News In Brief - Monday 31 August 2026
Thanks everyone for tuning in to another instalment of News in Brief with important updates and news highlights of all that is happening over the coming week.
Monday 31 August: New Employee Account is live
The new Employee Account will be accessed through the existing link on Connects (from Monday 31 August). The new platform uses Single Sign-On (SSO), meaning there will be no need to remember or enter usernames and passwords. The same applies to approvals – read the full update for managers via the Employee Account news article.
Tuesday 1 September: Cabinet meeting
The September meeting of Cabinet gets under way from 2.30pm on Tuesday. You can view the agenda for the meeting. Follow the proceedings live online via the webcast.
Wednesday 2 September: Absence Management training returns
Line managers are invited to the ‘How To’ Part 1 series: The Fundamentals of Absence Management session on Wednesday (11am until noon). This Microsoft Teams session will support managers to understand their role in managing absence. in line with Council policies. This is one of four sessions in the series, further info in the Absence Management Latest News article.
Friday 4 September: Share your views on NAHSCP webpage
As part of the development of the new North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Connects staff communication site, the team has developed a short survey to gather feedback and ideas from staff. Have your say before close of business on Friday 4 September.
Sunday 6 September: Deadline for PB applications
This week is the last chance for communities to submit their PB applications before the deadline on Sunday at midnight. There’s a total sum of £82,157 funding up for grabs including a contribution from the Pride of Place Fund.
SEPA update for Saltcoats
Following visual checks of the beach and water sampling, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) have now removed their advice against bathing at Saltcoats Beach. This follows confirmation from Scottish Water that there is no further issue at this site.
MCR Pathways information sessions happening this week
Could you dedicate just one hour a week to support a care experienced young person in North Ayrshire? If so, MCR Pathways want to hear from you. Online staff information sessions are planned this week as follows for those interested:
- Tuesday 1 September – MCR morning session (book now) 10.30am to 11.15am
- Wednesday 2 September – MCR afternoon session (book now) 2.30pm to 3.15pm
- Thursday 3 September – MCR afternoon session (book now) 12.30pm to 1.15pm
AI HR Support tool – have you met EVA?
EVA, our Employee Virtual Assistant, is available in Microsoft Teams to help with everyday HR questions, including sickness absence, maternity, and other HR policy areas. EVA only searches North Ayrshire Council HR policies and procedures, so the answers are based on our own guidance. To get started, click the EVA link to add the app to your Teams menu bar.
Could you become part of the Children’s Panel?
Children’s Hearings Scotland (CHS) are looking for enthusiastic, empathetic volunteers to become panel members. The role involves listening and making legal decisions with, and for children and young people, in children’s hearings, ensuring they’re at the heart of every decision. Applications are open until midnight on Wednesday 23 September. If selected, panel members will take part in the CHS dedicated Learning Academy which will equip you with the skills and knowledge to fulfil the role. The course is delivered through a mix of in-person and online events. CHS are running a virtual information session on Thursday 17 September between 12.30pm and 1.15pm (register now) for those who would like to learn more.
Get rewarded for cycling in September
Why not swap four wheels for two this September and be rewarded for your efforts? North Ayrshire Council staff are invited to take part in the Travel Smart team’s Cycle September Challenge, a fun opportunity to get active, reduce your carbon footprint, and enjoy the benefits of cycling to work. Find out everything you need to know about the Cycle September Challenge here.
Work smarter with Co-Pilot
September will see the launch of a series of training sessions to upskill your Microsoft Co-Pilot knowledge – register now via the Co-Pilot training sessions latest news article.
Head on over to the Café on 4
Another week, another delicious menu from the Café on 4 – head on up to the 4th floor this week to enjoy the choice of breakfast, lunch and treat items.
That’s all for now! 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!
