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Clarity are delighted to invite local Edinburgh residents to join us for a special free community eye health open day.
This event offers an opportunity to learn more about eye health directly from our expert clinical team, enjoy a tour of our facilities, and take part in a relaxed and informative afternoon dedicated to patient wellbeing.
It will take place on Saturday, 22 November, drop in anytime between 10am – 3pm at Clarity Edinburgh, 60 South Gyle Cresent, Cornerstone, The Stones Business Park, Edinburgh, EH12 9EB.
There will be:
“We’re very pleased to welcome local people from across Edinburgh, and beyond, to our new private hospital,” said Andrew Gunn, Hospital Manager.
“Our team is passionate about providing exceptional eye care and ensuring patients feel supported at every stage of their journey.
“This event is a chance to meet our specialists, learn about eye health, and enjoy the hospitality and care we are proud to offer.”
The event is free to attend.
Book your place here:
https://www.clarityhealthcare.uk/edinburgh-mini-consultation-event-25/
For further information, please contact events@clarityhealthcare.uk
Wild seabirds are more likely to split up in windy weather, according to a newly published study led by Edinburgh Napier University (ENU).
The paper, published in the journal Animal Behaviour today (4 November) reveals that environmental conditions before the breeding season appear to have an impact on mate faithfulness – whether birds reunite with the same partner to breed each year, or ‘divorce’ to form a different pair.
Researchers from ENU, the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH), and Biomathematics and Statistics Scotland (BioSS) analysed data collected over the course of two decades from more than 1,500 birds on the Isle of May National Nature Reserve, in the Firth of Forth, and compared them with late winter weather records to understand their breeding habits.
The study focused on European shags (Gulosus aristotelis), given their long lifespan and tendency to change partners between breeding seasons. While the birds analysed for this study had a fidelity rate of 45%, this varied markedly from year to year.
Although age and previous breeding success have been established as strong predictors of mate faithfulness, this paper demonstrates how weather conditions in the lead up to the breeding season are also a significant factor affecting seabird mating habits. Out of the weather conditions analysed, wind speeds had the strongest effect on whether couples stayed together.
Importantly, birds that remained with the same partner tended to lay eggs earlier, which is strongly tied to how many chicks they rear.
The findings are significant given that climate change is bringing about warmer and windier weather conditions.
Ecologists are now calling for further investigation into how shifting environmental conditions could disrupt social relationships among wildlife.
Lead researcher Dr Sue Lewis, from ENU’s Centre for Conservation and Restoration Science, said: “We found that late winter weather is likely critical for pair bonding.
“It is a time when adults are returning to colonies and preparing to breed. When conditions are tough – particularly when it’s windier – it appears that ‘divorces’ are more frequent.
“Until now, the effects of pre breeding weather conditions on faithfulness have been largely under-appreciated. Our study suggests that it warrants further consideration.”
Co-researcher Professor Francis Daunt, from the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, said: “This study is one of the few to test how changing environments influence social behaviours in wildlife.
“It is excellent to see our long-term data used to tackle these important questions, given the current concerns about the impacts of future climate change.”
Edinburgh’s small businesses are set to take centre stage this week as the Small Business Saturday nationwide roadshow rolls into town. The month-long Tour kicks off the official countdown to Small Business Saturday on 6 December.
Small Business Saturday is a grassroots, non-commercial campaign that celebrates small businesses and encourages consumers to support and spend with small firms.
Arriving in Edinburgh tomorrow – Wednesday, 5 November – the Small Business Saturday roadshow team will visit and profile independent businesses across the city, shining a light on the people, passion, and innovation driving the local economy and community.
Inspiring stories of local entrepreneurs will also be shared across social media, alongside top-tips, behind-the-scenes tours, and demonstrations, giving people across the UK the chance to follow the journey and discover the talent powering Edinburgh’s small business scene.
Supported by BT, the roadshow is visiting over 20 locations throughout November, including Belfast, Durham and Manchester, as it travels more than 3,000 miles across the UK.
“We are so excited to be visiting small businesses in Edinburgh and all across the UK with this year’s Tour, leading up to Small Business Saturday on 6th December” said Michelle Ovens CBE, Director of Small Business Saturday UK.
“This year’s campaign is all about shining a light on the nation’s favourite businesses, full of creativity, resilience, and heart that make them the backbone of local communities like Edinburgh.
“We can’t wait to share their incredible stories and celebrate their impact.”
As the roadshow travels around the UK, small business owners across Edinburgh and beyond can also take part in the campaign’s wider month-long online programme of free business support, including daily workshops, mentoring sessions, and insight events with industry experts and entrepreneurs.
A Small Business Happy Hour on Instagram will also take place every week, featuring giveaways from local businesses all over the country.
“Small businesses are vital to the UK economy, and giving entrepreneurs the right support and guidance is crucial to their success,” said Chris Sims, Chief Commercial Officer, UK Business, at BT.
“The Tour provides a valuable opportunity to connect directly with small businesses across the country, offering tailored guidance and practical resources to help them grow and adapt.
“It’s a powerful initiative that brings businesses together to drive innovation, strengthen local communities, and build a more resilient economy.”
Backed by principal supporter American Express, Small Business Saturday has been running for over a decade since 2013. Over this time it has engaged millions of people and seen billions of pounds spent with small businesses across the UK on Small Business Saturday, with an impact that lasts all year round.
On Small Business Saturday, customers across the country are encouraged to go out and support all types of small businesses, whether online, in offices, or on the high street, with many small firms marking the day with special events and offers.
The Small Business Saturday Tour team will travel across the UK in branded electric vehicles, reflecting the sustainable choices many small business owners are making as part of their vital role in the journey towards net zero.
To follow The Tour’s journey visit @SmallBizSatUK on Instagram.
Small businesses can head to the Small Business Saturday website to access free business support and get involved in the campaign:-
A further five people have been arrested and charged over recent months in connection with Operation Portaledge, bringing the total number to 62.
Officers executed a warrant at a property on Margaret Thomson Crescent in Leith on Monday, 1 September, 2025. A firearm, as well as a quantity of drugs, were seized.
A 19-year-old woman was arrested and charged in connection and appeared on undertaking at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Thursday, 2 October. A 43-year-old man was also arrested and charged in connection and appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday, 20 October.
On Thursday, 4 September, a 55-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with a serious assault which happened on Pitcairn Grove in Edinburgh’s Greenbank area on Thursday, 22 May. He is due to appear in court at a later date.
Officers arrested and charged two men, aged 40 and 39, on Tuesday, 28 October, in connection with a theft by housebreaking which occurred at a property on Mortonhall Park Place on Tuesday, 18 March.
Both men appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Wednesday, 29 October.
CAMEO CINEMA – FRIDAY `21st NOVEMBER at 6.15pm
IRON LADIES is a new documentary about the inspirational women who were the backbone of the 84/85 Miners’ Strike, as told by them.
From Scotland down to Kent, women from the coalfields shed light on their experiences of the year long struggle trying to save their communities. The film features Carol Ross from Cowdenbeath and Linda Erskine from Lochgelly, and they will both be appearing at the Edinburgh screening for a Q&A.
It is playing at Cameo cinema Edinburgh on 21st Nov, plus the Q&A.
Shut Out The Light Films is thrilled to announce that their upcoming documentary Iron Ladies will be released in UK and Irish cinemas from 10th October.
The inspiring story of working-class women who, during the 1984–85 Miners’ Strike, found themselves at the forefront of a battle against the British state.
From Scotland down to Kent, women from the coalfields shed light on their experiences of the year long struggle, and how they became the backbone of the Strike. With many still active today, their actions reshaped the landscape of political activism for working-class women.
Directed by Daniel Draper (Nature of the Beast), Iron Ladies is a celebration of the iron willed women who maintained the 1984/85 Miners’ Strike as they fought for the future of their communities.
Iron Ladies shines a spotlight on the previously overlooked narratives of women, who still fight for their communities today. Heather Wood, Lorraine Stansbie, Rose Hunter, Kate Alvey, Betty Cook, and Aggie Currie are amongst the 20 unsung working-class heroes to share their stories.
Speaking on the film being released in UK and Irish cinemas producer Christie Allanson said “Working-class narratives by working-class filmmakers are a rarity.
“The communal viewing of this film on the big screen is important to spark those conversations about the political landscape past and present.
“The funding, the approach to filmmaking and the contributors all have one thing in common – passion. As the producer, I feel inspired and empowered by these women, and I hope audiences will feel that way too.”
Iron Ladies will be in UK and Irish Cinemas from 10th October
Edinburgh screening with Q & A is on Friday 21st November at 6.15pm
As an increasing number of organised fireworks displays across the UK are cancelled this year, safety charity the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is warning of increased risks from home-based celebrations.
Cancellations in London, Edinburgh and other locations come amid a 42 per cent rise in fireworks-related fire incidents, prompting urgent calls for caution ahead of Bonfire Night. New data shows 264 incidents occurred in 2024/25, up from 185 the previous year.
The figures, drawn from Home Office statistics, highlight a worrying trend in unsafe firework use. Most incidents involved “other primary fires,” which include outdoor fires in bins, grassland, and vehicles, likely caused by improper handling or disposal of fireworks.
Fireworks are a leading cause of seasonal fire injuries and property damage in the UK. Despite ongoing safety campaigns, human error remains the primary factor in over 75 per cent of incidents.
Organised events offer safer – as well as more spectacular – displays. However, anyone intending on using fireworks at home should remember the following important safety tips:
Rebecca Guy, Senior Policy Manager at RoSPA, said: “Fireworks are powerful explosives, not toys. Only adults should handle them and never mix alcohol with lighting fireworks.
“Store them safely in a closed box, light at arm’s length with a taper, and never go back to a lit firework. Always buy CE or UKCA-marked products, aim rockets away from people, and remember sparklers burn at extremely high temperatures — treat them with care.
“The shocking rise in incidents over the past year is a stark reminder of the dangers they pose when misused. We strongly advise families to attend organised displays wherever possible, as they are far safer than home-based celebrations.”
Find more firework safety advice on the RoSPA website.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is encouraging families to start financial discussions and use the HMRC app during Talk Money Week (3 to 7 November) as it reveals its most popular app services.
This year’s Talk Money Week theme is ‘start the conversation’ and the HMRC app provides tax and financial information for all ages. People can view and save their National Insurance number, claim Child Benefit and check their State Pension forecast.
More than 5.6 million people have used the HMRC app since 6 April 2025 and the most popular services include:
The whole family can help each other with financial planning, whether it’s grandparents helping their teen grandchildren understand National Insurance, or discussions on how to check State Pension forecasts. Anyone can join the millions of customers using the HMRC app to get frank family financial conversations started.
People can download the HMRC app to their Android or iPhone. Once set up, they can start using it straight away to view their tax information or update personal information, for example their name or address.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said: “It’s not always easy talking about finances, especially between generations. As part of Talk Money Week, we’re encouraging families to lean into talking about money.
“From budgeting tips to tax basics, the HMRC app makes it easy to access tax information and kick start those important conversations. You can download the HMRC app today.”
HMRC has today launched its refreshed HMRC app campaign to encourage people to be ‘On It’ and use its digital services. People using these services can access information and be reassured that tasks like claiming Child Benefit, signing up to Help to Save or claiming a tax refund, are completed.
10-year-old Brooke enjoyed an exclusive tour from Castle of Light’s enchanting Ice Queen this week, catching a first glimpse at the dazzling displays set to transform Edinburgh Castle after dark as the UK’s largest annual projection show prepares to open later this month.
Illuminating the capital’s skyline for a sixth year, Castle of Light: Fire and Ice promises to captivate audiences with extraordinary installations, interactive moments and atmospheric storytelling, with an all-new show inspired by the elemental forces of fire and ice.
Running for seven weeks throughout the festive season, on select dates from Friday 21 November 2025 until Sunday 4 January 2026, guests will journey through a fortress of light and encounter mythical creatures, from a mighty dragon soaring across the night sky to the Ice Queen herself in the Great Hall.
In celebration of St Andrew’s Day, a special £10 ticket offer will be available to all visitors attending on Sunday 30 November making it the perfect opportunity to experience the after-dark spectacular.
Brought together by a consortium of the finest digital and visual talent in Scotland, in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland, Castle of Light continues to be a must-see for locals and visitors alike in the city’s packed festive schedule, blending cutting-edge creativity with centuries of Scottish heritage.
For more information and to get your tickets, visit www.CastleofLight.scot
More than 100 pupils from 13 schools transformed into world leaders at the University of Edinburgh last week, engaging in high-stakes climate crisis negotiations to mirror the upcoming UN COP30 conference in Belém, Brazil.
In a United Nations debate simulation organised by the British Council in partnership with the University of Edinburgh and Learning for Sustainability Scotland, students experienced firsthand the complex challenges of international climate diplomacy.
Using cutting-edge simulation software developed by MIT, the pupils took on roles as delegates from major nations, corporate lobbyists, and international media representatives, all working to tackle the critical goal of keeping global warming below 1.5°C.
During the negotiations, the pupils had to collectively agree on how much to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, how they would help struggling nations, and agree on ways to adapt to climate change to protect their cities and people.
Leading the negotiations were pupils Siri Isaksson-Galbraith and Alyssa Haston, from West Calder High School who shared the role of the United Nations Secretariat (top).
Speaking in their role as UN Secretary Generals, they had a message for world leaders ahead of COP30 in Brazil: “Today in Edinburgh, we’ve experienced firsthand how difficult climate negotiations can be, but also how essential they are. We’ve learned that every country has different challenges, but we all share the same planet and the same future.
“The decisions being made at COP30 will shape our lives, our communities, and our world. We urge world leaders to listen to youth voices, to act with urgency, and to remember that compromise doesn’t mean giving up on ambition.
“The climate crisis affects us all, but it doesn’t affect us equally. We must ensure that those most vulnerable are heard and supported. From Scotland to Brazil, young people are ready to lead, but we need action now.”
Did they reach a consensus?
The challenge was to negotiate between countries to keep warming under 2°C by the end of the century, and to aim for under 1.5°C. By the end of the debate, pupils collectively agreed to keep global warming at 1.6°C, just over the mark of the Paris Agreement target. This means they were over the target, but made headway with strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, support nations, and develop adaptation measures to protect cities and people.
The debate simulation was led by climate expert Professor Pete Higgins, Chair in Outdoor, Environmental and Sustainability Education at the University of Edinburgh.
Speaking at the event, Professor Pete Higgins said: “Today’s debate couldn’t be more timely. We’re living through a period of significant political uncertainty, which makes climate diplomacy more complex than ever.
“What impressed me most was how quickly these young people grasped the competing priorities and difficult trade-offs involved, whilst maintaining their determination to find common ground.
“Young people often feel powerless when it comes to climate change, but events like this show that they have both the understanding and the diplomatic skills to navigate these challenges. My hope is that the negotiators at COP30 will show the same wisdom and commitment to meaningful action that these young citizens have demonstrated today.”
Claire de Braekeleer, Director British Council Scotland added: “This UN debate simulation puts young people in Scotland at the heart of the global climate debate.
“As COP30 starts in Belém next week, these pupils are gaining crucial insights into how these climate negotiations work. They are also building the diplomatic skills and understanding that will be vital for the international cooperation we desperately need.
“We believe that young people are the key to driving positive climate action, and today demonstrates how collaborating globally with empathy and understanding is the way forward.”
The simulation was part of the British Council’s Schools Connect programme, which aims to bring international perspectives into the curriculum. Students engaged in realistic debates, negotiated complex agreements, and balanced competing interests of nations.
Through the Climate Connection programme, the British Council is also supporting people globally to find creative solutions to climate change in support of the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil.
The British Council is supporting the summit by engaging with networks of education professionals, students, academics, researchers, artists, civil society leaders and policymakers to participate in meaningful dialogue and bring about real change for our planet.
This initiative continues the work of the British Council’s Schools Connect programme for schools in the UK and around the world, building connection, understanding and trust between people in the UK and overseas through arts, education and English language teaching.
For more information about the British Council’s work in Scotland, visit:
https://www.britishcouncil.org/ or follow on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.
