Four men have been charged with more than 30 retail crime offences following enforcement carried out in Edinburgh.
On Tuesday (4 August) local officers, acting on intelligence gathered by the Retail Crime Taskforce, arrested a 45-year-old and 37-year-old in connection with 21 shoplifting incidents from supermarkets and convenience stores in Causewayside and Marchmont.
A 36-year-old man was also arrested for five shopliftings that took place at supermarkets in Gorgie and Chesser, while a 41-year-old was arrested in connection with five separate warrants that were all in relation to shoplifting offences in the Chesser and Gorgie areas.
Inspector David Duthie said: “These arrests are further example of the successful collaboration between divisional officers and Retail Crime Taskforce colleagues to address retail crime within the Capital.
“All reports of retail crime are treated with the utmost seriousness, and whether it’s one shoplifting incident, or several, we will use all resources at our disposal to bring offenders to justice.”
A NEW care technology platform is transforming the way older people across Scotland are supported in their homes – delivering smarter, faster responses for tailored care.
Hanover Connect, powered by the innovative CareNet EVO system, is being rolled out across properties managed by leading housing with care provider Hanover Scotland, in partnership with digital telecare specialists, Appello.
The cutting-edge system brings together emergency monitoring, health data insights and digital connectivity to ensure round-the-clock care. Whether responding to a fall or simply offering daily reassurance, the platform enables staff to make faster, more informed decisions – freeing up more time for compassionate, face-to-face support.
The rollout marks a major shift in how telecare is delivered across Hanover’s developments, making use of sophisticated digital capabilities while maintaining the human touch that lies at the heart of quality care.
Donna Henderson, Director of Strategic Finance at Hanover Scotland, said the system is more than a technological upgrade – it’s a move towards fundamentally better care. Donna said: “It’s not just about technology – it’s about people.
“CareNet EVO gives us the tools to focus more on what really matters: providing timely, personal care to every resident. Through this partnership with Appello, we are improving the lives of both our residents and their families, delivering a service that is as responsive as it is compassionate.”
The new system is already making a tangible difference. Staff are reporting faster response times, fewer call delays, and better insights into residents’ needs – all leading to more confident, independent living for tenants.
Angela Currie, Chief Executive of Hanover, believes the launch of Hanover Connect represents a milestone in delivering modern, future-proofed housing with care. She said: “Hanover Connect, powered by CareNet EVO, represents a major leap forward in how we approach resident care.
“It’s a perfect blend of innovation and compassion, and we are committed to continuing to raise the bar in telecare services.
“This launch is just the beginning. We will keep investing in training, technology, and partnerships that help us provide the best possible care across Scotland.”
Hanover Scotland supports more than 5,000 residents across the country and is renowned for championing innovation in care delivery. The introduction of Hanover Connect is part of a wider commitment to digital transformation that keeps people safe, supported and independent in their own homes.
Ian Martin, Chief Revenue Officer at Appello, said the successful implementation of CareNet EVO reflects Hanover’s leadership and forward-thinking approach.He said: “Hanover has demonstrated exceptional foresight in technology adoption, positioning itself as a leader in the field.
“The implementation of the CareNet EVO system reflects a commitment to innovation and progress. This technology is a key enabler for enhancing the quality of life for individuals, and its strategic deployment elevates its function to that of a critical extension of emergency services.”
At the heart of the system is a focus on dignity and reassurance. Residents have direct access to help at the touch of a button, while family members can rest easy knowing their loved ones are never alone.
The data-driven nature of the system also allows for early interventions, flagging changes in patterns such as mobility, health indicators or support needs—helping care staff provide targeted support before small issues escalate into crises.
Hanover’s staff have been undergoing extensive training to ensure a smooth transition, with feedback from residents and families already reflecting high levels of confidence and satisfaction in the upgraded service.
The collaboration with Appello has also played a crucial role in managing the transition from analogue to digital systems, a challenge facing many housing providers across the UK ahead of the national switchover.
By embracing the digital opportunity now, Hanover Scotland is setting a new standard in how telecare can support older people – combining cutting-edge capability with deeply human care.
Around 5.30pm yesterday (Thursday, 7 August) police received a report of men seen in possession of what appeared to be a firearm on Loganlea Terrace.
Emergency services attended and found a property on fire.
There were no reports of any injures.
Following further enquiries two men aged 22 and 29 were arrested in connection with drug offences. They have been released pending further enquiries which are ongoing.
No weapons were recovered.
Enquiries are ongoing to establish the cause of the fire.
A further £20 million will speed up actions to make Scotland’s buildings safe from dangerous cladding, Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan has announced.
Publishing an update to the Cladding Remediation Programme action plan, Ms McAllan confirmed additional funding and expanded eligibility, setting out that social housing will now be eligible for remediation funding.
The Single Open Call fund launched in March, allowing owners and residents to apply for a Scottish Government funded, holistic assessment to determine the work required to make buildings safe. This fund will now be doubled to £20 million in 2025/26 and a separate £10 million will be made available to prioritise immediate mitigations for buildings most at risk.
The fund has made 258 initial grant funding offers for building owners and residents to take forward a Single Building Assessment. The £10 million additional funding will ensure every eligible application received before the end of December this year will be progressed.
Ms McAllan said: “Scotland’s Cladding Remediation Programme is progressing at pace and the additional £20 million I’ve announced today will further expedite this vital work. Doubling the funding for holistic Single Building Assessments to £20 million will ensure owners and residents can rapidly and thoroughly assess works required.
“I am also confirming £10 million to fund immediate mitigation measures where needed and have today opened a new application process for owners, including social landlords, or their representatives, to apply for funding for essential cladding remediation works identified as part of the assessment process. Finally, I am setting a deadline of 31 October 2025 by which responsible developers must sign the Developers Remediation Contract.
“Ultimately I am determined that, by 2029, every high-risk residential building over 18 metres will have been resolved, with buildings between 11 and 18 metres placed on a clear pathway to resolution.
“My foremost priority is to ensure the safety of all those living in buildings affected by dangerous cladding.”
Scottish Federation of Housing Associations Chief Executive Sally Thomas said: “The safety of tenants is absolutely paramount to all of Scotland’s housing associations and co-operatives, and they take their responsibility for this extremely seriously. However, without a clear and fair route to government funding, the cost of any remediation works would have fallen on tenants, who are least able to afford it.
“We’re delighted to see that the Scottish Government recognises this and will treat all housing providers equally. The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations and our members will continue to work with our government partners to ensure unsafe cladding is removed as a matter of urgency.
“No-one should have to live with the uncertainty and fear of fire hazards.”
Looking for something to do towards the end of Fringe? This is an ECCAN member outing to see “A Citizens’ Assembly” on Wednesday, August 20th at 1:30 PM. This is a fantastic opportunity to engage with a thought-provoking piece of theatre and connect with fellow ECCAN members.
About the Show: “A Citizens’ Assembly”
This isn’t just a play; it’s an immersive experience where we are the citizens, and this is our assembly! Part of the “Plays For The People” series, this new work invites the audience to become the actors in the story. The central questions revolve around the climate emergency: What are we doing? What are we not doing? What more could and should we be doing? Be prepared to join the debate and be part of the story!
We also have a limited number of tickets available, email edinburgh@eccan.scot to book your spot.
Back-to-school season is here, and Fort Kinnaird has teamed up with its very own Chief Fun Officer, six-year-old Ruari, to reveal what children really want in their school bags this August and help make back-to-school shopping trips that much easier.
Tasked with testing trends and giving his official stamp of approval, Ruari has rounded up the coolest must-haves for the new term.
From school shoes with football charms to fun pencil cases, his edit of back-to-school buys is packed with personality – and available now at Fort Kinnaird from stores including The Works, M&S, Clarks, Next and Primark.
Here are Ruari’s favourite picks:
Pencil cases featuring Nintendo favourites and bold designs – fun, functional and guaranteed to stand out on the school table.
Cool stationery sets – from gaming-themed rulers to funky pens.
School shoes with a football theme – built for comfort and perfect for playtime goals.
Fresh uniform staples and comfy shoes – perfect for all-day comfort and classroom confidence.
Personalised keyrings and backpack tags – the little extras that make school bags harder to loose.
Ruari said: “I had so much fun getting ready for back to school at Fort Kinnaird. There were loads of new school shoes with footballs on them – they were my favourite!
“There was also lots of cool stationery to choose from, like colourful pens and fun pencil cases. I loved choosing it all, and we had such a great day – now I can’t wait for the new term to start so I can use it all!”
Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said:“We know back-to-school shopping can feel like a big task, so we’ve made it easy, enjoyable and all in one place. With Ruari’s help, we’ve captured the trends kids are genuinely excited about – turning the trip into something families can enjoy together.”
Families can make a full day of back-to-school shopping this weekend, with a whole host of entertainment, dining and exclusive discounts on offer at Fort Kinnaird.
Kids eat for less at family-friendly favourites including Pizza Express and Frankie & Bennys. And when it’s time to wind down, head to Odeon for a bit of movie magic to finish the day in style.
To find out more about Ruari’s back-to-school essentials, visit here.
For more details and to plan your day at Fort Kinnaird, please visit:
Applications for wholetime firefighter roles will open on Thursday, 14 August
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) will open applications for wholetime firefighter roles on Thursday, 14 August, and is encouraging anyone interested in applying to start preparing now.
In the lead-up to the recruitment launch, SFRS will be sharing real-life stories from firefighters across Scotland, giving potential candidates first-hand look at what it means to be part of the Service.
Assistant Chief Officer Jon Henderson is the SFRS’s Director of Prevention. He said: “We want people to understand what the role truly involves, from emergency response to prevention work in our communities.
“This is more than a job, it’s a commitment to helping others, working as a team, and protecting the communities of Scotland every single day.”
We strongly encourage anyone interested to take time to ensure their application reflects their motivation, understanding of the role and suitability and apply as soon as it opens.
We have a limited number of places available in this campaign, so there will be a cap on the number of applications and the advert will close when we reach that point.
Being prepared is key; in the coming weeks those considering applying are encouraged to:
Visit the SFRS career section on our website to learn more about the role, application process and eligibility criteria.
Attend one of our engagement sessions where they can meet serving firefighters and recruitment staff and ask questions.
Follow our social media channels to hear directly from the people who do the job, their experiences, challenges, and why they love what they do.
You can access the full details on how to apply and where to access support:
Successful candidates will follow a structured selection process that includes physical assessments, an interview, and medical evaluation.
SFRS is committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities it serves and welcomes applications from all backgrounds, particularly from women, people from ethnic minority backgrounds, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, who are currently underrepresented in the Service.
Applications officially open on Thursday, 14 August, and will close when we reach the application limit.
We are hiring across Scotland, but some areas do not have job openings right now. Before applying, candidates should think about where they would be willing to work.
We will have more recruitment in the next 6 to 12 months. Check the career section on our website and social media for updates.
Recruitment engagement sessions
We are encouraging anyone interested in applying to attend one of our upcoming engagement sessions to learn more about the role, the recruitment process and what it’s like to work for the SFRS.
We will be hosting a mix of online and in-person events over the coming weeks.
Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged.
A flagship community culture fund that supports people across Scotland to take part in the creative arts has opened for new applications.
Backed by £320,000 from the Scottish Government, the Creative Communities Scotland fund is open to organisations delivering activities such as dance, filmmaking, creative writing, music-making and storytelling.
At least ten new projects are expected to benefit with a focus on reaching those who face barriers to taking part in creative activities and grants of up to £35,000 available.
Funding will be managed by Inspiring Scotland which will also provide project support to successful organisations while they plan, deliver and assess the impact of those activities.
Previous examples of projects delivered through the fund include work by Promoting a More Inclusive Society (PAMIS), which used art, drama, music and photography to support children and young people in Aberfeldy and Angus with complex disabilities to come together and tell their stories.
Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said:“Taking part in the creative arts can transform lives, improve wellbeing, strengthen relationships between people and create a distinct sense of place, belonging and confidence within communities.
“In this latest round of funding, our focus is on groups and charities helping people who face challenges to taking part and reaping those benefits. We are looking for applications from diverse groups all across Scotland with projects that engage communities in the creative process.
“The Creative Communities Scotland fund forms part of a £34 million increase in support to the culture sector this year and will enable communities to drive forward creative activities in their areas. This is about making sure that everyone has the opportunity to take part in and benefit from the creative arts, no matter their background or location.”
Creative Arts Director at PAMIS Maureen Phillip said:“Our project has enabled family carers to gain and enhance their skills, build their confidence and support their wellbeing by easing isolation and loneliness.
“It has also widened knowledge of the benefits of working with story to enhance learning for children with profound and multiple learning abilities.
“Both the Aberfeldy and Angus programmes clearly demonstrate the benefits of having a programme led by families as experts by experience. They know the children and young people they support and understand how much it means for them to feel part of their communities.”
Inspiring Scotland Chief Executive Celia Tennant said:““We know the vital role that cultural activities play in bringing people together, improving wellbeing and strengthening communities.
“We are pleased to be managing the Scottish Government’s Creative Communities Scotland fund and we look forward to supporting organisations that are making a real difference in their local area through participatory arts.”
We are excited to share a delicious community meal with you tomorrow. We do our best to have a variety of options, including vegetarian and often a delicious pudding. What’s on the menu tomorrow:
Carrot and lentil soup
Chorizo and sweetcorn pasta
Cauliflower and sweetcorn pasta (V)
Garden salad
Banana bread
Please check the board or ask our volunteers about allergens. And just a heads-up, our food is served until it runs out! Do come along and enjoy. Thank you!
