A new sauna is coming to Edinburgh this autumn. Puffin Sauna, a converted horse trailer turned wood-fired sauna, will soon be setting up on Leith Links.
Located within Leith Community Croft – home of the charity Earth in Common – the sauna will sit alongside the urban croft’s food-growing plots, Sunday market, Populus Cafe and regular community events. It’s the perfect place to escape the city and unwind.
Set to open on Saturday 29 November, Puffin Sauna will host community sessions for up to six people, with two refreshing cold plunge barrels for the full contrast therapy experience.
Designed to be welcoming and relaxed, Puffin Sauna is open to all, whether you’re a seasoned sauna-goer or it’s your first time.
Follow @puffinsauna on Instagram to be the first to know when booking opens, and to see behind-the-scenes updates as the sauna is installed at Leith Community Croft.
Max Schilling, founder of Puffin Sauna said:“Sauna culture is booming in Scotland and we’re so excited to be adding to it.
“Leith Community Croft is the perfect setting for an urban sauna and as a community hub, so it’ll be the ideal place to come and disconnect from the day-to-day, recover from a gym session, catch up with mates.
“Wellness isn’t exclusive, it’s for everyone, so come and give it a go!”
UK government is launching its new Veterans Strategy to transform government support for our heroes and recognise their invaluable contribution
£27m in government funding goes live for local bids, turbocharging network of recognised VALOUR centres.
First Veterans Strategy in seven years will transform government support for our heroes and recognise their invaluable contribution across the country.
Developed alongside the Strategic Defence Review and the Armed Forces Covenant, the strategy commits new £12m fund for veteran housing.
Over 1.8 million veterans across the UK will benefit from a new network of local support centres, as the MOD launches a transformational Veterans Strategy to renew the nation’s contract with those who serve and have served.
The new centres will help improve access to support services such as health, housing and employment, and may extend to finance, wellbeing, welfare and integration into society.
The local centres will fundamentally transform how assistance is provided, offering the first coordinated national network of support centres. They will connect to a new VALOUR headquarters within the Ministry of Defence, with regional centres and field officers working in communities.
On top of the £50m VALOUR fund, the Government is also committing an additional £12m to vital homelessness services through the Reducing Veteran Homelessness programme.
Op FORTITUDE will also be extended, putting the service that has already housed over 1,000 veterans on a sustainable footing.
These programmes will deliver three years of support services across the UK for veterans at risk of or experiencing homelessness, fulfilling the Prime Minister’s pledge that homes will be there for heroes.
This strategy, like the Armed Forces Covenant, applies equally across the UK, with its vision, themes and priority outcomes a shared endeavour between UK and devolved governments. The strategy has benefitted from the inputs of veterans themselves and from organisations in all parts of the UK – across the public, private and third sector – that work with veterans and the wider Armed Forces community.
As part of the government’s Plan for Change, the new strategy recognises veterans as national assets, whose unique skills strengthen communities, boost the economy and enhance national security. The strategy is built on three priorities: celebrating those who have served, harnessing veterans’ skills, and ensuring effective support for those who need it.
Defence Secretary John Healey MP said: “The first duty of government is to keep our country safe, and that is only possible through the extraordinary men and women in our Armed Forces.
“Our nation owes a duty to those who have served, and this new Strategy recognises veterans as one of our greatest assets.
“Today’s announcements will boost support for veterans across the UK, from better healthcare to housing to jobs. Our message to veterans and the Armed Forces community is simple: we are on your side.”
Minister for Veterans and People Louise Sandher-Jones MP said: “Our new Veterans Strategy fundamentally resets how we celebrate and support the remarkable men and women who have served in our Armed Forces, whilst harnessing their invaluable talent and skills across society.
“At the core of the strategy is VALOUR – backed by £50 million in funding. From today, organisations can bid for the first tranche of this funding to become part of a network of support centres across the country for our heroes – ensuring easier access to the assistance they need, when and where they need it.
“This strategy has been informed by those who it seeks to benefit: veterans, and we remain committed to stand by those who have stood by us.”
VALOUR – which launched earlier this year and is backed by £50m in total – will foster the enterprising spirit of veteran charities, better connect local and national services and ensure veterans’ support is truly data driven.
VALOUR-recognised support centres will open from spring 2026, offering veterans with a single contact point for support needs.
The announcement comes after the government announced a commitment to support World War Two veterans to travel to overseas commemorative events and expanded the eligibility for the Nuclear Test Medal.
Developed alongside the Strategic Defence Review and the Armed Forces Covenant, the new strategy forms part of the Government’s Plan for Change commitment to strong national security foundations.
Nick Pope, Chair of Cobseo, the Confederation of Service Charities, said: “Cobseo welcomes the publication of this Veterans’ Strategy and the government’s ongoing commitment to enabling a thriving Armed Forces Community that is both valued and supported by society.
“There are two key building blocks to this; the Armed Forces Covenant; and the Veterans Strategy, which resets how we engage with the Armed Forces Community to support, to contribute, and to celebrate their endeavours.
“The Armed Forces charity sector has a key role to play in delivering this and ensuring that all Cobseo members continue to provide their brilliant support to their beneficiary communities.”
Call for accelerated climate action ahead of COP30
As the COP30 UN Climate Summit gets underway in Brazil, First Minister John Swinney called for swift and decisive action to tackle the devastating impacts of climate change.
The Scottish Government will be represented at the Summit by Climate Action Secretary Gillian Martin. She will call for urgent action at panel sessions and in bilateral meetings, meet youth activists and civil society partners from the Global South, and share learnings from Scotland’s Climate Justice Fund programmes, advocating for similar approaches to be taken by counterparts.
The First Minister said: “The next decade will be decisive in tackling the climate emergency, and COP plays a vital role in that. We have no time to waste in protecting the future of our planet, protecting nature and supporting populations who are increasingly under threat from the destruction caused by the climate crisis.
“On my recent visit to Zambia and Malawi, I saw how the effects of climate change are already exacerbating poverty and inequality. We all have a moral responsibility to support countries who have done the least to cause the climate crisis but are feeling its effects most acutely – and Scotland will continue to play its part.
“The Scottish Government will be using its platform at COP30 to advocate for, and amplify the voices of, countries in the Global South, stand in solidarity with the international community and, in our capacity as Regions4 President and Under2 co-chair, advocate for greater inclusion of governments such as Scotland in international climate processes and policies.
“That includes seeking to inform the discussion on climate finance and justice, using our experiences with the Climate Justice Fund to call for a fairer approach to resolving the global debt crisis.
“While ensuring Scotland’s voice is heard on the international stage, we are taking action domestically to help ensure we reach our net zero targets.
“Our recently published draft Climate Change Plan sets out over 150 actions to reduce emissions up to 2040 across different sectors, and is the first climate plan in the UK to set out the costs and benefits of policies.”
The beleaguered BBC faces a growing crisis this morning following the resignation of two senior figures.BBC Director-General Tim Davie announced his intention to leave the BBC last night and he was followed by CEO of BBC News Deborah Turness, who has also resigned.
The resignations following the revelation of another ‘mistake’ at the BBC.
This time, the Telegraph newspaper exposed editing of a Donald Trump speech for a Panorama programme had spliced two parts of a speech together, making it appear that Trump was explicitly encouraging the Capitol Hill riots of January 2021.
The edit is clearly misleading but the BBC’s failure to act on the revelation quickly enough calls into question the broadcaster’s already damaged reputation for honesty, impartiality and integrity. Without trust, a Public Service Broadcaster has nothing.
BBC Chairman Samir Shah said: “This is a sad day for the BBC. Tim has been an outstanding Director-General for the last five years. He has propelled the BBC forward with determination, single-mindedness and foresight.
“He has had the full support of me and the Board throughout. However, I understand the continued pressure on him, personally and professionally, which has led him to take this decision today. The whole Board respects the decision and the reasons for it.
“Tim has given 20 years of his life to the BBC. He is a devoted and inspirational leader and an absolute believer in the BBC and public service broadcasting. He has achieved a great deal. Foremost, under his tenure, the transformation of the BBC to meet the challenges in a world of unprecedented change and competition is well underway.
“Personally, I will miss his stamina, good humour and resilience and I will miss working with him. I wish him and his family the very best for the future.
“This is an important time for the Corporation and the Board and I will continue to work with Tim in the interim while we conduct the process to appoint his successor.”
Tim Davie sent the following note to staff yesterday:
‘I wanted to let you know that I have decided to leave the BBC after 20 years. This is entirely my decision, and I remain very thankful to the Chair and Board for their unswerving and unanimous support throughout my entire tenure, including during recent days.
‘I am working through exact timings with the Board to allow for an orderly transition to a successor over the coming months.
‘I have been reflecting on the very intense personal and professional demands of managing this role over many years in these febrile times, combined with the fact that I want to give a successor time to help shape the Charter plans they will be delivering.
‘In these increasingly polarised times, the BBC is of unique value and speaks to the very best of us. It helps make the UK a special place; overwhelmingly kind, tolerant and curious.
‘Like all public organisations, the BBC is not perfect, and we must always be open, transparent and accountable. While not being the only reason, the current debate around BBC News has understandably contributed to my decision.
‘Overall the BBC is delivering well, but there have been some mistakes made and as Director-General I have to take ultimate responsibility.
‘Our organisation is a critical ingredient of a healthy society, as well as a thriving creative sector. We should champion it, not weaponise it.
‘Despite a hugely competitive market, I am proud that the BBC remains the most trusted news brand globally. We have continued to ensure that it is used by almost everyone in the UK as well as hundreds of millions of people globally.
‘Despite the inevitable issues and challenges, our journalism and quality content continues to be admired as a gold standard. Our transition to a digital organisation has been deeply impressive, and our thriving commercial businesses are admired globally. Also, our work together on ensuring that we have the right culture has been important and motivating. I could not be more impressed by what you are achieving.
You will ask why now, why this moment?
‘I am BBC through and through, having spent the last 20 years of my life working for this organisation as Director of Marketing, Communications and Audiences, Director of Audio and Music, acting Director-General and Chief Executive of BBC Studios.
‘I care deeply about it and want it to succeed. That is why I want to create the best conditions and space for a new DG to come in and positively shape the next Royal Charter. I hope that as we move forward, a sensible, calm and rational public conversation can take place about the next chapter of the BBC.
‘This timing allows a new DG to help shape the next Charter. I believe we are in a strong position to deliver growth.
‘Thank you again, it has been a wonderful ride, which I have loved. I count myself very lucky to have served as DG no.17. I will have a proper chance to see many of you before I go but I have been incredibly proud to lead the BBC as DG for over five years. It is a precious UK institution and you are a world-class team. Thank you all for the tireless support and friendship.
‘I will always be a passionate cheerleader for civilised society, a strong BBC and a thriving UK.’
Best wishes,
Tim
In a message to BBC colleagues last night, CEO of News Deborah Turness said:
Dear all,
I have never been more proud of the work that you do every day. You really are the best of the best.
I have taken the difficult decision that it will no longer be my role to lead you in the collective vision that we all have: to pursue the truth with no agenda.
The ongoing controversy around the Panorama on President Trump has reached a stage where it is causing damage to the BBC – an institution that I love.
As the CEO of BBC News and Current Affairs, the buck stops with me – and I took the decision to offer my resignation to the Director-General last night.
In public life leaders need to be fully accountable, and that is why I am stepping down. While mistakes have been made, I want to be absolutely clear recent allegations that BBC News is institutionally biased are wrong.
In a polarised world, BBC News journalism is more vital than ever, and I could not be prouder of the work that you do. Together we have bucked the global trend, to grow trust in BBC News, and I want to thank you, wherever you are in the world, for your courageous work to deliver that.
My plea to you: please keep the courage to continue our mission. I’m only sorry that I won’t be there to lead and champion your brilliant journalism.
It has been a great privilege to work with you all.
I will now work with Tim to plan an orderly handover to ensure that my decision to step away causes the least disruption possible to the important work that you do.
With very best wishes,
Deborah
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: “I want to thank Tim Davie for his service to public broadcasting over many years. He has led the BBC through a period of significant change and helped the organisation to grip the challenges it has faced in recent years.
“The BBC is one of our most important national institutions. Every day, it tells the story of who we are – the people, places and communities that make up life across the UK.
“Now more than ever, the need for trusted news and high quality programming is essential to our democratic and cultural life, and our place in the world.
“As a government, we will support the Board as it manages this transition and ensure that the Charter Review is the catalyst that helps the BBC to adapt to this new era and secures its role at the heart of national life for decades to come.”
Commenting on the resignation of BBC Director-General Tim Davie, Chair of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee Dame Caroline Dinenage MP said: “The decision by Tim Davie to step down is regrettable given the huge commitment to the BBC and public service broadcasting he has demonstrated during his time at the helm, but restoring trust in the corporation must come first.
“The BBC Board must now begin the long process of rebuilding the corporation’s reputation both at home and abroad, after the damage caused by what has become a seemingly constant stream of crises and missteps.
“The Committee will be meeting on Tuesday to consider the BBC Chair’s response to our letter and next steps.
“At the same time the Government should bring forward the Charter Review process so the public and Parliament can help shape the future direction of the BBC.”
The Committee wrote to BBC Chair Samir Shah on Tuesday asking what action is being taken over concerns raised by a former adviser to the corporation’s editorial standards body, Michael Prescott.
Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch said: “It’s right that Tim Davie and Deborah Turness have finally taken responsibility and resigned from the BBC. But let’s be honest, this has been a catalogue of serious failures that runs far deeper.
“The Prescott report exposed institutional bias that cannot be swept away with two resignations – strong action must be taken on all the issues it raised.
“The culture at the BBC has not yet changed. BBC Arabic must be brought under urgent control. The BBC’s US and Middle East coverage needs a full overhaul. And on basic matters of biology, the corporation can no longer allow its output to be shaped by a cabal of ideological activists.
“The new leadership must now deliver genuine reform of the culture of the BBC, top to bottom – because it should not expect the public to keep funding it through a compulsory licence fee unless it can finally demonstrate true impartiality.”
The Liberal Democrats tweeted: ‘A free, independent BBC is vital to a free, informed democracy. Don’t let Trump’s America become Farage’s Britain’.
Josh Wheeler, Founder of Be Broadcast, commented: “From a communications perspective, this is one of the most significant media moments in years.
“It is uncomfortable to see one political figure trigger such disruption across major media institutions. That should not happen, but it shows how fragile trust in journalism has become and how quickly perception can define reality.
“Perception is now reality – so even a question mark is enough to close people’s minds.
“What stands out is the speed of the BBC’s response. This is not a corporation hiding behind bureaucracy; it is one taking decisive action to protect its reputation before the damage hardens. It is strategic crisis management.
“Do I believe Tim Davie and Deborah Turness needed to go? Probably not. But by acting early, the BBC is showing it understands how modern reputations work. The court of public opinion moves faster than any internal inquiry, and being the antidote before the venom sets in is sometimes the only way to preserve credibility.
“If the leaked memo encouraged the merging of the Trump clips, that strikes at the core of editorial integrity. Accuracy, intent, and transparency are the foundations of trust. Once those are blurred, the entire communications framework begins to crack.
“All of this is happening during a Charter Review, when every BBC decision is under a microscope. In that context, this level of accountability sends a powerful signal. It shows that the BBC still understands leadership is as much about perception as process.
“There is also a wider lesson here for those in public life. Politicians, in particular, would do well to mirror the same “buck stops with me” principle shown by Davie and Turness. Accountability is not just good ethics; it is good communication.
“What happens next will decide whether this becomes a reputational reset or a reputational scar. The BBC must now focus on transparency and openness. It needs to show how it will strengthen editorial safeguards, rebuild confidence, and reaffirm its role as a trusted, independent broadcaster.
“The BBC’s strength has always been its willingness to face uncomfortable truths. This may be one of those moments where doing so, however painful, proves exactly why it still matters.”
When customers purchase two qualifying products on Amazon.co.uk, a third item will be donated to The Multibank charity automatically at no additional charge.
The You buy. We donate. programme runs until to 12 November, supporting The Big House Multibank in Fife.
The Multibank charity was launched four years ago this month (November) as a pilot by former Prime Minister Gordon Brown, The Cottage Family Centre in Kirkcaldy, Amazon’s Dunfermline Fulfilment Centre and other Fife businesses to redistribute surplus household goods to people in need.
There are now six Multibanks across the UK which have provided more than 12 million essential items to over 800,000 different families nationwide since the piloting of the charity in Fife began.
You buy. We donate. launches as research reveals nearly one in five adults in the Scotland have concerns about affording basic hygiene essentials in the months ahead.
You buy. We donate. aims to generate more than 200,000 product donations for families across the UK.
Amazon has teamed up with some of the country’s leading household brands like Colgate, Johnson & Johnson, Neutrogena and Sanex to deliver more than 200,000 vital hygiene products for families in Scotland and around the UK who are struggling to make ends meet.
The products are being distributed to families in Scotland by The Big House Multibank charity as part of the latest Amazon You buy. We donate. campaign.
Until 12 November, Amazon and its supplier partners will donate a third item to The Multibank charity for every two qualifying products customers buy on Amazon, with no extra cost involved. Customers simply need to visit this page on Amazon to take part.
The products will be distributed to families in Scotland by The Big House Multibank, part of a national network of charities whose President is former Prime Minister Gordon Brown.
Former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown helped set-up The Multibank with The Cottage Family Centre charity and local businesses including Amazon’s Fulfilment Centre in Dunfermline, after he saw firsthand the severe poverty and deprivation affecting his local community in Fife, Scotland. Six Multibanks now operate across the UK, having provided more than 12 million essential items to over 800,000 different families nationwide to date.
The You buy. We donate. campaign follows research commissioned earlier this year by Amazon shows that a fifth (19%) of adults in Scotland have worries about affording basic hygiene products like toothpaste, soap or laundry detergent over the coming months. The findings also revealed that almost one in ten adults (7%) in Scotland have cut back on or skipped buying hygiene essentials altogether.
Eugenie Teasley, Head of Impact, Amazon UK, said: “Our customers were overwhelmingly supportive of our first You buy. We donate. campaign earlier this year and as winter draws closer and families face increasingly difficult times, we wanted to team up once again with our partners in support of The Multibank in Scotland and across the UK.
The You buy. We donate. campaign offers Amazon customers the opportunity to make a huge difference to the lives of families in need while buying their everyday essential items.
“Everyone at Amazon is looking forward to donating these important products to Multibanks across the UK, helping people in need access essential products.”
Taken: 27th November 2020
Amazon Peak Fun : MME1 Darlington:
Grant Barnes, Warehouse Manager at The Big House, added:“The You buy. We donate campaign has been invaluable to The Big House Multibank.
“The goods provided tend to be amongst our most “in demand” items, so the support to receive hygiene products cannot be understated, strengthening our partnership with Amazon to support families across Scotland.”
Brands participating in ‘You buy. We donate’ include Colgate, Sanex, Palmolive, Listerine, Neutrogena, Johnson & Johnson, Johnson Baby, Aveeno and Aveeno Baby, Mama Bear, OGX and by Amazon.
Transport logistics specialists Palletline will provide free logistics support, handling the storage and distribution of donations to Multibank hubs across the UK, with Amazon providing additional transportation routes.
Celebrating 20 years of game-changing theatre – a year-long programme of what NTS does best.
Including three world premieres, five tours across Scotland, gig theatre and a much anticipated new musical, urgent work responding to the current climate, an adaptation of a Scots classic, a major creative response to testimony from the Cared Experienced community, a call out to the nation to inspire a show, a special free TiSS at 10 programme for schools and a wealth of world-class Scottish theatrical talent taking over Scotland’s stages in 2026.
MAJOR TOUR OF SCOTTISH CLASSIC – SCOTTISH PREMIERE
THE PRIME OF MISS JEAN BRODIE – adapted from the Muriel Spark novel by David Harrower, directed by Vicky Featherstone and featuring Gayle Rankin as Miss Jean Brodie. The Scottish premiere of a new adaptation of the Muriel Spark classic, bringing acclaimed Scottish actor Gayle Rankin back to Scotland’s stages following a high-profile screen and US stage career.
Opening at The Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh and touring to The Citizens Theatre, Glasgow; His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen; and Pitlochry Festival Theatre from 02 October to 07 November 2026.
A National Theatre of Scotland production in partnership with The Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh and in association with Pitlochry Festival Theatre.
Stand & Deliver: The Lee Jeans Sit-Inby Frances Poet, directed by Jemima Levick. From an idea conceived by Paul English and Frances Poet. 45 years since the legendary occupation of the Lee Jeans factory in Greenock, Stand and Deliver: The Lee Jeans Sit-In tellsa powerful and personal story of political resistance, workers’ determination and lifelong friendships. Performed with a live 80’s soundtrack.
Opening at theTron Theatre, Glasgow, touring to Aberdeen Arts Centre; the Adam Smith Theatre, Kirkcaldy; Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh; Byre Theatre, St Andrews; Eastgate Theatre, Peebles; Mull Theatre, Eden Court, Inverness; Cumbernauld Theatre, Beacon Arts Centre, Greenock, from 24 April to 10 June 2026.
A National Theatre of Scotland and Tron Theatre Company co-production.
THE HIGH LIFE –The Musical, Still Living It!Story, Script and Lyrics by Alan Cumming, Forbes Masson and Johnny McKnight. Music by Forbes Masson, additional music by Alan Cumming. Directed by Andrew Panton. After a 30-year delay in the departure lounge, The High Lifereturns in a new musical spectacular featuring all four original cast members – Alan Cumming, Forbes Masson, Siobhan Redmond and Patrick Ryecart akaSebastian Flight, Steve McCracken, Shona Spurtle and Captain Hilary Duff.
Opening at Dundee Rep Theatre and touring to His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen; Eden Court, Inverness; Festival Theatre, Edinburgh and King’s Theatre, Glasgow from 27 March to 23 May 2026.
A National Theatre of Scotland co-production with Dundee Rep Theatre, in association with Aberdeen Performing Arts and Capital Theatres.
THROUGH THE SHORTBREAD TIN – written and performed by Martin O’Connor and original productiondirected by Lu Kemp. Martin O’Connor’s acclaimed, playful epic returns by popular demand, tearing through Scottish history and the myths we tell ourselves.
“an entertaining and intelligent investigation into the illusions and inconsistencies of Scottish history, culture and identity.” ★★★★ – The Stage
At the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and then touring to Scottish sited locations in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland in August and September 2026.
LARGE-SCALE NATIONWIDE SOCIALLY ENGAGED AND AUDIENCE FOCUSSED PROJECTS
CARING SCOTLAND PROJECT, creatively led by socially engaged theatre artist, Nicola McCartney.
ONE HUNDRED VOICES is an interactive, audio-guided installation, bringing creative insight into living in the care system. It serves as an artistic act of recognition and celebration of the one hundred testimonies recorded through the Caring Scotland Project.
The installation will premiere at the Scottish Parliament in August ahead of touring to The Citizens Theatre, Glasgow; Millennium Centre, Stranraer; Easterbrook Hall, Dumfries; Reid Hall, Forfar; Rothes Halls, Glenrothes from 12 August to 18 October 2026.
TEN PORTRAITS – a touring exhibitionofportraits of the Care Experienced community captured by Chris Scott, Caring Scotland photographer in residence (April 2026 to February 2027).
THE SOUND COLLECTION -an audio collection of all the stories gathered from the listening project hosted as part of the archive of the National Library of Scotland from April 2026.
Supported by The Weir Charitable Trust and The Rayne Foundation.
TRUE STORY – As NTS celebrates 20 years of bringing real life stories to dramatic life, the organisation will be issuing a Scotland-wide call out for true stories from the nation. Following a public vote one of these will be brought to theatrical life in November 2027. True Story will be launched in January 2026.
TISS AT 10 – A SPECIAL FREE PROGRAMME OF WORK FOR SCHOOLS
To celebrate a decade of creativity, connection and performance magic, every Theatre in Schools Scotland performance will be free of charge for participating schools from August 2026 to June 2027 as part of a special TiSS at 10 anniversary programme. With four bold and inspiring productions already confirmed, TiSS at 10 will bring the thrill of live performance to more than 13,000 pupils across Scotland’s primary and some secondary schools.
TiSS at 10 is supported by Savendie and The Weir Charitable Trust.
Supported by: Aberdeen Baker Incorporation, Aberdeen Performing Arts, Carnegie Dunfermline Trust, David and June Gordon Memorial Trust, MEB Charitable Trust, North East Arts Touring, Russell Trust and The Tillyloss Trust.
Theatre in Schools Scotland is a National Theatre of Scotland and Imaginate partnership project.
TROLLEYDARITY – A SCRATCH N SNIFF STAYCATION at Western General Hospital in Edinburgh; St John’s Hospital and East Lothian Community Hospital from 05 January to 30 March 2026. Co-curated by Alan Grieve and Shona Reppe with facilitators, Minnie Crook and Dan Brown.
Offering patients and staff a unique Scratch ‘n’ Sniff staycation: the ultimate indoor experience for the discerning static traveller.
Supported by: The Weir Charitable Trust and The William Grant Foundation
National Theatre of Scotland and NHS Lothian Charity: Tonic Arts Project
A rapid response theatre project – creatively led by Hannah Lavery and Cora Bissett.
“In the dark times, will there also be singing? Yes, there will also be singing. About the dark times.” — Bertolt Brecht. Two of Scotland’s leading artists and theatre-makers join forces to create a project that offers Scotland’s artists and communities the opportunity to respond with resistance and hope to the “dark times” we are living through.
National Theatre of Scotland, as a theatre without walls, is ideally placed to respond creatively and nimbly to the current challenges facing individuals and communities in divided times.
CHANGE–MAKERS – Leah Byrne, Hannah Low and Andrea Ling, NTS Resident Fellows curate a programme to address sectoral inequities with workshops, surveys, a writer’s programme, call outs and research, throughout the year.
Supported by Esmée Fairbairn Foundation
SOUTH ASIAN PROJECT – NTS’s ongoing commitment to create and develop work by South Asian artists for diverse communities.
A new opportunity for South Asian playwrights, to have their work developed and programmed through the new South Asian Playwrights’ Programme with two new plays to be licensed by A Play, A Pie and A Pint for presentation in future seasons. In partnership with Bijli, A Play, A Pie and A Pint and Playwrights’ Studio Scotland.
And a South Asian Scratch Night at the Citizens Theatre Studio on 08 October 2026; Curated by Niloo-Far Khan and Kal Sabir and presented by South Asian Artists in Scotland in association with National Theatre of Scotland and the Citizens Theatre. Full application details for the South Asian Scratch Night will be announced in 2026.
National Theatre of Scotland and Grid Iron are working in partnership with Great Leap Forward to secure international touring dates in 2026 and into 2027 for June Carter Cash: The Woman, Her Music and Me, the acclaimed award-winning production, written and performed by Charlene Boyd and directed by Cora Bissett.
A year long programme of creative opportunities for schools and community groups, includingFirst Nights: free tickets and a guaranteed good night out for twenty groups across the country, the popular CreativeCareerssessions for schools, and the ever expanding Education Portal with new digital additions Make it Happen and Through the Shortbread Tin and, coming later in 2026, Stand and Deliver: The Lee Jean’s Sit In and The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie.
First Nights supported by The Northwood Charitable Trust.
Creative Careers and First Nights are supported by The Stevenston Charitable Trust.
National Theatre of Scotland’s ever-expanding repertoire of short films, features, digital and hybrid broadcast projects continue to be distributed across streaming platforms and to cinemas and festivals. Live projects include Kinaara, written and directed by Kal Sabir, Metamorphosis, written and directed by Gillian Katungi,The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, directed by Hope Dickson Leach (streaming on Sky Arts and Marquee TV), Finding Seaglass by Hannah Lavery (BBC Sounds), The Fifth Step, by David Ireland, directed by Finn Den Hertog (NT Live). Further projects to be announced in 2026.
Jackie Wylie, Artistic Director/Joint CEO said: “I am delighted to share our special 20th birthday season, which celebrates all that makes us a unique national theatre.
“The year encapsulates what National Theatre of Scotland (NTS) does best, with our special without walls model; a truly national theatre. We are touring widely across Scotland in 2026, taking work to wherever audiences are to be found.
“We are a National Theatre that has never played by the rules. This means we can present work in castles and hospitals, in community centres and schools as well as on the largest stages in Scotland.
“We have a packed programme of productions featuring incredible Scottish talent, world premieres, exhilarating musicals, exceptional new plays, much loved classic texts, illuminating community projects and joyous gig theatre.
“We passionately believe in the power of theatre and its place in the cultural heart of the nation. In our 20th birthday year, we must continue to innovate to ensure the vitality and relevance of Scotland’s national theatre.
“We are so proud to deliver a programme that wrestles with the issues of our times, brings real stories to theatrical life and embodies the narrative of a nation – its past, present and future.”
Independent businesses in Edinburgh celebrated as part of Small Business Saturday’s Tour highlighting the nation’s favourite businesses
Local businesses in Edinburgh were in the spotlight this week when Small Business Saturday’s UK-wide roadshow visited the city, celebrating the nation’s favourite small businesses and their vital role in local communities.
‘The Tour’, designed to champion small businesses across the UK in the run up to Small Business Saturday on 6 December, featured ‘behind the scenes’ visits to a selection of Edinburgh’s businesses, highlighting their stories, successes, and ambitions for the future.
Small Business Saturday is a grassroots, non-commercial campaign that celebrates small businesses and encourages consumers to support and spend with small firms.
During the visit, the roadshow met Jen Byrne, owner of By Jen Byrne, who creates beautiful, sustainable pieces from vintage and repurposed fabrics.
Jen said: “It means so much to have been visited by the Small Business Saturday roadshow team, and recognised as an independent fashion designer creating sustainable garments.”
Once again supported by BT, the Small Business Saturday roadshow is visiting over 20 towns and cities across the UK throughout November, showcasing local businesses on social media alongside offering a range of free online support for small business owners.
Local businesses featured during the Edinburgh stop included PekoeTea, run by Jon (above) and Esther Cooper, a specialist tea company that handcrafts all of its blends just minutes from their shop, and Transfer Magic, run by Pete Harper, who digitises everything from videotapes and cine film to camcorder footage, helping preserve cherished memories for future generations.
“As a small business owner, it’s incredibly valuable to have Small Business Saturday championing our cause and shining a spotlight on how we make a living here at Transfer Magic”, Pete said.
“Participating in the tour will hopefully be really fruitful as we enter into the Christmas season. The webinars that run alongside the tour have given me great insight into how to better run my small business, and I’ll be using those lessons in the new year and beyond.”
Also featured was JustBe Botanicals, founded by Gail Bryden, which produces natural skincare and aromatherapy gifts. She said: “Being part of the Small Business Saturday roadshow is incredible because it puts the spotlight on businesses that otherwise wouldn’t get that sort of reach.
“Running up to Christmas is such an important time for small businesses and that’s why campaigns like Small Business Saturday are so important. When you shop local, that spend stays within your community, so go and support your small businesses.”
Following its stop in Edinburgh, Small Business Saturday’s roadshow will continue to Preston, Carlisle, and Manchester, ahead of the campaign on 6 December.
“It’s incredible to have the opportunity to visit Edinburgh and hear directly from local entrepreneurs about their passion, innovation, and plans for growth,”said Michelle Ovens CBE, Director of Small Business Saturday UK.
“This year we’re highlighting the nation’s favourite businesses, which are the lifeblood of local communities, and it’s fantastic to see the support and enthusiasm they receive during the campaign.”
Alongside the roadshow, Small Business Saturday is offering small businesses in Edinburgh and all over the UK a month of dedicated, free online business support, including webinars on a wide range of small business topics, as well as mentoring from business experts.
“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 support local businesses, whether online, in stores, or at events, many of which are offering special promotions to mark the day.
The Small Business Saturday Tour team will travel across the UK in branded electric vehicles, reflecting the sustainable practices many small business owners are adopting in the race to 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 –
Aldi is calling on charities, community groups and food banks in Edinburgh to sign up for surplus food donations from its stores this Christmas.
The supermarket’s Edinburgh stores work with the community giving platform Neighbourly to donate surplus food throughout the year. But with all Aldi stores set to close on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, there’s an opportunity for even more groups to benefit from the partnership over the festive season.
Participating charities will be matched with local Aldi stores and can collect fresh and chilled food nearing its expiration date, with Aldi expecting to donate an estimated one million meals to those in need over the festive period.
Luke Emery, National Sustainability Director at Aldi UK, said: “The services our amazing charity partners provide are more in demand than ever during the festive period.
“That’s why we’re committed to offering as much support as we can to the communities we serve this Christmas.”
Steve Butterworth, Chief Executive Officer at Neighbourly, added: “Christmas can be a tough time for many families, and local charities are often a vital lifeline. We know there are still groups out there who could really use the extra help from businesses like Aldi, so we’d love them to get in touch.”
Any charity or community group not already working with Neighbourly can register their interest at neighbourly.com.
Customers can also donate food or household items year-round through community donation points in every Aldi store.
In addition to its long-term partnership with Neighbourly, Aldi has worked with Company Shop since 2022 to manage surplus stock from its Regional Distribution Centres. It sees surplus items sold at discounted prices to members throughout the year, making essentials more accessible and reducing waste.
Tinderbox Orchestra have announced their new spoken word EP which is set to be released in January 2026. The first single Echoes of Creation will be released on Wednesday 19th November, with a launch celebration at Push the Boat Out Festival.
Echoes of Creation was written in collaboration with Poet and former Craigmillar Library Manager Hannah McCooke in support of the ‘We Make Music’ Instrument Libraries – an initiative to get musical instruments into public libraries across Scotland.
We Make Music Instrument Libraries Initiative, the partnership between Tinderbox Collective, Music Partnership Education Group, and Edinburgh Libraries now operates in ten local authorities and 30 community libraries across the country – resulting in thousands of people having borrowed instruments.
The project collects donated instruments, restores them, and makes them available to anyone – free of charge – so you can borrow them just like a book.
Hannah McCooke said:“Echoes of Creation was written to celebrate the legacy of local working-class activist Helen Crummy.
“I worked as a community librarian when we were first piloting the instrument lending scheme, and I thought often of Helen and the campaigning she did for the children of my branch, at a time when a bare minimum education was deemed as more than enough for these kids. She campaigned tirelessly for equality of access to the arts and her impact is still felt.”
Performing at Push the Boat Out, the orchestra will also be joined by some of Scotland’s most exciting spoken word artists; including award-winning writer, theatre-maker and performance poet RJ Hunter, and spoken word poet, actor and rapper Ace V!s!on.
Bringing together rappers and singers with soaring strings, heavy brass, woodwind and thundering bass and drums, Tinderbox transforms preconceptions of what an orchestra can be.
Over the last few years they have performed at major festivals, events and venues including; Edinburgh’s Usher Hall, Glasgow’s Royal Concert Hall (Celtic Connections), Latitude Festival (BBC Introducing Stage), Fuse Festival (London), Hidden Door Festival, Edinburgh International Festival and Fringe by the Sea.
They have also produced multiple sell-out shows at Edinburgh Fringe Festival and have toured across the UK and Ireland.
Claire Docherty, Orchestra Manager, said: “This EP is the culmination of the Orchestra’s work over the last few years, touring libraries across the UK and Ireland, championing the ‘We Make Music’ Instrument Libraries initiative, and highlights our distinctive collaborations with some of Scotland’s leading spoken word artists.
“Launching it at Push the Boat Out — Edinburgh’s international Poetry Festival — where Tinderbox Collective helped bring the project to life — feels like the perfect way to celebrate this work.”
Tickets for Tinderbox Orchestra at Push the Boat Out are on sale now at:
Opens at Premier, 47 Roseburn Terrace, Edinburgh, EH12 5NQ
Post Office open daily
Modern open-plan retail environment
Open 108 hours a week
Customers of main UK banks can access accounts at new branch
Services include bill payment, cash withdrawals, postage, home shopping collections and returns
At the Post Office we are continually looking to refresh our network and ensure we meet our customer needs. A brand-new Post Office has opened this week (6/11) at Premier, 47 Roseburn Terrace.
This new Roseburn Terrace branch will offer customers Post Office services from posting letters and parcels to collecting and returning online shopping items and everyday banking, and bill payments.
The service will be one of our local style branches with a low-screened, open-plan Post Office service point carefully integrated into the retail counter.
Post Office services will be available: Monday – Sunday: 8am – 10pm.
This will offer customers 108 hours of Post Office service a week, making it very convenient for customers.
The new branch aims to offer even more convenience to Post Office customers by extending the availability of Post Offices services in the area at Gorgie Road, Dalry Road, Dundee Street, West Maitland Street and Balgreen Road.
Scott Hamilton, Post Office Area Change Manager, said: “We want to make it as easy as possible for customers to pay their bills, withdraw cash from their bank accounts, and send and collect their mail at a time and place that suits them best.
“We know how important our services are to customers, and we are confident that this brand-new Post Office will ensure that people in this area of Edinburgh have easy access to our services.”
