Day: June 22, 2025

Amazon expands customer donation campaign with leading household brands to tackle hygiene poverty

  • New research shows that one in five adults in Scotland are worried about being able to afford basic hygiene products in the coming months.
  • Amazon’s You Buy. We Donate. initiative returns from now until 30 June, supporting The Big House Multibank, a charity co-founded by Amazon and former Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Every two eligible products purchased on Amazon.co.uk will trigger a third product donation at no extra cost to customers.
  • Campaign expected to deliver over 200,000 product donations to families across the UK.
  • There are now six Multibanks across the UK, which have distributed more than 8 million essential items to support over 600,000 families nationwide.

Amazon has joined forces with its suppliers of well-known household brands including Reckitt, Unilever and Beiersdorf to deliver over 200,000 essential hygiene products to families in need via The Multibank charity.

The campaign will support The Big House Multibank. The Big House Multibank is headquartered in Fife and supports families across Scotland with operations in Dundee, Perth & Kinross and Edinburgh. 

For every two eligible products purchased by customers on Amazon between now and 30 June, Amazon and its supplier partners will donate a third item to The Multibank at no additional cost. All people have to do is visit this page on Amazon.

The campaign launches with new research, commissioned by Amazon, which reveals that a fifth (19%) of adults in Scotland are worried about being able to afford basic hygiene products, such as toothpaste, soap, or laundry detergent, over the coming months. The research also found that almost one in 10 adults in Scotland (7%) have rationed or avoided buying hygiene essentials.

Almost all (93%) of adults in Scotland highlighted that feeling clean and presentable is vital for their children’s confidence and mental wellbeing, particularly significant during the upcoming summer holiday period, when school-based support is less accessible.

The Multibank was co-founded by Amazon and former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown in response to the high levels of poverty and deprivation he had witnessed in his local area in Fife, Scotland.

There are now six Multibanks across the UK, which have distributed more than 8 million essential items to support over 600,000 families nationwide.

This latest campaign builds on the successful launch of the ‘You Buy. We Donate.’ initiative in January, which saw more than 200,000 hygiene essentials donated to Multibanks across the UK

Eugenie Teasley, Head of Impact, Amazon UK, said: “We know families across the country are facing incredibly tough times, and we want to help.

“Working closely with The Multibank charity and other businesses, we’ve been able to donate over eight million essential products to more than 600,000 families, but we know there’s much more to do.

“This summer’s ‘You Buy. We Donate‘ campaign is an opportunity for shoppers to easily make a difference, simply by buying their everyday products. Together, we look forward to donating even more items and helping thousands more families get the support they deserve.”

Kirsty Thomson, CEO at The Big House Multibank, said: “Since launching in January 2022, The Big House Multibank has donated over 3 million surplus products to more than 125,000 unique families in Scotland.

“We are headquartered in Fife and operate satellite hubs in Dundee, Perth & Kinross and Edinburgh. We work with organisations supporting some of the most vulnerable people who find themselves in desperate need, often through no fault of their own.

“The products they receive through our partnership with Multibank and Amazon make a huge difference, whether that’s having toothpaste to clean their children’s teeth or having blankets to stay warm. 

“We are extremely grateful to Amazon customers supporting the ‘You Buy. We Donate’ campaign which will make an enormous difference to those in need.”

Brands participating in ‘You Buy. We Donate‘ include Alberto, By Amazon, Clearasil, Dettol, Dove, Durex, Finish, Harpic, Lynx, Mama Bear, NIVEA, Radox, Shea Moisture, Simple, Sure, Toni & Guy, TRESemmé, Vanish, Vaseline, Veet, VO5 and Woolite.

Transport logistics specialists Palletline will provide free logistics support, handling the storage and distribution of donations to Multibank regional hubs across the UK, with Amazon providing additional transportation routes.

To find out more visit: aboutamazon.co.uk/news/community/amazon-you-buy-we-donate

Delivering sustainable finances

Strategy to be published after ‘disappointing’ UK Spending Review settlement

A Medium Term Financial Strategy will be set out next week in the aftermath of a “disappointing” UK Spending Review and welfare reforms that will reduce Scotland’s budget.

Finance Secretary Shona Robison will outline the five-year strategy and accompanying action plan to ensure public money is focused on Scottish Government priorities.

The Finance Secretary said: “This government has delivered a balanced budget every year while taking steps to improve the overall sustainability of our finances. This is despite a deeply challenging financial situation caused by rising global instability, persistent higher inflation and over a decade of UK austerity.

“Our disappointing settlement at the recent UK Spending Review has made the situation worse, short-changing the Scottish Government by £1.1 billion in our day-to-day funding compared with UK Government departments.

“This comes on top of reductions in our funding worth hundreds of millions of pounds as a result of the UK Government’s proposed welfare reforms and failure to fully fund its employer National Insurance increase.

“In this context, it is important that we take action to maximise funding targeted at frontline services such as our NHS.” 

The Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) will outline the approach to ensuring Scotland’s finances remain on a sustainable footing.

It will be accompanied by a Fiscal Sustainability Delivery Plan, setting out the actions being taken in support of the MTFS.

Both documents will be presented by the Finance Secretary in a statement to Parliament on Wednesday 25 June.

What to do if you hit an animal on the road when driving this summer

Drivers are being told what to do if they accidentally collide with animals when driving around the UK this summer. 

With 14,649 animals reportedly killed on UK roads each year*, the motoring experts from LeaseLoco.com are offering advice to help keep both drivers and animals safe on the roads. 

Those driving in rural areas or late at night should be extra mindful that they might come across wildlife.

Motorists are advised to reduce their speed and remain alert, particularly on country roads with 60mph limits, where animal collisions are more common.**

The experts warn that drivers who do come across animals should slow down and avoid any sudden or loud movements such as swerving, braking suddenly, using the horn or revving the engine.

This can frighten the animal and cause them to panic and act unpredictably, which could put both you and the animal in danger. 

Remain calm and wait for the animal to pass and clear the road before gently driving off. 

In the event of a collision, the correct course of action depends on the animal involved. 

For dogs, cattle, horses, pigs, goats, sheep, donkeys and mules, drivers are legally required to report the incident to the police.

Failure to do so may result in penalty points, fines, or even imprisonment under section 170 of the Road Traffic Act 1988.

Hitting an animal can be distressing, but it’s important to remain calm. Pull over when it is safe to do so, switch on hazard lights, and check that all passengers are unharmed.

If safe to do so, motorists are also advised to take photographs of the scene and the animal to support any necessary reports or insurance claims.

Although it is not a legal requirement to report collisions involving other animals such as cats, foxes, deer or badgers, contacting the RSPCA or a local wildlife rescue centre may help save the animal’s life.

It’s also recommended to report larger animals like deer to the police or local council so that they can be easily removed, as they can obstruct the road and pose a hazard.

If a domestic animal is involved, check for a collar, as this may help identify the owner.

Notifying the owner can provide closure and prevent unnecessary distress from not knowing what happened to their pet.

John Wilmot, CEO of car leasing comparison site LeaseLoco.com said: “Encounters with animals on the road can be stressful but staying calm and knowing what to do is key.

“If you’re travelling in rural areas this summer, be prepared and always look well ahead for animals and slow down when approaching one. 

“Swerving to avoid them can lead to more serious accidents, so it’s safer to brake in a controlled way and gently come to a full stop if you need to and wait for the animal to pass.

“Sudden movements and loud noises from the car can frighten and startle animals which can be really dangerous for everyone so avoid revving the engine and beeping the horn at all costs. 

“If you spot animals like cattle or deer, wait a few minutes to ensure that the rest of their herd isn’t about to appear behind them and drive cautiously.

“If you have hit an animal, it’s really important that you report the incident to the council, police, or the RSPCA. You could potentially save the animal’s life and help keep other road users safe.”

Free Surf Lessons for Kids at Europe’s Largest Inland Surf Resort

Scotland’s most exciting new holiday destination is making waves for families this summer – with free surf lessons and sessions for kids throughout July.

Lost Shore Surf Resort, based just outside Edinburgh, is offering families staying four nights or more in its luxury hilltop lodges a free surf lesson every day for up to three children aged between 7 years and 16 years – a huge saving of up to £150 per day.

The offer includes expert instruction from International Surfing Association (ISA) qualified coaches, as well as full kit hire – wetsuits, boots, gloves and surfboards – all included at no extra cost. For those already with the surf bug, free sessions are also on offer, with equipment provided if required.

Located just minutes from Edinburgh Airport, Lost Shore Surf Resort is the first of its kind in Scotland and one of the most advanced surf destinations in the world. Its wave pool, three times the size of Hampden football pitch, making it the ultimate spot to learn to surf or hone your skills.

The luxury self-catering hilltop lodge sleeps up to 8 people and boasts panoramic views of the wave pool and resort grounds. Each lodge comes with an open plan kitchen, dining area and lounge, making it perfect for families and groups, and even come with their own wet changing and surf storage area.

Lee Wood, Surf and Hospitality Director at Lost Shore Surf Resort said: “This July, families can experience an unforgettable staycation with world-class surfing right on their doorstep of their luxury lodge.

“Kids can learn to surf or hone their skills for free, while adults can join them at exclusive discounted rates when booking accommodation.

“Beyond the waves, there’s plenty to explore – both at the resort and across Scotland – making it a unique, active holiday just a short journey from Edinburgh Airport and the Capital.”

And the fun doesn’t stop there – throughout July kids can also take part in circus workshops run by Think Circus, learning skills like juggling and plate spinning.

For full details on the ‘Kids Surf Free in July’ offer, visit:

https://booking.lostshore.com/kids-surf-free 

Outdoor experts name Wardie and Portobello beaches among the UK’s paddleboarding hotspots

TWO EDINBURGH BEACHES IN PADDLEBOARDING TOP TEN

Boscombe Pier has been named the best place in the UK for paddleboarding with a score of 9.73. Located in Bournemouth, the beach has an excellent water classification making it an ideal spot for paddleboarders.

With almost 1,700 hours of sunshine each year and an average wind speed of 8.63 m/s per 10m, the conditions are well-suited for getting out on the water.

Lessons and equipment are available at local rentals such as Sorted Surf School and there are several cafes and restaurants along the pier which are perfect for refuelling after a paddleboarding session.

Best paddleboarding spots in the UK:

RankLocationLocal AuthorityCountryWater classificationAverage annual sunshine hoursAverage annual rainfall (mm)Mean wind speed (m/s) per 10mPaddleboarding lessons Paddleboarding score /10
1Boscombe PierBournemouth, Christchurch and PooleEnglandExcellent1,6949198.36Yes9.73
2River DartDevonEnglandGood1,7299018.35Yes8.82
3WhitbyNorth YorkshireEnglandExcellent1,5679069.41Yes8.73
4Wardie BayCity of EdinburghScotlandExcellent1,4289338.56Yes8.37
5Cotswold Water ParkCotswoldsEnglandExcellent1,5147909.98Yes8.00
5Marazion BeachCornwallEnglandGood1,7531,0038.50Yes8.00
7Cullen BeachMorayScotlandExcellent1,4551,0059.73Yes7.55
8Portobello BeachCity of EdinburghScotlandSufficient

River Dart follows in second place with a score of 8.82. With over 1,700 hours of sunshine each year, the area benefits from plenty of bright days which are perfect for heading out on the water.

The location also has relatively low average annual rainfall and a mean wind speed of 8.35 m/s per 10m, making for stable paddleboarding conditions. Paddleboarding gear can be hired nearby from providers such as Totnes Kayaks and Paddle Devon.

Whitby completes the top three with a score of 8.73. Known for its excellent water quality, it offers clean and safe water conditions for paddleboarders to enjoy. With mean wind speeds of 9.41 m/s per 10m, it is a great spot for those looking for more challenging paddleboarding conditions.

Visitors can hire equipment and lessons from local experts, including providers like the Whitby Surf School.  

Edinburgh’s WARDIE BAY comes in a fine fourth and Portobello also features in the UK top ten, featuring eight on the list.

Sam Chadwick, author and outdoor enthusiast at GO Outdoors comments: “As the weather gets warmer, many are looking to go outside and enjoy the UK’s water.

“Paddleboarding is a fantastic way to experience the outdoors and there are several places across the UK to enjoy this activity, but safety is the most important thing.

“Since paddleboarding can involve being in deeper water, always wear a buoyancy aid no matter your swimming ability. Weather conditions can change quickly, and waters can rapidly become rough, so check the forecast before going out on the water. While on the paddleboard, keep the paddleboard leash securely attached to your ankle to ensure your board stays close by if you fall in. 

“Even on warm days, deep water can be cold so always opt for a wetsuit to keep your body warm in case you fall into the water. It’s also important to stay within designated paddleboarding zones and be mindful of other people enjoying the water nearby.

“Always paddleboard with a buddy, let someone know your plans and expected return time and remember to only paddleboard within your capabilities.”

Festival of Politics 2025

The Festival of Politics Returns for 2025!

Be part of the conversation at The Scottish Parliament’s Festival of Politics, happening 20 to 22 August 2025 at Holyrood.

This year’s festival promises lively debates, thought-provoking panels, and inspiring voices tackling the most pressing social, political, and environmental issues of our time. Whether you’re passionate about climate justice, equality, or the future of democracy, we welcome you to join us and have your say.

What to expect:

  • 30 events across three days
  • Leading thinkers, activists, and politicians
  • Set within the unique architecture of the Scottish Parliament
  • Tickets from just £5
  • The chance to put your question to the experts
Newsletter subscriber exclusive offer 
As a newsletter subscriber, you’re among the first to know that tickets have just gone on sale.
We’d also like to offer you an exclusive deal – use the discount code WeLoveFOP during checkout to get 50% off!
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Missing Man: Have you seen Keiran?

POLICE are appealing for the help of the public to trace a 25-year-old man reported missing in Edinburgh.

Kieran Maloney was last seen around 0.10am on Sunday, 22 June on Ferry Road near the junction with North Junction Street.

He is described as around 6ft 1ins, of medium build, with short, red hair. When last seen he was wearing a navy blue bomber jacket and jeans.

Inspector Grant McCulloch said: “Concerns are growing for Kieran’s welfare and we want to make sure he is safe and well.

“I am asking anyone who has seen Kieran or knows where he might be to get in touch.”

Anyone who can help should call Police Scotland on 101, quoting reference number 0908 of Sunday, 22 June, 2025.

Sell-out Saturday at the Highland Show: Grand Parade takes centre stage

Royal Highland Show, Grand Parade

Prize-winning cattle, sheep, goats and Heavy Horses took centre stage on day three of the Royal Highland Show as sellout crowds gathered in the Grandstand at Ingliston to see lots of different breeds at one time.

Over 150 animals took part in the parade which sees them walking gracefully across the event’s Main Ring. The Grand Parade takes place once again on the Sunday of the Show at 2:30pm.

Awards were also handed out to 15 winners who are leading the way in agricultural innovation. Winners included Graintek UK for their baby portable grain dryer, the smallest mobile dryer in the world and New Holland for their T6 methane power tractor, which offers a more sustainable way of working.

Royal Highland Show, Grand Parade

David Tennant, Head of Show, said: “There has been an incredible atmosphere on site today and the Saturday of the Show is always a really special one with The Grand Parade taking place – it’s such a spectacle for visitors to experience. It’s also been a delight to see lots more families at the Show today enjoying Tractor Ted, Mini Rovers and our Countryside Arena. 

“The Sunday of the Show will see our Members Village being opened to the public to showcase a whole host of entertainment, from Edinburgh Military Tattoo artists, magician, Elliott Bibby and live music – it looks set to be a superb Sunday!”

Increased funding for festivals

Record culture funding uplift to benefit 14 festivals in 2025-26

Edinburgh Fringe Programme Launch 2025

Fourteen major festivals across Scotland will receive funding increases this year, thanks to a record uplift in the Scottish culture budget.

As part of an overall £4 million increase for festivals in 2025-26 Scottish Budget, this year’s Festival EXPO Fund has awarded a total of £2.8 million across the 14 festivals, up from £1.7 million the previous year.

Festivals Edinburgh will also receive £200,000 via Creative Scotland to support their branding and marketing work to promote the Edinburgh festivals.

Established in 2007, the Scottish Government’s Festival EXPO Fund is designed to support festival innovation and maximise national and international opportunities for the artists who contribute to them. The fund is managed by Creative Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government.

Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said: “Scotland’s festivals are our cultural shopfront to the rest of the world. As well as offering performers and creatives an unrivalled international platform, they also deliver an annual economic uplift to businesses, jobs and livelihoods right across the country.

“This year’s funding increase for the existing EXPO festivals cohort represents an increase of £1 million across the 14 festivals in Glasgow and Edinburgh, the first in 10 years.

“It recognises the success of festivals in shaping and supporting hundreds of commissions, enhancing the ambitions of thousands of Scottish artists and attracting audiences in the millions for EXPO-supported work since the fund’s creation in 2007.

“From this foundation we will expand the reach of the EXPO fund across the whole of Scotland, and I am working with festivals across the country through the Strategic Festivals Partnership to realise this commitment.”

Dana MacLeod, Executive Director of Arts, Communities and Inclusion at Creative Scotland said: “We welcome the Scottish Government’s commitment to the Festivals EXPO Fund, providing invaluable support for Scotland’s world-class festivals.

“The EXPO Fund enables Scotland’s festivals to commission bold ideas, develop creative collaborations and present high-quality programmes for audiences in Scotland and internationally.”

Lori Anderson, Director of Festivals Edinburgh said: “Today’s announcement is welcome news for our festivals and for Scotland’s cultural sector, ensuring that the guiding principle of the Scottish Government’s Festivals EXPO Fund – to showcase Scottish talent to the world on the country’s premier festival platforms – continues to successfully support creative careers.”

Strategic Partnership for Scotland’s Festivals – second open letter from Culture Secretary Angus Robertson – gov.scot

Multi-Year Funding Outcome Announcement | Creative Scotland

EXPO Fund 2025-26 recipients:

  • Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival: £195,000
  • Edinburgh International Film Festival: £193,000
  • Edinburgh Art Festival: £200,000
  • Edinburgh International Book Festival: £200,000
  • Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society (Made in Scotland 2026): £670,000
  • Edinburgh International Festival: £100,000
  • Scottish International Storytelling Festival: £200,000
  • Edinburgh’s Hogmanay: £180,000
  • Edinburgh Science Festival: £150,000
  • Imaginate: £188,000
  • Celtic Connections: £154,000
  • Glasgow Film Festival: £120,000
  • Glasgow International: £130,000
  • Sonica: £120,000.

Dark day for the world as loose cannon Trump bombs Iran

TWO WEEKS? HE COULDN’T WAIT TWO DAYS TO ATTACK IRAN

The United States of America has bombed three nuclear sites in Iran.

The overnight attack by ‘our great American Warriors’ has been welcomed by Israel, who initiated the latest conflict with Iran last week.

US President Trump, without a trace of irony, is now calling for peace!

Also calling for peace, but perhaps with more sincerity, is the United Nations – which has once again been found to be impotent when faced with international agression by major military powers.

United Nations general secretary António Guterres said in a statement: “I am gravely alarmed by the use of force by the United States against Iran today. This is a dangerous escalation in a region already on the edge – and a direct threat to international peace and security.

“There is a growing risk that this conflict could rapidly get out of control – with catastrophic consequences for civilians, the region, and the world.

“I call on Member States to de-escalate and to uphold their obligations under the UN Charter and other rules of international law.

“At this perilous hour, it is critical to avoid a spiral of chaos.

“There is no military solution. The only path forward is diplomacy. The only hope is peace.”

Some US politicians have also expressed concern that Congress was not consulted over the agression.

Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib said on Twitter: “President Trump sending U.S. troops to bomb Iran without the consent of Congress is a blatant violation of our Constitution.“

World leaders, including Great Britain, with our so-called ‘special relationship’, will doubtless call for restraint and urge negotiations this morning, but let’s be honest: Trump, and by association Netanyahu, will do exactly what he wants. And who can stop him?

Predictably, the UK did not condemn the actions of the US.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer issued this short statement: “Iran’s nuclear programme is a grave threat to international security. Iran can never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon and the US has taken action to alleviate that threat.

“The situation in the Middle East remains volatile and stability in the region is a priority. We call on Iran to return to the negotiating table and reach a diplomatic solution to end this crisis.”