News In Brief - Monday 23 February 2026
Monday 23 February: This week is Cyber Scotland Week
Cyber security is in focus this Cyber Scotland Week. This year’s “Can’t hack it?” theme focuses on the simple, everyday actions that everyone can take to strengthen their cyber resilience. Find out more in the Cyber Scotland Week news article.
Tuesday 24 February: Travel Smart information stall
The Travel Smart team will host their last February information drop-in at the Large Meeting Room, Cunninghame House, 3nd Floor East. Held between 11.30am and 1pm, drop-in to grab walking and cycling maps, get freebies, learn about e-bike loans and the Cycle to Work Scheme and get a personalised travel plan.
Also on Tuesday: Modern Apprentice recruitment event
The Council’s Employability team is proud to announce it is a Modern Apprentice Recruitment Day. The Ayrshire College Kilwinning event is on Tuesday 24 February. Young people are invited to drop-in between 3.30pm and 5.30pm to find out more about MA opportunities for 16 to 19 year olds living in North Ayrshire. Full details and booking in the Modern Apprentice recruitment event news release.
Wednesday 25 February: Council to set 2026/27 Budget
Wednesday is Budget Day for North Ayrshire. Elected members will meet to consider how we will deliver our services for 2026/27, including our Revenue and Capital Budgets as well as the level of Council Tax. The reports for the meeting can be viewed on our website while you can watch the meeting live via our webcast from 2pm.
Also on Wednesday: Mental Health Carers Forum event
A Mental Health Services Carers Forum event will be held on Wednesday from 12.30pm to 2.30pm at Saltcoats Town Hall. With info on Power of Attorney and Guardianship, the event provides a safe space for carers. The team respectfully request that organisations do not attend unless they have been invited to present information on the day. Refreshments will be provided, and there’s no need to book.
Also on Wednesday: MCR Pathways online information session
Care experienced mentoring charity, are hosting an information session on Thursday for North Ayrshire Council employees. Join the MCR Teams session between 3pm until 3.45pm to find out more about how you could volunteer an hour a week to support a young person in North Ayrshire. Further details in the MCR news update.
Finally for Wednesday: Deadline to share views on health and social care
An online survey is seeking your views on current budget proposals and suggestions on how our Health and Social Care Partnership might lessen the impact of these. Take part in the survey online – deadline end of day Wednesday.
Restricted parking continues
Read the Cunninghame House parking restrictions update to find out about EV charging works happening this week and where to find alternative charging locations.
Neighbourhood Services’ colleagues mark success of island scheme
Colleagues in Neighbourhood Services have celebrated the success of a major £48million flood protection scheme with the unveiling a plaque at the site in Millport, Cumbrae. Read the full story in Staff News.
Café on 4 menu this week
Brilliant breakfasts, tasty specials and warming soups, sandwiches and treats await on the fourth floor café. Read this week’s café menu and specials.
HP global shortages
An IT orders update has been shared via Staff News on global shortages affecting key device components, specifically RAM and storage, and the impact this will have on any HP orders about to be placed. Staff are encouraged to submit orders as early as possible and to anticipate delays.
Out with the old, in with the improved
If you are struggling with making content accessible, we are reminding everyone of the Digital Accessibility section on Connects. Check out the resources and guidance now to help you navigate the world of accessibility and how this relates to your role.
Staff training and information sessions
Places are available on a series of new training sessions including: Fuel Poverty, Energy Efficiency, Financial Harm Awareness, Rehabilitation of Offenders and Conviction Disclosure, Learning Disability Awareness training at Cunninghame House, Moving and Handling Information sessions at Castleview Hub, Ardrossan and an upcoming Student carer online information session from Social Security Scotland. Find out the dates, sign up and more information in the weekly training round-up.
Mandatory training sessions only one month left!
Time is running out to complete the mandatory training iLearn sessions. Read the mandatory training update to get organised and complete yours on time.
That’s all If you have news to share in News In Brief next week, share your story with us by midday on Friday by using the contact us button below. Have a great week everyone!
