Month: October 2026

Burnham puts the brakes on rip-off parking charges and car scams

Drivers to get new rights to challenge unfair private parking charges, alongside crack down on car dealers winding back mileages

Drivers will get new rights to challenge unfair private parking charges under new rules announced today. This includes a guaranteed 5 minutes to decide whether to park and 10 minutes to leave once their session ends, and the right to have charges cancelled on appeal for issues they can’t control. 

Under the new Private Parking Code of Practice laid in Parliament today (20 October), charges will be scrapped on appeal for honest mistakes, like stopping briefly to check directions, and for situations like a medical emergency, breakdown or broken ticket machine. 

For smaller slip-ups, like forgetting a parking permit, entering the wrong vehicle’s registration or forgetting to confirm it in the machine when parking, drivers will face a maximum charge of £20 on appeal. 

The Code also freezes the maximum parking charge at £100. Operators who don’t comply risk losing access to DVLA data, meaning that even if they issue a charge, it will be far more difficult to identify the registered owner to pursue payment. 

In addition, unscrupulous second-hand car dealers who wind back odometers to disguise a vehicle’s true mileage will also face tougher action. Known as car clocking, fraudulently selling a clocked car is already illegal, but adding it to the official list of banned practices will make it easier for enforcers to crack down, protecting buyers and backing honest businesses. 

These changes are the latest measures in the Prime Minister’s series of everyday fixes, tackling the frustrations that cost people time and money to give families more room to breathe. 

Today’s action follows moves to stop unfair airline charges, tackle subscription traps, rogue traders, and rip-off school uniform costs. 

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said: “Being a few minutes late back to your car or typing one digit of your numberplate wrong shouldn’t end with a hefty fine landing on your doormat. 

“These charges leave people feeling ripped off and out of pocket, so I’m putting a stop to them. 

“We are introducing clearer rules, longer grace periods and lower charges for genuine mistakes, while going after the deliberate scams that rip drivers off.”

Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Angela Rayner said: ”Parking should be straightforward, not another everyday hassle.

“These changes mean drivers get a fairer deal, protected time to park and leave without fear of being unfairly charged, and confidence that private parking providers are held to a higher standard.  

“It’s yet another step forward in this government’s plan to take the stress out of everyday life and ease the pressure on people’s pockets.”

Minister for Consumer Action, Kate Dearden, said: “Nobody works hard for their money just to be deceived by a dodgy trader, and this is exactly the kind of everyday rip-off this government is going after. 

“By making it easier to take action against car clocking, we are protecting consumers’ hard-earned money and supporting businesses that play by the rules.”

The UK government has also promised today to go further still, by consulting as soon as possible next year on private parking debt recovery fees, including on whether to cut an existing £70 cap or scrap the fees altogether. 

Data shows just under 17 million private parking charges were issued in the UK last year. In 2025, the government set out proposals to improve standards by consulting on a new Private Parking Code of Practice. 

Today’s response sets out the measures being brought in to protect motorists. Parliament will now have time to scrutinise the new Code, before ministers press ahead to bring it into force as soon as possible. 

This Code brings in, for the first time, a fully independent Scrutiny and Oversight Board, and requires operators to share more information with government, giving drivers stronger protections than ever before. 

Since taking office, the government has also launched a review of airport drop-off charges, cut VAT on electricity bills this winter, frozen fuel duty and rail fares, and raised the Minimum Wage, as it continues to take action to ease the cost of living. 

“Golden opportunity” for Scotland’s economy as Swinney goes to India

FM highlights potential for growth ahead of India trade mission

Scotland must strengthen economic and cultural ties with India for the benefit of jobs, investment and growth, First Minister John Swinney has said.

Ahead of visiting Delhi, Ahmedabad and Mumbai, he hailed the success of Scottish salmon exports as an example of the “golden opportunity” that exists for Scotland’s economy if new international trading opportunities can be unlocked. 

On a visit to Heathrow Airport’s cold storage facility, he will see Scottish salmon being prepared for export around the world. An estimated £300 million of Scottish salmon is exported via Heathrow to international markets each year, supporting Scottish businesses and thousands of jobs.

Mr Swinney said: “India is a growing market, offering a golden opportunity for Scotland’s food and drink businesses, higher education sector, tourism and more. We must strengthen our economic and cultural ties with India for the benefit of jobs, investment and growth in every part of the country. 

“This trade mission to Delhi, Ahmedabad and Mumbai will support Scottish businesses to build connections and seize opportunities that could support jobs and prosperity in all parts of Scotland.

Supported by a delegation of representatives from different businesses and sectors, including Salmon Scotland, this programme will promote Scotland on the global stage as an attractive place to trade with, invest in, study in and visit.

“As the top food export for the whole of the United Kingdom, Scottish salmon is true success story for Scottish food and drink and is a shining example of what Scottish businesses can achieve when international connections are deepened and opportunities are harnessed.”

Thomas Woldbye, CEO at Heathrow said: “Whether it’s Scottish salmon reaching customers in India and beyond, or Scottish businesses securing new opportunities in global markets, Heathrow plays a vital role in connecting Scotland to the world.

“As Scottish airports go from strength to strength, Heathrow is proud to complement their success by connecting more Scottish businesses and exporters to global markets driving trade, investment and growth across Scotland.”

Former Lib-Dem MSP Tavish Scott, CEO at Salmon Scotland, said: “I am pleased that the First Minister has taken time to view the impressive air freight logistics operation at London Heathrow. This is an important element in how salmon from Scotland reaches customers in 50 countries around the globe.

“The opening of the Indian market as tariffs are removed is a welcome step reinforced by the number of Indian cities that are connected to Heathrow by direct air services. Salmon Scotland are grateful for the First Minister and Scottish Government’s recognition of this and we look forward to serving the Indian customers needs for salmon for many years to come.”

The visit to Delhi, Ahmedabad and Mumbai forms part of a wider effort to ‘deepen the relationship between Scotland and India through economic co-operation, cultural exchange, tourism, sport and academic collaboration’.

On his trade mission to India, the First Minister will be accompanied by a delegation of food and drink companies seeking to expand their presence in the Indian market. Their engagements will focus on developing opportunities for Scottish businesses, as well as supporting jobs, investment and economic growth.

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Police appeal for witnesses following Marionville hit and run

POLICE are appealing for information following a two-vehicle crash in Edinburgh.

The incident happened around 6.50pm last night (Monday, 19 October, 2026), on Marionville Road at the junction with Marionville Avenue.

The crash involved a bicycle and a red car. The car failed to stop.

Constable Neill Sage said: “Enquiries are ongoing and we are appealing to anyone who witnessed the crash to contact us.

“We’d also ask anyone with private CCTV or dash-cam footage which could assist our enquiries to come forward.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident 3208 of Monday, 19 October, 2026.”

Latest Covid-19 Inquiry report to be published today

MODULE 6 FOCUSES ON THE CARE SECTOR

The UK Covid-19 Inquiry will publish its sixth report, ‘Care Sector’ (Module 6), today (Tuesday 20 October 2026).

The report will be published on the Inquiry website at 12pm. The Chair of the Inquiry, Baroness Heather Hallett, will present her findings and recommendations in video statements on the Inquiry’s YouTube channel immediately after publication.

Module 6 public hearings took place from 30 June to 31 July 2025.

In total, 57 witnesses gave oral evidence during Module 6 public hearings. Module 6 investigated the impact of the pandemic on the publicly and privately funded adult social care sector in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The report will consider the consequences of government decision-making – including restrictions imposed – on those living and working within the care sector, as well as decisions concerning capacity in hospitals and residents in adult care and residential homes.

It will also address the steps taken in adult care and residential homes to prevent the spread of Covid-19 and will examine the capacity of the adult care sector to respond to the pandemic.

Alongside this, the report will consider the human impact of the pandemic on residents and their families, including deaths in care settings, the use of Do Not Attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (DNACPR) decisions and the restrictions placed on visits from loved ones.

The UK Covid-19 Inquiry will publish its seventh report, ‘Test, Trace and Isolate’ (Module 7), on Thursday 19 November 2026.

Covid-19 Inquiry London, UK.

Secretary to the Inquiry, Ben Connah, said: “The Chair of the Inquiry, Baroness Heather Hallett, will set out her findings and recommendations in both reports. The publication of these reports marks swift progress for the Inquiry.

“All public hearings have concluded and seven of our planned 10 reports will be published by mid-November. All remaining reports will be published in the first half of next year. 

“The Chair expects all recommendations to be implemented without delay and governments across all four nations will be asked to publish their responses within six months of publication. 

“The swift implementation of the Chair’s recommendations is vital to make sure the UK is better prepared for the next pandemic.”

Dynamic Earth invites families on an Arctic Adventure this Christmas

Young explorers can learn about our planet and become Polar Protectors, as they journey to meet Santa at Dynamic Earth

Families are being invited on a unique Arctic Adventure to Santa’s Grotto this December, as Edinburgh’s Dynamic Earth brings the magic of Christmas together with science, discovery and a mission to protect our planet.

Returning for the festive season, Santa’s Grotto: An Arctic Adventure will see children become Polar Protectors and join Dynamic Earth’s resident Elf on an important Christmas mission – to uncover where a mysterious lost penguin has come from and help get him safely home to Antarctica in time for Christmas Eve.

Taking place on selected dates from Saturday 5 to Wednesday 23 December, the immersive experience will take families on a guided adventure with festive storytelling and plenty of opportunities for young explorers to discover more about the Earth’s polar regions. 

Rather than simply heading straight to Santa, families will begin in Santa’s Post Room, where they will be recruited as Polar Protectors before setting off to investigate clues and discover more about polar animals along the way.

The adventure finishes at the icy landscape of Santa’s Grotto, where families will meet Santa, reunite a new lost friend with his family, and have an opportunity to capture a festive family photograph. 

Each child will also receive a special gift token to redeem in the Dynamic Earth gift shop following their adventure, allowing them to choose their own cuddly polar protector.

The experience builds on the success of Dynamic Earth’s previous festive offering, which saw strong visitor engagement and sold-out experiences, while introducing a new adventure-led format for 2026 with a greater focus on exploration and storytelling.

This year’s programme has also been created to ensure it’s accessible to all, with relaxed sessions designed for those who would benefit from a calmer adventure featuring smaller group numbers and fewer transitions between locations. A British Sign Language (BSL) session, with two BSL interpreters present throughout, will also take place on December 6th. 

The festive fun goes beyond the grotto, with Dynamic Earth offering a wider programme of seasonal activities throughout December. Young scientists can take part in special winter-themed sessions of Dino’s, Dynamos and Dynamites Science Clubs, while families can settle in beneath the stars for festive Planetarium screenings including Frozen (sing-along), Home Alone, The Muppet Christmas Carol and Arthur Christmas.

For adults looking for a festive night out with a difference, Planetarium Lates will return for over-18s, combining the immersive surroundings of the Planetarium with screenings of Love Actually, Scrooged, Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon and Stargazing Late & Live.

Together, the programme offers families, young science enthusiasts and adults the chance to experience Dynamic Earth in a different light this winter – bringing together festive atmosphere, imagination and entertainment with a distinctly scientific sense of curiosity.

Suzie Holligan, Director of Visitor Experience and Events, said: “Christmas is all about imagination, curiosity and a sense of adventure, so we wanted to create an experience that captures that magic while giving children the chance to discover something new.

“Santa’s Grotto: An Arctic Adventure is much more than a traditional grotto. Our young visitors become Polar Protectors and have an important mission to complete, learning about the Arctic and Antarctic and the incredible animals that call these environments home along the way.

“We’re really excited to welcome families back to Dynamic Earth this Christmas and give them a festive experience they’ll remember – with a little bit of science and discovery along the way.”

Santa’s Grotto: An Arctic Adventure runs on selected dates from 5 to 23 December at Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh. The experience lasts approximately 35 minutes and costs £25 per child, with up to three accompanying adults able to attend free of charge per booking. Admission to Dynamic Earth’s core galleries is not included.

Relaxed sessions will take place on 5, 6, 12 and 13 December, while BSL sessions will take place on 6 December at selected times.

For full dates, times, and to book tickets, visit the Dynamic Earth website: Christmas at Dynamic Earth | Dynamic Earth. Advance booking is recommended.

Edinburgh Science invites pupils to explore pathways into STEM at Careers Hive

26 – 29 October, National Museum of Scotland 
Open to the public 3 – 5pm daily

www.edinburghscience.co.uk | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | #CareersHive

The careers event with a difference, Edinburgh Science’s annual Careers Hive returns to the National Museum of Scotland from Monday 26 to Thursday 29 October.

Now in its 11th iteration, the 4-day event welcomes P7 – S3 school pupils from across Scotland to discover possible careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) industries by exploring new skills with hands on activities and opportunities to speak directly with STEM professionals working in Scotland today. 

At Careers Hive, pupils will take part in the Experience STEM Exhibition, located within the Museum’s Grand Gallery.

Designed to align Skill Development Scotland’s Meta-skills framework, the exhibition is divided into four themed activity zones, and led by volunteer STEM professionals. Pupils can take part in a wide range of hands-on activities, exploring and developing tangible skills that are utilised within current STEM roles including Data Scientist, AI Scientist, Clothes Designer, and Mechanic.

The Think Tank, also located within the Grand Gallery, offers a dedicated space for pupils to chat informally with professionals one-to-one and ask questions. 

Careers Hive also includes the Life After Leaving School panel series, bringing together several guest speakers from diverse roles, educational backgrounds, and stages of their career, to share their stories and insights. 

Panellists include Skills Development Scotland’s Modern Apprentice of the Year 2026 Sam Anderson, who during her apprenticeship at Muiravonside Country Park in Falkirk has increased the capacity for ranger-led education and activities.

Also featuring as a panellist is Holly Robertson, a Medical Writer for Alchemy Medical Writing who specialises in virology, immunology and genetics; and Zac Mooney Project Manager Apprentice for Scottish Water who secured two Awards at the Pipeline Industries Guild Professional Development Network Competition in 2024. 
 
During the day, Careers Hive is open to pre-booked school groups only. From 3pm to 5pm each day, families and visitors to the Museum are invited to explore the Experience STEM Exhibition located within the Grand Gallery.

Hassun El-Zafar, Director and CEO at Edinburgh Science said: “Scotland’s future will be shaped by science and technology, and every young person deserves to feel part of it.

“With demand for STEM skills rising across renewable energy, manufacturing and digital industries, closing the skills gap has never mattered more. Careers Hive gives students a real-world view of the jobs and opportunities STEM opens up, right at the moment they are choosing their subjects.

“It inspires those who will build careers in these fields and gives everyone a better understanding of a world that science is transforming. A STEM-literate society is a stronger, fairer one, and that is the future we want to help build.”

Careers Hive is supported by a range of funders, see www.edinburghscience.co.uk for a full list. 

Welcome to Drylaw’s Garden Kitchen

Introducing The Garden Kitchen, a new Gardening & Wellbeing Group at Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre.

The Garden Kitchen is a weekly group where adults from Drylaw and Telford can come together, spend time outdoors, grow food, learn new skills and enjoy good food and company.

Every Thursday, 10am–2pm, sessions will include:

• Gardening and food growing
• Cooking and sharing a communal meal
• Learning practical skills
• Peer support and conversation
• Opportunities to gain new qualifications and experience

The group is a welcoming space for anyone experiencing loneliness, poor mental wellbeing or social isolation, and is all about building confidence, making connections and feeling part of the community.

There will also be opportunities to work towards a Food Hygiene Level 2 qualification and develop skills that could lead to volunteering or employment.

If you’d like to find out more, please email Jane at wellbeing@drylawnc.org.uk

Better menopause awareness must be backed by timely treatment

COLLEGE of SEXUAL and REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE

More than 4 in 5 women feel comfortable discussing menopause with their GP or healthcare professional, according to new findings welcomed by the College of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare (CoSRH). 

However, while 83% of women surveyed as part of Menopause Mandate’s Big Menopause Survey 2026 were offered hormone replacement therapy (HRT), CoSRH warns that progress in menopause care is being hampered by issues around timely access to the full range of treatment and support. 

Hormonal coils (or intrauterine devices, IUDs) can be accessed through local sexual health services or GP surgeries when they are needed for contraception and usually take minutes to fit. But due to funding restrictions, women seeking a coil to manage perimenopausal symptoms are often passed between services before being referred to NHS gynaecology, where waits can be lengthy. More than three out of five (62%) of CoSRH members report that this is the case in their service. 

Dr Zara Haider, President of CoSRH, said: “Hormonal coils are not only a fantastic form of contraception, they can be life-changing for women experiencing perimenopausal symptoms by providing the progestogen part of combined HRT. Yet access too often depends on where a woman lives, rather than the care she clinically needs.

“Local funding restrictions can limit which women clinicians are able to provide hormonal coils to, meaning those over 55 years old can be pushed into an already overstretched NHS gynaecology system.

“For a procedure that takes minutes, it makes absolutely no sense for women to face months or even years of waiting along with repeated appointments and hospital visits.”

CoSRH’s Why must women wait? campaign is calling for fairer, more consistent access to hormonal IUDs for women who need them for gynaecological and menopause-related care, as well as contraception.

The campaign highlights how access barriers can leave women waiting months on a gynaecology waiting list alongside 750,000 women for a procedure that can take minutes. 

With 98.5% of women reporting that perimenopause symptoms affected their quality of life and 61% reporting a considerable or extreme impact, CoSRH is calling for action to ensure women can access the care they need.

This includes removing restrictions on access to hormonal IUDs, enabling seamless referral between services, investing in training and workforce capacity, making full use of trained professionals’ skills, and tackling inequalities in access and waiting times.  

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A wee reminder that Menopause Goals programme returns to Spartans Community Foundation this Thursday at 6pm.

Email jenniferpullen@spartanscf.com for more information.

National Literacy Trust: Loving Comics and graphic novels

Five reasons why children and young people told us they love comics and graphic novels 📚✨

Our latest research, published for National Magazine Day, found that the number of children and young people reading comics and graphic novels is at its highest level since 2017.

And that’s something to celebrate. Comics can be a brilliant way to enjoy stories, make reading feel accessible, and explore interests.

Take a look at what children and young people told us they love most about comics and graphic novels below:

Teach children and young people?

Get your pupils excited about reading through comics with our free Go All In 2026 online event for pupils aged 8-14 on 22 October with the National Year of Reading and Beano: https://loom.ly/HSzHXlw

Date set for Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre’s Festive Fayre

🎄✨ Drylaw Festive Fayre – Save the Date ✨🎄

Our Festive Fayre is back! Join us at Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre for a lovely festive afternoon filled with seasonal treats, handmade gifts and plenty of community spirit.

📅 Saturday 28th November

⏰ 11am–2pm

📍 Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre

🎁 Browse stalls selling crafts, gifts and festive goodies

🍰 Enjoy homemade cakes and refreshments

🎅 Meet Santa, for the young and young-at-heart!

🎟 Try your luck at our tombola and look out for more surprises!

🛍️ Stallholder spaces are now open!

Are you a local maker or small business selling gifts, crafts or festive treats? We’d love to hear from you! Come along and be part of our Festive Fayre.

Stalls are £10 each, with limited spaces available.

📧 To enquire about a stall, email rebecca@drylawnc.org.uk

Whether you’re coming along to do some festive shopping, meet Santa or catch up with neighbours, everyone is welcome. It’s a free, family-friendly event and a lovely way to kick off the festive season!

We hope to see you there! 🎄❤️