Dear all,
I hope everyone is keeping well and for those who are taking some time off during the upcoming October break, I hope you have a lovely time.
You will have seen in Employee News 18 that the Scottish Government has published its Public Service reform proposal. As mentioned, we will engage in the consultation and will continue to keep you all informed with updates as they emerge. We will also continue to engage with our local Trade Unions to share information and discuss implications as more details are developed.
I would like to reiterate that it remains ‘business as usual’ for us and I thank you all for your understanding and continued dedication and hard work.
Children's creative carvings come to life in Cairnhill Woods
Creative children’s imaginations have been brought to life in the heart of Cairnhill Woods, with a series of unique carved wooden animal statues now installed there.
The project - led by the Council’s Streetscene Technical Support Team, Cairnhill Woods Group and Westerton Primary School’s Eco Committee - gave pupils the opportunity to see their ideas transformed from drawings into permanent artworks, creating a distinctive new feature for visitors to enjoy as they explore the woods. A competition was run by Cairnhill Woods Group with pupils asked to design sculptures based on animals that could be found in and around the Woods.
Climate for change and active travel?
Following approval at Council last week, consultation is now underway on a draft Active Travel Strategy (ATS2) for East Dunbartonshire. The aim is to help make walking, wheeling and cycling the first and natural choice for local everyday trips. Find out more and have a say online before 15 November 2026.
Meanwhile, an update on the Climate Action Plan (CAP) was also taken to Council last week detailing progress made and feedback from the first meetings of the Community and Youth Climate Change Forums. The CAP sets out a range of actions to help us reach our net zero target for direct emissions (including vehicles and buildings) and purchased energy by 2036. Find out more about the Climate Action Plan.
Can you donate a Christmas Gift for a local child?
Once again this year, our colleagues in Social Work are partnering with Glasgow Spirit of Christmas to help make sure that the magic of Christmas is protected for local children living in poverty.
Last year you donated 238 gifts that went straight to those families in East Dunbartonshire most in need. This year’s appeal is for new toys and games or vouchers for children of all ages and should be delivered to Enterprise House by Friday 11 December 2026.
Any help would be greatly appreciated. If you would like more information, please contact Frances McGuire.
Thank you in advance for doing your bit to help local families this Christmas.
Monthly Wellbeing Focus
As usual, our Monthly Wellbeing Focus is updated each month with key campaigns and details of support all employees can access.
And finally….
Craigdhu Primary School in Milngavie has struck gold this year; not once, not twice, but three times! In May the school was awarded its first-ever Gold Sports Award from sportscotland; in June it received re-accreditation as a Gold Rights Respecting School; and in August there were golden anniversary celebrations as the school marked 50 years since it first opened its doors to pupils in August 1976. Huge congratulations to everyone at the school!
Thanks,
Ann
