Edinburgh-based homebuilder brings over 300 new homes to Edinburgh, East Calder and Falkirk
Miller Homes, one of Scotland’s leading homebuilders, is set to launch three highly anticipated new developments in the East of Scotland, bringing 328 new energy-efficient homes to sought-after locations within easy reach of Edinburgh.
The developments; West Craigs Mews in Edinburgh; Avonside Wisp in Whitecross, Falkirk; and East Calder Oaks in East Calder will offer a range of contemporary family homes designed to meet the needs of growing communities.
West Craigs Mews launches for sale on 30 August and will comprise 92 private homes including three-bedroom terraced houses, three and four-bedroom townhouses, and four and five-bedroom detached homes.
Avonside Wisp launches for sale on 6 September and features 169 three, four, and five-bedroom homes – perfect for families seeking a well-connected location near Linlithgow and Edinburgh.
East Calder Oaks is set to launch in October 2025. This community will include 67 of Miller Homes’ larger four and five-bedroom detached properties, offering spacious and flexible living for growing families in the desirable West Lothian area.
All three developments will feature Miller Homes’ latest collection of modern, energy-efficient properties, each designed with sustainability and comfort in mind. Every home also comes with a 10-year NHBC warranty for peace of mind.
Commenting on the upcoming launches, Miller Homes’ Sales Director for Scotland East, Neil Gaffney said: “We’re excited to bring these three developments to market, offering buyers a fantastic choice of high-quality new homes in some of the most desirable areas surrounding Edinburgh.
“From family-friendly detached houses in East Calder to a mix of townhouses and terraces in Edinburgh’s West Craigs Village, and a thriving new community in Whitecross, there’s something for everyone.
“With strong demand for high quality new homes in the East of Scotland, these launches mark an important milestone in our commitment to creating thriving communities where people are proud to live.”
The first homes at West Craigs Mews, East Calder Oaks and Avonside Wisp will be ready to move into in April 2026.
Interested buyers can register now to be the first to hear about the summer releases at millerhomes.co.uk.
Move to Plaza News, Unit 23-26 Upper Ground Floor Level, Westside Plaza
Monday to Saturday: 9am – 5.30pm
51 hours of Post Office service per week
Branch would open on Saturday afternoons
Experienced postmasters
Post Office has agreed to relocate Wester Hailes Post Office in October to a new location – Plaza News, Unit 23-26 Upper Ground Floor Level, Westside Plaza, Edinburgh, EH14 2SW.
Wester Hailes Post Office, which is currently directly managed by Post Office, will be run by our new retail franchise partner at the new location within the same shopping centre.
Father and son, Mohammed and Aamir Arshad have run Plaza News, a hardware and convenience store, since 2016. Previously they ran Whitecraig Post Office and off-licence store in Musselburgh for six years.
The current branch at 14A Westside Plaza will close on Monday 6 October at 5.30pm, with the new branch opening, at Plaza News on Tuesday 7 October at 1pm.
Post Office Limited recently announced it is moving to a fully franchised network, as part of our wider commitment to deliver a “New Deal for Postmasters”.
Over 99% of the Post Office network is already successfully operated on a franchise basis by carefully selected retail partners. We are confident this would create a long-term, sustainable future for post offices in communities across the UK, including Wester Hailes.
After careful consideration of the feedback received during consultation, we remain confident that the layout and location of the new branch will continue to meet customer needs and deliver an excellent service, whilst securing the long-term viability of Post Office services in the local community.
The same range of services will still be available, including an internal ATM.
The opening hours will be Monday to Saturday: 9am – 5.30pm. This will be an extra 5 hours and 30 minutes of Post Office service a week including Saturday afternoon and earlier opening on a Tuesday morning than currently for the convenience of customers.
Wester Hailes Post Office will have two open plan serving positions at the retail counter.
There is a car park at the shopping center with dedicated disabled parking bays on upper level where the new branch will be located.
Current Post Office employees have the opportunity to TUPE across to continue to work at the relocated branch.
This September, step beneath the Royal Mile and into a world where history and folklore entwine, as The Real Mary King’s Close unveils its brand-new “Myths and Legends Tour”.
Throughout the month, Edinburgh’s hidden streets will reveal the stories that have plagued the city for centuries, as visitors wander through the dimly lit closes, guided by tales – steeped in history – of witches and fairies.
From the eerie glow of the Will-o’-the-Wisp to the mysterious tiny coffins un-earthed on Arthur’s Seat, discover how these incredible stories have shaped the city’s identity and continue to echo beneath its streets.
Among the figures brought to life on the tour are the Glaistig, half-woman and half-goat, said to guard cattle and mislead travellers, the sound of pipers believed to remain lost beneath the city, and headless drummers once thought to warn off danger.
Legends of goddesses and fairies blur the line between history and myth, weaving tales that link Edinburgh’s present to the lives, dreams, and anxieties of those who walked its closes centuries ago.
In 2024, The Real Mary King’s Close was crowned the UK’s best tourist attraction in the TripAdvisor® Travellers’ Choice® Awards ‘Best of the Best’, also ranking 11th among Europe’s top visitor attractions. It continues to captivate visitors with its unique blend of history, storytelling, and immersive experiences.
Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close, said:“Edinburgh has always been a city of stories, and the Close holds some of its darkest and most captivating.
“These legends reveal the fears and beliefs of the real people who lived here, and experiencing them underground, in the streets where these lives unfolded, makes the past feel immediate and alive.”
The new Myths and Legends tours take place every Friday and Saturday throughout September, starting on 5th September, with two departures each day at 16.00 and 17.30.
The one-hour tours are limited to 20 guests, and visitors are advised to prebook as tours are expected to sell out fast.
BBC ALBA is set to explore the wellness trend taking off in Scotland in a brand-new series,Sona.
Launching exclusively on BBC iPlayer tonight (Saturday 30 August) at 10pm, viewers can relax and unwind with presenters and close friends, Vicky Kilgour and Duncan MacDonald, as the pair embark on a wellbeing journey, sampling saunas and wellness activities along Scotland’s west coast – from Argyll to Duncan’s homeland on the Isle of Skye.
Sona – meaning ‘happy’ in Scottish Gaelic – uncovers friendship, open conversations and finding the path to true personal wellbeing through this growing wellness movement.
From boosting cardiovascular health to reducing stress, saunas are increasingly recognised as a tonic for supporting both the body and the mind. And with Finland, Denmark, Iceland and Sweden recently ranked as the world’s happiest nations in The World Happiness Report 2025, all having saunas at the centre of their daily lives, Vicky and Duncan explore whether Scotland can find its own version of health and happiness in this funny, heartfelt, honest and at times, moving series.
Along their quest to find ultimate contentment, sauna evangelist Vicky shares her happy place with her friend Duncan – a sauna novice and someone whose happy-go-lucky nature and endless curiosity mean he is always looking for the next thing to get obsessed about.
In the first episode, Vicky takes Duncan out of his comfort zone as the pair travel to Asknish Bay in Argyll and Bute for a chilly dook, before introducing him to her favourite local sauna. Keen to keep up the wellness adventure, the pair also try out mud baths and salt scrubs with inspiring locals who embody the wellbeing lifestyle.
As their journey continues up the west coast, Vicky and Duncan take on more holistic activities, including yoga and reiki, as well as embracing outdoor pursuits such as kayaking in the waters surrounding Skye, and even gorging, all in search of inner peace.
Both from different backgrounds and generations, Duncan and Vicky’s unlikely friendship is the centrepiece of Sona. Having been close friends for many years, they will talk about everything and anything, nothing is off limits.
The pair have helped each through some of life’s toughest moments, and are now supporting each other on their wellness journey.
Presenter, Vicky Kilgour said: “Scotland has loads of wild saunas and wellness resources and I am on a mission to try them all in the hope of finding happiness with my close pal, Duncan.
“Sauna culture has truly taken hold here in Scotland, especially along our coasts where wild swimmers use them as a way to warm up after a cool dip.
“In this new series, we’re discovering that saunas are offering people a way to come together, recharge, and embrace healthier lifestyles.”
Duncan MacDonald added: “Although I was a bit sceptical at first, I have now truly embraced the wellness journey after exploring sauna spots along the west coast of Scotland with Vicky.
“From the sense of calm after a session to the way it lifts your mood, it’s amazing how something as simple as sitting in a hot container can have such a big impact on your health and happiness.
“Viewers looking to embrace the sauna culture – hats and all – might be surprised by just how good it makes them feel.”
Sona will premiere exclusively on BBC iPlayer on Saturday 30 August from 10pm.
Marking 175 years since Prince Albert laid the foundation stone of the National on 30 August 1850, the National Galleries of Scotland has shared its fascinating original building plans.
The National is an iconic part of the Edinburgh cityscape we know today, but the building itself could have been very different! One plan in particular by Robert. F. Gourlay from 1850 even shows underground baths and plunge pools incorporated beneath the gallery.
The drawing, held in the Historic Environment Scotland collection, shows the elevation of the terrace and plan of the basement, the same area where the National Galleries of Scotland opened the Scottish galleries at the National in September 2023.
You might be right in thinking that the condensation from swimming baths would not work well in an art gallery, but it was considered during the initial planning phase for the building.
The plan shows separate male and female plunge pools, baths and dressing rooms, as well as ‘lodgings for the keeper of the women’s and men’s baths’. The male and female areas would be separated by a 7ft wall and all the pools would be heated.
This is just one of many plans that were created ahead of the building of the National, alongside designs by the likes of Royal Scottish Academy treasurer, Thomas Hamilton. It was Scottish architect William Henry Playfair who was eventually commissioned to prepare final designs for the iconic National building we know and love today.
Playfair’s building – like its neighbour, the Royal Scottish Academy, also designed by him – was designed in the form of an ancient Greek temple. More than any other architect, Playfair was responsible for Edinburgh earning its reputation as ‘The Athens of the North’.
However, it took nearly five years to officially appoint Playfair as the architect following arguments between the members of the Board and the Royal Scottish Academy around what the building should look like.
Others also believed it shouldn’t be built at all and would only destroy the natural beauty of the city centre. During this limbo period many architects drafted their own suggestions for how they envisioned Scotland’s national gallery, including swimming baths.
Even once appointed, Playfair’s original plans differed from the building we recognise today. Originally, he set to build towers at the corners of the transverse central block, but these were abandoned during the project due to financial concerns. In fact Playfair was instructed by the Treasury to keep any kind of ornament to a minimum, because of financial stringency.
The concerns around cost weren’t the only restrictions put on Playfair’s design. He also faced town planning concerns. The council requested that Playfair ensured that the building blended into its naturally beautiful setting and did not detract from the rugged grandeur of the Castle Rock.
In fact the lack of grandeur left Lord Rutherford, a member of the Board and leading champion of the Royal Scottish Academy, to say say ‘I feel surethat the architecture of this building will be too simple and pure to captivate the multitude, but I am certain I follow the right path in what I am doing and so am content.’
150 years on the National gallery stands as an iconic building in Edinburgh’s landscape and last year certainly ‘captivated the multitude’, with a record-breaking year, welcoming nearly two million visitors.
By 1850 the Treasury were so intent on speeding up the execution of the building that Playfair was permitted to begin work before his contract drawings were completed. However, this encountered its own issues when the Board found its hand forced in the matter of the foundation ceremony.
The Lord Provost of Edinburgh, Sir William Johnstone, issued a personal invitation to Prince Albert during his presentation in London.
The Prince was incredibly keen to attend and even suggested that the Royal family would break their long journey to Balmoral at Holyrood. However, this left only a few weeks to finalise plans for the ceremony and posed a certain embarrassment since the foundations had not even been cut.
This massively expedited the process and by August 30, 1850, Edinburgh society gathered to witness the laying of the foundation stone, followed by celebrations.
The National opened nine years after the first stone was laid, with Prince Albert giving a moving speech in which he hailed the Playfair-designed building as a “temple erected to the Fine Arts”.
The building was officially opened on 24 March 1859. When the National was first opened to the public it had later opening hours on Saturday and Wednesday evenings so that working people could have the chance to view the national art collection.
The original founders of the National gallery seemed to agree with what we know now – that art can transform lives by supporting health and wellbeing, self-expression and social skills.
Anne Lyden, Director-General of the National Galleries of Scotland, said: “It is fascinating to look back on these old plans from 175 years ago and see where we started and where we are now.
“While the building stands true to its original design on the outside, we have continued to adapt inside, making Scotland’s world-class collection of art more accessible than ever before.
“We continue to hold those ideals of the original founders, that art can be transformative to people’s health and wellbeing.
“We put this at the heart of everything we do, with the galleries free-to-visit 7 days a week and ensuring we make art work for everyone.
“We also continue to grow the visitor experience at the National. In 2023 we opened the Scottish galleries at the National, transforming the visitor experience with 12 new breath-taking accessible spaces dedicated to showcasing the very best historic Scottish art.
“Whether exploring the galleries with friends, stopping off in the café, or entertaining the family with new trails, audio guides and events, there is something for everyone to discover at the National… although maybe not swimming pools!”
TOMORROW at granton:hub MADELVIC HOUSE from 1 – 2.30pm
Join us this Sunday 31st August at 1pm for the Quiet Heroes portrait photography exhibition by Chris McCluskie.
Join us at granton:hub for a captivating display of images that celebrate everyday heroes. Community organisations from across North Edinburgh nominated the folk who keep the community together, without asking for anything back. Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired and uplifted by the stories behind each image. See you there!
Date: August 31, 2025 at 1:00 PM
About photographer Chris McCluskie:
Winner of the Scottish Press Photography Awards – Sports Feature
Scottish Press Photography Awards – Placed Third Overall
National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Monkeys: Our Primate Family Until 30 Nov 10:00-17:00 Ticketed
See some of the rarest and most endangered primates on Earth in Monkeys: Our Primate Family at the National Museum of Scotland. This exhibition explores the remarkable lives of our primate relatives and demonstrates how they have adapted to survive in different habitats. The exhibition brings together more than 50 species of monkeys, apes, lemurs and lorises.
Cold War Scotland Until 4 Jan 2026 10:00 – 17:00 Free
Scotland’s unique geography and topography provided a useful base for Allied military preparations and research during the Cold War, a 40-year nuclear stand-off between the USA and the Soviet Union following the end of the Second World War. Cold War Scotland is an output of Materialising the Cold War, a collaborative research project between National Museums Scotland and the University of Stirling. The project explores how the Cold War heritage is represented and how museums can adapt to tell this story in future. The exhibition will explore both the visible and invisible legacies of the war in Scotland.
National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Audio Descriptive Tour: Monkeys: Our Primate Family 3 September Special Exhibition Gallery, Level 3 17:30-19:00
Join our tour guide for an audio descriptive tour of Monkeys: Our Primate Family, with accompanying sensory resources and a chance to explore the exhibition after hours. This tour is aimed at blind, partially sighted and visually impaired visitors. It is most suitable for those ages 14+.
Relaxed Morning 7 Sep 10:00-12:00 (quiet space open until 12:30) Free admission, drop-in
Join us for our monthly Relaxed Morning for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum.
This session is primarily for, but not limited to, families with autistic children; autistic young people and adults; adults living with dementia; adults and children with mental health problems and any other visitors with sensory needs or who may prefer a more relaxed experience, plus their families, friends and carers.
Friendly staff will be there to give you a warm welcome and support your visit, as you explore some areas of the museum without noisy interactives and videos to give a more relaxed environment.
Relaxed Morning: Monkeys: Our Primate Family 7 Sep 10:00 – 12:00 (Quiet space open until 12:30) Special Exhibition Gallery 1 Tickets from £13
Join us for our monthly Relaxed Morning for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the exhibition. During this time some ambient sounds will be turned down and visitor numbers will be reduced.
A sensory backpack will also be available from the front desk to support your visit.
Legends, Myths and Maths: A Journey Through Scotland 28 Sep 11:00-12:00 Auditorium Level 1 Free, booking required
Join author David Macphail to explore the myths, legends, wildlife and landscapes of Scotland, with hidden maths. A fun and interactive talk for families presented by Maths Week Scotland.
In Conversation: Peter Ross and Fraser Hunter 28 Sep 15:00-16:00 Auditorium Level 1 Tickets from £7.50
Join author Peter Ross in conversation with Dr Fraser Hunter, Principal Curator of Prehistoric and Roman Archaeology, as they discuss Peter’s new book. ‘Upon A White Horse: Journeys in Ancient Britain and Ireland’ (due to be published on 11 Sep 2025) explores the enduring mystery of ancient sites and objects and considers the ways in which they continue to hold significance for people now.
The book includes a number of items in National Museums Scotland’s collections, including the strange and fascinating Ballachulish Figure.
Creative Workshop: An Introduction to Drawing Scottish Wildlife 4 Oct 11:00-16:00 Tickets from £45
Take a fresh look at our Scottish wildlife collections. These informal creative workshops will focus on helping you to better understand and engage with these fascinating animals in new ways. Using pencils, artist Meg Buick will teach you how to create various textures and marks to depict the animal world.
Spotlight On: Monkeys: Our Primate Family 7 Oct 14:00-15:00 £3, £2 Members & Conc.
Join exhibition curator, Dr Andrew Kitchener, to learn how research into our primate collections is shaping our understanding of the biology and conservation of monkey species around the world today.
The first exhibition of its kind to show primates behaving as they would in the wild, ‘Monkeys: Our Primate Family’ brings together more than 50 taxidermy specimens, including monkeys, apes, lemurs and lorises.
National Museum of Rural Life Philipshill Road, East Kilbride, G76 9HR Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Dog and Duck Day 13 Sep 10:30 –15:30 Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
Join us for a fun-filled day of working dog displays, crafts and family storytelling at the National Museum of Rural Life. See clever canines at work in outdoor displays from the Drakes of Hazard sheepdog and duck team and specialist dog trainers, Mordor Gundogs.
This full-day workshop with natural dyer and textile artist Elisabeth Viguie-Culshaw is suitable for both beginners and those with some natural dyeing or eco printing experience.
Relaxed Afternoon: National Museum of Rural Life 30 Sep 14:30-17:00 Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
Join us for our monthly Relaxed Afternoon for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum. This session is primarily for, but not limited to, families with neurodivergent children; neurodivergent young people and adults; adults living with dementia; adults and children with mental health problems; and any other visitors with sensory needs or who may prefer a more relaxed experience, plus their families, friends and carers.
National Museum of Flight East Fortune Airfield, East Lothian, EH39 5LF Open Weekends only, 10:00–16:00
360 Fest 6 Sept 10:00-17:00 Tickets from £13.50, book in advance to save
Go full circle at our big family event at the National Museum of Flight. You’ll be on a roll this September with our all round family fun event. From stunt shows and pedal-powered activities to interactive sessions and STEM science, there’s something to set everyone’s head spinning.
October Half Term: Make Do and Mend 11 Oct-19 Oct Drop-in daily from 10:00-15:00
Try knitting, repairing and re-using clothes, following advice from a Second World War publication. Make Do and Mend was a government campaign during the Second World War to teach people how to repair and reuse existing clothing to help them get through the clothing shortage. During October half term, take part in family activities that will introduce you to some of these skills.
Conservation Hangar Talks Until 29 Mar 2026 14:00-15:00 Free and available as an add-on to your general admission ticket. Booking required.
Join a member of our Visitor Experience team for a behind-the-scenes look in our Conservation hangar on a free daily talk at 14:00. Find out about objects from the collection that aren’t normally on display and have the chance to see conservators at work.
A highly anticipated public art installation that celebrates the people and activities which make up Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh has been officially unveiled in Musselburgh.
Staff, students, East Lothian residents and members of the QMU community, who each played a part in bringing the artwork to life, were the first to catch a glimpse of the unique sculpture at an official unveiling ceremony on 28 August.
Commissioned to mark the 150th anniversary of Queen Margaret University, the installation takes centre stage in the grounds of the University’s campus. Made possible by donations from the QMU community, it is now a permanent feature available for all to enjoy.
Artist and Musselburgh resident, Martha Ellis, was selected from a pool of applicants to create the final piece – she engaged in extensive research to ensure the QMU community was reflected in her design.
Martha said: “It’s been an exciting challenge to create an artwork that represents the unique character of Queen Margaret University.
“I wanted to capture the people and spirit of QMU – past, present, and future. Through in-depth research, participation in local events, and meaningful engagement with the community, I discovered the many inspiring stories and vibrant personalities that define the University, I’ve woven these together to create a piece that I hope will resonate with viewers, inviting them to see themselves, or someone they know, reflected in its characters.
Seeing the raw and real reactions at the unveiling made me feel like I’ve more than achieved my aim.
“It’s been so rewarding seeing this project come together over the last year. My hope is that it sparks curiosity, conversation, and a sense of belonging for everyone who sees it.”
The vision for a commemorative artwork marking QMU’s 150th anniversary first emerged three years ago.
After careful discussion in the University about the form, location, and process, a public competition was launched, attracting dozens of imaginative submissions – from striking wall murals and sculpted benches, to a recycled-materials shelter and a statue fashioned from oversized kitchen utensils paying tribute to QMU’s roots as a cookery school.
Following a rigorous selection process, a committee including QMU staff and students unanimously chose the design proposed by Martha. Her concept stood out for its ability to capture the spirit of the University’s community – its students, staff, alumni, and partners – who have shaped QMU over the past 150 years.
Martha Ellis is a talented visual artist with a passion for showcasing a ‘sense of place’ in her signature sheet metal ‘laser cut-out’ designs – the style employed for the artwork at QMU. This piece is one of her first public commissions.
Sir Paul Grice, Principal of QMU, said: “One of the things that Queen Margaret University really prides itself on is its sense of community. And it is this strong sense of community and belonging which many people say sets us apart from other universities.
“As we approached our 150th anniversary celebrations, we decided that we wanted to create something on campus – a physical embodiment of the institution that represents what QMU stands for.
“This artwork provides an opportunity to reflect on the rich tapestry of people, stories, and experiences that have shaped QMU over the years. It is a testament to the power of collaboration and to the deep connections we share as a university.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Martha for her extraordinary vision and talent, to everyone who contributed to this project, and to our donors, whose generosity made it possible.
“Together, you’ve helped create a piece of art that will not only celebrate our heritage but will also serve as a lasting symbol of QMU’s commitment to creativity, innovation, and community.”
The official unveiling celebration brought together staff, students, donors and friends of the University for a drinks reception in QMU’s recently refurbished Learning Resource Centre.
Guests also enjoyed a small exhibition of laser-cut drawings that Martha created during her design process and a film documenting the installation’s development, followed by the unveiling itself, outside on campus grounds.
Martha; Professor Richard Butt, Deputy Principal of QMU; Gordon Mackenzie, Head of Strategic Planning and Policy Development and convener of the Public Art Committee; and Professor David Stevenson, Dean of the School of Arts, Social Sciences and Management, were joined by the two Presidents of QMU’s Students’ Union to officially reveal the artwork to excited onlookers, while Ollie Kemp from the Prestonlodge Pipe Band delighted guests with his performance of ‘Scotland The Brave’ to help mark the celebration.
The creation of the public artwork forms part of the QMU150 programme of activities marking the 150th anniversary of the founding of the institution now known as Queen Margaret University.
More than 40 people hospitalised following suspected use of unlicensed botulinum toxin products
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is warning criminals that they face prison as it cracks down on the illicit trade in unlicensed botulinum toxin products, commonly referred to as Botox, used in cosmetic procedures.
The MHRA’s Criminal Enforcement Unit has launched a number of criminal investigations following a spike in hospital admissions believed to be linked to the use of unlicensed botulinum toxin products.
Between 4 June and 6 August 2025, 41 confirmed cases of botulism – a rare but potentially life-threatening condition causing paralysis – were reported across several regions in England, including the North East, East Midlands, East of England, North West, and Yorkshire and Humber.
The Criminal Enforcement Unit has seen evidence that some sellers and practitioners – often untrained – are obtaining unlicensed botulinum toxin products illegally and offering injections in unsafe, unregulated settings.
The treatments are being delivered in informal settings such as domestic bedrooms and kitchens, hair salons, and through mobile beauty services. Members of the public are often lured in by adverts on social media promising quick, cheap results.
The Criminal Enforcement Unit is investigating the illegal trade in these products. Anyone caught selling or supplying unlicensed botulinum toxin faces up to two years in prison and unlimited fines under the Human Medicines Regulations 2012.
Andy Morling, Head of the MHRA’s Criminal Enforcement Unit, said: “Criminals are exploiting the popularity of cosmetic treatments by peddling dangerous, unlicensed products, putting profit before safety.
“Anyone involved in the supply of unlicensed botulinum toxin – whether through organised networks or informal sales from kitchen tables, hair salons, or via social media – is breaking the law and endangering lives. The 41 individuals we’ve seen between June and August left seriously ill represent the devastating human cost of this trade.
“We are working across the country to identify those responsible, seize illegal products, and bring cases to court. We use the full range of our enforcement powers and techniques to shut down these operations and bring offenders to justice.”
This crackdown is part of the MHRA’s wider work to disrupt illegal botulinum toxin supply. Since May 2023, the Criminal Enforcement Unit, working closely with its partners in Border Force, has seized more than 4,700 vials of unlicensed botulinum toxin both at the border and inland.
Almost all of the seized products originated in South Korea, including brands such as Botulax, reNTox, Innotox, and Toxpia, which are not authorised for sale in the UK.
The Criminal Enforcement Unit also works with social media companies to remove illegal listings and disrupt criminal networks advertising unlicensed botulinum toxin.
Understanding the health risks
Botulism caused by botulinum toxin in cosmetic procedures is rare, but can be life-threatening. Symptoms can take up to four weeks to develop and may include difficulty swallowing, slurred speech and breathing difficulty. In severe cases, patients may require mechanical ventilation and intensive care treatment.
Anyone who has recently received a botulinum toxin treatment and develops any of these symptoms should seek medical help immediately via NHS 111 or emergency services.
Health Minister Stephen Kinnock said: “No one should have to suffer serious illness or risk their life because criminals are flooding the market with unsafe products.
“This government is determined to crack down on cosmetic cowboys who exploit vulnerable consumers seeking cut-price treatments outside suitable medical settings. Through the MHRA’s criminal investigations and our new regulations, we’ll use the full force of the law against those who supply unlicensed medicines.
“I would urge anyone considering a cosmetic procedure to consider the risks and find a reputable, insured, and qualified practitioner.”
MHRA Chief Safety Officer Dr Alison Cave said: ““Public safety is a top priority for the MHRA. Botulinum toxin is a prescription-only medicine and should only be sold or supplied in accordance with a prescription given by an appropriate prescriber such as a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional.
“Buying botulinum toxin in any other circumstances significantly increases the risk of getting a product which is either falsified or not licensed for use in the UK. This means that there are no safeguards to ensure products meet the MHRA’s standards for quality and safety. As such, they can have life-threatening consequences for the people who take them.
“If you are offered botulinum toxin without a medical consultation, in an informal setting, or at a price significantly below usual rates, this should be treated as a warning sign. Lower cost does not mean safe; it may put your health at risk and could lead to hospitalisation.”
How to protect yourself and report concerns
Licensed botulinum toxin products undergo rigorous testing and quality controls to ensure they contain the correct active ingredient at safe concentrations. Legitimate treatments should only be carried out by qualified healthcare professionals in proper clinical settings with appropriate emergency equipment available.
Before any treatment, verify that your practitioner is medically qualified and registered with their professional body. Check that products being used are licensed in the UK by asking to see packaging and checking batch numbers. Be suspicious of unusually cheap prices, treatments offered in domestic settings, or practitioners who cannot provide proper credentials.
The MHRA urges anyone who experiences side effects or complications after a cosmetic procedure to report them via the Yellow Card scheme at:
University tutors to provide help for those who need it most
Tutoring staff from two Scottish universities will be working in classrooms across the country to help engage children and young people in their studies and improve attainment.
Aimed at those impacted most by poverty, the innovative approach will see almost 500 pupils receive extra tutoring support from Queen Margaret University and the University of Glasgow this academic year.
The programme was initially launched as an intervention to provide support for young people who were most affected by the Covid-19 school closures.
This next step, supported by £90,000 from the Scottish Government, will now see the initiative extended to a wider group of young people. This will include specialist one-to-one tuition for pupils, delivered online and in person, with the aim of helping them secure a place in university, training or further study.
The announcement comes as a new survey of almost 1,000 school staff found three-quarters felt the poverty-related attainment gap has narrowed because of the Scottish Government’s flagship Scottish Attainment Challenge (SAC). The programme has now been running for a decade with up to £1.75 billion being invested.
Higher Education Minister @GraemeDeyMSP met Newbattle High School pupils to learn about the help they get through @QMUniversity’s tutoring pilot.
The programme, and a similar one from @UofGlasgow, will receive over £90k in @ScotGov funding this year.
Speaking on a visit to Newbattle High School in Midlothian, which is taking part in the tutoring scheme, Higher and Further Education Minister Graeme Dey said: “Children and young people’s background and upbring must never be a barrier to success in education.
“The Scottish Government is determined to create an even playing field for all, both in schools and in securing places in higher education.
“The work that is being taken forward by the Queen Margaret and Glasgow universities is ensuring that more pupils impacted by poverty are engaged and supported with their studies. This will help them to maximise their potential and go on to a positive future.
“This is an excellent example of innovation in Scottish education, which compliments the work of our Scottish Attainment Challenge. Through this and other measures, we are doing all we can to eradicate child poverty; our schools are playing a key role in achieving that ambition – from delivering free school meals and clothing banks to after-school study clubs and this tutoring programme.”
Principal of Queen Margaret University, Sir Paul Grice, said: “We are delighted to see this powerful package of support being put in place, based on our pioneering, and award winning, tutoring project, which was developed by QMU and East Lothian Council during the pandemic with funding from the STV Children’s Appeal and local supporters.
“Over the last five years, this tried and tested model has helped thousands of senior school pupils in East and Midlothian keep up or re-engage with learning, so they are supported to reach their potential in life.
“By recognising the impact of this important project and supporting its expansion, the Scottish Government is ensuring young people get the extra help they require to succeed during a crucial stage in their learning journey, which will ultimately shape their future life outcomes.”
Professor Rachel Sandison, Deputy Vice Chancellor, External Engagement, at the University of Glasgow, said: “Education has the power to transform lives, and it is vital that every young person has the chance to thrive, no matter their circumstances.
“By working with schools across Scotland, the University of Glasgow is helping to break down barriers to learning and give pupils the extra support they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond. We are delighted to see this programme grow and to play our part in tackling the attainment gap.”
