Bright Start centre in Loanhead is currently moving to new premises. The new premises is under construction so we will keep you informed of when it will re-open

Most of our centres are open this week. If you require further information, please do not hesitate to contact Head Office on 0131 654 0489. See below an update from Midlothian Council Website.

Bus routes are being checked and ice and snow being cleared but these efforts are being hampered in some areas by parked cars. Police officers are working with the council on finding the owners of these cars and asking for them to be moved.

WINTER INFORMATION & SAFETY TIPS

Though winter weather can bring many problems, there is plenty we can do to keep ourselves safe during the cold snaps and snowfalls:

• During bad weather the Council concentrates on priority routes and footpaths (such as principal roads and bus routes as well as roads to hospitals, ambulance depots, fire stations etc.) – secondary routes can only be tackled if resources allow.
• Extreme care should be taken, even when roads have been gritted as this does not ensure that they are ice free.
• Keep paths and pavements outside your home clear of snow and ice to reduce the risk of falls. Most people use salt or sand to provide some grip and help melt ice.
• When clearing footpaths, please do not mound the snow at the kerb edge as this can prevent Council staff from uplifting bins and recycling boxes.
• Take care and wear suitable footwear and clothing if clearing snow or travelling in bad weather.
• If you must abandon your car due to bad weather, try to leave it where it will not hinder the crews working to clear the snow from the road.
• In severe weather only travel when it is absolutely necessary. If you do have to travel, remember to carry an emergency kit consisting of a spade, flask/hot drink, mobile phone, torch and blanket. If there is a Police warning not to travel, then please do not travel as this only hinders the snow clearing crews.
• Keeping warm, indoors as well as outdoors, is a vital part of keeping well in the winter, particularly for older people, the young and those with chronic illness. If you know of anyone who you think may be at risk, please check up on them

Due to the severe weather conditions currently being experienced, Midlothian Council have closed all schools for the remainder of the week, Midlothian Sure Sure Start have decided to follow suit, and have closed all centres and the head office, with the health and safety of centre users and staff paramount. We plan to re-open on Monday, but will of course update all interested parties in due course.

The launch and the Annual General Meeting have also been postponed as a consequence of the weather. Once new dates are confirmed, these will be communicated.