hour free parking period in all towns was defeated by 9 votes to 5, with Conservative and Lib Dem committee members voting against.

However, the Conservative and Lib Dem bid to scrap the free period was thwarted after opposition councillors insisted that any decision on the change be taken instead by all 70 councillors at a meeting of January’s full Aberdeenshire Council.

Speaking ahead of Thursday’s meeting of the Full Council, Cllr Anne Allan said:

“Introducing a free parking period was a key pledge made by SNP councillors standing for election in 2012 and we campaigned strongly on this issue, working across party lines with other councillors get it introduced.

“Having a free parking period removes one of the major disincentives for people who perhaps have only one or two items they need to get but don’t want to fork out to pay for parking when they are only going to need a parking space for maybe 10 minutes. It encourages people back into the town centre and that is a good thing.

“The proposal to remove free parking from our car parks just doesn’t make sense and is a backward step. If shoppers are forced to pay for making even a brief stop-off, many customers will choose to go instead to the supermarkets.

“All the feedback suggests that having this short free parking period has helped sustain town centres. Removing it will be detrimental to the town centre and I will be voting to support local shoppers and local businesses and retain a free parking period when this is debated next week.”

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Peterhead Councillor Anne Allan Hails New Fishmarket Investment

Peterhead North & Rattray councillor Anne Allan has hailed the new Peterhead Fishmarket as a vote of confidence in the town and the industry.

The SNP councillor was speaking after a visit to the under-construction facility by members of Aberdeenshire Council’s Fisheries Working Group.

Commenting, Cllr Anne Allan said:

“I was delighted to have the opportunity to visit the new fishmarket today, and I’m very impressed with the facilities it will offer to the fishing industry.

“Also important is the new training room that is incorporated within it, which will provide much needed opportunities for young people to see, learn and perhaps start a career within the processing sector.

“This investment by Peterhead Port Authority is a real vote of confidence in the town and in the future of its industry.”

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MSP & Peterhead Councillors Urge Residents to Make Their Views Known on Minor Injuries Units Consultation

Banffshire & Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson is urging constituents to make their views known as part of a consultation on Minor Injuries Units at local hospitals across Aberdeenshire.

Stewart Stevenson MSP with Cllr Anne Allan and Cllr Stephen Smith
at Peterhead Hospital

The review has been instigated by the Aberdeenshire Health & Social Care Partnership, a joint NHS Grampian/Aberdeenshire Council body and will take into consideration “location, demand, activity, practitioner competency and ongoing sustainability”.

Commenting, Stewart Stevenson MSP said:

“I know from feedback that our local NHS facilities are greatly valued by constituents. I understand the need for the authorities to review the services they provide from time to time and I appreciate the opportunity to put forward my views and those of my constituents.

“My concern would be that any diminution in the service provided at local Minor Injuries Units would lead to further demands on the ambulance service or, indeed, local GPs. Clearly, we have a number of villages at the moment where provision of a GP service is a major issue. In addition, I am keen that nothing is done which would increase the pressure on the local ambulance service, who may be called upon to step in if access to the Minor Injuries Units was curtailed.

“I will be making my views known to the Aberdeenshire Health & Social Care Partnership and I urge constituents to do likewise.”

Peterhead South & Cruden SNP councillor Stephen Smith added:

"All the feedback I’ve had tells me that the Minor Injuries Unit is a valued facility and an essential service.

“It means that there is less pressure on services elsewhere and undoubtedly means that fewer ambulance call-outs are needed as a result of it being local and accessible.”

Peterhead North & Rattray SNP councillor Anne Allan said:

“We’re in the fortunate position of having our own ambulance service in the town and any reduction in service at the Minor Injuries Unit might lead to increased demand on other services. I would urge local residents to make their views known at the drop-in being held on 14 March.”

Information events are being held at Peterhead Football Club on 14 March, and Fraserburgh Sports & Community Centre on 21 March, all between 3.00pm and 7.00pm.

Further information can be obtained from Aberdeenshire Council on 03456 081203 or by e-mailing integration@aberdeenshire.gov.uk.

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Peterhead Councillors Welcome Academy Progress

Peterhead SNP councillors Stephen Smith and Anne Allan have welcomed further progress on a new Academy Campus for Peterhead.

Following the change of council Administration in 2015, the new SNP/Labour Partnership committed Aberdeenshire Council to a new academy for Peterhead. Now, the council has confirmed its commitment to ongoing investment and regeneration in Peterhead by agreeing in principle for a multimillion pound community campus to be built in the town.

Councillors approved including costs for the £71 million community campus in the council’s capital plan for 2023 – 2028 when they agreed the budget on 8 February; meaning a primary one pupil enrolling at Peterhead Central School for the next school year will be among the first intake of the new school.

Peterhead South & Cruden councillor Stephen Smith said:

“This is the next logical step in the process initiated by the previous Administration and I am pleased the council’s commitment to a new Peterhead Academy has been maintained and is being progressed.”

Peterhead North & Rattray SNP councillor Anne Allan added:

"I welcome this further information about Peterhead Academy. However, the actual design will be the subject of much consultation with pupils, staff and the wider community to ensure we get a school that everyone in Peterhead can be proud of.”

To date the council has carried out an assessment to determine the best solution. Public consultations on ideal locations have been held but further consultation will follow.

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Councillors Speak Out Against Christmas Lights Charges

Local SNP councillors Stephen Smith (Peterhead South & Cruden) and Anne Allan (Peterhead North & Rattray) have spoken out against proposals by Aberdeenshire Council to charge community groups for the cost of electricity used by Christmas light displays.

The move followed a meeting of the Buchan Area Committee yesterday (Tuesday) where councillors were being asked their views on a new policy for festive light displays. Among the proposals from the council were that community groups should be liable for the cost of the electricity used by Christmas light displays. At the meeting, both councillors spoke out against the charges as an unfair burden on voluntary groups.

Cllr Stephen Smith said:

“Our local communities do a lot to raise money to finance the Christmas light displays, maintain them, get them up and take them back down again. That’s a lot of work for volunteers to do and I think it’s only right that the council continues to make a contribution by way of meeting the electricity costs.

“The amounts we’re talking about in each community are fairly small and I think it’s a small price to pay for the festive displays which enhance our towns and villages each year.”

Cllr Anne Allan added:

“Many people don’t realise that the annual Christmas lights displays in towns and villages across Aberdeenshire are entirely the responsibility of local voluntary groups, who do a great job in brightening up the festive season.

“To ask them to find extra money for the cost of the electricity would be an additional burden on their resources and fundraising efforts and I’m glad the Buchan Area Committee agreed unanimously that our view is we don’t want to see this extra cost imposed.”

The issue will be decided by Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee in the near future.

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Travelodge Opening Hailed as Boost for Peterhead Regeneration

Local councillors Fiona McRae and Anne Allan have hailed the opening of the new Travelodge in Peterhead as a tremendous boost for the Town Centre.

The new hotel in Chapel Street officially opens on Tuesday at a ceremony to be attended by Aberdeenshire Provost Hamish Vernal, amongst others. The development has transformed a semi-derelict part of the Town Centre and has saved the eastern façade of the street from demolition.

Commenting, Cllr Fiona McRae said:

“The former flats in Chapel Street have been a long-running issue and it’s great to see this development come to fruition with a new business coming to Peterhead and redeveloping the site.

“This is a huge boost for the regeneration of Peterhead Town Centre, brings life back to what was previously a very run-down building, and also brings another quality brand to Peterhead.”

Cllr Anne Allan added:

“While I’m delighted that Aberdeenshire Council has over £1.5Million allocated to assist with regeneration in Peterhead, private investment is a huge part of the process and this is an excellent example of that.

“There’s a lot going on currently in terms of investment in Peterhead. Work will begin shortly to upgrade the area at the Clerkhill shops; we’re seeing plans for a new academy move forward; Peterhead Port Authority are continuing their expansion, assisted by Scottish Government funding; and we’re seeing new businesses such as Travelodge moving into the Town Centre. It’s all very encouraging and I’m keen to see more done, but this is a good start.”

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More Inverugie Homes benefit from Fibre Broadband

Peterhead North & Rattray SNP councillors Anne Allan and Fiona McRae have announced that 79 premises in the Inverugie area can now access a fibre broadband service.

These addresses were previously ‘Exchange-only’ but are now served by a street cabinet located near Hallmoss Farm on the A90.

Announcing the new provision, Cllr Anne Allan said:

“This is very welcome news and increases the provision of fibre broadband to our more rural areas.

“Aberdeenshire has more than its fair share of Exchange-only lines which are more difficult and expensive to connect to fibre and this is a very welcome step forward to solving this particular issue."

Cllr Fiona McRae added:

"With the Scottish Government planning to provide high-speed broadband access for every occupied premise in Scotland by 2021, we are seeing that rural areas, with their particular difficulties are not being left behind.

"Good progress has been made in Buchan towns and villages and implementation of solutions that will connect more rural properties is very important."

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Tory MSP Called Out on Mental Health Service Claims

Aberdeenshire Council has refuted claims made by Tory MSP Peter Chapman that a new mental health service is excluding people, insisting that the new service will be equitable across Aberdeenshire and provides a more person centred service.

Following the awarding of the contract for a new ‘Mental Health – Pathways to Recovery’ service last year, Aberdeenshire Council has been working with provider SAMH as they roll out the new service across Aberdeenshire.

It was commissioned to provide a community-based mental health service and to promote the achievement of a mentally well and inclusive Aberdeenshire in which people who experience mental illness are enabled to recover and achieve their personal outcomes.

It provides more equitable services across north, central and south Aberdeenshire; to target service provision more appropriately to individual risk and need; and to support people who experience mental illness and help them enjoy mainstream activities alongside other members of the community.

Co-Leader of Aberdeenshire Council Cllr Richard Thomson said:

“It is simply not true to say people have fallen through a chasm and been forgotten about as has been claimed. Everyone who has registered with the new service has been contacted by SAMH and we continue to urge anyone who requires support to register with SAMH.

"If for any reason they do not want to register with SAMH they can contact our Community Mental Health Teams who will support them.

“We of course acknowledge that some existing services users remain anxious about the change of provider and new model of delivery, but there are many advantages of the new services which will be more personalised, more recovery focused, better linked to employability, accessible seven days per week, and is available across Aberdeenshire as a whole.”

Cllr Anne Allan, Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Communities Committee added:

“The new service is about helping people to recover and supporting them to achieve their outcomes. A buildings based service restricts the number of people who can access the service. If people cannot attend the building at the time it is open then they are excluded from the service.

"When developing our modified service specification we were made aware that many people especially in rural areas who wanted help were unable to access the previous service model. We now have a service which is accessible to all. I completely understand that people are nervous about change but I would urge them to speak to SAMH or Community Mental Health teams so we can support them on the road to their recovery."

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Latest Inspection Report Praises Aberdeenshire's Local Homecare & Housing Support

Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership’s Homecare and Housing Support Service has been rated very good by the Care Inspectorate in their latest inspection report.

Following an unannounced inspection in November the service received the second highest rating of 5 (very good) for both quality of staffing and quality of care and support.

The Homecare and Housing Support Service provides support to assist people to live in their own homes for as long as possible, preventing the need for residential care.

In its report the Care Inspectorate said the service works well with other services and has been involved in developing an integrated approach to care. They highlighted that employees felt the partnership with the NHS meant they can now react quicker to situations and that communication is much improved.

The report went on to say the service had continued to develop since its last inspection. It has improved the recording processes and working with others has become more responsive. Systems are in place to monitor how they are improving outcomes for service users.

Home carers spoke positively about the training and support they had received especially training they were undertaking on enablement which would support them to improve the outcomes for service users.

The Care Inspectorate only had one recommendation for the service which was to consider if there was a better way of sharing information between employees and other services.

In response to this Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care believe the development of integrated teams and virtual community wards will help with communication with other professionals.

Chair of Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership’s Integration Joint Board, Cllr Anne Allan (SNP-Peterhead North & Rattray) said:

“The work undertaken by carers on behalf of the Partnership is at the heart of our strategy to keep people independent and living in their own homes for as long as possible. We all greatly appreciate the tremendous job they do in caring for the most vulnerable people in Aberdeenshire. It is a very demanding job but hopefully very rewarding. This report is great credit to all those who work in the service and it is good that their hard work is recognised by independent inspectors.

“There are 640 home carers employed to carry out 12,000 hours of care per week for adults and older people. In addition external providers are commissioned to carry out 9000 hours of care per week.”

Vice Chair of Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership’s Integration Joint Board, Dr Lynda Lynch said:

“As life expectancy increases for people with a range of health and social care needs, the demand on services is also increasing. At the same time, there is a clear message from service users that wherever possible they want personalised support delivered in their own homes, rather than in institutional settings.

“Recent developments in the service including the introduction of a rehabilitation and enablement team, the ARCH (Aberdeenshire Responders for Care at Home) service, and the Priority Discharge Team all help to support people to regain skills and maximise independence. This helps to relieve pressures on Care Homes and Hospital beds across Aberdeenshire.”

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SNP Councillors welcome plans for more affordable housing in Aberdeenshire

SNP Councillors have welcomed plans for a further 95 affordable houses to be built during 2017/18 under the Council’s new build programme.

At a recent Social Work and Housing Committee, a report outlined Phase 6 of Aberdeenshire Council’s new build housing programme, which includes plans for housing in Huntly, Peterhead, Turriff, Oldmeldrum, Fraserburgh and Portlethen.

The report, which was presented to the Committee on Thursday 12th January, also revealed that 189 new affordable homes were already completed between April and December 2016 in Peterhead, Fraserburgh, Banff, Inverurie, Westhill and Ballater.

In addition to this, officers are continuing to work closely with partners across both the public and private sectors to maximise the delivery of affordable housing and optimize the Resource Planning Allocation from the Scottish Government. It is estimated this will provide over 600 affordable houses between March 2017 and December 2019.

The report also updated councillors on plans for the Housing Infrastructure Fund as part of the Aberdeen City Region Deal announcement. The fund is available either as a loan to private developers or as a grant to local authorities or registered social landlords. Eligible works include infrastructure required to start a project such as roads, flood remediation and demolition work.

Following engagement with the private sector five expressions of interest have been submitted from developers and social housing providers in Aberdeenshire.

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Social Work and Housing Committee Cllr Anne Allan said:

“Affordable Housing remains a top priority for Aberdeenshire Council and we continue to speak to RSLs, private developers and the Scottish Government to increase the number and variety of homes across Aberdeenshire.

“We have seen the council house waiting list reduce from over 10,000 to 8,500 and want to see this reduce further. Only by working with others will we be able to deliver the housing people in Aberdeenshire need.

“The SNP are committed to ensuring that a range of housing options are available, including shared equity, mid-market rent and social housing. People have a variety of different requirements and incomes when it comes to housing; one size does not fit all, and our approach ensures that they have the choice.”

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Peterhead SNP Councillors Welcome New Sports Pitches

Local football teams will come together tonight to celebrate the opening of new sports pitches in Peterhead after facilities at Catto Park received a significant upgrade over the summer.

As part of an investment of around £800,000 by Aberdeenshire Council, the all-weather pitch and grass football pitch have been replaced, with new surfaces, drainage, floodlights and fencing installed.

A mini-football tournament involving teams from Peterhead Boys’ Club and local primary schools will take place on Monday 17 October (tonight) from 6.00pm.

Commenting, Peterhead North & Rattray SNP councillor Anne Allan said:

“I’m delighted to see these new pitches opening following the upgrading works and pleased that local teams will now be playing on top quality pitches.”

Chair of the Buchan Area Committee and councillor for Peterhead South & Cruden Stuart Pratt added:

“This is good news for the town and while the facilities should have been upgraded some time ago, I’m very pleased we are now seeing progress on a range of things from the Catto Park pitches to plans for a new Peterhead Academy to regeneration funding for the town.”

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£400k Property Fund Agreed for Banff & Buchan

Peterhead, Fraserburgh, Banff and Macduff will benefit from a new Property Investment Fund aimed at bringing derelict and vacant properties back into use.

The fund of £400,000 was agreed by Aberdeenshire Council’s Policy and Resources Committee, following discussions at Infrastructure Services Committee and the Regeneration Member Officer Working Group where the scale of dereliction in some streets in Macduff and Banff has been highlighted.

The fund is an important part of the council’s Regeneration Strategy, to breathe new life into towns and villages across Aberdeenshire. The aim is to bring prominent, town centre properties which have been empty for at least six months, back into use. Applications will be open to individuals, community groups or businesses who own and wish to invest in their property to bring new, sustainable uses to the towns of Banff, Macduff, Fraserburgh and Peterhead.

Grants of up to £10,000 will be awarded for feasibility studies, architectural drawings or quantity surveying work at phase 1, with further grants of up to £100,000 available in phase 2 for building/renovation work.

Councillors have agreed to run the scheme for two years as a trial to demonstrate what is achievable and what is required to entice private and community developers to invest in their town centres.

Co-Leader of Aberdeenshire Council Cllr Richard Thomson chaired the meeting of Policy & Resources Committee, and said:

“The towns of Banff, Peterhead, Macduff and Fraserburgh will all benefit from this Property Investment Fund, and we are expecting a positive response from developers and property owners in the towns.

“Investing in our town centres is a priority for Aberdeenshire Council, and to achieve the best results we need to stimulate the local economy by encouraging private developers to invest in their properties.

“We hope this fund will reinvigorate these towns and kick-start a wider commitment by developers to work alongside the council to take steps which will support the local economy.”

Local councillors have welcomed the announcement of the fund as good news for Peterhead.

Peterhead North & Rattray SNP councillor Anne Allan said:

“When the Partnership of SNP, Labour and Progressive councillors took over the Administration of Aberdeenshire Council a few months ago, we wanted to make regeneration of the four northern towns a greater priority.

“Some good foundations had been laid, but it was time to step things up a gear. This Property Investment Fund will be just one of those step-changes. I would encourage anyone who thinks they may qualify for support under this scheme to get in touch with the Regeneration & Town Centres Manager [details below] for more information.”

Peterhead South & Cruden SNP councillor Stuart Pratt added:

“This scheme can help provide funding to kick-start the regeneration of buildings in need of attention to bring them back into productive use. Most of these will be privately-owned so this will very much be a co-operative approach where the council can perhaps provide the impetus through this scheme to start things moving.”

Those who wish to apply should discuss their proposal with the Regeneration & Town Centres Manager, Christine Webster. Tel: 07785 730652 or email christine.webster@aberdeenshire.gov.uk.

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Healthcare in Peterhead Set to Benefit from 'Virtual' Community Ward

Vulnerable people who are at risk of being admitted to hospital could soon be part of a virtual community ward after Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership’s Integrated Joint Board (IJB) approved the innovative scheme for the next three years.

At its first meeting, the IJB approved £5m of funding which will see virtual community wards set up initially in Insch, Kincardine & Mearns, Aboyne, Banchory, Turriff, Macduff, Kemnay and Peterhead.

The Virtual Community Ward is a method by which health and social care services can be integrated around the needs of individuals at risk.

It creates a system which can rapidly identify and meet the needs of individuals who have acute illness, exacerbation of chronic illness, terminal phase of an illness or complexity associated with social care needs. Most, but not all, will be elderly, and will often be frail already.

The intervention is therefore aimed at the group of individuals most likely to suffer an otherwise avoidable hospital or care home admission, or to come to harm due to a lack of organisation of, and consistency of, health and social care.

The Virtual Community Ward will be developed in a phased way across Aberdeenshire with the proposed addition of rapidly accessible home carers, community nurses, care managers and medical diagnostics.

Vice-Chair of Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership’s IJB and Peterhead North SNP councillor Anne Allan explained:

“It is important Virtual Community Wards fit around the needs of their local population and which reflects the existing resources they have locally.

“This is the perfect example of people working together to identify those who are most at risk of going into hospital so we can put together a combined package of care, support and lifestyle advice designed to keep people healthier and independent for longer.”

The Virtual Community Ward is based around a local area in most cases defined by a GP practice patient population. Individuals who could benefit from this approach are identified by any member of the Health & Social Care (H&SC) team. Individuals are “admitted” and their names entered on a whiteboard.

GPs, Social Work staff, Community Nurses and where appropriate other team members meet each morning around the whiteboard for about 15 minutes, checking rapidly on progress of individuals and deciding on actions needed that day. Once individuals have recovered they are then “discharged” from the ward to normal or if necessary enhanced care.

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Community Service Teams Help with Flood Recovery

People completing Unpaid Work Orders in Aberdeenshire have been clearing up in Aboyne, Maryculter, Ellon and Port Elphinstone alongside staff from landscape and waste services following floods in December and January which affected the area.

During the height of the flooding the Aberdeenshire Unpaid Work Service also helped to transport food, clothing and furniture to affected areas to supply rest centres and households.

In addition, support was also provided to fill sandbags and transport these to storage sites for distribution.

Work been carried out at:

• HorseBack UK, Aboyne - clearing fallen branches from fields and access roads.
• Glen Tanar Estate, Aboyne – clearing access roads and river banks from flood debris.
• Deeside Caravan Park, Maryculter – collecting and clearing flood debris into skips for disposal.

Ongoing work is taking place at Port Elphinstone to sweep and clear the river bank pathways and the team will also carry out similar work in Ellon and Ballater as well as assisting in the restoration of garden areas in care homes.

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Social Work and Housing Committee Councillor Anne Allan said:

“The unpaid work team can offer valuable assistance especially at times like these when communities need to recover quickly from flooding.

“The collaboration with wider council services involved in the response to flooding as well as flood prevention is a valuable addition to resources.

“I know the businesses, organisations and people that have received support to clear up will join me in thanking the team for the work carried out and I encourage people to get in touch if they have a project the team can work on.”

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee Councillor David Aitchison said:

“The amount of work that has taken place by staff, volunteers and the unpaid work service to support communities across Aberdeenshire is commendable.

“The authority is doing everything it can to mitigate the impact of recent and future weather events from repairs to roads, bridges and buildings to supporting businesses and assessing preventative measures alongside partners.”

Aberdeenshire Unpaid Work Service regularly undertakes work across the area to community centres, village halls, care homes and churches.

In total 41,500 hours of unpaid work took place in 2014/15 and during the flooding the service carried out 168 hours over various projects.

Unpaid work is one of the requirements that can make up a Community Payback Order. The orders are tailored specifically to each offender based on the nature of the offence and any underlying issues they might have such as drug or alcohol misuse. Orders are normally imposed to run for between three months and three years.

Any required unpaid work should be completed within six months of sentence, where more than 100 hours are imposed or three months where it is less than 100 hours.

With the number of orders increasing, the service is always keen to hear about more local projects that could benefit from the help of people undertaking Community Payback Orders.

If you have a community project you would like help with contact Aberdeenshire Council’s Unpaid Work Service at:

Team Manager: joe.walsh@aberdeenshire.gov.uk
Projects Officer: john.clark@aberdeenshire.gov.uk (North Aberdeenshire)
Projects Officer: gillian.christie@aberdeenshire.gov.uk (South/Central Aberdeenshire)

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Colourful History Brought to Life on Peterhead Town Trail

A walking trail which leads visitors around the historic town of Peterhead has been developed to highlight some of the town’s best history – and darkest secrets.

As part of regeneration efforts taking place locally, the Peterhead Town Trail links and highlights some of the most interesting parts of the area’s largest town. Smugglers, secret passages, heroes, poets, influential ladies, ghosts, war, witchcraft, murder, rebellion and piracy – all easily taken in on a day out in Peterhead.

From the haunting tale of Auld Harry in the Harbour, to witch trials and the dubious business of the Baron Bailie Alexander Elles, a colourful history is brought to life. Walkers on the trail can meet Fisher Jessie, see the gift William I of Prussia sent to the people of Peterhead and find out how a loving aunt’s legacy caused terror and wiped out over 300 people.

People can also learn how cannons salvaged from a wrecked galleon from the Spanish Armada saved the town and why it’s called the Blootoon.

The trail has two loops – one long and one short - featuring 21 story boards located at points of interest around the town. Both trails start at Kirk Street and end on St. Peter Street, at the Arbuthnot Museum.

The boards feature interesting history from the immediate vicinity, showing images and telling tales from the past.

A leaflet to accompany the town trail and guide visitors is being made available and further information can be seen on a dedicated website: www.peterheadtowntrail.co.uk.

Provost of Aberdeenshire, Cllr Hamish Vernal, who officially launched the trail, said:

“It’s great that the exciting and varied past of Peterhead can be highlighted in such a simple, direct way.

“Not only does it provide a fascinating walk around the area for visitors, it should help increase local footfall and have a knock on effect for businesses.

“We’re very grateful for the support shown by the community and local businesses for this trail and we hope it’s a useful addition to what Peterhead has to offer.”

Buchan Area Committee vice-chair, Cllr Anne Allan, who has offered important input into the project, said:

“Many locals already know about and value the rich history and tradition of Peterhead, as evidenced by the involvement of some of them in this project for their expert advice.

“We already get lots of visitors from further afield, but we want to welcome more, and offering more attractions and things to do around the town can play a big part in that.

“Local people can also enjoy the trail and I can imagine it will be popular with families who want to learn more about the colourful history of our fascinating town.”

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Council Backs Scottish Government Scheme for More Rented Housing Provision

Aberdeenshire Council has given its backing to setting up a National Housing Trust partnership in order to tackle the housing shortage in the North-east.

The National Housing Trust model is a Scottish Government scheme backed by the Scottish Futures Trust to deliver affordable housing at a mid-market rent working together with local developers.

Commenting, Shadow Leader of the Council and SNP Group Leader Cllr Hamish Vernal said:

“The Scottish Futures Trust was brought in by the SNP Government to replace the discredited PFI (Private Finance Initiative) scheme which was brought in by the Conservatives in the 1990s and continued by the Labour/Lib Dem Scottish Executive and succeeded mainly in delivering fat profits for the private sector at the expense of the taxpayer.

“This scheme allows the council access to new streams of funding which it wouldn’t normally be able to do in an effort to address the housing situation in the North-east and I very much welcome it.”

Shadow Chair of the Social Work & Housing Committee Cllr Anne Allan said:

“With around 11,000 people on the waiting list for a council house and the housing stock having been greatly reduced as a result of the right-to-buy legislation, a radical new approach is needed to tackling the problem of a lack of affordable housing in Aberdeenshire.

“Thanks to the SNP Government making funding available, we’ve seen the first new council houses built in Aberdeenshire for decades. While this is welcome, there is more to be done and I’m pleased that the Scottish Futures Trust as a taxpayer-friendly body is on board with this.”

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SNP Councillors Urges Shoppers to Sign the 'Peterhead Pledge' and Support Local Businesses

How much of your Christmas shopping can you do locally this year? Peterhead has excellent shops offering a wide selection of goods, from toys and gift ideas, to party clothes and festive food – in fact almost everything you need to make your Christmas celebrations special.

Local shops offer great quality, excellent service, friendly advice and the chance to enjoy a traditional shopping experience.

By committing to do a proportion of your Christmas shopping in Peterhead, you will help protect jobs and make your local economy stronger.

So why not spread a little festive cheer and give your town a gift by shopping local this Christmas? You can even sign the "Peterhead Pledge" and share on social media.

Taking part is simple. Just decide how much of your shopping you can do in Peterhead and set yourself a firm target.

It could be a percentage of your total shopping, a certain number of gifts, part of your food shopping, or party wear for the family. It’s up to you.

If you want to show people you're supporting the local economy, you can "sign" the Peterhead Pledge on Aberdeenshire Council’s Facebook page.

Post your pledge in the comments box and share your post with as many people as you can, or Tweet about it.

Chairman of the Buchan Area Committee, Cllr Stuart Pratt (Peterhead South & Cruden), said:

“Peterhead has lots of excellent shops and a really wide range of quality goods to suit all pockets.

“Every penny spent in Peterhead benefits the local economy, from shops and shop staff, to suppliers, support businesses, cafes and restaurants.

“Our independent shop keepers have worked hard to provide a great service through difficult times and have remained committed to the town through thick and thin. Now it’s time to show our support for them.

“I’m very pleased to support Peterhead’s Shop Local campaign, and hope everyone who lives or works in the town will rally round too, and make their own Peterhead Pledge.”

Committee vice chair, Cllr Anne Allan (Peterhead North & Rattray), said:

© Aberdeenshire Council

“If you’re not lucky enough to live or work in Peterhead, you can still take part.

“You are very welcome to visit the town and take advantage of the free car parking being offered in council car parks every Saturday in the run up to Christmas.

“Alternatively you can make a commitment to shop locally near your own home, it has the same effect – supporting local retailers for the benefit of local communities.”

Peterhead Town Centre Regeneration Officer Heather Barclay added:

“Sadly, we know some people can’t spend anything extra this Christmas.

“If you can afford it, it would be a very kind gesture to buy an extra present for the Gift Tree, or a donation of non-perishable food to Joseph’s Storehouse.

“I have already pledged to buy at least ten Christmas gifts, including one for the Gift Tree, and to do 95% of my food shopping in Peterhead. On Saturday I am going to enjoy a good old-fashioned Christmas shopping trip with my daughter, and I have already placed my order at a local bakery.”

A spokeself for the man in the red suit said:

“Santa has asked me to point out that if you have been a bit naughty this year, shopping local might just be enough to get you back on to his good list. So let’s make this a great Christmas for the Bluetoon. Please sign the Peterhead Pledge and shop local – your gift to the town.”

Some suggested pledges:

• A particular number of gifts
• Stocking fillers
• Part or all of your food shopping
• Party wear
• Cards and decorations
• A percentage of your overall budget (you don’t have to disclose the budget)

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Peterhead Councillors Comment on Fire-Raising Arrests

Peterhead SNP councillors have welcomed news that arrests have been made in connection with the destruction of the clubhouse at Peterhead Victoria Bowling Club.

Police Scotland have confirmed that two men aged 22 and 27 have been charged in connection with a fire which took place on Sunday 15 June.

Peterhead North & Rattray councillor Anne Allan said:

© Aberdeenshire Council

“This is a welcome development and I would pay tribute to the police for their work on this and the support they have received from the community.

“This was a devastating fire which destroyed a much-valued community facility. While the building was insured this has caused unnecessary distress and disruption to the bowling club. I am hopeful that the council can get things moving quickly to start the process of building a replacement facility.”

Peterhead South & Cruden councillor Stephen Smith added:

© Aberdeenshire Council

“This was an act of wanton vandalism. Victoria Bowling Club has been a part of the community for many years and for this to happen at this time in particular, at the height of the outdoor bowling season has caused a lot of inconvenience and sorrow, not to mention disrupting the annual Scottish Week competition.

“However, I’m pleased that arrests have been made and thank the police for their continued efforts in this regard.”

Buchan Community Policing Inspector George Cordiner said:

"This incident caused significant distress and upset to the owners and users of these facilities as well as causing concern to the wider community. We recently requested the assistance of the public to help identify those responsible and I would like to express my thanks for that support and hope we will continue to work together to ensure our community remains one of the safest places to live."

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