Find where you can get more medication when your medicine supplies have run out.
NHS inform’s accessing medicines self-help guide will help to decide whether you need to contact your GP practice or pharmacy for more medication. The guide can be used for information about prescription and non-prescription medication.
The amount of vacant and derelict land in Scotland has fallen by more than a quarter since 2016 according to the latest annual survey.
Of 335 sites brought back into use in 2024, 192 – more than half – were reclaimed for housing.
Welcoming the figures, Public Finance Minister Ivan McKee said: “Redevelopment of vacant and derelict land for housing or businesses can turn an under-utilised asset into productive use and reduce the need for greenfield development.
“Reuse of vacant and derelict land can stimulate economic growth, create jobs, promote environmental justice and improved quality of life, and help to support communities to flourish and tackle inequalities.
“Our Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme has been a driver of this progress, with £36.5 million invested in 2021-22 which has resulted in a cumulative total of 468 hectares of vacant and derelict land being brought back into use.
“The fund will continue over the current year, and 11 projects will be supported by over £9.5 million of funding from this Programme in 2025/26.”
Link to survey results www.gov.scot/isbn/9781806431403
POLICE have arrested a number of people, executed several warrants and recovered a significant amount of drugs in the Hailesland area of Edinburgh.
Acting on concerns from within the community, numerous patrols were carried out and action taken between Friday, 1 August and Thursday, 18 August, 2025.
Cocaine and cannabis with a street value of up to £74,400 was recovered after a warrant was executed in Hailesland Grove. A 21-year-old man and a 21-year-old woman were arrested and charged in connection.
Six vehicles involved in criminal activity were seized, 20 stop and searches carried out and five outstanding arrest warrants executed. As a result six people have been charged with a total of 32 offences.
Chief Inspector Niven Bull, local area commander, said: “This result shows we will use every tool and tactic at our disposal to trace those committing crimes in our communities.
“We continue to carry out regular activity in the Wester Hailes area and would like to thank the local community for the information they have provided.
“We will continue to work with a range of partners to develop and deliver tailored plans to detect, deter and respond to crimes reported and information received.
“Anyone with information or concerns should speak to officers or call Police Scotland via 101. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.
“I’d like to thank the public once again for their cooperation in working to make the area safer for all.”
Big Wig, the big furry blue creature who lives in the woods near Wigtown, is heading into town for his annual festival of children’s literature and storytelling.
The event, which runs from 27 September to 5 October as part of the annual Wigtown Book Festival, is designed to delight and inspire the youngest readers.
Most of the events are at the town’s primary school and nearly a third are free.
This year the Big Wig Children’s Festival includes the chance to meet the amazing Rose Reilly, the only Scottish footballer to have won a world cup final.
She’ll be telling the remarkable story of how she had to pretend to be a boy to be allowed into a team and was later banned from playing in her home country, before going to Italy and becoming a world cup winner.
Rosie’s story is just one of 30 featured in the book Spectacular Scottish Women and the event is among more than 30 in the Big Wig line-up.
Others include a reading by the award-winning Philip Ardagh and illustrator David Melling of their latest colourful creation Do You See The Tiger? in which it takes something quite spectacular to happen before grown-ups believe there is a stripey big cat on the subway.
Then there are immersive storytelling experiences with Scottish-based Fidan Meikle who introduces her debut novel My Name is Samim which follows the story of a boy forced from his homeland and trying to build a new life in a strange foreign country.
Fidan looks at why people end up as refugees and the ordeals they face as well as reinforcing how empathy and kindness are superpowers we all possess.
Michaela Morgan brings together the themes of refugee life and women’s football with her book Star!
It tells the true story of Nadia Nadim’s escape from Afghanistan through to her arrival in a country where she had no idea of the language, and on to her rise to become a world-famous soccer-player, doctor (and surgeon), a linguist, a broadcaster and a role model.
Anne Barclay, Operations Director, said: “One of the biggest gifts we can give young people is a love of reading. It transforms lives, gives huge pleasure and makes a massive difference to their prospects in life.
“That’s what the Big Wig children’s events are all about – they are bright, fun and inspiring.
“So it’s always a big day for us when Big Wig himself comes out of hibernation, leaves his den in the woods and heads into Scotland’s National Book Town to get ready for the annual festival named in his honour.
“And we know that lots of children out there can’t wait to head into Wigtown to meet him and all the authors and illustrators he’s invited to join us.”
And there’s so much more:
THE City Art Centre opens a new exhibition TODAY (Saturday) celebrating Scottish portraiture 
Unmasked: Exploring Scottish Portraiture showcases a rich selection of historic and contemporary portraits from the City Art Centre’s renowned collection of Scottish art.
Over 30 different artists feature in the exhibition, including FCB Cadell, Victoria Crowe, Pat Douthwaite, Joan Eardley, David Eustace, George Jamesone, Dorothy Johnstone, John Kay, Sekai Machache, James Pittendrigh MacGillivray, Flannery O’kafka, Henry Raeburn, Allan Ramsay and Maud Sulter.
Portraiture is an age-old artform with a seemingly simple purpose: to record the likeness of a human subject. Yet the enduring appeal of portraiture lies in its complexity. Behind every portrait is a series of stories – interwoven narratives about the sitter, the artist, and the circumstances that brought them together.
Unmasked: Exploring Scottish Portraiture examines this fascinating genre in depth, with a series of highlights from the City Art Centre’s collection. The exhibition spans almost 400 years of artistic production, with examples of painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking and photography.
Among the stand-out historical artworks are Allan Ramsay’s celebrated portrait Katherine Hall of Dunglass (c.1736), James Cadenhead’s sumptuous oil painting Lady with Japanese Screen and Goldfish (1886) and Scottish Colourist FCB Cadell’s masterpiece The Black Hat (1914).
Modern and contemporary highlights include Pat Douthwaite’s vibrant homage to Amy Johnson Final Instructions Before Take-Off (1976), Maud Sulter’s impactful self-portrait Calliope (1989) and Sekai Machache’s exploration of symbolism and identity A Hint of Blue I and II (2021).
Curator Dr Helen Scott said: “Portraiture is such a compelling, multi-layered artform. Whether you’re looking at portraits that have been commissioned to publicly commemorate peoples’ lives and achievements, or private portrayals of friends and loved ones that give glimpses into personal relationships, there are so many stories to uncover.
“I’m really looking forward to sharing new research findings with our visitors. We have, for example, recently discovered fresh information regarding a rare 18th century miniature portrait of Bonnie Prince Charlie.
“And we’ll be displaying a number of new acquisitions for the first time, including artworks by Milein Cosman, David Eustace, George Jamesone, John Henry Lorimer and Flannery O’kafka.
“The exhibition celebrates Scotland’s rich tradition of portraiture, but it also demonstrates how absolutely relevant the genre remains today.
Culture and Communities Convener Cllr Margaret Graham, said: “I am delighted that ‘Unmasked’ will be presented at the City Art Centre from this month.
“With both historic and contemporary works on display, ‘Unmasked’ highlights the enduring power of portraiture to tell personal, political and cultural stories. Showcasing the work of over 30 artists and spanning 400 years of artistic production including painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking and photography, visitors will be able to view old favourites and discover new treasures and the fascinating stories behind the works.
Unmasked: Exploring Scottish Portraiture opens on Saturday 13 September 2025, and continues until 31 May 2026. Admission is free.
Pictured: Curator Helen Scott, with A Hint of Blue I and II Digital Photographic Print by Sekai Machache
TOMORROW (Sunday 14 September) our 2025 team – Anne, Claire, Donald, Finn, Harvey, Julia, Maureen, Oliver, Tom, Trish and Sarah – are taking on the Kiltwalk to turn miles into meals!
Every £5 that you sponsor is a healthy meal pack cooked, packed and delivered to a person in need – alongside wellbeing and referral support.
Everyone deserves to know where their next meal is coming from. You can take away that worry from a person or family today.
To support the team, click here: https://emptykitchens.enthuse.com/cf/kiltwalk-2025
New research by our office, SAMH & Young Scot shows not enough is being done on mental health.
The Scottish Government accepted Youth Commission on Mental Health Services recommendations, but 6 years on, lack of transparency means young people feel little progress & change.
Read more: http://bit.ly/3KhwSUD
Mindroom is celebrating a series of extraordinary fundraising activities, led by co-founder Robin Dow, who, at 81 and recently diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, has already raised a huge £70,000 following his 25-mile walk from Mindroom’s Leith office to Tantallon Castle.
Robin’s epic walk is homage to the charity’s 25-year journey since he co-founded it with author, journalist and wife, Sophie Dow, on 2 August 2000. ‘A Mile for Every Year,’ which was expected to raise £50,000.
Reflecting on the experience, Robin Dow commented: “People are enormously generous, and we are incredibly grateful. The substantial amount we have already raised reflects countless small and large contributions coming together.
“The fact that so many people have responded and actively engaged shows that we not only have wonderful families and friends, but also that, in Mindroom, we have a very worthwhile charity.”
Adrian Astley-Jones – specialist in private equity tech advisory and Non-Executive Director for Mindroom – will also soon join the fundraising efforts with his own epic swim, inspiring colleagues and supporters to rally behind the cause.
On the 14th and 15th of September, Adrian will step out of his comfort zone and embark on a big challenge with three close friends, when he attempts to swim across the 3rd largest ocean whirlpool, The Gulf of Corryvreckan, located around 3 miles out from mainland Scotland’s West Coast, and deemed ‘unnavigable’ by the Royal Navy.
Commenting on the challenge ahead, Adrian adds: “Passion and commitment are part of the work we do with the Mindroom’s community.
“We have one goal, and that is to offer as much direct support as we can and make a difference to real people. I will certainly do my very best to contribute as much as possible to this very important mission. Every stroke counts!”
Adrian’s fundraising challenge carries a deeply personal meaning, as he has chosen to split donations between two causes close to his heart: Mindroom and Dementia UK.
CEO for Mindroom, Alan Thornburrow, will also be pushing fundraising efforts even further when he takes on the Loch Ness Marathon on Sunday, 28 September.
Talking about the joint fundraising efforts and the team spirit, Alan said: “Participating in the Loch Ness Marathon is more than a personal challenge…It’s an opportunity to channel energy into meaningful change.
“I’m proud to contribute every step of the way.
“Powered by individuals’ efforts and public generosity, Mindroom’s support has been growing steadily since I began as CEO in 2022, and our fundraising feats will benefit people directly, with donations translated into both the future of the charity and the development of new and expanded services, offering tangible support.
“This is why we do what we do, to inspire real change!”
To donate to the three individual fundraising efforts, the links are:
Cineworld is excited to announce the return of 4DX Rewind this September across Cineworld 4DX cinemas nationwide. From Friday, September 19 to Thursday, October 2, film fans and families alike can enjoy the ultimate immersive experience from just £5.99 per film or FREE for Unlimited members.
Available only at Cineworld, 4DX is a thrilling multisensory experience, featuring motion-synchronised seats, gusts of wind, sprays of water, aromatic scents, bubbles, fog and strobe lighting, bringing every scene to life in the comfort of your seat.
Audiences can experience the excitement of multi-sensory cinema during this exclusive two-week celebration, showcasing some of the most exciting films that 4DX has to offer. This includes two blockbusters screening in 4DX for the very first time in the UK – smash hit Frozen will make you feel every icy gust of magic while 90s classic Jumanji will capture the adrenaline rush of the adventure with moving seats.
The full list of films available to watch include:
Casey Cohen, VP of International Marketing at Cineworld, said: “We’re thrilled to bring back 4DX Rewind this year. There’s nothing like a 4DX experience which is why we’re excited to be screening such a wide range of films this year, including two epic films never seen before in 4DX with Frozen and Jumanji.
“4DX really makes you feel every spark of magic, every monsoon lashing down rain, and every single adventure. It’s perfect for a family day out or for fans looking to experience their favourite films in a whole new way.”
Tickets for the first week of 4DX Rewind are available now via the Cineworld website and Cineworld app, with further tickets to follow.
#4DXRewind
A historic street, a climate conscious zoo, an inspiring festival, an inclusive visitor attraction and two tourism champions have been crowned Edinburgh’s best at Scotland’s top tourism and events industry awards.
Six businesses and individuals from the city received awards at the Central and East of Scotland Thistle Awards regional final at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) on Thursday night (11 September).
For over 30 years, the Scottish Thistle Awards, this year with new headline sponsor Abbey: The Destination Experts, have showcased individual businesses, people and partnership working.
They have become an annual celebration of excellence, collaboration, and innovation within one of the country’s most important sectors. Past winners credit the awards with boosting their business, increasing enquiries, and inspiring staff.
Delivered by VisitScotland, in partnership with regional awards programmes, the Scottish Thistle Awards combines five regional awards and a national final.
Winners from across the Capital include:
Edinburgh Zoo, who took home two awards – Best Visitor Attraction and Climate Action Award, which celebrates businesses making significant progress towards net zero.
Judges praised the popular attraction for its environmental sustainability practices and supportive work environment.
Ben Supple, Deputy Chief Executive, Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, said: “We are incredibly proud that Edinburgh Zoo has been named the best visitor attraction in Central and East Scotland.
“Nature needs us all more than ever and we want everyone who visits the zoo to learn more about our natural world and how they can protect wildlife.
“Everyone at Edinburgh Zoo is dedicated to protecting nature, tackling climate change and saving wildlife.
“It is wonderful that the sustainability activities and innovations at the zoo have been recognised with the climate action award too, including the installation of our new solar meadow.”
The Real Mary King’s Close was also a double winner, scooping both Employer of the Year and Individual of the Year – General Manager Paul Nixon.
The historic street sits beneath the Royal Mile, where guests explore authentically preserved 17th-century streets on immersive, one-hour tours led by costumed guides.
Paul, who also chairs the Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions (ASVA), said: “We’re incredibly proud to be recognised as Employer of the Year. This award reflects the passion, care and creativity of our brilliant team — the heart of everything we do.
“From wellbeing to development, we’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, supported and inspired.”
And reflecting on his personal accomplishment, Paul added: “It’s an incredible honour to be named Tourism Individual of the Year. I’m fortunate to work in an industry that’s all about people — their stories, experiences and communities.
“This award reflects the brilliant teams I’ve worked with and the passion that drives us all to keep making Scotland’s tourism offer world-class.”
Edinburgh International Book Festival won the award for Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival, sponsored by STV.
The category recognises the outstanding cultural events and festivals that are part of Scotland’s tourism offering.
The Edinburgh International Book Festival is a charity which celebrates and shares the power of writers, their ideas, and the words they craft to illuminate, challenge, and inspire.
Held in the heart of the city at the Edinburgh Futures Institute, each August it presents almost 700 events featuring writers and thinkers from around the world.
As well as children and families, young adults, adults, and schools programmes, the festival brings writers into community settings such as libraries, hospitals and prisons, and streams events online.
Jenny Niven, Director & CEO, Edinburgh International Book Festival, said: “We’re honoured to be recognised for our work bringing authors and audiences together through a shared love of books, ideas, and conversation.
“This win is a testament to the creativity, care, and commitment of our team and the many brilliant partners we collaborate with across Scotland and beyond.”
The Inclusion Award, sponsored by Historic Scotland, was won by Camera Obscura & World of Illusions.
Edinburgh’s oldest visitor attraction earned the judges’ favour through initiatives like sensory backpacks and quiet spaces, and their new virtual tour shows thoughtful consideration and offers reassurance and flexibility for all visitors.
These showed their commitment to inclusivity – especially for neurodiverse visitors.
General Manager Andrew Johnson said: “We are absolutely thrilled to win this award for Inclusivity.
“It’s a powerful recognition of the commitment our entire team has made to ensure Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is a place where everyone feels welcome, represented, and inspired.”
Finally, The Rising Star Award, sponsored by HIT Scotland was presented to Hugh Mackay from Highland Experience Tours.
Hugh began his career in the tourism industry in 2024. While working with Highland Experience Tours, he has delivered over 200 tours, received more than 150 individual five-star guest reviews, and contributed to a 12% uplift in overall tour ratings for the company.
He has been praised for his leadership, authenticity, and natural charisma, which has made him a standout ambassador for Scottish tourism and a true rising star.
Hugh said: “As a young man from the far north of Scotland, I’m honoured to be recognised in this moment that reflects my commitment to hospitality and tourism, and my passion for showcasing Scotland’s very best to every guest I have the privilege of welcoming on my tours.”
VisitScotland Regional Director Neil Christison said: “A huge well done to all our regional winners for this amazing achievement. Having such strong representation from Edinburgh highlights the quality found across the city.
“Being recognised by the Scottish Thistle Awards, means tourism businesses are considered some of the best in the country. The awards help to ensure that tourism, and the individuals who work in the industry, are praised for the positive impact they bring to the country and our communities.
“I wish everyone the best of luck for the national final in November where they will be representing Edinburgh.”
Responsible tourism is at the heart of the Scottish Thistle Awards, supporting the aim for Scotland to be recognised globally as a leader in this field. Entrants to all categories must evidence how they have embraced best practice covering the four key areas of a low carbon economy, inclusivity, thriving communities and Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage.
Regional winners for Central and East were announced at a ceremony hosted by radio DJ Grant Stott and delivered by VisitScotland, with headline sponsors Abbey: The Destination Experts – part of the Abbey Group, a collection of travel companies specialising in inbound tourism to the UK & Ireland.
Winners from all five regional awards, which also include the West, Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards (HITA) the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards (ACSTA) and the South of Scotland Thistle Awards (delivered in partnership with the South of Scotland Destination Alliance and supported by South of Scotland Enterprise) go on to compete at the Scottish Thistle Award national ceremony in November.
This year’s sponsors also include AccessAble, Fishers, Get Your Guide, Historic Scotland, HIT Scotland, Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA), STV, The Times Scotland and the Scottish Sun.
PICTURES: Connor Mollison/VisitScotland
For a full list of winners, please visit: www.scottishthistleawards.co.uk
