CACA Junior Youth Club

I recently visited the CACA Junior Youth Club to see the amazing work’ of a group of volunteers in Cowdenbeath who give up their time to organise and run the towns junior youth club. I visited on a Friday evening to meet volunteers and talk with the young people who participate in the club. Over […]

Call for Review of Ambulance Capacity in Fife

Ambulance services in Fife are operating beyond stretching point putting massive stress on staff and failing patients. I have written to the new Health Secretary Neil Gray MSP calling for a review of ambulance services across the Kingdom. In the letter I highlighted the case of a lady in her 80s who had to wait […]

Concerns Over Scottish Water Rates Hike

I have raised concerns over the announcement that Scottish Water water and waste charges will increase from 1 April 2024 by 8.8% amid speculation that the increase will repeat annually until 2026/27, meaning an overall increase of 29% in the next three years. Water and waste charges, paid via Council Tax, are determined by the […]

Fife Pupils Gaining Skills and Knowledge of Career Options

An alternative curriculum pathway offering school pupils the chance to sign up for a 10 week programme out of school in venues across Fife is a great success. I visited one of the sites at the Lochgelly Miners Institute this week where 3rd and 4th year pupils are undertaking courses in construction, mechanics and engineering […]

ScotRail Fare Hike Despite 42% Increase in Revenue

I have questioned the decision to raise train fares by almost 9% as ScotRail published accounts for year to March 2023 show a 42% increase in revenue and a 36% increase in journeys from the year before. The published accounts, the first for the new public sector operator, show passenger revenue of £265million over 64 […]

Community Hub Supporting People This Winter

A Community Hub based in Cowdenbeath that provides direct support to veterans and those struggling with the cost of living, isolation and homelessness is gearing up for a busy winter period. The Knights Templar Goodwill charity based at Thistle Street, Cowdenbeath, was founded by Veterans in March 2021 and has continued to grow and support […]

We Are With You – Drug, Alcohol & Mental Health Support

We Are With You are a charity that offers free, confidential support to people in Scotland who have issues with drugs, alcohol or mental health. The way in which we communicate, seek information and access support has transformed in recent years with the advancement of digital technology. We all now expect expert advice at our […]

Cowdenbeath Organisations Going From Strength to Strength

Volunteers from 15 local groups came together this weekend in Cowdenbeath to promote the value of volunteering and the work the groups do in the local area to support the wider community. Organised by ‘My Cowdenbeath,’ a community interest company, the drop-in event highlighted the work of 15 voluntary groups and organisations from the area […]