See the array of signage recently made by our very own Sign Shop on pages 21-22
I hope you’ve all had a chance to enjoy some well-earned rest over the summer period and made the most of the fantastic weather we’ve been lucky to have! No matter the season, I know how committed everyone is to deliver our services, and I want to thank each and every one of you for the continued effort and excellence you bring to your roles. Of course, as is often the case in our line of work, the weather also brought its challenges, and I want to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who supported our service delivery during Storm Floris on the 5th of August. Your continued professionalism and commitment to our communities, especially during such demanding events, does not go unnoticed
I’m incredibly proud of the work you all do, day in and day out, across every part of the organisation. Whether you're maintaining roads, preparing school meals, keeping facilities clean, or supporting operations behind the scenes, your efforts are what make Tayside Contracts the trusted, highperforming organisation it is, making a real difference to the communities we serve
This is clearly evident through all the articles in this August edition and makes me extremely proud to be part of this fantastic organisation
Looking ahead, this is just the first of many conversations I hope to have with you. I’m committed to keeping you informed and involved as we continue to move forward together. I believe in being open, visible, and approachable, and I’m keen to hear your views, ideas, and feedback. You can expect more updates and communications in the coming months, and I look forward to connecting with as many of you as possible, whether through Target, team visits, or other forums.
Thank you again for your dedication and support.
Dougie McKay, Managing Director
After an impressive 37 years local government/TC service, Ed, IT Manager, decided it was time to hang up the mouse and keyboard and retire from Tayside Contracts and move onto the next phase of his life. Ed’s retirement plans involve lots of travel, music and his love-hate relationship with golf, and of course spending more time with his partner Kate.
Years
After 17.5 years Barbara, Hub Supervisor, pictured left, retired from Errol Primary School (6years), 11.5 years at Blackford and Auchterarder area
We wish Ed and Kate all the best in their retirement years
L to R: Bob Ritchie, Transport Manager, Linda Robb and David McWilliam, Assistant Fleet Engineer
Linda recently retired after more than 30 years service, working latterly on the Hire Desk but previously in the Property and Procurement team, being a key figure in assisting operations with their winter maintenance delivery We wish her Linda well in her retirement.
Linda will be replaced by Sandi Aitchison who has been working in Business Support
By Sheryl McKiddie, Facilities Operations Manager
Norrie’s line manager Sheryl McKiddie told us
“I am extremely proud to be able to support Norrie with this time off and think it’s great that TC offers the volunteering leave policy to do things like this I take my hat off to Norrie for using his own personal time along with this leave to support this and I know he is very passionate about giving these young people a great experience along with full tummies I think they are lucky to have such a committed and talented person to support this camp”
Following a recent supplier review, our butcher meat supplier Campbells Prime Meats offered us the opportunityfor members ofthe wider catering management and Food and Nutrition team to visit their site in Linlithgow and make use oftheir meeting room facilities.
We jumped at this opportunity which was really well received by all who attended The team was split into two groups, one group went on a site tour while the other group worked on menu development and customer service training, followed by a delicious lunch, after which the groups swapped over.
Seeing the facility where our butchermeat comes from and how it is managed from the supplier side was a really valuable experience. It allowed us to see firsthand the extremely high levels of hygiene in place and the professionalism of the staff, as well as the challenges experienced. The team also had the opportunity to see all the fantastic meat and fish products available and gave us food for thought on how we could incorporate these in our menus
This visit is the first of many to come, in a bid to increase our catering teams’ knowledge of our supply chain and to build stronger relationships with suppliers to exp possibilities and ensure we are operating our service in the most efficient way forward to our next visit to Fruit and Veg supplier, Mark Murphy, later this month. A big thanks to Campbells Prime Meats for their warm welcome and fantastic hosp
By Sheryl McKiddie, Facilities Operations Manager
Reaffirming OurCommitment to Open and EffectiveCommunication
At the heart of the best organisations lies relevant, regular and consistent communication. As part of our ongoing commitment to improving how we connect, collaborate, and share information across the organisation, we would like to take this opportunity to reaffirm the importance of our quarterly team briefing, which was recently relaunched.
The return of this structured, organisationalwide update marks an important step in strengthening our internal communication. It provides an open forum for sharing key organisational and unit updates, celebrating achievements, aligning on goals, and ensuring everyone has a clear understanding of the direction we’re headed together
The relaunch of the quarterly briefing reflects what many of you have told us through our recent Investors in People (IiP) feedback: regular, clear communication is essential. Whether you’re working on the front lines, supporting operations, or leading teams, staying informed helps us all do our best work and feel more connected to the bigger picture
We’re committed to making each team brief meaningful, inclusive, and relevant. Moving forward, we would welcome your feedback on the format and content of the briefings, so they can evolve to meet your needs and ensure everyone has a voice and we keep the conversation going If you have any comments or ideas or feedback on the recent team brief, we would like to hear from you. Please let our colleagues know at Communications@tayside-contractscouk
We also believe that the best ideas often come from those closest to the work you and our frontline teams That’s why we’ve been actively listening to your feedback and using it to shape meaningful changes in how we lead, manage, and support our people
One of the most significant areas influenced by your input is our new People and Organisational Development Strategy. Many of you shared insights about what good leadership looks like, what support is needed day-to-day, and where we can improve. That feedback has directly informed the structure, content, and action plan and focus areas of our new strategy. Our goal is to ensure leaders at every level in the organisation are equipped to lead their people effectively
In addition, we’re currently reviewing our employee Tay Review process, and again, your voices are central to that effort as well We’ve heard that reviews should feel more meaningful, forward-looking, and focused on development not just performance. That’s why we’re exploring ways to make the process more relevant, more regular, and more supportive of your personal development and career aspirations
This is all part of our broader commitment to building a culture that values listening, learning, and taking action Your feedback matters and it’s making a real difference
Thank you for continuing to share your experiences and ideas We’ll keep updating you as these initiatives progress, and we’ll continue to invite feedback and honest dialogue across the organisation If you have any comments or ideas or feedback, we would like to hear from you. Please let our colleagues know at Communications@tayside-contracts.co.uk
From 6 April 2025, employees across the UK benefit from a new statutory right to Neonatal Care Leave and Pay, offering crucial support to families during some of their most difficult moments.
This new leave entitlement is designed for parents whose babies need specialist medical care shortly after birth. If a newborn is admitted to neonatal care within the first 28 days of life and stays for at least 7 consecutive days, eligible working parents will be entitled to up to 12 weeks of leave, with pay for qualifying employees
Key Points
Every year, thousands of families experience the stress and uncertainty of neonatal care. This new policy ensures that parents don’t have to choose between their job and being present during their baby’s early medical needs.
This is a welcome change that reflects growing recognition of the importance of family wellbeing, and it’s a meaningful step toward more compassionate, inclusive workplaces
What is Neonatal Care Leave
In today’s fast-paced world, employee wellbeing is more than a buzzword—it's a key driver of long-term success. At Tayside Contracts, we recognise that a thriving workforce isn’t just defined by productivity and performance, but by the physical, mental, and emotional health of our team members.
Employee wellbeing and physical health go hand in hand. Taking care of our health isn't a luxury it’s essential to staying energised, focused, and resilient.
Why it matters
Regular movement, even in small doses, can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost productivity. Whether it’s a lunchtime walk, a yoga class, or just stretching between meetings, staying active helps keep minds sharp and bodies strong
TaysideContractsoffers
Corporate Fitness Membership Rates in Dundee and Perth
A cycle to work scheme through Vivup
Access to a dedicated Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) through Vivup as part of your employee benefits package, where you can receive completely confidential, impartial assistance from qualified counsellors to help you in times of need including a 24/7, 365 days a year helpline!
It’s not about perfection it’s about balance.
Tayside Contracts aims to support employees in leading healthier lives, by building a stronger, more engaged workforce When people feel good, they work better and that benefits everyone
Let’s make wellbeing part of the workday, not something we only get to after hours.
‘Thank you so much for the works yesterday.
The Tayside Contracts Team work tirelessly to complete the MTB feature in a very professional manner. The materials supplied surpassed expectation and were really valued by us. The new feature will make the MTB XC course more challenging and will be good fun for all park users. Thanks.’
In recognition of Ailsa's dedication, hard work and professionalism while completing her SVQ in SignMaking at SCQF Level 6, Ailsa’s external trainer encouraged her to apply for Rising Star awards supported by the Printing Charity who are the leading charity in the printing, paper, packaging, publishing and graphics sectors within the United Kingdom
Following a rigorous interview process and a confident display of her skills, Ailsa successfully secured the Rising Star Award for 2025 which is a great achievement follows on her from her recent success at this years Tayside Excellence Award w she won the Ap
Scott Banks, Works ManagerAngus
Footway First: A Closer Look at Slurry Sealing Across Tayside
From the city streets of Dundee to the quieter paths of Perth & Kinross and Angus, our Construction Division’s Slurry Sealing operation is quietly transforming the way we maintain our public spaces. Running seasonally from April to October, this specialised footway treatment has become a mainstay of Tayside Contracts’ commitment to costeffective infrastructure care.
What IsSlurrySealing?
Slurry sealing is a thin surface treatment designed to seal and extend the life of footways where conditions allow It consists of fine aggregate mixed with bitumen emulsion, forming a protective layer that’s evenly spread across cleaned surfaces. While it doesn’t offer structural reinforcement and isn’t suited for high-stress locations, its value in prolonging surface usability is significant especially as a preventative maintenance measure.
Preparation Makes Perfect
Prior to application, the footway undergoes:
Structural checks and remedial works if needed
Thorough sweeping to clear debris
Weed control to prevent regrowth
Resident communication to ensure safety and cooperation
Safety remains a top priority, especiallyfor pets and pedestrians.
On-SiteApplication
Once prepared, the team moves swiftly through:
Site segregation for public protection
Final cleaning for optimal adhesion
Masking kerbs and ironwork
Slurry application and curing
Footways typically reopen to pedestrians within an hour, though vehicle movements should avoid turning or heavy braking for the first 24 hours to preserve the surface.
Surface Dressing 2025
A key component of the annual construction workload for both Aberfeldy and Forfar Depots is the surface dressing programme. This year’s operations spanned across Angus, Dundee, Fife, and Perthshire, requiring meticulous planning and coordination due to the fast-paced nature of the work and the large areas treated daily
In total, approximately 400,000m² were surface dressed - equivalent to an impressive 59 football pitches or 2,040 tennis courts. Achieving this scale of work demands exceptional teamwork, with every operative understanding and executing their specific role with precision.
The programme remains highly weather-dependent, which poses a continual challenge in Scotland’s unpredictable climate particularly when working in remote, elevated areas such as the glens of Angus or Perthshire
Well done to all involved for another very successful season.
Scott Banks, Works ManagerAngus
Shows binder being applied to an existing surface, followed by the chips being distributed via the chipper.
Captures the chips being compacted into place through rolling, securing them into the surface.
Innerleithen Way Play Park
The project was passed to Tayside Contracts on Thursday 15/05/25, with a space was immediately allocated within the PRMP’s works programme, and the work was completed on Friday 26/05/25.
The PRMP have received very positive feedback from the Client on how quickly these works were delivered and the quality of workmanship. As a result, two further projects are currently being investigated.
Hopefully this is the beginning of a new and mutually beneficial partnership moving forward Robert Grant, PRMP Manager
As part of the ongoing “Strengthening and Collaboration” exercise between Tayside Contracts and our Council partners, the Perth Road Maintenance Partnership (PRMP) have been in discussions with Perth & Kinross Councils Greenspace team regarding Tayside Contracts carrying out construction and maintenance work on their behalf, work which has previously been awarded to private contractors within the area
As an initial project, Tayside Contracts were asked to replace a set of damaged children’s swings at the Innerleithen Way play area which is accessed from Lamberkine Drive, Perth.
As part of our ongoing commitment to growing our own we are currently recruiting three more apprentice mechanics There will be one each in Dundee, Perth and Peasiehill, Arbroath. This will bring our current total to ten.
We wish all our apprentices the best going forward.
Orders have recently been placed for a range of replacement Winter Maintenance vehicles and equipment. These include a range of purpose built gritters and one swap body. These will all be on Volvo chassis with Cuthbertson gritter bodies There are also four Cuthbertson 6m³ demountable gritters and nine John Deere footpath gritters
Additionally, there are three tippers, two at 18t and one at 26t, and a gully emptier which will on DAF chassis There are also five pick-ups which are to be Ivecos
The intention is also to replace both the midi and mini pavers, based in Angus, with one new midi paver.
Once we fully establish the costs of these we may be in a position to consider further capital purchases
Tayside Contracts were again well represented at the APSE (Association of Public Service Excellence) seminar at Aviemore in May We had four vehicles on manufacturer and dealership stands These were a Renault 6x4 Purpose Built gritter on the Renault stand, a Renault 4x4 Purpose Built gritter on the Cuthbertson stand, a DAF 4x2 Purpose Built gritter on the DAF stand and a 5 tonne MAN pick-up on the LVB stand LVB are the bodybuilder
Tayside Contracts always get really positive comments on our blue and yellow livery and how that presents a really striking image.
Aligned to a number of our Business Plan objectives and priorities, Tayside Contracts through partnership with Dundee and Angus College have been able to access fully funded Electric/Hybrid and Hydrogen vehicle training at The Skills Academy through the Green Skills Fund
More skilled people will be needed across a range of jobs to cut the carbon footprint and create new, environmentally friendly solutions. This requires a workforce which is more agile, proactive, responsive, and resilient, than ever before
Understanding changing demands on the workforce, tailoring the supply of skills to meet growing demand, mitigating risks and supporting people to access opportunities that are right for them, will be vital as we move to net zero.
Scotland’s Climate Emergency Skills Action Plan published in 2020, outlined the need for action to ensure that current and future skills investment in support of net zero is strongly evidence based
Responding to this, Skills Development Scotland - supported by colleagues in the Scottish Funding Council and Scottish Government - is leading on research work focussed on gathering evidence on green skills
We secured 56 places from this funding and training to the approx. commercial value of £21k in the following areas which were not just restricted to Transport :
Level 1 Award in Electric/Hybrid Vehicle Awareness – Safety and Training Team
Level 3 Award in Electric/Hybrid Vehicle System Repair and Replacement –Transport
Level 2 Award in Electric/Hybrid Vehicle Routine Maintenance Activities – Transport
Decarbonise Your Fleet – Various Senior Management
The funding has enabled Tayside Contracts to upskill the majority of Workshop Supervisors, Chargehand Mechanics and Mechanics to the level of repair and replacement for the ever increasing additional number of EV vehicles to our fleet, our aim predominately focussing on the health and safety of the workforce when working with these vehicles We are now hoping to arrange Level 4 Award training early in 2026.
Our Street Lighting colleagues have received training on the installation side of electric charging points; as well as providing training to our Construction trainer/assessor on the dayto-day use of electric vehicles which can be passed over through internal training courses.
Bob Ritchie, Transport Services Manager
Tayside Contracts has also benefited from a three-part session based around the decarbonation of fleet which welcomed representatives to attend from around the organisation such as Transport, Procurement, Finance and other Senior Managers
We have also been working to expand our EV Infrastructure with the installation of EV Charging Points at our Aberfeldy and Blairgowrie depots Whilst all other depots currently have access to chargers this is kept under constant review as the number of EVs on the fleet continues to grow
We were asked to apply window graphics for Beacon, the new Community Wellbeing Centre in Arbroath. This required crystal film to be applied internally to the windows, and coloured prints to be applied externally for the best colour Everything was measured and cut at the Signshop to ensure a smooth application process whilst on site
We were asked to design and manufacture a few banners for events to promote our Community Fund programme, where we provide funding to local communities for services such as footway improvements, catering services, traffic management and signage.
We’ve had a few orders from PKC for banners they can use at public events, such as careers fairs and consultation evens. Thse are designed, printed and manufactured into the mechanism by the sign shop
Replacement tourist signs for around Alyth
A wide range of charities and community groups across Tayside benefit from this initiative. This initiative was launched in 2023 to support small community groups and charities, which do great work improving their area, helping local people, and supporting the most vulnerable
This year in the April-May phase, we approved: 25 fast-track applications, these are up to £500 and, 26 full applications, these are up to £3,000.
This is how it works. We (very gratefully) receive ‘Community Benefit’ funding from our major food supplier, Brakes Scotland, as part of their contract obligations when they bid for national local authority food contracts. This Community Benefit money must be used to help communities – if we didn’t use it for that purpose, we wouldn’t get the money
Meeting Centres Scotland submitted a fasttrack application for signage and food supplies, and they were delighted to be successful in their application in time for their grand opening in July to showcase their meeting space within Royal Victoria Hospital for patients living with Dementia.
Fiona stated:
‘I just wanted to say a huge thank you on behalf of the RVH Meeting Centre for your very generous donation of larder supplies and our lovely signs’
What we do with this funding is invite local community groups to apply for things we can do for them (e.g. small footway/ road works, signage, meals and packed lunches etc. see our webpage on the Community Fund for more information) – we do the work, we get paid from the Community Fund (thanks to Brakes’ funding) - the community get the help they need, and we are making another positive difference to the communities of Tayside
L to R:CEO
Graham Galloway, Councillor Lynne Short, Fiona Barret, Meeting Centre Manager and Dougie McKay, Managing Director
Some examples of successful applications are: -
Provision of a buffet and packed lunches for events at Street Soccer Group Scotland, Dundee.
A garden footpath and hardstanding for the Duke of Edinburgh Perth & Kinross Association.
Creation of a footpath and car park roadmarking for Angus Training Group Supply and installation of signage and car park marking for the Walled Garden and Wisecraft, Perth & Kinross.
Here’s just some of the quotes from successful applicants which shows just how much this help means to local groups:
This is terrific news! Your help with the garden work will be invaluable in moving our project forward and making it an education and relaxation space for our young people and the local community. Please extend our thanks to all involved with our application, and muscle power on site!
A big thank you! This will make such a difference to everyone using the centre.
Everyone that I dealt with from Tayside Contracts have been so helpful and lovely.
Our experience is that there is a generosity in the engagement and support that is available afterwards. We have appreciated this.
Only to say how friendly and helpful all of Tayside Contracts staff have been, whether discussing the final designs for the signs or the food which might be supplied, everyone could not have been more helpful, thank you.
Just to let you know that the next round of inviting applicants open on 1st September, with a closing date of 31st October 2025. However, it is important to note, that although the closing date is 31st October, we have had to impose a closing date for requests for quotes due to the high demand and interest that the Community Fund has created. Please check out our guidance on the Community Fund page on our website here for more information on this so you don’t miss out
In Tayside Contracts we take pride in what we do for our local communities every day The Community Fund is another great example of our support for communities. Thanks to everyone who has spread the word about the Fund and contributed to its success so far.
Our Catering Management Teams and the Food and Nutrition Team had the opportunity to visit Mark Murphy - Our Fresh Fruit and Veg Supplier, for a tour and training/development session.
It was great to see where so much of our Scottish produce comes from, and to be able to meet the team who supplies us with our fresh produce!
A big thank you to Mark Murphy for inviting us, and for our lovely lunch and strawberries.
We all had a great day!
Awards
We’ve been shortlisted for not one, but twoAPSE Awards!
(Association for PublicService Excellence)
This recognition is based on our submission for the Central Production Unit school meals service delivery model, which showcases the power of partnership and innovation in delivering high-quality services to our schools
A huge thank you to everyone involved – this is a fantastic achievement!
This recognition is based on our submission for Transport Decarbonisation - Vehicle Idling Initiative for its innovative approach to reducing emissions and promoting cleaner, greener communities.
The winners of these awards will be announced at the Service Awards Charity Dinner on Thursday 11 September 2025 in the Glasgow Marriott Hotel, so watch this space for any updates!
