We’ve been doing a summer of resistance programme at Royston Wardieburn Community Centre over the last few months to tie in with Steve McQueen’s ‘Resistance‘ photography exhibition at the Gallery of Modern Art.
Its brilliant and couldn’t have arrived at a better time.
Anyway as part of our summer programme we have been organising joint sessions with North Edinburgh Arts groups. The first one is songs of protest tomorrow morning with Penny Stone at North Edinburgh Arts.
New PAYE service announced to save around 35 million taxpayers’ time
New PAYE service to make tax system simpler and easier for around 35 million workers
At least 90% of customer interactions with HMRC to be digital by 2030
Reducing post and letters to save £50 million a year – equal to almost 1,500 full time nurses
Workers are set to take control of their tax affairs as the government announces a new online Pay As You Earn (PAYE) service for around 35 million UK taxpayers as HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) sets out more than 50 measures to transform the UK’s tax and customs system.
The new online service for all PAYE taxpayers will make it simpler and easier to check and update their income, allowances, reliefs and expenses, and will be available via their Personal Tax Account or through the HMRC app.
This service forms part of HMRC’s Transformation Roadmap launched today that sets out ambitious plans to become a digital first organisation by 2030, with 90% of customer interactions taking place digitally.
The roadmap sets out more than 50 IT projects, services and measures that, once delivered, will transform the UK’s tax and customs systems, simplifying processes and making it easier to pay the tax that funds public services and deliver the government’s Plan for Change.
The plans to modernise the tax and customs system, introduce new AI technologies and work with third parties and intermediaries will make it easier for taxpayers, businesses and intermediaries to interact with HMRC.
The digital first approach will see HMRC automating tax wherever possible and offering new digital self-serve options across a number of tax regimes.
Alongside the new PAYE service, HMRC will save £50 million a year – the equivalent of almost 1,500 full time nurses – by moving customer letters and reminders to a digital first approach, reducing the reliance on paper correspondence, by the 2028 to 2029 tax year. Paper post provision will remain for critical correspondence and for the digitally excluded.
Increasing the use and investment in AI will enable customers to meet their tax obligations and allow HMRC to monitor the tax system in near real time. HMRC plans to introduce AI in work areas including:
HMRC advisers and caseworkers: using AI capability to automate call summaries and the use of internal GenAI Chat Assistants to support them in their work.
Digital assistants: developing new AI-powered features to help customers easily navigate HMRC services and improve the ability to update HMRC’s content and guidance on GOV.UK.
Compliance: delivering an automatic document identifier system for HMRC caseworkers to identify fraudulent documents during compliance activities by using a biometric likeness-liveness check.
HMRC will work with developers to create a set of principles which will set out HMRC’s expectations of how third parties use AI in software where it interacts with the department and the tax administration system. These principles will give developers the confidence to introduce AI functionality into their products in the UK and minimise the risk of those products introducing error or non-compliance.
James Murray MP, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, said: “We are going further and faster to make HMRC fit for the 21st century, including delivering a simpler and easier system for all PAYE workers.
“By 2030, taxpayers can expect a modern and innovative HMRC with cutting-edge AI, industry-leading customer service practices, and a laser focus on delivering taxpayer value for money by ensuring everyone pays their fair share.”
Mr Murray’s key priorities for the department are to improve day-to-day performance and the customer experience, reform and modernise the tax and customs system and to close the tax gap. As announced at the Spending Review 2025, £1.7 billion will be provided to HMRC over 4 years to fund an additional 5,500 compliance and 2,400 debt management staff – to ensure more of the tax owed is paid, to fund public services.
HMRC is focusing on tackling wealthy offshore tax non-compliance, with an additional 400 people set to work on wealthy offshore tax risks. This includes experts in private sector wealth management, who will help find and tackle non-compliance more effectively and train HMRC compliance staff.
JP Marks, HMRC’s Chief Executive and First Permanent Secretary, said:“The Government’s ambition is for a simpler tax and customs system and this roadmap sets out how HMRC will deliver a first-class experience that feels different to their customers.
“By 2030, UK citizens will experience a tax administration system that is more automated, more focused on self-service, and better set up to get things right first time so they can fulfil their tax obligations.”
The Transformation Roadmap sets out timescales for delivery and HMRC is committed to reporting on progress. Work is underway to deliver some of the measures set out in the roadmap this tax year, including:
extending the rollout of the SMS confirmation service to Self Assessment appeals, complaint cases and some PAYE services.
improving Self Assessment registration service and streamlining the exit process for those customers who no longer need to file a Self Assessment tax return.
expanding the rollout of the voice biometrics pilot to make customer verification easier when calling HMRC’s helplines.
a new service to give employed parents, who are newly liable for the High Income Child Benefit Charge, the choice to pay it directly through their tax code without needing to register for Self Assessment.
launching an enhanced reward scheme for informants, targeting information on serious non‑compliance in large corporates, wealthy individuals, offshore and avoidance schemes. The new scheme will reward informants with compensation linked to a percentage of any tax taken.
Further measures and projects to be delivered as part of the roadmap include:
digitalising the Inheritance Tax service to provide a modern, easy-to-use system, that makes submitting returns and paying tax simpler and quicker.
launching a new service to allow agents to digitally submit information which may impact their client’s tax code.
delivering a Digital Disclosure Service to allow customers and intermediaries to correct mistakes, pay liabilities and penalties for all taxes and duties.
introducing an electronic trade documentation pilot to see how it could improve customs operations.
progressing the Verifiable Credentials pilot with US Customs and Border Protection to test the use of new internationally interoperable digital credentials and identity standards.
HMRC wants to incentivise taxpayers to pay their tax on time by simplifying and strengthening penalties. In the 2023 to 2024 tax year, HMRC collected 94.7% of the total tax due. Those who meet their obligations and pay their tax on time should not be disadvantaged by the minority who don’t follow the rules. HMRC will update on modernising behavioural penalties later this year.
New legislation will come into effect from April 2026 to tackle tax avoidance and fraud by umbrella companies. Many umbrella companies operate within the law but the dishonest few can mean taxpayers are left with large and unexpected tax bills. The legislation will make recruitment agencies that use umbrella companies legally responsible for accounting for PAYE on workers’ pay.
On Sunday, 23rd of July 2023, Ross Dominick, a father of three, was out riding his motorbike with friends along a popular route at Glencoe.
What began as any other day for an experienced motorcyclist, turned tragic.
A car crossed his path. The impact was fatal. Ross died at the scene.
Ross was one of 269 motorcyclists killed on Scotland’s roads between 2015 and 2024.
Motorcyclists make up 18 per cent of fatalities despite being less than 1 per cent of traffic on Scotland’s roads.
On the anniversary of this terrible day for those involved, Ross’ father Iain has agreed that Ross’ story be should be reshared to highlight the risks faced by motorcyclists and to hopefully prevent another family going through what they have.
Edinburgh’s OMNi Centre is marking the 20th anniversary of its beloved giraffe sculpture, Dreaming Spires, with a line-up of colourful celebrations, including playful party hats, exciting giveaways and a creative community initiative.
Created in 2005 by renowned Scottish artist Helen Denerley, the towering giraffes – affectionately named Martha and Gilbert – have become more than just a striking piece of public art.
Sculpted entirely from scrap metal, they were designed to inspire imagination, spark conversation, and encourage people to look ahead and think big. Over the years, they’ve also become a beloved local landmark and a natural meeting point for friends, families, and visitors alike.
This enduring role as a gathering place has inspired OMNi’s recent brand refresh and new tagline: ‘Let’s Meet at OMNi’. As the centre undergoes a £5 million refurbishment, the giraffes remain a symbol of creativity, connection and community – values that are central to OMNi’s vision for the future.
To kick-start the celebrations, OMNi has adorned the giraffes with colourful party hats complete with playful tassels, just in time for the buzz of Edinburgh Fringe. A new information stand beside the sculpture invites visitors to learn about the giraffes’ story and their place in the city’s cultural fabric.
Eilidh Parker, OMNi Deputy Centre Manager, said: “We’re thrilled to celebrate Dreaming Spires’ 20th Anniversary during this exciting time of transformation.
“As OMNi’s refurbishment gets underway, we’re full of anticipation and excitement for what’s ahead. Huge thanks to our partners at Edinburgh Zoo and Helen Denerley for making this moment memorable.
“Here’s to the next 20 years of growth, creativity and collaboration.”
From today, 23 July, OMNi will launch a 4-week social media competition with four Vue cinema tickets, four sets of Edinburgh Zoo tickets and giraffe plush toys up for grabs each week, courtesy of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), the wildlife conservation charity which runs the zoo.
A local primary school initiative in August will round off the celebrations with a design project co-created with Helen Denerley and RZSS.
Helen Denerley, Dreaming Spires Sculptor and Scottish Artist, said: “When I was invited to tender for a sculpture at the Omni Centre, the brief was to relate to the history of the site. I decided it would be more fun and interesting to look forward to our future and aspirations, rather than dwelling on the past.
“I always hoped that the giraffes would create their own history, and twenty years on I am delighted to see how much they have been taken to heart by locals and visitors alike.”
Continuing the momentum, OMNi has also announced a 12-month corporate partnership with the wildlife charity to support conservation efforts at Edinburgh Zoo and Highland Wildlife Park. As part of this collaboration, OMNi is adopting a resident giraffe at the Zoo – further cementing its commitment to wildlife, education, and community engagement.
Phillip Mathis, Learning Manager at Edinburgh Zoo, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that OMNi has committed to supporting our wildlife conservation charity over the coming year.
“This partnership will not only shine a light on our mission to create a world where nature is protected, valued, and loved, but also inspire young people across Edinburgh to think creatively about how they can help wildlife in their everyday lives, recognising the cultural importance of our sites.
“With the exciting design project launching later this summer, we can’t wait to see the incredible ideas local primary schools will bring to life.”
The anniversary celebrations coincide with OMNi’s transformation into a more vibrant, welcoming space. While the refurbishment is underway, OMNi and its brands remain open and fully accessible. Visitors can follow progress and updates via OMNi’s website and social media channels.
OMNi is open 6am – 1am, Monday to Sunday. Individual brand opening times may vary, including Bank Holidays.
Over the weekend our Craigroyston Community YFC 2012’s took part in the Hillfield Swifts 25th anniversary tournament.
There were 6 games in the group stage. Our boys had a great start, going unbeaten first 4 games.
Some great football played- but in the latter games a lot of tired legs and injuries cost them a couple results but they had done enough to compete in the play-off final.
Game finished 1-1 and went straight to pens, with Craigroyston winning 3-2 on pens
Special mention to Anmol
Wee man received recognition from a lot of other players / coaches and referees resulting in 4 MOTM awards and picking up the Player of the Tournament trophy.
Great day all round – a lot of football and a great start to their pre-season.
Free water safety event returns to Loch Lomond Shores on Friday July 25, 2025
Event supported by Scottish Water, RoSPA, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, The Darcey Sunshine Foundation, Police Scotland, West Dunbartonshire Council, Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, and SSE Renewables
Water Safety Scotland has announced the return of its annual World Drowning Prevention Day event, taking place on Friday, July 25, 2025, at Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch.
The free, fun-filled, family friendly day is open to all and aims to raise awareness of water safety and drowning prevention across Scotland with a broad range of interactive and educational activities.
Now in its fourth year, the event comes as new figures show there were 33 accidental drownings in Scotland in 2024, Water Safety Scotland is warning that continued vigilance is essential.
The event is supported by Scottish Water, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Police Scotland, the Darcey Sunshine Foundation, West Dunbartonshire Council, Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, and SSE Renewables.
Watch live rescue demonstrations by SFRS and the Scottish Newfoundland Club rescue dogs
Try out paddleboarding and canoeing taster sessions with Paddle Scotland and CAG Adventures
Visit a range of interactive safety and information stands
Carlene McAvoy, Founder of Water Safety Scotland, said:“Every life lost to drowning is one too many. Events like World Drowning Prevention Day are vital in spreading awareness and equipping people with the knowledge they need to stay safe around water.
“Our focus remains on promoting the Water Safety Code in a fun, engaging, and educational way.”
The event will run from 11am to 4pm and is open to all ages with families, school kids and community groups especially encouraged to attend.
Community Safety Minister, Siobhian Brown, said:“With the warmer summer weather I understand the appeal of our seas, lochs and rivers which is why water safety is vital and events like Water Safety Scotland’s Water Safety Open Day are an important way of raising awareness of the dangers of our waterways, how to enjoy them safely and what to do in an emergency.
“Our Water Safety Action Plan includes a range of key steps agreed with partners, to further mitigate risks including better signage, lesson plans for pupils and improved training. I encourage everyone to know and follow the Water Safety Code: Stop and Think, Spot the Dangers, Stay Together, Stay Close and call 999 in an emergency.
“My thoughts are also with the families and friends of those affected by the recent water-related tragedies.”
Peter Farrer, Chief Operating Officer at Scottish Water, said:“We cannot over-emphasise the importance of water safety all year round, but it’s particularly relevant during the summer months when people are often more likely to be around water.
“We’re delighted to be involved in this event again this year, it provides a valuable opportunity for us to have water-safety conversations with people to build the vital knowledge and skills to help people stay safer in, on and around water.
“With Scotland’s abundance of coastlines, lochs, rivers and reservoirs, it’s absolutely vital that everyone has the opportunity to learn basic water safety skills.”
Gordon Watson, Chief Executive at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority said:“Alongside our partner agencies, we welcome the reduction in water-related deaths in 2024, but we cannot overstate the importance of continued vigilance, especially as the weather improves over the summer months.
“Even on the warmest days, rivers and lochs in the National Park remain cold enough to trigger Cold Water Shock, and hidden hazards and unexpected depths can catch out even strong swimmers.
“That’s why planning ahead is so important and why we’re so pleased to welcome World Drowning Prevention Day event back to the National Park this summer, reflecting our year-round partnership with Water Safety Scotland to deliver a consistent, collaborative approach to policy and public engagement.
“We look forward to speaking with members of the public on the day about the importance of following the Loch Lomond Byelaws and Water Safety Code – offering advice and support on how these measures are there to help prevent accidents before they happen.
“We want everyone to respect the water and enjoy the National Park this summer, but do it safely: respect the byelaws, follow the simple, life‑saving advice (Float to live), and look out for one another.”
More than 180 artists featured in Scotland’s biggest contemporary art and craft market
Scotland’s biggest contemporary art and craft market is set to debut this August at Dalkeith Palace and Country Park.
With 110 stalls and over 180 artists and makers, spanning both the grounds of Dalkeith Country Park and interior of Dalkeith Palace, Visual Arts Scotland (VAS) will showcase a wide range of exciting pieces across from across Scotland.
Part of VAS’s expansion into large-scale art fairs and market events, this landmark event marks the first time VAS has ventured beyond its renowned programme of exhibitions, residencies and awards since launching over 100 years ago.
In addition to maker stalls, the event includes Inches Carr Craft Award interim show, 30×30 affordable art show, VAS graduate showcase and micro exhibitions.
Highlights include:
110 contemporary maker stalls across two floors and the grounds of Dalkeith Palace.
Craft graduate exhibition featuring current work by Rosina Payan Pecorelli (ECA), Isabel Honey Coles (ECA), Duoduo Lin (GCA), Tina Avery (GSA), Morven Aird (DJCAD), Ella Hamilton (DJCAD) and Katie Buchanan (DJCAD).
Inches Carr Craft Award Finalists exhibition featuring Felicity Bristow, Scott Smith, Erin McQuarrie, Richard Goldsworthy, Jennifer Alford, Charles Young, Lynne Hocking, Hannah Keddie and Carol Sinclair.
30x30cm affordable artwork exhibition (under £250) from 100 Visual Arts Scotland members including Jack Conkie, Laura Gressani, Yasmeen Kahn, Judith Shaylor and Genevieve Draper.
Work from across the visual art and contemporary craft spectrum including jewellery, silverware, ceramics, contemporary art, painting, printmaking, cards, sculpture, furniture, photography, homewares, stained glass and textiles.
Tavienne Bridgwater, VAS President said: “We are thrilled to bring Scotland’s biggest artist and maker market to Dalkeith Palace and Country Park next month.
“Having championed craftspeople, makers, designers and contemporary arts practitioners for more than 100 years, this event comes at an exciting time in VAS’s evolution, enabling us to showcase even more innovative work from across Scotland.”
If you are looking to escape the Edinburgh Festivals for a day, why not head to Dalkeith Palace and Country Park where you can explore and buy art, meet makers and enjoy curated exhibitions just seven miles from Edinburgh!
Two prominent Edinburgh sculptures have been given new names after being lovingly restored to their former glory as part of a wider conservation project at one of the city’s most iconic visitor attractions.
Perched above the historic Scotch Whisky Experience at the top of the Royal Mile, the pair of unicorns, long stripped of their horns by time and weather, have now been fully reinstated through a major heritage-led restoration of the building.
A naming competition, launched in partnership with Forever Edinburgh, attracted hundreds of creative suggestions from locals and visitors alike.
The winning names, Deoch and Doras, were chosen by the public in a witty and affectionate nod to the Gaelic phrase deoch an dorais, meaning “a farewell drink” or “one for the road”, literally “drink of the door.”
One of the winners, Archie Hamilton, noted the Harry Lauder song, A Wee Deoch An Doris, which captures the spirit of the tradition, as he explained the inspiration behind the names: “Deoch an dorus’ just seemed natural for the Unicorns, our national animal.
“With Gaelic being our national language, plus the whisky link through the old Harry Lauder song, what better option!”
Julie Trevisan Hunter, Marketing Director at The Scotch Whisky Experience, said: “We were genuinely moved by the imagination and thought that people put into naming the unicorns.
“Many of the more than 1,500 suggestions reflected deep affection for Scotland’s culture, language and folklore, which is exactly the kind of connection we hope to inspire as we bring the world of Scotch whisky to life. ‘Deoch and Doras’ captured something uniquely Scottish while being warm, fun and rooted in tradition.”
Among the many entries were names drawn from Scottish landscapes and whisky regions and history, and some playful puns such as Whisker & Snifter. Others favoured names from popular children’s stories, reflecting the unicorns’ imaginative appeal across generations, and there were many Gaelic references.
Ealasaid MacDonald, Ceannard (CEO) of Bòrd na Gàidhlig, the main public body for promoting and developing Gaelic language and culture in Scotland, praised the decision to use Gaelic, saying: “I was delighted to hear from the Scotch Whisky Experience that Gaelic featured so prominently in their highly successful search for strong Scottish names for their unicorns.
“This highlights the understanding and appreciation of Gaelic when we celebrate the old and the new in Scottish culture, underlining its importance as a national cultural and economic asset. I’m sure the newly restored Deoch and Doras will provide a warm Gaelic welcome to everyone that visits.”
The unicorn restoration is part of a major project to preserve the integrity of The Scotch Whisky Experience’s historic site while enhancing its visitor experience. Susan Morrison, Chief Executive of The Scotch Whisky Experience explained that:
“The building’s recent conservation programme has been guided by a deep respect for our setting next to Edinburgh Castle and a commitment to our role as gateway for the appreciation of Scotland’s national drink and rich cultural heritage.
“Deoch and Doras now feel not only restored but brought back to life by the public, with names that will interest and spark curiosity in visitors at the threshold for years to come.”
Kaukab Stewart, Scotland’s Minister for Migration, has commented as changes to immigration rules advanced by Westminster came into force yesterday.
Ms Stewart said: “The UK Government’s approach to immigration simply isn’t working for Scotland. As these new rules come into force, they will hinder the prosperity of Scotland. We have repeatedly called on them to take a more pragmatic approach to migration—one that recognises our distinct demographic and economic needs.
“Ending the international recruitment of care workers, without sufficient notice or any substantial consultation on its impact, will be devastating for the care sector in Scotland and across the UK.
“These changes will prevent, rather than promote, economic growth. By increasing the salary threshold for skilled worker visas, it will become harder for people to choose to work in Scotland, hurting businesses in turn.
“The UK Government should listen to the large majority of businesses who support a Scottish visa to allow migrants to make a positive contribution to Scotland’s economy, public services and communities.
“The UK Government must engage seriously with the Scottish Government on our proposals for tailored migration routes, including a Rural Visa Pilot and a Scottish Graduate Visa, or risk further damage to Scotland’s economy and public services.”
Edinburgh Leisure is calling on the public to lace up their walking shoes, don their tartan and join them for a cause that truly matters – helping older adults in Edinburgh stay active, connected, and happy.
On Saturday, 14th September 2025, a team from Edinburgh Leisure will be taking part in the Edinburgh Kiltwalk, walking to raise vital funds to support older adults across the city – and they want you to join them.
Every step taken and every pound raised will go directly towards improving the lives of older people – not just funding a project but making a real difference to real people.
The money raised will support participants of Ageing Well, one of Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programmes, which offers a lifeline of physical activity and social connection to older adults across the city.
Last year, almost 80 participants joined the Edinburgh Leisure Kiltwalk Team and raised £17,500, enabling the delivery of the 2024-25 project. This year they’re aiming for £15,000 to keep this life-changing work going. Every penny (plus gift aid) goes directly to Ageing Well.
All those signing up to the Kiltwalk to raise funds for Edinburgh Leisure will receive a 50% discount on the registration fee and an Edinburgh Leisure T-shirt and a tartan-themed snood.
Rachael McCrae, Head of Funding for Edinburgh Leisure explained: “Many people don’t realise we’re a charity. Ageing Well supports older adults in Edinburgh to stay active and stay connected.
“It’s led by a fantastic team which includes many older adult volunteers and offers walking, cycling, gardening, buddy swimming and more. Like many charities with reduced funding, we’re feeling the pinch! Every pound raised will help keep this going – and with your Kiltwalk steps, you’ll get active too!”
The Kiltwalk has three walk lengths, which can be signed up, with the 50% reduced registration for:
The Big Stroll (approx. 11 miles) – £20£10 registration fee
The Wee Wander (approx. 5 miles) – £13.00£6.50 for adults, £7.00£3.50 for children
Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programme supports 14,700 people annually who face the greatest barriers to getting active– people affected by health conditions, inequalities, and poverty.
Your participation in the Kiltwalk will raise crucial funds to promote health, happiness, and connectedness among older adults in Edinburgh whilst contributing to a fantastic and enjoyable event.
To find out more about signing up with Edinburgh Leisure to walk the Kiltwalk, and to get your 50% discount,click here.
