Day: October 4, 2025

New campaign aims to increase understanding of child sexual and criminal exploitation

A new campaign to help tackle child sexual and criminal exploitation has been launched in Renfrewshire. 

‘Ready to Talk’, which is being delivered by NSPCC Scotland in partnership with community charity I Am Me Scotland and Renfrewshire Child Protection Committee, aims to support children, young people, professionals, parents and carers to have conversations about child sexual exploitation. 

It will also help to increase people’s understanding of the issue, including knowing the signs and where to get support and advice. 

The campaign, designed for young people aged 11 and over, was officially launched at an event on Thursday (2nd October) which was hosted by St Mirren FC Charitable Foundation at St Mirren Park, Paisley. 

The campaign will be touring around schools this month to perform a play ‘It’s Not OK’ which has been written by York St John University with a Renfrewshire focus and contributions from local young people.

It highlights online safety issues including grooming, gaming and sexting, and explores healthy and unhealthy relationships and coping with strong emotions.  

Dr. Matthew McVarish*, a multi-award-winning human rights activist and survivor of childhood sexual abuse, delivered the keynote speech on awareness of child sexual exploitation in the current Scottish and global context. 

Aoife, 21, from South Lanarkshire, an NSPCC Lived Experience Advocate, shared her experience of sexual exploitation at the campaign’s launch yesterday.  

When she was 15, she was exploited by a man who pretended to be a teenager. He asked her to send him images of herself then he blackmailed her with these, threatening to share them with all her friends and family on Facebook, to control her behaviour. 

When his demands became increasingly frightening, Aoife recalled being told at school about the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command (CEOP) and reported the images. Through this, her school and parents supported her to report what happened to the police. The perpetrator was sentenced in 2022 following an investigation by the National Crime Agency (NCA). 

Aoife said: “I’d say to young people if this happens to you – it’s not your fault. You are the victim, and you have been taken advantage of. They are to blame, not you. 

“It’s important that you don’t feel embarrassed or ashamed if you’ve shared images of yourself. Support is available, you can even get help to delete images of you that have been posted online.” 

Carla Malseed, NSPCC Scotland Local Campaigns manager, said: “We hope this campaign will help to increase everyone’s understanding of what child sexual exploitation looks like and where they can get support and advice if they experience any of the issues raised. 

“The resources that accompany the ‘It’s Not OK’ play can also be used by parents, carers and professionals to increase their awareness of this issue and to recognise when a young person may be at risk because they are in an unhealthy or exploitative relationship.” 

Mhairi O’Rourke, I Am Me Development Co-ordinator, said: “We’re incredibly proud of the young people who have helped shape the Ready to Talk campaign and the powerful resources that accompany it. Their creativity and insight have been vital in making sure the materials speak directly to their peers. 

“By working closely with parents, carers and professionals, we’ve been able to understand what support they need to have open, honest conversations with young people about exploitation and online safety. Together, we’re helping to build a community that’s informed, empowered and ready to talk.” 

Tam Baillie, chair of Renfrewshire Child Protection Committee, said: “We are proud of our young people and teams being part of this national campaign to increase people’s awareness of child sexual and criminal exploitation.  

“The Renfrewshire Child Protection Committee working with NSPCC and I Am Me Scotland strengthens the partnership approach required to keep our children free from harm.   

“Knowing the signs of abuse and how to report it helps keep children and young people safe and we as a community all have a part to play in being aware and reporting any concerns, no matter how big or small.”  

Schools and professionals will be able to use accompanying resources, which include films, lesson plans and activities. 

Young people looking for support on any of the issues mentioned, can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or visit Childline.org.uk. Childline is available to all young people until their 19th birthday.  

Adults concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC Helpline by calling 0808 800 5000, or email: help@NSPCC.org.uk 

QMU Black History Month event explores the lasting impact of the Windrush Scandal

Queen Margaret University will mark Black History Month with a thought-provoking panel led by the Home Office Windrush Engagement Team, shining a spotlight on the history and lasting impact of one of Britain’s most significant political scandals.

On Wednesday 8 October, the University will welcome speakers to unpack the history and far-reaching consequences of the Windrush Scandal. The event will also examine the Windrush Compensation Scheme, offering valuable insights for those directly affected and for anyone seeking to understand this pivotal moment in British history.

The Windrush generation refers to people who came to Britain from the Caribbean between 1948 and 1971, named after the ship HMT Empire Windrush.

In 2018, it was revealed that thousands of these individuals and their descendants – who had the legal right to live and work in the UK – were wrongly denied basic rights, including access to work, housing, healthcare, and banking.

Some were even detained or deported, while many faced severe financial hardship. In response, the Government established the Windrush Compensation Scheme to support those affected.

Paola Tisi, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Adviser at QMU, said: “Black History Month is not only about celebrating achievements, but also about confronting difficult truths. We are honoured to welcome the Windrush Engagement Team to lead our annual event this year – and, for the first time, open it up to the wider public. 

“The Windrush Scandal is one of the most significant injustices in recent Black history in the UK, and it continues to affect lives today. By creating space for open discussion, we can honour the resilience of the Windrush generation, raise awareness of their experiences, and ensure lessons are learned for the future.

“As a university with social justice at the core of our values, we are committed to advancing race equality both within and beyond our own institution.”

The event will take place on Wednesday 8 October 2025 from 16:00 – 17:30 in Queen Margaret University’s Halle Lecture Theatre.

It’s open to anyone who would like to learn more about the Windrush Scandal and the work of the Windrush Engagement Team. Following the talk, there will be an opportunity to ask the Windrush Engagement Team any questions. 

Book your place on Eventbrite – https://ow.ly/2XBP50X543r.

Holyrood Committee agrees general principles of Community Wealth Building (Scotland) Bill

The introduction of the Community Wealth Building (Scotland) Bill has been welcomed by the Economy and Fair Work Committee, who believe it has the potential to play a vital role in improving the lives of people across Scotland.

The Bill would place a duty on all local authorities to work with public bodies to adopt a community wealth building (CWB) partnership approach. According to the Bill, this would help communities to generate and retain wealth locally and give communities a greater stake in Scotland’s economy.

However, the Committee’s Stage 1 report says that, although the Bill creates an obligation to act, it may not, on its own, enable or necessarily drive implementation.

Success will depend on the strength of the accompanying statement by Scottish Ministers that clearly sets out the intended policy outcomes, and the provision of clear and consistent Scottish Government guidance that helps CWB partnerships to produce action plans.

Under the Bill, CWB partnerships will be required to publish and report on the measures being taken, or which will be taken, to empower communities and strengthen local economies. Examples include buying locally, supporting job opportunities, and including fair work criteria in procurement contracts.

Complementary legislative and policy reforms to shift economic power to local communities will also be crucial, such as compulsory purchase orders to support the acquisition of land or property for community use.

As part of the Committee’s scrutiny, members visited Alloa and Irvine to observe different local CWB approaches in practice. MSPs heard about the many benefits, including safer and more vibrant neighbourhoods, improved facilities and transport links, increased employment opportunities, and a stronger sense of community pride and wellbeing.

Committee Convener, Daniel Johnson MSP said: “Our Committee recognises the transformative potential of community wealth building, when supported by local authorities and other public bodies.

“The Bill is a significant step toward empowering communities and promoting inclusive economic development across Scotland.

“But an obligation to act imposed by the legislation may not, on its own, drive implementation. Quality guidance to support action plans, and a clear policy statement from Scottish Ministers will help to support that.”

Further legislative and policy changes will also be essential to fully realise the Bill’s aims, the Committee heard. During evidence, stakeholders consistently highlighted the importance of reforms in areas such as compulsory sale orders, procurement practices, community empowerment and asset transfer.

The Convener added: “The Committee agrees these changes are vital and asks the Scottish Government to outline how the broader policy landscape will be adapted to support the Bill’s success.”

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Students to Join Politicians and Medical Experts in Sold Out Debate on Assisted Dying

The Edinburgh Union will host its second debate on Monday (6 October), with a panel of politicians and medical experts debating the motion: This House Welcomes the Legalisation of Assisted Dying.

The debate will feature Kenneth Gibson MSP representing the case for assisted dying. He will be opposite Dr Fiona MacCormick, the Scotland Representative for the Association for Palliative Medicine of Great Britain and Ireland (APM) and Dr Gordon Macdonald, CEO of Care Not Killing, representing the case against. 

Two student speakers will also join the debate, taking opposing sides on the motion and bringing the perspectives of Edinburgh’s student body directly into the discussion. 

This second event follows the success of the Edinburgh Union’s first debate on Scottish Independence last month, in which a panel of senior Scottish politicians debated to a full audience. This week’s debate is set to be a similar hit, with all 100 tickets selling out in just 4 hours. 

The debate takes place just months after the Scottish assisted dying bill passed its first vote in Holyrood in May this year.

Founded in 2025, the Edinburgh Union, which is part of the Edinburgh Political Union, is the University of Edinburgh’s newest debating society. It seeks to provide an apolitical platform dedicated to open dialogue.

With political and social conversations growing increasingly polarised, the Union’s mission is to develop  an environment where ideas can be challenged constructively and where participants from all backgrounds feel empowered to engage in discussion.

This semester, the Union will host fortnightly debates in Edinburgh’s iconic Rainy Hall at New College, bringing together speakers from across the political spectrum. Upcoming motions include This House Regrets Brexit and This House Believes Traditional Masculinity is Damaging to Men and Society.

Each debate will offer audience members, comprising students and academics from across Edinburgh with the opportunity to debate and challenge guest speakers from across the political spectrum. 

As stated by Founder Finn Tyson: “The Edinburgh Union seeks to spark open dialogue in the capital city of Scotland.

“We want to give students and staff the chance to engage in-person with big ideas, challenge perspectives, and form their own views through reasoned debate – all in a way that reflects the diversity and voice of Scotland’s student population.

“ One of modern Britain’s most profound ethical, legal and personal questions is the legalisation of assisted dying. Despite fierce opposition Scotland, England and Wales stand on the brink of legalisation. This highly controversial issue is rooted in decades of public discourse, poignant personal stories, and evolving legislative efforts. 

Tour de France ‘to deliver lasting legacy for Edinburgh’

Following a decision by the Culture and Communities Committee this week (Thursday 2 October), Councillors have approved a programme to deliver the benefits of hosting the prestigious event.

Earlier this year, the Committee formally agreed to the signing of the Local Authority Host Agreement, confirming Edinburgh as the official host city for the 2027 Grand Départ.

Past UK events have demonstrated substantial economic impact, such as the 2014 Grand Départ in Yorkshire, which generated an estimated £131 million in economic benefits. With even greater returns expected in 2027, Edinburgh stands to benefit from increased tourism, hospitality revenues, and new commercial partnerships.

By providing bike parking facilities and increased promotion of cycling routes across the city, the event also promises to encourage greater participation in cycling, particularly among women, and wider use of the city’s active travel infrastructure.

The Council will now work with partners in active travel and local community organisations to deliver a range of programmes, initiatives, and events to take advantage of the opportunities available.

A key part of this includes the recruitment of a dedicated Community Engagement Officer, who will lead on partnerships and coordination with local organisations, schools, and community groups.

Open ‘town hall’ meetings will also be held in the coming months, bringing together active travel, education, and community stakeholders to explore more collaborative ideas and initiatives to take forward.

Culture and Communities Convener Margaret Graham said: “Broadcast live in over 150 countries and attracting millions of roadside spectators, the Tour de France Grand Départ presents a unique opportunity to showcase Edinburgh on a global stage.

“As the world’s largest annual sporting event, it’s also a chance to boost our economy, improve our health and wellbeing, and accelerate progress towards our active travel goals.

“The programme agreed at Committee will make sure we’re able to reap the rewards and ensure that the legacy of the Tour de France is one of lasting positive change for our residents and visitors.”

Scotland’s Child Winter Heating Payment reaches fifth year

Almost 45,000 disabled children and young people to be supported this year

Families of almost 45,000 disabled children and young people are set to receive winter heating support, as Scotland’s unique benefit marks its fifth anniversary.

Child Winter Heating Payments will be issued from next week to families caring for children with the highest disability support needs. All payments are automatic and are expected to be made by the end of October.  

In total, £11.4 million is expected to be put in the pockets of families who need it the most.   

Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “I’m proud that this benefit payment – available only in Scotland – will help families of almost 45,000 disabled children and young people keep their homes warm this winter. 

“Child Winter Heating Payment was introduced by the Scottish Government five years ago and is providing vital support to families facing the extra costs of caring for a disabled child or young person who needs the highest level of disability support. 

“The payment represents Scotland’s commitment to supporting its most vulnerable families, providing targeted help that isn’t available elsewhere in the UK.” 

Joana who works at Oaklands School in Edinburgh and who is mother to Maddie, aged 17, gets Child Disability Payment and Child Winter Heating Payment.

Maddie has various conditions including rheumatoid arthritis and autism.

She said: “You’ve got Christmas coming up, the weather is changing, bills are going up, food is going up and that little help, it just means you think right let’s put the heating up. When that Child Winter Heating payment come in it is like winning the lottery. You are so used to money going out and then it comes in. It does make such a difference, 100 per cent.”

Child Winter Heating Payment is paid automatically to the families of children and young people under 19 who receive the highest levels of disability support. 

UK to reform asylum offer to reduce the pull factor for small boat crossings

Migrants granted asylum in the UK will no longer be automatically given settlement and family reunion rights, under ‘landmark policy changes’ outlined by the Prime Minister

  • Changes to the leave granted to asylum seekers in the UK will mean they are no longer automatically given settlement and family reunion rights, balancing protection against persecution with controlling our borders
  • Will make the system fairer, in line with our European allies and reduce incentives for asylum seekers travelling illegally to the UK, bypassing other safe countries
  • Came as Prime Minister ‘drives forward progress on tackling illegal migration’ at Thursday’s EPC Summit in Copenhagen

Migrants granted asylum in the UK will no longer be automatically given settlement and family reunion rights, under landmark policy changes outlined by the Prime Minister today (Thursday 2 October).

In her forthcoming asylum policy reform, the Home Secretary will introduce a fundamental change to the rights provided to those granted asylum in the UK, looking to end automatic family reunion rights and altering the requirements for long-term settlement in the UK.

The Prime Minister announced the reforms ahead of his attendance at the European Political Community Summit in Copenhagen, where he co-chaired a roundtable with leaders on innovative approaches to tackling illegal migration.

The fundamental reforms will be the basis of a fairer system where – as the Home Secretary indicated in her speech to Conference – the route to settlement should be longer, and be earned via contribution to the country. They are also aimed at addressing the pull factors driving high levels of illegal migration to the UK.  

The latest step in unpicking the business model of criminal people smugglers and securing our border under the Plan for Change, it builds on progress in recent weeks to show those who come here illegally that the UK is not a soft touch. This follows the first small boat migrant returns to France under the UK-France Treaty and the government unveiling plans to crack down on illegal working through digital ID. 

The changes will bring an end to the unfair system that sees those crossing the channel in a small boat having greater rights to settlement and family reunion than those who arrive through proper legal routes and even British citizens. 

In line with ‘our values as a tolerant and fair minded country’, genuine refugees will not be returned to their home country – and will be entitled to a package of core protection should they receive a positive decision – but they will face a new, longer route to settlement requiring them to contribute, replacing the current 5 years, and they will not have the automatic right to family reunion.

Full detail of the reforms will be set out in an Asylum Policy Statement set to be unveiled later in the Autumn.  

The asylum core protection announcement builds on plans set out by the Home Secretary earlier this week for a series of further conditions that migrants will have to meet before gaining indefinite leave to remain (settlement) in this country.  

This includes being in work, making a certain level of National Insurance contributions, not taking any benefits payments, learning English to a high standard, having a spotless criminal record, and giving back by, for example, working in your local community. 

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “I believe that if you want to come to the UK, you should contribute to our society. That is the tolerant and fair approach to migration that our communities are built on, but the current system is not fit for purpose. 

“That is why we’re making fundamental changes to what those granted asylum are afforded in the UK. Settlement must be earned by contributing to our country, not by paying a people smuggler to cross the channel in a boat. 

“The UK will continue to play its role in welcoming genuine refugees fleeing persecution. But we must also address the pull factors driving dangerous and illegal small boats crossings. There will be no golden ticket to settling in the UK, people will have to earn it.”

The Prime Minister is set to discuss the changes, as well as other ways European countries can work together to tackle the shared challenge of illegal migration, at the EPC Summit.  

In a meeting with Danish Prime Minister Mette Fredriksen, the leaders are set to announce a new partnership backed by up to £3 million to tackle the causes of migration upstream in Western Balkan countries, including by encouraging people to stay in the region and take up jobs there. 

Having boosted international cooperation with key partners, the PM will also take the opportunity to reflect on progress made to date to disrupt and deter people smuggling upstream, and discuss how to go further, including through reform of implementation of the ECHR.

This will include the fact the UK is contributing up to £5.75 million under Italy’s Rome Process to tackle migration upstream in key African source and transit companies, reducing movements of migrants towards Europe and supporting the voluntary return of people to countries of origin.

The UK and Germany will deepen collaboration between their respective justice systems to combat migrant smuggling by strengthening law enforcement efforts to bring migrant smuggler networks to justice.

This will include a focus on efforts to seize and disrupt the supply of dangerous small boats equipment and prosecute smugglers, taking full advantage of Germany’s law change to criminalise facilitation of irregular migration to the UK, expected before the end the year.

Swinney: Scotland must stand firm against those who seek to divide us

First Minister speaks out on Manchester synagogue attack

First Minister John Swinney has urged communities to stand united in condemnation at the violence inflicted upon the Jewish community with the attack at the Heaton Park synagogue in Manchester. 

Mr Swinney said now more than ever, division and hatred of all forms – especially the evil of antisemitism – must be rejected and communities must stand firm against those that seek to divide our country. 

Last night the First Minister expressed his horror at the Heaton Park attacks during a private visit to the Edinburgh Hebrew Congregation, where he was able to reiterate his solidarity with Scotland’s Jewish community and stress the additional and dedicated Police Scotland patrols around synagogues and other Jewish venues in Scotland.

In an expression of solidarity, flags flying from Scottish Government buildings have been lowered until 20:00 today.   

Mr Swinney also received a briefing from the UK Government Security Minister, and Scotland’s Justice Secretary has had further conversations with the Chief Constable of Police Scotland to ensure every necessary step is being taken in Scotland to provide reassurance to Jewish communities. 

Speaking uesterday, First Minister John Swinney said: “The horror of the violence inflicted upon the Jewish Community with the Heaton Park attack is utterly unimaginable. I cannot stress enough my sympathy with those families and their friends who have lost their loved ones, and my solidarity with the Jewish community in Scotland and across the whole of the United Kingdom. 

“I know just what a distressing time this is for our Jewish communities, with fears and worry over the consequences of Heaton Park playing on their mind. I can assure our Jewish community that we will do everything necessary to ensure their continued safety, and additional security and policing is in place around synagogues and Jewish community venues. 

“When society is faced with unimaginable horror, we must take solace in the things that unite us. We must stand firm against those that seek to divide us. Now more than ever, division and all form of hatred – especially evil antisemitism – must be rejected and I urge communities across Scotland to stand firm against those that seek to divide our country. 

“Scotland’s diversity and our inclusive outlook is one of our greatest strengths. It is a precious commodity which we must all work to cherish and maintain, especially at moments of strain.   

“In this spirit, I take great pride in Drumlanrig Peace Accord, which was agreed in Scotland and marks a profound step forward in fostering mutual respect and understanding between Jewish and Muslim communities.

“Scotland stands ready to support efforts that build bridges, promote solidarity, and ensure that all our citizens can face challenges together in peace and unity.” 

Attack on Heaton Hebrew Congregation: A Statement

Attack on Heaton Hebrew Congregation: Statement from Timothy Lovat, Chair, Jewish Council of Scotland, Henry Lovat, President, Glasgow Jewish Representative Council and Matthew Shaps, Chair, Edinburgh Hebrew Congregation (written 2nd October 2025, following the conclusion of Yom Kippur):

“We are devastated by the terrorist attack that took place this morning at Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation in Manchester, on Yom Kippur.

The victims, their families, and the entire Manchester Jewish community are in our thoughts and prayers during this time of profound grief and fear.

This awful attack is a tragic reminder of the manner in which hatred and intolerance towards Jewish people – whether put explicitly as such or directed (nominally) at “Zionists” or other euphemisms – can translate into deadly acts of violence aimed at our community.

Sentiments of concern and condolence from those whose words and conduct have previously increased rather than addressed the fears of our community, will inevitably ring hollow.

Rather, to be meaningful any words of concern must now be matched by substantive action to confront and combat antisemitism in all its forms.

Anti-Jewish sentiment and communal fears in the UK have been stoked by our political leaders’ use of inflammatory and irresponsible language about the ongoing, tragic conflict in Israel and Gaza.

With this in mind, we call on political and community leaders across Scotland to act urgently to stop fanning the flames of hatred, and – once again – to work with and alongside, rather than vilifying and alienating, the Jewish community of Scotland, to support rather than undermine community cohesion across our nation. 

We thank Police Scotland for their continued engagement with and support for Jewish communities across Scotland at this extremely fraught juncture. 

Last, we would once again urge all members of the community attending synagogues or other community premises to follow all instructions from police and security, and in particular not to congregate outside communal premises and to keep doors closed at all times.”