Cinema’s vital to community as it brings people together
A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of meeting with the South Ayrshire Young Carers when they visited the Scottish Parliament.
I attended a round table event with young carers from across Scotland, who spoke passionately about the challenges they face.
I was very moved by their stories and experiences, and one of the main challenges voiced was that many were not aware that they were eligible for the Young Carer Grant.
This Grant provides additional support to young people ensuring they can balance their vital caring role with study or work. Since introduced by the Scottish Government in 2019, the grant has provided support to more than 6,600 teenage carers.
I would strongly urge any young person aged 16, 17 or 18 who have caring responsibilities to check if they are eligible for this grant. This money provides young carers the opportunity to enjoy their youth and take part in the same activities as their peers.
You can find out more here: https:// www.mygov.scot/young-carer-grant
The closure of the Odeon cinema back in June 2023 was a massive blow to the town, with filmgoers having to travel to see the latest releases. I was delighted when Merlin Cinemas announced they would be taking over the building, meaning Ayr would once again have a cinema.
After numerous months of refurbishment and modernisation, it was great to see the cinema opening back up a few weeks ago.
The cinema is also renamed the Astoria which takes it back to its 1930 roots.
Cinema is vital to the community as it brings people together to experience the shared interaction of storytelling. It also contributes to the local economy, creating jobs and supporting other businesses such as the nearby restaurants and bars. I hope everyone will support it.
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Please be prepared for the future General Election as there are new voting changes that are being put in place from the UK Government.
Voters in Scotland will now be required to show Voter ID at polling places. You’ll be asked to present Voter ID at UK parliamentary elections including general elections, byelections and recall petitions.This ID can vary from your passport to your driving licence.
Voters in Scotland do not need to present photo ID at Scottish Parliament elections or council elections.If you do not have photo ID, you can apply for a free document, known as a Voter Authority Certificate. More information can be found here: https://www. electoralcommission.org.uk/votingand-elections/voter-id