Month: November 2025

Significant amendments needed for Bill which gives pupils a stronger voice in religious education decisions

A majority of MSPs on Holyrood’s Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee have given support to a Bill which gives school pupils a right to opt back into religious education and amends the UNCRC compatibility duty. However, they have also highlighted significant concerns about the Bill.

Karen Adam MSP, Maggie Chapman MSP, Paul McLennan MSP and Marie McNair MSP agreed to support the general principles of the Children (Withdrawal from Religious Education and Amendment of UNCRC Compatibility Duty) (Scotland) Bill, after several witnesses stressed their support for the basic premise of the Bill.

Those Members also noted the need for significant amendments to the Bill to resolve the serious concerns that were raised about it.

Other Members of the Committee were not content with supporting the general principles.

Rhoda Grant MSP felt that she was not able to make a recommendation, while Pam Gosal MSP and Tess White MSP said they could not support the general principles.

If the Bill is passed, schools would need to inform pupils if a parent or guardian requests that they be withdrawn from religious education or observance. If a pupil objected to being withdrawn, the school would have to follow the pupil’s wishes.

Following concerns raised in evidence, the Committee’s report recommends that the Scottish Government separate religious education and religious observance and considers unintended consequences such as the possibility of increased conflict between parents and children.

Additionally, the Bill sets out how public authorities should act when their duties under the UNCRC Act conflict with other legal obligations.

Witnesses raised concerns about why this part of the Bill was needed and what kind of precedent it sets for future human rights legislation.

Karen Adam MSP, Convener of the Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee said: “The Committee heard strong views on this Bill during evidence, with very serious concerns being raised.

“However, given the clear support for the basic premise of the Bill of furthering children’s rights from several witnesses, a majority of our Committee recommend that Parliament support the general principles of the Bill.

“We are clear though that substantial amendments will need to be made to respond to the significant concerns we heard.”

Campaign to address barriers preventing Edinburgh residents getting cancer symptoms checked

People in Edinburgh concerned that they have cancer symptoms are being urged to seek information and support while they shop.

This comes as Tesco and Cancer Research UK are working together to raise awareness in Edinburgh of possible symptoms of cancer, break down barriers people may face to speaking to healthcare professionals, and help customers feel more confident when communicating with their doctor.

A new survey by the charity and YouGov shows that there are a number of barriers that make people in the region delay or put off having potential cancer symptoms checked*.

The top four in Scotland are :–

  • thinking it will be difficult to get an appointment 48%;
  • finding it difficult to get an appointment 41%;
  • thinking symptom was unlikely to be anything serious 43%; and
  • deciding that symptom(s) could be managed by themselves 42%.

To break down these barriers, Cancer Research UK has created a health campaign with Tesco, running until 30 November, to highlight the importance of early diagnosis of cancer, and support customers to seek help if they’ve noticed something unusual for them.

If someone notices something that is unusual for them, they can have an initial conversation with a pharmacist at the Edinburgh Superstore in a convenient, private setting, and receive guidance on taking the next steps and booking a GP appointment if needed.

Tesco pharmacists have received specialist training from Cancer Research UK to provide support on possible signs and symptoms of cancer.

Michelle Mitchell, Cancer Research UK’s chief executive, said: “Nearly one in two of us will be diagnosed with cancer in our lifetime. Spotting cancer early can make all the difference, so it’s incredibly important that people get the support they need when they notice something that’s not right for them.

“That’s why we’ve joined forces with Tesco, to make it easier for people to talk to a professional about any concerns, and ultimately, to help diagnose cancers earlier and save lives.”

Tom Lye, Tesco Health and Wellness Category Director, said: “We know how many barriers there can be in day-to-day life around getting health concerns checked out. Customers can quickly and easily see a pharmacist at one of our Tesco Pharmacies. 

“Informed by their specialist Cancer Research UK training, pharmacists can have a confidential conversation about any worrying symptoms which could support customers in getting an earlier cancer diagnosis.”

Data from Cancer Research UK highlights why spotting cancer early is so important. Bowel cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in the UK – but about 9 in 10 people in England will survive the disease for five years or more if they are diagnosed at the earliest stage, compared to around 1 in 10 at the latest stage.

Across England, just over half of cancer cases are diagnosed at an early stage (55.3%), but this varies by region due to a number of factors such as some areas having higher numbers of cases of cancer types that can be harder to spot early, like lung cancer.

Tesco pharmacists are available all year round, supporting anyone experiencing symptoms so that they can discuss what steps to take next.

Christmas tree lights up The Mound

Edinburgh’s iconic Christmas tree on the Mound was officially lit on Tuesday (18 November) in a special ceremony led by Lord Provost Robert Aldridge.

He was joined by representatives from Edinburgh Candlemakers, County Mayor of Vestland Jon Askeland, the Norwegian Embassy and the Norwegian Honorary Consulate General, marking the start of the city’s festive celebrations.

The event saw Lord Provost Robert Aldridge and County Mayor Jon Askeland come together to switch on the lights of the stunning 18-metre-tall tree. This cherished annual tradition celebrates the strong ties between Scotland and Norway, honouring the Scottish people’s unwavering support for Norway during World War II.

Gifted by Vestland (formerly Hordaland), the tree stands as a symbol of Norway’s gratitude for Scotland’s assistance during its darkest days.

The tradition of gifting the tree began in 1986, and although it has been sourced from Scotland since 2008, it remains a meaningful token of friendship and solidarity between the two nations.

Edinburgh’s Christmas officially opened on Saturday 15 November, and following last night’s Mound light night a number of community light switch on events will be taking place across the city.

Lord Provost Robert Aldridge said: “The Christmas tree on the Mound is a cherished Edinburgh tradition, marking the start of the festive season and symbolising the enduring friendship between Scotland and Norway.

“The annual gift from Vestland is a heartfelt reminder of the solidarity shared since World War II, reflecting the universal values of friendship, compassion and unity. Sincere thanks to the people of Vestland for their continued generosity, as well as to our partners Field and Lawn for their support and Bernard Hunter for their kind donation of crane services.

“As Edinburgh’s Christmas celebrations begin, the tree’s sparkling lights bring a festive glow to the city centre. With more community switch-on events planned across the city, residents and visitors are invited to share the joy, hope and goodwill that define this special time of year.”

County Mayor of Vestland, Norway Jon Askeland said: “Every year since 1986, Vestland County has gifted a Christmas tree to Edinburgh Christmas Market as a token of our close friendship.

“It is also seen as a gratitude for the support Scotland gave Norway during the Second World War when Scotland became a safe haven for Norwegian forces, sailors and civilians during the years of occupation.

“This Christmas tree remind us of what we share: resilience, generosity, and a love for community. It stands as a beacon of light and hope – values that unite us in challenging times and joyful ones alike.”

Win for players as Government launches Voluntary Code for Prize Draw Operators

New code will strengthen protections for players to mitigate against harm

  • Measures includes strict credit card limits and transparency on free entry routes
  • Omaze among more than 20 leading operators to sign up to the code

People entering prize draw competitions will benefit from stronger protections and greater transparency, as the Government today unveils a new voluntary code for operators. 

Prize draws have exploded in popularity in recent years, with 7.4 million adults playing each year across the UK. The market is worth £1.3 billion annually. However, as these draws also offer a free entry route, they do not currently require a licence under the Gambling Act 2005. 

In light of this growth, the Government is determined to ensure that players are able to enjoy prize draws safely. This Code establishes a clear set of industry standards which will help provide a uniform approach across the sector to strengthen player protections, increase transparency and improve accountability of prize draw operators.

The prize draw voluntary code includes:

  • A £250 monthly cap on credit card entries for prize draws – and complete ban on credit card entries for all instant-win competitions 
  • A commitment to ensure free entry routes are sufficiently publicised and accessible to all
  • New measures for operators to identify and mitigate against harm, including signposting to support where necessary 

The Voluntary Code of Good Practice for Prize Draw Operators can be viewed in full here. 

More than 20 leading operators, including Omaze, Best of the Best and Raffle House have agreed to sign up to the code following extensive consultation between the sector and Government. Signatories will have six months to implement the code’s provisions. 

Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross said: “Millions of people enjoy entering prize draw competitions every year, and they should be confident that reasonable protections are in place. Thanks to the introduction of this code, that will be the case. 

“I want to thank all of the operators who have already signed up, both for their cooperation in developing the code, and their commitment to following it moving forwards.”

Omaze president James Oakes said: “Omaze is proud to be a founding signatory of the new Code of Conduct. As the UK’s largest prize draw operator, we’ve consistently set industry-leading customer safeguards, whilst raising over £100 million for charities across the country. 

“As more and more companies offer prize draws, we welcome DCMS’s introduction of this Code and look forward to all operators committing to the same high standards.”

Scottish rugby stars to ignite Edinburgh Castle tomorrow at Castle of Light: Fire & Ice

Edinburgh Castle is set to shine tomorrow (Friday 21 November) as Scotland rugby stars Matt Currie and Adelle Ferrie officially switch on the spectacular Castle of Light: Fire & Ice for its opening evening.

24 year old Scotland international player Currie, now a rising star for Edinburgh Rugby, and 28 year old Scotland national player Ferrie, who made her Scotland debut in this year’s Guinness Women’s Six Nations, will kick off an evening of magic, myth and mesmerizing light as Castle of Light returns to illuminate the city’s skyline.

Now in its sixth year, the dazzling after-dark experience will run on select evenings from Friday 21 November 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026, promising dramatic projections, immersive soundscapes and fantastical installations, all set against the backdrop of one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks.

Drawing inspiration from the primal forces of fire and ice, visitors will encounter mythical creatures from a dragon soaring over the ramparts to the Ice Queen herself in the Great Hall, as the Castle’s stories — shaped by volcanic fire and icy resilience — come alive like never before.

Brought together by a consortium of the finest digital and visual talent in Scotland, in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland, Castle of Light seamlessly blends cutting-edge creativity with centuries of history, making it a must-see highlight in Edinburgh’s festive calendar.

Limited tickets remain for the opening weekend and peak festive nights throughout the event run.

For more information and to get your tickets, visit www.CastleofLight.scot

Operation Portaledge: Main jailed

A 25-year-old man has been sentenced to six years and nine months in prison following the recovery of a firearm in Edinburgh.

Liam McDermid plead guilty to a serious organised crime offence at the High Court in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 22 October, 2025.

The firearm was recovered from the Roseburn Path area of Edinburgh by officers investigating Operation Portaledge on Wednesday, 11 June 2025.

He was sentenced at the High Court in Edinburgh today, Thursday, 20 November.

Detective Chief Superintendent Dave Ferry, Specialist Crime Division, said: “Liam McDermid is now facing the consequences of his actions.

“I hope this sentence sends a message to those involved in serious criminality that we remain determined to bring you to justice.

“The recovery of the firearm formed part of a long and incredibly complex investigation, which remains ongoing, and involves a range of specialist officers working closely with our partners.

“This case also highlights Police Scotland’s continued commitment to the Serious and Organised Crime Taskforce and its national strategy.”

Operation Portaledge is the ongoing investigation into violent incidents in the East and West of the country.

Strachan House welcomes a pair of unusual vistors!

Strachan House care home in Blackhall was full of animal mischief when a group of Miniature ponies came to visit the home recently.

Residents at Strachan House were pleasantly surprised to see their new furry friends roaming around their home as the beautiful Willow and Sparkles from Happy Hoofbeats theraponies Ltd paid a visit.

General Manager Fran Fisher said: “Our residents have really enjoyed their unusual visitors today.

“We knew that having the farm here would be a bit of fun for all our residents, especially as some find it difficult to go on many outings in our minibus. 

“We are always looking for new activities for the residents and today we have seen the seen the enjoyment and the therapeutic influence animals can have on people.”

Resident Bernard Lennon was very excited to see Willow and Sparkles: “As a child I used to love all the animals on the nearby farm. Today was very enjoyable and it was wonderful that the animals were free to roam amongst us.”

It was also great to see the home taking onboard our feedback from our recent meeting where we all requested more animal visits.

Strachan House care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. Strachan House provides residential care, nursing care and dementia care for 83 residents from respite care to long term stays.

Man jailed for serious sexual assault in Dalry

A 35-year-old man has been sentenced to eight years in prison following a serious sexual assault in Edinburgh.

Ali Chikane attacked his female victim on Monday, 5 February, 2024 in the Murieston Crescent Lane area of Dalry, leaving her with serious injuries.

He appeared at the High Court in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 19 November, after being convicted at the same court last month.

Detective Inspector Keith Taylor said: “I would like to commend the strength of the victim during this investigation after such a traumatic and frightening incident.

“Chikane is a dangerous and violent individual. I am glad he will now face the consequences of his despicable actions in prison.

“We would encourage anyone who has experienced any form of violent or sexual offence, regardless of when it happened, to report it to us. We will investigate thoroughly and have specially trained officers and partner agencies who will support you throughout.”

Taylor Wimpey teams up with Scottish Book Trust to bring magic of author visits to school children in Scotland

Homebuilder Taylor Wimpey has made a generous donation to Scottish Book Trust to fund author visits to school children in east Scotland.

For the second year running, Taylor Wimpey has announced during Book Week Scotland that they will fund ten Live Literature sessions for children at Scotland’s schools in the central belt, and five will be for schools in the east.

The Live Literature programme inspires a love of reading and writing and is delivered by Scottish Book Trust, the national charity changing lives through reading and writing. These sessions allow for a children’s author to visit a chosen school, bringing the magic of reading into the classroom.

The schools that benefited from Taylor Wimpey’s previous donation in the 2024-2025 Live Literature sessions were:

  • Lumphinnans Primary School in Fife, welcoming Natalie Russell, to help engage pupils in reading and writing.
  • Forrester High School in Edinburgh, inviting Alastair Chisholm to discuss the role of technology in his novels.
  • Dalkeith High School, holding workshops on creating graphic novels.
  • Glenlee Primary School in South Lanarkshire, welcoming Shelley Mack to promote the joy of reading.
  • Craigbank Primary School in South Lanarkshire, welcoming Vivien French, to encourage pupils to diversify their reading.
  • Eastertoun Primary School in West Lothian, holding sessions to support the school’s growing reading culture.
Picture – Chris Watt Photography 07887554193 info@chriswatt.com www.chriswatt.com

Kirsty McGill, Sales and Marketing Director for Taylor Wimpey East Scotland said: “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with the Scottish Book Trust for another year and contribute to the celebration of World Book Day 2026.

“By funding 10 author visits in February and March next year, we aim to inspire young readers and support Scottish Book Trust’s mission to bring the magic of books to life.

“This initiative aligns with our commitment to supporting the communities where we build, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on children across our local areas.”

Marc Lambert, CEO Scottish Book Trust, said: “We are grateful to the generosity of Taylor Wimpey who, for the second year, is supporting our Live Literature programme.

“Author visits to schools really inspire children to have a life-long love of reading and writing. There is such a demand for Live Literature sessions from organisations across Scotland that we can’t meet all our requests, so this support is very welcome indeed.

“We look forward to discovering which authors and illustrators will be visiting schools, and the creative and uplifting experiences they will bring to pupils.”

Applications for the Taylor Wimpey funded Live Literature sessions are now open and close on Friday 28 November.

Find out more at Scottish Book Trust.