Day: February 3, 2026

11.48 million beat the Self Assessment deadline

  • 97.25% of tax returns were filed online.
  • 11.48 million people filed their Self Assessment tax returns by 31 January.
  • Anyone who missed the deadline should file their return and pay any tax owed as soon as possible.

More than 11.48 million people beat the deadline and filed their Self Assessment tax return for the 2024 to 2025 tax year by 31 January, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) can reveal.

There were 475,722 taxpayers who waited until the final day to file their return. On the day:

  • 27,456 people submitted theirs in the final hour (23:00 to 23:59)
  • the busiest hour for submitting a return was 17:00 to 17:59, when 32,982 people filed
  • HMRC advisers handled 5,409 webchats and 10,483 calls to the helplines which, unusually, were opened on a Saturday to provide extra support to customers on the deadline day

More than 12 million Self Assessment customers were expected to file a tax return and pay any tax owed for the 2024 to 2025 tax year by 31 January. Anyone who needs to file a return and missed the deadline should meet their tax obligations as soon as possible, as late filing and late payment penalties are charged.

Customers can file their tax return now and pay any tax owed via GOV.UK. One of the quickest ways to pay is via the HMRC app. Time to Pay arrangements are available for those who cannot pay their tax bill in full, if they meet the relevant criteria. A full list of payment options is available on GOV.UK.

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said: “Thank you to the millions of people and agents who filed their Self Assessment tax return and paid any tax owed by 31 January.

“Anyone who missed the deadline should file their return as soon as possible, as penalties and late payment interest may be charged. 

“HMRC digital channels are always the quickest and easiest way for people to sort their tax affairs. Search ‘Self Assessment’ on GOV.UK to find out more.”

The penalties for filing a tax return late are:

  • an initial £100 fixed penalty, which applies even if there is no tax to pay, or if the tax due is paid on time
  • after 3 months, additional daily penalties of £10 per day, up to a maximum of £900
  • after 6 months, a further penalty of 5% of the tax due or £300, whichever is greater
  • after 12 months, another 5% or £300 charge, whichever is greater

There are also additional penalties for paying late – 5% of the tax unpaid at 30 days, 6 months and 12 months. Interest will also be charged on any tax paid late.

Customers will be able to file their Self Assessment tax return for the 2025 to 2026 tax year from 6 April 2026.

More information about Self Assessment is available on GOV.UK.

Self Assessment 2026 facts summary:

  • 12,029,168 Self Assessment returns expected
  • 11,489,825 returns received by 31 January. This includes expected returns, voluntary returns and late registrations
  • 10,957,825 expected returns received by 31 January (91.09% of returns, following adjustments)
  • an estimated 1 million customers missed the deadline
  • 11,173,825 returns were filed online (97.25% of returns, following adjustments)
  • 316,000 paper tax returns were filed (2.75% of returns, following adjustments)

Voluntary returns/late registrations are an estimate based on returns received by early January and previous filing behaviour.

These figures are indicative and may be subject to further adjustments once all figures have been ratified.

Sole traders and landlords with qualifying income of more than £50,000 will be required to use Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax from 6 April 2026 and be required to submit quarterly summaries of their income and expenses to HMRC. 

HMRC is urging eligible customers to act now – whether they’re signing up a client or themselves, get ahead of the curve by taking the first step and sign-up on GOV.UK to access the new service and start preparing now.

The Winter Fuel Payment, or Pension Age Winter Heating payment in Scotland, payments received in Autumn 2025 will be recovered in the 2025 to 2026 tax return, due by 31 January 2027.

Anyone who believes they no longer need to complete a tax return should notify HMRC as soon as possible.

Scottish Opera presents two special performances of Wagner’s Tristan Und Isolde this March

On 7 and 11 March in Glasgow and Edinburgh, Scottish Opera is presenting two opera in concert performances of Richard Wagner’s timeless tale of forbidden love, Tristan und Isolde.

With the Glasgow show almost sold out, and Edinburgh tickets going fast, this is a special chance to see Wagner’s epic story of longing and death, which he himself described as his ‘most audacious and original work’.

Conducted by Scottish Opera Music Director, Stuart Stratford, and directed by Justin Way, noted Wagnerian Gwyn Hughes Jones (Tosca 2019) brings his signature Tristan to Scotland for the first time. Acclaimed Dutch soprano Annemarie Kremer makes her Company debut as Princess Isolde.

In their Company debuts, the supporting cast includes mezzo-soprano Khatuna Mikaberidze as Isolde’s maid Brangäne, and Hansung Yoo as Kurwenal. Dingle Yandell (Daphne 2023) is King Marke and Mark Le Brocq (The Makropulos Affair, 2025) is Melot. They are joined by former Emerging Artist Shengzhi Ren (Oedipus Rex 2024)and current Emerging Artist, Edward Jowle (La bohème 2025).

Justin Way, who directed all seven of Wagner’s operas in concerts at the BBC Proms in 2013, brings his expertise in concert staging to probe every dramatic nuance of these complicated characters. He has previously directed productions for companies including Opéra National de Bordeaux, and Opera di Roma.

Costume designs are by Lorna Price, Scottish Opera’s Head of Costume, and lighting designs are by Lizzie Powell, who has worked on previous productions for the Company including Falstaff in 2021 and A Midsummer Night’s Dream in 2022.

A medieval tale based on a Celtic legend and inspired by the German poem by Gottfried von Strassburg, it follows Cornish knight Tristan, who is sent to Ireland to fetch Princess Isolde for marriage to his uncle, King Marke. However, when Tristan and Isolde accidentally drink a love portion on the journey home and fall in love, it sets off a tragic chain of events.

First performed in 1865, the opera features the famous ‘Tristan chord’, which is initially heard in the prelude and left unresolved until the very end. It has notably been included in various films including Vertigo in 1958, Tender is the Night in 1962 and more recently in the 2011 Lars von Triers film, Melancholia.

Due to the extended runtime, this performance will begin earlier than usual, starting at 3pm in Glasgow, and 5.30pm in Edinburgh.

Stuart Stratford said: ‘If Tristan und Isolde is not the Mount Everest of opera, it is certainly one of the highest and trickier ascents of the Himalayas requiring unparalleled feats of bravery and stamina from all – including the listener!

“At over four hours of music, it has its own way of slowly unfolding, which is at first fascinating, then revealing and finally devastating. Oh, and did I say that it preludes the most decadent period in classical music and indeed seeds the very destruction of tonality. I don’t think you should miss it!’

Director Justin Way said: ‘My job as director is to facilitate the connection that the artists have with their characters and the score and free them up to explore, so that we create a vivid world where the audience writes their own mis-en-scene. We can then allow the metaphor and poetry of Wagner’s dramaturgy to fill the space. Tristan und Isolde could be summarised in a very brief paragraph, but the philosophy is enormous.

‘It’s not about action – each act starts and ends with action, but the rest is self-discovery and struggles with needs and desires. The orchestra tells you what to do. Crisis, serenity, nostalgia, and regret are all written there. Every single psychological colour is in the score.’

Scottish Opera ensures world-class opera remains accessible to everyone across Scotland. At these performances of Tristan und Isolde, tickets at Usher Hall Edinburgh are priced from £20, and from £23 at Theatre Royal Glasgow, with almost 40% of tickets £45 or under at both venues. £15 tickets are available for under-26s and students, as well as concessions for Registered Unemployed, Students, Registered Disabled, over 60s and groups.

The Company has provided over 1500 free tickets to schools since 2022, often introducing pupils to live opera for the first time, and over 1,600 free tickets have been distributed to New Scots communities across Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness and Edinburgh. Free tickets are also available for schools, colleges, and community groups, with travel subsidies where needed.

Tristan und Isolde is supported by The Scottish Opera Endowment Trust.

Tickets are available now at Tristan und Isolde | Scottish Opera

Appeal following fatal crash near Cramond Bridge

ROAD Policing officers are appealing for information after a fatal crash in Edinburgh.

Around 11.10pm last night – Monday, 2 February, 2026, Police received a report of a crash involving a car and a pedestrian on the A90 near the Kirkliston slip road at Cramond Bridge.

The car involved was a red Ford Fiesta.

Emergency services attended, but the pedestrian, a 36-year-old woman, was pronounced dead at the scene.

No other injuries were reported.

Sergeant Michael Thomson, of Road Policing East, said: “Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of the woman who died at this difficult time.

“I am appealing to anyone who was driving in the area at the time and witnessed the crash to come forward with information.

“I’d also ask that those with dash-cam footage review this to see if it has captured anything of significance.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident 3646 of 2 February, 2026.

Free event to offer legal and property advice for families navigating dementia

Supportive evening session to help families plan with confidence

WHEN a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, the emotional impact is often compounded by urgent and unfamiliar decisions about care, legal authority and financial planning.

As part of Dementia Awareness Month, a free public information evening in central Edinburgh will offer families the chance to hear from a panel of experienced professionals, offering expert insights into Powers of Attorney, property, guardianship and the wider support available.

The event, titled Supporting Loved Ones with Dementia: A Practical Guide to Power of Attorney & Property, will take place on Tuesday 17 February 2026 at the ESPC Property Lounge on George Street, Edinburgh.

Hosted by legal and property specialists Ralph Sayer, the event is being delivered in partnership with The Dementia Trust and supported by ESPC, which is providing the venue as part of its commitment to supporting public education and community wellbeing.

The free session will run from 5.30pm until 8pm, with short presentations from guest speakers between 6:00pm and 6:45pm, followed by an informal Q&A and the opportunity for one-to-one discussions with experts.

Attendees will hear from Kimberley Mackay, Partner and Head of Private Client at Ralph Sayer, who will speak about the importance of putting a Power of Attorney in place.

Kimberley explains: “We encourage everyone to consider making a power of attorney whilst they are fit and able. However, a diagnosis of dementia does not automatically mean that is no longer possible to do so. Taking legal advice at the earliest opportunity is a good idea to understand the options.”

“We want people to leave this session feeling better informed and more in control when supporting someone through a dementia diagnosis.”

The panel will also feature Tzana Webster, Head of Estate Agency at Ralph Sayer, who will explain the role of property in funding care and how to navigate property transactions when acting under a Power of Attorney or guardianship

Tzana added: “Property is often a person’s most significant asset but selling it on their behalf can bring both legal complexities and emotional strain. We’ll be sharing practical advice for families facing those decisions and advise what steps they can take to prepare in advance.”

The event will also include perspectives from The Dementia Trust, which works directly with families, carers and individuals living with dementia to offer guidance and emotional support.

Professor June Andrews, a leading dementia expert, and Sandra McDonald, former Public Guardian for Scotland and respected authority on capacity and decision-making, are expected to join the panel to bring vital insight from their combined decades of frontline experience.

Sonia Mangan, Interim Lead Officer from the Dementia Trust said: “This event reflects the kind of practical, empathetic support that makes a real difference to people navigating life after a diagnosis. Dementia can feel overwhelming, but families are not alone.

“We know how uncertain and isolating a diagnosis can feel, especially when it comes to legal and financial decisions. That’s why we’ve launched our Planning Ahead campaign and why we’re calling February 2026 Power of Attorney Month. Our message is simple: put Power of Attorney in place early.

“The average age of people in Scotland making a Power of Attorney is 79 – and too often we see people waiting until it’s too late.”

In addition, Dianne Millen, Director of specialist incapacity law firm Datrys Legal, and an accredited specialist in incapacity and mental disability law, will demystify the guardianship process, helping attendees understand how the court procedure works when a Powers of Attorney is not already in place.

Dianne said “Going to court is an intimidating prospect for most people and can feel overwhelming when you are also caring for a loved one with dementia.

“Understanding the process can make you feel more in control.”

Paul Hilton, CEO of ESPC, added: “As an organisation made up of Solicitor Estate Agents with huge amount of legal and property expertise, ESPC has long supported opportunities for our firms to help the public make informed decisions.

“Our Property Lounge isn’t just a shopfront, but also a space for education, connection and community. We’re proud to host events like this that support people through difficult times with clear, trusted advice. Many families don’t realise the vital role property can play in funding care or planning for later life, so this kind of event offers an important way to begin those conversations.”

Spaces at the event are free but strictly limited to 30 attendees, with advance registration required. Tea, coffee and light refreshments will be provided.

Attendees are invited to submit questions in advance when registering, helping to tailor the session to the most pressing concerns.

The event is open to anyone supporting a loved one with dementia, considering legal planning for later life or simply seeking clarity on where to begin.

To register, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/supporting-loved-ones-with-dementia-power-of-attorney-and-property-tickets-1982000361435?aff=oddtdtcreator&msockid=1d1fe889bdee66af33defe9fbcc9671e

New funding for sustainable projects after a year of LEZ enforcement

Following the first year of Low Emission Zone (LEZ) enforcement, around £793,000 of surplus income is set to be used on a range of initiatives.

The Low Emission Zone Annual Report (LEZAR) published today (February 2) outlines the progress of Edinburgh’s scheme in its first financial year since enforcement began in June 2024.

After meeting the scheme’s operating costs, any surplus LEZ income must be used towards the scheme’s wider objectives.

The Transport and Environment Committee agreed in August 2024 that surplus income would be used to fund citywide Council projects which contribute to air quality and/or climate change emission reduction. Committee also agreed that special consideration should be made to projects in areas bordering the LEZ.  

Some of the projects which funding is being allocated to include:

  • Supporting the delivery of the city’s 7-7-7 bus lane trial
  • Delivering traffic sensors to improve network data intelligence and monitoring
  • Research to support businesses on air quality issues
  • Engagement activities with local schools on air pollution and climate change
  • Measures to tackle engine idling

A full list is available in the LEZAR.

In our most recent Air Quality Annual Progress Report (APR), we’ve also seen a consistent downward trend in Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂) concentrations across both city centre and residential sites.

The Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) is preparing a separate report with a nationally updated model for the LEZ, which will include updated traffic and air quality information for Edinburgh.

The Institute of Occupational Medicine (IOM) also published a study indicating that active travel and public transport use increased within the LEZ during the first six months after LEZ enforcement. Footfall data gathered from 2021 to 2025 shows that walking as a mode of travel in the city centre has increased.

Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said: This report underlines the real progress that’s been made since LEZ enforcement began. I have no doubt that this new revenue will unlock many new and exciting projects which will benefit residents across the city.

“As Scotland’s capital city, we have a core responsibility to combat the climate and nature emergencies. Fundamentally though, the LEZ is about making our city healthier for everyone. Multiple studies show that even low levels of pollution can have an impact on our health, with road traffic being one of the main sources of harmful emissions.

“We’ll continue to encourage people to use active travel and public transport wherever possible, whilst reducing their car use and considering lower polluting vehicles. Our commitment to this can be seen in new developments like the trial cycle hire scheme along with projects under our City Mobility Plan, giving our residents greater choice and creating a better city for us all.

“The latest air quality data, average decrease in PCNs, and positive shift towards greater use of active travel and public transport, shows clearly that we’re headed in the right direction.

2The LEZ remains an important tool to help us achieve our ambitious climate goals, including net zero emissions by 2030.”

Facts and Figures:

From June 2024 to March 2025, 40,945 Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) were issued, of which 70% were paid across all stages (from discount to debt recovery).

£1,050,780 income was received from PCNs. Net surplus after costs was £793,187.

84.5% of PCNs issued were for first contraventions.

62.4% of PCNs were paid at the discounted rate.

Between June 2024 and January 2025 alone the total number of PCNs issued decreased by 56%.

Over 95% of vehicles entering the LEZ are compliant.

UK’s first-ever plan to tackle ‘forever chemicals’

New framework will protect public health and the environment from risks posed by PFAS

A new plan to better protect the nation and the environment from harmful ‘forever chemicals’ has been unveiled today (Tuesday 3 February 2026) by the UK Government.

In the first-ever PFAS Plan, a clear framework sets out the co-ordinated action that will be undertaken by governments, businesses and regulators to understand where these chemicals are coming from, how they spread and how to reduce public and environmental exposure. 

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances – commonly known as ‘forever chemicals’ – represent one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. PFAS has played an important role in supporting economic growth by being an essential component in critical manufacturing industries, while also helping the nation to meet climate change targets due to their inclusion in low-carbon technologies.   

However, there is growing evidence that their widespread use has generated risks to both people and the environment, which will likely remain for hundreds of years. 

The UK has one of the highest quality drinking water supplies in the world, and there is currently no evidence of PFAS above permitted levels in England and Wales. Under the Plan, and to protect public health, a consultation will be launched later this year on introducing a statutory limit for PFAS in England’s public supply regulations. Should permitted levels ever be exceeded, this will make it easier for the regulators to enforce against water companies breaking the rules. 

Environment Minister Emma Hardy said: “The persistent nature of ‘forever chemicals’ means they pose a long-term challenge for not only our health, but that of the nation’s vital ecosystems.  

“It’s crucial that we protect both public health and the environment for future generations. Through our PFAS Plan, we will act decisively to reduce their harmful effects while transitioning to safer alternatives.  

“We will work in partnership with regulators, industry and local communities to deliver co-ordinated action to ensure ‘forever chemicals’ are not a forever problem.”  

The full extent of ‘forever chemicals’ in England’s estuaries and coastal waters will be assessed for the first time. Through improved testing and monitoring including of sediment and invertebrates, regulators will be provided with a clearer picture of the risks these habitats face and be equipped with a stronger evidence base in which to consider future regulatory action.  

Safer alternatives to everyday items, like period pads and water-repellent clothing and footwear, could also be developed. Evidence shows their production methods can emit high levels of PFAS to the environment, with the government and businesses to explore how production methods could be modified to deliver new products which are PFAS free and affordable for families.  

Environment Agency Chief Executive Philip Duffy said: “The Environment Agency is playing a vital part in tackling the challenge of PFAS.  

Through our monitoring programmes, risk screening work, regulatory expertise and assessment of evidence, we are helping to inform the public and stakeholders about our work to protect the environment from the risks posed by PFAS. 

“We will play a critical role in delivering the government’s PFAS Plan, building on the work we have undertaken in recent years.” 

The plan sets out a range of further measures and interventions, which includes:  

  • Developing new guidance for regulators and industries to address legacy PFAS pollution on contaminated land to ensure a consistent and practical approach.  
  • Consulting on the introduction of a statutory limit for PFAS in England’s public supply regulations to improve the condition of the water the nation drinks.  
  • Carrying out tests on food packaging, like microwave popcorn bags and pizza boxes, to trace the presence of PFAS and support future regulatory action.  
  • Publishing a new website to raise the public’s awareness and understanding of PFAS while also improving transparency of action being taken across government.  
  • Reducing emissions from industrial sites through new guidance for regulators and site operators on how to improve their handling, monitoring and disposal of PFAS.  
  • Improving the monitoring of PFAS in soils by supporting the British Geological Survey and initiating new sampling at five locations across England.  
  • Completing work to consider restrictions on the use of PFAS in firefighting foams. 

The UK government will work in partnership with regulators, industries and businesses to deliver the Plan, by taking a science-based and proportionate approach to reduce and minimise the risks posed by PFAS on public health and the environment.

Get ready for HeartUnions

HeartUnions week is a chance to tell the story about why unions are vital for everyone at work, and to encourage people who aren’t yet in a union to join.

HeartUnions week 2026

HeartUnions belongs to union members and union branches all over the UK. So use the week to raise the profile of your union branch and your workplace priorities in the way that works for your members and activists. 

This HeartUnions Week we’re shining a spotlight on why it pays to be a union member.

When workers join together they increase their bargaining power. That’s why unionised workplaces deliver higher pay, safer conditions and better job security.

Through organising in their unions millions of workers are winning new rights at work . Sick pay from day one, guaranteed-hours contracts and an end to fire-and-rehire. 

That’s the difference unions make. And it’s why we’ll keep fighting for fair wages and secure conditions so every worker can thrive, not just survive.

With the cost of living putting real pressure on household budgets there’s never been a more important time to join a union. 

When unions do well working people do well.

Five things you can do 


1. Run a workplace event, rally, or a street stall

HeartUnions is our opportunity to highlight the good work unions do. Tell us about your event by adding it to the map. 

2. Join an event near you

Each year, people across the country run events during HeartUnions Week to highlight why trade unions are essential for everyone in the workplace. Find an event near you.

3. Order your HeartUnion merchandise

If you are organising HeartUnions events in your workplace or community, you can order HeartUnions materials and merchandise here, or contact your TUC regional office who can provide free resources.

4. Speak up on social media

Use the #heartunions hashtag to speak out loudly and proudly: if you want to make work pay, it’s time to join a union. Download our social media graphics to make a visual impact.

5. Inspire others to become union members

It’s always good to join a union that’s already active where you work – ask your colleagues, or look for information on your union website or on staff web pages.

Some jobs have unions that look after them specifically. Other jobs don’t – but they are looked after just as well by general unions, who have specialist sections.

If you’re confused about which union to join, our online union finder will help you find the right one.

There’s strength in numbers. So why not see if your friends and colleagues at work want to join up to a union too, and all do it together.

Use the Join a union tool now

Keep Scotland Beautiful: Entries open for Pocket Garden design competition

Entries are now open for this year’s Pocket Garden competition!

We’re celebrating the competition’s 10th anniversary this year and the theme is ‘fresh water’. As a country with more than 125,000 km of rivers and streams (that’s enough to go round the Earth three times!) and over 30,000 freshwater lochs, we think it’s a very fitting 10th anniversary theme.

Designs must be submitted no later than Friday 20 February 2026.

All the information you need is right here:

https://www.keepscotlandbeautiful.org/pocket-garden/

Portobello robbery: Woman arrested

A 40-year-old woman has been arrested and charged in connection with robberies at premises on Portobello High Street.

The first incident happened around 4.55pm on Saturday, 31 January, 2026 and the second around 10.40am on Sunday, 1 February, 2026.

She is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court today – Tuesday, 3 February, 2026.

Edinburgh Leisure triumphs with National Sustainability Award

Groundbreaking composting project sets new standard for food waste reduction in Sports and Leisure

Edinburgh Leisure is thrilled to announce a remarkable achievement – winning its first National Sustainability Award at the prestigious Green Apple Environment Awards, hosted by The Green Organisation.

Perrotine Orr (Director of Operations) and Jill Johnstone (Energy & Sustainability Officer) proudly accepted the 2026 gold award, which recognises Edinburgh Leisure’s outstanding efforts in food waste reduction within sport and leisure venues.

This accolade marks a major milestone for Edinburgh Leisure, reflecting the success of an innovative composting project funded by the Solar Co-operative Community Benefit Fund. The initiative is already transforming how food waste is managed across venues, setting the bar for sustainable practice in the sector.

By harnessing the collaborative spirit of the Sustainability Team, Café Venue Teams, and Grounds Maintenance Team, the project set out with a clear aim – to drastically reduce food waste by establishing on-site composting facilities.

The project owes its inception to one of Edinburgh Leisure’s passionate Green Champions, Ed Bethune, whose grassroots idea has blossomed into a model of environmental stewardship.

Five HotBin composting units have now been installed at pilot venues; Meadowbank Sports Centre, Royal Commonwealth Pool, Edinburgh International Climbing Arena, and Tumbles at Portobello, ensuring food waste from both customers and staff is collected and composted on-site.

Early results have been nothing short of outstanding. Edinburgh Leisure has already generated high-quality, nutrient-rich compost, which the Grounds Maintenance Team is using to enrich greenspace and planting across multiple sites.

Jill Johnstone said, “By producing our own compost, we are not only reducing waste and carbon emissions, but also making a significant saving on operational costs by replacing commercially purchased compost”.

This award-winning project is a shining example of what can be achieved when teams work together with a shared purpose. It represents an important stride towards Edinburgh Leisure’s net zero plan and environment sustainability strategic aim. The collaborative efforts and targeted funding have enabled meaningful environmental impact, propelling Edinburgh Leisure to the forefront of sustainable practice within the industry.

With this recognition, Edinburgh Leisure reaffirms its commitment to expanding greener operations and building a more sustainable future for all.

Further information on Edinburgh Leisure environmental and Net Zero aims can be found in the most recent Impact Report:

Fit for the Future: Edinburgh Leisure’s Impact in Motion | Edinburgh Leisure