Day: February 17, 2026

Scots mum shares how music transformed her life in government’s ‘Rethink Dementia’ campaign

Bringing people together through music as dementia anti stigma campaign encourages Scots to Rethink Dementia

  • “Music gave me my life back” says Carol Topper, a South Lanarkshire mum, who says singing and dancing transformed her life with dementia following an early diagnosis, showing how shared activities like music can keep people socially connected and living well for longer
  • Carol Topper and broadcaster Sally Magnusson MBE, join the Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing at Glasgow’s Old Fruitmarket to share advice on how Scots can do simple things to make a difference in helping relatives and friends living with dementia.

The Scottish Government and COSLA have partnered with dementia charity Playlist for Life to mark the relaunch of the public health campaign Rethink Dementia.

Following evidence that social contact can help alleviate some symptoms commonly associated with dementia and help someone stay well for longer, the campaign encourages friends and relatives to support their loved ones by staying in contact and doing the things they’ve always done together.

Whether it’s enjoying music together, popping in for a cup of tea, visiting the shops or going for a walk, every Scot can play their part in helping someone with dementia stay well for longer.

The campaign launch celebrates the power of music in helping people living with dementia feel positive, and stay socially connected, active and part of their community.

Carol Topper, a 59-year-old former hairdresser and office administrator, and Playlist for Life Lived Experience Ambassador from South Lanarkshire says music and dancing transformed her life since diagnosis.

Carol joined Tom Arthur, Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing, Playlist for Life founder, Sally Magnusson, and former Miss Scotland contestant, fourth-year medical student and Playlist for Life ambassador, Abigail Thomson, at Glasgow’s iconic and dementia-friendly venue, the Old Fruitmarket, to mark the campaign.

Carol, who was diagnosed with onset vascular dementia in 2016, explained: “When I was diagnosed at 50, I went into a depression. I didn’t want to see anyone or leave the couch. Then I found Playlist for Life through my local Help Point in Carluke, and it changed everything.

“Now, when I put on my playlist, I’m not thinking about dementia, I’m singing, I’m dancing, I’m me again. And it’s a great activity to enjoy with my friends and family.  Music is dear to my heart, and it’s helped me live the best life I can with dementia.

“My favourite song has to be ‘Amazed’ by Lonestar as it was mine and my husband Malcolm’s wedding song.”

The Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing Tom Arthur, said: “When a friend or loved one is diagnosed with dementia, it’s natural to feel unsure about how best to help. 

“A dementia diagnosis can feel overwhelming for families and friends. But simple acts of kindness really do matter. Staying connected and continuing to enjoy everyday activities together can help people live well for longer.

“This year’s Rethink Dementia campaign celebrates the power of music to spark memories, lift moods and bring people together, something every Scot can help make happen. I am delighted that we have been able to relaunch this campaign, alongside our continued efforts to improve the dementia experience through our 10-year Dementia Strategy.”

Councillor Kelly from COSLA, said: “The Rethink dementia campaign is a key deliverable for COSLA and the Scottish Government’s strategy ‘Dementia in Scotland – Everyone’s Story’.

“This campaign highlights the importance of encouraging people living with dementia to stay socially connected. It reminds us all of the difference we can make to support friends or loved ones living with a dementia diagnosis by maintaining contact and doing the things we’ve always done with them”


Sally Magnusson MBE, founder of Playlist for Life, said moments like Carol’s are at the heart of why the charity exists: “I founded Playlist for Life after caring for my mother, and seeing first-hand how music could transform her days.

“Since then, I have witnessed countless moments where a familiar song lights up a face, sparks a conversation or rekindles joy”.

“It’s great to see the Scottish Government championing this message. Personally meaningful music and the connections it encourages are marvellous ways of restoring a sense of self and well-being. They really do help people to live well with dementia for longer.”

For practical advice on supporting someone after a dementia diagnosis and to watch the campaign video, visit: https://www.nhsinform.scot/rethinkdementia

New appointees to Scottish Fuel Poverty Advisory Panel

NEW PANEL MEMBERS FOR SCOTLAND’S FUEL POVERTY WATCHDOG

The Cabinet Secretary for Housing, Màiri McAllan MSP, yesterday announced the appointment of two new members to the Scottish Fuel Advisory Panel – Bryan Leask and Dr Olivia Swann.

The independent statutory panel scrutinises the Scottish Government’s progress towards meeting Scotland’s fuel poverty targets, including the goal that no more than five per cent of households should be living in fuel poverty by 2040.

It also examines how effectively policies and programmes are addressing the four key drivers of fuel poverty: poor energy efficiency, low household income, high fuel costs and how energy is used in the home.

The new appointees bring front-line experience of two of the most acute aspects of fuel poverty; the disproportionate impact on rural communities, and its consequences on health, particularly for children.

Bryan Leask, Chief Executive of Hjaltland Housing Association in Shetland, has extensive experience of rural and island fuel poverty and currently chairs the Scottish Rural and Islands Fuel Poverty Action Group.

Dr Olivia Swann brings extensive professional expertise into the harmful health consequences of fuel poverty – as a consultant paediatrician she sees first-hand how cold, damp homes contribute to children becoming unwell and requiring hospital care. 

Matthew Cole, Chair of the Scottish Fuel Poverty Advisory Panel, said: “It’s great to welcome our new panel members who offer unique insights into two key areas of fuel poverty concern: rural fuel poverty and the impact of fuel poverty on health.

“Bryan and Olivia have both witnessed the impact of fuel poverty particularly in recent years when fuel bills have become unmanageable for many households.

“Bryan has seen, time after time, the realities faced by families living in cold homes – the sheer misery of coming home to a freezing property and not being able to run a hot bath or cook a warm meal and Olivia brings a practical, child‑centred perspective, with a strong focus on prevention and ensuring children’s health is fully considered in actions to tackle fuel poverty.

“We are very lucky to have them both joining our other members on the panel.”

Bryan Leask is a member of the Scottish Government’s Zero Energy Social Housing Taskforce, its New Build Heat Standard Working Group, and its Energy Standard Review Working Group.

ASH Scotland learning event

Last chance for Scotland based colleagues to book your spot! Our Learning Day takes place on Thursday 26 February.

There’s still time to secure your place at our free event, hosted in central Edinburgh.

Click here to see the agenda and sign up to attend: – https://bit.ly/4jUPmIv

Topics

  • Worldwide Insights: Youth Nicotine Cessation Programmes
  • A snapshot of Scotland: Latest research and stats analysis on tobacco, vaping and recreational nicotine products across the nation.
  • Current legislation, Future directions: legislation (Tobacco and Vapes Bill and what next), strategic directions
  • Schools and youth education packs in practice
  • Expanding Smoke and Aerosol-Free Environments: next steps
  • Breaking the Chain: Tackling health inequalities through a Whole Household Approach

Charity launches manifesto calling for prioritised support for positive relationships

Relationship breakdown estimated to cost Scotland £3.5 billion each year

Relationships Scotland, Scotland’s leading relationship support charity, has launched its manifesto ahead of the Scottish Parliament Elections, calling on the next Scottish Government and the new Parliament to prioritise support for positive relationships. 

Stuart Valentine, Chief Executive of Relationships Scotland said: “Strong couple, family and social relationships are fundamental to thriving communities and to Scotland’s economic and social prosperity. Making good mental health a national priority is essential to sustaining these relationships.

“We are calling on the next Scottish Government and all policymakers to invest in a preventative, cross-sector approach, including early intervention and policies that support children and families from the outset.

“Relationship breakdown is estimated to cost Scotland £3.5 billion each year, so investing at an early stage not only delivers a social good, but clear value for the people of Scotland.”

Relationships Scotland’s key asks ahead of the election include: 

  • Investing in prevention, early intervention and recovery for mental health that focuses on cross-sectoral working and collaboration, making good mental health and wellbeing a shared national priority.
  • Expanding future policies that impact on children and families to highlight the vital role relationships play in ensuring the best opportunities and outcomes in life. 
  • Guaranteeing the availability of counselling, mediation, child contact centres and other family support services across the country through increased funding to ensure this support is available for all people in their local communities across Scotland.
  • Applying the provisions in the Children (Scotland) Act 2020 to increase uptake of family mediation and other forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) as an alternative to court action in family cases.

Evidence shows that relationship breakdown and family instability can lead to poverty, while also disproportionately impacting those already experiencing deprivation. Addressing relationship breakdown as a driver of poverty, and its role in deepening deprivation, must be a national priority and will support national efforts to reduce child poverty and improve long-term outcomes for children and young people. Providing early support for couples and families is critical to achieving these outcomes.

Stuart Valentine added: “It is vital that the services delivered by our 21 member organisations across Scotland are accessible to everyone, particularly those experiencing socio-economic disadvantage, and are provided without stigma or financial barriers.

“A cost benefit analysis last year indicated an average saving of £13.77 for every £1 spent on delivering our services.

“Addressing relationship breakdown as a driver of poverty, and recognising its role in deepening deprivation, is essential to supporting national efforts to reduce child poverty and improve long-term outcomes for children and young people.”

Relationships Scotland’s services are delivered via its network of 21 member services providing a range of  counselling, mediation, child contact services and other forms of family support across Scotland from the Highlands and Islands including Lerwick, Stornoway, Kirkwall, Inverness, and Oban, across the central belt as well as Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders. 

Relationships Scotland Manifesto – Scottish Elections 2026Download

Relationships Scotland Manifesto can be downloaded here. 

All aboard: Royal Mail reveals stamps honouring iconic Hornby model railways

Royal Mail has issued a set of 12 stamps to celebrate the world of Hornby Model Railways, a brand that has shaped British hobby culture for over a century.

Frank Hornby, the inventor of Meccano, produced his first clockwork Hornby Series trains in 1920. In 1929 the first models representing real British locomotives arrived.

Each stamp features an exclusive photograph of an iconic Hornby model, specially commissioned by Royal Mail.

Stamps in the set are:

  • 1 locomotive, GNR (1920)
  • Princess Elizabeth, LMS (1937)
  • 4MT tank locomotive, BR (1954)
  • AL1 electric locomotive, BR (1963)
  • InterCity 125 High Speed Train, BR (1977)
  • Merchant Navy class locomotive, BR (2000)
  • Bournemouth Belle Pullman cars, BR (2009)
  • Experimental ‘Hush-Hush’ locomotive, LNER (2021)

An additional four stamps presented in a vibrant miniature sheet celebrate the rich heritage of Hornby through four nostalgic designs, each featuring classic packaging, catalogue covers and promotional artwork from different eras.

The stamps are set against an illustration of a London, Midland and Scottish Railway (LMS) locomotive in full steam.

Royal Mail worked with renowned model railway historian and author, Pat Hammond, on the stamp issue.

David Gold, Director of External Affairs & Policy, Royal Mail, said: “Hornby trains entertained millions, preserved the romance of rail travel, and become a cultural icon of British design and imagination.

“Each of these stamps celebrates a piece of history, of Hornby’s craftsmanship and its role in British culture for generations.”

Martyn Weaver, Brand MD, Hornby, said: “To see Hornby Model Railways celebrated on Royal Mail stamps is a real honour.

“Hornby has been part of British life for more than a century, inspiring creativity, craftsmanship and a lifelong interest in railways and modelling. These stamps recognise the enduring appeal of model railways and the role the hobby continues to play in bringing people together across generations.”

Pat Hammond, Archivist to the Train Collectors Society, said: “The Hornby brand is over 100 years old and that is a major achievement. It is part of Britain’s heritage, and long may it be so.”

HORNBY RAILWAYS:

Hornby’s story began in 1920, when Frank Hornby, the inventor of Meccano, introduced his first clockwork Hornby Series trains.

These 0 gauge models, crafted from pressed steel, brass and tinplate, were twice the size of today’s 00 gauge scale. By the late 1920s, Hornby had launched electrically driven train sets and in 1929 introduced models based on real British locomotives. The iconic LMS Princess Elizabeth locomotive appeared in 1937, followed by the debut of the smaller 00 gauge system, Hornby Dublo, in 1938.

The introduction of plastic mouldings and a two-rail system marked a new era, and by the late 1970s Hornby was producing highly detailed models that appealed to both children and adult enthusiasts. Highlights included the British Railways High Speed Train (HST), released in 1977, which became one of the brand’s best-selling models.

Hornby continued to innovate into the 21st century, combining heritage with cutting-edge technology. From live steam locomotives and digital control systems to collaborations with beloved brands such as Thomas and Friends and Harry Potter, Hornby has remained a leader in model railways.

Today, the company boasts an extensive tooling stock and continues to create authentic, finely detailed models that celebrate Britain’s rich railway history.

The stamps, and a range of collectible products, are available to pre-order from today (12 February) at www.royalmail.com/hornby and by telephone on 03457 641 641. A Presentation Pack including all 12 stamps is priced at £21.30.

The stamps go on general sale on 19 February from Royal Mail and from 27 February in selected Post Office branches.    

NHS Lothian appoints contractor to start works on new Eye Hospital

Lothian’s multi-million pound new Eye Hospital has moved an exciting step closer to becoming a reality after NHS Lothian appointed a main contractor.

Kier will act as Principal Supply Chain Partner to build the state-of-the-art facility, which will serve adults and children across the region, as well as south-east Scotland.

The pioneering project will replace the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion (PAEP), Edinburgh, with a bespoke new eye hospital on the Little France BioQuarter campus.

Sitting next to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, the Simpson Centre for Reproductive Health and Edinburgh University clinical research facilities, the new site will become part of the world-class Edinburgh BioQuarter.

Jim Crombie, Deputy Chief Executive, NHS Lothian, said: “We are pleased to appoint Kier as our Principal Supply Chain Partner and take the next step in the process towards opening a new eye hospital in Lothian.

“We are delighted that the hospital is becoming a reality and that makes this milestone even more exciting. I would like to thank our teams for their commitment and endurance throughout the planning of this project – I know this step will mean a great deal to them.

“Our teams in the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion have a world-class reputation for their innovation, treatment, patient safety and care, but the building no longer supports them or the thousands of surgical, inpatients and outpatients who attend each year.

“This new state-of-the-art facility will allow our magnificent teams to continue providing the exceptional patient care and treatment they are renowned for.”

The new hospital will stand as a hub of excellence and also provide specialist services, such as surgical retinal services, paediatric surgery and neuro-ophthalmology for patients from NHS Borders, Tayside and Fife, as well as Lothian.

Health Secretary Neil Gray said: “The appointment of a Principal Supply Chain Partner for the new Eye Hospital marks an important milestone for eye care in Lothian and the south-east of Scotland.

“The dedicated teams currently working in the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion have a world-class reputation for innovation, treatment and patient care. They deserve a modern, purpose-built facility that matches their expertise and supports the thousands of patients who rely on their services each year. This new hospital will do exactly that, providing a state-of-the-art environment where staff can continue to deliver the excellent care they are known for.

 “This investment demonstrates our commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and ensuring everyone has access to the treatment they need.”

Kier, which has already worked on the NHS Golden Jubilee Eye Hospital, in Glasgow and Sunderland Eye Infirmary brings a wealth of innovation and experience to Lothian’s new Eye Hospital.

Sean Fenner, Managing Director, Kier Construction North & Scotland, said: “We are proud to be the Principal Supply Chain Partner for NHS Lothian to deliver early construction works at the new Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion – a new Centre of Excellence that will transform eye care for patients across the region.

 “Our team brings unrivalled expertise, shaped by landmark projects such as the NHS Golden Jubilee Eye Hospital and Sunderland Eye Infirmary, and informed by best practice from leading ophthalmic centres in the UK and internationally.

“Working in partnership with NHS Lothian, we will create an environment that enhances patient experience, empowers staff and establishes a new standard of excellence in ophthalmic care across Scotland.”

Mobile Jobcentres hit the road in six new areas to deliver employment support

Jobseekers are to benefit from the roll-out of mobile jobs vans across Great Britain – outside leisure centres, supermarkets and even football stadiums

  • New vans rolling out to six additional areas across England and Wales as part of major employment reforms.
  • Jobcentre on Wheels service puts expert support at heart of the local community – slashing barriers by coming directly to people while they do their weekly shop or see their local team play football.
  • Roll out is part of wider government plans to Get Britain Working and comes after successful pilot saw over 1,600 people supported.

Jobseekers are to benefit from the roll-out of mobile jobs vans across Great Britain – appearing outside leisure centres, supermarkets and even football stadiums.

Following hugely successful pilots in the Scottish Highlands, North and Mid Wales and Greater Manchester, the number of Jobcentres on Wheels will triple, providing enhanced support in six new areas, with a view to explore rolling out the scheme more extensively after testing its impact.

The vans will take jobcentre staff on the road to communities with some of the highest rates of unemployment where support is needed most. Vans will park up outside family hubs, leisure centres, supermarkets, local events and football matches to make taking that first step towards work as easy as possible.

Once on board, people can meet with one of the DWP’s experienced work coaches who will who offer expert support with job searching and training opportunities.

They can also provide information to those with health conditions or disabilities and for accessing childcare costs.

As well as existing customers, the service is open and accessible to all members of the public and forms part of the government’s wider plans to Get Britain Working, kickstart economic growth and give more opportunities for people to get on in their career.

Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said: “We want to break down the barriers that stop people from finding good work, and that means meeting people where they are.

“Jobcentres on Wheels are doing exactly that – bringing employment support into the heart of communities.

“That’s why we’re building on the success we’ve already seen, expanding the service so we can unlock opportunities for even more people across the country.”

The areas the vans will now be extended to are Wakefield, North Nottinghamshire, Barrow-in-Furness, Blackpool, Clevedon and Rhondda Cynon Taf/Bridgend.

To mark the roll out, Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden visited the Bolton Mobile Jobcentre which was stationed outside Horwich Leisure Centre.

The Bolton Mobile Jobcentre, which was first launched in January 2025 has already supported nearly 800 customers – many of whom had never set foot into a jobcentre. Bolton has one of the highest inactivity rates in the North West, at 29.2% compared to the national average of 20.8%.

It has parked in a range of spaces including Bolton Wanderers’ football stadium on match days, Horwich Leisure Centre, family hubs and community centres, reaching those who might not otherwise access a traditional Jobcentre.

Data shows that just over half of customers visiting the vans are not in receipt of benefits, demonstrating the service is reaching many economically inactive people who may not engage with traditional jobcentres.

For example, in Bolton, a customer with health conditions walked onto the van looking for work. Within one visit, staff found him job leads, referred him to digital support, and connected him with training. The customer said this support was something he would never have thought to look for at a traditional Jobcentre.

Ben Lawton, CEO of Bolton Wanderers in the Community, said: “Here at BWitC we understand the drivers behind the increase in the number of young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET).

“The relational, holistic, community-based support delivered in trusted settings support those in our community facing these challenges.

“Working alongside Bolton Jobcentre and their Jobcentre Van is key to our Vision of One Bolton Connected in Success.”

The mobile Jobcentres will now operate in nine areas across England, Scotland and Wales, covering a mix of urban, rural, coastal and post-industrial communities. Trebling the Department’s mobile fleet will ensure the service reaches those who may face barriers accessing traditional jobcentres across Great Britain as a whole.

The initiative is part of the government’s commitment to reforming employment services and helping more people overcome barriers to work, including health conditions and caring responsibilities.

It is part of a major programme of reform as a test and learn approach which includes transforming Jobcentres and creating a new national jobs and careers service, backed by £55m as well as launching a new digital offer to deliver a transformative new service that will give anyone access to DWP support wherever they are.

Deborah Meaden calls on people to help hungry children ahead of Random Acts of Kindness Day

Dragons’ Den star has teamed up with Mary’s Meals to show small change, just 10p, can have a big impact 

MaryÕs Meals Deborah Meaden joins forces with MaryÕs Meals as part of their ongoing Sponsor a School campaign.

Entrepreneur and Dragons’ Den star Deborah Meaden is encouraging people across the country to invest in a child’s future today – Random Acts of Kindness Day (Tuesday, 17 February).

Longtime supporter Deborah has once again teamed up with international school feeding charity Mary’s Meals and is calling on the public to make a big impact with their small change. 

Deborah says: “It costs just 10p to feed a hungry child with Mary’s Meals, and just £19.15 for a full school year. How incredible is that?!  

“This Random Acts of Kindness Day is the perfect time to give a little to Mary’s Meals. Your kindness will ensure that children in some of the world’s poorest communities can learn and play on a full tummy, allowing them to be the happy children they were born to be.”

“How often do you find 10p down the back of the sofa or hidden in your jacket pocket? It’s remarkable that that one coin can have such a substantial impact on a hungry child, giving them a nutritious meal in school on a day where they otherwise may not have had anything else to eat.”

Mary’s Meals feeds a daily school meal to three million children in 16 countries including Ethiopia, Haiti and Yemen. The charity, founded in a shed in the Highlands in 2002, encourages children experiencing poverty and hunger into the classroom where they gain a basic education that can provide an escape route from poverty.

Thanks to the kindness of those donating, 11-year-old Mickael from Madagascar is thriving both in the classroom and on the football pitch.

Mickael says: “What has changed in me since the school feeding started is that I am not hungry at school and I can focus during class.  

“My favourite subject at school is mathematics and my favourite game is playing football because we compete between class, during the break.”

Deborah says: “With your support, children like Mickael can reach their full potential. I’m delighted to be supporting Mary’s Meals, and stories of Mickael’s and three million children like him show that a little kindness really does go a long way!”

Dan McNally, Head of Grassroots Engagement at Mary’s Meals, says: “We all know from Deborah’s role on Dragons’ Den that she knows the power of investment, and we’re incredibly thankful for her support as we invest in the future of children by providing them with nutritious meals and a chance to realise their potential.

“Random Acts of Kindness Day gives us the chance to reflect and take action to help those less fortunate than us. Mary’s Meals’ low-cost model means even the smallest donation can have a life-changing impact on hungry children.”

To find out more and to donate to Mary’s Meals, please visit:

 marysmeals.org.uk 

EICC board appoints Judy Rae as Non-Executive Director

The board of the world-class Edinburgh conference and events venue, Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) has appointed Judy Rae as a non-executive director.

Announcing the appointment, EICC board chair, Cllr Lezley Marion Cameron (right) said: “We are delighted to welcome Judy to the EICC board at this exciting and challenging time for the company and the business events industry.  

“Judy brings extensive tourism industry experience in driving strategic development, commercial growth, and creating impactful partnerships across both public and third-sector organisations. 

“Judy’s insights and input will be invaluable to me and fellow EICC board colleagues’ as we continue our work to ensure the EICC retains and sustains its 30-year reputation as a successful, sustainable, world class conference centre which inspires ideas that change the world.”

An accomplished tourism and business leader, Judy has over 20 years’ experience across Scotland’s cultural, visitor attraction, and business events sectors.  

Discussing her appointment, Judy (above, left) said: “I am passionate about the business events sector, and throughout my career, I’ve worked to ensure that the industry is effectively represented at the strategic level with government and key Scottish tourism agencies.

“EICC sits at the heart of Scotland’s business events sector, and I’m thrilled to be joining the board at such a pivotal moment. It is an outstanding organisation, successfully balancing commercial innovation with civic purpose, and I’m honoured to help shape the next chapter of its success”.

Another U-Turn as plans to cancel England’s council elections reversed

‘DEMOCRACY IS NOT AN INEFFICIENCY’

With local government reorganisation looming in England, Local Government Secretary Steve Reed controversially approved delays in 30 council elections in England until 2027.

However Reform UK launched a legal challenge to this decision, and the Government has now been forced to abandon plans to postpone elections after receiving advice that the move could be unlawful.

Florence Eshalomi, Chair of Westminster’s Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee commented on the Westminster Government’s decision to scrap plans to delay 30 council elections in England:

“I welcome this development. As I argued previously, democracy is not an inefficiency that should be cut out during local government reorganisation process.”
 
“Councils should not have been put in the position of choosing between frontline services or elections.

“I welcome the indication that the Government will provide additional resources to ensure that local council elections can take place and look forward to seeing more detail on this”.