Day: July 24, 2025

Self-care 24/7 – the simple things you can do to help yourself, and the NHS

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is urging people to mark International Self-Care Day by thinking carefully about how they can take care of their own health and wellbeing.

Self-care is anything we do to keep ourselves mentally, emotionally, physically, socially and spiritually healthy. It could be something as simple as taking a walk, eating healthily or spending time with friends.

International Self-Care Day is observed every year on the 24th of July to underscore the role of self-care as a “24/7” consideration in preventing illness, managing chronic conditions, improving mental health, and helping to support the NHS.

Beatrix Von Wissmann, Consultant in Public Health at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “Self-care is one of the simplest and most effective ways people can help themselves while also supporting the NHS.

“We often view self-care as a ‘luxury’ and it’s usually the first thing to go when our life or work gets busy, demanding and challenging. However, if we don’t practice and prioritise self-care, we risk our well-being and invite burnout.

“Being active, having a healthy diet and planning ahead are all small steps that can make a huge difference.”

Here are a few simple ways to take care of yourself, and support the NHS: 

  • Get active: Do what works for you. A gentle walk, wheel or some exercise can get you out in nature and fresh air, simple steps that are proven to lift your spirits and boost your physical health.
     
  • Eat a balanced diet: Healthy eating is essential for maintaining overall wellbeing. You can find advice here.
     
  • Find support: Our dedicated mental health app can help you recognise and manage triggers, be aware of your symptoms, and discover tips for managing your mental health and wellbeing, including sleep, breathing exercises, eating healthy food or starting a new routine.
     
  • Quit smoking: You can get support to stop smoking through the Quit Your Way service.
     
  • Get the right help when you need it: Getting the right help, from the right place, at the right time is one of the best things we can all do to look after ourselves and to help ease the pressure on the NHS. By doing this, people help us to prioritise care for the most urgent and life-threatening cases, while also being more convenient and simpler for you. Every community pharmacy in Scotland provides the NHS Pharmacy First Scotland service, which offers advice, support and treatment for a range of minor ailments from coughs and colds to earache and heartburn. Anyone can walk in and be seen by a qualified member of the pharmacy team, with no appointment necessary.
     
  • Get ready: Here are some common treatments and can be useful to have to hand to treat minor symptoms. If you are unsure about symptoms or have concerns or questions about taking any treatment, please speak to your local community pharmacist:
    • Painkillers – paracetamol and ibuprofen tablets for headaches, pain or fever.
    • Antiseptic cream – to help clean minor cuts and abrasions.
    • Plasters and bandages – having a small selection to hand will help with a range of cuts and scrapes.
    • Antihistamines – to treat mild allergic reactions and hay fever.
    • Practice good hand hygiene to stop the spread of infection.


Choosing self-care where appropriate helps to support a sustainable NHS for everyone. For further information about prioritising self-care, you can download more tips here.

For urgent conditions which are not life-threatening, we would ask people to contact NHS 24 on 111. They will ensure you are referred to the most appropriate service for your condition, which could include a Minor Injuries Unit or our Virtual A&E.

Help is also available in the community, with GPs, pharmacies, dentists and opticians providing a range of services. Accessing the right care is as easy as ABC:

  • Ask yourself: Do I need to go out? For information on keeping yourself well and treating minor illnesses and injuries from home, go to NHS Inform or download the NHS24 app.
  • Be aware: There is help right on your doorstep. Your local GP, pharmacy, dentist, or optician offer a range of services.
  • Call 111: If it’s urgent, or you’re not sure, call NHS24 on 111. They’ll make sure you get the help you need.

Please remember, if you think your condition or injury is very urgent or life-threatening, you should call 999 or go to A&E immediately.

For more information on accessing the care you need, please go to: 

Right Care, Right Place – NHSGGC

More planned appointments to reduce NHS waits in Scotland

Investing in additional capacity across health service

Extra investment to tackle NHS waits is expected to deliver more than 300,000 appointments and procedures this year.

Additional funding of £106 million was set out in the 2025-26 Budget, and an extra £4 million for dermatology activity has been announced today.

The additional planned appointments and procedures delivered through this £110 million are expected to break down as follows.

  • 195,000 imaging scans
  • 31,000 inpatient or day-case procedures
  • 88,000 new outpatient appointments
  • 4,100 new dermatology outpatient appointments

This means 213,000 more appointments are expected to be delivered this year than in 2024/25 – exceeding the Programme for Government commitment of delivering 150,000 appointments by more than 60,000.

A proportion of the funding will also support cancer activity and provide critical supporting services including pathology, diagnostic reporting and pre-assessment.

Health Secretary Neil Gray said: “Reducing long waits in the NHS is one of the biggest priorities for the First Minister and the Scottish Government.

“Our record investment in the NHS this year is allowing us to target specific areas that are experiencing long waits, reducing backlogs and getting people the appointments and treatments they need as quickly as possible.

“I am pleased to confirm that we expect the additional funding committed to reduce waiting times to result in more than 300,000 appointments and procedures this year.

“My thanks go out to all the hard-working NHS teams for their continued efforts.

“Also today I am announcing an additional £4 million specifically for dermatology. We know that this is an area with significant backlogs, so by investing in increased capacity we hope to be able to reduce waiting times for this speciality.”

Childline joins forces with Police Scotland to support young people in custody

Children in police custody in Glasgow are being offered confidential support from Childline as part of a new initiative. 

The project, being run by the NSPCC, the children’s charity which delivers Childline, and Police Scotland, provides children in custody with information about the support service and offers them the chance to talk confidentially to a counsellor. 

Young people who find themselves in custody in Glasgow are being offered to call Childline, where experienced counsellors can give them advice and emotional support in a confidential setting. This is to help the young person through a difficult time and try to reduce the likelihood of reoffending. 

During the 10-week pilot period in Glasgow, 97% of the 107 young people brought into custody accepted the Childline leaflet. 

The initiative was originally launched in Merseyside in September 2023, before being rolled out in Cheshire in March 2024. 

Approximately 2,500 young people aged 10 to 17 and 1,000 18-year-olds in Merseyside and Cheshire have been told about the support available from Childline or seen a poster or leaflet with information about Childline. 

Being taken into police custody can be a frightening experience for young people, and many of those who have contacted Childline told counsellors they felt scared and alone. 

One 14-year-old told Childline*: “I’m in police custody again after arguing with my parents. It got violent, and they called the police. I’ll be released soon and I’m too scared to go home but I can’t leave my siblings there without my protection. Can you help me?”  

An 18-year-old said*: “It’s not my first time in custody and one of the hard things is it reminds you how alone you are. I was meant to speak to my young person’s advisor today but missed it because I’m in here. She’s all I have, and I know she’s so close on giving up on me. I know I’m not coping and need options, but I don’t have anyone else to turn to.” 

The idea for the scheme came from Deborah Rigby, a retired Merseyside police officer, who is now a supervisor at Childline in Liverpool. 

Through her work she realised that many young people who came into custody would benefit from the support that Childline offered. She approached Merseyside Police, and they saw the potential in a collaboration with Childline, then they worked together to make it happen. 

When a young person comes into custody, they are given the opportunity to receive emotional support, but they do not always take it because the offer has come from the police. This often results in young people being released without receiving the additional support they may need. 

Assistant Chief Constable for Police Scotland Criminal Justice Services Division, Wendy Middleton said: “We welcome this initiative which has been providing additional support to young people who come into custody in Glasgow. We look forward to rolling this out nationally and ensuring that the same support is available across Scotland. 

“We acknowledge that police custody can be a daunting and traumatic experience, particularly for children and young people.  It is important that they can speak to someone in confidence who can listen to them and potentially help to address wider problems that they are experiencing. Childline is a valuable partner in this regard.”

Adeniyi Alade, NSPCC Scotland Helplines Service Head, who is based at the Childline call centre in Aberdeen, said: “This partnership allows us to reach young people who may feel vulnerable and need someone to talk to for advice at what might be a very difficult time. There are many reasons a young person comes to be in police custody and it’s important they are given all the support they need.

“While we are working with the police, the support we offer young people will be completely confidential. As with all calls to Childline, our support will be independent, and the police will not be made aware of it.”

During the pilot period, children and young people up to the age of 17 brought into police custody were offered a call with a Childline counsellor.  

It is hoped that the initiative will be rolled out across Scotland after the NSPCC has assessed its impact in Glasgow. 

The police custody centre at London Road, Glasgow, includes six cells which have been modified and decorated to improve the environment when children are detained.  Cells have been painted with murals and have chalkboards, jigsaw puzzles, soft toys, books and posters to create a calming experience during a stressful time.  

In addition, London Road has a separate discrete charge area with a lower height charge bar for processing children and young people, and other vulnerable detainees.  

The transformation of London Road custody centre has acted as a pilot for the modernisation of several other children’s custody suites, which includes Police Scotland’s primary custody facility for Glasgow in Cathcart. 

Young people looking for support on any of the issues mentioned, can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or visit Childline.org.uk.

Childline is available to all young people until their 19th birthday.  

Terror arrives in Edinburgh – but only for the Brave!

A New Nightmare is coming to Edinburgh: Terror at Conifox Scream Park launches this Autumn

Edinburgh’s shadows are hiding something new — and it’s not waiting for Halloween!

Terror Scream Park, Edinburgh’s most intense 18+ horror event, launches for the very first time this autumn. Just 15 minutes outside the city, this brand-new horror event is built for adults who want more than cheap jump scares and for those who think they’ve seen it all — and dare to prove it. 

Featuring multiple scare mazes, including Redneck Rampage, Blackout, and Sadistic Circus, the event blends live actors, immersive sets, and psychological horror into a one-way descent into chaos.

This isn’t a haunted house. It’s a full-scale nightmare.

“We didn’t want to create just another scare event — we wanted to build something that leaves a mark,” said Nicole Murdoch, Events Manager at Conifox. “Terror is gritty, relentless, and totally immersive. It’s not about watching horror… it’s about living it.”

The last release of “First to Fear” tickets — offering 20% off — drops Friday, July 25th. This is the final chance to get early access before standard pricing kicks in.

General release will follow on Monday 28th July.

Terror will run for four nights only (18th, 24th, 25th and 31st). 

No map. No mercy. Just pure Terror. Will you survive?

Between the screams, the horror doesn’t stop. On-site, visitors can grab a bite from a selection of street food vendors or steady their nerves with something stronger from the fully stocked bar.

For those who dare, Taylors Fun Fair returns with classic fairground rides turned sinister, all available at an additional cost.

And for the bravest guests?

Scare Cams will capture your worst moments, with the chance to take your terror home as a twisted little trophy.

🎟️ Tickets & full event info: www.terrorscreampark.co.uk
🔞 Strictly 18+. You’ve been warned.

Holyrood committee invites people to share their views on proposed Commissioner for Older People

What impact would a Commissioner for Older People have on Scotland? That is the question a Scottish Parliament committee is exploring as it considers proposals from Colin Smyth MSP.

The Commissioner for Older People (Scotland) Bill aims to give people over the age of 60 a representative who would be tasked with promoting and safeguarding their rights and interests.

Colin Smyth’s Bill proposes that the Commissioner would be responsible for promoting awareness and understanding of older people’s rights, reviewing law, policy and practice as it relates to older people and undertaking research on matters relating to older people.

The proposals share some similarities with the role of the Commissioner for Children and Young People in Scotland, which was established by the Scottish Parliament following a Committee Bill in 2003.

The Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee has launched a call for views to find out what people think of the proposal. As part of its consideration, the Committee will also be reflecting on a recently published report that recommended against the creation of more commissioners.

Older people and carers are among the groups whose views the Committee would like to hear as it seeks views on the proposed Commissioner’s role and responsibilities, the age range covered by their remit and how to avoid any duplication with the work undertaken by other commissioners or public bodies.

The call for views will be open until Friday 12 September 2025. The Committee is then expected to hold public evidence sessions on the Bill towards the end of Autumn.

Karen Adam MSP, Convener of the Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee, said: “Over recent decades there has been significant growth in the number of older people living in Scotland, so, in our consideration of this Bill, we’re keen to understand whether having a Commissioner could help address the needs of an aging population.

“In opening this call for views we’d like to hear what older people think of the proposals. We’re also keen to hear the views of carers, Scotland’s third sector, public bodies and anyone with an interest in the proposal.

“Whether you think that a Commissioner would be a great idea or would like to propose another way that older people might have their views considered, we’re keen to hear from you.”

BBC ALBA serves up fresh flavours from the Hebrides in new series

Well-loved presenter and foodie Gregor MacLeod is back on BBC ALBA with a mouthwatering new show, Greim-Bìdh le Gregor, exploring the culinary delights found on his doorstep.

Across six weeks, Gregor will uncover the finest ingredients grown, reared, fished and prepared on the Isle of Lewis, and uses these to create his own imaginative recipes.

Emerging as a foodie hotspot, the Outer Hebrides is home to some of Scotland’s finest produce, from fresh seafood to Stornoway Black Pudding, complemented by a plethora of home baking available at popular honesty boxes dotted around the islands.

In the first episode, now available on BBC iPlayer, Gregor heads to the island’s east coast to meet a local fisherman and to collect ingredients for a Hebridean feast with a Mediterranean twist. Securing the freshest langoustines, he whips up an enormous, vibrant paella, perfect for hosting a large party.

For dessert, he visits a local honesty shed to collect homemade raspberry jam, perfect for assembling his comforting jam roly-poly. Not forgetting the all-important cheese course, Gregor shares his popular fruit and nut crackers recipe to accompany a selection of his favourite local cheeses.

Throughout the series, Gregor’s passion for self-sufficient living shines as he prepares a range of vibrant yet accessible dishes using local and homegrown ingredients. Championing the idea of making the most of what’s close to home, he welcomes BBC ALBA viewers into his own garden pantry where he grows vegetables, rears chickens and keeps his own beehive.

Gregor comments: “When it comes to a tasty bite to eat, you don’t have to look any further than the incredible variety of produce the Isle of Lewis has to offer.

“This new series is a celebration of the island’s wonderful cuisine. We’re so lucky to have such a bounty of fresh, accessible ingredients and it’s my mission to inspire viewers to cook and bake simple and flavourful dishes using what’s right on their doorstep.”

Produced by Caledonia TV, Greim-Bìdh le Gregor is now available on BBC ALBA on Monday evenings at 8.30pm(in Gaelic with English subtitles).

Watch live or on demand on BBC iPlayer: 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002g83p

From Ancient Athens to Edinburgh: Hide and Seek Gets a Mind-Bending Makeover at Dynamic Earth

Blind mentalist stuns with unforgettable Fringe stunt beneath the rainforest canopy



Dynamic Earth provided the backdrop yesterday (23 July) for an unforgettable twist on the classic game of Hide and Seek delivered by visually impaired Albino mentalist Fraser Penman.

Fraser, described as “Scotland’s answer to Derren Brown”, used an astonishing feat of mind reading and psychological skill to locate a personal item hidden deep within the centre’s tropical rainforest by Still Game actors ‘Isa’ and ‘Tam’.

The Fringe performer – known as PENMAN: The Imaginator – used the rare art of Hellstromism (or muscle-reading) to perform the jaw-dropping stunt. Without sight, but with heightened senses, Fraser placed his hand lightly on Isa’s shoulder and guided her through Dynamic Earths immersive galleries.

He then homed in on the hidden item – H.G. Wells novel ‘The Invisible Man’ – using subtle psychological techniques. Fraser made a final connection with the popular TV actors before pinpointing the exact hiding place of the novel, secretly hidden beneath the rainforest canopy.

In a dramatic finale, Fraser unveiled an envelope with a note inside correctly predicting the name of the book, leaving those who witnessed the moment in awe.

Blending ancient play – Hide and Seek was first documented by Greek writer Julius Pollux in the 2nd century – with cutting-edge mentalism, the stunt offered a glimpse of what audiences can expect from Fraser’s debut Edinburgh Festival Fringe show, PENMAN: The Imaginator – YOU, at the Gilded Balloon.

Penman, 30, from East Kilbride, lives with the most extreme form of Oculocutaneous Albinism, meaning he is visually impaired. His Fringe act fuses mind reading, hypnosis, and comedy, inspired by his journey to transform a childhood coping mechanism into a remarkable skill.

Photo – Garry F McHarg / FOCAL Scotland.

Fraser Penman, who describes himself as a “Psychological influencer”, said: “I grew up just like other children across the country playing Hide and Seek, But I played it differently, as I was born with a severe visual impairment, which meant I had to learn to sense things another way.

“And that’s what today’s stunt at Dynamic Earth was all about, learning to sense differently. To imagine differently and be able to influence people’s thoughts.

“Using a little-known technique called Hellstromism, also known as muscle reading, I didn’t just read where Tam and Isa went to in Dynamic Earth, I also gently influenced where they would go, before they even knew.

“By simply touching both their shoulders again and using the same psychological methods, I was able to go deeper into their mind to find the exact spot in the rainforest area where they had hidden the book.

“With so many different attractions, Dynamic Earth was the ideal venue for a fun game of Hide and Seek with a twist. Today’s stunt was a taste of YOU, my live theatre show premiering at this year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

“A show about breaking beliefs, finding inner superpowers and discovering just how extraordinary your own mind can be.”

Jane McCarry (Isa) chose the novel, The Invisible Man, as the ‘hidden item’ as it is very personal to her, having been given to her mum in 1941.

Jane said: “I thought choosing the book, ‘The Invisible Man’, was very appropriate for the stunt with Fraser. I have always had a fascination with magic and I want to believe it’s real, so it was amazing to be up close and see Fraser in action.

“I can’t imagine for a second how he knew where the item was and then guessed that it was the book I had brought with me.”

Mark Cox (Tam) said: “The whole stunt was mind-boggling and baffling, Fraser blew me away with his performance. I have no idea how he managed to find the item and predict in advance what the personal item was. I’m still scratching me head how he did it.”

Suzie Holligan, Visitor Experience and Events Director at Dynamic Earth, said: “It was a real pleasure to host Fraser for this one-of-a-kind experience. Dynamic Earth is all about inspiring curiosity and encouraging people to see the world differently, and Fraser’s incredible skills brought that to life in such a unique way.

“We’re proud to be an official Edinburgh Festival Fringe venue, providing a spectacular setting where science meets storytelling. We’re thrilled to have been part of this special event and wish him all the best for a fantastic Fringe debut.”

Fraser has previously hypnotised Pop Star Callum Beattie, some of Scotland’s top TikTok social media influencers and renowned Scottish comedian Gary Faulds.

With more than 2.5 million views on TikTok, he is determined to change the perception of those with Albinism and hopes his Fringe stage show will act as an inspiration for people with the condition.

Fraser added: “When I was training to be a primary teacher in my 20’s I was inspired by Derren Brown’s storytelling and showmanship, I must have watched a DVD about hypnosis a thousand times.

“Once I read a few books and looked into the neuroscience behind it I realised that I had the ability to hypnotise someone almost instantly. It was like having a superpower, I was blown away.

“I had a difficult childhood growing up with Albinism, so having this gift has allowed me to turn around my life and chase my dreams of one day having my own residency at Vegas.

“Many people with Albinism are confined to the house wearing dark glasses but I’m determined to change that perception. I want to inspire others that if you can see it in your imagination anything is possible, or even when you don’t believe in yourself you can still believe in your dream.

“After being bullied at school I was determined to change my mindset, and it ended up saving my life.”

For the past six years, Fraser has been holding down two jobs while honing his craft with performances at venues around the UK. His new Fringe show is the first time it will be performed before audiences in Scotland.

‘Because tomorrow’s too late’: Samaritans Awareness Day challenge urges public to share the weight

A former Samaritans helpline caller and current listening volunteer is urging the public to help him carry his 24.7kg ‘bag of worries’ as part of a series of events to mark this year’s Samaritans Awareness Day.  

The challenge – part of a wider initiative that has seen Andrew Baines Vosper ‘Share the Weight’ with the likes of broadcaster Gabby Logan and fitness coach Joe Wicks, as well as Rylan, Dame Kelly Holmes, Denise Van Outen, Simon Squibb, Adam Woodyatt and Dr Alex George – has involved running at least 7km every day for 24 days in the lead-up to 24th July, all while carrying a 24.7kg weight on his back.

The ‘bag of worries’ serves as a powerful symbol of the emotional burdens many people carry in silence.  

Thursday 24th July 2025 is a moment to highlight the life-saving power of human connection, and to remind everyone that help is always available, 24/7. In the lead-up to the day, supporters are stepping up and taking on inspiring challenges to raise vital funds and awareness for the suicide prevention charity. 

In Scotland, Neil Beattie, a Shetland-based Council team-leader, will be taking on an Everest sized cycle and meeting Samaritans volunteers across Scotland’s towns and cities to raise funds for Samaritans Scotland.  

Neil’s challenge will take him from Shetland to Selkirk and back again, through some of Scotland’s toughest terrains on a two-week journey. Throughout the (roughly) 1200-mile cycle, Neil will accumulate a climb of more than 30,000 feet, higher than the world’s tallest mountain.  

Having completed charity bike rides previously, including from Land’s End to John O’ Groats and in Vietnam, this particular challenge holds a significant place in Neil’s heart.

Neil said:  “My mum was previously the Regional Director at Samaritans Scotland, and dedicated numerous years as a volunteer to the charity and their mission to see fewer deaths by suicide in Scotland.  

“Any donation, big or small will help someone with suicidal thoughts get help when they need it most.”  

Neil is set to depart from Lerwick on the 23rd of July, cycling to the ferry port where he will set sail for the mainland to continue his journey down through the country to the Borders, then heading up to Orkney and finally back to Shetland again, meeting with volunteers all along the way.  

A fundraising page has been set up here where you can make a donation to support Neil’s huge effort and the vital work of Samaritans Scotland.  By donating to Neil’s fundraiser, you are helping someone with suicidal thoughts to talk to somebody who will listen in their most difficult moments.  

These challenges over Samaritans Awareness Day spark meaningful conversations and reminds people that life’s burdens feel lighter when shared, and the tough climbs we face are easier when we break them down bit by bit.  

Support for Samaritans Awareness Day is thriving online, too. From 24-26 July, a number of content creators will be going live on platforms like Twitch and YouTube to celebrate Samaritans and raise vital funds. They’ll be connecting with their communities through gameplay, creative challenges, art, and more.  

The line-up includes streams from The Butterflies Stream Team, who are lending their support throughout the event, and popular creator Dawko, who will use his stream on 26 July to kick off his fundraising for the 2026 London Marathon.  

Together, these creators will spark important conversations around mental health and suicide, while raising awareness and funds through personal stories, community engagement, and unique online experiences.  

Neil Mathers, Executive Director at Samaritans Scotland, said: “Not everyone has someone they can talk to about how they’re feeling. That’s why on Samaritans Awareness Day, we are reminding everyone that they are not alone, and they have someone to turn to in us. 

“Our volunteers are here to lend a listening ear 24/7 to anyone in emotional crisis or feeling suicidal. We’re here for people in their darkest hour. Remember you can call our listening service on 116 123, any time of day or night.” 

Danielle Rowley, Head of Policy and Communications at Samaritans Scotland, said: “We know that people across Scotland struggle with suicidal thoughts and feelings and self-harm.  

“That’s why Samaritans Scotland is committed to reducing lives lost to suicide by working with the Scottish Government, COSLA, and partners across the sector as part of Creating Hope Together, the national suicide prevention strategy.” 

Getting involved 

Be it running, streaming, donating, or simply talking to a friend who’s having a tough time, you can help Samaritans be there for the people who need it most.  

This Samaritans Awareness Day, anyone can join in to prevent suicide today. Because tomorrow’s too late.  

How to get involved:  

‘The Israeli aid system is inhumane, ineffective, dangerous and fuelling instability’

Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council open debate on the Middle East Peace Process:

‘My Foreign Secretary has been unequivocal: the war in Gaza must end now. Hamas and Israel must both commit to a ceasefire now.

‘A ceasefire is within reach and we urge all sides to make it a reality, to secure the release of the hostages, who have been cruelly held by Hamas since 7 October, and to end the appalling suffering of Palestinian civilians.

‘I will make three points.

‘First, the Israeli aid system is inhumane, ineffective, dangerous and fuelling instability. Reports and images this week of children dying from starvation are beyond horrific.

‘The IDF is shooting at desperate Palestinian civilians on an almost daily basis. Hamas is exploiting this disorder.

‘We call on Israel to end these attacks, hold those responsible to account and to work with the UN to implement effective aid distribution in line with humanitarian principles and international humanitarian law.

‘And let me reaffirm the UK’s firm and unequivocal support for the UN and OCHA in their brave efforts to get aid into Gaza.

‘We also condemn recent strikes on the WHO in Deir al Balah. Humanitarians and civilians must be protected.

‘Second, we condemn Defence Minister Katz’s proposals of forced displacement to Rafah.

‘Illegal settlement expansion in the West Bank continues at pace as well as settler violence, and even terrorism, against Palestinians. This is an accelerating campaign to prevent a Palestinian state.

‘We condemn these attacks and call for Israel to hold its citizens to account.

‘We also oppose the reintroduction of the E1 settlement plan, which is a flagrant breach of international law.

‘Third, we are clear that Hamas must play no future role in the governance of Gaza or be able to threaten Israel’s security again.

‘However, the organisation which represents a credible alternative to Hamas, the Palestinian Authority, is being undermined by Israeli actions.

‘Israel is withholding $2.6 billion in clearance revenues, crippling the Palestinian economy and pushing essential health and education services to the brink. This is not conducive to Israel’s security.

‘President, the United Kingdom is resolute in our commitment to a two-state solution and my Foreign Secretary has been clear that we are prepared to take further action to prevent the forcible erosion of the only viable path to lasting peace.

‘Next week’s conference, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, is a vital opportunity to demonstrate the strength of international resolve to secure a better future for Israelis, Palestinians and the region.’

MORE FINE WORDS, BUT CONDEMNATION ALONE WILL NOT SAVE A SINGLE LIFE. OUR GOVERNMENT KNOWS FULL WELL THAT ACTION IS LONG OVERDUE – AND THE UK CONTINUES TO SUPPORT AND PROVIDE ARMS TO ISRAEL.

WE ARE COMPLICIT IN ISRAEL’s WAR CRIMES.

HOW MANY MORE CIVILIANS WILL BE SLAUGHTERED OR DIE THROUGH STARVATION BEFORE NEXT WEEK’S ‘VITAL’ CONFERENCE – Ed.?

‘Ello, ‘ello, ‘ello: Community project receives backing from the Scottish Land Fund!

Balerno Village Trust has been awarded  £239,005  to acquire a former police station which the group plans to transform into a vibrant community hub that is accessible for all ages and stages of life.

The hub will provide smaller community spaces for hire, after school care, and support for youth activities. 

The grant is one of 10 totaling £1,453,569 announced today by the Scottish Land Fund. 

The Scottish Land Fund reopened to applications in April 2021. The programme is funded by the Scottish Government and delivered in partnership by the National Lottery Community Fund and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, both of which have extensive experience of helping communities to acquire and develop their assets for over a decade. 

Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary, Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, said:  “Vibrant community spaces are the lifeblood of our towns and villages- places where people can meet, access services, and simply enjoy being together.

“The latest awards from the Scottish Land Fund will deliver exactly that; welcoming, reliable facilities offering childcare, recreation and wider opportunities for local people. I warmly congratulate each successful project and look forward to seeing the benefits they will bring to their communities in the years ahead.” 

Cara Gillespie, Scottish Land Fund Committee Chair said: “The focus of this round of SLF funding has been on providing groups with the funds to secure spaces where they can come together as communities in both rural and urban locations, forging social ties and helping to meet local needs.” 

Sandra Holmes, head of community assets at HIE, said:“The successful projects announced today across Scotland are all great examples of people taking control of local resources for the long-term benefit of their communities.

“Glenelg and Arnisdale Development Trust, for example, will acquire the village shop and store building in the village thanks to an award of £92,239.

“This will secure a vital local service, support economic activity, and maintain a much-valued gathering place for residents and visitors alike.  

“All these projects will help retain population, attract visitors and create jobs. Ownership will give community groups greater control over important assets that will reap rewards for people now and for generations to come. We wish all the successful groups the very best in their new ventures.” 

Emma Galloway, Balerno Village Trust, said: “We are delighted to receive funding from the Scottish Land Fund that will enable the Trust to purchase Balerno Police Station. 

“Occupying a prominent place in the heart of our village, it is a really important and valuable asset to our community. 

“We are looking forward to renovating it and creating a vibrant community hub with childcare facilities that will make Balerno an even better place to live, work or visit” 

Other groups receiving funding are: 

Alloa Community Shed 

Award  £185,800 

Alloa Community Shed will purchase Marshill House in Alloa town centre to provide a space for people to learn and connect, to improve wellbeing and reduce social isolation.  The space will offer lessons in DIY and act as a community hub for local people.  

Avich & Kilchrenan Community Heritables 

Award  £45,040 

Avich & Kilchrenan Community Heritables will purchase two churches at Dalavich and Kilchrenan, to operate as complimentary community spaces.  The two hubs will cater for a variety of existing and new community activity and will also form part of a proposed Christian and clan heritage trail. 

Barthol Chapel Community Hub 

Award £100,465 

Barthol Chapel Community Hub will acquire Barthol Chapel Parish Church in Barthol Chapel, Aberdeenshire. The group will develop the building into a flexible multi-use community hub.

The hub will provide venue hire for community groups, sports activities and life events. In addition, there will be a community café, and the group will host exhibitions and concerts in the space. 

Friends of Fearn Abbey 

Award £93,600 

Friends of Fearn Abbey (FoFA) wish to acquire Fearn Abbey. They intend to reopen it as a space for social gatherings, performance, historical interest, reflection and life events. 

Glenelg and Arnisdale Development Trust 

Award £92,239 

Glenelg and Arnsidale Development Trust (GADT) will acquire a shop with a store building (used for stock) on the main street of Glenelg, Kyle, retaining it for the benefit of the community. 

Glenuig Community Inn Ltd  

Award £352,800 

Glenuig Community Inn Limited will purchase the Glenuig Inn and associated buildings in Glenuig, Lochaber, Highland. GCI have been leasing the inn since March 2025 and will continue to run the inn and develop the site to better meet the needs of the local community.

The group will continue to operate the pub, restaurant and accommodation to create an inclusive community space with events for the community. 

Polmont Community Hub 

Award £82,001 

Polmont Community Hub SCIO (PCH) will purchase Polmont Community Hub and the surrounding greenspace.  The group currently operate the space, and acquisition will allow for continued use by local community groups, a playgroup, and a venue for events.  

Rousay, Egilsay & Wyre Development Trust 

Award  £198,658 

Rousay, Egilsay & Wyre Development Trust will purchase three parcels of land close to the shoreland on Rousay, Orkney, close to the islands’ only pier.

This will enable the group to create a multi-phased project to deliver facilities for the community, promote tourism, visitor accommodation and a community-led island marina. 

Spark 

Award £63,961 

Spark will acquire the former library premises of Beatlie School Campus, Livingston. The group will continue to deliver a service supporting socially isolated people in Craigshill and South Howden.

In addition, they will create a collaborative third-sector hub where organisations share resources and support joint initiatives.