Chief Executive's Update: Issue 09/2026

Dear all,

I hope everyone is keeping well.

As outlined in Employee News 17 the First Minister announced the Scottish Government’s Programme for Government 2026 – 2031 which includes a commitment to Public Sector reform. As I mentioned in the Employee News, COSLA has responded on behalf of local government in Scotland, advising that it will take time to consider the proposals. The COSLA President wrote a piece in the media over the weekend detailing COSLA’s position. You can read the opinion piece on The Scotsman website. 

I want to take this opportunity to once again reassure everyone that it is still business as usual for us. We will also ensure that all employees are informed with updates of the consultation and proposals as further information becomes available.

In the meantime, I want to thank you all for your hard work as we continue to deliver essential services to our residents.

A new chapter for cycling in Twechar has begun with the opening of a purpose-built pump track in the village. The fabulous new facility – located near the Healthy Living & Enterprise Centre – has been designed to meet the needs of both inexperienced and experienced users and provide a resource that can be enjoyed by people of all ages on BMX bikes, mountain bikes, skateboards and scooters.

A huge thank you to everyone involved in the creation and opening of this fabulous new facility. 

Watch our video to see the track in action.

Groups working at the heart of East Dunbartonshire are being offered the chance to secure support for a special project.

Our new Local Community Grant Fund aims to make a positive difference across the area. Organisations can apply for up to £4,000 to finance projects that bring people together, improve wellbeing, reduce isolation, support families and young people, and help to reduce barriers. Applications for the new fund, which was approved as part of the Council’s 2026/2027 budget, are open until 21 September 2026.

Read more about the Local Community Grant Fund. 

East Dunbartonshire Leisure & Culture Trust is offering all Council and EDLC Trust employees a special deal to join their Corporate All Inclusive Leisure Membership.

Employees can take advantage of a special reduced rate annual membership of £374.90 – the equivalent of 12 months for the price of 10 - if they pay in a lump sum. In addition, the usual £20 joining fee will be waived. This offer is also available to existing employees who currently have a direct debit membership and would like to take advantage of this special promotion and switch to an annual membership.

The Public Protection in East Dunbartonshire website went live in 2023 to provide help and guidance for safeguarding, child protection and adult support and protection. The website has sections for practitioners, adults and their carers, children and young people and their parents and carers. The public protection services are currently conducting a short survey among users and partner agencies to ensure the website meets their needs. If you work in social work services, education, homecare or if you are parent or support a vulnerable adult in East Dunbartonshire, please can you share your views by completing the Public Protection Website Survey by Friday 30 October 2026.

As usual, our Monthly Wellbeing Focus is updated each month with key campaigns and details of support all employees can access. 

Well done to the pupils at staff at Colquhoun Park Primary and Early Years Centre in Bearsden, following news of a positive inspection report. Both the Primary school and Early Years Centre received praise for the way the staff lead and the support given to the children. What a fantastic way to start the new term – congratulations!

Thanks,

Ann