Following on from my update last week, cases continue to rise in Argyll and Bute. We have seen an increase in positive cases which has resulted in businesses having to close and pupils being sent home.

By volunteering to take a regular test, we can help drive cases down – even if you have no symptoms or have been vaccinated.

I’m asking you all to make it part of your weekly routine and get into a habit of getting tested. Please read the information we have on community testing and take action.

As schools break up for summer, I want to thank our education colleagues and all those who support education, for all their work this last term. It’s been an incredibly challenging time from changing the school timetable, to new school layouts, transporting and catering pupils safely and making sure new cleaning regimes are in place. A big thank you!

MyCouncilWorks – our new staff website

I’m delighted to launch our new staff website which is now available to all employees. www.mycouncilworks.scot is a site for you and about you.

It’s a chance to find out more about your colleagues, catch up with the latest updates, post your news and celebrate achievements. New features include:

• 60 second interviews
• A noticeboard for you to post events, updates and messages
• Council Facebook/Instagram and Twitter feeds
• HR information with links to policies and the latest vacancies
• Wellbeing section
• Access to new training courses

All employees who are currently not on the network, can now access the same information as everyone else including policies, the latest Newsflashes and my weekly updates.

I’ve said this before but I’m incredibly proud to lead the council and a huge part of that comes from the dedication and hard work of you all. I’m sure many of you are simply getting on with the job and don’t realise what a difference you’re making to the people of Argyll and Bute. It would be great to hear more about the work you’re involved in.

Please do get in touch via workingtogether@argyll-bute.gov.uk if you have any ideas, news or updates you would like to add to the website.

World wellbeing Week Walk – Wednesday 30 June 12.30pm

Walking is a great way to unwind and reset your mind. I know the power of good it does me when I’m out with my dogs every day – even in the pouring rain!

As part of World Wellbeing Week, the Wellbeing Team is hosting a walk for staff who are normally based at Kilmory HQ and nearby. There’s a choice of routes to suit all abilities and it will last approx. 30-40 minutes. It’s a great excuse to get out in the fresh air and meet up with people you haven’t seen in a while. Covid guidance will be followed so places are limited.

To book your place Sharon.johnson2@argyll-bute.gov.uk

Podcast

Following world refugee day on 20th June I spoke with Morag Brown who leads the work we do to support Syrian refugees settle on Bute, Join us in conversation as we talk about some of the great success stories. You can listen to the podcasts on the council website.

Have a lovely weekend.

Pippa