POLICE Scotland: Today marks ten years the Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland (DSDAS) launched.
The scheme provides a formal way of sharing information about a partner’s abusive past, with a potential victim.
Today marks ten years the Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland (DSDAS) launched. The scheme provides a formal way of sharing information about a partner's abusive past, with a potential victim. Find out more ➡️https://t.co/OhvClqPPyT DSDAS form ➡️ https://t.co/g8fH5otJkTpic.twitter.com/fKEzfjsiP7
The Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland (DSDAS) is a way to find information about whether a person has an abusive past. This information can be used to prevent someone from experiencing domestic abuse in the future.
You can make a DSDAS application if you:
think you might be at risk of domestic abuse
are worried someone you know might be at risk of domestic abuse
We’ll only make a disclosure after we’ve considered all factors. We’ll assess the threat carefully, and we’ll decide if we need to share information to prevent a person from experiencing domestic abuse.
We may also speak to other agencies to help us make sure a disclosure is the right option.
If you’re making the application on behalf of someone else, we cannot make the disclosure to you. We can only make a disclosure to the person who is at risk to support and help protect them.
The police will act immediately if they think you or someone else needs to be protected from harm.
How to apply:
There are a few ways to apply for a domestic abuse disclosure. You can:
Warm, safe and affordable homes for thousands of families
The number of social homes delivered in the past 18 years in Scotland has passed the 100,000 mark.
Latest statistics on affordable housing show that, since 2007, the Scottish Government has helped deliver 140,346 affordable homes, with 100,064 of those for social rent.
Commenting, Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan said: “Social homes passing 100,000 is a demonstration of our strong commitment to supporting affordable housing across Scotland.
“Social housing is a key cornerstone in our efforts to tackle the housing emergency and achieve our goal of eradicating child poverty. These numbers show that thousands of families have been provided with a warm, safe and affordable home.
“However, demand is outstripping supply, and these latest quarterly statistics paint a stark picture of the challenges that the cost of living, inflation and Brexit have placed on the housing sector – not least construction inflation having reached an incredible 24% in recent years.
“However, I am committed to turning these figures around. That is why earlier this month I published an ambitious Housing Emergency Action Plan, backed by up to £4.9 billion of investment to deliver a major affordable housing programme.
“This will support around 36,000 affordable homes over the next four years, providing homes for up to 24,000 children. This is additional to the £808m we will spend this financial year to deliver around 8,000 affordable homes.
“I am once again calling on everyone in the public and private sector to urgently pull together and work with us to ensure that everyone in Scotland has a place they can call home.”
“If you don’t look for it, you could miss it”: pavement studs across the UK transform into nipples for October as Breast Cancer UK urges everyone to check their breasts via creative campaign
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, British pavements are bearing all. Pavement studs across London, Manchester and Edinburgh, which often go unnoticed, are being transformed into nipples as part of a bold conversation-starting initiative from Breast Cancer UK.
Designed to stop people in their tracks, the charity is taking its plea for cancer prevention to the streets (quite literally) in a nationwide ode to the importance of early detection.
Breast cancer is estimated to affect 1 in 7 women in the UK in their lifetime, yet studies tell us that at least 30% of these cases could be prevented. Breast Cancer UK is dedicated to prevention, empowering people with the knowledge and tools to reduce their risk, and is championing early detection as a lifesaving step through its new ‘Street Nipples’ campaign.
The attention-grabbing breast stencils that can be spotted across England and Scotland are created with reverse clean graffiti, a technique that uses pressure washers rather than paint to ensure an eco-friendly, chemical-free finish.
Though the head-turning art will disappear naturally over time, the message will continue to resonate long after the artworks have faded away: If you don’t look for it; you could miss it.
An interactive map of the nipple artworks is available here, helping people track down the designs, of which there are 20 in London, 15 in Manchester, and 15 in Edinburgh.
Those who spot and share a snap on social media using #StreetNipples, tagging @breastcanceruk and giving the account a follow will also be entered into a prize draw to win a selection of Breast Cancer UK merch.
Thalie Martini, CEO of Breast Cancer UK, stresses that awareness means empowerment: “We know that at least 30% of breast cancer cases are preventable, but for those that are not, it’s vital to know the signs.
“We are concerned that many women in the UK are forgetting to check what’s right in front of them. That’s why this Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are taking to the streets to urge women to take their health, quite literally, into their own hands.”
Breast Cancer UK knows that changes to lifestyle and environment could help significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer, which is why the charity continues to empower individuals through education, research and advocacy.
These small but powerful changes include having a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, doing regular physical activity, limiting alcohol intake, and reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals.
Whilst prevention is the focus of the charity, it recognises that preventative measures aren’t always enough, and catching breast cancer early through self-examination is critical.
This is why Breast Cancer UK stresses the urgency of recognising when something’s not right. Catching breast cancer early can save lives, but too often, signs go unnoticed – just like the street studs that are being transformed.
Breast Cancer UK’s ‘Street Nipple’ artworks can be spotted across London, Manchester and Edinburgh from 1st October to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month until they naturally fade.
‘I hope they’ll appreciate the labour of love that went into preserving this iconic landmark’
A time capsule has been interred at North Bridge to mark the project’s work for future generations.
Some of the items for the capsule included:
A letter from the Lord Provost Robert Aldridge and Council Leader Jane Meagher to the future citizens of Edinburgh.
A paint brush used by the Transport and Environment Convener Stephen Jenkinson to hand finish the cast iron façade.
A Balfour Beatty high visibility vest.
A Glengarry Cap from the Kings Own Scottish Borderers regiment.
The school prayer of St Augustine’s High School etched in glass.
A photograph of the Historic Environment Scotland grants team on a site visit.
Three books created as part of the North Bridge Refurbishment Project Legacy Arts Programme.
Objects were contributed by a number of partner organisations and invited guests.
The Category A listed structure is a key transport link between the north and south of the city. The original North Bridge began construction in 1763 and was then replaced between 1894 and 1897 by the structure which we see today.
According to historical records, at some point between 1894 and 1897 a time capsule was interned inside the structure.
Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said: “North Bridge has been a familiar feature of Edinburgh’s cityscape for well over two centuries. This corridor continues to form a vital part of our city’s modern transport network, whilst also serving as a visual reminder of our city’s rich history and building tradition.
“As we gather today to inter our own pieces of history, it’s comforting to think that many years from now future generations will look back at the vital work we’ve been undertaking, just as we have appreciated the work of those before us.
“The complexity and skill of this work cannot be understated, with some areas being repaired and renovated which hadn’t seen the light of day in over one hundred years. I’m incredibly grateful for the efforts of everyone involved with the project.
“We owe it to Edinburgh’s future residents and visitors to make sure that we complete this project to the highest standards. With the bridge on the cusp of being fully refurbished to its former glory, this is a moment that we can all look forward to together with pride and optimism.”
Project Director for Balfour Beatty, Rory McFadden said:“As we welcome guests to mark the placing of this time capsule and celebrate the restoration of Edinburgh’s North Bridge, I’d like to reflect on the incredible journey undertaken by those involved. It hasn’t been easy.
“When discussions began in 2017, none of us could have anticipated the challenges ahead—especially the bridge’s condition, which was far worse than expected.
“Yet, through determination, innovation, and teamwork, we’ve delivered something truly special.
“We can take immense pride in restoring this historic structure, ensuring its preservation for generations. The past Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) President’s comparison to dentistry on a massive scale couldn’t be more fitting, describing the meticulous care and precision required to return the bridge to its former glory.
“Throughout this journey, we engaged with thousands of individuals, many of whom left in awe and became allies of the project. Over 3,000 people contributed on-site, learning new techniques as we delivered the works while respecting our neighbours and keeping this vital north-south link open. Their dedication was instrumental in our success.
“As the scaffolding comes down and the bridge slowly reveals itself, it will stand tall – a testament to our collective efforts. The people of Edinburgh and its visitors will witness the bridge in all its grandeur.
“I think about the future, about those who will open this time capsule years from now. Will they be as impressed by our restoration as we are by its original construction? I believe they will – and I hope they’ll appreciate the labour of love that went into preserving this iconic landmark.”
Major works are expected to be completed in Spring 2026 with all remaining works to be completed in Summer 2026.
The time capsule interment ceremony was attended by representatives from the City of Edinburgh Council, Balfour Beatty, Atkins Realis, NBR Legacy Projects: Moving Image Commission (Rachel Mclean & Jonathan Webb), the Super Power Agency, Volker Laser, SCAPE Scotland, Currie & Brown, Invisible Cities, Historic Environment Scotland, Capital City Partnership, The King’s Own Scottish Borderers Association, and pupils from St Augustine’s High School, St Thomas of Aquin’s High School, Jeda Pearl Lewis (Artist/Author), Estelle Meyer (Cobble Tales).
A full list of the items contributed to the time capsule is below with the contributor in brackets at the end:
A signed copy of Our Storied Town by Donald Smith (Author), Cat Outram (Illustrator) and the Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh Robert Aldridge. (Lord Provost)
A letter to the future generations of Edinburgh from the Lord Provost and Council Leader Jane Meagher. (Lord Provost and Council Leader)
An Edinburgh 900 programme. (Lord Provost)
An invitation to the Edinburgh 900 Book Launch which took place earlier this year for Edinburgh: A New History by Alastair Moffat & Edinburgh: The Autobiography by Alan Taylor. (Lord Provost)
Paint brush used to hand finish the cast iron façade (Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson)
Copy of a Green Pencil Award and brochure of poems (Central Library)
A signed Hibernian FC strip (Central Library/Hibernian FC)
Leaflets from the Edinburgh Playhouse and Cockburn Association (Central Library, Edinburgh Playhouse and Cockburn Association)
Glass etching of the St Augustine’s High School prayer and school pennant. (St Augustine’s High School)
A package including a Glengarry Cap, a concise version of the regiment’s history and their tartan. (The King’s Own Scottish Borderer’s Association)
A high visibility vest, water bottle, bolts and rivets from the bridge and construction drawings (Balfour Beatty)
A Lego man and a fifty pence piece (St Thomas of Aquin’s High School)
A letter from a pupil named Archie to the future of Edinburgh (St Thomas of Aquin’s High School)
A photograph of the grants team on a site visit to the bridge with a note. (Historic Environment Scotland)
A copy of North Bridge Where We Travelled – North Bridge Refurbishment Project Legacy Arts Programme (Jeda Pearl Lewis)
A copy of Stories From The Stones and What’s That About North Bridge – North Bridge Refurbishment Project Legacy Arts Programme (Super Power Agency)
Legislation to transform homelessness prevention and improve standards in rented housing has been passed by the Scottish Parliament.
The Housing (Scotland) Bill will place a duty on certain public bodies to prevent people from losing their homes by asking about their housing situation and taking action.
The Bill will also broaden Ministers’ powers to implement ‘Awaab’s Law’, which will ensure landlords promptly address issues that are hazardous to tenants’ health, starting with damp and mould.
The legal measure was named after Awaab Ishak who died in 2020 after being exposed to mould in his home in Rochdale in north west England. The law will now be implemented in Scotland’s rented sector from March 2026, subject to Parliament’s agreement.
Other measures in the Bill include giving Ministers the power to implement a system of long-term rent controls, keeping rent affordable for tenants.
Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan said: “Passing the Housing (Scotland) Bill is a landmark moment for how we prevent homelessness in Scotland.
“Whilst we already have some of the strongest homelessness rights of any country, we will now go even further to a create a gold-standard homelessness prevention system.
“Passing this groundbreaking legislation, coupled with the Housing Emergency Action Plan published earlier this month, shows just how serious we are about tackling Scotland’s housing crisis.
“Families across Scotland will have the confidence that their rented home will be free from damp and mould as we take forward work to implement ‘Awaab’s Law’. We will now work at pace to lay regulations to implement these protections from March.
“Scotland has already led the way in protecting tenants and providing strong rights when people are homeless and now the Housing Bill will revolutionise homelessness prevention and ensure rents are kept affordable.”
Maeve McGoldrick, head of policy and communications for Crisis Scotland, said: “Today’s vote marks a landmark moment in Scotland’s journey towards ending homelessness.
“We already have strong rights in place for people experiencing homelessness, but as we see from our frontline services, we need to do far more to prevent people losing their home in the first place. That means allowing people entering a housing crisis to get help earlier, so they can get support before it is too late.
“At Crisis we have been calling for new protections to stop people being forced from their homes for years. These new changes, contained in the Housing Bill, hold the potential to create a truly world-leading homelessness system, where everyone has a safe, secure place to live.”
Campaigners Living Rent said: “MSPs voted to pass the Housing bill and with it, rent controls. This bill wouldn’t exist without the work of Living Rent members.
“It caps rent increases between tenancies, clamps down on disrepair, and strengthens joint tenancy rights.”
The Scottish Greens also welcomed the decision: “40 years ago Margaret Thatcher abolished rent controls in Scotland.
“The Scottish Parliament just passed a Bill introduced by the Scottish Greens, which will allow them once more! This will keep rents affordable and offer safety and stability to renters.”
Graham Crocket, National Estate Agency Director at Aberdein Considine, has reacted to the passing of the new Housing (Scotland) Bill 2025.
The Bill empowers local councils to designate ‘Rent Control Areas’, capping rent increases to inflation plus 1%, and introduces stricter eviction rules while mandating rent history disclosures.
Grahamsaid: “The implementation of the Housing (Scotland) Bill 2025 is a turning point for landlords, property buyers and the wider property market. While the government frames this Bill as a step towards fairness and affordability, the ripple effects could be profound.
“With rent controls, enhanced tenant protections and new transparency requirements becoming law, landlords and investors will need to carefully reassess their positions, while first-time buyers could be among those best placed to benefit.
“For landlords, especially those operating in high-demand urban areas, the Bill represents a tightening of margins and a loss of flexibility. The prospect of capped rent growth and longer notice periods may prompt a sell-off of rental housing stock, particularly for older flats and tenements. This shift could flood the second-hand market with properties previously held for investment.
“If this happens, first-time buyers could find themselves with more choice and negotiating power than before. In cities like Glasgow and Aberdeen, where affordability ratios are more favourable, the impact could be especially pronounced. Entry-level homes may see a softening in price, giving new buyers a foothold in markets that have long felt out of reach.
“The Bill’s full impact will depend on how councils implement rent control zones and how landlords respond. For now, the market is watching, and first-time buyers may be wise to do more than just watch.”
Aberdein Considine has produced a short city-by-city forecast on the expected impact of the Housing (Scotland) Bill:
Glasgow: With an average house price of £191,000 and strong rental demand, Glasgow is likely to see moderate investor exits. Flats in areas like Dennistoun and Southside may enter the market, softening prices and improving access for first-time buyers.
Edinburgh: Scotland’s capital faces a declared housing emergency and high property values. Rent controls could be rolled out aggressively, prompting landlord exits in Leith and Southside. However, strong demand may keep prices buoyant, limiting gains for new buyers.
Aberdeen: Long subdued by oil sector volatility, Aberdeen’s market is already cool. The bill may accelerate existing trends, with modest price declines and increased affordability for buyers seeking value.
Stirling: Affordable and well-connected, Stirling could attract buyers priced out of Glasgow and Edinburgh. Investor exits near the university and city centre may boost supply of housing stock, stabilising prices and enhancing accessibility.
Perth: With a quieter market and rural appeal, Perth may see slower changes. However, increased listings of older rental stock could gently ease prices, especially for flats and terraced homes.
Aberdein Considine is an award-winning law firm with 21 offices and more than 450 staff across Scotland and the north of England. The firm is also Scotland’s largest solicitor estate agent with a national network of high street branches, including in the key cities of Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Perth and Stirling.
A new batch of 23 projects will strengthen international space partnerships, develop national capabilities and boost economic growth, the UK Space Agency announced today
This is the second round of projects from the successful International Bilateral Fund (IBF), representing a £6.5 million boost for UK companies and universities collaborating internationally on space innovation with partners in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, India, Japan, Lithuania, Japan, and the USA.
From autonomous 3D printing and lunar agriculture to orbital threat detection, biotech manufacturing, medical research and deep space radar, these collaborations span life sciences, communications, in-orbit servicing, Earth observation and advanced materials.
They showcase the breadth of expertise across the UK’s vibrant space sector, which employs more than 55,000 people and generates £18.6 billion in annual revenue.
Space Minister Liz Lloyd said: “This £6.5 million boost shows Britain leading the way in space innovation.
“From improving mobile coverage to monitoring Earth’s forests, these 23 projects will create jobs, strengthen partnerships with our allies, and keep the UK at the cutting edge of space technology. It’s an exciting time for our space sector and great news for British businesses reaching for the stars.”
The space funding boost, announced during the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Sydney, demonstrates the UK’s commitment to international partnerships and a wide range of areas where the space sector can contribute to economic growth.
As set out in the Government’s Industrial Strategy, the UK Space Agency is increasing bilateral research & development funding with international allies.
The IBF is a critical mechanism for this, providing targeted support for UK-led international collaborations and building capabilities and partnerships across the global space sector.
Today’s announcement follows the agreement between NASA and the UK Space Agency to develop AI models to support future exploration missions, under the Transatlantic Tech Prosperity Deal, as well as the successful launch of the NASA IMAP mission on 23 September, for which UK scientists contributed a key instrument.
Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency, said: “These new projects span the full spectrum of UK space expertise, from telecommunications, propulsion and environmental monitoring to cutting-edge technologies that could change how we develop treatments for deadly diseases using microgravity.
“By combining home-grown talent with global expertise, we want to strengthen our capabilities, support growth, and ensure the UK remains at the forefront of space innovation.
“This announcement comes at a pivotal moment in the evolution of the UK Space Agency, ahead of its integration into the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) from 1 April 2026.
“The merger will create a single civil space unit, streamlining strategy, policy, and delivery, building on recent achievements and ensuring the government supports the UK space sector effectively.”
UKspace Executive Director, Colin Baldwin, said: “The UK Space Agency’s International Bilateral Fund is going from strength to strength, providing a stimulus for the UK’s space sector to forge new partnerships with organisations around the globe, covering such a broad range of space interests.
“We are pleased to see so many of UKspace’s members and partners involved in the selected projects, enabling them to bring their world-class expertise to these exciting collaborations.”
Kevin Craven, CEO of ADS, representing businesses in aerospace, defence, security and space, said: Advancements in space technology make our world smaller, our society more innovative and our lives more prosperous.
“We are delighted to see the IBF enabling international partnerships to that end. ADS has worked extensively to champion the UK’s thriving space sector in key strategic markets such as Japan and Lithuania. We look forward to working in close collaboration with government to build on this important work further.”
Call 2 Projects to date
Preparing to launch an Americium Radioisotope Stirling Generator, University of Leicester x NASA Glenn Research Centre x Perpetual Atomics x Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory – £499,000
Advancement of Americium Radioisotope Stirling Generator (Am-RSG) technology towards a near-term flight opportunity, and accelerating commercial, civil and defence applications of the Am-RSG to provide further opportunities and increase the customer base for the technology. This project will establish a strategic UK sovereign capability and help build international partnerships for export and trade.
UK-India-5G-from-orbit, AccelerComm Ltd x Radisys India Ltd (India) – £498,000
The next generation of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) is dependent on 5G base stations operating on board satellites. Making this happen in the extreme environment of an orbiting satellite requires technology developed by AccelerCommand Radisys. This project will integrate the latest versions of AccelerComm’s technology into Radisys’s lab in India, providing a valuable resource for joint research and demonstrations to customers and partners around the world.
AquaWatch AUK: Satellite Mission Development for Water Monitoring Innovation, Surrey Satellite Technology Limited (SSTL) x Pixalytics Ltd x Assimila Ltd x University of Stirling x RAL Space x CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency x Deloitte (Australia) – £479,000
Building on the successes of earlier AquaWatch-AUK projects, this initiative strengthens the UK-Australia Space Bridge, enabling satellite development to address global water quality challenges through innovative Earth Observation technologies. By integrating satellite and in-situ measurements, it creates a scalable monitoring system that improves data access, supports better decision-making, and benefits industries like tourism and agriculture.
Long Baseline Multistatic Radar for Deep Space Domain Awareness, University of Birmingham x Goonhilly Earth Station x University of Manchester x CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency x Massachusetts Institute of Technology – Lincoln Laboratory (USA) – £452,000
This project proposes Long Baseline Multistatic Radar (LBMR), linking powerful transmitters (e.g., Millstone Hill, Kwajalein) with sensitive receivers in the UK and Australia. The system will enable real-time detection and tracking of smaller, distant GEO objects. The project will deliver a live demonstration, a significant step towards validating LBMR as a scalable, low-cost solution for operational Space Domain Awareness.
SLOSH-CAT: Slosh Control Algorithm Testing, Satellite Applications Catapult Ltd x Space Machines x University of Sydney (Australia) – £447,000
SLOSH-Cat explores how liquid fuel moves inside spacecraft and how that movement affects their ability to stay stable and point accurately in space. Using advanced sensors and motion tracking, the team studies how shifting fuel can cause small disturbances. These insights help improve the software that controls spacecraft, making them safer and more precise as Space Machines prepares for its MAITRI mission launch next year.
ARGUS: Autonomous Rendezvous for GEO Utility & Surveillance, Lunasa Ltd x Space Machines Company PTY Ltd (Australia) – £392,000
This project will develop a key technology for an upcoming ISAM mission, integrating Lúnasa’s autonomous StarLogic RPO kit into Space Machines’ commercial GEO inspection satellite, GEO-Viper. The system will be upgraded for the GEO environment, advancing from TRL-5 to TRL-7 to deliver a flight-ready rendezvous, proximity, and operations solution.
RANGER: Relative Autonomous Navigation for GNSS-Enabled Rendezvous, Lunasa Ltd x Infinite Orbits (France) – £367,000
This project aims to advance Lúnasa’s high-precision R-GNSS relative navigation technology from TRL 5 to TRL 7 through integration with Infinite Orbits’ servicing satellite, in preparation for a forthcoming commercial in-orbit servicing mission. The project will encompass hardware-software integration, simulation and performance analysis, as well as testing and qualification for space readiness.
PROJECT BRIDGE, Frontier Space Technologies Ltd x The Exploration Company GmbH (Germany) x Undisclosed US Pharma (USA) – £366,000
This project will design a Cargo Handling System for next-generation space infrastructure, enabling safe, repeatable life sciences research in orbit. By combining UK engineering with real-world pharma input, BRIDGE supports the future of space-based drug development and biomanufacturing, positioning the UK as a leader in microgravity-enabled health innovation and shaping how biological science is done in space after the ISS.
Project MITHRIL: Avionics Integration and Control Demo on the Impulse Mira Platform, Lodestar Space Ltd. x University College London x Impulse Space (USA) – £363,000
This project integrates Lodestar’s MITHRIL onto the Mira spacecraft and develops formation flying techniques to enable responsive Space Domain Awareness (SDA) for UK and US dual-use needs. It culminates in a real-time hardware-in-the-loop validation campaign, de-risking the 2027 orbital launch while strengthening international collaboration and UK SDA capability.
UK detector technology for NASA high-resolution imaging of the Moon and Mars, Open University x BAE Space Mission Systems x University of Arizona (USA) – £362,000
This project will design a TDI rolling scene simulator and conduct radiation testing of the CIS125 detector at Moon/Mars mission representative doses to advance the UK-developed CIS125 ‘CCD in CMOS’ detector for future high-resolution imaging missions to the Moon, Mars, and Earth. This international collaboration builds on strong US-UK partnerships and aims to lay the foundation for HiRISE2, a next-generation imaging instrument delivering a world-leading resolution for planetary science, commercial, and defence applications.
In-Orbit Distributed Additive Manufacturing with Manufacturability Intelligence (IN-DAMMI), Autonomous Manufacturing Ltd x Photocentric, APWorks GMBH (Germany) – £330,000
A UK-Germany collaboration that will connect space-ready 3D printers to Earth-based control software, allowing engineers to remotely manufacture parts in orbit. It will also use AI to identify which spacecraft components are suitable for in-space production. By reducing reliance on Earth-based supply chains, this innovation will lower launch costs, increase mission flexibility, and strengthen the UK’s position in space manufacturing.
Cosmic Maker II: International Demonstration of Autonomous Multi-Material 3D Printing in Microgravity, Photocentric Ltd x Voyager Space Nanoracks (USA/Italy) x Novaspace (Germany) – £299,000
Cosmic Maker II will demonstrate autonomous 3D printing in space-like conditions using advanced ceramic and polymer materials. Building on the success of the ESA- and BSGN-supported Cosmic Maker I, this next phase will validate the system during real microgravity through a parabolic flight campaign. The 3D printing platform designed to enable in-orbit manufacturing of tools, components, and research parts for the International Space Station and future platforms like Starlab.
BioPTSS: Biofeedback Integrated Personalised Tourniquet System For Spaceflight, Northumbria University x Western Clinical Engineering Group x Delfi Medical Innovations Inc. x Canadian Space Agency x European Space Agency x NASA (Canada, Germany, USA) – £287,000
This project aims to improve astronaut health on missions beyond low Earth orbit by developing and optimising blood flow restriction exercise (BFRE) with the associated Personalised Tourniquet System for Spaceflight (PTSS). Building on the recent SpaceX launch evaluating BFRE in orbit, it will integrate biofeedback technology into space-qualified PTSS hardware for real-time monitoring and optimisation of the exercise stimulus.
ISAM Biotech Pilot Project: Advancing Type 1 Diabetes Solutions in a New Commercial Space Incubator, Kayser Space Limited x Kings College London x COMAT (France) – £252,000
This project will develop a commercial platform to support biotech research and in-orbit manufacturing in microgravity, demonstrating vascularised tissue growth in a relevant environment. It will also mature the business case for future Low Earth Orbit customers, creating a scalable asset for drug development, organoids, and tissue engineering beyond the ISS.
Beam-Steering Conformal Antenna Array Integrated with Flexible LoRa Electronics for Lightweight Satellite Communication, University of Leeds x University of New South Wales (UNSW) (Australia) – £150,000
This project will create a lightweight, curved satellite communication system by integrating a printed beam-steering antenna with a flexible long-range wireless circuit on a carbon fibre structure. The prototype will demonstrate low power use, reduced weight, and improved reliability for next-generation nano/pico-satellites and mobile platforms, paving the way for more agile and cost-effective space missions.
ETV Phase 1 – Preliminary Design Review of the Economical Transfer Vehicle, Meridian Space Command x Alpha Impulsion (France) – £150,000
This project will advance the development of the Economical Transfer Vehicle (ETV), the world’s first “self-eating” spacecraft. he ETV is a next-generation logistics and payload-hosting spacecraft powered by an autophage engine that actively consumes its own structural tank during flight. Designed for high delta-V missions, it will transport payloads across Earth orbits and beyond, supporting future in-orbit servicing, infrastructure, and deep space logistics.
QUIVER – Derisking High-Rate Intersatellite Links for Realtime Collaborative Constellations, Open Cosmos Ltd x Panasonic Operational Excellence Co. (Japan) – £147,000
This project will explore higher-frequency, high-bandwidth radio links to enable satellites to work together for faster, more comprehensive monitoring and data collection. It will combine the advantages of radio and optical links while avoiding some of their limitations. A key focus will be designing a suitable antenna and developing tools to analyse and optimise constellation operations.
Project Oracle of Nyx: Onboard Threat Characterisation for Dual-Use Applications for Nyx, Lodestar Space Ltd. x The Exploration Company GmbH (Germany) – £135,000
Project Oracle of Nyx will pioneer new approaches to Space Domain Awareness (SDA) through the development of a dual-use sensor suite to detect and characterise orbital threats. Lodestar’s sensor suite will be designed to interface with TEC’s Nyx spacecraft, laying the groundwork for future missions to the ISS.
Flora Fidelity: Advancing Hyperspectral Forestry Monitoring Through UK-Canada Space Collaboration, Gentian (UK) x Bullfinch Earth (Canada) – £127,000
A UK–Canadian collaboration applying Earth Observation, wearable sensors and AI technologies to solve long-standing challenges in forest monitoring: the lack of efficient forest surveys combining below-crown and above-crown forest data and the difficulty in obtaining accurate, low-cost, precisely-located ecological data for training satellite-based models.
IGNITE – Innovative GaN-based Wireless Transmission for Space Energy, Bumblebee x MDA Space (Canada) – £127,000
This project will create a proof-of-concept high-frequency Inductive Wireless Power Transfer (IWPT) system that replaces failure-prone mechanical connectors on lunar rovers, robotic arms and payload interfaces. The system has the potential to significantly extend the service life of this equipment which will increase scientific knowledge and reduce mission costs.
Physical Emulator Interface for Scalable Microgravity-R&D Modules for Quantum and Advanced Materials, Elethron x Atmos Space Cargo GmbH (Germany) – £127,000
Elethron is developing an integrated solution comprising powerful computational engines and autonomous, space-based advanced materials fabrication laboratories designed to integrate with the emerging free-flyer supply chain.
Astro-SANITAS (Stable Anti-Necrotic for In-space Tissue Augmentation and Survival): Halting Aging and Safeguarding Life in Space, LinkGevity x Delta Biosciences (Lithuania) – £120,000
A groundbreaking pharmaceutical that blocks tissue degeneration and halts aging -poised to redefine human resilience under extreme stress. Astro-SANITAS is advancing a world-first technology to protect astronaut cells from death, enable in-orbit tissue manufacturing, and unlock transformative health applications on Earth.
RootSpace: A UK–Canada Innovation Incubator for Space Biosystems and Climate-Resilient Agriculture, Take Root Bio Limited x University of Guelph (Canada) – £99,000
A UK–Canada collaboration exploring how space farming technologies could support future human missions and sustainable food systems on Earth. The project will deliver a prototype digital twin of a Martian biosphere, expand a Lunar Crop Catalogue of resilient plants, and design an incubator to accelerate startups, linking space science with climate-resilient agriculture.
Edinburgh Leisure celebrates National Sporting Heritage Day (30 September) by spotlighting the Sporting Memories Club at Meadowbank Sports Centre – a lasting legacy of the Edinburgh 900 exhibitions.
As National Sporting Heritage Day (#NSHD2025) shines a light on ‘Collections at Risk’, Edinburgh Leisure is proud to showcase the Sporting Memories Club – a weekly gathering for older adults, including those living with dementia and their carers to share stories and relive sporting moments.
Launched in April 2025, the club was inspired by a one-off Sporting Memories event held at the Royal Commonwealth Pool last year, which coincided with the launch of Edinburgh Leisure’s Edinburgh 900 exhibitions. The success of that event led to the creation of a regular Wednesday session at Meadowbank Sports Centre.
“The club is more than just a chat over tea – it’s a celebration of shared history, community spirit, and the joy of sport,” said Donna Mackey, Partnership Manager at the Sporting Memories Foundation.
“Thanks to lead volunteer Bob Irvine, sessions are engaging and inclusive. No booking required – just turn up!”
Join the Conversation
Whether you’re a lifelong sports fan or simply enjoy a good story, the Sporting Memories Club welcomes you.
What: Sporting Memories Club
Where: Meadowbank Sports Centre, London Road, EH7 6AE
When: Wednesdays, 1:00–2:30 pm – Free to attend
Who: Open to all, including people living with dementia and their carers
The Sporting Memories Club is one of several legacies from Edinburgh Leisure’s contribution to Edinburgh 900, a City of Edinburgh Council initiative marking 900 years of the city’s history. Over the past year, Edinburgh Leisure delivered three pop-up exhibitions:
25 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Edinburgh Leisure
Great Lengths – Celebrating Edinburgh’s Victorian pools and the Royal Commonwealth Pool
Teeing Off Through Time – Edinburgh’s golf journey
Hosted across venues including the Royal Commonwealth Pool, Glenogle Swim Centre, Meadowbank, and Ocean Terminal, the exhibitions attracted over 12,000 visitors.
“These exhibitions have strengthened community connections and laid the groundwork for future collaborations,” said Kerry Teakle, PR Officer and Edinburgh 900 lead.”
Supporting Heritage Through Community Grants
To mark last year’s National Sporting Heritage Day, Edinburgh Leisure received a £500 micro-grant from the Sporting Heritage Community Grants Programme, funded by National Lottery players and the Heritage Fund.
This supported a small permanent golf heritage exhibition at Silverknowes Golf Course, complementing Teeing Off Through Time and uncovering untold community stories.
The success of this project led to an invitation to present at the Sporting Heritage Study Day at the Heart of Midlothian Museum on 26 September.
Collections at Risk – Can You Help?
This year’s theme highlights the vulnerability of sporting collections. If you have memorabilia related to Edinburgh Leisure venues – such as the Royal Commonwealth Pool, the ‘old’ Meadowbank Stadium or any of the golf clubs that use Edinburgh Leisure courses – please contact Kerry Teakle, PR Officer at kerryteakle@edinburghleisure.co.uk.
Share your stories: #NSHD2025
Partnerships That Keep the Memories Alive
A collaboration with the Living Memory Association (LMA) has extended the reach of the exhibitions.
Currently, Great Lengths and 25 Things are on display at LMA’s Ocean Terminal space until 28 October, opposite the Wee Museum of Memories.
LMA also runs social history projects, free play areas, and reminiscence groups, and is working with Edinburgh Leisure on a podcast capturing personal stories from Glenogle Swim Centre, which recently celebrated its 125th anniversary.
Twin brothers win Unsung Hero award after 40 years at Fettes College
Twin brothers who have spent their entire working lives looking after the grounds of Fettes College in Edinburgh have won a Tatler Schools Award in the Unsung Hero category.
George and Kevin McNab were announced as the winners in London yesterday (Monday 29th September). They attended the awards ceremony at the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane Hotel with their wives.
George and Kevin McNab joined Fettes on the same day back in January 1985 when they were only 16. Following in the footsteps of their father, who worked at the school as a joiner for nearly 30 years, they quickly became part of the fabric of Fettes’ life.
The Tatler Schools Guide celebrates the top prep and public schools in the UK and the Tatler Schools Awards celebrate the exceptional contributions of UK staff, pupils and school communities.
The Unsung Heroes category shines a spotlight on individuals whose work is totally invaluable to a school and makes a lasting difference behind the scenes. George and Kevin were the only shortlisted nomination from Scotland and beat competition from candidates from four English schools.
Over four decades, George and Kevin have seen a lot of change, from chalk-clogged pitch markers to today’s robot line marker, affectionately nicknamed “Lionel Pitchie” and much more, witnessing thousands of children grow up at the school. But what hasn’t changed is their friendship, humour and loyalty to each other and to the school community.
Over the years, the brothers have shared countless memories at Fettes, including George meeting his future wife in the school dining hall. This moment remains one of their most cherished stories alongside decades of tending rugby pitches and cricket squares in all four seasons.
Head of Grounds Kevin McNab said: “Being nominated for this award is a huge surprise and a real honour and to win is even better.
“We never imagined that our work behind the scenes would be recognised in this way. It’s very humbling to be included alongside so many outstanding people and we are looking forward to attending the Award Ceremony in London.”
His brother George, who is Deputy Head of Grounds, added: “It’s wonderful to have our efforts acknowledged.
“We’ve always loved what we do and to win this award is something we’ll never forget. It feels like a recognition of the whole team, not just the two of us.”
Peter Worlledge, Bursar and Head of Operational Staff at Fettes said:“Everyone at Fettes is delighted for George and Kevin – now nicknamed our ‘Tatler Twins’!
“They are pillars of our school community, who have spent over four decades going the extra mile for students and staff alike.
“Their dedication, care and humour have shaped Fettes in countless ways over the past 40 years and their contributions to our school are innumerable.
“This win is a fitting recognition of everything they have done for generations of students and staff, and we hope they enjoyed the experience of attending this prestigious event.”
The winners of the Tatler Schools Awards 2026 were announced at the awards ceremony on Monday 29 September 2025.
