New data highlights enduring value of in-person work
A MAJOR new survey has confirmed that physical workspace remains essential for Scotland’s third sector – with a vast majority of respondents citing daily reliance on dedicated offices and meeting space.
The study, conducted by Norton Park, found that 92% of organisations surveyed continue to depend on physical work environments, despite the broader move toward remote and hybrid working models.
The survey captured data from more than 100 representatives across the charitable and social enterprise landscape, offering new insight into how Edinburgh’s not-for-profit sector is evolving in a post-pandemic context.
Located beside Easter Road stadium in Edinburgh, Norton Park has provided high-quality, affordable office space for third sector organisations since 1998. It currently hosts 25 charities and non-profits in a fully modernised Grade B listed building.
Keith Robertson, Chief Executive of Norton Park, said: “The data clearly demonstrates that demand for physical workspace remains high. Charities continue to view in-person working as vital – not only for internal collaboration and wellbeing, but for the effective delivery of their services.
“Our model allows us to meet that demand with ethical, affordable, and accessible space designed specifically for the third sector.”
The research revealed that 81% of respondents operate a hybrid model – however, a significant number still use their workspace four or five days per week.
The findings also reveal that organisational values strongly influence decision-making, with 89% stating that social justice commitments impact their choice of landlord or venue, and 80% expressing a preference for working with not-for-profit providers.
Keith added: “Charities are having to make every pound stretch further. Our ownership model lets us keep costs low, offer long-term stability, and reinvest directly into facilities – all of which supports the sustainability of our tenants.
“Affordability has always mattered – but right now, with rising costs and a funding crisis across the third sector, it’s absolutely critical. This research confirms that charities need spaces that don’t drain resources – and that’s exactly what Norton Park provides.”
Housed in a restored Grade B listed building that once served as a school and church, Norton Park provides a welcoming base for organisations, offering adaptable lease options, inclusive rental packages, and a collaborative community atmosphere.
The hub is home to a diverse range of leading organisations, among them well-known charities such as Cyrenians, Samaritans and Edinburgh Young Carers.
Keith added: “This research gives us confidence that the role of physical space in the third sector is not only secure but essential. Norton Park is proud to be part of that future. We provide a place where charities can do their best work, together.”
Amongst other priorities, the survey found that most organisations looked for accessibility and inclusivity as one of their top priorities, with neurodiverse-friendly features and wellbeing spaces.
Norton Park offers physical accessibility features and prides itself on social and financial inclusivity.
As Edinburgh’s pioneering office space dedicated solely to charities and social enterprises, Norton Park provides affordable accommodation tailored for registered charities, community organisations, and public sector bodies.
Drylaw Shopping Centre has been a central part of the neighbourhood for decades: easy to reach, well-used, and home to a variety of shops. Yet despite its importance, it has been overlooked and under-invested in for years (writes FOYSOL CHOUDHURY MSP).
Last year, a constituent raised concerns with me about the centre’s deteriorating condition during one of my surgeries. I took the issue to the Council, and some cleaning and repairs were carried out. These improvements were welcome, but on a recent visit it was clear that many problems persist. The issues are not superficial, they require a long-term, coordinated plan, not temporary fixes.
The ongoing neglect affects more than how the area looks; it shapes how people use the space. That is why I attended the recent public consultation on proposals for improvements.
Many residents took part and made clear that safety must come first. Before new benches, planting or decorative features are introduced, the basics need to be addressed. Central Walk, the main route through the centre, is poorly lit at night. When the lights go out, so does the sense of safety. Reliable lighting and regular maintenance must be prioritised.
Even since my last visit in September, the shrub beds have been tidied up by the Council; however, graffiti remains on the walls and other issues have not been addressed.
That’s why we must emphasise that real and lasting change will also require collaboration. Since the Council is responsible only for the surrounding area, not the Shopping Centre itself, local businesses have a key role in this renovation. We have already seen a positive example by Farmfoods, which recently invested in replacing its roof section, making a noticeable difference.
However, this level of care must be consistent. Businesses benefit from operating in a well-used, welcoming local space, and with that comes a responsibility to contribute to its upkeep.
Some retailers currently do little to maintain the area they trade in, while continuing to profit from the footfall the centre provides. A shared commitment between the Council and local retailers will be essential to revitalize Drylaw Shopping Centre.
Drylaw is a strong and proud community, and its Shopping Centre should reflect that. I will continue to press for sustained investment that prioritises safety, dignity and a welcoming environment, so that the centre can once again be a place where people feel comfortable spending time and coming together.
Foysol Choudhury has been suspended by the Labour Party over an allegation of inappropriate conduct and an investigation is ongoing. He currently sits as an Independent MSP at Holyrood.
David Matthews is walking to save lives by taking on the challenge of a 6,000 mile walk around the UK and Ireland visiting Samaritans volunteers to raise vital funds for the suicide prevention charity.
David’s Listening Walk began on the 10th September, World Suicide Prevention Day, and has so far taken him from Knoydart to Skye, Stornoway, Orkney, Inverness, Aberdeen, Dundee, Dunfermline, and arriving in Edinburgh on the 28th October.
David will make his way down to the Borders, before walking through England, Wales, and Ireland and heading back up the west coast of Scotland to Knoydart.
It’s not the first time that David has endeavored on such a challenge, having completed his first Listening Walk in 2019.
The first walk took place either side of lockdown, and was completed in 2021, walking a total of 6,100 miles. In the 2025 Kings New Years Honours list, David was awarded an MBE for services to The Listening Walk and Samaritans.
This time around, David is hoping to raise £50k for Samaritans by completing the walk. Donations can be made by visiting his fundraising page here.
A dedicated Samaritans volunteer of 16 years, David is also taking volunteering shifts with branches he visits on his way. David said: “It’s a tough walk, that’s for sure. It’s also coming into the winter which of course brings the challenge of the weather.
“I’ve been a listening volunteer for 16 years, so I know the challenges that I’m experiencing on this walk are minimal compared to what the people who call us are going through.
“This walk is for them, it’s to raise money and awareness so that we can keep helping the people who need us, and be there for them when they need us most.”
With countless stories to tell, memories made, and the sheer determination of taking on such a big task to raise money for suicide prevention, David will be releasing a book documenting the highs and the lows, the stories, and the people who kept him going along the first ever Listening Walk, on 11th November 2025.
Volunteers all over Scotland spent 35,400 hours responding to calls for help in 2024, and continue to be there around the clock for anyone who needs a listening ear, helping them believe in tomorrow.
The programme protects those most at risk from severe illness
The First Minister has urged all those eligible for a flu vaccination this year to take up the offer as he received his in Edinburgh.
Getting the flu vaccine is extremely important for those who are most vulnerable to the virus to protect them from severe illness and in some cases, death. Eligible groups include people 65 years and older, pregnant women and those with certain health conditions.
Unpaid carers and health and social care staff are also eligible as the vaccine helps prevent transmission of the virus so helps protect those they are caring for.
The flu virus is always changing and the vaccination offers the best protection against the strains circulating each winter. Getting vaccinated ahead of the peak festive season is important to allow time for your body to build up protection against the virus.
First Minister John Swinney qualifies for a flu vaccine as an unpaid carer. Attending the NHS Lothian centre at Edinburgh’s Ocean Terminal he said: “I welcome the chance to receive my flu vaccine and I want to thank all those involved in this year’s roll-out.
“Since the start of this year’s programme, staff have delivered more than 980,000 flu vaccines to those most at risk and, with flu cases rising, I would encourage all those who are eligible to take up an appointment ahead of the worst of winter.
“We saw very high levels of the flu virus last year across Scotland, with over 6,500 adults being hospitalised, which contributed to real pressure on the NHS. So please take the opportunity to protect yourself and those around you and reduce your risk of ending up in hospital.”
Appointments for a flu vaccine will be sent to most eligible groups. Unpaid carers and household contacts of those who are immunosuppressed can book online or call the vaccination helpline to arrange an appointment at a suitable time and location anywhere in Scotland.
More information on the flu vaccine is available at NHS Inform:
Are You Feeling Christmassy Yet? Why not book your space to sell your crafts and wares, or bring your wee one to visit Santa at the LifeCare Christmas Fair on Saturday 6th December, 11am–3pm! There’ll be lots of festive stalls, baking, and plenty of Christmas cheer to go around.
As one happy visitor said, “The best Santa we’ve ever been to!”
And don’t forget — there are still a few spaces left for our renowned Christmas Lunches, featuring trifles from cult bakery Lannan. Only £18 per person, BYO, with a vegetarian option available. Dates still available: 10th, 18th & 19th December.
Book your stall, Santa visit, or lunch today! Call 0131 343 0940 or visit reception to secure your spot for stalls and lunches (use the link above to book in to see the man in the red suit). Payment is required at the time of booking.
ASH Scotland is encouraging expectant mothers in Edinburgh to access new free ‘Smoking and vaping during pregnancy’ resources developed by the health charity to increase awareness about the impact smoking and vaping has during pregnancy.
In Scotland, one in 12 women reported smoking at their first midwife appointment.
A new animated video and e-learning module produced by the charity aims to help expectant mothers to understand the links between cigarettes, e-cigarettes and pregnancy, know more about how tobacco and vaping affect the health and development of babies, and increase confidence to quit smoking.
Health damage associated with smoking is felt more intensely by pregnant women who are at higher risk of experiencing illness and complications. Evidence also shows that second-hand smoke poses serious health risks to infants, with exposure leading to an increased chance of developing asthma, respiratory infection and sudden infant death.
The World Health Organization states that foetal exposure to e-cigarette vapour can negatively impact development. Partners or family members who smoke or vape in the home should be encouraged to do so outside during pregnancy and after the birth.
Sheila Duffy, Chief Executive of ASH Scotland, said: “Addiction is not a lifestyle choice – it is a public health concern and a social justice issue and expectant mothers in Edinburgh can give their baby the best start in life by quitting smoking.
“A mother quitting smoking prior to pregnancy reduces the potential of health risks affecting their baby to near non-smoker levels andASH Scotland wants to ensure that they are empowered to seek support to give up.
“We trust that our new ‘Smoking and vaping during pregnancy’ animated video and e-learning module will help inform expectant mothers across Edinburgh about the many benefits of giving up smoking.”
The new resources are available at ASH Scotland’s website here.
‘‘Dreadful’ Climate Plan does nothing for households, workers and communities’
Communities will ‘benefit from cleaner air, warmer homes and new job opportunities’ under draft plans to cut emissions published yesterday.
The draft Climate Change Plan to 2040 sets out actions designed to reduce Scotland’s greenhouse gas emissions and meet our first three carbon budgets, whilst supporting jobs, growth and community regeneration.
Scotland is already over half way to net zero having reduced emissions by 51.3% since 1990 – the largest reduction in the UK and faster than the EU average, using comparable statistics.
Climate action is not only essential to protecting our future. When done correctly, it offers one of the greatest opportunities to create jobs and prosperity for our communities.
Our draft Climate Change Plan outlines detailed actions needed to do this up to 2040.
The new plan details over 150 policies and proposals building on this progress, including:
setting a target to decarbonise building heat systems by 2045
phasing out new diesel and petrol cars by 2030
increasing woodland creation so that by 2029/30 18,000 hectares are planted every year, with 21% woodland cover in Scotland by 2032
increasing peatland restoration by 10% each year to 2030
The independent Climate Change Committee has emphasised the necessity for shared delivery and collaboration between national governments given between 30-60% of the emissions reduction required in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland will be in areas of policy that are mostly reserved.
Climate Action Secretary Gillian Martin said: “Raising awareness of climate action has never been so important, with communities across Scotland and around the world already being affected – through flooding, heatwaves and wildfires.
“This draft plan includes over 150 actions across sectors such as transport, heat in buildings and agriculture that are key to achieving Scotland’s net zero goal while supporting people to make and adjust to the changes required.
“It also describes how we will seize and fairly distribute the opportunities from the transition to net zero – from new jobs, inclusive growth and better infrastructure to improved public services and healthier people – thanks to cleaner air, warmer homes and wealthier communities.
“The plan does not ask the impossible of people. We will not sacrifice people’s health or wealth.
“Through this consultation, everyone has a voice in shaping the final plan to inform future decision making and ensure that we reach our net zero in a way that is fair, ambitious and capable of rising to the emergency before us.”
Scotland’s climate coalition has welcomed publication of the Scottish Government’s draft climate routemap. However, it says there are major missed opportunities to reduce emissions in some of the most polluting sectors in ways that deliver meaningful improvements to the lives of people in Scotland.
The Scottish Government’s draft Climate Change Plan (CCP), released today, sets out how it believes the country will reduce emissions in line with national climate targets. The draft will now be scrutinised by MSPs, and the public will have the opportunity to have their say.
Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) says the final plan must have increased focus on tangible and urgent action that is funded fairly, with reduced reliance on unproven technologies.
Ahead of conducting a full assessment of the plan, Dr Mike Robinson, chair of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland, said: “Publication of this long-awaited draft plan represents a step forward but if positive intentions are not matched with urgent delivery the plan risks being meaningless.
“Ministers needed to go much further in the most polluting sectors through things like free public transport, meaningful reform to farming support and legislation to drive changes in the way we heat our homes.
“Projections show the financial benefits of following carbon-cutting measures proposed in the draft CCP are almost 10 times the cost of implementing them – that’s a win-win for people and the planet.
“This plan must now undergo robust scrutiny to test its effectiveness, feasibility and ambition. It needs to be strengthened, with a clearer focus on immediate action that rapidly cuts emissions in ways that address the daily struggles many people are facing and unlock the benefits of fair climate action.
“Scottish ministers must also prove their commitment to funding the final Plan in a way that’s genuinely fair by making polluters pay for their damage.
“There can be no more climate action delays or mis-steps – nor a continued gamble on as yet unproven technology to bail us out.”
‘Dreadful’ Climate Plan does nothing for households, workers and communities
Environmental campaigners Friends of the Earth Scotland have reacted to the draft Climate Plan from the Scottish Government saying it “will barely scratch the surface” on climate emissions in the coming years.
The “dreadful” plan contains nothing to help oil workers, people struggling to pay energy bills or communities cut off from bus services, campaigners say.
In 2024, the Scottish Government weakened its climate commitments after years of failure by Ministers to deliver on promises.
Public support for climate action remains high with the overwhelming majority of people in Scotland concerned about climate breakdown.
Climate campaigners along with Palestine solidarity groups, migrant justice organisations and grassroots groups are organising a major climate march through Glasgow on Saturday 15th November. It is part of a Global Day of Action in the middle of the United Nations climate talks in Brazil.
Friends of the Earth Scotland head of campaigns Caroline Rance commented: “This is a dreadful plan that will barely scratch the surface never mind get us back on track to meet our climate commitments.
“There is nothing here to help people who are struggling to pay their energy bills, communities cut off by unreliable buses, or oil workers worried about their future.
“Government Ministers have made a decision not to implement any available climate solutions that would help people in Scotland to tackle either the cost of living andor climate breakdown.
“Previous plans to get cars off the road have been completely gutted and buses and trains are treated as an afterthought.
“The carbon capture pipe dream is unrealistic as ever, only pushed slightly further into the future. What are we going to do in 2040 when this technology inevitably fails as it has done for the past fifty years?”
Oxfam Scotland welcomes publication of the Plan, which outlines the policies and actions which the Scottish Government believes will deliver emission cuts consistent with ending Scotland’s net impact on the climate by 2045.
The Scottish Parliament now begins a crucial 120-day scrutiny period.
Oxfam Scotland says that, alongside testing whether the Plan will achieve the emission cuts needed, this scrutiny period must fully stress-test the fairness of the Plan.
With clear evidence that, on average, the richer you are the more you pollute, campaigners say that fairness must be central to the final Plan – including how faster action is paid for.
While recognising that the costs of inaction will be even higher, the Scottish Government estimates the price tag of delivering the Plan, once savings generated are taken into account, to be £4.8 billion, but says little about where the money will come from.
Oxfam Scotland says the upcoming Scottish Budget and multi-year Spending Review must prove that the Scottish Government is serious about funding the Plan fairly
It comes as the Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy, Gillian Martin MSP, prepares to travel to Belém in Brazil to attend the UN climate talks, COP30.
Responding, Jamie Livingstone, Head of Oxfam Scotland, said:“A liveable planet is priceless so Scotland’s new Climate Plan must make an unwavering investment in all our futures, giving us: cleaner air, healthier lives, stable, green jobs and shielding us from extreme weather.
“However, right now, the roadmap on how Scottish Ministers plan to pay for their policy ambitions is little more than a sketch. To succeed, this Plan must be backed by major new public funding, delivered fairly with the biggest polluters and the better off footing the bill.
“It’s time Ministers were straight about where the pounds behind their promises to stop pumping out pollution will come from: Ministers need to show us the money.”
A new ‘cyber observatory’ to help protect Scotland’s public bodies from online threats will be set up as part of a package of measures to promote the country’s cyber-security.
A newly published refreshed Strategic Framework for a Cyber Resilient Scotland details actions and support to help people, businesses and organisations across Scotland, including local authorities, NHS boards and schools to recognise and prepare for inevitable cyber threats and ensure that Scotland stays ahead of the ever-growing cyber risk.
The Scottish Cyber Coordination Centre’s Cyber Observatory will analyse and share early warnings on cyber threats across the public sector, helping to identify emerging risks so organisations can be more proactive in managing the online threat.
As part of the refresh, the Scottish Government will continue to support take-up of cyber security learning opportunities across schools, colleges and universities. We have also pledged £300,000 to the Upskilling Fund to strengthen the cyber security skills of the public sector workforce.
This Framework details a vision to protect Scotland’s digital infrastructure and security by embedding cyber resilience into the design of systems – safeguarding the critical public services that people across Scotland rely on every day.
Justice Secretary, Angela Constance said: “Digital technology is driving Scotland’s economic growth and shaping our future. That’s why cyber resilience and digital safety are more important than ever.
“We all rely on websites, apps, systems, and data in our daily lives – and while they bring great benefits, we must ensure they are safe and secure to use. Cyber threats are evolving rapidly, and it is our shared responsibility to meet the challenges facing Scotland. The Scottish Cyber Coordination Centre’s Cyber Observatory in particular will be vital in alerting organisations to potential threats.
“This strategic framework promotes essential collaboration across government and sectors. Those partnerships are vital to keep our people, businesses, and services safe – and for building a digitally secure and resilient Scotland.”
Karen Meechan, CEO of ScotlandIS and Chair of the CyberScotland Partnership said: “A cyber resilient Scotland is built on partnership.
“This framework sets out not just what we need to protect, but how we work together across public, private and third sectors to do it. Our resilience depends on our shared commitment to act, learn and support one another”
Hourglass Charity Warns of 2.6 Million Victim-Survivors with numbers set to increase, as National Summit Convenes
The UK’s older people are losing more money to abuse than was stolen in the largest ever cash heist, with projections showing over 1.5 million people could become victim-survivors annually by 2030, the charity Hourglass revealed today.
The Tonbridge Securitas depot robbery of 2006 – which saw armed criminals steal £53 million – has long stood as the UK’s most audacious cash theft. Yet new analysis from Hourglass, the only UK-wide charity dedicated exclusively to ending the abuse of older people, reveals that fraudsters and abusers have stolen that amount from older victims across the UK.
The sobering figures emerge as ministers, safeguarding experts and frontline practitioners prepare to convene virtually for the Safer Ageing Summit 2025 on 12th November, where they will confront what Hourglass describes as “the most under-recognised safeguarding crisis of our time.”
According to Hourglass projections, by 2030, almost 4 million older people across the UK could experience abuse annually – encompassing physical, psychological, sexual, and economic exploitation and neglect. The charity warns that whilst these crimes rival organised heists in scale, they receive only a fraction of the attention, resources, or political priority.
“The reality is stark: abuse of older people is rising, but recognition, resourcing and political attention are still lagging behind,” said Richard Robinson, CEO of Hourglass. “We can’t keep treating older people as an afterthought in safeguarding policy.
“By 2030, almost 4 million older people could be victim-survivors every single year. That should be a national wake-up call.”
Expert panels will tackle critical issues including: Economic abuse and urgent legal reforms to powers of attorney; the intersection of housing, health, and systemic ageism; the sexual abuse of older people – what experts call “one of the last taboos in safeguarding”.
The summit will feature powerful testimony from Laura Johnston-Brand and Karen Lee, founders of the Willie’s Law campaign through their own lived experience, who are championing urgent reforms to prevent the financial exploitation of vulnerable older people through misused powers of attorney.
Hourglass is demanding immediate government action including: Stronger legal protections against economic abuse of older people; mandatory age-disaggregated data collection across all safeguarding services and a coordinated UK-wide strategy to end abuse in later life.
Richard Robinson added: “We hope our Summit will not only remind people of these sobering statistics but drive urgent action to put the abuse of older people at the top of the political agenda where it belongs.”
The top councillors from across Scotland have been recognised at the 2025 LGIU & CCLA Cllr Awards which took place last night at Glasgow’s City Chambers.
These are the only national awards dedicated to celebrating the extraordinary work of councillors in Scotland. No Edinburgh councillors received awards this year.
This year’s competition was extremely tight with nominations received across five categories that celebrate the wide-ranging work of councillors. From championing residents’ interests to leading innovation in public services, councillors play a crucial role in shaping communities and improving lives, dedicating their time and energy to what is often a voluntary, unpaid role.
Winners were chosen by a judging panel of senior councillors and leading stakeholders from across the sector. These important Awards – a staple in the local government calendar – are made possible thanks to the generous support of founding partner CCLA.
Jonathan Carr-West, Chief Executive, Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) said:“Councillors work tirelessly to support their communities and drive change.
“These awards are about celebrating the often unseen but hugely important contribution councillors make every day. This year’s winners are a real testament to the dedication, creativity and leadership shown by councillors across Scotland.”
Lee Jagger, Local Government Relationship Manager, CCLA said: “Councillors sit at the heart of our communities, and these awards are a chance to spotlight the meaningful, real-world difference they deliver every day.
“Their dedication improves lives in countless, practical ways. At a time when councils are navigating extraordinary pressures, the Cllr Awards are a powerful reminder of just how essential our councillors and councils are.”
