Month: November 2025

‘Fundamental issues’ must be addressed in Bill which seeks to recall MSPs

‘Fundamental issues’ must be addressed in a Bill which seeks to introduce a recall process to the Scottish Parliament. This is the outcome of a report issued by Holyrood’s Standards, Procedures and Public Appointments Committee.

The report follows the Committee’s consideration of the Scottish Parliament (Recall and Removal of Members) Bill. The Bill, introduced by Graham Simpson MSP, would introduce a process by which an MSP could lose their seat in the Parliament through a recall petition.

Whilst the Committee recommends the Scottish Parliament agrees the general principles of the Bill, the report sets out a number of areas for reconsideration to ensure the process works within the Scottish Parliament’s electoral system.

These include consideration of the complexity and costs associated with the recall of regional MSPs, and some of the practical arrangements of holding recall petitions to ensure all those eligible to sign can do so.

The Bill also proposes new grounds for the automatic removal of MSPs, either on criminal offence grounds or when a Member has not attended the Parliament in person for 180 days without a reasonable explanation.

The Committee is not persuaded that MSPs should be removed for not physically attending the Parliament and invites Mr Simpson to reconsider this element of the Bill.

Speaking as the report published, Committee Convener Martin Whitfield MSP said: “We have heard that at its heart, this Bill has the integrity of the democratic process and the aim of improving accountability.

“Whilst this is clearly to be welcomed, there are some fundamental changes which need to be made for the Bill to achieve this aim.

“The recall process suggested within the Bill builds on the now well-established process at Westminster. But as we heard time and again, the two electoral systems are not the same and it is clear to us that there needs to be further thought given to how regional recall will work.”

The Convener continued: “The proposals within the Bill in relation to removal of MSPs fail to take into account the fact that we operate as a hybrid Parliament.

“With this in mind, we are simply not persuaded that requiring physical attendance is the correct basis for removal of MSPs and this must be rectified during any further consideration of the Bill.”

The Power of Poetry at St Columba’s

TUESDAY 11th NOVEMBER from 6.30 – 7.30pm

Discover the power of poetry as a tool for remembrance, on Tuesday 11th November from 6.30pm-7.30pm.

This guided session offers a gentle and welcoming space to reflect on loved ones through poems about memory, love, and loss. You are invited to join us in writing, sharing your own poems, or simply listening to others.

No poetry experience is needed; all are welcome to participate in this shared experience.

Light refreshments will be provided.

This session will be facilitated by our dramatherapist, Sally McRae.

Booking required – please email arts@stcolumbashospice.org.uk.

Drylaw Festive Fayre

FRIDAY 28 NOVEMBER 1 – 4pm

🎄✨ Drylaw Festive Fayre – Only 3 Weeks Away! ✨🎄

The countdown is on! Join us for our Festive Fayre – a warm, cheerful day full of seasonal treats, handmade gifts, and community spirit.

🗓 Friday 28th November

🕰 1PM – 4PM

📍 Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre

Come along and enjoy:

🎁 Stalls with crafts, gifts & goodies

🍰 Homemade cakes & refreshments

🎅 A visit from Santa (for the young and young-at-heart!)

🎟 Tombola prizes and more surprises

Bring your friends, family, and neighbours – it’ll be a great family-friendly, free way to start the Festive season!

✨ Only 3 weeks to go – spread the word! ✨

New Currie Community High School officially opened

The new Currie Community High School was officially opened at an official ceremony by Cllr James Dalgleish and Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills, Jenny Gilruth.

The school in the west of Edinburgh opened its doors to pupils in August 2025 and is one of the first Passivhaus-designed high schools in the country, setting the standard for energy consumption across school estates.

Passivhaus is a rigorous energy standard which reduces the amount of energy needed for heating by up to 90%. It also lowers the total amount of energy used by around 70% and minimises carbon emissions. The new school supports Edinburgh’s aim of net zero emissions by 2030.  

The campus has been designed with the needs of learners, as well as the local community in mind. The school includes a four-court sports hall, a gym hall, fitness suite, dance studio, a Passivhaus four lane swimming pool and a 3G pitch.

The main entrance foyer includes the school library alongside informal social and meeting spaces for the community to use. These facilities include a wellness centre, meeting room and café area which has been included with the aim of providing refreshments for community users in the near future.

Aiming to encourage cross curricular and collaborative learning, the school has two large open plan learning plazas that are easily accessed by classrooms on all three floors. Along with classrooms in an Integrated Support Zone, there is a sensory room and nurture room. Breakout and retreat spaces throughout the school offer pupils choice on where they want to work, socialise or take time out.

The new school building has been designed in line with the guiding principles of the Scottish Government’s Learning Estate Strategy and is one of the projects in the first phase of the Scottish Government’s Learning Estate Investment Programme.

Councillor James Dalgleish, Education, Children and Families Convener said: “This is a school to inspire the next generation in more ways than one, and the campus has not only been designed with learners’ needs at its heart, but with their ideas and input integrated throughout the building. 

“This campus also stands to benefit the wider community, which is also central to its ethos. The broad range of facilities on offer reflects this – from the state-of-the-art gym, public spaces and of course the swimming pool that are open to the community, as well as pupils.

“The building itself is designed to be fit for the future and support our net-zero commitment. It is a pleasure to see pupils and school staff already enjoying and taking advantage of the opportunities for collaboration and expression that are central to its design.”

Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills, Jenny Gilruth said: “The Scottish Government has been proud to partner with the City of Edinburgh Council and support them with over £22 million of funding to support the building of the new Currie Community Campus.

“We know that high quality school buildings play a key role in supporting children and young people to thrive in their education. Since 2007, the proportion of school buildings in “good” or “satisfactory” condition has increased from 62.7% to a record 92% thanks to Scottish Government investment in the school estate.

“Through this funding from the Scottish Government, the local Council has been able to construct a school that is a modern, flexible and sustainable learning environment, which will be a huge asset to the local area for the years to come.”

Jenny Hutchison, Head Teacher at Currie Community High School, said: “The opening of our new school marks not just the unveiling of bricks and mortar, but of new beginnings, a school where curiosity will be nurtured, talents discovered, and futures shaped for generations to come.

“It has been a whirlwind 12 weeks since our pupils first walked through the doors and it is everything we expected and more.

“We have the most incredible school and it’s been amazing seeing it come to life with pupils and staff in the campus. I want to personally thank everyone involved in the project, which has been such a team effort.

“Together, we will make Currie Community High School not just a building, but a beacon of excellence, hope, inclusion, and inspiration.

New Currie High School Official opening

Phil McDowell, regional director for Kier Construction North & Scotland, said: “Currie Community High School is a special project that showcases our deep sector expertise in delivering complex, high-performance education facilities. It reflects our passion for creating spaces that not only support learning but also lead the way in sustainability and decarbonisation. 

“As the first Passivhaus school in Scotland with a swimming pool, it sets a new standard for low-energy design and long-term value.

“We’re proud to have worked in close partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council to deliver a futureproofed school that will benefit generations to come—both as a place of learning and as a sustainable community asset.”

Have you seen Ahmad?

Police are appealing for information to help trace a missing boy. Ahmad Bader, 15, was last seen in the Granton Medway area of the city on the morning of Monday, 27 October, 2025.

Ahmad is described as being around 5ft 11in tall, of medium build, with black hair and brown eyes.

When last seen he was wearing black jogging bottoms with white stripes and text, a black hoodie and puffer gilet, black trainers and carrying a black cross body bag.

Ahmad is believed to be in the Wester Hailes area of Edinburgh and has links throughout the west of Edinburgh area. He uses buses to travel around the city.

Sergeant James Palmer said: “It is out of character for Ahmad to be away from home for this long and as time passes concerns are growing.

“Our enquiries are ongoing and I am appealing for anyone who has seen Ahmed or who has any information on his whereabouts to contact us.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 2546 of Thursday, 6 November, 2025.

Read more – https://orlo.uk/QCDtN

More support for disabled people as Improving Access Fund launched

A new fund launched yesterday offers £1.5 million in grants for projects designed to break down barriers and strengthen services that disabled people depend on.

The Improving Access Fund is a key part of the Scottish Government’s £3 million Disability Equality Plan. Jointly designed with Disabled People’s Organisations, the Fund will provide grants for projects that improve access to essential services and promote independent living, choice, and participation.

It will focus on three priorities:

  • Accessible financial advice and support
  • Inclusive participation in communities and everyday life
  • Better mental health and wellbeing.

Minister for Equalities Kaukab Stewart said: “Scotland should be a country where disabled people can live the lives they choose – supported, empowered, and included every step of the way.

“Today’s launch of our Improving Access Fund is a really important step towards that – it has been designed with disabled people, for disabled people.

“Through our Disability Equality Plan, we are making a clear commitment: disabled people are a priority for the Scottish Government. By investing £3 million in this work, we are strengthening access to the services and support that enable independence, choice, and participation.

“In contrast, disabled people in Scotland remain deeply concerned about the potential effects of planned UK Government welfare reforms. We call on the UK Government to abandon these damaging proposals and to follow the Scottish Government’s lead in investing in and enhancing the social security safety net, rather than tearing it apart.”

Heather Fisken, CEO of Inclusion Scotland said: “Disabled People’s organisations are led by disabled people ourselves and know best what needs to change.

“For too long our organisations have had to shift shape to ‘fit’ with funders’ missions and requirements, missing out on critical funding to keep our organisations running and to make the changes desperately needed so that disabled people are empowered in their own lives.

“The Improving Access Fund is different because it targets Disabled People’s Organisations and DPOs helped to design it.”  

Tressa Burke, CEO of Glasgow Disability Alliance said: “Our survey of 756 disabled members found 91% are deeply concerned about equality and human rights, feeling under attack and de-prioritised.

“This has led to poverty, exclusion, poorer mental health, and reduced participation in daily life. Glasgow Disability Alliance and our members welcome the Improving Access Fund, which will advance equality, independent living, choice, and participation.”

Lyn Pornaro, CEO of Disability Equality Scotland said: “Disabled people demand justice and access to services, buildings, events and public bodies – in the same way as non-disabled people. 

“This fund is a starting point to improving access to the key areas of focus in the Disability Equality Plan and, most importantly, in the lives of disabled people daily.”

Disability Equality Plan

The Fund is being administered by Inspiring Scotland and more details are available here

Feel the festive cheer at Dobbies’ Christmas Shopping Night in aid of Alzheimer’s Research UK

Dobbies Garden Centres is encouraging customers to come along to the Edinburgh store on Thursday 27 November to be the first to shop exclusive Black Friday offers at its late-night shopping event, in aid of Alzheimer’s Research UK.

Seven days of festive Black Friday offers gets underway at the Christmas Shopping Night event, from 5pm to 8pm. These offers include 20% off a selection of 7ft artificial trees, 20% off selected lighting, half-price LED tabletop games and 20% off advent calendars and selected Christmas food gifts. Customers will also receive a £5 off £25 voucher, and £10 off £50 vouchers to spend on the night when booking online at dobbies.com.

Tickets are priced at £1, £2.50 and £5 with a pay-what-you-can approach, with all proceeds donated to Dobbies’ National Charity Partner, Alzheimer’s Research UK. Alzheimer’s Research UK volunteers will also be in attendance at the Edinburgh store with fundraising activities, including raffles and donation buckets.  

Customers at the Edinburgh store will receive a glass of prosecco or a soft drink on arrival, the opportunity to book in to visit Santa in his North Pole adventure themed Grotto and enjoy entertainment from local community groups who have been invited to perform in store.  

There will also be in-store demos and tastings from the foodhall and in-store Bakery to Go (where available) and Dobbies’ Edinburgh restaurant will be offering a light bite menu until 7.15pm, including soups, seasonal toasted sandwiches and a selection of festive sweet treats and cakes. 

As part of the event, local schools and nurseries who have been successful with Dobbies Community Christmas Tree campaign will be invited along to pick up their free real Christmas tree.

Dobbies’ Events Programme Manager, Ayesha Nickson, is looking forward to welcoming customers for an evening of festive shopping. She said: “Christmas Shopping Night is a great opportunity for friends and family to come together and get a head start on the Christmas shopping at our Edinburgh store.

“We have some great offers and promotions to take advantage of, whilst soaking up the festive atmosphere and fundraising for a great cause. 

“Christmas Shopping Night is a staple in our seasonal events calendar and, this year, will raise funds for our National Charity Partner, Alzheimer’s Research UK.” 

Alzheimer’s Research UK is the UK’s leading dementia research charity. Dobbies is working together with Alzheimer’s Research UK to highlight the benefits of garden living for brain health and raise funds to find a cure for dementia, raising more than £40,000 for the charity since the partnership launched in March.

Paul Glazier, Head of Corporate Partnerships at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Dobbies for raising vital funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s Research UK through its Christmas Shopping Night. 

“With almost one million people currently living with dementia in the UK, it is vital that we come together and end the heartbreak of this condition. Thank you, Dobbies, for standing with us for a cure.”  

Tickets are available at www.dobbies.com and in-store on the night. All proceeds from tickets and donations at the event will be donated to Alzheimer’s Research UK.
Customers can explore Dobbies’ festive ranges and inspiration at www.dobbies.com

Corstorphine Community Centre: Self-Care Day

TUESDAY 18th NOVEMBER

Self Care is important for us all. On Tuesday 18th November CCC are hosting some magnificent workshops. The facilitators will provide you with top tips and take aways to make each day a little easier.

Don’t hang about, email bookings@ccchub.online to secure your session/s.

Support for Scotland’s pupils impacted by poverty

£43 million to tackle attainment gap

Pupils impacted by poverty will receive further support to succeed in their studies through a continued £43 million investment this year.

The Scottish Government funding will be distributed to local councils for strategic approaches to closing the poverty-related attainment gap. This will provide support to schools through the recruitment of additional teachers, support staff and family link workers, as well as enhanced professional learning for teachers and school leaders.

The funding is part of the £1.75 billion Scottish Attainment Challenge which has been running for the past decade and forms a key part of the Scottish Government’s commitment to ensure every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of background.

The funding announcement coincides with a newly-published report highlighting how the Scottish Government’s work to close the poverty-related attainment gap is having a positive impact on children and young people’s education and overall wellbeing.

Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth announced the funding at the Association of Directors of Education in Scotland (ADES) conference today.

Ms Gilruth said: “Closing the poverty-related attainment gap is a vital part in our commitment to eradicate child poverty at Scotland. When more children are given a chance to succeed through education, the more we accelerate our progress in reaching this goal.

“The report published today demonstrates how our ongoing investment continues to deliver for Scotland’s schools – it demonstrates that pupils are going to school feeling confident and enjoying their studies. That has been achieved by empowering headteachers to deliver bespoke solutions that meet children and young people’s needs.

“The latest exam data also shows us that this is translating into results, with the deprivation gap narrowing at National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher level over the past year. It is important that we continue to build on this progress, and the funding announced today will do exactly that.”

The £43 million is being provided this year through the Strategic Equity Fund.

The many worlds of Stephen King return to Vue venues in Edinburgh

As the The Long Walk wraps up in cinemas, fans of Stephen King can look forward to seven classic re-releases heading to the big screen this autumn. 

Kicking off the season tonight (7 November) is the supernatural horror, Carrie. Based on King’s first book, it follows the titular character who, after being repeatedly bullied by her classmates, develops supernatural powers and seeks revenge. The chilling movie is brought to life with spine-tingling performances from the likes of Sissy Spacek, John Travolta and Piper Laurie 

The following week, two of King’s most acclaimed and emotional adaptations will return: The Green Mile and The Shawshank Redemption.  

The former sees Tom Hanks plays a kind and reflective prison officer, whose life is forever changed when a gentle giant, played by the late Michael Clarke Duncan, arrives on death row, while the latter showcases outstanding performances from Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman as they explore the resilience of the human spirit within the walls of prison life.   

Other well-known classics returning include John Carpenter’s thrilling tale of obsession in Christine, the heartfelt coming-of-age story Stand by Me, and the unforgettable adaptation of Misery – starring Kathy Bates in her Oscar-winning turn as an author’s self-proclaimed ‘number one fan’ (below). 

Rounding off the season, The Shining will return to the big screen for its 45th anniversary. Step back into the halls of the Overlook Hotel for a haunting descent into madness, isolation, and fear. With Jack Nicholson’s electrifying performance and Kubrick’s visionary direction, The Shining remains one of the most chilling films ever made. 

Robert Smith, General Manager of Vue Edinburgh Omni, said: “At Vue, we celebrate the very best in storytelling, and few names have defined modern cinema quite like Stephen King.

“His unforgettable stories have thrilled, moved, and terrified audiences for generations. As we revisit some of his most iconic adaptations, we’re proud to bring these legendary tales back to where they truly belong, back on the big screen at Vue” 

To find out more, visit myvue.com 

Back on the Big Screen at Vue  

Carrie – From 7 November 

The Shawshank Redemption – From 14 November 

The Green Mile – From 16 November 

Christine – From 22 November 

Stand by Me – From 29 November 

Misery – From 6 December 

The Shining – From 12 December