We’re thrilled to welcome author Kent Hung on Wednesday 24th September for a special evening celebrating the release of his third novel, “Stary Stary Night”.
This story concludes his moving trilogy that began with “Letting Go” and “Entitled”—three novels that explore compassion, peace, and the journey of finding closure with the past in order to move forward in life.
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Kent Hung about his writing, the themes behind the trilogy, and what it means to truly heal.
Minister for Mental Wellbeing Tom Arthur says a fall in the number of probable suicides last year makes him more determined to continue expanding and improving prevention work.
Official statistics from National Records of Scotland show the number of probable suicides in 2024 was 704 – a decrease of 11% compared to 2023 and the lowest number since 2017.
Visiting The Neuk mental health crisis centre in Perth, Mr Arthur said: “These figures remind us of how vital it is to support those who are struggling with their mental health.
“Every person lost to suicide is someone’s loved one and when someone takes their own life, the impact on everyone around them is devastating. My sympathy is with all those affected by the loss of a family member or friend through suicide.
“The decline in the number of probable suicides is encouraging, but we will not be complacent. Our aim is for anyone, regardless of age, who has thoughts of taking their own life, or is affected by suicide, to get the help they need.
“Together with COSLA and our partners, Suicide Prevention Scotland, we are driving forward our 10-year Suicide Prevention Strategy to deliver on our ambition to reduce suicide deaths in Scotland.
“At its heart is tackling the underlying factors and inequalities which cause suicide and supporting people most at risk including those living in poverty, middle aged men and those in rural areas.
“We increased our investment in suicide prevention to £2.8 million for the current financial year, meeting our commitment to double the suicide prevention budget in the current parliamentary term.
“We are committed to building a Scotland where everyone feels valued, supported, and connected. We will continue to listen, learn, and act – guided by evidence and compassion.”
Councillor Paul Kelly, COSLA Health and Social Care Spokesperson, said: “Behind these statistics are individuals, families and communities deeply impacted by suicide.
“Local Government and our partners have a vital role in improving mental health and wellbeing across Scotland. We’re committed to enhancing our ongoing suicide prevention efforts to create conditions where no one feels they must take their own life.
“COSLA will continue working with the Scottish Government to deliver our joint ‘Creating Hope Together’ strategy. This includes tackling inequality across all public services – from schools and workplaces to community services.”
Wendy Given, Chief Operational Officer at The Neuk, said: “At The Neuk, we see the ripple effects of suicide every day and we are here to provide a safe, compassionate space where people in crisis are listened to, supported, and shown compassion.
“Services like ours must remain visible, valued, and sustainable, so that hope and connection are always within reach.”
The Neuk’s lead wellbeing mentor Louise McQueen said: “Working at The Neuk is more than a job, it’s being part of a community where every conversation can change a life.
“I’ve seen people walk through our doors at their lowest point and leave with hope. Being able to listen, connect, and support someone in that moment of crisis is a privilege, and it reminds me every day why this place matters.”
Anyone affected by these issues can access support from the following services:
Community Alert: Vehicle Break-Ins in Clermiston & Corstorphine
Police are urging residents in the Clerwood Gardens and Caroline Terrace areas to check their vehicles for any missing belongings. Several vehicle break-ins were reported in the early hours of Monday, 15th September 2025.
If you discover your vehicle has been broken into or find missing items, please:
– Contact 101 and quote incident number 0239 of 15/09/2025
– Provide details of missing items to help match property with owners
To reduce the risk of vehicle crime, always:
– Lock your vehicle doors
– Remove valuables or keep them out of sight
– Park in well-lit or secure areas where possible
Let’s stay vigilant and work together to keep our community safe!
Scottish Government investment sees record number of pupils now in good or satisfactory schools
More children and young people in Scotland than ever before are being educated in schools in good or satisfactory condition, following sustained investment from the Scottish Government in partnership with local authorities.
The latest statistics show the proportion of pupils learning in schools in good or satisfactory condition has increased to 92.5%, up from 92% since 2024.
Since 2019, 14 new schools have opened to pupils as part of the Scottish Government’s £2 billion Learning Estate Investment Programme (LEIP). In 2024-25 alone, 17 school builds or substantial refurbishment projects were completed – 15 primary schools and two secondary schools.
Commenting, Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth said: “All pupils deserve to learn in modern schools that give them the best possible opportunity to maximise their learning.
“These statistics show our ongoing and significant investment in the school estate continues to deliver. The proportion of schools reported as being in “good” or “satisfactory” condition has increased to 92.0% (91.7% in 2024), compared to 62.7% in 2007, when this Government first came to office.
“Through the £2bn LEIP investment, a further three school projects are expected to be completed this year, and we will continue working with COSLA, councils and the Scottish Futures Trust to maximise future improvements in the school estate.”
Currie Community High School, which is one of Scotland’s first Passivhaus secondary schools, is receiving LEIP funding and opened last month.
Headteacher Jenny Hutchison said: ““We have had the most incredible month in our new school. Our new building offers significant benefits for students, staff and community users by providing a modern, flexible, and sustainable learning environment that moves beyond traditional classroom settings.
“The open plan learning plazas and break out spaces support a wider range of teaching and learning approaches and in using them is enhancing the wellbeing of everyone. Young people are helping us make decisions about how best to use these spaces which is fantastic.
“As one of Scotland’s first Passivhaus secondary schools, the design incorporates natural daylight, creating an inspiring and healthy atmosphere. We love the level of visibility in the building where learning can be observed from many angles.
“Our campus is also designed to be a vibrant community hub. The integration of community facilities really continue strengthen our connection with the local area, offering valuable resources to residents whilst also enriching the school environment.
“Our students in particular are enjoying the state-of-the-art sports facilities, outdoor teaching terrace and the debating chamber. This really is the school of dreams with endless possibilities!”
COSLA’s Children and Young People Spokesperson Cllr Tony Buchanan said: “Local Government is investing £1bn through the Learning Estate Improvement Programme (LEIP) alone, this is in addition to the ongoing further investment throughout the estate.
“We are pleased to see that the school estate continues to improve and also contribute to the transition towards net zero. The environment in which children and young people learn is an important contributor to their attainment and school experience, and can be a vital community asset.”
Stephen Long, Senior Associate Director for Learning Estate at the Scottish Futures Trust said: “Scottish Futures Trust and Scottish Government are working in collaboration with Local Authorities through the LEIP initiative to improve learning environments on 47 projects across Scotland.
“Following the successful opening of 5 projects for the new term in August, there are now 14 LEIP schools in operation with a further 16 in construction and 17 in design.
“These new and refurbished facilities will provide inclusive, healthy, comfortable indoor and outdoor places for learners, teachers and communities, while also minimising energy consumption and emissions.”
Youth Stars and Entrepreneur Honoured at Scottish Parliament
The young Edinburgh and West Lothian-based winners honoured for excellence in academics, leadership, and creativity were:
Stem Wizard – Kanav Jain (15, West Calder, West Lothian)
He is a 15-year-old STEM prodigy. A licensed, self-taught drone maker who led a Drone Workshop in Glasgow recently with BYITC. He builds custom drones that help farms, festivals, and local groups.
She is a 17-year-old and has never received less than an A in her academic journey. A gifted artist and resilient fighter, she has overcome multiple health challenges to achieve outstanding results, recently earning the prestigious Naismith Award for best academic performance in her school.
Maths Grandmaster – Alden Arun (12, Edinburgh)
He is a natural maths prodigy and four-time Maths Olympiad winner who has sharpened his skills at BYITC. A Chess Champion, the Clan Chief of his school and a gifted violinist, he has truly proved himself to be a grandmaster.
Dynamic Achiever – Arush Gosain (14, Livingston, West Lothian)
This 14-year-old is a remarkable achiever won the Maths Olympiad in the highest age category and raised £3,000 for River Kids Charity through the YPI event. A brilliant student and prolific writer, his work has been published on multiple websites. He never calls it a day without writing!
Rising Marvel Young Author –Kenisha Jain (14, West Calder)
This brilliant 14-year-old mind has secured the UKMT Gold Award, triumphed in a Robotics Competition at Heriot-Watt University, and is now embarking on her journey as a writer—preparing to publish her first novel.
Tanwi Bhattacharya (Nikkan Dance Academy) – Artistic Visionary of the Year in the new Business Excellence categories.
The Edinburgh winners reflected the diversity and brilliance of the Inspire Awards, spanning academic excellence in STEM and mathematics through to entrepreneurship and the creative arts.
Tanwi Bhattacharya, founder of Nikkan Dance Academy, was singled out for her contribution to dance and cultural innovation, inspiring her students and the wider community. She was celebrated for her performances across India, Scotland, and Europe and for inspiring the next generation.
Dr Rashmi Mantri, founder of BYITC, said the atmosphere in the room was electric: “There was a real buzz on the night – pride, joy, and celebration filled the chamber.
“Our young winners have shown talent, perseverance, and creativity beyond their years, while our business leaders demonstrated vision and innovation that inspire future generations.
“Together, they represent the very best of what Scotland, and the UK, has to offer.”
Alden Arun’s parents said: “Alden’s passion for maths has grown beautifully, and we are so proud of him. His confidence soared with each Olympiad win, and now the INSPIRE Awards have given his confidence a further push!”
2025 Inspire Awards – Children’s Winners:
Academics
Stem Wizard: Kanav Jain (15, West Calder, West Lothian)
2025 Inspire Awards – Business Excellence Winners:
Artistic Visionary of the Year: Tanwi Bhattacharya, Nikkan Dance Academy (Edinburgh) – Dance
Innovation Hero: Krishna Yerra, MillionLogics (London) – IT Industry
Icon of Influence: Sarica (Knowledge Buddy), Knowledge Buddy (London) – Media & PR
Dynamic Leader of the Year: Rishi Harani, Mergify (London) – Financial Advisory
Brilliant Brandmakers: Ali Malik, Awaz FM (Glasgow) – Media & PR
Dr Mantri added: “This year’s Inspire Awards proved that excellence has no age limit. From our youngest winner, just six years old, to our established business leaders, each story we heard was remarkable. These awards are about celebrating achievement, yes, but also about inspiring the next generation to dream bigger and aim higher.”
The Inspire Awards 2025 highlighted not only the incredible achievements of individuals but also the growing spirit of community, innovation, and leadership across the UK.
The judges were: Barry Gunn, lecturer at Clyde College; and Derek Timpany, Associate Dean: Business & Management, City of Glasgow College.
Supporters and sponsors of the event included: Whitebridge Financial Services, Masala Twist, Oakminster Care Homes; and ScottishIndian.com.
Glasgow’s own national treasure, Elaine C. Smith, will take to the stage in the stunning surroundings of the City Chambers on Friday, 24 October 2025, for a one-off evening of laughter, stories, and song, in celebration of Glasgow 850.
‘Elaine C. Smith: Freedom and Fun in the City Chambers’ promises an unforgettable night in one of the city’s most iconic buildings with the performer who gained the Freedom of the City of Glasgow, in March, this year.
Guests will be treated to Elaine’s trademark humour, reflections on her early years, tales from her celebrated career in comedy and acting, and a chance to ask questions in an audience Q&A. The evening will conclude with a musical finale featuring specially selected tracks.
Although tickets are free, a minimum suggested donation of £10 is encouraged to support Glasgow Women’s Aid and the Lord Provost’s Charity Fund for Vulnerable Citizens — two causes close to Elaine’s heart that support people across the city.
Elaine’s has a long-standing connection to Glasgow Women’s Aid that helps women and families rebuild their lives after experiencing domestic abuse by providing essential services including one-to-one and group support, children’s support workers, and help with donations of everyday items such as toiletries and toys.
The Lord Provost’s Fund for Vulnerable Citizens provides grants to relieve poverty, advance education, and provide general support for those in need due to factors like age, illness, disability, or financial hardship, in the city
Elaine said: ”A show in the Banqueting Hall of the City Chambers is not your usual Thursday night gig, is it? It’s a huge honour to perform in front of a home crowd and raise money for worthwhile causes in the city.
“I love Glasgow, and to be able to share stories, laughs, and a few songs with folk in such a stunning building is just magic.”
Lord Provost of Glasgow, Jacqueline McLaren, said: “I’m so pleased that Elaine has been able to fit in this charity evening before her busy Panto season begins.
“She has proved herself more than a worthy recipient of the Freedom of the City Award as part of our Birthday celebrations, and we are proud to host this special event in the heart of our city. Guests are guaranteed to laugh out loud, be moved by Elaine’s stories, and leave inspired by her advocacy for the city and its communities.”
Tickets are limited and must be booked in advance here
Every year, thousands of families face a terrifying crisis. A sudden diagnosis. A life-threatening condition. A desperate need to be close to their child, but nowhere to stay.
The Sick Children’s Trust provides a calm, comforting space for families to be near their critically ill child during the most traumatic time of their lives. A warm bed, a place to cook, and somewhere to rest – all free of charge, just minutes from the hospital.
It costs The Sick Children’s Trust £40 a night to support one family in one of our ten ‘Homes from Home’, and we rely entirely on donations. The reality is that costs are rising, and demand for our homes is growing. That’s why I’m asking your readers to become a Friend of The Sick Children’s Trust by giving £10 a month. Their monthly gift will keep another family together, when they need it most.
The families we support travel an average of 86 minutes to be by their sick child’s bedside. One such family is that of Laura Makin, whose teenage daughter Keisha needed urgent treatment in Newcastle, over 200 miles from their North Wales home. Our Crawford House ‘Home from Home’ became their lifeline, keeping them close to Keisha during months of uncertainty and heartache. Laura said:
“Crawford House quickly became our sanctuary. Being offered a room there meant I could stay close to Keisha while she faced months of intensive treatment. Spending Christmas and Keisha’s 16th birthday in hospital was tough, but the ‘Home from Home’ gave us comfort and normality in the chaos. I could cook meals, talk to other parents, and just breathe. It even gave Keisha a break from the hospital when she came out of isolation – she loved being there, just being a teenager again.
“We stayed in Newcastle for nine months, and Crawford House was with us every step of the way. I’ll never forget the warmth and support we felt. It truly was a lifeline when we needed it most.”
Because people chose to give, Keisha didn’t have to face hospital alone. Now your readers can help another parent, another child, get the comfort and closeness they deserve.
Please visit sickchildrenstrust.org/donate to become a Friend today. Your regular support will help us plan for the future and will make sure our ‘Homes from Home’ are there for the next family in crisis – tomorrow, next month, and for years to come.
Edinburgh born baritone, Arthur Bruce makes Usher Hall debut
Enigma(Solve riddles in music)
Capella Edina
Conductor Luis Schmidt
Soloist Arthur Bruce
Usher Hall, Edinburgh
3pm, 12 October 2025
Edinburgh’s first resident philharmonic orchestra for almost 90 years brings its first annual season to a conclusion with one of the most perplexing pieces of music created, Edward Elgar’s Enigma Variations.
The afternoon concert in the city’s spectacular Usher Hall precedes the Elgar with shorter riddles including Arthur Bliss’s playful work, A Knot of Riddles with Edinburgh born baritone Arthur Bruce joining the orchestra, and Alexandre Desplat’s evocative Suite from The Imitation Game, the haunting musical tribute to the genius of Alan Turing heard in the 2014 feature film.
Bringing more beautiful film music to the concert hall, from the same year, The Theory of Everything brought us the story of another famous scientist, Stephen Hawking with a Golden Globe winning film score by Icelandic composer Jóhann Jóhannsson, heard here in a Suite.
Capella Edina’s composer in residence, James Clay has his third work for the orchestra premiered, Afterland, a work for string orchestra, organ and timpani. It is dedicated to Alan Turing and uses God Save the King, the first music recording ever produced by a computer used by Alan Turing.
Riddles have fascinated humankind for centuries – and none more enduringly than Edward Elgar’s Enigma Variations. “The Enigma I will not explain,” he once wrote about this work which portrays friendship, love, and deep personal reflection.
From thunderous brass to intimate strings, crowned by the voice of the Usher Hall’s majestic organ Elgar’s Enigma promises an incredible finish to Capella Edina’s first season.
Proving that age is just a number, Scottish Building Society hosted Scotland’s largest walking rugby festival last month, bringing together players of all abilities for a celebration of sport, community, and accessible active living.
Delivered in partnership with Edinburgh Rugby on 15 August, the seven-team tournament saw clubs from across Scotland come together to prove that walking rugby can keep people playing the sport they love for longer.
Ayr, Annan, Edinburgh BATS, Kelso, Midlothian Uncoachables, Murrayfield and Strathmore all participated in the event fielding both male and female teams, with the oldest male player being 85.
The tournament was held during a memorable day at the home of Edinburgh Rugby.
Walking Rugby follows a similar format to traditional rugby except there is no sprinting, meaning passing accuracy and positioning are key.
It is a more accessible game as tackling is a much lesser part of the game and requires greater tactical knowledge. The format is growing in popularity with former players who still want to play the game but are older or are unable to partake in full Participants were also joined by Oliver Duncan from the Edinburgh Rugby Academy, who shared his expertise with the players.
Oliver Duncan, Edinburgh Rugby Academy, said:“It’s great to see people of all ages across Scotland come together for the love of the game.
“Walking rugby can really help older players, or those less able, to enjoy the game for longer and help communities stay fit. ”
Speaking following the tournament, Lindsey Kyle from Annan Walking Rugby, said: “Making connections, being out in the fresh air, interacting with others and staying active for as long as possible is so important form a physical health and a mental health perspective.”
Paul Denton, CEO, Scottish Building Society said: “Walking rugby is one of the fastest growing sports in Scotland because it can be played by such a wide range of ages and abilities.
“Through our partnership with Edinburgh Rugby, we’re proud to champion inclusivity and give back to communities in meaningful ways. Programmes like these show that rugby truly is a game for everyone.
“This tournament shows that age is just a number, and we hope events like this encourage more people to take up the sport and see that regardless of ability, mobility or age- rugby has a place for you.”
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Kent Hung about his writing, the themes behind the trilogy, and what it means to truly heal.
Your local pharmacy can help with a wide range of illnesses and conditions without the need to speak to a GP. Think 
