Every 26 minutes, one of us is diagnosed with lymphoma. As the only charity in the UK dedicated to this type of blood cancer, we are asking people to support our mission to raise awareness about lymphoma, its symptoms and the support we provide – so we can help more people affected by lymphoma, sooner.
Our recent lymphoma patient survey revealed that a third of respondents did not receive a correct first diagnosis. This needs to change. With your help, we can raise awareness about the symptoms of lymphoma through sharing our information resources with health professionals, and the wider public and encourage people to ask the question – ‘could it be lymphoma?’.
This increased awareness will, in turn, help make sure people get the right diagnosis at the right time, are treated effectively and get the support they need at every step.
Furthermore, your support could help someone who has just been diagnosed with lymphoma, is going through treatment or is caring for a loved one living with the condition.
Your donation will help us provide people with the vital information and support they need to help them through their lymphoma diagnosis and treatment.
Your support today, whether a single donation or a regular gift, could help people affected by lymphoma now – and drive improvements for lymphoma diagnosis, treatment and care in the future.
Ten years after it became law, the Home Affairs Committee will examine the impact of the Modern Slavery Act in an evidence session on Tuesday 25 March.
Modern slavery encompasses a number of offences, including human trafficking, slavery, forced servitude and compulsory labour.
When it was introduced in 2015, the Modern Slavery Act was seen as world-leading in its approach to tackling these forms of exploitation. Measures contained in the Act include longer sentences for modern slavery offences and improvements in how victims are supported.
It also required large businesses to set out their approach to dealing with modern slavery internally and in supply chains.
In 2024, 19,125 potential victims were referred to the modern slavery National Referral Mechanism. However, despite the growing number of referrals, ten years on approaches to tackling modern slavery have moved on and there are concerns that the UK is no longer world-leading.
In this evidence session, the Home Affairs Committee will examine the current impact of the Modern Slavery Act and the UK’s performance in dealing with modern slavery.
It will investigate how effective current mechanisms are in identifying victims of modern slavery and bringing perpetrators to justice.
It will also look at whether victim support services are adequate and ask what improvements may need to be made to restore the UK as a world leader in tackling modern slavery.
Committee Chair Dame Karen Bradley said: “Modern slavery is complex and often hidden, targeting some of the most vulnerable in society. We have seen how county lines has exploited children and young people to support the drug trade, but this is just one form and it has been seen in a broad range of legal and criminal enterprises.
“Exactly ten years on from the passing of the Modern Slavery Act, we are holding this session to understand if the UK is doing enough, not only to uncover these crimes but support the victims as well. Are the right mechanisms and policies in place, or does more need to be done to ensure the UK is a world leader in tackling this form of crime?”
Competition helps encourage children and young people to access nature
The public are being invited to vote for their favourite photo in this year’s RSPCA Young Photographer People’s Choice Award – with 15 hilarious and fascinating images vying for the top prize!
From a hungry fish, to a moth on a window; and a dog catching a frisbee, to a canine poking their head out of a cat flap – the 15 shortlisted images entered by budding young photographers aged 18 and under are all vying for the public vote.
Online voting is now open for the public and the winner will be decided by votes cast online
The People’s Choice Award is part of the prestigious RSPCA Young Photographer Awards.
In December last year, the overall winners of the Young Photographer Awards were announced after being judged by a panel of photographic experts. The People’s Choice Award is now live – with a special online poll enabling people to pick their winning photo from a selection of images entered in the Mobile Phone and Devices, Pet Personalities and Pet Portraits categories.
This year, two budding young photographers from Scotland have been shortlisted and are in with a chance of claiming the winning public vote. ‘Keeping a Look Out’ shows spaniel Lexie poking her head out of the cat flap by Eilidh Shannon, aged 13, from Inverurie, and a second of her images has been shortlisted with ‘Take Me With You’ showing a cat in a suitcase.
‘Paws’ features a cat’s paws as they climb a tree which was taken by Megan Smith, 12, from Edinburgh.
‘Spotted, the young lady’ featuring a ladybird larvae, photographed by Flynn Thaitanunde-Lobb, aged 10, from Hampshire
‘Hungry Fish’ featuring a carp, by Tom Wiseman, aged 15, from Kent
‘The Portal’ featuring a reflection of a dog by Iceni Newcombe, aged 15, from Kent
‘The elegant slug’ featuring an image of a slug at a waterfall in Whitby, taken by Eva Steel, aged 14, from Cornwall
‘Frisbee Lion’ shows dog Betsie catching a frisbee, taken by George Avery, aged 12, from Cornwall
‘It Lurks’ shows a jellyfish at an aquarium, snapped by Ellie Tsang, aged 17, from London
‘Behind the Leaves’ features cat Luna hiding in bushes snapped by Eliza Harvey-Keightley, aged 14, from Surrey
‘3,2,1…Go!’ shows Emily the cat mid-run, snapped by last year’s YPA winner Anwen Whitehead, 15, from Wales
‘Biscuit?’ features dog Herb as he rests his chin on a table desperate for a treat, by Henrietta Stewart, aged seven, from Bedfordshire
‘Funny Face’ shows dog Jess pulling a face as she tries to catch a ball, by Ella Moakler-Woodhouse, aged 10, from Leeds
‘Beautiful Moth’ shows a moth perched on a window and taken by Rehana Nelson, aged 15, from Staffordshire
‘Star Catching’ features dog Robin on an evening walk, by Grace Marshall, aged 18, from West Sussex
Andrew Forsyth, RSPCA photographer and judge, said: “The photos shortlisted for the People’s Choice Award this year are fantastic and really varied, from some sweet and funny pictures of pets showing off their incredible personalities to stunning photos of insects in all their tiny glory.
“This is a brilliant selection of images from some passionate and talented young people – and we urge the public to not only enjoy these photos, but to vote for their favourite too!”
Every year the charity encourages children and young people to take photos of all kinds of animals in a bid to become closer to nature and inspire the next generation to help create a better world for every animal.
This comes at a time when conservationist and diversity campaigner Dr Mya-Rose Craig, 22, known online as Birdgirl, has issued a rallying call for people from all communities to join the debate about the future of animal welfare – as she highlights the importance of opening up nature and the countryside for everyone in the latest RSPCA’s Animal Futures podcast – which also goes live this week.
British-Bangladeshi birdwatcher Mya-Rose and founder of Black2Nature, a charity for bringing diversity to the natural world, speaks alongside National Trust chair Rene Olivieri in the latest edition of the podcast – with both highlighting the importance of young people experiencing and enjoying the great outdoors.
Andrew added: “At the RSPCA, we know how incredibly important it is that children and young people feel connected to the natural world and have the drive and passion to protect it.
“As we look to the future of animal welfare, we are committed to engaging the next generation so we can deliver the change needed to protect animals, people and the planet. This is why it’s incredible to see Mya-Rose, and all our passionate young photographers, embracing nature and being powerful advocates for the animal kingdom!”
The People’s Choice voting closes on Wednesday 26th March and the winner will be announced on the RSPCA’s socials on Thursday 27th March.
To vote in the RSPCA’s People’s Choice Awards visit:
Listen to the Animal Futures podcast – available on all major platforms – including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon and YouTube, with audio and video available.
In celebration of its 75th anniversary this year, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo will include a Storyteller in the Show, The Heroes Who Made Us, to take audiences on a journey through the Tattoo’s history.
The Tattoo’s newly appointed Creative Director Alan Lane has invited Terence Rae to perform the role for the 2025 Show. Alan hopes that the character will guide audiences through the Show, providing a cohesive narrative thread, and create a deeper emotional spectator experience.
After training at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Terence has showcased his talents across a diverse array of mediums, performing on television and film, and taking on lead roles in theatre productions.
His extensive experience of large-scale storytelling, and love of traditional Scottish music, along with a keen musical ear, equip him with the essential tools to take his place at the centre of this year’s Tattoo.
Taking to the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade itself, Terence will lead the audience through the Show with tales of heroism, heritage and history.
This year’s Show, The Heroes Who Made Us, will celebrate the individuals who have shaped and supported the iconic performances over the past 75 years, as well as spotlighting the local heroes that are working to make a difference to the community they serve. The military is at the heart of the showcase, with the British Army confirmed as the Lead Service.
The Esplanade will be filled with over 800 cast members, including the Massed Pipes and Drums, Tattoo Dancers and various international acts. The 2025 Show promises to be a breathtaking spectacle, featuring a dazzling array of military bands, cultural performers, and intricate choreography set against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
With the introduction of the Storyteller, audiences can expect a seamless blend of tradition and innovation, capturing the essence of the Tattoo’s spirit and its commitment to excellence.
Terence Rae said: “It is an immense honour to be the Storyteller for the 75th Anniversary Show of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – The Heroes Who Made Us. I’m excited to play my part in a show which celebrates all those who have shaped the Tattoo’s history over the past 75 years.
“I am deeply grateful to be part of this iconic spectacle, and to work with the outstanding creative and production teams that are here. Preparations have begun, and the excitement for the August Show is building every day.
“It will be a privilege to step onto the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade with my fellow castmates and play our small part in the mighty Edinburgh Tattoo.”
Alan Lane, Creative Director of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said:“We are delighted that Terence will join this year’s Show as the Storyteller.The role is an exciting way for us to weave together the history of the last 75 years of the Tattoo, celebrating the past and looking to the future.
“It marks the start of a new storytelling chapter that I am hoping will deepen the audience’s enjoyment of the Tattoo.
“Having worked with Terence on many other productions across the years, I know the power and presence he will bring to the role. The audiences are in for such a treat, I am sure they will be moved and delighted by Terence.”
Tickets for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo’s 75th anniversary Show are now on sale and can be purchased at edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or on the phone, 0131 225 1188. The Show will run from 1-23 August 2025.
A Bill designed to create jobs and drive economic growth across Scotland by promoting investment in communities has been published.
The Community Wealth Building Bill is the first of its kind in the world and would require councils, National Health Service boards and other public bodies to take forward measures which boost their local economies.
These can include:
Buying more goods and services from their local companies
Promoting employee-owned businesses, co-operatives and social enterprises
Helping community groups to acquire and regenerate derelict sites
Supporting fair work practices including payment of the real Living Wage
Investment Minister Tom Arthur said: “To create jobs and support thriving communities we want to ensure that more money spent in Scotland stays in Scotland.
“This unique legislation will help to increase investment in local economies so that they become fairer, greener and more prosperous.
“I visited Greencity Wholefoods to highlight how supporting practices such as paying the real Living Wage and being a worker’s co-operative benefits the economy and helps to address wealth inequalities.”
Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, the National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture, has launched Scotland’s first-ever Gaelic Poetry Path. Slighe nam Bàrd will provide a poetic pathway around the Isle of Skye, aiming to introduce local, national, and international visitors to a taste of Gaelic heritage, song, and poetry.
From the 21st of March (World Poetry Day), tourists will be able to collect a free Slighe nam Bàrd– Poetry Paths pamphlet and accompanying map from Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, located in Sleat in the Isle of Skye.*
The pamphlet will provide a detailed guide around Skye’s stunning landscape, stopping at seven major locations connected to a Gaelic song or poem. A QR code for each location provides a recording of the poem/song to enable people to listen to the Gaelic audio in the environment that inspired the creative piece.
SMO Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, Skye, April 2023
Abigail Burnyeat, Head of Research at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, the National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture:“People often come to Skye for its beautiful scenery, but the aim of Slighe nam Bàrd is to showcase the connection between Gaelic culture and Skye’s mesmerising landscape.
“Through Slighe nam Bàrd, tourists will be able to engage with the landscape whilst listening to Gaelic poems and songs that add to our understanding of the locations on the trail, giving people an opportunity to experience for themselves the Gaelic culture and history at the heart of the Isle of Skye.”
Meg Bateman, Professor in Gaelic Language and Culture at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and Bàrd a’ Chomuinn Ghàidhealaich:“Slighe nam Bàrd provides a one-day poetic road-trip around the Isle of Skye, allowing people to engage with local Gaelic poetry whilst immersed in the Skye landscape.
“The pathway consists of seven poems/songs, each one carefully chosen to represent a range of locations, centuries, styles, and subjects to give a full flavour of Skye’s poetic Gaelic landscape.
“From Somhairle MacGill-Eain to Màiri Mhòr nan Òran, the pathway will guide people from the south of the island to the very north, discovering Gaelic poetry along the way.”
Chris Taylor, VisitScotland Regional Destination Development Director, said: “Sabhal Mòr Ostaig’s Poetry Path provides a unique way to tell Skye and Scotland’s story and is an immersive entry-point for visitors to experience the Gaelic language.
“We know that visitors, especially international, think Gaelic enhances their holiday. With that in mind, Slighe nam Bàrd may even inspire them to try out a course at Scotland’s National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture.
“At VisitScotland we recognise that Gaelic is an integral part of Scotland’s heritage, identity, and culture. It can provide an extra layer to the authentic Scottish experience and to our many visitors.”
The Slighe nam Bàrd project was funded by: the University of the Highlands and Islands KE/ Innovation Challenge Fund.
Anti austerity demonstrators condemning the government cuts to social security besieged the office of Labour MP Ian Murray yesterday. Protestors encircled the office with a giant banner proclaiming “IF YOU EXPLOIT US WE WILL SHUT YOU DOWN”. The office remained closed throughout.
People waved placards portraying a DWP Grim Reaper with the wording “CUTTING DISABILITY BENEFITS KILLS”. Passing vehicles tooted support. “End the DWP’s institutionalised cruelty towards claimants, and kill the new threats to reduce eligibility and lower the level of sickness and disability benefits.” urged the protestors’ leaflets.
“No to the two child benefit limit” and “Scrap the benefit cap” were prominent demands while demonstrators urged solidarity with migrants and the abolition of the discriminatory “No recourse to public funds” law.
The demonstrators also demanded the scrapping of the “anti fraud” bill currently going through the UK Parliament which would allow the DWP to spy on claimants’ bank accounts.
The demonstration. organised by Edinburgh Coalition Against Poverty and the Austerity Resistance Front, is part of the No More Growing Up Poor – End Child Poverty Britain-wide campaign initiated by Food and Solidarity, and is in solidarity with the Disabled People Against Cuts Day of Action on 26 March
One of the organisers, Esther McDonald, said; “Today’s protest is only the start. A wave of mass direct acion is being planned Britain-wide. We will not tolerate the government robbing the poor to enrich the rich!”
Sight loss charities have hailed the ‘life-changing’ pilot scheme that will provide free rail travel for companions of blind and partially sighted individuals on all Scotrail train journeys.
Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans highlight the profound impact this initiative will have in reducing loneliness and isolation, fostering independence, and enhancing mental well-being.
Minister for Equalities, Kaukab Stewart, officially launched the pilot scheme at Anniesland Station this week, and was joined by Craig Spalding, Chief Executive of Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans, along with representatives and campaigners from Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans, both of which have driven the successful Fair Rail Campaign.
Under this new pilot scheme, individuals holding an eye +1 National Entitlement Card (NEC) will be able to travel with a companion at no additional cost starting 01 April 2025.
The pilot scheme, which will run for one year, aims to make train travel more affordable and accessible for blind and partially sighted passengers by introducing a consistent, nationwide policy for free companion rail travel, aligning with existing concessionary bus and ferry travel across Scotland.
Ms Stewart said: “I am genuinely delighted to be launching this pilot, which is testament to the hard work by all those involved in the campaign to bring this about.
“Making rail travel more accessible and affordable for people with sight loss is an important step in helping them access communities, education, and employment.”
Claire Dickie, ScotRail Commercial Director, said: “At ScotRail, we are committed to improving accessibility and ensuring that our services are as inclusive as possible for all customers.
“This trial initiative is an important step towards making travel easier for those who rely on assistance when using our services.”
Craig Spalding, Chief Executive of Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans, said: “We are delighted that the Scottish Government is introducing this pilot. After over two years of campaigning, this is a significant achievement for our Fair Rail Campaign.
“Thanks to collaboration with ScotRail and Transport Scotland, rail travel will become more accessible and affordable for people with sight loss across Scotland.
“For many visually impaired individuals, public transport is essential, yet travelling alone is often not an option, and the cost of a companion ticket can be prohibitive.
“This new policy will make a real difference, supporting rehabilitation, promoting independence, and ensuring that people with vision impairments remain connected with their communities.”
Joe Tottenham, a 92-year-old army veteran, who is supported by Sight Scotland Veterans, comments: “I’m so proud to be part of the Fair Rail campaign led by Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans who have campaigned tirelessly on this issue.
“Knowing no matter where I’m going in Scotland that my companion can travel with me at no extra cost will change my life. As a blind person, having someone to help me get on and off the train is vital – I’d be lost without them.”
Colette Walker, who is visually impaired and co- chair of Sight Scotland’s policy group, adds: “This will make such a difference to me financially, as well as to my safety and quality of life.”
The Fair Rail Campaign was launched over two years ago, calling for a national policy to provide free rail travel across Scotland for the companions of those with a National (Scotland) Concessionary Travel for Blind Persons card.
Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans were approached by many individuals with sight loss who were concerned about rising travel costs and the confusion surrounding various concessionary schemes.
The charities brought the issue to the Scottish Parliament, where it was debated in a Members Debate brought forward by Graham Simpson MSP and considered in the Fair Fares Review, ultimately leading to this pilot scheme.
Mr Simpson commented: “I welcome the launch of the fair rail campaign pilot. This is long overdue after many years of campaigning by Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans, who first brought the issue to my attention several years ago.
“I held a Members’ Debate in the Parliament on this issue in 2022. Last year, the Fair Fares Review made a loose commitment to a pilot project, so I am pleased to see that the Scottish Government is finally addressing this important issue.
“For many blind and partially sighted people, having a companion can mean the difference between travelling or not travelling. This pilot is a step in the right direction, but I would urge the Scottish Government to get on with implementing a national policy that entitles the companions of people with sight loss to free rail travel, to make our rail network more equitable and accessible for everyone.”
People across the UK will benefit from upgraded sports facilities in their local area thanks to £100 million invested by UK Government
Major package to upgrade hundreds of local grassroots sports facilities with new and improved pitches, changing rooms, goalposts and floodlights
Investment will target deprived areas and support greater access and participation levels among under-represented groups
At least 40% of funded projects have a multi-sport offer ensuring more can participate and get active as the Government delivers its ‘Plan for Change‘
People across the UK will benefit from upgraded sports facilities in their local area thanks to £100 million invested by government yesterday.
Working together with the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation in England, the Cymru Football Foundation in Wales, and the Football Associations in Scotland and Northern Ireland, the funding is expected to support hundreds of new and improved pitches, changing rooms, goalposts and floodlights to improve access to sport and physical activity for local communities.
It will be targeted at deprived areas and support greater access and participation levels among under-represented people including women and girls, ethnic minority groups and disabled players.
The major package delivers on the Government’s Plan for Change, with the funding designed to break down barriers to opportunity and tackle persistent health inequalities through prevention, that will support an NHS fit for the future.
These facilities also encourage communities to come together and give young people opportunities to build vital skills and connections while creating a sense of purpose and pride in where they live.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy announced the funding during a visit to Bonnyrigg Rose Community Football Club, a grassroots football facility in Midlothian, Scotland which supports over 700 players.
The funding will be invested in sites during 2025/26, with £82.3 million allocated to projects in England (including a £2 million uplift of new investment committed in the current financial year), £8.6 million in Scotland, £6.1 million in Wales and £3 million in Northern Ireland.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: “Grassroots sport clubs are at the heart of communities across the UK. That’s why we’re investing £100 million to support new and upgraded pitches, changing rooms and clubhouses across the country, providing transformational funding to the areas that need it most.
“As we deliver our Plan for Change, we will remove barriers to an active lifestyle and increase opportunity for all, ensuring that wherever people may live, they can access high quality sports facilities and experience the joy that sport brings.
Government funding through the Multi-Sport Grassroots Facilities Programme is amplified by significant contributions by The FA and Premier League in England. Delivery partners also leverage investment from local stakeholders through initiatives such as the Scottish FA and Scottish Football Partnership Trust’s ‘Pitching in’ campaign which aims to raise £50 million for football facilities over the next five years. “
Of the funded projects, at least 40% will have a multi-sport offer so that more people can participate in sports other than football, meaning more people can get access to a wider variety of sports and activities that appeal to them including rugby, cricket and basketball.
Clubs and organisations across the UK are now being urged to come forward and apply for funding. Applications can be made in England via the Football Foundation on an ongoing basis, and in Wales via the Cymru Football Foundation.
Dedicated windows are opening shortly in Scotland and Northern Ireland with those interested encouraged to check relevant FA websites for more details. The first tranche of beneficiaries are expected to be confirmed in summer 2025.
The Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray, said: “Grassroots sports are the backbone of Scottish communities, providing opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities to take part in physical activities.
“Through this scheme almost 100 facilities across Scotland, including in our island and rural communities, have been built or upgraded and with this new funding we can look forward to many more.
“As a lifelong football fan I am excited as we build towards hosting Euro2028. I look forward to working with the SFA to ensure everyone has the opportunity to play our national sport – as we support the team on the biggest stage.”
Scottish FA President, Mike Mulraney said: “When I became President, I made no secret of the fact that improving facilities at all levels should be the association’s No.1 priority.
“We are grateful to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport and partners for this latest commitment, which will enable us to further improve the infrastructure of our national sport.
“This will increase participation, improve health and wellbeing and allow more people to experience the Power of Football.
“It follows the Scottish FA’s commitment to ensuring profits are diverted to facilities and infrastructure via our Pitching In fund and I look forward to further strengthening our partnership with UK Government, DCMS and Scottish Government, as well as philanthropic and business communities, to rejuvenate Scottish football’s facilities footprint.”
