Day: December 27, 2025

From pet-friendly holidays to paw-tracking tech: Pet owners are making New Year’s resolutions for their pets

  • Almost half of pet owners (41%) in Edinburgh say they’ll prioritise their pet’s health and wellbeing more in 2026, as two fifths (40%) commit to setting New Year’s resolutions for their pets
  • Nearly a third (29%) are planning paw-approved getaways, while almost a quarter (24%) are organising pet birthday parties.

UK cat and dog owners are hoping to make 2026 the happiest year yet for their pets by embracing light-hearted New Year’s resolutions. This is according to new research from Purina PRO PLAN®, part of Nestlé Purina PetCare Europe, which found almost half (41%1) of dog and cat owners in Edinburgh are making New Year’s resolutions for their pets.

The survey, part of Purina PRO PLAN®’s ongoing ‘Like a PRO’ campaign, revealed owners are mirroring their own resolutions with their pets. This reflects a growing trend toward treating pets as members of the family, with more than half (58%2) pledging to prioritise their furry friends’ health and wellbeing more in 2026.

When asked about which 2026 pet trends they would consider trying, nearly a third of owners in Edinburgh (29%3) are planning pet-friendly holidays, a fifth are looking for more paw-friendly restaurants (18%4), while almost a quarter (24%5) are planning pet birthday parties. 

The survey also found that 41%6 of pet owners have committed to improving their pets’ diets with higher-quality nutrition, while 45%7 aim to ramp up their pets’ exercise routines in 2026. This aligns with Purina PRO PLAN®s commitment to provide high-quality pet food, developed by a team of Purina nutritionists and vets, to help dogs and cats lead active, healthy and long lives.

For some, this focus on wellbeing means more indoor bonding during the colder months, with a third (35%8) of owners committing to interactive play sessions indoors. In contrast, 22%9 are looking to explore the great outdoors, planning pet-friendly hikes and outdoor adventures.

Owners are also turning to technology to support their pet-parenting goals, with 29%10 planning to embrace health-tracking smart collars to monitor their pets’ wellbeing – mirroring the way many owners use wearable tech to track their own health and fitness.  

Edinburgh pet owner’s biggest wish for 2026 is a heartfelt one, with 33%11 hoping their furry friend could live forever. Almost a third (32%12) of Edinburgh owners are focused on spending more time bonding one on one with their furry companions in the year ahead – a reminder that the best Christmas gift any pet can receive is quality time with their favourite person.

This sentiment comes to life in Purina PRO PLAN®’s special heartwarming Christmas ad, featuring tennis legend Andy Murray and his adorable puppy, Bonnie. As part of the brand’s ‘Like a PRO’ campaign, Andy and Bonnie are making their 3D debut this December in a spectacular billboard at London’s iconic Piccadilly Circus.  The ad delivers the touching message, ‘Their perfect present this festive season is you’.

Andy Murray said: “We’ve made a few New Year’s resolutions this year, and Bonnie has been included as she’s very much part of the family. We’ve all agreed we’ll be throwing her a birthday party when she turns one next year and the kids will love that. 

“Her health and training have been a big focus for us this year and this remains a priority as we head into 2026, especially as we navigate the tricky teenage phase! Feeding Bonnie Purina PRO PLAN® has made such a positive difference in her first year, and it’s reassuring to know it’ll continue to support her long-team health and wellbeing, helping us to achieve our goals in the year ahead.

“I love that PRO PLAN will be putting Bonnie in 3D in Piccadilly Circus this Christmas. I’m sure she’ll have her own fanbase by the end of it!”

Harriet Morley, Specialist Channel Director, Northern Region, PURINA Europe, said: “It comes as no surprise to us that so many pet owners are making New Year’s resolutions for their pets – after all, they’re cherished members of the family.

“Our findings highlight the growing focus on health and wellbeing, which aligns with the mission of our ‘Like a PRO’ campaign to inspire pet owners to care for their pets like a PRO. We’re proud that Purina PRO PLAN® can help turn those resolutions into reality with our range of high-quality pet food.

“We’re thrilled to unveil Andy and Bonnie’s 3D billboard at Piccadilly Circus this Christmas – it’s a truly magical time of year to celebrate the special moments we share with our pets.

“As owners, we really are their favourite gift, not just at Christmas but all year-round. That unique bond is so beautifully reflected in Andy and Bonnie’s relationship, and we can’t wait to see the reaction from London locals and visitors alike.”

The ad is the latest milestone in Purina PRO PLAN®’s ‘Like a PRO’ campaign starring a professional squad of tennis players and their pets. Just as top tennis players give it their all on the court, PRO PLAN® is encouraging pet owners to do the same for their four-legged family members.

Swap & Share at Duncan Place

Join us for an accessible LGBTI+ community swap and share at Duncan Place Community Hub in Edinburgh on Saturday 31st January from 11am to 4pm. 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️

This community event is a chance to swap unwanted clothes, gifts and craft supplies, learn new skills, and have some food together.

There will be a chance to take part in hands-on skill sharing including letter writing, clothes mending, and zine-making, plus a chance to talk to Equality Network staff about our work or pick up helpful resources. 🎨🧵💌

Food and drinks will be provided, so come along meet people and connect with your community.

Get your free ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/…/community-exchange…

Experts Urge Responsible Christmas Tree Disposal

Over the past month, searches for ‘Christmas tree disposal near me‘ have soared 5,000% as millions of Christmas trees and decorations are about to be taken down.

To advise people of the best disposal methods for their tree, London house clearance experts Clear It Waste have revealed expert insight into how to properly dispose of your tree after Christmas, as around eight million real Christmas trees are disposed of each year in the UK, resulting in approximately 12,000 tonnes of waste. 

Experts offer key advice on Christmas tree disposal

Data shows that thousands of tonnes of Christmas trees are still dumped each January. Be sure to check disposal options for your tree with your local council. This is the most common way, as almost all councils provide ways to recycle real Christmas trees, whether it is via a drop-off point, a local recycling centre, or in some cases a kerbside collection. Always check your local council’s website as the specifics and options can vary by borough. 

Josh Clarke, spokesperson from Clear It Waste has provided some additional, vital advice:

“Whether you have a real tree that needs to be disposed of or an artificial tree that is looking worse for wear, correct disposal is vital both for safety and environmental reasons. Many people don’t realise that it is essential to completely clear the tree of any decorations so that it is completely bare.

“Even the smallest plastics left on branches of real trees can contaminate the disposal process. If possible, break the tree down into sections as this can make the disposal process easier (this can be simple for artificial trees that often come in sections).

“For artificial trees, consider donating it to a charity shop if it is still in good condition, or a community centre, so that it gets a longer life. But when a fake tree is no longer of use or beyond repair, it can often be taken to your nearest household waste and recycling centre. Artificial trees are made from mixed materials meaning they can’t go in household recycling bins, but waste sites can ensure they’re broken down and processed in the most appropriate way. You can also use waste disposal services but be sure to check that they hold a full waste carriers’ licence. 

“Another important factor to note that many do not consider, is that if your artificial tree contains fibre-optic lighting it should be treated as electronic waste (WEEE). Putting your tree into the right waste process helps ensure that components like wiring and LED lights are recovered instead of landfilled, and are disposed of in the most appropriate and environmentally friendly way.”

The Pitt: Open this weekend

Folks, have a reminder of our festive opening hours for the rest of the month and January.

We are open as normal on Saturday and Sunday, and again next Friday-Sunday (only until 5pm – we’ll still be hungover from Hogmanay and need our beds).

We’ve had a wee break, but we’re back open on 27 and 28 December with normal hours. Then we’ll be open on 31 December as usual ’til 4pm, before closing for a quick spruce-up and flinging the doors back open at 6pm for:

Hogmanay Party at The Pitt: ticketed (last few remaining), 16+.
Wee Hogmanay: free ticketed, suitable for all ages.

Come down, wrap up warm, and see out the year with us – your favourite pint and street food combo will be waiting.

We’ll be closing for most of January for a wee bit of winter hibernation, but don’t worry! The Pitt will be defrosted and back in February to kick-start our spring calendar. Try not to miss us too much! ❄️

Brand-new craft event encourages mindfulness, creativity and relaxation

Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting customers along to an afternoon of creativity, connection, and cake this January, with a brand-new Crafternoon Tea Club at its Edinburgh store.  

This hands-on event takes place on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 January, offering a beginner-friendly, cosy and mindful experience. It’s also a great Christmas gift for anyone looking for a last-minute present. 

During the 90-minute afternoon workshop at the Edinburgh store, attendees will get the chance to try their hand at a punch needle kit. The kit is a wildlife design, with everything you need to get started, whether trying a new hobby for the very first-time, or honing skills.

During the crafting experience, there will be a delicious three tier afternoon tea.

The first tier includes a selection of freshly-made finger sandwiches, on a mix of white and grain bread, with soft cheese and cucumber, ham, rocket and red onion chutney, prawn, and egg and watercress.

Dobbies’ famous scones can be enjoyed on the second tier, with plain and fruit options, served with Cornish clotted cream and a mini pot of jam.

The top tier offers a delicious selection of sweet treats including a mini Victoria sponge, lemon mousse, meringue kisses and coconut and cherry macaroons. Customers will also get a pot of tea or coffee with unlimited refills. 

For those wanting to add a savoury twist, there is the option to add on a sharing plate of additional treats, including chicken terrine on brioche toast, houmous and olives in a filled pastry cup, and smoked salmon and dill on brioche toast for £8.50. Hot drinks can also be upgraded if people prefer a speciality coffee, tea or an indulgent hot chocolate for just £0.50 extra, or opt for a 200ml bottle of Prosecco for £6.50 per adult aged 18 and over. 

Ayesha Nickson, Events Programme Manager at Dobbies, said: “This brand-new Crafternoon Tea Club at our Edinburgh store is aimed at bringing people together to slow down and get creative. “

We’ve designed the workshop to be a relaxing, beginner-friendly experience and it’s a great way to spend time with friends and family members.

“Whether you’re looking to treat yourself, or gift an experience this Christmas, our Crafternoon Tea Club is the perfect present.”

For more information on Dobbies’ Crafternoon Tea Club at the Edinburgh store and to make a booking, visit www.dobbies.com/events

Helping to keep young people safe

Youth project receives additional funding

More young people will benefit from a project providing a safe space, trusted adults and safeguarding support in Glasgow city centre as a result of Scottish Government funding.

Common Ground is being backed to continue its front line services and ensure more young people can access support when and where they need it most. Since launching as a pilot in March 2025, the project has supported more than 2,000 young people from half (16) of Scotland’s council areas who had come to the city.  

The project, which will receive more than £37,000 in 2025-26, offers a safe and welcoming Hub space, support from street‑based youth workers and trained staff and helps to reduce risks facing young people, including homelessness, exploitation, violence, substance misuse and unsafe situations.

Led by Barnardo’s Scotland, working in partnership with the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit, Aberlour, Action for Children, Right There, Glasgow Girls Club, One Community Scotland and G20, the project has a reach beyond Glasgow.

Two-thirds of young people accessing the service come from outside the city through encounters with the ‘street guardians’, self-referrals or referrals through police and social work.

Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown said: “Early intervention is key to keeping young people safe and creating safer communities for everyone. Youth workers are often the first trusted adults that young people turn to, and their role in promoting safety and preventing harm cannot be overstated.

“Common Ground is already making a significant difference to the wellbeing of young people in Glasgow and beyond, and our additional funding will strengthen its vital work to reduce exploitation and harm.”

Barnardo’s Scotland Director Martin Crewe said: “It was great to welcome the Minister for Victims and Community Safety to Common Ground recently and share more about how we work with delivery partners and key stakeholders across Glasgow and Scotland to support young people to feel safer in Glasgow City Centre.

“Since March 2025, we have engaged with more than 2,000 young people from around 16 different local authorities on the streets and in our safe space at the Common Ground Hub, meeting needs ranging from travel and friendship issues to more complex safeguarding needs, including homelessness and different forms of exploitation.

“Overwhelmingly, young people have welcomed the support and safety offered by Common Ground as they navigate the often-challenging environment of a busy city centre. The ongoing support and contribution from the Scottish Government – and other funding and delivery partners – allows us to continue providing a much-needed safety net for all our young people as and when they need it.”

Deputy Head of the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit Will Linden said: “The SVRU welcomes the Scottish Government’s investment in the Common Ground and Street Guardian initiative.

“Glasgow city centre is a primary destination for Scotland’s youth, and we believe a collaborative approach is the most effective way to keep them free from all forms of harm including violence.

“By providing trusted adults into the city centre the goal is simple: to create a safer environment where young people can enjoy the city’s atmosphere and return home safely at the end of the night.”

Common Ground Glasgow is a project led by Barnardo’s Scotland, working in partnership with Scottish Violence Reduction Unit, Aberlour, Action for Children, Right There, Glasgow Girls Club, One Community Scotland and G20.

NHS Lothian: Hospitals under extreme pressure

Our hospitals are under extreme pressure. If your loved one is coming home from hospital, please collect them as soon as they are able to be discharged.

Make sure their house is warm and if you can stock up on some essentials.

This frees up beds for those that need them most.

Humanitarian aid for Afghanistan

Support following major earthquakes

Two charities, Christian Aid and Tearfund, are to receive £125,000 each from the Scottish Government to help people affected by the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan following two major earthquakes in 2025.

The funding is being delivered through Scotland’s Humanitarian Emergency Fund (HEF) and will allow the two charities to distribute money, warm blankets and clothes and hygiene kits to those living in areas affected by the earthquakes to help them live through harsh winter conditions. The funding will also provide psychological support to those worst affected.

External Affairs Secretary Angus Robertson said: “The earthquakes struck at a time when Afghanistan was already facing a severe humanitarian crisis, marked by prolonged economic downturn and shrinking international assistance. They caused severe loss of life and entire villages were destroyed. The humanitarian situation is dire and evolving rapidly.

“To lose everything is unimaginable for us, but for those in Afghanistan it is real life. With a harsh winter season approaching I am pleased that we can deliver this money to help the two charities deliver life-saving assistance, in ways that are dignified and locally rooted.”

Head of Christian Aid Scotland, Val Brown, said: “Women and children are bearing the brunt of Afghanistan’s overlapping crises, made worse by the recent earthquake in Kunar province. As winter approaches, the risk of illness, trauma, acute hunger and further displacement is growing.  

“Thanks to the support from the Scottish Government’s Humanitarian Emergency Fund, Christian Aid will be able to support some of the most vulnerable households in Nurgal and Chawkay district. Our partner, NGO Afghans 4 Tomorrow, will deliver cash assistance, the provision of essential winter items, hygiene kits and psychosocial care.

 “Our community-led approach will help the health and wellbeing of thousands of people, restore dignity, and enable people to make choices that are right for them.”

Tearfund Afghanistan Country Manager, Solomon Cornelius, said: “Families affected by the earthquake in eastern Afghanistan are facing an exceptionally harsh winter. Many are still living in tents or damaged shelters, with little income and few ways to meet even their most basic needs.

“This funding from the Scottish Government comes at a critical time. It will enable Tearfund, working with our trusted local partner, to provide life-saving cash assistance, winter survival kits such as blankets, tarpaulins, and hygiene items for families most in need.

“We will also equip local staff with training in Psychological First Aid, helping women, children, and people with disabilities to stay warm, meet their essential needs with dignity, and begin to recover from the crisis and trauma they have experienced.”

The Humanitarian Emergency Fund provides aid in the aftermath of a crisis through a panel of eight leading humanitarian aid organisations in Scotland who advise and access the fund: Mercy Corps, Oxfam, British Red Cross, Islamic Relief, SCIAF, Christian Aid, Tearfund and Save the Children.

Lord Provosts reflects on a year to remember for the capital

Edinburgh’s Lord Provost Robert Aldridge reflects on 2025

It has been another fantastic year in our capital, and it has been a real honour and privilege, as Lord Provost, to take part in so many memorable events. Some were poignant, many were inspiring, and all of them reflected the rich diversity and community that makes Edinburgh such a special city.

2025 gave us plenty to celebrate as we marked 900 years of Edinburgh’s status as a Royal Burgh and looked back on the remarkable achievements of our city over the centuries.

At the heart of Edinburgh 900 were the communities and organisations across the city who brought this milestone to life. Together, they delivered an extraordinary programme of activity from travelling exhibitions and lectures to school concerts, parades, marches and more than 300 unique events that reached into every corner of the capital.

The Edinburgh Riding of the Marches provided a spectacular finale in September, bringing the 900th anniversary to a close with a People’s Procession and horse cavalcade that thrilled the thousands of spectators lining the Royal Mile.

I was especially honoured to ride alongside The Princess Royal on beautiful grey horses from Tower Farm Stables, travelling from Holyrood Palace to the Mercat Cross, where Her Royal Highness Princess Anne addressed the crowd and brought our special year to a fitting conclusion.

It was, I believe, the first time in over a hundred years that a senior member of the Royal Family has ridden up the Royal Mile, a truly unforgettable moment for our city.

And who could forget the very first Edinburgh Tartan Parade, which took place on a gloriously hot Saturday in May? A huge crowd filled the city centre, coming together to celebrate our rich heritage – our tartans, culture and, above all, our spirit of inclusivity. It was a wonderful occasion, and one I very much look forward to seeing return in 2026.

But as the year reminded us of all there is to celebrate in our city, it also brought moments that gave us pause, calling on us to reflect and to remember those we have lost.

In April, we were deeply saddened by the sudden and unexpected passing of Councillor Val Walker. I heard nothing but positive words about Val, her warmth, her commitment, and her passion for her role as Culture and Communities Convener.

At the Council meeting following her death, the tributes paid from across all parties and sides of the chamber were profoundly moving, and they will stay with me for a long time.

Val is a great loss, to the Council, to her colleagues, to the city, and most of all to her family and friends. She is greatly missed.

Then in June, we sadly lost another inspirational figure with the passing of Professor Sir Geoff Palmer. Sir Geoff was a guiding hand as our city sought to better understand its history and come to terms with its colonial past.

At his memorial service, I described him as “a quiet man, a dignified man, an influential man, and an extraordinary man, whose words and guidance offered insight and wisdom to so many.”

His teachings, his wisdom and his generosity of spirit will not be forgotten. We owe him a great deal, and we thank him sincerely for the legacy and lasting gift he leaves to our city.

He remains a source of inspiration to me, and I am equally inspired by the extraordinary volunteering spirit that runs through our city.

As the City’s Volunteer Ambassador, I am immensely proud of the contribution our active citizens make every day across the capital. In Edinburgh, roughly a third of adults regularly volunteer which is a remarkable reflection of the generosity, kindness and community spirit that defines our city.

To everyone who gives their time to support others – thank you. You make an immeasurable difference, helping to create neighbourhoods that are stronger, kinder and better places to live, work and enjoy life.

It has been a real pleasure to meet so many volunteers throughout the year, and I close 2025 feeling inspired and optimistic about what our city can achieve together in the year ahead.

At the same time, I am mindful that this season can be difficult for those who are unable to celebrate, or who may be facing personal or family challenges. You are not forgotten, and you remain very much in our thoughts.

To our residents and visitors alike, I wish you a very Merry Christmas, a Happy Winter Festival, and a safe, peaceful and successful New Year.

Investing in Changing Places Toilets

Funding approved for specially equipped toilets

People with profound disabilities and complex needs will have greater freedom and independence with the development of 59 new Changing Places Toilets across Scotland. 

Backed by a total Scottish Government investment of £10 million into The Changing Places Scotland Fund between 2025-27, £4.7 million has been allocated this year to help individuals, families and carers across the country to take part in everyday activities and community life.  

Further awards being considered from this first applications round will be confirmed early in the New Year and a second applications round of funding open in 2026-27.

Mental Wellbeing Minister Tom Arthur said: “For people with profound disabilities and complex care needs, everyday activities like visiting a cafe, going to the shops, or attending a community event can be a challenge – especially when suitable toilet facilities are not available.

“Thanks to the development of 59 new Changing Places Toilets across Scotland, people who use these facilities will now have greater freedom, dignity, and independence.

“Awards will ensure that more people can take part in everyday life and enjoy shared community spaces with facilities being developed on the Isle of Lewis, in Clackmannanshire where there are currently no Changing Places Toilets and in a range of other venues, such as community and leisure centres, outdoor spaces and well-known venues like Knockhill Racing Circuit, Dynamic Earth and the National Theatre of Scotland.

“With a total £10 million investment over 2025–2027, the Scottish Government is helping to break down barriers and make communities more inclusive and I encourage more communities to apply for future funding.”

Jill Clark, a user of Changing Places Toilets who also campaigns for more facilities said: “As a Changing Places Toilet user, I am delighted about the announcement of this funding for organisations and look forward to seeing many more toilets being installed next year and beyond.

“This will mean I can visit new places and travel will be so much easier for me.”

Jenny Miller, CEO of PAMIS and chair of the UK Changing Places Toilet Consortium said: “We are delighted with the response to the Scottish Government Changing Places Toilet Fund and that so many gaps in provision of this life changing resource in Scotland will be filled.  

“I am really pleased that the fund prioritised areas where provision was currently low, including rural and remote communities. 

“There are some very exciting venues that will promote inclusion of some of our most marginalised people within their communities and provide access to activities that most of us take for granted.  

“This is a tremendous boost towards Scottish inclusion agenda and PAMIS as the Scottish Changing Places Toilet lead will continue to provide support and advice to successful applicants to ensure that all new facilities meet the highest standards of access.” 

Changing Places Toilets (CPT) offer a vital facility for disabled people and their families and carers whose needs cannot be met through standard accessible toilet provision. 

This includes people with profound or multiple disabilities, people with muscular dystrophy, older people, veterans, people who require the use of a larger wheelchair and people who require a calm and quiet environment.

CPTs have key features which distinguish them from standard accessible toilets. They:

  • offer adequate space (at least 12m2) for a disabled person when they are not in their wheelchair, as well as space for their wheelchair to turn, and one or two carers.
  • have an adult-sized, height-adjustable changing bench to allow people to lie down to have their personal care needs met.
  • have a ceiling hoist to lift people out of their wheelchair safely
  • have a centrally placed peninsular toilet which provides access for people who require support on both sides.

There are currently around 270 of these specially equipped facilities in Scotland. 

Successful projects include:

Almond Valley Heritage Trust, West Lothian – £108,612.  Almond Valley Heritage Centre is a visitor attraction and social enterprise, welcoming over 157,000 visitors annually. Regularly used by community groups, schools, and charities supporting people with complex needs.

Knockhill Racing Circuit Ltd, Fife – £45,000.  A Changing Places Toilet at Knockhill Racing Circuit, enabling individuals and families to enjoy the facilities and entertainment.

Eden Court Highlands – £55,200.  Eden Court is a multi-arts venue with two theatres, two cinemas, two dance & drama studios and gallery space. They offer a diverse programme of live performance, film and creative activities for all ages, abilities and interests.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society, City of Edinburgh – £10,000.  Located at the Fringe Central which will be the year-round office and artist support hub for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society. It will provide rehearsal, meeting, and training spaces, artist resources, and public facilities, supporting accessibility, creativity, and community engagement at the heart of the world’s largest arts festival.

Point and Sandwick Coastal Community Path, Isle of Lewis – £95,344.  A purpose-built bespoke amenity beside Bayble Beach and near Bayble harbour which is a community owned mooring used by small inshore fishery vessels and recreational sea fishing.

Further information on the fund and Inspiring Scotland, who administer the fund on behalf of the Scottish Government.

Full list of successful applicants.