Simita Kumar

Edinburgh’s mental health care crisis and the IJB’s failure of leadership - Simita Kumar I’ve spent most of my life working in prevention care and mental health services. From my first volunteering role at a care home in Glasgow to years spent supporting people across NHS Lothian and in t...

Last week I joined a public meeting by @ThriveEdinburgh on proposed EIJB cuts to mental health services. After last year’s Third Sector cuts—now this?

www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/news/opinion/columnists/edinburghs-mental-health-care-crisis-and-the-ijbs-failure-of-leadership-simita-kumar-5154204

New £32k per year role for Edinburgh councillor an 'outrageous misuse of public funds' The Labour administration has been accused of trying to 'buy support' from the Conservative group by creating a new committee vice-convener role

Labour ditched real roles—like vice convenors for Housing, Education, Culture & Transport—to invent a bogus £32k quasi-judicial gig for the Tories.

Calling it a ‘myth’? That’s a slap in the face to every taxpayer footing the bill for this fantasy post.

www.edinburghlive.co.uk/news/edinbur...

Delighted to be selected as @theSNP candidate for Edinburgh South Western!
Grateful to our local members for your trust, support, and belief in me.
Now, the work begins—to fight for a fairer, greener, independent Scotland. #SNP #ScottishIndependence #StrongerForScotland

Leader pays tribute to Councillor Val Walker Following the sad passing of our Culture and Communities Convener Councillor Val Walker, Jane Meagher pays tribute. Flags will be lowered at the City Chambers as a mark of respect.

Edinburgh SNP councillors and I are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Cllr Val Walker. Our thoughts are with Val's family and friends, and the Labour group at this difficult time.

www.edinburgh.gov.uk/news/article...

“I am seeking your support to become the SNP candidate for Edinburgh South Western. With a deep commitment to our communities and a proven track record of delivering for local people, I will be a strong and dedicated voice for you in Holyrood. As a local councillor and leader of the Council group, I have worked tirelessly to build relationships, shape policy, and stand up for the people of our city. My experience in the NHS and third sector means I bring not just political insight but real-world expertise to drive meaningful change—making our communities fairer, stronger, and better for everyone. Together, we can build a better future and continue the fight for an independent Scotland. I would be honoured to have your nomination and support.”

Today, I wrote to branches in the new Edinburgh South Western constituency (currently Edinburgh Pentlands) seeking nomination as SNP candidate. I hope to bring my experience as a councillor, along with my NHS and third-sector work, to serve and strengthen our local communities.

I am seeking your support to become the SNP candidate for Edinburgh South Western. With a deep commitment to our communities and a proven track record of delivering for local people, I will be a strong and dedicated voice for you in Holyrood. As a local councillor and leader of the Council group, I have worked tirelessly to build relationships, shape policy, and stand up for the people of our city. My experience in the NHS and third sector means I bring not just political insight but real-world expertise to drive meaningful change—making our communities fairer, stronger, and better for everyone. Together, we can build a better future and continue the fight for an independent Scotland. I would be honoured to have your nomination and support.

Today, I wrote to branches in the new Edinburgh South Western constituency (currently Edinburgh Pentlands) seeking nomination as SNP candidate. I hope to bring my experience as a councillor, along with my NHS and third-sector work, to serve and strengthen our local communities.

@kate-c.bsky.social is an incredibly hardworking councillor who is passionate about her local community. She has been a powerhouse in her fight against unionist politics and she’ll be a formidable advocate as MSP in the Scottish Parliament.

@nicolasturgeon.bsky.social has been a trailblazer for Scotland and an inspiration to me and women everywhere. Her leadership, resilience, and dedication have shaped a better future for our country. Thank you Nicola - for your service and for paving the way for the next generation. #ThankYouNicola

Deeply disappointed by #ScottishLabour councillors on budget. No good idea or investment went unpunished.

❌£0 - holiday hubs
❌£0 - youth work
❌£0 - Gorgie Farm
❌£0 - Ratho bus
❌£0 - Poverty
❌£0 - Climate
❌ £0 - Public Toilets
=
❌ Zero Leadership

Shameful.

Tourist Tax passed in @Edinburgh_CC with a weak Labour amendment that favoured Tories yet again to vote against £1b investment into housing. No backbone, no courage, no leadership.

Edinburgh tourist tax approved 'in principal' as higher charge to tackle housing crisis rejected Tenants union Living Rent estimated more than 1,000 homeless people were being accommodated in Edinburgh hotels while tourists used homes as holiday lets

Monumental day for tourist tax in Edinburgh. But shamefully, Labour most comfortable siding with Tories to vote against SNP’s plan to invest £20M into housing providing an extra 1,000 homes #LabourChaos
www.edinburghlive.co.uk/news/edinburgh-news/edinburgh-tourist-tax-approved-in-30807155

SNP activists about to go to work.

Excellent response on the doorsteps today for @mc1yde.bsky.social , the local SNP candidate for the Colinton/Oxgangs/Fairmilehead by-election.
#SNP

Congratulations to Cllr Meagher on becoming Labour Group leader in Edinburgh. I welcome another woman leader in the Council.

However, given serious allegations of corruption and fraud, Labour simply cannot remain in administration. Due process must be allowed to take its course.

Mitigating impact of Westminster choices The Scottish Government’s recent budget brings a wave of optimism for Edinburgh. With targeted investments designed to enhance the lives of those who call the city home, this budget offers a refreshin...

Scotland faces tough challenges as a result of Westminster’s choices.

Despite budget constraints, it’s taking the right steps to shield communities and families from the worst impacts of Labour’s policies.

Read my latest article 👇

www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/news/opinion...

Serious allegations have been made against Council Leader - Councillor Cammy Day. I have written to Paul Lawrence, Chief Executive of City of Edinburgh Council, to take immediate actions to safeguard the public, protect staff, and offer support to anyone impacted.

This is beyond shocking, I’m almost lost for words. Cammy Day needs to resign as Council Leader immediately.

The Scottish Budget delivers for Edinburgh:
👶 Mitigates cruel 2-child benefit cap
🏛️ Uplifts funding for local govt
📚 Boosts support for Additional Support Needs
🏞️ Funds improved play parks
🏡 Increases investment in affordable housing
🎭 Strengthens support for culture sector

Some personal news!📕
Our book (Displacement, Borders, and Unsettling Narratives) has been published!

Migration topic has never been more important to understand than now! Please repost& have a read if you’re interested!

Thanks to all contributors & publisher

link.springer.com/book/10.1007...

The People's Story Museum The People's Story Museum will be open from December 2nd 2024. Please check our website prior to visiting in case of unforeseen closures. The People's Story gives an unique insight into Edinburgh's wo...

Happy re-opening day to The Peoples Story Museum, #Edinburgh

www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venue/people...

Yet again: A high profile man called out for his harassment, responds with arrogance, will no doubt call it “cancel culture” and be welcomed on a few podcasts…institutions will promise change, but do little, and then the sexist cycle will start again.
All on the shoulders of women who speak out.

a blue and white flag is flying in the wind against a blue sky ALT: a blue and white flag is flying in the wind against a blue sky

A very Happy St. Andrew’s Day to everyone 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

A final tour of her beloved fringe city.

I went to a Janey show in free fringe - at the end she explained how she paid her team fairly and so donations were welcome. She also offered folk to take a fiver instead if you need it no questions asked. RIP Janey ❤️

In one of those random coincidences the universe sometimes serves up, having been unable to make Janey’s Edinburgh send-off, I found myself behind her hearse all the way back west. ‘You better no crash intae the back as me’ I could hear her say.
An honour to chum you home, pal. See you tomorrow 😢

Lovely turnout on the #RoyalMile for @janeygodley.bsky.social today. We took our clicky pens! RIP Janey, thank you for everything 💔

Duddingston Crescent closed following crash – Emergency Services on scene An Edinburgh street has been closed due to a crash. Emergency Services are in attendance at Duddingston Crescent at Hope Lane and Magdalene Drive which was reported at 12.15pm. Police are asking road users to use an alternative route. A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Duddingston Crescent in Edinburgh is closed between Hope Lane and Magdalene Drive due to a road crash involving a car and a male pedestrian, which was reported at 12.15pm. “Emergency services are in attendance. “Please use an alternative route.” More to follow when we have it.

Duddingston Crescent closed following crash – Emergency Services on scene

An Edinburgh street has been closed due to a crash. Emergency Services are in attendance at Duddingston Crescent at Hope Lane and Magdalene Drive which was reported at 12.15pm. Police are asking road users to use an…

The SNP Scottish Government will introduce a universal Pension Age Winter Heating Payment, following the UK Labour government's decision to cut the Winter Fuel Payment to 900,000 Scots.

"We will not abandon older people this winter or any winter" - @sa4dunfermline.bsky.social 👏

a picture of a restored bench on the path near the canal, with the Ashley Terrace boathouse in the background.

A group of people stand on a canal towpath as a newly restored bench is unveiled

A metal plaque affixed to a refurbished wooden bench. The plaque reads "This seat is provided by merchiston community council. Funded by City of Edinburgh Council. 2024"

A bit of good news! 🌟 We recently unveiled restored canal path benches near the canal at Ashley Terrace Bridge. Local craftsman Richard Ryrko breathed new life into two decades-old benches, making them safer and more comfortable for walkers and community groups. Community spirit in action!

A fun, inclusive, mass bike ride, highlighting the need for safe routes for women and girls. Light up and decorate your bikes! This Friday evening!