This Carers Week, local charity VOCAL (Voice of Carers Across Lothian) is calling for greater recognition of, and practical support for, unpaid carers, as new evidence shows caring is pushing too many people into poverty.
Unpaid carers are often managing higher household costs, cutting back on paid work, and spending more on fuel, transport, food and equipment. For many, the cost of living crisis comes on top of the cost of caring, creating intense pressure on family finances and wellbeing. VOCAL says demand for financial wellbeing support continues to rise locally.
VOCAL brought carers, staff and partner organisations together at its Cost of Unpaid Caring event to explore the causes of carer poverty and the changes needed locally and nationally.
Their report, launched on 8 June, highlights several key drivers of hardship, including the extra costs of disability and care, loss of income for working carers, difficulty accessing adequate social security, social care charges, legal costs such as Power of Attorney, and growing food insecurity.
Rosie McLoughlin, VOCAL CEO, said: “The value of unpaid care in Edinburgh alone is estimated at over 1 billion pounds but many carers provide this care at real personal and financial cost.
“This latest report shows that carer poverty is being driven by a combination of rising living costs, lost income, inadequate support and systems that are too hard to navigate. During Carers Week, we are calling for change so that taking on a caring role does not mean being pushed into poverty.”
VOCAL is calling for practical action at every level:
A national hardship fund to support carers with the unexpected costs of caring
Increased social security support for carers nationally
Power of Attorney costs to be covered for carers
An end to unfair social care charging
More in-depth research on the Minimum Income Standard to understand the costs of caring and rollout of the Minimum Income Guarantee
Encouraging all employers to improve their carer policies, advocate for better social care services, and offer paid carer’s leave
Carers Act Funding to be allocated to crisis-prevention
Edinburgh will become one of the first local authorities in the country to introduce widespread restrictions on mobile phone use in schools at the start of the new school year in August.
Councillors at Education, Children and Families Committee agreed a ‘bell to bell’ ban of mobile phones, with lockable pouches to be introduced in every secondary school in the city. Learners at secondary schools will have to place mobile phones in lockable pouches for the duration of the school day. Primary school aged pupils will have to lock mobile phones away in cabinets.
It was also agreed that secondary school senior leadership teams will have the opportunity to develop their own guidance regarding senior phase (S5-S6) pupils’ access to their mobile phones during break, lunchtime and independent study time.
Mobile phone restrictions are already in place at two Edinburgh secondary schools, Portobello and Queensferry High Schools, where trials of lockable pouches have been underway since last year. Anecdotal feedback from staff and young people at both schools is positive.
A six-week citywide consultation on mobile phone restrictions earlier this year received almost 14,000 responses from parents/carers, pupils and school staff. Results were overwhelming in support of a ban, with 97% of secondary school staff and 94% of parents/carers favouring a ban, and 53% of young people supporting restrictions during teaching time.
Alongside the consultation, separate and targeted engagement has taken place with groups of secondary school pupils, head teachers, unions, members of the Scottish Youth Parliament and Edinburgh Youth Action.
A £400,000 one-off budget for purchase of lockable pouches and storage cabinets was agreed at the Council’s annual budget setting meeting in February this year. A strategy for the current and future procurement of pouches will also be developed.
In bringing in mobile phone restrictions, special consideration will be given for pupils with health needs or caring responsibilities who may need access to their mobile phone during the school day. The council will develop guidance for schools, including how exemptions will work in practice.
Councillor James Dalgleish, Education, Children and Families Convenor said: “This is a monumental step for Edinburgh’s children and young people and I am proud that we are one of the first local authorities in the country to introduce widespread restrictions on mobile phones in schools.
“I’ve been clear from the start that we wanted to be bold in our ambition to make our schools phone free environments that enable our teachers to teach and pupils to learn without the distraction of devices in the classroom.
“The uniform introduction of lockable pouches in all our secondary schools will level the playing field for all learners in Edinburgh, streamlining a phone free schools policy and guaranteeing that every single young person can get the most out of their time in the classroom.
“We know from the two pilots already underway that keeping phones out of the classroom is positive and alongside our consultation showing broad support from teachers, school staff and parents/carers, I am confident that these restrictions will be warmly welcomed and hugely impactful.”
A man has been jailed for three years and four months for violence against women and drug supply offences in Edinburgh.
Douglas Dunbar, 65, pled guilty to supplying controlled drugs to several women, assault and attempting to defeat the ends of justice at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Tuesday, 3 February, 2026.
On Sunday, 25 February, 2024, officers attended a shopping centre in Edinburgh following a report of concern for an unresponsive female within a vehicle. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene and her death was treated as drug related.
Enquiries revealed Dunbar had supplied the woman with class A drugs for several months prior to her death, and he had been engaging with other people involved in prostitution in the Edinburgh area in exchange for cash and controlled drugs.
He admitted disposing of her phone in an attempt to defeat the ends of justice.
Dunbar was also convicted of violently assaulting another woman by restraining her arm then compressing her neck within his van in January, 2024.
On Tuesday, 9 June, 2026, Dunbar was ordered to serve three years and four months in prison, at the same court.
Detective Sergeant Ashley Rea, Gayfield CID, said: “Dunbar prayed on vulnerable women, supplying them with drugs, which he knew could cause serious harm.
“When one woman suffered an overdose in his van, he disposed of her phone in an attempt to cover his tracks before then calling emergency services for help. His actions were reckless and deplorable, with no concern for the risk posed to these vulnerable women.
“I want to commend the women who came forward to report what had happened to them. I want to thank them and the family of the woman who died for providing key information which resulted in charges against Dunbar. It’s thanks to their combined strength and determination throughout the process that Dunbar is now behind bars. I hope the outcome in court will bring them some form of justice and comfort.
“I also want to acknowledge the work done by detectives and criminal justice partners to bring him to justice.
“Police Scotland is dedicated to tackling violence against women and commercial sexual exploitation. Women and girls should be able to live their lives free from all forms of violence, abuse, harassment and exploitation.
“We understand how difficult it can be to report violence or abuse. It is important people understand they are not alone, help is available. We have specially trained officers and partners who take a trauma-informed approach. Anyone who reports such crimes is fully supported throughout.”
Hundreds of Scots have already provided nearly 900,000 meals for kids in crisis-hit Haiti with Scottish charity Mary’s Meals
Former Scotland star Stephen O’Donnell has backed a Scottish charity appeal to feed hungry children in Haiti ahead of the nations’ World Cup clash.
Scotland will play their first World Cup match in 28 years when they take on Haiti in Boston this Sunday. Haiti have qualified for only their second World Cup and first since 1974, but their participation is even more remarkable given they were unable to host any qualification matches on home soil.
The situation in Haiti is dire. Armed conflict has intensified and gangs now control an estimated 90% of the capital city, while dominating areas previously deemed safe. Widespread violence is devastating the economy, agriculture, and supply chains, leaving the country to face the worst hunger crisis in its history, with more than half of the population currently experiencing acute food insecurity.
Hardest hit are Haiti’s children. Hungry and surrounded by violence, many are being recruited into armed gangs – lured by the promise of food.
Mary’s Meals, the school feeding charity founded in a shed in the Scottish Highlands, has been providing school meals in Haiti since 2006. Under normal circumstances, Mary’s Meals reaches more than 196,000 children every school day, providing them with food, energy to learn and the hope of a brighter future.
In response to the escalating chaos, Mary’s Meals recently launched a crisis appeal. Thanks to the generosity of hundreds of Scots, donations have already raised enough to provide nearly 900,000 meals for hungry Haitian children.
In the build-up to the World Cup opener, former Scotland international and current Motherwell footballer Stephen O’Donnell – a long-time supporter of Mary’s Meals – is backing the appeal.
Stephen says: “While all eyes will be on the pitch on Sunday, the match is also shining a spotlight on Haiti’s challenges off the pitch.
“The game holds so much excitement for me, my former teammates, the Tartan Army, and all of Scotland, but it gives everyone a chance to reflect on what’s happening in Haiti as well.
“As a father, I can only imagine how it feels to be struggling to feed your children, amid violence and the threat of your loved ones being recruited into gangs. I’m thankful there’s a charity in Scotland helping those in need, and I know the incredible work Mary’s Meals does in turning just one 10 pence coin into a nutritious meal for a child.”
Scottish donations are helping children in Haiti like Billy, who has overcome the loss of his father and his own difficult health issues to thrive in school and become top of his class. He says: “Receiving Mary’s Meals keeps me from being hungry. And it is much easier to follow the teacher and be active in class.”
Calling on people in Edinburgh to consider contributing to Mary’s Meals, Stephen adds: “It’s incredible – but not unexpected – that so many Scots have already responded to Mary’s Meals’ rallying call to reach families suffering in Haiti, and I’d urge anyone who has a spare 10p to follow in their footsteps.
“Although we’ll all be hoping for a Scotland victory this weekend, we can also support Haiti by donating to the appeal and providing a brighter future for Haiti’s next generation. Hopefully we’ll see some of the children fed by Mary’s Meals at a future World Cup too.”
Mary’s Meals UK Media Manager and Scotland fan Gary Armstrong says: “For the past 20 years, Scottish donations to Mary’s Meals have been helping feed children in Haiti. Today, our school feeding programme is more necessary than ever given the brutal violence and daily challenges families and their children are facing.
“We’d like to thank Stephen for his support, and the hundreds of people across the country who have responded to our appeal so far. Scots are known the world over for their friendliness and generosity, which I’m sure we’ll see in the US in the coming weeks. By helping friends in Haiti we haven’t yet met, this kindness has already been shown before a ball has been kicked.”
It costs Mary’s Meals just 10p to provide a child with a nutritious meal in school, or only £19.15 to feed a child for a whole school year. If you can, please donate today: www.marysmeals.org.uk
Best Start Grant School Age Payment is paid automatically to those who already receive Scottish Child Paymentbut some people still need to apply.
Applications are now open to those who:
don’t qualify for Scottish Child Payment but get Housing Benefit.
have opted out of automatic Best Start Grant payments
are under 19 and dependent on someone else who gets benefits for you
If you’re currently receiving Scottish Child Payment you will receive a text when we’re checking eligibility and we will send a letter to let you know if you will get the payment automatically.
Crimestoppers is launching a campaign ahead of the World Cup, urging the public to help tackle domestic abuse by recognising the signs and sharing information anonymously.
While major football tournaments bring excitement and celebration for many, evidence shows they can also coincide with a rise in domestic abuse. The charity’s campaign highlights the hidden harms that can escalate behind closed doors during high-profile matches.
For some, match day is not about football, but fear. It’s well documented that incidents of domestic abuse increase when big sporting events take place.
The heightened emotions linked to wins and losses can contribute to abusive behaviour, leaving victims feeling unsafe in their own homes.
Crimestoppers is encouraging people to look out for signs that someone may be experiencing abuse. These can include a partner putting them down in front of others, controlling or jealous behaviour, visible injuries, withdrawal from friends and family or noticeable changes in mood such as anxiety or depression.
The charity is also reminding the public that sharing concerns anonymously can make a real difference, particularly for those who feel unable to speak out for themselves.
Annabelle Goodenough, Domestic Abuse lead for the charity Crimestoppers, said:“Football should bring people together, but for some, major tournaments can be a time of increased fear and harm.
“The rise in domestic abuse linked to match results is deeply concerning, and it highlights the need for greater awareness and action.
“We know that many victims find it difficult to seek help. That is why information from friends, neighbours, or members of the public can be so important. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts.
“Crimestoppers is independent and guarantees anonymity. We do not ask for your name, and your details cannot be traced. By speaking up anonymously, you could help protect someone from harm, support efforts to prevent abuse and may even save a life.”
Fourteen Firework Control Zones (FCZs) in total will be in place across Edinburgh this autumn as part of ongoing efforts to reduce the negative impacts of fireworks around Bonfire Night.
Following a successful introduction in 2024, Firework Control Zones will return to several areas of the city between 30 October and 8 November 2026 following a decision by Councillors at yesterday’s (Monday 8 June) meeting of the Culture and Communities Committee.
Councillors agreed to consult on Firework Control Zones in Corstorphine, Longstone, Sighthill/Broomhouse and The Murrays, alongside new zones in Liberton Grange, Lochend, Stenhouse/Gaskell Street, West Pilton, Wester Hailes, and Moredun.
FCZs prohibit the use of fireworks within designated areas for a limited period of time, forming part of a wider package of measures aimed at improving public safety and reducing anti-social behaviour.
Earlier this year, communities were invited to apply for Firework Control Zone status in their local area, with community groups highlighting concerns including the misuse of fireworks, anti-social behaviour, and the need to protect animals, older people, and other vulnerable residents.
The decision builds on the positive impact of previous years’ measures, with Edinburgh experiencing significantly lower levels of firework-related anti-social behaviour compared with earlier years.
Work between the Council and Police Scotland also led to a substantial reduction in the number of retailers selling fireworks within the city. In 2024, 33 traders sold fireworks in Edinburgh and by 2025, that number had fallen to just two.
Culture and Communities Convener Margaret Graham said: We know that fireworks can have a significant impact on vulnerable people and pets, which is why it’s important that we use every tool available to support safer celebrations.
“Firework Control Zones are an important part of our wider approach to keeping communities safe during Bonfire Night and reduce the disruption that fireworks can cause.
“Feedback from residents, community groups and partner organisations shows that the zones have been effective in helping to reduce anti-social behaviour and improve the experience of local communities during firework season.
“We will continue to work closely with Police Scotland and local communities to ensure Bonfire Night is as safe and enjoyable as possible for everyone.”
Delegates from across the world will unite in Scotland from 15 – 19 June for a weeklong celebration of the role of arts in improving health and wellbeing.
The second iteration of Healing Arts Scotland will include flagship days in Shetland, Lewis & Harris, Dumfries & Galloway, Glasgow and a National Conference in Edinburgh, alongside creative health community activities across the country.
Tickets are on sale now, find your nearest event and book here.
Building on the success of 2024, which included 376 events across Scotland and influenced national policy, Healing Arts Scotland 2026 will include an international conference, artist commissions, exhibitions, concerts, workshops, and an artist-led communications campaign promoting the arts as a ‘health behavior’, much like exercise, sleep and good nutrition.
Speakers and delegates from across the globe including Singapore, Japan, USA, Spain, Denmark, Norway, and Ukraine will gather to share their research and findings of the lasting health benefits the arts, with a focus on three key themes:
1. Arts, Health and Environment: the role of the arts to support community engagement with nature and address the health impacts of climate change.
2. Innovation in Arts & Health: Arts-based health interventions created using innovation and technology to improve lives and build communities
3. Arts & Health Across the Life Stages: National programs featuring intergenerational activities, prevention & youth led initiatives
This national event coincides with the 2026 release of Professor Daisy Fancourt’s best-selling book Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Transforms our Health; the publication in May of a landmark report from University College London linking engagement in arts with a slower pace of ageing; and the pre-launch of a UK Arts & Health: The Time is Now policy brief by the Jameel Arts & Health Lab and National Centre for Creative Health.
Speakers at the event will include Assistant Vice President of NYC Health + Hospitals Arts in Medicine Program, Larissa Trinder; inaugural People’s Artist of New York City, Yazmany Arboleda; Chief Officer, Public Health Scotland, Manira Ahmed; Director of Research initiatives for the Center for Arts in Medicine at the University of Florida, Dr. Jill Sonke; Edinburgh International Festival Director, Nicola Benedetti; Jameel Arts & Health Lab Co-Directors, Dr. Nils Fietje (WHO Europe), Dr. Nisha Sajnani (NYU Steinhardt) and Stephen Stapleton (CULTRUNNERS); and Scotland’s Chief Medical Officer, Prof. Sir Gregor Smith, whose annual Realistic Medicine Conference will close the week with a focus on the impact of arts in healthcare settings.
Performers from Oi Musica, Karaback, Samba Y Bamba, Scottish Ballet, TRYST and the Youth Pipe Band gather outside the Scottish Parliament for a public performance to mark the start of Healing Arts Scotland, a country-wide celebration of arts and health.
Nicola Benedetti, who was recently appointed the first Global Ambassador for Healing Arts, commented: “Through my work with the Edinburgh International Festival, I see every day the profound role that artistic experiences can play in bringing people together, opening space for reflection and fostering a sense of belonging.
“To contribute to this global “Healing Arts” conversation is a responsibility we all share, to ensure that creativity in all its forms, is recognised as an essential part of a healthier, more connected society.”
Healing Arts Scotland is part of the Jameel Arts & Health Lab’s global Healing Arts campaign, in collaboration with the World Health Organization, and spearheaded by a coalition of organizations bridging culture, healthcare, education and policy, including Scottish Government, Public Health Scotland, Creative Scotland, National Galleries Scotland, Scottish Ballet, Arts Culture Health & Wellbeing Scotland, International Teaching Artists Collaborative (ITAC) and NHS Scotland. Core funding has been provided by Creative Scotland and the Jameel Arts & Health Lab, with in-kind support from partners across Scotland.
Dr. Nils Fietje fromWHO Regional Office for Europe commented: “It is wonderful to see colleagues from across the Scottish Government and the health and culture sectors uniting to bring the healing power of the arts to wider communities than ever before.
“Scotland is a vibrant place for arts and health that is constantly inspiring new initiatives across the world.”
Globally recognised woodworking school, the Chippendale International School of Furniture, is opening its doors for the annual Graduate Exhibition and Fine Furniture Sale, taking place from 18–20 June.
Now in its 41st year, the exhibition will showcase exceptional handcrafted furniture from this year’s graduating cohort, featuring students from Ghana, India, Turkey, Canada, the US, France and Scotland.
The public is invited to explore the collection and acquire one-of-a-kind pieces at the school’s East Lothian campus. North Berwick’s Steampunk Coffee and The Big Blu Artisan Pizza from Dunbar will be on-site throughout the three-day event for visitors to enjoy.
Founded in 1985 by Anselm Fraser, the school has become a centre for both traditional and contemporary woodworking.
Now led by his son, Tom Fraser, the school is evolving to offer a diverse curriculum, from weekend workshops to its flagship nine-month Professional Course, which equips students with the skills to launch their own furniture-making businesses.
More recently, a 10-week course — running from October to December this year — has been introduced, designed for those who are unable to commit to the full nine-month programme.
Tom Fraser, Principal of the Chippendale School, said: “This is one of the most diverse groups we’ve welcomed, with students hailing from across several continents.
“The breadth of influences and ideas is incredibly exciting, and this year’s exhibition promises to be one of our best yet.”
Dates: 18–20 June 2026
Location: Chippendale International School of Furniture, East Lothian
Admission: Free entry. Visitors must book a timed ticket in advance via Eventbrite.
For those unable to attend in person, the exhibition will also be showcased online via the school’s website, Facebook and Instagram channels.
