Day: July 18, 2025

Water scarcity intensifies across eastern Scotland as several areas approach critical thresholds

A number of areas across eastern Scotland are now within a week of reaching Significant Scarcity according to the latest data from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).

SEPA’s weekly Water Scarcity Report shows that eight river catchments remain at Moderate Scarcity – the Spey, Deveron, Ythan, Don (Aberdeenshire), Dee (Aberdeen), Esk, Firth of Tay and Tyne (Lothian). The Findhorn, Firth of Forth and Helmsdale catchments are at Alert.

Monitoring stations at the following locations are nearing the Significant Scarcity threshold:

  • Minmore – River Livet (Lower Speyside) lowest spring flows in 40-year record
  • Alford and Houghton – River Don (Aberdeen) lowest spring flows in 50-year record
  • Heughhead – River Feugh (Lower Dee, Aberdeenshire) lowest spring flows in 40-year record
  • Logie Mill – North Esk (Angus) (lowest spring flows in 50-year record)
  • Balmossie – Dighty Water (Tayside) lowest spring flows since 1973
  • Kemback – River Eden (North Fife) lowest spring flows since 1973

These catchments have been under pressure for some time. Several have been at Moderate Scarcity for weeks. Rain is expected over the next few days affecting west, central and southern Scotland but north east areas remain largely dry.

SEPA’s Drought Risk Assessment Tool (DRAT) uses current river flow data from hundreds of sites across Scotland. This science-led approach is used to track environmental conditions and help prevent lasting harm to rivers, lochs and the ecosystems that depend on them. 

If conditions do not improve and these areas move to Significant Scarcity, SEPA expect to take action early next week. Measures may include limiting or temporarily suspending abstractions where necessary.

These decisions will be based on sound science and environmental monitoring, including recognised hydrological low-flow thresholds based on river flow records that span decades. Restrictions will only be in place for the shortest time possible.

SEPA have been in regular contact with licence holders throughout this period and have been working closely with partners including NFUS, Scotch Whisky Association, Scottish Golf and others.

Chris Dailly, SEPA’s Head of Environmental Performance (Geographic), said: “These rivers are approaching critical environmental thresholds following months of sustained low rainfall. Autumn 2024 was one of the driest in 100 years, followed by a dry spring – the second driest in a century for the east.

“Many catchments in eastern Scotland are seeing their lowest river flows for decades, with some stations recording record or near-record lows for spring and early summer.

“Those who take water from our rivers and lochs have a key role in protecting our environment, and most take that role seriously. Farmers, land managers, food and drink manufacturers and other businesses across the country have been making a real effort. Many distilleries have brought forward summer shutdowns. Irrigators are already adjusting practices. We see that and we value it. But if restrictions are needed they must be implemented and they must be respected.

“This is about protecting rivers and lochs for the long term, ensuring the environment and the businesses that depend on it can thrive. We do not take these decisions lightly. Restrictions will only apply where they are absolutely necessary, and for the shortest possible time. But the evidence is clear, the pressure on the environment is too great in some areas.”

If restrictions are required licence holders will receive written communication from SEPA next week detailing what is required of them.

Water scarcity levels

  • Significant Scarcity: Critical river levels. Restrictions on abstraction licences may be imposed.
  • Moderate Scarcity: Environmental impact is clear. Action from abstractors is expected to protect rivers and the species that rely on them.
  • Alert: Water levels are falling. SEPA advises voluntary reductions in non-essential water use for abstractors.
  • Early Warning: Conditions are drying. No action required, but abstractors should start preparing.

Facts and figures

The current situation reflects months of sustained low rainfall.

  • Autumn 2024 was the fifth driest in 100 years, based on Met Office data.
  • Winter 2024/2025 also saw below-average rainfall across much of Scotland.
  • By spring 2025, the east of Scotland had recorded its second driest spring in a century, and the first half of the year was the driest since 1973 in some areas.
  • By mid-May, some catchments in the east had experienced 11 consecutive months of below-average rainfall.
    • River flows on the Don were the second lowest in a 94-year record, with only 1938 lower.
    • The Lower Spey reached its lowest seasonal flow since records began in 1952.
  • Parts of Fife and Angus recorded their lowest groundwater levels ever for May and June, including:
    • Newton of Falkland (Fife) borehole – second lowest level in 28 years
    • Murton (Angus) borehole – lowest June level in its 18-year record

Across the east, many river flow stations recorded their highest number of low-flow days in the first half of the year, with some datasets spanning nearly a century.

Working together – efficiency remains vital

SEPA have been working closely with abstractors for months and many have taken early action to reduce demand and prepare for dry conditions.

SEPA urge all licensed abstractors to continue:

  • Checking equipment for leaks
  • Avoiding irrigation during the hottest part of the day to minimise evaporation
  • Staggering abstractions with neighbours to reduce pressure on local watercourses
  • Reviewing operations to identify further water savings
  • Ensure you are meeting the requirements of your abstraction licences, including for low flows.

Ongoing monitoring and support

Weekly Water Scarcity Reports are published every Thursday at sepa.org.uk/waterscarcity.

SEPA continue to provide updates, advice and direct support to all sectors at risk from current conditions.

‘Up to 80 percent of children leave school without a diagnosis’

Dyslexia assessment service now available in Edinburgh

Psychological therapy and neurodevelopmental assessment provider, HealthCare In Mind, has launched its new dyslexia assessment service in Edinburgh to provide access to official diagnoses for those who believe they are dyslexic. The private assessments are available for all children up to the age of 16 years old and don’t require a referral from a GP.

The British Dyslexia Association estimates that around 10 percent of the UK population is affected by dyslexia, with approximately 4% experiencing severe dyslexia. Furthermore, up to 80 percent of children leave school either without a diagnosis or the proper support required to reach their full potential.

To address this, HealthCare In Mind has launched its new service in Edinburgh to allow parents to secure a recognised diagnosis that will enable their children to access the support they require.

As well as dyslexia assessments, HealthCare in Mind offers a range of other diagnostic assessments and mental health services. These include fully comprehensive diagnostic assessments for ADHD and autism for both children and adults, and therapy treatments to manage mental health conditions such as depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and mood disorders.

HealthCare In Mind is led by Dr Simon Le Clerc MStJ, and Dr Kate Higham, alongside an expert team of psychiatrists, psychologists and therapists. It exists to provide instant access to the highest quality care to those in need.

Dr Simon Le Clerc commented: “A significant number of students with dyslexia are not receiving a proper diagnosis and, subsequently, are not being provided with the proper support that they require in order to achieve their academic potential.

“It’s important to remember that dyslexia does not affect intelligence, and has nothing to do with how bright or able a child is. But the condition does affect reading, writing and processing abilities, and without a diagnosis, children aren’t able to access vital arrangements and adjustments to improve their ability to engage with the school curriculum.

“Our private assessments are carried out by certified assessors that can provide a formal diagnosis in a timely and stress-free manner.”

To book a consultation, visit www.healthcareinmind.com.

Report illegal use of off-road bikes

Riding off-road bikes illegally in public green spaces can cause serious injury to other people.

Know who’s riding an off-road bike in parks or recreation grounds? You can tell independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously about who’s involved and where it happens.

You can also get more info on how you can report to local partners and where you can legally and safely ride an off-road vehicle.

Speak up directly to us on 101 or visit our partner website https://orlo.uk/oryx2

#PoliceScotlandEdinburgh

#PoliceScotland

Scotmid returns to Fountainbridge 

RETAILER GOES BACK TO IT’S ROOTS

Get your baskets at the ready! Yesterday (Thursday 17 July), leading Scottish convenience retailer Scotmid officially opened the doors to its brand-new store in Fountainbridge – metres from the original headquarters of the former St Cuthbert’s Co-operative. 

Located at 112 Dundee Street (EH11 1FQ), the 4,000 sq ft store marks a return to the heart of a community where Scotmid’s journey began more than 165 years ago. 

The new store has created 26 new jobs for the local area and offers an enhanced customer experience with a wide range of fresh and frozen products, everyday essentials, and locally sourced Scottish produce, reinforcing Scotmid’s continued commitment to supporting Scotland’s food and drink industry. 

Scotmid’s much-loved food-to-go offering has been expanded for this location: 

  • Freshly prepared baguettes, hot breakfasts, salad bowls, Big Al’s burgers, pizzas, and hot chicken 
  • Costa Coffee (served and self-serve) 
  • Stephens the Bakers counter 
  • Tanpopo sushi and rice boxes 
  • Chopstix Express noodle bar 
  • Saltire Patisserie artisan bakes 

The opening forms part of Scotmid’s commitment to bringing high-quality convenience shopping and food-to-go options to local communities across Scotland. 

Opening day festivities included goodie bags for the first 50 customers and three hidden golden tickets offering special prizes. Scotmid also hosted an event in partnership with Re-Union Canal Boats, a local social enterprise.

Guests enjoyed a relaxing canal cruise through Fountainbridge, celebrating Scotmid’s past and future in the area. Re-Union reinvests all profits into local community initiatives that improve the area for everyone. 

Karen Scott, Scotmid Chief Executive, said: “This new store marks a milestone for Scotmid. Not only does it serve the needs of a vibrant community but also reconnects Scotmid with its roots as Fountainbridge was where we originated in 1859.  

“We’re delighted to invest in Fountainbridge and offer fresh choice, value, and convenience.” 

The store is open seven days a week, including extended evening hours for commuters and local shoppers. 

GreenFox Energy powers up Party at the Palace with Scotland’s first solar festival stage 

This summer, Party at the Palace is hitting a high note for the planet. Thanks to renewable energy pioneers GreenFox, the festival will host Scotland’s first solar-powered festival stage, the GreenFox Energy Breakthrough Stage, twinning clean energy and the joy of live music. 

Over 7,000 music lovers will head to Bonnytoun Farm in Linlithgow on Saturday, 2, and Sunday, 3 August and, for the first time, a large part of the festival will be sun-powered. 

The new solar setup will supply sound, lighting, and equipment using a combination of solar panels and battery storage. The battery will be fully charged with green energy generated in the days before the event. 

The system is expected to produce up to 100 kilowatt-hours of clean energy over the weekend. This is enough to power an average UK home for about 10 days and will prevent around 20 kilograms of CO₂ emissions. 

“Festivals are full of energy – and now we’re bringing the renewable kind too,” said Eddie Curran, co-founder of GreenFox Energy. 

“It’s brilliant to now be part of the action and help power a festival that’s such a big part of the local community.” 

In a world where most festivals still rely on diesel generators, the GreenFox initiative proves solar power is a viable, vibrant alternative and a great fit for a family-friendly, future-focused event like Party at the Palace. 

Eddie added, “It’s a small step with a big message: at Party at the Palace alone, switching to solar saves around 20 kg of CO₂ and that’s just one stage, at one festival. 

“If every festival across the UK did the same, we could save over 12.8 tonnes of emissions each year. It shows how small changes, delivered at scale, start to really add up.  

“This is just the beginning, and we’re excited to explore even more ways to make Party at the Palace a leader in sustainable, low-impact events in the future.” 

Now in its 11th year, Party at the Palace continues to grow and so does its commitment to doing things differently. 

“We’re always looking for ways to make the festival better, not just for the fans, but for the planet too,” said John Richardson, director of Party at the Palace. 

“We’re very much a family festival so it’s important to us to help create a better future for the next generation. We are passionate about leading by example, both through our work in the local community and encouraging people to make more eco-friendly choices.  

“That’s why bringing in solar power with GreenFox Energy is such a proud moment. It’s a simple idea to use the sun’s power to drive our second stage but one that shows small changes can make a big difference – and it’s fine to start with what is doable now, with the goal to build on it in the future.” 

Headliners for this year’s festival include Boney M and Squeeze, alongside a vibrant lineup on the GreenFox Energy Stage with standout performances from Laurie Wright, Forgetting the Future, and Pistol Daisys. 

Festival goers can also plug into the movement by showing their Party at the Palace ticket to get 15% off solar installations with GreenFox Energy*. 

For more information visit: Solar Energy Company UK | GreenFox Energy

Stories of Belief at St James Quarter

EDINBURGH INTERFAITH ASSOCIATION EXHIBITION

Visit Edinburgh Interfaith Association’s #Edinburgh900 exhibition “Stories of Belief: Celebrating 900 Years of Faith Communities in Edinburgh” at the St James Quarter from 16 – 23 July.

For more information visit tinyurl/storiesofbelief

‘Summertime Streets’ changes to begin next week in city centre

With the summer festivals season fast approaching, the city council is making temporary changes to the way some of our city centre streets operate between Thursday 24 July and Sunday 7 September 2025.

During this busy period the population of our city effectively doubles, which brings challenges for residents, businesses and visitors.

These temporary changes, which include removing or restricting vehicle traffic, are designed to make our streets easier and safer to walk around.

George Street and several streets in the Old Town will be impacted. A full list of streets along with further information is available on our website.

There is also specific advice for blue badge holders, home deliveries, loading and services for businesses, places of worship and special arrangements.

Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said: “As we prepare to welcome the world to Edinburgh for our summer festivals, we’re making sure that these higher visitor numbers are managed safely and properly.

“We’ve made temporary changes to our city centre streets successfully during this period for many years and I’m sure that this summer will be no different.

“I’d like to thank our residents and businesses for their understanding and patience as we get ready to showcase and enjoy our city’s unparalleled cultural offering once again.”

Edinburgh International Film Festival announces special In Conversation event with Ken Loach, Paul Laverty & Rebecca O’Brien

Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) is pleased to welcome legendary British filmmaker Ken Loach and his longtime creative collaborators, writer Paul Laverty and producer Rebecca O’Brien, for a special In Conversation event at this year’s Festival.

The trio will discuss the acclaimed films they have created together over the years including Palme D’Or Winners The Wind That Shakes The Barley (2006) and I, Daniel Blake (2016). The event takes place on Wednesday 20 August at 11am at Tollcross Central Hall.

This event will then be followed by a special retrospective screening of the filmmakers’ 2006 Palme D’Or winning film The Wind That Shakes The Barley. Starring Cillian Murphy, the film is a heartfelt and stirring epic exploring the rift that emerges between two brothers who find themselves fighting against one another in the conflict over Irish independence in the early 1920s.

Presented from a 35mm print, this screening will be preceded by a special introduction by the filmmakers. The event takes place on Wednesday 20 August at 1.30pm in Filmhouse Screen 1.

Tickets are now on sale for both events via the EIFF website.

EIFF’s In Conversation strand also features a range of other major filmmaking talent who will discuss their creative careers to date including director Kevin Macdonald (The Last King of Scotland, Touching the Void, One to One: John & Yoko) speaking with his brother, producerAndrew Macdonald (Trainspotting, Civil War, 28 Years Later), in a wide ranging conversation about filmmaking and their respective careers. Kevin will also present a screening of The Cranes are Flying (1957), a film which has heavily influenced his work.

Trailblazing filmmaker Nia Da Costa will discuss her acclaimed work which spans independent film, horror sequels and major studio comic book adaptations including The Marvels, Candyman and upcoming film 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple. Nia will also present a special 4K restoration of Doug Liman’s 90s black comedy Go, a film that was a source of early inspiration for her.

From breakout horror thriller Kill List to EIFF Midnight Madness Opening Film Bulk, via hilarious black comedy Sightseers and many more, filmmaker Ben Wheatley and long time producing partner Andy Starke will discuss their collaborations and their working dynamic.

Award-winning writer and director Andrea Arnold is one of the UK’s most outstanding filmmakers. She will discuss her searing debut feature Red Road (2006), also screening at EIFF this year, which won the BAFTA Award for Outstanding Debut, along with her critically acclaimed work such as Fish Tank, American Honey, Cow and, most recently, Bird.

Legendary producer Jeremy Thomas (Eureka, 13 Assassins, Sexy Beast) will discuss his long and varied career, which includes collaborations with Nicolas Roeg, Takeshi Miike and Jonathan Glazer, in a conversation with filmmaker Mark Cousins (A Sudden Glimpse to Deeper Things, The Story of Film, The Storms of Jeremy Thomas). Jeremy Thomas will also introduce a special 35mm screening of Nicolas Roeg’s Bad Timing (1980), one of his earliest films.

Edinburgh International Film Festival will run from 14-20 August 2025. Building on EIFF’s reinvigorated vision under new leadership from CEO and Festival Director Paul Ridd and Festival Producer Emma Boa, the Festival will continue to accelerate the discovery of new film talent and engage with audiences, industry members and local, national and international media.

The Festival team aims to create a world-class showcase for independent film and filmmaking talent. Ridd is supported by the EIFF Board, led by Chair Andrew Macdonald of DNA Films, producer of the iconic Edinburgh-based film Trainspotting; and Vice Chair Amy Jackson, producer of BAFTA award-winning indie, Aftersun; as well as Peter Rice, former Chairman of General Entertainment at Disney and President of 21st Century Fox; Teresa Moneo, Former Director of UK Film, Netflix; Isla Macgillivray, Partner at Saffrey; and Romana Ramzan, Producer at No Code Studio.

Paul Ridd, CEO & Festival Director, said: “It is a great honour for us to welcome Ken Loach, Paul Laverty and Rebecca O’Brien for what promises to be a lively and fascinating discussion of their work together, with two Palme D’Ors to their names and a body of work that includes ferociously powerful films produced across decades.

“We are also delighted to be presenting one of their major films THE WIND THAT SHAKES THE BARLEY from a 35mm print. It is a genuine thrill to be able to add this formidable trio to a roster of speakers at EIFF in a programme of In Conversation events which already includes Jeremy Thomas, Nia Da Costa, Andrew and Kevin Macdonald, Andrea Arnold and Ben Wheatley.”

EIFF 2025 is supported by Screen Scotland. 

Dobbies’ store announces community winners for 2025 gardening campaign

BLACKHALL PRIMARY SCHOOL TO RECEIVE SUPPORT FOR THEIR GREEN SPACE FROM DOBBIES GARDEN CENTRES

Dobbies Garden Centres has announced the local charities and community organisations set to benefit from its support this year, helping them to create, enhance, or revitalise their indoor and outdoor green spaces — including schools, nurseries, care homes, allotments and community gardens. 

Blackhall Primary School has been selected by the Edinburgh store to receive donations and support as part of Dobbies Community Gardens.

The school has outdoor learning classes during the week and would love to start growing their own fruit and vegetables from scratch.

Dobbies’ support will give the school the guidance, tools and seeds needed to bring this grow your own project to life. 

Over 600 groups applied to Dobbies Community Gardens when it opened in March. Each Dobbies’ store selected a local project to support from the nominations that were made. 

The winning school will now receive a one-on-one session with Dobbies’ Green Team at the Edinburgh store to kick-start the activity.

The team will support Blackhall Primary School throughout their project with products, tools and plants, along with volunteer hours to help bring the green space to life and keep it thriving.

Jenna Bavidge Dobbies’ Edinburgh store General Manager, said: “We are really pleased to have had so many community groups in Edinburgh reach out looking for support with their green spaces.

“We’re committed to supporting the local communities around our Edinburgh store, and the mix of winners showcases the many ways people and communities can benefit from garden living.

“Congratulations to Blackhall Primary School who have been successful in receiving our support this year. We’re looking forward to supporting this school and are excited to see their space flourish.”

To find out more about Dobbies Community Gardens and see this year’s winners, visit www.dobbies.com/community-gardens. 

Results Helpline to support Edinburgh pupils with SQA results

Young people in the capital can call a dedicated helpline offering expert advice to anyone receiving their full Higher, National, and Advanced results on Tuesday, 5 August 2025.   

The pupils and students- along with their parents and carers – will be able to get support with their results through Skills Development Scotland’s (SDS) Results Helpline, which opens from 8am on results day.

The SDS Results Helpline will once again be staffed by expert careers advisers to assist anybody that needs help with their options and next steps, providing impartial career information, advice, and guidance. 

The team of qualified advisers from Scotland’s national skills agency will be at the end of the phone line to offer guidance on colleges and universities, UCAS Confirmation and Clearing, apprenticeships, jobs and other training, volunteering, or staying on at school.   

The number for the 2025 SDS Results Helpline is 0808 100 8000 and will be open: 

  • Tuesday 5 and Wednesday 6 August – 8am to 8pm
  • Thursday 7 and Friday 8 August – 9am to 5pm

Dave McCallum, Head of Career Information, Advice and Guidance Operations at SDS said: “Our message for young people and their parents and carers as their results arrive is not to panic. Everything might seem overwhelming right now but remember that this is just one step on their journey.  

“Our experienced advisers are here to provide expert support and guidance, offering information on a wide range of options and opportunities. They are also trained to help young people recognise that they are more than their exam results, giving them the confidence to see their strengths and abilities beyond qualifications.”

Local SDS Careers Adviser Gillian Ross is part of the Results Helpline team who will be taking calls from young people, parents and carers from across the country. Gillian said: “Whether a young person didn’t receive the results they were hoping for, or they exceeded their expectations, we are here to help them navigate the next steps and make the best decisions for their future.”  

The SDS Results Helpline has been going for 33 years and has helped tens of thousands of young Scots.

There’s also an SDS careers adviser linked to every secondary school in Scotland, with almost a quarter of a million school pupils from P7 to S6 receiving careers information, advice and guidance each year*.

Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth said: “Young people have so many different ways to achieve their qualifications, with many eagerly anticipating their results coming through next month. It is important that no matter how they do, young people and their families have access to trusted and reliable information on potential next steps. That is what the advisers at the Skills Development Scotland helpline provide.

“I would encourage everyone looking for impartial and expert advice on the options available, whether that is in work, training or further study, to consider contacting the helpline.”

Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) helps young people get ready for the world of work by connecting them with employers and supporting them to explore a wide range of career pathways. DYW Co-ordinators are based in secondary schools across Scotland, working alongside SDS careers advisers to support pupils with their next steps.

Michelle Fenwick, Director – DYW National Projects, said: “As results are released, it’s important that young people know there are many routes to success and that support is there for them.

“Through our #NoWrongPath campaign, and in partnership with SDS, we’re helping young people understand that the world of work is full of opportunity.

“Whether a young person is going into further or higher education, training, employment or still considering their options – the Results Helpline is a great way to get guidance, reassurance, and a sense of direction.”

In addition to the dedicated SDS Results Helpline, young people and their parents or carers can also speak to an SDS adviser at a SDS centre or community venue (find out what’s close to you by visiting the Contact Us area of the SDS website), visit Scotland’s career information and advice website, My World of Work, or speak to directly to an SDS school-based careers adviser for year-round support.