250 NHS jobs for parents

Supporting work to help tackle child poverty

More than 250 paid NHS placements will be made available to parents across Scotland as part of Scottish Government efforts to eradicate child poverty.

The paid placements, covering roles such as porters, caterers, healthcare support workers, administration assistants, and assistant technical officers, will be available across 18 health boards.

With paid placements typically lasting between 6-18 months, the project is targeted at those facing the greatest risk of poverty – helping more parents to access employment in Scotland’s NHS.

On a visit to Kirklands HQ, NHS Lanarkshire, to mark the start of Challenge Poverty Week, Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville met Mairead Doyle, who joined a similar employability programme with NHS Lanarkshire in 2024.

Since then, Ms Doyle has been promoted twice and is now employed in the Band 4 position of Management Secretary.

Ms Somerville said: “Eradicating child poverty is the Scottish Government’s top priority and we know that fair work in the NHS will offer a real route out of poverty for families.

“We are equipping parents with the skills and experience needed to have a long and successful career, with the opportunity for real progression, while strengthening the NHS workforce of the future.

“This project scales existing successful models already delivered by NHS boards and I’m pleased that we’re able to extend this opportunity to hundreds more families across the country.”

Commenting on the employability programme, past participant Ms Doyle said: “The Parental Employability Programme gave me the confidence and support I needed to return to work after several years away from employment.

“Through the programme I secured a role with NHS Lanarkshire and have since progressed to a Band 4 position. It has had a positive impact on both my career and my family, and I’m grateful for the opportunity it provided.’’

Since launching the NHS Lanarkshire Demonstrator Programme has supported 136 parents and people experiencing long-term unemployment, with more than 77% progressing into positive destinations, including directly into NHS employment. Outcomes have improved year on year, with their most recent programme achieving almost 88% positive destinations.

Jacqui Jones, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of HR at NHS Lanarkshire said:  “The NHS is one of the largest employers in Scotland and employment is one of the strongest drivers of good health by creating opportunities for local parents and families to gain skills, experience and jobs.

“We are helping people thrive, building a workforce that reflects our communities, and making a positive difference to the health of Lanarkshire.”

Granton Youth Christmas Fair

Is it too early for the C word yet? …….. oh well!

OUR ANNUAL CHRISTMAS FAIR IS BACK FOR THE 4TH YEAR IN A ROW🎄

This time taking place on Saturday the 28th of November at St David’s Episcopal Church from 2pm – 4pm.

Our families together group and other service users are working hard behind the scenes planning, getting creative and getting crafty to make sure it’s another great year.

We are on the look for donations for our tombola, raffle and bric a brac stalls so if you can help in anyway then please get in touch via social media or email julie@grantonyouth.com

All money raised from the fair goes straight back into GY projects.

Gy xx

#grantonyouth

#gychristmasfair

#gy

#familiestogethergroup

Greens and Lib Dem councillors host National Emergency Briefing in City Chambers tomorrow

Edinburgh Green Councillors and Edinburgh Liberal Democrat councillors are jointly hosting a screening and discussion of the National Emergency Briefing. The event, in Edinburgh City Chambers, is tomorrow – Wednesday 7th October – and all 63 Edinburgh councillors have been invited to attend.

The screening and discussion, facilitated by Edinburgh Community Climate Action Network (ECCAN) shows a 40-minute film on the climate and nature emergencies, presented by ecologist Chris Packham, followed by a facilitated discussion on the issues raised.

Speaking ahead of the screening, Liberal Democrat group leader Councillor Ed Thornley, one of the hosts of the event, said: “The Climate Emergency is having very real impact in Edinburgh – flooding and extreme rainfall are serious and growing concerns in my own part of the city.

“So, I’m delighted to be working cross-party to host this important screening and discussion so that councillors from all parties can come together and discuss what that means for our city and how we can move forward together.”

Co-host Councillor Ben Parker, Edinburgh Greens co-convenor, said: “The climate and nature emergencies are the most important issues of our time.

“We know that the impacts are already being felt across the world, and here in Edinburgh. It is so important that all elected members are knowledgeable about how climate change will impact on our lives and what we need to do differently to keep people safe and ensure we have a planet to pass on to future generations.

“I hope that we see a good turnout from councillors for this important screening.”

Mark Dowey, Hub Manager at the Edinburgh Community Climate Action Network (ECCAN) said: “In Edinburgh, communities are leading the way in responding to the climate and nature crisis.

“This briefing gives councillors from across the political spectrum a unique opportunity to come together, reflect on the challenges we face, and discuss what they mean for Edinburgh.

“ECCAN is pleased to support that conversation and help strengthen the connection between decision-making in the city and the community action already happening on the ground.”

For further information please contact Chas Booth, 07905 147552 or chas.booth@edinburgh.gov.uk

Western General hosts prestigious Lothian Awards Ceremony

The local Western General Hospital recently welcomed healthcare professionals, support staff, volunteers and teams who go above and beyond to make a difference at NHS Lothian’s Celebrating Success Awards 2026.

On Friday 2 October, the Paderewski Lecture Theatre at the hospital was transformed into a stunning venue to honour the health heroes at the annual event.

Among the winners were a midwife supporting international colleagues, a dedicated hospital porter, a caring champion and an inspirational learning disability nurse.

Proudly sponsored by NHS Lothian Charity, the awards celebrate the remarkable contributions of individuals and teams working to improve care and support across Lothian.

Hannah Reid, Registered Midwife at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, was named Staff Member of the Year for her outstanding contribution to maternity services and unwavering support for colleagues.

Hannah played a vital role in helping international midwives transition to UK practice, providing mentoring and support to build confidence and a sense of belonging. 

Commenting on her nomination, Hannah said: “When somebody recognises that hard work, it’s good, it’s important. It keeps up your morale, and it keeps you coming back in the next day. To win it would be the icing on the cake.”

The Tom Waterson Support Staff Award recognises non-clinical staff who make an exceptional contribution to patient care and staff support.

This year, the prestigious accolade was scooped by George Vint, Head Porter at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital, whose remarkable contribution to the service spans almost five decades with NHS Lothian.

His nominator said: “George’s contribution over almost 50 years has made a lasting and positive impact on countless patients, staff members and the wider organisation.”

His dedication, positive attitude and service have made him a valued member of the Royal Edinburgh Hospital team and a worthy winner of this year’s award.

Dr Andrew Williams, Consultant Gastroenterologist, Endoscopy, NHS Lothian, was named Caring Champion of the Year.

The judges were flooded with nominations for Andrew, with colleagues describing him as the very definition of a caring champion. Over almost 40 years with NHS Lothian, he has become known not just for his clinical expertise but also his kindness, compassion and unwavering support for patients, families and colleagues.

Chris Suttie, Project Manager within NHS Lothian’s Estates and Facilities team, was named Young Achiever of the Year.

Early in his career, Chris has already demonstrated exceptional professionalism, leadership and commitment to improving services for patients and staff.

The Lynn Jackson Nurse of the Year Award recognises exceptional nurses who go above and beyond in delivering outstanding care, compassion and support.

This year, Leanne Warren, Senior Charge Nurse within the Learning Disability Inpatient Service at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital, took home the award for consistently putting patients at the centre of everything she does.

One of her team members said: “Leanne is a key source of advice and support, and her presence is a reassuring constant within the unit.”

In addition to her role as Senior Charge Nurse, Leanne supports colleagues across NHS Lothian as a Safe Management of Violence and Aggression trainer, helping build confidence in managing complex situations.

Caroline Hiscox, Chief Executive, NHS Lothian, said: “The Celebrating Success Awards give us a chance to pause and recognise the individuals and teams who go above and beyond every day, often without seeking recognition.

“Our winners demonstrate the values that underpin NHS Lothian and have made a lasting impact on the patients, families and colleagues they support. We are delighted to celebrate their achievements and thank them for their outstanding contribution.”

For the full list of NHS Lothian’s award winners across all 12 categories please visit: https://news.nhslothian.scot/celebrating-success-finalists/

Game On: Edinburgh young athletes shine as SprintFastest brings Scotland’s rising sprint stars together

Young athletes from across Edinburgh were among the biggest contingent at last weekend’s SprintFastest All-Star Indoor Championships, with 25 athletes representing the City of Edinburgh Council area.

The Edinburgh contingent, drawn mainly from Edinburgh AC and Harmeny AC, included rising sprint talents Aoiffion McVittie-Brangan and Reeva Grant, who joined more than 180 young athletes from across Scotland at the Glasgow International Arena.

Funded through a £20 million Scottish Government investment and supported by sportscotland as part of the national Summer of Sport 2026 initiative, the event followed the inaugural SprintFastest, which was held at Grangemouth Stadium in March.

Thanks to summer of sport funding, the indoor championships were bigger and better attracting more than 180 young athletes from across the country.

SprintFastest is recognised for its commitment to accessibility, inclusivity, and strengthening pathways into athletics for young people across the country and to provide a platform for Scotland’s rising sprint stars.

Founder of SprintFastest, Dr Enoch Adeyemi, set out to create an accessible youth athletics event to bring families and young people together. He said: “At SprintFastest, we believe every young person deserves the chance to shine.

“This event is about much more than racing. It’s about creating opportunities, building confidence and showing young people what they can achieve when they are given the right platform.

“Thanks to sportscotland’s Summer of Sport funding, we’ve been able to bring together some of Scotland’s most talented young athletes while making the experience accessible, welcoming and inspiring for families from across the country.”

The talented field included boys and girls across five age categories, drawn from 24 local authority areas of Scotland.

Minister for Community Care Alison Thewliss MSP and sportscotland Chair Maureen Campbell attended the event to see first-hand how the young people were benefiting from Summer of Sport investment.

Ms Thewliss MSP, Minister for Community Care said: “The Summer of Sport programme has been a fantastic way to help more children and young people across Scotland discover the joy of being active, while removing some of the barriers that can prevent them from taking part.

“SprintFastest is a brilliant example of this in action, bringing young people together through an exciting and accessible athletics experience. It’s exactly the kind of opportunity we want to see more of, giving young people the chance to try something new, build confidence and hopefully discover a sport they can enjoy for years to come.”

Game On: Creating opportunities for children and young people across Scotland

Since launching in May 2026, the Summer of sport programme has supported local authorities, schools, clubs and sporting bodies to create free and low-cost opportunities for children and young people aged between three to 26 to take part in sport and physical activity.

The campaign, backed by Scottish government investment, as part of a £20 million fund has been administered by sportscotland and was inspired by the landmark summer of international sport, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. 

A wide range of sporting organisations received funding through a competitive application process to sportscotland, including football, cycling, cricket, golf, padel, archery and judo.

Maureen Campbell, Chair of sportscotland, added: “The Summer of Sport programme has shown what can be achieved when we work together to make sport and physical activity more accessible, inclusive and enjoyable for young people across Scotland.

“The response so far has been hugely encouraging, with young people telling us that the programme has helped them become more active and inspired them to do more sport. SprintFastest is a great example of that ambition in action, creating an exciting opportunity for young people to experience athletics, have fun and be inspired by what they can achieve. We’re proud to be supporting opportunities like this as Summer of Sport events continue into the new year.”

Inspiring a new generation to get active and try sport

Interim survey data conducted by sportscotland shows the Summer of Sport is already making a lasting impact, with 75% of children and young people surveyed saying they had become more active as a result of taking part, while 79% said it had made them want to do more sport.

One in four (25%) had already taken up a new sport and one in five (20%) had joined a new club, highlighting the programme’s ability to turn new experiences into continued participation.

The programme is also helping break down barriers to participation, with 28% of young people trying their chosen activity for the first time. Low-cost and local opportunities have been key, with 73% of parents and carers saying being local or easy to reach helped their child participate, while 63% highlighted free access. The experiences have been rated highly, with children and young people giving activities an average score of 4.7 out of 5.

Activities will take place beyond the summer, supporting increased opportunities and participation.

To find out more about the 2026 Summer of Sport, visit: sportscotland.org.uk/2026   

PICTURES: Peter Devlin

Challenge Poverty Week: Children First encourages Edinburgh families to call them for help

Scotland’s national children’s charity, Children First, has revealed new figures showing that financial difficulties remain the top reason for families to call its support line, as it urged families who are struggling to get in touch for support. 

Over half of Edinburgh families (56%) who got in touch with the charity’s support line between July and September were experiencing money worries, with callers seeking help and advice when rising costs, household bills and unexpected expenses become difficult to manage. 

Children First’s support line provides practical, emotional and financial support, including debt support, to parents and carers 365 days a year.  

Last year, the charity worked with nearly 1,500 families to provide financial wellbeing support and advice that helped put £1.8 million in financial gains back in their pockets and manage over £1 million in debts. 

Kerry* recently contacted Children First as she was experiencing high levels of stress, anxiety and a difficult financial situation that was affecting her whole family.  

Describing the immediate impact of speaking to Children First, she said she felt: 

“Overwhelmed in a good way as I have been listened to and told that food can be on the table tonight. 

“Children First’s support line saved me – held me and gave me hope for the first time that there was light at the end of the tunnel.” 

Children First was able to provide immediate hardship funding so the family could buy groceries. The family was also referred for ongoing support with energy debt and income maximisation, helping them develop a plan for their financial situation and allowing Kerry to focus on parenting and meeting her children’s needs.  

Simon McGowan, Assistant Director at Children First, said: “When a parent or carer is worrying about whether there will be food on the table, it can be incredibly difficult to focus on anything else. It’s so important that families can access support before financial pressures become a crisis. 

“Our support line provides a place for families to talk, be listened to and access practical, emotional and financial help without judgement. 

“This Challenge Poverty Week and beyond, we’re urging families in Edinburgh not to struggle alone. If money worries or other pressures are making family life difficult, please reach out to Children First. We’re here for you.” 

With around 210,000 children in Scotland living in poverty, the gap between current child poverty levels and the targets for 2030/31 is significant. As part of efforts to address this challenge, Children First has received a £2 million investment from the Scottish Government to expand its support line and help even more families. 

Any family worried about their financial situation can call the Children First support line on 08000 28 22 33. 

Independent review of maternity services begins

Improving care for women and babies across Scotland

A nationwide review of Scotland’s maternity services begins today, examining how care can be improved for women, babies and families.

Chaired by maternal and child health expert Professor Christine McCourt, the independent review will take a whole-system approach, drawing on data, evidence and the direct experiences of women, families and staff at every level of care.

The review will pay particular attention to how care is provided in rural and island communities, with specific focus on services in Caithness, Elgin and Wigtownshire. It will also examine disparities in maternal outcomes, including higher rates of maternal mortality by Black and Asian women.

The review will run for nine months and will also take account of the unannounced inspections of all 18 of Scotland’s acute maternity units currently being carried out by Healthcare Improvement Scotland.

Prof McCourt is due to submit her findings and recommendations in July 2027.

Health Secretary Angela Constance said: “I want every woman and baby to receive the high-quality care they deserve.

“That is why I announced this independent review, which will sit alongside the inspections already underway of every acute maternity unit in Scotland, to identify the systemic changes needed to strengthen services and improve outcomes.

“While the vast majority of mothers receive good care, I have heard from families who were let down, and from those who have bravely shared their experiences of loss – these are powerful stories. Their experiences must shape improvement.

“While the vital work of the review is underway, we will continue to take action to improve services, through implementation of the Miscarriage Framework and HIS Maternity Standards, the Scottish Patient Safety Perinatal Programme, improved bereavement care through the National Bereavement Care Pathway, and new work to improve triage services.

“HIS will also continue its programme of maternity inspections, driving improvement locally in every acute maternity unit in Scotland, and informing the review.”

Professor Christine McCourt said: “The review team is committed to engaging with women, families, healthcare staff and organisations across Scotland to understand both the challenges facing maternity services and the examples of excellent care that can inform future improvements.

“We want to hear from people with a wide range of experiences and perspectives. We encourage anyone with relevant insights to visit the website, learn more about the review and engage with the process as our work progresses.”

www.citystgeorges.ac.uk/scotland-maternity-review

House of Hope working with Scottish Rugby for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Having opened its doors in 2025 as Scotland’s first permanent, community-based support and wellbeing centre for those impacted by breast cancer, The House of Hope recently welcomed a number of Scotland Women players to learn about the nuances of what they do.

As well as delivering a breast cancer awareness clinic to the squad at Oriam, the charity played host to players Chloe Rollie, Evie Wills, Elliann Clarke and Alex Stewart to offer a peek behind the scenes at their Edinburgh headquarters.

As we enter Breast Cancer Awareness Month, House of Hope want to make it clear to women of all ages that checking your breasts for anything unusual is to be championed, in order that issues can be addressed at the earliest opportunity.

Breast cancer will affect 1 in 7 women in Scotland in their lifetime and by supporting the clinical work that exists, through emotional, practical and social support, House of Hope’s mission is to ensure that care is offered to anyone who might need it as they navigate their way through a breast cancer diagnosis.

Rosie Small, Breast Cancer Nurse Specialist at The House of Hope said: “It was a fantastic opportunity to run a breast health awareness session with Scottish Rugby, as part of our Hope in Your Hands campaign to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month and encourage people to ‘check your breasts’.

“Many young women lack confidence, or actually avoid examining their breasts, due to fear of what they might find, so it was good to chat with the team and talk about benign breast conditions as well as breast cancer and answer their questions around breast health.

“I hope it has given them the confidence to regularly examine themselves and empower them to seek medical advice if they notice any changes in their breasts.”

The House of Hope provides wellbeing classes, workshops, support groups, drop-in sessions and holistic therapies such as oncology massage and aromatherapy. It offers a safe haven for those impacted by a breast cancer diagnosis with a relaxing living room,  bustling kitchen, bespoke yoga and pilates studio, hair and wig salon, counselling room, kids zone and bra fitting/styling lounge.

Scotland Women centre Evie Wills said: “It is just astounding. When we got a tour, there were rooms upon rooms and they’ve just thought of everything; you can really see why so many people come here.

“As athletes, we think we know our bodies well, but with these workshops we are checking things we’ve probably never checked before. We know what a tweaked hamstring looks like but we don’t necessarily know what a mass looks like in our breast, or any changes in our breasts.

“I just think everyone should support everyone, no matter what they’re going through.”

Scotland full-back Chloe Rollie added: “Being aware of the House of Hope charity is really important. It gives us a chance to use it if we ever have to, or if we know someone who is going through a life-changing experience like this, that we can point them in the right direction to find the support they need.”

Breast Cancer Awareness Month runs throughout October and if you would like to hear more about the work that House of Hope does, or wish to speak to them at any point, you can do so here.

Public consultation opens on plans to secure future of Summerhall

PUBLIC DROP-IN TOMORROW 3pm to 7.30pm

A public consultation is now underway on proposals to secure the future of Summerhall, Edinburgh’s landmark arts venue, as developer AMA sets out an emerging vision to secure the site’s future.

Residents, businesses, artists and community groups can review the proposals and provide feedback on plans for Summerhall from Tuesday 29 September until Friday 23 October.

sculpture at Summerhall

A public drop-in event will be held at Summerhall tomorrow – Wednesday 7th October, from 3pm to 7.30pm, where visitors can view the plans, meet the project team and ask questions.

Since the Royal Dick Veterinary College left in 2011, Summerhall has become a home for artists, performers, creative organisations and small businesses. The site now faces significant financial and physical challenges, and needs substantial investment to secure its long-term future.

Having entered into a contract to acquire Summerhall from Oesselmann Estate Limited in April 2025, Edinburgh-based AMA is developing a vision together with Kettle Collective architects for an Arts Quarter at Summerhall. The plans seek to retain the site’s cultural role while bringing new activity and investment to the wider complex.

The emerging proposals include retaining and sensitively adapting key heritage buildings, improving pedestrian access through the site and enhancing its public spaces. A wider mix of uses is also being explored to help support Summerhall’s long-term sustainability.

The proposals have been informed by pre-application discussions with the City of Edinburgh Council. Its advice recognises the potential for a mixed-use development that retains arts and community uses, and welcomes the proposed retention and use of the majority of the site’s listed buildings.

It also identifies improved accessibility and energy efficiency as potential benefits, while stressing the need for sensitive design within Summerhall’s heritage and conservation setting.

A January 2026 review by the Edinburgh Urban Design Panel also recognised the site’s complex history. Once home to a brewery and two churches, Summerhall became the Royal Dick Veterinary College in the early 20th century.

Later additions include modernist buildings constructed between 1967 and 1971, among them its distinctive tower. The site sits within the South Side Conservation Area, close to The Meadows.

Dr Ali Afshar, co-founder and managing director of AMA, said: “Summerhall is an important part of Edinburgh’s cultural life. We know how much it means to the people who work here, visit and live nearby. We also know that significant investment is needed to address the challenges facing its buildings and secure its future.

“Our vision for an Arts Quarter builds on what makes Summerhall special. Art and culture will remain at its heart, alongside sensitive work to its heritage buildings, better access through the site and a mix of uses that can support it for the long term.

“Summerhall’s character comes from the many different chapters of its history. We want to respect that history while making the site more welcoming and accessible. This consultation is a chance for people to tell us what matters to them, and their feedback will help inform the proposals before we submit a planning application at the start of 2027.

“We hope the existing management team will continue its stewardship and day-to-day running of the Arts Quarter and associated commercial spaces following redevelopment, within modernised buildings offering greater flexibility.”

The consultation is open until Friday 23 October. Plans can be viewed and feedback submitted at www.summerhallconsultation.co.uk.

A further public engagement event will be held in due course, with details announced ahead of time.

Everyone deserves a happy Christmas, you can help make it happen

A call to action from Fresh Start

Fresh Start, an Edinburgh-based charity dedicated to supporting individuals and families who are moving on from, or at risk of homelessness, are calling on the community to support those in need this Christmas, with several ways to get involved.

With 9,600+ households experiencing homelessness in Edinburgh this year, the power and generosity of community is more impactful than ever before.

This festive season, the best way to support Fresh Start’s services is to donate to its annual Cookers for Christmas Appeal, which raises funds for their White Goods service, providing essential appliances like cookers, washing machines and fridge/freezers for those in need.

Hoping to beat last year’s £31,000 total, Fresh Start asks individuals, businesses, and organisations across Edinburgh and beyond to support the Appeal and ensure everyone has a Happy Christmas this year. 

Alongside their White Goods service, Fresh Start provides other essential services, including Starter Packs with household items, local food support through their Community Pantry, and cooking classes to promote healthy living on a budget. They help people rebuild their lives with dignity and a sense of community, offering practical assistance, support, and pathways to long-term stability.

Every donation, big or small, makes a huge difference for people like Sarah*, who was able to “start living like a real human being again” after receiving a cooker for her flat.

For families like the Hashimi’s*, receiving White Goods allowed them to “store and cook healthy homemade meals for our family again. It really has been such a big relief, helping us move on from the last few years, which have been a nightmare.”

Donations can be made via Fresh Start’s JustGiving page, or by cash, cheque or bank transfer, and will ensure families can cook hot meals over Christmas and throughout 2027. Get in touch with Fresh Start at admin@freshstartweb.org.uk or on 0131 476 7741 for more information on how to donate to the appeal.

If you’d like to support Fresh Start’s services more broadly this Christmas, you can also: 

  • Take part in their #GatherForGood campaign by turning your office Christmas Party, ‘Friendmas’, Christmas Carols service, movie night or festive celebrations into a fundraiser for Fresh Start. 
  • Donate to their festive food collection, helping to support hundreds of families and individuals with festive food hampers this Christmas. Donations close on Friday, 4th December, with Fresh Start accepting non-perishable seasonal items – see a full list and more details about how to donate on their website. 
  • Spread the word! Help raise awareness with others in your community by following Fresh Start on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram, and sharing their posts with your followers!

Everyone deserves a happy Christmas, and you can help make it happen, in a way that works for you – support Fresh Start this festive season and help those moving on from homelessness in Edinburgh to make a home for themselves. 

Cookers For Christmas 2026 – JustGiving Page:

https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/cookers-for-christmas-2026
https://www.freshstartweb.org.uk/ • Facebook • LinkedIn • Instagram