WEDNESDAY 1 JULY from 1 – 3pm
We’ve got a professional barber popping into North Edinburgh Arts on Wednesday 1 July, 1-3pm, offering free short hair cuts for local residents living in North Edinburgh.
Spaces are limited, so booking is a must. Give the Link Up team a ring on 07493 876 130 to book your spot before the chairs fill up.
Scotland’s recent election tells us something important about the national mood (writes ALISON NOLAN).
The return of an SNP-led administration under John Swinney, the rise of the Greens, the fragmentation of traditional party loyalties, the emergence of Reform UK at Holyrood, and low voter turnout together point to a political landscape that is more divided, volatile and uncertain than at any point since devolution began.
At the same time, COSLA’s recent white paper on strengthening local democracy argues that Scotland must rebuild democratic participation and place power closer to communities. These are not separate conversations. The central question facing Scotland’s new administration is not simply how to govern, but how to rebuild trust, participation and civic confidence in an age of fragmentation.
That is where libraries matter.
For too long, libraries have been framed narrowly: as cultural amenities, repositories of books, or discretionary local services under financial pressure. Those roles remain important, but they no longer capture the full significance of libraries in modern Scotland. Libraries are democratic infrastructure.
In communities across Scotland, libraries remain among the very few public spaces that are free, trusted, accessible and open to everyone. You do not need money to enter. You do not need an appointment, a referral or permission. At a time when many civic spaces have disappeared from public life, libraries remain embedded in communities across the country.
The election exposed a growing sense of democratic disconnection. Turnout fell in many parts of the country. Political loyalties are becoming more fluid and polarised, while public debate is increasingly shaped by social media algorithms, misinformation and distrust. At the same time, Scotland’s new government faces enormous pressures, from public service reform and child poverty to digital exclusion and growing demands for more local decision-making.
Libraries can help Scotland respond to all of these challenges. Democracy is strongest when decisions are made closest to communities but local democracy requires more than changes to governance structures. It also requires trusted local spaces where people can access information, build confidence, participate in discussions and connect with one another. Libraries already provide that infrastructure.
Every day, libraries help people access digital public services, apply for jobs, develop literacy skills, connect with their communities and navigate increasingly complex information environments. They host community groups, youth activities and public events, while increasingly helping people understand online information, artificial intelligence and the digital systems shaping modern life.
In practice, libraries already do the work of democratic participation. We simply do not always describe it that way.
Imagine if libraries were recognised formally as civic participation hubs in every community: places where citizens’ assemblies, local consultations and participatory budgeting discussions could happen; where young people could develop media literacy and critical digital skills; and where communities could engage with regeneration, climate transition and public service reform.
Much of this is already happening quietly across Scotland’s library network. The challenge now is whether national policy catches up with that reality.
If Scotland is serious about prevention, community empowerment and democratic renewal, libraries cannot continue to sit at the margins of policy discussions. They should be recognised as part of Scotland’s democratic and social infrastructure, alongside schools, health services and community organisations.
Democracy depends on more than elections and institutions. It depends on trust, participation, shared spaces and equal access to information. Libraries provide all four. In the Scotland emerging from this election, that may make them more important than ever.
Alison Nolan
Chief executive, Scottish Library & Information Council (SLIC)
Lots of us enjoy the heat, but it can make us unwell.
This summer, find out how to take care of yourself and others during hot weather.
Independent Age’s second annual index into older people’s financial wellbeing in Scotland shows little progress on key indicators of pensioner poverty.
The ‘Older People’s Economic Wellbeing Index: Scotland 2026’, commissioned by the national older people’s financial hardship charity and conducted by the Diffley Partnership is a nationally representative poll of 1,800 people aged 66 and over. The research is repeated annually to track trends over time, and this is the second year that the research has been conducted.
The 2026 Index shows that one in five older people in Scotland have a household income of less than £15,000 a year. Of this group:
UK and Scottish Government statistics show that 130,000, or one in eight, older people in Scotland are currently living in poverty.
Morgan Vine, Director of Policy and Influencing at Independent Age said: “Action on pensioner poverty is at risk of stalling, with a generation of older people left trapped in poverty and making dangerous cutbacks as a result.
“Our latest Index shows that, in many areas, little progress has been made in the last year, including older people still feeling unrepresented by politicians, being weighed down by mounting costs, and not feeling their incomes and the financial support available is enough.
“With an ageing population it is vital that politicians across the political spectrum recognise the need for dedicated and sustained action to ensure older people living on a low income can live a decent and dignified life.
“This is a golden opportunity for the new Scottish Government to act now, to change the picture and create a much more positive reality for all of us as we age.”
Independent Age is calling for the introduction of a Pensioner Poverty Strategy to coordinate efforts to drive down poverty among pensioners.
The Index looks at five research areas: income and financial wellbeing, costs and cutbacks, housing, quality of life and political representation.
Income and financial wellbeing
Just one in 20 (6%) of all older people were confident that the State Pension would be enough to cover basic living expenses in the future.
Awareness of most social security payments has remained mostly static since 2025. Of all the people on a low income of under £15,000 a year, 1 in 5 are not aware of Pension Credit (19%), and the number is the similar for Housing Benefit (20%). One in eight are not aware of Council Tax Reduction (14%).
Only around half (54%) of older people agreed that they were confident they were receiving all the financial support they were entitled to, and less than half (45%) agreed they were confident they know how to apply for the financial benefits they were entitled to.
Costs and cutbacks
Eight in ten (77%) older people on a low income said that they have cut back on heating, and more than a third say they cannot afford to keep their home warm. More than half have skipped meals.
Significant proportions of older people across all incomes are also worried about energy usage. 21% cannot afford to keep their home warm enough, 26% are not content with the energy efficiency of their home, 29% say their current energy bills are not affordable and 13% are not confident they can meet the cost of their energy over the next 12 months.
Housing
More than 1 in 4 older people are living in a home that is becoming, or is, unaffordable to them. The housing affordability picture is considerably worse for older people on a low income than the general older population, with almost half (48%) saying their housing costs are, or are becoming, unaffordable.
Political representation
Most older people in Scotland do not feel well represented by political bodies and representatives. This generally has remained unchanged since the 2025 Index, where feelings of lack of political representation were high. One significant decline in feeling has been towards the UK Government. These have eroded particularly strongly – this research wave shows a five-percentage-point increase in the proportion who say the UK Government do not represent them (‘not very’ or ‘not at all’).
Recommendations
Independent Age recommends:
ALL FAMILIES can enjoy children’s meals in restaurants and days out for less from today as the Great British Summer Savings tax cut goes live today.
With every family set to benefit, the scheme will see VAT cut from 20% to 5% on eligible activities across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. This tax cut will help families enjoy weekend treats, days out, and day trips that make the most of the summer.
Meanwhile, the scheme will support businesses by generating additional summer footfall. Businesses up and down the country have confirmed their involvement in Great British Summer Savings, including some of Britain’s most prominent attractions and eateries.
Picturehouse, Everyman Cinemas, Vue, Butlin’s, Wetherspoons, Shepherd Neame pubs, McDonald’s, KFC, and Burger King are among the businesses that have made the commitment to pass on these savings to customers since the Chancellor held a roundtable with major leisure and hospitality companies last week.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “The cost of living isn’t just about paying the bills, it’s about being able to afford the moments that matter with your family.
“Whether it’s a trip to the cinema, a day out together or family meal, too many parents have had to hold back because of pressure on household budgets – that’s why we’re slashing VAT on family days out this summer.”
Haven Holidays is also participating and expects to give up to £5 million back to families across their 39 parks during the scheme. Families will benefit whether they have already booked their holiday or book in the coming weeks.
In addition to passing on the reduction in VAT on their kids’ menus, Haven holidaymakers who purchase the Play Pass as part of their booking will receive a £7.50 voucher for each child. These vouchers can be redeemed against any of the many activities available on its parks.
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said: “I know the cost of living is a number one concern for families, and it can be even harder over the summer holidays when kids want to do things and money is tight. So we’re making it that bit easier for families to make memories together and enjoy the little treats – while giving a boost to businesses across the UK.
“This comes on top of support we’ve already put in place including freezing fuel duty, taking off £117 off energy bills, and freezing prescriptions and rail fares.
“We are able do this because we have the right economic plan, resulting in the UK having the fastest growing economy in the G7.”
Prices will be slashed for:
Lyn Goleby, Founder and Chair of Picturehouse, said: “I cannot think of a simpler and more accessible way to bring some affordable treats into family life this summer.
“We’re looking forward to a summer of family cinema that is super charged in every way except price.”
Simon Palethorpe, CEO of Haven, said: “Summer is a time for making memories, and that’s why we’re giving back up to £5 million to our guests and owners as part of the Government’s Great British Summer Savings initiative.
“We know household budgets remain under pressure, and we want to help our holidaymakers enjoy more of what matters – whether that’s a hole-in-one on the Crazy Golf, a leap of faith off The Jump tower or another shot to hit the bullseye in the Archery.”
A Butlin’s spokesperson said: “We’re pleased to support the Great British Summer Savings initiative by passing on the temporary VAT reduction where eligible.
“Families visiting our resorts will enjoy savings on Day Visits and children’s meals across a range of our dining venues during the campaign period.”
NEXT MEETING CANCELLED
Our next meeting, which was scheduled for Monday 29 June, has been cancelled due to a number of Community Councillors being away on holiday.
July is usually a meeting-free month, so we will be back after the summer break in August.
So our next meeting will be on Monday 31 August, 6.30pm at Royston Wardieburn Community Centre.
Local residents are welcome to join us in person or online, or submit their questions by email.
Leading national charity Poppyscotland will be a noticeable presence at various events across the country this Armed Forces Day.
Taking place on Saturday, 27th June the day celebrates the Armed Forces community: from currently serving personnel to Service families, veterans and cadets. It marks the culmination of a week of celebrations, which began on Monday 22nd June.
Poppyscotland provide lifelong support, expert guidance and ongoing care for current and former members of the Armed Forces as well as their families when its needed most.
Last year alone, the charity responded to almost 800 individuals and families with advice and practical help on a number of issues including financial support, interventions and advice for people and families living with dementia, practical assistance and advice dealing with mobility issues, housing, mental health support, employment issues and much more.
This Armed Forces Week, the charity is reminding the public why their work matters and how they support the Armed Forces community all year round.
One such beneficiary, is serving soldier Timoci Waqanibau and his wife Titilia who contacted Poppyscotland for help, to reunite them with their children after nearly two years apart.
After Timoci joined the British Army in 2019, the family made the heartbreaking decision to leave their nine-year-old son and six-year-old daughter in Fiji while they built a new life in Scotland, staying connected only through daily video calls and the promise of one day being together again.
When Titilia reached out to Poppyscotland for help, everything changed. Within weeks, the charity arranged everything: visas, flights, and full travel support to bring their children home to Scotland, and to finally meet their baby sister. The reunion in October was everything they’d hoped for.
“The children were so excited, screaming. We all cried,” Timoci said. “All we wanted was our babies all together, and thanks to Poppyscotland that dream has finally come true.”
Leanne Bonner, Head of Scotland at Poppyscotland, said: “Families like Timoci’s are at the heart of everything we do. No family should have to face challenges like these alone and with Poppyscotland’s support, they don’t have to.”
For more information on Poppyscotland and how they can help, please visit:
Ahead of Scotland’s first World Cup appearance since 1998, a squad of recognisable names took to the pitch in Edinburgh for a one-off match against the Scotmid Brazil squad.
To celebrate Scotland’s return to the World Cup, Scotmid staff, customers, suppliers, family and friends came together to make up a Scotland and a Brazil team.
Those playing for Scotland bore more than just a passion for the game – many of them shared a surname with the squad preparing to take on Brazil on 24 June.
Taking to the pitch were Gunn, McGinn, Ferguson, Ralston, Christie, Stewart, Robertson, Tierney and McKenna, who came together from across the country, united by their passion for football – and a desire to win.
Friends and family cheered from the stands as the match got underway and were treated to a energetic and exciting 90 minutes, which ended in an 11-9 victory for Scotland. Each player received a medal and a goodie bag packed with a range of Scottish favourites, with the winning team lifting the prestigious Champions Trophy.
The event celebrated Scotland’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, giving customers a day to remember through a celebration of community pride and national excitement.
Lauren Rafferty, Commercial Development Coordinator at Scotmid, said: “Scotland reaching the World Cup is a huge moment. We wanted to mark it in a way that would bring people together and give our customers their own moment on the pitch.
“It’s a bit of fun but it also reflects what Scotmid is all about: community, local pride and creating moments that people can enjoy together.”
While the result on the pitch may still be up for debate among those involved, the success of the event was clear, exciting the players for Scotland’s campaign – and a hope that their result is a foreshadow of Scotland’s World Cup success!
With a red weather warning issued for many parts of England, and a red heat health alert in some regions warning of a threat to life for even healthy people, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) and Children’s Burns Trust (CBT) are warning of the growing dangers of heatwaves.
Research showed 51 people died from excessive natural heat in the UK between 2014 and 2023, alongside more than 1,800 hospital admissions in England over the past decade. This includes 16 fatalities during 2022, the last year a red warning was in place.
The organisations said the risks are rising as the UK experiences more frequent and intense periods of hot weather, with children particularly vulnerable.
Data shared by Children’s Burns Trust shows severe child sunburn injuries increased sharply in 2025, when 252 sunburn cases in children were recorded (admission to a Specialist Burns Unit), a 46.5% rise from 172 cases in 2024.
Heatwaves place strain on the body and can quickly lead to serious harm, including heat exhaustion, dehydration and burns from prolonged sun exposure. Children are especially at risk because their skin burns more easily and they may not recognise early warning signs.
Meteorologists warn that extreme heat is becoming more common in the UK, increasing the likelihood of preventable injuries and deaths if basic safety advice is not followed. Both organisations say many incidents could be avoided through simple precautions, particularly during peak sunlight hours.
The two leading charities are urging families to act early during hot weather by protecting children from the sun, keeping them cool and well hydrated, and recognising the signs of heat‑related illness.
Steve Cole, Director of Policy and Impact at RoSPA, said: “Heatwaves are no longer rare events, and the consequences are becoming clearer year on year.
“These deaths and hospital admissions are not inevitable. By following straightforward advice on sun safety, hydration and cooling down, people can dramatically reduce the risk to themselves and their families.”
Ken Dunn BSc FRCS(Lond) FRCS(plast) FRCS(ed), Consultant Burns and Plastic Surgeon (retired) and Vice Chair at Children’s Burns Trust, said: “We are seeing a worrying rise in children experiencing sunburn, which is painful, distressing and entirely preventable.
“Simple steps like keeping children out of direct sun, covering up exposed skin and reapplying sunscreen regularly can make a real difference.”
The organisations are advising the public to take extra care during hot weather, particularly between late morning and mid‑afternoon when the sun is strongest.
FIRST AID
Children’s Burns Trust helps to promote the vital message of the importance of good first aid if a burn or scald does occur:
COOL for 20 minutes under cool running water,
CALL 999 OR 111 or your GP for advice,
COVER the burn loosely with cling film.
All statistics released by Children’s Burns Trust have been provided by the International Burn Injury Database (iBID), incorporating data collected from all NHS Burn Services in England and Wales, they do not include the minor burns and scalds that are treated by Accident and Emergency Departments.
For more information: info@cbtrust.org.uk, https://cbtrust.org.uk/
To mark the 10-year anniversary of Brexit, Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP for Edinburgh North Western, Alex Cole-Hamilton has today highlighted their party’s plans to rejoin the single market and boost defence ties with the EU.
The Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP warned that Nigel Farage and Boris Johnson’s Brexit experiment has failed.
Estimates suggest that Brexit costs the country £90 billion in lost tax revenue every year.
Liberal Democrats have unveiled plans for a new Growth and Defence Partnership with the EU. This would mean:
Alex Cole-Hamilton also said that Reform UK should use their voice in parliament to explain how they would fill the £90 billion blackhole without backing Liberal Democrat proposals.
Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP said: “Nigel Farage and Boris Johnson are the authors of the failed Brexit experiment. They have cost our country £90 billion every year.
“This is money which is being taken away from nurses, doctors, teachers, patients and pupils all across Edinburgh.
“Liberal Democrats have announced bold new plans for a Growth and Defence Partnership with the EU. It’s how we can cut bills for local people, give our children a better future and help keep everyone in Edinburgh safe.
“Our plans would stop the chaos and end the crisis. If Reform don’t like them, they should use the voice they now have in parliament to explain what they would do instead.”
