I was delighted to be able to attend the launch of Kelso Youth Project at the town’s Abbey Row Community Centre.
Set up by Cheviot Youth, it aims to address the previous lack of voluntary youth work service provision in Kelso.
Its plans look very exciting and promise to offer opportunities for peer engagement through running a number of evening drop-in sessions and after-school clubs throughout the year.
It is clear from talking to those running the project just how enthusiastic they are about engaging with young people in the area. With activities ranging from film-making to how to be a DJ, I have no doubt that this project will prove to be popular with youngsters in the area.
BROADBAND
Research conducted by property search website Rightmove found that a home’s broadband connection is ranked more important than transport links or nearby schools.
Experts such as the BBC’s Henry Pryor have said that poor internet connections can affect the price of a property by as much as 20 per cent – and with many parts of the Borders having poor internet speeds, there are concerns that house prices could suffer.
It is just another factor that highlights our need for faster internet connections and every effort must be made to achieve this as soon as possible.
BED BLOCKING
Official figures have shown that the problem of bed blocking in the Borders is getting worse.
Statistics released by ISD Scotland reveal that between October and December last year, a total of 2,091 bed days were taken up by delayed-discharge NHS Borders patients. Delayed-discharge occurs when a patient is fit and able to leave hospital, but has nowhere to go, such as a care home or supported living accommodation.
This can cause distress among patients, who instead of being allowed to leave hospital are forced to stay longer than necessary. It also leads to problems for hospital managers who are having beds taken up when there are sick patients in need of care.
It is unacceptable to leave these individuals languishing in hospital. Whatever way you look at these figures, they paint a picture of a Scottish Government that is letting the situation get out of control.
MARIE CURIE CANCER CARE
This month has seen the Great Daffodil Campaign, an initiative run by Marie Curie Cancer Care which each year raises funds that allow continued provision of free care for those with terminal illnesses.
Millions across the UK support this event by giving a small donation to purchase and wear a daffodil pin, helping ensure that patients get the best end-of-life care possible.